Civil War
The Civil War collection at the Pearce Museum has more than 15,000 documents as well as a number of photographs and three-dimensional artifacts that directly relate to the period 1861 – 1865 and are original to that time period, or were written or made within the life of a participant in the American Civil War. You can research our collection by doing a key-word search, click on the finding aid button below, or ask our Curator by submitting a Research Request.
From the Civil War Collection
Joseph B. Polley (CSA) – born October 27, 1840, Brazoria County, Texas; son of Joseph Henry Polley, who moved to Texas in 1821 with Stephen F. Austin as one of the “Old Three Hundred” colonists; graduated from Florence Wesleyan University in Florence, Alabama;enlisted 4th Texas Infantry, Co. F, “Hood’s Texas Brigade”; wounded at the Battle of Gaines Mill 1862; wounded at the Battle of Darbytown Road October 7, 1864; foot amputated as a result of the wound; discharged January 25, 1865; upon return to Texas studied law and admitted to the bar 1868; member of 16th Texas Legislature in 1879; married Martha Legette in 1866 and had four children; published his memoirs entitled “Hood’s Texas Brigade” in 1910; died in Floresville, Texas February 2, 1918.
Read J.B. Polley’s letter dated September 3, 1862
Camp near Farifax C. H.
Sept 3rd 1862
Detail of letter written by J.B. Polley dated September 3, 1862
Dear Mother-
Having by the kindness of Brahan obtained this sheet of paper and a board, I shall write you a few hasty lines- Since I left Richmond we have been in two fights on the old Manassas grounds and have defeated the enemy each time- on the 29th and 30th August- Though our regiments made two daring charges and in the second one began the battle and captured nine cannons its loss is comparatively trifling being only about 120 men- In our own company – Wolf, a brave German was killed Jim Sneed wounded through the foot and Billy Floyd cut slightly on the neck- Several were knocked down but are not hurt or kept from being with us- The enemy were routed, have fallen back near Fairfax and are now confronting us – One more fight and I think the war will be over. You will be sorry to learn that Sq Johnson was killed on the 30th. He had lately been elected 2nd Lieutenantcy – All our boys in Camp are well and hearty. How those in Richmond are I cant say. We move toward the enemy in a short time so farewell – Your affectionate Son JB Polley
My love to Father Brother and Sisters
JBP Brahan desires me to present his regards and tell you that he is ready for the next fight –
Private JBPolley
Co F 4th Texas Regt.
Mrs Mary B. Polley
Sutherland Springs Wilson Co. Texas