Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.081 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Newport News, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 21 February 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.7 x 12.7 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his wife about the army establishing a new camp at Newport News, Virginia. States that he has set up his tent and the army has erected a small house along the bank of the James River. He thinks that this place is the best encampment they have ever had. Explains that he does not agree with the reasons she and his mother state for him to resign. Writes that if the government is being destroyed then it is his responsibility to defend it. He thinks that there will be two great battles soon, one at Vicksburg, Mississippi and another at Charleston, South Carolina. Notes that it has been almost two years since his regiment left for the war and almost a year since he was last home. He fears that the regiment will have to stay another year. Does not like the "military life" and would not stay in the army any longer then he has to, not even for five times the pay. Asks for another photograph of their baby because Chaplin May's daughter loves the photograph so much.
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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