The following diary was kept by Cyrenius Whetstone (1839-1922) of New Baltimore, Stark county, Ohio. He enlisted in Battery A, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (“Goodspeed’s Battery”) on 25 September 1861 and served until 31 July 1865. He was married to Charlotte (“Lottie”) Scovel in 1879. He was the son of Solomon Whetstone (1810-1873) and Catherine D. Stickler (1808-1860). A pension record gives his date and place of death as 26 June 1922 at Rock Falls, Illinois.

A brief biographical sketch appears in a history of the battery which reads: “Cyrenius Whetstone enlisted with the Battery at its organization and served with it in all the marches through Kentucky and Tennessee. At the Battle of Stones River, after his gun squad had lost its gun, he used a musket in the day’s battle with the 42nd Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He also participated in the battles of Liberty Gap and Chickamauga, and in the whole of the campaign to and from Atlanta during 1864; was promoted to Corporal on the 13th of September, 1864. Discharged at Cleveland, Ohio, on July 31st 1865.”

Battery A was mustered into national service for three-years at Camp Chase, Columbus, Ohio, in September 1861. They were immediately moved to Gallipolis, Ohio and assigned to Brigadier General Cox and on 22 October 1861 ordered to report to General A.M. McCook, at Camp Nevin, Kentucky. By 1862 the unit had moved to Green River; Louisville; Nashville; Pittsburgh Landing; and the advance on Corinth. Still assigned to McCook they marched to Florence, Alabama; Battle Creek; Jasper; Decard Station; Winchester; Tullahoma; Shelbyville; and Nashville. With General Buell, they marched into Kentucky and fought at Dog Walk and Bowling Green, Kentucky. They also fought with General Rosecrans at Stones River.

In 1863 Battery A was combined with the 20th OIB and Simonson’s Indiana Battery to constitute an artillery brigade in the Army of the Cumberland’s Second Division. The brigade accompanied McCook at Tullahoma; Liberty; Hoovers Gap and over Sand Mountain. They fought with gallantry in the battle of Chickamauga, and for defense of Chattanooga. On October 18th, 1863, Battery A reported to General Speer, at Sale Creek. They advanced through East Tennessee to relive Burnside at Knoxville, and had daily engagements with confederate cavalry until the middle of January 1864.

The unit mustered out at the beginning of 1864, but by February, after a 30 day furlough, most of the men rejoined the unit in Cincinnati, Ohio. Battery A first returned to Nashville, and then on to Catoosa Springs, where they joined the Second Division, Fourth Army Corps, with General Sherman. After joining Sherman’s Army, the unit moved on to Gallatin, Tennessee. Towards the end of the war Battery A was sent to New Orleans with Stanley’s Division, and remained there until they were finally mustered out of national service on July 31, 1865. By the end of the war, the battery had lost 15 men killed in action and 33 to disease. A free book on the History of Goodspeed’s Battery can be found online written by Henry M. Davidson.

This diary spans the year 1864 with the rendezvous of the Battery at Cincinnati until after the Battle of Nashville in mid December 1864.

For those interested in reading letters transcribed by Spared & Shared written by members of the 1st Ohio Light Artillery, among its various Batteries, see:

Albert D. Clark, Battery A, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (1 Letter)
Joseph M. Tomlinson, Battery A, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (1 Letter)
Thomas Corwin Potter, Battery B, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (1 Letter)
Thomas Corwin Potter, Battery B, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (5 Letters)
William Henry Olds, Battery C, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (1 Letter)
Hiram T. Gilbert, Battery D, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (1 Letter)
Charles C. Bark, Battery E, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (6 Letters)
Benjamin F. Hard, Battery G, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (1 Letter)
Jacob Stein, Battery K, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (1 Letter)
Perry J. Ramsower, Battery L, 1st Ohio Light Artillery (1 Letter)

This diary is the property of Evan Iannone and was made available for transcription and publication on Spared & Shared by express consent.

T R A N S C R I P T I O N

Friday, January 1, 1864—Lay in camp at Buffalo Creek, Tennessee.

Wednesday, January 13, 1864—Left Buffalo Creek, Marched about fourteen miles and camped for the night.

Wednesday, January 20, 1864—Arrived at Camp Nelson at nine o’clock a.m. Went to General Hospital to see [brother] Allen [104th OVI]. Stayed with him till the Battery came up. Boarded with the convalescents.

Thursday, January 21, 1864—Allen went to Frankfort. I remained at Camp Nelson till noon. Then started for Nicholasville and remained at the above named place during the night.

Friday, January 22, 1864—Took the cars at Nicholasville for Covington, Kentucky. Arrived at Covington at 11 o’clock in the night. Rendezvoused at the barracks.

Saturday, 23, 1864—Arrived at Cincinnati about ten o’clock a.m. Rendezvoused at Sixth Street Bazaar. Boarded at the Soldiers’ Home.

Monday, February 1, 1864—Took the cars at Cincinnati for Cleveland at 6 a.m. Arrived at Cleveland at 4 p.m. Took supper at the Depot and lodging at the New England Hotel.

Friday, February 5, 1864—Received a furlough at Camp Cleveland to continue 30 days.

Saturday, February 6, 1864—Left Cleveland at 8 a.m. Arrived at Ravenna at ten a.m. Went to the Town Hall where there was an address delivered by Judge Day. Then took dinner at the Taylor House. Started for Randolph at 7 p.m. Stayed with William Ch___ the 7th.

Sunday, February 7, 1864—Arrived at R, M. Hamilton’s at 11 a.m. Took dinner with them. Arrived at Balty [New Baltimore, Stark county, OH] at 4 p.m. Stopped at A. Hamilton’s

Monday, March 7, 1864—Left New Baltimore about noon. Went to R. M. Hamilton’s. Mate & I went to Davis’s, then to W. Hutchen’s, then back to Davis’s again. At 4 p.m., Genl. & I started for Atwater Station. Arrived at Cleveland at 10 p.m. Stayed at the New England Hotel.

Tuesday, March 8, 1864—Went to Camp Cleveland at 8 a.m. Went back to the New England Hotel and stayed that. Genl. and I went to 65, told some lies, then went to the Algier House, took supper, then went with Jim Kendrick and had an oyster supper.

Wednesday, March 9, 1864—Went to Picture Gallery. Had an Ambrotype taken. Then went to Camp. Drew clothing. Went to New England Hotel. Stayed all night. Wrote a letter to A. Hamilton. Sent him physiognomy of those taken.

Thursday, March 10, 1864—Left Cleveland at 9 a.m. Arrived Cincinnati at 8 p.m. Bivouacked in the Depot for the night.

Friday, March 11, 1864—Left Cincinnati at 9 a.m. Arrived Louisville 12 p.m. On the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad. Arrived at Seymour about noon. Stay in the depot till twelve o’clock that night. Had a prayer meeting. The Boys had a big time bumming it around town.

Saturday, March 12, 1864—Arrived at Louisville 12 a.m. Rendezvoused on the corner of Main and 1st Streets. Went to a Picture Gallery and sat for one dozen photographs. Went to see the 19th Ohio Vol. Vet. Infantry. Visited Jink Davis. He went to my quarters with me & he and I played [illegible].

Sunday, March 13, 1864—Left Louisville at 3 p.m. Went to Picture Gallery and received half dozen photographs.

Monday, March 14, 1864—Arrived at Nashville at 6 a.m. Went out to camp and pitched tents. Wrote a letter to Harriet Whetstone & sent her a photograph.

Tuesday, March 15, 1864—Lay in camp at Nashville. Wrote a letter to Allen. We had quite a snow storm. Had a big time initiating the new recruits.

Wednesday, March 16, 1864—Battery C left for the front. Battery A occupied their quarters. I went to Nashville, got shaved, then went and visited Jink Davis. Took dinner with him. Played a game of Seven-Up and beat our opponents 4 out of 7.

Thursday, March 17, 1864—Wrote a letter to Lidia Hollabough. Sent her a photograph. Swept the park. Jink Davis & Perry Woods are here. There were a number of promotions made among the corporals and sergeants. Enjoyed a dance this evening in the Park.

Friday, March 18, 1864—Drilled foot drill at 9 a.m. After drill I went to Nashville. Went to the Post Office. Then to a hardware store. Purchased a frying pan. Paid $1 for it. Returned to camp and wrote a letter to photographers at Louisville, Ky.

Tuesday, April 26, 1864—Received orders to prepare to march to the front. Drew ten days rations & cooked them. Drew dog tents and clothing.

Wednesday, April 27, 1864—Left Camp Brough at 7 a.m. Arrived at Lavergne about three p.m. and camped for the night. Had a big time pitching our new dog tents.

Thursday, April 28, 1864—Left Lavergne at 8 a.m. Had a devil of a rain storm last night and pump tent blew down & had a gay time. Had potatoes, meat, coffee and bread for breakfast. Arrived at Murfreesboro at 12 M. Camped near Camp Sill at Stone River.

Friday, April 29, 1864—Arrived at Shelbyville about 2 p.m. Pitched tents on the bank of Duck River. Went in bathing. Had a big time swimming horses. Marched 22 miles.

Saturday, April 30, 1864—Left Shelbyville at 7 a.m. Had quite a rain storm. Got lost in the wilderness & had a devil of a time. Marched about 22 miles. Arrived at Tullahoma at 2 p.m. WEnt to the Depit. Pitched tents near our old camping ground. Had some of Mate;s tea for supper.

Sunday, May 1, 1864—Left Tullahoma at 7 a.m. Crossed Elk River. Passed through Decherd about noon. Arrived at Cowan Station about ten o’clock p.m. and camped for the night. Marched 20 miles.

Monday, May 2, 1864—Left Cowan Station at 7 a.m., crossed the Cumberland Mountains. Arrived at the Blue Springs at two p.m. and camped for the night. Marched about 20 miles.

Tuesday, May 3, 1864—Left Blue Springs in Sweden’s Cove about 7 a.m. Stopped to rest at our old camping ground. Visited the grave of Walton Phelps. Arrived at Bridgeport about two p.m. & camped for the night. The 7th OVI left for the front just before our arrival. Drew a large supply of Sanitary stores.

Wednesday, May 4, 1864—Left Bridgeport this morning. Crossed the Tennessee River on the railroad bridge. Marched through the narrows 18 miles. Camped for the night 10 miles from Chattanooga in Wahatchie Valley.

Thursday, May 5, 1864—Arrived at Chattanooga about noon. Camped for the night on our old camping ground. Drew a 12-pound Battery. Went to the river to water horses. Wrote two letters—one to Emeline & one to A. Hamilton.

THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN

Friday, May 6, 1864—Left Chattanooga at 7 a.m. on road to join our Division. Passed over the Chickamauga Battlefield. Saw bones of our dead soldiers bleaching in the sun. Came by the way of Gordon’s Mill. Arrived at Ringgold & joined our Division sometime after dark. Marched about 25 miles.

Saturday, May 7, 1864—Was on guard last night. Had reveille at 2 a.m. and at four. We left for the front at six. Took a position in line of battle. Took a 2nd position near Tunnel Hill. Our Brigade advanced & battery halted. Here we saw General Willich & his Brigade. All fighting done today on the right by Hooker.

Sunday, May 8, 1864—Stayed in camp near Tunnel Hill all day and the preceding night. Had considerable skirmishing. Our forces occupied Tunnel Hill. Wrote a letter to Lide but did not send it out.

Monday, May 9, 1864—Left camp near Tunnel Hill at 6 o’clock and moved to the left about 1.5 miles Parked the Battery in a corn field near an old log house. Lay idle all day. Had heavy skirmishing on Face Rock [Rocky Face] Ridge. John Shook and I went to top of ridge. Saw the 42nd Illinois Boys.

Tuesday, May 10, 1864—Encamped last night near the ridge and on the left of the line. Had constant but light skirmishing all day. Commenced raining about noon and continued to rain all the latter part of the day. Battery M, 1st Ohio Battery went out & threw a few shell on the right of our Division.

Wednesday, May 11, 1864—Remain in our same position. Skirmishing still continues but light. Rained like the Devil last night. Went upon the ridge this morning. Nothing new. Saw two Rebel engines coming into Dalton [illegible].

Thursday, May 12, 1864—Had reveille at two o’clock & moved at four. Marched about 7.5 miles to the left and relieved the 23rd Army Corps. They moved to the right wing. Kept falling back during the day. Skirmishing continued as usually light. Threw up barricades at last position.

Friday, May 13, 1864—Had reveille at two. Marched at four a.m. Arrived at Dalton about ten and found it evacuated. Rested an hour. Had a gay time ransacking the town. Marched 8 miles from town and camped for the night. Cavalry had quite a skirmish in the evening.

Saturday, May 14, 1864—Had reveille at 3 a.m. Left camp about 6 a.m. Took position in line of battle about eight. Changed position several times. The fighting commenced fifteen minutes before one p.m. The Battery was not engaged. Fighting heavy on the left.

Sunday, May 15, 1864—Took position in fortifications at 3 p.m. Done some digging. Skirmishing quite brisk. Battery commenced firing. Fired 12 rounds. Vack [Victor B.?] Stanford badly wounded by premature discharge. Darius Roe, W[ilson] Davidson, A[uston] D. Bishop, & J. Van Ornum wounded by premature discharge.

[Editor’s note: Victor B. Stanford was wounded in the Battle of Resaca and died on 4 June 1864 at Chattanooga. Regrettably, it appears that his wounds were due to a premature discharge of their own guns—not enemy fire. The other four men listed appear to have been wounded in the same manner though not mortally.]

Monday, May 16, 1864—Had reveille at 3 o’clock & marched at 6 a.m. Found the Rebs had absconded. Arrived at Coosa River about noon. Rested about two hours. Crossed the river and after marching a while, halted. Skirmishing continues. Resaca evacuated.

Tuesday, May 17, 1864—Left camp near Calhoun about daylight. Skirmished through the town. Advanced about two miles when skirmishing commenced quite brisk. Battery halted and came into position. Camped for the night four miles from Calhoun.

Wednesday, May 18, 1864—Left camp about 8 a.m.. Advanced very cautiously. The Rebs falling back but were very stubborn. Had quite a fight in the evening. Camped for the night about a mile from town called Deerville.

Thursday, May 19, 1864—Left Camp about 7 a.m. Arrived at Deerville about 9 & halted till noon. The [illegible]/ Skirmishing in front today. Camped for the night about [ ] miles from Deerville.

Friday, May 20, 1864—Left camp at early dawn. Arrived at Kingston at 11 a.m. and halted for dinner. Advanced at 12 M & after marching two miles found the enemy in line of battle. Drove them till dark, then camped for the night.

Saturday, May 21, 1864—Moved back from the front about a mile & camped for a day or two’s rest. Perry Woods was here today. Went with him to the 19th OVI. Jink Davis came with me when I returned to my quarters. In the evening went to the 42nd Illinois.

Sunday, May 22, 1864—Lay in camp. Done my washing & played poker during the remainder of the day. In the evening Clint Allen & I went to see some Rebel prisoners and had quite a conversation with them.

Monday, May 23, 1864—We still remain in camp. [Gen.] Thomas’s Headquarters which were located near us moved this morning. Left camp about noon. Arrived at the river and crossed about 9 o’clock. Marched about 11 miles. Went into camp at midnight.

Tuesday, May 24, 1864—Left camp at 7 a.m. Marched through the pine regions about ten miles. Camped in a narrow valley. Was detailed to cut a road through the woods. Rained like the very Devil. Were five miles in the rear of our Division.

Wednesday, May 25, 1864—Left camp about 8 a.m. Had to double teams to ascend the ridge. The country traveled over today is very hilly & is but very thinly settled. The timber is principally pine. Water rather scarce. Heavy fighting in front of Dallas. Commenced at 5.

Thursday, May 26, 1864—Camped in a wheat field last night. Had a rain storm. Remained in camp till about 6 p.m., then started to join our Division which was then at the front, a distance of about five miles. Arrived at front about 8 p.m. Went in line. No. 1 & 2 went on picket.

Friday, May 27, 1864—Cannonading opened quite brisk about six a.m. Moved a mile to the left. Remained there till [ ]. The Rebs shelled us like the Devil. Moved to the right a mile, took position in front earthworks. Worked till 2 a.m. last night.

Saturday, May 28, 1864—Got up at about 3 a.m. At 11 a.m., the Rebs made a demonstration in our front. Came over their fortifications. We gave them double charge of canister which sent them back flying.

Sunday, May 29, 1864—Worked last night till two a.m. The Rebs commenced heavy firing along the whole line which was returned. Our Battery fired about six rounds to each gun. The firing continued a half hour when the Rebs dried up.

Monday, May 30, 1864—But very little artillery firing today. Musketry is kept up brisk now from behind fortifications. Was on guard last night. The enemy made quite a noise chopping. Could hear them talking very distinct. Was called to my post about 2 a.m.

Tuesday, May 31, 1864—Was called up at early dawn. Considerable cannonading on the left. James Robinson was wounded today in the left leg. Had it amputated. Received a letter from Helen R. today.

[Editors Note: James T. Robinson died on June 25, 1864, at Chattanooga, Term., of wounds received in action at Dalton, Ga.]

Wednesday, June 1, 1864—Was called to our post once last night. Wrote a letter to Em C. today. Nothing worthy of note occurred during the latter part of the day.

Thursday, June 2, 1864—Still remain in fortifications. Skirmishing continues as usual. Had pretty hard fighting on the left today. Had quite a rain storm in the afternoon.

Friday, June 3, 1864—Remain in fortifications. Firing continues as usual. The right section moved somewhere to the left last night. Wrote a letter to Helen R. Commenced raining about noon & continued raining all day and night.

Saturday, June 4, 1864—Moved our piece into the place that No. 1 occupied. Was on guard. Pickets run in last night. Were all called to our posts. Ed[ward] Cain was wounded this morning. [illegible]

Sunday, June 5, 1864—Were relieved last night by one of Genl. Osterhaus’ Bsatteries. When arrived at the caissons, it was a.m. Found the Rebel works in front of Dallas evacuated this morning. Pulled out of Park about noon. Moved a little to the right and went to fortifying.

Monday, June 6, 1864—Moved out of fortifications this morning and followed the retreating Rebels. Marched about 8 miles and went into camp at 5 p.m. This camp was about 3 miles from Altoona Station pass.

Tuesday, June 7, 1864—Remained in camp today. Done my washing today & changed clothes. Hiram Swartz paid us a visit today. Wrote a letter today. In the evening went to the 42nd Illinois [illegible].

Wednesday, June 8, 1864—Remained in camp. Wrote a letter to Samantha Chain. Perry Woods came to see us today. Commenced raining at 1 p.m. Went to see Davis Boys in the evening. Saw D. Reichard. He is looking well.

Thursday, June 9, 1864—Still remain in camp. Several of our boys who have been prisoners returned today and brought us the sad intelligence that Vack Stanford died on the 5th. Jink Davis was here today and also some of the 42nd Illinois Boys.

Friday, June 10, 1864—Left camp at 8 a.m. Marched very slow & cautiously. Passed Hooker’s Corps. Arrived at the front in the evening. There was but very little firing done today. Marched about three miles.

Saturday, June 11, 1864—Camped at an old house last night. Rained like the very devil. Marched at about 9 a.m. Advanced very cautiously. Went into park near the lines in the evening. Marched about two miles but very little firing today.

Sunday, June 12, 1864—Still continues to rain. Gen. Woods’ Division passed from our left toward the right. Wrote a letter to Ben Switzer. Heard but very little firing today. Rained all day without ceasing.

Monday, June 13, 1864—Ceased raining about 2 p.m. Went out to the lines today. Called at Harker’s Headquarters for mail. Did not get any. Skirmishing continues but light.

Tuesday, June 14, 1864—Cannonading heavy this morning. Was on guard last night. It is reported that McPherson captured a thousand prisoners on the left yesterday. [ ] up at noon. Heavy skirmishing at 5 p.m. Moved a mile to the left front and camped for the night. Reb Gen. Polk killed.

Wednesday, June 15, 1864—Marched at noon. After going a mile, the Battery came into position and on our way to this place I came across Myron. Skirmishing heavy today. The 42nd [Illinois] was engaged. Myron was with the regiment. Came to our gun and stayed all night with me.

Thursday, June 16, 1864—Moved our gun to the front and throwing good works. All the pieces but Nos. 2 & 3 done some firing. In the evening, the Battery moved three hundred yards to the front & took position in [illegible].

Friday, June 17, 1864—Was on guard last night. Our skirmishers advanced at early dawn & found the Rebel works evacuated. Battery moved at 8 a.m. Heavy skirmishing & cannonading commenced at noon. At 5 p.m. the Battery came to position at an old house a little [ ] Brigade. Fired 20 rounds to a gun.

Saturday, June 18, 1864—Moved three hundred yards to the front. Found the enemy again in force & fortified. Battery remained here all day. Rained like the Devil. Battery fired 470 rounds. [Archibald A.] McMasters was hurt by a primer which he supposed had failed. Stepped in & pulled it out just as the [illegible] is changed.

[Editor’s note: Muster rolls indicate that Archibald A. McMasters “was wounded June 18, 1864, in battle of Kennesaw Mountain, Ga.”]

Sunday, June 19th, 1864—Moved at 8 a.m. The Rebs having again evacuated [illegible].

Monday, June 20, 1864—[see Battle of Kennesaw Mountain] Remained in position at the cotton gin till in the afternoon when our battery & Spencer’s Battery [H] moved to the front & took a position in front of the hill. Commenced firing at 4 p.m. Had a hot time with some Rebel batteries. Dock [Levi] Griswold was wounded in wrist by a shell.

Tuesday, June 21, 1864—The 14th Corps relieved our Corps last night. Battery moved back to the cotton gin this morning. Moved to the right, our Corps having relieved the 20th Corps Hookers. Our Corps advanced the line half a mile. Our Battery took a position with Wood’s Division by an old house near the 19th OVVI.

Wednesday, June 22, 1864—Were on the front line all day. Changed position several times. Our piece fired 5 shots [illegible]. Hooker [?] advanced the line with some hard fighting but [?] the enemy [illegible].

Thursday, June 23, 1864—Moved a half mile to the right and took a position in open field by an old chimney. Battery fired 72 rounds of solid [shot]. Stanley’s men drove the Rebs out of their picket pits & held the pits.

Friday, June 24, 1864—We threw up works for our guns last night. [James] Courtney died this morning [of wounds in field hospital near Kennesaw Mountain]. Captain [Wilbur F.] Goodspeed relieved Captain [Charles] Aleshire as Chief of Artillery of our Division, Very quiet along the lines all day.

Saturday, June 25, 1864—Heavy cannonading on the line this morning. [Samuel M.] McDowell’s Battery moved into the line of works in front of us in night. The Battery drew clothing. I received a letter [illegible].

Sunday, June 26, 1864—Were called to our posts with orders to be reeady to commence firing. Commenced firing at 9 a.m. Fired 12 rounds. Our Division & Stanley’s Division charged the Rebel works &some of [them] succeeded in taking the works but were compelled to fall back. Heard today Gen’l. [Charles G.] Harker was killed. [Daniel] McCook wounded.

Monday, June 27, 1864—Strengthened our works with sand bags last night. Visited the 42nd [Illinois Boys] today. Was very quiet today along the whole line.

Tuesday, June 28, 1864—[no entry]

Wednesday, June 29, 1864—Turned our Nos. 3 & 5 pieces and drew two from McDowell’s Battery. Our men are out between the lines with a [Flag of] Truce burying the dead. The boys are exchanging papers with the enemy and also trading coffee for tobacco.

Thursday, June 30, 1864—Last night the enemy made a demonstration in front of our Division. Musketry was very heavy [while it] lasted. Twenty-four of our pieces [ ] to the rear & Battery M filled their places. Wrote letter to Eliza.

Friday, July 1, 1864—Had another [ ] last night. Lasted 15 minutes. John Shook and I went to the 19th OVI. At 5 p.m. the Battery fired 30 rounds at the Rebel works [illegible].

Saturday, July 2, 1864—Were called to our posts at four. Commenced firing at 6 a.m Fired ten rounds. In the evening our Division moved a mile and a half to the left to relieve one Division of the 14th Army Corps. The Battery relieved Battery I of our regiment.

Sunday, July 3, 1864—Got up this morning & found the enemy had evacuated their position in front of Kennesaw Mountain. Moved at 6 a.m. Arrived at Marietta about noon. Passed to the right of the town. Marched 9 miles.

Monday, July 4, 1864—Camped in a field by the railroad. Was on guard last night. Reveille at 4 o’clock. Lieutenant [Henry C.] Grant’s Section & Battery M moved to the front. Found the enemy again fortified. Remained by the Battery. Moved out. Camp by an old house in a [ ] orchard.

Tuesday, July 5, 1864—Moved at 6 a.m. The Rebs had good works which they left very hastily. Skirmishing continued at 4 p.m. We arrived at the Chattahoochee River [and found] the enemy have again taken up a very strong position on the south side of the river. I went on the hill where Atlanta could be seen.

Wednesday, July 6, 1864—Last night we took position on a ridge near the river. The Pioneers built works for the Battery this morning. We strengthened our works. Gen. Thomas & a number of Corps generals were here. The Battery was ordered to fire at Reb picket pits. Fired two rounds.

Thursday, July 7, 1864—Wrote a letter to Sue Whetstone. At 6 p.m., Battery fired 18 rounds. At 8, all the artillery in the Corps had orders to fire, our Battery giving the signal. Battery fired 72 rounds. This firing was done to attract the attention of the Rebs while Schofield laid a pontoon [bridge] across the river. Was a [success?].

Friday, July 8, 1864—Rebel pontoon bridge was moved last night. Is very quiet along the lines today. The Johnny Rebs & Yanks went in battling with each other. Built a bowery over our gun today.

Saturday, July 9, 1864—At 7 a.m, our Division started on an expedition up the river to a town by the name of Roswell, distance 16 miles. Arrived there at 5 p.m. The infantry crossed the river. Several men died from sun stroke. The heat was intense.

Sunday, Jul 10, 1864—Battery is lying in Roswell. Heavy cannonading on the right of us. Is supposed to be Schofield. Two Divisions of the 16th Army Corps came in today, crossed the river, and relieved our Division. Received a letter from Allen.

Monday, July 11, 1864—Lay in camp at Roswell. John Shook and I went after blackberries. Had blackberry dumplings, stewed berries, apple sauce & biscuit for dinner. Done my washing, then went to town after soap. Visited nearly all the houses & also the ruins of the factories.

Tuesday, July 12, 1864—The Division marched from Roswell at 8 a.m. Went back to our former camp at the railroad. Had a gay time smashing our furniture. Camped near the pontoon bridge.

Wednesday, July 13, 1864—Left camp at 8 a.m., crossed the river on pontoon [bridge] at 9 a.m. After marching 2.5 miles, parked the Battery. Right and Left sections went to the front and took position. John Shook and I went after berries. Wrote letter to Ell. Worked on fortifications till ten p.m.

Thursday, July 14, 1864—Lay in camp. Part of the 23rd Army Corps passed by this morning. Is very quiet at the front today. Received a letter from Robb Crockett. Am on guard tonight. Had quite a rain storm. Jink Davis paid us a visit this evening.

Friday, July 15, 1864—Battery still remains in camp. Jink Davis and I were to the 104th OVI. Took dinner with Captain Andrew J. Southworth [of Co. B]. Had a game of Seven Up with the Boys. Wrote a letter to Robb Crockett.

Saturday, July 16, 1864—In camp. Wrote a letter to Elvira G. Went to the 42nd [Illinois] and found [illegible]. Our Division made a reconnaissance. Found the enemy. All quiet at the front.

Sunday, July 17, 1864—Remained in camp today. Done my washing. Wrote a letter to Hal and received one from Em. Went to see Myron this evening. He was detailed to the Division Ambulance Corps.

Monday, July 18, 1864—Had reveille at 3 o’clock. Marched at 5 Had slight skirmishing. Marched 7 miles. Are now within 5 miles of Atlanta. Have formed a line of battle. Battery is in position at an old house. Received a letter from [ ].

Tuesday, July 19, 1864—All is quiet this morning. Our forces are fortifying. There are apparently [ ] Rebels near. Heavy cannonading commenced about noon & continued throughout the day. In the evening we advanced two miles to Battle Creek [illegible].

Wednesday, July 20, 1864—In position at Peach Tree Creek. All is quiet this morning. At 10 a.m., our forces advanced & drove the Rebs from their skirmish pits. At 3 p.m., the Battery crossed Peach Tree Creek [and] took a position in line of battle. At 4 p.m., the Rebs charged us & were repulsed with terrible slaughter. Battery fired 74 rounds.

[Editor’s Note: “When Sherman began his final push toward Atlanta, he divided his forces, sending Thomas’s Army of the Cumberland directly toward the city and ordering Schofield’s Army of the Ohio and McPherson’s Army of the Tennessee around Atlanta to the east. Hood viewed this as an opportunity to strike a blow for the Confederacy. In order to approach Atlanta, Thomas’s army had to cross Peachtree Creek in several places. Johnston had been aware of that while still in command and had devised a plan to attack Thomas’s soldiers at the time of the crossing. When the crossing took place on July 20, Hood implemented Johnston’s plan. Unfortunately for the Southerners, Thomas’s army had already crossed the creek when the attack began at about 4:00 p.m., instead of the planned time of 1 p.m. The assault initially showed some promise, but the Federals were able to hold their ground, eventually punishing the Rebels with high casualties. The Battle of Peachtree Creek cost the Confederacy nearly 5,000 men killed, wounded, and captured or missing, compared to about 1,700 for the Union.” Source: Ohio Civil War]

Thursday, July 21, 1864—Very quiet on the lines today. Our forces are burying the Rebel dead. The Rebel General [Clement Hoffman] Stevens [of Georgia Brigade] was killed. Fortified last night. Remained in our works today.

Friday, July 22, 1864—Advanced at 8 a.m. After marching 1.5 miles, again encountered the enemy. Battery came into position and fired 74 rounds. The Rebs done splendid artillery firing. At 5 p.m., the enemy charged McPherson & was repulsed with great loss. Hear Gen. McPherson was killed.

Saturday, July 23, 1864—Worked on fortifications last night and this morning. The Johnnies keep up a continual artillery firing & also considerable musketry. Gen. [William T.] Sherman & also Gen. [Lovell] Rousseau passed us today.

Sunday, July 24, 1864—Remained in works today. The Johnnies keep up a continuous firing from their batteries but do very little damage. Wrote a letter to Em___.

Monday, July 25, 1864—Rebs done considerable cannonading last night. Could hear them fighting on the Right Wing at 12 o’clock last night. Built a line of works in front. Cannoneers built embrasures. Moved into the works at 4 p.m.

Tuesday, July 26, 1864—Built a bowery over our gun this morning. Allen was here last night. He and I went to see Myron. Allen went back to him command this morning. Our section moved to the left at five p.m. and took a position to guard a ravine.

Wednesday, July 27, 1864—Built a fort for our gun this morning. Wrote a letter to Bobb Crockett. Gen. McPherson’s forces are moving to the right. A brisk firing is kept up to attract the Johnnies’ attention in our front.

Thursday, July 28, 1864—Wrote a letter to Em today. A continual musketry firing & also cannonading is kept up in our front to attract the Johnnies’ attention while the flank is moving round.

Friday, July 29, 1864—Made an addition to our fort today. Is quiet in our front today. Heavy firing was heard on the right. Lasted for about an hour. The fighting was done by the 15th Corps. The Rebs were repulsed with heavy loss. Wrote a letter to Henry.

Saturday, July 30, 1864—Still remain in our fort. Is very quiet in our lines but heavy skirmishing in the 20th Corps which drove the Johnnies from their skirmish pits.

Sunday, July 31, 1864—Hitched up and prepared for inspection at 9 a.m. The inspecting officer failed to come. At 5 p.m., we were relieved by Battery M, 1st O. L. A. Battery moved to the rear and parked near Corps Headquarters & pitched tents.

Monday, August 1, 1864—Made preparations to build boweries over our tents. The 23rd Corps is moving to the right. Our Corps is building a line of works one half mile in the rear of our present lines. Have orders to cease work—that we are going to move further to the rear. Climb a tree and took a peep at the City [of Atlanta].

Tuesday, August 2, 1864—Moved to the rear a mile and a half and went into camp. Policed the Park. Then write a letter to Corp. Roe. The 23rd Army Corps moved by our camp this morning. Myron was to the Battery this evening. The 32nd Indiana non vets started home today.

Wednesday, August 3, 1864—Was on guard last night & today. Built a bowery over my tent this morning. Went to see Myron. Came back, policed the Park, then took a shave. Is very quiet on the lines today. The skirmish line advanced but had to fall back again.

Thursday, August 4, 1864—Policed the Park this morning. The Boys went out foraging today. In the afternoon, I took a stroll along the lines. Visited Jink [Jenkins] Davis. Returned to camp and had some green corn and apple sauce for supper.

Friday, August 5, 1864—Joseph Ulm and I done our washing this morning. Heavy cannonading on the right. Received a letter from A. Hamilton and also one from A. Whetstone.

Saturday, August 6, 1864—Took our carriages to the creek today and washed them. Prepare for inspection [illegible].

Sunday, August 7, 1864—Was on guard last night and today. Had quite a rain storm last night. Did not have an inspection today. Received a letter from E. G. with photo enclosed.

Monday, August 8, 1864—Took a walk today along the lines. Went to the right as far as the 16th Army Corps. Witnessed the shelling of the City by our long ranged batteries. Joseph Ulm and I were to the Corps Hospital.

Tuesday, August 9, 1864—Commenced building a stable for our horses today. Had quite a rain storm. There was considerable cannonading along the lines. Rebs do not reply with their artillery.

Wednesday, August 10, 1864—Finished our barn today. Is raining again. Cannonading heavy along the whole line. Wrote a letter to E. G. Was on guard last night. Rained all night.

Thursday, August 11, 1864—Was out foraging today. Was very warm. Came near getting sun struck. Had green corn for supper.

Friday, August 12, 1864—Heavy cannonading on the right. Is very quit in our front. The long ranged batteries [fire] a gun every five minutes. Was ill and in bed all day.

Saturday, August 13, 1864—Very quiet in the lines. Reported good news from Mobile. The boys are oiling their harnesses today. Jet [Justin] Rogers & I went after beef shanks this evening.

Sunday, August 14, 1864—Joseph Ulm and I are detailed to boil out some Neats’ Foot Oil today. Had an inspection at 9 a.m. I and Joe were not present.

Monday, August 15, 1864—Was on guard last night. Today heavy musketry on the right at 3 o’clock last night. The usual quiet prevailed on the lines today.

Tuesday, August 16, 1864—Wrote a letter to Helen R. today. Had a General Inspection at 2 p.m. Received the sad intelligence through the papers that Allen [S.] Whetstone was among the missing of the 4th Kentucky Mounted Infantry.

[Editor’s note: Allen S. Whetstone (1837-1909) Served in the 104th Ohio Infantry (U.S.A.) as private from August 11, 1862 to April 9, 1864. Served in the 4th Kentucky Mounted Infantry (U.S.A.) as first lieutenant from April 16, 1864 to December 9, 1864.]

Wednesday, August 17, 1864—Considerable firing on the lines today. Wrote a letter to Harriet today. Made a feint along the lines in our Corps tonight. Our Battery moved about two miles to [ ], made considerable noise, then returned to camp. Arrived in camp at 12 midnight.

Thursday, August 18, 1864—Heavy cannonading by the Johnnies this morning. Went up to the front this afternoon. Seen nothing of importance. Drew five days rations last night.

Friday, August 19, 1864—Was on guard last night and today. Terrific artillery firing at 4 o’clock this morning. Was done mostly by our batteries. It is reported in camp today that Kilpatrick has cut the Macon Railroad. Had a rain storm this evening.

Saturday, August 20, 1864—Is very quiet along the lines today. Jenk Davis paid us a visit this afternoon. Received a letter from Sue Whetstone & also one from Em with photo enclosed. Had a rain storm today.

Sunday, August 21, 1864—Went out foraging this morning—like Hell I did. Rained nearly all day. Wrote a letter to Em Whetstone. B. Maxwell and George Bissett were here on a visit.

Monday, August 22, 1864—Went out foraging this morning. Received a letter from Corp. Roe and also one from Samantha Chain. Replied to Alex’s letter.

Tuesday, August 23, 1864—All quiet in the lines this morning. Was to the 19th OVVI on a visit today. Played a big game of Seven Up.

Wednesday, August 24, 1864—Marched at 1 p.m. Moved about three miles to the right. Occupied the works which the 11th Army Corps had abandoned. Camped for the night just in rear of the line.

Thursday, August 25, 1864—Had reveille at early dawn. The 2nd & 3rd Divisions passed the 1st Division which was guarding the rear. The Battery was left with the 1st Division. Pulled out of the works about 10 a.m. The Johnnies threw a few shell this morning. Marched about 6 miles. Camped close to Battery M, 1st Ohio.

Friday, August 26, 1864—Left camp at 8 a.m. Marched about four miles. The infantry threw up a line of works after relieving the cavalry. Went into camp about 4 p.m. Parked on a hill in a grove. There was some slight skirmishing today.

Saturday, August 27, 1864—Moved at 10 a.m. The whole 14th Corps train passed us. Didn’t march over a mile during the day. Built a bridge over a small creek in the afternoon. Started to join our Corps at 8 p.m. Marched 4 miles. Arrived at camp at 12 o’clock. Had a big time going through a swamp.

August 28 through September 1, 1864 [No entries]

Friday, September 2, 1864—Our Corps struck the Macon Railroad this morning & was engaged in destroying it all day. At 4 p.m. the 14th Army Corps attacked the Johnnies in front of Jonesboro and gave them a sound thrashing. Captured 1600 of them and 16 pieces of artillery. The Battery camped for the night on the left of the RR near the battlefield.

Saturday, September 3, 1864—The Johnnies evacuated Atlanta last night. The 20th Army Corps occupied the city this morning. Our Corps advanced at 9 a.m. After marching five miles, found the Johnnies again in line of battle. At 5 p.m., Gen. Wood’s [cavalry] charged the Rebs [at Lovejoy’s Station] and were repulsed. Col. [Charles F.] Manderson and Gen. [Thomas John] Wood were wounded.

Sunday, September 4, 1864–Battery lay at cotton gin all day. No important news from the front. Had a rain storm. No. 5 & 6 went out on the lines & done some firing.

Monday, September 5, 1864—Lay at cotton gin. Wrote a letter to Matt Chain. In the evening the Army abandoned its position in front of Lovejoy Station and fall back 7 miles toward Atlanta. Battery went into camp at 12 o’clock. Parked in a field near the railroad.

Tuesday, September 6, 1864—Moved this morning at 8 a.m. After marching about 1.5 miles, pitched tents with orders to remain during the night. Marched with the Artillery Brigade today.

Wednesday, September 7, 1864—Had reveille at 2 o’clock this morning. Marched at 4. After marching 6 miles, went into camp within 7 miles of Atlanta. Joseph Ulm, Jacob Fifer, and I went out after forage.

Thursday, September 8, 1864—Arrived at Atlanta about two p.m. Went into camp on the Decatur Railroad a mile east of the City on the battlefield where McPherson fell.

September 9, 1864 through October 2, 1864 [No entries]

Monday, October 3, 1864—Camp at Atlanta. Had reveille at 2 o’clock. Left camp at early dawn to start for Johnnie Hood who had gone to our rear. Crossed the pontoon bridge at Vining Station. Camped within 5 miles of Marietta. Marched 13 miles.

Tuesday, October 4, 1864—Had reveille at early dawn. Marched at noon. Passed through Marietta about 4 p.m. Went into camp at Kennesaw Mountain. Marched 6 miles today. Battle at Altoona Pass. Rebel loss 600.

Wednesday, October 5, 1864—In camp at Kennesaw Mountain. Marched at 5 p.m. After marching 5 miles, went into camp about a mile from Pine Mountain & near the old house from which we fired on the 17th of June when in position with Willich’s Brigade.

Thursday, October 6, 1864—Lay in camp today. Nothing worthy of note occurred. Rain quite hard all day. Was on guard last night & today.

Friday, October 7, 1864—Changed camp at 9 a.m. After marching a mile, we joined our Corps and went into camp near Pine Mountain. Heard some cannonading on the left this evening. The Johnniesattacked the 15th ARmy Corps and were repulsed.

Saturday, October 8, 1864—In camp near Pine Mountain. Lay close to Willich’s Brigade. Was in my tent all day reading a novel. Moved at 3 p.m. Marched 8 miles. Went into camp in an open field near Acworth. Was 10 p.m. when we pulled into Park.

Sunday, October 9, 1864—Changed camp this morning at 10 a.m. Move about a mile. Our camp located near the railroad & close to Acworth. Had an order read to us at Roll Call concerning the fight at Altoona.

Monday, October 10, 1864—In camp at Acworth. Went out grazing horses. Returned to camp and marched at 3 p.m. Passed through Altoona at dusk. Arrived at Cartersville at 10 p.m. and camped for the night. Marched 9 miles.

Tuesday, October 11, 1864—Had reveille at 4 o’clock. Marched at early dawn. Passed through Cartersville. Arrived at Kingston at 2 p.m. and halted for dinner and held an election. Camped for the night in a woods a mile from Kingston. Received mail this evening.

Wednesday, October 12, 1864—Had reveille at early dawn. Marched at 9 a.m. Heard some cannonading on the left today. Marched about 22 miles and camped within three miles of Rome, Georgia.

Thursday, October 13, 1864—In camp three miles from Rome. The Boys are all out after forage. Heard some cannonading on the right of Rome. Battery moved at 4 p.m. After marching 15 miles, went into camp at one o’clock. Camped in the woods on a high hill 9 miles from Calhoun, Georgia. Skirmish at Resaca this morning.

Friday, October 14, 1864—Marched at 8 a.m. Passed through Calhoun about 10 a.m. and arrived at Resaca at noon. Camped for the night two miles north of town. A Negro Regiment captured at Dalton today.

[Editor’s Note: The Negro regiment captured at Dalton, Georgia, was the 44th USCT consisting of about 600 Black soldiers and 150 white officers, who were guarding the railroad when they were surprised by General John Bell Hood’s forces. While white officers were quickly paroled, the Black soldiers faced re-enslavement or harsh conditions as prisoners, highlighting the brutal racial disparity in treatment during the Civil War, with one soldier, Hubbard Pryor, surviving to tell his story.] 

Saturday, October 15, 1864—Left camp near Resaca at 8 a.m. Marched six miles toward Dalton, then halted. The infantry marched over Rocky Face Ridge at dusk. We went back to Resaca with the wagon train. Battery took a position in Reb works and camped for the night.

Sunday, October 16, 1864—Left camp at 7 a.m. on route for Snake Creek Gap. Halted for dinner at the entrance of the Gap. Passed the Gap two miles & camped for the night at White Church.

Monday, October 17, 1864—Lay in camp at the White Church. Visited the 104th OVI. Received orders to forage off of the country for our subsistence.

Tuesday, October 18, 1864—Left camp at the White Church at 8 a.m. Passed through Dug Gap. Marched 16 miles and camped in a hill in an open field.

Wednesday, October 19, 1864—Lay in camp till the 14th Army Corps passed us. J. Shook and myself went out foraging. Killed a pig. Battery moved at 12 noon. Marched 15 miles. Camped at Summerville, Alabama.

Thursday, October 20, 1864—Left camp at Summerville at 7 a.m. Marched 20 miles. Camped at Gaylesville, Alabama. Passed through some excellent country today.

Friday, October 21, 1864—In camp near Gaylesville. Received mail this morning. Got a letter from Myron and one from Mate Hamilton. Changed camp in the evening. Moved half a mile.

Saturday, October 22, 1864—Was on guard last night and today. Write a letter to Myron today.

October 23, 1864 through November 26, 1864 [No entries]

Sunday, November 27, 1864—Lay in ditch at Columbia, Tennessee. Rained all day. In the evening, Battery moved 1.5 miles to the left. Found the pontoon bridge broken down. Remained in the woods that night.

Monday, November 28, 1864—Moved back to our works again. In the evening forded Duck River. Went into camp two miles from the crossing. Saw Battery I.

Tuesday, November 29, 1864—Battle fought at Spring Hill. The battery participated. Hazen J. Corlis killed. Fred Fairchilds wounded slightly in foot.

[Editor’s Note: Whetstone records very little of this action though the role played by the Battery was significant. Gen. Stanley later admitted that, “The Union forces were only saved from irretrievable loss by the stubborn resistance which Battery A made with well directed volleys of shell and canister, and its concentration of fire under the direction of Capt. Goodspeed.” Source: History of Battery A by Henry M. Davidson, page 132.]

Wednesday, November 30, 1864—Battle of Franklin. Battery fired but a few rounds. Captain Scovill slightly wounded [in the breast by a musket ball].

Thursday, December 1, 1864—Arrived at Nashville. Lay in camp near Fort Negley. Saw Milt Whetstone this eve.

Friday, December 2, 1864—Moved a mile to the right. Took a position in the line on the Charlotte Pike.

December 2, 1864 through December 13, 1864 [No entries]

Wednesday, December 14, 1864—Was relieved from the 4th Army Corps. Battery E, 1st Michigan taking our place.

Thursday, December 15, 1864—Battle at Nashville fought.

Friday, December 16, 1864—Battle concluded.