October 24, 1863: 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 in Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)

Transcript:

Bristow Station

Saturday 24 Oct 1863

Dear Wife,

I did not write yesterday. The day was monotonous and nothing unusual happened. The Doctor and I walked to the top of the Mt. and back, a very long tough stony walk. We were at night ordered to march at 6 o’clock in the morning. It rained all night and a more comfortless, cheerless day and march through mud and stones we have not had. We have come to our destination at last and I am writing on my knee by the light of a fire. We will I think go on to Catlett’s Station tomorrow. I don’t think much of the strategy or of anything which is our doing—it is great risk and bitter gain and I have hear it said that it was not Meade’s wish but obedience to orders. I hope I shall tomorrow be better able to write more fully. God bless and preserve you all and lead with an early peaceful reunion. Bless our darlings, Love to Uncle and all at home, Your loving husband,

Alexander

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle, 24 October 1863. Rush IV:30:36