Fort Albany, June 1st / 62
Dear Wife
I feel this afternoon as though
I want to write you a few lines but it is
so awful hot and muggy, that I feel almost
to lazy to attempt it, The weather today
is like unto some of the days that we have
at home in dog-days, one that makes a fellow
feel sticky and dirty. I went to take a long
walk this forenoon, and to get some strawberr-
ies. We found plenty of them, large, ripe, and
lucious,some of them were very large, being
an inch through or more. I could not help
feeling kind of mean, while eating them for
it seemed to me that I ought to pick, and
save, some of the best of them, to carry into
the house, for you and the children, I
could not do it though, so you must take
the will for the deed. You would be surprised
to see the orchards of Peach trees that we passed
by on our route, loaded down with green
fruit. Blackberries I think must be very plenty
[page 2]
here in the season of them for the bushes
are very full of blossoms We'll have some of them
if we are here when they are ripe. I was very much
disappointed last night (Saturday) in not receiving
a letter from you I expected one sure, I like
to receive word from you on Saturdays, because
I can have it to read and "reread" on Sunday,
which is kind of a leisure day with us, but I
"reckon" you are always busy in the discharge
of your duties, on week days, and that is
the reason. I dont find any fault you know,
only I thought I would mention it for the
sake of having something to write about.
Sunday eve 6 o'clk
It is very pleasant, but quite warm yet. We have
just heard that Gen Bans and Shields has got
the rebel Gen Jackson surrounded so that he
cannot get away, it may be nothing but a
story, we shall hear tomorrow, whether it
be true or not. To-day a company of cavalry,
belonging to the Michigan 1st Regmt, passed
by here on their way to Leesburg, after rebel
prisoners, and are going to bring them back this way
(so they said)
[page 3]
I wish you could be here now Priscilla,
if it were only for a few moments just to
see how very pleasant it is, and how very
beautiful the trees and bushes look, every-
thing looks so green and thrifty, there are some
very large black walnut trees, that I can see
as I sit here, writing, at my tent door. How
I'd like to have your Father out here now. I know
he would enjoy it so much, walking about the
country, there are so many different directions
he could go and every time see something new,
and, so much different from things at home.
We have here, at the Fort, between forty and fifty
"contrabands" at work, upon the Fort and the
roads. George Ed Stone is their overseer for the
present. (I shouldn'nt want the job) I believe that
Government pays them about forty cents per
day for their labor, they are a lazy pack of fellows
and wo'nt hurt themselves with work, I am sure.
They seem to be very glad that they are freemen.
some of them are very intelligent. one old darkey,
among them is a preacher, and can preach a very
able discourse from the Bible, although he cant
[page 4]
read or write a word, he has preached to
us, in camp, one evening, and I can assure
you, he did do first rate. We were all of us very
much interested, his discourse that evening was
upon the union, and union soldiers, after
he was done, we gave him three rousing cheers
which pleased him very much. I tell you we
have some pretty jolly times with them, they
have got quite well aquainted with now,and we
get some of the smartest of them to come to
our tents, evenings, and make them dance, run
foot races, wrestle, and tell about their Masters
and Mistresses, down south. We give them all
the spare bread and meat that we have, for which
they are very gratefull, thay think there is nobody
like union soldiers, Well I guess you will
will[sic] be tired of my scribbling about "Niggers"
but I could'nt scratch out any ideas of my own,
and now, I've been trying for the last two minutes
to think of something that might interest you,
but I ca'nt, and I have got all of a sweat trying,
to do so, I shall have to give up in (despair) or hopes
that i shall be able to do better next time. I believe
now that after you get this yo will be indebted
to me three or four letters, and I shall expect to
get them, if, I receive them (and you write them)
I should like to hear from you every day but as that
is a blessing that I do not think I shall be permited
to enjoy, you will please write when you have an
opportunity and receive the thanks of your ever
faithfull and loving--
Robert
a Kiss for you, and the children
Robert, of Lynn, Massachusetts, an unidentified soldier in the 14th Massachusetts Heavy Artillery
MSS 1242
Thursday, May 31, 2012
1862 June 1 Richmond, Va.
Hd. Qtrs, Dept. N. Va
June 1, 1862
Major
Please provide a large
house for me where I can lodge
all the Staff-and have sufficient
room to park my wagon train-
I want it on the outskirts
of the city and near General
Johnstons present quarters--Let
it be a shady place if possible
Respectfully
Your obt servt
Thos. G. Rhett
A.A. General
Major A. M. Barbour
Chf. Qr. Mr.
D. N. Va.
MSS 1174
June 1, 1862
Major
Please provide a large
house for me where I can lodge
all the Staff-and have sufficient
room to park my wagon train-
I want it on the outskirts
of the city and near General
Johnstons present quarters--Let
it be a shady place if possible
Respectfully
Your obt servt
Thos. G. Rhett
A.A. General
Major A. M. Barbour
Chf. Qr. Mr.
D. N. Va.
MSS 1174
1862 June 1 Staunton, Va.
[from the diary of Joseph Addison Waddell, former owner of the Staunton Spectator and a civilian employee of the Quartermaster Dept.]
Sunday night, June 1, 1862.
This morning, at Sunday School, Legh told of a re-
ported that Jackson had been routed by a large force of
the enemy — no one, he said, believed it. He also stated
that there was a considerable battle near Richmond, yes-
terday, in which the enemy were repulsed. Just before
preaching, he told me there was further intelligence
from the lower Valley, brought by Sherrer, the Ger-
man baker. The substance of it was, that the enemy had
re-taken Front Royal, a number of our wagons with
stores +c, and had probably captured the 12th Georgia Reg=
iment. As I was going to Mrs. Gilkeson's funeral, at 5
o'clock, I overtook Sherrer — He was not at Front Royal, but
on the Valley Turnpike, perhaps at Strasburg. His story was
that we had one Regiment (12th Ga) and a company of Cav-
alry at Front Royal — that on the approach of the enemy the
Georgians started towards Winchester and the cavalry to Strasburg,
and that our teamsters brought off their horses, leaving 12
or more loaded wagons. W. B. Kayser afterwards gave me
another version of the story — A party of our cavalry
came dashing into Front Royal, stating that the enemy
were approaching, whereupon our troops + teamsters left,
but that the wagon master (Joe Whitmer) had gone back
for his wagons. At church to-night I encountered Pay-
son Hoge, who left here for Winchester on Friday last.
He went as far as New Market, where he heard that
Shields, with a large Federal force, occupied Front Royal
(our men, before they left, having destroyed coffee +c cap-
tured by them from the enemy), and that Millroy was
entering the Valley from the West that Johnson was calling in his troops at Winchester. While we were talking Lyt. came up and said that stage passengers
who arrived late in the afternoon [Hoge came this
morning] reported contradicted the reports almost entire-
ly — that a small body of Federal cavalry came to
or near Front Royal, and were driven back.
The news by the cars this evening confirms the reports
we heard from Richmond this morning. Some 25,
000 were engaged on each side. The battle not decisive,
but the result in our favor. Mrs. Gilkeson,
mother-in-law of J. K. Woods, was buried this evening.
Returning from the cemetery, I came over the hill,
to enjoy again, on a peaceful Sunday evening, the grand
prospect from the summit. But a gathering storm
caused me to hurry home. Ground north of the cem-
etery, just outside of the enclosure, is now used for
burying soldiers in. At first they were interred in
the Cemetery, but more space became necessary. —
I counted 89 graves outside, and there are many others
dug + ready to receive the remains of the poor fellows who
are dying in our hospitals. Communion in our
church to-day — three new members — A young man
named Vass, of Fredericksburg, originally, preaching
[transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]
MSS 38-258
1862 June 1 Chapel Hill, N.C.
[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]
Sunday 1st of June--We had quite a thunder & lightning storm last
night--Not much rain accompanying it--Buta very heavy hail
for a few moments--It looks cloudy now--But much cooler--Being
Communion day we will all go to Church--Eliza received a letter
from Mr M--He was better. & I one from Tom. She also received
one from Mary Wilson
MSS 6960
Sunday 1st of June--We had quite a thunder & lightning storm last
night--Not much rain accompanying it--But
for a few moments--It looks cloudy now--But much cooler--Being
Communion day we will all go to Church--Eliza received a letter
from Mr M--He was better. & I one from Tom. She also received
one from Mary Wilson
MSS 6960
1862 June 1
[from the diary of Frank Fitzhugh of Cutshaw's Battery]
June Sunday 1
Arrived at Martinsburg
at 10 A.M formed line
of battle waited for the
enemy. Had a small brush
left there about dark
$43.48
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 4448
1862 June 1 Mechanicsville, Va.
Mechanicsville June 1st 1862 Dear Mother I received Fathers letters of
the 15th and 22d last night so I thought you would think it kind of strange if I did not write
so I take this opportunity we have been here ever since last Tuesday & are on the very instance
right within five miles of Richmond & we are on Pickett every three days & the place that we
go to is not more than A quarter of A Mile the Picketts have exchanged words with each other yeste-
rday there was A great Fight our men drove them it was somewhere near the Chickany
nahominy swamp, I only write these few lines Just to let you know where I am
& if we do get to A place where we can rest I will give you & all the rest of the folks an
account of my March from West point to this place & all of the Particulars since I left Alaxandria I
am well enjoying good health tell Father that we will I think get paid off next week & if we do I will
not forget my promise give my love to all I am 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
the 15th and 22d last night so I thought you would think it kind of strange if I did not write
so I take this opportunity we have been here ever since last Tuesday & are on the very instance
right within five miles of Richmond & we are on Pickett every three days & the place that we
go to is not more than A quarter of A Mile the Picketts have exchanged words with each other yeste-
rday there was A great Fight our men drove them it was somewhere near the Chickany
nahominy swamp, I only write these few lines Just to let you know where I am
& if we do get to A place where we can rest I will give you & all the rest of the folks an
account of my March from West point to this place & all of the Particulars since I left Alaxandria I
am well enjoying good health tell Father that we will I think get paid off next week & if we do I will
not forget my promise give my love to all I am 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
1862 June 1 near Richmond
[from the diary of Samuel Johnson of the 1st Massachusetts Independent Light Battery]
June 1st
Early this morning the battle which was in
progress yesterday on our left, was recommenced
The fireing continued very heavy until 10. A. M,
when it became more distant and less
severe, by noon it had ceased entirely.
The battle of yesterday and to day, was
fought at Fair Oak’s some four miles
from Richmond. The rebs taking advantage
of a terrible storm which had flooded the
valley of the Chickahominy, and had left a
portion of our troops in an exposed
position, attacked them suddenly, (our troops
comprised the corps of Sumner. Heintzel-
man, and Key’s) and after a severe and
desperate conflict, Gen Casey’s Div. which
comprised the first line of battle fell.
[page 32]
back in disorder upon the second line,
thus causing a temporary panic. but
Heintzelman and Kearny rapidly advanced
their columns, and checked the rebs, who
were pouring down in immense force,
Night ended the battle for the day. the
rebs fell back a short distance to a strong
position, our troops formed new lines,
and placed the Artillery in strong positions
This morning the rebels again attacked
our lines, and although our Artillery
mowed them down by scores, the gaps
were immediately filled with fresh troops:
both sides fought with determination
and gallantry, but the rebs were at last
obliged to retreat in confusion. Their loss
is enormous. ours is about 7000 in all.
Jo. Johnston, the rebel Gen in chief, was
wounded in the foot. Warm and pleasant
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 8493
1862 June 1 4 1/2 miles from Richmond
4 ½ miles of Richmond. Dr. Garnetts farm,
9 mile or New Bridge road
My Ever Dear Father June 1st Sunday
Yr. letter of the 25th mailed the 27th
reached me on the 29th. I was extremely glad
to get a letter of so recent date from
home. Frank Williams tells me you were
looking quite well. You say George is left
in a puny state by his sickness. I most
sincerely hope this will not continue.
Yesterday’s battle of considerable
dimensions began, away round on
our right towards James river. There,
they were driven back by our men – we
made the attack in this fight. It ex-
tended from where it began to the road on
which we are stationed. Just in
front of us there was quite a hard
fight, lasting from about a quarter
past three until night & was renewed this
morning for about an hour. here
we obtained only a very partial success,
occupying a part only of the battle field – at
[page 2]
one time we had here also their
entire camp &c. But were compelled
to abandon this. The above account
is as accurate a one as I can give
from what I heard & saw. Our company
was engaged for not more than an
hour or two & then at intervals. We had
only one man injured; the gunner to the
piece with which I act – badly in the
foot. President Davis, Generals Lee & Davis
&c etc were on the field to day & yesterday.
I am quite sorry to say that Genl.
Johnson was among the wounded, it
is said – severely tho’ the surgeon says
not mortally. I know of its seriousness
only by rumour – Brigdr. General Hatton of
Tennessee was killed. B. Gl. Pettigrue
was badly wounded. Why the battle
has lulled until now, I don’t know, save
an occasional shell. It is now half
past two. It ceased about 10 A.M. We
are said to have obtained more
stores &c &c & some artillery, very few
page 3
prisoners. The killed and wounded on both
sides must be quite heavy. Im-
mediately on our left is the Chickahom-
iny, between the contending parties, & for
this reason, the battle was limited & extended no
farther. I don’t know but suppose
our Genl. hoped to ship & capture
that part of the enemy’s forces whi. are
in our front & this side of the chicka-
hominy. This I think they could have
done had night not come so soon.
The enemy were fortifying. The field was
such that we could use very little
artillery – in fact none during the heat
of the battle, It ceased at dark. The
stragglers about are loaded with
Yankee big coats & c&c.
As to a colt from my mare, exercise your
own discretion entirely. If Wms. horse
is a fine one I would prefer either it or
Scotts horse to a Morgan horse. Tho’
as I said above exercise entirely yr. own
judgment as to these or any horse.
[page 4]
I omitted to say I don’t think any thing
of great importance has been gained
by the battle. I must close now.
If any occurs & I have an opportunity
before sending this, this evening, I
will add it if I have an opportunity. My best love to all.
Farewell dearest Father
Yr affectionate son
W. H. Perry Jr.
4 P.M. All is quiet.
William H. Perry, Jr., 1836-1915, of the Richmond Howitzers; afterward a Virginia lawyer
[the gunner who was injured was Corp. George R. Crump]
[transcription and annotation by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 7786-d
1862 June 1 camp on Flat Top Mountain, Va.
Sunday, June 1, 1862
Have done nothing
comperatively this day
Read some
Herb & I are now reading
the Old Testament of
evenings
Guns were distributed
they are rifled muskets
Two companies went
out to day with
Howitzers they went
to Pikes Fery on the
River it is supposed
with intention of
clearing the way and
preparing a way to
cross. 4 fellows of the
39th Regt was bucked &
gaged this morning for
stealing a revolver of the Col--
mostly clear Threatening Rain
MSS 10317
1862 June 1 Lynchburg, Va.
[from the diary of William M. Blackford, former diplomat, and bank officer of Lynchburg, Va., with five sons in the Confederate army]
Sunday June 1--Wakened with the worst
kind of nervous head ache, which
clung to me all day-- Went to the
office and telegraphed to Gwatham
to learn the fate of Eugene--Heard
of some six more of the H. Guard
who were wounded--among the
rest Ro. Berkeley--Communion Sun
day--large number of communicants
-about 3 recd answer from Gwatham
saying Eugene was in the
hottest of the fight yesterday. he
heard with great gallantry--escaped
unhurt, but had sevl of his men
killed--I never felt more gratified
as I had had many forebodings
Towards night we had certain
intelligence that the fight had been
resumed to day and was going in
our favor--went to the office of
the Republican at 8 P M. --dispatches
came in saying that all reports
concurred the enemy was completely
whipped driven back 5 miles
with the loss of 14 cannons and
that our men had pursued them
into the swamp carnage dreadful
on both sides--Then renewal of
the fight renews my anxiety about
Eugene--Came home & wrote to
Ro. Saunders, who had sent a ser-
vant on for the news--There was
a most terrible storm of Rain Friday
night in Richd & vicinity, which
swelled the Chicahominy, & served a
good purpose for us.
MSS 4763
1862 May 31 Clarke County, Va.
[from the diary of Matthella Page Harrison as transcribed at a later date]
Saturday, May 31st
A rainy, dismal day. Many reports of the near approach of the Yankees but none to be seen with the naked eye. Cousin Mary and I rode to Winchester, I to pay a sad visit to the Conrads. Poor Powel, I cannot realize he has passed away. Jackson has retired from his elevation on the heights of Maryland and gone toward Strasburg where it is supposed the fight will be. I trust tomorrow will not be celebrated by another battle. There is much marching and countermarching. No rest for the weary, but the people of Winchester seem in fine spirits, willing to endure to the end.
MSS 9759
Saturday, May 31st
A rainy, dismal day. Many reports of the near approach of the Yankees but none to be seen with the naked eye. Cousin Mary and I rode to Winchester, I to pay a sad visit to the Conrads. Poor Powel, I cannot realize he has passed away. Jackson has retired from his elevation on the heights of Maryland and gone toward Strasburg where it is supposed the fight will be. I trust tomorrow will not be celebrated by another battle. There is much marching and countermarching. No rest for the weary, but the people of Winchester seem in fine spirits, willing to endure to the end.
MSS 9759
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
1862 May 31 New Bern, N.C.
[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F, 25th Massachusetts]
Saturday
May 31
Did not do much to-day. Read
some. Went down to the river this
afternoon and bathed.
MSS 11293
1862 May 31 Fort Albany
[postscript to the letter from "Robert" an unidentified soldier in the 14th Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, of Lynn, Mass., to his wife "Priscilla"]
Sat Morn, 31st/62
Rainy morn. Nothing to do today, except to clean
up clothes and tent. One of the boys is reading some
good news from the south in this mornings paper.
I bought a pint of milk this morning, for breakfast,
paid four cents for it, and had Bread & milk, with coffee,
for breakfast. I'd rather have coffee without milk now.
The mail closes now, in a few minutes and
so must I if I send this, News Boy just passed,
crying good news, rebels retreating south. Good mor[n]
ing dear ones, write often to yours.
Robert
MSS 1242
Sat Morn, 31st/62
Rainy morn. Nothing to do today, except to clean
up clothes and tent. One of the boys is reading some
good news from the south in this mornings paper.
I bought a pint of milk this morning, for breakfast,
paid four cents for it, and had Bread & milk, with coffee,
for breakfast. I'd rather have coffee without milk now.
The mail closes now, in a few minutes and
so must I if I send this, News Boy just passed,
crying good news, rebels retreating south. Good mor[n]
ing dear ones, write often to yours.
Robert
MSS 1242
1862 May 31 Flat Top Mountain, Va.
Flat-Top Mountain, Va. May 31st.
Times are really quite dull. The
prospect is, that no immediate movement
will be made, probably the intention to await
until something decisive has been accomplished
at Richmond. However, Col. Crook across
the river is doing something to show the
rebels that although they may chase a
greatly inferior force, when possessing every
advantage, they cannot always expect to be
triumphant, as we are told that Col. Crook
with an inferiors force, and without artillery
whipped Gen. Heath at Lewisburg a few days
ago, capturing 100 prisoners, 4 cannon, and
playing destruction generally.
The Paymaster is coming, and will pay us
for two months in a few days.
The 23rd Reg’t is to be armed with the rifled
musket, in place of the old smooth bore, which
they have had since entering the service.
They were received here this evening,
and will be distributed to the boys
tomorrow.
The weather is immoderately warm,
so much so that a half hour’s exercise
at drill is fatiguing. The nights,
however, are as cool correspondingly.
Today, the usual monthly inspection
of the Regiment was made.
For the past few days, I have felt
somewhat indisposed, but gave the matter
little attention until today where there is
a more grave face put on the matter, and
I feel really Sick. But, hoping for
the better, I will not give way to despondency
and lowspriitedness.
There has been, or is now something
doing in Eastern Virginia. May
McClellan be successful in the great
work he has undertaken, and be
able to push forward and possess
himself of Richmond, that perfidious
nest of rebellion, where treason has
long been fostered, and thus render
useless the last prop of the
“Southern Cow-thiev-eracy!
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 13925
1862 May 31
Richmond May 31, 1862
W. H. Perry Jr. Esq.
Dr Sir
Your father writes me, that he had sent to our
care by Express, a box “containing things, that will spoil if left long this weather”
and requests us to send them to you as soon as possible – We have been at a
good deal of trouble to try & find a conveyance, without success, and write this
hopeing it may reach you, that you may embrace the first opportunity by
some wagon comeing into town, to get the box, which has arrived. If you
see an opportunity, have it sent for to our office, and in the mean time, we will
continue our efforts to send it out, if a chance opportunity occurs.
Yrs Respy etc
McKinney & Duprey
Perry was in the Richmond Howitzers
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 7786-d
1862 May 31 Chapel Hill, N.C.
[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]
Saturday 31st Warm day again--I have just received a
long letter from Fred--He & Mr Walters have joined a Cavalry
company in Starke's Regiment from Washington County in
Mississippi--The Captain's name is Blackburn--& a large
proportion of the company are wealthy gentlemen from that
county--They are sent to Vicksburg to keep the Federal Gun
boats from landing--they will enter service the 5th of June
He will take Tom Bradley with him--A bad choice I am a
-fraid as he drinks hartly[sic] tho' affectionate. We took tea
at Mrs Phillips had everything nice & the evening passed off
pleasantly. Our ladies are going on a fishing party to day
They are to hire a Hack between them.
MSS 6960
Saturday 31st Warm day again--I have just received a
long letter from Fred--He & Mr Walters have joined a Cavalry
company in Starke's Regiment from Washington County in
Mississippi--The Captain's name is Blackburn--& a large
proportion of the company are wealthy gentlemen from that
county--They are sent to Vicksburg to keep the Federal Gun
boats from landing--they will enter service the 5th of June
He will take Tom Bradley with him--A bad choice I am a
-fraid as he drinks hartly[sic] tho' affectionate. We took tea
at Mrs Phillips had everything nice & the evening passed off
pleasantly. Our ladies are going on a fishing party to day
They are to hire a Hack between them.
MSS 6960
1862 May 31
[From the diary of Samuel Johnson of the 1st Massachusetts Independent Light Battery]
May 31st
To day has been the most sultry day of the
year. Early in the afternoon, we were star-
-tled by a very rapid and heavy cannonading
but a short distance to our left the
musketry fire was quite distinctly heard also.
The fireing continued until dark, we were in
harness expecting orders to move every moment.
Pleasant and warm.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 8493
1862 May 31 Richmond, Va.
[from the diary of Daniel D. Logan, younger brother of General Thomas M. Logan, formerly a Sgt, Co. B, 1st Special Battalion (Rightor's), now with the Hampton Legion]
May 31st
Saturday – ^
After Breakfast went over to Mrs Taylor’s
Capt. Harrison very ill today – Heard
heavy firing this morning but could not
leave on a/c of Capt H’s sickness – Went into
town Early this afternoon on Fanny &
learned that they had been fighting all
day – Longstreet’s division attacked the
Enemy this morning in their camps this
side of the Chickahominy River on the
Wmsb’g road & drove them beyond the
nine (9) mile road – Captured abt 250
prisoners. Hamptons Brigade is said
to have gone into the fight abt an
hour before dark –Mullie is much disa-
-ppointed at not being in the fight with
his Co. as well as myself – we did not
Know that there had been anything but slight
skirmishing until too late to go out – Did not
return until one o’c tonight, I was over at
midnight to Mrs Taylors for my rifle, blanket
[The following lines are cross-written over the above page.]
& canteen – we start at 3 o’c this tomorrow morning
for the Legion – Mr Harvey came in
at one o’c tonight & told us that there has
been a bloody fight, confirms the report that
we had driven the Enemy back – capturing
four Camps & 16 pieces of Artilery.
[transcription by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 6154
1862 May 31 Lynchburg, Va.
[from the diary of William M. Blackford, former diplomat and bank officer, Lynchburg, Va., with five sons in the Confederate Army]
Saturday 31--Wee organized the new Board
of Directors this morning. the only
change is the substitution of Ferguson
for Johns, who has been in contin
uously since the establishment of the
Bank--and who never was worth
any thing as a director -- As the day
wore on rumors began to come in
of a fight near Richmond which
assumed [?] towards evening
-The telegrams said we had driven
the enemy back & were victorious. I
know certainly that Eugene was enga
ged & thought it more than probable
Wm & Lewis also. My anxiety
was very great. I went to the
Telegraph office about 10- The cas
ualties of the Home Guard were
known and [?] list it was
Lawrence Meem A.A. Gen killed--
Charles Terry, do. Don Halsey and
Toot were reported killed--but sub
sequent intelligence showed they were
only wounded. sixteen or seventeen
of the Home Guard were wounded
-none dangerously, except Stuart
Cabell, who will not recover--Gen
Garland, Gen Rodes, Col Fanston-&
Lt. Col. Langhorne of the 11th wounded
G[?] Latham, who seems to have been
fighting "on his own hook", was [?]
also wounded--No returns from the other
companies from the town
Got to bed at 12 much exhausted
from fatigue & excitement
MSS 4763
1862 May 31 Camp near Flat Top Mountain, Va.
[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton, musician and private in the 23rd Ohio]
Saturday, May 31, 1862
Prepared & went
out for inspection
Marched to the Top of
the mountain did
not carry our knapsacks
returned before noon
did not pass in review
for want of room--
Have done nothing this
afternoon read a
little have been loafing
about some.
This camp inactivity
grows stupid all long
for the time when
changeing events will
give us a chance to
do something that will
give us an honor[?] won[?]
that we can carry home with
us. guns arrived this day
Clear quite warm sultry
MSS 10317
1862 May 31 near the Chickahominy
[from the diary of Jonathan Hager of the 14th U.S. Regulars, as copied and annotated at a later date]
May 31 Saturday--While lounging away the hours
to day towards the afternoon heavy firing
of cannon & musquetry was heard a short
distance in front. This was the famous battle
of Fair oaks. The noise was tremendous
and as we expected we got orders to move
in that direction. The entire division of
regulars was soon ready and we marched
towards Woodbury's bridge on the Chickahominy
where the firing seemed to be. We halted a
little below Dr Gaines' House from where the
bursting of shells could be distinctly
darkness came on could see the flashes of
light from the shells as they burst in the air.
We were not wanted however and after dark
we returned to Camp. Orders were issued to
be up at early dawn next day and be in
readiness for a move,
MSS 9044
1862 May 30 Clarke County, Va.
[from the diary of Matthella Page Harrison as transcribed at a later date]
Friday May 30
Oh how can I write the mournful fact that our country has again been polluted by the Yankees. The morning dawned as beautiful as any of our freedom. Before breakfast Mr. Charles Rust came saying eleven thousand Yankees were in Paris and Upperville but we did not apprehend their immediate appearance, hoping the river would be a tedious barrier to overcome. Liz went out riding in the neighborhood, brother Archie to Berryville. Between twelve and one there was a cry raised that Millwood was filled with Yankees. Fez hurried on his soldier's accourtrements and rode quietly across the fields, followed by Jacob on another horse in case the new one did not answer. I mounted Tom on a horse and sent off brother Archie's saddle bags. Oh misery, misery. Are we to be incarcerated again? After hiding everything I thought northern thieves might take a fancy to, I went back to Linden where from the window we could see them racing over the fields. Soon we saw the White Post road darkening with them. Thinking one company might be scouring the country I began counting them, but they came so fast and we were so numerous I soon gave up in despair. They had five baggage waggons. Our hearts became heavy within us. We laid down and tried to sleep away the present care. While at dinner it was announced they were all coming back. I ran over home expecting to be called on and, determined to resist, I got the pistol and sat at the door. Soon they came dashing n. Some rode into the church yard and looked into the windows. One pulled down the fence and jumped into the woods adjoining, rode along back of the stable and got over into the field just where Fez had gone. I feared for him for Jacob had just come racing back and announced that he was at Cousin Burwell's in company with Cousin Nat. They stopped Jacob and he told them was going for the doctor. They said doctors were not needed now, people would have to get well without them. He came here, left his horse and tried to walk across the fields to Cousin Burwell's but was sent back. They got safely off however. Cousin Hugh Nelson was coming to Millwood in full uniform, not expecting to see any soldiers but ours. He rode up to
the Federal party and saluted them. Finding his mistake he turned and ran. They fired at him three times without effect. He got safely to Winchester. They also chased Cousin Nat some distance. One of them rode close by me while I stood on the step, bowed to me, which salutation I did not returned but only grasped my pistol tighter, feeling as if I could let him feel it. My poor brothers only resting at home for a few short days and chased away by these vile wretches. He rode into the stable and looked in, then pulled down the fence and went to the Linden garden ad asked Uncle Harry if any Confederate soldiers were about. Though in a body of some thousand strong, they are such cowards hat one rode up the road with his pistol in hand cocked. Tonight we hear that Front Royal with all our stores and horses are again in their hands. We had only parts of two regiments there which were very much cut to pieces. It is said that the prisoners, stores and wounded are being moved from Winchester. Jackson is on the Maryland Heights. Tom overtook brother Archie nearly at Charles Town. I am so sorry I did not send his blanket. I am uneasy about him, fearing he will have rheumatism again. Oh, it is a dreadful thing to have the cup of freedom dashed to the ground when we thought it almost to our lips. I still cling to the idea and hope of Davis being a good man, fitted for the responsible station he holds. Personal ambition I fear is at war with his real policy and love for his country. Some secret influence seems to drag him from the right. He seems to feel himself the ruler alone, not the servant of the people. Republicans pay their officers to serve them and not to rule despotically. Alas our new wine, when will it find fitly vessels? the principal of right must be very strong in our little new republic to stand the many downfalls to our hopes. the destruction of the Merrimac, what a blow it was just after her brilliant exploits had been heralded through the land. the government clapt an extinguisher upon her when they sent old Tatnal to take command of her. It seems so very strange to take the oldest officer in the service to command anything so new and wonderful. The new wine in the old bottle made a great crash. I mean to liken the principle to the old bottle not the man. Oh for a good, honest, simple republican government, but I fear there will have to be many severe explosions before the new wine is bottled for age.
MSS 9759
Friday May 30
Oh how can I write the mournful fact that our country has again been polluted by the Yankees. The morning dawned as beautiful as any of our freedom. Before breakfast Mr. Charles Rust came saying eleven thousand Yankees were in Paris and Upperville but we did not apprehend their immediate appearance, hoping the river would be a tedious barrier to overcome. Liz went out riding in the neighborhood, brother Archie to Berryville. Between twelve and one there was a cry raised that Millwood was filled with Yankees. Fez hurried on his soldier's accourtrements and rode quietly across the fields, followed by Jacob on another horse in case the new one did not answer. I mounted Tom on a horse and sent off brother Archie's saddle bags. Oh misery, misery. Are we to be incarcerated again? After hiding everything I thought northern thieves might take a fancy to, I went back to Linden where from the window we could see them racing over the fields. Soon we saw the White Post road darkening with them. Thinking one company might be scouring the country I began counting them, but they came so fast and we were so numerous I soon gave up in despair. They had five baggage waggons. Our hearts became heavy within us. We laid down and tried to sleep away the present care. While at dinner it was announced they were all coming back. I ran over home expecting to be called on and, determined to resist, I got the pistol and sat at the door. Soon they came dashing n. Some rode into the church yard and looked into the windows. One pulled down the fence and jumped into the woods adjoining, rode along back of the stable and got over into the field just where Fez had gone. I feared for him for Jacob had just come racing back and announced that he was at Cousin Burwell's in company with Cousin Nat. They stopped Jacob and he told them was going for the doctor. They said doctors were not needed now, people would have to get well without them. He came here, left his horse and tried to walk across the fields to Cousin Burwell's but was sent back. They got safely off however. Cousin Hugh Nelson was coming to Millwood in full uniform, not expecting to see any soldiers but ours. He rode up to
the Federal party and saluted them. Finding his mistake he turned and ran. They fired at him three times without effect. He got safely to Winchester. They also chased Cousin Nat some distance. One of them rode close by me while I stood on the step, bowed to me, which salutation I did not returned but only grasped my pistol tighter, feeling as if I could let him feel it. My poor brothers only resting at home for a few short days and chased away by these vile wretches. He rode into the stable and looked in, then pulled down the fence and went to the Linden garden ad asked Uncle Harry if any Confederate soldiers were about. Though in a body of some thousand strong, they are such cowards hat one rode up the road with his pistol in hand cocked. Tonight we hear that Front Royal with all our stores and horses are again in their hands. We had only parts of two regiments there which were very much cut to pieces. It is said that the prisoners, stores and wounded are being moved from Winchester. Jackson is on the Maryland Heights. Tom overtook brother Archie nearly at Charles Town. I am so sorry I did not send his blanket. I am uneasy about him, fearing he will have rheumatism again. Oh, it is a dreadful thing to have the cup of freedom dashed to the ground when we thought it almost to our lips. I still cling to the idea and hope of Davis being a good man, fitted for the responsible station he holds. Personal ambition I fear is at war with his real policy and love for his country. Some secret influence seems to drag him from the right. He seems to feel himself the ruler alone, not the servant of the people. Republicans pay their officers to serve them and not to rule despotically. Alas our new wine, when will it find fitly vessels? the principal of right must be very strong in our little new republic to stand the many downfalls to our hopes. the destruction of the Merrimac, what a blow it was just after her brilliant exploits had been heralded through the land. the government clapt an extinguisher upon her when they sent old Tatnal to take command of her. It seems so very strange to take the oldest officer in the service to command anything so new and wonderful. The new wine in the old bottle made a great crash. I mean to liken the principle to the old bottle not the man. Oh for a good, honest, simple republican government, but I fear there will have to be many severe explosions before the new wine is bottled for age.
MSS 9759
1862 May 30 Hopewell, Ala
May 30th 1862
Dear master
I received yours written
the first of may but as I had
just written to you I did not answer
it. I was very glad to hear from
you,and to hear that you were well.
This leaves us in the injoyment of
our usual health. we have had
very little wickness this Spring--
The weather has been very good
since I wrote to you last we had
a good rain last night which
was needed for the crops.
I am geting along clothing the people
very well. I hope I will be able to
keep them from suffering.
Etter is geting along very well
with the garden--we are going to
have a plenty of Tomatoes, peppers,
cabbage, and different kind of vegetables
[page 2]
We have not heard from Mr Powell
very lately, but we expect him down
next week. he told me when he was
down here that he had written to
you to hire Maria to take the
place of sister Mary. I am willing
to part with maria for the sake of
my mother as she is old and
has no child of her own to help her.
but when Betsey is sold, it will be
hard for me to give them both up.
Mr. Powell wrote us that master
Charles would be out here very
soon but we have seen nothing of
him as yet. I would be very glad to see
him. Miss Fanny Avery is married
to the Rev. Mr Cobb, pastor of the
Episcopal Church in Greensboro
he is a son of the old Bishop.
There is twenty one Fig trees in the
garden that are bareing and nine
out in the fence corners I will
now bring my letter to a close. L Skipwith
Lucy Skipwith, a slave of General John Hartwell Cock, and trusted by him to manage the big house and her fellow slaves on his Hopewell, Ala., plantation. Her letter of October 28 mentions Betsy having given birth to a white baby, but is unclear as to the exact reason Cocke decides to sell her. Lucy did intercede on behalf of fellow slaves on the plantation.
Richard Hooker Cobbs, son of Nicholas Hamner Cobbs married Fanny Avery
MSS 640
Dear master
I received yours written
the first of may but as I had
just written to you I did not answer
it. I was very glad to hear from
you,and to hear that you were well.
This leaves us in the injoyment of
our usual health. we have had
very little wickness this Spring--
The weather has been very good
since I wrote to you last we had
a good rain last night which
was needed for the crops.
I am geting along clothing the people
very well. I hope I will be able to
keep them from suffering.
Etter is geting along very well
with the garden--we are going to
have a plenty of Tomatoes, peppers,
cabbage, and different kind of vegetables
[page 2]
We have not heard from Mr Powell
very lately, but we expect him down
next week. he told me when he was
down here that he had written to
you to hire Maria to take the
place of sister Mary. I am willing
to part with maria for the sake of
my mother as she is old and
has no child of her own to help her.
but when Betsey is sold, it will be
hard for me to give them both up.
Mr. Powell wrote us that master
Charles would be out here very
soon but we have seen nothing of
him as yet. I would be very glad to see
him. Miss Fanny Avery is married
to the Rev. Mr Cobb, pastor of the
Episcopal Church in Greensboro
he is a son of the old Bishop.
There is twenty one Fig trees in the
garden that are bareing and nine
out in the fence corners I will
now bring my letter to a close. L Skipwith
Lucy Skipwith, a slave of General John Hartwell Cock, and trusted by him to manage the big house and her fellow slaves on his Hopewell, Ala., plantation. Her letter of October 28 mentions Betsy having given birth to a white baby, but is unclear as to the exact reason Cocke decides to sell her. Lucy did intercede on behalf of fellow slaves on the plantation.
Richard Hooker Cobbs, son of Nicholas Hamner Cobbs married Fanny Avery
MSS 640
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
1862 May 30 New Bern, N.C.
[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F, 25th Massachusetts]
Friday
May 30
Have been fixing up to day
levelling off the street of our
company. It is very warm in the forepart
and middle of the day
MSS 11293
1862 May 30 Fort Albany
Fort Albany May 30th/62
Dear Wife
I have just now received
a letter from you dated May 16th
I was very glad to get it, of course, as
anything and everything, at any and all
times is always welcome. I think I
can account for its delay. The Post
Mark bears the date. Boston. May 28th/62
I think you must have given it to
Fitzwilliam to post for you in Boston
and he kept it in his pocket, forgetting
all about it. You will recollect the letter
when I tell you Mary Abigail & Aunt
Eunice call to see you and bothered
you about making a loaf of cake for
the box. You must praise F. G. for
his thoughtfulness of the "Poor Soldier"
who is fighting for him and his country.
I received a letter from you day before
yesterday (May 28) I think you must
have been in a very troubled state of
[page 2]
when you wrote that letter, and I
suppose you thought you had cause to
be, the Gov's proclamation, soldiers going
to Boston, bells ringing, rebels marching
on to Washington and all sorts of
stories agoing. I do'nt blame you for
being a little scared, "We did'nt see it"
on the contrary, we had one of the
best days that we have had since we
arrived here, it was pay-day for the
Regmt and everybody was in the best
of humor, T'is true, we made some little
preparation to give the enemy a warm
reception if he made his appearance,
but, I dont think there was a man in
the Regt, that thought he would, and,
I dont think there was scarcely a man
here, but wished he would, so it's all
blown over now and the excitement,
(what little there was,) I am happy to say,
for your sake, and all friends at home,
has entirely subsided. When we hear from
McClelan at Richmond, then will be excitement.
[page 3]
6 1/2 o'clock P.M. 30th
We have had it very hot the most of the day, but
this afternoon, we had a a [sic] glorious shower
that cooled the air, and laid the dirt,
and made the vegatation look very beauti-
ful, put us all in good spirits, and made
a decided improvement in everything I
think, I am enjoying first rate health.
and so is the whole of the Co. with one
or two exceptions, Co L. the company
that came here with us from Boston
(you recollect,) has removed from here, to
Fort Barnard, it is about two miles from
here, towards Georgetown, they went yest-
erday, it is a very pleasant fort, and just
as healthy as here, Capt. Draper's Co. also
removed from Fort Runyon, to Fort Rich-
ardson, yesterday, which is about half a
mile from here, I think the Co as a gene-
ral thing were very glad to get away from
Fort Runyon, for it was situated in low
wet land, close to the Potomac, near the end
of Long Bridge, and was very unhealthy there,
[page 4]
It is getting to be rather dark to write much
more now, but maybe this evening or tomo-
rrow morning I can scribble a few lines
more, if I dont, why I'll just say now
keep up good heart and spirits for if you
do'nt, why, I shall have to scold you when
I come home, because I expect to have
some good times with you and the
children, yet, much better than I have
ever yet enjoyed, not saying you know
but that we have had some very excellent
times in days gone by, A good night
Kiss for you and the children, and love
to Father and Mother, God bless and
preserve you all is the sincere prayer
of your loving husband,
Robert
Unidentified soldier int he 14th Massachusetts Heavy Artillery
MSS 1242
Dear Wife
I have just now received
a letter from you dated May 16th
I was very glad to get it, of course, as
anything and everything, at any and all
times is always welcome. I think I
can account for its delay. The Post
Mark bears the date. Boston. May 28th/62
I think you must have given it to
Fitzwilliam to post for you in Boston
and he kept it in his pocket, forgetting
all about it. You will recollect the letter
when I tell you Mary Abigail & Aunt
Eunice call to see you and bothered
you about making a loaf of cake for
the box. You must praise F. G. for
his thoughtfulness of the "Poor Soldier"
who is fighting for him and his country.
I received a letter from you day before
yesterday (May 28) I think you must
have been in a very troubled state of
[page 2]
when you wrote that letter, and I
suppose you thought you had cause to
be, the Gov's proclamation, soldiers going
to Boston, bells ringing, rebels marching
on to Washington and all sorts of
stories agoing. I do'nt blame you for
being a little scared, "We did'nt see it"
on the contrary, we had one of the
best days that we have had since we
arrived here, it was pay-day for the
Regmt and everybody was in the best
of humor, T'is true, we made some little
preparation to give the enemy a warm
reception if he made his appearance,
but, I dont think there was a man in
the Regt, that thought he would, and,
I dont think there was scarcely a man
here, but wished he would, so it's all
blown over now and the excitement,
(what little there was,) I am happy to say,
for your sake, and all friends at home,
has entirely subsided. When we hear from
McClelan at Richmond, then will be excitement.
[page 3]
6 1/2 o'clock P.M. 30th
We have had it very hot the most of the day, but
this afternoon, we had a a [sic] glorious shower
that cooled the air, and laid the dirt,
and made the vegatation look very beauti-
ful, put us all in good spirits, and made
a decided improvement in everything I
think, I am enjoying first rate health.
and so is the whole of the Co. with one
or two exceptions, Co L. the company
that came here with us from Boston
(you recollect,) has removed from here, to
Fort Barnard, it is about two miles from
here, towards Georgetown, they went yest-
erday, it is a very pleasant fort, and just
as healthy as here, Capt. Draper's Co. also
removed from Fort Runyon, to Fort Rich-
ardson, yesterday, which is about half a
mile from here, I think the Co as a gene-
ral thing were very glad to get away from
Fort Runyon, for it was situated in low
wet land, close to the Potomac, near the end
of Long Bridge, and was very unhealthy there,
[page 4]
It is getting to be rather dark to write much
more now, but maybe this evening or tomo-
rrow morning I can scribble a few lines
more, if I dont, why I'll just say now
keep up good heart and spirits for if you
do'nt, why, I shall have to scold you when
I come home, because I expect to have
some good times with you and the
children, yet, much better than I have
ever yet enjoyed, not saying you know
but that we have had some very excellent
times in days gone by, A good night
Kiss for you and the children, and love
to Father and Mother, God bless and
preserve you all is the sincere prayer
of your loving husband,
Robert
Unidentified soldier int he 14th Massachusetts Heavy Artillery
MSS 1242
1862 May 29 Charlestown, Virginia
Thursday May 29, 1862
Bivouack of the Rockbridge Artillery 1st Brigade.A.V.
at Charlestown, Jefferson co. Virginia
Mrs. Wm. M. Blackford--Lynchburg
on Sunday advising you of my safety in the battle of that
morning I hope it reached you duly. I also sent a Tele-
gram down to Staunton to provide against the letter's
not reaching you. It mentioned the safety of Berkeley & myself
with others known to you. I desire now to take up the
narrative of my daily journeyings discontinued on the 11th
Since then, owing to our combined moving and manifold dis-
tractions I have been wholly unable to write at length.
Even now my accounts must be somewhat meagre.
On Sunday morning, the 11th, the time of dispatching my last long
letter to you from a point 14 miles below Franklin in Pendleton co.,
we made an early start and moved on towardPendleton Franklin.
I was unable to walk that day owing to a sore on my ancle
and so rode in one of our wagons a little in the rear.
Within a couple of miles of the village the train halted and we
had a little artillery & other skirmishing in the front where
the enemy had assumed a strong position: one or two of
our rifled guns were employed but not a half dozen
shots fired in all on our side. We bivouacked in a mea-
dow that night and were roused and ordered to be
in readiness for immediate moving at a very early hour
Monday morning; as we all believed for an engagement, prob-
ably a general one. Accordingly at a very timely interval before
sunrise the men had breakfasted, packed their things and the
wagons gone to the rear , theymen stretched on the grass
around the fires awaiting the call which all expected wd.
be to take our positions for operation on the Enemy's lines.
After an hour or two orders were given to take out the horses
-or rather unhitch them from guns and caissons and allow
them to graze in the meadow. This did not look like fighting,
but we were further reassured that our anticipation had
not been correct by a circular coming around from the Division
Hd.Qrs. which was ordered to be read to all the troops.
[page 2]
It was pretty much as follows--though I quote only from memory
"Soldiers of the Armies of the Valley and NorthWest--I congrat-
ulate you on your recent victory at McDowell x x x and invite
you to join with me in returning thanks therefore to the
Giver of all Victory x x x Services will be held by the Chaplain
of the several regiments of this command to day at 10 A. M.
(signed) T. J. Jackson--Major General commanding."
The contrast between this order and the one we expected was about
as wide as that between the cruel work of war and the
mild and gentle offices of the religion of Christ. A notice
for preaching instead of Gen. Winder's adjt. directing that
"Capt. Poague will take his battery and assume a position
to be designated on the front!" The men listened with
becoming respect to the 'invitation' of our excellent Major Genl.
and were not displeased to receive it instead of the order
to fight, though to say sooth it was not as fully complied
with as such a one would have been, albeit the attendance
was good in the services. For our own and several other cos.
of artillery who had as Chaplain the Generals' own Adjutant
Major (Rev. R. L. ) Dabney (D.D.) was kind enough to preach. Gen.
Jackson attended this service and as usual stood up all
the time (there being nothing but the ground to sit on) with
his hat off, and looking as fixed and motionless as a statue.
He stood near the outside of the congregation so as to be
ready to go off without much ado if his presence was
needed and be summoned. Just as we assembled we heard
the report of several of the Enemy's cannon withing 2
miles of us just across the ridge that separated us from them.
The meadow in which we were was a rather narrow
one flanked by mountains on either side: at the foot
of one of these ranges ran a pretty little mountain river.
The mountain sides were covered with beautiful ver-
dure in its spring aspect, and the same valley extended
for many miles toward Monterey, a little widening in
that direction. In the lower part of it, near Franklin
--i.e. for several miles above Franklin the mountainsides
were fleeced in smoke, the Enemy having fired the woods
to cover their retreat.
[the next 6 pages of this letter are missing. The following pages, 9 and 10 may be the conclusion to it]
The men were hurried on without the rests usually
accorded at moderate intervals, and early in the af-
ternoon the road was for miles in the rear
strewn with broken down men from different Brigades
waiting to revive their exhausted energies. Formerly this
was not uncommon, bot of late Gen. Jackson has greatly
improved the discipline of his army in this respect and now
straggling is comparatively rare except on weighty reasons,
I suffered myself greatly from fatigue as I did not get over
2 miles riding the whole day, and being unwell had but little
appetite and could not keep up my strength by eating,
though I had plenty in my haversack. The march for the
1st Brigade was uneventful as we were the rearmost but one
or two. At different times during the day our exhausted ener-
gies were revived by the assurance from some officer that a
surprise was intended for the enemy, that it promised to
be a complete one, and that everything depended on the men
pressing on. And this our brave fellows did right heartily.
In the afternoon when within 6 or 8 miles of Front Royal our two
Parrott guns were sent on to the front but they were not used
I believe at all, and all the glory of the day fell into the hands
of the advance troops who were in the march a half day
or day ahead of us. I do not undertake therefore to give
you the details of the affair there, of which you are already
apprised through the newspapers quite as fully as I could
make you. There was but a small force a few regiments
only, of the enemy--and they were completely surprised
They did not make a very vigorous resistance, I judge, though
I am informed they fought gallantly for a while. The Infantry
chiefly engaged on their side was the 1st Md. Regt., and on
ours it was too that gallant little 1st Md., whose name is
the synonym for pluck andgall bravery throughout our army.
The Tory Regiment was taken prisoner almost to a man, at least
so it appeared, with all the field officers: their capture was
effected ultimately by the cavalry in pursuit, though the glory
of it largely attached to the Confederate Regiment of 1st Md. Infantry.
[page 10]
Our cavalry was particularly efficient in the affair about Front
Royal and suffered considerably--They were opposed in cavalry
engagement to the 1st Mich. Regt. which seems to have been badly
worsted, as they generally are when opposed to our men of that arm
Capt Sheets of the 7th Va. Cavalry (Ashby's) the most eminent
and useful officer in the command next to the distinguished
head, and Capt. Fletcher, another fine officer, were killed.
The Rappahannock Cavalry, numbering not over 35 made a charge
in which 10 were killed of that number, among them my
fried Philip B. Field, of Culpeper, son to the Judge. this pained me
greatly, as he was a young man of fine promise. He was one of
those converted at Greenwood in march 1859, during the religious
awakening there in Mr Dinwiddie's school, and was confirmed
in Charlottesville the following June the same time with C. L. C.
and Berkeley Minor. My acquaintance with him began at this
interesting period and during the next year while he was at school
and I at the University I saw him frequently, as I had done less
often since. It had always gratified me much to notice the
continued interest he maintained in religion, and to learn that
he held fast his profession. I trust he now enjoys "the substance
of things hoped for" during his brief Christian course. I was informed
of his death Saturday morning by his brother Wm. G. Field, Jr., an old
college-mate of mine, and a man I always liked, though not a pious one.
He was struck several times himself and slightly wounded, but
appeared chiefly concerned about his brother to whom he was much
attached. Friday night the whole army camped about a
mile or two Winchester side of Front Royal. We did not pass
through the town until after dark, and did not finally
settle in camp until a very late hour. I leave the con-
clusion of my narrative for my next letter; I regret very
much to have gotten so much behind hand but it was
unavoidable. The same reason prevents my noticing more
particularly the contents of your letters, whose receipt I have
lately done little more than acknowledge. I prize them none the
less however for this, and thank you for them most heartily.
Your affectionate son L[ancelot] M[inor] Blackford
University of Virginia alumnus Lancelot Minor Blackford, 1837-1914, was later the beloved principal of Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Va., for over 40 years.
MSS 5088
Bivouack of the Rockbridge Artillery 1st Brigade.A.V.
at Charlestown, Jefferson co. Virginia
Mrs. Wm. M. Blackford--Lynchburg
from Winchester
I wrote you a short letter ^on Sunday advising you of my safety in the battle of that
morning I hope it reached you duly. I also sent a Tele-
gram down to Staunton to provide against the letter's
not reaching you. It mentioned the safety of Berkeley & myself
with others known to you. I desire now to take up the
narrative of my daily journeyings discontinued on the 11th
Since then, owing to our combined moving and manifold dis-
tractions I have been wholly unable to write at length.
Even now my accounts must be somewhat meagre.
On Sunday morning, the 11th, the time of dispatching my last long
letter to you from a point 14 miles below Franklin in Pendleton co.,
we made an early start and moved on toward
I was unable to walk that day owing to a sore on my ancle
and so rode in one of our wagons a little in the rear.
Within a couple of miles of the village the train halted and we
had a little artillery & other skirmishing in the front where
the enemy had assumed a strong position: one or two of
our rifled guns were employed but not a half dozen
shots fired in all on our side. We bivouacked in a mea-
dow that night and were roused and ordered to be
in readiness for immediate moving at a very early hour
Monday morning; as we all believed for an engagement, prob-
ably a general one. Accordingly at a very timely interval before
sunrise the men had breakfasted, packed their things and the
wagons gone to the rear , they
around the fires awaiting the call which all expected wd.
be to take our positions for operation on the Enemy's lines.
After an hour or two orders were given to take out the horses
-or rather unhitch them from guns and caissons and allow
them to graze in the meadow. This did not look like fighting,
but we were further reassured that our anticipation had
not been correct by a circular coming around from the Division
Hd.Qrs. which was ordered to be read to all the troops.
[page 2]
It was pretty much as follows--though I quote only from memory
"Soldiers of the Armies of the Valley and NorthWest--I congrat-
ulate you on your recent victory at McDowell x x x and invite
you to join with me in returning thanks therefore to the
Giver of all Victory x x x Services will be held by the Chaplain
of the several regiments of this command to day at 10 A. M.
(signed) T. J. Jackson--Major General commanding."
The contrast between this order and the one we expected was about
as wide as that between the cruel work of war and the
mild and gentle offices of the religion of Christ. A notice
for preaching instead of Gen. Winder's adjt. directing that
"Capt. Poague will take his battery and assume a position
to be designated on the front!" The men listened with
becoming respect to the 'invitation' of our excellent Major Genl.
and were not displeased to receive it instead of the order
to fight, though to say sooth it was not as fully complied
with as such a one would have been, albeit the attendance
was good in the services. For our own and several other cos.
of artillery who had as Chaplain the Generals' own Adjutant
Major (Rev. R. L. ) Dabney (D.D.) was kind enough to preach. Gen.
Jackson attended this service and as usual stood up all
the time (there being nothing but the ground to sit on) with
his hat off, and looking as fixed and motionless as a statue.
He stood near the outside of the congregation so as to be
ready to go off without much ado if his presence was
needed and be summoned. Just as we assembled we heard
the report of several of the Enemy's cannon withing 2
miles of us just across the ridge that separated us from them.
The meadow in which we were was a rather narrow
one flanked by mountains on either side: at the foot
of one of these ranges ran a pretty little mountain river.
The mountain sides were covered with beautiful ver-
dure in its spring aspect, and the same valley extended
for many miles toward Monterey, a little widening in
that direction. In the lower part of it, near Franklin
--i.e. for several miles above Franklin the mountainsides
were fleeced in smoke, the Enemy having fired the woods
to cover their retreat.
[the next 6 pages of this letter are missing. The following pages, 9 and 10 may be the conclusion to it]
The men were hurried on without the rests usually
accorded at moderate intervals, and early in the af-
ternoon the road was for miles in the rear
strewn with broken down men from different Brigades
waiting to revive their exhausted energies. Formerly this
was not uncommon, bot of late Gen. Jackson has greatly
improved the discipline of his army in this respect and now
straggling is comparatively rare except on weighty reasons,
I suffered myself greatly from fatigue as I did not get over
2 miles riding the whole day, and being unwell had but little
appetite and could not keep up my strength by eating,
though I had plenty in my haversack. The march for the
1st Brigade was uneventful as we were the rearmost but one
or two. At different times during the day our exhausted ener-
gies were revived by the assurance from some officer that a
surprise was intended for the enemy, that it promised to
be a complete one, and that everything depended on the men
pressing on. And this our brave fellows did right heartily.
In the afternoon when within 6 or 8 miles of Front Royal our two
Parrott guns were sent on to the front but they were not used
I believe at all, and all the glory of the day fell into the hands
of the advance troops who were in the march a half day
or day ahead of us. I do not undertake therefore to give
you the details of the affair there, of which you are already
apprised through the newspapers quite as fully as I could
make you. There was but a small force a few regiments
only, of the enemy--and they were completely surprised
They did not make a very vigorous resistance, I judge, though
I am informed they fought gallantly for a while. The Infantry
chiefly engaged on their side was the 1st Md. Regt., and on
ours it was too that gallant little 1st Md., whose name is
the synonym for pluck and
The Tory Regiment was taken prisoner almost to a man, at least
so it appeared, with all the field officers: their capture was
effected ultimately by the cavalry in pursuit, though the glory
of it largely attached to the Confederate Regiment of 1st Md. Infantry.
[page 10]
Our cavalry was particularly efficient in the affair about Front
Royal and suffered considerably--They were opposed in cavalry
engagement to the 1st Mich. Regt. which seems to have been badly
worsted, as they generally are when opposed to our men of that arm
Capt Sheets of the 7th Va. Cavalry (Ashby's) the most eminent
and useful officer in the command next to the distinguished
head, and Capt. Fletcher, another fine officer, were killed.
The Rappahannock Cavalry, numbering not over 35 made a charge
in which 10 were killed of that number, among them my
fried Philip B. Field, of Culpeper, son to the Judge. this pained me
greatly, as he was a young man of fine promise. He was one of
those converted at Greenwood in march 1859, during the religious
awakening there in Mr Dinwiddie's school, and was confirmed
in Charlottesville the following June the same time with C. L. C.
and Berkeley Minor. My acquaintance with him began at this
interesting period and during the next year while he was at school
and I at the University I saw him frequently, as I had done less
often since. It had always gratified me much to notice the
continued interest he maintained in religion, and to learn that
he held fast his profession. I trust he now enjoys "the substance
of things hoped for" during his brief Christian course. I was informed
of his death Saturday morning by his brother Wm. G. Field, Jr., an old
college-mate of mine, and a man I always liked, though not a pious one.
He was struck several times himself and slightly wounded, but
appeared chiefly concerned about his brother to whom he was much
attached. Friday night the whole army camped about a
mile or two Winchester side of Front Royal. We did not pass
through the town until after dark, and did not finally
settle in camp until a very late hour. I leave the con-
clusion of my narrative for my next letter; I regret very
much to have gotten so much behind hand but it was
unavoidable. The same reason prevents my noticing more
particularly the contents of your letters, whose receipt I have
lately done little more than acknowledge. I prize them none the
less however for this, and thank you for them most heartily.
Your affectionate son L[ancelot] M[inor] Blackford
University of Virginia alumnus Lancelot Minor Blackford, 1837-1914, was later the beloved principal of Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Va., for over 40 years.
MSS 5088
1862 May 30 New York
No 6, State Street,
New York, May 30, 1862
Dear Sir,
I inclose, herewith, an account
against the US for the rent of a large Wharf Boat,
which was taken possession of at Paducah, on the 6th day
of September last, by direction, ( I suppose,) of Genl. Grant.
Will you do me the favor to ask the General
to authorize Capt. Turnley, A.Q. Master at Cairo,
(where this Boat is now in the service of the Subsistence
pay
Department,) to ^ the account referred to above.--With my
Kindest regards to the General, I am yours truly,
A.D. Steuart.
To Capt. Wm Hillyer,
Aid-de-Camp to
Major Genl. US Grant,
US Volunteers, Savan-
a, Tennessee
MSS 10645
New York, May 30, 1862
Dear Sir,
I inclose, herewith, an account
against the US for the rent of a large Wharf Boat,
which was taken possession of at Paducah, on the 6th day
of September last, by direction, ( I suppose,) of Genl. Grant.
Will you do me the favor to ask the General
to authorize Capt. Turnley, A.Q. Master at Cairo,
(where this Boat is now in the service of the Subsistence
pay
Department,) to ^ the account referred to above.--With my
Kindest regards to the General, I am yours truly,
A.D. Steuart.
To Capt. Wm Hillyer,
Aid-de-Camp to
Major Genl. US Grant,
US Volunteers, Savan-
a, Tennessee
MSS 10645
1862 May 30 near Richmond, Va.
[written on patriotic stationery featuring a vignette of General P.G.T. Bearuregard]
May 30th 1862
Camp Near Richmond
Henry Co County VA
Dear Father and Mother
I take the present opertunity
of dropping you a few
lines to let you know that I
am well at presint
hopeing when theas few lines may
find you injoying the same
Blessing I have know news of
importance to write you
the company air all well
I received your letter yesterday
evening I was glad to here
from you I wrote you a letter
a few days ago
but I Reckon you have not
got it yet I have had
my health Better since I
have been In several them
[page 2]
I ever did before
General Jackson has gained a
Victory
Glorious ^ at Winchester we have
taken abowt four thousand
prisoners besids a great qantity
of comissarys stores Ordinance
department and medical stores
the enemy is completely
routed he is now on the
Maryland line it is rumared
that he has landed in that st
state our losses was one
hundred killed anwon wounded
and missing general McClellen
is with drawing his forces
and if this Be the case there
will be no fight here
fellow
Our ^soldiers air in fine
spirits there was a heavy
skirmish nearOru our camp
[page 3]
the other evning
we whiped the rascals
we dont Fear any enemy that
can be brought be fore us
we trust in God that we air
fighting in a glorious cause
a soldiers life is a harde life
to live to live some times we
haf to lay o[u]t all night in the
mud andwatter water
and it and it rainig verry hard
and no shelter for the poor
soldier we air fair verry well
now we drill twice a day
you wrote to me to know if I
wanted any clothing or not
I dond any I am truly
to you for your kind offer
I hope the time aint far
distantin untill peace will
[page 4]
spread ovr the land and
we can all come home
Now I must bring theas few
lines to close Give my best
to all the friends
the oftener you write to me
I will write to you
give my love to the children
So nothing more
Only remain your
affectionate Son untill death
write soon Direct you
letters Richmond Va Co. K
28 Regiment Va Vol
James B. Painter
MSS 10661
May 30th 1862
Camp Near Richmond
Henry Co County VA
Dear Father and Mother
I take the present opertunity
of dropping you a few
lines to let you know that I
am well at presint
hopeing when theas few lines may
find you injoying the same
Blessing I have know news of
importance to write you
the company air all well
I received your letter yesterday
evening I was glad to here
from you I wrote you a letter
a few days ago
but I Reckon you have not
got it yet I have had
my health Better since I
have been In several them
[page 2]
I ever did before
General Jackson has gained a
Victory
Glorious ^ at Winchester we have
taken abowt four thousand
prisoners besids a great qantity
of comissary
department and medical stores
the enemy is completely
routed he is now on the
Maryland line it is rumared
that he has landed in that
state our losses was one
hundred killed an
and missing general McClellen
is with drawing his forces
and if this Be the case there
will be no fight here
fellow
Our ^soldiers air in fine
spirits there was a heavy
skirmish near
[page 3]
the other evning
we whiped the rascals
we dont Fear any enemy that
can be brought be fore us
we trust in God that we air
fighting in a glorious cause
a soldiers life is a harde life
to live to live some times we
haf to lay o[u]t all night in the
mud and
and it and it rainig verry hard
and no shelter for the poor
soldier we air fair verry well
now we drill twice a day
you wrote to me to know if I
wanted any clothing or not
I dond any I am truly
to you for your kind offer
I hope the time aint far
distant
[page 4]
spread ovr the land and
we can all come home
Now I must bring theas few
lines to close Give my best
to all the friends
the oftener you write to me
I will write to you
give my love to the children
So nothing more
Only remain your
affectionate Son untill death
write soon Direct you
letters Richmond Va Co. K
28 Regiment Va Vol
James B. Painter
MSS 10661
1862 May 30
[from the diary of Frank C. Fitzhugh of Cutshaw's battery]
May Friday 30 1856
Commenced our retreat
towards Staunton
Passed through Winchester
& traveled 15 miles
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 4448
May Friday 30 1856
Commenced our retreat
towards Staunton
Passed through Winchester
& traveled 15 miles
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 4448
1862 May 30 before Richmond, Va.
[from the diary of Jonathan Hager of the 14th U.S. Regulars, as copied and annotated at a later date]
May 30 Friday This morning was intensely, excee
dingly hot & useless duty required very few
ventured beyond their bowers. Such heat we
thought must soon be followed by a storm &
in the afternoon we caught it in all its grandeur.
The thunder and lightning was awful almost
beyond conception & the rain fell in torrents.
The tents of the officers of the 14th being on
the left of the brigade & the ground descending
from the right brought the water down in a
perfect river. Nearly every tent was flooded
but mine. Mine was perfectly dry and I
indulged in a little tantalizing amusement
at the rest who were out with spades & shovels
digging & ditching to turn the water off.
This morning I went foraging with my
Contraband. I wanted some pease for dinner
& heard there were some almost a mile away
across Gaines Mill Pond. I found the house
& bought a peck of peas for a dollar and a
dozen young onions for 50 cents, and offered
the woman a five dollar greenback to be
changed. But this she wouldn't take. She said
it wouldn't buy anything in Richmond.
I told her in my innocence that by the time
she got to Richmond it would buy anything
She didn't believe it. I was about to give
up the peas painful as it was when I remem-
bered I had a $20 gold piece in my purse
I gave her this & she gave me the change in
gold & silver Poor woman, her husband
was in the rebel army & all the slaves had
left her except one old man and a small
boy & the growing crop to take care of. Her
future did not look bright & she knew it,
yet she was rebellious in her feelings.
We heard to day of the evacuation of
Corinth and esteemed it good news. We
little thought what a serious effect it would
yet have upon us or we would have grieved
& not rejoiced.
MSS 9044
1862 May 30 Camp Alexander, Va.
[from the war journal (i.e. extracts of letters) of Captain George Hazen Dana of the 32nd Massachusetts Volunteers]
Camp Alexander
Friday, May 30th 1862.
My dear Parents,
We have just got our tents up,
and I am completely tired out, but must write you a
few lines before I take a sleep. We had a very
tedious passage, continual stoppages taking place, on
account of our train being an extra one -----
Am writing this “on top of a drum, for want of better
accommodation, the officers’ tents not having arrived
on the ground yet. So soon as we get settled,
I shall write more fully.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 5130
1862 May 30
[from the diary of Samuel Johnson of the 1st Massachusetts Independent Light Battery]
May. 30th
Yesterday several of the wounded prisoners
were brought in; they are mostly all North
Carolinians. To day the rebs threw a
number of shells into our lines, but as
usual no injury was inflicted by them.
During the evening a severe thunder
shower set in, which lasted all night.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
May. 30th
Yesterday several of the wounded prisoners
were brought in; they are mostly all North
Carolinians. To day the rebs threw a
number of shells into our lines, but as
usual no injury was inflicted by them.
During the evening a severe thunder
shower set in, which lasted all night.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 8493
1862 May 30
[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton, private and musician in the 23rd Ohio]
Friday, May 30, 1862
Practiced this morning
after which I procured
a pass & went down
to the 37th Regt for my
slippers got them
paid one dollar for them
seem good ones & cheap
did not practice this
afternoon
Rain, stormy this
evening with heavy
thunder & lightning
struck a tree near here
with heavy explosion
Bathed & had tom
boil & wash my
pants & shirt
Mostly clear with rain
this evening
MSS 10317
1862 May 30
[From the diary of Lt. John Tyler of Letcher's Artillery]
May 30th Tom, B &
May 30th Tom, B &
Ellis M – went in town this morning &
intend letting me go this evening. The Gov
Col . Morton, Col Marshall, & Col.s [sic]
[in another handwriting is written:]
“Be sure to keep up
writing. Have amused my
self this morning, reading
this. Do not believe they
will be so cruel as to
send you way off from
me to Jackson.”
In accordance with the above
order I append the following.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
[Diary will not resume until July 30]
MSS 6150
1862 May 30 Richmond, Va.
[from the diary of Daniel D. Logan, younger brother of General Thomas M. Logan, formerly a Sgt, Co. B, 1st Special Battalion (Rightor's), now with the Hampton Legion]
Friday – May 30th 1862
Spent the day in the house – nothing
doing in the pay department – Everything
seems to be quiet along the lines of the army –
We had a tremendous storm today –
thunder, lightning & rain – continuing
through the night – Hear today that old
Stonewall Jackson has crossed the Potomac
& occupied Williamsport Md’. - His movements
have a very cheering effect upon the army Genl
Johnston seems waiting on McClelland, & both
seem afraid of each other –
Went into town this Evening & spent the
night with Mullie at Mr Harveys – Mullie
is much better today & took a walk with me
tonight – No letters yet from La or Chas’ton – I
long for the termination of the great battle here so as to
go south once more before starting in another campaign –
[transcription by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 6154
1862 May 30 Chapel Hill, N.C.
[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]
Friday the 30th warmest day we have had this season--Eliza
has just received a letter from Mr M---n he has been
very sick--& is still too weak to join his Regiment--I feel
quite anxious about him--& wish he was here--No letter
from Tom--I am still hard at work on summer dresses
for Eliza--Have not yet commenced my own--Eliza, Susy
Wingfield & Milly Cornick--Escorted by Mr Gorrell Mr Adams
& Mr Bunting went off this morning on a PicNic & to fish
We are my family I mean all to take tea at Mrs Sam Phillips.
MSS 6960
Friday the 30th warmest day we have had this season--Eliza
has just received a letter from Mr M---n he has been
very sick--& is still too weak to join his Regiment--I feel
quite anxious about him--& wish he was here--No letter
from Tom--I am still hard at work on summer dresses
for Eliza--Have not yet commenced my own--Eliza, Susy
Wingfield & Milly Cornick--Escorted by Mr Gorrell Mr Adams
& Mr Bunting went off this morning on a PicNic & to fish
We are my family I mean all to take tea at Mrs Sam Phillips.
MSS 6960
1862 May 30 Staunton, Va.
[from the diary of Joseph Addison Waddell, former editor of the Staunton Spectator and a civilian employee in the Quartermaster Dept.]
Friday night, May 30, 1862.
Still without news from Richmond, Corinth +c,
Jackson's army quiet. No prisoners sent off yet
from that quarter. The ladies are using my
office for preparing food for the wounded soldiers
in the tent hospital near the Depot. Have a shed
for a cooking store. Expect they will injure the
property, but could not refuse the use of it.
[transcription by the Valley of the Shadow project]
MSS 38-258
1862 May 30 Lynchburg, Va.
[from the diary of William M. Blackford, former diplomat and bank officer, Lynchburg, Va., with five sons in the Confederate Army]
Friday 30 Went at an early hour to the
Orange Depot to deliver letters to Jack
Seddon for Lanty--Jack commands the
Irish Battalion and is on his way to join
it Met at Depot, Rev. Mr. Meade, who
was waiting for Luch Minor (Ridgway)
the cars started before she arrived--Saw
her a few minutes after with Charles
in his carriage. Charles, Sue & Lucy &
Dr. Houston & Kemper went up in
the packet on a fishing excursion --a
frolic jaunt under present circum
stances--During the day Andrew Grin
-nan called upon me--an interesting
looking young man, who has prospered in
the world. The mails in the evening
strange to say brought letters from all
my sons, except Charles who is here
William's first work, as Captain of
Engineers, was to build a floating bridge
across the James at Warwick--This
he did in less than a week from
the time he recd the order. Gen Johnston
addressed a letter of thanks and com-
mendation to him, and Gen Huger &
Secretary Randolph visited the work
and expressed their admiration--He
has recd his commission. Lewis has
charge of the topography between the
James & Appomattox and divides
his time between the saddle & [?]
[?] [?] He has had several narrow
row[sic] escapes from the enemy. He is
animated b a furious hate of the
Yankees--Gen Armistead is very
attentive to him---All of Hugers di
vision has [?] to join Johnston
Lanty's letter is dated 25th. Sunday
in the evg 4 miles beyond Win-
chester---that morning in a fight
with the enemy, his company lost
25 killed & wounded--He says the
danger they were in was tenfold
greater than at Kernstown--Robt
McKim of Bath (Ran's cousin) and
young Gregory an Allen[?] of [?]
[?] were killed--Berkeley Minor
recd a contusion on the shoulder
from a piece of shell. Eugenes
letter is long & interesting--written
on picket--he says he has more
confidence in McClellans doing us
good than in our own Generals
& is persuaded there is intelligence
between the Head Qr. of the two
armies. The Yankees will think so
too,if as the papers say, McClellan
is recoiling. His fate is sealed if he
fails, and fail he must--Jackson
has crossed the Potomac at Williams
port. Every additional particular
enhances the value of his achieve
-ments--The medical stores alone
captured at Winchester are worth
$2000 00--Eight thousand stand of
arms, quite new, and great quanti
ty of ammunition, & nearly all the guns
are among the spoils--If he
he can take it. To threaten at [?]
will bring back half McClellans
army--Mr. Lee & his brother came
in the packet--homeward bound--He
has not improved much. Thunder
shower between 3 & 4.
MSS 4763
1862 June 29 Winchester, Va.
Taylor Hotel Winchester
May 29 1862
My own darling Jennie
This morning the 10” was ordered
on the road to Charlestown,
but I
found myself entirely too
unwell
to go with them and so Billy
& I came to this place
for rest.
I think I will be able to
take
the field tomorrow or next
day. I
am suffering from nothing but
my bowels & am only necessary
in
need of rest to cure
them. Mr & Mrs
Cartmel are very kind indeed
and
do every thing they can for
me. I dont
need much it is true yet it
is a pleasure to
have friends near to attend
to any wants you
may have. And still a greater one if Jennie
& my darling little pets
were only here to see
& plague papa, but that
is now impossible
I would go home to see you
but with the
[page 2]
means of transportation between
here & H Burg
it will would do me
more harm to travel
that distance than to remain
with the regim-
ent. So I must be content to remain as I am
for the present.
I wrote you a long letter yesterday but
have mislaid it. In it I was giving you
various reasons why I thought
we were
approaching the end of the
war. our
victory here has been
complete and has
resulted in clearing all this
part of
Virginia of the enimy
[sic]. we have captured
more army supplies &
prisoners than were
captured at Manassas and that
too with-
out scatering [sic] or
demoralizing our troops
except Ashbys Cavalry which
are of
no earthly account for any
purpose
whatever. A victory now by Genl John-
ston will terminate the
strife, and I
cant help but feel that he will
certainly
gain such a victory in a very
few
days if indeed he has not
already
gained one. Johnston has been too slow
[page 3]
I could do better
myself. he must now
fight or loose [sic] all his
reputation and
that of his army. Lincoln says the war
must end by the 1st
of July if so it ends
in favor of the Rebels. The latest news
from Richmond is that our men
are
perfectly confident of
success and I learned
from Yankey prisoners here
that they are
of the opinion that Johnston
has more
men than McClelland, so they
of course
have no great confidence in
their cause
our victory here will cause
the Yanks
to withdraw a portion of
their men
from Eastern Va to defend
Washington
for Jackson will certainly make
believe
that he is after Washington,
if indeed he
is not really after it. All that is now
necessary is to make a bold
& vigorous
dash at McCleland & he is
routed
and destroyed. Beauregard I understand
is in position to hold his
own and
I am daily expecting to hear
good
news from him. Look on the bright
[page 4]
side my precious darling,
cheer up all
will yet be well. I got your letter
sent by a member of the 37”
Reg. I
feel very sorry for you, but
trust
in God who has been with us
&
near us in all our troubles
and
who has in mercy protected me
amid so many dangers, and all
will
be well. I will write to you
again tomorrow. Give love to
all & believe as ever
your most
devoted & affectionate husband
ETHWarren
“Taylor Hotel”, heading – The
Taylor Hotel was utilized by many Confederate and Union officers during the
War. Recently a number of grants have
been awarded in order to restore the hotel to its former glory.
“Jennie”, salutation; line 15
– Warren’s wife Virginia ‘Jennie’ Watson Magruder.
“10””, line 1 – 10th
VA Infantry.
“Charlestown”, line 2 – Charles
Town, Jefferson County, VA (now WV).
“Billy”, line 4 – William
Rolston, private, Company H, 10th VA Infantry.
“Mr & Mrs Cartmel”, lines
10 & 11 – Nathaniel M. Cartmell was the proprietor of the Taylor
Hotel. His wife was Ellen Moore Sydnor.
“my darling little pets”,
line 16 – Warren referred to his children: seven year old Lizzie, six year old
James M., and three month old Virginia ‘Jennie’ Watson.
“H Burg”, page 2, line 1 – Harrisonburg,
Rockingham County.
“Ashbys”, page 2, line 16 – Turner
Ashby, Jr., Confederate colonel, commanded the Valley Army’s cavalry.
[transcription by John P. Mann, IV]
MSS 7786-g
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