Wilkinson, Frederick W., fl. 1861-1863 to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.050 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W., fl. 1861-1863 Place Written: Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 17 July 1862 Pagination: 10 p. ; 20.2 x 12.5 cm. Order a Copy
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 in a useless and illplanned attempt to take the rebel capitol." Calls the retreat "shameful." Comments on how the officers and enlisted men try to rid themselves of the blame. Describes how the battle was lost and the retreat that followed. He writes that thousands of men staggered along the road for miles bleeding from their wounds. He cannot put into words the sorrow he has for all those who died defending their country. He is, however, alright and asks that his wife not to worry about him and to put her trust in God.
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