Union soldier Townsend Civil War letters, 1863-1864. 2 items. Location: Misc:U. The author of these letters may be a Union soldier by the name of Silas Townsend of the Massachusetts 3rd Cavalry Regiment, Company A. Two letters written from New Orleans, Louisiana, relate he will be home on sick leave and he does not want to stay in camp with his regiment if it is not drilled and organized. He also requests a uniform. For further information, see online catalog. Mss. 4954.