Walter J. Feuchter letters, 1942 November 4-December 25

The Walter J. Feuchter papers contain letters, one notebook, ephemera, two photographs, and miscellaneous bills and receipts, circa 1913-1951.The bulk of the collection consists of letters, written by Walter to his family in Baltimore while he was stationed at Camp Wheeler, Georgia, and Fort Meade, Maryland, between November 1942 and February 1943. Walter discusses his day-to-day life in the Army, often commenting that he'd better serve his country elsewhere. "I feel that my time is being wasted here, I'd be more useful building ships" (1942 December 20). His later letters revolve around trying to get discharged and the paperwork needed to secure his release.

The ephemera consists of miscellaneous tickets and coupons, as well as ration books belonging to Walter and Margaret Feuchter, circa 1943. Also included is a V-Mail, or Victory Mail, package containing blank envelopes to send out to soldiers.

The photographs in the collection depict Harry Feuchter, Walter's older brother. Both photographs show Harry Feuchter in uniform during World War I, and have notes on the reverse. Also included is a notebook kept by young Walter, circa 1917, an employment application to Bethlehelm Steel, and miscellaneous bills and receipts belonging to Walter and his mother, Margaret Feuchter. Of particular note is a 1951 contract for a tombstone by the Baltimore Monument Works, depicting a sketch of a headstone for John and Margaret Feuchter.