All posts by Griff

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.

1863-64: Henry Humble to his Family

January 2, 2026 Griff Leave a comment

These letters were written by Henry Humble (1836-1908), the son of Marshall Humble (1807-1896) and Emily Reed (1808-1899) of Abington, Plymouth county, Massachusetts.

Henry was a 24-year-old shoemaker when he enlisted at Abington on 16 April 1861 and was mustered six days later as a Sergeant in Co. E of the 4th Massachusetts. This 90-day regiment was the first from the Bay State to answer President Lincoln’s call and were deployed to garrison Fortress Monroe in Hampton, Virginia, and Camp Butler at Newport News. Half the regiment was engaged in the battle of Big Bethel on Jun. 10th. The regiment returned to Boston on July 22nd and was mustered out of service.

Henry was commissioned as a 1st Lieutenant in Co. E, when the 4th Massachusetts was mustered for a second service of 9-months duration on 26 September 1862. His regiment left the State on Dec. 27th and, after a brief stop in New York City was sent to Louisiana, arriving on 13 February 1863. The regiment assisted in Admiral Farragut’s running of the fleet past Port Hudson, was involved in the assault on Fort Brisland in April and the siege and assault on Port Hudson, which culminated in that city’s surrender on 8 July 1863. On June 23rd Henry was one of a large number from the 4th Massachusetts who were captured and taken prisoner. They were transported to Texas where they were first imprisoned at Camp Groce near Hempstead and then later at Camp Ford at Tyler, Texas. He was released with others of his regiment in July 1864 and was mustered out of service on 9 August 1864.

Henry, who never married, worked in shoe and boot factories following his military service and was a member of the David A. Russell G.A.R. Post 78 in Whitman. He was 72 when he died of heart disease.

Letter 1

*Addressed to Mr. Marshall Humble, South Abington, Massachusetts*

Fort Monroe
April 28, 1861

Mr. Humble,

Dear Father, we are in Fort Monroe and all well. I am better than I ever was before. It is healthy here. We are in good spirit, have a good living and clothing and twenty-seven dollars month. Do not want to come home yet. Want you to write as soon as you can and tell me how you all get along. Want to know if you are well and how business is.

We have beef, pork all we want. Have captured one prize armed with artillery. We are at work mounting guns as fast as we can. There is 1500 to man the guns. It will take 50,000 to take this fort from us. Feel safe.

When you write, address Fort Monroe, Virginia. Write soon. Want to hear from home. Want all to write. From your son, — Henry

Letter 2

Camp Butler
Sunday, June 2, 1861

Dear Father,

Since I left home, have been in all kinds of business—the business that I like. Our living has not [been] so good as it might be but it will do well enough. Our living consists of beef, pork, beans, peas, sweet potatoes, and hard bread, a little coffee, but we have to drink it without sweetening. Don’t find any fault with it. We do not get any soft bread, butter, tea, but our time has expired.

Since we went from the fort, have been at work throwing up entrenchments. We are now at the place called Newport News, twelve miles above the fort on the banks of the James river. Splendid place for our camp. The climate is healthy but it is rather warm sometimes. We have heard that our regiment—the 4th—have had a battle at Sewell’s Point. We have never been there and I think we shall not go any farther.

The Vermont regiment is here and a Dutch regiment making in all over 2500 men. With our fortifications, we can hold out against ten thousand troops. Have to work harder here than at the fort. Yesterday I was Sergeant of the Guard. In the afternoon when I was at supper, one of my guard shot two of his fingers off while he was capping his gun.

Have not had any rainy weather to speak of since we left home until today. We had a heavy shower that lasted some four hours. I never was as healthy in my life as I now am. Do not want to go home until we have some kind of a brush today, We had green peas for dinner. Wish you would write as soon as can. The boat is going and I must stop now.

From your obedient son, — Henry

Have to write on the ground or hold paper in my hand.

Letter 3

*Addressed to Lieut. Henry Humble, Co. E, 4th Regt. Mass. Vol. Militia, Banks Expedition, New Orleans, La.*

South Abington [Mass.]
March 30th [1863]

Dear Henry,

I received your letter the 25th. I was very glad to hear from you that you were well and enjoying yourself so well. I felt very anxious, it were so long since I heard from you. You wrote that you have not been paid off yet. How do you get along? If you want any money, you can have it any time you want it if you let us know. I should rather not be paid off till I get home if I could get along without; it will be so much trouble to take care of it and keep it safe.

How do you get your washing and mending done. Take good care of your health. I don’t know where you be now. Perhaps you are called to battle before now. Some think you are going to take Port Hudson. We heard that there was a goo many of your regiment sick. You must be careful what you eat in that warm climate. The sick soldiers are coming home almost every day. Frank wrote to you about Alve Gurney being brought home sick. I have not seen any of them since but I shall go and see them soon. Salmon Reed is in the hospital in New Orleans sick. He belongs to the 42nd [Mass.] Regiment. I hope you will not have to go into battle. If you do, go not in your own strength but in the strength of the Lord as David did when he went out to meet Goliath and the same God will protect you.

Have you received my letter the 4th instant? We are all well as common. The cannons are going as fast as they can. I don’t know what is come to Boston. We all want you to come home. Don’t forget your mother, — E. H.

Letter 4

Baton Rouge, Louisiana
March 12, 1863

Dear Mother,

We left our camp at Carrollton last Friday at seven o’clock and took the steamer and went farther up the river. We were but two days on the boat. We landed at the city of Baton Rouge where we are now on high ground where we can lay down and sleep with being covered with water as it was at Camp Mansfield, Carrollton. I have not seen a sick day since we left Camp Joe Hooker excepting being a little seasick on board the ship, George Peabody.

This life just suits me. There is something that I like about it. It is healthy where we are now and we get good water and enough to eat and is all we ask—but the pay. We have not been paid yet.

Last night Major Turiel came over to see me. He is in the 41st [Massachusetts] Regiment. He is in camp within one mile of us. The 38th are close by and the 43rd so that I know lots of them. Tell Newton and Adam and Father to write for I would like to hear from them. Give my respects to Augusta and tell her to write and Mary too for I would like to hear from them. Tell them all to write and write yourself too.

I can’t get much time to write. I would like to hear from home every week. The call has for dress parade and I must close. From your son, in haste. — Henry

Letter 5

Brashear City
April 14, 1863

Dear Mother, I received yours and Frank’s letters. We left Baton Rouge the fifth and came down the river to Algiers and landed just across the river from New Orleans where we remained two days. Then packed up everything but our blankets and took the cars and rode eighty miles to the city of Brashear where we are now in camp. It is the most healthiest place that we have been in yet. I haveenjoyed good health the most of the time.

We have not been paid a cent yet. We are within thirty miles of the Gulf. We are where we can get all the sweet potatoes we want. All we have to do is dig them. The cane is left standing in the field, thousands and thousands of acres spoiled by standing over winter.

When we went up to Port Hudson, we had all the sugar molasses we wanted, beef, fresh pork, and such stuff. There is plenty of alligators where we are now. We saw lots of them on the side of the railroad as we came along in the cars and there [are] lots of snakes—rattlesnakes, copperheads. I have not seen but a few of them.

We are having what I call a good time. This is the kind of life that suits me and I am in no hurry to get out of it. Our time is almost out. I have heard it said that Gen. Banks is going to give us thirty days to go home. Whether it is so or not, we don’t know and I don’t care. If we don’t start for home until the very day our time is out, then I want to start for home and shall.

I can’t think of anything more to write now and it is growing dark. Tell Adam and Newton that I should like to hear from them and tell Father to write. From your son, — Henry

I shall [write] again in a few days and there will [be] some news then.

— Henry

Letter 6

Abington [Massachusetts]
May 5, 1863

Dear brother,

I now take the time to write a few lines to you to let you know that we are all well and hope that you are the same. Mother received a letter from you last night and we were all glad to hear from you and to hear that you was well again. I heard that you was sick but we did not tell Mother of it for if we had she would have worried about you more than she does now and that is useless.

On May Day they had a big time down in the vestry. In the morning they had a breakfast. The tickets were 25 cents. They had speaking and the band played in the evening. They had a levee. They had singers from Weymouth, More than thirty spoke a piece. The title of the piece was Uncle Sam. It was tip top, I can tell you. They had fancy things to sell and pies and cakes and all kinds of things to sell. I went in the evening and I had a tip top time. The money is going to the soldiers. I have heard that they made over $150.

A week ago last Sunday night I went to the soldier’s meeting. It is in the last Sunday night in the month. They have good meetings. They pray for the soldiers and Mr. Edwards reads letters that he receives from the 7th and from the 38th and from the 4th [Massachusetts Regiments]. It is interesting to hear them read. Mr. Edwards said that when we wrote to our friends, to say for him that he would be glad to have a letter from anyone and he would write back.

By the way, Mother and Frank have just stopped here. Frank is a going in with his shoes. He feels big. He makes 5 pairs a day now. Adam told him that he had better get a cases [?] this time for you would be at home to peg them for him. Adam is in the shop to work today for it is a rainy day. He works a painting now. He gets $1.50 a day.

Summer is drove with work now and so are shoemakers. I was down to Mother’s last Saturday. Frank and I went down in the meadows and got a handle basket full of cow slips. We all thought how well you love them and wished that you was at home so that you could had them. I miss you more now it is warmer. When I go to the back door in the morning, it seems that I must see you coming up to the shop. We miss Morton too. Mrs. Harding said that when Saturday night comes and Sunday, that it seems to her that Morton must be here. So you see that you are missed at home, Henry.

When you write, I want you to write all about Frank—how he is a getting along. It is some time since he wrote home. I want you to write if he is with you or where he is or if he is sick. Give my love to him for me. You tell him to write home often as he can if not more than a line. Adam thinks that you have got a early garden. I should like some of those sweet potatoes that you wrote about. I wish, Henry, you would send me a flower or a leaf. I wish you was where I could send you and Frank something. I think about it quite often. If I could send you anything now I would but it is too far to think of it. Adam has sent you three letters and he wants you to write to him as soon as you received his. I want you to write to me when you get this letter if you can read this. So no more. Goodbye, Henry. Write soon. From your sister, — M. A. Humble

Letter 7

Brashear City, La.
May 18, 1863

Master F[rank] Humble,

Little boy, I received your letter of the 26th April and got it last night, the 17th of May. I have been to one of the prettiest [places] that I ever saw—Franklin. The company was detached from the regiment, Capt. [Lewis] Soule was [sent] to New Orleans on extra duty. At half past eleven we received orders to take the boat and proceed to Franklin and at twelve with everything, we ewre on board the boat and on our way to Franklin. When at the city, we ewnt ashore and quartered in lawyers’ offices. The people were very friendly towards us. The most of them were paroled prisoners. We had a pleasant time of it. The office where I was quartered was in front of the court house shaded with beautiful trees. There was a market where we could get fresh meat. I have had green peas.

I have some confederate money which you will find enclosed within. This is all I can write no. P. S. You can tell Adam that I have received the letter from him of the 20th with the money. I should have written before if I had been where I could have a letter but being detached from the [regiment], had no opportunity. But I am now with the regiment and shall soon be on our way home. I am in good health. This money came from Franklin.

Our adjutant has applied for transportation. We shall hear the result when he arrives from New Orleans. I hear that from home that they are a going to keep us until September but we can’t see it. Just let them try it on if they like and they will find all the nine-months men will refuse duty after their time is out. Not a man will obey an order. But there will be no trouble. The talk comes from the men at home who are afraid of the draft. I have not time to write much. You wrote that you wanted me to write to all the folks that I shall write as soon as I can. Your affectionate brother, — Henry Humble

P. S. I have got a prize that I am a going to bring home with me.

Letter 8

Brashear City [Louisiana]
May 27, 1863

Dear Mother,

It has been some time since I wrote. I have been on duty most of the time. Have been to the town of Franklin on Provost duty and no chance to write and when I got back to the regiment, was detailed Officer of the Day and the next day I was detailed Commissary and it takes most of my time.

We are in the same old place, Brashear City. It is getting pretty warm now. The mosquito are thick as you ever saw flies around the table in the hottest day and are as large as common wasps. I never saw anything beat them. The business that I am in is dealing out rations. I have nearly two thousand under my charge.

We have lost two men, Sergt. John B. Hutchinson and Jason Duncan. The rest of our sick men [are] gaining as our time is so near out will make them feel better. We be on the water in two weeks, I think. We shall be in Boston the 26th of June.

I received your letter while I was writing this. We have been paid five months pay. I thought it would be safer with me than running the risk of sending it home. I have sent Father some papers. Don’t know whether he has got them or not. I have all kinds of papers printed on wallpaper. Their official paper is room paper.

The rebels are drove out of this state. There is but a few left. You need not write any more for I shall be on the water before I could get it. — Henry

Letter 9

Franklin, Louisiana
July 13th 1863

Dear Father,

I take the only chance of sending you a few lines as our surgeon is released and is going home and I send this letter by him. I was captured at Brashear the 23rd and remained there until the 4th of July, then went to Franklin where I still remain. Tell Mother that I am well. I have not been as well for months as I am now. I was surprised at the treatment we received at their hands. They treat us well as they can—far better than we treat their prisoners.

I shall be at home again in a short time, I think but I shan’t worry so long as I am well. I shall write whenever I can get a chance to let you know how I am. From your son, Henry.

Letter 10

Camp Groce [near Hempstead], Texas ¹
October 5, 1861 [should be 1863]

Dear Father,

I am still in [confinement] and doing very well. Was never better in my life. We are enjoying ourselves. We are looking for an exchange every day. If not exchanged, they say we shall be paroled so you may be looking for me soon.

I am treated very kindly with plenty to eat and good quarters. We are quartered in a building and three cooking stoves and do our own cooking. Yesterday we had roast turkey for dinner and beef every day if we want it. We have so much we throw it away and I am very satisfied and shall not worry if I stay through the winter for we have everything [as] comfortable as their own men.

I am writing by a lamp of our own making and it won’t burn. You will do well if you [can] make it [out] for I can’t hardly see hte marks. I shall write every time I can get a chance. I should like if you are all well. I suppose Mother is worrying her[self] about me. Tell her not to worry for I am tough, hearty and ranged out of all danger. Am in the souther states and have two doctors with us—one Federal and the other a Confederate who takes a great care of any are sick.

From your son, — Henry Humble

I wish you would tell Wm. R. Vining to write to me of the company and regiment if they refused duty at Port Hudson as it has been reported and if the company got that was left with me that I sent to Lieut. McAlloy. Tell him to write this night or it may be too late [as] I may be on my way home. — Henry Humble

¹ “Camp Groce, at times referred to as Camp Liendo, was located on Col. Leonard W. Groce’s Liendo Plantation on Clear Creek and the Houston and Texas Central Railway, two miles east of Hempstead in Waller County. Established in 1862 as a place for instruction for Confederate recruits, Camp Groce had two rows of barracks built in what seemed an ideal spot. However, stagnant water in the creek made the location sickly, and the camp was little used until the summer of 1863 when it was designated as a prison for Union soldiers captured in the battles of Galveston (January 1, 1863) and Sabine Pass (January 21, 1863). After the second battle of Sabine Pass (September 8, 1863), the prisoner population swelled to more than 400 officers, soldiers, and sailors. At first most prisoners lived in an open clearing, but in October 1863 a stockade was built to enclose them.” Conditions included rations supplemented by local sources, access to wells and nearby woods for water and fuel, and barracks that offered relative shelter compared to other Texas prisons, though illnesses like typhus and a severe yellow fever outbreak in September 1864 prompted evacuations. Rations were sparse—typically cornmeal, occasional beef, and limited vegetables—reflecting Confederate supply constraints in Texas. [Source: Camp Groce: A Historical Overview of the Confederate Prison by Brad Clampitt, published 1952, updated 23 November 2012.]

Letter 11

Texas
November 1, 1863

Dear Mother,

I am still in Texas and well. There is nothing new for me to write. I only write to let you know how I am getting along. I should like to hear from home and how you are all getting along but I am in hopes I shall be at home myself. But I am doing well—better than I can do at home.

I can’t think of anything more to write. I did think that I should be at home to Thanksgiving and may yet. I have not time to write any more for the cars is going. — Henry Humble

Letter 12

Camp Ford, Tyler, Texas ¹
June 6th 1864

I write you another letter and I hope it will be the last that I shall have a chance to write in this camp as we are expecting an exchange every day. I am in good health—never better before. I have had the chills and fever but I have got over them and are in the best of health and are looking for the time when I shall be with friends once more when I shall see the glorious flag waving with victory everywhere I go. The exchange officers are here with rolls. As soon as they are made out, they will take them to our exchange agent and if they can effect an exchange, I will soon be at home again. I have…

…log houses and live in fine style. But when I think of home, I feel lonesome for I know not how many or who may be gone. I know that Mother is moving about. My, but I am in good spirits yet and the time is coming when I shall be free—perhaps before you get this letter and perhaps not until the war is over. But I think that we shall be in New Orleans in one month from today. It will be a glorious day.

I shall write every chance that I have and shall write as soon as I get in New Orleans. I have wrote a great many times since I have been a prisoner but I don’t think half of them ever get home. You can tell Mother that I am in first rate health. I never felt better before and… My weight is…[paper torn at bottom]

¹ Camp Ford was the largest Confederate Prisoner of War camp west of the Mississippi River. It was established in August 1863 and did not close until May 1865. In July 1864, it held over 5300 prisoners.

Letter 13

New Orleans [Louisiana]
July 30, 1864

Dear Father,

I am once more with friends—released from prison. We were exchanged at the Red River landing the 22nd and a happy exchange it was after all the hardships we have passed.

We left [Camp] Tyler the 9th, marched one hundred [miles] in three days. At Shreveport we went on the boats and at twelve o’clock started down the river. Arrived at the mouth of Red River the 21st, went on board of our boats the 22nd, and there I saw Col. Walker. I saw Holbrooke and Edward Harding.

I am in good health. I have been sick but I am tough and hearty now. It is getting late and I must close. In half an hour, the mail goes. We shall soon be at home, We are waiting for transportation. Soon as it can be furnished, we will start.

Tell Mother that I am safe. I will write again if I have a chance. We may be two weeks yet. We will have to wait until we can get transportation. Goodbye until then. Give my respects to all. Respectfully your obedient son, — Henry Humble

21st New York Cavalry, Camp Stoneman

1863: Oliver H. Green to Elizabeth Jane Wiley

January 1, 2026 Griff Leave a comment

*I could not find an image of Oliver but here is one of Robert Delos Haight who also served the 21st New York Cavalry at the same time.*

The following letter was written by Oliver H. Green (1837-1929) of Stephentown, Rensselaer county, New York, who was drafted at the age of 27 in September 1863 to serve as a private in Co. I, 21st New York Cavalry. He was immediately made a corporal and in January 1865 made a sergeant. He was reduced to the ranks in March 1865 before mustering out of Co. D in July 1866 at Denver, Colorado Territory. Oliver was a farmer before the war and later worked in the coal business.

Oliver wrote the letter to his wife Esther E. (Wiley) Green (1839-1870). On the very same day Oliver wrote this letter, President Abraham Lincoln gave his address to the assembled citizens honoring the fallen soldiers of the battlefield and dedicating the National Cemetery at Gettysburg.

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

Camp Sanman [Stoneman] ¹
November 19, 1863

Dear wife and children.

I take this opportunity to write to you again to let you know that I am well at present and hope that these few lines will find you all the same.I had a letter from Gale and have answered it. I had one from F. Hatch but have not wrote to him yet but shall soon. I am uneasy about that money that I sent you. I am afraid thsat it is lost.

The weather is pleasant here now. It is very unhealthy here now.

I wrote to Father Green but he has not answered it yet. I wrote to George Moffitt and have not heard from it yet. I wrote to Nancy Moffit and have not had no answer yet ad have wrote four or five to you that I have had no answer from. I wrote another to Mother Wiley the other day and that I have not heard from yet. Tell them all that they must [write] to me and I will answer them. I want you should write how that old mare gets along. Tell Dr. Graves that it is time that he paid that money.

I have just got back from taking the sick to the doctors.

I want you to write as soon as you get this. If you knew how much better I felt when I get a letter from you. It has been most a week since I got a line from you and it seems like a month. Write often if but a little. I would give all the world if I could see you and the children but that can’t be so I must make the best of it. But I hope the day is coming when we shall see each other again. But it looks blind to me. I have a great many sad hours but I shall keep up as good courage as I can. Write often and write all the news.

There is some deserting most every day but I never shall leave my post, let the cost be what it will. I shall do my duty as far as I can. We have not drawed anymore pay yet and I don’t know when we shall but I think we shall before long. They talk all kinds about the war here.

This is from Oliver H. Green

Direct as before. To his loving wife.

¹ Camp Stoneman was a United States Army military facility located in Washington, D.C., during the American Civil War. It served as the Dismounted Camp for the cavalry forces of the Army of the Potomac from September 1863 to December 1864.

Antebellum Kentucky

1846: John M. Ellis to William B. Harrison

December 31, 2025 Griff Leave a comment

The following letter was written by John M. Ellis (b. 1824). He appears in the 1850 US Census as a law student living in Hopkinsville, Christian county, Kentucky. He wrote the letter to William B. Harrison (1808-1884) of Elkton, Todd county, Kentucky.

John’s letter speak’s of local and state politics as well as of “pretty girls” at a Methodist camp meeting in Salubria Springs.

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

William B, Harrison, Esqr. Elkton, [Todd County] Kentucky

Hopkinsville, [Christian county] Kentucky
July 21, 1846

Dr. William,

Your very interesting and acceptable document came to hand in due time & had I not been very busily engaged, I should have given it my immediate attention. But as circumstances placed me, I was bound to defer answering for some time—1st as I had no news of importance to communicate, and 2ndly, because I have no other reason.

Times are flourishing for McL and we are going to do all we can for him but because that is the case we should not remain in a state of lethargy but be up and doing and Capt. Bristow I am informed by some will grow all in the northern part of your county. Said yourself and one or two more, “This I do not put any confidence in as being the truth.” Show them how many you can carry in with you, and go up to the polls early in the day with all that you can think the least wavering, if such you have, and make them vote if possible the right way. Three cheers for M. G. and our side and will do all you can and you will be doing sure enough.

The southern part of Todd will give a considerable majority for McL. and by balancing as much as possible in your range you will do a great deal of good. We are going to give McL in our county I think a majority of some four or five hundred and it will keep us working hard to dit yet nevertheless we will try.

I went to a camp meeting on Sunday last at old Salubria Springs [near Pembroke, KY] and the Lord knows there were more pretty girls there than ever were together before since the foundation of Christian county. Seen I could scarcely get along for looking and gaping about. I was just like a green horn who had just entered a city looking at signs, &c. You never saw the like in your life. [ ] Gals want nothing to them and you think they are some punkins—that last word is spelled wrong but what the odds in electioneering times. We get along in our way just as well as the nature of the case will admit. We have a fight in town occasionally and kind Justices of the Peace to keep the peace.

Will, I have been among the women so much for a few days past that I am entirely out of sorts for writing a letter and therefore I hope you will excuse this disconnected, disjoined scroll and hope for one better when I hear from you again which I trust will be as soon as you get this and send me all the news—local, political, statistical, or otherwise you may have and be sure to nurse the Brethren in politics and you will be remembered long in this world by many friends and lovers of the light side of all questions. Send me that magazine you were speaking of and give my very best respects to all friends and acquaintances. Take a liberal share of my love to yourself and believe that I as ever remain your sincere friend, — Jn. M. Ellis

To Wm. B. Harrison

smallpox, St. Bartholomew, West Indies

1816: Charles Augustus Cheever to Arnold Welles

December 30, 2025 Griff Leave a comment

The following letter was written by Dr. Charles Augustus Cheever (1793-1852), the son of Dr. Abijah Cheever. It describes his sea voyage to St. Bartholomew (St. Barts) to perform vaccinations, presumably for small pox. In datelining his letter, Dr. Cheever failed to write the year. In a book published in 1854 under the title, “Extracts from the writings of Charles A. Cheever,” it is stated that Charles made his voyage to the West Indies “for the purpose of introducing vaccination as a preventative for the smallpox” and this trip was made during the period he worked for Dr. Brown of Boston in the Spring of 1815 and the autumn of 1816 when he moved to New Hampshire.

Charles “entered Harvard in 1809 and took his A. M. in 1813. He had the good fortune to study medicine with Dr. John Warren and in 1815 with Dr. John B. Brown, and enjoyed the benefit of his large dispensary practice, then the only clinical opportunity in Boston. In 1816 he received his M. D. and settled in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where he was the leading surgeon for thirty-six years, until his untimely death in 1852. Previous to this he made a voyage to the West Indies to carry vaccination, then a new practice, there. His material of vaccine was embodied in an Irish lad whom he vaccinated on starting and took with him to supply the vaccine virus. This trip was entirely successful. Portsmouth, New Hampshire, was a compact town of about seven to nine thousand people. It was intensely conservative, older physicians were abundant, and his progress in acquiring practice was extremely slow.

Although always somewhat impecunious, he lavished his scanty means in all expenses which would advance him as a doctor. He bought new books, was extravagant in new instruments, and disregarded cost of knowledge. He early attracted students, and always had from one to three under him. He formed a good library, read and catechized his students, took them to see his cases, taught them to dissect and to prepare anatomical injections, dried specimens and skeletons, so that he collected for those times an unusual though small museum. Anatomical material could be obtained only by very expensive purchase. $25 to $50, from New York and Philadelphia (no railway transportation), or by illegal means.

The cadavers were obtained and dissected in the attic of his house. His home was the center of anatomical and surgical knowledge for thirty miles around, and over this area he was for thirty-six years known as “The Surgeon.” His work ranged from dentistry and obstetrics to the major surgical operations. Considering the limitations, ignorance, prejudice and timidity with which he was surrounded, it is remarkable that he undertook, for his first attempts, new and recently described operations.

He operated successfully for cataract, and to ensure it kept his patient in his own house and nursed him. He operated for strabismus, also removed breasts and tumors, amputated limbs. The first asepsis of subcutaneous surgery coming to his early knowledge, he operated for club-foot and tendon sections, and treated his patients by apparatus. He was among the first here to follow up a trephining by laying open the dura mater for hemorrhage or for abscess. No asepsis, no ether! Nerve and audacity were required to assail these new problems; enlightened only by his own dissections and his own reading, he practised what he had never seen. The unaided natural senses of sight and touch guided a hand, erudite only by dissection, safely to the recesses of a quivering and moving patient.

Keen insight, intuition even, made him a noted diagnostician, esteemed as such by his contemporaries.

He died too early, shattered by domestic griefs which preyed on a sensitive nature.” [Sketch by David Williams Cheever]

I believe the letter was written to Brigadier General Arnold Welles (1761-1827), a Boston native, who served as the first President of the Boston Branch of the Bank of US (which is now the US Treasury). He married Elizabeth Warren of in 1790, daughter of Dr. Joseph Warren, killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775. Warren was a presiding officer of the Mass. Congress, whose portrait was painted by John Singleton Copley. Arnold Welles father, Gov. Thomas Welles, was a prominent citizen of Wethersfield/Glastonbury, CT.

Transcription

St. Bartholomew [West Indies]
March 31 [1815 or 1816]

Respected Sir,

I arrived in this place on the 25th of March, 19 days from Boston and 17 from the Quarantine ground. To describe to you the suffering & anxiety I experienced the first week of my passage is impossible. We left Boston Harbor with a fair wind a prospect of fine weather—but the wind shifted and blew very hard from the east before we had proceeded 40 miles below the light. About 12 at night I was suddenly aroused by the cry of “All hands upon deck!” Thinks I to myself, the danger must be very great or the Captain would not certainly call upon his men at this time of night. With this impression, I sprung and made a bold push for the deck forgetting that I was not on terra firma and assisted by an unlucky and not a very gentle roll of the vessel, was landed high and dry on hte opposite side of my state room amongst kegs & barrels & the Lord knows what. The severity of the blow with an entire loss of nerve impressed me with the idea that all was lost—that some dreadful accident had happened—that the ship was foundered or was dashed to pieces upon the rocks. I verily believed that my last hour had come.

After the first shock was over, I picked up the pieces and mustering all my courage made another bold push to gain the deck. At the hatchway, I was met by a sailor, who, judging I presume from my appearance the state of my mind, accosted me with, “What’s the matter, doctor?” “Sure enough,” replied I, “What’s the matter?” Looking round I perceived that the weather was pretty good and that I had no great cause for alarm. I retreated to my berth, considerably mortified—the sport of all the sons of Neptune.

In the morning I learnt that in consequence of a change in the wind, the Captain thought best to put back to Quarantine. I expected a broadside from the Captain and Mate respecting my last night’s adventure but to my great joy they were quite ignorant of it. We arrived at Quarantine at noon where we remained till morning. Here I suffered so much from the cold that had I not started with the firm resolution of surmounting every obstacle, I should most certainly have turned back.

In the morning we started again, but misfortunes seldom come alone for we had nearly arrived at the same place we left before when the wind shifted and back again we went. This was too much for human nature to bear. It required more philosophy than I could muster. The moment I went below, sea sickness drove me back and compelled me to seek refuge among the wind and the waves. I had pretty much determined to give up my expedition but was prevented by another sudden change of the wind which blew very fresh for three days and completely carried us off the coast. I had now got over my sea sickness and consoled myself with the idea that all my misfortunes were ended. But a severe storm brought with it another fit of seas sickness which compelled me to keep the deck and tough it out.

While I was sitting on the boat (for stand I could not), a wave had the impudence to come on board & wet me to the skin & indeed there seemed to be a Providence in it for I had scarcely escaped below when a second broke down the bulwark opposite which I was sitting. With the exception of a few squalls, we had very pleasant weather the rest of the passage. I could relate more adventures of a like nature but have not time.

This island is a very barren place and contains but very few respectable people. Matrimony is seldom heard of in the island. Most all—even the Governor himself—live publicly in a state of concubinage. There is no danger of my staying here. I would not if they would give me the island.

I expect to hear, sir, that you take a ride every morning and I hope I shall not be disappointed. Do not be distressed about your eye for thousands in your situation have been cured. I present my best respects to Mrs. Wells & should be highly gratified with a letter from her. I have seen no preserves as yet. My regards to Eliza & Lucy Ann. No snuff but parrots in abundance. I shall send one by Capt. Becker. Remember me to Mr. & Mrs. Derby and family. There is no guinea grass in the island, but I will try elsewhere. Mr. & Mrs. Cobb and family command my best wishes. Tell Miss Margaret that her work bag is very acceptable and of great service.

For a detail of my business, I refer you to Dr. Brown. I have been engaged in business only two days & have inoculated to the amount of $70 but fear it will not last long at that rate. I never have had a great many difficulties to encounter & many vexations to bear. The Governor of this island is the most dignified, most despothe & tyrannical gentleman I ever beheld. He is in power here what Bonaparte was in France. In my next I will give you a more particular account of him and of the island. ¹

Permit me to urge upon you the necessity of exercise. Do not, I beseech of you, confine yourself so much to your office. But above all, dear Sir, do not destroy present happiness by anticipating evil. You will forgive bad spelling, bad phraseology, bad everything, but I know you will not criticize when I tell you it is now 12 o’clock at night and that I have another letter to write. Though I have had many troubles & trials in my expedition, I do not repent, for I have grown quite polite, barefaced and impudent & acquired a good stock of each in one short week. I am, Sir, with the greatest respect your obedient servant, — C. A. Cheever

¹ The Governor of St. Bartholomew at the time of Cheever’s visit would have been Berndt Gustav Stackelberg (1784-1845. He was a Swedish military officer and diplomat. He ruled the colony from 1812 to late in 1816. The population on the island at the time was about 6,000, with roughly half being enslaved. Slavery was not abolished on the island until 1847.

40th Pennsylvania Infantry, Battle of Fredericksburg, Peninsula Campaign

“The ground for a bed and the sky for a tent.”

December 29, 2025 Griff Leave a comment

The 1862 Diary of James Hamilton Mills, 11th Pennsylvania Reserves

*James Hamilton Mills just before the Civil War*

The following account of the Peninsula Campaign and Battle of Fredericksburg comes from the 1862 diary of James Hamilton Mills (1837-1904) who was a native of new Lisbon, Ohio. He was working in “mercantile and mechanical pursuits” until the Civil War when he enlisted as a private on 27 April 1861 in Co. G (“The Independent Blues”), 11th Pennsylvania Reserves (40th Pennsylvania Infantry). With his regiment he participated in twenty seven general engagements of the Army of the Potomac, and for “gallant conduct on the field” he was promoted to corporal, first sergeant, first lieutenant and captain and for “heroic conduct in the Battle of the Wilderness and Bethesda Church” he was commissioned brevet-major and brevet-lieutenant colonel. He was mustered out of service at Pittsburg on June 13, 1864.

See also—“Two canteens of old rye for the boys!”—Excerpt from the 1863 Diary of James Hamilton Mills, 11th Pennsylvania Reserves.

Mills’ 1862 diary is among several diaries of his that are housed at the Montana State Library. It has been digitized recently but apparently never before transcribed and published. I have not shown the images of the diary pages since these can be viewed on line at James H. Mills diary, 1862.

*The 1862 Diary of James H. Mills, Co. G, 40th Pennsylvania Infantry*

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

Thursday, April 10, 1862—Weather bright and pleasant today. Went to Alexandria, tramped around town nearly all day. The 1st Brigade left on the cars yesterday and today for Manassas.

Friday 11—Was up at 3 a.m. [with] orders to march overland to Manassas. Passed through Fairfax Court House and camped within 3 miles of Centreville. Weather pleasant and men somewhat fatigued.

Saturday 12—Broke up camp at6 a.m. and reached Manassas at 2.30 p.m. Entrenchments at Centreville numerous but not formidable. Manassas a humbug. McClellan could have taken it in 3 hours.

Sunday, April 13, 1862—Up early in the morning and off to the battle field five miles. There is no advantage of ground—it being a beautiful undulating country full of woods. Many of the corpses were lying out exposed to the sun.

Monday 14—Moved camp to a fine location about 200 yards distant, fitted up our little quarters right comfortably and are making preparations to stay comfortable if we stay at all. Weather hot.

Tuesday 15—On picket about a mile and a half south of camp. Very rainy in the morning but got fair and warm by noon. [ ] Armstrong makes the company to [illegible].

Wednesday, April 16, 1862—Got into camp at 9 a.m. fatigued and sleepy, Gen. Meade had the audacity to order us out on Brigade Drill. I was excused and I wrote to Lizzie. Weather getting the Spring fever.

Thursday 17—1st Brigade marched to Bristow. Election for Major. Candidates Porter and Johns. Johns majority 124. Dress Parade at 6 p.m. Orders at 10 to be ready to leave at 4 a.m.

Friday 18—Left camp at 6.30 a.m. and marching on the A&O [Orange & Alexandria] Railroad tracks, reached Catlett’s Station about 2 p.m. Camped in a large meadow. Wood distant, Water scarce and bad.

Catlett’s Station on the Orange & Alex. R.R. (1862)
Edwin Forbes (American, 1839 – 1895)

Saturday, April 19, 1862—Weather unpleasant. Rainy and cold. Had turkey for dinner which I had roasted at a neighboring farmhouse. Regiment was paid today for January & February.

Sunday 20—Weather very bad. Laid in bed nearly all day. Expressed $40 to Jo Cline. Wrote to L. Townsen and Lizzie.

Monday 21—[Still at Catlett’s Station] Weather still outrageously bad. Went to Dr. Edmonds and had a warm berth at the fireside. The Dr. and Lady are evidently full blood secesh.

Tuesday, April 22, 1862—Stayed at the Dr’s over night and returned to camp in the morning. Went on guard at the camp at 9 a.m. Had to keep guard all night. Day fair.

Wednesday 23—Another nice day. Boys engaged in cleaning up their guns and playing “penny poke” on the sunny side of the straw stack.

Thursday 24—Company detailed as guard at Catlett’s Station. A boy was killed a few feet from me by a locomotive. Commenced to rain in the evening. Slept in a car with lots of hay.

Friday, April 25, 1862—Very wet. Left camp and took up quarters at Mr. Stone’s. Had two good meals with the inevitable corn cake and bacon. Returned to camp in the evening.

Saturday 26—Detailed as Judge Advocate on Regimental Court Martial. Rather a troublesome position. The 1st Brigade marched in the direction of Fredericksburg at 1 o’clock.

Sunday 27—Mail carrier brought the 1st mail we have had for ten days. Wrote to Lizzie, Hanna and Cunningham’s. Also a letter to the “star of the evening.” Received letters from Lizzie, Hanna, G. S. M. , W. T. J., The first fair day we have had for a week.

Monday, April 28, 1862—Left camp at Catlett’s and marched about nine miles in the direction of Fredericksburg. The roads are very bad so far. We hitched our horse in a little wagon of the sutler’s and hauled all our baggage. Had a good sleep with the ground for a bed and the sky for a tent.

Tuesday 29—Struck tents at 5.30 a.m. and marched 23 miles by 3.30 p.m. Camped in a pine wood northeast of Falmouth, Stafford county, Va. Men stood it pretty well. Co. G has now 14 men on the sick list. Weather cool and pleasant.

Wednesday 30—Set in wet in the forenoon, Was mustered for pay in the afternoon. The country around Fredericksburg is beautiful. Peach trees in full bloom, apple blossoms bursting, and forest trees putting on their verdure.

MAY 1862

Thursday, May 1, 1862—Weather variable. Had a pass to visit Falmouth. Country in the vicinity rather picturesque. Undertook to be commissary for officers’ mess. Corp. Robert Hunter discharged for disability.

Friday 2—Took a ride on the pursuit of eatables and after returning, plunged into the second volume of The Count of Monte Christo—a fascinating work. Weather fair and pleasant.

Saturday 3—Felt rather dilatory and lay in my tent nearly all day reading. The mail for the 11th [Pa. Reserves] came in about 10 p.m. Lots of letters. Boys gay and happy. Had two from Lizzie. All right.

Sunday, May 4, 1862—Company detailed for patrol duty. Found it a very lazy business. 3rd Brigade arrived in the afternoon. The second pontoon bridge was laid to Fredericksburg today. News that Yorktown is being evacuated.

Monday 5—Court Martial met. Tried Joshua L. McCreary. Weather pleasant. News of the evacuation conformed. McClellan in full pursuit.

Tuesday 6—Court Martial adjourned until tomorrow. Weather still pleasant. Dr. Fulton left for Washington with the mail.

Wednesday, May 7, 1862—Court Martial met and tried the four remaining cases in Co. A. Evidence contradictory. Hot in daytime. Cool at night.

[May 8 through May 13, 1862—no entries]

Wednesday 14—Rained all day. Went on picket in the evening.

Thursday 15—Rained all day.

Friday, May 16, 1862—Weather fair. Received letters from Will & Lizzie Jackson. The camp getting more beautiful every day. The leaves are all out.

Saturday 17—Weather very warm. 2nd Brigade reviewed and inspected today by Gen. McCall. Expressed much satisfaction at the condition of the rms of Co. G.

Sunday 18—Pleasant. Wrote to Lizzie and sent to Philp and Solomons, Washington, for Artemus Ward’s book. Men ordered to each have two pair shoes & socks.

Monday, May 19, 1862—Reviewed and inspected by Gen. Van Rensselaer & staff. Co. G again complimented on its arms. Weather pleasant. Dress Parade every evening at 6.30 o’clock.

Tuesday 20—Detailed as officer of the guard. Capt. [Evans R.] Brady [of Co. I], Officer of the Day. Had orders to come down to the regiment and we did it. Commenced raining in the evening.

Wednesday 21—Cool and damp in the morning. Faired up at 9 a.m. Received a letter from Labana Townsen. McClellan is at White House [on Pamunkey River] ten miles from Richmond. Will we get there too?

Thursday, May 22, 1862—Very warm. Read “The Loves of Byron,” which is also warm. [Jacob] Colver, [Johnson] Brown, Samuel T. Stewart sent to City Hospital at Washington.

Friday 23—Took a ride this afternoon to Shield’s Division. Went to the railroad bridge, from there to Gen. McDowell’s Headquarters and saw King’s Division reviewed. Afterwards our own was reviewed. Letter from Lizzie & Ans.

Saturday 24—Nothing going on. Gen. Banks was attacked at Front Royal and defeated. Had to return our wedge tent to Quartermaster.

Sunday, May 25, 1862—Received Artemus Ward’s work and read it through. Dress Parade in the evening with leggings on. The regiment looks far better.

Monday 26—Received orders to move our camp on account of sickness. Struck tents and went to another camp but before pitching, got marching orders. Left at 1 p.m. and marched down opposite Fredericksburg and camped.

Tuesday 27—Are located in a very pleasant place near the railroad, half a mile from the river and Fredericksburg. Camp in an open field, dry and gravelly which I think will improve the sanitary condition of the regiment. Warm, warm. Some anxiety for the safety of Banks’ army.

Wednesday, May 28, 1862—Opposite Fredericksburg. Dress Parade & Company Drill.

Thursday 29—Colver, Brown, and Stewart sent to Washington hospital.

Friday 30—Very warm Took a run around the country. King’s Division left to join Shields. No troops here now but the Pennsylvania Reserve.

Saturday, May 31, 1862—Wet and disagreeable last night. Commenced boarding at the sutler’s at $3 per week. Received letters from R. Cunningham & Lizzie. Severe battle at Richmond.

JUNE 1862

Sunday, June 1—Very wet all day. Read “A Strange Story” by Sir E. Bulwer Lytton.

Monday 2—Weather pleasant all day. On camp guard today. 60 men on guard. Received word of the fight at Richmond on Saturday. Commenced reading Jack Hinton [the Guardsman].

Tuesday, June 3, 1862—Opposite Fredericksburg. Warm as usual. Camp off camp guard at 9 a.m. Severe storm of wind and rain at 4 p.m., immediately after we were detailed for picket duty three miles down the river road. Reached the place at dark.

Wednesday 5—Horrible. What a rain last night and all day incessantly. Not even a bush for shelter. Woke this morning with my head in a puddle of water. River very high, Took off all four of the bridges.

Thursday 5—Slept this morning until Guard Mounting. Air raw and occasional showers all day. Wrote to W. J. Jackson. Orders for no passes & roll call five times a day.

Friday, June 6, 1862—Letter from Lizzie. Weather rather disagreeable.

Saturday 7—Wet and disagreeable. A rumor is prevalent in camp that we are to be sent to McClellan at Richmond.

Sunday 8—Had orders to strike tents at 9 p.m. and be ready to march to the transport lying down the river. Slept on the ground all night. Weather fair. A heavy dew.

Monday, June 9, 1862—Left camp at noon and marched 6 miles down the river to the landing. The 1st Brigade & the 4th Regiment went on board today. Weather fair. Bivouacked for the night.

Tuesday 10—Woke up this morning to find it raining. The 3rd and 1st went on board in the forenoon. Nine companies of the 11th [Pennsylvania. Reserves], Gen. McCall’s staff and body guard, went on board the John [ ] at dark.

Wednesday 11—Weighed anchor at daylight and run down to Chesapeake Bay by dark. Anchored until 12 o’clock and then steamed round to the mouth of York River by daylight. Fair.

Thursday, June 12, 1862—Ran past Yorktown at 6 a.m. and arrived at White House on the Pamunky at 12 M, Encamped for the night one mile from the landing. 1st Brigade gone to Richmond.

Friday 13—Left White House at 9 a.m. and marched two miles past Dispatch Station. Guerrilla party came in our rear, chased back the baggage train, and did considerable damage.

Saturday 14—1st Brigade gone back in pursuit of the guerrillas. Gen. Meade and our baggage arrived safe. Had a visit from B. H. Scott of the 103rd. Weather oppressively hot.

Sunday, June 15, 1862—Wrote to Lizzie & Hanna. Very hot and sultry in the forenoon but a thunderstorm in the evening made overcoat comfortable.

Monday 16—Weather still cool from the storm. Formed in line to be reviewed by Gen. McClellan but he did not arrive.

Tuesday 17—Pleasant. Heavy firing in direction of Fort Darling. Formed again for review but disappointed. Grub scarce today. Orders to leave at 6 a.m.

Wednesday, June 18, 1862—Marched about 8 miles up the Chickahominy and encamped. Rebels in plain view across the bottom. Artillery firing continually. Wrote to G. S. Mills.

Thursday 19—Smith’s Division had a skirmish yesterday evening a short distance from our camp. Townsend and Elder from 62nd called to see us. Battalion on skirmish drill 3 p.m.

Friday 20—Rebels throw up two new batteries with heavy guns. They have been shelling our camp all day. I was detailed today with 25 men to report to Maj. Lyman for Provost Guard duty.

[No entries from June 21 through 26, 1862]

Thursday, June 26, 1862—No firing in the forenoon. Baggage all ordered to be sent to Gen. Headquarters. The rebels attacked our right in force.

Friday 27—Three regiments fought the rebels yesterday five hours and held them in check. Today the battle of Gaines’ Hill [Mill] fought.

Saturday 28—Commenced to fall back from our works in front of Richmond. Another fight today by Smith or Hooker. Whipped the rebels.

Sunday, June 29, 1862—Stampede in the morning among the teams. All the army moving towards City Point hastily but in good order. The 11th [Penn.] Regiment annihilated.

Monday 30—Porter’s Corps took the wrong road. The rebels attacked our rear. Guards repulsed with heavy loss. The Battle of Turtle Island fought. Our forces held their ground against overwhelming number. Gen’s McCall and Meade wounded. A.A.G. Biddle killed.

JULY 1862

Tuesday, July 1—At City Point Landing. A hard fight about 1.5 miles up the river. Gen. Magruder taken prisoner. The army steadily retreating toward Harrison’s Landing.

Wednesday 2—Set in very rainy during the night. The Reserve fell back last night toward Harrison’s Landing. The roads almost impassable. Enormous stores destroyed that could not be removed.

Thursday, July 3, 1862—Gen. Shields Division arrived yesterday. The rebels threw shells into our camp today but the whole party were taken prisoners. Our army is again on the advance.

Friday 4—The army is again in order. Our advance is back four miles. The troops are all in good spirits and will fight better than ever. The Penn. Reserve Corps only musters 3000 men. Our regiment 170 in all.

Saturday 5—The weather has been fair for the last day and the roads are getting in better order. Wrote to Lizzie…

Sunday, July 6, 1862 [At Westover on the James river]. Nothing of importance. The army is entrenched—a line almost ten miles long. Had a chase for Col. Harvey of the 7th Regt. Hot. Hotter. Hottest.

Monday 7—Received a letter from Lizzie M. Jackson, I believe the losses in killed and wounded on both sides during the late battles will reach 80,000 men.

Tuesday 8—Had a letter from H. S. R. Weather exceedingly hot and sultry. Sent a box of clothing to G. W. Hoffetot, Pittsburgh…

Wednesday, July 9, 1862—Relieved from duty with Provost Marshall and reported to Capt. Porter for duty. Tom Taylor started home with the Colonel, Lt. Colonel, and adjutants’ horses. Horse to Quartermaster.

Thursday 10—Very warm. A heavy shower in afternoon. Visited 103rd Regiment and also 25th. Thomas Cochran, 2nd Lt. Heard Lt. Col. Jackson was at home.

Friday 11—Nothing…

Saturday, July 12, 1862—Nothing important except a review by President Lincoln & Gen. McClellan. Very hot. This place is a perfect Tophet [Hell].

Sunday 13—On fatigue duty. Repairing corduroy bridge across the swamps. Worked in mud knee deep all day.

Monday 14—Moved camp about two miles down the river. Good camp. Sunk wells. Water tolerable. Received a letter from Dr. Kuhn in regard to Capt, Speer. Answered.

Tuesday, July 15, 1862—Went to Gen. McClellan’s Headquarters to procure a pass for Dr. Kuhn. Was placed in command of the fragments of Companies F, G, H, I & K. Wrote to J. P. Davis, Crestline. Terrific storm in the evening.

Wednesday 16—Issuing clothing to the men. Wrote to Lizzie. Had a strange dream last night. Received an order to remove camp and to permanent guard duty ay hospital camp. Another storm.

Thursday 17—Marched through the med to the old Harrison house [Berkeley Plantation] and commenced policing the ground preparatory to pitching camp. Had a letter from Lizzie.

Friday, July 18, 1862—Finished policing and having received new Sibley tents, we pitched them in three streets forming a splendid camp. Weather very warm.

Saturday 19—Nothing of special interest occurring. Men have to do duty every other day. Hard work to get men enough at that.

Sunday 20—Received in the evening a little crumpled note from Capt. [James P.] Speer. He went down on the Louisiana wounded in the shoulder and thigh [on June 27th]. Thank God he is safe.

Monday, July 21, 1862—Mistake yesterday. I got alongside the Flag of Truce boats and saw several of our company on parole wounded. They are on their way east in good spirits. Wrote to Will Jackson.

Tuesday 22—Sutler here has his tent up and selling tremendously. Maj. Ball paid Co. B today for four months. Weather very hot. Flies bite clear through our clothes. Commenced to board at sutler’s.

Wednesday 23—Paymaster paid Cos. A, C, and D for two months this afternoon. He is the slowest man in the world. The boys are cursing him all around. Had a good view from the signal station this evening.

Thursday, July 24, 1862—Nothing of particular interest occurring. There has been a review of troops by Division for several days in the rear of our camp, It is said reinforcements are arriving every night.

Friday 25—Paymaster paid off Cos. E, F. G, H, I, and K this afternoon for two months. Payrolls have to be made over again for May and June. Received a letter from & wrote to Hanna, S. R.

Saturday 26—Nothing of special importance. Commenced to make out payrolls for Cos. F, G, H. I. & K. Find it a very difficult job.

Sunday, July 27, 1862—Had letter from Lizzie. Thomas A. Cochran & James Chambers on a visit from Headquarters. Went with them in afternoon to 62nd Regt. Saw Tom Anderson & Joe Moorehead of Jefferson county. Capt. Townsend commanding Co. G Sergt.

Monday 28—Find I missed it in leaving yesterday. The paymaster says the rolls must be finished today or we will not get paid. Worked until 12 o’clock last night and finished them all this evening. Letter from G. S. Mills.

Tuesday 29—Paymaster Ball paid off the regiment today. Received for March, April, May and June $445.00. Went with Archie Stewart to the Morgan in the evening. The flies are dreadful, biting through one’s clothes and crazing the horses.

Wednesday, July 30, 1862—The rebs made a raid on one of our transports last night. Burned the schooner and made the captain prisoner. Also captured a number of cattle. Received letters from W. T. Jackson and Lizzie. Letter from Zimmerman.

Thursday 31—Sent to G. W. Hoffstot $300 by Adams Express. Our gunboats now concentrating at the picket line. The siege train is also in position on ythe bank of the river. Something is evidently expected. Probably an attack looked for.

AUGUST 1862

Friday, August 1—Sure enough, the rebs give us “hark” from the other side of the river at 2 o’clock last night. Our batteries and gunboats soon made them skedaddle. 20 Union men killed and wounded. Two regiments crossed this afternoon and burned the buildings along the rebel shore. Wrote to G. S. M. and Mrs. Boyles.

Saturday, August 2, 1862—Nothing important today. REceived a letter from Rev. Kuhn in regard to some boxes. On guard at hospital.

Sunday 3—Sent $5 to Editor of Philadelphia Enquirer for subscription to be sent to G. S. Mills…

Monday 4—[No entry].

Tuesday, August 5, 1862—Several transports passed up the river last night loaded with rebel prisoners. It is hoped now that our boys in Richmond will be exchanged. Burnside has gone to Gen. Pope’s army.

Wednesday 6—11th [Penn. Reserve] Regiment returned from Richmond 329 privates. No officers yet. Boys look hard on show. The shirts and drawers were distributed and were gladly received. The enemy were expected but did not come. Bought blouse for $10.

Thursday 7—On guard today. Regiment ordered back to division delayed on account of having no tents. Very warm. News of the extra 300,000 to be drasfted is regarded as a good thing by the soldiers of the army. Name sent in for recruiting officer.

Friday, August 8, 1862—This is by far the hottest day we have had this summer. 13 men died in the General Hospital, mainly from the excessive heat. Not gone to the division yet. Tried to sell “Bill” to A. S. or 3rd Regt.

Saturday 9—Requisition made and clothing drawn for returned prisoners. Muskets also drawn but the men manifest disposition not to take them. An important movement on the [ ].

Sunday 10—Regiment formed in line and an explanation made by Capt. Porter. Men took the arms, marched to the Division and back. Sold Bill to Asst. Surgeon Orr, 3rd Regt. P. R. C. for $90 at 90 days.

Monday, August 11, 1862—Appointed acting adjutant. Had orders and moved to the Division camp in the morning. Left one hundred men in camp for a hospital ward. At 3 p.m., turned wagons over to division quartermaster and marched down to the mail landing to go on board transports. Destination unknown.

Tuesday 12—Went on board a ferry and was taken out to the steamer Belvidere at 1 a.m. 3 a.m. under weigh. 10 a.m. off Fortress Monroe. 5 p.m. a thunder storm, rough sea and sick quarter master. The most beautiful sunset I ever saw. 11 p.m. anchored near mouth of the Potomac.

Wednesday 13—Anchored off Aquia Creek at 9 a.m. Was ferried ashore. In the afternoon, left Aquia for Fredericksburg on the cars at dark. Arrived at the station at 9 p.m. Regiment slept in the open field. Wrote to Will Jackson.

Thursday, August 14, 1862—Camped on the hill in Sibley tents lately occupied by Gen. Burnside’s troops. A very pleasant, healthy location. Plenty of camp pedlers. A prospect of getting home on recruiting service,

Friday 15—Nothing important transpiring today. The weather here is cool and much pleasanter than on the Peninsula. Received orders to go home recruiting.

Saturday 16—Lieut. Sloan undertook to get transportation and failed. We are all considerably bored at getting heat as they are all poking fun at us. We will make it yet, or break something.

Sunday, August 17, 1862—Very cold last night. Went to Gen. Burnside’s Headquarters and got transportation. Arrived at Aquia Creek at 1 p.m. and got to Washington at 8 p.m. Stopped at Mrs. Forbes. The officers of the 11th [Pa. REserves] Regiment are at Brown’s Hotel.

Monday 18—…Left Washington at 5 p.m. and arrived at Baltimore at 7… Reached Harrisburg at 5 a.m.

Tuesday 19—Had our business arranged with Capt. Dodge. Sloan goes home and I am detailed here at Camp Curtin. Thousands of troops are arriving and leaving Camp Curtin daily. Very dusty and disagreeable.

Wednesday, August 20, 1863—Was arrested by Provost Guard before I was out of bed. Provost Marshall apologized but I [ ]. Reported at Camp Curtin for duty. Assigned to most wretched quarters, alive with vermin and disgustingly filthy.

Thursday 21—We are not allowed to leave camp. But several Reserve Officers run the blockade and go to town on spite of Provost guards. Board at the May House. Good fare, Very warm and dusty.

Friday 22—Much surprised this morning to receive a visit from D. W. Hoffstot. He won’t enlist. Was in town all day. Had sergeant paid off. A fine rain in the evening. Recruiting officer is god fellow.

Saturday, August 23, 1862—…Last day of volunteering for new regiments.

Sunday 24—Stayed in camp nearly all day. Don’t know what to make of the new captain. Got up a petition to Gov. Curtin which we will put through if pressure is not taken off.

Monday 25—All tight, Captain ain’t so bad as we thought—only afraid of Capt. Dodge. Slept at May House last night. Much better than camp.

Tuesday, August 26, 1862—Roads getting very dusty again. Nothing of special import today. There is fighting going on along the Rappahannock.

Wednesday 27—Sick today. Was detailed for duty. Not excused….

Thursday 28—Went down town and from there in the evening over to Independence Island to the picnic…

Friday, August 29, 1862—Feel pretty well played out today. So used for a spree. A heavy fight reported at Bull Run or Groveton. Wrote to Col. Jacksonm sent by Capt. R___.

Saturday 30—Left Harrisburg with Capt. Sands adn Lt. Cochran with 100 men to report at Ft. Ellsworth, Alexandria. Stopped over night at Baltimore. Went to Continental House O. K. Slept at Soldier’s Rest. Dry.

Sunday 31—Left Baltimore at 9 and arrived at Washington at 10, then to Alexandria by boat and on to Fort Ellsworth where we delivered the recruits. Came back to Washington and Lt. Cochran and I went over to Cunningham’s.

[No entries between 1 September through 6 December 1862]

DECEMBER 1862

Sunday, December 7, 1862—Arrived at regiment quartered at Brooks Station, Fredericksburg and Aquia Creek Railroad. Very cold. Wrote to Lizzie & N___. Slept in Col. Jackson’s tent. Received a letter from Hattie, Lizzie, Hanna, R. G. A.

Monday 8—Started at daylight and marched across the country about 8 miles and camped in a cedar thicket. Passed a couple of huts containing the most destitute, miserable looking creatures I have ever witnessed.

Tuesday, December 9, 1862—Laid in camp all day. There is snow on the ground and the nights are cold. Wrote to Adjt. Powell and Hanna. Rumor of a move soon. I think we will cross the river.

Wednesday 10—Orders to leave tonight at 11.30 o’clock. Three days grub, 60 rounds cartridges. Wrote to Hattie McIntryre. Weather fair and moderating slightly.

Thursday 11—Started at 12 midnight and reached the landing at 4 a.m. Our Brigade is guarding the pontoon corps who are laying two bridges a mile below Fredericksburg. The town is being burned down. Very heavy cannonading. Franklin’s Corps commenced crossing at sunset. No resistance but a little skirmishing.

*Fredericksburg, night of the 11th, by Alfred R. Waud. Library of Congress.*

Friday, December 12, 1862—Crossed the river before noon and bivouacked in an open field near stone house. No fighting of any consequence today. Large numbers of troops are crossing over. Weather fair. Cold at night.

Saturday 13—Were ordered to prepare for immediate action at 6 a.m. and taken to the left. Supported batteries until 2 p.m. Then ordered forward. Advanced half a mile. Drove the rebs and were driven. Regiment suffered terribly at the railroad.

Sunday 14—The Division is laying in reserve today, being badly used up on yesterday. Co. G lost 20 men out of 25 in action and the regiment lost 212 out of 390 in action. Weather pleasant. No fighting today.

After the 11th Regiment was pushed down the ridge, Lt. Daniel Coder (11th Pa. Reserves, Co. E) wrote, “Never did I look back for support with more anxiety than on that fatal day; for on seeing a single line advance I had anticipated the result. We lost color bearer after color bearer, I know not how many. I picked up the colors at three different times myself. The flag staff was shot off and the flag perforated in nineteen different places by rebel bullets.” One of the flag bearers was Pvt. James Fritz of Co. E. Capt. Daniel S. Porter (11th Pa. Reserves, Co. B) made a similar comment. “Our division charged in the face of rebel batteries and rifle pits, drove the enemy from them and gained the hill; but no support came to our assistance, and we were driven back.” He later added, “The boys fought like heroes. They were too brave. I have little heart left, brave comrades have fallen without gain. We were butchered like so many animals.” Just above the railroad track, Pvt. James H. Trimble was shot in the chest and killed. Captain Porter wrote to Trimble’s father, “The saddest part of my task as Captain was to see my brave boys fall and next to it was to convey the sad intelligence to bereaved friends.” [Source: Shock Troops for the Union: The Pennsylvania Reserves at the Battle of Fredericksburg, by Bill Weidner (2023)

Monday, December 15, 1862—No fighting of consequence today. Brilliant Northern Light last night. A Flag of Truce was granted for one hour to bury our dead. No more of the company found.

*Northern Lights dance over the battlefield at Fredericksburg on 14-15 December 1862*

Tuesday 16—The entire army was withdrawn across the river quietly last night. The night was rainy and favorable. Rebs made their appearance in the morning. Camped on the hill.

Wednesday 17—Lay all day in camp. Whiskey rations were issued last night and the Division was gloriously drunk. Capt. [James P.] Speer left for Washington. Cold.

Thursday, December 18, 1862—Col. Jackson and I visited the hospitals of our Division. Nearly all gone to Washington. On returning found the Division had left. Followed up and camped about two miles from White Oak Church.

Friday 19—Marched to within two miles of Belle Plain in the afternoon and camped. Very cold. Col. Anderson got a few blessings for running us through brush and over the hills uselessly.

Saturday 20—Moved about a hundred yards and camped in what is probably winter quarters. Good location. Brigade inspection. Went on picket in the evening.

Sunday, December 21, 1862—Rather pleasant for the time of year. Only three companies on post. The rest on reserve. Was relieved at sundown. This is my 25th Birthday.

Monday 22—Weather moderate. Boys all busy putting up winter quarters. Received a note from Hanna and one from Lizzie.

Tuesday 23—Weather very fine for the season. More like spring than winter. Getting along very well except that we get very poor fare from McCandless & Co.

Wednesday, December 24, 1862—Had A. K. Vantine appointed sergeant from December 1st. Took a tramp over the hills to Cockpit Point Landing. Fine view. Get no letters or papers. Very lonesome.

Thursday 25—Christmas. Oh, how dry. But I am well today and last Christmas I was [sick and] at the point of death [at Camp Pierpont, Virginia]. Am I thankful enough for the blessing? I fear not…

Selling Slaves, Slave Labor

1847: Thomas Whiting Cowne to Thomas Whiting Cowne, Jr.

December 28, 2025 Griff 2 Comments

The following letter was written by Thomas Whiting Cowne (1784-1857) of Turners, Fauquier county, Virginia. Thomas was the son of Robert Cowne (c.1756-1829) and Sarah Whiting of Culpeper. His first wife was Martha H. Buchanan (died 1818). In 1820 he married Susan Latham (born 1787) of Fauquier. Thomas W. Cowne was a merchant in Falmouth. He also operated a school in Falmouth and offered courses such as reading, spelling, penmanship, grammar, geography, history, arithmetic, bookkeeping, and Latin. Tuition was $20 per student (Virginia Herald, Dec. 11, 1816). At the time of the 1850 US Census, Thomas was the owner of ten slaves ranging in age from 10 to 50.

He wrote the letter to his son, Thomas W. Cowne, Jr. (1821-18xx), a merchant in Staunton, Augusta county, Virginia.

Thomas’ letter speaks of the “rebellious spirit” of one of his negro slaves named “George”—so troublesome that he has decided “to dispose of him” as soon as he could “clear of him” on “reasonable terms.”

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

[Falmouth, Virginia]
21 June 1847

Dear Son,

We have at length got the mill in operation, which has cost a great deal, & as was contemplated have to dispose of some property to defray the expense. After due reflection & from the rebellious spirit constantly appearing in George, we are all of opinion that it will be to our interest as well as yours to dispose of him. He is hired out and the man with whom he is complains of him and has frequently recommended to us to get clear of him as soon as we could upon reasonable terms. Should you approve of it, I will put John in his place and secure him in the same manner George now stands & will be hereafter. There is only a few months difference in their ages. John is a much more valuable hand on the farm & of stronger constitution, I wrote you in December last but not on this subject and have been as a loss to account for not receiving a line from you since, and think it probable the letter never reached you. We wish you to answer this immediately. We will not do anything contrary to your wish in the matter although the younger negroes are becoming every day more valuable.

I hope you will not be dissatisfied at not receiving any part of the goods got of you. When I see you, you will be convinced that nothing but unseen events which no foresight could prevent have been the cause, We are very anxious to see you, & if it it’s possible, come down. Perhaps it may be as convenient now as it will in August. The mill promises to do well and if we can be blessed with the ordinary seasons, will we think bread the family. The family is in tolerable health.

22nd Iowa Infantry, Vicksburg, Mississippi

1863: Isaac Newton Haldeman to Minnie Haldeman

December 28, 2025 Griff Leave a comment

The following letter was written by Isaac Newton (“Newt”) Haldeman (b. 1840), the son of Isaac Haldeman (1812-1885) and Maria Miller (1823-1910) of Wapsinonoc, Muscatine county, Iowa. Newt enlisted as a corporal in Co. F, 22nd Iowa Infantry in September 1862.

Newt wrote this letter some three weeks after the surrender of Vicksburg which was followed quickly by a march to Jackson, Mississippi, and return. See also—1864: Isaac Newton Haldeman to his Sister.

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

*Addressed to Minnie Haldeman, Tiffin, Seneca county, Ohio*

Vicksburg [Mississippi]
July 26th 1863

My dear Sister,

I received your good long letter last evening. I am mistaken—it was father’s letter I received last evening & yours a few nights ago. Since I last wrote you this great stronghold of the Mississippi has at last fallen, which caused the hearts of many a soldier in rear of Vicksburg to bound with joy when the “white flag” was run up over the fortifications surrounding the city. You asked me what I thought was hte number of men that composed this army. It consists of four Army Corps commanded respectively by ~~Gen. Osterhaus~~, Gen. Sherman, Gen. Ord, Gen. McPherson, and Gen. Burnside’s Corps is also here, together with a portion of Gen. Herron’s Corps. By whom these last named Corps are commanded, I can’t tell. Now if all these Corps were all full, we would have an army of nearly 200,000 men, but as the army is very much reduced by disease, sickness, killed, &c., that there is not 100,000 I don’t think.

*I could not find an image of Newt but here is one of William P. Marvin who served in Co. I, 22nd Iowa Infantry (Iowa Civil War Images)*

Since I last wrote you I have been to, or within 1.5 miles of Jackson. I would like to have gone in and seen the town but I did not feel able to walk and so I could not go. I had just arrived there when our regiment was ordered back here to Vicksburg. I did not stand the trip very well but feel better now. We are now encamped on the bank of the Mississippi on the inside of the rebel works one and a half miles south of the city. How long we will remain here is more than I can tell, or where we will go. It is supposed by some we will go up into Tennessee and some think we will go farther south. It is not likely we will remain inactive long, if there is anything to do.

The health of the army is not very good. We had another man die out of our company yesterday. All the boys of your acquaintance are well.

Tell father I received a letter from him last evening containing some postage stamps. I was lucky enough a few days ago to buy half a dollar’s worth so I am well supplied for some time to come as I don’t write more than one half the letters I use to.

Min, how many letters do you suppose I have written home since coming into the army? I thought from what father said you had saved my letters. If you can tell me I wish you would. I also received last evening a letter from Charley and Elmore written by father. I will answer them both as soon as possible. I will have to close as it is mail time. Love to all. Write soon. Affectionately, — Newt

6th Iowa Cavalry, Fort Berthold

1865: Thomas Benton Hobbs to his Friend Helen

December 28, 2025 Griff Leave a comment

The following letter was written by Thomas Benton Hobbs (1842-1910) of Delhi, Delaware county, Iowa, who enlisted on 17 September 1862 to serve as Commissary Sergeant of Co. G, 6th Iowa Cavalry. He was mustered in on 10 November 1862 and promoted to 2nd Sergeant on 21 February 1864. He mustered out of the regiment on 17 October 1865 at Sioux City, Iowa. His older brother Charles Francis W. Hobbs (1833-1883) also served in the same company.

Thomas was the son of Charles Warfield Hobbs (1805-1878) and Mary Eliza Wilson (1803-1855).

The 6th Iowa Cavalry was organized at Davenport January 31 to March 5, 1863. Moved to Sioux City, Dakota, March 16-April 26, 1863. Operations against hostile Indians about Fort Randall May and June. Moved to Fort Pierre, and duty there till July. Sully’s Expedition against hostile Sioux Indians August 13-September 11. Actions at White Stone Hill September 3 and 5. Duty at Fort Sully, Fort Randall and Sioux City till June, 1864. Sully’s Expedition against hostile Sioux Indians June 26-October 8. Engagement at Tah kah a kuty July 28. Two Hills, Bad Lands, Little Missouri River, August 8. Expedition from Fort Rice to relief of Fisk’s Emigrant train September 11-30. Fort Rice September 27. Duty by Detachments at Fort Randall, Sioux City, Fort Berthold, Yankton and the Sioux and Winnebago Indian Agencies till October, 1865. Mustered out October 17, 1865.

For those interested in the war experiences of Co. G, 6th Iowa Cavalry, you may want to explore “The Civil War in the Dakotas: A Soldier’s Diary” by Jacque H. Schmiedt.

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

*Fort Berthold as it looked in 1865* *(Newberry Library)*

Fort Berthold
February 19th 1865

Dear Friend Helen,

I received your kind and welcome letter of Nov 27th last mail and will try and interest you in this answer. Well Helen, we are all well here at present. There is nothing new here at present that would interest you. We have had warm pleasant weather here all this winter.

I am truly sorry that you wont excuse me about not answering your letter sooner and that I must keep civil when I come home. Well Helen, I expect that it will be hard for me to act civil then. I will be a true “Injin” by the time we get out of this God forsaken land Dakota.

You say my friend Mr. Clark has returned after killing three Indians. Oh, ain’t that “rich”—he killed three Indians. Did he bring their scalps home? Perhaps it was “Grey Backs” instead of Indians. I suppose he is quite a hero there now, isn’t he?

Well old Abe is elected sure, and I hope he will make everyone that voted for him go and smell gunpowder and see how they like war. Then I should think help was scarce when the girls have to turn out to help.

I had heard of the death of little Annie Sheldon and of little Mary, but Helen, you have one thing to console you in this your great loss—that they are now with God in that happy land above—free from the cares of this wicked world.

I suppose those returned soldiers have a fine time there now. My time will come soon. Eleven months more to serve. I had heard of “Hanks” good luck in becoming a gentleman. I see “Miss Eliza” (as Spangler would say) wrote some in your letter. Where is she? Tell her to accept of my best respects and if she thinks it worth the time, I would be pleased to hear from her.

But I must stop now. Excuse scribbling and all mistakes for I have written in haste. Give by respects to your Father and Mother and all. Accept the same yourself while I remain your friend, — Tom Hobbs

Write soon. In haste.

15th Ohio Infantry, Camp Wood, Munfordville, Kentucky

1861: James Weller and John S. Albert to Mary and Albert Kirby

December 28, 2025 Griff Leave a comment

The following letter was written by James Weller on behalf of himself and his comrade, John Albert, both corporals who enlisted in Co. D, 15th Ohio Infantry in September 1861. This letter was written from Camp George Wood near Munfordville, Hart county, Kentucky.

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

Friday, December the 20, 1861

Dear Sister & Dear Mother.

I take this opportunity to let you know that I am well and hearty and hope that these few lines will find you enjoying the same state of health.

We had a little fight and our boys knocked ’em hellwards. There was about 300 of our men and there was about 1,000 of rebels and we drove them back.

I sent to you $5 and you never wrote to me whether you have got it or not. I should like to know whether you got it or not. I should like to be at home on Christmas and New Years but there is no use of talking about it now. I should like to know how you are getting along. I should like to know if you have got your house up yet and if they support you or not as they agreed to do. We will get some more money and then I will send you some but in a different way. I will send by express.

I got a letter from Jacob about a week ago and I sent him one then and I sent him one today. He is well. No more at present. Write soon Mr. George Man and sister. I am very well and hearty and hope you are well. I should like to know what you are a doing. I have not time to write much. I am very busy. No more at present. Write soon. Yours truly, — John Albert

To George Man and Mrs. Man

Miss Albert, as John was writing I thought I would write you a few lines to let you know that I am well and hearty and hope that these few lines will find you the same. I do not know how many letters I have wrote to Kirby and have not got any answer from there for about five weeks, I should like to get a letter from there. I should like to see you all. I should like to e at home there Christmas and New Years but there is no use talking about it now. No more at present but remain yours truly, — Mr. James Weller

to Miss Mary and Albert

Camp George Wood, Hart county, Kentucky. Company D, in care of Capt. [Isaac Miner] Kirby [15th] O. V. USA

Write soon if you please.

Spanish-American War

1898: James Harvey Knight to his Mother

December 27, 2025 Griff Leave a comment

The following letter was written by James Harvey Knight (1877-1899) who enlisted in Co. M of the 14th US Infantry in June 1898 at San Francisco and was killed in action by a gunshot wound at Santa Ana near Manila in the Philippines on 5 February 1899. His remains were brought home the following year for re-burial in the Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Colma, San Mateo county, California, Section G, Row 19, Grave 8, but without headstone. He was the stepson of Thomas McCoy, and brother of Clair McCoy.

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

Cuartel de Malate
Manila, Philippine Islands
Monday, November 7th [1898]
In camp 10 a.m.

Dear Mother,

I happen to have an hour or so to spare today so I will tell you about a trip some of my comrades and myself took yesterday. We started from the Cuartel about 7.30 a.m. in the morning and we took it along easy. We went down Calle Malate (Malate Street) past all of the native veno joints, or small whisky shops as we would call them in the States, only instead of whiskey they sell a native drink. It looks and tastes somewhat like Chinese gun, only it is a good deal stronger. Well we walked down past these places and out across the old Spanish parade grounds (which we use now for our dress parades, and we went on over into the walled city, our destination being the Spanish Museum which is in a large building fronting on the Pasiz River. We arrived there after an hour’s walk only to find it closed up for the day. We were told that it would be open to visitors at 4 p.m. on the following day.

*Cuartel de Malate (“Barracks of Malate”) where the 14th US Infantry was quartered in 1898*

We were disappointed, of course, but we decided to put in the day somehow so we started out to go out to a place called San Sebastion. It is a suburb on the extreme northwest end of the city. It is here that the city prison is located and is it from here that the English Railroad startes. We stopped at a Pilipino Catholic Church on the way over and we stoped at the church while a native priest was saying mass. I can hardly tell you what the inside looked like. It was fixed up like our churches at home are only they don’t have pews. They have pine hardwood floors and the people kneel down on their knees and pray. There is only one thing there that I noticed that seemed out of place and that was large piles of dirt and rubbish that was swept up into the corners and left there to pile up. We stayed to mass—if that is what you call it (I don’t know much about churches so I will have to be excused if I make any mistakes)—and when it was over, we proceeded on our way.

Headstone of Thomas W. Horn, 3rd Artillery, in the San Francisco National Cemetery.

We stopped at the Cuartel de Meisic ¹where the 3rd Artillery is stationed at, and I went in and talked to Tom Horn ² for a few minutes. He is looking pretty fair, though not as fat and hearty as he did on my last visit about a month ago. I asked him when he thought he would go home and he told me that he expected to be discharged in the course of a couple of months, and that he intends to stay here for a while after he gets his discharge. He said that he and 9 more of his comrades are going to out together $100 apiece and get a prospecting outfit and that they are going back in the hills and have a look for minerals. He said that he hoped he would get some mail pretty soon as he has not heard from home for a long while and I guess we are in the same fix as I have not received any mail since the 19th of October, but by Wednesday we will have our mail as the SS City of Peking arrived at Hong Kong last Saturday, November 5th, and it is tumored that she has over 9 tons of mail on board for the soldiers. I hope so as do all the rest of the boys. It will take a few days to bring it over to Manila from Hong Kong as it takes two days for the steamer to go there and two for her to return. It is a little over 6 hundred miles to Hong Kong.

Well I talked a short time to Tom and he was telling me all about Pat Ferriter getting married and about Della Cameran having a child and all the Baden news that I got from you a long while ago. I didn’t let on that I knew anything about it until he got through and then I told him the balance that he didn’t know. The boys that were with me got tired of waiting for me so we started out for the railroad to see what was to be seen.

We arrived at the railroad depot after a long walk and you would laugh if you could see the cars that they use. The engines are all small—something like the one that they have at the packing house, but the passenger cars and the box cars look like as if they had been built for a kid to play with—they are so small. The passengers coaches are just the same as they are all over Europe. There are four compartments to each car and all they can put in each car is 8 persons, two to each compartment. One enters these cars from the side. The cars have a foot board running along the upper half of each, being a window. When one wants to travel on the railroad, why you buy a ticket to whatever point that you want to go to [and] the ticket agent takes your name and address and assigns you to a certain apartment in a certain car of the train, and you are locked in the car, and when you arrive at your station, why a fellow comes around and lets you out. A guard they call him. One not used to his ways would think that he was president of the railroad. There are 28 stations on the road and it is close on to 200 miles long. It costs $6 Mexican money or $3 in American money to go the round trip. It takes all day to make the round trip. I have not had a chance to make it yet, or take it. I should have said as there are guards stationed at the depot, and they are instructed not to let any American soldiers go out on the trains but this will be changed in a few months and then I will take a trip as soon as I can get a furlough and I will let you know later on what the country looks like.

*Presidio de Manila commonly known as the Old Bilibid prison in Manila entrance during the American colonization of the Philippines, 1900s.*

We saw about all there was to be seen around there and then started out to see the prison. It is about one mile north of the railroad depot and so it did not take a great while to cover the distance. We were admitted to the jail without any trouble and we passed inside, the gate keeper gave each one of us a square brass check with B. P. stamped on one side of it. That was so that he would know us when we came out again. We were met inside the walls by a couple of soldier boys that were sent up for a year apiece. One of them had got drunk and abused his officer and the other had got full and got into a fight on the Escolta (the Main street of Manila). They showed us all around and I must say that it is a dismal place for a human being to have to live in. There is nothing to be seen but filth and misery on all sides. There was four English sailors in there too and about twenty Spaniards and 150 Filipino’s. The Americans and Englishmen were given 30 cents Mexican money each morning, 30 cents apiece I should have said, and that is 15 cents American money. They get that to live on each day and it is given them about 9 o’clock every morning. And there is an old woman there that comes in each morning and afternoon and she takes their money and goes out and she brings them back a handful of rice, a couple of onions, and a few potatoes, and a bit of grease to cook the stuff with. She makes a pretty good profit out of them and they have to pay two cents for little sticks of wood to cook their food with. They are really being slowly starved to death.

They have a horrible means of killing a man when he has been sentenced to die. It is called the Spanish garrote and it is a vise that man put his neck into and there is a screw that winds up like a house-movers jack and it takes only thirty seconds to break a man’s neck. It is a simple thing to look at, but I’ll bet it is a terrible thing to see in action.

We saw about all there was to be seen and then started for home, and, as we were crossing the big stone bridge that goes over the Pasig River over the main part of New Manila, we stopped to see the natives dredging the river. They (a half dozen of them or so) have a large canoe with a step in each side near the water line. They take a common straw basket apiece and dive or drop straight down to the bottom of the river and fill this basket with sand and mud and come to the surface with it and dump it in the boat. They have long poles stuck down along side of their boats so as to steady themselves when they come up with their load. They do an awful lot of work in a day’s time. A stranger would hardly think that they could stay in the water so long and I would not believe it myself if it were not for the fact that I have seen them with my own eyes. And for a day’s work of ten hours, they get the large sum of 50 cents apiece, or 25 cents in our money. They are good workers in the water but are not to be compared with the Kanakas of Honolulu as the natives of that place just seem to make their home in the water.

American soldiers and captured Filipino “Prisoners of War” (POWs) share a refreshing **“Schlitz beer”**alongside the Pasig River in Hacienda de San Pedro de Macati. Philippine Islands. c1899.

We proceeded on our way to our quarters out in Malate and so ended one day’s tramping. Of course I have not put down here one quarter of what we saw, but what to you would be strange. Why, we are used to such sights and don’t take any more notice of them. I can tell you all about these things when I get home—if I ever do—but if I do it will be some four or five years from now as like Tom Horn, I intend to stay here for a few years if the U.S. holds these islands. And there does not seem to be much doubt left now but what they will. This is no country for a white man from a northern country like myself, but I am willing to take my chances if I can make a few thousands dollars down here in a few years time.

As to getting out of the army, why I cannot tell when we will be discharged. I guess it will be a long time from now, though. We hear rumors every day. Some have it that we will be sent home before Christmas and others that we will put in a year more down here, and I think that the latter comes nearer hitting the nail on the head. I will not trouble you or myself in the future when writing as fellow cannot tell whether they are truth or fiction. I will have to carry this letter over for a day or two so that I can write an answer to your letters. I know that there are some in this mail for me and the steamer has just come into the harbor. There is another steamer coming up the straits and she has a large sailing ship in tow. She is about 8 or ten miles down the straits yet, and I guess she will not be in for a couple of hours yet. The first one that came in came from Hong Kong so I guess she has the mail on her. It will take until tomorrow morning to sort it out and then we will get it, so I will lay this aside until after I get mine. This could not leave here before next Friday yet at the earliest as the next steamer to sail is the United States transport Scandia and she leaves for the U. S. next Friday with 250 sick and discharged soldiers. So now I will close this for today.

In camp after Guard Mount, 9 a.m.
Tuesday, November 8, 1898
Cuartel de Malate, Manila, P. I.

I am with you once more (on paper). I have not much to say for today. The weather is pretty fair as it always is in the tropics. I have to stay in my quarters from 9 o’clock this morning until 9 o’clock tomorrow morning as I am supernumerary of the guard for today. I am the guy that is called upon to take his place, but then, that is all the better for me, as if I am called upon for the next 24 hours to my duty, why that lets me out of going on guard tomorrow. And if I am not called out, I have to stand guard for 24 hours so from now until tomorrow morning I am not supposed to leave my quarters. I have nothing to do but still I have to remain within easy call.

I took a trip down to Lunette last night. It is the Main Park and driveway for the elite of Manila. They gather there every evening in large gangs—Spanish and Americans—and have their carriages drive up to the Park and stop. The driveway extends along the water front about 50 feet back from the beach for a distance of between three and four miles. We have a band stand in the middle of the Park and the regimental bands of our troops play there three times a week—Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sunday nights. The different bands take turns at playing. The band that is supposed to be the best is the 13th Minnesota Band and there is no doubt but what they are fine. They are great at opera music and National Airs. I wish you could have heard the cheering the soldiers made last Thursday evening when the band played the last time, or rather the next to the last time, as all the bands down here always play the Star Spangled Banner last, and all soldiers have to take their hats off and stand at attention while it is being played. Even the Spanish gentlemen that come out for an airing of an evening with their ladies stand at attention and take their hats off too. But the other night the band played Dixie just before the NationalAir an maybe we didn’t cut loose with our yells and Dewey’s Flag Ship—the Olympia—was lying only about half a mile from the shore and I guess that they must have heard the band stand and kept it turned on steadily for about 2 minutes.

*The 1st California Regiment Band in Manila (1898)*

I will miss the concert tonight as I have told you the reason that I have to stay in quarters, and that is about all the enjoyment that I get now, except the baseball games that we are always playing. There is a game pretty nearly every day and I am getting tired of watching them. About once a week I go down and visit the boys of the 1st California Regiment. I have a lot of old chums in that regiment that I used to go to school with in San Francisco. I always have a good time when I go down to see them and I always give them the same when they come out where I am.

The steamers that came in to the harbor yesterday did not bring any mail with them but there is one that has just come in and it is said that she came from Hong Kong. She has just dropped her anchor over in Subic Bay, over near Cavite. If she has the mail on her, why, we can expect to get it sometime this evening and I will let you know all about it as to whether or no we get it before I close this for today. The man in the Post Office down at New Manila have put up a sign stating that mail is expected from the U.S. on the 9th or 10th of this month. That would be tomorrow or the next day, although it does come in a day or so ahead of time once in a while. I hear the bugler blowing mess call so as dinner is ready, why I must drop this pen for a while so that I can go out and eat a little.

In camp 7.30 a.m.
Cuartel de Malate, Manila, P. I.
Friday, November 11th 1898

Dear Mother,

I received 3 bundles of papers from you by the mail yesterday and I also got your letter that was enclosed in one of the papers. It is dated September 25th. I am glad to know that you have heard from me since arriving here. I wrote that letter on the Sunday morning just after we dropped anchor in Manila Harbor. I am sorry to hear that you have the rheumatism, and hope that by the time this reaches you, that it will have disappeared. This country is a bad place for it too. A good many of the boys have it bad. A person not knowing what the climate is in the tropics might think this would be a good country for such ails as that, but they would be sadly disappointed as it is warm here, but a different kind of a heat than that we get in the States. It is a damp heat and a fellow has to be very careful and try and keep away from catching cold as it does not take but very little to bring on a fever as I have learned to my sorrow. I am all right now, but I put in a few days misery with the fever. But I took care of myself in time and now i am feeling good once more.

Things are at a stand still here now—that is, I mean things are very quiet. We have not much to do but take care of our health and that is not an easy thing to do. We have to be very careful. I see by the cablegrams that we got yesterday that [Henry Tifft] Gage is California’s next Governor. I suppose Tom does not like that as I guess that he is still a good 16 to 1 Democrat. We also heard that [Theodore] Roosevelt carried New York. He must be well liked there as New York used to always go Democratic. I thank you for those news items. You don’t know how welcome those newspapers are to a fellow down here. Of course we have newspapers down here, such as they are. I will send you a copy of them, one of each, along with this—that is, in the mail. I hope that you will enjoy reading htem.

We are expecting to get paid today or tomorrow. The mail will leave tomorrow on the Scandia direct for the United States and this will go on her, I hope. I see by a cablegram that we got yesterday that the SS New Port left San Francisco on Tuesday, November 8th for Manila. She will arrive here by the 1st next month or so. I am on old Guard Fatigue today—that is, the day after one comes off guard, why he has to herd prisoners around. THe prisoners are compelled to do two hours work per day. They carry all the refuse away from the Cuartel and dump it in the bay. It is a very disagreeable task, herding them, as some of them are inclined to be very fresh with their guards, and once in a while one of them tries to get away, and that is the mean part of the job as the guard’s orders are very plain—that is to shoot them down at the first break that they make to get away. A sergeant tried to get away from his keeper down here—it is about a month ago that it happened—but the sergeant is dead now and the guard got made a corporal fr the dirty trick. Of course if the prisoners were natives or Spanish, we would not think of shooting them as they are no good. They appear very friendly, of course. Why wouldn’t they? But we are on to them with both feet. They would stick a knife in a fellow’s back if they got the chance. But the fellows that we have to watch are our own men that get put in [the guard house] for getting drunk or fighting, and a fellow hates to have any trouble with his comrades.

I wish you would ask the Niederost’s as to whether or no they know Pete Kyne. He comes from Spanish town. He was raised over there. I have got to know him from hearing him talk about the coast. He knows Donovan and Kearns and all the rest of the people from the coast that we know, including Clocks. Ask Claire if she knows Clocks, or not, and tell her that I have not had time to use up all them kisses that she sent but I thank her ever so much.

Well, Mother, I think I shall have to close this now as my rifle and weapons need a little polishing so I must fix them up as I will be called on for duty in a short while. I will now have to bid you all goodbye, hoping that you are al well and happy. Give Claire a big kiss for me and tell her to be a good girl. So with love for all, I remain your loving son, — Harvey Knight, Co. M, 14th U. S, Infantry, Military Station No. 1, Philippine Islands, via San Francisco, California

P. S. This Pete Kyne that I speak of is in Co. H of the 14th. He has just brought me over three papers called the Coast Advocate.

¹ The Cuartel de Meisic was a Spanish-era barracks in Manila, located in the Binondo district (now the site of the Lucky Chinatown Mall area), not within Intramuros like some other cuartels. During the American period, it housed various U.S. Army units, including elements of the 3rd Artillery Regiment, which was stationed in the Philippines from approximately 1900 to 1903.

² Thomas W. Horn (1873-1937) was born in Redwood, California, where he was mining prior to his enlistment on June 4, 1898 and enrolled in Battery G, 3rd US Artillery. He was discharged August 17, 1899 at Manila. Philippine Islands.