Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) to his brother-in-law, parents and sister
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07460.080 Author/Creator: Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 7 June 1864 Pagination: 4 p. ; 20.1 x 25 cm. Order a Copy
Written at Camp of the 105th Illinois regiment. Explains that the mail has not gone out for a while because of the Battle of Resaca. He is glad to hear everyone at home is doing well. Writes that he hopes that when the fighting is done the war is over for good. He does not like the idea of all the political connections in the North as there are "so many candidates" for the 1864 elections. Expresses his continued support for Abraham Lincoln. He hopes that the North will unite in order to stop the rebellion and the war. He writes that the regiment is still marching around on the left wing sometimes two or three miles a day. Reports that sometimes there are skirmishes with the enemy. He is surprised by the amount of crops there are as it seems like everyone is fighting and would have no time to plant. He thinks its possible that the "niggers" planted the corn. He has heard rumors though and read in the Bible that they are worse then "infidels" and many leave their families behind to starve. Thinks the army is still headed towards Marietta, Georgia. Writes that he does not think the army will move out tonight.
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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