Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson and his mother
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.051 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 22 July 1862 Pagination: 6 p. : envelope ; 20.2 x 12.7 cm. Order a Copy
Written near Harrison's Landing, Virginia. In the first part of his letter he writes to his wife that he is feeling better since he last wrote. There are mixed feelings about the last battle [Seven Days Battle]; some say it was a victory while others say it was a defeat. They have been furnished with tents and it appears that General McClellan does not intend to move again soon. Writes that he has lost all confidence in the generals leading his wing of the army. Told his friend how hard he had fought at Malvern Hill. To his mother he writes that he is sorry for causing her so much anxiety. He explains that while his regiment fought hard they were not in a position to do the enemy a great deal of injury. Asks his mother to do all she can to cheer up Amanda. He also hopes that he will be able to return home soon.
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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