Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.073 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Fredericksburg, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 5 January 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.3 x 12.6 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his wife that he hopes she does not think his previous letter foolish for being a love letter. Thinks that most men give all their affection before marriage and then after marriage the wife is the one who professes affection. Enjoys the picture of the baby. Wants to know what his mother thinks of the baby. He has not been paid yet but expects to receive it soon. Thinks it is more honorable to earn a commission near the battlefield then to go home and get one. Hopes he will soon be made first lieutenant. States that he did not join the army to get promotions but to fight for his country. Tells her to send his love to his mother and the rest of the family.
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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