Wheeler, Lysander, 1837-1917 to his parents, [brother-in-law], and sister

GLC07460.058

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GLC#
GLC07460.058-View header record
Type
Letters
Date
29 October 1863
Author/Creator
Wheeler, Lysander, 1837-1917
Title
to his parents, [brother-in-law], and sister
Place Written
Nashville, Tennessee
Pagination
6 p. : envelope Height: 20 cm, Width: 25 cm
Primary time period
Civil War and Reconstruction, 1861-1877
Sub-Era
The American Civil War

Writes that some of the men from his regiment are out on train guard duty on a branch road leading out to Tullahoma, Tennessee. He asks that Thomas Albee's mother be told that Albee hasn't been able to write because he's been on train duty. Reports a train attack and raids by some guerillas, but assures his family that the 105th regiment (Wheeler's regiment) hasn't been attacked. Reassures his sister that Lincoln's increasing of troops doesn't mean the war is not going to end soon; on the contrary he writes " if he would call for a million men it would be better." Remarks that " Old Abe knows that there is nothing like keeping a stiff upper lip while he is pegging away. " Writes that he is willing, if necesary, to serve out his three year term so long as he has his health. Reports that there are not enough men left at camp to have roll call in the morning and brags that they are able to sleep as late as they want. Addresses his mother's query about the food at camp wich includes soft bread, pickled pork, beef, peas, and rice. Writes that food rations have been good since arriving in Nashville. Discusses rations, the company treasury, and the company cook and her husband. Reports that John Burst has been promoted to first Lieutenant but no new second lieutenants will be elected because there are less than sixty-four privates left in the company.

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