January 4, 1864: Alexander Biddle to Julia Williams Rush Biddle

Alexander Biddle was a member of the prominent Philadelphia Biddle family and was married to Julia Williams Rush,  the granddaughter of Dr. Benjamin Rush.  Biddle served with the 121st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, beginning in September 1862. Starting out as a major, he would participate at Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)

Transcript (excerpt):

Camp S W of Culpeper

Jan’y 4^th, 1863[i.e. 1864]

Dear Wife

I set to my usual duty and pleasure of writing a few lines to you. Today we found snow on the ground which had fallen during the night which increased during the day to about two inches. It did not prevent my walking into Culpeper to attend Court which pretty nearly finished its business I walked back in the snow and thought of home wishing I were with you It has begun to rain now with a promise of a thaw and mud. We got the mail today through some mischance – We have been pretty busy with monthly reports and quarterly returns &c &c and I hope have gotten through nearly all – Good night beloved always hoping thinking and dwelling on the idea that the day of return is not far distant and that we may soon be together again I pray God to bless you all and surround you with happiness and comfort for the little ones Good night Your loving husband Alexander

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle.4 January 1863[i.e. 1864]. Rush:IV:30:27