Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.067 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Fredericksburg, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 22 November 1862 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.2 x 12.5 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his wife that they have marched fifty miles and are now one mile from Fredericksburg, Virginia. He lacks confidence in his ability to handle his new rank. Thinks that the great battle will take place near Fredericksburg. Notes that the country is beautiful and there was a fine hotel but General Franz Sigel had it burned down to prevent the Confederates from shooting at the Union forces. The pickets for both Confederate and Union forces are on opposite sides of the Rappahannock River and are often heard talking to each other but they never shoot. It appears the men have a better opinion of General Ambrose Burnside then of General George McClellan. Writes that it is doubtful that he will be able to come home this winter.
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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