On a recent visit to the Alexander Library at Rutgers in New Brunswick, NJ, Jerry Auten found nine more letters from Henry J. Aten to Rev. John B. Thompson. There are very likely more to be discovered in the extensive collection there. The letters of Henry J will now be listed by date written, including the four previously posted here. This will allow for future additions bearing any date. We thank Jerry for sharing the letters with us.
It should be noted that the Reunion of 1898 was held on
August 27th. Letters written after that time will reflect knowledge
gained at that event. Born in 1841, at this time of his life Henry J wrote the
history of his regiment, the 85th Illinois, for publication and was pursuing
his family history with great vigor.