Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.070 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Fredericksburg, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 19 Decemeber 1862 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.3 x 12.7 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his wife after he crosses the Rappahannock River to let her know that he is still alive after the Battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia. His regiment was involved in a "desperate fight" but could not force the enemy from the heights. Reports that all the troops from Ann Arbor, Michigan are either dead or wounded. Has had his arm in a sling the entire time he was in Fredericksburg. He will not tell his wife much about the battle as Dr. Stone will return home and tell her. Wishes he could be at home with her.
Frederick Wilkinson was a resident of Kalamazoo County, Michigan when he enlisted on 10 May 1861 as a Sergeant. On 25 May 1861 he mustered into "K" Company of the Michigan 2nd Infantry. He was promoted to 1st Sergeant and later to 2nd Lieutenant on 1 December 1861. Wilkinson was discharged for promotion on 14 January 1863. Also on that day he was transferred to "G" Company of the Michigan 2nd Infantry. He resigned on 30 June 1863.
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