I found an interesting letter many years ago and just found it again. I thought I would send it along for anyone in the “Old Second” to try and figure out. The letter came from the historical society’s holdings; Series 1927, Box 1, Folder for June 3-15, 1861, and reads as follows:

Regimental Head Quarters
2^nd Regiment Wis. A. Militia
Camp Randall, June 4, 1861

To;
His Excellency

Alexander W. Randall

 Dear Sir;

The bearer, Mrs. Dean, has a son who is a minor in the Fox Lake Company, who, she says enlisted without her consent. The boy is the old lady’s “baby” and I think it will break her heart to loose him. If your Excellency thinks best, please direct the Adjutant General to send orders for his discharge.

Very Respectfully
Your Obt. Servant
S. Park Coon
Col. 2nd Regt. W. A. M.

 

Reply;
Adjutant General

Have an order made discharging the above ----- Dean

Alexander W. Randall

 

It would be of interest to know who this young man was. I looked in Company “E” records, I think they were the Fox Lake Company, and could not find any Dean listed with them. The letter was written after the 2^nd was at Camp Randall and I wonder if the Regimental (Red Muster Roll Book) might actually have this kids name on it. Is it possible he was a relative of Adjutant Charles K. Dean, F & S. or William Dean, Co. “G.” Would anyone care to try and find this out or does someone know who this kid was?

James Kennedy