Harper's Ferry, Virginia

October 2nd, 1862

“…On the 30^th, a beautiful silk flag was presented to our regiment.  Lieut. Col. McCreary presented it to Col. Brown in behalf of the donors in a short patriotic speech, during which he read the following letter:

John S. Brown: --Dear Sir:  --Permit us to place in your charge a flag for Col. Brown’s Regiment, which please convey to our gallant Volunteers.

We wish you to present this banner to the 145^th Regiment, in behalf of the Ladies’ of Erie.  Say to our friends when they look upon it’s folds, to remember that while it is an emblem of our Union and national greatness, it is also a token that though far from home, yet the prayers and unceasing solicitude of the Ladies’ of Erie forever accompany them.

We sincerely, very respectfully, yours &c., &c.,

                                                      Miss Augusta Craig,

                                                      Miss Ida A. Craig,

                                                      Miss Julia Pelton,

                                                                  Committee.

Col. Brown received the Flag with a few very appropriate remarks, and closed by proposing three cheers for the Ladies’ of Erie, three for the Flag, and three for our Country, which was heartily responded to by all.  Every assurance that our friends at home remember us is very gratefully received.  It encourages, cheers and strengthens us.  And most sincerely do we thank the Ladies who have prepared for us so beautiful and valuable a Flag.  We value it so highly, because it is the emblem of our Country’s Flag and renown; because it is the emblem of Freedom, that leads the brave soldiers to victory or death; and because it was presented by the Ladies’ of Erie.  Whilst it thus reminds us of our duty to our country, it also speaks to us of home and the dear ones far away.  Again, Ladies, we thank you—…”