W. P. Carlin to Richard Yates

Louisville, Ky

Sept 28th 1862 `

To His Excellency Governor Yates

Governor:

May I presume to ask your influence towards procuring for me the appointment of Brigadier General of Volunteers. For the last twelve months I have commanded from two thousand to seven thousand troops. I am now in command of a Brigade in Buell's army. I have served the country faithfully for twelve years in the Indian country and during this rebellion. During the last year I have seen my juniors in the Army and citizens promoted over me in great numbers. Many of these have done far less in our cause than I have done. The troops under my command are now and long have been desirous that I should be a Brigadier General. As it is probable that I shall be permanently in command of a Brigade, it is but just that

that I should have the corresponding rank. It is also demanded by justice to my Regiment (the 38th Ills Infty) that it should have a Colonel in command of it & an officer competent to command it.

Here I see the new Regiments from our noble and patriotic state pouring in in great numbers, but not a General officer from that state to command them. Although we are all American citizen and American soldiers it seems to me that a state that has done so much for the cause and has suffered so severely, should be more highly honored in the appointment of Generals.

Governor, if you can give me your assistance in this matter, I shall be deeply obliged to you, whether the effort be successful or not.

Truly yours

W.P. Carlin

Col 38th Ills Vols

38th Regt.

W.P. Carlin

Louisville Ky Sept 28/62

Desires the influence of the Gov. towards procuring for him the appointment of Brig. General.

Write to Prest. & Sec of War good strong letters – setting forth services &c.

written Oct 21st [mous?]