March 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 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:

Camp near Belleplains

Head Qrs 121 Reg PV

March 11^th 1863

Dear Julia

I write hurriedly – Dr Ramsey and Lambdin go to day on leave to Philad – Hall left us yesterday – I am on Court M. and in charge on the ground – there is nothing particular to notice about the regiment nothing to say with the little time I have for thought but saving that I wish I were at home with you.

I am not an admirer of the Army system at all In these volunteer Camps and brigades there is much that is sheer favoritism which I find constantly interfering with regular plans of service I now close this note dear wife Trusting God will bless and help us to meet again

Your loving

Alexander

I have asked Lambdin to call on you when he returns – He is a fine young fellow of much promise whom I think very highly of in every way

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letters signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle. 11 March1863. Rush IV:30:29