August 1, 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:

Head Qrs 121 Reg P.V.

Camp in the fields, line of Orange

& Alex RR, Saturday August 1. 63

Dear Julia

We are still at the same place – This morning We received orders to guard the whole line from Warrenton Junction to Rappahannock Station about 10 miles We have three blockhouses each manned by 30 men and 10 men on the road for every mile there is a fourth block house also garrisoned late to night

In posting our guards to day we had to ride some 10 miles in as hot a day as I ever experienced and I was indeed very glad when it was over. We got everything done which was required We are anxiously awaiting news from Charleston which we trust will be good for our Cause and so far it seems promising – I write these few lines late at night the moon shining brightly – and beautifully having within the last hour heard My Maryland, Dixie – When this Cruel War’s Ended played by one of the Brigade Staff close bye with much gratification – I say gratification if anything Can be gratifying to such unfortunates who would be so glad to come home again – but such necessity forbids – If it should please Providence to grant us success in the next issue of battle – I would think the war nearly over I see little hope for the South in that event – May his will be done and may we be kept in the righteous path always relying on his goodness and mercy, give love to dear Uncle and Kisses to all the Children – thank you dear Wife for the daguerreotypes – I only wanted them to give away to inquiring friends – God bless and preserve you and grant us a speedy restoration to peace and happiness at home Your loving husband Alexander

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle, 1 August 1863. Rush IV:30:34