Wild, Edward Augustus (1825-1891) to unknown
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06205 Author/Creator: Wild, Edward Augustus (1825-1891) Place Written: Folly Island, South Carolina Type: Autograph letter signed Date: circa 17 September 1863 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 20.4 x 12.8 cm. Order a Copy
General Wild informs an unknown recipient that 16 September was the anniversary of his amputated arm. States that Confederates attempted to take Folly Island, but that Wild's troops learned of the attack in advance, thus were prepared. Reports that his soldiers waited through a dark night and heavy rains for the attack. Relates that he and a companion, Walter, were riding through the darkness when Wild's horse fell into a trench, eventually climbing to safety. Writes, "Wagner and Gregg have fallen. Some of my men were of the fore most to rush into them" (referring to Forts Wagner and Gregg in South Carolina).
Wild was noted for raising African American troops during the Civil War. He formed "Wild's African Brigade" in North Carolina, 1863.
[Excerpt:]
Yesterday was the anniversary of my amputated arm - It passed over with only some neuralgia, not enough to make a magical coincidence, but enough to indicate a coming storm...The enemy took advantage [of the storm] & planned a night attack, & surprise on our end of the Island. But as we received some intimation thereof, we were all on the alert - & quite ready for them...the rebels postponed their visit. Perhaps the storm was too violent even for them...Wagner and Gregg have fallen. Some of my men were of the fore most to rush into them. They being out all night in the trenches, armed themselves with pikes from the ditch of Wagner, & rushed upon Gregg ahead of everything else.
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