June 6, 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:

121st Regt P.V.
June 6th 1863

Dear Julia

We were up at three O’clock this morning prepared to march. We saw during the day several Brigades of the 6th Corps (Sedgwick’s) which is on our right march towards Falmouth – heard firing in that direction and towards Banks ford far off on our right Rumor says that our troops have crossed the river and again hold the town of Fredricksburg and that skirmishers have been pushed forward to the foot of the heights back of the town, also that we have to move to night – We had a sharp thunder storm in the afternoon which Caused us to pitch tents in a hurry. Mr Hall and his son Came to Camp this evening to see Tom Hall and are now at his quarters in Camp. I have no news of my resignation as yet it may be very possible that it will not be noticed until after the present movement is finished. Whatever this movement is we dont think much of it. Some think it is merely a feint to bring back the rebels from near Culpeper where they are supposed to have gone- The Balloon was up three times today and it is said the pickets are moving back towards Fredericksburg- I dont think much Can Come of it in any event.
Dear wife I trust we shall soon meet again in peace and happiness and I pray God to bless and preserve you and our darlings in health and happiness with dear Uncle in hopes of a speedy reunion.Good bye beloved.
Your loving
Alexander
Love to Aleck Harry Julia Winny and Louis-

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle, 6 June 1863. Rush IV:30:32