The following letters were written by William (“Will”) Hickman Harris Moody (1842-1864), the son of Rev. Granville Moody (1812-1887) and Lucretia Elizabeth Harris (1818-1886). When he was 19 years old, William enlisted on 4 January 1862 as a private in Co. H, 74th Ohio Infantry—a regiment commanded by his father. He was immediately elevated to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. We learn from the letter that William was taken prisoner by some of Gen. John Hunt Morgan’s men in Tennessee in early September 1862. He was paroled but was waiting to be exchanged when this letter was penned on 21 September. Mostly likely William had returned to his regiment in time to participate in the Battle of Stones River three months later. William died of typhoid fever in September 1864 at Marietta, Georgia.

Unlike his son, Granville Moody would have a long and interesting career:

“A later history described him in some detail. ‘He was of Puritan stock, born in Portland, Maine, January 2, 1812…He settled in Muskingum County, Ohio, when eighteen years old, and engaged in mercantile pursuits. While teaching in a Methodist Sabbath school, he was converted…He joined the Ohio Methodist Conference in 1833.

The Methodists had been given a lot for a church on the north side of Town Street between High and 3rd Streets (now a part of the site of John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons) by the Proprietors of Columbus. Other denominations had been given other lots. The Methodists began with a small, one-room church, and built, built and rebuilt as the congregation grew larger. By 1845, there was a brick church of some size on the lot. It was to this church that Granville Moody came as pastor.

“He served it two years, from the fall of 1845 to that of 1847. He had great success and reported a membership of 644 the first year and 600 the second year. Encouraged by this growth, the society felt strong enough to divide. William Neil gave them a lot on the west side of High Street between Gay and Long Streets … on which Wesley Chapel was built. The location was then considered the northern part of the city. A colony of 190 members went out of Town Street” to this new site.

After leaving Columbus in 1847, Granville Moody continued to grow in influence and position in the Methodist Church in Ohio and the Midwest. And then came the Civil War.

At the outbreak of the war, Gov. William Dennison offered Moody command of the 74th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, whose duty soon became guarding several thousand Confederate prisoners at the Camp Chase Confederate Prison Camp five miles west of Columbus. Moody was considered to be a firm, but fair, administrator.

When the rebels later learned that he was leaving, they promised him the same treatment if he were to become a prisoner of the Confederacy. “Should Colonel Moody, at any time become a prisoner of our [Confederate] government, we hereby earnestly request for him the highest consideration and treatment, as a proper acknowledgment of his kindness and care for us.” But some wondered how well he might fight.

The doubters soon found out.

Col. Moody led the 74th Ohio into the Battle at Stones River (Dec. 31, 1862- Jan. 2, 1863) near Murfreesboro, Tennessee. A later account noted that “his horse was shot from under him, he took a bullet in his right calf and he narrowly escaped a fatal wound when one or more bullets shattered a revolver he carried in his right breast pocket, more bullets shredded his uniform so much that one man called him the ‘ragged colonel.'”

As a practicing Methodist minister, Moody continued to preach to his men and others while in uniform in the Union Army. But as one account put it, “the rigors of campaign and camp took a toll on the 50-year-old Moody and prompted his resignation in May, 1863. It was accepted with regret.”

Moody continued to preach and serve as a Methodist minister through the rest of the Civil War and after. The “Fighting Parson” closed a long career of service to church and society with his death in 1887 in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. He was buried nearby. ” [Source: Ed Lentz, The Columbus Dispatch, 16 April 2023]

See also: Facing the Iron Hail: The 74th Ohio at Stones River by Dan Masters.

[Note: The 1st letter is from the private collection of Greg Herr and was transcribed and published on Spared & Shared by express consent.]

Letter 1

Springfield, Ohio
September 21st 1862

Col. G. Moody,

Dear father, I have delayed writing because I knew that there was no communication between Louisville and Nashville. I fully understand your feelings as set forth in your letter to Ma received yesterday.

After my capture (4th September), I did all in my power to let you know my condition. As soon as released, we started for Bowling Green and reported to Col. Bruce. The Colonel told us that our paroles would not be recognized—referring to Gen. Buell’s orders—which order I never saw. Col. Bruce told us to leave Taylor (the teamster) in Bowling Green as he expected our regiment in a few days and told us to go on home to recruit.

We arrived at Cincinnati September 9th and per Gen. Buell’s order, reported immediately at Columbus. Capt. [Austin] McDowell [of Co. D] and myself went to see the Governor. He was glad to see us but “sorry we were prisoners.” The Gov. told us that we could not recruit as long as we were prisoners. He graciously gave us a leave of absence for a week at the end of which time we had to report at Camp Chase as “paroled prisoners.” I found [Ma] quite sick with the “typhoid fever: but my coming home seemed to make her better.

I returned from Camp Chase last night having been there one week. I have written from Camp Chase to Washington concerning my “parole” and asking that it might not be recognized but, if the government does recognize it, I asked that my name might be put upon the list of “paroled officers” at Washington so that I can be the sooner exchanged. I have been put in command of a company of paroled prisoners in Camp but do not have much to do except sign provision returns.

[Brother] Cliff[ord] has gone to Columbus to see what can be done for me. She took your letter with her to show to the Governor. I am very sorry I cannot at once return and take the position proffered me. Perhaps if you write to the Governor, it will help the matter. If you say so, I will return to the regiment for I do not consider my parole binding, a copy of which I send:

Hartsville, Tennessee
September 4th 1862

2nd Lt. ——– captured by our forces under Gen. John H. Morgan is hereby given a parole of thirty days at the end of which he will report to the Provost Marshal at Knoxville, Tennessee (by letter) to be held as a Prisoner of War until exchanged. By order of Gen. John H. Morgan, — J. C. McCann, Lt. Col., commanding Morgan’s Regt.

I did not sign this nor did I swear to anything except secrecy. If this is legal, I am willing to abide by it. If not, I am not.

I miss you so much. I should like to be with you above all things. I like the service and think that I might be able to make my mark. I will give you a synopsis of my trip in my next. Capt. [Austin] McDowell wrote you a few days since. I will say that I have not met with a person who blames us in the least. The rebels treated us very well with the exception of plundering. I hope you can make some arrangements for my speedy return to the regiment. Ma is a great deal better. Was up nearly all day yesterday.

You received the appointment of Asst. Chaplain by the Conference and you are a member of Morris Chapel. There was a very pleasant piece in the [Cincinnati] Commercial of this week about you written by the Sergeant Major of the 69th Regiment. It related those incidents of the secesh stealing your horse &c., whipping the man that called you a liar, &c.

I wish affairs were such that I could take my new position. Do all you can in the matter. My respects to all the officers of the regiment; also Col. (Gen.) Miller. You are very much missed at Camp Chase. Things are terrible loose. Gov. Tod does not take that interest in Col. [Charles W. B.] Allison he did in you. Twenty-two prisoners escaped this week. The capture of which Allison offers $600.

Write to me soon. I shall act on your advice. I don’t know what word Cliff will bring from Columbus but will write again when I hear. Ma is getting well and has plenty of money. She is living very economical. Hoping to hear from you soon & also to be with you soon. I am as ever your loving son (in affection), — Will

P. S. Tell Lt. Snodgrass to take care of my things. I have lost my trunk. We have some of the men that took me in prison at Camp Chase. — Will

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Letter 2

Headquarters 3rd Brigade, 2d Division, 14th A. C.
Murfreesboro. Tennessee
May 25, 1863

Dear Father,

I received the enclosed letter yesterday. I spent the evening with Col. Miller and Lady Munger and Lady Gabbath May 25th. Col. very kind says he has a letter he intends sending you. He sends his compliments to the friends that made him a life member of the Missionary Society, considering it a high compliment. Mrs. Miller wishes your photograph. By all means send it to me also.

There was a drunken row in the 74th yesterday. All of Co. I engaged in the fight. Lt. McGreavy knocked down. Had his clothes almost entirely torn from his person. Maj. Bell went in on his muscle, knocking down several. Col. Miller I think will investigate the matter.

Send me a field glass and write soon to your loving son, — Wm. H. H. Moody. Lt. and Top. Engineer, 3rd Brigade

to Col. G. Moody, Springfield, Ohio

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Letter 3

Headquarters Topographical Eng. Department
3rd Brigade, 2nd Division
Murfreesboro, Tenn.
June 12th 1863

Dear Mother,

Feeling rather communicative this morning and knowing of no one I would enjoy talking to more than yourself, I propose to have a “tete-a-tete.”

Enclosed find copy of “General Order No. 124” which will give you an idea of what is required of a “Topog.”

Father’s welcome letter was received some time ago. We expected to move the day it arrived (June 4th)—had orders to be prepared with “three days rations in the haversacks and seven in th knapsacks.” But we did not move. The “rebs” supposed that Rosecrans had reinforced Grant and they made a “reconnoissance in force”—drove in General Davis’ pickets—made an attack on the Bradyville Pike but were repulsed by the “videttes” and a “Cavalry force” under General Turchin. Simultaneously with this was an attack upon Franklin, but Forrest found that “Yankee mudsills” were too much for him and he retired, perfectly disgusted with Yankee impertinence.

While all this fuss was going on the 2nd Division (Negly) were on Review. I have seen a great many reviews—saw General Rosecrans’ Division (a portion of it “Regulars”) the day before but I think (general opinion) ours excelled. We were reviewed by the “Inspector General” of this Department—Col. Ducat. There was present all the generals in the departments, together with their “staff” and wives—these constituted the spectators. Gen. Negley wished to show how well drilled “his boys” are so he had the 19th Illinois “deploy as skirmishers” and perform the evolutions of the “skirmish drill.” closing by giving the famous “Ellsworth cheer and tiger.” Then the 18th Ohio were ordered to show themselves adept in the “bayonet exercise” closing with the command, “left rear volt—in high tierce—parrie—thrust—guard.” The whole Division was then formed in “double column” and thence “into square.” After deploying, the command “Repare for Review” was given and then commenced “Review” proper. Pa can show you how it is done.

Our Brigade was highly complimented by the Reviewing Officer. But the grand feature of the day was the banquet furnished by Gen. Negley in the evening. Col. Miller and staff were invited of course. The General has caused quite a number of the “flies of his tents” to fly into position in line of battle which formed a canopy for those assembled. The silver band of the 19th Regulars dispensed “Nation at Air,” “Operatic Gems,” while General Rosecrans, Thomas, Sheridan, Garfield, and lesser lights” paid their respects to the richly ladened tables. Mrs. Gen. Negley, Mrs. Quartermaster Taylor, and many other ladies were present adding much to the appearance of affairs. Old Von was there. He took me off to one side and had quite a lengthy talk with me—spoke highly of Pa. Said “by some means a misunderstanding had arisen—that he hoped Pa would find out some time that he was not the enemy Pa supposed him. Said he never wished the Colonelcy of the 74th. All he wanted was a wider sphere in which to work. He has that place now—does not wish a change. Expressed his friendship for me—said I ought to be his Adjutant. Called me “Billie” &c. &c. I suppose you have before this learned the fate of the 74th Ohio.

Commissions were forwarded to Von—Bell and Fisher. Von would not accept, therefore the other commissions were “null and void.” Lt. Col. Given of the 18th Ohio—the senior Lt. Col. of this department—had a promise from Gov. Tod that he should be promoted to fill the first vacancy. Col. Given telegraphed to Tod as soon as Von refused the promotion. In the meanwhile, Bell started a petition for him (Bell) to be appointed Colonel of the 74th stating his qualification for the position—setting forth the disgrace of having an outside appointed in the Regiment. I believe this paper was pretty generally signed. But Col. Given received his commission as Colonel of the 74th. Bell immediately wrote out a paper asking Col. Given not to accept, setting forth the reasons—unpleasant for Givens—injustice to Bell—Bell’s capabilities, &c. Bell took this paper around himself to the different officers of the regiment for signing. Influenced by the regiment’s pride, the paper was signed by nearly all and presented to Given—but—Given heeded it not and reported to Col. Miller for duty.

Bell immediately resigned his commission. His papers were signed all the way through and came back to him endorsed, “Approved for the good of the service.” It is the opinion of quite a number that Bell is sorry he resigned. Fisher told him he would resign if he was not under arrest. The report is that Cist will be promoted to Major. He has received several very complimentary recommendations. If he is appointed there will be a grand fuss. Col. Given is an old soldier, is considered one of the best officers in the department—the 74th like him very much and I think will make them a good colonel.

Col. [William] Sirwell [78th Pennsylvania] has felt rather sore that Col. [John Franklin] Miller [29th Indiana] commands in this Brigade and sent up a communication to Gen. Rosecrans which came back endorsed, “It is not deemed expedient to make a change in Brigade Commanders.” Father has many friends in the 74th and very many in the Department.

Our Army is finely disciplined, in good health, and fine spirits. As you know, Burnside has reinforced Grant with the 9th Army Corps. This leaves our left flank but poorly protected—so much so that I think we will not move until the fate of Vicksburg is settled. Many spies are trying to penetrate out lines but we catch them and “let them hang until they are dead! dead! dead! A colonel and lieutenant of Bragg’s Army were hung this week at Franklin. They had forged letters from Gen. Rosy to inspect our forces at Triune and Franklin—secret service men.

It would surprise you to see the means we have of learning news and all the minutiae of every regiment and company in the army—inspectors—signal corps—secret police—provost marshal—telegraph wires running from the different headquarters, &c. &c. Signal flags that can communicate over a distance of fourteen miles in an instant. War is stupendous. I am very happy situated—have plenty to eat and that’s that good (turtle soup for dinner)—have a splendid horse—gay trappings—ride when and where I please—have “quantum sufficit” of friends—think I am liked by Col. & staff (except Ted. “nickel”). Matt is the best darkie on the place—keeps me in good trim—boots bright—spurs shining—horse slick, &c. &c.

I was at the regiment last night. Heard that Pa intends moving to Saint Louis, having received the Chaplaincy of that Post. I say go. I also learned (thanks to somebody) that “I am going to resign in September, come home and take to myself a wife.” Just remark to my friends that I am soldiering at present and expect to for some time to come unless health or life should fail. I should like to be home with you over Sunday. I would like some of Grandma’s good dinner.

We had a splendid serenade last week by the “glee club” of the 79th Pennsylvania. One member of which sings the finest “falsetto” I ever heard sing. The staff were invited up to Mrs. Miller’s private rooms and we spent a very pleasant evening.

I am sorry that I can’t hear from sister Lizzie more than I do, nor little Molly. What’s the matter—are they sick? I want you to buy Brother Granville a handsome birthday present (July 2nd or 3rd)—some first rate present and give it to him for me. I will send some money perhaps before long. If not, I have plenty at home.

2 p.m. I have just received your letter of June 7th containing wedding cards. “Long may Annie Wave” and I am sure her shadow will never grow less. I am very thankful for the good motherly letter. I must confess I feel rather queer—to tell you the truth, I have never felt sure I was going to marry. I have been perfectly honest with Sallie but I did not know that the day or month was fixed. One thing I am certain of, I won’t marry anybody until I am able to support them. My expenses here are necessarily heavy. Besides, I have not stinted myself in anything. A staff officer can’t save near as much as a line officer—a servant—a cook—table expenses—servant’s rations—clothes—spending money, &c. &c. When I leave the service, I have no business that I can go into immediately. If I was worth $10,000 I wouldn’t care to marry. It is very uncertain—in fact, improbable, that I can get home in September even should there be a reason for it. I think Sallie is a fine girl. As you say, I am not blinded to her faults. She could improve very much in many things. I have no doubt I have made mention of September to her as the time that I would try to get a furlough and expect I promised to marry her when I came home, but I have not worried about it. If she is willing to marry me and take her chances and you and Pa advise it, I will marry. I prefer waiting until I become settled in business. Don’t show this letter to Sallie but maybe you had better talk with her on the subject. Tell her I don’t see any chance for coming home in September. An officer cannot resign when he pleases. I am rather proud myself. I can see now why Pa was so anxious to get things straight in his business. I would rather remain single all my life than marry and be poor as Lazarus “or any other man.” I know I can always have plenty for myself but I can’t say as to two. Money is all that’s in the way. I wish you would have a talk with Sallie. I think I could break her of most of her bad habits. I assure you I have a due appreciation of my name and family. I don’t consider they condescend much.

While I was in Columbus, I met Beckie and Sallie is not the only person I could marry. Keep this to yourself.

This afternoon at 3 o’clock, two men are to be hung for murder. Great crowds of soldiers are passing here “en route” for the execution. This will be the fifth hung in this department within a fortnight: “Sic semper tyrannus.”

I must close as I wish a nap before Brigade Drill. Tell Pa to write. How about a [ ] glass? Give my love to Aunt Jane. I should like to hear from her. Love to Cliff (answer my letter), Lizzie, Mary, Granville, Charley & Grandma. Tell them all how much I love htem. Love to dear Pa (Col.) and believe me your loving son, — Wm. H. H. Moody, Lieut. & Topographical Engineer

[to] Mrs. L. E. Moody, Springfield, Ohio