Letter seeking release of soldier from duty, Augusta, 1863
Item 74239 info
Maine Historical Society
Issues at home often led soldiers to seek discharge or furloughs.
Joseph Baker of Augusta asked Shepley to intercede to release John Frazier from his duties with the 12th Maine because he was needed at home.
Frazier of Portland, who, according to the letter, had studied law in Shepley's office, enlisted in Co. B of the 12th Maine at age 19 in November 1861.
His father, John A. Frazier, later enlisted in the 12th Maine and was ill at the General Hospital in Augusta. The father, through Baker, argued that the son was needed at home and that the son's duty had changed since he enlisted and was "less desirable to him."
Writing on the back states that Shepley could not effect a discharge with a surgeon's determination of disability.
Item 2 of 13
