From the collections at the Leavenworth County Historical Society and Museum. Reprinted with permission from The Leavenworth County Historical Society and Museum and the Leavenworth Times. Donated by Debra Graden.

The Anthony Letters

Expects Unit To Spend Winter 'Annoying' Platte Countians

Leavenworth Times, 1956-7

Leavenworth, Kansas

December 3, 1861

Dear Aaron:

I am here on a short leave of absence, the first time since my connection with the regiment. Our regiment has been ordered to move from Westport and Kansas City to some place 15 or 20 miles below Leavenworth on the banks of the Missouri in Kansas.

From appearances we shall spend some part of the winter crossing over into Platte County, Mo., and annoying them as much as possible.

I have sold my newspaper to Webb Wilder at a loss of $2,371.00.

I have taken a Secesh stallion worth $1,000 and a grey horse worth $200. I now have three tip top horses.

Don't you want to come out here and farm? Why don't you come? Merritt is still at Kansas City. I have sent for him today, if he is well enough to travel.

D. R. Anthony

----

Camp Denver,

near West Point, Mo.

Dec. 22, 1861

Dear Father:

Here we are after a trip of six days to Kansas City, Independence, Harrisonville to this place.

On our route we had several skirmishes with the enemy, mostly with our picket guards. Our force was only 250. We took 150 mules and 40 horses, 129 Negroes and gave the Negroes 10 horses and mules, a lot of oxen, 10 waggons and two carriages and all loaded down with household furniture. The Negroe train into Kansas was over a mile long.

In our skirmishes we killed Col. Hurst of the 3rd Mo. and 7 of his men (rebels).

We will not remain here long but will move farther into Missouri to get forage and beef.

Col. Jennison hopes to be promoted to a Brig. Genl. In that case I hope to fill his place. I took a fine Secesh flag at Harrisonville which I will send you if I can.

The weather has been beautiful until this morning there is 6 inches of snow. Tis not cold. How did Merritt stand the ride home?

Truly

D. R. Anthony