21 July 1864
Wheeler, Lysander, 1837-1917
Autograph letter signed
Title: to his brother-in-law, parents and sister
He writes that his regiment played an important role in the Battle of Atlanta. They marched to within two miles of Atlanta, 22 July, 1864, Georgia and formed two lines of battle in an open valley on the hill to their front. The pickets kept up a steady fire as word came to them that the Confederates appeared ready to charge them. Writes that both the Union and Confederate forces marched on the double quick to the top of the hill trying to gain an advantage. Despite the steady pressure of the Union skirmishers the Confederate soldiers reached the crest of the hill first and came down the other…
GLC07460.088