George Nelson Macy was born in Nantucket in 1837 to parents George Wendall and Lydia (Percival) Macy. In 1861, George was residing in Boston where he worked at a bank, when he heeded the call to join the Union Army during the U.S. Civil War. He was aged 23. He returned to Nantucket and recruited fellow islanders to join him in forming a company in the 20th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. In August 1861, George was commissioned 1st Lieutenant of Co. I.
Known as the “Harvard Regiment” due to the large number of Harvard graduates among its officers, the 20th Massachusetts played a major role in many of the most important battles of the Civil War, including Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg, and was even present for General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox. The Harvard Regiment also suffered the greatest number of casualties of any Massachusetts regiment, and ranked fifth in the Union Army overall, and became known as the “Bloody 20th.”
In one notable encounter when Union forces where routed at the Battle of Ball’s Bluff near Leesburg, Virginia, and forced to retreat across the Potomac River, George went in search for boats to ferry the wounded: “Lieutenant Macy now offered to swim over and see if there was a chance left for boats to be brought to the assistance of the others. Throwing off everything but his cap (in which he carried the miniature of his fiancé), and carrying his sword in his hand, he started and finally reached the island, but without his sword, which he was compelled to drop when nearly over. But not a boat of any kind was to be had.”
George Nelson Macy, after losing his hand at Gettysburg
George was wounded several times even losing his left hand at the Battle of Gettysburg but returned to service. He married Mary M. Hayden in Feb 1863 (between the first Battle of Fredericksburg and the Chancellorsville Campaign).
George served as Brevet General from August 1864.
After the war, George returned to work at a bank in Boston. Despite surviving the war, he was killed in 1875 by a gunshot wound, apparently accidentally self-inflicted with his own pistol. He was aged 37.
Throughout the war, George Macy maintained a correspondence with his friend Amasa Lyman Lincoln, a Boston banker. Lincoln kept these letters, as well as a scrapbook containing clippings relating to the 20th Massachusetts and other contemporary events. After the end of the Civil War, Amasa Lincoln and his family moved to Santa Barbara, California, where they established a hotel they called the Lincoln House. Today known as the Upham Victorian Hotel & Cottage Gardens, it is the oldest continuously operating hostelry in Southern California. The George N. Macy / Amasa L. Lincoln Papers (ca. 1779-1899) are held in the UC Santa Barbara Special Collections.
At the time this letter was written the 20th Massachusetts was performing outpost duty at Edwards Ferry (four companies) and at Camp Lee (two companies), five nights a week. Camp Benton was located outside Poolesville, Maryland, on the east bank of the Potomac river, 35 miles from Washington. It was occupied at the time by both the 19th and 20th Massachusetts.
[Note: This letter is from the personal collection of Jeremiah Bowers who asked for help in identifying the author on the public website, The American Civil War on 27 May 2024.]
Transcription
Addressed to A. L. Lincoln, Esq., Mass Bank, Boston From Camp Benton
Camp Benton September 27, 1861
Dear Lincoln
In my last I meant to have inquired if you had ever sent that Blue Battalion over coat to Quartermaster Hutchins, Merchants RR Building, as you said you would. If you have not, will you please do so and take his receipt for it as returned by me. If he will not take it, he will tell who will receipt for it. By doing this, you will much oblige me.
In haste, yours, — Macy
Will you also fasten the trunk under your bed is some way as I believe the lock is caved. Tie a rope around it or something and sent it on board the schooner Nettleboro at India St. when she is next in Boston. Father will tell you when she is there.
I think you could find me a very nice Meershaum Pipe at your friend Kelleys. Will you please ascertain what one would cost—a fine one—small size and very pretty, crooked stem and a short one–amber mouthpiece, small sized. You will think I am very particular but how happy you will be to indulge your friend in the wilderness. If moderate in price, perhaps I shall order one.
I passed last night at Edwards Ferry with the company—I in command. Slept on the ground in a hard rain storm—feel OK today. So you can give my love to everybody. Goodbye. — Macy
The following letters were written by William Henry Stebbins (1839-1864) of Wirt, Allegany county, New York. William enlisted in August 1861 as a private in Co. C, 85th New York Infantry. He was taken a prisoner on 20 April 1864 at Plymouth, North Carolina and died of dysentery as a POW at Andersonville on 18 June 1864.
William was the son of John Stebbins (1807-1855) and Electa A. Clark (1813-1880). He wrote the letters to his sister Celora M. (Stebbins) Scott (1845-1915) and her husband, Edwin Thomas Scott (b. 1837). After marrying Celora in the summer of 1862, Edwin enlisted as a private in Co. E, 12th New York Cavalry. He was later transferred to Co. C and survived the war, mustering out at Raleigh in July 1865.
Letter 1
[Camp on James River, Va.] Sunday, July 6th 1862
Dear Brother Ed,
I received your letter June 19th and I was sick and could not answer it before. I have been sick three weeks but I am getting better. I did not know of your marriage till I received your letter. I did not think when I was at home last fall I should have the privilege of calling you brother. There is lots of marriages since I have been a soldier. I think I shall have to fetch home with me a wench. There is lots of black devils here and I hate the sight of them. Little did I think that any girl would be a fool enough to have George Ferris, the poor miserable devil.
I suppose you have heard about the Union troops before Richmond falling back near the James river. Our regiment is camped near Harrison’s bar on the James river. It seems as if we would never get Richmond. I am getting tired of waiting. There was lots of reinforcements came in last week and I hope Richmond will be ours pretty soon. We have got a new general in General Casey’s place. It is General Peck. He has command of the Division. I shall have to close. Write soon.
Very truly yours, — William H. Stebbins
William H. Stebbins Co. C, 85th Regt. N. Y. Vols General Peck’s Division 2nd Brigade, Washington D. C.
Letter 2
Camp Suffolk, Va. November 26th 1862
E. T. Scott, Esq.,
Dear brother—Your letter was duly received and I was very glad to hear that you was well. You wrote that you had enlisted in the cavalry. I am glad that you done so for you will have it easier than infantry on a march. I have wished a great many times that I belonged to cavalry when I was on a march. A horse is a darn nice thing when a man is pretty tired and has got a good ways to march. When you get into the field, you must write and let me know how you like the soldier’s life. It is pretty hard sometimes and sometimes pretty easy. But a soldier has got to stand to the rack—hay or no hay. It won’t do for a man to get home sick. If he does, he will darn soon get under the sod.
I was sorry to hear that Seymour was elected. I don’t think he is the man for Governor. What do you think of McClellan being removed? He was too slow to suit me. I hope Burnside won’t give the rebs a chance to sleep nights. I hope he will make them hunt their holes and after he get them in, I hope he will make them smell powder. I believe this war could have been stopped six month ago just as well as to have it where it is now. I don’t see any more signs of it being ended in six months than I did six months ago. I will close for this time and I hope to hear from you soon.
Respectfully yours, — W. H. Stebbins
Letter 3
Plymouth, North Carolina September 20th 1863
Dear Sister Lola,
Your kind letter of the 10th came to hand yesterday. I was very glad to hear from you and hear that you were well. It is very cool today. It has been very rainy weather the past week. Everything around here remains all quiet.
I received a letter from Albert Spoon last week. He wrote that Uncle Samuel and Aunt Lydia Carter and Electa Miner had been there a visiting. Ed Knapp and his wife run away from Glendale, Ed was drafted. I suppose he thought it would be cheaper to run away than to leave his pretty Sarah.
Last Sunday I received a letter from Ed. He did not write anything about his company going to Newbern. There was a company of the 12th New York Cavalry here last week/ They started for Newbern. Albert Root has got back. He has been home on a furlough. He says it is very lonesome at Richburgh and Bolivar. Mother wrote me that she had got one bushel of dried berries and when I get home I shall have all of the berry pies I want to eat. I suppose you know that I don’t like berry pies for they make little boys sick.
There has been an order issued from the War Department that all of the old three years men will be discharged in July. If that is so, it will be a poor old joke on us soldiers. My three years will be up the 2nd of September. I am in hope that the war will come to a close before next summer.
I will close for this time. Please excuse this short letter and I will try and do better next time. I remain your affectionate brother, — William
Letter 4
War Neck [North Carolina] Sunday, February 21, 1864
Dear sister,
I thought I would devote a few leisure moments in writing to you this pleasant day. It has been very cold for the past few days. The other morning when I got up, I found the ground all covered with a very pretty white carpet. The snow was about one inch deep and it was very cold. It made me think of Old Allegany county. Everything remains all quiet here. There has not any Veterans from here gone home yet nor I don’t see any prospect of their going very soon. The Paymaster has been expected here for the past two weeks but he has not made his appearance yet. I suppose as long as the Veterans get their pay, they will start for their home and I guess that I shall have to be numbered amongst those that will have to stay till next September. Then comes my turn to go home and stay as long as I please. I think that I shall serve my next three years in Allegany.
I received a letter from Edwin last week. He was well. I have not received a letter from you in over four weeks. The next time you write, I wish you let me know if you ever got the Company Roll that I sent and if you have paid for my boots and how much they cost. I will postpone writing for today and wait a few days and see if I don’t get a letter from you.
Thursday the 25th. Celora, I thought it was about time that I finished this letter. Yours of the 7th was received this morning and I was very glad to hear from you and hear that you all were well. I received a letter from Mother this morning and I will send it to you so you can read it with all the ease you please.
I heard the other day that Carl had got a baby so you can see that I get some news from Allegany besides what you write. Tuesday night there was 20 men from our company & some from Co. H that are stationed here went out on a scout about 15 miles and went to a house where there was a party. They took six rebels and came in yesterday morning all safe and sound. There isn’t any news here. Everything remains all quiet. The weather is warm and pleasant. I will close for this time. Please write often. From your brother, — William H. S.
Letter 5
Plymouth [North Carolina] March 18th 1864
Dear Sister,
Your kind letters of February 21st, March 6th, were received the 12th and it is with great pleasure that I seat myself this evening to answer them. Truly I was glad to hear from you and hear that you are enjoying good health. I have just received a letter from Ed. He is well. I have not heard from Mother in five weeks. I have forgotten whether I have wrote you a letter since I have been in the Battery or not but I will mention it for fear I have not for I have wrote so many letters for the past two weeks and besides having the ague chill a few days so that I have almost forgotten who I have written to.
Most all of the men in the 85th that did not reenlist have been put into the 24th Battery of the New York Light Artillery to take the place of the Veterans that have gone home on furlough. I suppose when they get back that we will go back to our regiment. I wish that I could serve out the rest of my time in the battery for I like artillery better than infantry. It will be three weeks next Monday night since we came down here. This evening there was 13 recruits came for the battery and 30 for the 85th. I have not seem any of the men that came for the 85th so I don’t know whether there is anyone that I am acquainted with or not. There has not any of the Veterans from here gone home except those of the battery and I don’t see any prospects of the Veterans of the 85th going home very soon.
Tell Sam to be a good boy and keep all right side up with care. The Paymaster has not made his appearance here yet but I hope he will before many days. I have nothing more to write this time so I guess that I might as well begin to draw this letter to a close and I hope to hear from you often. You must be careful and direct your letters plain. Don’t be afraid of getting too much ink on the envelopes. Yours of February 21st was directed over by some postmaster. Direct as usual.
I remain as ever your affectionate brother, — William
The following letter was written by a soldier named “Henry” serving in the 16th Massachusetts Infantry. This regiment saw heavy casualties during the war. Of more than 1300 men, 112 were killed in battle, 360 were wounded and 52 died from their wounds. Disease claimed 115 and 65 were taken as prisoners of war, 32 of them dying in Confederate prisons. Another 344 went home afflicted with wounds or disease as disability discharges. If Henry was from Boston, as I think he was, he was probably a member of Co. A, or Co. F.
Henry wrote the letter to his friend, Jerry Norris—a clerk employed by Augustus Hardy working at 3-4 Charlestown street in Boston. Hardy’s business was “doors, sashes, and blinds.”
A calling card distributed by Augustus Hardy. His business was at 3-4 Charlestown Street in Boston, opposite the Boston & Maine Railroad Depot.
Transcription
Fort Beauregard 1 Munson’s Hill, Virginia November 1st 1862
Friend Jerry,
After a very long interval, will endeavor to write you a few lines to let you know that I am still alive and well hoping this will find you the same. I have received several letters from you since I last wrote. I can’t give you the dates but one I received was dated September 2nd. It had been going the rounds of the army.
There is no news here. About ten days ago at dark we received orders to get ready to march in light order and ready we got and started, we not knowing where. We marched about four miles to this hill. The regiment is camped inside of the work which is circular. This is the hill that the rebels got last fall and where they had the quaker guns. We have a battery of artillery with us. We are in shelter tents and it is mighty cold nights.
What we are here for is more than I can tell. We are having a better chance here to drill the recruits than if we were back in camp. If they would send up our Sibley tents and knapsacks, we could live a little more comfortable than we are now. I would have wrote from here before if I could have got paper, &c. About that dollar, send me half in stamps and half in money and I will get a likeness taken for somebody.
It is utterly impossible for me to make out a letter. Tell Tom Beverly 2 that I have received a letter from Charley Putnam. 3 He is in the 1st Wisconsin Vols., Co. I, 3rd Division, via Louisville. He is in a hospital there having been wounded in the neck at Chaplin Heights [Hills], Kentucky. 4 He wants him to write to [him] He is a very patriotic youth. If you find out what regiment Sam and Ebe are in, let me know.
The weather is getting very cold here and we feel it more keenly. I should think you would feel lonesome this winter bumming around alone. You will have to stay at home the nights that you ain’t on Eden Street and knit or sew for the brave soldiers. It is a good time for you now to commence to live a good, moral life now that you have no Engine and Bummers to lead you away. You surely can’t be lead away by the weaker sex and they are the only thing to be feared now.
I do hope you will be able to weather it through this winter. You may have the pleasure of having either me or some other boy home for a while this winter if we stay here. We have got no new officers yet and don’t know when we are a going to get any. Once in a while we meet some of the (40th) Regiment—that is, the Chelsea Company, now H. [The] 1st [Massachusetts] is not a Chelsea company now. If you could only see the old men and muckers we are getting, you would be disgusted with the company and everything else—all perfect strangers to us and probably always will. It is reported that we have got 30 state prison birds in the regiment’s recruits. How true it is, I can’t tell.
You will please excuse my sending this letter without prepayment but the truth is, I have no money or stamps. Please write as soon as you get this and send the stamps.
Forgive all negligence and delay. My love to everybody and particularly yourself, — Henry
[to] J. Norris, 3 [ ] to Charlestown Street, Boston, Mass.
Care of A[ugustus] Hardy, Esqr.
1 Henry’s letter refers to the circular fort atop Munson’s Hill built by the Confederates in the summer and fall of 1861 as “Fort Beauregard.” I’ve not seen this particular fort referred to as “Fort Beauregard” previously. Once the Federals occupied late in 1861, they named it Fort Munson. Fort Beauregard generally refers to the fort built by the Confederates near Manassas Junction. He also mentions that it was the site of the quaker guns that General Joseph E. Johnston had planted there to make the fort appear much stronger than it really was. See “All the World is Laughing,” by Walter Coffey.
2 Believed to be Thomas Alexander Beverly (1835-1915), a native of Scotland, who was working as a boilermaker in Boston in 1861 when he married Elizabeth O’Neill (1837-1864). By 1870, Thomas had relocated to Kossuth, Manitowoc county, Wisconsin.
3 Frank Charles (“Charley”) Putnam (1842-1913) was the son of Simeon Waters Putnam (1818-1882) and Phebe H. Spear (1821-1849). Charley was going to school in Hingham, Sheboygan county, Wisconsin, at the time of the 1860 US Census. He was enumerated as an 18 year-old in the Charles Rogers residence.
4 The Battle of Chaplin Hills was known by its more popular name, the Battle of Perryville.
View of Union Soldiers of the 16th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment Parading Along a Street After Their Return From Fighting in the Civil War in Cambridge, Massachusetts (1865).
The following letters were written by John Balch (1843-1916), the son of Ira Balch (1796-1861) and Margaret Baker (1804-1864) of Sodus, Wayne county, New York. He wrote the letter to his much older brother, Holland Balch (1825-1898).
In August 1862, when he was 19 years old, John enlisted as a private in Co. E, 111th New York Infantry. He was survived the war and mustered out with his company in June 1865 but was wounded in the fighting at Gettysburg in July 1863 and was absent from the regiment for a time. Eight of the regiment’s ten companies (totaling 390 men) fought at Gettysburg late in the day on 2 July in the charge of Willard’s Brigade against Barksdale’s Mississippians. This successful charge helped to erase the sobriquet “Harper’s Ferry Cowards” that had previously been applied to them.
In one of his letters, John mentions artillery shelling that reminded him of Harper’s Ferry. It was at Harper’s Ferry in September 1862 that the 111th New York first came under fire. They were among the Union troops surrendered there and sent to Camp Douglas in Chicago to await exchange. When they were returned to duty, they were posted as pickets near Centerville, Virginia, where both of these letters were written.
I could not find an image of John Balch but here is James Coons, who also served in Co. E, 111th New York Infantry. James was later transferred to 132nd Veteran Reserve Corps. (Bret Schweinfurth Collection)
Letter 1
Centerville [Virginia] April 27, 1863
Dear Brother,
I take my pen in hand to let you know that I am still among the living and enjoying first rate good health and hope this will find you all the same. It is hot enough to roast the devil. We have had colder weather down here that I ever see it in York State for this time of year.
I got that money that Orrin sent me. I got a letter from Amanda the other night but have not answered it yet. We have had marching orders but have not moved yet and I don’t believe we will right away.
What are you doing now? Working, I suppose, the same as usual. I wish I was there to work for somebody. I hear that wages is high in York State. Is Orrin working by the month or day?
There is four regiments here now and two batteries of six guns each. We all got four month’s pay. I will send my check in this letter. I owed the sutler eight dollars. I bought a pair of boots for six dollars and they are damn poor things at that. You may send me five dollars. If Orrin has got his five, then you may have the rest for your trouble. I mean that 14 dollars that I sent by George Paddock. When you get this, let me know what you do with it.
Captain [Isaac M.] Lusk has been promoted to Major. Our captain’s name is John [A.] Laing. Gus Proseus is 1st Lieutenant and Will Mallery is promoted to sergeant. He draws 17 dollars a month. What is our worthy brother-in-law doing now? Tearing around, I suppose, as he did when he was on our place. Will Mallery has gone to Washington to send Emery’s things home. When you write, send me all the news you can and how the things look on the farm and how Ike Boss gets along. If you see him, tell him that I am well but if I was at home I think I should stay there for all going a soldiering. We have to drill four hours a day, two in the fore and two in the afternoon.
You can send me that five dollars and keep the rest yourself. But I will have to close. Write soon and oblige your brother, — John Balch
I forgot to say that I got Mary’s letter. Don’t put on in care of the Captain.
Directions: John Balch, 111th Regt. Co. E, N. Y. S. V., Washington D. C.
Letter 2
Centerville, Virginia May 22, 1863
Dear Brother,
I take my pen in hand to let you know that I am still in the land of the living and hope this will find you all the same. It has been quite a while since I wrote but somehow I could not get at it. But having nothing to do today, I thought I would not have a better chance. It is pretty warm here now and I suppose it is the same there. We are still doing picket duty.
What does the folks think of the war now? I guess they think it will take more than six months to whip the rebels. They said I would not have to stay but five or six months at the most ten.
That five dollar bill you sent me is not good for anything. it is a counterfeit. I will send it back to you and you will probably know who you got it from and can get it changed and send me another. Send a green back if you can get one.
An unidentified soldier from Co. E, 111th New York Infantry (Dick Valentinetti Collection)
How does Orrin and Hannah get along? All right, I suppose. I would like to see the old boy and hear him saw on the old fiddle. I miss it a good deal. I suppose he is getting to be quite a player by this time. How is John Dubois getting along on the old farm? I guess as good as Walt did, if not better. And so Walt is made, is he? Well he won’t hurt anybody. He is harmless.
But I must hurry and get through for I have got to wash and get ready for we have inspection tomorrow and them that has on a dirty shirt or a dirty gun is sent to the guard house for three or four days. I have not been sent there yet and I hope I never shall be. We have preaching every Sunday night but it ain’t like home for there ain’t any gals to go home with.
The battery is shooting at a target. They put up a target a mile and a half and they come pretty close sometimes. You ought to hear the shells. They make a devil of a noise going through the air. They make me think of Harper’s Ferry. But I must close.
Send me the money if you please. I suppose you think I am spending a good deal of money but we have to buy a god many little notions and things are pretty high here. I have growed a little since I left home. I weigh about twenty pounds more than I did but I must bring my letter to a close by bidding you goodbye from, — John Balch
The following letter was written by William Leon Mowry (1841-1910) of Deansville, Oneida county, New York who enlisted on 8 August 1862 to serve three years as a private in Co. B, 157th New York Infantry. William mustered out with company on 10 July 1865, at Charleston, South Carolina. When he enlisted, William was described as a 5’6″ brown-haired dentist.
William was the son of Charles Mowry (1797-1883) and Matilda Dennison (1803-1876). After the war, William relocated to Syracuse, Onondaga county, New York, where he became a machinist.
Transcription
Arlington Heights, Camp Chase [Early October] 1862
Dear Sarah,
I now sit down to write you a few lines as I promised thinking you would like to hear from me. I will improve this opportunity as another may not present itself right away. My health has been first rate ever since I left Camp Mitchell. We left Camp Mitchell a week ago Thursday. we went to Canastota and took the cars for Albany. We had a splendid supper in Canastota—as nice as ever eat in my life. The people turned out from ever direction to welcome us. It seemed that they could not do enough for us. We got into Albany about daylight in the morning and stayed around the depot till about 8 o’clock when we got our breakfast and marched up to the Capitol where we saw the Governor. He made us a speech. He said he thought we were the best drilled regiment he had met with under the new call from Albany. We proceed[ed] to New York by way of the Hudson River Railroad where we arrived about 4 o’clock Saturday afternoon. We stayed there over night till the next day in the afternoon. We got our guns there. Also our haversacks.
While we were there, I had opportunity to go round considerable. I went into Barnum’s Museum, went down to the Battery and all over town. I had a very pleasant time indeed. From New York we took the steamer and rode about 30 miles to a place called Port Monmouth, We took the cars there (Sunday) for Camden, Pa., where we arrived about 5 o’clock. We took the ferry across the Susquehanna River into Philadelphia. There we got one of the best suppers I ever eat. We met with a very warm reception indeed. After supper, we marched to the cars about two miles between two files of ladies and it was shake hands all the time all the way.
From there we went to Baltimore where we arrived early Monday morning about daylight. It was quite different with these people there. They did not come out and welcome us there as they did in Philadelphia. We stayed there all day and started for Washington in the evening. There was two men deserted in Baltimore. We did not miss them until we got into Washington. We stayed in Washington about three hours and then marched six miles for our camp. It was rather tiresome but we all stood it first rate. We hired our knapsacks carried in a baggage wagon. We are a going to move from the camp. we are in now to guard a fort. We are a going Monday. our camp is very pleasant and I hate to leave it. We are in plain sight of Washington and the Potomac.
Direct your letters to Washington D. C., 157th Regiment, Co. B, NYSV. Be a good girl till I see you again. If I ever live to come home, I shall go into my trade again in Martin’s office. goodbye for the present. Write, write, write. — W. L. Mowry
The following diary was kept by William Elmer Potter (1840-1896), the son of James Boyd Potter (1796-1865) and Jane Barron (1798-1855) of Bridgeton, Cumberland county, New Jersey. After attending public schools, William attended Harmony Academy where he remained until 1854. He then became a pupil at the West Jersey Academy during its first session, under the tutorship of Professors Snyder and Stevenson, but in October of 1857, having determined upon the law as a profession, entered the office of Hon. John T. Nixon. He remained until September 9, and the same month became a student of the law school of Harvard University. From this school he graduated in January, 1861, with the degree of L.L.B., and in September of the same year entered the junior class of Princeton College.
In July 1862, William put his collegiate studies aside and accepted a commission as 2nd Lieutenant in Co. K, 12th New Jersey Infantry and mustered into the service of the United States as such Sept. 4, 1862. He was promoted to a first lieutenancy of the same company and regiment Aug. 6, 1863, and to the captaincy of Company G Feb. 4, 1864. Capt. Potter became brevet major United States Volunteers for meritorious services, May 1, 1865, by promotion of the President of the United States, and was, in 1866, commissioned aide-de-camp to Governor Marcus L. Ward, of New Jersey, with the rank of lieutenant-colonel, upon whose staff he served for three years.
During this period Col. Potter was present in the following engagements: Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Auburn, Bristow Station, Blackburn’s Ford, Locust Grove, campaign of Mine Run, Morton’s Ford, Wilderness, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Deep Bottom, Crater, Deep Bottom (second engagement), Reams’ Station, Boydton Road, assault and capture of Petersburg, Rice’s Station, and Appomattox Court-House. By an order from headquarters, Twenty-fourth Army Corps, in company with five other officers, he was detailed to deliver the colors surrendered by Gen. Lee’s army, seventy-six in number, to Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, of the War Department, at Washington, which ceremony occurred on May 1, 1865. He was the only New Jersey officer present on this occasion.
During the period of time that William recorded the page of the diary presented below, he appears to have been living at home in Bridgeton, Cumberland county, New Jersey, and working as a clerk in the county court house, possible for the sheriff’s department.
[Note: This diary is housed at the Princeton University Library but has not been previously transcribed and published. See William E. Potter Diary, 1859-1862]
Transcription
Monday, February 11, 1861—As usual at office. Evening call at Mrs. Reeds. She at present is in Newcastle. See Mr. & Mrs. B. F. E. Call at Dr. William Elmer’s. Ladies not at home. Call at R[obert] S[hute] Bucks’. 1 See the young ladies. Invite me to Dancing Party at their house tomorrow evening.
Tuesday, February 12—Nothing occurs. Receive today from Messrs. Cromelien & Co. account against Joshua C. Surran to collect if the thing be possible, which query? Nothing happens of moment. Do not go up to R. S. B.’s to the little assemblage this evening. Have some reading to do.
Wednesday, February 13—Day passes as usual at office. Evening call at Jonathan Elmer’s. Meet Miss S. H. B. Play backgammon and other games. Have most pleasant evening.
Thursday, February 14—Nothing unusual occures. “Sociable” meets this evening at H. B. Lupton’s. Do not go however. Play game of chess with Frank in which I am beaten. Tennessee has gone for the Union by a majority of more than fifty thousand. The home of Jackson has again proved her devotion to the Union which he loved so well. Weather most unpleasant. Walking miserable. Evening damp and disagreeable. The winter climate of South Jersey is most uncomfortable.
Friday, February 15—Day as usual at office. Nothing of importance.
Saturday, February 16—Nothing occurs worth noting. Read anatomy, &c.
Sunday, February 17—Mr. A. Bunn preaches in church in morning. Go to hear Mr. ]Joseph W.] Hubbard [Presbyterian Church] in evening. Good sermon.
Public Ledger, 19 Feb. 1861, page 3
Monday, February 18—Morning at office as usual. Read case of Arnold vs. Mandy, 1 Halsted, concerning rights of Riparian owners. Afternoon at 4 pm leave in steamer Patuxent for Philadelphia in company with C. M. R., J. H. Elmer, and others. Quite a party joins us at Greenwich, all intent on same purpose with ourselves—namely, to see Mr. Lincoln, our Executive-elect, at Trenton or Philadelphia. The passage in the boat, being a night passage, was not of the most pleasant description. The weather was quite cold and the windward side of the boat agreed with the weather. I got an hour or two’s sleep, however. We arrive in Philadelphia about 5 a.m. Elmer, Riley, and I go to the Union Hotel and to bed. Sleep until about 9 a.m. In morning call on Thompson at his offfice. Evening go to see [James Edward] Murdock play in “Elder Brother” at Walnut St. Theatre. Splendid elocutionist.
Wednesday, February 20—Morning stroll about the city. Afternoon at 3 p.m. leave Kensington Depot for Trenton. Here we find most of our Cumberland Party who had gone up in the morning train. Evening, visit those celebrated rooms of Camden & Amboy Company, Nos. 10, Trenton House, and 7, American House. Am introduced to E. H. Stevens, Esq., General Cook, Hon. T. Jones Yorke and other worthies of like or lesser ilk. Many amusing things occur during the evening and we have on the whole a very lively time.
1 Robert Shute Buck (1802-1877) of Bridgeton, Cumberland county, New Jersey, was apprenticed to a miller at an early age. At 23, he entered politics as a Whig and was elected to the office of county sheriff. He then entered into the manufacture of bone buttons, and in 1836, entered into the iron business—the Cumberland Nail & Iron Company. He was married to Caroline James and their children included Sarah (“Sallie”) Buck, born 1838, and Clara Reeves Buck, (b. 1843), both mentioned in the diary pages that follow.
Thursday, February 21—Only limited number of tickets having been issued to admit persons to the Capitol, there was of course a great demand for them. Through the kind assistance of F. F. Patterson, Esq., we were admitted as a Special Reporter, on the platform close to the chair of the President of the Senate. Adjoining me were the Philadelphia Committee who had come thus far to meet Mr. Lincoln.
Mr. Lincoln and part of his suite entered about 12:15 and was introduced to President of Senate who welcomed him in a short address. Mr. Lincoln in a finely modulated voice replied, speaking of his early interest in the revolutionary struggle in New Jersey, &c. in a speech of between five and ten minutes in length. His is a very tall man, standing if I am not mistaken about six feet three inches high. His countenance bears the impress of grave and earnest thought, as well as of great coolness and determination. But when he begins to speak, how his whole face lights up with one of the most pleasant and heartfelt smiles that we have ever seen. I pray the Supreme Being who presides over the destinies of nations, and old individuals, that this grave, earnest, thoughtful, determined man, may prove, if need be, a second Washington to our Country. If there be anything in physiognomy—and experience has proven that there is—he is the man for the present crisis.
Mr. Lincoln dined at the Trenton House. Our party left Trenton at 1:32 p.m., arriving in city about 3:30 p.m. Elmer, Riley, and I go to Continental. Mr. Lincoln arrives in Philadelphia about 4 p.m., and at Continental about 6 p.m. makes short address from balcony to vast crowd assembled in front of Hotel. Evening receives citizenry in parlor of Continental. I retire early—i. e., about 12 p.m.
Friday, February 22—This morning at sunrise, Mr. Lincoln raised American flag to staff over Independence Hall. I do not go on account of crowd. Start for home at 9 a.m. Riley and Elmer do not go. In stage, W. G. N., P. Luellam, E. M. Hood, and others. Have quite lively ride. Stars & Stripes floating at crossroads. Cheer them in one or two instances as we ride by. Arrive home about 3:30 p.m. Evening attend Celebration of Washington Society of Andeton, in their Hall at Hotel of E. Deor’s & Son. Quite a large number of their friends present. President of Society, J. Leslie Lupton, reader of Washington’s Address, Henry Jordan; Orator of evening, William Cox. Cox speaks very well. Short addresses made by Judge Elmer & Rev. Mr. Hubbard. After which we adjourn to the dining hall where we partake of elegant collation. After drinking the regular toasts, in response to a personal toast, I make the Society a little speech. Adjourn at 21 o’clock. One hundred and twenty-nine years ago this day, George Washington was born. Would to Heaven that the same fraternal feeling pervaded our land today as existed at the hour of his death.
Saturday, February 23—Nothing occurs. Evening call on H. M. E.
Sunday, February 24—Nothing happens.Church at Dr. Jones, twice.
Monday, February 25—Nothing happens. See H[enry] T. Ellett of Mi[ssissippi]. Has been appointed Postmaster General to Southern Confederacy. Reward of treason. Will find it a barren scepter.
Tuesday, February 26—J. J. Reeves leaves en route for Cambridge today. I should like very much to visit the old spot once more.
Wednesday, February 27—Nothing happens of importance. Weather remarkably warm and pleasant.
Thursday, February 28—Nothing happens. Mr. Lincoln seems to be very favorably received at Washington. The personal qualities of the man are gaining him many friends.
Friday, March 1—Brother Robert in company with others starts for Washington to be present at the Inauguration, Nothing occurs.
Saturday, March 2—Morning as usual. Afternoon the same. Evening call at Dr. Eben Elmer’s in company with Loring Kirby, Esq.
Sunday, March 3—Church as usual. Morning at Jones’. Evening at Hubbard’s Nothing happens.
Monday, March 4—Day of Inauguration of new government. Through vigilance of General Scott, everything passes off quietly, whatever may have been the event otherwise. One of the most important days in the history of the government. I trust it may be the herald of a glorious and universal dawning of peace and prosperity throughout the land. Evening attend party at R. S. Buck’s given in honor of eighteenth birthday of charming Miss Clara. Young ladies look remarkably well.
Tuesday, March 5—President Lincoln’s inaugural arrives today. It is eminently conciliatory, though firm in its tone, and seems to be received with favor by men of all parties. He takes the position that he will invade no state, but that he will collect the revenue and hold, occupy and possess the property of the United States. The address is characterized by great ability, as well as conciseness. Its general effect cannot be anything but pacific.
Wednesday, March 6—Day nothing happens. Evening call at Miss H. M. E.’s.
Thursday, March 7—Nothing occurs. Southern papers are endeavoring to consider Lincoln’s Inaugural a declaration of war. One thing is very true, that as Mr. Lincoln’s remarks—there will be no war unless the government is attacked. If humanity is to be disgraced, civilization checked and Christianity overshadowed, by an internecine war upon this continent, it should be the prayer of the good in all lands, in light or darkness, on the battlefield or in the councils, that God will defend his unalterable right. And who can doubt that such right lies upon the side of the government.
Friday, March 8—Hon. Jno. T[hompson] Nixon returns from Washington last night. Today finish [John Henry] Stephens’ [book] on Pleading[in Civil Actions]. Commenced February 25, 1861 being third time that I have red it. Evening at home.
Saturday, March 9—Day as usual. Nothing happens. Weather March-like. Write letters to R. G. Thompson and to Father. Evening call at R. S. Buck’s. Miss Clara entertains me, Sallie being out. Have a pleasant evening.
Sunday, March 10—Morning attend Mr. Hubbard’s church. Mr. Davis of Deerfield preaches good sermon. Evening Dr. Jones.’ Rumored that small pox is in town. H. E. Hughes, Esq., has the varioloid. I was vaccinated last Thursday.
Parton’s Vol. III on Andrew Jackson considered by Atlantic Monthly to be the “best biography” written in the country.
Monday, March 11—Day as usual. Do not feel very well in morning. Think that I do not exercise enough. Evening at home. Read [James] Parton’s Jackson, Vol. III., Grote’s Greece, Vol. I. Jackson’s life gives one a good insight into the political history of the country from 1823 until Jackson’s death. The critics call it the best biography written in the country. Vide Atlantic Monthly for March.
Tuesday, March 12—Day as usual at office. Evening at home. Read Parton’s Jackson, Grote’s Greece. Nothing occurs. Rumored that troops will be withdrawn from Fort Sumpter. Trust that it may be incorrect.
Wednesday, March 13—Morning at office. Afternoon meeting of congregation to decide whether we are to enlarge our old church or not. Decided so to do by vote of fifty-two to fourteen. Old subscription collected under former vote of congregation to build church on west side of creek, ordered to be annulled. Parties who paid their money in, ordered to be paid back. Amusing scenes occurred. Weather warm. Evening lecture Dr. Jones. Call afterwards in H. M. E.
Thursday, March 14—Morning as usual. Also afternoon. Day damp and cold. Nothing occurs during day. Yesterday made a most solemn vow. Evening pleasant “Sociable” at Mrs. W. G. N.’s
Friday, March 15—Day as usual. Nothing of importance occurs. Evening call with Loring Kirby, Esq., on Miss Lillie Sheppard. See herself and sister Jennie. Have pleasant chat. Afterwards call at R. S. B[uck’s]. See the two young ladies [Clara & Sallie]. Home.
Saturday, March 16—Day as usual. J. B. B[owen] returns from Philadelphia with degree of M. S. Evening call at Dr. Wm. E’s. Have not been able to read much by gas light for some days. Eyes are growing weak, I fear.
Sunday, March 17—Morning Mr. Davis of Deerfield preached at Dr. Jones’ church. Most excellent sermon. Finest by far that I have heard since my return home. Evening go to hear Mr. Hubbard.
Monday, March 18—Day as usual. Cold and in afternoon comes on to snow with every appearance of hard storm. Evening at home. J[ohn] T[hompson] Nixon leaves for Washington.
Tuesday, March 19—Snow several inches deep this morning, with every appearance of continuation. Sleighs out. Afternoon, Jno. B[uck] Bowen 1 calls after me with horses & sleigh to go sleighing with the Misses Buck. Good time but poor sleighing.
Wednesday, March 20—Morning at office. J. S. M. quite unwell. Quite busy drawing declarations, &c. &c. On looking over Curtis’ History of Constitution a few days since, with a view to ascertain Hamilton’s views on our Constitution, found that in the convention he stated his opinion to be (Vol. II, page 113): 1st, That he believed the British Constitution was the best form of government the world had then produced, citing the praise bestowed on it by Hecker “That it is the only government which unites public strength, with individual security.” 2nd, That he was equally convinced that none but a republican form could be attempted in this country, or would be adapted to our situation. 3rd, That he proposed to look to the British Constitution for nothing but those elements of stability and permanency which a republican system requires, and which may be incorporated into it, without changing its characteristic principles. Curtis gathers this summary of his opinions from the Brief of Hamilton works, Vol. II, 409., collated with Madison’s Report and Judge Yates’ Minutes,
Since Wednesday last, it has been a dark week with me. I a great trouble pressed me down. I trust that a kind and merciful God may cause it soon to pass away from our family. It is said, in old tradition, that there is a ghost in every house. This may be the mere embodiment of the idea that every family has their own peculiar subject of anxiety and distress. This last week, I shall always remember as a sad period. It has witnessed for myself, however, a most important resolution. God help me to keep it.
1 Dr. John Buck Bowen (1839-1888) was the son of Dr. William Smith Bowen (1802-1872) and Martha Hawthorn Buck (1814-1847) of Bridgeton, Cumberland county, New Jersey. John later served as an Assistant Surgeon in the 34th New Jersey Infantry.
The papers today bring the news, which is some measure rumor has forestalled, that the orders for the evacuation of Fort Sumpter have at length been issued. This will be received with sorrow by many, and can be justified on the ground that if it is done as a military move only.
Thursday, March 21—Day as usual. Snows all morning. Quite wintry for this time in March. Evening call with Jno. B. B[owen]. at Dr. Wm. Elmer’s. Also at R. S. B[uck’s]. Not able to read on account of eyes at night.
Friday, March 22—Morning as usual at office. Nothing happens of very much importance. Evening call at Charles E. Elmore’s. See himself and wife. President Lincoln has appointed Mr. [William Lewis] Dayton Minister to France. This has deservedly caused great rejoicing in New Jersey.
Saturday, March 23—Day passes at office, Nothing unusual occurs. Read Williams Exec. as usual. Afternoon in company with Jno. S. Mitchell, ride out to Wildwood. Visit Railroad which begins to assume the appearance of a reality. Evening at home.
Sunday, March 24—Church at Dr. Jones’ morning & evening. Nothing happens of importance. Sermons dullish. Weather clear.
Monday, March 25—Day as usual. Evening with article of Chronicle on the “Defect in our Government.” Take ground that its great defect is the want of internal strength. Do not read much this evening. Receive letter from Thompson.
Tuesday, March 26—Day as usual. Call on Miss Sallie B[uck] Have very pleasant evening. Nothing occurs today of importance.
Wednesday, March 27—Day as usual. Evening attend little company at Jno. B. Bowen’s. Quite a number there. Seem to enjoy themselves, one and all.
Thursday, March 28—Day as usual at office. Still reading, William’s Executors. Nothing important occurs. Evening “Sociable.” Meet at D. P. Elmer’s. I attend. Pleasant evening. Moonlight walk afterwards.
Friday, March 29—Pleasant weather. Sunshine prevails for once at least over the storm. Morning nothing occurs. Evening call in H. M. E. Lizzie L. & Maggie, Elmer call. Pleasant evening. Affairs of our Nation grow no better. The present position of an American citizen is, that he is secure under the protection of his government, all over the world, except within the borders of the United States. A loyal citizen may be murdered in South Carolina, and by the state authorities too, for expressing his allegiance to the United States, and our general government cannot punish the offenders.
Saturday, March 30—Morning as usual. Nothing happens of interest. Evening spent at Sarah’s. F. F. Westcott, Esq., of Cedarville being there. Also Miss Sallie H. B[uck]. Pleasant evening.
Sunday, March 31—Morning church at Dr. Jones.’ Take dinner at Sarah;s with F. F. W[estcott] After dinner walk out with him as far as Shiloh Bridge. Evening church at Dr. Jones.’ Have resolved today if possible to enter Princeton College in the summer. I shall regret it all my life if i enter upon the duties of my profession without a collegiate education—not that a collegiate education is indispensable to success, but because the want of it must in the nature of things, be severely felt through life. One does not feel that confidence in himself that he otherwise would. At least, such is my experience. I do not feel entitled to demand of Father, after all his kindness to me, this additional favor, but if he will send me, I will most gladly go.
Weather pleasant today, though windy as usual. Tomorrow is April 1st. The month of March has slipped by most rapidly—so rapidly indeed that it seems that one can hardly realize that it has come and gone.
Monday, April 1st—Morning as usual. Speak to Father concerning my going to college. He says he will take time to consider it. I do not know what decision he may give, but hardly think he will refuse me when he sees that I really desire to go. Rainy day. April begins in a cool, disagreeable mood.
Receive today, pamphlet from J. J. Reeves, Esq., containing Parson’s discourse on Constitution of United States delivered before Law School, March 7, 1861, as introduction to his course on Constitutional Law. Evening home.
Tuesday, April 2nd—Pleasanter than yesterday. At work nearly all day writing Sheriff’s Deeds. Evening at home. Read Parton’s Life of Jackson. Is an admirably written biography giving an insight into the political history of the country which I have obtained nowhere else.
Wednesday, April 3rd—Morning clear and bright. Have placed today in the front part of this diary the remarks of Alexander H. Stephens, V. President of the revolutionary government in the South, concerning the principles upon which said government is founded. He abandons the old untenable ground that slavery is a national institution, and lays down the proposition that under the new government, slavery is recognized as the fundamental basis of the government. He says, “that the prevailing ideas entertained by Jefferson and most of the leading statesmen at the time of the formation of the constitution, were that the enslavement of the African was in violation of the laws of nature; that it was wrong in principle, socially, morally, and politically. These ideas, however, were fundamentally wrong. Our new government is founded upon exactly the opposite idea; its foundations are laid, its cornerstone rests upon the great truth, that the negro is not equal to the white man. That slavery, subordination to the superior race, is his natural and moral condition. This, our new government, is the first in the history of the world based upon this great physical, philosophical and moral truth.”
Such is the testimony of Alexander H. Stephens, the leafing statesman of the South. The government of the United States is founded upon the eternal basis of Freedom, the revolutionary government has for its base and cornerstone the principle that human bondage is the only true condition of a perfect government. It has taken the world six thousand years to make this discovery at all, and we trust it will be longer than that ere it abandons one inch beyond its present position. The two governments are before the world, one based upon freedom, the other on slavery. Can there be any doubt concerning their future history?
Wrote to James J. Reeves at Cambridge. Evening spend with Jno. S. Mitchell at his house. We read Carlyle’s Essay on Burns—a most beautiful production. Pass an unusually pleasant evening.
Thursday, April 4th—Day opens finely, clear and bright, with just sufficient breeze to make the atmosphere bracing. How one’s pulse beats upon a morning like this when walking in the open air. How bright the future seems, how clear is the brain. So much does our intellectual, yes, even our moral feeling depend upon our physical condition. Ill health makes many a misanthrope, while on the other hand, a sound physical organization, and an abundance of animal spirits, enables many persons to exceed the great mass of their fellows in pursuits for which intellectually speaking, they are by no means peculiarly fitted. Evening attend the exhibition of the students of West Jersey Academy in Grosscup’s Hall. On the whole, the students perform well. My nephew, Boyd. N., declaims well. Bridgeton Brass Band makes its first appearance in a public meeting. They were only organized about the middle of November last and already are quite proficient, playing some thirty tunes. the Hall was much crowded with the friends of the Academy and everything passed off pleasantly.
Friday, April 5th—Morning as usual at office. Nothing happens. Afternoon 4:45 p.m., walk up to Tumbling Down with Oring Kirby. In coming down on Race side, see some ladies waving handkerchief on other sie to which we reply by waving our own. Take tea at W. G. N.’s. Evening pass at R. S. Bucks with Miss Sallie. Clara absent.
Saturday, April 6th—Morning office as usual. Pleasant day. Afternoon at office. Write letter to George T. Slack, Esq., at Cambridge. Papers today bring us the news that Government is preparing to assert and defend its rights. It has the sympathy of the civilized world and the support of eighteen millions of freemen. God grant us all the disposition, the heart and hand, to play a patriotic part in the coming struggle. Mail today to W. Cromelieu & Co., 721 Market Street, Philadelphia the account against Joshua Surran, Esq., sent me some time since for collection. Surran having no property, and not paying, it is impossible to do anything with it. Evening call with Miss S[allie] H. B[uck] and Lillie S. Very pleasant evening.
Sunday, April 7th—Church at Dr. Jones’ morning & evening. Good sermon in morning. In evening after church walk with C. M. R. as far as Academy. Nothing occurs important.
Monday, April 8th—Morning dull and cloudy. At office as usual. Evening attend the Sabbath School Concert. Afterwards walk out with H. M. E. and make a call at her house.
Tuesday, April 9th—Father gives me no answer as yet with regard to my entering college in August. Very perplexing to know what is my fate.
Wednesday, April 10th—Let this day be marked with a white stone. Father today told me to go to college if I so desired. How kind it is in my Father thus to offer me every advantage. I shall do my utmost to improve the opportunity thus given me. I feel assured that I can appreciate a college course at this time much better than ever before. Read 1st Volume of Williams’ Executors to page 267. Here most probably will begin an interruption on my legal studies. I lay them temporarily aside with regret mingling with my pleasure. I have enjoyed the study of law since my first entrance in it more than any study which I ever pursued. I feel that I have only entered the outer courts of the great temple of jurisprudence, but even here, I can discern how fair is its architecture, how magnificent its proportion’s. Evening studying at home.
Thursday, April 11th—Study morning…Evening at home.
Saturday, April 12—Morning study at home. Read thirty lines…After dinner, walk down to the wharf to witness launching of the new schooner. Through some accident, she does not go off. The papers today bring us the tidings that the rebels opened their fire upon Fort Sumpter. The war commenced upon Friday last, Who, oh who, knows the ending thereof?
Sunday, April 13th—Nothing of importance happens.
Monday, April 14th—All excitement. Fort Sumpter surrendered, or rather was evacuated after forty hours continual bombardment. The excitement in Philadelphia is terrible. All united for the government. President issues a proclamation calling for seventy-five thousand of the militia of the United States to suppress the insurrection. Response being made all over the country.
Tuesday, April 15—Excitement increasing. But one feeling in the North—to support our flag at all hazards!
Wednesday, April 16—Excitement still increasing. Volunteer companies being raised constantly. New York appropriated three millions of money and is to raise thirty thousand volunteers.
Thursday, April 17—No particular news. Excitement intense.
Friday, April 18—Massachusetts regiment arrived in Philadelphia.
Saturday, April 19—Start this morning for Philadelphia in early line to Glassboro. Arrived in Philadelphia about 10 a.m. People greatly excited about the attack made by mob in Baltimore upon Massachusetts troops. Several of Mass. troops killed. They fire upon mob killing a number. Pennsylvania troops also attacked. Being unarmed, they are forced to return to Philadelphia. The attack upon the unarmed troops has greatly excited the Philadelphians as well as the whole country. The North has become so fully aroused that nothing but the omnipotent hand of God can stay their vengeance. Evening walk about the city with Thompson and John B[uck] Bowen. J. B. B. spends the night with me at hotel.
Sunday, April 20—Morning walk about city. Afternoon go with Thompson to Jno. Chambers’ church. Evening go with Thompson and Bowen to hear Wadsworth. No being in his pulpit, we do not stay. Great excitement at Continental [Hotel]. Meet Robert there.
Rumor of arrival of three hundred thousand improved arms from Europe. Philadelphia presents today almost the appearance of a vast military camp. The public squares full of troops drilling the whole day through as also were the various [ ].
Monday, April 21—Morning do errands about the city. Afternoon at 3 p.m., start for home. Arrive per New Jersey Railroad and Glassboro stage, about 8 p.m. Find that a large meeting was held in Bridgeton on Saturday evening. Resolved to raise funds to support the families of volunteers. Company is being raised. Numbers already fifty-six men. Greatest excitement in Bridgeton that I have ever seen.
Tuesday, April 22—At home all day. Nothing of importance except the military excitement. Was measured while in the city for coat at Ethan Thompson’s. Vest & pants. At parties at southeast corner 6th & Market. Frank unwell.
From April 22nd to May 11th. Most stirring period in our country’s history. Troops called out by President. Three hundred thousand men arriving in North. Cannot recount in this diary the events.
Wednesday, May 8th—Today presentation of flag to “Cumberland Grays” by ladies of Bridgeton too place. P. T. Jones, Esq., of Philadelphia, made address in behalf of ladies. I received it on part of the company un few remarks. Grosscup’s Hall crowded. See Chronicle of May 11th.
From May 11th to June 23—Great events occurring in country. Make one or two visits to Philadelphia.
June 24, Monday—Start for Princeton to be examined for admission to Junior Class. W. E. Lufton also. J. Leslie, Superintendent for Admission to Sophomore. I stop at Philadelphia, go to Trenton at 6 P.M. Meet them there having returned from the examination.
Tuesday, June 25—Am today examined by Prof. Cameron in Greek…Latin…Mathematics. Am admitted.
Wednesday, June 26—Pass to Princeton with W. Elmer & friends. Commencement today.
Thursday, June 27—Stop in Trenton. See grand review of three regiments of volunteers at Camp Olden by Gov. Olden and staff. Stop at Continental at Philadelphia.
Friday, June 28—Reach home. Nothing new.
…..
Wednesday, July 17—Meet Wm. Keighler, Esq. of Baltimore on cars. Find his views have changed since last winter. Now almost if not entirely secessionist. Arrive in Washington at 6 p.m. Put up at Ebbitt House, not being able o get into Willard’s. Evening pass in room of Messrs. [John Thompson] Nixon and [John L. N.] Stratton. Army of Union made advance on Fairfax today.
Thursday, July 18—Pass in visiting Patent Office, Capitol, etc. In Congress, Mr. Nixon introduced us to Emerson Etheridge, [Robert] Mallory of Kentucky, Col. Crittenden of do. [Charles] Delano of Mass., Frank P. Blair of Mo., &c. Etheridge most agreeable conversationalist.
Friday, July 19—Visit Alexandria, now occupied by our troops. Deserted city. Houses closed. Grass growing in streets. Secessionists plenty but silent. Three secessionists in a Slave Pen taken night before at Bulls Run. Return to Washington, hire hack, and cross Long Bridge into Virginia. Visit Forts Runyon, Albany, and Corcoran, Arlington House, headquarters at present of New York 8th commanding beautiful view of Washington and the Potomac. Return to Washington, visit Capitol. Evening spend with Messrs. Stratton and Nixon.
Saturday, July 20th—Start for W at 4:15 a.m. Reach Philadelphia at 10:30 a.m. Start for Bridgeton at 3 p.m., arriving at home much pleased with visit at 7 p.m.
Sunday, July 21—Nothing of particular importance occurs in Bridgeton.
Monday, July 22nd—Learn that great battle occurred yesterday between our forces and the rebels. Our army after driving enemy before them until 4 p.m. were repulsed. Enemy was too much exhausted to pursue or else were not aware of our condition. Great slaughter on both sides.
Tuesday, July 23—Troops pouring into Washington from all directions. Gen. McClellan has been sent for from Western Virginia and will assume command at once. The country seems to be recovering from the first alarm, and considers our repulse in the light of salutary lesson. It appears that with a force of at most fifty thousand men under McDowell, we attacked 90,000 in their entrenchments. No wonder that we did not succeed. Yet even under these disadvantages we were nearly victorious. If the reserve of 18,000 men under Col. Miles had been ordered up promptly, we would have gained the day, for at the very time we retired, the enemy was falling back along his whole lines.
From Tuesday, July 23 to Wednesday August 13th, nothing of importance occurs to me personally. Great events are occurring with such rapidity in the country at large that I find it impossible to chronicle them here. Time passed principally in boating, riding, loafing, and other like employments. Impossible to study on vacation and under a July sun.
The letter below was written by John Deering, Jr. (1842-1915), the son of Capt. John G. Deeering, Sr. (1806-1875) and Mary Downing Bachelder (1806-18xx) of Saco, Maine. John, Jr. started at Bowdoin College in 1860, but then joined as a private in Co. K, 13th Maine Infantry in December 1861 and served until 16 August 1862. He had to leave due to a disability, no doubt related to an accident while working as a clerk in the partially constructed custom office at New Orleans. According to his biographical sketch in a family history, he fell through a scuttle in the custom house roof and dropped thirty feet, but somehow managed to survive the fall.
The Maine Democrat, 17 June 1862
Following his discharge, he worked for a time in the Treasury Department and earned a degree from the Columbia College Law School in 1866. His obituary, published in the Lewiston Sun on 1 December 1915, claims that he “saw the assassination of President Lincoln and heard the last speech by the President, made from a window of the White House three days before he was shot…He was employed as a clerk in the Treasury Department at the time and continued in that department more than 15 years.”
By the time of the 1880 US Census, John had left his government job and returned to Saco, Maine, where he practiced law and worked as a pension agent. He married Lizzie H. Chase (1844-1894) in August 1866.
[Note: This unpublished letter resides in the Virginia Museum of History and Culture in Richmond. See Stacy Family Papers, 1802-1889, 51 items. Mss1ST124a.]
Transcription
Washington [District of Columbia] January 10, 1865
Dear William,
That you have not ere this received a reply to your letter of December 6th proves two facts—viz: that everybody at all times does not get his just dies in this world, and that I am not a punctual correspondent. But I always have a reason for what I do and what I fail to do, and in this case, I must say that for a month past, I have not been able to write or study. It has seemed a moral and physical impossibility for me to write a decent letter and so I have deferred what is usually a very pleasant task. I feel a reaction now, and hope in the future to do justice to all my correspondents whose number is not great.
I have been in the enjoyment of my usual health since last I wrote you, and find that the climate here agrees with me much better than that of New England. The weather thus far has not been cold, and we have had but very little snow—but considerable rain. Today it has been raining very hard—the torrents pouring down as I have seen them at home some dark, gloomy night in October or November. In fact, the whole season of winter here is more of autumn than winter judged by a Northern standard. For the most part, the ground is bare, and we never lose that peculiar scent of dead leaves which is so characteristic of November at home. The ground is not frozen except for a very few days as the mud conclusively shows. Not much skating and—O miserrimum omnium—no sliding downhill, so dear to our youthful hearts. So, on the whole, give me a Washington winter—mud and all—and you are welcome to the sub-zero temperatures of Maine.
Shall I write you a little about the celebrities of Washington and their doings? If so, here goes. New Years day (Jany. 2) the President of the United States had a reception, according to custom. I was there and shook the hands of the graceful Chief Magistrate, wished him a Happy New Year, to which he replied in a few kind words, and came away with the prayer in my heart, “Long live Uncle Abe!” Last night he had another reception but I had a prior engagement and couldn’t honor him with my presence. Last Wednesday night, Mr. Lincoln and wife were at the Theatre, and I walked out close by them, and had a good long look at their various points of beauty. The conclusion there arrived at was this: They are both better looking than their pictures—especially Mrs. Lincoln. I do not call the President a bad-looking man, and think Mrs. Lincoln decidedly good-looking. “Our honored Chief Magistrate” has a sad, despairing expression of countenance, which almost tempts you to cry. Anyone that sees him cannot help feeling a sympathy and regard towards him. That at least was my experience, and others speak in a similar strain.
Edwin Forrest as Hamlet
I have also seen Vice-Admiral Farragut and wife, Secretary Staton and wife, Gens. Hancock, Meigs, Custer, Casey, nearly all the Senators and Representatives in Congress, and many other eminent men. But the greatest of them all, to my mind, is Edwin Forrest, the great tragedian, who is now acting at Ford’s Theatre. There is something sublime and most wonderful in that man’s power. He hasn’t his equal on the stage in Europe or America. Of course I cannot describe his points of excellence, but in respect to physical development, power and compass of voice, and expression of countenance, he far exceeds the highest ideal that I had ever formed in imagination. I have seen him in all his impersonations thus far, as “Damon” in Banim’s drama of “Damon and Pythias”—a classic story, familiar to us both; as “Richelieu” in Bulwer’s play of that name; as “Othello” in Shakespeare’s tragedy of the same name; and as “Macbeth” in the grand tragedy of that name by Shakespeare. Tomorrow night he plays Hamlet—the chef d’amour of “the myriad minded Shakespeare.” I am a great lover of the dramatist of Avon, and therefore of the renderings of his works by such an actor as Forrest.
I was in Congress twice last week, and heard speeches from various gentlemen both of the Senate and the House, among which was [Glenni William] Scofield’s reply to [James] Brooks’ speech, and the witty, crushing reply of Brooks. This Brooks is James of the New York Express, and in my opinion the best speaker in the House. I do not approve of the principles of the Copperheads but I cannot help admiring the eloquence of some of their champions. 1
Hon. Lyman Trumbull of Illinois
The best speaker in the Senate, to my view, is Lyman Trumbull of Illinois, a scholarly, logical man, whose every word and gesture counts. Charles Sumner can do the “heavy” eloquence better, but is not so ready and sharp and penetrating as Trumbull.
So much for others, I can say but little for myself. I have studied considerable Latin, some French, and have read considerable, but not methodically. Have made some advance in the study of Elocution—my favorite pursuit—and read some law. But as far as the knowledge of a profession is concerned, I am almost as far in the rear as four years ago.
I have been transferred from the Loan Branch to another Bureau of the Treasury—the Second Auditor’s—at my own desire, and am now an Examiner in the latter office. I like as well as before to say the least. My business is to look into the accounts of Army Office and report as to their condition for settlement.
Accept my best wishes for yourself and family. Remember me to Lucy and believe me yours sincerely, — John Deering, Jr.
Direct to Second Auditor’s, Treasury Department
1 This repartee between Scofield and Brooks is covered in the New York Times edition on 7 January 1865.James Brooks (1807-1873) represented NYC in the House of Representatives for seven consecutive terms, moving from the Whig to the Democratic Party and an outspoken critic of the Lincoln Administration. He died in office in 1873 while under scrutiny and formal censure for attempted bribery in connection to the Credit Mobilier scandal.
The following letter was written by Horace (“Hod”) Stiles (1828-1903) while serving as a sergeant in Co. G, 84th Pennsylvania Infantry. Horace was the son of Stephen H. Stiles (1802-1884) and Ruth Campbell (1804-1886). He was married to Harriet Jean Burlingham (1832-1871) in 1851 and was employed as a farm laborer in Shippen, McKean county, Pennsylvania, at the time of the 1860 US Census (though his muster rolls state he was a “lumberman”). The couple had two children at the time this letter was written in the summer of 1862—4 year-old Louis, and 2 year-old Willie.
Hod mustered into the 84th Pennsylvania in October 1861. A discharge date could not be found in his record but the 1890 Veterans Schedule indicates he served 1 year and 9 months. If this is the case, he must have obtained a disability discharge not long after this letter was penned.
Following his discharge from the service, Hod moved his family to Mentor, Clark county, Wisconsin where he became a hotel keeper.
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Camp in the Woods or 20 miles from Luray and 35 miles from Gordonsville, Va. June 5th [1862]
My dear wife and friends,
I take time to let you know how things wag with me. I am well and doing as well as I can to put down rebellion and take good care of myself and friends. General [James] Shields told us to help ourselves to such fixings as our appetites called for—pigs, honey, boots, cheese, shirts, potatoes, and continued. But we have some hardships to contend with. In the first place, we have marched a hundred and eight miles through mud, heat, rain and enemies on all sides. The rebels are making this their fighting ground. They have large forces here and so have we about here but you hear more about the war than I do but there is some things you don’t hear about.
I will let you know some things in our company. We had 79 men once in our company but now there ain’t only twenty in all. I will mention them you know—Capt. [James] Ingram, J[udson] Beers, [Herman] Morgan, H[enry] Stricklen, [Taggert] Culver, Sam Drew, Sile Wheaton, Welt [Nelson] Cutler, Fred Nickerbocker, and the rest is scattered for two hundred miles and over. But Web will be there soon and he can tell you a good deal. I am all the sergeant there is in our company now. We have had some little fighting here and do expect to have more for we take some prisoners most every day. I could see the rebel pickets last night about one hundred rods off but we weren’t allowed to shoot at them.
Hat, I can’t write often because we can’t get letter out. You must write as often as you can. You direct to Washington D. C. General Shields Division, 84th [Pennsylvania] Regiment, Co. G, and I will get them some time.
I don’t think the war will end very soon and I shall stick as long as I can stand it. I han’t saw Ton since I was there. He was in Winchester. I han’t been there. I am afraid he was taken prisoner there. I don’t know. I wish I did. You tell Merrick [Housler] how our company stands and tell him that sesh [secesh] Colonel has resigned and I ain’t sorry. Capt. Ingram is the same as he was only more so.
Hat, I want to see you and the babies more than I did before I came home. I want you to write how Andrew is—the poor fellow. It is awful to have the small pox. And tell me if it has spread or not and how much. I am anxious about you. I don’t know what you would do if you should get it and the children. You kiss the babies for me and tell Louis Pa will come home to see him as soon as he can [and] to be a good boy for Pa. Give my love and best wishes to all. Let father’s folks see this and be a good girl.
This is from Sergeant H. Stiles
To Harriet Stiles
You shall hear from me as often as I can find opportunity to write and get letters out.
The following letter was written by Henry Parsons (1825-1913), a native of Goshen, Hampshire county, Massachusetts, who was working as a common laborer at the time of his enlistment in Co. H, 10th Massachusetts Infantry on 21 June 1861. He was wounded in the right arm at the Battle of Fair Oaks during the Peninsula Campaign where the 10th Massachusetts had 27 killed and 95 wounded—six of them mortally. Henry recovered from his wound and was mustered out of the service on 1 July 1864 after three years. He was a resident of Spruce Corner, Massachusetts, after the war.
Henry’s parents were Theodore Parsons (1791-1865) and Pamela Partridge (1796-1843). It does not appear that he ever married. He was still working as a farm hand in Ashfield township, Franklin county, Massachusetts in 1900 when he was 75 years old.
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Columbian Hospital November 15, 1861
Friend Dwight,
I received your letter of the 3rd on the 14th and one of the 11th today and think that I shall have to answer them both in this. Well, as you will see, I am here in the hospital as yet, but do not know whether I am a going to stay or not for certain as yet. The doctor asked me about a fortnight ago if I would and I told him that I did not know; did not think that I should like it. Well the next morning he wanted to know if I had made up my mind and I told him I had not yet but the next morning he spoke to me again and finally told him I would if he he would let me stay on the ward where I am and he said that he guessed he would and he has not said anything to me since so I don’t know whether I am a going to stay here or not yet. Have not much to do now but write and plenty of that to do. If I answer all the letters that I get with some little help that I am taken care of the sick and opening those porter bottles.
Oh, but I have one wounded man in the room where I am. He had a ramrod and wiper and ball accidentally shot through the outside of his right leg but no bones broke, but rather an ugly looking gash. Have to wet it in cold water ever 15 or 20 minutes and the rest of the time am writing or down in the yard smoking as they will not let us smoke in the hospital so have too to chewing for comfort. And we have one man in the same room that cut off three of his fingers from his left hand hewing a board.
Well, I have just had my wounded man up and made his bed and now have nothing more to do but to write tonight. Have to lift him from one bed to another to make his bed. Well, I had not forgot that I had wrote to [you] since I received any letter from you for had not received any since the one that was dated October 3rd until the one that was dated November 3rd. So that as for the swearing and the nonsense, I suppose that I do not know anything about but am glad to hear that you have got pious and hope you will stick to it and I think that before you get the 40 letters I wrote that I shall answer three or four of them so that you will have to write 40 more.
Well, I suppose that you will have pretty nice times when that house gets done and I want you should ask Fran if he is not going to give me an invitation to that spree. Well, as to the brandy, should like to have you drink one or two for me as I do not get much—only when I open the bottle for the nurse and then I generally take a little sip. And I suppose that you would be glad to have Sire enlist if you thought that you would stand any better chance of getting Elno. Well, by your letter of the tenth, think that you must have lost all of your piety for I think there is d—d hard swearing in that. Well I should think that Sp[ruce] C[orner] was growing to be a city instead of a wilderness by the building that is going on there. Well, I do not see as you are a going to get better wages for your month’s work than I do and Uncle Sam does not reckon any lost time if a man is sick.
Well, I do not know as I have wrote any news or anything very interesting so I will stop here. So accept this from — H. Parsons
Friend Eliza, — Well, I always pay my debts when I know what they be, and as I had not had any letters from you since the 3rd of October and knew that I had not wrote you anything and do not want you should think that I had so far forgotten you as to not answer them when I get them and think I shall not right away so that you can hold on to your anchor for a spell yet for I will try to answer everyone that I get, and the that do not reach me I do not think I owe you for.
Well, your letter found me well, but have been a little homesick for a day or two and have had the teeth [ache] for a day or two and not courage enough to have them pulled. Well, what a hand do you think that i should make to fight the rebels with not courage enough to have a tooth pulled. Well, aside from all that, I am enjoying myself pretty well and have some pretty good ties here and should like to have you step in here. Should like to see you first rate and would show you all over the hospital—that is, if you would like to look at it. There has been three or four Massachusetts ladies been in here to see the Massachusetts boys since I have been here but none that I ever saw before had quite a long conversation with one of them.
Well, as to your knowing me, I do not think that I have altered much since I left Spruce Corner but do not think you would if you had seen me the first time that I went up to the camp. I was so poor that the boys up there did not hardly know me. Well, I do not know as I have wrote anything that will be interesting to you and as for news, have wore that all out.
This makes the fifth letter that I have wrote today so you will have to accept it as it is. From your friend, — H. Parsons
The following letter was written by 43 year-old Silas Pardee (1820-1894) while serving in Co. I, 25th Connecticut Infantry—a nine-months regiment that served from mid-November 1862 until late August 1863.
Silas was married to Mary Brocket in 1844. The couple were divorced in February 1880—the cause for divorce attributed to intemperance on his part. In this letter to his 12 year-old daughter Estelle, Silas defends the reputation of a soldier named Josiah but I don’t believe he was in the same company as Silas. There are family references to “Fanny” so I suspect that Josiah was a relative but I haven’t established the relationship.
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Baton Rouge, Louisiana May 15th 1863
Dear Daughter,
I once more sit down to write a few lines to you to let you know that my health is very poor. I have been very sick since I last wrote to you and for a while I thought I never should live to go home and see you anymore. But I have been prospered and am on the gain slowly. I hope these few lines will find you in good health. They think we shall be home the 7th of July and I hope we shall.
I have not much courage to write home for I don’t get any answer to the letters I wrote lately. I sent home my ten dollar check to you a good while ago and have not received any word whether you have received it or not. I want you to write just as soon as you receive it for it’s probably the [last] I shall write.
Josiah sends his best respects to you all and wants you to write. I suppose you have heard the report about Joe’s gambling and drinking all is money away from Fanny, but it is entirely false and it will be proved by good respectable men as live in Plainville and Bristol. They are men that won’t lie. They have been with him every day and night and know what he has been doing while he has been out here and so do I, and I think them same folks would find enough to do to mind their own business and not try to make disturbance among a man and his wife. Show this to Fanny when you see her, My best respects to you all. — Silas Pardee
In haste. Direct to Baton Rouge, La., US General Hospital, and that is all.
Spared & Shared 23 