Union Soldier's Letter from Gettysburg Written from the Battlefield Preparing for Combat. Autograph Letter Signed, "R N Ma...

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Union Soldier's Letter from Gettysburg Written from the Battlefield Preparing for Combat. Autograph Letter Signed, "R N Martin", two pages, 5" x 8", the first on patriotic stationery depicting Pennsylvania Brigadier George A. McCall, location specified as being "In line of Battle Near Gettysburg Pa", July 2, 1863 (not stated), to "Auntie & Mollie", n.p. The author of this letter was Robert Newton Martin, Co. "M", 62nd Pennsylvania Volunteers and he was likely writing from the Wheatfield prior to the day's first Confederate assault. The letter reads, "This day finds me sitting against a stonewall momently (sis) expecting the fight to commence; the 11th 12th & 1st Corps fought yesterday holding their position, But lost Genl Reynolds Comd of the 1st Corps, Killed. We arrived here this morning marching over 100 miles in 6 days. We are very much fatigued We heard last night little Mac was in comd just as we started. The corps marched 9 miles after night cheering for little Mac all the way. Laid down half after 12 got up and started at 4 so you can imagine how we feel. The enemy occupys (sic)part of the town. Firing of artillery is now going on. Either this evening or tomorrow we will have to fight...there is too much excitement to write much now. If I am spared I will give you the particulars of our last marches. Troops are pouring in very fast. I think the most of our army is here now. I pray God will favor us with a victory...". Robert Martin was likely a sergeant at the time he penned this spectacular letter. The following year he was promoted to first lieutenant, surviving the war and living until 1912. His Gettysburg letter is preserved behind an archival matt in a modern wooden frame. One of the most remarkable Gettysburg letters we've ever seen.