This collection houses eight letters from Robert A. Ragan to his wife, Emeline (Neass) Ragan, during the Civil War. In them, Ragan discusses battles and skirmishes with the Rebels, describes the landscapes he has seen, relates his frustration with army life, mentions his fear of moving too far South, and comments on his unit's movements and actions. He is particularly concerned for the men in his unit, telling Emeline that "You dont no how it hearts me to heare of one of my boys dieing but we all have to die and it looks like this ware is going to distroy all of us." Although he is deeply disturbed by such tragedy, Ragan consoles himself by hoping for the best and "trust[ing] in one hoo rules all." Ragan is also extremely homesick, telling his wife that "If I Could get to come home I would giv all this wourld If I had it." He also expresses his concern for his family and friends in Tennessee and asks Emeline to write to him and to "pray for me in this struggle."