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James Fowler Rusling Letter

 Collection
Identifier: MS-3671

  • Staff Only

The correspondence letter written on November 24 of 1864 by James Fowler Rusling (1834-1918) was sent to Captain Fletcher E. Marsh in the “F” Co. Michigan’s 19th Infantry, detailing the split rebel forces (numbering sixty) under General Hood as they crossed the Harpeth River during the Civil War in Beech Grove (Tennessee). Rusling wrote of mounted rebel men taking Dr. John S. Dixon from his home to help them find their way to the Harpeth River and releasing him afterwards. Captain Rusling described the rebel collection of canoes and skiffs so the men could cross the Harpeth River. Lastly, Rusling requested advice on how to proceed with the rebels from Captain Marsh.

Dates

  • 1864 November 24

Language

The material in this collection is in English.

Conditions Governing Access

Collections are stored offsite, and a minimum of 2 business days are needed to retrieve these items for use. Researchers interested in consulting any of the collections are advised to contact Special Collections.

Conditions Governing Use

The copyright interests in this collection remain with the creator. For more information, contact the Special Collections Library.

Extent

0.1 Linear Feet

Abstract

The collection contains a letter written by Captain James Fowler Rusling (1834-1918) of the 17th U.S.C.T in Beech Grove, Tennessee to Captain Marsh of the "F" Co. MI 19th Infantry. The correspondence discusses rebel troop movements across the Harpeth River under General Hood in 1864.

Biographical/Historical Note

James Fowler Rusling was born in 1834 in Washington, NJ. At the time of this letter, he was a captain of the Commanding Company 17th U.S.C.T during the Civil War (1861-1865). James Rusling was awarded the title of Colonel in the year 1865. Rusling died in 1918 in Trenton, NJ.

Acquisition Note

This collection was purchased in 2012.

Repository Details

Part of the Betsey B. Creekmore Special Collections and University Archives, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Repository

Contact:
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville TN 37996 USA
865-974-4480