Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) to his parents, brother, and sister
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07460.040 Author/Creator: Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) Place Written: Murfreesboro, Tenessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 26 July 1863 Pagination: 3 p. : envelope ; 25 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Writes that musicians have it the easiest in the regiment because they can always stay in camp and out of the weather. Mentions to Darius, his brother-in-law, that the musicians speak highly of him all the time. Writes that he is glad his mother does not want a negro girl as he feels he's seen enough negroes to last him until the end of the war without having to live with one. Discusses his opinion on negroes in the South and emancipation. Describes going to town and seeing nothing but negroes everywhere: "If I was a stranger here to the country I would quickly decide that the country was owned and ruled by niggers and that they keep a few whites for ornamental purposes." Reports that command of the post is being taken from General Ward and given to General Morgan against Ward's wishes. Ward is seeking to move the regiment to another place where he can have full command, so there is rumor that they will go back to Lavergne. Comments that they don't need to worry about fighting as long as Ward is their general.
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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