Our Collection

At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) to his parents, [brother-in-law], and sister

High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.

A high-resolution version of this object is available for registered users. LOG IN

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07460.036 Author/Creator: Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) Place Written: Lavergne, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 25 June 1863 Pagination: 6 p. ; 18.5 x 24 cm. Order a Copy

The top edge of the letter has been cut resulting in the loss of some text. Wheeler writes that there has been some conflict amongst the officers of Co. C, primarily between Captain Fields and Lieut. Burst.
As a result of this conflict, Colonel Dustin has been keeping a close eye on the officers and given them a warning. Relates that some fighting has been reported and it is said that Rosecrans has gathered 35,000 cavalry to attack the enemy. He writes however, that the truth of the event will be heard of in the newspapers. The company has received word that Morgan is seventy miles away and marching directly towards Lavergne. Describes some skirmishing that occurred and reports that some of their forces are occupying Cartersville, two miles from camp.

Lysander Wheeler, a farmer from Sycamore, Illinois, enlisted in the Union Army on August 7, 1862 as a private. He was mustered into Company C of the 105th Illinois infantry and later promoted to sergeant. Wheeler was mustered out on June 7, 1865.

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources