The following letter was written William (“Bill”) H. Debell (1844-1864) who accepted a $70 bounty and enlisted when he was 18 as a private in Co. A, 109th New York Infantry. He was the son of Daniel W. DeBell (1810-1881)—sometimes spelled Dibble—and Phebe Ann Fairchild (1814-1910) of Danby, Tompkins county, New York. Bill was not close to his father. His father and mother separated in January 1858 leaving Phebe without property and offered no further support to his wife and the four children (including Bill) who were left in the household. In the 1850 census, the DeBell family was enumerated in Shandaken, Ulster county, New York, where Bill’s father worked as a millwright. At that time, there seven children in the family ranging in age from 1 to 16.
(courtesy Don Andrew Collection)
Company A of the 109th New York Infantry was primarily recruited from the towns of Newfield, Caroline, and Danby in Tompkins County, New York. Bill took his place in the ranks with other young men from Tompkins county, many of whom were his friends from Danby. The Regiment began its assignment during the first week of September, 1862. A few days later several companies were detached to garrison Laurel, MD (about 8 miles SE of Annapolis Junction) to guard the main railroad junctions located there. The 109th remained at this assignment but was reassigned in October 1862 to the 22nd Army Corps as railroad guards and part of the 22nd’s overall defense of the Capital at Washington, DC against the threat of Gen. Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia’s presumed invasion. The invasion never came. Their job was tedious and boring and they saw no military action of any kind.
The 109th did its duty from September 1862, the remainder of 1862, all of 1863 and through the end of March 1864. Then in April, 1864 the 109th was ordered to join the 9th Army Corps then assembling at Annapolis, MD in preparation for action against General Lee at Petersburg, VA. The 109th Regiment became part of Hartranft’s battle-tried 1st Brigade, Wilcox’s 3rd Division, 9th Army Corps, Army of the Potomac. The 9th Corps left Annapolis on 23 April, 1864 headed for the crossing at the Rapidan arriving there on the 4th of May, 1864. The next morning, 5 May, 1864, the 109th, after crossing the Rapidan as one of the lead units, were immediately fully engaged with the enemy in the Battle of the Wilderness. Though they had been in the service 1 year, 8 months, and 9 days since they organized in the late summer of 1862 at Binghamton, New York, it was their first taste of battle.
Bill would go on to fight in eight major pitched battles with the 109th New York until he was finally cut down in the Battle of Weldon Railroad on 19 August 1864. there are seven letters presented here by Bill DeBell and two by William A. Hance, a comrade in Co. A who wrote letters to Bill’s family informing them and providing some details of Bill’s death.
These letters are from the personal collection of Don Andrew who sent them to me for transcription and publication on Spared & Shared by express consent.
Those interested in the 109th New York may find any of the following published on Spared & Shared equally good reading:
It is with mingled emotions of joy that I now write you. I am well at present and hope these few lines will find you the same. Ma, I am away down South among the rebels. We left Binghamton last Sauturday morning and arrived at this Junction on Monday noon. Our camp is situated in a nice place. It is in a ten-acre lot, all level land. We are situated in a little valley all surrounded with woods. The railroad runs right in front of our camp. There are several of the rebels around through the woods. Two of them were caught today and put in the guard house. I don’t know what they will do with them.
Monday morning, 8 o’clock a.m. Ma, you must excuse me for not finishing this before for there is so much excitement here at present that it is hard for me to get my thoughts together but I will try and finish. Our regiment is all broke up. Five of our companies is down to Washington guarding a railroad bridge and David and myself and ten others is about a mile from camp guarding a switch. We have caught several prisoners—[Union] deserters mostly. Last night we caught a rebel spy. We took him up to the guard house. I think it will be pretty hard on him. I suppose you have heard that Old [Stonewall] Jackson and forty thousand troops have crossed the Potomac. We expect they will attack us before long. This is one of their spies.
I like a soldier’s life very well so far but I would like to see home once more and tell Mary, Carrie, and Hattie that I would like to see them all very much but I cannot yet a spell. The best I can do is to send you all my love and a kiss. Give Annie my love too. I have received all of my pay and have lent David 30 of it and have kept the rest to use. He said he would pay me as son as he got his month’s pay. Did I do right, Ma? I want you to send me all of your pictures. I have got Mary’s. No more at present so goodbye from your own son, — Will H. DeBell
Direct to Annapolis Junction, Maryland Co. A, 109th Regt. N. Y. State Volunteers in care of B. R. McAllaster. Write as soon as you get this.
Letter 2
[Not transcribed. Words to Just Before the Battle, Mother.]
Letter 3
[Editor’s Note: In this 16 page letter to his mother of 17 May, 1864, Bill describes seeing the elephant for the first time.]
Spotsylvania Court House, Va. May 17th 1864
Dear Ma,
Once more I am seated to write to you although I may never get the letter finished for I am on picket within 20 rods [@ 100 yards] of the enemy and they are firing at us every moment. There are three of us on a post and we have a little breastwork thrown up before us about two feet high. I am sitting close down behind it writing on my cartridge box & every moment a bullet whistles over my head. I wrote you a letter when we was at Warrington Junction. Little did I think then that we was coming so soon to the front but we left there the day after I wrote to you and never stopped until we arrived at Wilderness Church. We was three days a marching it. We crossed the Rapidan in the afternoon & was marched about 5 miles & put on picket—
Dear Ma, just as I wrote the word picket, one of the men that was on post with me was shot through both thighs [?]. Poor fellow. I sent to the regiment and some of his company came and got him.
—and kept on all night and about 5 o’clock in the morning we fell in and was marched about 3 miles without any breakfast to the battlefield. Oh! I cannot tell my feelings when we was marched up in front of the Rebel batteries, the shell a flying. but we did not flinch and only 8 of us men was wounded, none killed.
About noon we fell in [and] marched off to the left. As we was marching by the left flank, the rebels poured a whole volley into us that confused and excited us and we fronted and fired on them and we fought there all the afternoon and only three got wounded out of our company, none killed. We made four charges and drove the enemy out of their rifle pits and captured about 5 prisoners. Our firing ceased about dark and we built breastworks and lay in them two or three days and held our position. Then one night the rebels set up a terrible hootin’ and hollerin’ and we thought they was agoing to charge on us but it was [only] to blind a movement. They moved off to our right so that night about 2 o’clock we was ordered to fall in and was marched until daylight and made a halt for breakfast after which we took up the line of march again & marched until about 4 p.m. and made a halt and drew 5 days rations.
Stayed there until 5 in the morning and marched again to this place & was double quicked up a long hill through shot and shell to the very front, formed in line, and drove the enemy back. Then we throwed up breastworks with our bayonets and plates & lay there two or three days, the enemy making several desperate attacks to break our line but did not.
On May 11th, they made their last attempt at that point and here is memoranda I kept from that time. “May 11th, 6 p.m. The enemy commenced shelling us in our rifle pits and their pickets advanced on us at the same time so we sent out 100 men out of our regiment as skirmishers and they advanced and drove them back a ways. Then our batteries opened on them and soon silenced theirs. Then we was ordered to advance out of our pits so the whole Brigade marched over and cautiously approached them. We—the 109th—had went only a short distance when we was ordered to support the 8th Michigan Regiment. We was marched by the right face, then left flank and formed in about 50 rods behind them and lay down flat. The bullets flew very thick but there was but a few wounded. One poor fellow from the 8th Michigan got his leg shot off.
Well, we lay in that position about an hour. Then we was ordered to form a junction with the breastworks we had just left, so the Brigade formed in line and marched directly southeast until we came to a piece of woods. Then we changed direction to the right and marched southwest about a mile and fronted, then lay down & watched until morning. At daylight we was ordered to build breastworks so we went at them and have them done and are waiting for the attack.
It is Friday, 13th. I left off writing the 11th while in the above named breastworks. Well, we had no attack that day. About 3 o’clock we was ordered to fall in. We did so and was marched to the rear—that is, off the field. Then it commenced raining very hard. Well, we was marched down in an open field and those that had tents put them up and those that did not had to take the rain. Well we had just got our suppers a cooking and the order came to fall in double quick. We did so and was marched back about halfway to the field and halted and we stood there in the rain and mud about an hour (Ma, could you but have known my thoughts while standing there, cold and wet. Be it ever so humble, there is no place like home!) Then the order came to about face and was marched back where we started from and camped down. Our things was all wet and it was quite cold.
Well [Daniel] Mc[Pherson] & G[eorge] Roe & me went off and got a couple of rods of rails apiece and built a large fire and we spread our rubber blankets and lay down. (We had nothing to put over us for we threw everything away in the first battle at Wilderness Church.) We all being very tired, soon fell asleep and slept sound until 2 o’clock. Then we was woke up and packed our things and marched up here where I now sit and was formed in line of battle but was held in reserve until noon. Then we was ordered to charge on a Rebel battery and we marched up in the edge of the woods andjust as we got there, they opened upon [us] with shot and shell and our men fell like grass before a scythe. But on we went, but did not get the battery. We had to fall back and when we got out of the woods, all we could count out of 400 was 150. We was cut bad, I tell you. General Burnside said it was the boldest charge that he ever saw made. He said he would remember us. We are called a brave regiment. Several other regiments broke and run but ours stood right up to the mark.
Well, after we came back, we went at it and built breastworks—(in the morning it commenced raining and rained very hard all day)—so that we could hold our position. Well we got them done and got in them, mud up to our knees, but we had to lie down and we lay there all night and are here yet and this is the 3rd day.
May 15th—Well here we are yet and still it rains and the mud. Last night the enemy’s pickets bothered us all night and it was so cold and it rained so hard that it was very uncomfortable. It is morning now and we are still in the mud and rain but there is some very encouraging news and it [illegible]…Colonel told us that we had taken 8,000 prisoners and 40 pieces of artillery and also Richmond was in our possession. I hope it is so. I just heard from our chaplain that there was two Corps down to the rear that was agoing to relieve us and I must say I hope they will for this is the tenth day we have been out to the very front of the battle. I never heard of such a thing before—keeping men out on the front so long without a relief. Our men are getting very tired and wore out (tell Sarh she would not know the 109th if she should see it now. The regiment looks when it’s all together about like a good company).
It is Sunday the 15th. We are still in the pit and we begin to think we are agoing to stay in them for all being relieved. The enemy was very quiet in our front last night, but on our left they had a heavy battle. Yesterday afternoon the Johnnies charged on one of our batteries & they opened on them with 16 pieces and cut them full as bad as they did us the 12th. The Rebel sharpshooters troubles us very much for every time one of us raises our heads or stirs around, they shoot at us too and there was two men from some other regiment got killed yesterday, the 12th, and one today. Every man that goes out has to go on his hands and knees or go half double. The officers is the main thing they are after.
May 16th. Still in the entrenchments. The sharpshooters trouble us yet but they do not advance. We sent out a heavy line of skirmishers today so as to advance our pickets. Done t without much trouble. Last night our Corps fetched us up a kettle of beef stew. It was good, I tell you, for we was all very hungry.
May 18th. There is my memoranda from the 11th to 17th. I am back in with the company. I was relieved last night about six o’clock from picket. Came here and George Roe 1 had my supper ready for me. I eat it and we spread our rubber [blankets] and lay down. Slept until morning when we was woke up for our coffee. After we drank that and eat our crackers, we was startled by the rattle of musketry on our front. We jumped to our places, sat there a spell, and found it was nothing but the pickets. But about half an hour and our batteries opened, the enemy’s replied, and they kept up all the forenoon. It has ceased now but expect every moment when they will open again but it is hopeful that they will keep still for them shells are very disagreeable—especially when they come so close that the wind of one will blow your hat off as one did me the 12th in that battle. I have always heard say it was an awful feeling to go into battle but never thought it was such a feeling as it really is. I can’t begin to tell nor explain but after you have been in a little while, you don’t mind it so much.
There is 230 killed, wounded and missing in the battle, 21 out of our company. Namely: May 6th, wounded, John Conners in the arm; Peter Swint [in the] leg, and William Smith [in the] hand. May 12th, wounded, Henry Beardsley [in the] leg. John Sumers [in the] hip, Colins Causdale [in the] hand, Alfred Earsley [in the] hand, Sturgis Williams [in the] hand, Dwight Ostrander [in the] leg, Philander Evans [in the] leg, Horace Todd [on the] arm, Charles Truesdell [in the] arm, Lewnis Purdy [in the] leg. Killed, John [G.] Nichols, Amos Barber, Henry Person, Abram Scales, George Pierson, William Lours. Missing, Harrison Little. These are all from our company.
After we fought the last battle, the Capt. Mc[Allister] was taken sick and went to Fredericksburg to the hospital. Col. [Benjamin F.] Tracy has resigned. The Lt. Colonel [Isaac S. Catlin] takes his place.
Ma, just imagine you are looking on a side hill and along the edge of a piece of woods along which you see a large ditch dug (or first say it has been raining a week very hard) with the dust all thrown out on one side making a bank high enough so that a man can stand on his feet and look over and occasionally you will see a small piece of [ ] stuck up. Well down in this pit or ditch you will see all along against the bank a row of guns with bayonets on and down in the bottom you will see men dying in all shapes in the mind. In imaging this, you will see the 109th and about the center of the pit you will see one with a small piece of board on his knee with pencil & paper writing. You may guess who it is. This paper I picked up in the battlefield. Some of the boys said that they saw David go through Chancellorsville the other day. You will, perhaps, know more about it than I would for I presume you hear from him and I don’t. I hope he has not been in this last battle for there was a large number of cavalry captured and poor Franky might have been one of them.
Ma, I will have to bring this to a close for the muskets begin to rattle and I am afraid I cannot send it at all. Goodbye. Write soon. — Will H. DeBell
Goodbye all until you hear from me again. Write soon.
1 George Roe (1831-1864) served with Bill DeBell in Co. A, 109th New York. They were both from Danby in Tompkins county, New York. Three of his letters were published on Spared & Shared in April 2025 (see 1863: George W. Roe to Sarah Adeline (McPherson) Roe.) In his letter of 9 September 1863 written from Annapolis, George mentions William DeBell as follows: “Reuben Youngs got his face severely burned this afternoon. It happened in this way. William DeBell—one of our tent mates—got a cannon cartridge while on patrol down to Savage & brought it to camp & hung it up in the tent. While he was out, Harrison [Tompkins] and Reuben thought they would come a joke on Bill so Rube took the powder & some matches & went out back to explode it. He placed a piece of paper on the powder & placed fire at the other end. He thought it was not going & so he moved the paper so that the wind would blow it towards the powder [and] at that instant, sparks blew into the powder & it exploded & burned his face quite badly. I think, however, he will get along without much trouble as it is not burned very deep.”
Letter 4
Near Petersburg, Virginia June 20, 1864
Dear Ma,
Again I am seated to write a few lines to you. Since I last wrote to you, we have [illegible due to crease in paper] marching and fighting. The night of the same day I wrote my last letter, we evacuated our position & started we knew not where. We started as soon as it was dark & marched all night and all day, stopping just long enough to make a little [illegible due to crease in paper]…all we had to eat was corn & coffee and when we got to the James River we made a half of one day & drew rations and started again just night and they marched us all night and next day until about 3 o’clock when we halted and made a little coffee.
Then we was marched through a piece of woods and formed in line (the rebs had made a stand), joining on the 2nd Corps line, and at 5 o’clock we advanced or rather charged on their works. The order came “Fix bayonets, charge double quick” made, we started with a loud yell through one of the heaviest fires I ever was in, the enemy pouring the grape and canister in us from three sides from a line of forts that was built behind their breastworks. But on we went and took them all—breastworks, forts, cannon, horses and part of the men. Well we charged and fought all night and next day and next night until about 12 o’clock when we was relieved and came to this place where I now sit. It is what we call the rear.
There are three lines of battle in our front. We are resting. When we came out of the last charge, all the guns our regiment could stack was 23. A good many straggled but all we can stack now is [ ]. We was cut up very bad. We are expecting every moment when we will have to go in again. The 6th Corps is fighting now very hard on our right. There is a line of works in our front that has got to be taken and it is the opinion of most all our division that we will have to make the charge but I hope not for I don’t like these charges.
We are in sight of Petersburg now and if we have as good luck as we have had, it will soon be ours. We have got our batteries in a good position and I think they will do good execution.
Dear me, the mail carrier has just come after the mail so I will have to close hoping and praying that war will soon close & I will be permitted to return to you again. May God save, bless and protect you all. From your affectionate son. — Will H. DeBell
There has two mails come in and I have received no letter. Write often. My love to you all.
P. S. Our batteries is now throwing shells into Petersburg. We are in sight of there. We have got the rebs in such a position so that they cannot use their batteries unless they sink them in the ground so that nothing is above ground but the muzzle.
Letter 5
On picket near Petersburg, Va. June 28, 1864
Dear Ma,
Again I am seated to write you a few lines to inform you that I am still alive and well and hope this will find you all the same. I have written two letters to you since I have received any. Our mail comes in regular every day & I can’t imagine why I don’t get them. I can’t think but what you have written but maybe I will get one tomorrow so I will wait patiently.
I came on picket night before last & have been on nearly 48 hours. I was to be relieved last night but the whole regiment came out on the picket line to stay 48 hours so I had to stay with them so that will keep me on 84 hours. I was on the advance line yesterday which is within a stones throw of the reb’s main line. They have got a very strong line. Every little ways they have a piece of artillery planted. Both armies are building and strengthening their works. Our men are preparing to siege them and I hardly think there will be much infantry fighting unless they attack our lines and that is just what we want so we don’t feel much alarmed.
The rebs have got two large forts in sight of us & our men are digging under one of them to blow it up. They are half way now and I think in the course of a week, they will lift it with powder. Our armies has got an awful strong position here. Artillery siege pieces & mortars—there is no end to them. We all expect a hard time when they commence the siege. The rebs are getting the range of us with their mortars now. Every once in a while a large fifty to a hundred pound shell will come over in our lines and burst.
In the 2nd Corps joining on our corps there is brass band playing “When this Cruel War is Over.” Oh it does sound splendid. The sun is down and it is cool & pleasant. All is quiet except the picket firing. Oh, if it was only in time of peace and I was sitting in the door of our house, just had my supper, and all the work done, oh how we could enjoy ourselves. Oh, then if I could hear a band play, I could enjoy it. But here it sounds so lonely and brings afresh all the ties of home. Sometimes when I am sitting all alone and get to thinking of my loves ones at home, then the thought of where I am comes back again. Well I won’t try to tell the feeling that comes over me for a few moments. Then after that, it will be three or four days, perhaps a week, before I think of it again. But enough of this.
I expect we will have a lively time tonight with the mortars from both sides for our men has got ever so many of them (mortars) planted and I think they will open them as soon as it is dark & it is so near that now I will have to stop writing until tomorrow. So good night.
Wednesday, June 29th & 4 p.m. Again I am seated. I have just had a good nap and finished a part of a can of beans that I had left from my dinner and I feel some better. It was not as I expected last night—about the shelling. All was quiet except the pickets. The Rebs kept up a steady fire all night which made it very disagreeable for their bullets come fairly closae—especially to where I lay. I have got a little post about ten feet from the company all alone by myself. It would be very pleasant if it was not for them (the bullets). It is a little hole dug in the ground about two feet deep and long enough to lie down in with the dirt all thrown upon one side for a breastwork. Then up on the top of that, I have a heavy log laid with holes under to look through. Then I have my piece of tent & rubber blanket put together for a shelter or shade and my wool blanket under me.
Our regiment grows smaller and smaller as the time passes on. Most every day, one or more of our men is killed. Last Saturday a man in our company by the name og John Cortright [of Owego] was killed and one in Co. K day before yesterday by the name of Edward [Edwin] Wilber [of Owego] and another wounded. I did not hear his name. And today one of Co. F was shot through the right eye and was killed instantly. Take our sick and all together our regiment won’t number over 400 and when we came in the field, it was 1015 strong so you can see that we have been cut up pretty bad.
Our men has just sent mortars and the rebs is replying but the shells from both sides goes over us. Well Ma, it is getting late and I will have to close for we are to be relieved as soon as it is dark and I will have to get my supper and pack up my things. I wish you all could take supper with me tonight. I am going to have fried pork, fried hard tack, ad coffee. But I think I had rather take supper with you but I hope you will eat just as though I was there & I will try and eat just as though you was here. Do all of you write to me often. I bid you all an affectionate goodbye until you hear from me again. I remain your affectionate son, — Will H. DeBell
Washington D. C. Co. A, 109th N. Y. S. V. 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 9th Army Corps
P. S. I give my love to all the girls and tell them to write. It is quite lonesome here in the company for me now for all of my old tent mates is away. George is sick, off to the hospital. Also [William] H. Forsyth and D[aniel] McPherson is Co. cook. He only comes to the company once in a while.
Letter 6
Still on the Front Line near Petersburg, Va. July 3rd 1864
Dear Ma,
Again I am seated to write to you. I received your long looked for letter yesterday and was very glad to hear from you and hear you was well. I am well and doing as well as can be expected. It is all quiet in our front but on the right and left, there is some fighting every day. But perhaps you hear of the news as quick or quicker than we do. I hear it rumored that the siege is to commence tomorrow but we can’t tell much about it. I hardly know how to commence or finish this unless I commence back and give you the details of my diary from the time we left Cold Harbor.
Sunday, June 12th. Still on duty as supporting picket of the fort. There is great excitement today and it is said the 9th Corps evacuates their position.
13th—As I expected, last night as soon as darkness covered our movements, moved out in a southern direction. Marched all night.
14th—Today crossed the Chickahominy and at night found ourselves near the James River where we encamped for the night.
15th—Today are lying where we camped last night, resting out. D[aniel] H. McPherson and me have just been down to the river bathing. Swam to the island, Then drew 4 days rations—coffee, pork, hard tack.
16th—Last night was routed out just dark, crossed the [James] River on pontoons, traveled all night and all day today—a forced march. Have reached the rebs’ works near Petersburg & formed in line of battle.
Friday, 17th—It will never be forgotten by the 9th A. C. Fought all day and charged on the Rebs four times and lost nearly all the remainder of the regiment. After the fight, we had only 37 men to stack arms.
18th—Still fighting and gradually gaining ground although it costs heavy and blood and life. Petersburg is plain to be seen from the parts we took from the Johnnies.
19th—Have been lying in the woods facing the enemy. No fighting in our corps today except the pickets.
20th—Last night charged across the railroad and took the heights beyond but again fell back into the woods where we now are.
21st—Today have had general inspection and every regiment in our Brigade has orders to be ready to move at a moment’s notice.
22nd—Moved some distance to the right last night but still on the same line of works.
23rd—We are still holding our position. I was on picket yesterday and was relieved last night. All quiet along the lines. Under marching orders.
24th—Last night were relieved by the 10th Corps and moved some distance to the left. We are next to the front line and are supported by our Colored Division.
25th—Started constructing a new line of works or rather pits. The enemy’s sharpshooters annoy us incessantly.
26th—This morning a man in our company by the name of John Cortright 1 was shot on picket line and died in two hours. I helped carry him off the picket line.
27th—Today our Colored Division has been busy filling bags with sand. They are to be used for breastworks.
1 John Cortright (1816-1864) was a 40 year-old farmer from Owego, Tioga county, New York, when he enlisted in December 1863 in Co. A, 109th New York Infantry.
Letter 7
Near Petersburg, Virginia August 10th 1864
Dear Sister,
I am seated in a bomb proof to write you a few lines as it is raining and it is very lonesome here on the picket line. We came here last Saturday night and expect to stay until next Saturday night. We are all in great fear here on the line for the rebs is undermining us as we did them. Our men are countermining as fast as they can but the rebs has several days the start of us and we are all afraid they will blow us up before we can stop them. But we have got stay and run our chances the same as in battle.
I presume you have read in the papers before this time about the undermining of the reb fort. Well our regiment was on the picket line at the time it was hoisted (the same line we are on now). Well the night before is was hoisted, as I said before, about 5 o’clock in the afternoon, we had orders to be ready to move at a moments notice and we supposed we was agoing to be relieved for we had been on the line 15 days. Well we got ready and sat around until dark and the expected relief did not come. Some of the boys fell asleep and some sat talking and wondering why the relief did not come. I was numbered with the sleepers.
Well, about 11 o’clock p.m., I was woke up and ordered to report to Headquarters. I did so and found a squad there and we was sent to Brigade Headquarters after spades and picks. Well then I began to smell the rat (I knew that the fort was all ready to blow up.) Well, we got them (the spades & picks), came back, and distributed them among the companies. Then I lay down and soon fell asleep with my things all on and when I awoke, it was 3 a.m. and there was a line of men formed in our rear in the same pits and we all thought sure they was the long wished for relief. But not so.
The explosion that created the Crater. From a contemporary sketch by Alfred Waud entitled “Before Petersburg at sunrise, July 30th 1864”
We had just got in line when to our astonishment we felt the ground rise up under our feet but we looked over the works and —– oh —— the awfullest sight that ever man beheld was there to be seen. Men’s heads, legs, arms, hands and whole bodies, artillery rails, mortars flying in the air. I took but one look and turned my head. But to see a sight which made another chill run through me, I saw a heavy line of battle moving forward. Then I knew for certain that we had to charge. On they came over our works. They went with a terrible yell (as soon as they got over our works in the line of battle, all the artillery along our line opened) and into the heap of ruins they went. And they had just got there when the rebs recovered from their panic and they opened all along their line.
Then the order [came] to our ears, “Forward 109th!” I looked in the direction the order came from and saw Col. [Isaac] Catlin 1 up on the breastworks swinging his sword, crying out, “Forward Boys!” and over we went. Well, I have been in several battles and I never was under such a heavy fire before. Well, a great many never reached the fort and oh! another such a sight. Men cut in all sorts of pieces and twisted in all shapes, some with their heads sticking out of the dirt, some with a hand and arm out, some with their legs out. It was awful. But we went to work and made good use of the “shubels & picks” in rescuing some of the rebs from being buried alive. Well, we got out several and took a number of others prisoners. Then we rallied on the next line and stood and fought about three hours, the rebs making several desperate charges to retake the line.
Then on came our colored troops with a rush and we thought sure we could walk right into Petersburg and we could [have] had the black buggers stood up to their work, but they was cowards and run and thus we lost our hold. As soon as they run, the General gave orders to retreat. Well, all went back or I say all. They all started back (but a great many never got there) but about 8 hundred, and six of them was our company, myself included. Well we stood there and fought and tried to hold the works but we could not see that very plain for we could see the rebs massing their forces and we knew we would have to all be taken prisoners or run the risk of getting shot in going back to our line. The rebs had a cross fire from both sides on us when we went across there.
Well, we six made up our minds to be taken and we sat down waiting for them to come when I happened to think about the niggers and about Fort Pillow [where] no quarter was shown them there nor their officers and I thought perhaps it would be the same here. So I spoke to the boys about it and they said we must run across the field to our works. Run for life, [indeed]. Well I was to take the lead. I raised up and saw the rebs had started. Then there was no time to be lost so over the lot of the fort I went and dropped down between two dead men and looked across the field towards our line. I could see it plain—about 40 rods [over 200 yards] distance. Two men started from just ahead of me and was shot before they reached the works. Then I was most discouraged but something told me I could reach them in safety. I raised up and looked around me again and could hear the enemy coming and saw some photographs, some of which I sent in my last letter to Ma lying on the ground near me. I picked them up and took one more look across the field and started and thank God, I reached our lines in safety and although I had several close calls, I was not hurt. When I was about halfway across the field, running as fast as I could, a ball came and cut my cup off of my haversack. That was the same as a blow of a whip on a horse. It made me go a little faster.
But I am alright and am sitting here in what we call a bum [bomb] proof to protect us from shells. It is a whole dug in the ground and heavy timbers over and dirt on them, some like a potato hole. Just think you see me sitting on a knapsack writing on a hard tack box, the boys lying around me in all shapes, heads and pints cross ways and every other way.
Well my paper is most gone and I am agoing to close and see if I can find ay place to curl down and sleep. I wouldn’t mind (if I could just as well as not getting in one of your beds to pass the remainder of the night. I bet I could sleep onyour parlor floor but I guess I will get along some way here in my hole. At least I will try it very shortly. Now this is the 2nd letter I have written to you and have none in return…
I like to forgot to say that the other 5 boys got out safe into our lines. If you want me to write again, you must send me some stamps as it is very hard to get them here. Write and tell me all the particulars concerning the fair maids &c. &c. of Ithaca. David & Frank also. I wrote to them some time ago but have received no answer. When you answer this, you must think up enough to full up two sheets at least. Now remember. Well here goes for a sleep so good night. May God protect you all. Goodbye.
1 Isaac Catlin was Promoted to full colonel on July 29, 1864, he led the 109th New York in the Battle of the Crater at Petersburg, Virginia, the next day. During the battle, he was seriously wounded but returned to the field and continued to lead his regiment until being struck a second time. The second wound necessitated the amputation of his right leg. For this action, he was given a brevet promotion to major general on March 13, 1865, and awarded the Medal of Honor several decades later, on January 13, 1899.
Col. Isaac Catlin lost a leg leading the 109th New York Infantry at the Battle of the Crater.
Letter 8
[Editor’s Note: The following letter was written by William A. Hance, the son of John L. Hance and Almira Bruster, who also served in Co. A, 109th New York Infantry. He enlisted at Danby on 12 August 1862 and mustered out with the company on 5 June 1865. His letter informs Hattie DeBell of the death of her brother Bill, killed in the Battle of Weldon Railroad on 19 August 1864 and of his burial on the battlefield.]
Headquarters Ist Brigade, 3rd Division, 9th A. C. On the Weldon R. R., near Petersburg, Va., August 23, 1864
Mrs. DeBell,
Dear Madam, It is with a sad heart I seize upon this moment of spare time to address a few lines to you. I have news to tell of a nature most melancholy. William is dead. He fell in the bloody charge made by the Rebels on the 19th to recover the railroad which was taken from them the day before.
At the time he was struck, he was in advance of the company, supposing we had one line of battle between them and the Rebels. He soon discovered the mistake. Taking off his hat and swinging it around his head, he cried out, “Come on boys, they are Johnnys!” Those were the last words he ever uttered [before] he cruel messenger of death struck him down. Striking his right arm, [the ball] passed through, glanced and entered his side, passing through his lung, killing him instantly. By his death, I have lost a much loved friend and Co. A one of its best and bravest soldiers. We have been separated a great portion of the time since the opening of this bloody campaign but have occasionally met and spoken together of home and friends far away and anticipated the happiness in store for us when this cruel war should end. But alas, he is gone and all our bright hopes with him. And I am left to tell the gloomy intelligence.
William was a good soldier—always to be found at his post, discharging his duty nobly and manfully. His place in the company, as well as in the memory of those who knew him in this life, can never be filled until we have followed him to that same mysterious end. Allow me in behalf of Co. A to tender you our heartfelt sympathies in your bereavement. Having lost two brothers in the same manner, I can sympathize with you. But I suppose I cannot realize a mother’s feelings on such a subject. Asking you to excuse this hastily written sketch, I subscribe myself, respectfully yours, Wm. A. Hance, 1st Brigade Band, 3rd Division.
P. S. I have William’s testament and pocket book which I will forward to you the first opportunity. — W. A. Hance.
Letter 9
[Editor’s Note: The following letter was written by William A. Hance who also served in Co. A, 109th New York Infantry. He enlisted at Danby on 12 August 1862 and mustered out with the company on 5 June 1865. His letter informs Hattie DeBell of the death of her brother Bill, killed in the Battle of Weldon Railroad on 19 August 1864 and of his burial on the battlefield.]
Headquarters, Ist Brigade, 3rd Division, 9th A. C. Near Petersburg, Va. September 13, 1864
Miss Hattie,
Having a few moments to spare, the first I have had since the receipt of yours containing inquiries concerning your poor brother, I concluded to devote them in answering them as well as I can. I was out to the regiment the 11th and made inquiries of all I saw that I thought would know anything of him. All I could learn was that another regiment were detailed to bury the dead, but that Will was buried by our pioneers & who they were, I could not find out. There are but few of the boys left and nearly all of my acquaintances are either dead or wounded or sick. I shall try and find where his grave is. I do not know whether the Rebels or our men hold the ground for since the battle, things have changed. Our lines have been formed on the most advantageous ground and our division has moved several times since. We are now about three miles from where he fell.
But rest assured Miss Hattie, I will make every effort to find his resting place and will mark it so in case you should ever want to find the spot, there will be something to show you the spot where your brave soldier brother sleeps.
You ask how many battles Will was engaged in. There were eight pitched battles, 1 Wilderness, 2 Spotsylvania, 3 Bethesda Church, 4 near Hanover Church, 5 Cold Harbor, 6 near Petersburg, June 18th, 7 July 30th near Petersburg [The Crater], 8 Weldon R. R. Aug. 19th, besides numerous skirmishes on the picket line. After all he had passed through unharmed, it seemed doubly hard to believe that he could be taken down by a traitor’s bullet. You inquired about D[aniel] H. MePherson. The last I saw of him was the 17th of July. Your brother was helping him to the hospital. He was taken with typhoid fever [and] he died a short time after. I will inform you of whatever I learn concerning Will. Asking you to excuse this, I will close by presenting my best respects to your mother. I remain your friend, — W[illiam] A. Hance
The following letters and diaries were written by George Ellis of Warren, Massachusetts. He was married to Sarah Ann Smith on July 8, 1856. At the age of 25, he enlisted from Monson, Massachusetts, leaving behind his occupation as a fabric dyer in one of the town’s woolen mills. With a heavy heart, he bid farewell to his wife and three children as he took up the musket. Regrettably, the scant information we possess about George is derived from the widow’s pension application submitted by his wife.
George enlisted on 21 June 1861 at Springfield to serve three years in Co. E, 10th Massachusetts Infantry, driven no doubt by a deep sense of duty. He was killed in action on 12 May 1864 at Spottsylvania Court House while courageously carrying the colors, a testament to his bravery and commitment to his fellow soldiers and his country. The last words to his beloved wife, scribbled on a piece of paper ripped from a journal the evening before the fateful battle, were filled with reassurance: “Don’t worry for me for I shall come out all right,” a poignant reminder of his unwavering hope and the profound love he held for her amid the chaos of war.
Spottsylvania Court House, May 12, 1864, where George Ellis lost his life. “The Fourth Brigade, to which the 10th Massachusetts was attached” held the rifle pits captured by Hancock’s men early in the morning and the Rebels were “determined to retake at whatever cost, and for 23 continuous hours they were subjected to the most terrific fire of musketry. The tight of the 10th Massachusetts was close to the Rebel right, both fighting over the same works, only a few feet of space intervening. The Rebels charged repeatedlt on the position held by the 10th. Sometimes the fighting was so close that the muskets of the enemy were knocked aside, and in some instances wrenched from their hands….A heavy rain was falling all the time to add to the discomforts of the position, adn all day and all night the 10th was under a murderous fire. Probably there never was a battle where the bullets flew so thick.”
[Note: These letters and diaries are from the collection of Matt Snihur and were made available for transcription and publication on Spared & Shared by express consent.It should be noted that some letters have portions missing due to the removal of patriotic images, and attempts were made to reconstruct incomplete sentences, though not always successfully.]
Letter 1
Medford, Massachusetts July 21, 1861
Dear Wife,
As I am now at leisure, I write you a few lines. We had a good time on the trip from Springfield to Boston. It was 7 o’clock when we arrived in the city & then we had to march 5 or 6 miles to our camp. It was 10 o’clock & very dark when we got in. We had no provision made for us with the exception of our tents. No supper, no straw, no nothing but the bare ground to lay on. About 12 o’clock there came a very heavy shower. We were so tired & sleepy that we lay & took it. You can imagine my feelings but they were no worse than almost all the rest, I assure you.
We got up in the morning & took a view of our situation. All eyes was wandering in all directions. We stayed around on the [camp ground] until 10 o’clock when an enquiry [revealed that] there was no breakfast for [us but] they would give us some [dinner. Not] wishing to wait until noon, [to sit and] suffer, half of the regiment [passed the] guard and scattered in all directions. I went with the rest first to Medford and then to Boston. I saw many sights that I never saw before but what interested me most was Bunker Hill Monument. I went on the top of it.
They sent out officers after them and got most of them back before night. We have now got some wells dug and cooking stand up so we now fare as well as expected. Our situation is a very pleasant one. We are within one mile of Medford in sight of Boston, Charlestown, and many other places. The monument is in plain sight with the Stars and Stripes waving from its top. Our camp is very near the salt water [and it] comes up within 5 rods of our [camp. We] go into it swimming every [ ] day that much. All the fault [I can see] is our tents. They are about large [enough for] 6 men but there are 20 packed in and we have to lay spoon fashion. The Colonel [H. L. Eustis] says if we stay here long he will get some more.
In the tent that I am in, all but five are foreigners—some English, Irish, Scotch, & the rest I know not what they are. I have laughed myself faint to hear them jabber & see them perform. I never knew before what kind of people this world was composed of. We are visited daily by hundreds of spectators. There is another camp about one and a half miles from here. I have not seen it yet but they say it is a pretty hard set. This is said to be the best camp in the State. One thing is certain, we have got the best Colonel [Henry Shaw Briggs]. I have never heard him speak a cross word to a man.
The US Belt buckle worn by George Ellis while serving in Co. E, 10th Massachusetts Infantry.(Matt Snihur Collection)
We are now fully equipped for war. We have got some good [guns] and shall use them when we go [ ]. We are to go just as soon as [they] get a ship to carry us. I should [not] be at all surprised if we [leave in] one week.
I saw a large man of war in Boston that had just come from the South. It looked savage, I tell you. There has two small vessels passed within 100 rods of our camp since we have been here. They are curiosities to us country boys. The band is playing to call us out on drill. What would folks [have] said one year ago to see such a parade of men on Sunday. We know no Sabbath here. I saw Mrs. Green when we came through Palmer.
Ann, rest assured I think of you & children & shall know more fully how to prize a wife and family when I get home.
N. B. Be sure and write as soon as you get this. Direct to Medford, Massachusetts, 10th Mass. Regt., Co. E.
Ever yours, — George Ellis
Letter 2
Washington D. C. July 29, 1861
Dear wife,
I improve hte first opportunity I have in writing to you. Thursday morning, 25th inst., we pulled down our tents and at [ ] p.m. bid farewell to Old Medford. We went by rail to Boston [and] at 4 o’clock we went aboard the steamers, five companies on each boat, and the third boat took a part of our horses. I went on the Ben Deford and a fine boat it was too.
We let the two boats pass us the first night & then we had a race. We got ahead and took the lead and kept it until we arrived here. The first night out I felt first rate & slept first rate. But the next day I felt as though there was something in my stomach that did not belong there. But I laid on my back most of [the day which] kept me from vomiting [ ] voyage I felt as well [ ] but some of the boys [ ] all the way. I feel that [ ] not. There was many boys [and some] men which I saw looking [at their] girls and wives daguerreotypes & [from their] looks I guess they wished themselves back home. I am glad that I did not bring yours & children with me for it would have made me home sick to have seen them.
We were allowed on deck all the time & we saw many sights to attract our attention after we got out of sight of land, such as whales, swordfish, and porpoise, schools of Mackerel, &c. I had a revolver & enjoyed myself much shooting at them. We were out of sight of land two days and that is longer than I ever wish to be again. I shall never make a sailor, I’ll bet. I think I have seen all the salt water I ever wish to see.
[ ] pleasant voyage with the [ ] Saturday afternoon about 4 o’clock [ ] heavy shower. It rained [ ] wind blew a gale. I heard [someone] ask the Captain if he did not think we were in danger of being [capsized]. He laughed at them and told them [it was] nothing but a gentle breeze. [We saw] many suspicious looking sailing vessels on the way but by putting on a full head of steam, we soon left them far behind. We got stopped by a man-of-war in the Chesapeake Bay but as soon as we told them where we were going, they let us pass. It was a U. S. steamer looking for southern pirates.
In coming up the Potomac river, all the officers of the boat expected to be fired into every minute. We went within quarter of a mile of where the rebels had a battery two weeks ago. They have fired into several boats while coming up the river. The river is about three quarters of a mile wide.
We arrived in Washington Sunday p.m. 1 o’clock. We landed at the arsenal about one mile from the Capitol. I have not been to it yet but it is in plain sight. The City of Washington is not as large as I expected. Neither is Alexandria, All the cities are small and old. Every house on the Virginia side looks as though it had been built 100 years.
I am now writing under a tree close to the Potomac exactly opposite on the Virginia side—our troops are camped there—are one hundred and eighty thousand. As far as I can see up the river and down it is nothing but tents, tents, tents. At the last battle [Bull Run] our troops were driven back. They are now digging trenches so that if they have another engagement, they can have these for protection. The enemy is but 4 miles from their camp and we expect an engagement at any moment. Just below us is the bridge into Virginia which [ ] by the northern troops [ ] the right is the Washington Monument. It is not finished yet.
Ann, I can give you but a faint idea of all these things. Everything is so different from Old Massachusetts. When we arrived here it was the same as when we went to Medford. No preparations for us. We got our breakfast in the boat & had nothing served out to until the next day noon. They gave us $2.50 aboard the boat but it being Sunday, it was almost impossible to buy anything. What we did get, we had to pay ten times what it was worth. For just putting a piece of our own bread on top of their stove, they charge ten cents and for one pint of warm water with a little meal the same. It is now 5 o’clock and we are to march.
Tuesday morning 8 o’clock. We started from the Arsenal just after a heavy shower. The streets were knee deep with mud & it was awful hot. We marched two miles & come to a halt with a knapsack of 40 pounds weight on our backs, our clothing was wet through with sweat; many of them were so faint that they had to be carried. We made another halt in front of the President’s House, remained half an hour, and then marched to our camp. It was dark and oh heavens! how it did rain. But we got up our tents the best we could and some got under them & some did not. Some laid out in the rain but it did not get wet much because they were wet through with sweat.
This morning for breakfast we had a small piece of salt pork apiece. Myself and a half dozen others went out & got some wood, built a fire, took our pork on a stick and held it over the fire. I ate all that was allowed to me with a good stomach. It is not the government that is to blame for this. There is plenty of provisions here for us if our officers would get it for us. But as long as they can get all they want, it is all they care. I have just been down to a brook & washed myself. I shall take just as good care of my health as I can. There are some here that will not [survive] if they do not keep themselves cleaner. There is a slave plantation about 8 rods from where I am not writing.
The orders have now come to pull down our tents and go nearer the City of Washington. It is each man for himself & I guess the Devil will have us all before long. Ann, I am not sorry that I came. It is just what I expected. Write to me soon. Direct to Washington D. C., Massachusetts 10th Regt., Co. E. Give my respects to all, — George Ellis
Captain Frederick Barton and the NCO’s of Co. E, 10th Massachusetts Infantry pose with their Newfoundland mascot. This photo was taken at Camp Brightwood, Washington DC in August, 1861. (MOLLUS Collection – Volume 117, Page 6013)
Letter 3
Washington D. C. September 16, 1861
Dear wife,
Yours of the 12th inst. has just reached me. I am glad that you have got moved and are right smart. I was surprised to receive any money from you as we have been paid off and I have sent you $20 by Mr. Wilcox to Springfield and he will send it by Express from there to Warren. Write me when you receive it.
It was the happiest day this regiment ever saw when they were paid. Officers as well as privates could not get three cents to mail a letter or get a paper of tobacco. I hardly expected that I should get so hard up as to hunt around for old segar stubs to smoke but I did it two weeks ago. I reckon I shall keep a little money by me now for such necessities. Before the regiment were paid there was not a peddler that dare come on the ground. The boys arms had grown mighty long and their fingers pretty nimble. But now that we have money, they are plenty enough.
I have no news in particular to write. I see a Republican every week and see that you get the news in Massachusetts before we get it here. We have got our three forts nearly finished. 1 This regiment was at work on one of them when the fight was on the other side of the river. I could hear every discharge of cannon and almost see them. The Colonel told us as soon as we got the forts done we would try and give the Old 10th a chance. We work right smart I reckon on them now. I think there is but little prospect of this regiment ever being called into active service. It has the name of being the best regiment about here and in all probability we shall be kept here to guard the Capitol. It is my opinion that in two months from this date, those rebels will surrender. Two or three more good battles will teach them their folly. With the forces that we have and winter coming on, they cannot resist us. Wonder if Father still thinks this war will last three years?
This month is the sickliest in the year in this climate. Co. I (West Springfield) hae lost three. Co. C (Northampton) one four with a very short time. The hospitals are full. It is the Typhus fever that takes them off.
We had a funeral here day before yesterday. Buried him here on the camp ground. It would be odd for you to go to a funeral out in an open field and see each man armed with a rifle or sword with a brass band and a dozen drums. When he was lowered in the ground, the company fired three round of cartridges. You say that you have got dreadfully tanned and look old. If you could see my old face you would think tanned. The skin on it [is] as thick as on a person’s heel and I guess about as dirty.
My health is good. I presume after cool weather comes, the health of the regiment will be better. There is no use thinking of going home before spring so I keep it out of my mind as much as I can. But I would like to see that little devil Walter and hear him talk. I am glad if he is good to mind you and hope he will grow up to honor and respect his parents. It don’t hardly seem as though I were father or husband it has been so long since I have heard the names called.
Capt. Frederick Barton (1841-1908) of Co. E, 10th Mass Infantry
In regard to the time that I was sworn into the service, I have just been to Capt. [Frederick] Barton. He gave me the enclosed which you can show to certify the time. I have heard that you could receive pay from the State from the 21st of June. Father can find out how much you are entitled to draw and you put him up to it and see to it that he gets every cent of it for it won’t be amiss to have a few dollars laid aside to commence housekeeping again. As I said before, get all you can and I will be as saving as possible. And I dare say, we can commence in the spring in good shape.
This is the greatest country for works and bugs that I ever heard of. We have to sleep on the bare ground and the other night after one of the boys had lain down for the night, he felt something under his head. Thinking it was a rat, the boys got up to catch him. They all got around his knapsack to grab it when on raising it, there lay an Ader two and a half feet long. The other night a bug crawled into one of the boys ears while asleep. It set him crazy and took three or four men to hold him while they turned something in to kill it.
There has adozen or more had their fingers shot off. All have been shot in their hands. They are dreadful careless here and it is a wonder that half of us are not shot before this time. One of the boys got a finger shot off this afternoon. We think nothing of having a bullet shot through our tent. We have got so used to guns and firing that I don’t think the rebels would scare us much. I hope this regiment will have a little brush before we get home and see how we shall perform.
I suppose that you begin to have cool weather in Massachusetts by this time but it is hot enough here yet. We have not begun to think of fall yet. When it comes cold, we shall have to build barracks or move farther south. I have had my photograph taken but have not received it yet. I expect it soon and will send it to you. Keep up good cheer and be right smart and I will take care of myself I reckon. Time passes swiftly with me here and it will be but a short time before I shall be at home. Yours ever, — George
1 The 10th Massachusetts spent most of their time constructing Fort Massachusetts (later renamed Fort Stevens) which was near Camp Brightwood where they camped in the summer of 1861.
October 4 [1861]—Friday. I went on picket at the little store this side of Graves. I was sick in the night with the colic.
October 5—Returned from picket & stayed in my tent in the afternoon.
October 6—I did nothing but stay in my tent as it was Sunday.
October 14—Went on Grand Guard Duty near the fort.
October 15—Went to camp and did nothing till dress parade in the forenoon.
Letter 4
Camp Brightwood Washington D. C. October 23, 1861
Dear wife,
Yours of the 18th inst. came duly to hand. I sent you a view of this camp but it was disfigured by numbers and folding. I will send you another. Keep this choice and I will get it framed when I get home.
We have been under marching orders the past three days and it has rained all the time. Inside our tents it is all mud and our blankets and clothing are all wet. It makes it very unpleasant and unhealthy to have such weather as this. Every little skirmish over the river and we are put under marching orders for three or four days. We came very near going down the Potomac where the Rebels have attempted to blockade. There was fifteen steamers in readiness for this brigade but the government saw where they could use them to a better advantage. The Rebels have got a good place for miles on the river where they could sink every steamer that comes into Washington but they have not done any great damage as yet. It is my opinion they will get almightily troubled if they don’t keep away from the river. We must and will have that open.
It seems to me that McClellan is rather slow in his movements but there are a great many things to be taken into consideration. When I think it all over, I am forced to the conclusion that he knows better how to manage affairs than myself and I for one am willing to be guided by him. It is quite certain that this brigade will remain this side of the river. We may be called out to be away a few days at a time but this ground will be our home. If there is any hard fighting near by, we may see it. But if not, this regiment will have no great victories to brag over when we get home. I still hold to it that we shall see Massachusetts in the spring for I believe that before long McClellan is going to wade in—and deep too. There must be a great deal of fighting and some dreadful hard struggles next month. But how much better to be careful and thus save many valuable lives and be more sure of victory.
You tell me to keep up good courage. I am bound to do that, and to see it through if my services can render any assistance. I am sick of camp life and its rough usages, but still I feel as I always have felt, that it is my duty to be here. As regards the danger of a battlefield, I have no fear in the least. You may perhaps think that I have got reckless and careless but it is the hard usages, the many careless and dangerous positions we are placed in. But still we cherish the same affection for home and friends that we have always had.
If you can get some pictures taken on paper or leather so you can send in a letter, send them. Don’t try to be saving. Anything that will tend to comfort your wants, get them and make yourself as comfortable as you can under present circumstances. I shall probably get some more money the first of the month when I will send you some more. It is amusing as well as provoking to be cooped up 16 of us in a little tent in such weather as this. Sometimes they are all pleasant and laughing, and sometimes all mad and swearing. For a week past, the boys have been raising the very Devil. We have had several fights in camp and the boys have stole pretty much everything they could get their hands on including a barrel of ale from the sutler. He is a Jew and the boys are learning him Yankee tricks. The next letter I hope to hear that you are comfortable and everything as favorable as circumstances will permit. Yours ever, — George
[Editor’s Note: The following scrap of paper is undated but I’m going to presume that it was written at this time while the 10th Massachusetts was at Camp Brightwood. I will change its location chronologically if I discover later that it was written at a later date.]
Dear wife,
Yours of the 18th inst. has been received (p. m.). Here I sit in an old church eight miles from Washington on picket guard. We came out this morn and shall probably get back into camp sometime tomorrow. This is the farthest…..regular and it has also been used for a school house but the pickets have now taken it for their quarters. Notice was given that there would be a meeting here at 4 o’clock p. m. They had gathered from all quarters (as I supposed) to hear a prayer but they were disappointed for no minister came. The congregation consisted of four women…..them here. I would like to give you a faint idea of this old chapel [and] also an imperfect portrait of myself sitting in the pulpit writing on this sheet but it useless for me to attempt. Therefore I will not try.
Lt. [Wallace A.] Putnam is here with us. We had a chicken pie for dinner. He hired a nigger to make us a right smart one for $1.50. She sent it up this evening……quite a play with them and almost wished that I had one at home to play with. One thing is quite certain—if I were independently able—my business would be to run slaves into Canada. I dislike niggers as bad as anyone, but the more I see of slavery, the more I dislike it.
Monday morning. I have been up to a hotel (about two miles) this morn….
Letter 5
Norway Heights Camp Brightwood Washington D. C. January 13th [1862]
Dear wife,
Yours of the 10th instant came to hand. The pictures are in good shape. I am pleased with them, I assure you, We were paid off today and I will send you some money by express as soon as I get a chance to send it to the city (probably this week). I have got well but cannot having the horrors most of the time to see how this war is managed. I have written you a few of y ideas but cannot give you all until I see you. I do not know what this government is coming to. One thing is certain—something must soon turn the scale or we are ruined.
We were paid off in [ ] but they are at a [ ] per cent and it will [ ] for that has no special [ ] and that cannot [ ] demand notes. The inhabitants here are in worse shape than at the North for you have small Bank Notes and here it is a fine for a person to have a Note of smaller denomination than five dollars. These Treasury Notes are not a lawful tender, only for government trade, so you can see in what shape we are as far as money is concerned.
Again, we are no nearer the end of this trouble (comparatively speaking) than we were two months ago and every day is an unnecessary delay and so long as McClellan is nosed around by military officers, we must expect it.
[ ] a glance how [ ] used first all of our [ ] generals are receiving [ ] and it is not for [ ] to push forward and [ ] for they are getting the [ ] they cannot get elsewhere. Not only this, but half of them are in favor of slavery and will not do anything to injure that institution. Until Congress passes an act to abolish slavery, we might as well stop where we are. Again comes the Division and Brigade Generals who receive large pay. It is not for their interest to push forward for by so doing, they will soon cease drawing their salaries. And next there is 600 Colonels who are getting $218 per month. It is not for their benefit to close this up and throw themselves out of a job. And then the thousands of other officers who are now getting $[ ] month who at home [ ] them would get but [ .] Again there are hundreds [ ] friends hanging around [ ] to get a few more favors [ .]
Many a man is making a great fortune by getting government contracts and again we never can prosper so long as there is so many secession spies in our midst. The Rebels have communication with us every day and know all of our movements just as well as we do. They are caught almost every day at it. Some of them get no punishment whatever. Others get shot up and few days and then by taking an oath are let loose to go at it again. Such is the management of affairs. And who can blame a soldier for having the horrors. The boys swear that if [rest of letter missing]
MARCH 1862
March 7, 1862—Missed roll call & got excused by Lieutenant.
March 10—Left Camp Brightwood at 7 o’clock. It commenced raining. Went over Chain Bridge. Encamped with division on Prospect Hill. Laid on the ground. It rained in evening. Cleared off cold. Suffered some.
March 11—7 o’clock, cool but pleasant.
March 12—Wrote to wife. Received letter from wife. One of the Rhode Island Regiment killed. Our provisions came.
March 13—Wrote to Tom. Commenced raining in p.m.
March 14—Left Prospect Hill in morn and marched to Chain Bridge. Encamped. It rained all night.
March 15—Rained all forenoon. Started back to camp 7 o’clock p.m. Went by way of Georgetown. Rained hard. Mud knee deep. Had an awful time. Got into camp about midnight & soaking wet.
March 16—All the boys lame. Went over to [see] Uncle Ned.
March 17—Pleasant in morning. Went over to [see] Uncle Ned.
March 23—Sick. Green took my place [on Provost duty]. Very sick all night.
March 24—Sick. Excused from duty.
March 25—Wrote to wife. Marched just below toll gate. Was ordered back to camp at night. I went and stayed with Uncle Ned. Was sick.
March 26—Marched in morning. Stopped in street near Navy Yard. Embarked on boat 7 at night. Stayed there all night.
March 27—Started & went to Alexandria. Lots of boats here. Started down river at 11 o’clock. Was some sick but staid up on deck.
March 28—We are in Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads. Very pleasant. Arrived at Fortress Monroe 1 o’clock p.m. Run boat up to Hampton. Remained until 4 o’clock. Marched four miles and encamped. It commenced raining at dark & rained all night. I slept down in a swamp. Got wet through—this the 29th.
March 30—Got up in morn, cold & stiff. Some of the boys came down and we built up a hut. I wrote to my wife yesterday.
March 31—Felt better this morn. Sent letter to Harvey.
March 31—Captain Fred [Barton] took command of company.
APRIL 1862
April 1 [1862]—Was sick. Got excused from all duty by the doctor. Weather warm and pleasant.
April 2—Weather cool and cloudy. Felt better but got excused from duty by the doctor. Received a letter from wife and one from [ ]ville. It rained hard in the night.
April 3—Sun shone bright in morn.
April 4—Marched in morning at 8 o’clock. went near Newport News. Marched up the river. Stopped to rest at 1 o’clock. Rebels have been here. I found a secesh letter. John Dunn killed a hog. Marched on near Warwick and encamped in pine woods. I was very tired and sick.
April 5—Weather pleasant. Marched out of woods at 6 o’clock. Commenced raining. We now had a forced march. Stopped at 1 o’clock to rest. Marched on one mile and drew up in line of battle. Deployed two companies as skirmishers. In p.m., marched on again near a battery. They are now shelling it 5 o’clock near by. At dark we were ordered to Warwick Court House. Encamped at 10 o’clock. Our regiment went down into the swamp on picket guard.
“Warwick Court House consists of a small brick school house building, for the Courts, a little jail of less size & one other building, perhaps for a bank. There was one old, dilapidated wooden dwelling house nearby. This is what occupies one clearing. The interval lands in that vicinity are beautiful. The apple trees & peaches are in blossom, and the trees are leaving. As soon as the rains are over the ground gets settled. I expect it will be pleasant here…” — Oliver Otis Howard, April 24, 1862.
April 6—Very pleasant in morn. Our regiment went out to build bridges. Came back to jail at 4 o’clock and encamped all night.
April 7—Weather cool. Wrote to wife. Commenced raining in p.m. Gen. McClellan here this p.m. Very cold & rained like hell all night.
April 8—Very cold. Rained all day. The roads are almost impassable. We have nothing to eat. I hear a great deal of swearing. Cold rain all night.
April 9—Weather cold & rainy. Nothing for us to eat.
April 10—Was out on guard yesterday & today. Sun came out.
April 11—Wrote to Daniel Woodworth.
April 12—Warm & pleasant.
April 13—Warm & pleasant. I went off to a house and got six ears of corn. Boiled it. We had no breakfast or dinner.
April 14—Very warm. I wrote to Harvey. I was sick all day. Did not go on dress parade. Received letter from H.
April 15—Weather hot. Went on inspection at 4 o’clock. No music is allowed in any of the camps.
April 16—arched towards the batteries at 9 o’clock. At noon we hear the cannon nearby. Do not feel very well but am bound to go with regiment. Our company went on picket & I came back to camp sick.
April 17—The regiment left camp at 3 o’clock this morn. I did not go. Felt very faint and weak. Got my knapsack carried & went on and joined the company. Got there just at dark. Received a letter from wife. Was up all night on guard.
April 18—Warm & pleasant. Felt much better.
April 19—Went down and saw batteries. Wrote to wife. Felt well. Commenced raining at 4 o’clock. Were called into line of battle at 8 o’clock & stood all night. It rained all night.
April 20—It rains. Am cold and wet in a.m.
April 21—wrote to wife.
April 22—Wrote to Tom Keith. Skirmished in forenoon. Came back to Warwick in our old camp.
April 23—Received a letter from Mrs. Hen[ry] French died. Provision scarce today.
April 24—Worked on corduroy road. Co. E went out on picket.
April 25—Remained in camp. Wrote to father. Our company came in from picket tonight. Commenced raining tonight.
April 26—Rained all day.
April 27—Cloudy all day. Wrote to Harvey. New recruits came.
April 28—Out all day [working] on corduroy [roads]. Pleasant today. Received a letter from wife. Was called out in night. Stack arms.
April 29—Weather very hot. Co. E building corduroy road.
April 30—Weather cloudy & wet. Was on guard. Rhode Island Regiment broke [illegible].
April 31—Rained all day. Mustered this morning. Came off guard this morn.
MAY 1862
May 1 [1862]—Went out on back road on picket with J[ohn] Squires & [Albert] Witherell. Reported flag-of-truce. No firing this afternoon. Post No. 2.
May 2—I came in from picket, Wrote to wife. Received a paper.
May 3—Went over to river with Scott & Cad. Saw lots of rebels. Heavy firing from 4 o’clock all night. Mortars, I guess.
May 4—Sunday. All quiet this morn. 12 o’clock orders to fall in. We are all packed up. Orders countermanded. Reported evacuation. God damn shuck works. I wish the rebels all in hell. Wrote to Jack Morgan. Marched from 4 o’clock until 9 o’clock the whole line rebel batteries. Encamped in a plowed field. The enemy fled just before us destroying ammunition &c. Commenced raining at midnight. Got pretty thoroughly wet.
May 5—Marched at 7 o’clock. Raining. Mud knee deep all the way. Came near a fort. Line of battle. Got down just after surrendered. Saw 150 prisoners. Lots of wounded. Rained all night. A tough time. Rebs held a fort just ahead of us.
May 6—Sun shone warm. Went skirmishing. Saw lots & lots of dead rebs. Went to a fort evacuated last night. They are burying dead and carrying off the wounded this morning. At noon marched down to Fort Magruder & encamped. Went out on the battlefield in afternoon. Horrid. Terrible. Brought in lots of prisoners.
May 7—Went up to Williamsburg to get some tobacco. Streets full. Saw lots of wounded rebels. Very warm and pleasant today. Went out and saw them bury the 8th New Jersey [soldiers]. More prisoners.
The 8th New Jersey entered the battle with 889 men, and approximately 200 were either killed or wounded during the engagement. In the larger context of the battle, Union casualties were estimated at 2,283 (with 456 killed) and Confederate casualties at 1,560, according to the American Battlefield Trust.
May 8—Warm & pleasant today. Wrote to wife and Harvey. Received letter from Tom. Went around and saw the wounded. Orders to march at 3 o’clock with four days rations, Countermanded.
May 9—Called out at 4 o’clock. Marched at 6.30. Very hot. Where the Devil we are tonight, I don’t know. Encamped in a rye field. The road strewed with wagons and horses. The hardest march I ever had. Sick during the night.
May 10—Warm and pleasant. Marched at 7 o’clock. Encamped at 3 o’clock. Very pretty farms all along. Wrote to wife. [ ] all day.
May 11—Out on patrol all day. Saw the lancers. [Probably the 6th Pennsylvania Cavalry or Rush’s Lancers] Warm and pleasant. Boys remained in camp to rest. A great deal of cheering at night.
May 12—Warm & pleasant. Was out on patrol. Went over to a plantation. Lots of niggers. Very tired at night.
May 13—Warm and pleasant. Marching orders. Marched from 7 o’clock until 12.30 at night. New Kent Court House. Got but one hours sleep.
May 14—Commenced raining 10 o’clock. Our regiment went on outpost picket. Rained all the afternoon. Called in 5.30 a.m.. Now waiting. Went back & stayed with reserve. Rained all night.
May 15—Went out on picket. Rained all day. Went up and saw the enemy pickets. Retreated back midnight. Rained all night.
May 16—Signs of clearing off. Raining on picket at reveille. Rebs evacuated their position. We came back 1.5 miles. The division passed us at 9 o’clock. Got rations & marched on to the brigade.
May 17—Warm and pleasant. Felt rather lame & stiff. Twenty miles now from Richmond/ Received a letter from wife. Marched 6.5 [ ]east of main road. Went out skirmishing forenoon. At noon we went on to right. Encamped on a beautiful place.
May 18—Beautiful morning (Sunday). Wrote to wife. Dress parade.
May 19—Warm & pleasant. Rained from 8 until 12. Came up to the railroad & camped. Now ahead of the division. There is a bridge burned just above here so we stop over night. Signal Corps is here.
May 20—Warm & pleasant. Went out to a house on the main road on picket. Started 7 o’clock at night. Rained while we were out. Got into a house for shelter.
May 21—Rainy in morning. Left knapsacks. Went down near river. Was there when the flag went across. Went over on picket. Keyes came. Gen. McClellan came over. Received a letter from Springfield. Was relieved from guard & came back to regiment at 9 p.m.
May 22—Very hot in forenoon. A very heavy shower & hail in p.m. Wrote to Springfield. Pontoon bridges went along.
May 23—Pleasant this morning. Marched with all the division 2 o’clock. Encamped over night.
May 24—Rained all day. Marched down to support artillery. Drove the rebs. Came back.
May 25—Warm & pleasant. Feel like an old man. Marched at 10 o’clock. Stopped to rest where the fight was yesterday. All divisions here in field, 1.30 o’clock moed off to left. Regiment encamped. I went on picket at 4 o’clock. At dark, went down in swamp. Slept cold. Unwell all night.
May 26—On picket in swamp. Received a letter and paper from wife. Rained all night. Very wet.
May 27—Wet and cold. Sick. Came into camp. Sun came out in afternoon. Heavy firing. Musketry at night. Butcher Smith from Palmer Cavalry [Anderson Troop or 15th Pa. Cavalry].
May 28—Warm and pleasant. Our regiment out scouting. Shelled. Rained in afternoon.
May 29—Warm and pleasant in morn. Marched two miles at 7 o’clock. Co. E on picket. I went out on picket in p.m. Wrote to wife.
May 30—Warm and pleasant in a.m. Rained in p.m. Rebs drove in Casey’s pickets 4 and then tried to flank left. A good deal of firing left of me.
May 31—Very wet all night. Fight commenced just after noon. We pickets retreated back before dark. I did hear rifle all night.
JUNE 1862
June 1 [1862]—Came off pleasant. Our regiment in rifle pits at 7 o’clock. Battle commenced just ahead of us. Pretty hot work up there. 9 o’clock fighting stopped afternoon. Gave [Frank] Cadwell $10 to send home. Laid in the fort at night. Got dreadful [ ] at nothing.
June 2—Heavy firing on the right.
June 3—Moved into new pits. Went upon old camp.
[missing pages]
June 18—Sick. Chills all forenoon. Very lame & stiff. A battle at the right in p.m.
June 19—Firing all night. File firing this morn just through the swamp. Felt old. Weather warm. Another company came and relieved us. We went into camp. My head commenced to ache.
June 20—Sick all day [with] headache. Weather very hot. Bill Butterworth came to see me.
June 21—Sworn into service one year. Very hot. Letter wife. Sick headache all day.
June 22—Picket firing at 4 o’clock. A heavy skirmish before dark. Picket firing all night long. I did not sleep any. Sick. Sent to doctor this morn. Inspection this afternoon.
June 23—Felt a little better today. Had a good wash all over.
June 24—Very heavy rain last night. Marching orders this morn. Our pickets advanced. We expected a fight. All quiet.
June 25—Rained hard last night. Our brigade marched up the road. Musketry for two hours. Afternoon heavy artillery. They are at it hot up in front. Our regiment has been into it.
June 26—Our regiment digging rifle pits all night. Firing all night long. Our regiment came in this morn. Received a letter from wife. Wrote to wife. Afternoon firing on the right.
June 27—Firing all day. Heavy. Our regiment to Savage Station. Ordered back and over the railroad. I followed the regiment down to the station & came back to our old camp & stayed over night. Received a letter Springfield & Cadwell.
June 28—Don’t feel any better. George Porter, Lewis & Harris are here. Stayed here until 5 o’clock, then went to Savage Station. Found some of the boys. At 8 o’clck we were ordered to our regiment. Marched to near where we encamped when we crossed the Chickahominy. Did not sleep one wink all night.
June 29—Before light, marched & found regiment. Cavalry had a skirmish just as we got up. Co. E in front of regiment. I joined the regiment towards night. Ordered to march. Marched all night. Never suffered so much in all my life. Awful horrible time. We camped after light.
June 30—Warm & pleasant. But three-fourths mile of James River. Laid out in an open field all day. It is scorching hot. Just before night, our regiment too off knapsacks & went off, I don’t know where. The Captain left me to guard the knapsacks. Am sick.
JULY 1862
July 1 [1862]—Regiment has not got back 6 o’clock. It did not come back today. I laid on the knapsacks sick. The regiment has been in a fight [at Malvern Hill]. [Sgt.] Charles McFarlane is killed. Everybody is on the move. At night, teams all going down river.
July 2—Feel much better. The regiment came to knapsacks at light. Went down river to [Harrison’s] Landing. It commenced raining 6 o’clock morn. The whole army retreated. Such marching, raining, mud. We are all on one field close to the river. It has rained all day long. Oh! such a looking set of men. Mud and sposh. Mud & sposh.
July 3—Very cloudy but no rain. I have just been to the river. Full of vessels and steamers. General movement in all directions. Saw the 32nd Massachusetts. 4 o’clock we were ordered to move. Marched through oh such mud. Went until 9 o’clock, stopped in an open field. Was routed before daylight by picket [firing].
July 4—Warm & pleasant today. Received a letter and paper from wife. A good deal of firing all around. In the afternoon all brigades moved. Our company [too]. I went forward picket. I got up from midnight until light. Chopping to the left of us all night. Did not sleep scarcely any all night.
July 5—Warm & pleasant. Went over to a house foraging. The owner—a Major with the Rebs. Got some meal [for] hoe cakes. A regiment chopping all day. Got relieved by Co. G at 4 o’clock. Our camp moved into woods. Had a small drink of whiskey.
July 6—Routed up at light. Warm & pleasant. Marched around all days and got about one mile. Encamped in a swamp—a very low, mean place. Chopping all day and night up in front of us.
July 7—Routed up at light. [James L.] Scott & [Edward] Potter on fatigue all night. Wrote to wife. Received and answered a letter from [Frank] Cadwell. Very hot today. Went and worked on fort all night. Had a hard night of it.
July 8—Did not get relieved until 7 o’clock. Very hot today. Moved our tents in different position. Very sleepy all day. Washed in brook. Went over to a spring for water.
July 9—Wrote to Springfield. Very hot. Mustered at 5 o’clock p.m.
July 10—Very hot. Had a good wash. Raised our bed off of the ground. Went in search of Bill Butterworth to Kearney’s Division. Did not find him. Commenced raining at five o’clock. Rained all night. Promotion to corporal.
July 11—Rainy all day. Inspection of arms at 4 o’clock.
July 12—Warm & pleasant. Had the shakes last night. Was very sick all night. Very weak today & headache.
July 13—Received a letter from wife. Hot. Feel better today. Did not sleep but little at night.
July 14—Very hot. Had a good wash. Saw a lot of cavalry go out on advance. Feel much better today.
July 15—The hottest day yet. A very heavy shower at dark. Sent a letter home by Wm. Lewis. Inspection at 10 o’clock by Gen. Keyes.
July 16—Dreadful hot. Out to work on a fort all day. Alvy [Alvah] Phillips went home. Fatigue party got whiskey twice. A very heavy thunder shower 5 o’clock.
July 17—Received a letter from Father. Found water in the well. A heavy shower all night. Had a general cleaning of streets.
July 18—Received a letter from Emma Jones. Rained all day.
July 19—Received a letter from [Frank] Cadwell. Cloudy today. General Inspection by [ ] officer.
July 20—Sunday. Warm & pleasant. Received a paper from Springfield.
July 21—I received two papers. Was out on fatigue all day digging sinks and burying hides, &c. Received a letter from Springfield. A box of hospital supplies came.
July 22—Cloudy all day. Did not feel very well.
July 23—Our company went out with F, G, & H on advance picket. Commenced raining at 5 o’clock. My beat was at midnight. Cleared off.
July 24—All routed up at 4 o’clock. Relieved and went to camp at 10 o’clock. Very hot all day. Saw Austin Sholes.
July 25—Hot. Went to the river & washed. Got some molasses. Had some cakes. Received two letters yesterday. One from [ ] and one from Springfield. Also two papers.
July 26—Rained at 5 o’clock. Did not feel very well today.
July 27—Hot today. Inspection at 7 o’clock in morn. Saw Bryson from 15th Regiment. Our regiment went on picket at 5 o’clock.
July 28—Came into camp this morn. Received a letter from wife. Went on cattle guard near river. Had considerable work to do. Very tired at night.
July 29—Went to Landing three times. Went up to camp and drew rations. Got an order yesterday of 1.00 from Lt. on Bryant.
July 30—Very hot.
July 31—Went down to the river three times. Went up to regiment. All under marching orders.
AUGUST 1862
August 1 [1862]—Rained all night. Artillery firing at midnight. Our gunboats quelled them. Wrote to wife.
August 2—Butchered this morn. Received a letter from [Frank] Cadwell & [Tom] Keith & two papers from wife. Got paid off this morn $26. Wrote to Tom Keith.
August 3—Went to General Hospital to carry letters to Charles Hall. Came up by the side of the river. Was on guard last night. Rained most all day.
August 4—Went after cattle. Saw George Burroughs. Got some potatoes & onions.
August 5—Wrote to [Frank] Cadwell. Cannonading up in front. Our brigade went up there.
August 6—Went up to camp. Was on guard at night.
August 7—Troops came back. Got my pants and short washed.
August 8—Wrote letter to Springfield. Received paper.
August 9—Went up to camp. Scott came to see me.
August 10—Marching orders.
August 11—Killed one beef. Teams carrying knapsacks with teams to Landing all day. Went bathing twice today. Expect to march any moment. Drew two days rations.
August 12—Very hot this morning. Went down to landing with teams after rations.
August 13—Drew 8 days rations. Went up to camp in morn. Went carried knapsacks to landing. Wrote to wife. Received paper. Sent $20 to wife by Express.
August 14—Reported back to my company.
August 15—Cloudy and wet this morn. Orders to march. Great fun putting up in ages. Remained in camp all night.
August 16—Marched at 4 o’clock. Very dusty but cool. Marched until 7 o’clock and encamped. Felt first rate at night.
August 17—Cool last night. Routed at 3 o’clock. Marched at 6. Our division scouted towards the Chickahominy. No teams. Many good looking houses. Crossed river on pontoons just before dark. Very dusty. Have marched 20 miles today. Encamped just across the river. All very tired and dirty.
August 18—Up at light. Halted two hours near where slept. Marched through woods. Very slow in the forenoon. All the afternoon most double quick. Very dusty all the way. Came by Grist Mill and Hill. Encamped at 8 o’clock at night. Passed Williamsburg at 5 o’clock.
August 19—Tuesday. Up at light. Marched three miles. Waiting orders. Remained here all day. Troops passing us all day. A court martial in 36th. Stragglers.
August 20—Up at 3 o’clock. Marched at 4. Marched through Yorktown at 8 o’clock. A small & old place. Well fortified. Halted just through the village. Saw the old Revolutionary earthworks. Went on two miles in peach orchard & encamped all day and night. York River nearby. Went bathing. General muster at 6 o’clock. The boys catch crabs, clams and oysters. A beautiful view here of the bay.
August 21—Fished crabs. The boys brought in lots of hens and geese.
August 22—Detailed by Provost. Rained all the morning. Received a letter from wife and Tom [Keith]. Went out on duty to a house three miles. Arrested two colonels 36th arrested [?]
August 23—Slept under a work bench last night & feel first rate this morn. Wrote to wife and Father. Received a letter from wife. Went into camp for rations.
August 24—Rained all night. Slept under the house. Peck’s Division passed this morn. Cold and wet all day. Went to Provost Marshall with teamsters.
August 25—Cold and cloudy. Provost Marshall here. Slept in the house.
August 26—Warm and pleasant. Wrote to Tom Keith. Went hunting this morn. Killed a turkey buzzard. Went into Provost Marshall with two cavalry.
August 28—Rained all night. Cool and cloudy this morn. Ordered to our companies. Left Nottingham afternoon.
August 29—Marched at 7 o’clock a.m. Provost Marshall got rations at Yorktown. Went bathing in river. Went aboard boat just as dark. Remained out in river all night.
August 30—Have not moved this morn. Waiting orders. I feel a little seasick. Started at just 12 o’clock. Got into the Bay at 5 o’clock.
August 31—Sunday. Sailed all night. Rained all day. Passed Aquia Creek at 1 o’clock. Passed Mount Vernon at 6 o’clock. Also Fort Washington, Arrived at Alexandria at dark. Went past and stopped over night. River is full of boats.
SEPTEMBER 1862
September 1 [1862]—Hauled up to wharf and unloaded in forenoon. Marched almost to Fairfax Court House. Rained very hard all the way. Marched until 11 o’clock at night.
September 2—Came back to near Alexandria in forenoon. Marched upon hill. Waiting orders. went back near Alexandria. Started for Chain Bridge 2 o’clock. I marched to Georgetown [and then] fell out. Stopped overnight near Arlington.
September 3—Went on to Chain Bridge. Found regiment in forenoon. Drew rations from Ft. Ethan Allen. Encamped here over night.
September 4—I received letter from wife. Went bathing in Potomac. Dress parade in evening. The rest of the brigade came here.
September 5—Marched in afternoon. Crossed Chain Bridge and through Tenleytown. Encamped at 9 o’clock. Co. E went on picket. Very tired.
September 6—Marched at light. All very tired and lame. Very hot. Marched 6 miles and encamped over night.
September 7—Inspection at 8 o’clock. Got well rested up.
September 8—Wrote to wife. Received a letter from wife.
September 9—Marched at 8 o’clock. A forced march to Seneca Falls [on Maryland side of Potomac]. Halted near Potomac at 1 o’clock. Remained here all night.
September 10—Marched at 8 o’clock. A forced march to Poolesville [Maryland]. Halted at 3 o’clock p.m. Very tired. Went into village. Bought box mustard. An old dilapidated town. Regiment moved nearer [Monocracy] river at dark. Our company went on picket.
September 11—Stole sole potatoes. Boys killed a hog. Rained in afternoon. Rained all night.
September 12—Orders to join the regiment. Started at 7 o’clock. Went through Barnsville. Caught up with regiment. Was sent down to Provost. Got supper and breakfast at house. Firing all day ahead of us [by Stonewall Jackson attacking Harpers Ferry].
September 13—Saturday, Joined regiment at 7 o’clock and marched. Crossed a river. Halted on a hill at 11 o’clock. The prettiest scenery that I ever saw. Firing of artillery [heard.] Received a letter from Tom [Keith]. Moved into woods and remained all night.
September 14—Sunday. Marched at 6 o’clock. Went through Edwardstown. B&O Railroad here. Pretty town & pretty girls. Halted at Jefferson and got rations after dark. Then marched until 10 o’clock. Heavy firing all day long [at Crampton’s Pass of South Mountain]. Caught six prisoners [in] haystack. Got up with teams and artillery and stopped over night. South Mountain just ahead.
September 15—Artillery firing early. Drew three days rations. Regiment marched at 6 o’clock. Our company on ammunition guard. Went through Burkittsville. Saw prisoners & wounded. Halted on side hill three hours. Here the battle of yesterday. Lots of dead and wounded rebs. Went on over the hill. Halted. The regiments gone on. We halted. Remained under hill all night.
September 16—Remained here all day. Artillery firing all day. Marching orders all night. Remained all night, I on guard.
September 17—Started at 5 o’clock through Brownsville towards Harpers Ferry. Teams all in a move. Halted at 10 o’clock. Five miles from Harpers Ferry. Heavy artillery firing this morning [from Sharpsburg]. Went on to within 1.5 miles of Harpers Ferry. Ordered back same way through Brownsville, Rohrersville. Halted three hours. Brigade went ahead. We went in at 8 o’clock. Very dark. One team ran off a bridge. Halted at midnight. A battle [was] raging all day [at Sharpsburg]. Tired almost to death tonight.
September 18—Ordered on at 7 o’clock. Went near battle ground. Saw great many wounded. Saw McClellan on the road. Halted at 10 o’clock. Couch’s Division gone ahead. Recruits came. Con[stantine] Hebert joined us. Stopped over night at Keedysville. I went through the village. Saw a great many wounded. Heavy shower at 4 o’clock.
Keedysville, Maryland (Civil War Trails)
September 19—Artillery firing this morn. Got to Sharpsburg at 3 o’clock. Went over the battlefield. Dead horses by the hundreds. Terrible sights all along road. Went into the houses at Sharpsburg. Every house struck by shells. Help carry two dead rebs out. Got a razor and other things. Rebs left here last night. Encamped here over night.
“The field was strewn with everything that they needed and all anyone had to do was to walk about and help himself. But what an introduction to the embryo soldier that terrible field of Antietam must have been! Had he cherished any delusive fancy as to the romance of war, the rapidly swelling bodies of lately active, thinking men must have reduced him to the hardpan of solid facts with sickening haste.” [Regimental History, page 137]
September 20—Our brigade off at 1 o’clock. We started at 8 o’clock. Went fast and over the battlefield through Bakersville. Teams went up near reb pickets. Loaded teams with hay. Came back and through Fairplay. Went to cross roads. Saw lots of Penn. State Militia. Citizens have been to battlefield. Wrote to wife this morn. We started for division 9 o’clock p.m. Gave them 20 rounds of ammunition. Did not start back until light. Did not sleep any all night. Got back to cross roads at 8 o’clock.
September 21—Sunday, Smith’s and Slocum gone up to reinforce Couch. Hundreds of Pennsylvania State Militia gone down to battlefield. Went up near division. In p.m., ordered back near cross roads. Encamped over night.
September 22—I went to Hagerstown. Did not get any corn. Came back to cross roads at night. Division teams got up here. Got some preserves from Orderly. A present of a towel. Potter came here. Encamped here overnight.
September 23—Received a letter from wife. Moved about two miles this p. m. We camped near our regiment overnight.
September 24—Raining this morning. Unloaded ammunition into new teams and sent the old ones back to Washington. The regiment moved into the woods. We remained here overnight.
September 25—We moved about quarter mile. Mustered [for pay] by Colonel of 36th.
“The 25th was a significant day since then we mustered for pay, and pay certainly was needed. The men were in a woeful plight in the line of clothing. Many were shoeless and shirtless and the officers not much better.”
September 26—Sent for some new clothing. Troops have gone to drilling. Wrote to wife.
September 27—Saturday. Went with Skid off in country. Went up cutting corn in p.m. Some of the boys got pretty drunk. Received a letter from wife.
September 28—Wrote to Lo. Clark.
September 29—Teams were brigaded off. Boys stole lots of apples tonight.
September 30—On ground this morn. Went over to headquarters guard.
OCTOBER 1862
October 1 [1862]—Nothing of any importance.
October 2—Company returned back to regiment. Burial of one of the Artillery.
October 3—Inspection by President Lincoln. Saw him and Gen. McClellan. Strict orders read to us.
October 4—On division guard. Got 1.00 order on Bryan.
October 5—Came in from guard. 37th Massachusetts [Infantry] joined our Brigade.
October 6—Wrote to wife. Received a letter from her & [erased]
October 7—Wrote to [erased]
October 8—Regimental drill in afternoon.
October 9—Nothing of importance.
October 10—Went on guard. Received letter and paper from wife. Rained all night tonight. I was excused from guard.
October 11—Saturday. Came off guard this morn.
October 12—Sunday. Attended religious services. Saw Dwight Parsons in 37th Mass. Rained all night tonight. Weather very cool.
October 13—Cold and rainy. Gave Bidwell Palmer journal. Scott & Skid on guard todsay. Express boxes came tonight. Niggers had a little fight.
October 14—More Express [boxes] this morn.
October 15—Went on guard.
October 16—Came off guard. Got two dollars of tickets. Had a good time all afternoon. Boys had good time generally. Horrid cold night.
October 17—Felt rather blue all day.
October 18—Warm & pleasant. Marching orders 3 days ration. Marched at 6 o’clock p.m. until 2 o’clock [a.m.]. Encamped near Elias Spring. Went through Williamsport.
This image from Harper’s Weekly, November 8, 1862, shows troops passing under the Canal at Hancock. (Hancock Museum)
October 19—Sunday. Pleasant this morning. Marched at 7 o’clock up the Potomac. Halted at 5 o’clock near Hancock. Beautiful scenery along the river.
October 20—Very cold last night. Like to froze to death. Could not sleep. 36th [New York] boys on a drunk [all] afternoon. Went to the lock. Heavy stonework. Many of the boys went into town. Went on guard to Colonel’s headquarters. Marching orders at midnight.
October 21—Marched 1 o’clock this morn. Team overturned. A man killed. I marched until almost light. Lay down under a haystack. Scott [too]. Slept two hours and went on. Soon caught up with regiment. Halted near Fair View Inn. Those left in the old camp joined us. I feel mighty blue this morn. Rested until noon and moved. Went down the river. Baggage and rations came. Received a letter from wife & Clark. Received two papers from Springfield. Very cold & rained tonight.
October 22—Very cold & windy. Scott & Skid over the river on picket. Cavalry captured Reb picket. Fixed up bunk in good shape.
October 23—Marching orders at midnight. Left camp at light this morn. Went up on turnpike & halted. Headed toward Clear Spring. Went back into camp we left. Gave out four days rations. Expected to march in morn. On guard tonight.
October 24—Came off guard this morn. Wrote a letter to wife. Went over to 37th [Mass.] at night with Scott.
October 25—Done some washing today. Went over canal to the river.
October 26—Sunday. Very lonesome today. Received a letter from wife & [erased]. Rained all day. Very cold & disagreeable.
October 27—Marching orders. Left camp at 7 o’clock morn. Went up on [turn]pike, stacked arms. Marched to Indian Spring. Also to Clear Spring. Beautiful scenery at Fair View inn. Got to Williamsport at 4 o’clock p.m. Saw reb pickets just over river. Went just through town & encamped. Very cold. Came near freezing night.
October 28—Inspection and review. Went on guard at Gen. Deven’s Headquarters. Was sick all night.
October 29—Very pleasant today. Marching orders at noon. I went with brigade wagons. Encamped on old ground Downsville. Put up general’s tents. Got some whiskey.
“Some would have liked to know what the ten days’ trip had amounted to, above an object lesson of Washington county geography, with actual observation of the river fords at Williamsport, Cherry Run and Hancock and the excellent breaking in that the new 37th Massachusetts had. .The boys of the latter organization thought we were pacing them as a trial of their speed, but they found out that it was the regular step of the brigade and that they were coming on finely. Nothing could be more cordial than the relations between the two regiments, and well they might be, since we were from the same section of the state and did not Colonel Edwards get his first lessons among the men of the Tenth?” [Regimental history, page 145]
October 30—Got relieved from guard. Received letter from Tom [Keith]. Wrote to him. Marching orders. Give out rations. Was up almost all night.
October 31—Routed up at 3 o’clock. Marched at light down the river. Went through Bakersville. Also Keedysville & Rohrersville. Encamped just outside town.
NOVEMBER 1862
November 1 [1862]—Marched at light. Came over battlefield at South Mountain. Went through Burkittsville. Arrived at Berlin [6 miles below Harpers Ferry] in afternoon. A pontoon [bridge over the Potomac river] here. Also railroad and canal. Can hear artillery firing. [Probably the Battle of Unison in Louden county, Va.] Halted just below town by side of the river. Our company mustered to night. Received a letter from wife. Encamped on side hill.
November 2—Remained here on hill. Artillery firing most all day.
November 3—Marching orders. Marched at noon. One day’s rations. Went through Berlin. Crossed Potomac on pontoon [bridge]. Went through Lovettsville and several small towns. Halted over night 10 miles from Berlin.
November 4—Up before light. Marching orders. Marched at 8 o’clock, Went 15 miles. Artillery firing all day. A beautiful country all the way. Halted over night near Union. Shenandoah Valley just over mountain.
November 5—A pleasant morning. Marched 6 or 8 miles in round about course. Encamped near brook over night. Wet and rainy all night. Our regiment ordered on picket. Went out a ways and was ordered back.
“Well, we got rid of going on picket and it happened this way. There was a long fence near where we stopped for the night and soldiers always like to find a good dry fence, the rails’make such a beautiful fire to cook coffee by. Well, the Second Rhode Island and the 37th Massachusetts got into trouble over the fence and from words they came to blows and had quite a little time for a while. Our Regiment had just got started for picket when the General sent for us to come back and sent the Second Rhode Island instead to pay for fighting.” [Regimental History, page 147]
November 6—Marched at 7 o’clock. Boys rallied on secesh house and gots lots of hens, turkeys, &c. Encamped at night White Plains Station near the Manassas Gap Railroad. Boys rallied in sheep big time. Cars run for the first time.
“Camp was pitched at about 3.00 p. m. and just before dark, in searching for water, these inquisitive Yankees found a large flock of sheep in a cleared field, evidently placed there with the hope that they might escape the eyes of marauding soldiers. It was not to be, for the slaughter began at once. The smell of of blood soon brought other men to the scene and in a very brief time there was nothing of that flock left except their pelts. Though some of the men found a whiskey distillery near and others found certain hogs which were exceedingly tasty, and though the camp may have had some other designation, the prevalence of sheep while here forever fixed it in the memories of the boys themselves as “Camp Mutton.” Perhaps no such general carnival ever was participated in by officers as well as men. Though the irate owners hastened to headquarters to complain and though orders emanated thence to cease the slaughter, it was too late, for the work had been done. It is said that some companies of the Tenth had as many as ten sheep on the coals at one time; the odor thereof filled the air and a man coming over from the camp of the 37th, eating from a full leg of lamb, said that Colonel Edwards had ordered all of his men to grease their guns with mutton tallow. For the first time in three months a train of cars was run up from Alexandria.” [Regimental History, page 148]
November 7—Weather very cold. Commenced snowing. Boys got hold of sheep, hogs, &c. Rations mighty short. Wrote to wife. Snowed all day.
November 8—Weather pleasant. Snow melted today. Mighty hard up for rations. Wrote letter to [erased].
November 9—Marched with teams at 7 o’clock. Went to New Baltimore 6 miles. Encamped on Bull Run Mountains. Can see all God’s creation. A beautiful scenery of country.
November 10—Artillery firing below us. McClellan, Burnside and other generals and staff visited all the regiments.
November 11—The boys are very dissatisfied with the removal of Gen. McClellan.
November 12—Went over to [ ] Regt. Missed roll call at noon. Received two papers from wife.
November 13—Appointed as corporal.
November 14—Very pleasant today. Received a letter from Springfield.
November 15—Saturday. Went to Warrenton. Had a pass. Tried to find 34th. Got back at dress parade.
November 16—Sunday. Marched this morn at 9 o’clock. Encamped at Catlett’s Station in the Orange & Alexandria Railroad.
November 17—Marched at 7 o’clock morn. Came cross lots most of way. Marched about 15 miles. Encamped at 5 o’clock.
November 18—Marched before light. Came cross lots all the way. Marched about 12 miles. Encamped two miles from Stafford Court House. Now about 8 or 9 miles from Aquia Creek.
November 19—Rained all day. Went on as Corporal [of the guard] for the first time. Co. E got court martialed.
November 20—Came of guard in morn. Wrote to Tom Keith. Rained all day. Moved camp up on hill.
November 21—Received paper from wife. Drew rations. Half starved.
November 22—Cleared off this morn. All the regiment went on picket. Moved our position near night.
November 23—Wrote to wife. Weather came off pleasant. Relieved from picket at noon.
November 24—Very cold last night. Went on guard this noon on ammunition train.
November 25—Came off guard this noon. Battalion line at 3 o’clock. The Major [Parker] drilled the regiment. He got balked and dismissed the regiment. Called them out the 2nd line. Gave many wrong orders. Sent home some things by Palmer.
“For the 25th, there is a record of a battalion drill under Major Parker in the afternoon. For some reason matters became so involved that he was obliged to dismiss the exercise with the command, to the several company officers, to take charge of their respective bodies of men. All this, in sight of visitors from all over the brigade, was quite disheartening to many, but the men went off the field in so hilarious a mood that Colonel Eustis was attracted by the sound and, ascertaining the cause, ordered the companies out again and proceeded to put them through a course of drill in which there were no errors whatever. To the list of officers under arrest was added Lieut. Wallace A. Putnam of Company E, whose offense was in having refused to obey the order of the Colonel in regard to certain barefooted men. It appears that Lieutenant Putnam, then in command of the Company, on account of the lack of shoes had excused some of his men from drill; this coming to the ears of the Colonel, he ordered the Lieutenant to take the men and with them bring wood from a pile left by the Rebels, until he directed him to cease. Considering the command as an unreasonable one, under the circumstances, the officer flatly refused to obey and was at once placed under arrest.” [Regimental History, page 152]
November 26—Received a letter from wife. 1st Mass. Cavalry passed here. [William] Birnie from Springfield came [“with boxes of underclothing, etc. from the friends at home”]. Lt. [Wallace A.] Putnam put under arrest. Clough ordered to be broke by Colonel.
November 27—Thanksgiving. Weather pleasant. Received letter [erased]. Formed square & prayers today.
November 28—Birnie went home this morn.
November 29—[erased]
November 30—Sunday. Paid off $46.
DECEMBER 1862
December 1 [1862]—Started for the 36th <ass. at retreat. Laid in pine woods.
December 2—Saw 16th & 11th Connecticut, 36th & 21st Mass. Saw lots of old acquaintances. Got back to camp at 8 o’clock p.m.
December 3—Wrote to wife. Sent $10.
December 4—Marched at 8 o’clock. Came by Stafford Court House and across railroad. Encamped near Potomac Creek. Marched about 10 or 12 miles today.
December 5—Marched at light. Halted at noon in woods. Commenced raining. Ordered to move to a new camp. Went one mile. Commenced snowing. Snowed all night. Horrible cold.
December 6—Slept very cold last night. Moved my tent in better position. Snow did not go off today. Cold.
December 7—Sunday. Built fence around tents. Received letter and paper from wife.
December 8—Very cold.
December 9—Wrote a letter to wife. Buried one of Co. K.
December 10—Had a lot of rations given out. Orders to be in readiness to march.
December 11—Marched at 5 o’clock a.m. Arrived near Fredericksburg at 9 o’clock. Heard artillery all the way. Halted in bank of [Rappahannock] River below Fredericksburg. [2nd] Rhode Island charged across the [lower pontoon] bridge at 5 [p.m. as the sun was setting]. We followed close behind them. Went out a few rods & [formed] line of battle. 2nd Rhode Island [skirmish] picket, we behind them. I was on guard over houses. Got a belly full of delicacies.
December 12—Wednesday. Lots of other troops came over this morn. Picket firing early. Heavy artillery on right in morn. Rebs shelled us hard in afternoon. We moved up our batteries and silenced them and took position of the heights at dark.
December 13—Thursday. Cool and cloudy this morn. Hot artillery and rifle firing [on the] left. 10 o’clock, still hotter on the right. Lots of reinforcements came to us, Got shelled hard. Killed one [of the] 37th. Toward night went out to the left. Got the [damnation?] of all shelling. One of our boys got hurt. Also 7th. After dark came back to hospital. Very hard fighting both right and left almost all day.
This has been a terrible day to the Army of the Potomac. We (i. e., the army as a whole) have been fighting all day and have accomplished nothing, except to lose thousands of men killed, wounded and prisoners. General Sumner commanded on the right. His troops charged the works on Marye’s Heights four times, only to be driven back each time with fearful slaughter. General Franklin commanded on the left and part of his troops and General Meade’s Division from the center (commanded by Hooker) were fighting on the left. * * * About three o’clock in the afternoon, our brigade was sent down to the left to support some batteries there. The Rebels had a beautiful range on our batteries, both in front and left flank. Their shells burst over us, in front and all around us, and struck in the ground around without bursting. * * * About nine o’clock the firing ceased and our brigade fell back and got a good night’s rest. [Regimental History, page 158]
December 14—Got up at light. Moved down to [pontoon] bridges. Received a letter from Tom [Keith]. Laid here all day. Went to bed.
December 15—Routed up at 2 o’clock a.m. Marched up to front at 4. Took position in the road. All quiet until 3.30 p.m. Our battalion shelled. Small pines. The retreat back across commanded at dark. We marched towards the [pontoon] bridge at 10 o’clock. Went down to river and halted. A cavalry fired into our own regiment. Our regiment was the last across. Felt much better after we got over. Went down river 1 mile and laid down. The rain began to pour in torrents. Remained here half hour & up again, Marched up the hill through mud. Encamped in woods at light. Wet through and most tired to death. Laid down in mud to sleep.
December 16—Got up at noon, wet and cold. Received paper from wife. Felt mighty hard this p.m. Put up a tent. Went to bed early.
December 17—Feel rather blue this morn. Write to wife. Sent $5. Weather cold & snowed some.
December 18—Routed up before light. Charles Roberts here to see me. Packed up at 8 o’clock morn. Laid here until 4 o’clock afternoon. Marched two miles. Went on picket. Laid in pine woods over night.
December 19—Got up early. Weather pleasant. Got relieved at dark. Went out in open field. Halted. Got into camp about 9 o’clock.
December 20—Sunday. Taken sick with piles. Lt. Col. Parsons came back, Inspection and Dress Parade today.
December 22—Sick all day & night. Took a walk out to an old lady’s. Hired Hazelton to do washing.
December 23—Sick last night & all day.
December 24—Sick but felt better p.m. William Nelson here today.
December 25—Christmas. Went on guard. Albert Wheeler & Moore here.
December 26—Received letter from wife containing the news of the death of my much loved and respected friend, Tom Keith.
December 27—Nothing.
December 28—Sunday. Jack to see me.
December 29—On guard. Fatigue.
December 30—Jo Clark here. Sent some things to wife.
December 31—Played all day and half the night. This is the close of the old year. Goodbye. Farewell.
The 1863 Pocket Diary of George Ellis, Co. E. 10th Massachusetts
[In camp near White Oak Church]
January 1, 1863—Feel first rate this morn. Received box from this morn. No drill today. Wrote to wife. Received letter from Springfield. Ed Knight took command of company.
Friday 2—Played all day & half the night. Received paper from wife.
Saturday 3—No drill today,
Sunday, January 4, 1863—On guard but worked hard. Built our bunk over anew. Shub[ael] Winslow in with us. Very pleasant all night.
Monday 5—Came off guard at 10 a.m. Bought picture of Wheeler.
Tuesday 6—Went to the 36th Massachusetts & 11th and 16th Connecticut. Saw lots of old acquaintances. Went on river bank to City. [Corp.] Jesse Pricket went with me. Rained in afternoon.
Wednesday, January 7, 1863—Played with Monk [?]
Thursday 8—Very cold this morn.
Friday 9—Went on guard. The regiment out on picket.
Saturday, January 10, 1863. Came off guard this morn. received letter from wife. Wrote to her. Rained afternoon and night.
Sunday 11—On guard today. Sent paper to father.
Monday 12—Came off guard this morn. Regiment came off picket.
Tuesday, January 13, 1863—Nothing of importance.
Wednesday 14—Sent to New York for Harpers weekly.
Thursday 15—Sent diary home to wife.
Friday, January 16, 1863—Marching orders. Very cold tonight. Expect now to go on Monday.
Saturday 17—No drill today. Wrote to Springfield [erased]. Received letter and paper from wife.
Sunday 18—Jack here to see me. Two Northampton gents here. Very cold tonight.
Monday, January 19, 1863—[no entry]
Tuesday 20—Marched at noon. Crossed railroad above Falmouth. Encamped near dark in piece of woods. Rained all night. Almighty tired.
Wednesday 21—Rained all night. Marched before light. Awful going. Mud and rain. Halted near river 10 o’clock a.m. Moved p.m. new camp.
Thursday, January 22, 1863—Rained all night. Encamped on top hill. Packed up at 9 o’clock. Continued. Went over the river. Saw Rebs. Rain. Mud. Mud. Rained all night.
Friday 23—Routed up at 3 o’clock. Marched into open lot. Halted. Each company on piece of a battery. Started back for camp at 10 o’clock. I went to 36th [Mass] & 11th Conn. Got back 5 o’clock. Almost tired to death.
Saturday 24—Fixed up our bunk today. Feel pretty old and stiff.
Sunday, January 25, 1863—Received letter from wife. Wrote to her. Company inspection in morning.
Monday 26—General inspection of Brigade.
Tuesday 27—Stormed all day.
Wednesday, January 28, 1863—Rained all night. Snowed hard all day. Feel discouraged and homesick.
Thursday 29—Nothing of importance.
Friday 30—Snow went off some. Dreadful muddy.
Saturday, January 31, 1863—Got an axe.
FEBRUARY 1863
Sunday, February 1—Scott’s Father came here. Liked him very much.
Monday 2—[no entry]
Tuesday, February 3, 1863—Near froze. Stormy. Went up to citizen’s house eve. Chimney burnt out this eve.
Wednesday 4—Mr. Scott went home. Coldest night this year. Came near freezing.
Thursday 5—Cold. Snowed all day.
Friday, February 6, 1863—Rained all day.
Saturday 7—Built a new bunk. Worked hard all day.
Sunday 8—Went out on picket 9 o’clock. Left Wing as reserve. Very pleasant today.
Monday, February 9, 1863—Very pleasant. Went down on bank [Rappahannock] river. Rebs would not talk with us. Received paper from wife.
Tuesday 10—Went on the road as guard. Very warm and pleasant. Boys got tobacco & letter from Rebs.
Wednesday 11—Commenced snowing this morn. Came in to camp from picket. Rained all afternoon. Received letter from wife. Also one from Springfield.
Thursday, February 12, 1863—Washed clothes this morn. Wrote towife.
Friday 13—Wrote to Springfield.
Saturday 14—[no entry]
Sunday, February 15, 1863—Co. E on camp guard. Rained all day. Received letter from Cadwell.
Monday 16—Wrote to Mumford.
Tuesday 17—Snowed all day and night. Furloughed men got back.
Wednesday, February 18, 1863—Rained all day.
Thursday 19—Never so homesick as today. Have had the horrors. Stormed all day.
Friday 20—Feel pretty blue.
Saturday, February 21, 1863—Snowed all night.
Sunday 22—Washington’s Birthday. Artillery fired a salute. Snowed hard all day.
Tuesday, February 24, 1863—Received letter from wife. On detail for Dr. & Lt. Colonel.
Wednesday 25—Co. E on home guard. Received Palmer paper from home. Weather very pleasant. Wrote to wife. Rained some in night.
Thursday 26—Came off guard. Rained hard.
Friday, February 27, 1863—Went to Hooker’s Headquarters. Weather cloudy. Mud three feet deep. The [Observation] Balloon came here and came down near our camp.
Saturday 28—Mustered this morning.
MARCH 1863
Sunday, March 1 [1863]—Rained. Received letter from wife and Mumford.
Monday, March 2, 1863—Very warm and pleasant. Rained some tonight.
Tuesday 3—Showers today. General inspection 3 o’clock p.m.
Wednesday 4–[no entry]
Thursday, March 5, 1863—Received letter from Springfield.
Friday 6—Sent for my watch by Sgt. Kingsley.
Saturday 7—Boys went home on furloughs. Went out on picket. 9 o’clock. Rained most all day. Went on bank of river at dark. Stayed in a barn over night.
Sunday, March 8, 1863—Rained this morn. Talking all morn with rebs. Got relieved at 12 o’clock. went back. Received paper from wife. Stayed in woods over night. Rained hard in night.
Monday 9—Moved down near river 4 p.m. Very pleasant all day. Moved down to barn at dark.
Tuesday 10—Went back to brook before light. Snowed all forenoon. Got relieved at 10 o’clock a.m. Mighty tired.
Wednesday, March 11, 1863—Stragglers went on guard. Received letter from wife.
Thursday 12—Company E on guard.
Friday 13—Brigade drill afternoon. Cold & windy.
Saturday, March 14, 1863—General inspection afternoon. Received paper from wife.
Sunday 15—Inspection at 10 o’clock. Stormed all night.
Monday 16—Cold and snowy this morn. Visited Potter in the eve. Heard the long roll at 12.
Tuesday, March 17, 1863—Received letter from wife. Artillery firing in afternoon.
Wednesday 18—Wrote to wife. Battalion drill in afternoon. Furloughed men got back.
Thursday 19—Battalion drill afternoon. Received two papers. Visited Potter in eve.
Friday, March 20, 1863—Snow storm.
Saturday 21—Wrote to Sergt. Kingsley.
Sunday 22—Stormy. Co. E on guard.
Monday, March 23, 1863—Came off guard this morn.
Tuesday 24—[No entry]
The 7th Louisiana Infantry, part of Hay’s’ Louisiana Brigade, wore this distinctive uniform and were often called the “Louisiana Tigers.”
Wednesday 26—Half of regiment went on picket. I was on the river bank. 7th Louisiana [of Hays’ Brigade] on the other shore. Rained some in night.
Thursday, March 26, 1863—Got relieved at 10 o’clock by Co. F. Went back in hollow as reserve. Very cold. Snowed some.
Friday 27—Cool but pleasant.
Saturday 28—Rained very hard. Got relieved at 10 o’clock a.m. Received letter from Springfield.
Sunday, March 29, 1863—Very cold and windy.
Monday 30—Received letter from wife.
Tuesday 31—Snowed all night. Rained all day. Wrote to wife.
APRIL 1863
Wednesday, April 1, 1863—[no entry]
Thursday 2—Fast day. Inspected by [Major] Gen. [John] Newton.
Friday 3—Inspection by Jo. Hooker. Warm & pleasant.
Saturday, April 4, 1863—Cold & windy. Dress parade.
Sunday 5—Snowed & blew hard all night. Co. E on guard. Stormed.
Monday 6—Came off guard. Played ball afternoon. One of the 2nd Rhode Island buried. Received paper from wife. Received my watch.
Tuesday, April 7, 1863—Battalion drill morn. Ordered review by President countermanded.
Wednesday 8—Review by the President. Received a letter from wife.
Waud’s sketch of President Lincoln and Gen. Joe Hooker reviewing the ARmy of the Potomac at Falmouth on 8 April 1863.
Thursday 9—Inspection by Gen. [John] Newton. A lady visited with the general.
Friday, April 10, 1863—Wrote to wife & Mumford. On fatigue today. General muster by Col. [William H.] Browne.
Saturday 11—Visited Bent Barrett in morn. Scott & Foster on a pass. Received paper from wife. Division review by a Major General.
Sunday 12—Regiment out on picket. Stationed at the old mill. Rained all night.
Monday, April 13, 1863—Pleasant but cold. Pitched quoits all day. On guard tonight.
Tuesday 14—Warmest day this spring. Marching orders in camp. Received letter from wife. My post in cornfield. Night commenced raining 12 o’clock. Marching orders countermanded.
“The Tenth received orders on the 14th to be ready to advance on the following day with eight days’ rations in knapsack and haversack and with twenty extra rounds of cartridges. Up to this time the weather had been fine, the roads seemed settled and the men were pronounced in their admiration for the new Commander. But on the 15th the windows of heaven were opened and the floods descended. Our Regiment was just coming off picket and the men received a wetting, second to none in their lives. From one o’clock in the morning until late at night, the rain continued to fall and the ensuing mud warned Hooker to suspend his movement till dryer times. The late tour of duty on picket was near or on the old Washington farm, then held by the Fitz Hughs, all of whom except the wife, two daughters, and an eighteenyear old son were in the South, two sons in the army. They claimed to have inherited the plantation from General Washington. Our Massachusetts men were interested in learning that the apple orchard on the place was from a Boston nursery and a northern piano was a source of music in the parlor.” [Regimental History, page 176.]
Wednesday 15—Relieved by 1st. L. I. at 10 o’clock. Rained hard all day and night. Slept all afternoon. Got $2 order of sutler.
Thursday, April 16, 1863—Cloudy. Joe Hooker passed here. Col. [Henry L.] Eustis got back.
Friday 17—Visited Frank Winter in a.m.
Saturday 18—Very warm and pleasant. Match game of ball. Co. E beat Co. K & Co. F.
Sunday, April 19, 1863—Company E on guard. Warm & pleasant.
Monday 20—Great game ball. 36th [New York] and 10th [Massachusetts]. Draw game—20 apiece. Rained most all day.
“In the midst of so much warlike preparation it was a relief to find the boys of the Tenth and those of the 36th New York playing a game of baseball and all must have quit good natured, since the game itself was a draw.” [Regimental History, page 177]
Tuesday 21—Address by Gen. [Charles] Devens. Devens took leave of this Brigade. Weather cold and stormy. Received a letter from wife.
Wednesday, April 22, 1863—Wrote to wife. Expect certainly to march at daylight tomorrow morning. Inspection by brigade inspector.
Thursday 23—Rained all last night. Rained all day. Slept most of the day.
Friday 24—Rained all day. Received paper from wife.
Saturday, April 25, 1863—Pleasant. Signed pay rolls. Match game between 7th and 2nd.
Sunday 26—Brigade dress parade.
Monday 27—Got paid this morn $48.
Tuesday, April 28, 1863—Sent $40 to wife by Express. Broke camp and marched at 3 o’clock. Stayed over night near the [Rappahannock] River [“in a sheltered ravine”]. Rained and very foggy day and night.
Wednesday 29—Picket firing 4.30 [a.m.] We were routed up. Moved down in the road 7 o’clock. Stayed here all day. Saw troops [Brooks’s Division of the 6th Corps] cross [the river at Franklin’s Crossing]. Commenced raining at 4:30 p.m.
Thursday 30—Laid side road all day. Saw artillery duel just before dark. Bridges and troops shelled by rebs. A splendid sight from the hill.
MAY 1863
Friday, May 1, 1863—Laid still until 5 o’clock p.m. Formed line of battle on river. Moved to lower bridge after dark. Came back to old camp 9 o’clock p.m. Received letter from wife.
Saturday 2—Packed up at 7 o’clock morning. Commenced shelling on the left. Both sides kept it up for two hours. All [of the 1st Corps] returned back on left across the river. We moved to left early in morning. Crossed over pontoon [bridge] at 9 in the evening.
Sunday 3—In Fredericksburg at light. Moved a mile above. Got shelled. Heights taken before noon [principally by the 7th Massachusetts and the 36th New York]. The 10th [Massachusetts] engaged the enemy at 3 p.m. Relieved before dark by Col. Dare Devil [Henry L. Eustis]. We [were in the] 2nd line all night. All feel good.
Monday, May 4, 1863—Wrote to wife. Occasional artillery all day. Rebs got all of us surrounded and opened on us 2 hours before dark. We all got out at Banks Ford. Got safely over the river at 2 o’clock a.m.
“Casualties in Company E — Wounded, Corp. James Wm. Turner, ankle, slight; Charles M. Hall, breast and side, mortally; Edmond Dunphv, jaw, severe; Dwight E. Bassett, left arm, severe; James Walsh, leg, slight.”[page 188]
Tuesday 5—Routed up before light. Marched down river and rested. Hottest day this year. Drew rations. Heavy rain came on 5 p.m. Rained hard all night.
Wednesday 6—Rained all day and night.
Thursday, May 7, 1863—Rained all day and night.
Friday 8—Orders to pack up at 8 p’clock morn and marched all over God’s creation & encamped back of and half mile from old camp. Feel tired and blue. Bad news from all quarters.
Saturday 9—Received paper from wife. Wrote to wife.
Sunday, May 10, 1863—Inspection at 10 o’clock a.m. Dreadful hot today. Wrote to NY
Monday 11—Dreadful hot.
Tuesday 12—Dreadful hot.
Wednesday, May 13, 1863—Dreadful hot all day.
Thursday 14—Rained most all day. Received letter from wife. Furloughed men went home. Feel blue and homesick.
Friday 15—Inspection and dress parade. Went over to Corps Headquarters.
Saturday, May 16, 1863—Match game ball. 10th [Mass] & 62nd [NY]. Drew 7 days rations.
Sunday 17—Wrote to wife. Received a letter from wife. Very hot today. Inspection at 8 a.m.
Monday 18—[no entry]
Tuesday, May 19, 1863—Went out on picket. I was at Smoke Hill, our old camp. Went to my old bunk.
Wednesday 20—Very hot all day. Went out on post at 4 o’clock p.m.
Thursday 21—Dreadful hot all day. On post at midnight.
Friday, May 22, 1863—On post at 6 o’clock this morn. Came in from picket. Got into camp at noon. Dreadful not. Received letter from wife.
Saturday 23—Moved into a new camp. Hottest day this summer.
Sunday 24—Inspection this morn. Wrote to wife. Received two papers.
Monday, May 25, 1863—Put up a shade for bunks. Cool and cloudy. Worked hard all day.
Tuesday 26—[no entry]
Wednesday 27—Received letter from wife. Took a walk in evening.
Thursday, May 28, 1863—Went to Falmouth on a pass.
Friday 29—Wrote to Miles Miller.
Saturday 30—On guard today. Officers all on a bumb.
Sunday, May 31, 1863—Came off guard this morn. Regimental inspection. Wrote to wife.
JUNE 1863
Monday, June 1 [1863]—[no entry]
Tuesday 2—Brigade drill in afternoon.
Wednesday, June 3, 1863—Brigade drill in afternoon. Played ball in forenoon.
Thursday 4—Marching orders routed. Up at 3 o’clock. Packed up & stood in line 12 hours. Drill in afternoon. Saw the Governor of Indiana [Oliver P. Morton].
Friday 5—Our artillery [opened] on rebs at 4 p.m. Drove the rebs from rifle pits and 2nd Division crossed at 5 o’clock. Wrote to wife. All quiet all night. We kept packed up all night.
Saturday, June 6, 1863—Very hot. Left camp at 9 o’clock this morn & marched down to bank of [Rappahannock] River. But one division across all day & night. Siege guns threw a few shell across. Heavy shower at 5 o’clock in afternoon.
Sunday 7—Remained on flat all night. Cold and chilly all night. Went across the river after dark. Dug rifle pits until day light.
Monday 8—Came back across river at 4 o’clock. Laid on flat all day. Received letter from wife.
Tuesday, June 9, 1863—Wrote to wife. The rebs shelled us at 5 o’clock p.m. One of Co. G hit in breast. Laid quiet all night.
Wednesday 10—Very quiet all day. Went over the river at 5 o’clock p.m. Went to the front as skirmishers. One of Co. G shot through the leg. Rebs shot at us smartly.
Thursday 11—Got relieved from front at 7. Rebs shot while being relieved. Went down by rifle pit and rested. Received letter from wife. Laid on flat all night.
Friday, June 12, 1863—Moved down to the left in morn. Our position behind [a] stone house. Out in rifle pits all night.
Saturday 13—Got relieved at daylight. Went behind stone house. Wrote to Father. Crossed back over river at midnight. Rested up on the hill. Rained in torrents all the evening. 10th [Massachusetts] last regiment to cross. Not a shot fired.
Sunday 14—All troops got back safely. Marched up near old camp & from there to Stafford Court House. Marched again at 10 o’clock at night. Went all night long. Tired almost to death.
Monday, June 15, 1863—On the march at light this morn. Tremendous hot all day. arrived at Dumfries at noon. Encamped on a hill close to town.
“The day was terribly hot and the long stay in camp had unfitted the men for long and hurried marching, hence the amount of straggling was unusual and the footsore victims, when they did come up were pitiable objects. The hardships of that day are yet discussed by the survivors. Some have said that it was the most trying march of the Army of the Potomac. The ambulances were soon filled with men who were sunstruck or near it ; every available bit of shade was seized upon; nor wras the falling out confined to men from the ranks, since the fierce rays of the sun beat right through shoulder straps that, in some cases,, bore eagles upon them. The sight was appalling, but still the march was onward.” [Regimental history, page 201]
Tuesday 16—Routed up and marched at midnight. Halted at 7:30 in the morning. Halted at Wolf Run Ford [on the Occoquan] at 12 p.m. Arrived near Fairfax Station [18 miles from Alexandria at] 6 o’clock. Suffered much by heat & dust. Laid here all night.
Wednesday 17—Remained here all day. All the 36th New York arrested [claiming their 2-year enlistment period had expired]. Tremendous hot. I am sick.
Thursday, June 18, 1863—Up at 4 o’clock. Marched to Fairfax Court House. Arrived at Fairfax C. H. at 9 o’clock. Hottest day this year. Saw reb wounded & prisoners. Remained here all day and night. Rained most all night.
Friday 19—Received letter from wife.
Saturday 20—Laid quiet all day. Saw a lot of prisoners. Rained all day.
Sunday, June 21, 1863—Sworn into service two years [ago] today. Wrote to wife. Rained all day. Heavy artillery firing.
Letter 6
Fairfax Court House, Virginia June 21st 1863
Dear Wife,
I should have written to you several days ago but we have been on the skedaddle all the time and I have been quite unwell. We left our position on the Rappahannock one week ago last night and all of [us] got across the river safe and sound but it was by the providence of God as he caused it to be very dark and the rain to pour in torrents at the time. I think had it not been so, our loss would have been heavy. I felt greatly relieved when we left that slaughter pen, I assure you, and I hope & pray that we may never see those heights again. Were I at home with a map, I would show to you our zigzag rout that brought us here but I cannot tell you by writing.
I thought that I had seen hard and dusty marching before but I can say with truth that the past week has been the most tedious of my life. But I feel better now and we are having a rain which is doing much good.
As regards the rebs, their movements or ours, you know just as much about it as I do. I wish all the rebs would go into Maryland and Pennsylvania, yes, and into New York and then it would wake the North up to their duty. We (the 6th Corps) are now on the ground where the First Bull Run battle commenced. Two years of hardships and hard fighting and here we are, driven back to the very spot where we commenced. Ann, we are all discouraged out. Who can blame us? No other army but this would ever [have] borne up under repeated failures as we have. Gen. Hooker’s Headquarters are close to our camp. No one cheers him or care to see him around. Everyone speaks very disrespectful of him. How can we fight with any spirit much more to ever gain any victory with an incompetent General at our head. Were it not for you and my children, so help me God, I would desert this service even at the risk of my life. But the thoughts of the little ones at home and their dependence on me is all that restrains me.
Two years ago today this regiment was sworn into service and just one year from today, we are free. But it is a long time ahead. Very many will never see it and those that do will in all probability undergo everything but death. It makes me so mad to see how all the old troops are banged and jammed around while most of the new ones are laying in forts or doing Provost Duty in cities. Lots of regiments are going home now everyday who got $200 for coming out here who have never seen a rebel.
We are now 20 miles from Washington. Why don’t they send out the 34th Massachusetts and all the rest of those $200 men (who never saw a reb) into the field and let some of the old troops rest up? I saw George Burroughs day before yesterday but he had a lady with him so I dar not speak to him. If he had been alone, I should. I have not heard from Miles yet. Your letter of the 14th I have received. I send you back Mrs. Keith’s letter. Glad you sent it me. I supposed she had paid you that money. Please send me in a few dollars as soon as you receive this. Those stamps which you sent I got wet and they are spoiled. I hear sharp cannonading today. There is a battle raging and I am flad I am not there. I expect we shall catch it in a few days. Tell Flora and Walter that I think of them most of the time. Write often, Yours ever, — George
Monday 22—Moved our camp 10 rods. Received a letter from wife.
Tuesday 23—100 of us went to Fairfax Station. Went as guard for railroad trains. Arrived at Gainesville at noon. Enjoyed the ride much. Got back to camp at 7 o’clock. Have rode and traveled 60 miles.
Wednesday, June 24, 1863—Marched at 2 o’clock in afternoon. Arrived at Centerville at 5 o’clock. Encamped very near the town. Pleasant and healthy place here.
Thursday 25—The troops [Hays’s brigade of the 22nd Corps] that have been here all winter are going off this morn. We took one of their old camps. Got fixed up in good shape. Heavy cannonading at dark. Went to bed early. Rained.
Friday 26—Routed up & packed at 3 o’clock. Marched at 7 o’clock in the morn. Crossed the railroad at Herndon’s Station [on the Alexandria & Leesburg railroad]. Arrived at Dranesville 7 o’clock. We have been 20 or 25 miles.
Saturday, June 27, 1863—Routed and marched before light. Crossed Broad Run at 10 o’clock. Crossed the Potomac [on pontoon bridges] at 3 o’clock p.m. at or near Edward’s Ferry. Halted two miles from Poolesville.
Sunday 28—Packed up and marched at 3 o’clock. Went on the old rout through Poolesville. Arrived at Barnestown at 9 o’clock. Halted close to Sugar Loaf Mountain. Passed through Hyattsville 4 o’clock. Halted two miles beyond all night.
Monday 29—Routed up at 3 o’clock. Marched at 10 o’clock as rear guard [for the 6th Corps]. Crossed the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad twice. New Market and half dozen towns. Left the regiment—fell out at midnight. Marched 24 miles.
Tuesday, June 30, 1863—The 36th New York left us at Westminster. Caught up with the regiment at 6 o’clock. Got rations and marched at 7 o’clock. arrived at Westminster 1 o’clock. Pretty towns and country and girls. Reb cavalry here last night. Camp two miles from Manchester and one and a half from Germantown.
JULY 1863
Wednesday, July 1 [1863]—Wrote to wife. Rained most all night. Camped in the woods. Marched at 8:30 evening on the Baltimore & Gettysburg road. Marched all night long.
Thursday 2—Fell out at 3 o’clock this morn. With Provost Marshall guard all day. Got away and found regiment at dark. Laid in line of battle all night. Hard fighting most all afternoon.
Friday, July 3, 1863—Routed up at light. Marched all around 500 times. Acted as a reserve. Terrible artillery & musketry. I saw 5 flags & hundreds of prisoners.
Saturday 4—Routed up before light. Went out on front line battle. Skirmishing but just in front. At night our regiment on skirmish line. Rained hard all night.
Sunday 5—Got relieved at 7:30 o’clock. Rained. Rebs have evacuated. We start on in pursuit at 8 or 9. Came across the battlefield. Horrible. Came past reb hospitals. 6,000. Caught up to rebs. Halted all night. Rained.
Monday, July 6, 1863—Routed up at 3.30 o’clock. Marched half mile. Rested all day. Marched at 6 o’clock through Fairfield. Rested. Marched at 8 o’clock. Passed Emmittsburg [Maryland] at midnight. Halted one and a half mile beyond. Rained all night.
Tuesday 7—Up at light. Drew rations. Passed Stockton Furnace & other towns & went up mountain. Terrible hard march. Rested all night. Top [ ]. Rained all night.
Wednesday 8—Up at light. Wrote to wife. Marched to Middletown. Halted at 1.30 o’clock for rations. Cannonading in mountains. Remained at Middletown all night. Near starved.
Thursday, July 9, 1863—Marched at 7 o’clock this morn. Arrived at Boonsboro 11.30. Halted on top of hill near town. Received letter from Father. Laid here on hill all night.
Friday 10—Up at light. Marched through Boonsboro & five miles on pike to Hagerstown. Halted near Funkstown. Cavalry skirmish all day. Remained in clover all night.
Saturday 11—Received letter & paper from wife. Remained here in lit all day. Packed up to go on picket 6 p.m. Did not go. Remained here all night.
Sunday, July 12, 1863—Marched early in morning. Went through Funkstown. Halted just across river. Hottest day this year. Went on two miles. Joined 5th Corps. Rained. Senator Wilson here. Very sharp skirmish.
Monday 13—37th dug rifle pits all last night. Rains all night & now. Received letter from wife. Wrote to wife. Rained all day. Went on picket at 4 p.m. 46th Mass. came near here.
Letter 7
[Near Williamsport, Maryland] Monday morning, July 13th 1863
Dear wife,
Your letter of July 7th was received this morning. I was not surprised at all to hear of Augusta’s death for I have expected it for some time. I would like to write much concerning her death and give consolation to you and Father and Mother, but the firing of musketry is quite sharp—not more than a quarter of a mile in front of me ad I being in the 2nd line of battle, I know not how soon I shall be called upon. You know where she died and how she was buried, but thousands of soldiers have fallen that their parents know not of their last hours or their resting place. But I must write fast.
I was greatly surprised to hear from Lo[well] among the thousands of dead, wounded and prisoners of rebs I have expected to hear from or see Lowell. I know not why it was but I firmly believed that he was with them. You tell him for me now that he has got home if he don’t stay there, he is a damn fool. And if I ever see him or hear of him out of Massachusetts, I never will own him. Why has he never written home? Is he crazy? He is an odd chap to make the best of him.
But to my whereabouts and situation. I will send you a map I have marked with an “x” a few of the places that we have been at and near Williamsport “xxxxx” are where our corps now are. There are corps to the right and left of us and I have all reason to believe that all the rebs this side of the [Potomac] river are completely surrounded and a more demoralized set of beings never lived that the rebs are—hid in the woods, barns, and every place they could. And we have picked up hundreds and I think thousands. And when we catch up with them, they throw down their guns and run to us by the dozens.
The map that George enclosed with an “x” marking key points along the regiment’s route into Maryland and Pennsylvania to Gettysburg and then back to the Potomac River near Williamsport marked with “xxxxx” (their present location, under the orange diamond).
Yesterday I was on the advance. We drove them out of Funkstown and took our position where we now are. At noon yesterday a part of our troop left us at Funkstown and went up towards Hagerstown. I heard smart fighting but I guess with nothing but reb cavalry. After we got here yesterday afternoon, a part of my brigade went out on picket. They were going through a wheat field when up jumped a lot of rebs and gave them a volley, wounding nine. Our boys charged on them and 42 rebs and two or three officers threw down their guns and gave themselves up. This is about the way they have done all along their retreat. You have no idea of the prisoners and wagons we have taken. All of them this side of the river are in close quarters and I believe would gladly give themselves up if they dared. But a soldier cannot do as he pleases. It is just as their officers say and they may give us a desperate fight yet. If they do, we will give them Gettysburg No. 2 and cause them to cry as they there, “The old Army of the Potomac is after us, run boys run!”
We are all tired out and poor as sharks but we have good news to cheer us up. We have whipped them once and if it is a possible thing, we will annihilate Lee’s army before we get through with them. Vicksburg has fallen and if we are successful here, this rebellion is closed. We have suffered everything mortal man could for a month past but Old Lee must surrender or we will follow him and fight him so long as there is a dozen of us left.
Many of us have not seen our new commander (Meade) yet but all are satisfied with him. I have got so used to the boom of cannon and the bursting of shells and the buzz of bullets that I don’t care anything about them. I had just as leave be to the front as the rear, Occasionally there is a bullet comes buzzing near me as I am now writing, but I have no fear for no man dies until his time comes and mine is not coming yet for many years. Yours, &c. &c. — George
Tuesday 14 [1863]—Acted as a reserve all night. Rebs all gone this morn. All of us gone after them. Arrived at Williamsport 3 o’clock. Rebs have all got across the river. Remained here all night.
Wednesday, July 15, 1863—Up at light. Marched to Boonsboro. Camped just beyond town. It has been tremendous hot.
Thursday 16—Up at 3 o’clock. Took lead of corps. Arrived near Berlin 1 o’clock. Visited the 46th Massachusetts. Remained here all night. Rained all night.
Friday 17—Rained hard. Wrote to Father.
Saturday, July 18, 1863—Remained here all day and night.
Sunday 19—Marched at 7 o’clock morning. Went to Berlin & crossed on pontoons. On same road we ent before. Went 8 miles. Halted for night. Large barn burnt last night. It has been terrible hot today.
Monday 20—Wrote to wife. Marched this morn at 10 o’clock. Co. E rear guard for Brigade. Marched 8 or 9 miles. Halted over night. Boys rallied on sheep. Remained here all night.
Tuesday, July 21, 1863—Rested here all day & night. Officers went home after company inspection. Washed shirts &c. Very nice & cool day.
Wednesday 22—Marched at 1 o’clock afternoon. Went through Union. Halted near stone bridge and the gap in the mountains where we did last year.
Thursday 23—Marched early in the morn. Halted 2 hours at Rectortown. Stayed over night at Barber’s Crossroads. Got in at 10.30 o’clock night. Went 18 or 20 miles today.
Friday, July 24, 1863___Up at light. Marched without breakfast. went to Manassas Gap. Meade’s Headquarters & railroad. Rested here three hours. Hot, hot. Went back to Barbers Crossroads. Halted 9 o’clock on road too Warrenton. Been 18 or 20 miles.
Saturday 25—Up at light. Marched at 7 o’clock. Went through Orleans. Arrived 1 mile from Warrenton at 2 o’clock. Camped over night. It has been tremendous hot.
Sunday 26—Washed clothes & body. Went up on hill and took a view of Warrenton. Boys rallied on beef. Remained here all day and night. Inspection at 6 o’clock.
Warrenton, Virginia, during the Civil War.
Monday, July 27, 1863—On guard today on spring. Received two papers from wife. Rained some—day and night.
Tuesday 28—Relieved from guard this morn. Wrote to wife. Drew pants. Boys brought in lots of beef.
Wednesday 29—Letter from wife.
Thursday, July 30, 1863—Sick. Went to Dr. Excused.
Friday 31—Sick. Went to Doctor. Excused.
AUGUST 1863
Saturday, August 1 [1863]—Feel better today. Wrote to wife for a box. Went to large brook washing.
Sunday, August 2, 1863—It is tremendous hot. Moved camp quarter mile.
Monday 3—Fixed bunk up from ground.
Tuesday 4—A terrible rain in afternoon. Blew all tents flat to ground. Everything sopping wet.
Wednesday, August 5, 1863—Part of our regiment on patrol.
Thursday 6—Received a letter and paper from wife.
Friday 7—Wrote to wife. A detail out on patrol.
Saturday, August 8, 1863—Nothing.
Sunday 9—Nothing
Monday 10—Nothing
Tuesday, August 11, 1863—Nothing
Wednesday 12—Nothing
Thursday 13—Dress parade tonight.
Warrenton, Virginia
Friday, August 14, 1863—Wrote to wife. Went with Gid to Warrenton. Saw soldier in 6th Maine shot. [Probably Thomas Jewett, 5th Maine] Reported capture of Signal Corps. Got back to camp at 4 o’clock.
Saturday 15—Some of the brigades moved. Part of our regiment on patrol.
Sunday 16—[no entry]
Monday, August 17, 1863—Wrote to Father. Received letter from wife. God paid off $69.73. I [was] on guard for paymaster.
Tuesday 18—Went on picket, Signal Corps.
Wednesday 19—Went off in mountains scouting. Went on post at sundown. Took dinner at Gaskins.
Thursday, August 20, 1863—On post all day and night. Went down and washed.
Friday 21—Got relieved at 6 o’clock. Received letter from wife. Received paper from Springfield. Walter is badly hurt.
Saturday 22—Wrote to wife.
Sunday, August 23, 1863—Preaching this afternoon.
Monday 24—Sold pipe to Chase.
Tuesday 25—Very cold & rainy all night.
Wednesday, August 26, 1863—Gt my watch cleaned. Received two papers from wife.
Thursday 27—Went out on patrol. Took dinner at Mrs. Couches.
Friday 28—[no entry]
Saturday 29, 1863—Wrote to Father. Sent $20. Received letter from wife. Stofford.
Sunday 30—Brigade inspection at 10 o’clock. Brigade dress parade.
Monday 31—Wrote to Father. Sent $20. Mustered this morn.
Letter 8
Camp of 10th Massachusetts Vols. August 31, 1863
Dear Father,
Enclosed is $20. I also sent you 20 last Saturday and will send you 10 more in a few days. We have just received marching orders. Don’t know where to go. The guerrillas are among us here all the time and capture some of the boys every day. After taking all things valuable, they release them.
We have not received any conscripts yet. All that come to this army go to the other corps. I have received my box. Everything was good. Hoping you will receive this. I remain your son, — George Ellis
10th Reg. Mass. Vol. Co. E
SEPTEMBER 1863
Tuesday, September 1, 1863—[no entry]
Wednesday 2—Went out beyond picket. Got milk.
Thursday 3—Wrote to father & wife. Sent $10. Received letter from father, $5 and paper from Springfield.
Friday, September 4, 1863—Received a letter from Clark.
Saturday 5—[no entry]
Sunday 6—Reg’t inspection this morn. Received a letter from wife. Wrote to Clark.
Monday, September 7, 1863—Went outside picket for milk. Sent paper to Matilda.
Tuesday 8—[No entry]
Wednesday 9—[no entry]
Thursday, September 10, 1863—Went up to Warrenton.
Friday 11—[no entry]
Saturday 12—Foot race. Hazelton won. Heavy blow and rain in p.m.
Sunday, September 13, 1863—Inspection this morn. Sent a paper to father.
Monday 14—[no entry]
Tuesday 15—Wrote to A. J. Morgan. Broke camp and marched in p.m. Marched to near Sulphur Springs. Camped at 8 o’clock at night.
Wednesday, September 16, 1863—Marched at light. Went past the Springs. Nothing left there but a few houses. The large hotel was burnt. Waded the Rappahannock at noon. Camped on Stone House Mountain at 8 o’clock at night.
Thursday 17—Under arms before light. Received letter & photograph of wife. Commenced in afternoon and rained all night.
Friday 18—Heavy rain storm.
Saturday, September 19, 1863—Went out on picket. Sent $25 to father. My post near Nigger’s house. Had a chicken supper.
Sunday 20—Remained on picket. Went around lots some. Lived high. Plenty potatoes.
Monday 21—Remained on picket. Chased sheep all forenoon. Received letter from Clark.
Tuesday, September22, 1863—Went to citizens with coffee. got relieved from picket in p.m. Feel mighty lonesome in camp.
Wednesday 23—Very cold last night.
Thursday 24—[no entry]
Friday, September 25, 1863—Received letter from wife.
Saturday 26—Wrote to wife.
Sunday 27—[no entry]
Monday, September 28, 1863—Very pleasant today.
Tuesday 29—Went to Culpeper with Gid. Rode back with Bent.
Wednesday 30—[no entry]
OCTOBER 1863
Thursday, October 1, 1863—Had marching orders at dark. Packed up. Left camp at 11 at night. went direct to Culpeper. Marched all night. Took railroad towards Washington.
Friday 2—Arrived at Rappahannock Station at 9 o’clock today. Got breakfast & off at 11. Rained in torrents. Camped below Bealton Station at 3 o’clock. Rained in torrents. Left Wheaton’s Brigade at R [ ].
Saturday 3—Marched at 8 o’clock. Pleasant. Arrived at Catlett’s Station at noon. Left Shaler’s Brigade at Catlett’s. Arrived Bristoe Station at 5 o’clock. Went into camp here.
Sunday, October 4, 1863—Put me up a shanty. The cavalry all left. Went out on picket at noon.
Monday 5—Cold last night. Received a letter from wife.
Tuesday 6—Wrote to wife.
Wednesday, October 7, 1863—Come in from picket at 12. Received a letter from wife.
Thursday 8—Rained today.
Friday 9—[no entry]
Saturday, October 10, 1863—[no entry]
Sunday 11—Sent relics and papers to wife.
Monday 12—Had marching in evening. Have worked on tent all day. Had the toothache all night. Sent paper to Springfield. Sharp artillery near night.
Tuesday, October 13, 1863—Marched at 3 o’clock this ornate. Halted at Catlett’s Station 9 o’clock. Arrived at Warrenton Station noon. Laid here in lines of battle. Commenced to retreat at 3 o’clock p.m. Marched all night.
Wednesday 14—Regiment rested till 3:30 this morn. Got breakfast near Kettle Run. Arrived at Maassas a 10 o’clock. Arrived at Centreville at 4 o’clock. Camped here over night. Sharp artillery firing [ ].
Thursday 15—Marched at 9.30 o’clock. Camped near Chantilly. Hard fighting to left of us. Old man Barton came to see us. On guard tonight. Wet, rainy. Rations came up.
Friday, October 16, 1863—Boys are digging rifle pits.
Saturday 17—Received a letter from wife. Wrote to wife. Pleasant all day. Packed up at dark. Stood in line of battle 2 hours. 38th Massachusetts came to us today.
Sunday 18—Stood in line [of battle] two hours morn.
Monday, October 19, 1863—Tremendous shower at light. Marched at 7 o’clock morning. Arrived at Gainesville at 6 o’clock. Rebs dashed on our cavalry. Good deal of excitement at 8 o’clock. Rested quiet all night.
Tuesday 20—Left Gainesville at 8 o’clock. Passed through Buckland. Arrived at New Baltimore at 3. Went to my old bunk on hill. Left there at dark. Camped near Warrenton at 10.
Wednesday 21—Moved camp this morning. Laid here all night.
Thursday, October 22, 1863—Fixed my tent in good shape. Marched at noon all the Division. Camped on the 7th Mass. old ground. Went out on picket at dark. Post on the Salem Turnpike.
Friday 23—Received letter from wife. Commenced raining near night. Passed a most miserable night.
Saturday 24—Rained all day. Came in from picket at noon. had the toothache all night.
Sunday, October 25, 1863—Inspection this morn. 18 of Co. E went up in the woods at night. Had a big fire.
Monday 26—Put me up a stone chimney. Read two papers from wife. Wrote to wife.
Tuesday 27—[no entry]
Wednesday, October 28, 1863—[no entry]
Thursday 29—[no entry]
Friday 30—Received letter from wife.
Saturday, October 31, 1863—Rained today. Very cold & windy tonight.
NOVEMBER 1863
Sunday, November 1—Birthday today. 28 years old. Brigade inspection. Wrote to Jo Clark.
Monday 2—[no entry]
Tuesday, November 8, 1863—Wrote to wife.
Wednesday 4—Sick today.
Thursday 5—Received letter and paper from wife. Sick all night.
Friday, November 6, 1863—Very windy today. Two of the 4th Vermont here.
Saturday 7—Marched this morn at light. Arrived at near Rappahannock Station 3 o’clock. Formed in 2nd line of battle. Supported two or three batteries. Moved to the right 4.30 o’clock. Had a good view of the charge. [See Second Battle of Rappahannock Station] Laid here all night. Lame and sick.
Sunday 8—Moved to left before light. Halted and got breakfast. Very lame and sore this morn. Troops crossed the river. Went up to railroad bridge and crossed at 2 p.m. Camped in the forts commanding road. Laid here all night.
Monday, November 9, 1863—Co. E on picket at 11 o’clock. Packed up things in afternoon. Went back across the river. Went up to fort & rifle pits today. Went down to Kellys Ford. Laid here all night.
Tuesday 10—Laid here all day. Got some rations here. Feel pretty sick today.
Wednesday 11—Received letter from Jack Morgan.
Thursday, November 12, 1863—Left Kelly’s Ford. Went up to Rappahannock Station. Crossed over the river. Went down four or five miles. Camped near the 3rd Corps.
Friday 13—Wrote to wife. Went over to Corps Headquarters.
Saturday 14—Heavy rain this eve.
Sunday, November 15, 1863—Our troops crossed the Rapidan. Rained hard all night. Cleared off at 10 o’clock.
Monday 16—Brigade inspection 10 o’clock.
Tuesday 17—[no entry]
Wednesday, November 18, 1863—Received letter from wife & Clark.
Thursday 19—[no entry]
Friday 20—Inspection by Russian officers.
Saturday, November 21, 1863—[no entry]
Sunday 22—[no entry]
Monday 23—Got paid off in morning. Wrote & sent $5 to wife. All the regiment drunk all last night and today. Express came today.
Tuesday, November 24, 1863—[no entry]
Wednesday 25—[no entry]
Thursday 26—Marched early morning. Sinner of two hard tack. Teams troubled us. Hitch hike all the evening. Crossed Rapidan at 10 o’clock. Camped near river bank.
Friday, November 27, 1863—Routed up at light. Cold. Guarded the [Germanna] ford all day. Moved in woods near night. Heavy battle two miles from us. [See Battle of Mine Run] Artillery firing until late eve. Camped in woods all night.
Saturday 28—Marched at 2 o’clock this morn. All the corps went down river. Halted for breakfast 8 o’clock. Skirmishing in front of us. Rebs took a position ona bluff. Enemy held us here all day.
Sunday 29—Mount Hope Church. Marched to rear at light. Went clear round on the left flank. Halted at a church near railroad. Cavalry skirmishing front of us. Rebs in our rear shelling train. Firing all around us. Camped 7 o’clock.
Monday, November 30, 1863—Got up before light. Rebs have made a stand in front. Sharp artillery right at 10. Our boys skirmishing. Relieved by 2nd Corps after dark. Rebs shelled us before dark. Never came nearer a fight than today.
DECEMBER 1863
Tuesday, December 1, 1863—Got up this morn near Gov. Warren’s Headquarters. Laid here all day. Very cold. Went out on picket at dark/ 2nd Corps commenced retreating. I was on post from 9 to 12.
Wednesday 2—Left the picket line at 2 o’clock in the morn. Came as rear guard to Rapidan. Crossed at 10 o’clock at Ely Ford. Halted near river for dinner. Marched again at noon. Halted at 7 o’clock. 27 miles today.
Thursday, December 3, 1863—Marched this morn to old camp. All of [us] very still and tired. Bunked on the ground we left.
Friday 4—Received a letter from wife. On guard tonight.
Saturday 5—Wrote to wife. Sent $5. Received letter and two papers from wife. Very cold at night.
Sunday, December 6, 1863—Dreadful cold today.
Monday 7—Wrote to Jo. Clark.
Tuesday 8—Brought logs for a house.
Wednesday, December 9, 1863—[no entry]
Thursday 10—[no entry]
Friday 11—Commenced building a bunk.
Saturday, December 12, 1863—Worked in bunk all day.
Sunday 13—Finished up the bunk. Rained very hard last night.
Monday 14—Received letter from wife.
Tuesday, December 15, 1863—Wrote to wife. Corps review by Russian officers.
Wednesday 16—[no entry]
Thursday 17—Rained all day.
Friday, December 18, 1863—Two soldiers executed. I went and saw them. One of them was not shot dead. Belonged to 2nd and 5th Vermont.
Letter 9
[Partial letter describing the military execution by firing squad of two Union soldiers in the VI Corps. This execution took place on 18 December 1863. The soldiers executed were George E. Blowers of the 2nd Vermont and John Tague of the 5th Vermont. Both of them had been found guilty of desertion.]
…and all of them belonged to the 6th Corps. It is rather tough to dig a man’s grave, sit his coffin near it, and then sit him on it and march a squad of soldiers up to within 10 yards and fire a volley of bullets. I will tell you how this was conducted.
It was out in an open field. They rode on their coffins to the grave, got out and stood erect until their sentences were read. One of them took off his hat, threw it upon the ground very spiteful acted mad. They then knelt upon their coffins. One [George Blowers] appeared much affected and cried but the other [John Tague] was firm and unmoved. A sergeant went up and pinned a badge over the heart of the one that was crying as a mark to shoot at but when he stepped [up] to pin it on the other, he took it and dine it himself. 24 men were then marched in front. Ready! Aim! Fire! The one that was crying fell of his coffin after being shot and cried out so he could be heard by all present, “Oh dear me!” He then put up his hand motioning for them not to shoot him again.
The other one patted his hand on his heart when ready to be shot, the same as to say shoot me, God damn you, and I believe he thought it [but] he did not say it. He was spunky and gritty, I tell you, but he died quick. The other one, I don’t know whether he died of the effects of the bullets or whether the Dr. bled him to death. I saw enough of such shameful actions and went away utterly disgusted. They were not blindfolded nor neither were their hands tied. It is not right to shoot men but I say shoot them in a proper way and not murder them. I long to get home so I can tell you all about such things which I have seen. 1 Yours ever, — George
1 Here’s another description of the execution: “Meanwhile, over in the camp of the 2nd Division, 6th Corps, a dual execution occurred, this one for Private John Tague and Private George Blowers. As always, the division assigned to carry out the killings formed up in a three-sided box facing the graves. The soldiers who observed the execution stood at “order arms” for about one hour until two ambulances drove onto the site, bearing the condemned men and their coffins. One of the soldiers in line, Private Wilbur Fisk, wrote, “It seemed as if some horrible tragedy in a theater were about to be enacted, rather than a real preparation for an execution.” The most alarming thing about it was the behavior of John Tague, who, as the orders of execution were being read, threw his hat onto the ground in bold defiance. Two chaplains stepped to the sides of Tague and Blowers, bade them kneel, and delivered a prayer. After that, the sergeant of the guard conducted them to their coffins and made them kneel again. He put two massive rings around their necks which suspended targets on their chests. (By now, authorities had realized that the firing squads needed to be coaxed into taking a kill shot.) Strangely, this execution contained no reserve. That is, no one expected the prisoners to live beyond the first volley. Two platoons of men faced each prisoner, and the prisoners were not blindfolded. Private Fisk recorded the final moments:
Blowers had been sick, his head slightly drooped as if oppressed with a terrible sense of the fate he was about to meet. He had requested that he might see his brother in Co. A, but his brother was not there. He had no heart to see the execution, and had been excused from coming. Tague was firm and erect till the last moment, and when the order was given to fire, he fell like dead weight, his face resting on the ground, and his feet still remaining on the coffin. Blowers fell at the same time. He exclaimed, “O dear me!” struggled for a moment, and was dead. Immediately our attention was called away by the loud orders of our commanding officers, and we marched in columns around the spot where the bodies of the two men were lying just as they fell. God grant that another such punishment may never be needed in the Potomac Army.
This was Private Fisk’s first execution. Like many who witnessed such tragic scenes, he never forgot what he saw:
I never was obliged to witness a sight like that before, and I sincerely hope a long time may intervene before I am thus called upon again. . . . These men were made examples, and executed in the presence of the Division, to deter others from the same crime. Alas, that it should be necessary! Such terrible scenes can only blunt men’s finer sensibilities and burden them the more; and Heaven knows that the influences of a soldier’s life are hardening enough already. . . . I have seen men shot down by scores and hundreds in the field of battle, and have stood within arm’s reach of comrades that were shot dead; but I believe I never have witnessed that from which any soul shrunk with such horror, as to see those two soldiers shot dead in cold blood at the iron decree of military law.” [Tales from the army of the Potomac (Blog).
Saturday 19—Received letter from Jo. Clark. Received two papers from wife. Bought picture of Hazelton. Done washing. Very cold.
Sunday 20—Inspection in morn. Wrote to wife.
Monday, December 21, 1863—Fixed the chimney. Very cold.
Tuesday 22—[no entry]
Wednesday 23—Very cold all day. Snowed last night.
Thursday, December 24, 1863—Very cold.
Friday 25—Sent paper to wife.
Saturday 26—Monk got canteen. W. went to Corps Headquarters in eve.
Sunday, December 27, 1863—5th Vermont went home. On fatigue duty. Cold and stormy. Received letter from wife. Wrote letter to Jo Clark
Monday 28—Rained hard all night. Wrote to wife. Sent paper to Tilly.
Tuesday 29—Wrote to A. J. Morgan. Received diary from wife. Old Veterans sworn in.
Wednesday, December 30, 1863—Very pleasant today.
Thursday 31—Rained hard all day. Mud, mud 3 feet deep. Officers and men all drunk this eve. A perfect hell here. Resolved this night that whiskey shall never make a fool of me and that I will be temperate and steady in all time to come as I have been the past 14 months. I am utterly disgusted. If whiskey is allowed in this army one year longer, it will be ruined.
Letter 10
Camp 10th Regt. Mass. Vols. April 18, 1864
Dear Wife,
Yours of the 13th inst. was received this evening. I will answer on receipt of all your letters as I have of late. We are having a few days of fine weather but the mountains are covered with snow yet. You have no idea what a beautiful scenery it is. I have looked at them so much that they appear as natural to me as the mountains at home. Every day that is pleasant I wander off in some high piece of ground and gaze all around the country. It makes me feel sad many times but it is the best way that I can pass off the time. I feel very uneasy much of the time. Two months appears a much longer time to me now than eight did last year. I thought when I got to be a 9-month’s man, my time was almost [gone], but it looks long to [me] now, I assure you.
We had a review today by Gen. Grant. It was the first time that I have ever seen him and I like his looks much better than I expected. He rode through our camp this afternoon but no one cheered him. Let Little Mac ride through any camp and the boys would hullo so they could be heard for miles. I have a McClellan Badge which I will send in this. I wish you to keep it as a keep sake. It is my opinion that Grant will find a little smarter general in Lee than he has ever had to deal with before. If the Rebs stand and fight us here, we have got to have twice as many men as they have or it is no use. They have chosen their own positions across the Rapidan and are at work there every day as busy as bees building earth works. They have all the advantage of us. But I hope we shall be successful. But by so being, many a Father and near relative must lay low.
In one week (and perhaps less) you will hear of lively times here. All the surplus baggage has been sent to Washington and everything indicates a movement in a few days. I saw but one lady today—the wife of some big general, I presume. All citizens have been sent off and we are all soldiers here now. Women and citizens have always been a curse to us and I am glad they are gone. I shall carry a pretty light knapsack when we march, I tell you. I don’t intend to worry myself with a big load as I have heretofore. Scott wore my overcoat home on furlough and left it at his Father’s so I can get that when I come home. He showed me a letter that his Father wrote giving his opinion of his marriage. The old man thought the boy little knew of the responsibilities of married life and by what he wrote of war widows, I reckon he has had something to do with them himself. I will tell you the whole story when I get home.
Oh Ann, how I long to tell you of my adventures—where I have been—what I have seen, &c. &c. I know they will interest you. Oh what a comfort we will take together. If some of these Vets who get married don’t wish themselves in hell before three years are out, then I’ll lose my guess. What a fool a man is to leave a wife that he loves. Some of them have told me this already. One of the boys gave me a picture of a wife dreaming of her absent husband. It is a most beautiful representation and never have I seen anything that reminded me of home as that does. Were I not hard-hearted, I know it would bring tears in my eyes. As it is, it makes me feel very sad every time I look at it, so I think that I will send it to you.
In this patriotic print, a northern woman at home dreams of her husband leading a battle charge, waving a large U.S. flag. A companion print to The Soldier’s Dream of Home, the image stresses home front support for the war with a poem at the bottom that reads: “Ever of him who at his country’s call, / Went forth to war in freedom’s sacred name, / She thinks in waking hours: and dreams are all, / Filled with his image, on the field of fame. / She sees her hero foremost in the fight, / Bearing the glorious banner of the free; / Triumphing o’er the traitors boasted might, / Then home returning crowned with victory.”
Here this sheet is written over and I have not answered one word of your letter but I will not write another sheet for the envelope will be too full. Tell Flora that I will answer hers in my next to you. Thank you for the postage stamps. To regards your photograph, I think it a very very poor one. You cannot want anything of it. I can see some of your features in it but your dress looks most miserable. Good night. Yours ever, — George
Letter 11
Near Spottsylvania Court House Wednesday, 2 o’clock, May 11th 1864 1
Dear wife,
I am all right yet. 124 killed & wounded in this regiment & 16 missing.
Bill Skidmore 2 hit in the head but will not die. Don’t worry for me for I shall come out all right.
Fighting is going on now. Keep up good spirits. I will write again in a few days. — George Ellis
1The regimental history informs us that May 11th was spent mostly by Grant’s army in preparing for another battle, There was reconnoitering of positions and attendant skirmishing, more or less, along the whole line. The 10th Massachusetts was relieved on the picket, which “was at the same time the skirmish line, early in the morning, moved to the left and took position that had previously been occupied by General Wheaton, and lay in this position all day. The afternoon was rainy, and the night that followed was dark and dismal, the clouds were thick, and the rain still fell. Preparation had been going on all day and into the night for the battle of the morrow.”
2 William J. Skidmore was listed among the casualties of the 10th Massachusetts during the period of May 5th to May 11th, 1864. His wound was “scalp, slight.”
I could not find an image of John but here is a tintype of Pvt. Alonzo Bradley of Co. A, 6th Maine Infantry (MacDonald Collection)
The following letter was written by John Glover, a private in Co. D, 6th Maine Infantry. The 6th Maine Infantry was organized in Portland, Maine, mustered in on July 15, 1861 and mustered out of service August 15, 1864. Veterans and recruits were transferred to the 7th Maine Infantry and soon consolidated to become the 1st Maine Veteran Infantry. The regiment lost a total of 255 men during service; 12 officers and 141 enlisted men killed or mortally wounded, 2 officers and 100 enlisted men died of disease.
Glover’s letter summarizes the movements and engagements of the 6th Maine Infantry for the first six weeks of Grant’s Overland Campaign in 1864 fighting in the 3rd Brigade of Gen. Horatio Wright’s 1st Division of Gen. John Sedgwick’s VI Corps. They were brigaded with the 49th and 119th Pennsylvania, and the 5th Wisconsin. Glover informs us that the most of the casualties suffered by his regiment occurred on 10 May when their brigade was called upon to participate in Col. Emory Upton’s assault on the rebel works known as the Muleshoe—a salient in the rebel defenses near Spotsylvania Court House. They joined with 11 other regiments, “some 5,000 men whom Upton declared the best of the army” to charge upon the rebel works with fixed bayonets, not stopping to fire until they had breached the Muleshoe.
The Union Assault on the Muleshoe, 10 May 1864
Transcription
Camp of the 6th Maine Volunteers Near Petersburg, Virginia June 21st 1864
Friend George,
I once more resume the pen for the purpose of writing you a few lines to let you know that I am still alive and well. It has been some time since we had any correspondence and as times were rather dull and lonesome, I thought that I could not better improve my time than by writing to you. I have no news of importance to tell you—only that there is plenty of fighting here and not a great deal of rest.
Now I will try and give you a sketch of the present campaign. We broke camp on the 3rd of May about 4 o’clock in the morning and after a very hard day’s march lay down for the night. The next day about noon we marched down into a piece of woods and lay there all day and all that night and the next day threw up rifle pits and held them all that day and part of that night when we marched to the left and left our pits altogether.
After that, nothing took place of any importance until we discovered the enemy again at Spotsylvania Court House. There we had one of the hardest battles of the war. On the 10th of May our Division made a charge and was repulsed with very heavy loss. Our regiment lost 140 men killed, wounded and taken prisoners. Moses Babcock was wounded very bad. The ball passed through his breast and came out of his back so they say—I did not see him after he was wounded and have not heard from him since he went to the hospital, only by reports. The last report that I had, he was getting along very well and I understand that he is doing well.
Since the 10th, we have had some hard times but no such fighting as we had the 10th. We have lost a number of our regiment on the picket and skirmish line but it is useless for me to try to describe the whole scene of the campaign. I have given you an insight of the fighting and hardships of the last forty days and now, after a few lines more, I will close.
The Rebs are throwing a few shell over this way but none of them has come very near here yet but I expect they will soon throw some here and disturb my writing. There is already batteries of our own [responding] and every time they fire a shot, it disturbs my writing a little. And just now there was a rebel shot came very near me.
Now I have nothing more of importance to tell you. You will please tell Henry and family that I am well and [I] should write to them but it is very difficult to write here but I should like to hear from him if it is convenient. No more this time.
Please excuse poor writing and mistakes and write soon. Yours truly, — John Glover
P. S. Please tell me in your first letter if you received thirty dollars that was expressed on the 20th of September 1863.
Please direct to Co. D, 6th Maine Volunteers, Washington D. C.
An interesting pair of letters, both in pencil and removed from a period scrapbook, one related to and the other written by Valentine A. Lewis (1839-1899). An 1858 graduate of the College of New Jersey who volunteered as a Presbyterian Chaplain in the 2nd New York Infantry, Valentine enlisted on 17 May 1861 and then resigned from that position several months later, on August 15, apparently to take a position with the U. S. Christian Commission, as these letters indicate.
The 2nd Regiment was organized in Troy, NY and was mustered in on May 14, 1861, 3 days prior to Lewis’s joining, for a two year period of service. It saw considerable action during the Eastern campaigns, including Bull Run and Chancellorsville (May 1-5, 1863), following which it was mustered out on May 26.
The Battle of the Wilderness, in Spotsylvania County, VA (same County as the Battle of Chancellorsville one year earlier) took place on May 5-7, 1864, at which time Lewis was presumably a member of the Christian Commission, assigned to support the spiritual and emotional needs of the troops in that campaign. The Battle, which represented yet another sparring between the forces of Grant and Lee on the road to Richmond, was one of the War’s most deadly, with estimated total casualties of nearly 30,000, a majority of which were Union.
The first letter is a rushed, almost frenzied, note written by Lewis in pencil during the Battle of the Wilderness, from a field hospital where he was ministering to the dead and wounded who were streaming in. In the letter, written to family or friends back home, he refers to several named dead and injured soldiers, indicating that they were clearly known to him and to the ‘brethren’ to whom he writes. One of these soldiers, Lt. Col [Aaron B.] Myer, was commander of the 125th New York Infantry—a unit which was formed in Troy, the same as had Lewis’s original unit, in 1862, and had a horrific history during its tenure as a unit, including the Battle of the Wilderness. The exposure to the horrors of war affecting those he knew certainly served to aggravate Lewis’s emotional state during this devastating 3-day Battle. His state of mind is well-reflected in this letter.
[Note: This letter is from the personal collection of Richard Weiner and was transcribed and published on Spared & Shared by express consent.]
Transcription
My dear brethren.
I am too tired to write particulars but brethren, pray and give.
Lieut. Colonel [Aaron B.] Myer dead and buried at Chanc. Court House.
Capt. [Edward P.] Jones dead. 1 Sword in Mr. De Golyer’s hand. Body left on field.
Charley Germain missing. 2
Lieut. [Elam S. P.] Clapp, amputated at thigh.
Green sick.
Are all I could hear so far. Will forward other names as I obtain them.
Reinforcements are pushing forward to the front. 7th Heavy Artillery as Infantry. Pray that success may attend the next move. Oh Brethren pray, pray. God only can help us. 5 from our ward carried out today. Now is the time.
Excuse incoherence. I have been dressing wounds since 5 and now volunteers are called for to go and take care of a train of 375 wounded just in. Yours in Christ, — V. A. Lewis
Written in the Battle of the Wilderness.
1 Capt. Edward P. Jones of Co. I assumed command of the 125th New York following the death of Lt. Col. Aaron B. Myer. He was likewise killed while leading the assault on the enemy’s works “Bloody Angle” at Spotsylvania at daybreak on 12 May 1864. In this same assault Lieutenants Elam S. P. Clapp and Charles E. Cleminshaw were mortally wounded.
2 Charles R. German served in Co. D, 125th New York Infantry. After recovering from his Gettysburg wound, he was killed in action on 6 May 1864 in the Wilderness.
This second letter was probably written by Rev. Hugh Wallace Torrence (1842-1897), an 1864 graduate of the Princeton Theological Seminary who served for a time in the Christian Commission and then became a Presbyterian minister. He died in Romulus, New York.
I take pleasure in stating that Rev. V. A. Lewis has been laboring for some time as a delegate of the Christian Commission in Fredericksburg in the 2nd Division, 2nd Corps, and has been wise, discreet, diligent, and faithful in the performance of all duties and as he now returns home bearing an appeal to the people of Troy in favor of the Christian Commission, we hope you will respond in such a manner as will show that you appreciate the importance of the work and are aware of the necessities.
These letters were written by John S. Halley (1837-1913), the son of John and Jessie (Spital) Halley of Markinch, Fifeshire, Scotland. He wrote the letters to his sister, Mary Arnot Halley (1836-1888).
I could not find an image of John but here is a tintype of Pvt. William W. Heath who also served in Co. H, 4th Vermont Infantry. Health was killed on 5 May 1864 in the Wilderness. (Bruce Hermann Collection)
Their father, John Halley, came to America with his family in 1847, his wife dying enroute in Montreal before he settled in Vermont. John grew up in Orange county, Vermont, and was married there in 1861 to Eveline A. Richardson (1841-1924) before enlisting in late August 1861 as a private in Co. H, 4th Vermont Infantry. He was wounded on 14 September 1862 at Crampton’s Pass, South Mountain, but the wound was not disabling and he continued in the service until mustering out on 30 September 1864. His name appears variously in military records as Holley or Halley.
John’s enthusiasm for fighting flagged considerably by the summer of 1864, prompting him to confess to his sister, “I am willing to recognize the South. I have got tired and sick of seeing so man men killed and mangled every day…I have but little faith of getting out [alive] anyway. It will make but little difference with me anyway. I have got demoralized out here.”
After the war he relocated to Lincoln, Black Hawk county, Iowa, where he made his living as a farmer.
Letter 1
Camp Winfield Scott April 29, 1862
Dear Sister,
I received a letter from you day before yesterday. I was very glad to hear from you/ I should have answered it yesterday but lacked time so I will scratch a few lines today. You must not expect much of a letter more than to merely let you know that I am well. I was very much obliged to you for the stamps that you sent me as I was nearly out and was very saving of what I had left as I do not know when we shall get paid off. We have not got our pay for January and February yet. The boys are pretty short. I get along very well. All I need is stationery and I guess I shall get along till we are paid. I have saves some for some stamps.
My health is very good now—as good as it has ever been. I have written to no one but you and my wife for some time but I must write to Lizzie and Willy soon.
This place in front of us on the Peninsula is probably the strongest fortified place that the rebels have. How we shall succeed in taking it, time along will tell. I have not faith in us taking it although I hope we shall. You have ere this read in the paper about the skirmish that the Vermont Brigade had with the enemy. We got the most of it and had to retire. What the next move will be, I do not know. I do not know much about what is going on as I do not see many papers and what I do see is about a week old before I get them. I have no news to write nor nothing else. I suppose the most you care about is to know how I am getting along.
We had a lot of new recruits come in today. I pity them. I wished I was to home. But I also do not expect to get home till three years are out, if I live. I try to be as good as I can but I am in an awful place. I need your prayers. My letters you can [ ] as you have done. I will close hoping and praying for you, from your brother, — J. S. Holley
Letter 2
Addressed to Miss Mary A. Halley, Xenia, Ohio
Camp near Hagerstown, Maryland October 5, 1862
Sister Mary,
I received a letter from you the other day. the first that I have got from you for some time. I was very glad to hear that you was well. Did not know but that you was sick and I was glad to learn that you was back in Xenia. I feared that times were so hard that you would shut the school down.
Well, as I said, we have got into comfortable quarters for the present. It is rumored that we are going to move soon. How true it is, I cannot say. I hope not, however, as I want to stay here all winter. I like it here first rate. We are near what is called the White Springs, Maryland. We are near the town of Hagerstown. It is a place of about four thousand inhabitants.
There is nothing here now but our Brigade. I expect the whole Corps will be here soon. I have passed through the campaign of Maryland safe. At the Battle of Antietam, there was a piece of a shell struck me on the shoulder. It just bruised me a little making my arm a little lame for a day or two. If it had struck my shoulder two or three inches lower, it would have shattered my shoulder and probably I should never get better.
I am very thankful that I came off so easy. There is no news to write so I will close for this time. Yours respectfully and sincerely, — John S. Halley
Letter 3
Camp in the field Near Spottsylvania Court House May 21st 1864
Dear Sister Mary,
I write you a line and let a [ ] at the present. I suppose you will want to hear from e. I am well and am unhurt so far for we have had some terrible fighting and it is not over with [us] yet. It is as near a drawn battle as can be—at least that is the opinion of your humble servant.
We have lost fifty thousand in killed, wounded, and missing. Our reinforcements will keep our army as strong as when they crossed the Rapidan—that is, in point of numbers. Our regiment and brigade suffered terrible, losing more than half. It is awful. I can not give you particulars at this time. I am at the division hospital in the field. We keep one mile or two in the rear of the troops according to guard for the hospital. I have escaped unhurt so far.
My love to you, — John S. Halley
Letter 4
Camp in the field, Virginia June 24, 1864
Dear Sister,
I received your letter today dated June 16th. I was very glad to hear from you and learn that you was well. I was very glad to learn of your intended change. Hope it will be for the better. You have my best wishes with you.
I am truly sorry, however, for Willie. He is too young. He ought to have a little more experience before he takes that step. I shall say nothing to him. Let him act his own pleasure. I wish it was otherwise. It may be all for the best. I have not heard from him since he left home or rather since he went back home.
I had a letter from [my wife] Eveline. She was well. No news worth repeating. Everybody was well. There is no news to write from here—only we are not in Richmond yet and hardly think we shall get there in a hurry. I am willing to recognize the South. I have got tired and sick of seeing so man men killed and mangled every day. Yesterday they used up the rest of the 4th [Vermont] Regiment. 1 They were on the skirmish line one mile and a half from any support. They were flanked by the rebels and there is but fifty men with the colors now [though] some more may come in. The rest are either killed, wounded, or prisoners. Capt. Tracey was brought in dead today. They will probably put what is left of us in to some other regiment. If so, I shall have to carry a gun and if I do, my chances of getting through safe are not worth much.
I have but little faith of getting out anyway. It will make but little difference with me anyway. I have got demoralized out here and will not work and there will be no other way for me to live. I can never save enough to but a house.
Excuse this as I feel blue. Truly yours, — J. S. Halley
1 On June 23, 1864, the regiment “suffered the greatest loss of men by capture” it ever experienced. It was engaged with the brigade and the Sixth Corps in a movement against the Weldon Railroad, and was thrown out in front under command of Major Pratt, with a battalion of the eleventh. The enemy broke through the line with a strong force, and surrounded and captured seven officers and 137 men of the Fourth, as well as almost the entire battalion of the Eleventh. The colors of the Fourth were saved by the activity and coolness of the color guard. The officers so captured were Major Pratt, Captains Chapin and Boutin, and Lieutenants Carr, Fisher, Needham and Pierce. Among the killed was Captain William C. Tracy, of Co. G. His dead body was found on the field next day, stripped of arms, watch, money and boots, and surrounded by the muskets of his men, showing that he had rallied his company around him, and that they threw down their arms only when their gallant leader had fallen.”
These letters were written by Samuel Richard Green (1826-1865) who enlisted as a private in Co. A, 14th New York Infantry in mid-August 1862, was transferred to Co. I, 44th New York Infantry on 24 June 1863, was promoted to corporal on 28 April 1864 and transferred to Co. A on 23 September 1864. He was transferred to Co. H, 146th New York Infantry on 11 October 1864 and died on 11 May 1865 at Lincoln Hospital in Washington D. C. from wounds received on 31 March 1865 at White Oak Road, Virginia [another source says that his wounds were received in the attack on Fort Stedman].
Prior to his enlistment, Samuel was employed as a mechanic in Utica, New York, where he was born. He was described as standing 5 feet 9 inches tall, with blue eyes, brown hair, and a light complexion. He was married in 1853 to Phoebe Melvina Rockwell (1832-1906) and the couple had two children—Mary Ella (b. 1856) and Lewis Henry (b. 1860).
This cabinet card was made in Utica during the post-war period but it was passed down by the family with the following letters so I’m inclined to believe it was accurately identified as Samuel Richard Green. The A. R. G. at the bottom of the reverse side was Alfred Reynolds Green (1901-1980), Samuel’s grandson. Most likely the image was created from a photograph taken of Samuel circa 1860 when he was about 35 years old.
Letter 1
[While serving in the 14th New York Infantry]
Frederick City, Maryland September 17, [1862]
Dear wife,
I take the present opportunity to write you and let you know how I am. I have been on the march for six days and I can stand it first rate. Yesterday we expected to get to where the fighting was [at Sharpsburg, Maryland] today some time but we were detached from the brigade and send back about 20 miles with a lot of prisoners and we don’t know what the next job will be or how long we shall remain here. I am well & have been since I left home. I find lots of friends here for soldiers all help each other. I am in Co. A and that is the best company in the regiment. I can’t give you any news for you will get it before we do by the paper.
I wish you would write me as soon as you get this. You will get Mr. Laurence to direct it for you and there won’t be trouble about my getting it. Tell him I am in Co. A & he will know how to direct it to get to me. We get the mail 3 or 4 times a week. If he is not in the office, leave it with the clerk & he will see that it is sent. If you how he directs it you will know how to do it yourself. Send me a paper once or twice a week. They will all be directed alike. It don’t make any difference where the regiment is.
Give my respects to all. Kiss Ella and Louie for me & tell Ella she must be a good girl. Mind what you tell her. Take good care of the children & don’t work too hard yourself for I shall send you money as soon as I get paid. I don’t know when that will be but it will come in a month or two.
The 4th Oneida Regiment have just passed by here since we have been encamped so they will get into a fight before we will at any rate—if we should go back towards where the fighting it. It is a getting dark and I must close. This comes from your ever loving husband, — Samuel
Letter 2
[While serving in the 14th New York Infantry just prior to being transferred to the 44th New York Infantry.]
Camp in Virginia or some other place June 2, 1863
Dear wife,
Your letter of the 26th it at hand. I am glad to hear from you. I am as much disappointed by not being sent home with the 14th [New York Infantry] as you are. I have done my duty to the government up to the 17th of May which is the time I volunteered for faithfully and what I do hereafter won’t do them any good. I will assure you I shall not give the rebels a chance to hurt me hereafter. They have been trying to form the 12th, 13th, 14th and 17th into a battalion ever since the 14th left but they can’t make it go. All they have got of us yet is a demoralized mob. They boys are determined they shant make anything of them and they can’t. We are a perfect nuisance in the army and mean to be until they send us home. 1
We are in the First Division, First Brigade Fifth Army Corps. This division is guarding the fords on the Rappannock river between Falmouth and the Orange & Alexandria Railroad. We are in the reserve about 4 miles from the river and about 20 miles above Falmouth. We are known through the division as the demoralized battalion & don’t mean to be anything else. We beat the officers that have charge of us at every point. If they tie up any of the boys for punishment, the rest go and cut them loose or make the officers release them to keep from having a mutiny in camp & if they court martial them, they can’t make it stick & we have the best of them & we are having lots of fun.
We are encamped in a very fine place and we have lots of fresh meat and chickens to eat. We get them around the country. We don’t care who they belong to. We take them whenever we find them.
I have been to see if I could get a furlough to come home but they ain’t giving any in the brigade at present. They may be giving them again in a few days. I shall get one as soon as I can.
I got a letter from father a few days ago. He says you shall not suffer for anything unless you conceal your wants from him. The pay master is paying off the army now but I know as our papers are in shape so as to get our pay this time or not. If we don’t, we will get 4 months the next time so it won’t make any difference if you have got enough to last you. If father has not gone away when this reaches you, tell him I will write to him as soon as I find out what they are going to do with us.
1 The 14th New York Infantry was unusual in that it was composed of both two-year enlistees and three-year enlistees. Apparently many of the three-year enlistees had no idea that they had another year of service left when the time came for the two-year men to go home, which caused those with time left to serve to revolt and become demoralized.
Letter 3
[While serving in the 44th New York Infantry. As the 44th N. Y. marched toward Gettysburg, they found themselves brigaded with the 20th Maine, the 16th Michigan, and the 83rd Pennsylvania under the command of Col. Strong Vincent. This brigade would win distinction for their heroic defense of Little Round Top on Day 2 of the battle.]
Aldie, Virginia June 25, 1863
My Dear Wife,
I received yours of the 26th of May. I have not heard from you since we have been shifting around from place to place. Since I wrote you last, which was soon after I received yours, but we have got in a regiment now where we shall stay. We are in the 44th New York Volunteer [Infantry] commonly known as the Ellsworth Avengers. They were got up from every town in the state or were meant to represent every town when they came out and they are a picked lot of men. I am as well satisfied here as I should be in any regiment without it was the old 14th but I don’t feel very well reconciled to stay here a great while for I consider my time out. But still I prefer to have an honorable discharge if I can get it in any kind of season. If I find I cannot, I think I shall leave without it.
I wrote to Father & directed it to Cleveland. I have had 2 or 3 packages of papers from him since I wrote to him. They were mailed at Gloversville. I don’t know whether he is there yet or whether he has gone back. We have not had any mail here in 10 or 12 days & we don’t know what is a going on anywhere but here.
We are on a turnpike that runs from Alexandria threw Ashby’s Gap & I don’t know how much farther. We were to Ashby’s Gap last Sunday. We had quite a lively time with the rebs. The fighting was mostly done with the cavalry so we did not participate much in it except to drive them away from two or three stone walls where the cavalry could not get at them & then we would start them out & so we drove them to Ashby’s Gap.
I wish you would write soon for I am anxious to hear from you. I expect that Merrill will come here in a day or two & then we can get the papers so as to know what is going on in other places besides this.
I shall write to father again soon and let him know where I am. Direct yours to the 44th Regiment, First Division, 3rd Brigade, 5th Army Corps. Give my respects to all & let me know how you get along & how Ella & Lewis are & if Ella goes to school. I would give anything to be at home to see you and them and I trust I shall be this fall or the fore part of the winter at the farthest. But until such time as I come, I remain your most affectionate and ever loving husband, — Samuel
Malvina
Letter 4
[While serving in the 44th New York Infantry.]
Camp near Rappahannock Station, Virginia September 11, 1863
My Dear Wife,
I received yours the 6th yesterday. I was glad to hear from you. I received your letter with the comb and have wrote two letters to you since the one I sent to Utica in care of Mr. Lawrence and after that I received one from father informing me that you was at Cleveland and since them I have wrote you another which I think you must of got before this time but for fear you have not got the last one, I will repeat some that I wrote last.
I sent $20 to Mr. Lawrence as soon as I was paid. I had to send it by mail and I thought it best to send half of it at once. After that I got father’s letter and he said you wanted me to send one half of what I could spare Mr. Lawrence and the balance to you. I got a letter from Mr. Lawrence saying that he had got the money and that you had gone to Cleveland and he had placed it to my credit. I then sent $20 more to Mr. Lawrence and requested him to send that to you and let the first stand as it was. Since then I have had another letter from him in which he said he had received it and would forward it to you as I desired. I think he will send it by Express or send you a check. I don’t know which. The reason I sent it to Mr. Lawrence was that I has to send it by mail and I thought it was the safest way.
I have not got much time to write today for I am going on picket this afternoon and shall be gone three days. we do picket duty three days out of nine all the time now and we had rather be out on picket than to be in camp. I am glad to hear that you like it where you be and that you are having a good time and I should like to be there with you. And I think this war won’t last much longer and you need not be uneasy about my staying three years.
I wrote a long letter to you and directed it to Cleveland to you about the first of this month. I wish you would write and let me know if you got it and if you have got $20 sent from Mr. Lawrence as soon as you get this. Give my respects to all of my friends and take good care of the children. — Samuel
Letter 5
[While serving in the 44th New York Infantry.]
Battlefield near Spotsylvania Court House, Virginia May 13th 1864
My Dear Wife,
I learn that there is a mail going out this morning and I write a few lines to let you know that I am still alive and well. This is the ninth day of the fight and I [think] it is about over with and I think this campaign will close the war from what I can learn here at present.
There has been a great deal of hard fighting and a heavy loss on both sides and I thank the Lord that I have escaped so far for I have been where it was raging the hardest and we have lost over half of the regiment. Things are pretty quiet this morning but yesterday was a hard day. I have not slept over four hours in three days and nights and I am in no condition to write and if you can make out to read this, I shall be glad. As soon as we are a little settled and I think I can write so that you can read it, I will write to you again but don’t get uneasy if it is a number of days first for if we don’t have any fighting, we will have to march.
I wish you would write to father and let him know that I am alright for it ay be some time before I can. Kiss the children for me and write as soon as you get this so that I may know whether you get it.
From your affectionate and ever loving husband, — Samuel
Letter 6
[While serving in the 44th New York Infantry.]
44th [New York] Regiment 9 miles from Richmond June 1, 1864
My dear wife,
I received yours of the 18th and was glad to hear that you was well and had bettered your condition by moving. I have attempted to write before but had orders to fall in before I had time to more than head a letter and had to abandon it and probably shall not finish this today for things are rolling—speaking in a soldier’s phrase.
I am well and stand it as well as any I see around me, and, notwithstanding, we have had about as much as men can be expected to endure. They go about what they are called on to do cheerfully for we know that the enemy must be too much exhausted with over taxation as we are and if we take time to rest and recruit our energies, they will have the same privilege and we are anxious to finish this war at the earliest possible moment. And as everything is working fine, let the thing be kept a rolling in our motto.
There was a good deal of heavy fighting yesterday in which we were successful though I expect our progress will be slow hereafter. If it is the intention of the enemy to hold Richmond, and I hope they will defend it to the last, for I have faith in our ability to take it. And if Lee will not abandon it, he must fall within the fortifications of Richmond and that will end the war without following him farther.
I wish you would write to father and let him know that I am well for I have ot time to write without doing it when I should be resting, for when we stop, we don’t know whether we will be called on in ten minutes or whether it will be as many hours, but most likely to be the former.
Give my respects to Mr. Lawrence and Lewis. Tell them I am doing my duty here as well as I ever do anywhere. Kiss Ella and Lewis for me and give my respects to all my friends. Write me as soon as you get this. Hoping that this war may soon close and may return home again, I remain as ever your affectionate husband, — Samuel
Letter 7
[While serving in the 44th New York Infantry.]
Near Petersburg [Virginia] August 9th 1864
My dear wife,
I wrote you a few days ago and sent six dollars in the letter but for fear you may not of got it, I will write again. In that [letter] I stated I had sent you fifty dollars by Express. After I wrote to you I saw the man that was to take it to City Point to the Express [Office] and gave him ten dollars more and now I have a receipt for sixty dollars from Adams Express. I wish you would write and let me know if you get it and by the terms of the receipt I must notify them in 30 days if it has not gone through all right. Also let me know if you got my letter containing six dollars.
I am well as usual. We are as comfortable as we can make ourselves. The weather is very warm but we have good shades up so we don’t suffer from the heat of the sun but the flies—there is no end to. They plague a man’s life almost out of him. It is almost impossible to read or write duringthe day. We are behind our breastworks about as far from the Johnnies as it is from Broadway to Genessee Street along Pearl Street. There is no firing here in our works except by the artillery. They have a turn at it several times during the day without much damage to either party, I presume—certainly without much to us—but there is a plenty of firing alog the 9th Corps all the time, night and day. 1
We sit on our breastworks and watch the mortar shells going back and forth in the evening. There is deserters from the rebel lines coming into ours every night. Those that come in last night report the capture of Mobile by our fleet which probably is true. They would have the news before we would.
Give my respects to all. Kiss Ella and Lewis for me, hoping that this will find you and them well, I remain your most affectionate husband, — Samuel
1 Burnside’s 9th Corps had a large number of USCT (Black soldiers) in it and the Rebels purposely singled out that sector of the line to fire their artillery shells for that reason.
Letter 8
[While serving in the 44th New York Infantry.]
Camp of 44th [New York] on the Weldon Railroad, Virginia September 25th 1864
My dear wife,
I received yours of the 11th and was glad to hear from you and that you and the children were well. Tell Ella I thank her for her song and other mementoes the children have sent me as a token that I am not forgotten at home and I trust the time with soon come when I can come and hear her sing it.
The 44th’s time was out yesterday and all the old members that came out with it that had not reenlisted started for home yesterday but there was 180 recruited ready to take their place so the regiment is larger now than it was before and we are expecting 200 more every day. We have not had any fighting on our part of the line in a long time and it is not likely we shall before we move from here.
I will send you a check for twenty-five dollars. I got 2 months pay yesterday which pays me to the first of September. I think it is safer to send a check than to send the money. If it was lost, I think it would not be of any use to anyone else but you and I could get another one. I think you can draw the money at any bank by signing your name to it but any business man will tell you better about it than I can for I am not sure. But you will have to go to a National Bank. I will keep the number of the draft and if you do not get it, let me know and I will get another. Also let me know if you have any trouble to get it cashed and then I will know when I send again.
I don’t know as I have anything more of importance to write at present. Give my respects to all my friends. Kiss Ellie and Lewis for me. My health is good as usual, hoping you and the children are enjoying the same blessing. I am your affectionate husband, — Samuel
P. S. Mr. John Harvey, one of my old soldier friends, promised to call and see you. He started for home yesterday. Write as soon as you get this for I want to know about the check as soon as possible.
Letter 9
[While serving in the 146th New York Infantry.]
Camp of the 146th N. Y. S. V. near Weldon Railroad, Virginia October 25th 1864
My dear wife,
I received yours of October 2nd and read it with pleasure. I am well as usual. You will see by this that we have been transferred to the 146th. I belong to Co. H. I think I shall remain here the rest of my time as it is out before the regiments is so there will be no occasion for another transfer.
We are having pleasant weather but it is cool nights. We were in two fights the 30th of September before we were consolidated with the 146th but after the 44th had gone home. We were called at that time the 44th Battalion and maintained the good reputation of the Old 44th but the officers wanted to go home and they managed to get us transferred and they have gone. Let them go, I don’t know as it will make much difference to us though the most of the men are very much dissatisfied.
I don’t know as I have anything more of importance to write. I will send a dollar to you. [Give] 25 cents to each of the children, and the rest to you. I get the papers from Gloversville. Kiss the children for me and give my respects to all my acquaintances hoping that this will find you all in the enjoyment of good health and that I may hear from you soon.I remain your most affectionate husband, — Samuel
P. S. Give my respects especially to Mr. Lawrence and son if you see them and as for going out West as father desired you to, you must set your own pleasure as you can judge better where you can enjoy yourself the best—better than I can. But I think I shall go there when I come home. When you write to father, tell him I am well and where I am and give him my respects. — S. R. G.
Letter 10
[While serving in the 146th New York Infantry.]
Camp of 146 N. Y. V. near Hatcher’s Run, Virginia February 15, 1865
My dear wife,
I received yours of the 4th February and was glad to learn that you were all well. I had wrote one to you the 4th which you must of got before this but as we broke camp the 5th and have had some fighting since, I write to quiet any fears you may have about me as I am all right as usual.
We have established a new line and gone into camp again. We have been very busy the last three days clearing up camp and building quarters. It is about seven o’clock in the evening and it has been raining most of the day but me and my tent mates got our house all done but putting in the fireplace. Yesterday and today we got that in and have got a rousing good fire agoing in it tonight though there is a good many haven’t got theirs near done yet but it is not cold so they will not suffer much. This is the third time we have built quarters this winter and I hope it will be the last. And if we stay here until April, it will be the last for me.
You spoke in yours about looking for me home on a furlough but I have thought it over and think it best to stay until my time is out before I come on several accounts. One is the cost of coming and another [is] that most that go home are discontented when they come back and I am doubtful whether their folks feel as reconciled as they did before, and then my time is getting so nye out, and taking all into consideration, I think it is best not to come for I have commenced on the last six months yesterday and they will soon pass and then I can come and not have the pleasure marred by the thought that I must come back again.
Kiss Ella and Lewis for me and give my respects to all and especially to father and give me his address for I have lost it. Hoping this may find you all well and that I may hear from you soon, I remain your most affectionate husband, — Samuel
Letter 11
[While serving in the 146th New York Infantry.]
Camp of the 146th N. Y. S. V. near Hatcher’s Run, Virginia March 10, 1865
My dear wife,
I received yours of February 19th. I had wrote to you just previous and think you must of got it about the same time I got yours so I have not been in a hurry about writing since as there has nothing of consequence transpired. I had a letter from father dated February 13th which I have answered. I have also had a letter from Gloversville saying they expect father to make them a visit this month. I would like very much to be at home when he comes down but I shall have to let it go this time. But the time is not far distant when I can come home and not have the pleasure marred by knowledge that I must leave to come back again in a few days.
I sent $25 to you by Mr. Roberts which I think you must of got before this time. I think we will get paid again this month. If so I will send you more. I don’t know what to advise you about your furniture if you should go West this spring. I know it will be a good deal of trouble for you to get them put up in any shape to move and if you don’t go to keeping house before I come home, it will be a trouble to get them stored. I think you and father will know what is best better than I do—that is, if you should go before I come home.
It is very rainy at present—so much so that it is impossible for the army to move. But the weather is warm when the sun comes out. It is like what you have up there in May.
I am in the Second Division. It is commanded by General [Romeyn B.] Ayres and in the First Brigade commanded by General [Frederick] Winthrop, 5th Corps by General Warren. I should not be surprised if our corps left this army soon perhaps to go south with Sherman. I hope we will. There is indication that we will ship for somewhere for we have turned over 90 wagons to the 6th Corps. Still we may not go. It will depend on circumstances but we are ready for almost anything.
I am well as usual. Give my respects to all. Kiss Ella and Lewis for me, hoping that this will find you all in the enjoyment of good health and that I may hear from you again soon. I remain your most affectionate and ever loving husband, — Samuel
P. S. If Mr. Roberts calls to see you after you get this, I wish you would send my old felt hat by him if you have got it yet. — S. R. G.
Letter 12
[While serving in the 146th New York Infantry.]
Lincoln Hospital [Washington D. C.] April 19th 1865
My dear wife,
I received yours of the 12th [and] also of the 14th containing father’s. I don’t think it advisable for him to go to the expense of coming from Wellesville to Washington to get me home for I shall undoubtedly get a furlough and come home sometime in May—perhaps the forepart of May.
You spoke of having sent me a hat and letter by Mr. Case. He had not got to the regiment when I left it. I am sorry you bought a new hat to send to me. I told him to say to you if you had the drab hat that I wore to the shop you might send it to me but I didn’t want you to buy one to send.
I am getting along well. I am able to walk around and for all the trouble there would be about traveling might come home now but they don’t like to let patients leave the hospital until their wounds have got so that there is no danger of their getting worse by being neglected.
I have been transferred to Ward No. 4 and shall likely remain here so you will direct the same as before, only Ward 4 instead of 17. Give my respects to to all. Kiss the children for me. I remain as ever your affectionate husband, — Samuel
The receipt for embalming services by Dr. Thomas Holmes—the “father of American embalming.” Wikipedia claims that Holmes charged $100 per body to embalm Union soldiers and that he embalmed over $4,000 of them during the Civil War. This receipt, however, suggests a much more reasonable price of $22 which included the box Samuel’s body was sent home to Utica in. Holmes embalmed the body of Abraham Lincoln in 1865 less than a month before he embalmed Samuel’s body.
Samuel and Melvina lie buried side by side in Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica, Oneida county, NY
Private Heyward Glover Emmell of Co. K, 7th Regiment New Jersey Volunteers (Madison Historical Society, Morristown, N. J.)
These Civil War letters were written by Heyward Glover Emmell (1841-1917) who served in Co. K., 7th New Jersey Infantry. Heyward’s given name is spelled variously in military and civil records but I have used the name that appears on the family headstone in Morristown, New Jersey, and the way it is spelled in the 1909 Morristown City Directory where Heyward was enumerated among the city’s booksellers & stationers. Heyward was the son of Silas Brookfield Emmell (1800-1883)—a Morristown merchant—and Elmina Campbell (1808-1869).
In 2011, Jim Malcolm discovered Emmell’s Journal in the archives of the Madison (Morris County, New Jersey) Historical Society and published it under the title, “The Civil War Journal of Private Heyward Emmell, Ambulance & Infantry Corps, A Very Disagreeable War.” In the preface of the book, Malcolm remarks that the journal contained daily entries of surprisingly good penmanship with few words that were not readable. Not so with Heyward’s letters and as a consequence, though I have not personally examined the original journal, my hunch is that it was a post-war production written partially from memory and based principally on either letters sent home or pocket notes kept by Emmell in the field. I don’t say this to diminish the value of Malcolm’s book—only to reconcile the differences between the neatness of the journal and the sloppiness of Emmell’s handwritten and penciled letters. Besides, Emmell states in the letter sent home to his parents following the Battle of Williamsburg that he lost his knapsack containing everything he carried with him except for what was in his pockets. Surely if he had been keeping a journal from the date of his enlistment up to that point of time, he would have mentioned such a loss.
There are fifteen letters in this collection, most of them brief and what I would call, “Thank God I’m still alive!” letters that were written after each of the major engagements of the 7th New Jersey.
A book review published on-line by William R. Feeney makes the following observations about Emmell:
Jim Malcolm’s Book, published in 2011 & avaiiable on Amazon
Emmell’s service is distinctive not only because he fought in almost every major battle of the war but also because of his transfer to the Union army’s Ambulance Corps in September 1863. Having served as a stretcher-bearer for fourteen months, Private Emmell provides historians with a unique view of the difficulties in dealing with wounded soldiers. The information in Emmell’s journal is most helpful to the academic when viewed in its entirety rather than in smaller segments. The pages are littered with interesting anecdotes that raise numerous questions from the reader but are rarely insightful in themselves. However, when these stories are woven together, they compose a rich tapestry of material for the historian to analyze. At first glance, for instance, Emmell’s writing appears to comment on race as if he were a third-party reporter. Interactions with “contraband” or “darkys” occur around him, but he never directly takes part. However, Emmell’s feelings on race are evident when snippets of information are strung together. His terse observations on the rebel “darky sharpshooter,” the use of a large black bear to “chase down and squeeze” contraband because the bear was “down on darkys,” and the nightly minstrel shows in camp reveal Emmell’s prevailing views of African Americans, despite his reticence in giving a personal opinion (19, 27, 106).
Emmell’s insight into camp life is equally rich when contextualized broadly. His remarks on arsenic cake, soldier suicide, wedding ceremonies, barrel punishments, burning “sculls” to brew coffee, masquerade balls where men dressed as women, and even one instance of two Union soldiers dressed as rebels who snuck into Petersburg during the siege to attend a dance tell us much about how soldiers coped with the stress and boredom of camp (3, 42, 55, 88, 109, 106, 119). When viewed as a whole, Emmell’s diary is useful for a wide range of Civil War topics, such as race, fraternization, camp life, battles, military organization, medical services, and injury.
The Civil War Journal of Private Heyward Emmell, Ambulance and Infantry Corps: A Very Disagreeable War. Ed. Jim Malcolm. Madison: Fairleigh Dickenson University Press, 2011. ISBN 978-1-61147-040-6, 150 pp., cloth, $75.00.
The national flag of the 7th New Jersey bears the battle honors the regiment won during three years of hard campaigning with the Army of the Potomac. (New Jersey State Museum)
Letter 1
Camp near Williamsburg, Virginia Wednesday, May 7th 1862
My dear Mother,
I expect Mother has read in the Times by this time that the Jersey Brigade were badly cut up, as is the whole of Hooker’s Division. The Jersey Brigade was on the advance after a long march [when] near this place we found ourself near the enemy. We unslung knapsacks and went in action right away and fight five hours. We drove them back twice and then stood our ground when our ammunition give out & they came up and with the Stars & Stripes & said, “Don’t fire on your friends!” and at the same time asking what regiment we were. When told the 7th New Jersey, they said they were [a] Pennsylvania regiment & then fired volley after volley in our ranks so that we had to fall back.
Captain [James M.] Brown 1 & his company was the last to leave. I don’t believe the captain would [have] left until taken prisoner but got shot through the jaw and was carried a ways as we left. It seemed [as] if I was running through a shower of bullets but I was never touched by one. How thankful I do feel.
When we retreated, Sickles Brigade arrived and they and the New Hampshire & Massachusetts & the rest of our division fought until cut to pieces when just then arrived another division which fought & then arrived another division. At 7 o’clock it ceased.
The rebels left. Our troops went in pursuit of them. They were strongly fortified and they had the woods all fixed to suit so as to annoy us. Big trees laid crossways.
The Jersey Boys fought ten times their number after [a] long & tiresome march. The dead in our regiment is about 40, 100 wounded, and about that number missing. Our company [had] 8 or 9 wounded in the fighting & Joe Watkins 2 & Calvin Nix’s 3 [wounds] are the only dangerous ones. Our boys brought Joe off the field yesterday. The rebels took his revolver, watch, and money and called him a damn Yankee. Two other rebels came up to him and fixed a blanket under his head & gave him a drink. After that two others took hold of him & were carrying him across to their lines & were frightened & dropped him & run. None of our company were shot dead and these are the only dangerous ones. The rest are mostly flesh wounds. Three or 4 got balls through coats, hat or haversack without hurting them.
Lieut. Colonel [Ezra A. Carman] shot through the wrist, sword in hand. Major [Francis] Price is in command now. Most all the line officers wounded. Lieut. [Joseph H.] Johnson killed of Company H—he was pierced after dead. Lieut. [Thomas C.] Thompson of Co. A was taken prisoner. All of the division the same way.
I lost my knapsack of course. The rebels got them all & all my things but one handkerchief. Testament and my dear Mother’s picture & a comb & pocket knife. Merritt [Bruen], 4 I just telling that I was writing home, he is well. Of course he did not have to be in the battle. Bob Lambert is not hurt. I believe he was in it but not hurt. I have a blanket I picked up. I do not feel bad losing my knapsack but am thankful not my life. I am well [and] in good spirits. I have to write on anything I can get. I picked this paper dropped by some Con[federate] soldier likely.
I forgot to say that it rained all Monday while we were fighting & we laid flat and fired a good deal of the time. It is horrible to tell of the sights of things around here. 1,000 of dead bodies of ours and the enemy dead around. A good many have been buried. It was horrible to go past a surgeon’s place & see the piles of arms &c. and to see men with legs taken off by shells &c.
I must close. Love to all. Your affectionate son, — Heyward
1 Capt. James M. Brown survived and was later promoted to Major of the 15th New Jersey.
2 Corp. Joseph S. Watkins died at Chesapeake US Army General Hospital at Fortress Monroe, on 31 May 1862 of wounds received in the Battle of Williamsburg.
3 Calvin Nix survived his wounds and lived until 1928.
4 Sgt. Merritt Bruen later served as regimental quartermaster.
Letter 2
Near Williamsburg [Virginia] May 8, 1862
Dear Father,
I wrote a few lines to Mother yesterday. I thought that as I could get chance to write a few lines today and make sure of one of them reaching Morristown. It was last Sunday morning that we were ordered to go & work in number 1 mortar battery but we had just got there & what was to be seen but the Stars & Stripes floating over Yorktown. The rebels had evacuated from out of their stronghold. If they had only stayed until 2 o’clock Monday morning, McClellan would have commenced the battle. Our course we got orders to go back to our camp but soon got orders to march towards Williamsburg. We marched through Yorktown but had to move very slow for they had torpedoes fixed all over the road with wires. When anyone would step on a wire, it would explode [and] kill everyone near it. As there had been 100 hundred killed by them before, our division was very careful not to step on them. I saw a number of them.
About dark we reached the halfway house & so tired & thirsty we could hardly move. We unslung knapsack, got our canteens filled & slung knapsacks and marched until 11 o’clock at night when we rested until daylight and woke up and found it raining very hard. We started again mud knee deep passing muskets, wagons, &c. left by the enemy. About 8 o’clock, we arrived to where our artillery and the 2nd N. H. & 1st Mass. were engaged. We unslung our knapsacks and marched in line of battle, throwing 4 companies out as skirmishers.
Pretty soon, bang, bang, went the rebel’s sharpshooter rifles when Lieut. Colonel [Ezra A.] Carman give the order to drop & lay down. Then was when I first begin to see the horrors of war. Down fell one after another of the skirmishers of Company A who were a few yards before us. It was too hot. Our skirmishers had to come in. The whole regiment laid flat, firing when they could see anything, but the enemy were all hid behind the brush. Pretty soon the firing became general—we driving them back twice.
Well, it went on so until near 1 o’clock when they came out in sight with Stars & Stripes & saying they were our boys. [But] when they got near us, fell on their knees & fired, cutting our brigade badly, when we were driven back. Capt. [James M.] Brown was the last to leave & I do not believe he would have left until taken prisoner if not had got shot through the jaw. Joe Watkins is pretty bad. [Calvin] Nix & [John] Slingerland is pretty bad. I hope all will get well. We had 7 or 8 wounded was all in our company. In the regiment about 30 killed, and 80 wounded. I do not know how many missing. There must be about 2,000 killed & wounded in the whole fight, I should think.
The boys go to see Joe [Watkins] often & say he is better. He is in a house near here. It was the awfullest sight could be thought of to see the dying and wounded. Some in their struggles had handfuls of dirt in their hands, some were found ramming the balls in their guns. I could get lots of things but I could not take care of them such as secesh rifles & canteens. Some of our boys got the rebels’ pocketbooks but I could not do that. It was bad enough for me to see the dead let alone take the things out of their pants. I see a lot of rebel postage stamps. They were just like ours except Jeff Davis’s picture instead of Washington’s. They were not like those I saw at home.
Fort Magruder is about 200 yards from me, It was a strong, fortified place here & so was Yorktown forts upon forts. Some of our boys have been up to Williamsburg. It is a town like Morristown. The boys have boughten [ ] & went in a eating house & got dinner. Williamsburg is a mile and a half from here. I wrote again this morning so as to make sure of getting one letter home & let the home folks all know that I was well. I lost my knapsack and all my things. My paper envelopes & everything. I found what I am now writing on. I had my letters, testament, Mother’s picture, my knife, pocket book, and in my pocket is all I have left.
Lieut. [Thomas C.] Thompson was left at Williamsburg by the rebels wounded. They could not carry him in their hurry. We are still encamped on the battlefield. I do not think we will be put in action right away for most all the officers are wounded in the division. Heaps of love to Mother, sister & heaps to Father. Your affectionate son, — Heyward
Letter 3
The 7th New Jersey Monument near the Trostle Farm Barnsouth of Gettysburg
[Note: The writing on this letter is so faint that it is barely legible.]
Battlefield near Gettysburg, Penn. July 4th 1863
My Dear Father,
Having passed through another battle of which I have a great deal to be thankful I was not killed. The loss is awful in our [ ] company [ ] Capt. [William R.] Hillyer [ ] Lieut. John’s wounded but Lieut. Millen dangerous and of the boys killed and wounded I cannot say—only that we had about 16 in our company. Tom Campbell is at our Corps Hospital wounded. He sent for some of to come and see him. Merritt is going. I could not go or I would. Merritt had seen [ ] First Lieutenant of the Macon Co. & he says Blankie is out west—a signal officer—so Cl___ is not hurt….
Merritt will see Louis. Capt. Logan is killed. The rebels have fallen back a little. Gen. Meade is ….
I must close….I will write first opportunity again…I close, your affectionate son, — Heyward
An 1863 cdv of Heyward Emmell from the family photo album (Charles Joyce Collection)
Letter 4
On the Field May 7th 1864
Dear Father,
I write you a few lines to let you all at home know that I have come out safe so far, hoping everything will turn up right. We have had hard fighting now for 3 days. No more boys injured in our company. I have been helping get off our wounded.
Please give bushels of love to Mother & Sisters & I close & remain your ever affectionate son, — Heyward
Merritt wishes to be remembered to all at home
Letter 5
In the field May 15th 1864
Dear Mother,
I have written once & Merritt [Bruen] wrote once for me to let all at home know that I am not hurt & well, but I do not know as they have reached home. Neither do I know that this will, but there are doctors going to Fredericksburg with wounded every few days and I shall try to send this by of them.
We have been fighting since May 5th. The loss of life has been dreadful. It is estimated killed & wounded at 50,000 in the Army of the Potomac. Our Corps (the 2nd) made a charge a few days ago [and] took 8,000 prisoners and a great many cannon. The battlefield where the charge was made is just heaped with the dead of both parties. The dead bodies are just riddled like a paper box with shots. We stretcher carriers are busy all the time & I cannot write as I would if I were in the regiment.
Yesterday where our Corps were was quite still and we had to get those wounded rebs out that there was some possibility of living. We put them under shelter from the heavy showers [that] have fallen every hour or two for the past 5 days. This morning we left them & changed our front. The rebs followed us up pretty sharp & for a little while we thought we would likely go to Richmond as the roads were blockaded but after a little we got the wagons a moving & am now safe again behind our troops.
I have never witnessed such a scene in my life as in this battle [see The Battle of Spotsylvania Court House]. Gen. Sedgwick, 6th Corps, was killed. 1 There are some killed in Co. K but none from Morristown. Tell Carrie the Major [Frederick Cooper] of the 7th got wounded in two places. I helped carry him off.
I must now close for we are going to leave. Another shower will get this wet. Please do not worry. I am not exposed—nothing to what I would be in the regiment. I feel thankful that I got out safe so far & hope for the best & send bushels of love to Mother, Father, and Sisters. I close & remain your ever affectionate son, — Heyward
I head this “in the field” for I know not nor can I find out any name for this place. We moved from the extreme right of our line last night where our division was forming a strong picket line, to here which is on our left—that is the Johnnie’s right. I see some of the boys writing home so I thought I would do so to let all at home know that I am well.
Everything is very quiet today along the line. Merritt is well. Em’s just returned from Fredericksburg where he took a train loaded with wounded.
This battle is being very skillfully carried on. Gen. Lee & Gen. Grant are just like two persons playing chess & are a good match for each other. I hope & think we will be victorious in the end. I hope Gen. Butler will be able to take Richmond while Grant holds all Lee’s forces here and fights him. I hope for the best & will [ ] to close this short letter hoping it will get home and also the two I sent before & also one Merritt sent. The last letter I had from home was dated the 3rd of May.
Please accept overflowing measure of love from Heyward and give the same to Father, Sister Kate, & Carrie, and I close & remain your ever affectionate son, — Heyward G. Emmell
Letter 7
Camp 5 miles South of Pamunky [River] May 29th 1864
Dear Mother,
It has been most two weeks since I have had a chance to write home & now I have not much prospects of this getting off as there is no communication. This will let Mother know I am well. Needn’t be worried if I do not write in some time for I hardly have time to eat & lose my sleep most every night.
I now close. Accept bushels of love from your ever affectionate son, Heyward, and give the same to Father, Kate & Carrie.
I close.
P. S. I have had the ginger some time which Dempsey brought. It is very nice. Merritt is well.
Letter 8
Cold Harbor June 2, 1864
Dear Sister,
I seat myself on my rubber blanket, my only protection from the storm cold, &c. as it is all I carry except my haversack of hardtack which is not always got rations in it, I am sorry to say.
We are now again on the Peninsula about 11 or 12 miles of the long-looked for Rebel capitol. Part of Gen. Butler’s force are here. As I write this, I can hear the skirmishing & cannonading which has not been still for a month nearly now. We have just been in 3 hours from a tiresome march of 14 or 15 [miles] from the extreme right to the very left. I have had my coffee and feel a little refreshed & as it was most two weeks until I wrote on the 29th & I am afraid that letter did not reach home, do Iborrowed paper and made up my mind to write again & send it by the next chance to let all at home know that I am well.
We stretcher carriers are to the front and my knapsack is with the wagon so I had to borrow paper of course. I have a quantity in the knapsack in the ambulance.
No Morristown boys in Co. K killed. In the 15th Regt., Sergeant Vanhouten was killed and in the 8th Regt. Sergeant Evans—a son of a man that used to plow Auntie’s garden when I was very small.
Gen. Grant works on Gen. McClellan’s plan—fortifies every inch as he takes it. The base of supplies I believe is now the White House [Landing]. I received a letter of May 20th. Please give our dear mother bushels of love from Heyward and give the same to Father and Carrie & accept the same for yourself. Please excuse my dirty paper. It dropped in the creek & my hands being dirty helped to soil it.
I now close and remain your affectionate brother, — Heyward G. Emmell
Letter 9
Near Cold Harbor, Virginia June 10th 1864
Dear Mother,
I have received a letter from home every few days & hope mine go too through. We lay where we did when I wrote on the 7th. Our brigade is just in front of a mill pond with a fine breastwork in front. The John[nie]s shell us a little every day but do not do much injury. Our pickets are out front. The breastworks a couple hundred yards & in front of them lay the South Carolina sharpshooters who go to the same stream for water to fill their canteens & talk together, trade, &c.
One of our boys in the brigade got a Richmond paper of the same day as it was printed. They do not fore a shot at each other in our front until one or the other side advances, but one didn’t keep his word and killed an orderly to the Colonel of the 11th [New] Jersey tonight.
They is talk of us changing base to the James River & that we will move tonight so if we do, I will not have chance to write in a week or more likely. I received a letter from Father tonight. I would have written Father this but I had bit one envelope with me that is on my person & that was directed to Mother. It is my turn to write Father but I thought it made no difference as long as I write where it was directed.
Please excuse all mistakes & heaps of love to all at home including a large share to my dear Mother & I close & remain your affectionate son, — Heyward
Letter 10
Near Petersburg, Virginia June 20th 1864
Dear Father,
Michael Mullery (1842-1864) was originally in Co. K until promoted to Captain of Co. I. He was killed at Petersburg on 16 June 1864.
I will take a few moments to write Father and let all at home know that I am alive. It has been a very hot place since we come here across the James River. The men have been killed by hundreds. In our Co. K, there is 3 killed and about 10 wounded. [Jabez] Beers is killed. Allen [H.] Pierson mortally wounded. Capt. [Michael] Mullery [of Co. I] killed. [Francis E.] Kane is wounded, [Corp. Andrew C.] Halsey has his arm broke with a ball & will have to be amputated. I have no chance to hear about the boys after they go to the hospital so there is no use of wring me to find out for there is no time to do so now.
The first letter for Beers we received & he told me they thought him dead. The next one come I sent to Jim [ ] Beers being dead. I hear. I did not see him. There is no use in having letters directed in my care for they come no better.
[Hugh] Roden is well & says it is very queer that his Father gets no letter from him.
I must now close. Please give bushels of love to my dear Mother & Sisters. I fel very thankful that I have got through safely so far. Merritt is well. I must close & remain your affectionate son, — Heyward
Letter 11
Before Petersburg, Va. July 29, 1864
My Dear Mother,
I received sister Carrie’s letter of the 22nd a few days ago with much pleasure & was very glad to hear that all at home were well.
On the 26th, about 5 o’clock, our Corps started on a tramp, We marched all night and went over 20 miles. I was the nearest played out that I ever have been I think. The route we took was to Point of Rocks where we crossed the Appomattox and then after marching about ten miles further we reached the James River & crossed it the same way on pontoons. Here we found our monitors and gunboats and with the aid of them, we drove the John[nie]’s back who had been firing in transports that bring our provisions to us and captured 4 guns of them.
We crossed the James at Turkey Bend which is a few miles I believe from Malvern Hill. Last night after dark ew started for Petersburg & we are now [ ] along with the 18th Corps after a hard march all night.
I received the handkerchief the afternoon we left for the march & also the stamps, They must have been delayed somewhere.
Mother, I must now [ ] sleepy. Please excuse the shortness. I feel thankful that I have been preserved so far & hope for the best. Please give bushels of love to Father, Sisters Kate & Carrie, & accept overflowing [ ] for my dear Mother & I close & remain your affectionate son, — Heyward
Letter 12
Before Petersburg August 1st 1864
Dear Kate,
Your kind epistle arrived safely this morning & a package of papers. The letter was dated the 25th & I was very glad to hear that all at home were well. I saw Mr. Mills—the one we boys use to call Monkey Mills that use to be in Mr. Johnson’s store and was in our church choir. He is well. He wished to be remembered to Father…I received the handkerchiefs & stamps a few days ago.
About 5 p.m. July 26th we started on a march & marched to the Appomattox River and crossed it on pontoons at Point of Rocks & then marched to Turkey Bend—or some call it Deep Bottom—on the James River & crossed it also. Here we found the gunboats & all the monitors and a small force of the 19th Corps. on bank and it was now morning and we had marched about 22 miles, having marched all night long. Our force consisted of the 2nd Corps under Gen. Hancock and Sheridan’s Cavalry. Our line was formed & a charge was made into the Rebel works (he meantime our monitors hurled in shells from the river) and we captured four Parrott cannon. There was then a new line formed & there was nothing but sharpshooters firing. We lay all the next day also until night when we started back & marched until morning, reaching the right of Petersburg where our division halted until dark when it relieved the 18th Army Corps which were in rifle pits for 24 hours. It was a warm place. If you stuck your cap—whiz–whiz—would come over a ball at what they would think was your head.
The day we was there, all the batteries opened & it was a splendid sight to see from a good place and shells of ours explode in & around Petersburg. Most of our shells were thrown at Fort [ ]. A few struck in the city & it soon became full of smoke so that you could hardly see the spires of the churches. A few of the houses burnt up.
At the same time, in front of Burnside’s Corps, the niggers made a charge & were successful first but afterward were driven back & a great many of them were captured which the rebels are making build up the forts which we blew up or if they refuse, kill them. That is the report here. They use mortar for dropping shell in the trenches here now which are not very pleasant. They sound just like a locomotive coming & in the night you can see them come.
I wrote Mother on the 29th. Please give bushels of love to Mother & Father & Sisters Carrie & accept the same yourself from Heyward.
I must now go for my 4 months pay as the regiment is getting paid which I will enclose in this.
P. S. The chaplain has no checks but will have them in 3 days. I give him 50 dollars and will send the check next letter for 50. I received 58 today.
Letter 13
Near Deep Bottom on James August 17th 1864
My Dear Mother,
I will try and find a way to send this if possible. On the 12th we left Petersburg & marched to City Point & imboarded the sick of the 24th Corps. The troops marched there too but the ambulances went back after unloading to Point of Ricks & crossed the Appomattox River & parked 2 miles from here on the other side of the James. We stretcher carriers were ordered to leave the ambulances & go back to City Point which made it a tiresome march for us. We got on transports & sailed to Deep Bottom, just across the river from where we left the ambulance train.
There has been some hard fighting. Our regiment has not been engaged. I helped get some of the 8th New Jersey Volunteers out yesterday who were wounded. Gen. Birney with the 10th Corps & [ ] of our corps are on the [ ] & it is reported are near Malvern Hill. They brought a rebel General dead in yesterday. His name was Chamberlin [John Randolph Chambliss, Jr.], I believe, a cavalry general. 1
Our gunboats help very much where we are.
It has been some time since I have got a letter from home. The last was dated July 29th. I send bushels of love to Father & Sisters Kate & Carrie & overflowing measures to my dear Mother & hope for the best. And I will now close & remain your ever affectionate, — Heyward
P. S. I put in this one of my friend’s photographs for sister to keep for me. I sent a check on July [ ] for $50.
1 “Promoted to brigadier general, [John R.] Chambliss continued in command of the brigade, through the cavalry fighting from the Rapidan River to the James, gaining fresh laurels in the defeat of the Federals at Stony Creek. Finally, in a cavalry battle on the Charles City Road, on the north side of the James River, Chambliss was killed while leading his men. His body was buried with honor by the Federals, and soon afterward, On Wednesday the 17th of August 1864, a detachment of confederate soldiers came across the union lines under a flag of truce to retrieve Chambliss’s body. Thereafter, he was exhumed and delivered to his friends. It was buried in the family graveyard in Emporia, Virginia. Robert E. Lee wrote that “the loss sustained by the cavalry in the fall of General Chambliss will be felt throughout the army, in which, by his courage, energy and skill, he had won for himself an honorable name.” [Wikipedia]
Letter 14
In the entrenchments before Petersburg, Va. August 21, 1864
Dear Carrie,
Sister Kate’s letter of August 15th arrived on the 18th & I was very glad to hear from home once more & that the directions was right, for I will now receive them regularly. We left Deep Bottom—that is, the 3rd Division—on the night of the 18th and marched all night through the rain and got to Petersburg by noon the next day where our division relieved a division of niggers belonging to the 9th Corps in the entrenchments. Every morning about 3 o’clock the rebel batteries opened on us and we lay low in deep holes which we dig with piles of large logs front of us to screen ourselves from the flying missiles. We will be relieved from this position tomorrow. It is very filthy here. The ground is all littered with old meat &c.
I wrote at Deep Bottom to Mother. We went in a flag-of-truce when we were there with the rebel general Chamberlin’s [Chambliss’s] body & at the same time some of the stretcher carriers went in between the lines after some of the 8th New Jersey dead. They were mortified & it was very disagreeable even to have them carried near you. It was very disagreeable on board the transports. We expected to go to Washington but I was glad to get off so soon for we had hardly room to stand.
At dusk the whole 2nd Corps moved down the James river, bands a playing, to White House Point & laid at anchor & at 10 o’clock a tug boat come up with orders for the fleet to move to Deep Bottom. The going on transports & going down the river was of course just a blind for we could have marched it in half of the time it took to embark. I will not undertake to tell what we accomplished while there for you can read it in the papers before this, & all that I know would just be what took place just around our brigade.
The 5th Corps took 1100 prisoners yesterday and a train belonging to the Johnnies. I can now hear very heavy fighting on the left of us. We have had rain every day for the past 5 or 6 days.
I must now close. Please give bushels of love to my dear Mother & Father, Sister Kate, & accept heaps for yourself & I close & remain your ever affectionate brother, — Heyward G. Emmell
Letter 15
Before Petersburg, Virginia September 11th 1864
Dear Father,
I received sister Kate’s note of the 5th this morning with great pleasure but am sorry to hear that Carrie has so bad a cold. The 5th, 6th, and 8th Regiments have gone home. Next goes the 7th [New Jersey] who are to go between this and October 1st. The clerks are busy making out muster rolls.
We stretcher bearers have something to do again as we advanced a part of the line of pickets who were too close to our fort & it has occasioned picket firing again. Just think a few days ago their pickets & ours would play cards together & some of theirs & our officers were drinking & playing together & now shooting [at] each other—but so it is. We use to get Richmond papers every morning.
Stephen Bruen is now Quartermaster and Tim Burroughs is Quartermaster Sergeant. Merritt’s [Merritt Bruen] death was very sudden. He had a great many friends in the army.
I must now bringhis to a close but not before giving heaps of love to my dear Father, Mother, and Sisters & please remember me to the Aunties & I close & remain your ever affectionate son, — Heyward G. Emmell
The following photographs are in an album recently purchased by a friend of mine at the Gettysburg Show (June 2022). It is clear the album once belonged to Heyward G. Emmell.
Silas Brookfield EmmellSilas Brookfield EmmellSilsa Brookfield EmmellCatharine (“Kate”) C. EmmellCatharine (“Kate”) C. EmmellGeorge A. EmmellCaroline (“Carrie”) EmmellElmina (Campbell) EmmellElmina (Campbell) Emmell
Spared & Shared 23 