March 7, 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: 9excerpt):

Head Qrs 121^st Reg P.V.

Camp near Belleplains Virg

March 7^th. 1863

Dear Julia

I have your dear note of 4^th inst – How glad I am to have it If you Could only look into my heart and perceive the satisfaction and delight the sight of your handwriting gives me I do think it would please you – Today we had a Brigade Review – on wretched ground It was the first time the Regiments came together and although greenly gotten up pretty well for the Colonel Commdg Brigade. I am on a Court martial detail which meets every day at 10’Oclock AM – Tomorrow I am on a special appointment to ride over the picket line with other officers to inspect the same and besides Command the Regiment I find you know about my present to Peale & Horn I am glad you approve of it I send you their letter to me.

Mr Cowpland of the Epiphany is here – I gave him ¢50 which the Colonel returned to me by him as a Contribution to the benevolent fund of the church. Do you approve of it – He and a Mr Bingham of Venango are to have service tomorrow in out Camp- Mr Cowpland came down to see his sons in one of the Companies and tells me the Epiphany is doing very well and that Mr Newton’s lectures are as well attended as Mr Brooks – Dear Jule I have flattered myself that it might please out heavenly father to let us meet again if the Colonel and Lt Col return soon – but I am inclined to think that if weather permits some movement will soon be made I give to Don who takes this two watches My own which I received by Etting does so well that I don’t think I shall want the others they are better at home than with me…

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letters signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle. 7 March1863. Rush IV:30:29