Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.039 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Yorktown, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 28 April 1862 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.2 x 12.5 cm. Order a Copy
He has been on the picket for the last 24 hours and feels very tired. They are being shot at and shelled all day and night. He writes that the enemy works are very strong and extend form the York River to the James River. Is glad that she has made friends in Lexington, Michigan. Sends her 10 dollars. Writes that he did not see Wink, his sister, or his mother while he was in Kalamazoo, Michigan before returning to the army because it would have made him seem like he was avoiding the battle. Explains to his wife not to fret about him and that if he were to die in battle it would be in "defense of a great country and noble cause."
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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