Soldier's Letter, Civil War, October 1864

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, Oct. 20, 1864

Letter from the 8th N.Y. Cavalry

Strasburgh, Va. Oct. 10, 1864

Messrs. Editor American.  I wish to inform the readers of the American in relation to a battle in which our regiment were engaged on the 9th instant.  After following the enemy up the valley as far as Wainesborough we commenced falling back, the enemy following and constantly annoying our rear, and at one time charged into our train, causing quite a panic, capturing a few wagons, and a number of cattle and sheep which we had picked up in the valley.  On the morning of the 9th our division was ordered to advance on them.  the Frist brigade took the advance and found them in position near Fisher's Hill, when they attacked them, at the same time throwing out a strong skirmish line.  After engaging them for a short time, Gen. Custer ordered them to charge the enemy; but seeing the large force against them, they rather faltered.  Our (2d) brigade was supporting them, when Capt. Hopkins, commanded a squadron composed of companies C, D, L and M. of the 8th N.Y., seeing their disposition to falter, came dashing down sword in hand, followed by his brave boys, and charged through the First brigade, driving the enemy in the greatest confusion, and capturing five pieces of artillery and about thirty prisoners, with a loss of only one man killed. the captain received a ball through his hat cutting his hair, while leading the charge.  Great credit is attributed to him by officers and men for his daring and successful charge.  The man killed I'm sorry to say is O.O. Wells, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].  He was hit by shell while sitting in his saddle, it passing though his chest, killing him instantly.  His son George, who had joined the regiment the night previous was sitting by his side at the time he was killed and assisted in burying him.  I will say, to the credit of deceased, that he was highly spoke of by his company a good soldier, always ready to do his duty, and never found to shrink in times of danger.  His loss is deeply felt by the members of his company, and they express a deep sympathy for his family and friends at home.  

Your respectfully. H.L. Miller, Co. M. 8th NY Cav.