Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) to his parents, [brother-in-law], and sister
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07460.053 Author/Creator: Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) Place Written: Nashville, Tennesee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 9 October 1863 Pagination: 4 p. ; 20.5 x 25.5 cm. Order a Copy
Thanks his family for the needle and thread they sent. Reports that General Ward is still in Murfreesboro. Writes that the 129th Ills has gone down to Columbia on the Franklin Road, but have not returned. Expresses his appreciation for the clothes that he's received from home by writing that he shall wear all his clothes on his back should he enter into battle or be in a position where he is likely to lose them. Writes that the prices of clothing have risen considerably since he first entered the service and provides prices for dress coats, overcoats, and blankets. Describes the stove he and others have constructed from a sheet of metal, bricks, pipes, and tin cans. Answers his sister's question regarding his carrying the flag. He writes that he chose to "carry the colors" and can give it up at any time, though he would be foolish to for train guard or picket duty.
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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