October 12, 1863: Alexander Biddle letter signed 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:

Kelly’s ford, Monday October 12, 1863

Dear Wife,

On Friday night it was found that the Rebs were not at the ford we were to cross- So we retraced our steps and halted between Culpeper & Stevensburg. There we remained during the night and yesterday, Saturday, the whole 105 Corps arrived with a large wagon train towards Kelly’s ford. We heard firing in our rear as we moved back but reached the ford. Saw large train pass- saw the troops pass and take up a position and then we were assigned our position near the bank in rifle pits. No signs of Rebs this morning, we hear that Buford had a sharp fight yesterday with his Cavalry and retreated in Rappahannock station. We hear also that the Rebs are in some force at Sperryville some 20 or 60 miles to the west and north. I have not time, dear wife, to write more. I trust to the heavenly father to shield me in case of any action. Unless there should be an attack which I hardly think would be a wise one for the Rebels do not at present see any great probability of battle. God bless and preserve you all. Your loving husband, Alexander

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle, 12 October 1863. Rush IV:30:36