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to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes a short note to his wife explaining that he has just mailed her a letter and that the bearer of this note is from the 2nd regiment.

GLC03523.13.066

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that they have marched fifty miles and are now one mile from Fredericksburg, Virginia. He lacks confidence in his ability to handle his new rank. Thinks that the great battle will take place near Fredericksburg. Notes that the...

GLC03523.13.067

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he holds her and their baby in the highest esteem. He is also greatly saddened that he may not be able to come home during the winter. Tells her of his dreams about going home and being with her and the new baby. Because he is...

GLC03523.13.068

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he is sorry but he will not be able to come home this winter because there is going to be a great battle. Every soldier has been ordered to take a gun and go into the fight. Reports that he has been promoted to lieutenant. He...

GLC03523.13.069

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife after he crosses the Rappahannock River to let her know that he is still alive after the Battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia. His regiment was involved in a "desperate fight" but could not force the enemy from the heights. Reports...

GLC03523.13.070

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry to is wife. His arm is still very sore from last week but he is glad to hear that she and their baby are doing so well. It appears very doubtful that he will come home this winter. The army is unsure of...

GLC03523.13.071

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry to his wife. Notes that a year ago today he started for home. Writes how much he misses her and wishes he could be with her. Is thankful that God has continued to spare him through so many battles.

GLC03523.13.072

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he hopes she does not think his previous letter foolish for being a love letter. Thinks that most men give all their affection before marriage and then after marriage the wife is the one who professes affection. Enjoys the...

GLC03523.13.073

to Amanda Wilkinson

He writes that he does not have picket duty because the enemy has left Munson's Hill and vicinity. The troops have been ready to march everyday and they go out in "stack columns" prepared to fight. Writes that they took the hill after the enemy left...

GLC03523.13.018

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at Camp Richardson. States that he loves her very much and is glad she has regained much of her strength. Is extremely excited that she will soon be a mother. Notes that they have been out on a "tramp" after seeing the enemy. He states that...

GLC03523.13.024

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written from Camp Michigan, Virginia. Has visited Washington, D.C. in the last week. States that Mrs. Fuller has had a boy, who is rather small. Mrs. Fuller is not doing well and was expected, for sometime, not to live. Notes that even though he had...

GLC03523.13.029

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written on board the [schooner] Donelson, Chesapeake Bay. Writes that he is lonely because he has been thinking of her and the baby so much. He was delayed for a while in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, Virginia. Thinks that he will be sent into...

GLC03523.13.038

to Amanda Wilkinson

Understands his wife's sorrow in his absence. He hopes that when he returns he can live a comfortable life with her. Professes his love for her and his desire to be with her. Notes that he sent her 20 dollars and that he will send more soon; if they...

GLC03523.13.019

to Amanda Wilkinson

Wilkinson writes that he has sent his mother 30 dollars, but has yet to hear from her. He is also glad to hear that Amanda, his wife, is out of debt. Notes that his pay has increased to 20 dollars a month but it is a poor amount compared to the work...

GLC03523.13.020

to Amanda Wilkinson

Notes that their camp has moved twice since he last wrote and they are now in Alexandria, Virginia. States that they are two miles from the river and are currently employed in building a fort. He writes that the enemy is only 12 miles away. He is...

GLC03523.13.021

to Amanda Wilkinson and his mother

He has received a letter from his wife's mother that his wife is sick. He is greatly saddened to hear this and hopes she gets better. Wilkinson writes that her life is more precious then his and he wishes he were sick instead of her. Says that they...

GLC03523.13.022

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written from Camp Richardson. Is glad to hear that she is feeling better. Suggests that she sends someone to get her state papers for her so she can recover. Writes that his sister, Wink, is doing well and that he will write her and his mother...

GLC03523.13.023

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes that he is unwell but not unwell enough to prevent him from doing his duties. He says that there were about 10,000 infantry and cavalry along with 120 pieces of cannon. He thinks that he will be unable to come home this month but will try to...

GLC03523.13.025

to Dugen Ely

Written at the camp of the Michigan 2nd Regiment. Writes to Dugen Ely that he is now a noncommissioned officer. States that he is fighting for his country, risking his life and all that he has in service of it. But he is sorry that he has placed his...

GLC03523.13.026

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at Camp of Michigan 2nd Regiment. Sends his wife 33 dollars. Writes that he is upset to hear is wife is so "blue" and not feeling well. Expresses that he will do anything to take care of her.

GLC03523.13.027

to Amanda Wilkinson and his mother

Written from Camp Michigan, Virginia. Writes that he is much better then when he last wrote. The regiment has been working on building log hovels as their tents do not keep out the cold. States that they will most likely not campaign again until the...

GLC03523.13.028

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at Camp Michigan, Virginia. It is the first full year in which he can call her his wife. He is not sad that he has to send his money home. Notes that the other men spend most of their money and do not send it home. States that some of the...

GLC03523.13.030

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at Camp Michigan, Virginia. Writes that he is pleased his wife returned his letter so affectionately. Tells her that it is fine if she thinks him "foolish" for writing a love letter to her. Went to visit his friend at the hospital (he was...

GLC03523.13.031

to Amanda Wilkinson

Is excited to write that he is in Detroit, Michigan and much closer to her. He adds that he has been ordered to Port Huron, Michigan and will return either the last day of this week or the first of next week. Writes in a post-script that if she needs...

GLC03523.13.032

to Amanda Wilkinson

Notes that they have not had any movements recently. Attended a dance for the benefit of the soldiers. States that his mother and all of his friends were glad to see him and that he is doing well. The baby cried all night and he barely got any sleep...

GLC03523.13.033

to Amanda Wilkinson

Reports that he is back from Port Huron, Michigan. He says he will try to come home soon. Likes Lexington, Michigan very much but cannot stay here without her. Asks that she look after his sister and her new baby.

GLC03523.13.034

to Amanda Wilkinson

After he returns from Port Huron, Michigan he learns that he will be staying in Lexington, Michigan for a period of time and suggests that she should come up and be with him. Warns her that if she does come her mother will not be there to take care...

GLC03523.13.035

to Amanda Wilkinson

Sends her eight dollars. Says if the journey is too much to do in one night she should take her time. Also asks her to bring his boots.

GLC03523.13.036

to Amanda Wilkinson

Has returned from Port Huron, Michigan and is saddened to hear that their baby is not doing well. He includes some money as well. Writes that she should come visit him if she is able.

GLC03523.13.037

[Appointment to mail carrier]

Written from Department of Pamlico, Quarter Masters Department. Appoints Heber Painter as mail carrier from Washington, NC to New Berne, NC.

GLC02016.101

Special orders

Orders for Major Henry Metcalf, commander of 58th Pennsylvania, to repost Heber Painter for mail carrier duties at the headquarters of the District of Pamplico.

GLC02016.102

to sister Kate

Writes that there is nothing to report from camp. Is disappointed that his sister Ella couldn't find the time to respond to his letter. Writes that he turned in a man to the Provost Marshall because the man's daughter was singing anti-Yankee songs...

GLC02016.090

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). He has been given orders to act as inspecting officer of the sub-district which includes five counties. Writes that due to these orders, his expenses will increase and asks his aunt to...

GLC02016.091

to his aunt

Written to his aunt Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that he is no longer Acting Adjutant but remains First Lieutenant. Writes that he has been in the service four years (he enlisted October 8th 1861). Currently making arrangements...

GLC02016.092

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Has just completed muster rolls and will be mustering out nine one-year soldiers who are the best in his company. Writes that the men are opposed to president Johnson's reconstruction...

GLC02016.093

to sister Ella

Writes that he has been appointed court recorder and Provost Marshall. Two military commissions will convene for two murder trials. Everyone is anxiously awaiting the upcoming Congressional meeting, which will determine whether soldiers will remain...

GLC02016.094

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that his company was ordered to go to Charlottesville but was then ordered to Louisa Court House to assume command of Louisa and Hanover counties. Writes that he is currently...

GLC02016.095

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Writes that he must stay in command of his post during the holidays in fear that there will be an insurrection by blacks. Writes that blacks and whites came together for Christmas, yet this...

GLC02016.096

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that he has received orders to be mustered out of service. Plans to meet up with the regiment at City Point but hhas to stay behind temporarily. The other soldiers were sorry he...

GLC02016.097

to Heber Painter

Explains why he was unable to respond sooner to Painter's letter. He is overjoyed that the war has finally ended. Briefly discusses his feelings on Sherman allowing Johnson's army to return to their homes with their arms. Wishes good health to...

GLC02016.098

[certification of Heber Painter]

A letter certifying that Painter has served time as a printer's apprentice at the "Danville Democrat". It is also a recommendation letter for Heber to future employers.

GLC02016.099

Receipt of Captain Buyers

Receipt for the purchase of six picks and three axes for ICompany, 58th Pennsylvania. Captain John Buyers was commissioned into I Company, 58th Pennsylvania Infantry on October 28, 1862 and resigned seven months later.

GLC02016.100

Special orders no. 14

Orders to detail Heber Painter to special duty as Brigade Post Master. Painter is to report to the headquarters of the 3rd Brigade, 1st Division, 18th North Carolina.

GLC02016.103

Muster roll [58th Rgt. PA Infantry Company I]

Muster roll of Captain John Buyers for Company I, 58th Regiment of Permanent Volunteers in the Pennsylvania Infantry, stationed at Camp Suffolk, Virginia.

GLC02016.104

Muster roll [58th Rgt. PA Infantry Company I]

Muster roll of Captain Angello Jackson of I Company, 58th Regiment of Permanent Volunteers in the Pennsylvania Infantry, stationed at Staunton, Pennsylvania.

GLC02016.105

Muster roll [58th Rgt. PA Infantry, Company F]

Muster roll of Lieutenant Heber Painter of F Company, 58th Regiment of Permanent Volunteers in the Pennsylvania Infantry, stationed in Virginia.

GLC02016.106

Muster roll [58th Rgt. PA Infantry, Company F]

Muster roll of Lieutenant Heber Painter of F Company, 58th Regiment of Permanent Volunteers in the Pennsylvania Infantry, stationed in Virginia

GLC02016.107

Receipt for issues

Receipt for ordnance property including rifles, bayonnet scabbards, cartridges, waist belts, and guns.

GLC02016.107.01

Receipt for issues

Receipt for supplies issued to Heber Painter. The supplies include three saddles and three bridles. Written at Camp Cadwalader

GLC02016.108

Monthly return of clothing, camp and garrison equipage

Monthly return for April 1865. Written in Manchester neighborhood of Richmond

GLC02016.109

Monthly return of clothing, camp and garrison equipage

Monthly return for May 1865. Written in Manchester neighborhood of Richmond

GLC02016.110

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that the army has finally stopped marching. He is very anxious to hear from her, and wonders how she and the baby are doing. States that if she does not get better soon he will come home to stay. Tells her not to borrow any money...

GLC03523.13.089

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry near Lebanon, Kentucky. He wishes that his wife could have come with him when the army left Newport News, Virginia as she could have seen a great deal of the country. Writes that he is unsure where the...

GLC03523.13.090

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry near Lebanon, Kentucky. Worries that he and many of the other officers in the regiment will not be paid for two months. As soon as he receives his commission from home he will ask for a leave of absence...

GLC03523.13.091

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at the camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry. Sends his wife some portraits. He writes that the regiment expects to move soon. Writes that he is not feeling well but he is not so sick that he cannot report for duty. He has still not been paid or...

GLC03523.13.092

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at the camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry near Lebanon, Kentucky. He was very glad to receive her portrait but he was upset to hear that she had such poor things to say about her friends. Suggests that his wife finds another place to live if...

GLC03523.13.093

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the Michigan 2nd Infantry near Lebanon, Kentucky to his wife. Writes that he is "officer of the day." He is sorry that their baby is unwell so frequently and hopes that as the baby gets older her health will improve. Writes that he...

GLC03523.13.094

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written on board the steamer [Majestic] on the Ohio River. He writes his wife that the regiment is on its way to the back part of the state. He has not heard from one of the lieutenants in regiment and assumes that the lieutenant was unable to get...

GLC03523.13.095

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written on the Green River in Kentucky. He writes that they have marched 30 miles inland and are very far from any railroad station. Expects that they will soon march again but is unsure as to where they are headed. Writes that he has been sick for...

GLC03523.13.096

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes a short letter to his wife that the regiment has moved and will move again. He is unsure of where they are headed. Thinks that they might be headed to Memphis, Tennessee but he is still not sure. Reports that he is feeling much better every...

GLC03523.13.097

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry. He writes a letter of introduction for Sergeant Wilhelm [?] Shakespeer who has promised to visit Frederick Wilkinson's wife. Reports that he was sick but has since recovered. Requested a leave of absence...

GLC03523.13.098

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at the residence of Mr. [Carlile] to his wife. He has been unwell so he came to Mr. Carlile's and is feeling much better. Writes that he is with one of the best families in Kentucky and they give him everything he requires and take excellent...

GLC03523.13.099

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he has returned to camp with much improved health. He is glad to hear that she is doing so well. He states that he will unfortunately not be able to come home for at least another several weeks. Knows that he is of no great...

GLC03523.13.100

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written to his wife from Louisville, Kentucky. Reports that he has mustered into a new regiment. He has received his bounty and has sent her a portion of it in a box. Explains that he is not feeling well and that he will try to return home as soon as...

GLC03523.13.101

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry near Haines Bluff, Mississippi to his wife. He is outside of the city of Vicksburg, Mississippi. General Ulysses S. Grant is laying siege to the city because attempting to storm it would most likely cause...

GLC03523.13.102

Roster of the Second Regiment, Michigan Veteran Volunteer Infantry, 1861 to 1865

Roster of the 2nd Michigan Infantry for the years 1861 to 1865.

GLC03523.13.103

to his parents, brother-in-law, and sister

Writes that he is in good health and is glad to hear that his family is as well. The brigade still has not marched out from Nashville, Tennessee. There is also another brigade close by and they each hear rumors that one of them has received marching...

GLC07460.070

to his parents, brother-in-law, and sister

Written at Camp of 105th Illinois Regiment, eight miles from Chattanooga, Tennessee. The regiment has marched from Bridgeport, Alabama to Chattanooga, Tennessee. He describes this as the hardest march the regiment has ever had. He also reports that...

GLC07460.071

to his brother-in-law and all at home

Written at Lookout Valley, Tennessee. Thanks his friends and family for writing to him and remembering him. Notes that there has been a lot of rain and wind recently. Does not think his brother-in-law will be conscripted as Illinois is already ahead...

GLC07460.072

to sister Kate

Believes that the rebel forces at Kinston, North Carolina have moved to assist Lee in suppressing the advancement of the Grand Army of the Potomac. He has heard news that the rebels have "held their ground" in two days of fighting and have captured...

GLC02016.032

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Writes that he is still in Washington and has not done much fighting recently. Discusses a position for which he applied, stating that he won't be disappointed if he doesn't get it but...

GLC02016.034

to sister Kate

Complains about the excessive heat and comments on the health of the soldiers. States that the men in New Bern are healthy, but those in Washington, Roanoke, and Plymouth have got chills and fever. Discusses his recent attack of fever, for which he...

GLC02016.035

to sister Kate

Will soon be leaving for Washington, North Carolina. Reports on the health of the soldiers; some are in the hospital but not in serious condition. Writes that he is suffering from diarrhea.

GLC02016.039

to sister Kate

Writes to reassure his sister that he is well. Urges her to look on a map and trace his trip from the mouth of the Neuse River to the Pamplico River and then onto Washington, North Carolina; a distance of 110 miles. Reports that rebels destroyed...

GLC02016.040

to sister Kate

Writes that although he would like to request furlough for the holidays, he feels it may be wiser to reserve his request for a time when he will really need it. Reports that Thanksgiving day was celebrated by the soldiers with a meal of hardtack and...

GLC02016.043

to sister Kate

Writes that he spent Christmas on a boat in Washington, North Carolina with other soldiers, most of which were drunk. He had Christmas dinner with Phillip Forrester. Has befriended a widower in Washington who is originally from Pennsylvania....

GLC02016.045

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Explains that the delay in correspondence is probably due to the Northeastern storms occurring in the area of Cape Hatteras. Writes that despite not having any major battle news, the men...

GLC02016.046

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). He writes that a battle is currently raging in New Bern and the Rebels are at an advantage. The rebels, advancing during the previous night from Kinston, opened fire on the Union soldiers...

GLC02016.047

to his sister

Recounts the Battle at Batchelder's Creek. There was severe loss on both sides; 200-300 Confederates lost and about 1000 Union men lost at Newport Barracks. Reports that firing was heard in the direction of Washington, but does not know if Plymouth...

GLC02016.048

to his sister

Has just arrived from Washington. Talks about the arrival of his new niece. Discusses the importance of happiness to a soldier: " it is his life, his health, his everything." An expedition to the interior was put on hold due to the desertion of...

GLC02016.049

to his sister Kate

Hopes his sister is in good health when he returns so that she may welcome him with a "rich musical treat." Mentions the arrival of a new niece from his sister Anna. The men are anxious to be relieved by another regiment. Visits Washington on a...

GLC02016.050

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he has not slept because of the rain. He states that the troops are without shelter and that the mud in the camp is up to his knees. Notes that there are rumors about the army returning to Washington, D.C. in a few days...

GLC03523.13.074

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife of the bad weather they have had recently. Thinks that many of the men would stay here but it does not feel like home to him. One of the regiment's captains has resigned and gone home. States that he will not use any of his...

GLC03523.13.082

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he is not feeling very well. States that he would give anything to see her and their baby. One of the lieutenants in his regiment is heading home and will try to get his and Frederick Wilkinson's pay from Washington, D.C. He...

GLC03523.13.083

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Wishes that his aunt would send him a five dollar bill in tomorrow's mail. Reports that he received a letter from John, whom with another company, is occupying a very dangerous position at...

GLC02016.022

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Has nothing exciting to report from the town. States that if not for the recent election and draft, the soldiers would be in need of something exciting. Reports that the regiment had a...

GLC02016.023

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that a letter was received by the captain stating that the men would soon be called in. Attended church and was delighted to find that the Right Reverend Bishop was in town. The...

GLC02016.024

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that he is still stationed at Wilkesbarre and doesn't know when they'll be called in. Recruiting is still very poor. He is sorry to hear that Lightner is still in the hospital....

GLC02016.025

to sister Kate

Complains that he is being kept in town for recruiting despite the poor recruitment rate. Writes that recruiting costs $219 a month and feels that the government should act more economically instead of wasting money on recruiting parties. He was...

GLC02016.026

to sister Ella

He has traveled from Norfolk to Fortress Monroe by the steamer "Expounder". Complains that the steamer was unsafe for transportation and that the men suffered from seasickness. The soldiers continued on to Beauford (also known as old Troxel Inlet)...

GLC02016.027

[to his sister]

Discusses the unreliability of the news at camp. He has received word that the mail is in New Bern and hopes it will put an end to rumors of the war ending. States that the rebels want to retake New Bern and Wilmington and capture General Foster....

GLC02016.028

[to his sister]

Reports that three horses, ten Confederate soldiers, and their arms were captured by his company. Expects to spend the winter in North Carolina. Has not heard from Foster's expedition, but expects to soon. Reports that he is now in Colonel Howell...

GLC02016.029

to sister Kate

Complains about the 2nd lieutenant who has no formal education (civil and military) except for some knowledge in company drilling. Reports of a petition created by line officers to be removed from "Bachelor's" (Batchelder's) Creek on the basis of...

GLC02016.030

to sister Ella

Reports a skirmish with the rebels where one Union soldier was lost. Two companies from his regiment were ordered out after two soldiers had been discovered dead two miles from camp. Seven men, thought to have been responsible for the murders were...

GLC02016.031

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports on a long skirmish involving Union forces, 175 prisoners, and some equipment including a "splendid set of surgical instruments." Gives a detailed description of a surprise attack on...

GLC02016.033

to sister Anna

Writes that there will be no mail going north for the next week, so he is taking the opportunity to write before the last ship leaves so as to relieve his family of any worries regarding his welfare. Reports that many of the men in the company are...

GLC02016.036

to [Rebecca Frick]

Updates his aunt on the letters he's written home. Writes that the weather is changing and becoming cooler. Reports the same news to his aunt as he does to his sister Anna in the previous letter. States that he could really use some gentian...

GLC02016.037

to sister Kate

Reports that after Charleston, South Carolina is occupied, there are plans to move on to Wilmington, North Carolina. Writes that Captain Jackson has left for the north to bring back conscripts for the regiment.

GLC02016.038

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Describes riding on the steamer Thos. Collyer and the pleasure of feeling a cool breeze after being in the hot and dirty streets of New Berne. Also wishes that his Aunt and sister Anna...

GLC02016.041

to sister Kate

Writes that he arrived at New Berne this morning. Reports that an expedition went to Elizabeth City and but didn't accomplish much there. Also reports that deserters are coming in daily at a great number. Hopes to hear good news regarding the...

GLC02016.042