Camp White, August 24,1863.
Dearest: — I
write you again so soon to speak of a man we lost on Saturday. Joseph Kramer
was drowned while sailing on the river. The sailboat (that pretty one of
Captain Warren's) was swamped by a severe gale and poor Kramer sank after
swimming several rods. You will remember him as a good-natured sailor who rowed
boat with Archie at Camp Reynolds. He got a furlough to see his family near
Columbus. He was a good soldier; leaves a wife and three or four children. They
live near Georgesville on the farm of the Harpers, a few miles southwest of
Columbus. Lieutenant Abbott was nearly lost with him. He sank near shore and
was senseless for a time.
Kramer is buried on the beautiful hill above the White
monument. He was so good a man that I hope his family will not be forgotten by
those who are interesting themselves at Columbus in the welfare of soldiers'
families. His widow will need the aid of a lawyer or claim agent to get her
allowances from [the] Government. Platt can perhaps name the right person and
otherwise assist her. — No news. — Love to all.
Affectionately,
R.
Mrs. Hayes.
SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and
Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 429-30
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