Spangler's Ghost Writer

[RJNorton]

Here is a letter from Spangler written prior to arrival at Ft. Jefferson. It was published in the New York Times on September 3, 1865. My first image of Spangler as a person was formed in the 1960's when I read Jim Bishop's book, and I would never have guessed he could write this well. I do wonder if he had help.

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A Letter from Spangler.

Published: September 3, 1865

From the Richmond Bulletin.

A letter has been received from SPANGLER by a gentleman in Washington, which was written while he was on his way to the Dry Tortugas. It is in pencil, and reads as follows:

ON BOARD STEAMER FLORIDA, BOUND TO THE ISLAND OF DRY TORTUGAS, Fla.

FRIEND: Still thinking of old times, and wishing I was seated in your saloon drinking a nice glass of whisky, instead of in this hot and sunny clime. The last drink I had was in your house, and you may put it down as a settled fact that it will be the last for six long years to come, and may be forever before I get another. You must not forget me now in my sunny home. When joy shall swell your heart, and the welkin is made to ring with the light and cheerful voices of yourself and my former companions, stop for a moment to cast a lingering but bright thought upon him who was life, all life, amidst you; wish him a companion of your festival, and I will feel happy in my exile -- banished, and in a burning clime -- Dry Tortugas, 1,300 miles from you. Extend your hospitality to the gentleman who brings this letter to you.

Good-bye. Sometimes think of me and my companions, though they are unknown to you personally.

EDAWARD SPANGLER.