Alexander Biddle was a member of the prominent Philadelphia Biddle family and was married to Julia Williams Rush, the granddaughter of Dr. Benjamin Rush. A businessman and member of the First Troop Philadelphia City Calvary before the war, Biddle entered Civil War service with the 121st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry on September 1, 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) [Note: this statement originally mistakenly stated Biddle was also at Chancellorsville but he was on leave]
Transcript:
Dear Julia
I have been on guard all night. Fired the evening and morning guns. Am very well and am comfortable on continuous work and no sleep. Can [leave one?] after a 24 hours term of duty. Love and kisses for our little darlings and yourself my happiness.
Your loving husband,
Alexander
July 17, 1861
Camp Lafayette Chads ford
Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle. Chadds Ford, Pa, 17 July 1861. Rush:IV:30:22