Twelve letters, 1861-1864, of John J. Russell of Sterling, Illinois, documenting his service as a sergeant and 2nd lieutenant in Company B of the 13 Illinois Infantry in Missouri, Mississippi, and Alabama.

Russell writes to his brother, Charles, and sister, Julia, from Rolla, Franklin, and Keytesville, Mo., Vicksburg, Miss., Cairo, Ill., and Bridgeport and Madison Station, Ala. In letters revealing of the morale and living conditions of the regiment, Russell captures the anxiety of the troops as they prepare to march to undisclosed sites; describes problems concerning government distribution and reimbursement of military uniforms; itemizes the absences of certain required foods that may have contributed to poor health; and explains how badly the men of the 13th feel at having been stuck on guard duty in Missouri while other newer regiments pass through. There are also letters describing his company's part in the siege of Vicksburg and a skirmish at Madison Station, Ala. Russell also comments on war issues beyond his immediate experience, including McClellan's inaction and the impact of an Army of the Potomac victory. One letter (Dec. 6, 1861) is written on stationery containing a printed vignette portrait of McClellan and another letter (Jan. 5, 1862) contains a transcribed copy of Gen. Samuel Curtis' Special Order No. 15, issued from the headquarters of the Southwestern District of Missouri.