Intro

Transcription

Sunday, 1st February 1863. The day has dragged lazily by. I have accomplished but little, either spiritually or worldly considered. I must not longer tolerate such slackness. I must exert myself to more purpose & not allow these golden moments of leisure to pass for naught. Have spent the day in reading mostly. Write some. The day being damp, rained some that I did not dare venture out to church. I received a letter from home written December 19th. It has been clear away around about by the regiment. Dr. [Samuel McKee] Letcher, one of the Medical faculty, departed this life this forenoon. He has been sick only about a week with the typhoid fever, I believe. He was pretty well advanced in years and was said to be the most skillful physician in or about Lexington. Many a sick soldier who has been restored to health through his instrumentality will drop a tear and lament the departure from his world of troubles & tribulation.

Monday, 2nd. In a.m., reading, writing, and loitering as usual. In p.m., I obtained a pass with three others to make a “squad” & went down town. The sun shone but it was freezing cold. I suffered some with overcoat on. I stopped at No. 3 Hospital. Fred. went to the regiment. Went to Express Office. Could find nothing for me of course. I wonder if they don’t intend to send me anything. If so, I want to know it right off. I went to a confectionary’s and spent 30 cens for light trash, nuts and candies, on a regular bust some will say, then 35 more for butter, cheese and a paper of pepper, more need ul, but what a sacrifice to appetite. It seems as though I must have them. I called at the dentist’s but it was too late.

Tuesday, 3rd. Very cold last night with some snow. Clear but cold all day. I have scarcely been out any. Spent the day as usual. I am trying to get up some valentines. It’s awful slow work.

Wednesday, 4th. The cheapest, shortest and best way to note this day is simply to write ditto. This is a monotonous life the best you can make of it; I cannot confine to writing as I ought. I manage to scribble over half a page or so each day. I slept during last eve. Then sat up [ ] 6.5 hours till 12 o’clock. Composed one verse for my valentine. There was an examination for discharge. Day very cold. Partially clear.

Thursday, 5th. The weather moderated a little last night and set in to snowing & continued throughout the day part of the time. It fell quite fast in p.m. The sleigh bells began to jingle. The snow is 4 or 5 inches deep. I began a letter to Arthur last night. Did not go to bed till 1 o’clock. Erysipelas is quite common in the hospital. Several had cases. Generally comes in the face.

Friday, 6th. Cold and pleasant. Pretty tolerable good sleighing. I have a bad cold. Settled in my head and neck. Is sore and stiff. The doctor ordered some pills for me. My head aches & I feel miserable. I have finally brought my long lingering letter to Friend Hattie to a final termination—8 pages. Began another letter home. I discovered to my horror today that I was infested with body lice. I have felt a terrible itching for several days past. Several others had them.

Saturday, 7th. I passed a restless night. Had a severe headache. Ate no breakfast. Felt very miserable all the a.m. A little better in p.m. I washed and changed my clothes to rid the lice. Wrote some in p.m. They have just received a supply of clothes at the hospital.

Sunday, 8th. I rested a little better last night. Head ached continually & has not ceased a moment through the day. Another complaint has set in of the same nature. I have caught cold & settled in one of my hollow tooth and it is quite painful, also affecting the jaw and adjoining teeth. I can scarcely eat anything hard. One of the men in the ward broke out with the measles and was removed to No. 5 [Hospital] yesterday. I wrote some home.

Monday, 9th. I got interested in a book entitled Passages from the Diary of a Late Physician & read it most all day. Wrote some. One of the men in the war is attacked with the erysipelas on the face, principally about the eyes. Very much swollen & painful. They apply iodine. They are distributing clothing to those who are in want. I drew a pair of shoes. They are tapped or pegged instead of sewed shoes like the first we drew. Seem well made & substantial. One of my old shoes is worthy of the highest praise, I have worn it almost continually for nearly six months & it is perfectly whole & sound appearing, capable of enduring as much more service. Strange the hard marching did not use up all the sewed shoes. I have felt better today than for several days past. Applied hot brick to my face. Stopped pain.

Tuesday, 10th. I finished my letter home this morn & sent it out. Was much disappointed in not getting one today. Wrote some to Arthur. In p.m., got a pass with three others to go down town; hadn’t much of any business there—only to exercise a little. The weather was pleasant though a little cool. Did not spend a cent. I came across Mr. Easman who used to be in our regiment as wagoner. He is employed at something new in town now. Also Mr. Beagle of our company who is teaming & was here yesterday & today for provisions. He informed us that they had all been paid off again down there. The Division was or is in the vicinity of Vicksburg. One of the men here got a letter from friend in the 96th Illinois which belongs to our Brigade who said that they were engaged in the recent fight at Fort Donelson. Charley L. Brown finally departed this life yesterday morn. Poor fellow. He has suffered a great while.

Wednesday, 11th. Finished letter to Arthur & sent it out. In p.m., I went out on my own hook down town. Spent $2 or more truthfully speaking threw away that much. I made some purchases which I regret in part now. I least think I might have done better in some respects now that it’s too late. I gave 50 cents for a magnifying glass. To take a second sober thought, I hardly see what use I can every make of it though it does magnify to a considerable extent, calculated for microscopic observations. Then I gave $1.25 for a combined pocket knife. It is a knife & fork with spoon attached. Quite a handy utensil for army use. The usual price is $1.50. Perhaps a little better article. That man with the erysipelas is very bad. Face swelled so the eyes closed.

Thursday, 12th. Three months of hospital confinement. Nearly half of my enlisted time. How long it’s to continue, the Lord only knows. Several more—15 belonging to the 3rd Division—started for their regiments at 2 p.m. Two men from this ward. One of the men got a letter from one in the Division belonging to 115th Illinois. They were at Nashville, Tennessee. Expected to leave there soon. They are under Rosecrans. They passed by Donelson soon after the fight there. I commenced a letter to Willie. Wrote two pages. Passed out this evening to one of the little shops & got half a peck of potatoes and a [ ] apples 15 cents. Cloud a little. Rain.

Friday, 13th. I spent the a.m. as usual writing or trying to “vercify.” In p.m., yself and another man scrubbed and mopped the floor. I got pretty tired before I got through. My legs ached principally. After resting a little, I went out down town. Went to express office. Nothing for me. Went to bookstore & bought one of Fowler’s & Well’s handbooks, “How to Talk.” 50 cents. Also a bottle of ink, 10 cents. My weight 114 lb.

Almon’s crude sketches of the Henry Clay Monument in Lexington, Kentucky

Saturday, 14th. The day opened very propitious but clouded up before noon. I spent the forenoon up in Mrs. Flint’s room (the steward’s wife) inspecting the surrounding warts with my glass & reading. In p.m., I again visited the Lexington Cemetery. I spent the p.m. very pleasantly & profitably. I went directly there after dinner [and] stayed till near 4 o’clock. I stopped at the entrance which is a splendid affair & gained a few items of interest of the gate tender. He gave the height of the Henry Clay Monument as 132.5 feet instead of 119 & the statue 12.5 feet. The gateway consists of an arch with the office and dwelling included, constructed after the manner of some foreign architecture. There is a nursery attached to the cemetery where several kinds of evergreens are grown with all other kinds of monumental shrubbery. After examining a map of the cemetery & other curiosities in the office, I proceeded to the monument not far distant from the entrance. Unfortunately I forgot my spyglass which I had intended to bring that I might more closely inspect the features of the statue. The base of the monument is 12 paces square & twenty feet high. The material of the monument is what is called Kenucky marble and brought from the Kentucky river 12 miles distant. A man who was at work in the ground showed me where the illustrious departed now reposes. There is no mark to designate the spot beside the simple mound. His mother’s grave is 10 or 12 feet distant by which is a monument with this inscription.

Elizabeth Watkins, formerly Elizabeth Clay
Born 1750, died 1829

I have omitted the day of the month, It is intended to remove the remains of the renowned statesman to the vault prepared for it in the base of the monument this summer sometime. I sat down & drew a rough outline sketch of the monument into my note book. From the monument, wandered among the silent homes of the departed of this earth. There are many truly beautiful small monuments from 12 to 20 feet high, some of the iron fences around the family lots were highly ornamental. It must be said to the credit of the citizens in and about Lexington that they have not spared time, labor, nor expense towards beautifying & ornamenting the ground & rendering it attractive as a place for pleasure riding or walking. Evergreen trees and shrubs are thickly interspersed among the opposite kind of trees & shrubs. In summer time it must be very shady.

Near the monument is a circular hollow, quite deep, almost a pond though dry. The banks have been marked & formed into terraces. There are three large vaults dug into the bank and stoned up. They are private property, I believe, but one is used as a temporary receptacle of the dead bodies of the soldiers that die here. All that die are placed in this vault a certain number of days so that their friends, if they have any, can have an opportunity to take them away or to see them at least. They are then buried in a circular trench thus [see sketch]. A mound is raised over each body as over any grave. There is but about six inches between each mound. A few have head boards with their names & regiment. A man was at work on them.

The afternoon was quite disagreeable—cloudy with showers of rain. I was wet through by the time I got back. Over the entrance is inscribed “Lexington Cemetery Founded 1849.” The ward master, Mr. Biddle, is got unewell. I finally got a letter from home. Nothing new in particular.

Sunday, February 15th. This day completes half a year spent in the service of Uncle Sam. Who can tell how and where the residue of the year will be spent. Mr. Biddle being unwell with a bad cold & unable to do much, I took hold & helped on the chores of the ward &c. At 11 o’clock I went and attended to Catholic Church—the first I ever had a chance to. I was rather late for the sermon proper was most out. After the sermon was concluded, which was common placed enough, the minister disappeared behind the scene. Then began the forms and ceremonies indescribable and innumerable. The minister was fantastically dressed in a suit of white gown & a large black cape. The priest or Domini who presided over the seemingly nonsensical ceremonies which followed considerably resembled the priests represented in pictures. There were also four little boys about 10 or 12 years old who took an active part in the performances. The boys were dressed most like girls—red dress and pink robes bound around with a red sash. The dress came just below the knees. The old priest would sing or repeat a long rigamarole of unintelligible gibberish, occasionally kneeling and performing divers other antics. He was accompanied in chanting his Latin mass by the music, the choir, and organ. This was to me the best part of the service. Several lights were kept continually burning. The church within is fixed up quite nice and elegant. Several pictures representing the crucifixion or things connected with our Savior. All the members (the church was mostly filled with them) had each a book from which they read while the priest was going through with his routine of formalities. I noticed that whenever any of them had a reason to pass the center of the altar or santuary, that they would invariably kneel. The whole congregation kneeled during most of the time occupied in these forms which lasted over half an hour.

In p.m., I wrote. Began a letter home. Day was pleasant.

Monday, 16th. I have tinkered around at various occupations today. Read and wrote. Finished writing the “arrearage” of my diary, or the sketch notes taken when I was sick with the measles. I got a short letter from F. O. Dicky. Though brief, it was welcomed “for a thot.” Also an Independent & Northerner from home. My name was taken down with several others for examination for discharges to the regiment. I don’t know when the examination is to come off. I hope I shall not have to leave for a week or two yet as I ain’t ready yet to go. I have traded dress coats with a man. Got a smaller one that fits me better. Got Mrs. Flint to knot a [ ] in today. I finished a poetical valentine to Hattie M. upon which I have been engaged for some time past & sent it out. It contained three stanzas composed in the Iambic style with 68 [ ] to a measure. Besides this, an acrostic to her name. Signed my name Americus.

Tuesday eve, 17th. Well, there has been quite a sudden and important change in affairs since morn. The forenoon passed away quiet as usual, without the slightest intimation of what was to come off in p.m. I worked most of the p.m. at fixing over the pockets in my coat, helped considerable about the ward as the assistant in sick. Soon after dinner, those that were considered able (though there was not a regular examination yesterday) were told to pack their knapsack and prepare to travel forthwith. This was an arrangement wholly unlooked for. The train was to start at 2 p.m., consequently there was no time to be lost in superfluous preliminaries. If they had only let us know in the morning what their calculation was so that we could have had a little time to wind up affairs and make ready, it would have been much more agreeable and sensible.

The above was written just after supper which consisted of bread, meat and coffee between9 and 10 o’clock.

Well we scratched our things together & started for the depot soon after 1 o’clock. In the hurry, I forgot my new shoes. I could not help but feel bad to leave the many acquaintances I had. My main objection to starting just yet was this. I am confidently expecting that much talked of box to arrive every day & if I went away before it came, it would be of no use to me. I therefore made arrangements with Biddle in case it came that he might take possession of it. I wrote home last night and sent out this morn telling them not to send anything if not already started. I had some business down town that I wanted to attend to before leaving but plague take the botheration. How provoking! There were a dozen discharged from hospital.

We marched down to the depot and waited half an hour for the cars. Five, think there was, finally arrived regular passenger cars; only eight from our hospital got aboard. Two of them landed at Frankfort. The cars were pretty well filled up with passengers and quite crowded. Finally got underway. The cars halted very often at the little stations along the way. Arrived at Frankfort at 4 o’clock. Here we landed & walked to the ferry and crossed the Kentucky river. The railroad bridge has been destroyed, which is being rebuilt. On the other side were the cars waiting for us. There were 15 or 20 rebel prisoners taken along with us in another car. They were sick and wounded ones. Had come from the hospital. They are the first rebel soldiers I have seen. The look pretty rough; dressed in citizens clothes.

We started again continually halting every two miles or so at the numeroous little stations. I paid 10 cents for Harpers Weekly to read. About 9 o’clock we entered the considerable city of Louisville. The cars slacked their speed and went a long distance into the city [when] we finally landed and we were taken quite a piece to the Provost Marshal’s Office. Thence onward another piece & got supper, after which we were taken a piece further to sleep. It is after 10 o’clock.

Wednesday, 18th. 8 o’clock a.m. We lodged last night in what is called the barracks—an old hotel. Slept in bunks built one above the other, straw ticks only were furnished. Not quite so clean & comfortable as the hospital accommodations. Slept very well till near morn when we were awakened by the arrival of about 50 men from Cincinnati who came down on a boat. Between 7 and 8 we had breakfast—bread, meat and coffee. The pork relishes very well, not having any in so long. I like the coffee here better than at the hospital, Good soft bread is furnished in abundance.

The excitement among the convalescents occasioned by the movement recently got up for the formation of what is called a “Marine Brigade” or gunboat service. It is represented as just the place fot partially disabled men—those who can’t stand it to march. They are to enlist for the term of three years to operate on the Mississippi river. One of the men who came with us has joined as he is lame. I don’t know but it would be the best place for me. Still I want to get back to my company and regiment. I would have to go among entire strangers and form new associations.

We heard early in the morn that a squad was about ready to start to Nashville to join their regiments. We hurried over to the office to procure transportation but was too late. Were told that we should have to wait till tomorrow. We do not know precisely where our regiments are located—only that they are supposed to be somewhere in the vicinity of Nashville. (About 4 p.m.) I went out awhile this a.m. down by the [Ohio] river at the steamboat landing near which we are. There were eight or ten boats at the dock. The Ohio river now looks like a river. It is three times as wide as [ ] full, at this place at any rate. I dared not run around much without a pass for fear of the patrols. I applied for one, but it was set and raining some & I looking like a hospital subject, they would not grant one. I wanted very much to make a few purchases but there was nothing I wanted in the near vicinity though there were a good many stores. I wrote a letter to the ward master, Vincent, requesting him to retain my mail matter until further orders. Had bread, pork, and bean soup for dinner. The pork relished very well. Anything for a change.

About 1 o’clock, all that did not belong to the Marine Brigade were ordered to another “Satan’s Unaccountable” or barracks in the near vicinity. Once within its dingy walls, there was no getting out. A guard was placed at every point of egress. These barracks are quite extensive. There are a good many rooms and all are full. We are worse off than last night for we have to lie on the hard boards. I have got so weaned from such rough usage that I’ll have to go through an entire “breaking in” again as at the commencement. Louisville is without the least controversy. “some considerable” city & a place of unquestionable importance. I have not seen many buildings quite so grand and imposing as I saw in Cincinnati. I suppose that the gay, wealthy, and fancy part of the town in back farther from the river. The streets are muddy and nasty. The paved, on account of so much late rain, cloudy and misty all day. The long continuous lines of street lamps appear pretty in the night time. I meet with soldiers from almost every regiment in the Western army.

Evening (written Thursday). Last night will be remembered memorial as another grand turning point in my life. It yet remains to be seen whether it will be an advantageous one or not. I have ventured to try my fortunes on the Mississippi in the new enterprise that is forming—the “Mississippi Marine Brigade.” I hazard much. I don’t know but I “have jumped from the griddle into the fire” but it don’t strike me that I will be any worse off now than I was & that was unquestionably not an enviable one. The man who was in here recruiting, Lieut. Nichols, remind me of Capt. Bigelow in form and manner excepting he don’t swear so as Capt. Bigelow does. He is a kind, gentlemanly appearing man and I doubt not an efficient officer. He has had considerable experience in the gunboat service. He got some half a dozen here last night. A good share of the men here have already served a year or half their time and do not fancy adding three more years. Another one of our squad—a young sergeant [named] Hall, joined.

Thursday, 19th. The rest on my squad with 40 or 50 others left here for their respective destinations 6 o’clock this morning. (2 p.m.) I have just finished a letter of four pages home informing them of my proceedings. I fear it will not meet of their approval. I should like to have consulted them first but that could not be. I have done so believing that it was an advantage to me & doing greater justice to my bodily frailties. The tasks really appear lighter & there is less exposure to my health with the exception of the maladies.

(5 p.m.) The Lieutenant who recruited us was kind enough to pass me out in town for a little while. I began on my $5 bill. I spent $1 today. Went to a couple of bookstores but they had nothing I wanted at the most that I could procure. At one of the stores they had D. Appleton’s New American Cyclopedia. I took a glance into it. Oh how I should like it at home. I got a number of the Chamber’s Cyclopedia very cheap. The usual price is 11 cents and I got them at 9 cents apiece. We still expect to start out this eve.

Friday, 20th. (Near evening) Well, here I am located in the famous “Benton Barracks” St. Louis, Mo. I may as well begin at the commencement of our journey westward starting from the Louisville Barracks about 6 o’clock or little after. First are our supper, then packed up and went over to the Quartermaster Department and drew ration of bread and pork to last on the way. Then went afoot near half a mile to a street car ticket office to get transportation to the ferry, New Albany, three miles distant. We arrived too late to go down on the regular time car so we had to hire one expressly. The Lieutenant paid $3 to take 10 of us down. Riding in the stretecars is about the same as railroad cars. We got to the river & had to wait some time for the ferry boat to arrive. Stopped in a drinking and billiard saloon. Did not happen to see any disgraceful outrages though. Very quiet. At last about 9 o’clock the ferry boat came over. The night was very tedious—the wind blew strong and the river was quite rough. Rained quite hard during the day sometimes. We got aboard the [ferry] boat which is a large and peculiarly constructed thing, built so that teams &c. can drive aboard, all so very handy. Son reached the Indiana shore. At this period of action, myself and another man unfortunately got separated from the Lieutenant and the rest though we have not experienced any material disadvantage as yet, but congratulate ourselves rather on our good fortune as we are now here while the rest, if they are coming at all, are on the way, It’s a wonder how we were allowed to come on without transportation.

The way we got separated was thus. As the boat was preparing to land, myself and this other man—an entire stranger belonging in the squad—walked out to the main place of getting off where the stages & teams drive off, leaving the rest in the cabin. We waited some time for the rest to come. The [omni]buses with passengers for the cars had all gone on & we thought we were going to be late. As the rest did not come, we concluded that they had got off at the other end of the boat & gone on so we put after fast as possible. Went a half mile and arrived just in time to get aboard [the train]. As we came up, they asked us if we belonged to the Marines. Said we did [and] they told us to get aboard then. There were a lot of others who had come down from Camp Dennison near Cincinnati & some who were just starting from New Albany. When asked for our tickets, we told them our condition that the Lieutenant was left behind. They demurred some but said we could go. We got in league with the New Albany squad & all went on right again. I suppose the rest of the party will come in tonight some time.

We left New Albany [Indiana] at 12 o’clock midnight. I rode in the baggage car to Mitchell where we changed cars 10 minutes past one o’clock. I managed to take one or two naps during the time. The cars that we got into were considerably crowded so I had to stand up some time. I finally got a chance to sit down and slept some. About 4 o’clock we passed through Vincennes. I think we crossed the state line about daylight. Caught sight of the [Wabash] river in the distance with steamboats a going. At about 8 o’clock we crossed the Illinois Central Railroad, stopped a few minutes, and those who could afford got a bite to eat. I had plenty with me such as it was. The country most all the way is a very low, flat prairie, sometimes low oak grubs were plentiful There was a striking difference between the Illinois farms and buildings & those of Kentucky. There appears to have been a great deal of rain here. Water standing like ponds in every direction. I have not seen any heavy timber. The inhabitants seem a poor class.

We crossed the Illinois Central & Chicago Branch Railroad (the one we used to live on). It seems by a map I have just seen a little north of their junction at Centralia. They were about five miles apart where they crossed. So then I passed between where Uncle Francis & Uncle Marco lives, and not very far from either. I can’t say much in praise of the country here at any rate. I was told here that Centralia was north of us. How I should like to have stopped & give my relatives a call.

I made out to sleep a little during the forenoon. About noon we arrived and disembarked on the bank of the “Father of Waters” opposite of the “Western Metropolis.” Here a ferry boat soon arrived & transferred us to the western shore, landed, and immediately proceeded up into town to the headquarters of “Miss. Marine Brigade.” We waited here some half an hour & then marched to the renowned “Benton Barracks.” It was a long, tedious walk—near five miles, if not more. I got quite tired carrying my knapsack. The city extended most there. Like all other great cities, St. Louis is a complicated complex mass of continued wonders, easier imagined than described. I will not therefore attempt the task. There are every variety of goods, articles, and notions displayed to tempt a man’s money. I did not spend a cent.

There were several river boats being built and finished off at the water’s edge. I don’t know but they were for the Marine service. Also one ironclad gunboat. It was an odd-looking thing. Not finished yet.

About 3 o’clock I think we entered the extensive encampment & soldiers’ quarters—Benton Barracks. The most of the barracks & officers’ quarters, &c. were built for the St. Louis World’s Fair a few years ago. They have undergone some remodeling. The large amphitheater is now being rigged over for a hospital. The accommodations to the fair were very extensive and got up on a grand scale. Additional quarters have been built to accommodate the many troops that have stopped here from time to time. We were shown our present place of abode & presently given a very good dinner of bread, meat and potatoes. They are driving things right straight through. After dinner, or supper, we were immediately taken to the surgeon for examination. There was not time to examine all gents. I was not. Those examined were given their new uniform in part; their hurry in this was to appear on a Grand Review tomorrow in honor of Washington’s Birthday though it does not come till next day.

There was considerable dissatisfaction among some of the men that came from Camp Dennison when they came to talk over the matter again here. It had been misrepresented to them a little. I have not yet seen anything yet to scare me much. Five companies are full and have their arms and uniforms and are drilling. They have the Springfield rifle instead of the Sharps, as the latter could not be procured. These are much lighter and said to be a first rate arm—bettter made than those our regulars have.

The barracks are constructed very convenient but not keep clean as they ought—only partially furnished with straw ticks as yet. They promised we should have them soon. I made out to secure one. Rats and mice are very plentiful. The water looks rather dubious that we have to use; very good now, but I guess in summer time it’s otherwise. Dress parade at night. Five companies came out. They make a gay appearance. Col. [George E.] Currie is the highest officer in command at present here. There are also five companies of cavalry and several field pieces in full trim.

Saturday, 21st. I rested very well last night though some cold. The weather is growing cooler. Soon after breakfast the rest of us that were not examined went over to the surgeon’s and underwent his scrutinization. He does not strip off their clothes—only in certain doubtful cases. A great many are from old regiments & have been in battles & received wounds, and others being just from the hospitals will have some disease about them yet. There was a dozen or 15 rejected of those that came down with me but I myself was all right as a matter of course. He did not question me much if any—only asked me what sent me to the hospital, if I was sound every way, &c. Those rejected were given transportation back again to their hospitals or to the regiment as circumstances required. The remainder of my squad arrived about 8 o’clock. The Lieutenant stopped at Evansville & will come on next week. They came up to the depot [at New Albany] about half a minute after the cars had started out that night. They laid over there till next morn and came on. Sergt. [William W.] Hall then took charge of the squad.

Between 8 and 9 o’clock several Iowa regiments, infantry and cavalry, with all of the “Marine Brigade” that had received their arms and uniform—the infantry, cavalry and artillery—all formed in line of march and proceeded to town according to programme. They did not get back till middle of p.m. They say they had to march all through the city, were reviewed by Major Gen. [Samuel Ryan] Curtis. As the officers were all off on the review, no more clothing &c. was issued today. I have had all day to myself, but have not accomplished much. Have written 14 pages for yesterday of accounts. I added a little more to the letter I began at Louisville. I sent it out, home.

About 3 p.m. another squad from Louisville arrived, got up by a Capt. Whitehead. Mr. Holman was in this squad. Sergt. [William W.] Hall and myself have entered into a league of friendship. He is a quiet, intelligent and good moral’d person, something of my own temperament. He belonged to the 115th Illinois [Co. G] and was in Hospital No. 7 for two months. It changed cold and began to snow towards night.

Sunday, 22nd. Quite wintery this morning. Snowed two or three inches deep. I slept tolerably comfortable. Four persons sleep in a bunk. We put two blankets over and India rubber blanket under. There are three bunks, one above the other. We occupy the upper one. There are 16 stands of bunks in this room, consequently three bunks to a stand (I don’t know what else to call them), these 48 bunks capable of holding 48×4 = 192 men. I think there are now about 100 in. We will probably be organized into a company tomorrow.

I went out this morn reconnoitering among some of the other companies & with joy unutterable I was fortunate enough to find one from my old Co. G. It was James Hall. He was taken sick at Falmouth [Kentucky] when we were on the march last fall & was sent back to Cincinnati. He stayed there till he got well again when he was sent to Camp Dennison. Once there a week or so, he joined the Marines about a month ago. He is well and hearty now.

(Evening) I have spent today in reading and writing. Read 13 chapters in Testament. Began a letter to the regiment. It has been clear but cold. The water we use is river water, brought here by pipes underground & at central and convenient places a sort of pump or hydrant is constructed. Operates like a faucet. There are several hundred of these hydrants within the camp ground. The water is very silty now—like it is in the river. But when the river is low, it ought to be clear. It is cold and tastes good if you don’t think or look at it.

Monday, 23rd. Another day of leisure. They have done nothing towards organization except having those that came in last examined. There were over 70 and 16 were rejected. There is some contention or misunderstanding about the concern. Several have been recruited that were not convalescents nor had been nigh the hospital lately. As the order required that none but such should be enlisted in this service deeming, I suppose, that the shelter and protection of the barracks and gunboats were better suited to their condition than the field—especially those afflicted with rheumatism.

I ought to have written half a dozen letters today but thought I would not till I found out what it to be did. We do not yet know who is to Captain over the other officers to any certainty. The two prospective Lieutenants I like the appearance of very well. They have established “Roll Call.” I went over to “Soldier Town” today; situated among the numerous barracks on the other side of the parade ground. It is a town indeed. There are stores, oyster saloons, jewelry shops, several groceries, shoe shops, tin shops, and four or five picture galleries. They have also a couple shooting galleries. One is rendered quite attractive by an ingenious contrivance which causes a couple of figures—a man and a woman dressed in foreign costumes very fantastically—to come out from opposite sides of a screen & meet each other whenever the target is hit exactly. It was well worth 5 cents, the charge for three shots, to see those figures come forth, nearly as large as life. The whole concern very tasteful and attractive. There was also a life sized image of a man, the target on his breast. Hit it and a bell would ring. A great cure-all patent medicine peddler came around. He claimed as many good qualities for it as the great “Wizard Oil” man did for his stuff. It would cure headache, toothache, and everything of that sort in less than no time. Cured all that were thus afflicted free grats for nothing, price per bottle $1. I concluded I could not afford it just yet. Also a polish peddler t 12 cents a ball. Apples, cake, & pie peddlers are very numerous, mostly women. They take in workings & buy the clothes sent [ ].

I sold my old hickory shirt that I brought from home to one of them for 15 cents each & 3 onion. They asked 5 cents for, not as much as it was really worth, I don’t think, for I have not worn it since last fall. They will buy, giving a little something for any piece of cast off clothing that the soldiers don’t want. I bought at Soldier Town a small tin pail and cup, 15 and 5 cents. They have not furnished us but a limited supply of cups, plates, &c. as yet, but intend to have all things regulated as soon as we are organized. The others are rigged out very well. All who had not previously drawn their guns and accoutrements drew them tonight. The gun, bayonet and scabbard, cartridge box and cap box, belt, shoulder strap and gun strapping sling, with three brass plates for belt, cartridge box and eagle breastplate. These with the shoulder scales—a sort of epaulet, make quite a brassy appearance. We are not allowed to wear the scales–only on public occasions. Day quite pleasant though cool. Very sloppy and bad walking.

Tuesday, 24th. Another day in which little has been accomplished either individually or collectively. The main business has been signing the “Enlistment roll.” Another large squad from Camp Dennison arrived for the formation of another new company. This company is to be designated Co. F. There is a report that Richmond, Kentucky, is captured by the Rebels. Probably the next thing we hear is that Lexington is in the same predicament. If that comes to pass, then all the effects that I may happen to have there will be lost. Day pleasant.

Wednesday, 25th. (2 p.m.) I am now held in anxious suspense as to my future destiny. I am fearful that I with a good many others will yet have to return to our regiments. Soon after breakfast, we (this company) were ordered out in a line for inspection by the Colonel (Col. Currie I think it is). He began at the head of the line & every pale, sickly, endunerous [?] looking chap, he walked out. As soon as he set eyes on me, he said, “You can’t stand it to drill 8 hours a day. Just step back here.” There were about 100 of us & he rejected near one-third of the number—more than the surgeon did. The Colonel is himself a doctor & a pretty keen one too I guess. Now the mystery is at the present moment, what is to be done with us rejected ones. Whether we are to be sent to our regiments as some think or to be reexamined by the surgeon. Some are sick of being bamboozled around so and are determined to go back, Others are anxious to go in this Brigade. Some of the rejected ones have gone over and joined the artillery. As to myself, it’s immaterial to me though I had rather stay here. All of the rejected ones had to pick up their duds and remove to barracks No. 4 adjoining and the accepted ones [ ] (those that came last night) were put in with the others. All the rejected ones were required to return every article that they had drawn back to the quartermaster. There is a strange mismanagement somehow. They don’t seem to know what course to pursue & what method to adopt. Lieut. Nichols arrived this morn. He belongs to another company. My blanket was stolen out of my bunk. There goes $3. I am entitled to a new one.

Thursday, 26th. Most of those who were rejected by the Colonel yesterday, including myself, have returned to Co. F. All that desired to return to their regiments had that privilege. Several went, The other companies drilled Battalion Drill. I wrote & sent out a letter to Mr. Biddle, No. 1 Hospital [in Lexington, Ky.] Enclosed a note to Dr. Peters for a Certificate of what is due me for my services there. I am afraid all I have there will be lost as we hear that the Rebels are advancing towards Lexington.

Friday, 27th. I spent most of the a.m. in prospecting. I made a circuit around to the lower end of the barracks, across the parade ground, by a couple short rows of barracks situated in the center at the other end, across to the other side & to the before mentioned Soldier’s Town. There I parted with another dollar for various articles—a diary, 50 cents; scissors, 25 cents; tin plate 5 and 15 cents for nonsense. I tried my luck again at the shooting gallery but did not do so well as before.

Those who wished drilled in a.m. performing the various evolutions without arms. In p.m., all that were able were required to drill a couple of hours. It seemed considerably like old times in the regiment. The step and different movements soon came to me. I got pretty tired The day has been very pleasant. The mud is drying up and it is getting quite passable. I have drawn another blanket. It is not so good as my old one. Confound the scamp that stole it. I suppose it has been sold to some of the old clothes buyers for little or nothing ere this. I wrote a letter home tonight.

The [Benton] Barracks are said to be one mile long. There is the two long ones, one on each side of the parade ground. The land appropriated to the government for camping purposes is about a mile and a quarter one way by a mile the other. There are accommodations provided it’s said for 60,000 men, not half that number are now quartered here. Several Iowa regiments and Missouri cavalry are here. The barracks are built very comfortably and conveniently & substantially. The barracks constitute two long rows, one on each side the whole length of the parade ground with 3 openings for the passage of teams, &c.—one in middle and each side midway. Then every thirty paces is an open passage. Between each passage are two barracks with accommodations for two companies in each constructed thus: [sketch]

About 16 feet back of the line of barracks is the line of kitchens and store rooms &c. In front of the barracks is a good walk with a porch or veranda over it. At the lower or further end was a couple more rows of barracks about 40 [ ] long with a hospital across the end.

Saturday, 28th. Quite an important step towards advancement was taken today. The five companies infantry and four companies cavalry were mustered for pay which I suppose they will soon receive. The companies of cavalry performed various evolutions which were quite new to me. Some of the horses behaved like “veterans.” These four companies are all that is to be raised. I don’t know when our turn will come for mustering. I hope soon so that we may be getting out of this hole. I spent the day in listlessly lolling about, watching others, reading and writing. Finished letter to the regiment and sent it out. Nothing has been done today that I knew of towards organizing this company. I don’t see what they mean by being so slow. I caught a glimpse of the man said to be our Captain. He appears like a pompous city “upper ten”; don’t believe he knows much about military matters. He is seldom about here. It rained most a.m. Clear in p.m.

Sunday, March 1, 1863. Well, the holy Sabbath—the day set apart from the other six as a day in which all mankind should cease from their labors and direct their thoughts to the things which pertain to a hereafter—is now nearly over. But how little have I seen among the many surrounding me, any manifestation of a sense of their duty to their God & Maker. Many have spent the day in playing cards, others in pitching quoits, and other pastimes. But I cannot comment entirely the manner in which I have spent a share of the day. I got started and one thing after another led me on & I spent most a.m. wandering around among and inspecting the buildings, structures, &c. &c. of the Fair Grounds. The work is rapidly progressing of converting the amphitheater into a hospital. It is very commodious. A large drain is being dug to carry off the slops, &c. From the structure in the centre, I obtained quite an extensive view of the surrounding country. The numerous other edifices of lesser importance are very attractive or were one day. Now used for government purposes. A curiously contrived poultry house for the fowls on exhibition composed wholly of wire was quite a curiosity.

I wrote a little in continuation of my letter to Willie in p.m. Do not fel very ell. Have a bad cold and a little diarrhea. Have kept it back heretofore by using cayenne peppers. Am out now. Must get some more. Day pleasant but clouding up.

Monday, 2nd. We drilled a couple hours in a.m. The Colonel drilled the other five companies in Battalion Drill. 2nd Lieutenant Dean is our drill master. In fact, he is the only officer that has anything to do with us. He is a very good officer considering the little experience he has had but does not begin to compete with Capt. Bigelow (my old Captain in the 19th Michigan). In p.m. about 1 o’clock, we “fell in” for muster. Marched down to headquarters when after waiting and shivering in te cold an hour or so, were informed that there was a defect in the papers. 20 [ ] must till another day.

Soon after we drew guns and equipments—the Springfield rifled musket with bayonet & scabbard, cartridge box, cap box, belt, cartridge or shoulder strap, and gun sling with the three brass plates, two US plates for belt and cartridge box and eagle breast plate, a part of the gun and attachments have been used before and polished & varnished over again. We went down again to draw caps but there were none but the cullings so that we could not fit ourselves, so that job was postponed for another day. At night we came out with the rest on dress parade. We occupy the position on the right wing next to Co. A as 2nd in order. In [my] old regiment, my company was on the left & next to last company or 9th company. We wind up dress parade a little different. Here, after the usual routine, they form in a hollow square, then the orders are read if there be any, or any other business transacted. They they delpy into line & are dismissed. It’s a very pretty movement. The “Marines” make a splendid appearance when in full dress.

There were several appointments and promotions made public at dress parade, among other was Lieut. Nichols promoted to a 1st Lieutenancy of the Light Marine Battery, former 1st Lieutenant Infantry. A certain corporal was reduced to ranks for drunkenness. The day cloudy and cold. A strong wind from the—well! I don’t know which way it came from, but was from a horrid cold quarters. I have not suffered so much with cold this winter as today. We expect to go aboard the boats in a couple days. They are at St. Louis. My friend Hall is quite unwell. Has a fever.

A few days ago a man came around exhibiting the wonderful performances of a little monkey. Its performances were truly laughable & it displayed a considerable intelligence. It was about the size of a large cat. Had it dressed in a red flounced dress and a cunning little jockey hat. The outline of its face was almost human and with such a comical expression. Then too it had a big, long tail so that altogether it presented a most ludicrous appearance. It performed numerous antics and tricks. He made no charge but expected that the boys would throw in liberally.

Tuesday, 3rd. We drilled with our arms a couple hours in a.m. Some of the movements bother me some here as I have to “unlearn” my old method & learn a new. I don’t think it’s much of an improvement either. No drill in p.m. Some of us drew our Marine jackets. They are like the cavalry jackets or waistcoats. I got a very good fit—rather small. Still said that we are to go aboard the boats tomorrow. Several loads of the army stores &c. were sent off. The sutler is fixing to leave. Another squad said to be 80 in number arrived today for the formation of Co. G. They are from Quincy, Illinois. Many are sick and lame. I think a good many will be rejected. I bought a colored shirt off Hall yesterday. Agreed to give him 50 cents when paid off. As an offset this morn, I bargained off my spyglass for the promise of $2 on “pay day.” O don’t know but I have cut up another foolish caper by treating an entire stranger. He belongs to Co. F. Cold and windy as yet.

Wednesday, 4th. Evening. On board of US Transport Adams. At roll call last night the Lieutenant announced to us to have our knapsacks all packed and be ready for marching by half past 9 o’clock on the morrow. Accordingly this morn, every preparation was made for shifting our quarters aboard the boats—our homes, I suppose, for the next three years. I was intensely cold. We suffered a good deal. Then to make matters worse, our rations ran out. Between 9 and 10 o’clock we formed in ranks and took up our line of march for the city. Our knapsacks were put aboard of teams, only had the guns &c, to carry. It had been quite muddy but was now frozen & exceedingly rough. The weather quite inclined to wintry. We marched most of the way through the city in column by platoons. This Co. F was 2nd in order from the lead of line. There were 68 men in the ranks—the largest company of the companies at that. We marched through the city without stopping & arrived at the river where our floating homes quietly lay a little after noon. There are five of the concerns fitted up expressly for our accommodation. Their names as follows: the Baltic, B. J. Adams, Autocrat, Diana, and John Raine. Beginning in order from the Baltic which lies lowest downstream, a large ironclad lies just above us. The men are at work upon it finishing it off. It is a huge and odd looking thing—the most prominent parts of it are the wheelhouse.

We occupy the boat B. J. Adams, with Co. E & Co. C Cavalry. We were first lead into the long dining hall. When perceiving the nice comfortable little state rooms on each side, we began to congratulate ourselves on being so fortunate as to belong to the Marine service and being furnished such nice and comfortable quarters, but it soon turned quite different for we were soon shown our bunks down below among the machinery & dark as Egypt, also being low between floors and altogether an unwholesome and uninviting place. It will be hot and suffocating too when fired up. The bunks are inconvenient too, built so close together one above the other and barely enough room to crawl in.

I sold before we started one of my old flannel shirts & tin plate for 25 cents, 15 cash, I had a great hunt for my knapsack after I got to the boat. Then come night it was missing again—some low-lived scamp has stole it out of my bunk. I do have the plagiest luck yet. I wonder if I have got to keep everything under lock and key. A pox take such a set of thieves. I shall institute a thorough search for it tomorrow. The Lieutenant kindly furnished me another blanket for tonight.

Thursday, 5th. I was about half the a.m. hunting up my knapsack which I finally found on the other side of the boat in Co. E’s quarters. Fortunately it had not been opened but was all right. What object anyone could have had to lug it off there is more than I can imagine. The rest of the day spent “tom fooling around” I hardly know how but generally in watching others and looking and listening. I tried to compose myself to write a letter or two but accommodations for the business so scant and it was so cold, that I deferred it till the weather moderated.

Co. C of Cavalry was paid off today. We expect to be mustered tomorrow. There is nothing certain about when we are to leave here. Various rumors. The hands and soldiers are busy loading the boats with forage and stores. Also the carpenters are busy completing the arrangements. None of the boats are finished. Great alteration and improvements are going on. These boats were formerly all common river boats—sidewheel steamers, and have been modeled over at great expense. They are the largest sized boas that ran on the rivers. The “hurricane deck” being about 200 feet according to my measurement. Then the lower deck is 15 or 20 feet longer yet. An additional floor or deck has been put in between the floor that the engine rests on and the regular cabin floor for the soldier’s bunk room—barely high enough for a shortish man to stand straight in. But the main feature of these boats is the bullet proof armour or protection that has been built all around the outside with loopholes cut through to shoot through. The planks are of oak and two inches thick. Its double planked with an open space between of about 4 inches. No glass windows but small slide door openings so all can be closed tight. They are painted a dark yellow butternut color. The boats in their general form, plan, build, and arrangements are alike—some small alterations in their minor constructions.

(Written afterwards in September) Capt. Malburn [?], the commander of the boat, is an excellent boatman & respected by all the men on board. The 1st Mate, Mr. Leslie, was after three or four weeks transferred to command the Ram Lioness. The 2nd Mate, Mr. Ferrill, then became 1st and Thomas [ ], one of the deck hands became 2nd Mate, Started with a dozen or 15 white deck hands. Now (September) only have two white men.

The Field Officers are apportioned to the command of the several boats in the following order.

Gen. Ellet on board the Autocrat.
Col. Ellet (his nephew) on the Diana
Lieut. Col. Currie on the Adams
Major Tallerday of the Infantry on the Baltic
And Major Hubbard of the Cavalry on the John Raine.

These officers direct the management of their respective boats, issue orders for their government, and are responsible for the conduct of those on board.

Additional notes: Each bunk was provided with a good tick and pillow filled with straw. These were quite an improvement on the bare boards. The steam seldom if ever troubles us, being all carried off by the pipes. The smoke is the most vexatious as it blacks up everything so. The upper bunks are not occupied as they are more warmed by the heat of the pipes & the room with out.

Lieutenant-Colonel Currie has a remarkable peculiarity about his eyes. One is blue and the other brown, but the feature is not always noted as he squints or keeps them so near closed as not to be seen. Then they are quite deep sunken in his head. He is esteemed the most efficient officer of the Brigade. There is more confidence reposed in him than in Col. & General Ellet both. The first young and inexperienced. The latter not qualified for the position.