Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.065 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 November 1862 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 24.4 x 19.6 cm. Order a Copy
Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry near Waterloo on the Rappahannock River to his wife. Writes that since her last letter they have marched a long way and are waiting for orders to move forward to Richmond, Virginia. Notes that General George McClellan has been replaced by General Ambrose Burnside. Hopes that General Burnside is better then General McClellan; if not the Union should give up the fight. Also notes that there has been little fighting with none killed and only a few wounded. Has received a letter from Mr. [Baldwin] which pleases him greatly as he considers Mr. [Baldwin] one of his best friends. Also thanks his many friends for their great concern for him. Hopes that he will fight in the coming great battle outside of Richmond, Virginia. Thinks that while taking Richmond, Virginia would be a great victory it might only encourage the South; he compares this to the British taking Washington, D.C. during the War of 1812. Writes that it was right to remove General McClellan because they "have been humbled long enough for the sake of making a candidate for the next presidency." Sends her his love and writes that he wishes 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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