Lebkicher Family Civil War Letters and Discharge Papers, 1855-1865, 1972
Call Number: MG-258
1 box 12 folders .25 cubic ft.
Repository: LancasterHistory.org (Lancaster, PA)
Shelving Location: Archives South, Side 6
Description: This collection contains letters from Lebkicher family members before and during the Civil War. There are discharge papers for Jonah R. Duke and William H. Lebkicher who enlisted with Captain J. Miller Raub’s Company D, 122nd Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers in August 1862. William (1846-1929) re-enlisted and his letters continue to 1865. Some of the letters concern transportation by train and subsequent wrecks and derailments, the Dutch rioting in Lancaster, the shortage of food and feed for animals, and the soldiers getting used to the shelling of their camp by the rebels. The majority of letters were written during the Civil War.
Creator: Lebkicher family.
Conditions for Access: No restrictions.
Conditions Governing Reproductions: Collection may not be photocopied. Please contact Research Staff or Archives Staff with questions.
Language: English
Biographical Information: For more information about William H. Lebkicher, please see the Hershey Commmunity Archives website.
Source of Acquisition: Sarah Darmstaetter.
Administrative History: Organized and finding aid prepared by JM. Finding aid typed by KS and SH, 2013.
Folder 1 Letters, 1855-1860
Folder 1, Insert 1 Samuel J. Lebkicher to brother David M. Lebkicher from Freeport, IL, describing train wreck at Elkhart Station during move from Lancaster, PA to Freeport, IL. 12 May 1855.
Folder 1, Insert 2 David Lebkicher to son from Freeport, IL, regarding business and the weather. He also discusses how prices of wood and land compare to those in Pennsylvania. In response to a previous letter, he mentions the improving health of Susan. 28 May 1855.
Folder 1, Insert 3 David Lebkicher to son from Freeport, IL, discussing potential business in Iowa and Wisconsin. 5 June 1855
Folder 1, Insert 4 David Lebkicher to son from Freeport, IL, discussing his view on a business disagreement. He also asks for an update on the failure of the Savings Institute of Lancaster as reported by a Chicago newspaper. 7 June 1855
Folder 1, Insert 5 Samuel J. Lebkicher to brother from Freeport, IL, mentioning a conversation with Mr. Sheets and the death of Susan. He also describes a lottery that he participated in and his winnings. 2 September 1855.
Folder 1, Insert 6 Samuel J. Lebkicher to brother David M. Lebkicher from Freeport, IL, regarding business affairs and his intent to go to Kansas for better business prospects. 8 March 1857.
Folder 1, Insert 7 Samuel J. Lebkicher to David M. Lebkicher from Waterloo, IA, regarding his purchase of land in Iowa. 3 May 1857.
Folder 1, Insert 8 John Hertzler to David M. Lebkicher from Philadelphia, PA, regarding business affairs. 16 April 1860.
Folder 1, Insert 9 Samuel Lebkicher to brother from Freeport, IL, regarding business in the area, his membership in the Wide Awake Club, and the election. He also mentions the increase in coffin sales as typhoid and Scarlet fevers spread through the area. 4 September 1860.
Folder 2 Letters, 1861
Folder 2, Insert 1 Samuel J. Lebkicher to father from Freeport, IL, regarding his enlistment in the war. 21 April 1861.
Folder 2, Insert 2 Samuel J. Lebkicher to David M. Lebkicher from Camp Yates, Springfield, IL, describing camp life and announcing his marriage before the war to Miss Hannah Bauman. 2 May 1961.
Folder 2, Insert 3 John Lebkicher to brother, regarding battle on way to Vienna. 19 June 1861.
Folder 2, Insert 4 Rewritten copies of Insert 2 (3 copies)
Folder 2, Insert 5 John Lebkicher to brother, Camp Lincoln, Arlington Heights, IL, describing camp life. 1861.
Folder 2, Insert 6 Rewritten copies of Insert 4 (2 copies)
Folder 2, Insert 7 Letter, John Lebkicher to brother from Dayton, stating that he may be discharged that week. 7 August 1861.
Folder 2, Insert 8 Rewritten copy of Insert 6
Folder 2, Insert 9 John Lebkicher to brother, Camp Wood, regarding a letter that he received from Jacob Rothamel. He also mentions using rebel fighters that they had shot to feed the hogs. 19 December 1861.
Folder 2, Insert 10 Rewritten copy of Insert 8
Folder 3 Letters. 1862
Folder 3, Insert 1 John B. Lebkicher to brother from Columbia, mentioning a month-long delay in receiving pay. 18 May 1862
Folder 3, Insert 2 Typed copies of Insert 1
Folder 3, Insert 3 Samuel Lebkicher to brother, from Nova Scotia, requesting money and describing his experience mining for gold. 25 May 1862
Folder 3, Insert 4 John B. Lebkicher to bother from Camp 79 Pennsylvania, describing the treatment of a dissenting soldier. 21 June 1862.
Folder 3, Insert 5 John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp Cooper, the upper corner stamped with the face of a girl and the phrase, “The Girl I left behind me”. He also enclosed twenty five dollars for his brother’s business pursuits. 24 June 1862.
Folder 3, Insert 6 Typed copies of Insert 5
Folder 3, Insert 7 John B. Lebkicher to brother from [Shelbyville] describing his experience of a very warm 4th of July. They drilled a hole for the local people who had raised a flag pole and flew a flag sewn by the women of [Shelbyville]. 7 July 1862.
Folder 3, Insert 8 Typed copies of Insert 7
Folder 3, Insert 9 Letter, Sam Lebkicher to brother from Freeport, IL, announcing his arrival home and the improving conditions of Freeport. 18 July 1862
Folder 3, Insert 10 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father and mother from Fairfax Court House, describing sleeping conditions, the battle nearby, and their own battle lines. The upper corner of the letter is stamped with a soldier holding up a flag in one hand and a musket in the other. 1862 August 5.
Folder 3, Insert 11 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from Camp Stanton, Arlington Heights, describing train trip from Harrisburg to Washington, D.C., a tour of the White House, and the prices of the area. 18 August 1862.
Folder 3, Insert 12 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from Arlington Heights, describing his enjoyment of the city and their encampment on an apple orchard. 19 August 1862.
Folder 3, Insert 13 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from Camp Piatt, Clouds Mills, VA, refers to troops moving to Culpepper to reinforce Pope. 23 August 1862.
Folder 3, Insert 14 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to family from camp near Clouds Mills, VA, referring to the refugees passing from Manassas. 30 August 1862.
Folder 3, Insert 15 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father and mother from Camp Miners Hill, referring to Billy Bair. He mentions that they may be marching toward Harper’s Ferry. 6 September 1862.
Folder 3, Insert 16 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to brother from Bowling Green, KY, describing his frustration over the length and declining conditions of the war. 9 September 1862.
Folder 3, Insert 17 Typed copies of Insert #16
Folder 3, Insert 18 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp at Fort Richardson, on his birthday, describing lack of money and food among the soldiers. He mentions that they only had access to crackers and coffee for over three days before receiving meat. 10 September 1862.
Folder 4 Letters, 1862
Folder 4, Insert 1 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Georgetown, describing how the soldiers were able to bathe and wash their clothes in the river. He also makes a request for newspapers along with future letters to learn about news from home. 16 September 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 2 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father and mother from camp near Georgetown, thanking them for the package and newspaper he received from them and requesting more envelopes. He describes their improving rations which included fresh bread, bean soup, and meat. Jacob Gable is also mentioned in the letter. 23 September 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 3 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother, describing the limited food options available during a long march. He mentions General Bragg and General Buell. The page is stamped with the same image found on Folder 3, Insert 5. Also included is a separate page stating he enclosed forty dollars. 29 September 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 4 Typed copies of Insert 3
Folder 4, Insert 5 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp at Miners Hill, VA, describing the apples available in the nearby picket and how the soldiers used these to create applesauce. He also mentions his opinion that the war would be over soon after the new year. 28 September 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 6 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp at Miners Hill, VA, mentioning that he does not need anything from home as there are plenty of chinkapin trees and apples nearby yet he is out of smoking tobacco. He also refers to the coming rain as a welcomed change in weather. 2 October 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 7 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father and mother from camp at Miners Hill, VA, thanking them for the postage stamps and the weekly express sent in a previous letter. He provides a partial schedule of their regulations and describes their drilling activity. He refers to John Shindle, the new drum major, and Clifton Kimball of 127 Penna Vol. 8 October 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 8 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp at Miners Hill, VA, thanking them for the postage stamps and money sent in a previous letter. He mentions the death of John Wenger, the first of their regiment, at Washington Hospital. 9 October 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 9 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp at Miners Hill, VA, enclosed with twenty five dollars received from his bounty. He mentions that they are packed with only their coats and blankets, ready for some to take their marching orders to Harper’s Ferry and others to Fortress Monroe. 12 October 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 10 Letter, Typed copy only, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Crab Tree Orchard, referring to a recent hard fight and his regiment’s assignment to follow the enemy. He mentions the money for groceries that he sent to John [Loobly]. 16 October 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 11 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp opposite Georgetown, mentioning they will take “cars” (train) to Frederick or Harper’s Ferry. He also refers to Hambright Regiment. 18 October 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 12 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Knoxville, TN, regarding lack of food. 20 October 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 13 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from Camp Piatt, Cloud Mills, VA, sent with Gen. Martin, Rowe, [Hess], and France who were visiting. He discusses their camp located 2 miles from South Mt. battlefield and about 8 miles from Antietam Battlefield and McClellan’s and Burnside’s armies being near. 23 October 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 14 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to “Dear Sir”, mentioning the burying of casualties in a hole five feet deep and forty feet long. Andy Mixal is also mentioned in the letter. 5 November 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 15 Letter, Typed copies of Insert 14.
Folder 4, Insert 16 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from Camp at Waterloo, regarding the marching from Hillsborough to Sneekers Gap, then to Bloomfield, then to Upperville, then to Piedmont Station where they skirmished with rebels, then to Orleans and to Waterloo (7 miles from Warrenton Junction). He mentions that he saw Cap Grass of 99th, General Burnside, and General McClellan. 13 November 1862.
Folder 4, Insert 17 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to “Dear Sir” from camp near Drakes Creek mentioning his disgust with the war, the officers, and how things are run. 16 November 1882.
Folder 5 Letters, 1862
Folder 5, Insert 1 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to brother from Camp at Hillsborough, telling of cheering General Burnside as he rode by them. He also mentions Mr. Hartman. 23 November 1862.
Folder 5, Insert 2 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, regarding death in camp of B. McComsey from Providence. 25 November 1862.
Folder 5, Insert 3 Letter, handwritten copies only, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp McCloud, 26 November 1862.
Folder 5, Insert 4 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to nephew from Camp McCloud, mentioning his travel to Nashville as a train guard. He also mentions Uncle Jacob Rothamel and Aunt [Fanny]. 1 December 1862.
Folder 5, Insert 5 Typed copies of Insert 4
Folder 5, Insert 6 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to Edwin from camp near Fredericksburg, VA, describing camp life. As requested in a previous letter, he informs Edwin that he has not received boots or gloves and asks for a pair of gloves. He shares that he and his fellow soldiers believe the war will soon be over. 3 December 1862.
Folder 5, Insert 7 Letter, Handwritten copies only of letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp near Nashville, describing their march towards [town] in the snow without tents. 11 December 1862.
Folder 5, Insert 8 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, VA, discussing the erection of pontoon bridges and starting to cross when rebels began to shell. Letter contains a good description of Battle of Fredericksburg. 17 December 1862.
Folder 5, Insert 9 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father and mother from camp near Fredericksburg, VA, mentioning Mr. Blickenderffer and others visiting camp. 21 December 1862
Folder 6 Letters, 1863
Folder 6, Insert 1 Note, W. H. Lebkicher to “Papa”, requesting notice of their arrival so that he and “Grandpapa” can see a little bit of the war. [No date].
Folder 6, Insert 2 Letter, Typed copy, John. B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp near Murfreesboro, providing a detailed description of a battle near Murfreesboro and their limited rations of corn and horse meat. 10 January 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 3 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to mother from camp near Fredericksburg, mentioning that he had received the items sent by family, including the smoking tobacco sent by Edwin, pudding and sausage from Aunt Fanny, and money he intends to use to get a haircut. He also received a donation of onions, potatoes, turnips, bread, apple butter, and sausage provided by the Patriotic Daughters. 4 January 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 4 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, referring to the death of Ed Haverstick.13 January 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 5 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, concerning the death of Daniel G. Book of Providence Township and Corporal Henry Meeser of W. H. Miller’s store and whose parents reside in Germantown. 18 January 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 6 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, mentioning being “stuck in the mud with old Burnside”. 27 January 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 7 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother, referring to letter received from Jacob Rothamel. 28 January 1868.
Folder 6, Insert 8 Letter, Handwritten copy of Insert 7
Folder 6, Insert 9 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother, regarding the weather and battles with the rebels. 8 February 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 10 Typed copy of Insert 9
Folder 6, Insert 11 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, mentioning that he had received the package from mother that consisted of bread pudding, sausage, tobacco, apples, and horseradish. He discusses the health and activity of his regiment. 9 February 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 12 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, regarding Lt. Long leaving for home (Lancaster, PA). He mentions the return of Jacob Holabauck, who was one of three to become sick at Georgetown, and the 9th Army Corp going to Fortress Monroe. 14 February 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 13 Letter, , W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, concerning the grand review by President Lincoln and General Hooker of 4 Corps.14 February 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 14 Letter, Father and brother to W. H. Lebkicher from Lancaster, PA, enclosed with five dollars to be shared with Edwin. 1 March 1863.
Folder 6, Insert 15 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, 11 March 1863.
Folder 7 Letters, 1863
Folder 7, Insert 1 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from camp at Murfreesboro, regarding the weather specifically how the weather compares to PA in June. Sent forty dollars with Andy Mixvill to give to his brother. 17 March 1868.
Folder 7, Insert 2 Handwritten copy of Insert 1
Folder 7, Insert 3 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from camp Murfreesboro, concerning fighting under Commander Rusaw and General Rosecrans19 March 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 4 Typed copy of Insert 3
Folder 7, Insert 5 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Fredericksburg, regarding George Anne’s health and rumors that they would be going to Harpers Ferry to race the rebels. Also, President Lincoln and Governor Curtain were expected to review the camp. He states that the food rations are getting better, being provided bread, pork, peas, fresh meat, potatoes and onions. Ends the letter stating that the paymaster would be around to give their pay. 7 April 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 6 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to “Dear Sir” from camp Murfreesboro, discusses the weather and states that the rebels were within 18 miles of their camp which would lead to a hard battle. 7 April 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 7 Hand written copy of Insert 6
Folder 7, Insert 8 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to Father from camp near Fredericksburg, states that he received Andy’s letter and asks if he received the forty dollars that was sent with the last letter. Discusses that they were told to save their rations and the weather had been rainy. Also, in camp they sold shad, oysters, and hogshead. States George Anne’s health is improving and that Captain Neff had died. Five dollars was enclosed in the letter for his Mother. 24 April 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 9 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to “Dear Sir” from camp Murfreesboro, discusses they had covered one hundred and twenty miles and caught two hundred rebels. Asks him to write because he had not received a letter from him in a month. 30 April 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 10 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Chattanooga, discusses traveling to Chattanooga with the 37 Ohio regiment on a train that fell off of the tracks and eight feet over a stone wall, killing one and injuring fourteen. Ends stating that he will be fighting for fifteen days. 7 May 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 11 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Regarding plans to move to the front and the falling back of the rebels. He was made orderly sergeant of his company, asks his brother to write so he knows he came out of the fight safe. States that it is an honor the people of Lancaster have great soldiers fighting, and that his regiment is one of the best in the Army of the Cumberland. 13 May 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 12 Typed copy of Insert 11
Folder 7, Insert 13 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Murfreesboro. States they get plenty of food and Rosecrans does not let them get lazy because they drill twice a day. Asks for a letter in return, had received a letter from their sister. States their Henry is at home. 25 May 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 14 Handwritten copy of Insert 13
Folder 7, Insert 15 Handwritten copy of letter John to brother from Camp 7 Penna. Discusses the rebels moving in to Pennsylvania and how he thinks that Pennsylvania is unprepared. States that he has enough men to capture Lee and his army. Also, two men were hanged for beating a union worker to death. 21 June.
Folder 7, Insert 16 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp, discusses being on the front near the Tennessee River with the enemy before them. They were low on rations and artillery because the weather had been rainy and the wagons are stuck in the mud. They had already captured many prisoners and the way they were traveling in to Tullahoma could lead to more captures. Complains of marching too much. 7 July 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 17 Handwritten copy of Insert 16
Folder 7, Insert 18 Letter, Edward Lebkicher to Father from Camp Near Hagerstown, he traveled from Harrisburg to Shippensburg and they had not stopped marching since. The rebel army had a rifle fight in Hagerstown and also held up the railroad from Shippensburg to Chambersburg, hence the reason he had to walk to Hagerstown. The letter ends discussing the cost of bread, which was eight cents a loaf. 17 July 1863.
Folder 7, Insert 19 Letter, Edward Lebkicher to Father from Camp Near Fifth Dam regarding the lack of provisions. He had been living off of black coffee and a small amount of salted pork. However, the wagon with provisions had came in that evening. Their camp picketed and the rebel camp picketed on the other side. Ends the letter asking his father to send stamps. 23 July 1863.
Folder 8 Letters, 1863
Folder 8, Insert 1 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to father from Camp near Fifth Dam. Explains that the mail is coming and going every day and that he heard from some of the boys that the Dutch had a riot in Lancaster that was stopped shortly after it began. They received crackers every day, but not much beef or salted pork. Lebkicher stated that he thinks someone is making money off of the rations because they receives less than half of the rations they are allowed. Asks if his mother receives the two dollars a week and if so she may keep it for herself. 26 July 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 2 Handwritten copy of Insert 1
Folder 8, Insert 3 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to father from Camp near Clearspring, Lebkicher explains that they just got off the picket but are headed out again the following day. Refers to Charley Witzel, and that they had him secured so he could not sleep. Asks how the Dutch are getting along and explains that they received the Philadelphia paper every day. Lebkicher states that many of the boys are getting tired of the militia, however he is not. Closes by asking for a little money. 2 August 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 4 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp at Cowan, explains that there is not much sickness in the camp and they get plenty of corn grain to eat. The people that reside around the commissary came to get rations on the days that they had nothing to eat. States that he thinks the Confederate States have had enough of the war and ran out of food. The band was there, which livened up the camp. Ends by stating that he enclosed twenty dollars to add to the rest of his money. 4 August 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 5 Typed copy of Insert 4
Folder 8, Insert 6 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to father from Clearspring, Mr. Wise and Mr. Brubaker arrived at his camp from Chambersburg. States he received the fifty cents and the nine postage stamps that were sent in the last letter. Ends stating Mr. Wise and Mr. Brubaker will leave that same day. 8 August 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 7 Letter, Edwin M. Lebkicher to father from Camp at Clearspring, discussing drafted men from Lancaster; falling water where they could find muskets, swords and knapsacks; Leonard’s Cavalry Company being nearby and Joe Wimer being in it. He also mentions Edward Shoebrook. 8 August 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 8 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to sister from Camp Dawson, discussed the weather, the abundance of peaches, apples and corn, and that this fight could soon be won if people would fight for their country. 16 August 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 9 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp Dawson, states they are encamped along a creek which was eight miles from [Stevenson], Alabama where they would arrive in a day or two. Wants to know if the twenty dollars he sent was received. 22 August 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 10 Handwritten copies of Insert 8, 9, and 11.
Folder 8, Insert 11 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp Dawson, states the weather is warm during the day and cold at night. Wants to know if the twenty dollars he sent was received. Thinks they will move to Chattanooga if the weather continues to be cold. 28 August 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 12 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to “Dear Sir” from Alabama, explains while crossing the Tennessee river the bridge broke and four teams fell into the river. Mules then were used to pull the teams over the mountain. Tells his brother about being promoted to second lieutenant. 5 September 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 13 Typed copies of Insert 12
Folder 8, Insert 14 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Chattanooga, discusses the lack of food, the warm weather and the fact that they do not even have food for their mules and horses. The rebels shell their camp so often that it does not bother them anymore. He would like to receive a letter from home, since he has not received one in two months. 6 November 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 15 Handwritten copies of Insert 14
Folder 8, Insert 16 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp of the 79 Penna., Chattanooga Tennessee. Their army had seen hard times and he believed another fight was on its way. Lebkicher states he does everything to wipe out the rebellion. Ends stating he will send fifty dollars with John Reese to be put in the bank, if Reese doesn’t take it, he will send it in a letter. 20 November 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 17 Handwritten copies of Insert 16
Folder 8, Insert 18 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Camp of the 79 Penna., Chattanooga Tennessee. Explains the fight and that his brigade was not in it but at Fort Negley, and that he will send fifty dollars to be put with the rest of his money. 2 December 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 19 Typed Copies of Insert 18
Folder 8, Insert 20 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Chattanooga, had sent fifty dollars by Adams Express Company and would like to know if he had received it. Believes they will stay there all winter, the stock is dying because of the lack of food. Every other day they work on fortifications. 18 December 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 21 Handwritten Copies of Insert 20
Folder 8, Insert 22 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Chattanooga, Tenn., discusses how he thought it would be his last time in the army and wonders when the draft will send new troops. Still not much to do but work on fortifications. 26 December 1863.
Folder 8, Insert 23 Handwritten copies of Insert 22
Folder 9 Letters, 1864
Folder 9, Insert 1 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to “Dear Sir” from Chattanooga, TN, thanks him for sending cakes and wine for he only had bread for two days. However, train were now coming in with rations for the men and animals. Speaks of the weather and the reenlistment of men. 17 January 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 2 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Chattanooga, TN, states that he had reenlisted as a veteran along with all of the men in his company except one. Thinks he will be home the first week of March. Ends by stating that two hundred and seventy-nine men have reenlisted. 19 February 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 3 Letter, Handwritten copy, John. B. Lebkicher to brother from Chattanooga, TN, on the train from Louisville to Chattanooga Lebkicher’s regiment and the 37th Ohio regiment were in the last train car, which went off the track. This caused the death of one man from the 37th Ohio regiment and fourteen others were injured. Pete Miller from Lebkicher’s was cut by a pane of glass. 7 May 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 4 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Kingston, discusses being recommended to Major Lucker by Captain McCaskey to become second lieutenant. Major Lucker had written a letter of recommendation to the governor. However, the post commander, General Hambright, told the governor not to promote him, which he was ultimately lectured for, as it was not of his concern. 3 June 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 5 Handwritten copy of Insert 4
Folder 9, Insert 6 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother, states they are within two miles of Atlanta and that they are fighting the rebels who are close by. General McPherson was killed, and fifteen men were wounded. 24 July 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 7 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Georgia, the rebel army is stuck in Atlanta and they are exchanging shell fire. They had received news that forty thousand of Lee’s army was near Harrisburg and the people of Lancaster are worried. The rebel army was believed to have lost twenty thousand men, killed or wounded. Ends by asking his brother to send a blank book, shirts, and ten dollars. 2 August 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 8 Handwritten copy of Insert 7
Folder 9, Insert 9 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Manchester, arrived in Manchester where Captain Davis had been captured. They had been up every night for two weeks and were able to take one to two thousand rebels without any trouble. 3 August 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 10 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Georgia, states they have been laying in the trenches near Atlanta waiting for the rebel army to leave. Wishes they would stop for a while, for it was hot and too warm to march. 6 August 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 11 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to father from Camp Day near Baltimore, asks if Andrew had received the clothing he sent, says he is trying to save his money as much as possible but sometimes has to buy food when the rations run out. Will be traveling to Rock Island to release some of the men from Ohio. 10 August 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 12 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to father from Rock Island, Illinois, traveled from Baltimore to Pittsburg then to Chicago by way of the Chicago Rail Road, and lastly traveled to Rock Island by Rock Island cars. States there are nine to ten thousand rebel prisoners at Rock Island. The soldiers are provided with quality food. He believes that they will stay at Rock Island for the rest of his time. 16 August 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 13 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother near Atlanta, thanks his brother for the ten dollars, and states that they are on the west side of Atlanta within three hundred yards of the rebels. 22 August 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 14 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to father from Rock Island Barracks, Illinois, discusses how it is easy to stay clean for they can wash in the river whenever they want. Has plans to travel to Rock Island City, as well as the Indian Camp in Iowa where about six hundred Indians are living. They make jewelry out of the shells they find along the river, he hopes to send a ring home to his mother. 26 August 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 15 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from Atlanta, Georgia, speaks of brother Samuel and his meeting in favor of the reelection of Lincoln. States he would vote for Lincoln’s reelection. Discusses how they had made the rebels move and they were able to take one hundred and thirty miles of the country. They were able to take Atlanta from the rebels. Ends by asking for a black book that is small enough he could carry in his pocket. 17 September 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 16 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to father from Rock Island Barracks, Illinois, lets him know that he received the two dollars, the newspapers from him, and the twenty five cents from mother, Andrew, and Samuel. Talks more about the jewelry, and how the rebels do not care a lot about money for they have gold and silver. With the two dollars Edward planed to get his shoes fixed and purchase a fine tooth comb and hair grease. The Illinois Regiment left, leaving most of the responsibilities to Edward’s regiment. The rebels are going out on the frontier to fight the Indians. 19 September 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 17 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to father from Rock Island Barracks, Illinois, states that the 108th Kentucky Colored Regiment had arrived the previous day. This was the first colored regiment that Edward had seen. 25 September 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 18 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to brother from near Atlanta, states that he visited the city of Atlanta and would rather live in Lancaster. 25 September 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 19 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to father from Rock Island Barracks, Illinois, discusses plans to leave Rock Island for Philadelphia, the convention for Lincoln in Rock Island City, and how the temperature is too cold to stand watch without an overcoat. 16 October 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 20 Letter, Edward M. Lebkicher to brother from Rock Island Barracks, Illinois, discusses the conventions, and how the rebels favor McClellan. Since the 108th Kentucky Colored Regiment arrived they only have to go on guard every third day instead of every other. This made the rebels angry to see the Kentucky Colored Regiment as their guards. Some of the men from the Kentucky Colored Regiment even saw their masters among the rebel prisoners. 20 October 1864.
Folder 9, Insert 21 Letter, John B. Lebkicher to David M. Lebkicher from Marietta, GA, opens by thanking him for the clothes that were sent to him, also John sent one hundred dollars home in a package. Discusses the cost of living in Georgia and the election. Lets him know that he will not hear from him soon because they are moving camp. 9 November 1864
Folder 10 Letters, 1865
Folder 10, Insert 1 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from Baltimore, arrived in Baltimore but will leave the next day or the day after that. There are fifty-four men in his squad and some from Lancaster. They are living off of salted horse, bread and coffee, and are expecting snow.
Folder 10, Insert 2 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from on board the steamer Baltie on Broad River, they took a boat opposite Annapolis and then got on the steam ship Baltie which ran between New York and Liverpool. They anchored in the Chesapeake where they picked up more men and provisions. After, they sailed from Fortress Monroe to Hilton Head, South Carolina. Many men, including himself, were sea sick. 1 February 1865.
Folder 10, Insert 3 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from Morehead, North Carolina, he had traveled from South Carolina to North Carolina stopping at a couple places in between. In South Carolina he traveled to shore for twenty-five cents and was able to eat oysters. He traveled on the steamer with 1,200 men. 8 February 1865.
Folder 10, Insert 4 Letter, W. H. Lebkicher to father from camp near Newbern, moved from Morehead to Newbern, and eight miles from Newbern to Bachelors Creek, and back to Newbern. The train tracks run through camp for forty-four miles. They were being repaired right up to the picket line. The carpenters are cutting ties and everyone else, including Lebkicher, is loading the ties. Asks for money so that Edwin can buy new shoes, as well as a few stamps. 22 February 1865.
Folder 11 Discharge Papers, 1863
Folder 11, Insert 1 Private Jonah R. Duke of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, thirty-nine years old, enrolled on the second of August 1862 under Captain J. Miller Raub’s Company D 122nd Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, to serve nine months, was discharge from the service of the United States on the twenty fourth of March, 1863 at Camp near Falmouth VA.
Folder 11, Insert 2 Private William H. Lebkicher of Lancaster City, Pennsylvania, eighteen years old, enrolled on the second of August 1862 under Captain J. Miller Raub’s Company D 122nd Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, to serve nine months, was discharge from the service of the United States on the fifteenth of May, 1863 at Harrisburg Pennsylvania.
Folder 12 Letters. 1972
Folder 12, Insert 1 Frederic S. Klein, Civil War Times, Illustrated to Jane Wilson Mass, concerning the Lebkicher Family Civil War Letters and his interest in publishing a few of the letters in Civil War Times, Illustrated mostly because of the spelling and content; needs Mass’s permission to publish. Suggests they could also be edited and published in the Lancaster County Historical Society papers. 26 August 1972.
Folder 12, Insert 2 Letter, Jane Wilson Mass to Dr. Frederic S. Klein from Lancaster, PA, in response to his letter from 29 August 1972 (Insert 1) and consents and agrees that it would be interesting to publish some of the letters with corresponding translations. Offers her help in any way. 1 September 1972.