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to his sister

Writes from camp near Portsmouth, Virginia. Reports that camp has moved from [Gosport Navy Yard] and complains of the condition of the grounds upon arrival. Discusses the number of Confederate prisoners that are being taken and their willingness...

GLC02016.016

to his sister

Writes from camp near Portsmouth, Virginia that he received his sister's letter and was happy to hear from her. Also writes that he sent home a sum of thirty dollars in a package sent along with the Captain. Refers to General McClellan as the...

GLC02016.017

to his sister

Writes from camp near Portsmouth, Virginia. Reports that everyone is enjoying good health. Writes that the company has not officially heard from the new chief. States that there are many New York militia regiments who will probably be taking the...

GLC02016.018

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that things have been quiet for the most part except for the capture of rebel mail some days ago. His present quarters are acceptable and he does not know how long he will be in the...

GLC02016.019

to sister Kate

Reports that he was not well for a few days, but is feeling okay now. Writes that recruiting is dull and believes it will continue to be until the fall. He hopes that a draft will start soon. States that there is no news in town.

GLC02016.020

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that he has arrived safely and is in good health. Complains of the dullness of recruiting and wishes that he were stationed in a place where he could be more useful. States that he...

GLC02016.021

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written from New Kent Court House, Virginia. Writes to his wife that he knows she is worried about him, especially since he's been in battle [during General George McClellan's Peninsula Campaign]. Explains that he wrote to her the day after the...

GLC03523.13.041

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written 12 miles from Richmond, Virginia. States he was very pleased to hear from Amanda, his wife, as he had not heard from her in over a week. He has been very sick, but not as sick as before. Is glad to hear that his wife has moved in with her...

GLC03523.13.042

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that even though he was sick he still tried to fight in the battle, but had to turn around and go back. Mentions the large number of sick and wounded coming into the hospital. He tried to leave the hospital yesterday morning but...

GLC03523.13.043

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written to his wife from camp of the Michigan 2nd Infantry, 7 miles from Richmond, Virginia. Sends her 15 dollars. Writes that Dr. Hitchcock has been taking care of the sick men. He returned to his regiment this morning and is feeling better but...

GLC03523.13.044

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written on the battlefield of Fair Oaks, Virginia to his wife. Reported for duty for the first time in two weeks. They have had recent orders to repulse the enemy from their picket and he expects an attack. Writes that they formed lines of battle but...

GLC03523.13.045

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written near Fair Oaks, Virginia to his wife. Mentions that there are fights with the enemy everyday and he suspects it will be that way for some time. Notes that many of the battles are very hard and one even lasted for six hours.

GLC03523.13.047

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written near the James River to his wife. Writes concerning one of his friends, Mr. L. Walker who has recently died in battle. He explains that Mr. Walker was killed in front of him; the musket ball striking him in the face. He has suffered for the...

GLC03523.13.049

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written near Harrison's Landing, Virginia to his wife. Understands why the nation is filled with anxiety over the battle [Seven Days Battle] and the retreat. Is clearly upset about the retreat writing, "that over 30,000 brave men have been sacrificed...

GLC03523.13.050

to Amanda Wilkinson and his mother

Written near Harrison's Landing, Virginia. In the first part of his letter he writes to his wife that he is feeling better since he last wrote. There are mixed feelings about the last battle [Seven Days Battle]; some say it was a victory while others...

GLC03523.13.051

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written near Harrison's Landing, Virginia to his wife. Is happy that his sister, Wink, could visit his mother and notes that it will make both of them happy. States that they are getting a new regiment ready and comments that the work is dull and...

GLC03523.13.052

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written near Harrison's Landing, Virginia. Is sad to hear that she has not received some of his letters. Reports that he was out on picket yesterday and comments that many of the men in his company are sick. Is afraid that he will not see her again...

GLC03523.13.053

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that they have retreated from Harrison's Landing, Virginia and that the army has moved to reinforce General Pope. He states that he told his commanding officer that he needed some rest, so he was sent to Mansion House Hospital in...

GLC03523.13.054

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written near Harrison's Landing, Virginia. Writes that he is very sad for missing a family meeting but that he hopes to make the next one. He states that it is very hot and they can barely go out in the sun but for a moment. It is so hot that during...

GLC03523.13.055

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at Mansion House Hospital. Sends his wife some money and plans to send more soon. He is hoping to save up enough money to buy 240 acres of land in Michigan. Writes that he is feeling very bad and is very weak. He will try to get home soon and...

GLC03523.13.056

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at Mansion House Hospital. Tells his wife that she should concern herself with her own health before worrying over his. Is very tired from the work that he has done since returning to his regiment. He notes that he is feeling a little bit...

GLC03523.13.057

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at Mansion House Hospital to his wife. Is sorry that he is causing her and the family so much anxiety over his current health status. Writes that he is recovering and will soon return to his regiment. He is happy to hear that Mr. Armstrong is...

GLC03523.13.058

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp near Upton Hill to his wife. Writes that he has received her letter along with their baby's portrait. Wishes that he could be with his wife and baby. Explains that he is willing to stay until the war is over but also that he wants to...

GLC03523.13.059

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry to his wife. Writes that they are at their old camp ground and it looks like they will be staying there for the winter. Tells her that his health has improved and he is in good spirits. Does not think they...

GLC03523.13.060

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the Michigan 2nd Infantry near Edwards Ferry, Maryland to his wife. Writes that they marched 40 miles in two days. Notes the fine homes, beautiful scenery, and gives a general description of the area, which is, surprisingly...

GLC03523.13.061

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the Michigan 2nd Infantry near Edwards Ferry, Maryland to his wife. Writes that he misses her and their baby very much. Thinks that if the Union were to win a few victories in the West the war would be over in six months. Has heard...

GLC03523.13.062

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written at camp of the Michigan 2nd Infantry beyond Union Town, Virginia. He was unable to write because they have been marching for several days, they are now camped not far from the Blue Ridge Mountains. Notes that there have been some skirmishes...

GLC03523.13.064

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

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

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

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