1862 June 2 Camp Alexander, Washington, D. C.

     [From the diary of Captain George Hazen Dana, of the 32nd Massachusetts Infantry]

                               
                                                 June 2nd
     We are encamped about two miles from Washington,
in Camp Alexander -     A dirty hole is Washington,
with nothing redeeming about it, except the beauty
of its few public buildings.     Georgetown, to
the west of Washington, where James Dana lives,
is a lovely place – beautiful residences, grounds
tastefully laid out, etc.     I trust they will


move us on soon as this life in camp is too quiet for
me. - - - I like the novelty of the soldier’s life,
and if they will only give us work, have no doubt shall
continue to enjoy it.

MSS 5130