Wednesday, November 30, 2011

1861 November 30

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. 5, 25th Massachusetts Infantry]

Had the worst night last night
I ever experienced. It rained
like a thunder storm nearly all night
and I was out in nearly the whole of it
being on guard. Got my shoes full of
water when I first went on at ten
o'clock, and they were wet all night.
My head ached badly for the least half
hour before I got off, at six int he morn-
ing, and it seemed as if my feet would
freeze it had grown so cold, But I
changed my stockings and warmed
myself at the sergeants tent and felt
much better. Had nothing to do but read &c
This is part of the rough side of a
soldiers life. But I feel that God is able
and willing to watch over and protect
those who trust in Him. I have thus far
been wonderfully favored by Him.
Henry and Charles Willis were here to-day
and I sent word home to father by Henry.

MSS 11293

1861 November 30

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale of the 34th Ohio Zouaves]

Today I am for guard duty
again was placed in picket
out side of town the snow
fell about 2 inches deepe
but it is not very cold for
the sun came out warm
and it melted it of there
is fore of us at this
post we have to stay
till morning our duty
is to let nobody out
with out a pass let
all in unless they are
armed if an armed force
comes to fire on then
and if we can whip them
all right if not git out
of their way if we can
if not goin lemones
let thoes laugh that win

MSS 13405

1861 November 30

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton, musician and private in the 23rd Ohio]

Had Dress parade orders sent
intimating that we will
remain here all winter. practiced
and read some sent letter
to Father
snowed some last night cleared today

MSS 10317

1861 Nov[ember] 30 Camp near Centreville

My dear John

I received last night your letter of the
26th and one at the same time from my[?] dear Sallie Browne
for which my welcomed letters I return you both my
heartfelt thanks--By a letter received at the same time
from your Mother. I am sorry to find she has been detained
there by the ilness of our dear Courtney B--who it seems
has scarlet fever--I fear this will keep you mother
in Richmond for some time--It is a great treat to me
that I can not under these circumstances go there for a
day or two to meet your mother and to see our dear
sick child--You understand how this is---but your
Mother complains bitterly of me--as if I saw free to
go I would--But both a sense of duty and the rigid
rule against leaves of absence keep me here--this army
stands between the enemy and our homes & all that are dear
which we have left behind us--If we leave our posts
here at the present time--we desert those we ought
to be willing to die to protect & defend -- and hence
the extreme strictness in regard to leaves of absence

[page 2]
But I hope the dear child will do well as the
hands of our good friend Dr Drane and a kind
providence--

I wrote you in my last about procuring a supply of salt
if possible I wrote to Deane H & Jones to buy what you
might want--or aid you in doing so--I learn that one
bushel
of salt if carefully and is enough for one thousand
pounds of pork- and hence the Govt. has been authorized to
regulate the price I hope you will get what may be
absolutely required. Crenshaw & Co. will probably have it
if you have had a satisfactory explanation of your author=
ance--so as to renew transaction with them--But
unless they manifest a better [?] I would not
intimate upon them or push the matter--
I hope you have been able to cause Miss [?]
time to pass agreeably--by having some young friends to meet her
and otherwise entertaining her--She is a very superior
young lady if I mistake not--Please present my kindest
regards to her--
Now that I am absent I would caution you to be very
circumspect as to whom you write to visit our home
or allow to visit--for in these times there are persons not
gentlemen who will intimate themselves--with any such you
should be [?] Should any [?] occur--But his part
is enough--
So far we are not suffering --but soon shall require more than
a tent to cover us from the winter's cold--If I had Edward
Charleston & Frederick & a couple of good sawyers with
a few loads we might put up cabins for head quarters--
May write for them--With love to all & hoping to hear soon from
you I am yr affec father Philip StGeo Cocke

MSS 640

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

1861 November 29

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale of the 34th Ohio Zouaves]

Rain rain nothing but
rain and mud three
of our men has just
got back from guyandott
they say it is awfull bad
for the union men the
way they burnt up the
town the boys sayed ther
is to be 5 hundred of
cavelry to winter ther
they say things looked
very bad there now
bullet holes through every
place pretty nigh there
was fore men that was
taken prisners came
back there they had es
caped from the secech
the secesh say that they
will not attact us boys

MSS 13405

1861 Nov[ember] 29

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding of Co. F, 25th Massachusetts]

Was on guard today. It looks very
much like rain and is quite
warm. Ed Brown was here today and
says we shall not leave probably for about
a fortnight. Enloyed thinking about home
and how my friends are favored

MSS 11293

1861 November 29

[from the diary of Eugene M. Cox of the Albemarle Border Guards]

Nothing new yet--doing well in our cabins--

MSS 38-221

1861 November 29

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton, musician and private in the 23rd Ohio]

Did nothing to day practiced
some Crickfield & Crotty procured
Furloughs, went up to Head
Quarters Saw colored Family
who want to emancipate
themselves.
procured arm chair paid 25cts
rained all day

MSS 10317

1861 November 29 Norfo[lk]

Friday night

My Dear Miss Hettie

I write again still
hoping to hear from you after such
long silence--My last letter directed
University Va remained unanswered
so long (& still remains so) I reasoned
that you had changed your quarters
& hoped to learn from Willie Murray
something definite about you--
He has never written & I am
still very uncertain how to get
to you the two letters from your
Mother which I enclosed--Both we
received in the last three days--&
one sealed, today. A little note
from her accompanied them
requesting me to forward them to
you. Please tell her when you can

[page 2]
that it gives me the most intense
pleasure to assist her in getting
letters to you or anything in the
world that she can get to my hands.
Tell her not to think of trouble (which she
intimates) but only the fact that I am
never happier than when aiding or
abetting your happiness--it matters
little in what way, so long as I can
be instrumental--

Tilghman of Md. attached to the corps
of Engineers under Genl Huger has
persuaded me to direct these to
Charlottesville--He know you
slightly & tells me that he has lately
heard of you.

Then[?] after telling me about yourself
Miss Jennie, give me some information
of Willie Murray--He says that he now
looks upon our house as his home--
Please say to him that those at home
looking upon him as one of them, feel

[page 3]
most anxious to hear, if only a few
lines--While he was with us I learned
to love hm as a brother & so long as
I have a roof above me it is equally
his--He is a noble fellow & a vague
report says Miss Jennie will endorse
all the praise I could utter--

But what of yourself? I do not feel
maternal in this letter--at least--less so
than at any time I have ever written
you--Perhaps it is the uncertainty
of its reaching you--a deep blank
seems to have fallen on me since
I last heard from you & the little
excitement in Norfolk goes far towards
cherishing an unpleasant indifference
to most things around me--There
are no apprehensions of an attack
which would be hailed with delight &
dullness reigns supreme--

One peculiarity with me is Miss Laura Savage.
I can not agree with you in thinking

[page 4]
she lacks beauty & fascinating little
ways--But "voila tout"--At 21, that
might have bound my heart--

I often long for an hour even, with
you--I would thank you eloquently
for the last little note from Essex--
I could give you many little evidences
of reform in everything save my
politics--They would still incur
your intense denunciations. Unless
perchance you have changed, & from
all that I know of you I am obliged
to say, that if there be one thing more
than any other which I have especially
admired in your character--it is
the absence of anything like change &
do not consider this a letter--it is too
miserable. If you wish to write home
at any time send your letters to me
open & take particular care to say
nothing imprudent--They will be read
at head-quarters here & sent on by the
next flag of truce to Old Point--

[in top margin of page 1]

My very best to Miss Jennie

Ever Truly yours

J.C.Baylor

MSS 1174

1861 Nov[ember] 29 Camp Hill

Dear Lute:
Edloe has written and doubt-
less mentioned all news worthy
of communicating to you.
Indeed my letters I am sure must
be found very dull and uninter-
esting and I only continue them
to keep you advised as to the
health and general condition of
the Jones- family, and to alleviate
as far as I can the afflictions
of separation from the dear
ones at home – We continue
at our old camp ground and
in tents but I am sure we
will be in Winters quarters before
very long; tents are very unpleas-
ant dwellings now although the
patent fireplaces add greatly
to the comfort; Pa has doubtless
given you some account of
these as likely of most every
thing else about camp life.
John and I have been in a
splendid wall – tent for a few

[page 2]
days and are very comfortably
fixed; have a splendid
place and an excellent raised
bed made of small saplin[g]s.
Edloe wouldn’t consent to leave
“No. 7” the tent he has occupied
since the tents were recd. The
inmates of that tent have dwin-
dled from nine to three, - four
with Mr. Kennon, whose place
is still reserved. Here’s for
a hasty description of “our
mess”: (1) Sergeant Chiles – a talka-
tive, mischievous, large-hearted
man with wife and children;
tries hard to stand service but
his health is too delicate; a mode-
rate eater but fond of “bread &
beef”; face chubby with large pair
of light whiskers & moustache; thick-
ly set and inclined to be fleshy
but the Southern Confederacy has
deprived him of some of the last;
great hand to nurse the sick &
shd. have been a doctor or professional
instead of clod-hopper XXXXXXX.
(2) Parson Jones – most prominent

[page 3]
part about him, a large pair of
fiery red whiskers and moustache,
which latter trouble him greatly
in eating soup and did when
we got buttermilk; shd. never call
him as cook nor judge of poultry!!
He has many traits wh. indicate
absent-mindedness. (3) Corporal Fendol
W. Chiles – a tall, good-looking piece of
flesh – very talkative in camp; a
very hearty eater – (a feature most
objectionable in messes where provis-
ions are scarce). Corpl. C. however, has
companions who seem to reverse the
old Latin maxim and “live to
eat”. (4) Private Walthall – a fleshy bald-
headed, blue-eyed youth – fond of the
ladies and also of good – eating; is chief
of the culinary department; strangers
wd. sometimes infer that our’s was a
“swell-head” mess with a white cook
such is “Catherine’s” devotion to his
favorite occupation; she could get
good wages at any large Hotel!!
(5) Private Jones (P. E.) – a beardless youth
with bright black eyes – character –
is his: contentedness; tolerable good
cook and hearty eaterxxxxx.


(page 4)
Private Jos. W. Baker – a silent,
good-natured, easy, hearty, con-
tented youth – good cook & hearty
eater. (7) Priv. Jones’ – Caterer for
the mess – somewhat of ^‘a’ cook and
very large eater as contd. fatness
doth truly indicate. (8) Chief
Andrew Broadus Poindexter, of
the colored race and cooking
department – very bright and
frequently taken for a member of
the White family. This, dear,
Sister, is a rough, inaccurate,
impromptu sketch of the exter-
nals of “our mess”; I wish there
was an artist here to take
our shapes &c as we crack jokes
and talk of the dear home – folks
around our table while we
enjoy our coarse fare.
I have been enjoying myself greatly
of late with a few books & pamph-
phlets that John brought over
with him and expect to pass
away time pleasantly & profita-
bly with books during the winter
season. I hope you are read-
ing a great deal notwith-
standing circumstances;
you will doubtless find some-
thing interesting & instructive
among my books that were left

[page 5]
in a small trunk at home.
Take great care of them as I hope
still to have much use for them;
get all you can from them and
impart to yr. young brothers and
to Mattie who I suppose has
already learned to read; your
life and conduct will greatly in-
fluence her’s wh. you know with-
out my telling you; and you shd.
be cautious and careful[l] [page torn] for yr.
own sake and her’s, wh. also is
very apparent to you.
The drums and bands have some
time since sounded the soldiers
bed-time and I must close for
the night with prayers that heaven’s
smiles may not be withdrawn while
you slumber and that happiness
may ever be the lot of my dear
young sister.

[continues on November 30]
Saturday morning: It rained all
night and is a disagreeable, wet &
windy day. We are all well this
morning. Henry Chiles is better but
still much complaining.
I wish Pa would pay Mr. Kennon
$1.13 – the amount due him from

[page 6]
our mess fund. Ask him also please
to send us a wash-basin if he can
get us one as they can not be had
from the Sutlers here. I suppose
Jas. Baker will be back the first
of next week as his furlough will
be out. I suppose Edloe men-
tioned Aunt Ellen’s visit; I was
very sorry she cd. not stay longer;
She brought us two large baskets
of nice things & a turkey, bread, pies,
cakes, catsup, and a jar of very
nice pickle; said she had sent us
[paper torn] boxes from Warren-
ton, which, however, we have
never recd. The Rev. Mr. Ewing
of Gordonsville is in camp; con-
ducted worship last night and
will probably preach to –day shd.
it clear off. But I must
conclude this miserable scrawl.
Jno. recd. Ma’s letter last night about
bed time and we were glad to
hear from you all. Write to
us when you find it conven-
ient wh. I hope will be quite
often. Much love to all at
home, Aunt Cynthia’s, Mr. Thompson’s,
Mr. Hunter’s, and all the other
kin & neighbors & friends.
Very affly
Your Bro.
Pendleton.
Miss Lute M. Jones

MSS 13407

Monday, November 28, 2011

1861 November 28

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale of the 34th Ohio Zouaves]

Today is thanksgiven
day the captain and
lieutenants went out
and got us all sum
turkeys for to day we
had got ours sent to
a woman to cook for
us she sayd she would
cook it for nothing she
cookes us bread and lends
us her coffee mill
to grind our coffee with
if we do not have
any bad luck we will
have a nice time for
a while it is the rainy
part of the season though
now and it keepes raining
all most of the time now

MSS 13405

1861 November 28

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F, 25th Massachusetts Infantry]

Gen. J. G. Foster reviewed and
inspected us this forenoon. I like
his looks and appearance much. This af-
ternoon have not drilled much, but have
been reading and enjoying myself very
well. It rains now (8 o'clock) and George
Lowe is writing a letter home. Ellinwood
is asleep on the straw. Phineas on guard and
Frank in the next tent. I went there and
staid some time this evening. I hear
that we are going to leave here next
Friday.

MSS 11293

1861 November 28

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton of the 23rd Ohio]

No parade
I have been reading two
novels to day Nat Tod & The
Frontier Angel. practiced
rained all day. Hear that we
will certainly stay here all winter

Edward S. Ellis's "The Frontier Angel. A Romance of Kentucky Rangers' Life" was a published in March of 1861 and introduced several well known historical characters in the course of the narrative. Ellis was also the author the same month of "Nathan Todd,or the Fate of the Sioux Captive," a sequel to his popular "Bill Biddon"


MSS 10317

1861 Nov[ember] 28

Capt C C Cocke

Dear Sir
I write you a fiew lines
to let you no how an whare I am I am mending
but very slow I am very week so mutch so I can
hardly write I have had a rite sevear Spell of the fever
I stade at Manassas three days then I cam on to
Richmond where I stayed in the hospital nine days
My father came down to see me an with great
difaculty he got me off home I have been bad for the
last ten days
I shall bee on to join the company as soon as the Dr
thinks I am able the lord only noew when that
will bee

Yours Respectfully

John B Kidd

[The following letter was of the same date was found with the above letter]

Richmond at Hospitel
Der Sir I write you a few lines to let you her
frome me I am no better of now then I was when
I lef the Camp, John Kidd father come down en
carid him home he had Tifenid fever Openhemer
is gonne home all so if I get out of here alive it
will be the las chance the Hospital will Ever get
at me the grave an the galos or Eny place Else will have
more charmes for me then a Hospitel I woad long sence
af binn at camp if I coude af goten there the feede
us on sheep an ry coffe, if you have Eny mony
in you hands that is due me for servcis you dou me
a grate faver by sending i to me let this time
as I am aboute out I shall get oute up her as
soone as posibel yrs
Resptfaly Jon A Foster
St Charls
write to me at Hospitel to the care
of Dr Jackson in charge

MSS 640

1861 Nov[ember] 28 Out on Picket

Dear Father
As I have not receivd but one letter from you this week I thought I would set down & write to you and find out the reason that you have not sent only one letter, & no Papers because I think it kind of strange I always receive one about every other day I am on Picket & am gone to stay out Four days & am staying in A House & are relieved every sixteen hours whe have turnips & potatoes a plenty out here I like Picketing Better than Camp Life I have no more time to write any more because I want to send it in by the team I am well & hope this will find you the same & the Family. From your Son Joseph Leavitt

Letters from Joseph Leavitt of the 5th Maine and his brother George of the 5th New York were copied into a ledger by their father John Leavitt in October 1865 "because they are of value to me and I was fearful that they might get mislaid." Both boys were mortally wounded in the war, George at Second Bull Run, August 30, 1862, and Joseph at Spotsylvania, May 18, 1864

MSS 66

Sunday, November 27, 2011

1861 November 27

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton of the 23rd Ohio]

No Dress parade
I have done nothing to day
practiced. wrote short letter
to Father which I intend to
send with Snively who is going
home tomorrow
I[t] has been raining
all day.

MSS 10317

1861 November 27

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale of the 34th Ohio Zouaves]

It has been raining all
this morning and it
is very mudy under
foot the boys are
in high glee to think
they are in winter
quarters they are all
fixing up for to stay
this winter and are
getting things pretty
handy and convienint
the maile has not
started yet but will
soone and then we
will have big times
for a while if we
do not get whipt
out of here which
will take a good forse
to do that little job.

MSS 13405

1861 November 27

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F of the 25th Massachusetts Infantry]

Got all cleaned up and ready
for review and inspection at three
o'clock but it commenced raining so we
did not have it, Got a good long letter
from home which did me much good.
Wrote an answer this afternoon. Enjoy Gods
blessings with joy and still continue to
trust in Him.

MSS 11293

1861 Nov[ember] 27 Camp Franklin

Dear parents

It is with much
pleasure that I seat myself to
write a few lines to you. I have
the pleasure of informing you
that we have recieved the basket
of victuals you sent us for a
Thanksgiving dinner it was a great
deal better because it come from
Me. I want you to tell all thoes
that assisted in sending us
something to eat from Me. that
I am greatly obliged to them for
their kindness twords us far from
home and all its ejoyments as well
as at home enjoying the pleasure
of their society It reminds me
of the many happy days I
have enjoyed in their society

[page 2]
but now we are sepearated, and,
may never all meet together
again in this world of trouble
The interest my friends feel in
my welfare inspires me with
new vigor and strength and a new deter-
minatin to defeat the purpose
of the rebels and sustain the
union and constitution at what-
ever cost of lives or money. I
cannot express one half the
gratitude I feel twords my friends
but let them rest assured it will
never be forgoten by me while I have
sence and reason spared me.

I have no particular news to
write we have recieved 25
new recrites and 4 deserters
have been returned that run
away after the battle of Bull Run
Levi Small is one of the recrites
I was very glad to meet him

[page 3]
We are expecting Capt. Bucknam
back every day and I tell you
the company will be glad to see
him. I have recieved a marriage
card from Rodny and I send
it here enclosed and I want
you to keep it. I have a few
pictures I will send to Walter
you may give them to him
or keep them yourself. I suppose
you got the paper I sent you
with an account of the great
review of all the troops this
side of the Potomac it was a
grand display. Our Regt is in
Slocum's Brigade and in
Franklin's division we have
good officers and the men have
great confidence in them. Tell
Susan I will write to her & soon
if you see her. I have heard
from Mark Gammon he is in

[page 4]
Maryland guarding the rail road
near the Relay house in the
10th Me. Regt. I have no
more news to write this
time so I must close

Yours in haste
Hiram M. Cash

Private, Co. K, 5th Maine

MSS 12916

1861 Nov[ember] 27 Norfolk, Va

Dear Howe

I recd yours by
Rev Mr Cash, & attended to your
request with much pleasure.
Rev. Dr. Doggett, Rowzie Edwards
& D'Arcy Paul &c &c--a large
majority of the Trustee[s] of R.
Macon would have elected
you to the Math. Chair, if
there had been any showing
that you had had any
experience of knowledge of
the Military government of a
College & of Tactics. Your only
real competition was Blanken=
=ship of Lynchbg College, who sent
a recommendation from Col
[Francis Henney] Smith of the V. M. Institute.
They could not elect & have

[page 2]
postponed the election till about
15th of Jany. The Trustees are
anxious to have just such a
Professor as your recommendation
prove you are; but Dr Smith,
Prest, has the war fever, & says
military qualifications are
indispensable. We do hope
you will be elected in Jany
-not only because you desire
the Chair, but for the sake
of our College
Wife sends much love.
affly yr friend &c
T Franly[?]

MSS 9380

1861 November 26 Camp near Centreville

Corps of Artillery Army of the Potomac

My dear Father [General John Hartwell Cocke]

Your very long & welcome letter by Dr Holeman was
duly delivered and has been much longer unanswered than I
wished,tho in truth I was uncertain had I written sooner, if my
letter would have found you at home--The accounts you give me
of the progress of affairs on the plantation is very satisfactory, and
the yield in the crop of corn is certainly very encouraging, & larger
than I had estimated particularly on the high land field which
certainly done better than I ever knew the same field to do before.
The breaking up of the corn land on the low grounds this early is
a great point gained, & I hope Irving will move forward
to do what he can on the highland field for next years
corn also before Xmas which usually limits the winter
ploughing in our section--I was relieved to hear that the
grinding of the wheat had been to long delayed tho as the
prices have been it has not been a loss as I suppose the
price will advance with the winter--I hope Irving will
be active in having all the Forage of Hay or oats or
shucks & straw that can be spared, baled up carefully in
strong bales & made ready for shipment but he ought to be cau
tioned not to ship so largely
of these things as to have to start
our own animals at home which I want him to look to, well
and keep in thriving condition especially the oxen which are
on many plantations so apt to be neglected--for they do
the hardest and heaviest work & always do it so readily & it is due
they should be well treated, well fed & properly sheltered from the
weather--I hope he will have all the shelters for the stock in the
farm yard thoroughly repaired so that the ox team , the colts

[page 2]
the cattle & sheep shall all be well secured from the weather
but to make the sheds for the ox team good first -& the floor
dry they have to stand & lie upon
--which was not the case last
winter as it should have been--

I am very glad my dear Father to think that you are en-
tertaining the idea of spending the winter in Virginia in view of
the present sad & disturbed state of the Country for we cannot
tell what may be brought about by it, or what may happen in the next
few months to cut off the lines of communication in some manner
& prevent or embarrass travelling in some part of the route you
have to take and whilst I know the severity of our winter will
be a great trial to our feelings--yet I think & trust, you will
be able at Bremo to get along tolerably well & by taking a
ride in the carriage every day about noon when the weather is
clear & fine you might get enough exercise & I know it will
be a great comfort to my dear Lucy to have you in our house
& to minister to your comfort by any attention & nursing which
it will be in her power to give in which gentle offices I think
she is specially gifted--
There is nothing new that I can name in regard to this
field of operations of our army--We hear now & then a vague
rumour of an intended advance on part of the enemy, but
then it ends--& he keeps outside & beyond Fairfax Court House
shivering in the Cold & hasn't the heart to come up and get
warmed at our fires--If he could divide this army he would
try to get into Virginia by this route--but as long as the
army here is of its present strength he will not venture to try it
but will be compelled if he wants to over run Virginia to steal
into the Capital by some other road--this place is now made

[page 3]
strong by a series of some 12 or 14 earth works with
from 4 to 8 & 10 embrasures each a\& thesefor rifles guns & field
pieces belonging to this Corps of Artillery chiefly--& these [?] &
connected by a range of breast works for infantry making a
circuit of some 4 miles within which a larger part of our
army is now camped & including will[?] the limits the old village
of Centrevile which these works now will make a place of note--
I do not believe our generals now believe it is likely we will have
a fight at this place but they keep everything in readiness & surely
if nothing shall be done by the 10th of December, I think we may con-
clude it best to be looking out how we can best guard our men
for winter against the cold--for the experience of the last two weeks
admonishes all that winter is almost upon us & we then would
at once be providing for the comfort of the men against the frost & cold
of winter while is is impossible to do in the poor tents that have
been provided for them--Col Pendleton has in the last two days
been engaged in fixing on a plan & selecting a location for the erec-
tion of huts for winter quarters for his corps. & we shall probably
go out tomorrow & take some steps in the premises. It is very late
& ought to have been done a month ago--our location is further
off on the Warrenton road say 3 miles from Centreville on the road
& about 1 mile this side & E of the Stone Bridge over Bull run it is a pretty
high place but is immediately on the turnpike which is partly Mcademized
& has the advantage of being in a large body of woods, where fuel will be all around
us & we can get water I think convenient enough & in abundance. The plan is
to build small huts of logs say 15 x 16 feet in the clear for 12 men with a chimney
to each & cover with logs, leaves & one foot of earth--& have sheds made for
the battery horses--by the way the Qr Masters Department of the Army is but
poorly attended to & the horses have suffered in many batteries in consequence

[page 4]
of it--I have to send every day a wagon ten miles one turn for
hY & the next for corn to keep a supply of my horses--because
the Quarter Master never has enough on hand to give me more than
a piece of a load at one time of either--& this is the case with
20 or 30 other wagons every day--

Since the weather has become cold Col Pendleton has commenced
holding services in the Church in Centreville & has them in the morning
& afternoon & they were both well attended last Sunday tho the
weather was very cold & unfavorable, and it is certainly a most
encouraging & cheering circumstance that so many officers & men out of
our army should show this lively evidence of interest in duties & ob
servances of the Sabbath as promptly to fill the church after a
very limited notice being given.

In reference to you bill with H M Smith--I thought I informed
you as I think I did one day that Farrar told me he had called
& made arrangements that satisfied Smith, tho he has paid Smith no
money, but as I wanted to know what those arrangements were I called
to see Smith about it & his clerk (named Tower) said Farrar called
& said he would try & get the money for him as soon as he could but named
no particular time--& so in coming home I made Robt Hughes get
Farrar's bond which is in the desk among the other bonds (I think) & I
think you had better take the bond & make Robt. Hughes carry it to
Farrar & tell him he must pay it or put it in the hands of John
Sclater, or if necessary a lawyer & make him collect the money--Farrar is able
to pay it he has had a considerable contract for work with the government & been
able to pay that money but I see he is not going to do it till it is taken out
of him--Give my affectionate love to Lucy Sally Dr Brent our dear
little Letty & all at home & believe me my dear father ever
your affectionate Son Cary C Cocke

[left hand margin of page 4]
I was brother Philip yesterday he was very well--& happy to add this leaves me in excellent health remember me to all the servants that have ask about me

Cary Charles Cocke of the Fluvanna Light Artillery
MSS 640

Saturday, November 26, 2011

1861 November 26

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton of the 23rd Ohio]

No Dress parade Agreed
to pay Joe 10 Dol for cooking
my share 67 cts per month
wrote letter to Aunty Hays
practiced Alex came up
from Cannelton, Cloudy

MSS 10317

1861 November 26

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale of the 34th Ohio Zouaves]

We left Mud Bridge
last night at about nine
o clock and started for
Barboursville we arived
here about 2 oclock wet
mudy and tired for it
was very mudy and
snowed pretty near all
the way I had to help
gard fore prisners
that we had they told
us lots of things we
crost over [?] Hille
where General or Colonll
Legler had a fight
with the rebels they had
a cannon they sayed
that one fellow ut it
on his sholdier an fired
it at the rebles then
we past through the
narrows where the
rebles fired at the
Federal troopes we are
quartered in a house
got a big fire place
where we can cook
with out going out
doors in the weather
but I do not know
how long we will
stay here but hope if
we leave here we will
go to a better all the
time till we get to
cincinnatti then quarter
in the Burnet house
or the Black Bare to day
is a very pleasant one
we are on the [?] river

MSS 13405

1861 November 26 Camp Palmer Virginia

My Dear Nephew--
Your welcome letter
reached me safely today, and having
written to your mother already and feeling
very tired, I did not intend writing you
tonight, but then I know you would like
to hear from your dear uncle--so here
goes--Well my beautiful you brag
as much as ever don't you? I guess
you forget how I used to put you on my
Knee, and make you mind me--I suppose
you are almost large enough to handle
me now, but you should respect old age
George, and not threaten me so--O my boy
I only wish I had you here with me--
Wouldn't I make you step around--and
you would have to touch your hat to me
every time I passed you, and when you

[page 2]
wanted anything of me, you would have to
stand at the door of my tent, with your
hand to our cap, and wait till I spoke
to you before you could speak--Yes my boy
I'd make you know your master--I wish
you could be on here George to see our camp--
more than a thousand horses & men to ride
them and when they ride (the men I mean)
out to Drill it is really a very fine sight--
the horses are going as fast as they can.
You should see them charge sometimes--
The sabres rattle, the men cheer, and it is
Enough to scare anyone--Don't you think
it much pleasanter to make such a charge
in fun, than when you have an Enemy in
front of you firing with guns & cannons at you?
But them there is no child's play about these
charges in fun, for Every day some of the men
get hurt--I only hope my boy that you
may never be a soldier, but if you Ever become
one--and a good one, you would ride over a

[page 3]
house if you are ordered to--Why think George
when I take my men out to drill for
ten hours in the morning- if a man speaks
or even turns his head when he has not my
permission-I punish him for it--Do you
want to now how we punish men? Well
I'll tell you--Sometimes we put them in
the guard house for two or three days with
nothing but bread & water to live on--and hard
work all the time--Sometimes I stand a
man on a barrell & make him stand 2 or 3
hours or all day or night, and sometimes
put a large sign on his back and tie
him fast to a post on the parade
ground, and lots of other punishments, that
I won't tell you of, for you will think
you have a very cruel uncle--Now we
don't punish men who try to do their duty
& can't do it, but only those who are lazy
or who are wilfully negligent, and try and
make all the rouble they can--

[page 4]
I wish you could see my horses--one
is a mare. The other one is a horse--I
bought him today for $50--He is a
small bay--but I think a very good
animal--The mare will go through
a house or fire or charge a rail
road train if you wanted her to--
Now I must stop-for I have already
written you a long letter--If you
have any questions to ask, do so & I will
answer--Just wait til I come back
next year, little Tom & I have funds[?]
Well we must wait--Now George
be a good boy. don't run away skating
this winter when your other don't want
you to, for you will surely get drowned if
you do--Kiss little tom dear little fellow
for me & Remember me to all the
boys--now old Pal[?] good night--write soon
to your affectionate uncle.

Al

[nothing is known about the identity of Al]
MSS 15277

1861 Nov[ember] 26 Camp near Centreville

My precious darling
I am up this morning before day-
light & before Reville [sic], Simply because I was
too cold to sleep. I cant stand sleeping by
myself and I wont stand it! The fact is
I cant sleep. Jennie darling I am like you
this war has lasted long enough and I think
it high time something was being done
to close accounts. I cant help feeling
freted this morning. I did not want to get
out of bed but it had to be done or freeze
and then I could not help thinking
how nice & sweet & warm my Jennie is
at this moment & what a nice warm place
she has just by her side for me and then
I think of her last letter to me begging, intrea
ting and commanding me to come to her
Oh my dear precious wife you know
not how I long to see you. how I constantly
day & night am thinking of you and la-
menting the necessity which keeps me
from you. Often & often I imagine my-
self with [you] & actually carry on a long
conversation with you. You certainly
cant Realize H how deeply & truly I
love you as you would not blame me
for our Separations - Could I help it
I would not be away from you a day
and you certainly know it, for you cant
be ignorant of the depth & strength & might
of my love - to me every part of you is pre-
cious and you have never at any moment

[page 2]
from your pretty little feet to the top of your
head appeared in any other light than that
of a perfect beauty and you know it. And
when Ned says you dont look pretty he
is just simply a goose, and you may
tell him so for me. And you be patient
darling – I know the temper of my Genls and
know when to ask for a furlough and I
assure you that I am confident of being
with you in a week if my life is spared.
Yesterday all the troops in the army
were assigned to their Respective positions
in the line of battle if one is ever fought
here. this is of course necessary to be done
before any of us leave here for Winter Quar
ters in order to avoid confusion if sudonly [sic]
called back to meet the enimy. We as
usual compose the Reserve. A great many
of the troops are now engaged in constructing
huts for winter - we are not & hence we
expect to be moved to some other locality.
Tell Tim Papa says he must not be affraid [sic]
to go to war. he must take his gun and
go by himself & let Mama & papa stay
at home with Sister - I have no Rimidy [sic]
to offer for Meazles [sic] except that the bowells [sic]
must be kept open & the patient kept
warm & dry. I hope the children may
escape at least until spring-
write to me darling every day until
I say meet me at the depot and be a
dear good sweet girl as you are when
you dont threaten to shoot folks.
Most affectionatly ETHW

[transcription by John P. Mann, IV]

MSS 7786-g

1861 November 26 Orange Court House

Dear Father and Mother

I take my pen in hand
to drop you a few lines to let
you know that I am well at
present and hope when theas few
lines come to hand they may find
you injoying the same blessing--
I am sorry to here that you was
oneasy about me I am well and
as fat as ever I was taken the
white swelling but I have gott
well a gain I am well pleased getting
plenty to eat and I get my washing
done for nothin I am getting $28. 50 cts
per month for giveing medacine in
the hauspital I am glsd to here
that you received my picture--
Dear friends If you knowed
how well pleased I am I have
plenty of pretty girls to look
at every-day I have a warm
fier to sit by and expect to stay
all winter if you want to send
me any thing direct to Orange Co
house you can send me a pair
of stockings or any thing of the
kind

[page 2]
Dear brothers and sisters
I would like to see you
splend mother I received
letter on the 24th was expecting
good news but I received them
now now I must bring
theas few lines to a close--
so nothing more at present
dont be on easy about me
for i am sound and well
and well pleased
so
So fare well
James B. Painter

James B. Painter, Corporal, Co. K, 28th Virginia Infantry

MSS 10661

1861 Nov[ember] 26 Manassas Junction

My Dear Mother,

The box of under-clothing
& the vest, and the accompanying letters
were received & I would have written sooner
but waited in hopes of getting my Carpet-
sack so that I might send my clothes
down to be washed as I have not
had a white shirt on for over 5 weeks
But the carpet sack not coming as I anticipated
I concluded to defer writing no longer--I
loaned the sack to young friend who was
sent to the Hospital at Front Royal, where
Dr Ben Blackford is Medical Director & will
get it in two or three days, when my clothes
will be sent, that is the reason I have not
sent them before.

The shirts & drawers were very nice--
but I was afraid I cannot dispose of them--
I think I merely asked you to find out if
you could get any more. Mr Senker the
Gentleman who asked to enquire will be up
tomorrow--will probably take two pair each--
The others, I presume I will Keep--tho I have
now almost a superfluity of underclothing & Socks
thanks to your Kindness. In the carpet bag
when it does come you will find several

[page 2]
pairs of Linen or cotton drawers, about 1/2
dozen I think, for which I have not the
slightest use, you can probably turn them
to Some advantage. also some shirts not
with washing & two white vests which
also please Keep--and if you can mark
allmy clothing when I send them down
as there are several in the office and
our clothes get mixed up

Tell father I think his voice
must have reached even Old McClellan
as We are evidently on the eve of a great
battle, Thousands of exciting rumours are
flying about--The enemy are threatening
our Right flank at Leesburg as also our
left at Dumfries, also some demonstration
on our Centre, everything is hurry bustle
& confusion, preparing ambulances & medical
stores, cleaning our of hospitals, removing
baggage to the rear & every thing betokening
the near approach of a great battle,
The enemy is certainly advancing in large
force in several dirrections, but slowly
on account of the roads being very bad &
the consequent difficulty in moving artillery,
The battle cannot take place before Thursday
which is the day fixed by our commander
I believe. I think more likely Saturday or
Sunday, The Federal Congress, you know,

[page 3]
meets on Monday next, & McClellan is
almost bound to make some demonstration
previous to their meeting--The points of attack
are in great dispute--Some anticipating the
Main fight at Leesburg, some at Evansport
While a great many argue a general attack
from Evansport to Leesburg, The majority think
& it seems the opinion from Head Quarters, that
a feint will be made upon our entrenchments
at Centreville (our Centre) and the grand Coup
be Made at Evansport. One of the last two
will probably prove correct, but we are pre-
pared for them come from what quarter they
may. Our defences at Centreville are immense
& we could defy 150000 men. One ting
is Certain, if we whip this tight, we
will go into Maryland, or I believe the
troops will quit in disgust. The attack
at Evansport is renderd probably from the fact
that the blockade of the Potomac must
be raised, Washington can stand it no
longer. We get Northern papers nearly every
day & the accounts they give of the suffering
for want of provisions in Washington are
almost incredible---I was conversing to day
with a gentleman who only left
Washington on last Sunday night, this is
the ninth time he has been in since the
War commenced--He is one of their our

[page 4]
spies who was to Washington & Baltimore
regularly--Two of our best spies are members
of the Maryland Legislature--tho it is
hardly right to divulge this--The gentleman
referred to above, says he can see no hopes
whatever of a speedy end to the War, the
North are determined in the idea that
with their superior numbers they can
overwhelm us, he also says that Maryland
is a slumbering volcano, only waiting for
our presence to apply the torch, to light
the smouldering fires--

Tell Emma I recd her interesting
letter & am under obligations--I will not be
as long in answering it as she has been mine--
My best Respects to all enquiring friends--
& Kiss Little Eva a thousand times,
I cant say when I can come home, but
will let you know in time,
Your devoted Son
Chas. F. Barnes.

Charles F. Barnes, Co. G, 11th Regiment, Virginia Infantry


MSS 4444

1861 November 25 Camp Dawson

[Stationary with vignette of Jefferson Davis and Confederate flags]

Dear Farther
and Mother
thes will inform
you that I am well and hope
you to bee th4 same the yankees
Obened fire on us friday
morning at 9 o c We returned
the fire and Kept it up until
6 o c in the evening they obened
the show again Saturday about
the same time the firen was
Kept u til 3 o c Sunday morning
no damage Was done to the
1st Regt Seven georgiaans
Killed 18 Wounded I think
We give them to understand
that We Was too many in
A hill for them

[page 2]
The Boms fell
thick as hail
round our
Batery but done
no harm We Dismounted
too of ther guns and knocked
a hole in to the fo[r?]te I
fired the first gun from
this Batery it Was the third
from this side We are lying
at our guns to day When
the excitement is over I Will
Write you the particulars
give my love to all the
Children and all who may
enquire Write soon and
let me Know when you are
going to move your Son
truly Jno. M. Parker

[page 3]
No one hurt on our side

[address leaf/ page 4]
Corp Jno M. Parker
Comp. C 1st ala Reg


W R Parker
Troy
Ala

MSS 13240

1861 Nov[ember] 25 Centreville

Dear Jennie

I suppose you have decided
that I have given up my plans & taken a
place up here in the Army. But although the cir-
cumstancial[sic] evidence is pretty strong, such is
not the case, as I have just returned from a
visit undertaken with a view to procure a
pass, I think that with thro the kindness of
Mr Banks & Capt Daponté I have succeeded,
or will succeed in a few days. I have told
no one the nature of my business except Mr. Banks
to whom I told the whole affair before leaving
C-ville.

Major Barbour has not yet returned, but
is expected in a day or two. I think he will
come just as I get through my business & then
Willie & I will come down together

[page 2]
Capt. Daponté told me a few minutes ago,
that he thought you ought to make a battle
flag for Genl. Beauregard. The Genl. he says
took as much trouble as any one to make your
visit here agreeable and feels a little hurt that
Sister Hettie & Carrie should have made flags
for Genls. Johnston & Van Dorn, & that none of
you should have made one for him. I told
the Captain that i would write to you t his
evening & represent to you the state of the case,
and ask you to make one immediately if not
sooner & send it up. As I write Genl Johnston's
waves magnificently across the street, in full
view from the window of the room in which
I sit, the occasion is a grand review of the
whole army. I saw Van Dorn's review yesterday.
It was a grand affair.

Jim Clarke was up here yesterday, just over
from Baltimore, he brought us a letter from
Ma, which I enclose, it is pretty down

[page 3]
hearted I think. she writes for you all to
return. I doubt your ability to go home
but on this subject we well talk when we
get to Charlottesville. Love to Sister Hetty.
Good-bye, your attached brother
Jno. B. Cary

Counsellor has gone down to Richmond.

Miss Jennie M. Cary
care of Mrs. S. S. Carr
University of Virginia

MSS 1415

1861 November 25

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale, 34th Ohio Zouaves]

this morning is very
cold and the snow is
falling a little now and
then we expect it will
snow to day the ground
is frozen and it will
lay on now I am on
guard a gain to day
to day is my regular day
I am in Regimental guard
at head quarters it still
keeps cold and snowey we
are going to leave here
soone but I do not know
where we will go but
hope it will be to
some good place to
keepe warm and
dry for we have had
it bad enough now

MSS 13405

1861 November 25]

[from the diary of Eugene M. Cox of the Albemarle Border Guards]

9 P.M. Still snowing some--all of us have moved into our huts--nothing new--

MSS 38-221

1861 November 25

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton of the 23rd Ohio]

No Dress parade: practiced
wrote letter Home
Received letters from home
and from Aunty Hays
Alex went to Gauley this
morning commenced snowing this
evening cold cloudy

MSS 10317

Thursday, November 24, 2011

1861 Nov[embe]r 24 Camp Carolina

My dear wife [Olivia Alexander Page]

I recd your letter which was mailed in Lynch
burg Sunday (21st) postmarked 22d, yesterday, and
I thank and bless you for it, Whenever I
receive a letter from you my first feeling
is of gratefulness that all is well with you
and our little ones, I bless you for this letter
because it speaks to me of your warm and un=
reserved affections for me, and wherever I may be or
whatever my lot, I can be satisfied so long as I know
that you love me and want you to love me, and
whatever hardships I may be called upon to endure
I can be content if I have the assurance that you
are loving me and caring for me all the time,
but without this my darling I can never be satis=
fied under any circumstances, all the pomps and
the honors that this world can afford would
be of no value to me without you, remember
this and know that though all the world might
forsake you there is one who is nearer to you than
any brother, whose heart will always be warn
with true and pure affection for you until it
grows cold in death, you must not expect me to
write you any copper plate letters, indeed I shall be
satisfied if you can manage to read them, I have
to write and I can, sometimes sitting in the cold, and
sometimes as I am now, lying in bed, which is
an awkward business at best, and especially when
it is cold enough to freeze you almost when you put
your arms and shoulders outside the blankets

[letter of Edwin R. Page to Olivia Alexander Page continues on the next day]
I wrote this much my darling last night and had
to postpone the balance of my letter until this morning

[page 2]
I believe I shall have to follow your plan and write you
some every day, I am very badly fixed for writing now,
but will be better off shortly, I have ordered a small
stove which I intend to put in my tent as soon as we are
settled for the winter, which will make it much
more comfortable, and then I can write with much
greater convenience, they have been talking for
the last few days of sending us up to Waterford to
take the place of the Loudoun Cavalry which has
been stationed there for sometime, and which has been
ordered to Centreville, but I hope we will not have to go,
the chief objection I have to going up there is that is
is such an out of the way place I could not hear from
you as soon and as regularly as I can here, I have been
talking with Col, Munford about it and he wishes to
keep us here, he asked me to go into town this mor=
ning and see the Gen. about it, which I have done
he says that the Col. may keep us here for the
present, and he told me privately and unofficially
that it was his purpose, after a while to move his
Head Quarters down to Mrs Carters, and wished
to carry a cavalry company with him, to spend the
winter, he said he could pick out a good place for us there
where we might be more comfortable perhaps than
we would be here, I would like to winter somewhere
where you can come to see me before spring if I can't
come to you, and that is one important reason
with me for desiring to remain close to Leesburg,
I suppose however you might come to Mrs Carter's,
I dont see how I can live so long a time without
seeing you, it would be almost death to me to be
away from you until next June, I don't like to
think about it, the Genl. was talking about his
socks to day , he makes the greatest fuss imaginable

[page 3]
about them, he says they are worth $3 a pair. I
haven't seen his wife yet, the tale about his having
a horse race with Jno. Alexander is ridiculous,
there is no foundation for it whatever, he has no
time or opportunity for such sport, if he were so dis=
posed, and if he had, his sense of propriety would
forbid it.--I am very glad my darling you have
got a carriage to to suit you, I should have bought
one for you myself if I had had an opportunity. I am
very much afraid of being in debt as you are, but I
want you to have every thing you want that our
means will afford. I can send you $100, perhaps
$200, I could have spared you more than that
but you know I had to borrow $400 from the Bank
for rent, and I shall have to pay that in four months,
If I can make it out, I hope Tom Cobbs and his wife
will stay with you this winter at least, if not
all the year, I should be much better satisfied
if I know you had some one with you that you
liked, you are fight about not selling the wheat
just now, I think it will necessarily be higher
among other reasons for it is that the Southern
and southwestern states which have usually
drawn their supplies of breadstuff, from the
North Western States, must now get a large portion
of them from us, how are you getting on with
your corn, and how is it turning out, don't let
them put it in the house until it is thoroughly
dry, have you commenced ploughing for
corn yet? let me know if you will get your
salt and what it will cost, I understand it
can be bought in Lynchburg at McDaniel &
Irby's now at something like a reasonable
price, John Alexander and William Graham

[page 4]
will both be at home I suppose before you receive
this, if John brings a box from home with him and
has room for ti I should like to have my gown, it is
warm and i think will be a convenience to me in
cold weather, it will be a good thing to sleep on , I
can do without it but you might send it if you can
do so without any inconvenience, I am glad you
are going to see Mrs. Goggin, I would like for you
to visit her often, and hope you will be able to
persuade them to go and stay with you some,
there is one thing I want you to do, and that is to be
particular and not get your feet wet when you go
out this winter, you know it always makes you
sick, remember this, and whenever you are disposed
to go in the wet just consider that I am looking at you
and scolding you about it, it is somewhat strange
but I have never received a newspaper yet, you
need not be uneasy about me my darling, I will try
and take good care of myself for your sake, I shall
get along very well I hope. I can't say that Camp life
in the winter is at all pleasant, but if I could only
see you and my children just once in a while I should
not think so hard of it, I believe I have forgotten
to tell you that our friend Mrs Ball is in Fauquier
at her father's, I went into town yesterday and in-
tended to have gone to church, but staid some time
at the Hospital with one of our men who is very ill
and did not get to the church, until near the close of the
services, I am very much afraid the poof fellow will
die, his name is Epperson[?], I have written to his wife and his
father, and also to Joe Epperson about him. tell little Monie
I am tired waiting for her little letter, why don't Mary Mann
write to me, kiss all of them for me, and now my own dear
girl, I must say good bye to you once more, I would to God
I might never leave it to say to you God speed the time when we

[in top margin of page one]
may be together again
if I could be always
by your side my
own wife & could be
always happy, I can
endure anything better
than being sepa=
rated from you--
God bless you
your truly devoted
husband
E.R. Page

Dr. Clark asks
to be remembered
to you


Edwin R. Page, 1st Lieutenant, 2nd Virginia Cavalry


MSS 8937

1861 November 24

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F of the 25th Massachusetts]

Slept but little last night. Sat
round the fire near the guard
tents, most of the time when not on duty
Had a good chat with Frank Ware
who came and spoke to me. This afternoon
attended an excellent service by Mr James
at two o'clock. lay down and slept some
this evening. Ed Brown came in to see me
a few minutes this afternoon

MSS 11293

1861 November 24

[from the diary of Eugene M. Cox of the Albemarle Border Guards]

9 P.M. Worked all day today on our huts and it has been snowing continually and is snowing yet. Some of us moved into our huts this evening.

MSS 38-221

1861 November 24

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale of the 34th Ohio Zouaves]

It is snowing like
everything this morning
and looks like we would
have a big snow of it
will only stay on a while
we will have lots of fun
the boys are snowing
one another like every
thing it snowed till
night but it melted
a goodele and did not
get deepe it is only a
few inches deepe in places
and lots of places there is
none it is very bad under
foot the boys ar talking
a bout winter quarters
they do not know
where we will go to

MSS 13405

1861 Nov[ember] 24 St Johns Semenary near Alexandria Va

Dear Father I have just finished A letter for George & as I have got nothing else to do I thought I would set down & write to you & let you know that I am well & never was better in my life, & will try to answer some of the questions that you write in your last letter you wondered how some of the seventh of Maine came over they do keep pretty strict over there only allowing two passes A day to a Company, & I saw some of the Friends of mind in the Massachusetts regiments Charley Floyd is the name of one of them you say that I do not make any complaint about clothing I have no reason to make any because we are well clothed we have Plenty of wood & use it anyway we want to most of the Boys have stoves in thier tents which cost Four dollars & A halfe, the day was Pleasant, General McLellan review was about Just the last part of it it begun to sprinkle I wish you had been here that day when he passed the different Camp Grounds & heard the Cheering of the different Regiments, I hope this will find you all as well as I am From you son Joseph Leavitt. I am willing that you should write what you think is right but I can guess ho[w?] that was that said I wonder what our Jo does with his money it sounds Just like Mother & I want you to tell her that I put it at good use & will try & send her Five dollars the next Pay day which in all will be fifteen dollars answer it soon.

Letters from Joseph Leavitt of the 5th Maine and his brother George of the 5th New York were copied into a ledger by their father John Leavitt in October 1865 "because they are of value to me and I was fearful that they might get mislaid." Both boys were mortally wounded in the war, George at Second Bull Run, August 30, 1862, and Joseph at Spotsylvania, May 18, 1864.

1861 November 24

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton, musician and private in the 23rd Ohio]

no Dress parade
Did nothing to day
snowed all day still
snowing quite hard
meeting in our room tonight
to pass resolution on the death
of Seaman

[the following letter was written by Templeton on the 24th of November]

Camp Union in Fayetteville, Va.

Dear Parents
It is sabbath
morning not the Sabbath
of Home but a Camp Sabbath
around me are the Boys some
reading some writing others
singing. We have a very
comfortable house to stay in
we occupy two rooms one
with a large fireplace
as a kitchen the other with
a coal-grate as a sitting room
we sleep up stairs
I wrote to you a few days
since quite hastily shall
now write a little more
particularly. The morning we
left Camp Ewing we were
called out quite early and
and ordered to prepare rations

[page 2]
for two days soon after
daylight we were on the
way. The road from here
I mean from Camp Ewing to
the Gauley is very interesting
The scenery is the wildest
and most picturesque I have
ever seen a short distance
below Camp is Hawks Nest a
perpendiculier ledge of rocks
said to be 1100 ft high
it is indeed a wild spot
standing on that terrible
precipice with the dull
roar of the water far below
as it finds its way among
the huge rocks that fill
its chanel, some five miles
farther is the Head Quarters
of Rosecrans, on the Farm of
Col. Tompkins (now in the Rebel
army)This is the best improved
Farm I have seen in the state

[page 3]
it is beautifully situated three
miles above Gauley overlooking
the junction of the rivers
The road now descends quite
rapidly to the river. flanked
on the upper side by ledges
of rocks several hundreds of
ft high and here and there
through some steep ravines
are seen beautiful waterfalls
After crossing the river and
marching some five miles
we camped for the night n
a deep ravine. We here
found three stacks of wheat
which were speedily demolished
I managed to secure several
sheaves with which I made
a comfor[t]able bed in the
corner of a fence. something
similar to a pigs nest
I then prepared my supper
perhaps you would like the

[page 4]
Bill of fare. a cup of coffe
(I always cary a small parcel
of Coffe in my Haversack) and
one or two hard crackers
Our Haversacks are large pockets
made of drilling wh[i]ch we cary
over our shoulders mine is a
rebel one which I picked up
on the battle ground at Gauley
monday morning.

We have now been in
the place over a week
did not receive our knapsacks
and cooking utensils until Friday
last. This place is about as
large as Savanah there are
some very fine houses all
of which are filled with
soldiers. Out buildings and
fences are torn down for
fuel and for boards with
which to make bunks to
sleep in. I have just seen

[page 5]
some of the money which
was paid to the Rebel troops
it is engraved on the poorest
quality of paper and is
payable in Two years

We will probably know
in a few days Whether we
will remain here all
winter or not

I have just been handed two
letters one from you and
one from Aunty Hays
you ask me if I need
another pair of Boots. I can
get shoes but they are not
very good and although
my old boots ar good yet
they are not large enough
I would like very much
if I had a pair of military
Boots with high wide legs

[page 6]
so that I can wear my
pants inside and very
heavy soles. I saw a pair
this morning that pleased
me they extend up to
the knees, do not send
any unless you have a
good opportunity.

Tell mother she may send
me a pair of socks if she
can the kind[?] we get here
are partly coton and do
not last long.

I have not fallen away
much since I came into the
service I was weighed a
few days since weighed
172 lbs my weight used to
be about 175. The boys are
constantly teasing[?] me
about my eating so much

Write soon and often
Yours truly J.D. Templeton

[upside down on top margin of page 5]
Tell Tome that I want him to
write and Eliz The Boys are generaly
well Bill Creps is well. Fred dont seem

[down left margin of page 5]
to be very well do not know what is the matter with him seems

[across bottom margin of page 5]
to have the Blues.

MSS 10317

1861 Nov[ember] 24 Camp near Centreville

My dear John

I have received, after some delay by mail
your very satisfactory letter of the 16th--I received at the
same time one from you Mother of about the same
date in which she requested me to write to meet
her in Richmond about this time--which I have done
by the last mail--I also heard of your going to
Richmond with your sisters--I hope this will meet you
on your return---

I appreciated your solicitude about me--and know how
the hearts of all must be tried at home by our long and
cruel separation--But these are times in which we
must make up our minds to bear bravely the severe
trials we are called upon to endure--and may God help
us to do so! So far, however, I have not actually suffered
in camp--and am doubtless now comfortable than
many-- one thing however these unhappy times should
teach all--that there is no earthly [?] as hope that
may not fail us--and that a prayerful trust in
God is the only unfailing stay & support of the immortal

[page 2]
spirit under whatever costly trials & misfortunes--
and may we all my dear John seek and find that
support which will serve us in the present con=
test and strengthen our hopes of final triumph over
enemies in the cause of all that is near and dear
to the human heart!

In regard matters of business--The same list of
property given to the County Commissioners of the Revenue
had better be made the basis of the list to be
tendered to the Confederate Commissioners--If there
are any subjects or articles of taxation not in the first
list-You can obtain them from such lists of property
as we have--I think it would be well to advise
with Mr Finny & to get Ed Carrington to aid yo
in making out the list of property--so as not to
fail to tender it by the time required by law--

I will mention that the Packer[?] debt has been reduced
to $35000.00 by payments made. That a bond of some
$3500 of N.F. Cabell "is out of date" & therefore of no legal
obligation--should not therefore be estimated as property--
as it has been in fact partially given up by allowing it

[page 3]
to get out of date without renewall or security--

I have written to Thos S. Deane (Deane & S Jones)to
aid you in procuring a supply of salt sufficient to salt
the pork upon the two places & if possible to avoid the
extortionate prices charged--I see that in Lynchburg
some parties advertise to [?] it at $350 per sack
and I have requested Deane & S Jones to assist you
in procuring either from Lynchburg or [?] [?]
quantity of salt you may find will be necessary to
avoid the loss of our pork--& [?] the best terms
they can procure it--It is possible too you may pur-
chase it yourself upon better terms than any one can as well
for you--- Mr. Deane advises that the tobacco be
kept on the plantation for the present--which had
better be done----

Tell Mr Talbott that he should endeavour to sell as
much corn- hay-&c as possible--by sending the same to Rich-
mond--as the prices there may justify-

Keep an eye yourself upon the [?] accounts and
receive all cash from time to time paid into the [?]
and pay it over to your mother---

[page 4]
These and all other things you will have to look after--
Keep the mechanics employed quarrying stone--getting [?]
building &c &c--just as you may direct--either on your
place or Belmead--

Write to me fully and often and tell me all about
the dear ones at home I ask that the girls will also
write [?] I may not be able to reply regularly to
all their letters--With love to all--I remain my
dear John
Yr affectionate father
Philip St Geo Cocke

Sterling & Tyler are well-- My regards to the servants.

MSS 640
[to be continued]

1861 Nov[ember] 23 Centreville, Virginia

My Dear Creek

We have again returned from Picket, after
a cold but otherwise very pleasant trip, as we had the luck
to have dry weather this time, everything is quiet on the
out posts yet not a sign of the enemy anywhere this side
off falls Church where their advanced camp is. Our
Cavalry within half a mile of their camp the other day
and came on a party of them killing 6 wounding two and
bringing off ten prisoners this was a very daring act--as they
were right in sight of their Camp when they did it, but
the cavalry were from Missippa and are not easily scared.

While on Picket I Received you kind letter of the 14th, and on
my arrival at Camp one of the 18th. I am happy to hear that
you are well and that Maggie is herself again. the report
you heard of our Regt coming home is not true at least
there is no such report here, but on the contrary Beauregard
says posatively that he cant let any of the troops leave this
place at present, I think the woman down the contry are
too easily frightened to be runing away from home so soon
I dont think the Yankees will ever get any further into
the State than they are not and you have not anything to
fear about Anderson. I dont think you have anything to dead
from the low contry negroes coming up they will need most of

[page 2]them on the coast for building fortifications but should time
get so you are afraid to stay, I would advise you to take the things
out of the house and move to Mas and stay with her till I
get back this would be a good deal of trouble but you had much
better do than live in constant dread as that is a miserable
condition for anyone to live in, but perhaps you may get
Jim or Jink to stay with you if they are not engaged in
anything. I am sorry to hear that Papa is going of. I think he
is getting to old to stand the fatigue of camp life and their is
surely young men enough without old men like him going
and then you know he is troubled with Rheumatic pains
and camp is the worst place in the world for him I
think he had better camp this winter with Betsy.

I am very sorry to hear of Johanis misfortune. I heard of it in
a letter from Caroline to William but she did not give any
particulars, only that she expected everything would have to
be sold; let me know something more of it in you next as
we are both anxious to know the straight of it.

You will do right in sending my other pants by Stephen
as on pair is all I have and when I get wet have nothing
of my own to change with, I have socks enough to do me
two years, or more, I have not had on the first pair of the
ones you sent me yet, you know I got three or for pairs
of fine new yarn socks from the Yankees after the Battle.
I found them in a Box that had a great many in it, none
of which had ever been worn so we all helped ourselves to them,
and they are very comfortable and warm for us ow.
it is strange that you dont get my letters more regular. I get

[page 3]
most of yours very regularly now I sent you one by hand some
time since it may be it that has been delayed. I hope you have
got some by this time as there is several on the way somewhere.
Tell Billy smith Gambriell is here and quite well again he
is very anxious to hear of his little sister whether she is well
again or not he has not heard anything from home since the
letter he got in my box Andy Wardlaw is also quite well.
Tell Squire Wardlaw that his nephew James Wardlaw died
at Culpdper C. H. about ten days ago, we are all sorry about his
death he was a fine young man and much esteemed by his
fellow soldiers. William is still at Manassas Junction but
is well again will be back to camp tomorrow I hear from him
every day by John Harrison who goes after the mail
it is very cold tonight and snowing a little I think we
will have a pretty heavy fall before morning. the mountains
which we can see very plainly form here are all white things
generally look very much like winter and we all wish we
were at home with our wives and families instead of sleeping
in cold tents, we have a pretty good supply of Blankets
however, and plenty of wood, and we manage in that way
to make ourselves very comfortable, their is nothing new
transpiring in Camp at present, the health of our Regt. is generally
good, except colds &c. which cannot well be avoided when
men will not take proper care of themselves, give my kindest
regards to all of the family. Jink is a long time in answer
ing my letter. Kiss Dear little Maggie for me (oh how I
wish I could do so myself) and reserve my warmest affection
for yourself.

William

[page 4]

You will find enclosed a map of the wanderings
of our Regt since we came to Virginia drawn by Col
Billy Major and sent with his kindest Regards
to Jimmee the wanderings of the Regt. are marked
by the red dot[t]ed line, runing through the map Jim[?]
will know where to commence and follow us up
to our nearest position.


William Anderson, Captain Co. J, 4th Regiment South Carolina Volunteers (Palmetto Sharpshooters)

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

1861 November 23

[from the diary of Wesley Hammond, Dixie Greys, Co. E of the 42nd Virginia Infantry]

Commence bustding,[sic]
building cabins. Began
to snow early this morning
continues pretty much all

MSS 5526

1861 Nove[ember] 23 Camp Franklin Va

Dear parents

I thought I
would send you a paper
containing a description
of the review last thurs
-day it was a sight worth
seeing the paper will tell
you the whole particulars.
I spent thanksgiving very
pleasantly. I with the rest
of my tnets crew was at
work on our winter tent
we are building it after
the Calafornia stile a log
house about 4 feet high

[page 2]
and then our canvass
tentgoes on over to
make a roof we have got
a fire place and chimney
built of brick and clay and
I tell you it is a good one
I should have written to
you before but I have
been waiting to see if
that box did not get here
befor I wrote it has not
got here yet we expect
it it to night. I do not know
but it will be best to
let the place but I
should think it would
be best to keep the hay if
you can

[page 3]
if he will not take it
without he has half of the
hay I would let him have
it. I heard of the capture
of port Royal and beaufort
I wrote to Robert Smith
about it as I owed him a
letter every thing looks
prosperous on our side n
regards to the war Slidel
and Mason are captured,
they were the rebel commis-
sioners to England, I
cannot write much now
we are all well and we
enjoy ourselves first rate
you may give this pin to
Walter but you had better

[page 4]
put it iup for him when
he gets big enouch to wear
it I shall write as
soon as we get the box
Yours in haste
Hiram M. Cash

[private, Co. K, 5th Maine Infantry]

MSS 12916

1861 November 23

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale of the 34th Ohio Zouaves]

I was detailed for guard
this morning there was
three of us sent to one
place we had no word
hardly and the wind blows
like big guns but toward
night it let up I stayed
on the forepart of the
night till the moon raised
then I woke the other
boys and went to sleepe
it commenced to snow
towards midnight and when
I got up the ground
was covered with snow
and it is still snowing
there was two boys went
out last night and got
a turkey apiece bully
for them

1861 November 23

[from the diary of F. Alfred Welton, musician and private, Co. D, 9th Indiana]

The General and about five
hundred men paid a visit to
Camp Bartow which they found
entirely deserted. the Enemy hav
ing left the day previous.
Quite a number continued on
the pike toward Staunton and
found th Enemy in force
at Camp Baldwin on the Al
legheny mountain, some nine
miles from their old camp.
Not having sufficient force to
cope with them the General and
party returned, bringing in
one Georgian as a prisoner

[this is the last entry in Welton's diary. On November 1st 1863 Lieut McCullough, Co D 1st Md Battalion begins recording daily events in the same book.]

MSS 2822

1861 Nov[ember] 23rd

Capt. C C Cocke

Dr Sir:

I received your letter of the
18th Inst to day and was sorry to learn that you
had not received neither of two letters which I had
written you--After the receipt of your letter containing an
extension of my furlough I went to Richmond five days
previous to the expiration of the furlough for the purpose
of getting an extension there of the your furlough to the 10th,
which if I could not have procured I was determi-
ned (though there under medical treatment) to proceed
to Centreville in order to report n the time prescribed by your
furlough--I found upon application at the Adjutant
General's Office that it was only necessary to forward
the certificate of Dr. Winn which I had with me, to
the Captain of my company and that each certificate
sent at intervals would answer the renewal of the furlough
I then had & showed them--I therefore forwarded to you
from Richmond on the 6th Nov. the certificate and also
wrote a letter--In that I stated that my strength was returning
and I hoped to be able in a week or so to rejoin the company;
notwithstanding the opinion of my physician and those who saw
me during my sickness that my recovery would be slow--
The bronchial affection however under which I then suffered
and which has not yet released its hold upon me, thwarted
me in my expectation and at two weeks from that time

[page 2]
I again wrote you and asking your opinion as to my
resignation, basing it mainly upon the inconvenience and
dissatisfaction which my continued absence owing to
sufficient or insufficient reason would give
the Company--I am still incapable of performing my
duty of camp, not daring to expose myself with all of
the advantages of home life to camp atmosphere, and
I therefore submit to you my resignation and as request
of you the proper mode of application--I know the
imputation which naturally falls to the lot of one circum-
strained as I am , and to broach it has cost me some
difficulty, yet to escapt it I cannot consent to do
a foolish act and do what prudence and common
justice forbid--i.e. to expose myself to imminent risk
of life for no available purpose--If you have not
received the certificate which I forwarded you I will
get Dr. Winn to give you a professional statement of
the my condition of health--Hoping Sir that
you may yet receive my former letters, which will
show that no indifference towards the Company
or remissness in my line of duty has controlled me
during my absence--I should be glad to hear from
you at your earliest convenience--Excuse
the haste & drollery of this letter as I am replying
to be in time for return mail--the encelope being a
roadside invention

I am respectfully yrs &c
F S Johnson

MSS 640

1861 November 23

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton of the 23rd Ohio]

Played as usual
did nothing this forenoon
practiced some made
another bench this
afternoon, rained last
night mostly cloudy
cold

MSS 10317

1861 November 23

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding of Co. F, 25th Massachusetts]

opposite a New York regiment.
A nice beautiful day, I wrote another
letter home making the sixteenth I have
written since we came to Annapolis.

MSS 11293

1861 November 23 Camp Franklin St Johns Semenary Near Alexandria Va

Deaar Mother, I have just receved Fathers letter of the 16th and was glad to hear that all of the Folks were all well, I am well & Never was better in my life last wensday there was A grand review of Part of the Army on this side of the Potomac at Baileys cross roads by General McClellan & his staff & the President & Vice President & the Cabinet And about three thousand of the citizens of Washington there was Seventy Frive thousand there I did not go with them there because I had just come off Guard & the morning the Guard is relieve they have the hold day to themselves each man had to take twenty rounds with him so if there should be and attack Maid on them, the suttler of this Regiment is got to leave I do no know what for now I dont care how quick that he does due it I receved A letter from Ellen & she wrote that Elizabeth took tea there I have lost the direction of Mister Stevens box I want you to tell me the number because I want to answer it right away
From Your son
Joseph Leavitt

Letters from Joseph Leavitt and his brother George Leavitt were copied into a ledger by their father John Leavitt in October 1865: "because they are of value to me and I was fearful that they might get mislaid." Both boys were mortally wounded in the war, George at Second Bull Run, August 30, 1862, and Joseph at Spotsylvania, May 18, 1864.

MSS 66

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

1861 November 22

[from the diary of Wesley Hammond of the Dixie Greys, Co. E of the 42nd Virginia Infantry]

Move down across the
river where our cabins are to
be built.


MSS 5526

1861 Nov[ember] 22

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F, 25th Massachusetts]

Have not written any lately except
letters, of which I have received
five, viz:--One from Jennie Lund, one from
Henry Russell, one from home, one from a
Mr Young of Worcester, and one from Mary.
It was thanksgiving in Massachusetts yester-
day and we observed the day here. Had
no drill. Services in the afternoon at which
Mr James spoke very feelingly of home.
In the evening had a social gathering
around a camp-fire, at which we
had a good time. During the night one
of the Milford Company died of typhoid
fever. The funeral services were held
this afternoon. His body was sent home
with his father who came on here before
his death. His name was shepherd.
This afternoon there was a box came to
our company containing Thanksgiving dainties
from our friends. I received from father
two big pies. We are occupied about as
at Camp Lincoln, Expect to leave here soon
for some southern expedition. I have
written home five times since I came
to Annapolis, to Daniel once, to Mary
twice, to Jennie twice, to Henry Russell twice
to John Sawyer once, to Dea. Thurston once
and to a man by the name of Young in Worcester
once making fifteen letters in all.

MSS 11293

1861 Nov[ember] 22 Cavalry Camp, near Leesburg

(Private)

My dear Eugene [Davis]

Your letter of the 20th inst.
received this morning informing me that
you were rapidly improving, gave me pecu=
liar gratification, as I had just this morning
been told by a gentleman just from Charlottes-
ville, that he understood you were "very low", and
I was very uneasy about you. I had been in-
tending to write for a long time to Euginie how
you were getting on, but my unfortunate and
hereditary tendency to procrastination in such
matters has prevented me hitherto. I do earnestly
pray that your health & live, always precious to
your friends, and now, peculiarly valuable
to your country, may be spared & restored.

And now, as to the matter of your res=
ignation. You may remember, that, when at
Manassas, the first open demonstration of the
Troop's dissatisfaction with you, was made that
I told you that whatever should be your course
in reference to it, I would as long as I could
conscientiously stand by you, and then, when

[page 2]
after conference with your friends, you
determined not to accede to the request
then made of you by the Troop, I and your
other Officers, with the lights then before us, acknow=
ledged the propriety of your course, and assured
you of our purpose to stand by you, and to sup=
port your rightful authority. But in addition,
and privately, I told you, that whatever your fate
shd. be in commission with that matter, I would
share it. If you resigned, I would likewise. That
after all that had passed, I would not con=
sent, should you see fit thereafter to resign in
consequence of the ill-feeling of the Troop towards
you, to occupy the position of your probable suc=
cessor, under such circumstances. This I
have since repeated, while I was in Albemarle
to Staige, I believe, and others, our mutual friends
with whom I conferred with respect to your
position & relations with the Troop. This is still
my feelings. But I understand from your
letter, that your failing health and the uncer=
tainty of your being able to undergo the hard=
ship & exposure, incident to this service, are
the immediate cause of your resignation.
Now, I will say to you, with the utmost frank=

[page 3]
ness, that I don not covet the responsi=
bilities & cares of a command; but at
the same time, I wish to do what I
may to serve the Country, and of course
would prefer to do so, enjoying the advantage
of an official position, if it comes along
in the right way. If I am not mistaken
then, in my understanding of your letter, I
do not conceive, that I should be doing
violence to our lifelong friendship, not com=
promising my own character as an honor=
able men, in abiding as I am, and accept-
ing the Captaincy, should it be the pleasure
of the Troop to confer it on me. If, however
I have misunderstood you, I hope and
believe you will say so, and I can shape
my course accordingly. You will of course
notify me of the acceptance of your res=
ignation, as an election cannot be had till
that is done.

Tom Randolph before he dropped a-
sleep desired me to give his love, and say he
was much gratified to hear of your improving
health. Geiger is at home on furlough, but will
return Monday. Ford cordially writes with
Randolph in the expression of his sentiments.

[page 4]
Most of the Troop are generally absent on picket.
The duty is right hard as we have a long line
to guard and not sufficient force to do it
with ease. There are Five Troops in this
Brigade. Two of them are posted at Waterford
seven miles from Leesburg & the pickets connect
with Ashby's at Harper's Ferry. All these troops
except Mead's Loudoun Cavalry, are from our
Regt. Ours, Graves', Alexander's & Blackford's
Until two or three days ago we were under command
of Lt. Col. Jenifer, a very gallant gentleman and the
real hero of the battle of Leesburg. But Munford
has been sent to take command. Jenifer is
made full Colonel and is ordered to Floyd
which thing he hates, as he is very busy courting
hereabouts. Miss Carry Mason being the
charmer.--Our sick boys are slowly coming
in. But I forget you are weak & weary you.
Give my love to your Mother & all dear
friends.

May God bless & preserve you dear
Eugene.
Ever your friend,
F.E.G. Carr

F. E. G. Carr, 1st Lieut, Co. K, (the Albemarle Light Horse) 2nd Virginia Cavalry


Eugene Davis, 1822-1894, Captain, Co. K, 2nd Virginia Cavalry

Thomas J. Randolph, 2nd Lieut., Co. K, 2nd Virginia Cavalry
George H. Geiger, 3rd Lieut, Co. K, 2nd Virginia Cavalry
Charles Henry Ford, 1st Sergeant, Co. K, 2nd Virginia Cavalry
Thomas Taylor Munford,1831-1916, Lt. Colonel, 2nd Virginia Cavalry
Walter H. Jenifer, Colonel, 8th Virginia Cavalry

MSS 7690-h

1861 November 22

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale of the 34th Ohio Zouaves\

I did not feel very well
this morning but soone
got over it I came near
having to go on guard
for not being on roll
call but I did not
there was a a part of boys
went out on a scout
they was about 18 miles
from camp there was two
virginians along the
camped in 2 1/2 miles from
one fellows home he started
to go hom had got near
there whe[n] a bushwhacker
shot him in the mouth
and killed him dead
they buried him there
it rained today a lot

MSS 13405

[1861 November 22]

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton, private and musician in the 23rd Ohio]

No Dress parade
prepared stool to Set[?]
on. practiced some this
afternoon, recieved packages
of papers from Home
partly clear. Threatens Rain

MSS 10317

1861 November 22

[from the diary of F. Alfred Welton, musician and private in Co. D. of the 9th Indiana]

Our scouts reported that the
bridge across Greenbriar River
was burned during the day, and
the supposed retreat of the
rebels.

MSS 2822

Monday, November 21, 2011

1861 November 21

[from the diary of Wesley Hammond of the Dixie Greys, Co. E. of the 42nd Virginia Infantry]

Day very rainy. Do nothing but
stay in tent.

MSS 5526

1861 November 21

[from the diary of Francis G. Hale of the 34th Ohio Zouaves]

I came of guard about
9 oclock got my breakfast
had tea for breakfast
it tasted first rate it
is the first we have had
for a long time then
I went in and went
to sleepe slept til noon
came out got my dinner
waked up and walked
out a while for my
healt saw a couple of
boys have a fight about
a case knife one fellow
took it from the other there
was two men had a muss
one got his eye blacked
the other went in the
guard house for I do not
know how long took the ones stripes of

MSS 13405

1861 November 21

[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton of the 23rd Ohio]

Played as usual, went
this morning and procured
Straw for Beds which we
arranged upstairs. Knapsacks
came in today. Foot[?] came in
Gilett brought Trunk & cooking uten
sils. Wrote letter to Eliza Clear pleasant.


Private James Foot?

MSS 10317

Sunday, November 20, 2011

1861 Nov[ember] 20 University of Virginia

Mrs Carrington

I have just received your note
in reference to Howe's application for the vacancy
in Randolph Macon & I will cheerfully do
all I can for him by writing to Rev Mr Cowles
of Petersburg by the next mail. He is one of the
most influential members of the Board of Trus
tees. Candour compels me to say to you how
ever that I can scarcely hope that Howe will
be successful, for I consider the appointment
as already virtually made. Sectarianism, I
am informed, has triumphed over the better judg=
ment of a number of the Trustees & they have
determined that the first requisite in the new
appointee shall be membership in the Methodist
Church. Again, under, what I am forced to
call, the senseless management of the President,
the department has been practically changed

[page 2]
into a Military chair with (a little) math
ematics attached & hence they want "a man
of thorough military education." In other words
the President a few others have become some
what fanatical on the subject of military in-
struction in the college, while another consid-
erable portion of the Board have determined to
support no one but a Methodist for the
place & these parties have joined & agreed
to go for a "Methodist military" man. I ob-
tained this information direct from the col-
lege within the last three weeks & I consid[er]
it reliable. Mr. Blankens;hip, a graduate of
the V.MN. Institute & Prof. Math in the Meth-
odist college at Lynchburg, has I understand
virtually received the appointment.

Could I see Howe I am sure I could pre-
vent him from making application for the place
for without going into details I will simply
say that I cannot conscientiously advise
any friend of mine to accept, much less

[page 3]
to apply for, a post in Randolph Macon
College under its present administration. I
would not have returned to the place this session even
if I had not gotten an appointment here.

As I have already said, I shall neverthe
less, write to Mr Cowles, because Howe is
an applicant.

With much respect
I am truly yours
R. T. Massie

Mrs Eliza H. Carrington

MSS 9380