My passion is studying American history leading up to & including the Civil War. I particularly enjoy reading, transcribing & researching primary sources such as letters and diaries.
I could not find an image of John but here an unidentified infantryman from Massachusetts who appears to be about the same age as John (Dave Morin Collection)
The following letters were written by 41 year-old John Blatchford (1821-1912), the son of William Blatchford (1789-1864) and Betsy Foster (17xx-1832), and the husband of Lydia Wright (1827-1913). John was working as a brick mason in Boston, Massachusetts, when he enlisted on 16 August 1862 as a private in Co. F, 40th Massachusetts Infantry. At the time of his enlistment, he had two sons—Frederick (age 8) and William (age 6).
According to military records, John served with his regiment until 7 February 1865 when he was discharged prematurely for disability at the age of 43.
The regiment arrived at Fort Ethan Allen across the Potomac from the Capitol on 12 September 1862. It remained manning the defenses of Washington DC, under the operational and administrative control of the 2nd Brigade, Abercrombie’s Division, Military District of Washington, until February 1863. This time was relatively uneventful for the regiment save for the response to a raid on 28 December by Stuart’s rebel cavalry where they arrived only in time to capture a small number of the cavalry’s rear guard. The regiment remained in the defenses south of Washington through the winter and early spring of 1863. On 2 February, the forces defending Washington were reorganized into the XXII Corps.
Letters by other members of the 40th Massachusetts Infantry that I have transcribed and published on Spared & Shared include: Mahlon N. Thatcher, Co. B, 40th Massachusetts (14 Letters) Warren P. Searles, Co. C, 40th Massachusetts (1 Letter) Charles Wilson Crocker, Co. E, 40th Massachusetts (1 Letter) Edwin Augustus Lane, Co. H, 40th Massachusetts (10 Letters) Wisner Park, Co. H, 40th Massachusetts (1 Letter) Moses M. Ordway, Co. I, 40th Massachusetts (2 Letters) Cyrus W. Conant, Co. K, 40th Massachusetts (4 Letters) Robert B. Foster, Co. K, 40th Massachusetts (1 Letter)
Letter 1
Munson’s Hill October 14, 1862
Dear Father,
I thought that I would write a few lines to let you know where I am. I do not know where we was when I wrote the last letter—we have been moving about so much, and [now] we are back to the same place. The regiment is on Munson’s Hill. Some think that we shall stop here all winter. We cannot tell anything about that.
I am stopping at a farm house about one mile from the camp with a sick boy. I have been with him two weeks. I think I shall have to stop one week more. The name of the farm is Summer Dale. They appear to be nice folks though some say that the man has been in the Rebel army and has three sons in it now, but I do not know how that is. They are very kind to Charley. Our pickets has a post in front of the house, one back of it, and for two miles on the road it is a desolate looking country. There is but few houses to be seen. They tell me that there has been 50 houses torn or burnt down within two miles around this place.
This is quite a farm. He has 500 acres and cultivates 280 acres. He has 40 acres of corn and they planted it with 3 men in 4 days. I think that is faster than Robert could get corn into the ground. They have just commenced to harvest. We had a snowstorm Friday and since then, it has been fine weather but quite cold. The day that it stormed, the boys tore down a house and barn to fix their tents. I can take no part in such things. I did not leave my home to steal or to destroy the property of any man.
I often think of home and its comforts but it is useless to complain. My country calls and I thought it was best for me to do my duty. How I miss the blessings of home. How I miss going to meeting and Sunday School and how the family prays. When at home, we could kneel together and thank Him for His kindness to us. But now when we try to pray in our tent, some one will be cursing [or] drums beating—it is not no easy to be a Christian—to be a follower of the meek and lowly. I do not know how I should be able to bear up under it but for the Bible. I can always find some words to cheer me on the way.
When I was in camp, a few of us would get in a tent and read and pray. A prayer in camp does not sound like one in church [where] it has a solemn sound and it goes to the heart of all that try to serve God. [In camp and] in prayer, it is hard to shut the heart to all sound that comes to the ear. I try to serve Him that has kept me from harm. Pray for me that I may be faithful to the end.
Benjamin (“Benny”) Franklin Blatchford
I had a letter from Benny 1 yesterday. I expect that he has left camp. He wanted me to answer to Father. Tell him when you write that I have answered his letter. I don’t know as you can find out what I have wrote. I have taken Charley out of bed four times while writing this page. Mother, when you go to Boston, call and see Lydia. She writes that Louisa came up. I think if William Blackford, Jr. had any Christian spirit or brotherly love, he would call and see her often. Time makes many changes in this world. I do not wish him to call if it will cause her much pain.
Give my love to all—William in particular. Ask them all to write. I cannot write to all but can write to you so they can all hear from me. When there is any news, I will write. We are in General Cowdin’s Brigade, Abercrombie’s Division. Burr Porter is our Colonel.
I shall have to bid you all good night for Charley is calling me. He has the typhoid fever. Ask some of the folks to write soon. Goodbye Father and Mother, — from John [Blatchford]
1 Benny was John’s half brother Benjamin Franklin Blatchford (1835-1906), the son of William Blatchford (1788-1864) and Mary Gott (1806-1873). Ben was married to Emily F. Snow (1833-1917) in Boston in August 1855 and was laboring as a carpenter in Rockport, Essex county, Massachusetts, at the time of the 1860 US Census. Emily was the daughter of David Snow (1793-1869) and Sarah Weston (1801-1850) of Easton, Massachusetts. Ben first enlisted as a 1st Sergeant in Co. B, 50th Massachusetts Infantry. He then became a 2nd Lieutenant in Co. K, 2nd Massachusetts Heavy Artillery. He was promoted to 1st Lieutenant in June 1865 and mustered out at Wilmington, North Carolina in September 1865. See Benjamin Franklin Blatchford Letters.
Letter 2
Members of the 40th Massachusetts in Skirmish Drill near their encampment on Minor’s Hill in 1862. [Digital Commonwealth]
Minor’s Hill, Virginia October 26, 1862
Dear Father,
I received Louisa’s letter and was glad to hear from you. I should have answered it before if I had time. We have been moving from place to place. We went from Fort Ethen [Allen] to Munson’s Hill. It is a mile from there to Minor’s Hill. Then we moved to another hill and then back to Minor’s Hill. With the picket guard duty, and drills, and keeping ourselves clean, our time is mostly taken up. I cannot say much about the country anything more than it is a desolate looking place. There is only a few houses that I have seen. They have torn them down. Both armies has occupied the ground that we have so that everything is destroyed. If you look on the map, you can see where we [are] posted. It is two miles up from Falls Church and 1 mile back from the turnpike. We [are] in General Cowdin’s Brigade. Colonel Burr Porter of the 40th Regiment.
You wanted to know if we had enough to eat. Yes, we do—of such things as we get. We have fresh meat twice a week, soft bread 3 days in a week, good hard bread as much as we want, and good salt meat. We do not have many potatoes—only three times since we left Boxford. I like it as well as I expected. It is a lonesome day. It rains in torrents. I wish that I could drop home for today and see the folks. As that cannot be, I will rest contented.
I received Benny’s letter today.
It is Sunday. The weather is so bad that we cannot hold our meetings. We have them outdoors—the tents is so small. I am looking for the time when I can return home where I can have the privilege of attending meetings. I miss them very much. We have a few pious men in our company. We get together, ring and sing and pray. We cannot feel as we do at home for it makes me feel sad to hear so much cursing. Sometimes I can speak to them and they receive it kindly. At other times they do not like it but I trust in God for we cannot see that it does good. I feel quite contented in the army. I do not know the reason that I should. I never was used to camp life. I have gone so far without complaining and hope that I shall do my duty to my country and my God.
Father, do not worry about me. I have no fear and I have a promise that I shall be rewarded. I ask you to pray for me that I shall be faithful and hold out to the end. Tell Benny that I received his letter and was glad to hear from him. Ask him to write again. I would write often to all my brothers and sisters but I have not the [time] nor convenience. Only think of sitting on the ground writing letters.
I have not heard from William but once. I should think that he could send me a paper or letter. I should think if he cared for me he would call and see her (Lydia) and the children. Mother, I hope that Benny will come out here. If he does, we will have a good time. I write this for all. Give my love to all, and would write to all if I had time. Ask them to write to me. From John [Blatchford]
One can image the following General Orders being read to the troops of the 2nd New Hampshire Infantry following dress parade and subsequently posted near regimental headquarters. It prescribed the camp regulations and order of the day for Camp Sullivan by its commander, Colonel Gilman Marston. At the time these General Orders were issued, the regiment had not long been in its camp which was located in the vicinity of Glenwood Cemetery, west of North Capitol Street in the District of Columbia. They were bivouacked there from 23 June to 16 July 1861 before participating in the Battle of 1st Bull Run.
Over the years I have transcribed the following letters by members of the 2nd New Hampshire Infantry: Abiel Walker Colby, Co. B, 2nd New Hampshire (1 Letter) James Webster Carr, Co. C, 2nd New Hampshire (6 Letters) Isaiah Foy Haines, Co. E, 2nd New Hampshire (1 Letter) Francis D. Bacon, Co. F, 2nd New Hampshire (1 Letter) Charles Edwin Jewett, Co. F, 2nd New Hampshire (22 Letters) [Jewett’s Letter 3 has a good description of Camp Sullivan] Hugh R. Richardson, Co. F, 2nd New Hampshire (1 Letter) Simeon Clark Buck, Co. G. 2nd New Hampshire (1 Letter) Alexander Lyle, Co. G, 2nd New Hampshire (10 Letters)
These unidentified privates wear the gray dress uniform provided for both the 1st or 2nd New Hampshire infantries by the state quartermaster in May 1861. The man at left is clearly seated to show his “spike-tail” coat to best advantage. Their chasseur-pattern caps had red bands, and high standing collars and closed cuffs were trimmed with narrow red cord. Trousers were plain gray. Sixth-plate ruby ambrotype by an anonymous photographer. [Ron Field Collection, Military Images]
CAMP SULLIVAN,
WASHINGTON, D. C., June 28, 1861.
GENERAL ORDERS
No. 15
REVEILLE at 4.30 o’clock A. M., when the men will immediately rise, put themselves, their equipments and quarters in order for the day.
ASSEMBLY at 5 o’clock A. M., and is the signal to form by companies.
PEAS UPON A TRENCHER at 6 o’clock A. M., and is the signal for breakfast.
Surgeons’ Call immediately after breakfast.
THE TROOP will be beat at 7.30 o’clock A. M. for guard mounting. A Police Officer and police party under his direction will be detached immediately after. The Police Officer, accompanied by the Surgeon, will inspect daily the sinks, the kitchens, and the mode of preparing food.
Reports must be presented at Regimental Headquarters before 8 o’clock A. M.
The Officer of the Day will, immediately after guard mounting, read to the guard the army regulations relating to the duties of Sentinels.
At 9 o’clock, companies will march to the parade for drill. ROAST BEEF—the signal for dinner—will be beat at 12 o’clock noon.
Retreat at 5 o’clock P. M.
Supper at 7 o’clock P. M.
The Tattoo at 9.30 o’clock P. M., after which both officers and soldiers will remain in camp until Reveille, unless out under orders or with special written permit from the commanding officers.
There will be three stated Roll-Calls, viz: At Reveille, Retreat and Tattoo.
All firing of guns and pistols within the camp is strictly prohibited unless by written permit from the commanding officer; and the officer of the guard is directed to arrest all persons violating this order, and report the same to the commanding officer. All Target Practice must take place be tween the hours of 7 A. M. and 12 noon.
By the Order of the Colonel Commanding: 1
S[amuel] G. LANGLEY, Adjutant.
H. Polkinhorn, Printer, Washington.
Gilman Marston
1 “The 2nd New Hampshire was originally organized as a three-month regiment. The Abbot Guards of Manchester, one of the first companies to be raised in New Hampshire, had gone to Concord as part of the 1st New Hampshire. On May 1, 1861, the company marched forty-five miles to Portsmouth to join the 2nd New Hampshire under the command of Colonel Thomas Prescott Pierce. Pierce, then serving as the U.S. Postmaster of Manchester, New Hampshire, had served with the 9th U.S. Infantry during the Mexican War and had seen action at Contreras and Churubusco. By May 10, 979 men, all enlisted for three months, had arrived at camp and were being “drilled, disciplined and made acquainted with the duties pertaining to a soldier’s life.” When the U.S. War Department ordered the governor not to send any more three-month men, the regiment was re- organized, between May 31 and June 8, as a three-year unit. With this change in the unit’s status, Colonel Pierce resigned on June 4, 1861. The unit’s new colonel, Gilman Marston, was a graduate of Dartmouth and Harvard. He had served as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives (1845-1849) and as a delegate to the state constitutional convention in 1850. He had been elected as a Republican to the Thirty-sixth U.S. Congress (and would be re-elected to the Thirty-seventh Congress and serve until March 3, 1863). Marston and the 1,046 officers and men of the 2nd New Hampshire were mustered into federal service on June 10 at Portsmouth.” Col. Marston was in command of the 2nd New Hampshire Infantry at the Battle of 1st Bull Run where his arm was shattered but he refused amputation and survived.[“We drop a comrade’s tear” by Karlton D. Smith]
Posted Regulations for Camp Sullivan, 2nd New Hampshire Infantry, 28 June 1861
The following letters were written by Henry “Martin” Lowe (1840-1907), the son of Henry Thurston Lowe (1806-1888) and Rachel Pool (1816-1897), and the husband of Louisa Foster Blatchford (1841-1910) of Rockport, Essex county, Massachusetts. Martin and Louisa were married on 21 April 1860 at Newburyport and in the 1860 US Census, they were enumerated as newlyweds in her parents home—William and Mary (Gott) Blatchford of Rockport. At that time, Martin was employed as a clerk. Louisa’s brother was Benjamin Franklin Blatchford (1835-1906).
I could not find an image of Henry Martin Lowe but here is an unidentified Navy petty officer wearing the typical enlisted sailor’s clothing. (Ron Field Collection)
One of some forty-one men from the fishing port of Rockport, Massachusetts who served in the Navy during the Civil War, Henry M. Lowe was a Paymaster’s Steward aboard the U.S.S. Penobscot. He entered the service in early February 1862 and was discharged in March 1864. According to my friend Ron Field, author of the book, “Bluejackets: Uniforms of the United States Navy in the Civil War Period, 1852-1865,” Paymaster Stewards “wore jumpers with ‘eagle, anchor & star’ insignia on their right sleeves. Although drawn from the ranks as reasonably educated fellows, they were still required to wear enlisted sailor’s clothing. In 1864 they were entitled to wear a blue cloth or flannel jacket with rolling collar—double-breasted with two rows of six medium-sized buttons; slashed sleeves with four small-sized navy buttons. Headgear consisted of a cap without wreath or device.”
During his time in the service, Lowe wrote numerous letters home to his wife and parents. The Penobscot was built by C. P. Carter of Belfast, Maine, launched on November of 1861, and delivered to the Navy in Boston in January of 1862. Initially assigned to the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, she was later shifted to the Gulf of Mexico, joining the blockade ships cruising off the Texas coast. Lowe served on the Penobscot through almost all of 1862 and early into 1863. After spending two or three month ashore in the winter of 1863-64, he was reassigned to the U. S. Steamer Southfield, a pre-war ferry boat that was converted into a sidewheel steam gunboat. While on the Southfield, his position was that of Paymaster’s Clerk. He was assigned to her until he left the service in March 1864—just one month before the Southfield was sunk by the Confederate Ram Albemarle in the Battle of Plymouth.
Apparently Martin also kept a journal while serving on the gunboat Penobscot but his journal only spans approximately one month, describing a number of chases and other actions involving the Penobscot; the activity of other ships in the blockade fleet; the activities of the Confederates, and so forth. That journal was available for purchase at the James E. Arsenault & Company (Rare Books & Manuscripts) at one time but has since been sold.
Some representative passages from Lowe’s diary:
23 Dec. 1862: “As it was quite thick we could not see the shipping of this place when we left the shore. As it was soon dark we hoisted our numbers (two lights at the fore-top-mast-head, one white and the other red). In a few moments they was answered and we hauled down our lights and steamed for the other boats, then we sent up two rockets—one white and one red—but they did not understand this…We soon came within hale of the two steamers. The Genessee was coming with full steam for our port-bow and the DayLight for our starboard. All hands on the two steamers were at quarters, they thinking that we were a strange vessel trying to run the blockade. When the Genessee was a few rods from us our engine was stopped and the Genessee run into our ship, carrying away our bowsprit, [cat]head and [?] and doing us some other damage…”
29 Dec. 1862: “At half past eleven the lookout saw a light again. It was a steamer, for all on deck saw her. We made signals and our numbers. She made signals in return but we couldn’t make out what steamer it was so we got underweigh for her. She put in for the shore and we lost her. At half past twelve raised the Str again and again up anchor again gave chase. She was soon of[f] again like Bob’s horse…This morning the impression is fore & aft that the steamer we saw last night was trying to run the blockade but did not get in. Got underweigh at 4 o’clock this morning and steamed for the shipping. About 10 o’clock heard heavy firing towards the Fort and saw the smoke of the guns … We are now stationed at Topsail Inlet, twenty four miles from Fort Fisher.”
30 Dec. 1862: “Raised a sail about 11:30 two points on our starboard bow. All hands up anchor and went in chase. She proved to be the U.S. Str. Cambridge with fresh beef and mail for us. We also got three contrabands from her (they run away the night before). While the Cambridge laid longside us, we raised another sail and went in chase. At first we did not gain on her but after we set our sail soon came up on her. As we neared her we raised another sail to windward. Both of them were schooners. At last we got within gun shot and brought one of them to with a shot across her bows…”
2 Jan 1863: “Every officer (commissioned) that was on the ship when we went in commission has received their discharge or been transferred to other ships, except the Paymaster. He is quite down-hearted to lose all the old officers. The Penobscot will never have such good officers as we had when we left Boston. The Daylight came down to Topsail Inlet to releave us and we went up to Fort Fisher. Got news that the Monitor was lost.”
16 Jan: “About 8 o’clock spoke with ship Cambridge. We both went in towards her and we came to anchor. It was not long down before the Rebel shot & shell went thick and fast over us. One piece of a shell hit our nigger but it did not damage us any … We got up anchor as soon as we could after the enemy opened on us, and put out. The rebels then fired from three batteries on the Columbia so she hoisted a Flag of Truce … about noon we had quite a battle with the enemy we drove them from their guns without getting any damage to us. I expended from my shell room some 20 pa[?] shell. We now have on board 42 men and three officers. The others will be taken as prisoners of war. Last night the Columbia threw all their guns overboard and some of their shot & shell…”
17 Jan: “Last night we layed to anchor about two miles outside of the Columbia. At 9 o’clock the Cambridge came up to us and ordered us to get up anchor and prepare for action. The ship Cambridge went in and fired the first four shots we then went in and had a great battle with the enemy. Some of their shots were very good ones. They went over us thick and fast. Some hit in the water not more than 10 feet from us.”
Letter 1
The USS Penobscot was Unadilla-class gunboat built for the US Navy in the American Civil War. She would have looked much like this vesselin the forground.
U. S. Gunboat Penobscot Fort Monroe March 20 [1862]
Dear Wife,
I think I had better give you short and frequent letters so that you may keep the run of me. I was shore yesterday and stopped three hours. I went around with some of the Rockport Boys and had a fine time. While there, twenty steamboats came in here and landed 16,000 soldiers and 5,000 mules. By tomorrow night, I think there will be 60,000 troops here and 15,000 mules. There is not less than 75 steamers here now.
Published in the Boston Daily Advertiser, 8 March 1862
We had a hard storm last night. Two steamboats and six barges loaded with army wagons went ashore not 100 rods from where we lay. Two drifted by us and went towards Sewell’s Point. This morning we see three more that will fall in the Rebel’s hands. They were loaded with stores for the army. This storm will do us a great deal of damage and I think we shall have to lay here a week or 10 days before we start. The wind is southeast.
When I wrote to you before, I did not ask you to give my love to anyone for I had not time. The best friend I have is the yeoman (except Uncle Addison). He is a fine young man and has been on the water five or six years. He has done a heavy business in Boston but it is not good now. I wish that all of the crew was like him. We sleep in the fore hatch all alone. It is a nice place for us. Father knows him. When I wrote before, I thought we should have a action with the Rebels and I thought I would tell you, but at the same time it was rather hard for me to. Addison is some better than when we left Boston.
[in pencil]
Friday morning. This is a fine morning and it looks quite lively here. I shall go ashore this morning and stop about an hour. I wish you was here to go round with me. It is worth a while to go in the camps and see what is going on. Next time I write to Susan, that will be Sunday. I wish that you would not let anyone see my letters as I may write to you sometimes in a hurry. Give my best respects to all friends, and tell them to write.
From your husband, — Henry M. Lowe
Letter 2
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot York River April 13, 1862
My Dear Wife,
This is a place of excitement. We can see any quantity of Rebels & Rebel Batteries. There is one on Freeman’s Point about two miles up the river, mounting about 30 guns. Ten of them is 10-inch Columbiads and they have as near as we can make out about 10,000 troops in and around this Battery. The encampments on the other side are very extensive and I think they have a force of 10 or 15,000 troops. Their transports are constantly playing along the shore and at times we can see as man as 15 or 20 schooners employed in carrying troops from the Gloucester side to the other, and sometimes we can see very dense columns of smoke far away over the woods coming, it is supposed, from the Rebel gunboats (for there is three of them up the river).
We can see the American and Rebel flags on shore with the naked eye. They are not more than two miles apart. From our boat with a glass there seems to be a long, low breastwork behind which the Rebels are closely hidden. I think they are determined to wait for close quarters before expending their ammunition. If it was not so, they would have fired at us more than they did the other day and yesterday. We made some fine shots yesterday afternoon at a schooner that was at the mills loading with meal and if she had not left, we would have had her in half an hour for the Captain was agoing to send two boats armed to the teeth after her—one of them in care of the Lieutenant, and the other in care of the Paymaster.
The men are in for sport. On Friday one of the boats went to the rebel shore with armed men and when they landed, the rebels left their house, pigs, cows, and turkeys. As for the house, the boys did not want that. It was pigs and turkeys they was after and they got them too. We had some of them for dinner yesterday.
Last night we slipped our cable at ten o’clock and went up the river one mile of a water battery and would have fired into it if we had not see the enemy making signals from one fort to another. It was 12 o’clock when we cane to anchor again. And at four this morning we was turned out again to put after a Rebel boat. She proved to be a boat from Fort Monroe with orders for us. We have heard very heavy firing all day. I suppose is was at Norfolk and Fort Monroe. There was quite a large fire at Yorktown Friday night. It showed so bright that we could see the men at their guns.
It is a very pleasant place here and I like it very much. I think we shall lay here some time. General McClellan was on board the Flag Ship Thursday and he said it was not of any use for us to try to take any forts around here till we had some eight or ten gunboats. We have 107 men in all on board and they are as smart men as ever I see. Most of them have been in the Navy before. Every Sunday they have to dress in clean blue clothes for muster. I have to call the names of the Petty Officers and the men. They answer (“here, sir”) and take off their cap as they pass by me. I think you would laugh to see them.
I got a compliment from the Captain yesterday. He said he was glad to hear that I was liked on the Berth Deck by the men.
I received a letter from Father yesterday stating that Master Frank was first rate. Has he learnt X, Y, & Z yet? At any rate, I know he is smart enough to go after milk. I want you to send me his Ambrotype the first chance you can get. Send all my letters to Fort Monroe and the Ambrotype too. You must write often as you can and I will do the same. I do not know when this letter will go but I hope by tomorrow or next day. It will go on board the Flag Ship tonight. We have good water now and I can get along first rate. My cold is better. Addison is smart. Hodgkins send his love to his wife. He is well.
You must get Father to buy Frank a wagon. I will send you $5 and you will draw $15 the last of the month. I was glad to hear that Susan was better. I suppose she is up to see the baby most every day. What does Mother think of him? Does your Father sing Dixie to him when he is a bad boy? What is his weight? I wrote to Mother not long since but have not received any answer as yet. I wish you would give her my best respects and tell her I think of her quite often. Payson must write to me and let me know how he gets along with the youngster. Tell Susan to make Frank a nightgown and charge the sum to me. Give my best respects to all friends.
From your most affectionate and loving husband, — H. M. Lowe
Letter 3
U. S. Gunboat Penobscot Off New Inlet below Wilmington [N. C.] May 27th 1862
My own dear wife,
On Friday afternoon the 17th, we received orders from Fort Monroe to go round to this and to attack a fort at the mouth of this inlet. The fort [Fort Fisher 1] mounts twenty-eight guns. I do not know the name of the fort because it has been built since the war broke out. On the 18th at 5 o’clock in the morning we got under weigh and came round here. At three o’clock we opened fire on them and it was not long before they returned the fire, I can assure you. Our first shell fell short of their fort. The second one burst over them. The third one dismounted one of their largest guns and laid eight or ten men flat. All of our shots except the first were very good ones.
Published in the Daily Evening Standard, New Bedford, MA, 31 May 1862
The Rebels opened fire on us from ten guns at one time. The men say it was a most spledid sight to see the smoke rise from the guns. But what about the shots? Some went over us, some short of us, and in fact, all round us. I was sick in my hammock at the time but could hear the shot go over us and I heard three hit in the water. I will leave it to you to judge how near they came to us.
On the 21st we had another brush with them but did not fight long for this reason—because if we took the fort, we could not hold it as there are not any troops here.
I have been sick for the past three weeks but I am now on the mend. The Doctor and the Paymaster are very kind to me. They think I had better go home. If I am not well soon, I shall do so. If I should leave, it would be quite bad for the Paymaster as there is not a man on board the boat he would take to do my work.
On the 22nd we fell in with a steamer that was bound to Wilmington. The Lieutenant went on board and the Captain showed him his papers and as he thought all was right, let him go. He said he was from New York bound to Port Royal. In three hours after, she was taken a prize by a gun boat at the other inlet. If we had taken her, my part would have been nothing less than $200, or if we had stopped at York River, my prize money would have been more than that.
Beaufort, North Carolina May 30th 1862
I am much better than when I wrote the 27th. I have been up three hours this afternoon. This is quite a pleasant place and if I was well, I could have had a chance to spend most of my time ashore. Now dear wife, do not feel uneasy about me for I think I shall be better soon. I was quite sorry that the Paymaster wrote to Father that I was sick. If he had not wrote, you would not have known it till after I was well again. It is quite hard work for me to write when I am laying down so you must excuse me if this is a little hard to read.
As for Frank, I suppose he will be quite a smart one. Look out he don’t get the upper hand of you. Let me know how he grows and if he is well. I feel quite earnest to hear how Father and the rest of you are. It has been one month today since I received a letter. If you have $2 to spare, I wish you would pay it to William Marshall for my dues at the tent and send me the receipt that he will give you.
Give my love to all friends. From your most affectionate and loving husband, — H. Martin Lowe
Write often as you can. I sent you five cents.
1 “Until the arrival of Col. William Lamb in July 1862, Fort Fisher was little more than several sand batteries mounting fewer than two dozen guns. Under Colonel Lamb’s direction and design, which was greatly influenced by the Malakoff Tower (a Crimean War fortification) in Sebastopol, Russia, expansion of the fortress began. Unlike older fortifications built of brick and mortar, Fort Fisher was made mostly of earth and sand, which was ideal for absorbing the shock of heavy explosives.” [North Carolina Historic Sites]
Letter 4
Off Fort Caswell June 15th [1862]
Dear Wife,
A steamer has just arrived with letters. She goes out at once. I received eight letters. I have not had time to read them but I find Frank’s Ambrotype.
I am well as ever. I will write the first mail. I sent a letter to Father & Mother the other day. Yours truly, — Henry
Write soon. Send your letter to Beaufort, North Carolina
I am well—that is so.
Letter 5
U.S.S. Gun Boat Penobscot Off Fort Caswell June 16th 1862
Dear Wife,
Last Sunday afternoon a steamer came in here with a mail for us. I received eight letters and three old papers. The latest letter was the 1st of this month. When the letters come all the men, all the men are piped aft on the quarter deck and the Paymaster Steward calls the names. The number of letters that came was over three hundred and one hundred and eighteen papers. All of them was old ones that had been at Fort Monroe for some time. Some of the boys had quite a large number and others did not get any. You cannot think how pleased they was to hear from home. I was so pleased with my many letters and notes. I had to go away from the other men—my heart was filled to the brim when I read some of them—especially when I read Mother’s very kind note. I wish it had been so that I could have answered some of them in time to send home the same day but the steamer went out in a short time after she arrived and so I will try and answer them today. I will send one to Father & Mother, also one to Susan and Edward Payson. I will write to brother Benny [Benjamin F. Blatchford] next week.
I was sick. I was too sick to go on board of a strange ship when the Paymaster wrote and since then there has not been but one chance, and as I was getting better, I thought it best for me to stop. I have had the very best of care. Most all I have to do is to lay back, eat, sleep, think, laugh, and grow fat, and at the end of the month have $34.20 due me.
Now dear wife, I know just how you feel. You want me to take care of Master Frank, “don’t you?” I was much pleased with the Ambrotypes—especially with Frank’s. I think he must be a P. B. He is as fat as butter and looks as sweet as sugar. I wish I could see him. Payson says you have got a fine carriage for him. You must get everything he is in want of and if you have not got money enough, I shall send you some the first chance. His Gold shows to good advantage. How much does he weigh? I think he will weigh about 25 lbs.
I see by the New York Tribune of the 2nd that we get quite a compliment for opening the ball at Fort Fisher. They say Captain [John Mellen Brady] Clitz is the right man in the right place. They are right. The men like him first rate and will stay by him to the last moment.
There is no news here now among the vessels; we see two Rebel steamers twice a day which come down, look at us, turn round and goes home to report what we are doing. Last week one of our gunboats exchanged a few shots with them but neither hot. He has but a little more careful sense since but never mind, we will have him soon. We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of some transport wit troops so to put in the Forts (for there is three of them) when we taken them. There is five gunboats at this place. The brst looking one is the Penobscot and she has the men and guns that will do the work—at least we have always come out best.
I am very glad our army are doing so well. I hope they will push forward in this great and good cause. I think that Gen. McClellan is in possession of Richmond by this time. If he is not, I think he will have a hard struggle to take it. Let me know at what places the Rockport Boys are and if any of them have been in any battles since I left home.
I sent a gold dollar home by Charles Blatchford fr Frank. Let me know if you received it. Also, let me know how much money you have received from Boston. I hear by the way of Mother’s letter that Rev. W. Gale has left the desk. Why did he do this? I know that he will be a great loss to the Church. I hope that they will get a smart young man to take his place.
I hope that Frank will live to a good old age and make a good enterprising man. I think I shall have a chance to stop with you about a week the last of next month for there’s some talk about our going to Nork York as our engine is a little out of order. My washing bill is about two dollars a month. This morning I got up at 4 o’clock and scrubbed my hammock. It is as white as snow. When I was at Beaufort, the Yeoman bought me a Panama hat for $2. It is a good one. We have enough to eat and that that is good. I wish you had some of our preserved tomatoes. They are good and I know you would like them. I give them out every Tuesday and Friday. Our water is very bad so I got two pounds of Ginger. This makes it go a little better.
The Captain gave me quite a compliment about a week ago. He said that he should call me Mr. Lowe after this instead of Steward. Thee is not ten men on board the boat that know my name. I can muster every man from the Captain to the cabin boy without any book. This I done last Sunday morning.
Has the Rockport Steam Cotton Mills got under way yet? If so, is Dudley in there to work? I came off the sick list last Saturday and I was never better than I am at the present time. Just before I was taken sick, my weight was 153 lbs. Ten days ago it was 140 lbs. I am getting fat as fast as I did last summer and I am as hungry as a bear. I often think of Mrs. Robert Tarr’s squash pies. Some of them would go good in the morning or any other time of day. Robert has not as yet answered my letter. You must put him in mind of it. Ask him to write me all the news.
You have not said one word about your business in the store. Let me know what you are doing and if your mother has been to Boston this summer. As I have wrote two long letters today, I am what you may call played out. One of them was to Father and Mother and one to Payson & Appleton. If you wish, you can read them and I suppose they will want to read this. If so, you can let them have it. Give my love to all friends and ask them to write.
From your most loving and affectionate husband, — Henry Martin Lowe
June 17th. All is quiet. A steamer goes to Beaufort today. I am smart as ever. Paymaster [Addison] Pool sends love. I was glad to hear your Father was as well as when I left home. Kiss Frank for me (not less than ten times). You must call on Father and Mother as often as you can. The next letter I write will be to Mum Pool. Lieut. [Francis Marvin] Bunce1 says I write more letters than any three men on board.
1 Francis Marvin Bunce (1836-1901) eventually rose the rank of Rear Admiral in the US Navy. A graduate of the Naval Academy in 1857, Bunce was warranted the rank of midshipman and assigned to a scientific expedition to Panama before the Civil War. He was named the executive officer of the gunboat Penobscot and was with her on the York River in 1862 when he was attached temporarily to the army to take charge of the disembarkation of the heavy siege guns used in the siege at Yorktown. He returned to the Penobscot in time for the passage to Wilmington, North Carolina, and the blockade of the port there. He eventually left the Penobscot to become the executive office of the sloop-of-war USS Pawnee.
Letter 6
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot Off Cape Fear River July 1st 1862
My own dear wife,
Since I last write, nothing worthy of note has taken place but I think I had better write you a few lines. As for my sprained thumb, it is better than it was day before yesterday when I wrote to Mother. The way I sprained it was in getting mackerel out of the prize. We got ten barrels of No. 2. The men like them first rate. We also got some good ham and herring. These do not go bad. I wish it had been so that I could have finished Father’s letter of the 26th but I suppose it was just as well for the Paymaster to do it for me. For the news, you must read Father’s and Mother’s letters of the 26th and 29th.
We have burnt four schooners in less than four weeks. 1 This was the best thing we could do with them as they all run ashore to get out of our way. we have done the Rebels great damage for the last three weeks. We will soon run them off the track. We have been on a cruise today and ew spoke with three schooners, all of which was bound to Port Royal. I am quite smart now. The Paymaster and myself have been quite busy for the last week making out the Quarterly Returns. From your affectionate husband, — Henry M. Lowe
I think I will write a few lines to our Mary Blatchford, mother-in-law to one Henry M. Lowe, the son of Henry T. and Rachel Lowe. We are now thirty-five miles at sea in sight of three schooners. We shall board these and if everything is right, let them go on their way. We are on the move most of the time and we are ready to give the Rebels battle at any moment. You can rest assured that the Rebels are not able to hit the Gunboat Penobscot. They have tried that quite a number of times but it is a no go.
As for Frank, how does he grow? I wish I could see him next Sunday when you have him dressed up to the nines. I suppose he is about as large as William’s boy. How does he like his carriage? I suppose Susan is up to see him most every day. Louisa must send me his Ambrotype the first chance. There is two Gloucester Boys in this boat. One of them was with Chas. Nute last year.
Yours truly, — H. M. Lowe
At Sea off Frying Pan Shoal 10 o’clock A.M. July 2, 1862
Dear Father-in-law [Blatchford],
What do you think of this war? Do you think it will be to an end on one year from now? As we do not get many papers, we are not at all posted up in the affairs of the country. I should like to go home and see that little fellow you have there but I am afraid I shall not have the chance this year.
Six Contrabands went on board the gunboat Victoria day before yesterday. They say the Rebels are sick of the war.
Well, Father, I believe there are many a Rebel who are weary and tired of everything in the shape of the Rebellion. They are unhappy because they know they are not doing that which is right, although they will not confess it. They had better give up their pride, the self-will and the stubbornness of their own ways and come to ours. The sooner they do this, the better.
We are bound to New Inlet of Fort Fisher. I think we shall go to Beaufort Sunday (for we do most of our work, fighting, fishing, and cruising on that day). I sent for some things last week. I suppose we shall get them when we go to Beaufort. If you have not sent them, send the Ambrotypes the paymaster sent for in the box. Mr. Hodgkins sends his love to you. Tell Benny [Benjamin F. Blatchford] he must write. Give my love to all friends. I will write when we go to Beaufort. My next letter will be to Susan and Edward. Let me know how much Frank’s weight is. Has Doctor Haskell received any letter from me? Has Mom Pool got down to Dock Square yet? Let me know at what place the Rockport Company are. I have wrote to Robert but have not received any answer.
I think we shall have to set up our rigging tomorrow for we are rolling like a log. I wish you could see her. It would be a sight for anyone. Enclosed is a note to Grandmother Pool. It is some warm out this way. How is it with you? From your son-in-law, — Henry M. Lowe
1 One of these schooners was the Sereta of Nassau from which carried a cargo of salt and fruit. She was burned in the Shallotte Inlet on 8 June 1862.
Letter 7
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot Off Fort Fisher July 20th 1862
Dear Wife,
I have not received a letter from you for a long time. The last one I got was Father’s. I think that we will not get any for a month or two. Then I expect to have a fine time reading a large lot of them from you and my many friends.
Since I last wrote, nothing worthy of note has taken place. I am quite smart now and I hope that you and Frank are well. I think I could see the fine little fellow. As for the Paymaster [Addison Pool], he is not as well as when I last wrote. He is under the Doctor’s care now. I hope and think that he will be better soon. Mr. Hodgkins is well.
The USS Transport Massachusetts brought us down some fresh beef day before yesterday. Last Wednesday I sent a letter to Aunt Sarah and Mom Pool. You had better keep what I sent to you in her letter. I will send you a 25 cts. bill in this note. You must keep this too. In a day or two I will write you a long letter. Give my best respects and love to all friends. From your most loving husband.
H. M. Lowe
P. S. Write soon. The bill that I send to you was taken out of one of the schooners we burnt. One fellow got $107 in Rebel money.
“The 25 cent bill” that Lowe sent his wife would have looked much like this one.
Letter 8
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot Off Fort Fisher July 27, 1862
My own dear Wife and Parents,
The box was received Friday morning and I can assure you that I was highly pleased with the many things that you was so very kind to get and send to me. Everything was in good order. As for the fishing lines, they were just what I wanted for the officers. The officers have enjoyed themselves better for the last three days (fishing) than they have any time since we left Boston. I gave Mr. Caplin one pollock and one mackerel line and some hooks. When I gave them to him, he said, “Mr. Lowe, you shall be well paid for your kindness to me since we left York River.” There is nothing like getting on the right side of the officers. I think that I give good satisfaction to every man on board.
Dear wife, you wanted to know what I had done with my shirts. I have to have three on every week and as we have been away from home five months, some of them are going, going, going, and I thought that I had better send after some of them that have been laying by so long. I have sent to New York after two. When I receive them, I think that they will make out enough to last me till next March. Then I shall go home and see the little wife and darling little boy Frank. Next week I will send you some sheeting (we sell it at 60 cents per yard). It is very good so you must say nothing more about shirts.
The cake was very good. I shall keep one loaf for a day or two. Don’t you think it is a good plan? I am afraid it will spoil if I keep it too long. Mr. Hodgkins was much pleased with his bundle. I did not get one word of news in your letter so I think that business must be dead.
When you weritte, let me know how much money you have on hand. The amount I have due me is $48. If we stop out till January next, I shall draw $100 due me. If you have half of that, I think you will do well.
I see by the New York Herald of July 15th a letter about the schooner we burnt at this place and at Little River, South Carolina. Next time you write, please send me Frank’s Ambrotype if you can. I sent a letter to Mother last Thursday with a note for you in it.
The Paymaster [Addison Pool] is quite smart now for him. I am as smart as ever. I should be very much pleased to receive a letter from Edward & Susan. Ask them to write the first chance. Give my best respects to all friends and tell Benny [Benjamin F. Blatchford] I am much obliged to him for the shark skin. Write often as you can. Your most affectionate husband, — Henry M. Lowe, Paymaster Steward.
Letter 9
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot Off Fort Caswell August 28th, 1862
My own darling wife,
I suppose you was much pleased with your long letter that I wrote to you on Monday the 25th and think you would like to have another just as long but as nothing worthy of note has taken place since then, I think that you will have to put up with a short one.
We we was at Beaufort, all of the men got liberty to go on shore and stop 12 hours (the port watch went one day and the starboard the other). All of the men that was in debt had to get men to go security for them. There was one fine young man (as I thought) that went security for to the amount of $40. He left with four men for parts unknown. All that run away was in debt. One fellow had $12.50 that belonged to the Paymaster. We got out a reward of $150 for the deserters. I hope that they will be caught and that I shall have the pleasure of putting a musket ball in Lambert’s heart for that is what he should have done to him. Anyone that will desert in such times as these should suffer death. All five of the deserters belonged to R. Island. The first time we was in Beaufort, a Frenchman that we had deserted. He was shot by the pickets at Newbern (just right for him).
When we was at Beaufort, the steamer State of Georgia took a prize at this place. She was a fine schooner 1 of about 60 tons from Nassau, N. P. loaded with salt &c. The steamer Kate run in here about two weeks ago and she has run out before this. She has run the blockade six times. I think that we shall get her before long. There is not a week but what schooners and steamers run in and out of this place. We want about six more boats down here. Then I think that we shall take some prizes.
The Pilot says that next month will be a hard one with us. This is one of the roughest places on the whole coast. Oh how I wish you could see how she is rolling now. It is hard work to walk the decks.
I did not go on shore when we was in Beaufort as the Paymaster was away most of the time. Bumboats (as we call) came off three times a day. They brought pies, cakes, hot bread, fruit, eggs, &c. &c. I bought a small cheese, eighth barrel tongues, 10 dozen eggs, & [ ], 1 ham, and a few other things for Mr. Hodgkins and myself. I think that we shall enjoy ourselves eating them.
The box that you sent by Pilot Dow on the 9th has not as yet arrived. Do not send anymore by him.
When we was at Beaufort, we did not receive one letter. The mail dies not come to that place very often so when we get any letters, we get a lot of them. The man that I was to send the money home by goes in the steamer Massachusetts in a few days but as I went security for the desertion, I shall not have the pleasure of sending you any money. Oh how I wish I could get my hands on him. It would not be long before I would let him know that I was no friend of his.
Our Captain is Flag Officer at this Inlet. Yesterday we had our ship dressed in flags. I will give you the names of some of the flags. It was a most splendid sight to see her. They went from the bowsprit to the main boom. Then we had them from the deck to the topmast on the port and starboard side.
Please let no one see my letters but Father and Mother. I mean just what I say about them. When I write to Father and Mother, you can see their letters if you wish, but I am not willing to have everybody see them. You can tell or read to anyone my letters, but don’t let them see them.
1 Possibly the sloop Lizzie from Nassau sailing under British Colors and loaded with salt, blankets, sheet tin, &c.
Letter 10
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot Off Shallot’s Inlet, North Carolina Monday, October 3rd 1862
Father Blatchford,
Since my last letter home, something has taken place which I think is worthy of note, and thinking it would be of interest to you, I will address a few lines to you.
Yesterday at 10 o’clock, one of the contrabands raised a sail down the coast. We slipped our cable and gave chase. As we neared the sail, she proved to be a schooner making the best of her way for the shore. We soon opened fire on her from the Parrott Gun as she didn’t heave to. We kept up the firing till we had fired eight shots. She had by this time reached the shore and was hand and foot in the breakers which was running quite heavy. Two boats was lowered and sent on course. In a short time one returned and said that they wanted eight men to get the schooner off. I went on the 3rd boat. We took out an anchor and tried to get her off but as the sea was now so high, we could not do it. All of our boats was swamped and the men was washed ashore on the beach. I was in the boat most of the time when I went on board the schooner. Our boat was capsized and I had to swim for the schooner. Her name was the Path Finder of Nassau, N. P., loaded with salt, boots, shoes, hardware, sweet oil, &c. &c. At six o’clock the schooner was set on fire. The Paymaster and eight men that were on board at the time had to get overboard and swim for the boats. We value the schooner & cargo at $5,000.
We are now at Shallot’s Inlet, 18 miles from Fort Caswell. We have not as yet got the three schooners that I spoke of in my letter to Louisa but I think that we shall have them in a few days.
One night last week 15 men deserted from Fort Caswell and went on board the steamer Genesee. They report that the Kate is covered with railroad iron and ready to run out and that if any of our troops attempt to take her, she will run them down. I am sure that if Capt. Clitz of the Penobscot gets a chance at her, he will not stop for railroad iron. Our Captain is a man that will not be frightened. He has been in the Navy for 28 years and he understands how to attack a ship or fort.
The steamer Daylight captured a prize of the shoals last Wednesday morning. I sent a letter to Louisa the other day with $5 in it for Frank.
The schooner that we bunt was half a mile south of the North and South Carolina line.
With much love to all and a request that you look out for my boy, I remain your son-in-law, — H. Martin Lowe
Letter 11
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot Off Wilmington, N. C. October 5th 1862
Brother Benny [Benjamin F. Blatchford],
We still remain at our old station without any change in matters. A survey was called on this ship and engine about two weeks ago and it was very much in need of repair and it was recommended that we “go North for repairs,” but a few days ago two of the vessels at the other inlet run into each other—the State of Georgia and the Mystic—and it became necessary for the former of these to go North at once. She left yesterday. I sent a lot of letters in her. I am sorry that we are not going up as we should most likely have gone to Boston which would have suited me first rate and I know that it would have been highly pleasing to Louisa.
The State of Georgia has been on the station about the same length of time as ourselves. The men of my rank have about $500 prize money coming to them. I have not got one red cent. This is the second time she has been ordered North for repairs—not once for us. Well, so mote it be. I have on the whole passed a very pleasant time here. Never enjoyed myself better than for the eight months I have been connected with the good ship Penobscot. There are at present on this station the Monticello, Cambridge, Mystic, Maratanza, and ourselves. The Mount Vernon, Chippewa, Stars & Stripes, and State of Georgia are all gone for repairs and three of those remaining here are unfit for the duty of the blockade, being broken down or something else which prevents them being effective.
What wonder is it that the steamers and schooners run the blockade here. The Kate which got in the other night must have been worth half million dollars and could we have captured her, my share of the prize money would have been $700—not a very bad thing to take, you would say. And I don’t suppose I should disagree with you. But because we have not been fortunate, it is no sign that we are not vigilant for there is not a vessel in the service better commanded than this, nor one where the officers and crew are more willing to assist in any work for the good of our country.
Well, Benny [Benjamin F. Blatchford], I think you are better off where you are than you would be here even if you had an Acting Master’s Mate billet. I understand you are to go as 1st Sergeant of the company—a first rate officer for you. I hope you will make a mark in the first battle, then get promoted to 2nd Lieutenant. When I was in Boston I had Quartermaster Sergeant’s billet offered me but as I had a good place, I let it go.
Oh how glad I am that the Rockport Boys have left for the seat of war. I hope that they all have the pleasure of returning to their friends at Rockport. I want you to remember me to all of the boys. Please ask them to write to me as often as they can. I shall write to [ ] in a day or two. I have wrote this in double quick time. From your most affectionate friend, — Henry M. Lowe
Letter 12
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot Beaufort, North Carolina 6 o’clock A.M. Sunday, December 21, 1862
My Dear Wife,
Today I received a letter from Andrew F. Clark. I have received no letter from you in answer to me letters for the last six week but presuming that you have written and that it has been miscarried, I will address a few lines to you.
First of all, I have enjoyed a Sabbath on shore while at this place. In the afternoon I went to church with the Doctor and the Paymaster. I was much pleased with the [ ] as it had been a long time since I attended a meeting. The Paymaster was at Newbern two days last week. He then saw James Brown and St___ D. Pool of Rockport. Yesterday afternoon the schooner Ellen H. Gott came in here. She went within ten feet of our ship. As I was in my room to work on my weekly returns (at the time), I did not see her till after they came to anchor about one quarter of a mile from us. I shall try to go on board and see how it is there. I think that we shall lay here till Thursday as our engine is out of order. Since we have been here, there has been a very heavy blow. I am glad we was in port for our ship does roll so bad in rough weather. But I don’t expect to be in her much longer. I am in hopes to be ordered to Boston and there get on board some large ship for I think it would be better for me. Should I receive orders to report at New York or Boston, I think I could get a chance to spend one or two weeks with you. That I know would suit you to the nines. At least it would be agreeable to your most humble servant who is now addressing you.
Well, Louisa, I have not as yet received the third edition of Frank Lowe. Please send it on as soon as you can for I am earnest to see him. Andrew’s letter said you was all well. I was much pleased to hear that. As for my health, it is first rate. The men say I am fat as butter. That is about so. I have not received a letter from Benny [Benjamin F. Blatchford] for a long while. Please ask him to write to me.
After the last day of February, your allotment will close. If you wish to have it left for another year, please write and let me know. Next letter I get from home, I hope, will bring the news that H. T. Lowe is in the State House. One reason he will have time and paper so he can write to his son, H. Martin Lowe.
At 10 o’clock this morning, the Paymaster and myself went on board the schooner E. H. Gott. We there found John Thompson, William Witham, George Grimes, George Rowe, & Beny Giles. I can assure you that we was very much pleased to see them and to get the news, When I was eating dinner, I could not but think of home sweet home for the baked beans and the boiled bread was just such as your Mother has. At 3 o’clock the Paymaster and Mr. Giles went on shore to attend church. As I was quite anxious to hear the news from home, I stopped on board till 5 o’clock. John Thompson says Frank is a big boy. Oh how I wish I could see the little fellow. They all say I never looked more healthy than I do now. You will I know be pleased to hear this.. From your most loving and most affectionate husband, — Henry M. Lowe
Paymaster Steward, U. S. Gunboat Penobscot
Letter 13
[January 1, 1863]
My dear wife,
Wishing to make you a New Year’s present, I enclosed Father three dollars to buy you an album. I wish you a Happy New Year. May peace be around you at all time and happiness be within your door. May you be restored to health and when I return may I find you in health and vigor. — H. Martin Lowe
My dear son,
I wish you a Happy New Year. May you live to a good old age and he an honor to your parents, your town, and these United States of America. — H. Martin Lowe
Dear Father & Mother in law,
I wish you a Happy New Year. When I return (April next), I hope to find you in as good health as when I left home. — H. M. Lowe
Letter 14
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot Off Topsail Inlet, North Carolina Thursday, January
My darling wife,
It is over two weeks since I last wrote you. The cause of the delay was on account of a fever which I have. Today I got up at 10 o’clock and I am much better than for the last 10 days and I think I shall be well enough to do my duty in a few days. The Paymaster has a bad cold and is about sick. Mr. Hodgkins is on the sick list. He has a bad cold. As it will not do for me to write more today, I must close wishing you all a happy New Year.
From your most loving and affectionate husband, — Henry M. Lowe, Paymaster Steward, U. S. N.
Some pages in Lowe’s diary from January 1863
Letter 15
U. S. S. Gunboat Penobscot Off New Inlet, North Carolina January 25 [1863]
My dear wife,
Friday I received a letter from you wrote December 30th. For your kind wish, I thank you a thousand times. I wish you had sent me Frank’s Ambrotype for I am quite earnest to see how he is growing. I should like very much to see him in person (but that is played out). I suppose we will have to lay down here five or six months longer. Then perhaps we may not be ordered north of Philadelphia. I shall be at home by that time for I have had the promise to go just when I had a wished to. There is no one on board who would like to go better than your humble servant who is now addressing you but I think it would be better for me to stop till the ship goes North.
I have not received my commission as Master’s Mate. When it comes, I think I shall not take it. I did not want to send for it. It was Capt. Clitz’s doings. I can make as much money where I am as if I had Masters Mate billet. Then I would have to stand a watch every day and night. Now I have nothing to do day or night. I would like the billet if you was willing for me to go to sea for I think in a few months I could hold a good officer in the Navy. Please not let anyone know what I have wrote to you about this billet.
Last Tuesday the Genessee captured a prize. As it was quite rough, she couldn’t send a boat to her so she brought her to anchor under her stern for the night. In the morn she had slipped and put for Topsail Inlet. The Mount Vernon saw her trying to get in so they put a few shot and shell in her and she went to bottom. Wednesday the Checorora captured a prize from Nassau. She was loaded with brandy & quinine. I sent a letter to Father by her. Friday the Cambridge captured a fine prize. She was from Nassau N. P. bound to Wilmington. We have a share in it.
Yesterday we went down to the U. S. Steamer Columbia and sent a boat in to see if the Rebel had left anything. The found a 30-lb. Parrott Gun sent in our launch and got it safe on board. While our men was on board the Columbia we kept up a constant firing so to keep off the Rebels. We drove them from their guns and knocked their sand batteries in a knocked up hat. We learn by the way of three deserters that came off to the Cambridge that the Rebels on the morning of the 16th before light took the crew and officers as prisoners and that when we fired on the Columbia, there was about 40 Rebels on board. When they found that we was putting shot through her, they left for the shore. In their haste, 17 men was drowned in the surf. In the night the enemy came off to her and set her on fire. She didn’t burn much as the sea broke over her and put it out. On the 15th and 16th we kept up a fire on the Rebels all day. They fired on us from their batteries and some of their shots was very good ones. We had out topmast back-stay hit but two or three yams was cut away.
I suppose you have seen by this time an account of our going in and saving three officers and 42 men of the Columbia. At the time our boats left the ship, the sea was running very high. I thought we would lose them. The Columbia was a fine iron steamer. She had not been in commission but three weeks. There was $5000 in money on board and any quantity of provision, clothing & small stores. It is hard to see such a good steamer fall in the enemy’s hands. I think that we shall in a day or two blow her to pieces. 1
Today (Sunday) it is quite pleasant. We have been on a cruise all day. Tonight we arrived back to the fleet and sent ten men on board the Genessee and five on board the steamer Cambridge. I hope we shall get rid of all of them in a few days for we have not room for them.
As for my health, it is first rate. The Paymaster is well. Mr. Hodgkins still on the sick list. The Doctor will send him home the first chance. I will again wish you all a Happy New Year. With much love to all friends and a wish that they may write often.
I remain your most loving husband, — Henry Martin Lowe
1 Columbia, a 503-ton (burden) iron screw steamer, was built at Dumbarton, England, in 1862 for use running the Federal blockade of the Confederate coast. She was captured off Florida by USS Santiago de Cuba on 3 August 1862, during her first voyage in this trade. The U.S. Navy purchased her in November of that year, fitted her out as a gunboat and placed her in commission as USS Columbia. Assigned to the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, she ran aground off Masonboro Inlet, North Carolina, on 14 January 1863. Efforts to get her off were unsuccessful and many of her crew was captured by the Confederates. She was destroyed by fire on 17 January.
Letter 16
Washington D. C. February 18, 1863
My dear wife,
I suppose you are quite anxious to see me—at least I hope to see you on the 1st day March. I shall have a chance to stay at home two weeks and then shall have to come back to this City and stop two months more. I have had a good look at the Capitol and the City. Last night I was to call on Aunt Augusta but as I fell and hurt my leg, I was not able to go on shore. My leg is quite well this morning.
We had six inches of snow yesterday. It was the first I have seen since I left home. I shall go over to the hospital today to see Mr. Hodgkins. I am quite well. With love to all, I remain your affectionate husband, — H. Martin Lowe, U. S. N.
I will write to Mother in a day or two. Send your letters to H. M. Lowe, Washington Navy Yard, Washington D. C.
Letter 17
Washington D. C. March 22, 1862
Father [William] Blatchford,
I suppose you will be quite surprised when you hear that the Penobscot will be ready for sea in ten days or two weeks. She is now off the ways, her masts is in, and guns on deck. The Ward Room, Cabin, and Steerage are put in good order. Quite a number of the Boys deserted while I was at home. They all have money due them.
I think I shall have a chance to see you before I go to sea as I do not expect to go out in the Penobscot. I shall have to stay here two months or more with the Paymaster to make out our final returns for the cruise. We will go to sea in the same craft if we can. What one we do not know. At least we will not go in the Penobscot. I have not had time to call on one of the Boys since I came here. Uncle Addison [Pool] is quite unwell. I am as well as ever. Look out for my better half and Frank. With much love to all.
I remain your affectionate son-in-law, — Henry Martin Lowe
P. S. The Columbia’s crew arrived from the South last Friday. The officers are in prison. 1
1 Columbia, a 503-ton (burden) iron screw steamer, was built at Dumbarton, England, in 1862 for use running the Federal blockade of the Confederate coast. She was captured off Florida by USS Santiago de Cuba on 3 August 1862, during her first voyage in this trade. The U.S. Navy purchased her in November of that year, fitted her out as a gunboat and placed her in commission as USS Columbia. Assigned to the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, she ran aground off Masonboro Inlet, North Carolina, on 14 January 1863. Efforts to get her off were unsuccessful and many of her crew was captured by the Confederates. She was destroyed by fire on 17 January.
Letter 18
U. S. S. Miami Bound to Plymouth, North Carolina July 17th 1863
My dear wife,
I did not think to write to you again (when I was in Newbern) till I arrived to the Southfield, but as it is quite uncertain when we shall get there, I will write a few lines to let you know I am well. We shall stop at Hatteras on our way down the sound. How long we are to lay in more than I can tell. I shall there get a chance to send this note to you.
When I arrive at Plymouth, I will write and let you know how we like our new ship. I am most tired out with my long journey. So is [Uncle] Addison [Pool]. It is some hot down this way—much more so than you have it at Rockport. I have not heard one word from the war since I left New York on the 11th. I expect that the Rebels have skedaddled to Richmond. When we get the next papers, I think we shall hear of our having Charleston in our hands.
With much love to all and a kiss for Frank, I remain your affectionate husband, — H. M. Lowe
Letter 19
U. S. S. Southfield1 Off Plymouth, North Carolina Sunday, July 19, 1863
My dear wife,
I will now tell you about my long journey down South. In just twenty-four hours from home I arrived in the City of Baltimore where I had to stop ninety-six hours for transportation to Fortress Monroe, Va. The four days I was in Baltimore I enjoyed myself first rate. On the evening of the Fourth, I was at the fireworks which was most beautiful. What pleased me the most when at Baltimore was to find so many good Union men. Most of them was the strongest Union men I had ever been with. I not only know them so by their talk but by their kindness to the poor wounded troops [from Gettysburg] that arrived at that City when I was there. Hundreds volunteered to go out to the battlefield and take care of the sick and wounded. I there saw a subscription list for the disabled fighting men—over $3,000 was on the list that was raised in one day. The amounts on the paper was from $5 to $500. Oh! how I wish I had a hundred dollars to give. I would have given it in less than no time. I must say I think that Baltimore is one of the best places we have to send wounded troops. It is Union. Our troops are used like brothers in that City.
I must now tell you about the Rebel prisoners that arrived there when I was in the City. I saw 4,853 come in. It was quite a sight to see them—some with shoes and some without. There was not any two in the whole lot that had hats or caps alike. To make a long story short—they was a [sorry] looking set.
On the 6th we went to Hampton Roads where we had to wait to receive orders to proceed on our journey. I spent two days at that place with Charles Knowlton which was very pleasant for me. We then took a steamer to New York where we had to stop till 3 p.m. on the 11th. I there saw George Gott and sent a note to you by him. I was very much pleased with my passage from New York to Newbern for I had a friend on board who was acquainted with the coast and he booked me up in all points of any account. At Newbern, we stopped two or three days and then got passage to this place in the U. S. Steamer Miami where we arrived yesterday morning.
Monday, 20th
I have a chance to send you this letter at once so I will not tell you anything about the boat today. We are quite well. Kiss Frank for me and give love to all friends. Yours, — H. M. Lowe
P. S. I will write in a day or two.
A view of the USS Southfield after she was sunk by the Confederate Ram Albemarle at Plymouth in 1864
1 The USS Southfield was a double-ended, sidewheel steam gunboat of the Union Navy during the American Civil War. She was sunk in action against the Confederate ironclad ram CSS Albemarle during the Battle of Plymouth (1864). Southfield was built in 1857 at Brooklyn, New York by John English, and served as a ferry between South Ferry, New York, and St. George, Staten Island, until she was purchased by the U.S. Navy at New York City on December 16, 1861 from the New York Ferry Company. She was commissioned late in December 1861, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Charles F. W. Behm in command.
Letter 20
U. S. Steamer Southfield Off Newbern, North Carolina August 1st 1863
My Dear Wife,
Today I received a paper from you. Oh how I wished I had seen a letter so I could have heard how you and the friends at home was. I would give most anything to know how my little boy is getting along. You must write as soon as you can and let me know how Father, Frank, and all of you enjoy your health. I hope to hear you are better than when I left home.
Foster’s Expedition has returned to this place. They brought back with them 60 fine horses, a large lot of cattle, and some 80 prisoners. The camp of the 25th Massachusetts Regiments is about 200 feet from our ship. I saw some of the Gloucester Boys yesterday. They were not well enough to go on the expedition.
One of our mess was transferred today on board another ship. I was very sorry to have him go as he was a fine fellow and a brother mason. There is nothing going on down here. I do not like [it] very well. It is not my style to lay still. I like to smell powder once in awhile but we shall not get a chance to do so in this place. Addison [Pool] is well. I am the same.
Give my love to one and all friends. From your affectionate husband, — H. M. Lowe
Letter 21
U. S. Steamer Southfield Off Newbern, North Carolina August 12, 1863
My dear wife,
I received a letter from you this morning. It was the first since I left home. I was glad to hear that Frank was getting along so well. When you next write, I hope to hear you are all as well as ever. There is nothing of any importance going on down this way.
As I have the shakes 1 today, you must excuse this letter. I am not sick. The shakes will go away in a few days and then I can write to you.
We have Rebel papers on board as late as the 9th. Write soon and give my best respects to all friends. Send a few stamps. From your most affectionate husband, — Henry M. Lowe, Paymaster Clerk, U. S. N.
1 Martin probably contracted malaria (“Ague”) which gives rise to periodic paroxysms which people referred to as “the shakes.”
Letter 22
Envelope marked with “U. S. Steamer Southfield”postmarked at Newbern, N. C.
U. S. Steamer Southfield October 1st 1863
My dear wife,
This morning we received a mail from the North. I had four papers but not my letters. The last letter I received was from Benjamin [F. Blachford] wrote on the 10th of last month.
There is no news worthy of note. I am in the best of health. The Paymaster is well as usual. We have six officers and about forty men sick with the fever and ague.
I think we shall go down to Roanoke in a few days as it will not do for us to stop here any longer. If we do, we shall not have men enough to get her out of the river.
The steamer Phoenix arrived today with fresh provisions for this boat. I received a receipt for $50 that I sent you by Adams Express Company. I now send you in this letter $5.
You will please send me two undershirts in the box with the boots. Give my love to all friends from your most affectionate husband, — Henry M. Lowe, U. S. N.
Letter 23
U. S. Steamer Southfield Off Roanoke Island, North Carolina October 12, 1863
My dear wife,
On the morning of the 10th we arrived at this place and I think by what I can hear that we shall stop here for a few days. Then we go to Hatteras Inlet and lay till our provisions run out.
This morning when I got up I was one hundred percent better than I have been for the last week.
A large number of steamers have passed us today (all from Newbern). We do not know where they are bound. We spoke one boat who said their expedition consisted of 1200 cavalry. 1
At 6 o’clock the mail arrived and as most of the officers was sick (I volunteered to go in charge of the boat for mail and do some business for the Captain. I received one letter—viz. from R. B. Pool. The Paymaster or myself didn’t receive any letter from home.
I am quite smart today. Give my love to all friends and a thousand kisses for Master Frank Henry Lowe.
From your affectionate husband, — Henry M. Lowe, Paymaster Clerk, U. S. N.
to Louisa F. Lowe, Cape Ann, Rockport, Mass.
1 “There is a report from Newbern that Governor Vance of North Carolina has been offered the next Confederate Presidency, provided he will ‘wheel the Old North State back into line,’ and that he is ‘wheeling’ to his utmost ability. A recent cavalry expedition has succeeded in frustrating the rebel conscription in the counties east of the Chowan River and south of Albemarle Sound. The citizens have repudiated the rebel government.” [The Pittsfield Sun, 29 October 1863]
Letter 24
U. S. Steamer Southfield Hatteras Inlet, North Carolina [late October 1863]My dear wife,
For the last ten days it has been blowing a tremendous breeze. Therefore steamers and schooners who would have went North have been delayed so I have not wrote any letter since the 19th. In the morning we are to go to Newbern for coal and provisions. I think we shall lay there ten days or two weeks. This afternoon I went on board the steamer Delaware to see John Griffin. 1 He is in good health and looks well. You will please tell his Mother (Mrs. Thurston) when you see her.
When I last wrote to you, I thought I could make it convenient to send you $100 but as I have sent $40 to New York for a few articles from which I shall [make] $50 without any trouble, I shall have to delay it till the first of December. I shall send you $50 the first of November.
The Paymaster is well. I am in good health. Give my love to all friends and kiss my little Frank. From your affectionate husband, — Henry Martin Lowe
1 John Griffin of Rockport, Massachusetts, was 19 years old when he enlisted in the US Navy in November 1861. He was described as having black hair, black eyes, a ruddy complexion, and stood 5’7″ tall.John’s parents were Andrew and Esther.
Letter 25
U. S. Steamer Southfield Off Newbern, North Carolina November 1st 1863
My dear wife,
Yesterday and day before I got our provisions, clothing, and small stores on board. Therefore, I have not had much time to look around town. Cyrus Pool went on board and took dinner with me yesterday. I sent you per Adams Express Company $50.
After breakfast I shall go on shore and spend the day with George Gott. He is well. We received a mail on Friday and yesterday but there was not a letter for me. I should like to have someone to keep me booked up as to the health of friends and the news.
Addison [Pool] is about the same. I am in good health. Give my love to all friends. I hope that this letter will find you all in good health. Kiss Frank for me. From your affectionate and most loving husband, — Henry M. Lowe, Paymaster Clerk, U. S. N.
To Louisa . Lowe, Rockport, Mass.
Letter 26
U. S. Steamer Southfield Off Bateman’s Cornfield, North Carolina January 30th 1864
My dear wife,
I have nothing of importance to write now and if I had, could not do it as I am Officer of the Deck. I am writing now on my knee so you must excuse bad writing. I will write you a letter by next mail. Enclosed you will find $10. I am well. Give my love to all friends. Kiss Frank for me.
From your husband, — Henry M. Lowe
Letter 27
United States Steamer Southfield Roanoke River off Plymouth, North Carolina Wednesday, March 9th 1864
My dear wife,
Your letter of February 22nd was received yesterday evening. I was pleased to learn that you and Frank was well and hope to find you so on about the 1st or 2nd of next month.
I have wrote to Benjamin [F. Blatchford] quite a number of letters but have not received any answered as yet. Today I send a Rebel paper to Robert and one to Father. We are having some fine weather.
You will please answer this letter. I think you had better not write any after the 20th or 22nd as I may not get any wrote after that date. We receive no letters through this canal, nor is any ever allowed to go through. If the canal is not open, I cannot see Benjamin before I go home.
Addison [Pool] and myself are well as usual. There is no news. Give my love to all friends. With a kiss for you and Frank. I remain your affectionate husband, – Henry M. Lowe
The following brief diary was kept by 25 year-old Gilbert D. Wilkinson (1836-Aft1910) who enlisted in Co. F, 4th Alabama Infantry on 26 April 1861 at Huntsville, Alabama. Gilbert’s name was recorded as “George” in the company records and may be found under both names but I’ve used Gilbert since this appears to have been his birth name. Gilbert was with his regiment in the early days of the war until he was “severely wounded through both thighs” at the First Battle of Manassas on 21 July 1861. He was taken to a hospital at Charlottesville for treatment but, being permanently disabled, was never able to return to his regiment and served until November 1864 as a hospital steward while he pursued “studies at the University.” He was officially discharged on 11 July 1865.
A record in his military file written by his surgeon claimed that “this man was very badly wounded at the 1st Battle of Manassas in July 1861 in the thighs & suffered a compound fracture of the left femur in the upper third. After a struggle of six or eight months, during which time the issue was regarded as very doubtful, he recovered with the loss of three inches of the shaft of the bone & consequent shortening to that extent. For a year or more he acted as Ward Master in one of the wards of this hospital [at Charlotte] with extreme fidelity but with great and at length increasing suffering which compelled him to solicit a retirement. He was retired by a Field Board and ordered to report to the Medical Director, W. A. Carrington, for assignment.”
Piecing together Gilbert’s ancestry proved to be a little difficult but we know he was born in 1836 in Missouri from his military records and that his actual name was Gilbert instead of George. This led me to the family of Livingston Wilkinson (1806-1881) and his wife, Rainey H. Granger (18xxx-1843). Livingston and Rainey were married in Lafayette county, Missouri, in 1832, and were living in Johnson county, Missouri in 1837. By the time of the 1850 US Census, Lafayette had remarried (his first wife dying in 1843) and was living in Washington county, Texas, working as a mechanic. 14 year-old Gilbert was enumerated in his father’s household at that time. By the time of the 1860 US Census, 24 year-old Gilbert was no longer living with his father in Texas. Presumably he was working as a mechanic somewhere in the South—possibly in Alabama.
After the war, Gilbert returned to Texas. He was enumerated in the 1910 US Census in Houston, Texas—a 74 year-old widower and an “out of work” physician, residing as a “patient” in the Houston Infirmary and Sanitarium, Ward 6, managed by Dr. Joseph R. Stuart. He may have died not long afterwards, of broken body and mind.
A sample of Gilbert D. Wilkinson’s Handwriting
[Note: This diary transcript, never before published, was provided to me for publication on Spared & Shared by the express consent of Greg Starbuck, one-time owner of the diary. He sold the diary about 30 years ago to a dealer who subsequently sold it to a customer but it was reportedly lost in the mail and only Greg’s xerox copy of the diary and his transcript survives.]
Transcription
Col. Egbert J. Jones, 4th Alabama Infantry, was mortally wounded at the Battle of First Manassas
May 1861, Harpers Ferry—Orders of the day, one company drill, three battalion drills, and one dress parade at half past six by orders of Egbert J. Jones, Colonel of the Fourth regiment of Alabama Volunteers. Commanding officer at this place—Gen. Joseph Johnston, late of the U. S. Army and commander in the Utah expedition in 1858.
June 5th 1861—This day it rained all day and also yesterday. No appearance of clear weather. Everything has a dull appearance.
June 8th 1861, Harpers Ferry. After waiting two days on the skirmish line, we at last received orders to march, having in the meantime blown up the bridges and public buildings—sacredly respecting all private property—and taking the Pike road towards Winchester. Marched all day and encamped three miles beyond Charlestown.
June 17th—Wheeled to the right and marched towards Martinsburg rapidly. After marching 17 miles, we encamped at a little place called Bunker’s Hill. Plenty of good water but no whiskey and the weather pretty warm. And here I will add that we shall never forget the numerous acts of kindness shown us all along our line of march and especially at the town of Charlestown. God bless the ladies of that place. At Bunker’s Hill there are a great many union men.
June 18th—Waited here to see what movement the federal troops would take. In the meantime, having formed our line of battle, our men being anxious to fight but perfectly cool and collected. About 10 o’clock the federal troops having re-crossed the Potomac river in haste, we were ordered to Winchester where we expected to rest. Marched 10 miles and encamped.
Monday the 19th—[with]in four miles of that place [Winchester]. Remained here until Wednesday the 21st when we moved up into Winchester and were formed into a brigade under the command of Brigadier General Bee of South Carolina. Provisions plenty, [but] no whiskey. Here we were reviewed by Gen. Johnston—the commanding officer of this department who expressed himself pleased with our movements.
This Thursday 28th, camp guards all round the camps. Very rigid orders and very difficult to get out of camp on business or pleasure. The ladies as usual [are] vying with each other in showing us acts of kindness. Our sick in the hospitals—of which, by the way, we have but few—being treated with every kindness. The Mississippians and Tennesseans have quite a number here in the hospitals owing to the severe exposure whilst on their journey to Virginia.
Our boys are in good spirits and pleased with their officers but would like to fight the Northerners and go home. Here the boys receive their letters and money from home regularly and many other things which are calculated to reconcile a soldier to his hard lot. We receive papers from home and other places by which we are enabled to see into the operations taking place elsewhere. A great many amusing incidents come off in our camp such as a small fisticuff now and then, and wrestling, tumbling, evading the camp guards, raising merry hell generally. Here you will see some reading a Bible or a paper, some writing, some playing cards for sport, some cooking, some smoking, some sleeping, some walking the slow and solemn sentry round whist others are being put through the manual of arms or the evolution.
This flag may have been manufactured between February 21 and November 17, 1860 by J. O. Belknap, 28 Dauphin St., Mobile, Alabama [Note 1]. It was issued to the Canebrake Rifle Guards (Co. D, 4th Alabama Infantry) prior to their departure for Virginia and was last carried during a dress parade at Harpers Ferry, Virginia in June 1861. No subsequent information concerning the history of the flag has been located.[Alabama Dept. of Archives & History]
It would be worth six months of a man’s lifetime to see the Fourth Alabama Volunteer regiment cooking and preparing to cook, the most of whom are the sons of the best families of Alabama—wealthy and educated—rolling up their sleeves [and] going into it with determination, if not cheerfulness, some bringing water, some browning coffee, some frying meat, and others making dough for bread. It is truly laughable to think how I have seen them at home—the proudest in the land—now stooping to do this which at home they would die before they do. But war is a leveler of all distinctions and what won’t men do when home and country and liberty are involved? Beneath the tall and white bowled cotton stalk lines coiled the vindictive rattlesnake and beneath this engraving are written these words, “Noli me tangere” [“Touch me not”].
Friday June 29th—The weather is moderately warm. The wind balmily and steadily sweeps across the green orchards and groves and the ripening wheat fields all around the Blue Ridge belt—the horizon forming a scene as the eye need look upon. And still our minds run back to the dear old homes and pleasant faces we left behind us and which we may never see again. Still in imagination we hear the sweet voices of those we love, and silently in our hearts we chant that to us holy name—Alabama, Alabama. — G. D. Wilkinson of Huntsville.
June the 29th—this evening we moved from our very pleasant camp in between two hills to a high shady grove [though] we are not quite so conveniently situated as to water. Everyone seems pleased. Myself and mess are better fixed in our tenting arrangements than we have been since our enlistment. Besides, we have one of the finest views from the back of our camp that is to be seen in many a day’s travel. It is night and reveille is sounding for roll call, so I must close my diary for today. — G. D. Wilkinson.
Saturday, June 30th—This day was passed in the usual drill and in picking raspberries of which a great many abound in the fields and fence corners. In the afternoon, some of the boys treed a squirrel and such yelling and hollering as took place then would have frightened even the Yankees.
Sunday, June the last— It is raining and gloomy with nothing of special interest passing. This day has been by adoption our regimental marching day, but we are permitted to rest this one Sunday I suppose by default with a regimental inspection of arms. By way of amusement, some of the boys are very much disappointed, having laid off to visit the city and flirt with the girls. Amongst the number, none the more so than your humble servant. Orders have been given not to suffer anyone to pass until the inspection is over. — G. D. Wilkinson
Monday, July 1st 1861—This day has passed without anything transpiring worthy of notice but same military routine of a soldier, duty, and camp life. The weather continues pleasant and agreeable. It is a great many degrees cooler here than it is in Alabama or Tennessee at this season of the year. The ripening wheat and grain fields now are in their golden yellow. The farmers are already gathering in their store and I must say, I never saw such another crop as will be gathered from this valley—the beautiful valley of Virginia.
Tuesday, the 2nd July, 1861—This day at one o’clock precisely, we received orders to be ready to march in ten minutes time, Gen. [Joe] Johnston having received a dispatch from Col. [Thomas] Jackson that his command was then engaged in furious combat with the enemy in overwhelming odds under the command of General Patterson at Martinsburg some 22 miles distant from this place. Col. Jackson’s command is the advance guard of the Army of the Shenandoah. At the tap of the drum, our regiment fell into line and amidst the most vociferous cheering, rapidly took up the line of march followed by the other regiments of our brigade & also two others—in all, about eight thousand strong. We left our tents standing, taking nothing but our knapsacks and guns.
[We] reached the little town of Bunker’s Hill at dark, camped, and some of our companies got their suppers whilst others having no cooking utensils, lay down on the hard ground to seek rest and repose—probably the last this side of the cold grave. The clouds looked lowering, but luckily we were spared this the most unpleasant mishap of a soldier’s career—a cold rain at night without tents. Gradually towards ten, the clouds cleared away and full in the North, a blazing comet met our gaze. It was truly sublime. Its tail almost spanned the heavens. Its head in the direction we are marching. What it may portend, I cannot tell—if anything. In all probability, [it’s] some heavenly visitant sent to mark the fratricidal strife now forced upon us. It is said that a comet appeared in the time of the great Napoleon, at three of the most interesting periods of his eventful career—the rise, the zenith of his fame, and his fate.1
1 “The celestial body soon became known as ‘The War Comet’ and as the comet blazed across the Northern sky in early July, it soon became visible to those in the theater of war…Each clear night, the comet became visible in the summer sky and soldiers and citizens alike gawked at its fiery splendor and reflected on what the comet’s appearance meant to them and to their country…The great comet of 1861 gradually grew more distant, and disappeared from the night sky by late summer. The question of what the object foretold was soon settled—even as the comet flew overhead, the armies of North and South engaged on the battlefield at Bull Run.” [A Civil War Soldier Reflects on the Comet of 1861, Emerging Civil War, 25 October 2017]
July 3rd1861—Precisely at three o’clock our troops were wakened at the tap of the drum and immediately and in good order fell into line of march. Noiselessly and rapidly we moved onward until we reached the little town of Darkesville to which the Virginia regiments had fallen back to after the fight. We reached this place just as the first gray streaks of dawn were gilding the East and at once prepared for refreshing the inner man. Some went to cooking, some strayed off to the village to hunt something to eat, whilst others too tired for either, stretched their wearied limbs beneath the shade of the tall trees which grew around. [It was] here [that] another one of those painful episodes in the carelessness handling of firearms occurred. A soldier, a fine young man in the prime of manhood, lay reclining in profound sleep upon the ground. A companion of his, more wakeful, was sitting beside him arranging his pistols after reloading them. Through some mishap, the pistol exploded—the ball taking effect in his sleeping friend’s back, severing the spinal column [and] producing a frightful, if not mortal wound. What must have been the feelings of him who unintentionally had ruined—if not killed—his best friend. I will not attempt to describe them.
After breakfast and a careful reconnaissance, Gen. Johnston moved his columns forward and took up his position in battle array one mile beyond this town fully expecting that Gen. Patterson—the commander of the Lincoln forces, now reinforced to 20 thousand strong—would immediately attack us. Our position is a splendid place for positioning sharp shooters and skirmishers, a branch of war in which our troops far excel the Yankees. The regiment to which I belonged had a grove in its rear wherein to camp and fall back upon. Here we found many springs of excellent water—a thing appreciated by our soldiers after their furious marching through the heat and dust. Our men stacked their arms in front of their position and took to the shade, prepared to fall in whenever the enemy should make their appearance, which he declined to do and this night we lay down to rest quietly again.
July 4th 1861—This the birthday of American Independence eighty odd years ago—the day on which our forefathers pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor in defense of their liberties. We fully expected to fight our (now no more) brothers of the North on precisely the same issues, but the gods decreed it otherwise. Old Pat [Patterson] refused to come to town as we passed the day in quietness with nothing but the hope of meeting the Yankees to interest us or drive dull care away. I forgot to mention that this morning we were aroused at three o’clock and silently took our place beside our guns, each man covering as much ground as he could lie upon, prepared to spring the arms at a moment’s warning.
July 5th 1861—This morning we arose somewhat later owing perhaps to the many disappointments we have been subject to in not meeting the enemy. Our force at this place amounts so far as I can learn to near fifteen thousand fighting men. The sick whom we were compelled to leave behind in Winchester are pouring into camp and our ranks are fuller now than they have been for some time. I have seen several members of the fighting Fifth regiment of Virginia who were engaged with the Yankees. They all revel in stating that they killed a great many more than they lost. Their loss was only two killed and seven wounded whilst from everything we can gather, the Yankees must have lost some two hundred. We have taken thus far in this “war” near eighty of their men prisoner—amongst them one or two lieutenants and one captain and one lieutenant-colonel.
I must not forget to mention the great kindness with which I was treated when hungry and tired by a couple of ladies in Darkesville. They gave me a nice breakfast and treated me with various marks of kindness, refusing to receive any pay besides. I made the acquaintance of two very handsome young ladies—daughters of the postmasters of Darksville, the Misses Mysongs.
“It is reported in the camps this evening that Gen. Patterson sent word to Johnston that if he would stack some arms and go home, he would let him off on favorable terms. General Johnston sent back an answer that if he would wait patiently he would bring them down to him and save them the trouble of coming after them.”
—George D. Wilkinson, 4th Alabama, 5 July 1861
The day passed off with nothing of special interest except flying rumors. The enemy are said to have received reinforcements, increasing their force to twenty-five thousand men and plenty of cannon. They fortified Martinsburg immediately after occupying it and we should have been on them before this time. It is reported in the camps this evening that Gen. Patterson sent word to Johnston that if he would stack some arms and go home, he would let him off on favorable terms. General Johnston sent back an answer that if he would wait patiently he would bring them down to him and save them the trouble of coming after them.
July 6th 1861—All quiet this morning. Visited the camps of the 4th Virginia regiment and met an old friend of mine, Pat Feagan. Just as I reached camp, the pickets came running in with the news that the federal troops were advancing and had fired on them. Then commenced a scene I shall never forget. The men raised such a shout as shook the forest around and flew to arms and fell into ranks with an alacrity I never witnessed before, eager to cross bayonets with the foe. Oh! it was a joyous sight for a general to see his soldiers so inspired by the proximity of battle. Can an army of such material be conquered? I do not think they can. Our ranks rapidly took the positions assigned them and waited with perfect coolness the approach of the enemy. After waiting for some hours, it was discovered that the enemy were not advancing and once again we were marched back to camp and in the evening the company to which I belong were ordered out on picket guard.
July 7th 1861—This morning came off picket and found that we were ordered to fall back on Winchester. Gen. Johnston finding that he was outflanked, and that the enemy were strongly entrenched besides receiving large reinforcements rendering an attack on him rash and ill timed, issued an address to the army under him stating that for four days he had with vastly inferior numbers offered battle to the enemy, but that he had refused to accept it, that the army would now fall back to a more convenient and healthy position where he could strike a more effective blow when necessary, and once we turned our backs to the foe, sadly and grumblingly, although we could not help approving the policy of the move. We arrived at our old quarters at Winchester about five o’clock, wearied somewhat after marching fifteen long miles.
July 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th—Nothing of interest [occurred]. The health of the troops is good. The weather is pleasant. The boys have recovered from the fatigue of the march. More troops are arriving daily. Our strength must [now] be somewhat near twenty thousand. We are planting cannon in the heights and throwing up breastworks in the valleys around the town. There is said to be mutiny in the enemy’s camp. Our letters do not come regularly [but] in every respect we are comfortable enough, cheerful, prepared to fight [and] eager and anxious for the fray.
July 12th, 1861—Nothing of special note took place today. The customary drill, the usual amusements, & the batteries are still in course of creation. Our regiment was highly complimented whilst on dress parade by the commander of the brigade. He said that ours was the best dress parade he had seen since he was in the old U. S. A. This announcement was received by our boys with vociferous applause. Last night the hardest rain fell I think I ever witnessed. It fell in torrents, drenching everything.
July 13th, 1861—All quiet. Weather cool and raining.
July 16th, 1861—This day the federal troops attacked our mounted pickets with a battery of flying artillery, killing several and dispensing the balance on the 13th. Our cavalry under Col. [J. E. B.] Stuart attacked a regiment of federal infantry and slew thirty or more, losing one man—Col. Stuart himself being wounded. Just before dark, our troops were moved to their position in case of an attack and everything put in readiness for their warm reception.
July 17th 1861—The night wore off without any alarm and the sun broke again in unclouded splendor upon this beautiful valley and still nobody hurt. This evening our troops moved back to quarters and peace and quiet reigned supreme.
[July] 18th 1861—-This morning at the reveille came to order to strike tents, pack baggage, and prepare.
July 8th 1861 [Composed at] Camp near Winchester
A small portion of the Don Troiani Painting of the 4th Alabama at 1st Bull Run
On Darks hill where the sun was high and nary a cloud was in the sky, And many a soldiers heart beat high With hopes of coming victory.
The camp fires burning all aglow, the sentinel tramped to and fro; whilst wakeful for the coming foe And still perhaps impatiently
Beyond within the sentry’s post, the pride of Alabama’s host; A thousand eager hearts almost repose in all security.
And there are some prone at the cards, And others swearing fast and hard and others mimicking the bard of Avon, a droller minstrel.
There you may hear the sleeper’s snore, and some rehearse the news of war, and others wrestle, run, or spar with I might say impunity.
And there are some whose hopes run high, and there are some whose eyes are dry and some almost in mode to cry, at news from home and relatives.
And there a slim [James H.] Brown with constant grin, and trouble shouting for his tin; And [Jerome B.] Williams raising hell again, and full of fun and deviltry.
There’s Sandy White; who sweats try And [Robert N.] Hilburn of the lying squad; and [Jasper N.] Risoner with his smile and nod a laughing trio certainly.
There’s [E. Wilton] Croxton with a devil’s wit, and [William G.] Cunningham all gas and grit; and [John B.] Worthem with his face all lit, with smiles and make incessantly.
I could not find an image of Charles but here is a cdv of a group of guys from Co. B, 83rd Illinois Infantry that were stationed at Fort Donelson 1863-65. The men are identified (left to right) as Robert McClelland, Robert P. Morrison, Robert Gowdy, John M. Martin, Robert M Stevenson, John N Hogue, Josiah Moore, Marion Morrison, and 1st Sgt. William Struthers. Sitting in the front row are: James Neeley and Joseph Moore. (John Walsh Collection)
The following letter was written by Charles Wesley Harrison (1837-1931) of Victoria, Knox county, Illinois, who served in Co. K, 83rd Illinois Infantry during the Civil War. Charles’ parents were Alfred Harrison (1808-1866) and Margaret Cherrington (1816-1846). He wrote the letter to his sister, Delilah Harrison (1843-1907).
When Charles enlisted in August 1862, he was described as a dark-haired, dark-eyed 5 foot, 11-inch single farmer. He entered the service as a private, was promoted to corporal, and finally to sergeant in March 1865, just before mustering out of the regiment on 26 June 1865 at Nashville. During most of their time in the service, the 83rd Illinois was garrisoned at Fort Donelson which they successfully defended in an attack by Forrest and Wheeler on 3 February 1863.
Transcription
Addressed to Delila Harrison, Illinois, Knox County, Victoria, PO
Fort Donelson, Tennessee May the 16, 1864
Dear Sister,
It is with pleasure that I sit down to write you a few lines to let you know that I am well and hope these few lines may find you receiving the same kind blessing the last letter that I had from any of you was dated April the 24th. The health of the company is good though there is several of the new recruits complaining. There is several of the new recruits complaining—none of them very sick. I have no war news but what you will hear before this reaches you. The news is good from every place though we are getting men killed by the thousands. Sherman is now fighting at Dalton or on the other side. There was seventeen hundred of our wounded came into Nashville yesterday and they are going to have a hot time there. There is a Captain here right from there that used to belong to our regiment. He was a Corporal when he belonged to the 83rd. He [is] now [a] Captain in a Darkey Regiment. He says that we have two men there to this one and that we are sure of success. Our regiment will send out about thirty commission officers.
L[ucian] S. Lambert has got a Captain’s commission in the First Kentucky Colored and still there is three more in the company that will get commissions. 1 I think that we are sure of staying here at this place this summer again. Colonel [Arthur A.] Smith says that he has done his best to get us away and he can’t do it and we can make up our minds to stay this summer at Fort Donelson.
The weather has been very cool for this time of year so far but it now looks as though we are a going to have some warm weather as I have nothing of interest to write. I will close hoping to hear from you soon.
— C. W. Harrison
When this you see, remember me, while down in Tennessee. — Shakespeer
1 According to Fold3, Lucian was commissioned Captain of the 8th Regt. U. S. Colored Heavy Artillery on 18 April 1864 at Paducah, Kentucky.
The following four letters were written by James B. Moyer (1845-1920), the son of George Moyer (1810-1865) and Magdalena Wolf (1812-1883) of Myerstown, Lebanon county, Pennsylvania. At an early age, James entered the carriage painting trade. When he entered the service in 1864, he was described as a brown-eyed, brown-haired recruit who stood feet 4 inches tall. He enlisted at Harrisburg on 26 August 1864 and immediately mustered into Co. F, 200th Pennsylvania Infantry.
These letters were written during the winter of 1864-65 when James was with the regiment before Petersburg. In the spring of 1865, he was detailed to brigade headquarters as a painter. He was honorably discharged in late May 1865.
One of James B. Moyer’s letters describes the “Applejack Raid” or the “Hicksford Expedition” led by the 5th Corps, shown here tearing up and burning the Weldon Railroad.
Letter 1
[Note: The following letter describes the expedition led by Maj. Gen. Gouverneur K. Warren’s Fifth Corps composed of 26,000 troops to disrupt the Weldon Railroad. The Union troops were in high spirits during the raid, despite the frigid temperatures, and their exuberance was further fueled by the availability of potent apple brandy – “apple jack” – taken from farms along the expedition’s route. Officially known as “Hicksford Expedition” or “Weldon Raid,” the foray was dubbed “The Apple Jack Raid” by the Union troops. See The Union “Apple Jack Raid” by Robert Plumb.]
Camp near Petersburg, December 18th 1864
Parents,
I will let you know that we left here on Friday evening and marched five miles till at Meades Headquarters. Then it commenced to rain, snowing, and it was so cold that one man of Co. D froze to death. Then the next day there were two men to be hung. The scaffold was ready. They hung them between 12 and 1 o’clock on account of deserting in the Rebel Army. That was the first time I seen and I hope that is the last time. They were smoking their cigars till on the scaffold. I could tell you a great deal more about it but I have no time.
Saturday night we marched 25 miles through mud and water that came half way to the knees and it was cold weather. We marched below the Black Water for a reserve [while] the 5th Corps made a raid along there [and] captured a lot of fat cattle sheep, pigs, chickens, and turkeys, apple jack by the barrel and 5 barrel of molasses, and some rebs, colored men, sulkys, burned down houses and barns, tore up 40 miles of railroad, and good deal more.
I had a canteen full of molasses and we shot down the pigs and skinned them and commenced to eat. Each one helped himself. It was good. We also killed chickens and sheep. We had a fine time for we had nothing to eat since Wednesday till Sunday. We marched back in the night at our old place 25 miles. It was hard marching. Some of our men were caught by the guerrillas that straggled. Their throats were cut and clothes taken from their bodies.
The regiment left here on Monday morning at 4 o’clock but I was excused on account of stiff, sore feet [such] that I can hardly walk. It is reported that it went to the place were we were.
[unsigned]
Letter 2
Addressed to Mr. George Moyer, Myerstown, Lebanon county, Pennsylvania
Camp near Petersburg [Virginia] December 23rd 1864
Parents,
I will let you know that this is the second letter I wrote for the box and no answer and no box. Other boys get boxes. I have to look at them eating. I wrote some time that you shall not send it, but then a few days after I wrote you shall send it as soon as you possibly can. I thought I would get it till Christmas so that I can enjoy my elf with it but no sign. Yesterday two loads of express boxes came but not one for me. It looked hard. I also wrote for several other articles in that letter and if you get it, send me a letter.
I seen Monroe Piffer [Peiffer], 21st Pa. Cavalry some time ago and he is well. We had good times the time he was with me. We have good times now. No Picket duty. Nothing but drilling. I will close my letter by saying I am well. In haste. It is very cold at present.
Yours truly, — James B Moyer, Co. F, 200th P. V., Washington
Col. [Charles Worth] Diven, Brigadier General Ninth Corps, First Brigade and third Div.
Letter 3
Camp near Petersburg [Virginia] 24th [December] 1864
Dear Parents,
I will willingly [write] to let you know that I received your letter today and the money, &c., and I hope you send the box off today as you mentioned in your letter. Tomorrow is Christmas. It seems to me it can’t be for I was used to run after the fools in town. But I have to spend my times in Virginia this year. And the 29th this month, I am nineteen years old and if you want to pull my hair, you must come to me.
This morning eight rebels passed our Camp which deserted in to our line and six yesterday morn. That is the way to close the war—lay down the arms and come in peace. The rebs are deserting fast all along our line.
Further we also drawed new clothes. I was used to get a new suit at home for Christmas and so I got a suit for this time. I have not much to say this time by closing my letter. I will make Robert a ring sometime. I am well, hoping you are the same. I wish you all a merry and happy Christmas & New Year. Yours Truly, — James B. Moyer
Letter 4
Camp in front of Petersburg, Virginia February 18, 1865
Parents,
By this I wish to inform you that I received your kind and welcome letter this morning and hastened to answer it while you are anxious to hear about the battle. We did not come in a fight, but we were at the scene—or a little over it. Our line got advanced by the Fifth and Second Corps, and also the Sixth [Corps]. We—our Division 1, the 3rd Division of the Ninth Corps—six new regiments—had marching orders but we did not know when or were to go but we soon heard the shells burst. We then marched about 2 miles in light marching order. There we were ready for an attack and made breastworks and worked hard for the sake to save ourselves from the bullets.
In the morning about 9 o’clock, our regiments went out to find out where the Rebs are stationed. By the same time a heavy force laid behind us so whenever there would something happen and we all expected that we will meet the enemy and not come back as we went forth. We went about one mile and a half and seen several breastworks where the rebels were but the next night were back in regular fortifications. But we couldn’t see it. We seen several rebels running and they were formed in line of battle in yon[der] woods. We were then in an open field but we were a good distance from them. They laid silently on the ground. We went sadly back at our old place and were six days from our camp without shelter and it was very cold and raining and snowing.
I have not much to tell you and I hope to hear from you soon again. The Rebels are deserting very fast. They pass by squad at our camp. They hardly have any clothes. I am well hoping this may reach you the same
Yours truly Son, — James B. Moyer
Co. F, 200th Regt P. V., Washington D. C.
I wrote a Bro. George a letter and I have not received that box which Bro. John sent. The talk is that it is stopped sending boxes.
I could not find an image of Albert but here is a CDV of Francis H. Warner of Boston who also served in the 11th Massachusetts Light Artillery at the same time (Dave Morin Collection)
The following letter was written by 21 year-old Albert S. Garland (1843-1918), the son of David Gardland (1816-1846) and Mary Ann Trickey (1823-1887) of South Boston. Albert was working as an blacksmith when he enlisted as a private in late December 1863 in the 11th Massachusetts Light Artillery. He was promoted to artificer prior to his mustering out of the service at Camp Meigs, Readville, Massachusetts, in mid-June 1865 after nearly one and a half year’s service.
The 11th Massachusetts Light Artillery began 1864 with the 9th Corps, of the Army of the Potomac. It was then present at the Wilderness, engaged at the North Anna river with the 2nd Corps, and at the Weldon railroad with the 5th Corps. It shared in the operations before Petersburg, from June 17, 1864, to March 24, 1865 ; was active in repelling the attack upon Fort Stedman, and after the fall of Petersburg, joined in the pursuit of the vanquished army to Appomattox.
Just days before he left to join his regiment, on Christmas eve in Boston, Albert was married to Annie Streeter (1843-1908).
Transcription
Poplar Grove Church [near Petersburg, Virginia] November 18th 1864
Dear Sister and all the folks,
Yours was received last night in company with one from Annie and I was very glad to hear you all & all the folks were well, and I was very glad to hear you were all well. I am well—never better in my life. There is nothing to write about—not a thing. Everything is quiet. But there is another fight a brewing and a big one at that. Then I will have something to write about. It has been very quiet and very pleasant lately, but it has set in for a storm for it rains quite hard now.
I have not received Annie’s box yet but expect it Monday. I was very glad to hear that you had so good a time [on your visit] East.
[George W.] Marsh 1 and I are living pretty well now. We have got a Sutler’s work to do, & take our pay in goods, and sold a horse for him today and charged him 3 dollars, and got some potatoes, butter, & the rest in money. And we bought some beef steak, and tomorrow morning we are going to have boiled potatoes and beef steak. This morning we had hash meat fried brown on the bottom and it went bully, I tell you.
I should like to have some of mother’s brown bread. Dear Sister, it is Taps & the lights are to be put out, & I do not think of any more to write so I will close & try to write more next time. Send my best love to Mother & all the folks & keep a good share for yourself & I will send you some more papers tomorrow.
Please excuse this & I will now close. Good night. From your Brother, — Albert S. Garland
1 George W. Marsh was a 27 year-old carriage trimmer from Chelsea when he enlisted in 1863 to serve in the 11th Massachusetts Light Artillery.
I could not find an image of John but here is a one of a young Georgian thought to be Thomas Blount Bowen but is unconfirmed (David Vaughn Collection)
The following letter was written by 19 year-old Pvt. John Mornington Raines (1845-1899) of Milledgeville, Baldwin county, Georgia, who enlisted in October 1863 in Co. G, 45th Georgia Infantry. He was taken prisoner on 25 March 1865 at Petersburg, Virginia, and released in June 1865 at Point Lookout, Maryland. John had a brother who served with him in the same company—Thomas Turner Raines (1838-1865)—who was probably the individual he referred to as “Bud” in this letter. I believe there was another brother names James Cadwallader Raines (b. 1840) who may have served the Confederacy in a different regiment.
John’s military records indicate that he had brown hair, blue eyes, and that he stood 5 feet 7.5 inches tall. His parents were Robert Cadwallader Raines, Jr. (1808-1860) and Matilda Caroline (“Carry”) Young (1810-1883) who were married in 1832. Cadwallader Raines died in September 1860, leaving 50 year-old Carrie with seven children and a plantation to run.
Three months after this letter was written, when the left wing of Sherman’s army marched through Milledgeville in late November 1864 on its way to Savannah, “Mrs. Cadwallader Raines, a widow and the mother of three Confederate soldiers,” found herself in the center of the Federal encampment. “She had been bedridden for several months and was attended only by two young daughters [Ellen and Mary]. Her plantation suffered complete devastation, having been depleted of all fences, livestock, and food.” A neighbor named Terrell Barksdale later wrote that, “They did not leave a living animal on her plantation…they have nothing except what the neighbors give them and they have but few of them that have anything to spare.” [“Sherman at Milledgeville in 1864” by James C. Bonner, published in The Journal of Southern History, Vol. 22, No. 3, August 1956, page 280]
I can’t be certain of the date of this letter as it is illegible on the letter itself. There were several attempts to capture the Weldon Railroad before it was finally accomplished in mid-August 1864.
Transcription
In Line of Battle near Petersburg August [ ] 1864
Dear Mother,
I now take my seat this morning to answer your kind letter that I received a few days ago, and would answer it before now, but I was looking for a letter from sister. I wrote to her about a month ago and also Sis. I just rec’d the one that she wrote to Bud.
I was sorry to hear that the Yankees has been so close there and was sorry also that they taken the neighbor’s mule, and sorry to hear that the rebels got Sam. If he had to be taken, I am glad the rebels got him before the Yankees. You must make Green take good care of the one that they left in his place. If you get him fat, you must keep him in the Spring lot, for if you let him run out in the pasture, there may come along some more Yankees and take him. I am in hopes that our men will keep them back from that part of the country, for they will destroy things as they go. I hope that Gen. Hood will whip them clear out from Georgia.
There was a fight here yesterday on the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad. Our men whipped them back and taken a good many prisoners. We have a fight every day on some part of the line. The Yankees is tame in front of me. We are are close enough to talk to each other when I am out on [the] skirmish [line].
I went over to the hospital this morning to see Bud. He is getting along finely. He will be able for duty in a few days. This leaves me in good health at this time, and hoping this will find you up and about and also the rest of the family. This is the 5th letter I have wrote to you since I been at this place. I only received one. I have wrote to Puss and Sister and Sis and have not got any answer from them. You must tell them to write. I will close. I will send this letter by hand with the yarn. I remain your son, — John M. Raines
I could not find an image of William but here is one of Pvt. Ezra Joseph Davy of Co. D, 121st Ohio Infantry (Ancestry.com)
The following letter was written by 23 year-old William E. Scott (1839-1911), the youngest son of Francis Scott (1791-1860) and Nancy Gadd (1793-1873) of Leesburg, Union county, Ohio. William enlisted in August 1862 to serve as a private in Co. I, 121st Ohio Volunteer Infantry (OVI).
William had two brothers who served with him in the same company—Norton (“Nort”) Scott (1820-1905) who was the 1st Sergeant in Co. I, and Ross Scott (1828-1901) who was also a private. Nort was discharged for disability on 9 May 1863, no doubt as a result of the chronic diarrhea mentioned in William’s letter. Ross was discharged for disability as well.
The 121st OVI was organized at Delaware, Ohio, and ordered to Kentucky to pursue confront Bragg on his northern invasion. They participated in the Battle of Perryville and then pursued Morgan in the winter of 1862-63. After spending some time in Nashville, they were ordered to Franklin, Tennessee, where this letter was penned in mid-March 1863. They went on to participate in in the Battle of Chickamauga, the Atlanta Campaign, the March to the Sea, and the Carolina Campaign.
Transcription
Camp at Franklin, Tennessee March 16, 1863
Dear Mother and Sisters,
It is with pleasure that I take my pen in hand to write you a few lines once more in answer to your kind letter of the fourth that came safe to hand on the 15th and we was glad to hear from you but was sorry to hear that Mother’s health is so poor. Well, mother, I enjoy good health at this time and hope that this will find you enjoying the same earthly blessing.
Nort is quite unwell, and has been for two weeks. He is quite weak. He has the diarrhea. I think it is something like the chronic diarrhea. He has not went to the hospital yet. I hope he will be better before long.
You said in your letter that you had not heard from us since Charles came home. I have wrote one letter since he went home but I suppose that you never got it for there is hundreds of letters that never reach their destination. I am glad to hear that Ross’s cough is better. I think he had better stay where he is for I don’t think he ever will be fit for service as it takes a well man to stand soldering. Tell Gerry’s mother that he is well and that he stands soldering with the best of the Boys.
Well, Mother, we are still here at Franklin, Tennessee. How long we will stay here, I can’t tell. We have moved our camp five times since we came here, and have to move again tomorrow. We have not moved one mile in all. One more move and we will be where we started from.
I want you to write and tell me whether you got the money I sent home or not, and if you have not got it, go and get it for it is there for you as I never heard whether you got it or not. The folks is making garden here now. The peach trees is in bloom. The sun shines so hot, it makes me lazy. So I will bring my letter to a close for this time, write oftener and I will answer them.
The following rare receipt for the making of a garrison flag to fly over Fort Jay was commissioned by Captain Richard Whiley (1767-1847)—a native of London, England, who came to the United States in the 1780s. He served under General Anthony Wayne in the Northwest Indian War (1785-1795) and received a commission as a lieutenant of artillery in 1796. By 1803, he was a captain of artillery, and commanded Fort Jay on Governors Island in New York Harbor from 1804 to 1806. In the spring of 1806, with tensions rising between the U. S. and England, the U. S. Congress appropriated funds to partially demolish the fort which was described as “in a state of absolute ruin,”—its sodded ramparts eroded by wind and rain. Beginning in July 1806 and for the next two years, it was enlarged, rebuilt, and recommissioned as Fort Columbus. Capt. Whiley then commanded the fort until 1809 and then retired from the military in June 1811. Afterwards, he lived for several years on the Hudson River near Poughkeepsie. He served as president of the North River Insurance Company for many years.
Capt. Richard Whiley (1767-1847)
The receipt itself conveys important information. It reveals the flag’s prescribed dimensions, the quantity and cost of the materials used to make it, and the name of the flag’s maker. The order for the flag was placed in February 1807 during the aforementioned construction period when the fort transitioned from “Fort Jay” to “Fort Columbus.” The total cost of the flag was $103.30.
The official U. S. flag at this time contained 15 alternating red and white stripes, and 15 stars on a field of blue. It was the same pattern flag that flew over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812 which inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star Spangled Banner.” That flag was commissioned by Major George Armistead in 1813 and its dimensions were 42 x 30 feet. Each star was about two feet in diameter and each stripe about 24 inches wide. The field of blue was 20 x 16 feet.
By comparison, the “Jay Fort” flag commissioned by Capt. Whiley in 1807 was 44 x 25 feet—slighter longer and considerably narrower. The field of blue only 14 x 12 feet, correspondingly smaller. What is most unusual, however, is the specification calling for 17 stripes instead of the 15 stars and 15 stripes prescribed by the second Flag Act on 1794.
To aid in the visualization of the difference in dimensions between the Fort McHenry flag (“Star Spangled Banner”) of 1813 and the Fort Jay flag of 1807, I’ve depicted the dimensions on a grid.Each grid square represents 1 square foot.
The receipt also reveals to us that the order for making the Fort Jay flag was placed in 1807 with Simon Schermerhorn whom I believe to be the same Simon Schermerhorn (1748-1818) described as a New York City merchant and ship’s chandler in city and census records. His parents, I believe, were John Shermerhorn and Sara Canon.
A view of New York City from the rebuilt ramparts of Fort Columbus (formerly Fort Jay) on Governors Island (1815)
Spared & Shared 23 