January 18, 1863: Alexander Biddle to Julia Rush Williams 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 PV

Camp near White Oak Church

Sunday January 18^th 1863

Dear Julia

I write a short and hurried letter as the men are setting the dinner table having just received your letter of 15^th and desire to send a few lines as there seems to be a very strong probability of marching before 24 hours pass by – I hear that Hooker marches to day and though without orders we are ready our sick have been partially sent away – although we always have so many men with us more or less disabled that the ambulances always start full – they are a real farce as an assistance to men who break down – So many applications of men who really encumber movements are refused that there always plenty present unable to march – to day we were allowed to send six sick men to Acquia . We have about 15 unable to move.

I think Chapman may have to go home. Sorry will I be to lose him but I trust that Providence rules all for the best – I was very sorry and have in spite of your sangfroid great anxiety about that foot of yours – remember how much you have on you and what a double call is now upon your hands I trust God will permit me some day to add my mite of assistance to your household cares but till he so pleases it behooves you to be very careful of what is so very very dear to me your own self…

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle.18 January 1863.