Ekings, Thomas (fl. 1862-1864) to Sarah Ogden
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06559.024 Author/Creator: Ekings, Thomas (fl. 1862-1864) Place Written: Fredericksburg, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 11 June 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.1 x 12.9 cm. Order a Copy
Writes from camp close to Franklin's Crossing which is near Fredericksburg, Virginia. Apologizes for not seeing Ogden while in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania but informs her that she and her husband were not home when he called on them. Describes rejoining his regiment and reaching his current position. Informs Ogden that few have been wounded or killed. Describes the layout of his present location, noting where the fighting is taking place. Writes, "It is thought that we are here for the purpose of attracting the attention of the Enimey [sic] and preventing Gen. Lee from sending his forces elsewhere." Also describes a "narrow escape" from a Rebel sharpshooter. Informs Ogden that their position is strong, and he would like the Rebels to attack. Includes an embossed seal in the upper left hand corner.
Sarah Perot Ogden was a Quaker from Philadelphia who took part in variety of philanthropic works such as assisting the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. She was a member of the Pennsylvania Society of Colonial Dames of America, the Philadelphia Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution, and President of the Philadelphia Home for Incurables. Both Ogden and her husband, Edward H. Ogden, were strong supporters of the Union cause. During the Civil War Ogden volunteered in a military hospital where she made daily visits. Her husband served as a Union soldier.
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