This is an interesting lot featuring an Articles of War by Which the Army of Nicaragua Shall Be Governed, contains news clippings of death notices for Lieutenant Ben O'Neil (O'Neal) and his brother J.C. (Calvin) O'Neil (O'Neal), both fought and died during The Filibuster War, aka Walker Affair (1856-1857). Both were sons of Colonel John W. O'Neil (O'Neal), all believed to be living in the Stockton, CA area during that time. The Articles of War is interesting, but the news clippings and poetry dedicated to the brothers, 1856-1857, is of more interest to myself. Both were shot and killed and subsequently buried on the battlefield. I have done extensive digging to find further information on this family and have come up with nothing, maybe you'll have better luck. One letter is from J.C. O'Neal to Major A.F. Ruddler (or Ruddlen) that reads as follows:

"Sir, On behalf of my friend Col E.J Sanders in answer to a note received by him from Col J.S. Piper. I beg to have to state that Col Sanders is perfectly willing to, under any satisfaction necessary without further remarks. I will name the time - ten o'clock tomorrow morning - distance - thirty paces - weapons - Mississippi Rifles - conditions of the fight - to be placed back to back _______ and fire at the word one, two, three - In expectation of an early answer - yours respectfully, J.C. O'Neal.". Apparently taking his cue from General Walker who was involved in three of his own.

Another letter included from 1888 to Miss Cornelia O'Neal, believed to be the sister of the O'Neal brothers who received tablet gifts from other survivors of the Filibuster War. It seems as though Miss O'Neal was possibly getting married? Also an interesting read is the typed out excerpt from the 1860 book by General Walker who died by firing squad that same year.

All of this will come in the Nicaragua book measuring 9.5" x 12"

As seen in the photos, there is some foxing in the old newspaper clippings, to be expected for 165 year old paper.  Should be better preserved but overall great condition for age. Â