Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.090 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Kentucky Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 6 April 1863 Pagination: 3 p. : envelope ; 18.1 x 14 cm. Order a Copy
Written at camp of the 2nd Michigan Infantry near Lebanon, Kentucky. He wishes that his wife could have come with him when the army left Newport News, Virginia as she could have seen a great deal of the country. Writes that he is unsure where the army will go next, perhaps to the "back part of the state." Writes that he is sorry to hear his grandfather is not doing well and that he will come home if their baby does not get better soon. He will send money home as soon as he gets paid but he must wait to get his commission which he has asked his wife to send to him. States that by the first of June he will be entitled to 160 acres of land and 100 dollars in cash as a bounty for joining the army. Feels proud of the part he has played in helping to put down the rebellion. His experience with the army the past two years is worth the "privations" and will leave him with a lasting benefit. Writes that he misses his wife greatly and that her love is what has gotten him through the war.
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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