Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) to his brother-in-law, parents and sister
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07460.079 Author/Creator: Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 4 June 1864 Pagination: 4 p. : clipping : envelope ; 20.1 x 24.7 cm. Order a Copy
Written behind the breastworks of the Illinois 105th regiment. Reports that his regiment had received marching orders but it rained so hard they only marched a short distance. He marched with the regiment toward the left wing and then to the front where the 23rd Corp was already skirmishing with the enemy. In the breastworks the 23rd was supported by the 20th Corp waiting in the reserve line. His regiment was sent to the very end of the left wing to prevent the Union forces from being outflanked. The rebels were surprised by this and his regiment turned them "pretty sharply." Writes that after this the rebels shelled their position "sharply" yesterday. Doctor Potter, the brigade surgeon, was killed when a rebel shell hit him. Writes that everyone who knew Doctor Potter will miss him. The Union has disguised some batteries in the hopes of luring the Confederates into a trap. States that General William T. Sherman is working slowly but he is confident that General Sherman will bring victory for the Union. Describes that the Union lines are three deep and well supported with infantry and cannon. Writes about the provisions he receives from the army. A newspaper article titled "The Ladies of Nashville" is also included.
Lysander Wheeler, a farmer from Sycamore, Illinois, enlisted in the Union Army on August 7, 1862 as a private. He was mustered into Company C of the 105th Illinois infantry and later promoted to sergeant. Wheeler was mustered out on June 7, 1865.
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