Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.018 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 3 October 1861 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.3 x 12.7 cm. Order a Copy
He writes that he does not have picket duty because the enemy has left Munson's Hill and vicinity. The troops have been ready to march everyday and they go out in "stack columns" prepared to fight. Writes that they took the hill after the enemy left and laid on the ground all night and that it was cold enough to freeze. Wilkinson goes to Washington D.C. to see Amanda's uncle, Allen Goodridge, and has his "likeness" [picture] taken. States that he has been promoted to "orderly Sergeant." Writes that promotions are difficult because the regiment is the "best one in the field" and therefore everyone is trying for a promotion. Some of the troops have said that their camp will be moved to Washington, D.C. or Alexandria, Virginia. It does not matter to him though he just wants to do what is good for his country.
Frederick Wilkinson was a resident of Kalamazoo County, Michigan when he enlisted on 10 May 1861 as a Sergeant. On 25 May 1861 he mustered into "K" Company of the Michigan 2nd Infantry. He was promoted to 1st Sergeant and later to 2nd Lieutenant on 1 December 1861. Wilkinson was discharged for promotion on 14 January 1863. Also on that day he was transferred to "G" Company of the Michigan 2nd Infantry. He resigned on 30 June 1863.
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