Collection Search

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

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Writes that in addition to being paid, he was able to collect money owed to him and is therefore enclosing one hundred dollars (the one hundred dollars is not included with the letter).

GLC02016.044

to sister Anna

Reports that the company landed at City Point on the evening of 5 May and started towards Petersburg early the next day. There was some fighting between Confederate and Union forces consisting of 9th New Jersey and 27th Massachusetts. The following...

GLC02016.051

to sister Kate

Writes that the rebels keep the Union lines surrounded so much that when the sharpshooters watch from the trees they shoot every time they see a shoulder strap. As a result, one man was killed in his tent and another wounded. Reports that some...

GLC02016.052

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). He writes that he is stiff and sore from a seventeen-mile march from Cold Harbor to Whitehouse. Updates his aunt on the locations of the various corps. Reports on rumors that the 18th...

GLC02016.053

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that the forces are withdrawing from the south bank of the James River and believes they will be returning to Whitehouse on the York River or possibly New Bern. States that he and...

GLC02016.054

to sister Anna

Writes from Camp Jones that he is currently on furlough. Writes that due to the negligence of the officers, the men are still at Camp Jones with nothing to do. Reports that John Hardman, a man in his company, died from bad whiskey and excessive...

GLC02016.055

to sister Kate

Writes that he has been relieved of his postmaster duties and assigned to recruiting services. Complains that the sixteen dollars a month he'll receive in recruiting services will not be enough. Expects to remain in Philadelphia a few more weeks....

GLC02016.056

to sister Kate

Writes that he received a letter from their sister Ella in Danville. Reports that the men are getting ready for the fall campaign. Picket duty is hard on the men who perform picket and fatigue duty on alternating days.

GLC02016.057

to sister Kate

Sarcastically informs his sister that he has stopped writing weekly letters because his sisters never reply. Is happy that his sister has decided to attend school and advises against reading "wishy-washy" novels, which do not enlighten people or...

GLC02016.058

to sister Kate

Has received orders to march at a moment's notice, but does not know where the men are marching to. The regiment is relieved by green troops, which consists of the 209th 211th, and 207th Pennsylvania. He hopes to be back to Bermuda Hundred after...

GLC02016.059

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Has marched to the north bank of the James River, advanced on Signal Hill and captured Fort Harrison. Reports heavy skirmishing with a large number of casualties. Asks his aunt for a...

GLC02016.060

to George A. Frick

Written to his uncle, George A. Frick of Danville, Pennsylvania. Reports that there was heavy fighting along the lines of the Tenth Corps yesterday.

GLC02016.061

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Mentions that he is thankful to be alive and in good health. Reports that fifteen men from his company were wounded or killed at the battle of Chaffin's Farm. Names and describes some of...

GLC02016.062

to sister Kate

Describes the surroundings of Chaffin's Farm and writes that some of the Union men have been trading newspapers with neighboring rebels. Discusses the election of 1864. Wishes the canal would be completed so that they can drive the rebels into...

GLC02016.063

to Rebecca Frick

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Writes that he has send his aunt $100 and wishes her to write him upon receipt of the money. Reports that deserters continue to come in large numbers.

GLC02016.064

to his sister

He has received orders to march but doesn't know the destination. Assures his sister that they have not abandoned the rebel capital, as troops from the Tenth Corps have been sent as replacements. Writes that the soldiers are angry with General...

GLC02016.065

to colonel

Updates him on the recent "disastrous battle" fought; the battle of Chaffin's Farm. Writes that he has received the electoral tickets and found that some were not correct. Is wary of fake electoral tickets and will make sure that the soldiers are...

GLC02016.066

to sister Ella

Reports that Butler's canal is finished; torpedoes and mines will be laid in the canal. Discusses his Thanksgiving meal, which consisted of turkey, chicken, walnuts, and cranberries. Reports that the regiment has received one hundred recruits of...

GLC02016.067

to sister Kate

Complains of the constant rain and writes that he desires a good pair of boots, as he has been "enjoying the luxury of wet feet" for the past three days. Gives news of the arrival of General Early's troops. Writes that two hundred new Pennsylvania...

GLC02016.068

to Amanda Wilkinson

He writes to his wife that he is sorry he has not sent more money home. States that the country is "hard up for money" and therefore cannot send as much as he would like or as much as she deserves. Comments that he asks no one to watch his wife. He...

GLC03523.13.075

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he has recently sent her several letters and has also sent his sister, Wink, a letter. States that he was unable to get a leave of absence and has been thinking about resigning. However, the army will not let him resign...

GLC03523.13.076

to Amanda Wilkinson

He writes to his wife that he has not heard from her in two weeks. He wonders if she is sick and sends her 40 dollars, all of the pay he received. He also sends her a picture of himself. Writes that he asked for a leave of absence and was denied...

GLC03523.13.077

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he is greatly relieved to hear from her as it has been over two weeks since her last letter. States that they have just received orders to march to North Carolina. There they are to reinforce General John G. Foster. He has...

GLC03523.13.078

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that much of his division has left for North Carolina and the remaining troops are preparing to depart. He thinks that the move to North Carolina will be a good one as they have stayed in Virginia for too long. Reports that the...

GLC03523.13.079

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written to his wife while on board the steamer Georgia. Explains that they will first go to Newport News, Virginia and then on to North Carolina. Comments on what he can see on the ocean and relates this to life. Writes about the horrors of war and...

GLC03523.13.080

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife about the army establishing a new camp at Newport News, Virginia. States that he has set up his tent and the army has erected a small house along the bank of the James River. He thinks that this place is the best encampment they...

GLC03523.13.081

to the Provost-Marshall of Baltimore City

Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry near Newport News, Virginia to the Provost Marshall in Baltimore, Maryland. Formal request for his wife Amanda to visit him at the regiment's camp near Newport News, Virginia.

GLC03523.13.084

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he is discouraged to hear of all the troubles at home. He comments that his grandfather has worked hard and that it is up to the younger generation to make sure he has all of his wants supplied. States that he is saddened by...

GLC03523.13.085

to Amanda Wilkinson

He writes to his wife that he has just returned from picket to read her letter. Is happy that both her and their baby are feeling better. Writes that he is sad his grandfather's health is failing so fast. Expresses his sympathies for his grandfather...

GLC03523.13.086

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he has submitted a recommendation for her visit and she is to pick it up in Baltimore, Maryland. Gives her specific instructions where to go in Detroit, Michigan and Baltimore, Maryland. Instructs her to bring her trunk with...

GLC03523.13.087

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes to his wife that he received orders to march last night. He hopes that she will not be disappointed that he will not be at Newport News, Virginia when she arrives. Finishes the letter by stating he will write again once he reaches his new...

GLC03523.13.088

to Amanda Wilkinson

Informs his wife that he has arrived in Baltimore. Notes that most of the people passed along the way received them warmly. He does note a few exceptions where this was not so. He states that if he dies in battle he fell for a "noble cause." Sends...

GLC03523.13.001

to Amanda Wilkinson

Wilkinson writes from Camp W. Scott and is glad to hear his wife is doing so well. In a previous letter to him she had discussed her mother, Hannah, her sister, and Hannah's baby visiting her at her new house. States that he arrived in Washington, D...

GLC03523.13.002

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written from Camp W. Scott. Explains to his wife that he does not know where he is going. Comments that he will go to the Senate and House of Representatives, both of which are in session. Also states that he will see her uncle. Tells his wife that...

GLC03523.13.003

to Amanda Wilkinson

Written from Camp W. Scott. He comments that his regiment will take on its line of march this afternoon. States that he visited Washington and that her uncle was very kind to him.

GLC03523.13.004

to Amanda Wilkinson

Goodridge, Amanda's uncle, writes that her husband is safe after being "engaged in one of the most deadly contests ever known" [possibly First Bull Run]. Explains that Frederick was placed in command of 23 skirmishers who were used in advance of...

GLC03523.13.005

to Amanda Wilkinson

States that he is alive and well. However, he cannot say that about all of the other brave soldiers who died in the fighting. For two days men came from every place and the rebels could mount 25,000 men against them. On Thursday in the afternoon 160...

GLC03523.13.006

to Amanda Wilkinson

Encloses some money to his wife and sends her his love.

GLC03523.13.007

to Amanda Wilkinson

Comments that it is very hot and that he hopes his wife will write to him because it is the only luxury he has. Notes that many of the men are sick. States that the new lieutenant works from morning to the evening with the men. Does not like...

GLC03523.13.008

to Amanda Wilkinson

Visited with Amanda's uncle, Allen Goodridge, and her cousin as well. States that he has not been to Washington, D.C. for two months. Is worried that reports about casualties she receives are greatly exaggerated. Says he went down to where the enemy...

GLC03523.13.014

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes that he is happy Amanda is staying with her mother and notes she will be cared for there. He is also pleased that her friends are caring for her while he is away. Hopes that he can get out of debt soon so he can send home more money. States...

GLC03523.13.015

to Amanda Wilkinson

Sends Dr. Fuller to his wife to explain to her what occurred at the Battle of Bull Run. Explains that Dr. Fuller is a good friend and she should ask him any questions she has. Writes that he has been in the hospital for a day or so. Tells his wife...

GLC03523.13.009

to Amanda Wilkinson

Tells his wife that he is continually thinking of her, and that the thought of being with her again gives him courage. A young man whom his wife had written about in one of her letters was killed from a shot to the head in the 1st Michigan Infantry...

GLC03523.13.010

to Amanda Wilkinson

Tells his wife that his sister, Wink, wrote to him that she had heard some incorrect things about his regiment's casualties. He reports that they had "very few wounded." He also reports that he was in the hardest part of the battle. States that the...

GLC03523.13.011

to Amanda Wilkinson

He is sorry to hear that his wife is unhappy. From the letter it appears that Amanda and Frederick's mother do not get along. Notes that there is a rebel battery not far from his position and he can see 200 or 300 soldiers there. States that there...

GLC03523.13.012

to Amanda Wilkinson

Compliments his wife saying that the last letter he received from her was the best she has ever written. He is impressed with her penmanship and her composition and wishes for her to keep practicing by writing to him. Says he is not worthy of all the...

GLC03523.13.013

to Amanda Wilkinson

Writes that he loves and misses his wife very much. Instructs her to take the enclosed money and spend it to make herself comfortable. Suggests that she should continue to stay with her mother because of her present condition.

GLC03523.13.016

to Amanda Wilkinson and his mother

The first part of the letter is addressed to his wife, Amanda. He tells his wife that he has been promoted to Sergeant. Says there was a hard fight on the river between gun boats and a rebel battery. He thinks not much damage was done to either side...

GLC03523.13.017

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

Writes that the weather is very cold and has been as low as nineteen degrees below zero. Complains of the lack of fire wood provided for the soldiers. Reports that Major [Everell Fletcher] Dutton of Sycamore, Illinois has returned to the regiment....

GLC07460.068

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

Writes that he is about to march for Alabama. Notes that their equipment is packed and ready as are the troops who are ready to "tramp for freedom through mudholes and over mountains." His boots, however, are worn through. States that he had been...

GLC07460.069

to Amanda Wilkinson

He has been on the picket for the last 24 hours and feels very tired. They are being shot at and shelled all day and night. He writes that the enemy works are very strong and extend form the York River to the James River. Is glad that she has made...

GLC03523.13.039

to Amanda Wilkinson

He is sorry for not writing as he has not been well. He is also glad to hear that she and the baby are doing so well. Writes that the army will start for Richmond, Virginia tomorrow. Is glad to hear that Dr. Wells is doing so much better. Tells his...

GLC03523.13.040

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Writes on the anniversary of Washington's birthday and likens his service as a soldier to those of Washington and his men. Strongly expresses his feelings against the rebels and their...

GLC02016.075

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Writes that white troops from the 10th and 18th Army Corps and colored troops of the same will be consolidated to form one colored Corps and one white Corps. Feels that the new arrangement...

GLC02016.069

to sister Kate

Reports that poor weather of rain, sleet, and mud occurred during heavy fighting. Asks his sister to get him some boots from Mr. Becks. Writes that there has been a general movement of thousands of troops.

GLC02016.070

to sister Ella

Reports that a large portion of the Army of the James has gone to sea, but he remains on land. Writes that he received a letter from Miss Lee informing him of the yellow fever epidemic that killed Painter's roommate and many others. Has issued an...

GLC02016.071

to his aunt

Reminisces about the past year and his fallen comrades. Is hopeful that the regiment will be able to return to Pennsylvania "to reap the fruits of war which is peace." Thanks Grant, Sherman, Thomas, and Sheridan for their victories and hopes that...

GLC02016.072

to sister Kate

Writes that he is quartering with Captain Collins and is honored to do so. Is happy to hear that his sister has become a Christian. Mentions that the Southern Commissioners met with President Lincoln. He has been given command of the company while...

GLC02016.073

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Writes that President Lincoln's peace mission has failed. Reports that he has been promoted to 1st Lieut. of Company I while Lieut. Birmingham has been promoted to captain of Company G. He...

GLC02016.074

to sister Kate

Writes that General Sheridan is getting rid of all unserviceable stock. Asks his sister to send him fifteen dollars, as he has not been paid and needs money.

GLC02016.076

[to his aunt]

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that the troops have moved from the south bank of the Pamunkey River to the north bank of the James River. Complains of a grueling three-day march accompanied by Sheridan's cavalry...

GLC02016.077

to sister Kate

Writes that he has escaped from fighting in the south of Richmond. Only two divisions of troops were left behind at the north of the James River; one a colored troop division and the other Painter's division. Includes a postscript note reporting...

GLC02016.078

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports on the fall of Richmond and describes the streets of the city as being full of people cheering and playing music in celebration of the "conquering heroes." Writes that the city was...

GLC02016.079

to sister Anna

Written two days after Lee's surrender to Grant at Appomatox Court House. Describes the scene in Richmond a week after its fall. Criticizes Jefferson Davis' for fleeing after he called for the burning of Richmond. Writes that there were half...

GLC02016.080

to his sister

Comments that everyone thinks that the war is coming to a close. Likens main Street in Richmond to Chestnut Street in Philadelphia and observes that the people of the city are beginning to "come out of their holes and reconcile themselves to the new...

GLC02016.081

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reflects on the atrocities of war. Criticizes those who venerate the dead Confederate soldiers and feels that the widows and children should be given more attention. Writes that 50 to 60...

GLC02016.082

to sister Kate

He is happy to hear that his aunt and uncle may be visiting Richmond, but warns her that the city is in shambles. Writes that his name was forwarded for recognition for meritorious conduct. Asks that his sister not mention the news to anyone, as he...

GLC02016.083

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Reports that he will be leaving for Staunton, Va. by rail. Painter will be staying in Virginia to oversee state elections which will postpone his discharge. Complains that all the newer...

GLC02016.084

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Describes his camp as being on a hill where he can look down at the city of Staunton. Writes that the women of the city are very bitter towards the Union soldiers, while the men seem...

GLC02016.085

to sister Kate

Discusses his visit to Weirs cave and wishes that his family could have accompanied him. Writes that Col. Clay is in command of the sub-district of Staunton. Reports that not much is happening at camp and feels that the men will become demoralized...

GLC02016.086

to his aunt

Written to his aunt, Mrs. George A. Frick (Rebecca Frick). Writes that most of the people of the town are beginning to reconcile with the "new state of things" with the exception of the women. There are many women left (many widows), but few men...

GLC02016.087

to sister Ella

Writes that the young women of Staunton are pretty, but hate Yankees. Mentions that the major's sister was treated unkindly by Southern women at Church. Reports that he met Major General Curtis (the hero of Ft. Fisher) and was told that there was...

GLC02016.088

to sister Kate

Writes that he has not attended church since arriving in Staunton. He has been very busy working on monthly returns. There are still no signs of mustering out or getting leave of absence. Writes that the men indulge too much when they get paid.

GLC02016.089

to Margaret McClelland

Writes to his friend about the hot weather and having received the letter she wrote yesterday. Mentions having received two New York newspapers to keep him informed of what is going on at home. Asks about her plans to travel while he is gone....

GLC05522.01

to Margaret McClelland

Discusses their correspondence and his improving health. Asks about her stay at her aunt's house and whether she has begun work yet. Written from the Cliffburn Barracks. Includes an incomplete reply from Maggie on page two regarding her health....

GLC05522.02

to S. P. Oakes

Written at Camp Wallace

GLC03136.003

to Gladys Schoomaker

Writes to his niece about military life and asks about friends at home. Encourages Gladys to study hard and be the first person in the family to graduate from high school. Includes a Christmas package coupon. Written on YMCA letterhead.

GLC07810.088

to Gladys Schoomaker

Writes to his niece about his daily duties. Wonders why he has not received a furlough in the year he has been in the army. Discusses his upcoming return home. Written on YMCA letterhead.

GLC07810.089

to Gladys Schoomaker

Writes to his niece on board the USS Mount Vernon. Discusses his trip home and his doubts in getting a speedy discharge. Written on YMCA letterhead.

GLC07810.090

to Ruth Backof

Thanks Backof for the Christmas card. Replies to a comment regarding an abundance of tomatoes and how they would be a delicacy to a man in the army. Writes that he would like to go out with a lady and then jokes that he woke up and saw uniforms all...

GLC07810.091

to Mrs. S.W. Traylor

Writes to his mother about his lack of mail from home and hopes she has received the handkerchief he sent. Discusses his daily activities and looks forward to market day when the townspeople gather to discuss local news and the war. Mentions a...

GLC07810.092

to Hazel Reese

Writes to a friend that he constantly thinks about their great times in the country before he shipped out and hopes to have many more once he returns. Says that the local people are very different from the Americans but they have fun together...

GLC07810.093

to Hazel Reese

Sends a friend a Christmas postcard. Pictured on the card is a young girl modeling a soldier's dress hat in front of a mirror. Image by René Vincent, printed by Draeger, Imp.

GLC07810.094

to Hazel Reese

Writes to a friend about how news of the armistice was recieved in camp. Discusses coming home and his Thanksgiving. Wishes he could be home with Hazel for Christmas and jokes that if he is lucky, he will be home in time for New Years' 1920!...

GLC07810.095

to Hazel Reese

Thanks Hazel for the letter that lifted him from the depths of despair. Hopes she has received his letters. Discusses his daily activities, school and the furlough he will soon receive. Describes his Christmas. Puts her mind at ease regarding the...

GLC07810.096

to Hazel Reese

Postcard of Parame, a suburb of St. Malo, where Tuell took his furlough. Writes that he is in the midst of final inspections and expects to embarking for the states shortly. Adds that he walked along the shoreline portrayed in the postcard and...

GLC07810.097