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| (National Archives via fold3.com) |
After John Roach was seriously wounded in the Irish Brigade's attack on Marye's Heights at Fredericksburg on Dec. 13, 1862, the 28th Massachusetts corporal was transferred to Douglas Hospital in Washington -- one of many military hospitals in and around the capital. In grave condition, the 33-year-old laborer from Shirley, Mass., arrived at the hospital on Christmas Day. Unable to write and eager to alert his family back home, Roach had another man, perhaps a hospital steward, write the heart-rending note above to his brother-in-law.
Whether Roach's wife Margaret received the news before John died on New Year's Day 1863 is unknown. Cause of his death: Gunshot wounds. The Roaches had four children: Julia, 8; Honora, 6; Mary, 4; and William, 1. The letter was discovered in the pension file paperwork of Dennis O'Neill, who became guardian of Roach's children after his sister Margaret died in early 1864.
Douglas Hospital
Dec. 27th 1862
Mr. Denis O. Neill
I write in haste to inform you of the arrival of Mr. John Roach on Xmas day. He requests me ask you to let his dear wife & family know his condition; he was dangerously wounded in the late battle of Fredericksburg, Va., and is now in a dying state. After receiving all the rites of the Church he is unable to say much. Thank God he appears to have excellent dispositions and received all necessary care. Sincerely wishing you all the blessings of this holy season. I remain yours.
Respectfully.
K.M. Collete
John Roach's final resting place is unknown.
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| An undated photo of Douglas Hospital in Washington, where Corporal John Roach died on Jan. 1, 1863. (U.S. Military Institute) |
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| Another war-time view of Douglas Hospital in Washington. (Library of Congress) |
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SOURCE:
--John Roach pension file, National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, D.C., via fold3.com.
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