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1st Maine Cavalry, 1862

John P. Sheahan on enthusiam for Union cause, Augusta, 1862

John P. Sheahan on enthusiam for Union cause, Augusta, 1862

Item 55490 info
Maine Historical Society

About a week after his enlistment in the 1st Maine Cavalry, John P. Sheahan of Dennysville wrote to his parents saying, "The cavalry boys are 'tip top' they are by far the best soldiers that have camped here this summer."

He also reported that "no money could tempt me to come home again I am with good boys and in a good cause."

Sheahan wrote that he knew there was danger, but was "willing and ready to take my place and chance."

He added, "If I can do anything to help put down this rebbelion, what is my little life compare with peace and union."

Sheahan served until July 1865, switching to the 31st Maine Infantry in March 1864.