This collection consists of ten letters and five envelopes from Union soldier William Styer to his wife Susannah (Defenbaugh) Styer dating from 1862 November 12 to 1863 September 5. One letter was written in Camp Morton, Indiana; one was written on board the Ohio Belle; and the rest were written from Fort Pickering, Tennessee. In his letter written on board the Ohio Belle, Styer describes his travel from Terre Haute Depot to the Ohio Belle at Cairo. Many of the letters give his wife Susannah instruction in domestic matters, for example having the cellar repaired and finding tenants to rent their properties.

Styer also writes about his personal feelings about the war, including his pride in fighting the Confederates, his confidence that the war will not last another year, and his growing determination to resign and return home because of his failing health. His letters mention news of the Battle of Vicksburg and Confederate raids in Indiana.

Interested researchers may also wish to consult MS.3107: William Styer Letter, 1863 April 2 for more information about Styer and his Civil War service.