Wilkinson, Frederick W., fl. 1861-1863 to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.065 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W., fl. 1861-1863 Place Written: Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 November 1862 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope Height: 24.4 cm, Width: 19.6 cm Order a Copy
Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry near Waterloo on the Rappahannock River to his wife. Writes that since her last letter they have marched a long way and are waiting for orders to move forward to Richmond, Virginia. Notes that General George McClellan has been replaced by General Ambrose Burnside. Hopes that General Burnside is better then General McClellan; if not the Union should give up the fight. Also notes that there has been little fighting with none killed and only a few wounded. Has received a letter from Mr. [Baldwin] which pleases him greatly as he considers Mr. [Baldwin] one of his best friends. Also thanks his many friends for their great concern for him. Hopes that he will fight in the coming great battle outside of Richmond, Virginia. Thinks that while taking Richmond, Virginia would be a great victory it might only encourage the South; he compares this to the British taking Washington, D.C. during the War of 1812. Writes that it was right to remove General McClellan because they "have been humbled long enough for the sake of making a candidate for the next presidency." Sends her his love and writes that he wishes to return home soon.
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