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Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) to his parents, sister and [brother-in-law]

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07460.013 Author/Creator: Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) Place Written: Gallatin,Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 4 February 1863 Pagination: 4 p. ; 25 x 20 cm. Order a Copy

Wheeler writes that he was very happy to receive the box they sent him. His regiment marched to Gallatin to fight Morgan. Writes that the new camp is far better than any they have seen since Chicago and far exceeds their camp in Tunnel, Tennessee. Reports that Ruthven Russell has died in the hospital at Gallatin. Writes that some fifty or sixty blacks have run away and come into the camp where General Paine has put them to work. Wheeler writes that a "good many of the Secesh are getting sick of their job and they are sneaking home." Thirteen soldiers from Wheeler's regiment have also deserted but have not been found. Colonel Dustan declared that the marches are too tolling on the men and are the main reason why soldiers are killed and broken down. Wheeler writes that Dustan is willing to stand at Court Martial before allowing his men to be marched again.

Lysander Wheeler, a farmer from Sycamore, Illinois, enlisted in the Union Army on August 7, 1862 as a private. He was mustered into Company C of the 105th Illinois infantry and later promoted to sergeant. Wheeler was mustered out on June 7, 1865.

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