CDV Signed By 2nd Lieutenant V.K. Spear 38th Massachusetts Infantry – SOLD

Description

CDV Signed By 2nd Lieutenant V.K. Spear 38th Massachusetts Infantry.   Vivian K. Spear, from Lynn, Ma., was commissioned a 2nd lieutenant in August of 1862, into Co. “E,” 38th Mass, and discharged on November 20, 1863, for wound received at Port Hudson on June 14, 1863.   He had received a promotion to captain while in service in Louisiana in February of ’63.

Signed on the reverse, “V.K. Spear. /2nd Lieut 38th Mass Vols.”

No back mark, but likely photographed in Louisiana in January of 1863.

This regiment was raised in the Boston area and south into Plymouth and Bristol counties.  They were part of the Banks Expedition to Louisiana, took part in the Siege of Port Hudson.  In the first assault the regiment had two enlisted men, and Lt.Col. William Rodman killed, with 14 wounded.  On the second assault the 38^th lost 7 killed and 84 wounded.

In March of 1864 the 38^th began its part of the Red River Expedition under General Banks.  The 19^th Corps was transferred back to the east, and assigned to the Army of the Shenandoah, and took part in the battles of Winchester, Fishers Hill, and Cedar Creek having well over 100 casualties in a month’s time.

There remaining service was in North Carolina, guarding Sherman’s Army supplies, and confederate prisoners and moved to Savannah, Ga. until finally shipped home to Boston, arriving there in July of 1865.

Very good condition.