2008-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2008
A nice war-date Confederate officer's letter, 2pp. 4to., written in ink by Lt. Simon C. Wilkerson, Co. E, 18th Alabama Infantry, Allisona, Tenn., May 6, 1863 to his wife. In part: "…I know that I had rather be buried than have you either die or be disgraced. How could I live without my sweet wife! We are having some very unpleasant weather…it has been raining…all day. I find that my overcoat will be very useful up here this summer…I have an oven of hot oats in my tent. With this oven I manage to keep very comfortable…I am truly sorry to learn of the Yankee's raid in Miss. when I first learned of John's misfortune I was sorry for him but on reflection. I think…he came out all right. He has enjoyed it as much or more than anyone else would & [I] would like to see and hear him give an account of himself. I guess he feels a little proud of his short campaign. If the Yankees was as much delighted in taking John from mother as I was in getting you I can't blame them, but it appears that they were not as well pleased…for they soon found that they had no use for him. I have had my prize one month& two days…my greatest trouble is that I cannot be with you all the while instead of a set of rough men. I am sorry to learn you have rheumatism in your arm…I wish I could go home to nurse you…Capt. Stewart has just come in camp. He is looking well…". Wilkerson served faithfully with his regiment until he was captured during the battle of Missionary Ridge on Nov. 25, 1863 and sent to Johnson's Island prison camp. He remained there until the close of the war and returned home after signing the oath of allegiance on June 13, 1865. Some spotting, else very good.
Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).
Click above for larger image.