Mexican-American War folded letter

November 13, 1846

Nineteen-year-old Lieutenant William McKean of Ultima Thula, Arkansas wrote letters to his family over a three month period in late 1846 as Company G moved through Texas into Mexico. On two-sides of this sheet addressed to his father, McKean described life at camp and the ills suffered by his comrades. He expresses concern over the complete lack of news coming out of Mexico. He also shares his expectations for correspondence with his family, writing that “I am truly glad to hear that you had rec’d some of my letters. I have the advantage of you. I know where to write to you. Your home is stationary, mine is upon the wide world, wherever I pitch my tent there is my home for the time being. A soldier’s life is uncertain & his abode more.”