January 11, 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 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):

Head Qrs 121^st Reg. P.V.

Camp Near White Oak Church

Virg. Sunday January 11. 1863

Dear Wife

Late at night this evening I have just learnt that Lieut Rosengarten has obtained leave of absence for seven days – to attend the funeral of his brother – We now practically have four companies without an officer to command them It is a mercy that the field officers have not suffered in the same way. Last night and yesterday it rained hard to day the ground is very muddy – the camp being little better than a mud hole – I feel very much disgusted with the service from Secretary Stanton down – whilst our enemies are united and act in concert – We see miserable political maneuvering and low favoritism at every turn.

I was delighted to get your letter with dear Harry’s and Wilmer’s photographs Harry is sweet and so is Winny – poor Bob too with his familiar [phiz?] was very welcome – but dear darling Harry fairly made his Papa’s heart jump with pleasure and yet with a pang of mournful regret So far away as regards power of returning and so inprofitably employed as I feel I am – I feel as if all my time is thrown away at best little more than a bolster to prop others without any pursuit or course of action which is at all agreeable to me or which to my mind is useful to the service in any way – I shall be very glad when any change takes place which liberates me from this weather bound mud hole…

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle.11 January 1863.