January 16, 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 at Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)

Rush IV-30-27 p1 A. Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 16 Rush IV-30-27 p2 A. Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 16 Rush IV-30-27 p3 A. Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 16 Rush IV-30-27 p4 A. Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 16

Transcript (except):

Camp near White Oak Station

Head Qrs 121st Reg. P.V.

Friday January 16, 1863

Dear Wife

I have your letter of the 13th inst it was and is a delightful treat to me – Your box [by?] Adams express is not yet heard of I don’t think it worth while to try that chance of reaching me. Last night we had a most violent rain which poured down in torrents for a considerable time – I expected to find the ground exceedingly muddy this morning but a rather cold wind had hardened and dried the roads more than I had anticipated I went over to Court Martial after breakfast and tried one Case. found all the officers talking of a move. We have for several days past had fatigue parties at work on the roads mending them in the direction of the Rappahannock I hear to day that [sejet?] will cross above and that some regiments have crossed below and that we shall move tomorrow. What is intended we cannot of course comprehend but we hope there is some real military science to be exhibited on this occasion at least if we move. Whatever comes I trust God will preserve and strengthen me through all trials that may come trusting I may through his mercy be blessed finally with a happy return to you Ask Uncle if he has read O J Stille’s pamphlet “How a free people Conduct a great war” It seems to me an able comparison of the temper and feeling of the English people during the Peninsular War with our own I think he would like it – it pleases me much to hear the little incidental notices you refer to about the Major – You know I do not and shall not care for military distinction or prominence save the simple one of having it conceded that I perform the duty allotted to me…

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle.16 January 1863.

January 15, 1863: John Henry Brown’s Journal

John Henry Brown was a painter of portrait miniatures, living and working in Philadelphia. He had met Lincoln in August of 1860 when he was commissioned to paint Lincoln’s portrait for a supporter, but although Brown liked Lincoln personally, he did not agree with Republican policies.

 

1863-01-15

Transcript:

At Mr Kimbers picture. Mr. Buckalew,Dem has been elected to the U.S. Senate by the Legislature of our own State, over Simon Cameron, late Secty of War.

 

 

Citation: John Henry Brown, autograph journal/account book. Philadelphia, 1844-1890. AMs 573/14.1

January 14, 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 at Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)

Rush IV-30-27 p1 A. Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 14 Rush IV-30-27 p2 A. Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 14 Rush IV-30-27 p3 A. Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 14

Rush IV-30-27 p4 A. Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 14

Transcript (excerpt):

Head Qrs 121st Regiment PV

Camp near White Oak Station

January 14, 15 1863

Wednesday

Dear Julia

I have returned from Court Martial where I have been disposing of one Case this morning. Lambdin is sketching the Colonel as I write the day is fine and there is some talk of a movement and crossing the river. I fear that movements now at any considerable distance from the river will be rather ill timed but it may have the effect of holding the rebel force here whilst operations are going on in the west. Your box per Adams Express has not yet made its appearance – I would not trust much to that association unless you are told so by me – packages that come by them are often broken open and plundered so our men find them – As they are prepaid it seems they trust to luck for their owner getting them after reaching any Gov’mt. landing. The day has passed very monotonously, as all our days now do – Our Lieut Col has gone to Washington to be back next Saturday. We are in the regiment of pretty good health and the Colonel seems very much himself again I sometimes think in writing to you about sending things that you must think me very greedy but everything connected with home is the cheers and refreshes us amazingly I have no idea that we shall have any relief from duty this winter but suppose it will be a steady dragging on of the same stupid life we now lead….

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle.14 January 1863.

January 13, 1863: John Henry Brown’s Journal

John Henry Brown was a painter of portrait miniatures, living and working in Philadelphia. He had met Lincoln in August of 1860 when he was commissioned to paint Lincoln’s portrait for a supporter, but although Brown liked Lincoln personally, he did not agree with Republican policies.

 

1863-01-13

Transcript:

At Mr Kimbers picture.

There is a perceptible charge in public sentiment in reference to Mr Lincoln & the War. James W. Wall Esq, who less than a year ago, was imprisoned in Fort Lafayette, by order of the War department, on suspicion of treasonable sentiment & practices, has now been elected to the United States Senate by the legislature of New Jersey.

 

Citation: John Henry Brown, autograph journal/account book. Philadelphia, 1844-1890. AMs 573/14.1

January 12, 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 at Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)Rush IV-30-27 p1 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 12 Rush IV-30-27 p2 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 12 Rush IV-30-27 p3 A. Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 12

Rush IV-30-27 p4 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 12

Transcript(excerpt):

Monday January 12. 1863

Dear Wife

I am writing in the open air in anxious expectation of a few lines from you by the mail soon to come in. Rosengarten went off this morning whilst I was at Court Martial and the lines I wrote expecting him to take will go by post. He has leave of absence from the Secretary of War (Stanton) to go home for seven days – the object being his poor brothers funeral – (gallant fellow that he was) I believe he sacrificed himself to the save the reputation of his corps, rarely have I known a young man who exhibited such manly soldierly qualities united with so much gentleness and modesty of bearing – another young gentleman J Alfred Key – 1st Lieut of C G goes home sick I have been fearful of him for some days past – his and Rosengarten’s Companies and two others are now under the Command of Sergeants. short work for four months I have great reason to thank God that my own health has so far been so good and that his mercy may be extended to me throughout – Our Lieut Col goes to morrow to Washington to see about the Regimental bounty but I fear it will be useless for you to attempt to send anything to me by him After receiving this – The Col and I with 10 officers will be all the Regiment have to command them but I think we shall get along pretty well…

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

January 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 at Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)Rush IV-30-27 p1 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 11 Rush IV-30-27 p2 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 11 Rush IV-30-27 p3 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 11 Rush IV-30-27 p4 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 11

Transcript (excerpt):

Head Qrs 121st Reg. P.V.

Camp Near White Oak Church

Virg. Sunday January 11. 1863

Dear Wife

Late at night this evening I have just learnt that Lieut Rosengarten has obtained leave of absence for seven days – to attend the funeral of his brother – We now practically have four companies without an officer to command them It is a mercy that the field officers have not suffered in the same way. Last night and yesterday it rained hard to day the ground is very muddy – the camp being little better than a mud hole – I feel very much disgusted with the service from Secretary Stanton down – whilst our enemies are united and act in concert – We see miserable political maneuvering and low favoritism at every turn.

I was delighted to get your letter with dear Harry’s and Wilmer’s photographs Harry is sweet and so is Winny – poor Bob too with his familiar [phiz?] was very welcome – but dear darling Harry fairly made his Papa’s heart jump with pleasure and yet with a pang of mournful regret So far away as regards power of returning and so inprofitably employed as I feel I am – I feel as if all my time is thrown away at best little more than a bolster to prop others without any pursuit or course of action which is at all agreeable to me or which to my mind is useful to the service in any way – I shall be very glad when any change takes place which liberates me from this weather bound mud hole…

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle.11 January 1863.

January 10, 1863: Alexander Biddle to Julia Rush Williams 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 at Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)

Rush IV-30-27 p1 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 10 Rush IV-30-27 p2 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 10 Rush IV-30-27 p3 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 10 Rush IV-30-27 p4 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 10

Transcript (excerpt):

Head Qrs 121st Reg P.V.

Camp Near White Oak Church Va

January 10th 1862 [i.e., 1863]

Dear Wife

I yesterday got your letter of 3rd inst. the box sent per Adams’ Express has not yet reached me but I hear that there is a boat load of such article at Acquia which may be sent round to Bells plains where we will be able to get them with more facility – the difficulty don’t seem to be to get things to Acquia or Falmouth but after they are there to find out the fact and where to get them – teams of our’s and other Regiments have been sent several times to hand Express goods with no result. If Adams Express get a boat to Belle plains the chances seem to be that we shall hear of it after the boat has come and gone – this is the sort of care Uncle Sam takes of us. As I write the rain comes pattering down on our canvas roof Please return to me the sketch of Head Qrs sent to you in a late letter – there is a demand for copies of it which our artist can better make in his tent than out in the cold. I can send it back again As I write I learn than Adams Express packages will probably be delivered at Belle plains tomorrow – We shall send over tomorrow and then send a wagon for everything. I shall be pleased to see the photograph of the children with Old Bob – strange to say that I had almost forgotten him. We have had a number of visitors lately old Companions of C A now in the Army of whom there are a great many and occasionally a visitor of some kind parent to a son in the regiment – One of whom is now here – a Mr. Cummings – A B Cummings a brother of the former editor of the Bulletin – he has a son a Sergeant in the Regiment. I mention this because it is one of many small incidents which show the strange Composition of our Army…

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle.10 January 1863.

January 9, 1863: Henry Warner to John Riddle Warner

Henry Warner Jr. was the youngest brother of John Riddle Warner, the grandfather of the poet Marianne Moore.  Henry served in the Pennsylvania  Independent Artillery, Battery G from August 1862 until June 1865.These family letters are preserved as part of the Marianne Moore family papers.

Moore VI-5-15 p1 Henry Warner to John Riddle Warner 1-9-63 Moore VI-5-15 p2 Henry Warner to John Riddle Warner 1-9-63 Moore VI-5-15 p3 Henry Warner to John Riddle Warner 1-9-63

Transcript:

Fort Delaware

Jany 9th 1863

Dear Brother

A letter from home to-day informed me of your intended departure from Allegh. and I suppose in this you are comfortably domiciled in Gettysbg.—I was happy to hear of your pleasant visit and I have no doubt you enjoyed it intensely—Your last letter from Hrsbg. reached me in due time—

— I want to know if you are acquainted with any man of influence in Washington that would through himself or others, influence the War Department in getting for me a commission in the “Regular” Army—And would you yourself be willing if you know such a one to work for me—I have wanted for a long time to write you on the subject but I scarcely know how to do it—All that is necessary is to get the recommendation of the commanding officer and the service of some influential man in Washington to present and urge the claims—The first I can easily get and of the very best kind—but I know none of the latter—The “Regular” service is much superior to the Volunteer services in every particular and especially for commissioned officers—Among some of the advantages a commis’d officer can resign at any time if he gets tired of the service—If you could not do anything yourself probably Sharp or some other person that you know could—If you exert yourself probably some time I will be able to repay the compliment—As for instance if I had been an Officer here I could have got you the Chaplaincy of this Post with scarcely an effort—It is a nice place for a chaplain—Out of danger and surrounded with every luxury the country could afford—the present incumbent is a fair specimen of a Methodist preacher with little sense and no zeal—dresses in subdued military style—wont preach unless the stand before him is covered with a flag, and makes out to draw from the Government a salary of 1800$ per annum.

Happy to hear from you Soon on this subject I am &c

Henry

Citation: Henry Warner Jr., autograph letter to John Riddle Warner. Fort Delaware, 9 January 1863. Moore VI:5:15

January 5, 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 at Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)

Rush IV-30-27 p1 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 5 Rush IV-30-27 p2 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 5 Rush IV-30-27 p3 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 5 Rush IV-30-27 p4 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 5

Transcript (excerpt):

Head Quarters 121st Reg P.V.

Camp near W O Ch’ch Jany 5, 1863

Dear Wife

I wrote you a few hurried lines this morning just as I returned to camp from Court Martial and found we had orders to march at short notice three days rations in haversack and a further supply in wagons – whether this means another crossing of the river or a march towards Washington I of course can’t tell. Your bag by Hollond was very acceptable. I am quite set up by my new hat which is exactly the thing I wanted. About half an hour after I received the bag Chapman who had also received a tin bucket with two turkeys said to me “Major have you got a sugar plum” whereupon out came Emily’s box and saving your nice box of dried fruits which have figured conspicuously on several occasions we had a little Christmas sugar plum feast. I also gave to Hall who is suffering a little some of your Horehound Candy and at dinner we had nuts raisins black cake and cream made out of condensed milk . At least for one day we had a grand feast. I am full of goodies as ever was a spoilt child at Christmas. We are all very anxious about the news from Rosecrans trust it may be a success whilst sorrowing for the loss of Rosengarten our orderly Sergeant of Company A – last year – one endeared by many soldierlike qualities to all who knew him – whose success as a soldier is spared I have often prophesied and his rapid use from the rank has shown that I was not mistaken. I fear that our success there is only partial but hope all will come out right if it is a success it has been gained with a fearful loss of life.

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle.5 January 1863. Rush:IV:30:27

January 4, 1863: Alexander Biddle letter to Julia 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 at Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)

Rush IV-30-27 p3 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 4

Rush IV-30-27 p4 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 4

Rush IV-30-27 p5 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 4

Rush IV-30-27 p6 A Biddle ALS to Julia William Rush, Jan. 4

Head Qrs 121st Reg PV

Camp near White Oak Church

January 4. 1863

Dear Wife

I employed what little spare time I had yesterday in writing to you and the chicks I have also written a partial business letter to Tom – You once wrote that you would send me a copy of the settlement made by Dr Evans Hemphill of the Wilson claim I never received it and if you will when convenient send me a sketch of what they say I think I should like to see it. You never say anything to me about money. I suppose you have no difficulty as Tom was written to by me to supply you. Our Lieut Colonel goes to Washington in a day or two and if there are any parcels left at Raisins for me I have written to Tom to get them pack them into a cheap trunk and send them per Adams Express – To Lieut Col Davis for Major Biddle 121st Regmt. Penna Volls…

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle. 4 January 1863 Rush:IV:30:27