Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.063 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 30 October 1862 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.2 x 12.5 cm. Order a Copy
Writes that they crossed from Maryland into Virginia and are now camped between the Potomac River and Bull Run. States that their mission is to control the gaps of the Blue Ridge Mountains to prevent the rebels from advancing any further towards Washington, D.C. Reports that the main Union army is within nine miles of Winchester, Virginia. Thinks he could try to get a furlough but states it "will cost a great deal and be of little use." He would rather use that money to buy land for his wife Amanda and her baby instead of a few hours at home. Writes that he would have been promoted if he had not been in the hospital. He is trying to pay off his debts and states that the company is getting ready to march again.
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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