Wheeler, Lysander, 1837-1917 to his parents, brother, and sister

GLC07460.040

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GLC#
GLC07460.040-View header record
Type
Letters
Date
26 July 1863
Author/Creator
Wheeler, Lysander, 1837-1917
Title
to his parents, brother, and sister
Place Written
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Pagination
3 p. : envelope Height: 25 cm, Width: 20 cm
Primary time period
Civil War and Reconstruction, 1861-1877
Sub-Era
The American Civil War

Writes that musicians have it the easiest in the regiment because they can always stay in camp and out of the weather. Mentions to Darius, his brother-in-law, that the musicians speak highly of him all the time. Writes that he is glad his mother does not want a negro girl as he feels he's seen enough negroes to last him until the end of the war without having to live with one. Discusses his opinion on negroes in the South and emancipation. Describes going to town and seeing nothing but negroes everywhere: "If I was a stranger here to the country I would quickly decide that the country was owned and ruled by niggers and that they keep a few whites for ornamental purposes." Reports that command of the post is being taken from General Ward and given to General Morgan against Ward's wishes. Ward is seeking to move the regiment to another place where he can have full command, so there is rumor that they will go back to Lavergne. Comments that they don't need to worry about fighting as long as Ward is their general.

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