This collection consists of a letter written by Miner Hinman, captain in Company D, 171st Pennsylvania Infantry during the American Civil War. Written aboard the steamer John A. Warner, on December 2, 1862, the letter is addressed to "Brother James" and bears a printed letterhead reading, "171st Regiment Pennsylvania Militia, Col. E. Bierer," below an image of the U. S. Capitol. Hinman notes that the ship is four hours from Washington D. C., bound for Fort Monroe, Virginia, then mentions having had recent, temporary command of his regiment, during which time a provost guard shot Myson Kilmor [i.e., Myron Kilmer] of Hinman's company. "[I]n less time than 20 mts I had the Whole Regt in line to revenge the deed," Hinman writes, adding, "the Provo Guards had to skedaddle mighty quick." He also writes of having had a good journey, ending with, "[T]here is so much confusion here sing, argueing, laughing and Joking I cant write." The letter is accompanied by an envelope addressed to "Mr J. Y. Hinman Towanda Penna."