This letter was written by 65 year-old William Baker Pegram (1797-1877) of Lincoln, Logan county, Illinois. William and his wife. Sarah Elizabeth Walker (1797-1882), were married in Brunswick county, Virginia, in 1821. By 1840, the couple were living in Greene county, Illinois. By 1850, the couple were living in Pike county, Illinois, where William earned his living as a merchant. By 1860, they were in Logan county, Illinois, William employed as a farmer and merchant.
William wrote the letter to his “esteemed friend”, James Lemuel Yates (1828-1912), a sergeant in Co. C, 106th Illinois Infantry. James married Susan N. Norwood. The 106th Illinois was on Provost Duty in Jackson, Tennessee, at the time of this letter.
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Lincoln [Logan county, Illinois] January 12th 1863
Mr. J. L. Yates Jackson, Tennessee Esteemed friend,
Your very kind favor of the 8th inst. came to hand today. I do assure you it gives me great pleasure at all times to hear from you and above all to know you are well—and I have no fears but what you will continue to enjoy good health. Your entire abstinence from everything that is liable to create disease—I feel glad to see from the tenor of your kind letter you still have faith in Him who ruleth all things—and if we continue faithful to discharge our duty to Him who ruleth all things, I have no doubt but we shall come out safe in the end.
We have a very faithful minister and one of the best preachers we have had since I have been in Lincoln—a second Bro. [Samson] Shinn—and seems to be beloved by the church and respected by all. I feel he will do much good. We have had a protracted meeting for the last two weeks and there has been some conversions—and I felt I should have been glad to have had you here as I know you would have enjoyed yourself very much.
This winter has been very rainy and warm. We have had but little ice and scarcely any snow. It never has remained on the ground half a day for the last 3 weeks. The going has been so bad and water so high, we have had but little trade. Corn is worth from 22 to 25 cents. That with the pork and wheat, have made money more plenty than when you left. Mr. Faris paid the order you left, but did not pay my account against him. Said he would some of these times.
Baker and the men go to St. Louis, Benton Barracks on Thursday morning, Mr. Yates, please say to me, “What about Baker’s surrender?” His men say—or the most trustworthy–they were surrounded before they knew any rebels was near at hand. 963—one regiment. They were conducted between the pickets by an old man who had the Oath of Allegiance in his pocket—one where property and family had been guaranteed—while he pretended to go East. When Baker surrendered, he came to the post with the rebels. He is commended by some and condemned by others. I do hope he did not act cowardly. I feel very bad over it. And if you will be so kind as to let me know all about it, you will confer a great favor.
We received a letter from Thomas today and he says if what he heard is true, Baker ought to have driven the rebels off. He understands Baker had 200 men. If course he has that wrong and I will write to him tomorrow and tell him what Baker’s men say about it. Baker does not condemn what he did, but says if he had it to go over again, he would act differently. He says there was no alarm by the pickets. They were aroused from their sleep by the rebels firing on the train. If so, it must have been a surprise and he surrendered to save his men. If you will give me the particulars, you will oblige me very much. 1
Tonight the Soldiers’ Aid Society gives a supper and it is a big affair. Very many tickets sold and it will aid the wounded or sick soldiers much. Notwithstanding secesh is rampant in Springfield. There is no great change with us. Very many Democrats who voted for the bogus Democracy are not willing our State should secede. It seems the rebels—23 who voted to take the state out of the Union, if I can understand them—they wish to take Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri, and annex them to the Southern Confederacy. And the Rebels are perfectly willing. They, once united, would clean out the Eastern states. I tell them there would be so many who would join the Eastern states they would have a poor show. There is no stranger here will not go with them. 2
England and France have changed their tone. They say the President’s Proclamation is a humane thing and the South should have realized it as such. So you see they cannot hope for any favors from that quarter. Mrs. Yates and ___ are both very well. Mrs. Huff has gone to her sisters and Mrs. Waltman is staying with Mrs. Yates. Mrs. Yates received a letter from you today.
The foregoing you see is written in pencil. I had no pen holder at the house last evening. I think you can read it. Please let me hear from you often and oblige.
Your friend, most truly, — W. B. Pegram
We are all well.
1 I’m not certain who the “Baker” is referred to in this paragraph but William is most assured referring to the surrender of the garrison at Holly Springs, Mississippi, which was occupied mostly by the 8th Wisconsin but there was a large number o men in the 29th Illinois Infantry surrendered there too. These men were paroled and sent to Benton Barracks in st. Louis where they remained until July 1863 when they were exchanged.
2 “Not everyone in Illinois supported the war. In fact, there were even calls for secession in Southern Illinois or Little Egypt by several residents. In Marion residents voted to secede from the United States. A few, even, volunteered for the Confederate States Army in Tennessee. Thirty-four men, while Frank Metcalf claimed they were forty-five, from the southern tip of the state, were recruited from Jackson and Williamson County, joined Company G, “The Illinois Company”, of the 15th Tennessee Regiment Volunteer Infantry. This can be attributed to the region’s close cultural and economic ties to the South since many Southerners had migrated there. However, the movement for secession soon fizzled after the proposal was blocked and shelved.” [Wikipedia]
This compelling letter by Sgt. Nicholas Taylor Dixon (1840-1909) describes his personal eye-witness account of the Battle of Bull Run while serving in Co. E, 2nd Rhode Island Infantry. Historians will recall that it was the 2nd Rhode Island that fired the opening volley in the 21 July 1861 battle and they were one of the last to leave the field, covering the retreat to Washington D. C.—but not without a price. The regiment lost 28 men killed, 56 wounded, and 30 missing that day. Among the killed were Col. John S. Slocum, Major Sullivan Ballou, and Captains Levi Tower and Samuel J. Smith.
The copy of this letter—never before published—was sent to me by David Gates. Nicholas was his great-grandmother’s first cousin. When I asked him why it had not been previously published, he confided that Nicholas’ claim to have personally attempted to stop the bleeding of his wounded Colonel seemed a boastful and uncorroborated claim.
As for Nicholas’ claim, I find the account credible even if uncorroborated by others. There are various accounts of Col. Slocum’s death. Some have him mounted when shot and others have him dismounted. Some have him shot in the head, while others have him shot in the leg. Some have him dying quickly on the field, while some have him carried off the field before he died. When researching the 2nd Rhode Island, I know just the man to go to for answers—my friend Rob Grandchamp. Rob assures me that his research reveals Col. Slocum was killed when dismounted, attempting to cross a fence, that he was shot in the head, and that he was primarily surrounded by members of Co. D at the time. Elisha Hunt Rhodes gives perhaps the best personal account of the Colonel’s death though he claims to have been “the only man near him when he fell.” Rhodes makes it clear, however, that the companies were intermingled by this stage of the fight so it’s very possible that Nicholas may have been nearby. Whether he actually attempted to apply a compress on the Colonel’s head is largely immaterial in my opinion. The only thing certain in my opinion is that everyone’s recollection of the day’s events—given the noise, heat, smoke and confusion of battle—was different and no less credible.
Nicholas (“Nick”) was the son of John Taylor Dixon (1820-1891) and Sarah Ann Curtis (1819-1910) of South Kingston, Washington county, Rhode Island. According to his descendants, Nicholas had an uncle, Anthony Dixon, and a cousin, Henry C. Dixon, who also served in Co. E, 2nd Rhode Island.
For yet another riveting account of the Battle of Bull Run by another member of the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, go to 1861: Ezra Greene to Susannah (Westcott) Greene published on Spared & Shared 13 back in 2017. See also any of the following published on Spared & Shared: Hiram Fuller, Co. C, 2nd Rhode Island (1 Letter) George Abel Lindall, Co. F, 2nd Rhode Island (1 Letter) John M. Chandler, Co. H, 2nd Rhode Island (5 Letters) Benjamin G. Wallen, Co. I, 2nd Rhode Island (1 Letter) Henry T. Blanchard, Co. K, 2nd Rhode Island (3 Letters) Henry T. Blanchard, Co. K, 2nd Rhode Island (1 Letter)
Isaac P. Rodman, Captain of Co. E, 2nd Rhode Island (mentioned in this letter) leans against the tree behind Gen. Burnside in this image.
[A copy of this letter was provided by David Gates and is published on Spared & Shared by express consent.]
Transcription
Headquarters 2nd Regt. R. I. V., Co. E Camp Clark Thursday, July 25, 1861
Dear Father,
Your letter of the 23rd I received last evening. I am glad to answer yours that I am alive and well. Uncle Sam Rodman arrived here last night and told us the news. I am sorry to hear the neighborhood is so filled with anguish on first hearing of the battle. But never mind. Cheer up all of you. We are not at all scared to death yet. We expect to sacrifice our lives—some of us—if we expect to conquer the enemy.
The South is pretty sharp in playing her games on us while with us we have secession generals & guides to lead us into the rebels snare. But I think if our own officers was more careful and go by orders more than by their own forwardness in rushing on two or three days before the appointed time, we would not have to lose our lives so foolish. I would that all of the regiments was like ours & stand up in front of the whole secession army showering shot & shell upon us like hailstones. Capt. [Isaac Peace] Rodman is one of the bravest men that New England can boast of—and Gov. Sprague [too].
Col. [John S.] Slocum was the first man I saw fall. He was off his horse in front of the battle, gave it [the reins] to one of our company to hold—Tom Flaherty. He was getting over a fence within three feet of me & Capt. Rodman and several more of Co. E when a shot struck him in the head from the rebels. [With] my own handkerchief I tried to stop [the bleeding from] his wound for a minute or two but [could] see it was no use. It was fatal & I went to firing again. I never got hit nowhere on the flesh. Got two holes through my tunic and a ball hit the heel of my shoe when I though my heel was knocked off but on looking, it did me no damage.
But I tell you, we fought like tigers until the rebels retreated and we were ordered to go and lie down when they were reinforced & attacked us again. But the Rhode Island regiments & several others which were in the first engagement was not ordered out. We—the 2nd Rhode Island Regt.—was formed in a line of battle when we was the last that retreated.
We are getting along comfortable at Camp Clark at present. The 1st [R. I.] Regt. leaves today or tomorrow for home, their time being out. I suppose we will take their quarters.
I guess I must close. You can see more news in the papers than I can tell you. All of Company E is present but those you have heard was missing & dead. [Corp.] Steph[en] Holland & [Pvt.] Billy Nichols I saw dead on the field. [Henry] L. Jakeways [Jaques] was most dead when I saw him. He is dead, of course, now. John Clark died there. 1 Church not heard of yet & Esic [B.] Smith. 2 Henry Dixon is getting along first rate & J. Dockry.
Give my love to all, — N. T. Dixon
Three soldiers of the 2nd Rhode Island wearing the tunic sometimes called the “Burnside blouse.”
1 John Clark was wounded and taken prisoner at Bull Run but survived. He died on 6 May 1864 in the fighting in the Wilderness.
2 Corp. Esek B. Smith was wounded at Bull Run and taken prisoner. He died of his wounds in Richmond on 6 August 1861.
This letter was written by Elizabeth (Kennedy) Wharton (1823-1901), the daughter of Samuel Kennedy (1795-1875) and Polly Sargent (1799-1878) of Putnam county, Indiana. Elizabeth was the wife of Isaiah Wharton of Putnamville, Putnam county, Indiana. Elizabeth wrote the letter to her younger brother, John E. Kennedy (1841-1916), asking numerous questions pertaining to the death of her son, William Wharton (1848-1865), who had died recently in the service. John E. Kennedy was serving in Co. A, 37th Indiana Infantry at the time and had marched with Sherman’s Army on the Carolinas Campaign.
William Wharton was enrolled into the 43rd Indiana Infantry on 7 October 1864 at Terre Haute, Indiana. He gave his age as 19 year old at the time but in the June 1860 US Census his age was recorded as 12. After his enrollment, he was transferred to Co. B, 25th Indiana Regiment as a substitute for Lain (or Lane). According to regimental records, William died of disease on 18 March 1865.
Elizabeth asks her brother if he had ever crossed paths with William since he entered the service. It seems improbable as they served in entirely different corps—the 37th Indiana was in the 3rd Brig, 2nd Div., 14th Army Corps, and the 25th Indiana was in the 3rd Brig., 1st Div., 17th Army Corps.
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Putnamville [Putnam county, Indiana] April 14, 1865
Dear Brother,
I seat myself this morning to address you a few lines to let you know that I and family are well though very sad at heart having received intelligence that William is no more. I want you to be so kind if it is in your power to make special enquiry as to how long he was sick, who waited on him in his sickness, who was with him when he died, and whether he said anything about dying, and where he was buried [and] what his captain’s name is. Also, it would do me a great deal of good to know how he died and what he said about dying. I would like if it is possible to have all his little keepsakes boxed and sent to me.
I want you to tell me whether Sherman’s Army has been paid off since he started on this campaign. I had not had any word from William for two months before his death. He never answered the last letter I wrote to him. I would like to know whether you received the one I wrote to you.
And now, dear Brother, will you be so kind as to give me the information I ask you for. you will oblige me much indeed. I wish you to give me an answer immediately to ease my troubled mind. I believe I have nothing more to write at present but remain your affectionate sister until death, — Elizabeth Wharton
P. S. I want you to tell me whether you ever saw William since he went out in the service.
This letter was written by 20 year-old Samuel Watenbe (1843-1903) who enlisted as a corporal on 4 August 1863 in Co. F, 129th Ohio Volunteer Infantry (OVI). He mustered out with the rest of his regiment on 5 March 1864, the unit intended for only six months service. During their limited time, the regiment was attached to DeCourcy’s Brigade, Wilcox’s Left Wing Forces of the Department of the Ohio. They participated in the capture of the Cumberland Gap in September and then were placed on picketing and foraging duty in the Gap for most of the remainder of their time.
Samuel was the son of William Baker Wartenbe (1804-1883) and Elvira Westbrook (1810-1875) of Lick township, Jackson county, Ohio—an area in southeastern Ohio with deep political divisions. In the hotly contested gubernatorial election of 1863, Peace Democrats supported Vallandigham while pro-Administration supporters backed John Brough.
[Transcribed by Stacy Cookenour/edited & researched by Griff]
Charcoal drawing of the Cumberland Gap in 1863
Transcription
Cumberland Gap October 17th, 1863
Dear Sir,
I received your welcome letter on the 14th of October. I was glad to hear from you and that you was well. Your kind letter found me in poor health. Joseph is fatter than ever I saw him. We have good times here. We get plenty to eat since we took the Gap. The most of the boys are well.
Ratio [Horatio C.] Hanna shot himself through the left hand. He was on picket with me at the time. I had to lay in the rain 4 ½ days and this made me sick.
They beat the long roll night before last. I tell you the boys did jump. It was a false alarm. You don’t have any idea what times we have had since I left home. I have been run down, starved, choked for want of water, and everything else. We have had all the fun we wanted.
This is rebel paper and I send it in a rebel envelope. I thought you would like to have one. I have not much news to write. I have written so many letters I can’t think of much to write. Tell Miss Nally and Miss Nancy Grider I send my best respect to them both. I want you to tell me where Jasper Nally is and tell me what Leonard is doing. Tell him I send my best respects to him. I would write to you all in Kansas but I can’t get paper. Can’t hardly get paper to write home. I can’t get any postage stamps. I hate to have to make you pay for my letter. If you don’t like to pay the postage, I won’t write. I can’t write to any of the girls on this account.
I would fill this sheet but I don’t feel well this morning. This damned poor paper and bad pen. This paper is like the damned Rebs—damned rough.
I would give you a full history [of] my camp life if I knew you would like [to] know what times we have had, but I don’t feel like writing. You must write. Give me all the news in Kansas. I told William West [Co. F, musician] about Mr. McClung. You say Miss Ford is well. She has played out with me is a fact. That is so.
Mr. Wm. Robertson, write soon. These few lines leaves me gaining a little. I will soon be well again if I don’t get backset. So I hope this may find you well. Tell Mary Hull I send my love to her. We had 124 votes for Vallandigham here in the bloody 129th. So, no more at present. Yours respectfully –Mr. Samuel Wartenbe
to Mr. Wm. Robertson
Excuse my scribbling for I have a bad place to write and 1 bad pen. Keep this letter for it is all reb paper.
This letter was written by James Thorne, Jr. (1828-1866), the son of James Thorne, Sr. (1783-1859) and Phebe Townsend (1796-1884), of Mastic, Suffolk county, New York. James worked as an attorney in Brooklyn. He wrote the letter Alexander Dalrymple Napier (1826-1913), a clothing merchant of Brooklyn, New York.
There is nothing remarkable about the content of this letter except for the mention of the destruction of Barnum’s Museum in New York City which occurred the day before. “According to an account in the New York Sun, at noon on July 13, a museum employee came running up from the basement and announced that his office was on fire. The flames quickly spread and soon smoke billowed out the building. Firemen quickly evacuated visitors, human performers and animals from the premises. By 1:30 pm the roof had collapsed, and one of the building’s walls soon followed.
Miraculously, no human lives were lost in the blaze, but many animals perished, including two whales, which horrifically boiled alive in their tanks. Others escaped; though rumors of a lion from the museum roaming about Manhattan were grossly exaggerated note Young and Meyers. At the time, the New York Timeswrote, “Almost in the twinkling of an eye, the dirty, ill-shaped structure, filled with specimens so full of suggestion and of merit, passed from our gaze, and its like cannot soon be seen again.” [Smithsonian Magazine]
A reproduction of a painting by C. P. Branch showing the devastating fire at Barnum’s Museum in 1865.
Transcription
Addressed to Mr. Alexander D. Napier, Care of Nathan Howell, Esq., Sag Harbor, Long Island
Mastic [Suffolk county, New York] July 14, 1865
Dear Alex,
I regretted very much your inability to get to Mastic this time. I was on the quinine when your second letter announcing your child’s sickness reached me. I trust he is better by this time. Bob and his wife came down yesterday evening & will leave us Monday. Everything here is looking charming and I already feel 50 percent better than I did. You must give my kind regards to your wife and answer for me to Mr. & Mrs. Howell, Mrs. Boyce and all.
Presuming you will be at Sag Harbor, I send this note in that direction to reach you Sunday.
What a catastrophe the burning of Barnum’s Museum and that narrow escape of the Bear, the Giantess fat woman, &c. The young folks on the stoop are now devouring the news—the greatest since the war. O tempora O mores. [Latin: “Oh the times! Oh the customs!”]
A cartoonish depiction on the fire
I shall not despair of seeing you down at my sister’s yet before I leave, and as you doubtless are going to Sag Harbor every week, I shall give you notice to turn aside for a day here as soon as possible.
Fanny Johnson and her husband, Andrew W. Moon of Ingham county, Michigan
The following two letters were exchanged between Jason Clark and his cousin, Fanny, J. M. Johnson, in the winter of 1863-64. Jason initially enlisted as a band member in the 11th Michigan Infantry. A history of the 11th Michigan informs us that the regiment had an excellent brass band that were uniformed in blue broad cloth frock coats and blue caps in the same style as the fatigue caps. The band remained with the regiment until the fall of 1862 when the War Department limited the number to one per brigade, rather than one per regiment. It was apparently at or about this time that Jason transferred into the band of the 16th U. S. Regulars.
When Jason wrote the letter to his cousin Fanny in late April 1864, The regiment was located at Greysville, Georgia, and within a week of starting with Sherman’s army on the Atlanta Campaign.
Fanny J. M Johnson (1843-1920) was 21 years old when she wrote the letter to her cousin on 25 December 1863. She married Andrew Wiltse Moon (1836-1907) in March 1865, after he returned from serving in the 3rd Michigan (2nd Organization). Fanny’s letter rambles on considerably and I have only transcribed the first couple pages that include her description of Christmas Day activities and anger and tears she experienced upon reading in the newspapers of the manner in which Union prisoners were being treated in Southern prisons. “If I only were a man, I’d go,” she wrote her cousin, “and if something is not done toward killing Old Jeff before spring, I’ll go to war, I will!! I’ll enlist. I’ll go as a man, say what you are a mind to.”
Letter 1
Addressed to Mr. Jason Clark, Band, 16th Infantry USA, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Christmas night Stockbridge [Ingham county, Michigan] No. 39 Christmas night, 1863
My own dear cousin Jason,
Although I went to bed last night feeling oh! so sad because I must be separated from all who love me and receive a good share of the same in return, when I thought how many would be so glad to seem who would, if permitted, press me warmly to their bosoms, as these thoughts came to my mind, it was with difficulty I refrained from weeping. This morning the clouds were still lurking around the horizon of my mind’s sky. Notwithstanding all this, it has turned out to be somewhat merry Christmas with me. I am going to give you as nearly as I can the proceedings of today.
This morning I helped do up the work, then I finished a watch cord for A[ndrew]; Also made him a hair-ring which I mailed in a letter to him today; burnt two holes in my apron. Party made me something to wear round my neck for a collar, mixed the bread, wrote some, took a short ride with one of my schoolgirls. Mr. C., the Director, & his wife went to D___ this p.m. When they come back, Mrs. C gave me a letter, bearing Adda’s writing upon the outside and postmarked Ypsi. Then I am sure I was in a quandary. I opened it and the first thing I took out was a little slip of paper bearing “April fool”—the writing I knew to be your Ma’s. When I read it, I found it was one that Adda had directed when she was at your home—wasn’t I fooled nicely! Well, I had not finished reading it before Mr. C. came in and said if he had plagued me long enough, he would give me another. He handed me one from George. I was glad I tell you for I had not had one from him since the 12th of November and I had just been crying because I did not get any news from “Dixie.” It is four weeks tomorrow since I have had a letter from Henry.
Well I had had no letter from Adda yet this was something that has not failed to come as soon as the 25th at the longest. I just finished my supper when he handed me a letter from Adda. I read it with a relish too, you may be assured. Then they read aloud from a new paper how our prisoners were served at Richmond. The rebs—no, Devils! are starving our poor soldiers at an average of 50 per day. I tell you, my own dear cousin, that was a little too much for the Col. to hear. I cried and who could blame me! Oh! oh!! oh!!! Jate, if I only were a man, I’d go, and if something is not done toward killing Old Jeff before spring, I’ll go to war, I will!! I’ll enlist. I’ll go as a man, say what you are a mind to. This is my conclusion; I ended my resolve with singing, Hang Jeff Davis on some high trees. Hand Jeff Davis on some high trees, or put him on a stretcher and put him where he’ll freeze with his head hanging down. You’ll see “I’m a poet but folks don’t know it.”But I’ll do something if I am not of much account. ….
[Letter rambles on for three more pages.]
Your patriotic cousin, — Fan
Letter 2
Greysville, Georgia Tuesday morning, April 12th 1864
Dearest “Coz,”
Well, here I am, this warm rainy morning, seated to answer your kind letter No. 46. I really don’t know what to say, or which to say first. I am afraid I shall not be able to fill this sheet else I tell how mean I am; or how like a sheep-dog regular service makes honest men feel, after they have been in it as long as I have, but I don’t hardly like to talk about such things because the old saying is, “the truth always cuts closest.” I find I am becoming indifferent in spite of myself as to where I am or what I do for a living, only so I get it honestly. Then sometimes I feel a strife for the latter. I hope I am not causing you any bad feelings, but nature will cut sometime. Some how or another, I don’t care every thing about going home—only so I get letters from there telling that all are well. If I had a furlough offered me now, I think I should debate whether to take it or no, being my time is so near half out. I would come, though, if could have another as good a visit as we had before.
Your letter found me enjoying good health and spirits as usual. I was very sorry to hear you were unwell and had to give up going to school. I am afraid you were unwell and had to give up going to school. I am a little afraid you are a little affected with the heart disease too.
Oh, you need not have been afraid of answering my question directly in regard to my reenlisting for I have not said I was a going to enlist or could if I wanted to. I guess in your trying to be so strictly patriotic and neutral on the subject, you have not said what you would have under other circumstances—-hey! pardon my seeming distrust of your honesty. Patriotism plays out once in awhile with the soldiers here, when they look around then and see how their rights are trampled upon. This Sanitary Commission is a good thing but I think those who are employed in its service here and their friends, have the best of it. You see I am a little disposed to go against everything today. It’s one of my fits, so you won’t blame me and my better nature. You know if folks did not disagree there would be no chance for an argument would there?
Well it’s after dinner. I ate a pint and a half of beans which has tended greatly to subdue my ill nature. I don’t know but what I shall be able to make out quite a letter after all. Last night I sat up until after twelve o’clock out by the cook fire humoring my ill nature and keeping such a racket that no one could sleep hardly. I believe if I were to write what passed my thoughts last night, you would disown me as your cousin. Mum! (Why I am as mum as a ____ struck with a club. Of course I know what you mean, but I am inclined to think you will make a visit to the moon long before my time is out. By the way, I am in hopes it always will continue to be an agreeable and pleasant climate (leaving off he cli). Don’t you think it really aggravating now? Just only think of it—Griffin Lewis received a letter last evening from his brother younger than himself, and his newly made sister by marriage, and Griffin is a month my junior. Please do not infer from what I have been saying that I am insane on the matrimonial question which I hain’t. I have heard Hon. George Blair speak. He made the Michigan 11th a short speech at White Pigeon and there were not many dry eyes after he had got done speaking.
Whew! how like heaven artillery those large cannons of Chattanooga sound. They are firing them now from some cause. The air so clear that they sound as though they were not a mile off. You ask if we had a good time the first. Well we had a good time as usual, but had no fooling going on because we thought we were big fools enough without making an extra effort.
I expected a line from George by this time for I sent him one yesterday by John Ludwig’s brother. He is a new recruit just come to the 11th and has a pass to go and see John.
There is a darky company here recruiting. I am afraid they will coax off our cook and he is no more fit for a soldier than anything in the world. I have not heard from home since the twenty-seventh. I got a letter from our dearly loved “coz” Addie the third. Oh, say I have sent for a soldier’s photo album. I got one holding sixteen pictures for seventy-five cents and postage paid. Is that not cheap enough? The regiment went out to Parker’s Gap Sunday to guard. They will be gone five days so we are having it easy but it is most unmercifully lonesome. Say Fan, how do you think it would improve my looks to smoke cigars and what would you tell anyone if they should say I did? Well I am a half a mind to tear up this miserable letter. Please accept it from your cousin, — Jason Clark
I could not find an image of Horace in uniform but here is a cdv of Charles H. Vorce of Co. E, 81st New York Infantry (Dorian Jaye Collection)
This letter was written by 18 year-old Horace Benjamin Ensworth (1843-1935) of Mexico, Oswego county, New York. He wrote the letter to his father, Backus Ensworth (1812-1882), while serving in Co. B, 81st New York Infantry (a.k.a., the “Mohawk Rangers”). Horace enlisted in the regiment on 29 September 1861 and reenlisted as a veteran in January 1864. He mustered out with the regiment on 31 August 1865 at Fortress Monroe, Virginia, having risen in rank from a private to a sergeant while in the service. An article posted on Find-A-Grave indicates that Horace was among the men in his regiment who liberated the 1600 prisoners held at Libby Prison when they entered Richmond in April 1865.
The 81st New York left the state for Washington on March 5, 1862, was quartered for a short time at Kalorama heights and assigned to Palmer’s brigade, Casey’s division, 4th corps, with which it embarked for the Peninsula with the general advance of McClellan’s army. It was present during the siege of Yorktown; in the battles of Williamsburg and Savage Station; was closely engaged at Fair Oaks, with the loss of 137 killed, wounded and missing, among whom Maj. McAmbly was killed and Lieut.-Col. DeForest wounded. During the Seven Days’ battles the regiment was employed in guarding trains, and after the evacuation of the Peninsula in mid-August 1862, was stationed at Yorktown until December, from which point it undertook a number of expeditions into the surrounding country.
This letter was penned while in camp near Harrison’s Landing in late July 1864 some three weeks after the Seven Days Battles ended.
Transcription
Addressed to Mr. Backus Ensworth, Mexico, Oswego county, New York
Camp near Breakers Point [on James River] July 24, 1862
I received your letter just now and I will answer it now as I have got time. You spoke about your reading something in [Albert] Sydman’s letter [but] I can’t make it out. When you write again, write it plainer.
I am well and in [as] good health as can be expected in this damned country here. When they get all done fighting, I wouldn’t give 50 dollars for the whole state of Virginia and here is thousands of lives lost for nothing. We have ditched [and] under brushed hundreds of acres and slashed thousands of others acres of woodland, [built] miles of rifle pits, and what does it amount to? not so much as a sitting hen. I begin to think that George B. McClellan ain’t the man we want. I for one want this thing done up with and not hang around this God-forsaken country. If they keep on, they won’t have a man that is fit to do anything at all.
You spoke about drafted men. You use to tell me that they would be used as well as volunteers. You will see all of these men that are drafted are put into the rank and file ahead. That is the way with the drafted men. Gen. McClellan said that he didn’t want [the President] to draft. If he did, they would take [to] the front with gunpowder and whiskey. That is what makes the Rebs fight so. When I go into action, that I will know what is pointed towards me.
I received a letter from George Knight too that I must answer today. Well, if I don’t look out, I shan’t get any dinner. It is all ready, table set, [and] the table cloth on.
If they don’t volunteer, they will fetch those some way. I wish that you would send Mary’s likeness on a plate in a letter to so that I could see her once more on small plate—the [same] size of one that I have got of yours that went through the battle of Fair Oaks safe, except [for] the case that got wet and came to pieces and I bought a new case. Take care of grandmother’s likeness so that if I never come home something to look at. That $10 bill I sent you last was taken at the battle of Fair Oaks. A prisoner had it.
You didn’t tell me where that Charley Green was this time as [ ] was on guard yesterday in camp. John is well. Marshall Parker is well. Albert Sydman is well and that is all you know in the company. Well, at present hope to find you and the rest of them the same. Not much more at present. Write often and I will do same. Give my respects to aunt Ruby and the rest of the folks. I guess that Pers will have to bind he wheat alone this year but pluck up courage. There is hopes as long as life. No more at preset. In haste to B. Ensworth, Mexico, Oswego County, N. Y.
I could not find an mage of Cole, but heres one of Corp. Charles H. Dunning who also served in the 126th New York. Dunning was wounded in action at Gettysburg on July 2 also. (Charles Joyce Collection)
This diary was kept by William Henry Cole (1840-1907), the son of Eli Cole (1809-1895) and Harriet Rebecca Horton (1810-1893) of Covert, on the western shore of Lake Cayuga in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. Prior to his enlistment in the service, William and his younger brother George Wallace Cole, worked as farmers and part-time laborers with his father in the boat building trade.
William enlisted on 22 August 1862 as a corporal in Co. C, 126th New York Infantry for three years. At the time of his enlistment he was described as a 5′ 9″ tall, 21 year-old farmer, with blue eyes, brown hair, and a sandy complexion. He was with his regiment at Harper’s Ferry in September 1862 when that post was attacked by Stonewall Jackson’s men and surrendered. They were paroled and sent to Chicago until they were exchanged and then sent to Union Mills, Virginia, where this diary begins in 1863.
William was wounded in the right thigh at Gettysburg and sent to a U. S Hospital in Baltimore, then sent home to recover, before returning to his regiment in December 1863. He was once again wounded on 6 May 1864 in the Wilderness—this time in the right hand—and discharged for disability as a sergeant at Philadelphia on 27 January 1865.
The diary begins January 1 and ends on August 31, when he is still home in NY recovering from his Gettysburg wound. He says nothing about the wound at all other than his entry for July 2d which reads, “I was wounded in the first fire,” after the brigade charged—one of the most monumentally important charges in the entire battle. Newspaper clippings on the NY DMA website list him as “wounded severely in the leg,” and a family history published in 1909 states he was wounded in the right thigh.
Cole’s Pocket Diaryis in the possession of Charles Joyce who has graciously permitted me to publish it exclusively on Spared & Shared.
Transcription
The 126th New York Infantry was in camp near Union Mills, Virginia, when this diary begins.
Thursday, January 1, 1863—On New Year’s Eve. We lay on our arms expecting an attack by Stewart’s Cavalry. New Year’s Day. I was on camp guard. The cavalry went out via of Burke’s Station. The weather was fine.
The first entry in Cole’s Diary will give you an idea of his handwriting.
Gen. Alexander Hays
Monday, January 5, 1863—This morning I was on camp guard and while at breakfast up came Gen. [Alexander] Hays and nobody was there to salute him and in fifteen minutes he had us out in line of battle. The weather was fine.
Thursday, January 8, 1863—This morning I sent a letter & record home to Mary. At noon the news came that Hooker was defeated and we had orders to march at a moments notice. The boys were all down to the mouth. In about an hour the news came that it was not so bad. The order was from Abe.
Saturday, January 17, 1863—Today I drew some new clothes—pants, shirt, drawers. No news. The weather was fine and warm.
Sunday, January 18, 1863—Sunday and very pleasant. Elder from east Bloomfield preached to us. His text was “Lay hold of Eternal Life.” In the evening went to prayer at the Captain’s tent. The weather was fine.
“Our new General [Alexander Hays] is quite a different man from D’utassy. He is riding all over seeing to everything himself. He has had considerable experience too. He has been in several battles and has been wounded a number of times. He was wounded once so that he carries a cork leg with him. Sunday [18 January] he caused the long roll to be sounded at daybreak to see how soon we could get out and form a line of battle. He rode along the line and inspected us, said that would do, and sent us to our quarters. The next four hours was spent in preparing for inspection for you have got [to] look just so — mud or no mud. Saturday we have to wash in and it is expected that we will come out with clean clothes, boots blacked, clothes in our knapsacks clean, and our gun and equipments in good order so that it keeps us busy all the morning to get ready.” [See letter of 22 January 1863 by George S. Young of Co. G, 126th New York]
Wednesday, January 21, 1863—Went on picket and acted as Sergt. and had command of the left wing. Was on a post near Bull Run Railroad bridge. It commenced to rain in the evening. Bill Cheeseman, Henry Covert, William Cole, & [John] Bond was in the post with me.
Thursday, January 22, 1863—Was on picket and it rained all day long steady which was not very pleasant. One of the boys went to camp, brought out some bread. Had a bully fire all night. The [Bull Run] creek was very high and no rebs to be seen.
Friday, January 23, 1863—Was relieved this morning and came to camp. It looked like the breaking up of a hard winter. Nothing transpired worth mentioning. It was very muddy.
Tuesday, January 27, 1863—Was detailed for picket. It commenced to storm in the morning and continued all day. James Harris, Maron. [ ]inch not on with me. Things look dismal.
Wednesday, January 28, 1863—I was on picket today and it still continued to snow. The trees was loaded down and broke and fell to the ground. I was on opposite a rebel settlement near McLean’s Ford [on Bull Run Creek].
Thursday, January 29, 1863—Was relieved about 11 o’clock. Came into camp, found George Mitchell. Jesse L. Dimmick got his papers for his discharge. The other boys had gone on picket. The weather was very cold and blustering.
Friday, January 30, 1863—Today all in camp went and tore down an old log house and drew it to camp for to make a grand home to put prisoners in. The snow is disappearing and the roads very muddy. Almost impossible to get along.
Saturday, January 31, 1863—Today is wash day with the soldiers. We did not do anything but tried to be merry. Nothing of any importance occurred in this month. We were called out and inspected and engagement but they were false alarms. One general inspection this month. War no nearer to a close than ever.
Fords on Bull Run Creek near Union Mills (near center) Both McLean’s Ford and Woodyard’s Fords are identified.
Sunday, February 1, 1863—Was detailed for camp guard in the morning. It was very rainy and muddy. There was no news of any importance today. The countersign at night was Peace. All quiet on the Potomac.
Monday, February 2, 1863—I had a very bad face from the effects of a toothache. I kept quiet all day. Nothing of importance today. The weather was mild.
Tuesday, February 3, 1863—The first thing I went to the washer woman, then company drill in the forenoon. Battalion drill in the afternoon. There was about one good company out. Colonel [Eliakim] Sherrill was in command. The weather was very cold. Wrote a letter to G. C. M.
Wednesday, February 4, 1863—Remained in the tent nearly all day. There was no drilling. Pickets come in very late. It has been very cold all day. In the evening passed the time away a talking of the past. No roll call yet. The weather cold.
Thursday, February 5, 1863—In the forenoon wrote a letter to Nate. It commenced snowing at noon and continued so all night. About five o’clock was called out on double quick. The rebs was supposed to be crossing at Woodyard’s Ford. Did not leave camp. The Paymaster came. We signed the pay roll in the evening.
Friday, February 6, 1863—Today has been a great day. We got two months pay—nearly $24.20. We did not get paid until after dark. I received a letter from George Wallace Cole and G. King. One from Long. No news in particular. The weather was very cold.
Saturday, February 7, 1863—The paymaster finished paying off the regiment. There was no drilling. I stayed in my tent the most of the day. Had a very bad cold. I received two papers from home. No news to mention. The weather was fine—very muddy.
Sunday, February 8, 1863—Went to the Doctors and got excused. Had a very bad cold. Lay a bed most of all day, There was no meeting except prayer meeting at the Captain’s tent in the evening. The weather was fine. The birds was singing and it seemed like spring.
Monday, February 9, 1863—Went out and drilled in the forenoon. In the afternoon had Battalion [drill] and it give me the Jesse. The Drum Corps was out for the first time. Had Dress Parade and so ended the day’s work. No mail came. The weather was fine. [ ] for supper.
Tuesday, February 10, 1863—Was detailed for picket. Went to the depot, then up the creek to the tenth post. It was a very fine day. Went on patrol three times during the night. Like to broke my neck—so dark. The countersign was “Trenton.” The weather was fine all day.
Wednesday, February 11, 1863—Came off picket all right. It was snowing some. Received a letter from cousin Suli. The rest of the day sat in my tent. Bought a paper, read the news. My cold feels better. We have the 151st Regt. Had had orders to march.
Thursday, February 12, 1863—Today have been about camp doing nothing. No drilling. The 151st Regt. got paid off today. Some of the boys got on quite a spree at night. The new base drum came and we had lots of music. It commenced to rain after dark. No mail. Wrote a letter to T. King.
Cole’s 1891 Reunion Badge of the 126th New York (Charles Joyce Collection)
Friday, February 13, 1863—The 151st Regt. left and I was over to their camp. Came back and was detailed for picket after guard mounting. It was a fine day. Some of our cavalry had a brush. Came in hard. The whole regiment in line of battle. I saw a large grey fox. It came within four rods of me. Everyone with one Co. K, two Co. G boys.
Saturday, February 14, 1863—Came in off picket in the morning. Eat my dinner, then washed and put on my clean clothes. Bought a Clipper. Read the news. Received a letter from Emma. Bill bought a lot of apples. The weather very fine.
Sunday, February 15, 1863—Sunday morning and it rained quite hard. Cleared off about noon. Nothing of any importance. Had Dress Parade in the evening. Went to meeting to the Captain’s tent. The Penn. troops came through and so ended the day. Col. Sherrill’s wife arrived here today.
Monday, February 16, 1863—In the forenoon had non-commissioned drill. In the afternoon had Battalion drill. The Colonel’s wife came out to see us. Had Dress Parade. The weather was fine. The birds was singing like spring. No mail today.
Tuesday, February 17, 1863—Waked up this morning and it was snowing and continued so all day. I wrote a letter to Emma. Bought a paper. Read the news—none of any consequence—and passed the day. Two more cases of the small pox broke out.
Wednesday, February 18, 1863—Went on camp guard in the morning and it was snowing hard. It continued all day and night. Received two letters—one from Father, and one from Billy Pierce of the 148th. No news.
Thursday, February 19, 1863—Was relieved from camp guard in the morning. Then wrote a letter to Billy. In the afternoon, slept. J[essie] L. Dimmick got his papers for discharge. Stormed part of the day. Very muddy. Write a letter to cousin Suli in the forenoon.
Friday, February 20, 1863—Today have been around doing little or nothing. No drilling. Drew rations. Bought a Clipper. Read the news. Cleaned my gun all nice and good. The weather clear but the wind blew hard all day.
Saturday, February 21, 1863—This morning helped to police the street. Packed a few things for Jessie to take home. Wrote a letter. Received one from Gott Murphy. In the evening the band came up and played. Serenaded the Colonel. It was a very fine day.
Sunday, February 22, 1863—Washington’s Birthday. Sunday morning and very stormy. J. L. Dimmick did not start for home. Wrote a letter to G. W. Cole and went a hunting louse. Things all quiet on the Potomac. The battery fired several guns in honor of Washington’s Birthday.
Monday, February 23, 1863—Was detailed for picket. In the morning went to headquarters, then back to McLean’s Ford. Jessie L. Dimmick started home and Capt. McJohnston came to camp, stayed all night. Brought us some things. The weather was fine.
Tuesday, February 24, 1863—I came off picket in the morning and to my surprise, Mc was here. George and I went down to the depot so Mc brought up the things to camp, The regiment had fight with snow balls. Several wounded and some prisoners. Weather fine.
Wednesday, February 25, 1863—Today has been very pleasant. The boys sat out in the sun and made bones for the knapsacks. Bill came in off picket. No news is reported. Capture of Vicksburg. Snow melting fast. No mail.
Thursday, February 26, 1863—The conscript bill passed and was received with three hearty cheers. No other news much. Received a letter from cousin Nathan. He is still in Kentucky. We lay in our tents and made rings. Rained nearly all day.
Many of the soldiers in the regiment kept themselves busy carving rings from bones they found littered on or near the Battlefield of Bill Run. In a letter than George S. Young wrote home on 3 February 1863, he wrote: “I found an old skull about half a mile from the camp about two weeks ago which I had a [mind] to make a ring of and send you but on reflection, it seemed too horrible. It was minus the under jaw. Somebody picked it up afterward and brought it over to camp and Jim Place smashed it with the axe.” [See: 4 February 1863]
Friday, February 27, 1863—About two o’clock the long roll beat in the morning. The 1st Penn. mustered and we went over and took their arms. In the afternoon, took them over to the Ford and made them work. Came back and volunteered to go on a scouting party. Did not go. Got two letters—one from Mary and A. Morgan/ Weather fine.
Saturday, February 28, 1863—Was detailed for Brigade guard through the course of the day. Then came in 22 Refugees and deserters from the rebel army. At night there was an alarm. The fire was all out. The artillery shelled an old barn over in rebeldom. The weather was fine.
Sunday, March 1, 1863—Came off Brigade guard in the morning. Today did not seem much like Sunday. Had orders to lay on our arms. The wind blew hard all day. No news.
Monday, March 2, 1863—In the forenoon, had a skirmish. Drill each had forty rounds of blanks. we had a sham battle. No news of any importance. I received a letter from Jennie Hopkins. Wrote a letter to sister Julia. The weather was like spring.
Tuesday, March 3, 1863—Skirmish drill in the morning and then went over to the old [ ], got some pies. Then come home. Cut wood. Cleaned my gun. We had a heavy thunderstorm.
Wednesday, March 4, 1863—Congress closes today. Went over to help draw two loads of wood. That is about all. Wrote a letter to Conn/. Wrote one to Capt. Lee. The weather was cold and rainy.
Thursday, March 5, 1863—This morning had company drill, then went up to the old fort to see some artillery practice. They shelled an old barn over the run. Hit it once or twice. Got a letter from Billy Pierce. No important news.
Friday, March 6, 1863—Went on picket. Was on the left wing. I was on with three Co. A boys. They was a tuff set. At night expected an attack. Did not come. No more, The weather was fine.
Saturday, March 7, 1863—Came off picket and it was raining hard. I got two letters—one from George and one from Mate. No news much.
Sunday, March 8, 1863—It was raining hard when I got up. I wrote two letters—one to George and one to Jennie Ho__. Had company inspection and that was about all. The weather was fine the most of the day.
Monday, March 9, 1863—A great day. The rebs made a raid in and took one of our Generals. His name was Stoughton. The regiment was out. 100 men went over towards Centerville at night. The officer had a [ ] horses. The weather was fine.
Tuesday, March 10, 1863—Almost a [ ] today. I received a letter. Sat out of the tent. Bought a Clipper. Read the news. [ ] some and so passed the day off. Snowed all day.
Wednesday, March 11, 1863—Went to the woods and help get wood. In the afternoon, had Company drill, then dress parade, and that is about all. Wrote a little to Arvah Cole. Was cold and chilly.
Thursday, March 12, 1863—In the morning was detailed for camp guard. Capt. Lee came and brought my things. Received a letter from A. Morgan. The news came that the rebs was crossing at Kelly’s Ford and we expected an attack. Weather was very cold and squally.
Friday, March 13, 1863—Came off camp guard in the morning. Eat breakfast and then took a nap in the afternoon. I received two letters from home—one from Emma and one from cousin Suli. There was no particular news. About thirty refugees came in. The weather was clear and cold. Wind blew hard.
Saturday, March 14, 1863—Today has been a blank. No drilling. George went up to the doctor and was examined which was encouraging. I washed and put on clean clothes. Bill was out on picket. Dick supernumerary. The weather was fine—rather chilly.
Sunday, March 15, 1863—This day has been Sunday but not much like Sunday. There was company inspection. The captain’s wife was out to see us. The day passed off and we read and tried to enjoy ourselves. In the evening we had a old family sing. About ten o’clock we was called out. The lightning knocked a telegraph post. There was a thunder snow storm.
Monday, March 16, 1863—In the forenoon went to the woods after wood. Drove two loads. In the morning, wrote a letter to G. W. Murphy. In the afternoon, had Battalion drill. Had Dress Parade. After supper went after water. Then went to the sutler and got ten cents of apples. The weather was fine.
Tuesday, March 17, 1863—Got up to roll call. Eat breakfast. Dick went on picket. Bill ordered to Casey’s cottage. Had company drill. In the forenoon wrote a letter o Em. In the forenoon there was no Battalion drill. Heard cannonading down to Fredericksburg. The weather was fine. The snow all went away.
Wednesday, March 18, 1863—No drilling today. In the afternoon, went down to the depot, stood around till the cars left. The Colonel’s wife went home. Bought a paper and some bread for the Captain. Came back to camp. Had Dress Parade. The weather was fine. Wrote a letter to Cousin Sulie.
Thursday, March 19, 1863—Went on picket today, Went to the Depot to guard in the morning and then marched by the flank of our posts. Was on the right section, third post. The boys was Bill Covert, Charles Dey, Co. C, Abraham Cadmus, Co. D [I]. The day was pleasant and all quiet on the Potomac. Password Buena Vista.
Friday, March 20, 1863—Came off picket in the morning. Cleaned my gun. Then had to go on Battalion drill. We fired six blanks. Then came into camp. Cleaned my gun again. On inspection. Got a letter from Arvah Cole. That is about all. It snowed in the morning and stopped until evening.
Saturday, March 21, 1863—This morning had pancakes for breakfast. Was around [camp]; no drilling. In the afternoon went to the woods. Cut poles for the Captain to lay side walk. It stormed about all day. Dick’s box came through all right. Had pie and cake for supper.
Sunday, March 22, 1863—The Sabbath day and no excitement. The weather was fine. I wrote a letter to Mary. Took a good sleep. At night, had Dress Parade and marched a man in front of the regiment with a card on his back with “Thief” in large letters on. It was for stealing an Express Box.
Monday, March 23, 1863—In the morning was detailed for camp guard. About noon, orders came to pack up and be ready to march to Centerville. Put one man in the guard house at night. Brown treated the company to the cider and cigars. The weather was fine—rather chilly. Received a letter from Alvah Cole.
Tuesday, March 24, 1863—The regiment struck tents about 8 o’clock. The Vermont boys came to relieve us. I was in the rear guard. Came to Centerville, pitched our tents about dusk. It was raining at dark. The whole Brigade moved to Centerville.
Cole’s 1904 Reunion Badge of the 126th New York (Charles Joyce Collection)
Wednesday, March 25, 1863—In the morning we made up our street, turnpiked it, and fixed it all up. Did not do anything in the afternoon. Got a letter from Emma at night. No particular news. Was showery all day.
Thursday, March 26, 1863—There was nothing much a going on in the forenoon. In the afternoon we had Battalion drill, then Dress Parade. I got a letter from G. C. Murphy. Te weather was fine.
Friday, March 27, 1863—This morning the 126th [New York] went on picket and the line was extended further about a mile. We had a good game of baseball in the afternoon. Had dress parade. Then I got a letter from G. W. Murphy. The weather was fine as spring.
Saturday, March 28, 1863—Waked up this morning and it was raining hard and rained hard until noon. Wrote a letter to George. The pickets came in all right. Some of them brought in a gun from the battleground. No news worth mentioning.
Sunday, March 29, 1863—We had oysters for dinner. It was very cold. The wind blew hard all day. No news. No mail. Commenced to write a letter to A. Morgan but did not finish it.
Monday, March 30, 1863—Early in the morning we were called up to roll call and stacked our guns in the street. Then after breakfast went after a load of wood. Had company drill. After dinner I took a squad of men and cleaned out the rifle pits. Then went up town. Got a letter from cousin Nate. The band came down and played. The weather was fine.
Tuesday, March 31, 1863—Was detailed for picket in the morning. It was snowing very hard when we went out. I was on No. 1, right section. Acted sergeant. No news. Cleared off about noon. The moon shone bright. Password Fair Oaks.
Wednesday, April 1, 1863—Came in off picket in the morning. The weather was cold. I went and got some sausages for dinner. In the afternoon had a good sleep until Dress Parade and that is about all.
Thursday, April 2, 1863—Dick went on picket and I was in the tent all the forenoon. In the afternoon had Battalion drill and then Dress Parade at night. Went uptown to the Band boys house. The weather was fine. Wind blew hard.
Friday, April 3, 1863—I got all ready for picket but did not go. Had company drill in the forenoon. Battalion drill in the afternoon. Had fresh fish for supper. Milk in tea—an old family supper in general. The weather has been fine as spring all day.
Saturday, April 4, 1863—Today has been wash day. No drilling. In the afternoon had a game of ball. I received a letter from Cousin Sulie. There was a large mail. The weather was cold. The wind blew hard from the north.
Sunday, April 5, 1863—I was detailed for picket this morning and it was stormy—the worst of any day this winter but cleared off at night. Pleasant at night.
Monday, April 6, 1863—Came in off picket in the morning. Afternoon went out on company drill. An order from General [Alexander] Hays. The weather was cold. The boys had a great time snow balling. No news of any importance.
Tuesday, April 7, 1863—We had company drill in the forenoon. Also in the afternoon. After drill went up and got some beer and then back. Got some papers from home. Reported capture of Charleston. The weather cold and chilly. Snow melted slow.
Wednesday, April 8, 1863—Nothing very great today. Company drill in the forenoon and Battalion drill in the afternoon and that is about all. No news. The weather cold and chilly.
Thursday, April 9, 1863—I went up to guard mounting. In the morning Company drill. Battalion drill in the afternoon. The Band came down to Dress Parade, passed in review. I went to a funeral of one of Co. F boys. Capt. Scott officiating. The weather fine. Write a letter to cousin Nate.
Friday, April 10, 1863—Today we have been drilling all day. Skirmish drill & company drill in the forenoon. Battalion drill all the afternoon. Dress Parade. The bank played. The boys had a dance in front of our tent. I received two letters—one from home and one from C. Worchill. The weather was clear and fine.
Saturday, April 11, 1863—Was on camp guard today. There was a General Muster & Inspection. The weather was very fine all day. In the afternoon went a fishing. No letters. The countersign was Parma.
Sunday, April 12, 1863—We started on a reconnoissance over to Bull Run Battleground. Went as far as the stone bridge. Co. C commenced to build a bridge and we was ordered back with orders to march. I drew me a new cap & haversack. The weather was fine all day. Commenced to rain at bed time.
Monday, April 13, 1863—In the morning we expected to march but did not go. In the afternoon we had company and Battalion drill. Fired blanks. No news. We are under marching orders. The weather was fine.
Tuesday, April 14, 1863—This morning we got all ready to march [and] packed our blankets. The news came that Hooker was driving the rebs. In the afternoon had company and battalion drill. Fired blanks. The weather was fine.
Wednesday, April 15, 1863—This has been a very stormy day. Rained all day steady so we hardly went out of the tent. We played checkers the most of the day. Wrote a letter to G. C. Murphy. No mail.
Thursday, April 16, 1863—This morning I went to the woods and help cut two loads of wood. In the afternoon had company drill and then battalion drill and it commenced to rain and we broke ranks and run to camp. Our mail went to Dumfries. Wrote a letter to Cousin Sulie.
Adjutant Ira Smith Brown, 126th New York Infantry (Charles Joyce Collection)
Friday, April 17, 1863—The weather has been fine today and we drilled all day. The adjutant [Ira Smith Brown] treated all the non-coms. The Battery had some target shooting. I got two letters—one from home and one from Miss H. So ended the day.
Saturday, April 18, 1863—Today was wash day. In the forenoon went to the woods. In the afternoon went up to the Battery. At night ha dress parade and review. The captain showed his —–th. Boys had a shave. The weather was fine all day.
Sunday, April 19, 1863—I was detailed for picket today and was on post No. 1, right section with four Co. G & 2 Co. K boys. It was a lovely day. Capt. Scott was Officer of the Day. The countersign was Donelson. I received a letter from sister Mary.
Monday, April 20, 1863—Came in off picket in the morning and it commenced raining. We played dominoes. Commenced a letter to Mother. No news of any importance today except a reported capture of Gordonsville.
Tuesday, April 21, 1863—This forenoon there was company drill. In the afternoon there was a General Review by Gen. [Alexander] Hays. There was four regiments—the 126th, 125th, 89th, and 111th N. Y. S. V. and two Massachusetts Batteries. It was a nice thing. The weather was fine.
Wednesday, April 22, 1863—There was non-commissioned drill in the forenoon. After noon went out on regimental drill. The order came to prepare for review. Maj. Gen. Abercrombie came and reviewed all the troops. I got a letter from home with five dollars in. The weather was fine.
Thursday, April 23, 1863—Cold and rainy all day. Nothing of any importance has happened. Sat in my tent and played dominoes. Wrote a letter and then went up town. Got a glass of ale and a loaf of bread for supper. Bought a paper. Report of the recapture of the Queen of the West.
Friday, April 24, 1863—Today has been very cold & rainy. No drilling. Was no news. I wrote a letter to T. King in the afternoon. At night it cleared off fine and the moon shone bright. The pay master is come to town.
Saturday, April 25, 1863—This morning I was detailed for picket after guard mounting. I was on the reserve post, right section. The countersign was Newbern. The weather was fine. The wind blew quite hard all day.
Sunday, April 26, 1863—Came in off picket and signed the payroll. Then went up and got my pay 52 dollars, 40 allotted. [ ] 128.0. In the afternoon I took nap. When I waked up, it was most night. No news today. I wrote a letter to A. Morgan. The weather was fine all day.
Monday, April 27, 1863—There was a non-commissioned drill with knapsacks, We skirmished the most of the time. In the afternoon went up town and bought a shirt. Had company drill at 4 o’clock. The boys came off picket. The weather was fine. No news.
Tuesday, April 28, 1863—This morning there was company drill. Afternoon there was artillery practicing by the 9th Massachusetts Battery. It commenced to rain in the afternoon. I wrote a letter and bought a paper and then roll call and that is all.
Wednesday, April 29, 1863—There was company drill in the forenoon. After drill we had to prepare for inspection. The weather was fine and warm. It rained some towards night. No news of any importance today.
Thursday, April 30, 1863—There was company drill in the morning at ten o’clock. There was inspection. Then we was mustered. It was the National Fast Day & Prayer. Company drill in the afternoon. No mail for me nor news. The weather was fine all day.
Friday, May 1, 1863—Today we had drill in the bayonet exercises. Then the general was sounded and we all struck tents, went down and took a wash. Drilled, dress parade. I got a letter from George and write one to Emma. Sent my money. Dated April 25th, 1863, No. 128.
Saturday, May 2, 1863—I was detailed for picket this morning and went to Blackburn’s Ford. It was a lovely day. There was no news until night when the cavalry came to the ford carrying dispatches to Warrenton Junction. They said that Hooker was after the rebs and driving [them]. Countersign Williamsburg.
Sunday, May 3, 1863—Came in off picket in the morning, then went down to the brook and took a wash. After Dress Parade, we had orders to have three days rations in our haversacks and ready to march at any moment under light marching orders. The weather was warm.
Monday, May 4, 1863—Today there was drill in the forenoon until it commenced to rain. Battalion drill in the afternoon. There was flying rumors about Hooker. I wrote a letter to Mary and that was about all. The trees are beginning to leaf out.
Tuesday, May 5, 1863—9 months ago today I enlisted under that blood-stained banner, the Stars and Stripes. There was some artillery firing in the afternoon. The 9th Massachusetts & Keystone. About 4 o’clock it commenced to rain. The news from Hooker [is] that he had retaken Fredericksburg and 4,000 prisoners.
Wednesday, May 6, 1863—Today has been a very stormy one. Rained all day long. I sent a letter to George Cole. There was good report from Hooker. He has had a severe fight and is still fighting. I received a letter from Cousin Sulie. Nothing of importance in camp.
Thursday, May 7, 1863—This forenoon I bought a record and sent home to Mary. Then the news came that Hooker was defeated and we had orders to be ready to march at a moment’s notice. Then the news was contradicted by the President. The papers reported all right. The weather was cool and raining some & misty.
Friday, May 8, 1863—In the forenoon there was company drill. Afternoon we was on fatigue duty which was digging breastworks in front of the camp. I received a letter from Emma & a paper. The news came that Hooker had recrossed the Rappahannock with all forces. The weather was cool and cloudy.
Saturday, May 9, 1863—Today we worked on the breastworks nearly all day. The weather was fine and we doe a vast amount of work. No news from Hooker much except that he had got back to his old camp. I received two letters from T. King and A. Morgan.
Sunday, May 10, 1863—The Sabbath morning and a lovely one too. The birds are singing. In the forenoon there was company inspection and in the afternoon, went down to the creek and washed. Then there was dress parade. The weather was fine. There was a rumor that Richmond was taken.
Monday, May 11, 1863—This morning we struck tents to air them. There was drill in the forenoon. Company rill at four o’clock in the afternoon. No news of any importance. The weather was very warm and the trees are leafing out very fast.
Tuesday, May 12, 1863—I was detailed for camp guard this morning. It was a lovely day. Very warm. There was battalion drill in the afternoon. No news of any importance. The papers reported that Hooker had recrossed the river. No mail for me.
Wednesday, May 13, 1863—This morning was on camp guard but there was a General Inspection and we were not relieved until in the afternoon. It was very warm. There was a heavy thunder storm in the afternoon. I wrote a letter to Sulie in the afternoon. No news of any consequence today.
Thursday, May 14, 1863—There was company drill in the forenoon. In the afternoon Co. C escorted the General out of the lines about two and a half miles to see a sick woman. At night the wind blew very hard and showery. No news.
Friday, May 15, 1863—In the forenoon the boys went to the woods to get evergreens and then we set them out. There was Battalion Drill in the afternoon. The captain tried to get Provost Marshal. No news from Hooker. The weather was cool and pleasant.
Saturday, May 16, 1863—Today there was no drilling. The captain got to be provost guard. There was dress parade. The weather was fine. No mail and no news from the Army of the Potomac.
Sunday, May 17, 1863—This morning the company commenced to do provost guard duty. There was company inspection in the church. In the afternoon I went down to the creek and washed. I received a letter from sister Mary. The weather was very warm and nice.
Monday, May 18, 1863—The company went up to the camp of the provost and policed nearly all day. There was no news of any importance today. No mail for me. The weather was war, and the dust blew considerable.
Tuesday, May 19, 1863—In the morning we packed our knapsacks and marched to our new quarters as provost. We drilled as usual and after drill we fixed out tents. The weather was warm and no news.
Wednesday, May 20, 1863—This morning I was detailed for guard and there was some citizens about. A cavalryman tried to run the picket lines. The weather was very warm. I received a letter from Mother.
Thursday, May 21, 1863—Came off guard this morning and then went on drill. After drill I laid down and slept until most drill time again. No new in particular today. Today the weather was very warm and dry.
Friday, May 22, 1863—This morning we commenced to fix our camp by ditching and setting out trees. The weather was very warm. There was no news from the Army of the Potomac. I wrote a letter to T. King. There was no drilling.
Saturday, May 23, 1863—In the morning we finished policing the streets and then did not do anything. In the afternoon there was some cavalry went over to the Bull Run. The Governor of Michigan was with them. The weather was warm. I received a letter from Emma. $5 in the letter.
Sunday, May 24, 1863—Company inspection in the morning. Then payed around in the shade until in the afternoon went over to the mill and took a wash. Came back. There was some good news from Gen. Grant. The weather was very warm.
Monday, May 25, 1863—I was detailed for camp this morning. It was raining in the morning. Fifteen or twenty of the boys did not get out to roll call. The capture of Vicksburg was reported. That was about all that occurred through the day. The weather was cool. I sent a paper home to George.
Tuesday, May 26, 1863—Came off guard in the morning. Then went out on drill and drilled until ten o’clock. Then took a nap. The band came down and played in front of headquarters. The weather was cool and pleasant. Sent two letters—one to G. C. Murphy, and one to A. Morgan.
Wednesday, May 27, 1863—Drill in the forenoon and afternoon we drew clothing. I drew a dress coat. The news was pretty good from Vicksburg. I did not get no mail. At evening went up town. The General went out on a scout. The guards went with him. The weather was fine and cool.
Thursday, May 28, 1863—Today the boys did nothing but set the camp in trim. Good news from Gen. Grant. I got one letter from P. H. and also one from home. I wrote a letter to George W. Cole and that is about all. The weather was fine and warm.
Friday, May 29, 1863—We had a severe old drill in the forenoon. No news in particular. I received a letter from G. W. Murphy. The weather was warm and roads very dusty.
Saturday, May 30, 1863—This morning I was detailed to go to Alexandria with a prisoner which I done and delivered him to the Provost Marshal and put up. We had a train burned near Bealton Station. The weather warm and dusty.
Sunday, May 31, 1863—In Alexandria. In the morning took the cars for Union Mills. Arrived there at one o’clock. Walked to Centerville. Received one letter from G. W. Cole. At evening went over to dress parade. Detailed for Color Corporal; received in Dress Parade. Weather warm.
Monday, June 1, 1863—I was detailed for guard this morning. Nothing of any importance transpired through the day. The wind and dust flew very hard all day long. No news from Vicksburg.
Tuesday, June 2, 1863—Came off guard in the morning. Then went on drill until 10 o’clock in the afternoon. I was taken sick and was excused from duty. There was no news today. The weather very warm. Looked some like rain.
Wednesday, June 3, 1863—This morning went to the doctor and got excused at night. The captain had a picture of the camp taken with the band and company. No news much. The weather was rainy in the forenoon. Clear in the afternoon.
Thursday, June 4, 1863—I went to the doctors and was excused from duty. There was nothing of any importance occurred through the day. At night we signed the pay roll for pay and so ended the day. The weather was fine and cool. No mail for me.
Friday, June 5, 1863—I went to the doctors and was excused. Then went down to the regiment and got paid off two months wages. I wrote a letter home and put my check in it. I received a letter from cousin Sulie. The weather was some rainy. No. of check 803.
Saturday, June 6, 1863—Went to the doctor and was excused from duty. The officers had a picnic over to the stone mill. I received a letter from cousin Nate. There was no news from Vicksburg. The weather was warm. There was a gentle breeze all day long.
Sunday, June 7, 1863—This morning I went up to the doctor and was excused and then back to camp. There was company inspection and in the afternoon there was nothing going on the rest of the day. The weather was clear and cool. At evening, I wrote a letter to cousin Mary Arrowsmith.
Monday, June 8, 1863—I was excused from drill this day. In the morning there was a lot of cavalry and artillery went out. The whole of Gen. Stahl’s Division is out in the front. In the evening there was some firing on the picket lines. The weather was cool and the wind blew hard all day. No news from Vicksburg.
Col. Sherrill returned to his regiment on 9 June 1863—just three weeks before the Battle of Gettysburg (Charles Joyce Collection)
Tuesday, June 9, 1863—Today I was excused from drill. There was no excitement in camp. Col. Sherrill returned to the regiment. I went up to the shop and had my picture taken. There was no mail. The weather was warm. A strong wind nearly all day.
Wednesday, June 10, 1863—Was detailed for guard this morning and went on. There was nothing occurred through the day. I received one letter from G. C. Murphy. At evening there was a funeral of a Massachusetts Battery boy. The band was out. It was a solemn scene. The weather was fine and warm.
Thursday, June 11, 1863—Came off guard this morning and then went on drill. In the afternoon went on Battalion Drill and Dress Parade. There was a large cavalry force went through Centerville. There was no news in particular. The weather was nice but very warm.
Friday, June 12, 1863—Company drill in the forenoon, Battalion in the afternoon. There was nothing worth mentioning that took place today. The news from the army was dull. The weather was fine. Very dry now days.
Saturday, June 13, 1863—Today has been washing day. No drilling. We lay around all day doing nothing. I got no news except some papers. Went over to Dress Parade. Went to the Battery. The weather was fine. A shower in the afternoon.
Sunday, June 14, 1863—Company inspection in the forenoon. Then went down to the creek. In the afternoon wrote a letter to J. Hopkins. Towards evening the 11th Army Corps came to Centerville. The whole army is on the move back to cut off Lee’s advance. The weather was warm.
Monday, June 15, 1863—This morning the 11th Army Corps came into Centerville through the 1st, 3rd, 12th, 5th Army Corps. All came back from the Rappahannock. George’s box came with lots of things for the boys. I saw Major Gen. Howard in the morning. The weather was very warm.
Tuesday, June 16, 1863—Was on guard today. The war news that the rebs was in Pennsylvania and there was several army corps came in and around Centerville. At night the bands was playing in all directions. The weather was warm. Roads dry and dusty.
Wednesday, June 17, 1863—This morning the troops commenced to move. 2 o’clock and have been going all day. All Hooker’s command is on the way to cut off Lee. The weather has been very warm. The dust flew and it was one complete fog all the time. I received two letters—one from Emma and one Sergt. [ ].
Thursday, June 18, 1863—In the forenoon went down and took a swim. Came back and went out on a patrol to pick up stragglers. Towards night there was a beautiful shower. There was a raid on the brigade sutler. The cavalry brought in 89 rebel prisoners.
Friday, June 19, 1863—This morning was cool and there was some of Stahl’s cavalry came in. One Rhode Island regiment was all cut to pieces, only 30 out of 360 returned. In the afternoon the 3rd [Army] Corps moved on and the 2nd Corps came in. There was no important news much. I wrote a letter to G. W. M.
Saturday, June 20, 1863—There was a little excitement this morning. Some of the 2nd Corps tried to clean out a sutler. In the afternoon the 2nd Army Corps moved off on the Warrenton Pike. There was no news of any importance, he weather was cool. Rained some. Gen. Hancock was in command of the [2nd] Corps.
Sunday, June 21, 1863—This morning we got ready for inspection but did not have any. There was heavy cannonading all day in the direction of Aldie. After dinner I went down to the stone mill to arrest a spy but did not find him. The weather was cool and showery.
Monday, June 22, 1863—I was on guard today. The weather was fine. There was good news from Pleasanton’s Cavalry and we could hear cannonading through the day at night. The Maine boys came over and serenaded the General.
Tuesday, June 23, 1863—Came off camp guard and then took a nap. No particular news. Lee is in Maryland. Towards evening Gen. Stahl’s cavalry came back and when I went to bed the trains was passing. Te weather was cool. We got marching orders three days rations in haversacks.
Wednesday, June 24, 1863—This morning Gen. Stahl’s cavalry came in. The General left for Washington. We expected to march all day. We packed our things at night. A part of the 6th Corps came to relieve us. The weather was fine.
Thursday, June 25, 1863—Today we broke up camp and the 6th Corps came to relieve us. We started from Centerville about five o’clock and marched to Gun Springs. It rained all day long.
Friday, June 26, 1863—Started from Gun Springs and went to Edward’s Ferry, crossed the pontoon about ten o’clock and then wandered around until 1 o’clock. The whole of Hooker’s forces crossed the river and expect an engagement soon. The weather was rainy all day long.
Saturday, June 27, 1863—Started from Edwards Ferry about 3 o’clock. Marched on 15 miles and it was an awful hard march, Encamped near Sugar Loaf Mountain. The weather was cool and raining some. The rebs are still in Pennsylvania.
Sunday, June 28, 1863—Sunday morning found us encamped near Sugar Loaf Mountain. We marched to Monocacy with two miles of Frederick City, encamped for the night. Rumored that Hooker was relieved. Weather was fine.
Monday, June 29, 1863—Started about 8 o’clock from Moncacy and marched all day. Passed through Liberty and Union Bridge. Marched 32 miles and when we got to Union City there was not fifty men left in the regiment. Was detailed for picket as soon as we got to Union. Weather was rainy part of the day.
Tuesday, June 30, 1863—This found us encamped at Uniontown. In the morning went down town and got my breakfast. After dinner we were mustered and at 5 o’clock began to march. Went about 9 miles and encamped for the night. Weather showery.
Wednesday, July 1, 1863—Started from Uniontown in the morning and marched to Jamestown. Then back about two miles, then forward again to within 4 miles of the rebs. There was fighting nearly all day. Our army got drove some. We took 500 prisoners. Weather warm and muggy.
Thursday, July 2, 1863—Today has been one never to be forgot. We lay in line of battle until about five o’clock when our brigade made a charge on the rebs. I was wounded in the first fire. Such cannonading never was heard since the war broke out. Col. Willard was killed.
Either the bullet taken from his leg at Gettysburg, or from his hand in the Wilderness, or simply a keepsake of some kind found among Cole’s personal effects. (Charles Joyce Collection)
Friday, July 3, 1863—I was at the hospital under an apple tree. About noon the rebs began to shell the hospital and I got away. The wounded was removed about a mile to the rear in the night. George was brought down badly wounded. The rebs was badly cut up.
Saturday, July 4, 1863—This morning found me to the hospital in the woods. There was two thousand wounded in our Division. Col. Sherrill was killed today at eight o’clock. The rebs commenced to retreat. There was a heavy shower today.
Cole was taken to a field hospital set up in the woods on the Jacob Schwartz farm. It was here that the 3rd Division, 2nd Corps Hospital was established. A small creek named “White Run” can be seen transecting the farm which is the body of water that became a “river” after the heavy rainstorm of July 8, causing it to overflow its banks and carry away wounded soldiers laid out nearby. [This map is from Greg Coco’s Book: A Vast Sea of Misery.]
Sunday, July 5, 1863—This the sabbath and still we remain in the woods. About 4 o’clock the doctor decided to take George’s leg off which they done. The regiment had marching orders and all the boys had to go, leaving nobody to take care of [us]. It rained very hard today.
Monday, July 6, 1863—Today we lay in the woods and such sights I never want to see again. The regiment marched on and good news from the battlefield. George’s leg is as well as can be expected. The weather was cool. Some rainy.
Tuesday, July 7, 1863—Today has been a solemn one. We lay in the woods all day with thousands of wounded and dying around us. Such suffering I never saw before. George was removed to a large tent. The weather was cool.
Wednesday, July 8, 1863—This morning about 2 o’clock a.m., it commenced to rain and continued until 10. It raised the river so that it drowned out all the wounded and came near drowning some. It was an awful time. Men were floating down the river—a sight I never want to see again.
Thursday, July 9, 1863—This morning I awoke and found myself as usual in the woods. George had a rather hard night. Some folks came from Pen Yan. Lots of citizens came in and brought us something to eat. The weather was fine. George C. King died at 12 o’clock P. M.
Friday, July 10, 1863—In the morning, Dick dug a grave and about 9 o’clock we deposited his remains. Some Ovid friends came to us and we was removed to Gettysburg. We paid 25 dollars for 11 men to ride to the village and there we was well cared for. The weather was warm.
Saturday, July 11, 1863—At ten o’clock we took the cars for Baltimore. Arrived there at dark. Had my wound dressed when we got in a hospital where we lay our weary limbs down to rest. The weather was warm.
Sunday, July 12, 1863—This morning found me to the hospital in Baltimore. After breakfast, we took the cars for Philadelphia. Arrived there at 4 o’clock and went to the Cooper Shop Volunteer Hospital and stayed all night—one of the finest houses in the place. Here weather was warm and cloudy.
The Cooper Shop Hospital was located adjacent to the Saloon which provided free meals to soldiers passing through Philadelphia.
Monday, July 13, 1863—I was at the Cooper Shop Hospital this morning. Stayed there until noon when I was removed to the U. S. General Hospital where I was put in Ward E. No news much. The weather was fine.
Tuesday, July 14, 1863—I am still in the hospital. Nothing occurred This diary is in a private collection and was made available for transcription and publication on Spared & Shared by express consent.through the day. I wrote two letters home—one to Uncle Sylvester’s folks and one home. The papers report a great riot in New York City. The army is advanced. The weather warm and fine.
Edmund Craft was one of many men in the 126th New York Infantry who came home missing a limb (Charles Joyce Collection)
Wednesday, July 15, 1863—Today in the hospital as usual. Rather dull. There is 250 men in the same room. Quite a number of citizens came in to see their friends. The weather very warm.
Thursday, July 16, 1863—As usual in the hospital and nothing new. I wrote a letter home and read papers and so passed the day off. The weather warm.
Friday, July 17, 1863—As usual in the hospital. It is quite lonesome. I wrote a letter to cousin Sulie and that is about all. The weather rainy the most of the day.
Saturday, July 18, 1863—This morning I was taken with the cholera morbus and I was a sick chap all day—not able to leave my bed. Feel better towards night. There was a shower in the afternoon.
Sunday, July 19, 1863—This morning I got a change of clothes and then there was an inspection by the surgeon in charge of the hospital. Nothing new. My health is on the gain. Te weather was fine.
Monday, July 20, 1863—Today I lay abed all day. wrote a letter to Emma and received two letters from home. One from Sulie and one from Emma. John Scott came up to see me. Lots of folks came in to see the friends of the wounded. Was very warm & close.
Tuesday, July 21, 1863—There was nothing of importance occurred today. I am in the hospital as usual. Nothing new from the Army of the Potomac. The weather was cool and pleasant. Rained in the morning.
Wednesday, July 22, 1863—As usual in the hospital. Lots of folks came in to see their friends. There was no news much. The weather was fine all day.
Thursday, July 23, 1863—This morning Father come to see me and then went out and bought me a pair of pants. I got a pass out in the city. Father succeeded in getting a furlough made out for me but was too late to get it signed. Te weather was fine & warm.
Friday, July 24, 1863—This morning Father came up and we waited patiently for my furlough but it came back and was not made out right. Nothing new today. Weather fine and warm.
Saturday, July 25, 1863—Today at noon I got my furlough and at three o’clock we took the cars for home. We went as far as Williamsport and put up for the night.
Sunday, July 26, 1863—Sunday morning. We left Williamsport in the morning at 7 o’clock and arrived at Elmira at noon and stayed there until half past 11. Then went to Owego. The weather was very warm.
Monday, July 27, 1863—Today I have been at home all day and someone was here all day. At eve, Sulia and Porter came down. There was no news in particular. The weather was warm all day.
Tuesday, July 28, 1863—I have been home all day and had lots of company all day. There was no news. The weather was warm.
Wednesday, July 29, 1863—Today I been at home receiving calls. In afternoon I went up to Uncle Sylvester’s. Came back and there were lots of folks here. The weather was fine. A shower in the afternoon.
Thursday, July 30, 1863—In the forenoon George and myself went out to Uncle Benj. and from there up to Mary’s and took dinner. Came here and that is about all. The weather was warm.
Friday, July 31, 1863—In the forenoon at home. Sulie was here and in the afternoon went down to Uncle Milo’s and spent the afternoon. At night there were several called on me. Weather warm.
Saturday, August 1, 1863—This forenoon I was at home. After dinner went down to the falls to a picnic. Had a nice time and a fine shower. Started for home about dark. Weather warm and showery.
Sunday, August 2, 1863—I did not go to church. In the forenoon, Sulie came down and stayed until afternoon meeting. I went and saw all the Kingtown folks and everybody else. The weather was very warm.
Monday, August 3, 1863—Today I did not feel very well and stayed at home all day and did not have much company. The weather was very warm.
Tuesday, August 4, 1863—This morning I went up to Uncle Sylvester’s and stayed all day. Came home at night and had lots of company. Sulie Cal Cole & Cole Messenger called in the evening and stayed until the moon was out. The rest of the folks went up to Miss Wakeman. Weather very warm.
Wednesday, August 5, 1863—Today was warm and pleasant. Went up to cousin M___ in the afternoon. At night Aunt Mary from Michigan came. George and myself went down to Uncle Milo’s and stayed the evening. Had a very pleasant time.
Thursday, August 6, 1863—I was at home in the morning. Then George took me down to Trumansburg to get some photographs. Came back and went down to little point. In the afternoon was over to Uncle Myron’s to supper. Weather very warm.
Friday, August 7, 1863—This morning Father and I started for Elmira. Went to Havana and took the cars. Stayed all night at the Soldiers Home. saw Lieut. [Thomas R.] Lounsbury and got permission to come home. The weather was warm. Looks showery.
Saturday, August 8, 1863—Left Elmira at 5 o’clock a.m. Took breakfast in Havana. Then started for home. Reached there at noon. After noon I took a good sleep and in the evening Aunt Mary came down. Weather was very warm and showery.
Sunday, August 9, 1863—After breakfast, Father and myself went to Ovid to see Doctor Bolten. Then called on Rev. Lansbury. We arrived home about 8 o’clock p.m. There was a Burma preacher that preached in the forenoon. Weather was very warm and showery.
Monday, August 10, 1863—I was at home the most of he day. Was up to the store awhile. No news of any importance. The weather was warm.
Tuesday, August 11, 1863—This morning I went up to the store after driving Aunt Mary Cane down and Sulie was with her. At night there was a heavy thunder shower.
Wednesday, August 12, 1863—Very pleasant. I went to the Lake with George. Came back. Aunt Mary was here. In the afternoon I took her out riding. Called to Uncle Milo’s. Went up to Uncle Sylvester’s.
Thursday, August 13, 1863—Went up to Uncle Sylvester’s. Then Aunt Mary and myself went out a riding. Went up to Townsendville and so around back to Uncle Milo’s. Arrived home about 4 o’clock. The weather was very pleasant.
These letters were written by 40 year-old John Thomas stark (1821-1893)—a native of Preble county, Ohio, who married Martha Ann Skidmore (1831-1863) of Lafayette, Indiana, in the late 1840s. John and Martha first lived in San Augustine county, Texas, but moved to Burkeville, Newton county, Texas about 1850 where he read law and ran a mercantile/post office in the town.
After Texas seceded from the Union, John enlisted in Co. H, 13th Texas Cavalry (Burnett’s) or 13th Mounted Volunteers. The regiment was raised in eastern Texas, during the winter of 1861-1862 with about 900 men. In the summer of 1862, it was dismounted and assigned to O. Young’s Brigade in the Trans-Mississippi Department. They fought in various conflicts in Louisiana and Arkansas including the Battle of Jenkins’ Ferry. It disbanded in the late spring of 1865.
Upon its formation, John Stark was elected the First Sergeant of Co. H. When Capt. William Blewett died in Little Rock two days after the 1st letter was written, John took over as Captain of the company and filled that role until 25 February 1865.
[Suggested reading: “Spartan Band” published by Thomas Reid.]
Letter 1
Camp Holmes, [near Austin,] Pulaski [Lonoke] County, Arkansas September 17th 1862
A post-war image of Capt. Stark
Dear Martha,
I had written a letter to send by Mr. [John T.] Smith but concluded that he would not start for several days and send it off by mail but I must write you a few lines more for fear you might think like I do sometimes when someone comes up from Newton County and does [not] bring me a letter. We are still in the same camp that I wrote from last but the name has been changed. ¹ I don’t recollect whether I wrote what regiments were in our Brigade or not but if I did, I may have been mistaken as there has been a good many changes. Ours is composed of first [Overton] Young’s, [John] Burnett’s, [William B.] Ochiltrees, Hubbard’s and [George] Flournoy’s, commanded by Col. Young as Senior Colonel. ² We are drilling pretty hard now. Reveille 5 o’clock, Surgeon’s call 5½, Breakfast 6½, Officer’s drill from 7 to 8, Company drill from 8 to 10, dinner 12, Battalion drill from 2 to 4, dress parade sunset, tattoo 8, taps 9½ o’clock.
18th—I began my letter last evening but it got so dark that I could not see to finish and Mr. Smith concluded to stay several days longer. I shall keep my letter open till he goes.
The men who went home have not returned yet and no word of them since Hancock left them. I am still the only officer with the company. We are getting along finely with our drill. The boys seem to begin to take an interest in learning. In fact, I think that they already excel in performance of the company evolutions. I meet with a great many acquaintances. Hamp Norwood came up and shook me by the hand the other day. I should never have known him. Col. [William B.] Ochiltree invited me over to see him. I went on Sunday evening last. While there, I had the honor of another introduction to [Brig.] General [Henry E.] McCulloch. ³ He is one of the plainest, most unassuming men I ever met, together with firmness visible in every feature of his striking countenance. He asked me many questions about our regiment & company and without appearing to do so, gave me a great deal of advice.
The officers of the different regiments now encamped around and near here were last week invited to attend the levee of Major Gen. [Theophilus H.] Holmes and I, of course, went up with the rest. The General is a man of very commanding appearance. He is about 6 feet 2 or 3 inches in height and large in proportion—about fifty years of age—a little stoop-shouldered as very tall men are apt to be. His iron grey hair and beard give him a venerable appearance. He is rather hard-featured and lines of deep thought, firmness, and decision plainly to be seen. He made us a long speech. Told us in plain words what he required of us and gave us plainly to understand that we must come up to the mark.
The Army of General [Samuel R.] Curtis, the Federal General, is said to be on White River, some 50 to 75 miles from us and we all hope one of these days to hear the word “forward march” to attack him and learn him the danger of lying too near to Texians. I feel no doubt now but that if we have the chance to meet the daring invader of our country, but that the Newton boys will give a good account of their part. Our only fear is that they may escape and we be deprived of the opportunity of giving him the drubbing he so richly deserves.
The last paper tells us that our Army under General Kirby Smith has possession of Cincinnati, that the enemy have sustained another overwhelming defeat in Virginia and are driven from the state [2nd Bull Run], [and] that Washington and Baltimore are ours by this time. Men here are offering to bet largely of peace being made before Christmas but I cannot believe it. We did not feel like giving up because they took our cities. On the contrary, we were only aroused to more vigorous prosecution of the war as this camp plainly shows.
But I must close for the present. Someone will be detailed soon to go home after clothing. I think Capt. [William] Blewett will go. Everyone is anxious to be the one. It is true that nothing would give me more pleasure than to see my darling once again but I cannot say that I am anxious to go now for I think that I can by waiting a little longer, get to stay longer when I come. I think you may look for me by Christmas. I shall try mighty hard to spend my Christmas at home and I think I can make it easy. Give my kindest regards to all enquiring friends and my best love to Franny and the children.
Ever truly yours, — John T. Stark
¹ The encampment was called Camp Hope before it was changed to Camp Holmes [and still later Camp Nelson]. It was located near Austin, Arkansas, about 25 miles northeast of Little Rock. The 13th Texas Cavalry arrived there on September 9th, having been dismounted and walked the last 200 miles through southern Arkansas. [Regiments were ordered to be dismounted because of the lack of forage.] The men of the 13th Texas Cavalry marched through the streets of Little Rock on September 6th 1862.
² Theophilus Holmes officially placed Brig. Gen. Henry E. McCulloch in command of the First Division on 28 September 1862. He assigned Col. O. Young to command the First Brigade which consisted of Young’s Texas infantry, Ochiltree’s Texas Infantry, Hubbard’s Texas Infantry, and Burnett’s Texas Infantry.
³ Brig. General Henry E. McCulloch had command of all the Confederate forces in northeast Texas. He was a brother of the more famous Ben McCulloch.
Letter 2
Addressed to Mrs. Martha A. Stark, Burkeville, Newton County, Texas Postmarked Little Rock, Arkansas
In Camp 7 Miles below Pine Bluff, Arkansas January 20th 1862 [1863]
Dear Martha,
I have received no letter from you now since the one dated 19th December. It does seem like a long time but it has been a busy time with us and I never want to see such another time. In the first place, we started from Little Rock to relieve Arkansas Post but like everything General Holmes does, we got there too late—or rather we got in about 20 miles of there and found we were too late. Then learning that the Feds were advancing up the river, we threw up a breastwork and prepared to receive them. I tell you, it made me feel bad to walk around the lines and think how many a poor fellow would bite the dust—or rather the swamp mud—but all my feelings on the subject were thrown away for the enemy from some cause backed out and we then left too and came back up the river 18 miles to our present camp.
But of all cold, frozen times that ever I saw, it was the coldest. It first rained, then sleeted, and then snowed. The snow was about ten inches deep and lay on the ground four or five days. All the time we were expecting to be attacked every hour. The cavalry was galloping backwards and forwards bringing in a few prisoners and news from the enemy. The artillery lumbering by and taking post fatigue parties by the hundreds at work on the breastwork and everything as lively as possible—Generals, Colonels, and the Governor of Arkansas [Harris Flanagin] riding up and down the lines. I shall never feel more certain that we were going to have a fight even if I hear the firing commence.
What will be the next move on the board, I have no idea. Some begin to speculate on the chances of going into winter quarters. Some say there will be peace soon. Everyone has his own idea on the subject. But of all muddy roads ever I saw, I think the one we traveled over yesterday was the muddiest. The snow has melted through. The combined influence of the sun and the rain and the road bein gright along the river all the time with hundreds of wagons, artillery wagons, and cavalry passing all the time, made it as bad as a river bottom road can get to be. I made about 10 miles yesterday carrying my arms, overcoat and blankets for the wagons were so heavy loaded we had to carry nearly all our baggage and slept in a corn crib without any supper and came to camp in time to cook my dinner.
We certainly have the poorest management that ever was seen all this time. We have been marching and countermarching up and down the river. The steamboats are passing us as if to tantalize our misery. If Holmes had put the troops on board the boats, they could have relieved the [Arkansas] Post and given the Yankees another lesson but instead of that, after we started, we lay one day at Little Rock, then came on at easy stages of about 12 miles a day to Pine Bluff. Then we lay up another day and then went on at the same easy gait until we met the news of the fall of the Post.
But I must close for the present. We will all fight our battles over again when we get home. Tell Mrs. Triplett that I saw Willy and Dan both a few days since and they were both in fine health. God bless you my darling wife and [may He] keep and take care of you till I return.
I don’t have an image of Constant but here is a cdv of Frederick W. Damon of Co. G, 31st Massachusetts (Wood Museum of Springfield History)
This letter was written by Constant E. Southworth (1840-1906), a carpenter from Hardwick, who served in Co. D, 31st Massachusetts Infantry. He mustered in on 20 November 1861 and mustered out on 19 November 1864.
Company records indicate he was wounded twice—in April 1863 at Fort Bisland, Louisiana, and in May 1864 at Yellow Bayou, Louisiana.
After the war, Constant lived in Hardwick, Massachusetts.
[Transcribed by Alan Thompson and research/edited by Griff.]
Transcription
New Orleans, Louisiana Sunday, July 13th, 1862
Dear Brother Frank,
I wrote home last Sunday and promised when I wrote again, it should be to you, and as it has been my intention since enlisting and will be as long as I remain a soldier, to write to some of you as often as once a week. The time to write again has arrived and I cheerfully take my pen to answer that kind letter which my little brother sent me some two weeks or more ago.
I often think of this little brother, and in my mind I see him in the cornfield dropping corn or riding old Charlie to furrow out the land, and about these times I think I see him (when not at school) out spreading swaths in the hayfield. No hay is cut here at the South and all they use comes from the North. They have no fences to keep their cattle separated but turn them all out and allow them to roam together wherever they please, each man having branded his share of the stock with a mark to distinguish his own from those of his neighbor.
We had news three days ago reported to have been received from General Halleck who had it by telegraph, that McClellan had taken Richmond with 50,000 prisoners, but yesterday the papers here contained the reports that were taken from the Richmond and Mobile papers, that our army there had been severely repulsed, McClellan taken prisoner, the President calling for 300,000 more troops, and England & France demand us to close the war. I think there must be some foundation for these reports still I know they must be greatly exaggerated. At any rate I anxiously await the issue which will come by next steamer from the North.
I often think of you at home and the desire as frequently comes to mind to be with you, but if we have been whipped at Richmond I am very sure that I am pinned for the two years that are to come. You must write me every chance you have and by so doing you will not only improve in writing but I shall have the gratification of knowing that one brother thinks of me. When you write tell me all about the neighbors, what Father and the other boys are doing, if you go to school, and if so what you study. If you do this you may be sure it will be received with pleasure and answered.
They have a great many goats here which they milk the same as we milk our cows, and which get their living about the streets and in the parks. We have to pay a picayune for a pint of milk and 35 cts [cents] a pound for butter and cheese, and sixty cts a doz[en] for eggs. Wouldn’t you like to go down here peddling?
Well, be a good boy and write me often – C. E. Southworth
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