Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) to his brother-in-law, parents and sister
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07460.088 Author/Creator: Wheeler, Lysander (fl. 1837-1903) Place Written: Atlanta, Georgia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 21 July 1864 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.1 x 25 cm. Order a Copy
He writes that his regiment played an important role in the Battle of Atlanta. They marched to within two miles of Atlanta, 22 July, 1864, Georgia and formed two lines of battle in an open valley on the hill to their front. The pickets kept up a steady fire as word came to them that the Confederates appeared ready to charge them. Writes that both the Union and Confederate forces marched on the double quick to the top of the hill trying to gain an advantage. Despite the steady pressure of the Union skirmishers the Confederate soldiers reached the crest of the hill first and came down the other side. The regiment exchanged fire with the Confederates at a very close range. Orders were received for a bayonet charge and the Union took many prisoners. Some of the rebels threw down their guns and ran into the Union lines. The Union managed to drive the rebels back over the hill and gained the summit. From the hill they were able to fire on the Confederate defenses and the Confederate troops were forced through the valley allowing the Union to "pepper" them with fire. When the Confederates regrouped they charged again but were repulsed. Fire was exchanged between the forces until dark. The Union then began to build breastworks and emplace cannon. As of yesterday afternoon two batteries were in place and they began to fire on the rebel defenses. All along the front the Union advanced despite some regiments being captured. Reports that the 105th Illinois losses were light with only 17 killed.
Scans of this letter do not reflect the order of the physical pages.
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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