In his letters during 1863, Reynolds conveyed his belief that the rebel forces would soon be defeated, detailed his company's movements throughout Virginia, described the difficulties of camp life, reported the skirmishes and raids in which he was involved, depicted the landscapes and buildings he passed, and frequently apologized for the melancholy tone of his letters. From January to June of 1864, Reynolds continued to describe the engagements of his regiments, especially the terrible battles occurring around Richmond, Virginia. Reynolds also described the living arrangements for officers whose wives had joined them near the camps, and the morale and living conditions in the camps. The letters which were written during the Civil War provide a thorough chronicle of Reynolds's travels and experiences, as well as thoughtful examination of effects of war on those involved. Included in several of Reynolds's letters are an essay and three poems which he wrote.
All letters are autograph.
F7 1861-1864 Envelopes which had been separated from the letters. F9 Bound typescript transcript, 1861-1864 Excludes invoice in F6.