Jefferson S. Dowd Letter : December 30, 1863

Jefferson writes to indicate that he has enlisted in the Veteran Reserve Corps and has been detailed to Brig. Gen. Grenville M. Dodge's bodyguard. He explains that he had to borrow thirty dollars to order to buy the fifty dollar Henry rifle that is necessary to serve in the unit. The following day, Jefferson hopes to forage a turkey or some chickens for their New Year celebration.