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 121st Reg P.V.
Camp at Rappahannock Station Virg
August 10. 1863 Monday
Dear Wife
I again seize a few moments to write to you my beloved, We have had another very hot day – Without much air but get along pretty well not withstanding – the worst of our situation and indeed of everything in Virginia is the want of really good water. The Colonel has been out pretty much all day as Corps Field Officer and has had a very hot time of it – In the evening I rode a few miles down the road with the Doctor – The different Army Corps hold pretty much the whole Country down to Fredericks by I hear that some of the Cavalry have been with Falmouth again and that our troops hold all the fords but this is mere rumor – the Conscripts are beginning to arrive and soon will become pretty good soldiers if they can stand this weather – We have not had any as yet but I suppose may soon expect some – I hope my next will be from you at the Sea Side and I also hope and trust We may hear of Success at Charleston – should we be so bless I should then think an early peace might soon follow – How joyous that would be to me Could I come home to you…
Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle, 10 August 1863. Rush IV:30:34
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thank you!…
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