Letter from John McGreger – 6th Maine
to Mrs. George H. Philbrook
Camp Near White Oak Church, VA
May 12th 1863
Mrs. Philbrook,
Dear Friend,
It becomes my painful duty to inform you that your
Husband George H. Philbrook fell on Sunday the 3d instant in making a charge on
the Rebels works Near Fredericksburg. He
was shot through the neck and died instantly.
His effects were all lost. He
had about one hundred & ten dollars in his pocket when he fell but before
any of our men got to him his pockets were picked.
Mrs. Philbrook this must be sad news for you but you are not alone;
hundreds of our noble and brave fell in the same action.
Hundreds of wives were made widows thousands of children were left fatherless
and the Day will be long remembered by (the) thousand of us who were engaged.
Mrs. Philbrook put your trust in Him who is able to Heal
the Wounded Heart and dry up all tears. I felt it to be my duty to write
you a few lines because George was a particular friend of mine and believing
that you would like to know the particulars concerning his Fate. And if
you receive this please drop me a line.
Your sincere Friend
Sergt John McGreger
Company G 6th Maine V.M.
Letter Courtesy of the John Brogan Collection - Elmhurst, IL