Tuesday, July 31, 2012

1862 August 1 Camp near Harrison Landing, Va.

Camp Near Harrisons Landing Va.
                   July Aug 1st 1862

Dear Sister
               Yours of the 28th Ult was
rec'd this evening, as also one from
R.T. Woodard, and glad to learn that
you have passed the busy & exciting
scenes of anniversary week & come
out successfully.  My health is first
rate now and as hearty as ever.
Matters remain pretty quiet about
here--excepting a little excitement
last night from 12 midnight till
3 o'clock.  The rebels brought down
& planted a battery on the other side
of the river opposite our camps
and commenced pouring in volleys
into our transports and troops near
the rifer.  The Gunboats soon were

[page 2]
brought into action & silenced the [daring?]
depredadors. The shells did not reach as
far back as our camp we were not
in danger, but were put under marching
orders in case any thing serious should hap
pen.   I have not heard the results of the
affair farther than there were several
killed & wounded on our side.  We are now
having as easy times as we can expect &
could we have cool weather should get
along finely. The greatest annoyance we
have  however is the flies which stay
about and intrude their unwelcome
presence at all times a day & threaten
to devour one "sans ceremonie"  It
is difficult to eat without swallowing
more or less of the saucy insects--to
offsett this however there are no musquitoes
I went over to see Isaac to day & found
him in the hospital.  The doctor says he
as a slow fever, and is not dangerous.
He has fallen away very much.  I try to get
him every thing he wants & shall not let him

[page 3]
as long as I can prevent it.
       I am sorry that the Gov. thinks
he cannot aid me, especially on account
of having a chance to get home, but I
suppose it is all for the best & no great
disappointment as I had anticipated
such results, though if one expects any-
thing he must try for it.  I think the Gov.
is fast in saying it was out of his power to
commission a member of another reg.
for there is an instance in our own com-
pany in which a private rec'd a commission
from the Gov. of N.H. some two months
since & is not discharged yet to my
knowledge--but I am satisfied as well
as pleased for the my friends at home
manifested for me, and am sure they
done their best.
  I have read your essay & think you need
not be at all ashamed of it.  You must
send, if possible a copy of Miss Stanley's.
I wrote to Jo some time ago & am anxiously
expecting an answer.

[page 4]
I enclose a twenty dollar Treas note
No. 76130. Letter B. & payable at New York
which you will please hand to father &
request him to pay all expenses incurred
in my account & endorse the balance on the
A. Woodward note & have some one write
me immediately on its receipt.  My love to
all & I will close as it is getting quite late.
        Your aff. Brother
                            A.S. Davis

Allen Seymour Davis, 1st Minnesota.

MSS 11338








1862 August 1 Harrison's Landing, Va.

 [several portions of writing faded to illegibility]

Harrisons Landing  Aug 1
Dear Father
                        I am back
once more & glad am
I that I am here. I started
sunday afternoon &
got here Wednesday all
safe & sound.  The boys
are all well but a poorer
lot you never saw
they are cheerful. some
singing & playing cards &c
The boys were out on
picket when I got here
they all seemed [very glad?] to
see me & I [?]
some of the boys lost
every thing but gun &
equipments we are near
a swamp but the [?]
sits up so far that it is not so bad

[page 2]
The major asked me
where I had been.  I told
him.  he wanted to know
when I left I told him
soon after the battle of
West Point & that I was
in that battle & came out
of the woods just behind
him & with Cap Whitlock
he thought a moment &
said he did remember
me also the Lieut Col
had some questions to
ask The Col I did not
think that any of the
officers knew me but
a good many did & as I
was passing a tent one of the
Cap. called out, "how are you
Corp Bradley. I told him
well I hoped & steped
up to the door of the tent
& there was the Major Ajt &c

[page 3]
Our Col is acting Briga
dier Gen. he had com-
mand during the last
fight the boys said he
walked rode right in
front his old sword drawn
& placed the Rgt where
he wanted them.  Last
night the Rebs opened
with shot & shell on our
Transports but our men
soon replyed & they had
to leave the shells looked
beautiful as they went
up & came down forming
a curve I lay in my bed
& listened to the music
We are to have West
Point Gaines Hill &
White Oak swamp
inscribed on our flag
The boys all agree in
saying we lost but little

[page 4]
compared to what was at
stake &  that the Rebs lost the
most men.  the last days
fight was very sever an
then our men had set
fire to their liquer but
it did not burn & so the
rebs got drunk our men
formed the cannon on the
brow of a hill that sloped
[fold obliterates this line]
field in front & our batteries
in a half circle they came
out & charged on our batteries
                         & were each time
repulsed with great loss
& they being drunk  rushed
madly on when it was
all foolishness. I think
that we shall stay here some
time they are building brick
ovens & as Parker is ready to
[fold obliterates this line]
may send me a pair of No 7--
[line smeared]
others were broad in the
bottoms long legs an extra sole nailed
on 7s are large for me--one
one pair of socks [?] writing
paper &  [?] [?]
                                    You
need not send me any money
except [?] as the last $1.00 of that
went [?] [?] We shall be
[?] the reserve this fall & winter
If there is any prospect of drafting why do
[two final lines illegible]
          Resp C.E. Bradley

C.E.. Bradley,  Co. I,  32nd New York

1862 August 1, near New Bern, N.C.

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

Friday
Aug 1
Rained some Had inspection
this afternoon with knapsack.

MSS 11293

1862 August 1 camp near Warrenton, Va.

[from the diary of Private Ephraim A. Wood, Co. C., 13th Massachusetts]



 
          Friday    August 1st/62
Pleasant
               This morning Revelle beat
at half past four Oclock.
At six Oclock we were in line
to be review by Gen Pope, who
got along about half past
seven Oclock.  He looks very much
like Gen Hartsuff, but no so heavy
a man.  His Photograph in Frank
Leslies, looks very much like him.
After the great American Pope had gone,
we went to our quarters.  After nine
Oclock, I went to the creek and
had a bath, and got some apples
which I stewed for dinner.
After dinner I layed down and
slept till nearly supper time.
Had dress Parade in evening and
a short drill.  The late orders
are that every light shall be put out
at taps, and they are strictly enforced.

MSS 12021

1862 August 1, Clarke County, Va.

[from the diary of Matthella Page Harrison as transcribed at a later date]

Friday, August 1

Fez came last night about three o'clock.  I was busy all day fixing him, and with company sat up until daybreak this morning.

MSS 9759


1862 August 1 "Clifton," Fauquier County, Va.

[from the diary of Anne Madison Willis Ambler ]

Friday, August 1, 18662

Mr. Pendleton brought Pa another
letter from Nat telling of Newtons death
& your sickness= Oh, if I could only hear
that you are well once more:--

I get along better without a nurse
than you might expect at first Jacky
was very bad, but he knows them all now
& crawls about very quickly--poor little
fellow.   I never look at him without
wishing, you could see him.

Pa is gloomy enough--he still thinks
we will be whipped all to pieces, after a
while--that our enemies are too strong
for us to contend against.

[partial transcription in 1972 by her granddaughter Anne Madison Wright Baylor]

MSS 15406




1862 August 1 Fredericksburg, Va.

[from the diary of Dr.. Brodie Strachan Herndon]

August 1st  Our sweet Nannie
Gordon took her departure this
morning at half past six.  Bro
John seems relieved and is composed
and very much sustained. Ellen
Mercer gives way somewhat--but on
the whole bears up well.  She
looks so sweet as she lies on
a couch in the parlour--no
trace of suffering on her sweet
countenance.  It is a relief to
look upon it. so devoid of all
appearance of suffering.  The
dear Saviour has received her into
His arms. Perfect quiet prevails
in the house.  everything is so well
ordered.  Little Maggie looks
at her and weeps and said-
of herself--"I shall meet her at
the resurrection."

MSS 2563-b




1862 August 1 Chapel Hill, N.C.

[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]

Friday 1st  Eliza is better today--Tho' still very unwell--It has ceased
raining--But still very cloudy--Liz has just heard from her mother who
mentions the return of Noah to Enfield--He has Camp fever, & has been
sick three weeks--He says Tom took him to Richmond, & sent him
home to get better nursed--He says Tom tells him he is well--But he does
not think Tom looks so--& that he cant stand the kind of life he leads
it will kill him--Oh how I do wish the War was over - & my children
at home!  Poor fellows they have to endure untold hardships----
William looks & feels better this morning--He is full of fun & very
sweet & interesting--Mrs Watters received a letter from Mary Anderson
to day--Mrs Harris has a daughter-who they have named Mary--She is doing
well--Col Martin came in at night to see Eliza & staid til after eleven

MSS 6960

1862 August 1 Lynchburg, Va.



[from the diary of William M. Blackford, bank officer and former diplomat with five sons in the Confederate Army]

Friday Aug 1  Beautiful morning.  Telegram
from Dr. Minor saying that Eugene
was doing well last but still fever
ish--Recd note from Robt. Saunders
asking me to send Eugene's Horse
to him to keep until he was wanted
-The remains of Lawrence Meem
and six others, killed at Seven Pines
arrived to day--Busy in the Evg
making arrangements for the funeral
tomorrow.  Succeeded in frustrating
schemes which would have spoiled
the whole affair.  It was agreed
to have [just?] one procession.  the Bodies
were deposited at in the vestibule of the
2d Presbyterian church.  They were as
follows  Meem--Terry, Tyree[?] --Reid
Cross, Elliott--The body of Russell
was taken into the country--all of them
belonged to the Home Guard, except
Meem who was one of the staff, but had
been orderly & Lt. of the same company
It has lost in battle 12 or 13--besides
near 40 wounded.  When it was
raised it bore the reproach of being
a Band Box company--not fit for
service--Letters from Lanty & Charles


MSS 4763

1862 August 1 Staunton, Va.


[from the diary of Joseph Addison Waddell, civilian employee of the Quartermaster Dept.]


August 1862
Friday evening, August 1, 1862.
This morning I heard from my office a sound
of lamentation in the street or neighboring home. 
Going out I found the noise proceeded from an 
upper room in the Court-house. A negro woman 
informed me that it was a soldier crying because 
he had to go to war! He is from the lower part 
of the county, and was brought up under the con-
script act passed by Congress. Poor fellow! there 
was something ludicrous in his wailings, although I 
pitied him. Several men and women stood in the 
street. Some laughing and others denouncing.
The Central Presbyterian, received this evening, takes 
that same view of Dr. Plumer's card that I did yesterday. 

[transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]

MSS 38-258

Monday, July 30, 2012

1862 July 31 Andover, Mass.

                  Andover  July 31 1862

My Dear Friend [Duchess of Argyll]

         Your lovely generous
letter was a real comfort to
me--& reminded me that a
year--alas a whole year
has passed since I wrote to
your dear mother--of whom
I think so often as one of
God's noblest creatures--&  one
whom it comforts me to think
is still in our world--
So many! good & noble have
passed away whose friendship
was such a pride such
a comfort to me--Your noble
father--Lady Byron--Mrs
Browning--their spirits as
perfected as ever passed to the
world of light--I grieve about
your dear mothers eyes--I
have thought about you all

[page 2]
many a sad long quiet hour
as I have lain on my bed
& looked at the pictures on
my wall--one in particular
of the moment before the
crucifixion which is the
first thing I look at when
I wake in the morning--
--I think how suffering is
& must be the portion of
noble spirits--& no lot so
brilliant that must not
first or last dip into the
shadow of that eclipse--
Prince Albert too--the ideal
knight--the Prince Arthur
of our times--the good wise
steady head & heart we
that is our world--we
anglo Saxons need so much
and the Queen!--yes I have

[page 3]
thought of & prayed for her
too-----but could a woman
hope to have always such
a heart--& yet ever has
weaned from Earth--"All
this & heaven too?--"
Under my pictures I have
inscribed
Forasmuch as Christ also
hath suffered for us in the
flesh; arm yourselves with
the same mind--
this year has been one long
sigh--one smothering sob
to me--& I thank God that
we have as yet one or
two generous friends in England
who understand & feel for
our cause--
The utter failure of Christian
antislavery England in those
instincts of a right heart
which always can see where
the cause of liberty lies
has been a bitter a grief

[page 4]
to me as was the similar
prostration of all our American religious
people in the day of the
fugitive slave law----
Exeter Hall is a humbug--
a pious humbug like the rest
--Lord Shaftesbury--vale
let him go--he is a tory--
& has after all the instincts
of his class--But I read the your
dukes speech to his tenants!  that
was grand!
If he can see those things
they are to be seen & why
cannot E  H  see them--
--it is simply the want of
the honest heart
--Why do the horrible barbarities
of southern soldiers not cause no
comment?--why is the sympathy
of the British parliament
reserved for the poor women

[page 5]

of New Orleans deprived of their
elegant amusements of throwing
vitriol into soldiers faces
& practising other indecencies
inconceivable in any other
state of society--Why is
all expression of sympathy
on the southern side--
There is a class of women in
New Orleans whom Butler protects
from horrible barbarities that
up to this day have been
practised on them by these
so called New Orleans ladies
but British sympathy has
ceased to notice them----
--You see I am bitter--
I am--You wonder at
my brother--He is a man
& feels a thousand times more
that I can & deeper than
all he ever has expressed
the spirit of these things


[page 6]
You must not wonder therefore
--Remember it is the
moment when every nerve
is vital--it is our agony
--we tread the wine press alone
& they whose chief rhetoric
has been for years pushing
us into it now desert
"en masse"--
I thank my God, I always
loved & trusted most those who
now do stand true--your
family--your duke yourself
your noble mother--I have
lost Lady Byron--Her great
heart her eloquent letters
would have been such a
joy to me--& Mrs Browning
--oh such a heroic woman


[page 7]
--None of her poems can
express what she was--so
grand so comprehending so
strong with such inspired
insight--She stood by Italy
thru its crisis--her heart was
with all good thro the world
--Your prophecy that we should
come out better, truer, stronger
--will I am confident be
true & it was worthy of yourself
& your good lineage--  --
---Slavery will be rent out
by this agony--we are only
in the throes & ravings of
the exorcism--The roots
of the cancer have gone
every where--but they
must die---  will ---
Already the confiscation

[page 8]
bill is its eventual destruction
Lincon has been too slow
--he should have done it
sooner & with an impulse
but come it must come
it will--your mother will
live to see slavery abolished
unless England forms an
alliance to hold it   up--
England is the great reliance
of the slave powers to day
& next to England the faulting
weakness of the north
which palters & dare
not fire the great broadside
for fear of hitting friends
--These things must be
done & sudden sharp [?]

[in right hand margin of page 8]
are mercy--Just now we are in a dark hour

[page 9]
but whether God be with us or
not I know he is with the
slave--& with his redemption
will come the solution of our
question--
I have long known what & who
we had to deal with in this war
When I wrote U.T.C.---I had letters
addressed to me showing a state
of society perfectly inconceivable
That they violate graves--make
drinking cups of sculls--That
ladies wear cameos cut from
bones-- & [?] scalps is no
surprise to me--If I had written
what I knew of the obscenity
brutality & cruelty of that society
down there society would have
cast out the books-- it
is for their interest--the
interest of the white man
in the south that we should
succeed--I wish them no ill
feel no bitterness they have
had a Dahomean Education

[page 10]
which makes them savage
we dont expect any more
of them--but if slavery is
destroyed---one generation of
education & liberty will
efface these strains--They
will come to themselves--
these states & be glad it
is over--
I am using up my paper
to little purpose--Please give
my best love to your dear
mother  I am going to write
to her--If I only could have
written the things I have
often thought  I am going
to put on her bracelet with
the other dates that the abolition
of slavery in the D.Columbia.
Remember me to the duke
& to your dear children--My
husband desires his best regards
My daughters also

[in side margin of page 10]

I am lovingly ever yours  H B Stowe

Harriet Beecher Stowe, 1811-1896, author of Uncle Tom's Cabin, to which she refers on page 9


MSS 6318
               









































1862 July 31 Camp Green Meadows

[letter of James Dinsmore Templeton, musician and private, of the 23rd Ohio begun on July 30 continues]
July 31st
We have had several pleasant
dinner parties out among
the citizens since we came
to this camp last Sabbath
we were out to dinner the
people cant get into camp
and are very anxious to
hear the band they get up
dinners & we go out --last

[page 6]
Sabbath we were
out with several of
the officers the Col was
with us.  We had a
very nice dinner.
It rains this morning
and as we have no duty
I will write some letters
I rec'd a letter last night
from Jennie Langan. She
write me a good
letter.  From present
appearances the war will
I think probably last some
time yet, and I guess if
money matters all in
good condition you had better
go on ad build the House
Don't you get more than 50 lbs
for the wood I hear that several of
the people around there rec'd more
Write soon
Yours Truly J.D. Templeton

MSS 10317

1862 July 31 near New Bern, N.C.

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

Thursday
July 31
Had a good talk with Harvey
Clark this evening on the parade
ground.  Have been at work cleaning up
most of the day getting ready for monthly
inspection but it rains so we put it off.

MSS 11293

1862 July 31 near Warrenton, Va.

[from the diary of Ephraim Wood, Co. C, 13th Massachusetts]


      Thursday    July 31st/62

Clowdy
          Monthly inspection
came off this morning at Seven
O clock, after which I went with
a party of others down to the
Creek to bath.  The creek is a branch
of the Rappadan river, which helps
to form the Rappahannock.
The Water is over our heads, and
it is the best place we have
had for swimming, since leaving
the Potomac
We had no more then got into
the Water, when some one told
us we were wanted back as
soon as possible.  We got back
just in time to fall into
the Ranks.  The Regt was formed
into line and we remained at

Parade rest while the Colonel
read to us the Presidents order.
To day being the day of the burial of
Ex President Martin Van Buren.  All
the troops of the United States
are ordered to Parade at ten oclock
today and from this day for
six months  The Officers have to wear
crape on their left arm, and on their
Swoard, and the Colors of the Several
Regiments, are to have their Co to be
draped in mourning for the period
of  Six Months.  We marched around
the Camp at reversed arms, the
Band playing a Solemn dirge, after
which the Chaplain offered up a prayer
A Salute was fired in morning and
a Gun is to be fired at intervals
intervals of half an hour, till Sun
Set, when our National Salute will
be fired.

[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]

MSS 12021

1862 July 31 Camp Green Meadows.

[from the diary of Charles Hay, Private Co H, 23rd Ohio]


  Camp Green Meadows, July 31st, /62
     The prevalence of that disease, which
always more or less affects the general health
of @ camp, Diarrhoea, had become so marked,
as to attract more than usual attention as
to the cause productive of such undesirable
results.  The location of our camp is gen=
-erally conceded to be a healthy one, and
the water we use is most excellent.  Our
supply of palatable food seems to be ample,
of course, consisting only of the regular army
diet, but yet, this properly cooked, affords
wholesome and nutritious edibles, such as an
epicure might not fancy, but he who seeks
after the substantials of life might.
     It is well known though, that, at this
season of the year, vegetable productions come in
vogue, and if they can be had they are much
sought after, as, from continual confinement
to one diet for months; a change to something
fresh and sweet, would be most welcome.
The trouble is, that, after so long an isolation,
the attempt to govern or restrain one’s self when

when we have gone as far as prudence would
recommend, is difficult or futile.  I think
that is this latter fact may be found the
cause of the prevailing Diarrhoea; an over=
=indulgence in eating food to which we are
not accustomed.  There are no alarming
cases, but a great many are of such a
nature as to deter them from performing the
usual duties incumbent on @ soldier; and to
prove @ source of annoyance both to themselves
and the Surgeons.
     Vegetables and fruit are rarities in this
community; the former, from the fact that
a large proportion of the people have
left the country, and what are left raise
little more than enough for themselves: the
latter, because but little attention was ever paid
to the culture of fruit trees, in this country, so
that there is now but little fruit, and that very
inferior.  Spontaneous productions, such as
blackberries and whortleberries, abound in profusion,
and of the largest kind and most luscious
quality.  These are a common product of Western Virginia.

[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]

MSS 13925

                                                                       

1862 July 31 Camp at Green Meadows


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

Thursday, July 31 '62
Raining all forenoon
finished letters to
Father also wrote one
to Jennie Langan
Have been lying
around most of the
day listless
Parade & Drill Played
on the  [?]
The boys playing
cards most of the
day
Rained furing the
forenoon. Cleared
off this evening
Have been feeling
a little blue to day


MSS 10317



1862 July 31 Fredericksburg, Va.

[from the diary of Dr. Brodie Strachan Herndon]

31st  Miss Margaret
Barrett is untiring and by day
& night ministers to our poor
child's suffering.  Lately Lucy &
Miss Margaret have alternated
in their nights attendance.  Nannie
seems to prefer them.  This evening she
left bequests and again bade
adieu.  Mrs Chew came to spend
the last night.  She is sinking fast.

MSS 2563-b

1862 July 31 Chapel Hill, N.C.

[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]

Thursday 31st---It has been raining all day & would have been lonely within doors
had there not been public speaking at the Hotel--Mr Guthrie our Host ad
dressed the crowd on the piazza & around the house with umbrellas over
their heads in a very good speech--offering himself for Sheriff--After
he sat down -His opponent rose- & said very little--then Governor Graham
gave them a fine talk--& after him Major Patterson--Mr Stewart
& Mr Straghan--The ladies could hear all that was said from the
parlours-& also see the speakers--Eliza has been sick on the bed all
day with tooth ach & a swolen face--She suffers very much with
pain--I have a very troublesome nervous headach--Liz & Sarah
ahve spent the day in my room.

MSS 6960

1862 July 31 "Clifton," Fauquier County, Va.

1862 July 31

[from the diary of Anne Madison Willis Ambler]

Hearing there were shoes & cotton at Mr Porters
we walked down but he denied have[sic]
said that he had any to sell & we bought
some yarn & returned.
stopped at the mill & weighed--Patty weighed
115 lbs. Emma-144-- I-129--little F.
45--Emma was shocked at her weight.
she is very fat--

[partially transcribed by her granddaughter Anne Madison Wright Baylor in 1972]

MSS 15406

1861 July 31 Clarke County, Va.

[fromt he diary of Matthella Page Harrison as transcribed at a later date]

This has been a sad day to me.  I have been looking over old letters preparatory to burning, since the raid of the Germans who scattered relics to the winds desecrated what had been hidden from the eyes even of the family.  I thought it best although it wrung m heart to do so and seemed like a complete severation from those dear ones in heaven whose written words are all that is left of their deep, warm affection. Oh it is a sad thing to be left the last one in the homestead that once was vocal with tones of love and merriment, some in the silent tomb. The others may be at this moment on the battlefield, the iron hail of the foe raining around.  God have mercy upon them, in life or death take them for thine own.  And another, not a brother but who was like one and made life's springtime and noon tide brighter,  I heard today is gone from earth.  Julian Carter. As I write his name his image, replete with lighthearted merriment, comes before me and I cannot think him dead.  A private in Letcher's guards, the only one killed in the fight of Malvern Hills on July 4th. The awful message comes with dreadful distinctness, but if God was with him as his spirit winged its way from the dreadful carnage, he is at rest while we mourn on for a few more ears.  Our term of probation is only a little longer.  God give me grace to improve it.  We drove to Berryville this evening to hear news but heard none. One of the Winchester pickets was shot last night.  They avenged his death by burning the house of the offender.  Winchester is still inaccessible.

MSS 9759

1862 July 31 Lynchburg, Va.



[from the diary of William M. Blackford, bank officer and former diplomat with five sons in the Confederate Army]

Thursday 31 Heavy rain story about day
light--rained slightly nearly all
day--Dispatch dated yesterday from
Gwatkins--Eugene still sick with
fever and disordered bowls--afterwards
another telegram of today, saying
he was much as he was yesterday ex
cept that the bowel complaint
had been checked & sent Pleas out
to Flat Creek on Eugenes horse to carry
a telegram from Richd Davis.  If
he is not wanted by Eugene I should
send him back until E is ready
to take the field--Letter from Mr.
Gwatkin repeating his telegram I
think Mary or myself will have
to go down--very hard doing work
Called in the evening to see  Tom [Miller?]
who is doing well

MSS 4763

1861 July 31 Camp near Madison C.H.

July 31st
Camp near Madison C.H.
Dear Sister
       I will attempt
to write you a few
lines in addition to
what is enclosed to
let you know that
I am well and in
good spirits except now
and then, when we
were short of rations
which is very often

[page 2]
As we are now across
the mountains we have
some prospect of rest
soon. It is reported that
the yankees are occupying
their old ground on
Stafford heights if so
I suppose we will
move towards Fredericks-
burg before long.
We were all glad to
get east of the Blue

[page 3]
ridge this time for
we think times will
be easier than in
the Valley.  The sound
of the railcar whistle
is a  great relief to
men whose appetites
are sharpened by hunger
it betokens more to
eat and of a better
quality.  I received a
letter to day by A Smiley
in which you said
for me to write if
I needed pants but
I expect to draw a

[page 4]
pair soon and then
save the risk of having
them sent to me while
we are not settled
I was not surprized to
hear of Miss Jennies
marriage as Lieut Carson
had told me of it before
I received your letter
But I will now close for
the present by asking
you to write soon and
let me hear all the
particulars. nothing more
but remain as ever
your brother
                   T.M. Smiley
P.S. When you write let
me know whether ma got
the letters I sent Her. T.M.S.

Thomas M. Smiley, Co. D, 5th Virginia


MSS 1807



1862 July 31 Camp near Mechanicsksville

Camp near Mechanicksville
July 31. P.M. 1862

Dear Charley:
    I have broken my trunk key
& in consequence have to write with pencil,
a plan I once affected, but now condemn--
I have the pleasure of sending herewith your
application duly signed, & I hope you may
speedily effect your purpose.  You must now
get an approval from the Officers of the com-
mand you propose to join. The case is decided
by Gen. Lee, so the adj. at Ten Jackson's head
quarters told me this morning.  I am sorry
to lose you from this corps, as I can be with the
21st frequently, but I highly approve you join-
ing the cavalry; & then, besides, you will be with
Jenny, & probably nearer home. We are now
pleasantly encamped near brethren Good-
man, Quarles, et idomne genus, &
invitations abound, some of which I ac-

[page 2]
cept.  I have daily worship, but dont
do much visiting among the men--Sundry
things & specially my diffidence pre-
   doing it to much purpose
vent ^ We are not having drills since we
came here, abut courts of inquiry, inspec-
tions, reports, & a general righting up of
of things--Everything is rather dull--While I
was at your Reg this A.M. I witnessed
one fisticuff, & an Irishman bucked for
getting drunk.  Just now two Louisianans
were marched by here to Gen. Ewell, bear-
ing two sides of a shoat they had killed-
They were sentenced to wear the meat round
their necks till it smelt.  No one under-
stands our late move, but most regard
it merely strategie--I suppose it has
reference to Pope's taking command of the
"on to Richmond army." Nous venions.  If
you want me to furnish you a horse, let
me know, & I will see  what I can do.
If you all write at once, send to Gordonsville
Love to all. Your loving Bro George

[in top margin page 1]
Hill's division has come, & I learn others are coming]

George Taylor, Confederate chaplain, brother of future Wake Forest University president Charles Elisha Taylor


MSS 3091

1862 July 30 Clarke County, Va.

[from the diary of Matthella Page Harrison as transcribed at a later date]

Cousin William Whiting was here this morning before breakfast.  Prayer meting at Mr. Clark's.  A large attendance.  We hear Jackson is advancing in three columns on Pope's army, with whom he had a successful engagement this week.  I heard this evening of a singular dream of a man in Richmond.  He dreamed he would die at four o'clock the next day, that on such a day the fiercest battle of the war would be fought at a place called Gaines Mill and that peace would be declared in three months.  He did die at the appointed time, the battle was fought, but peace has yet to be declared.

MSS 9759

Sunday, July 29, 2012

1862 July 30 Camp at White House Farm

                                           Camp at White House Farm
                                                July 30th 1862

I received last night, my darling, your letter dated the 25th
and it was most welcome to me.  It had been so long
since once of your dear letters came that I was fear-
-ful some sickness had prevented you from
writing.                The barrel of ham was brought
safely to me.  I have had one cooked & find it
very nice.                              I notice all you say in
reference to the messages from Maria concerning the
employment of the overseers &c.  I wish I could visit
you & Cumberland & make the arrangements for working
the plantations another year, but I dont see that
it is possible.  You must write Maria that she
will have to make the bargains.  I will try &
write to her to day.  If under other circumstances I
could procure leave of absence yet  I cannot
while Col. Goode is sick, & I am in command of
the Regiment ask for it.  I heard yesterday that
he had a leave of absence for thirty days & wd
start for home this morning.
     I have money in Petersburg, & so soon as I
can learn the amount, & I will write them to day,
& will send a check which you will please
deliver to Col. Baskervill.
                               I trust your fears as to our
means of subsistence failing will prove ground-
-less, but one of the most serious apprehensions

[page 2]
I have had  is as to the difficulty of feeding our
army.  I hope for the best & think our country
ought to be able to sustain the men who will be in
the field for her defence. As to the time when the
war will end I do not think however sagacity can fix
a period to it.  We can only trust in God & do our duty.
                        You say if I am again in camp near
Richmond & write you a letter of tender entreaty
you may come to see me, & unless I need you
very much I must take care how I write. Darling, I do
need you: never did an infant need its mother, never did
the eye need light, never did the body need food, more
than I need you, my own, my precious wife.  I some
-times feel as though I was famishing for need
of you, and I know you cannot refuse my earnest
cry and will come to my piteous call.
                 So soon as I collect my pay for the time
now due me I will try to send you four hundred
dollars.  I send enclosed some pictures
of Genl McClellan brought here by the
Yankees that may amuse the children.
      Kiss Mary & Alice for me & tell them
I love them very dearly.  Kiss the children
for me.  Love to Mrs Riddle.  Remember
me to the servants.
                I have written in the midst of
constant interruptions.  Farewell, my
darling wife.  I kiss you most fondly, & pray
God that he will at all times watch over & protect
     & guide aright you & myself & our children
                                  Yr affec husband
                                       John T. Thornton

John T. Thornton, University of Virginia alumnus, lawyer and Captain, Co. K, 3rd Virginia Cavalry


MSS 4021

1862 July 30 Richmond, Va.

                              Ordnance Bureau
                     Richmond July 30th/62
Prof. S Maupin
             University of Virginia
                  Charlottesville Va
                         Sir
                           I beg to acknowledge
the receipt of your favor of the 15th inst.
         Steps have been taken to improve
the quality of Nitric acid made at the cf[?]
Laboratory, upon information of its impu-
rity conveyed in your letter.
                      The Bureau will be glad to
receive the Fulminate of Mercury mentioned.
                              Very Respectfully
                                      Yr obt servt
                              J Gorgas Colonel
                                 Chf. of ordnance

MSS 4707

1862 July 30 near New Bern, N.C.

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

Wednesday
July 30
Cleaned my gun and played
chess and backgammon and
also read a book which I got at the chaplains.

MSS 11293

1862 July 30 Camp near Mechanicsville, Va.

                                                                                     Camp near Mechanicsville, Va.
                                                                                         July 30, 1862

Friend Will  [William McCauley]

I suppose you have been looking for a reply from me for some time.  But this is the earliest opportunity since the reception of your letter.  Although dated May the 22nd, it did not arrive till a few days since.  We had been looking for a letter from you for a long time, and wondered why you did not write to us.  But we are satisfied since the arrival of your letter that you wrote in due time.  I have nothing of interest to write to you now, I have to resort to my old song, of moving about, performing toilsome marches, and of the hardships of camp life in general, all of which you are doubtless well acquainted with.  I rejoined the Reg. in the Valley and we have had but few days for recreation since.  It has gotten to be a very common thing to receive orders to cook up 2 days rations and be ready to leave at daylight.  Our trip to Richmond was a very laborious one, having had to perform the most of the trip on foot.  As soon as we had arrived within 6 or 7 miles of Richmond, the miseries of battles commenced there, and during our stay, we were going almost continually something night and day.  After the fighting was over we remained incamped there a few days and were ordered to this place. Since we came from Richmond, we have moved 4 different times.  Once we moved out as we supposed, to meet the Yankees, who were said to be advancing within a few miles of Orange C.H.  But when we had gone within a few miles of that place, we received intelligence that the Yankees were leaving.  We were then ordered to camp again.  It may not be long before we have an engagement near this place.  I know not where the enemy is, whether near here or not, but troop[s] seem to be concentrating to t his place.  I believe Gen. Hill's and Whiting's Divisions have lately arrived here.  Our Division is very much wearied and exhausted.  I think it would be altogether wise and prudent to let us rest a few days and recruit up.
It may be possible that you are looking for a faint description of the conduct and movements of our army on the plains before Richmond.  But knowing that you have long since received information through the press or some of your friends I feel that a repetition will but weary you.
It is enough to say that we repulsed the enemy at each engagement and were successful in gaining possession of the field, and finally drove them back and compelled them to seek refuge beneath their iron clad boats.   Our Brigade was not in actual engagement, but exposed to a great deal of firing.  We were ordered on the field on Friday the 27th, but before we got within shooting distance of the Yankees they fled from the field.  Our brigade then encamped on the battle field amid the groans of the wounded and dying Yankees.
The following morning was the most trying of all.  When daylight dawned and we we were ordered away and wended our course through the bloody field, was a scene the most shocking to humanity.  A scene inconceivable by the human mind without the sense of sight.  I hope I may never see another.  But enough of this.
Our Company has reduced very much since our recruits joined us.  Very few of our recruits are with us now.  They are scattered in almost every direction.  Some at the hospitals, some at  home and some dead and some absent without leave.  When were were in the Valley at one time, our co. numbered 115.  Now only 47 men are reported for duty.  34 are absent sick and about 12 absent without leave.  the most of these absentees are composed of our recruits.  Our old mess are all well and would be pleased to see you all well and would be pleased to see you down on a visit soon.  Can't you come?   They all join in sending you their love and respects.  I want you to write to me as soon as this arrives.  Excuse this badly written letter for I was compelled to write it in haste.
                                                               Your true Friend,
                                                                      J. P. Houtz

James Philip Houtz, Co. E of the 42 Virginia (Dixie Grays)

MSS 14953

1862 July 30 Camp near Harrison's Landing, Va.


Camp Near Harrisons Landing Fa July 30th 1862

My Dear Mother--your letter of July 11th has been receivd it gives me pleasure to know that you are all well at Home since we have been here, I have received so many letters that I can scarcely find time to answer them all & have to do the best I can I have delayed answering yours for this reason, I had eight letters to answer which came all at one time three of them was from Father, I thought if I answered those of Fathers it would do for you both, untill I got some of the others off my hands we have been at work about all the time since we arrived at this place & have not the rest the papers talk about so much we may stop here sometime proberly untill fall although we may leave here at any  moment, there is A rumor that our Corps (Porters) are going to reinforce Pope if this should be true, it would suit the Boys first rate perhaps you think I talk wild when I say this army is loseing confidence in Genl. McClellans ability to end this next Campaign succesfully although the papers say he is Idolized by the men such is not the Fact, the men think more of Genl Heizleman than any other Genl  in the Army next to him comes Genl Kearny.  I hear Genl Heitzleman praise by every one. I honestly beleive that if he was made commander of this Army, it would be receivd with great delight, I may be mistaken but I think not, I see Joseph quite often as we are near together he looks in good health, you say you wish our grub was better, well if I have wished so once I have A hundred times  I want something that tastes good, I have sent home for A box, & I hope it will come the men have Just begun to recieve boxes from home yesterday two of my Friends received boxes with good things to eat & I had A feast for once if you can contrive to put something in that box it will be very acceptable I think I have eaten my peck of dirt, I think you would you would [sic] go without eating your dinner if you had such as we have sometimes & cooked in the same manner, I shall be glad when this war is ended & I am able to return Home to sit down to A good dinner once more. I think I could enjoy A good dinner first rate I can eat salt fish & taters now, once I would turn up my nose & say fish, neither would I grumble at corned beef & cabbage well what is the use I cant have these things but I think of them often it gives me pleasure to receive so many letters from home, it shows although I am Far away I am not forgotten, I am always impatient to receive my letters, if I dont receive four each week I imagine something is the matter with the folks at Home, I wish I was Just at there. I think I could get A commission in one of the regiments now forming, if there was any one at Home that would interest themselves about me, to A commission, I know that if four more Regiments are to be formed there is A good chance for A commission, but as there  is no one to interest themselves, why I shall have to remain A Private but stop I have been promoted only think I am A Corporal, I should like A commission in the 17th if possible to get one but if not in any of the Other Regiments hoping that this will find you enjoying good health, & that I shall again have the pleasure of seeing you all once more in Old Portland I remain
Your Son Geo W Leavitt


Letters from George W. Leavitt of the 5th New York and his brother Joseph of the 5th Maine were copied into a ledger by their father John in the fall of 1865 as a remembrance of them.  Both boys died in the war, George at 2nd Bull Run and Joseph at Spotsylvaina


MSS 66



1862 July 30 near Warrenton, Va.

[from the diary of Ephraim A. Wood, Co. C, 13th Massachusetts]

     Wednesday   July 30th 1862
Pleasant
               Last night I went
out of Town to Mr Vowells.
They were reather surprised to see
me as they thought I was
with the Regt.  They invited
me to stop over night.
I slept on a feather bed, the first
one I think that I have slept on
since leaving Boston.  I could
not sleep two hours together.  I was
so restless.  If I had layed on
the floor I should have slept
sound.  This morning at Breakfast
Mr Vowell told me that his sons had
left the Southern army, there time
being up   He said they were some
where near our lines, but did not dare
to come home for fear they would
be arrested.  Miss Vowell told me if I

should be so unfortunate as to
get sick or wounded to come to
her house if  I could and she would take
good care of me.  After Breakfast
I bid them good bye and went
back to my quarters in Town.
I found the Boys had just
got up and were eating their
breakfast.  At nine O clock we
strapped our Knapsacks to our backs
and started for the Regt.  It was


very warm; and we did not hurry.
We would march about a mile,
and then hault for an hour.
We reached the Regt distance
of seven or eight miles, about
four O clock in the afternoon.
We found the Regt camped
on the side of a hill, near,
five or six buildings, which
is called Waterloo.  There was
some mills here, but were burnt
The Camp is in a healthy locality and
the water is very good

[transcribed by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]

MSS 12021



1862 July 30 Camp Green Meadow



[from the diary of James Dinsmore Templeton, musician and private in the 23rd Ohio]
Wednesday July 30, '62
Guard Mounting
then practiced
Did little the remainder
of the day wrote some
Parade & Drill
At length by this
evening mail recd
letter from Jennie Langan
a sweet letter I love
to receive such letters
home letters
raining a little this
evening  Thunder storm
threatening  More rain



MSS 10317

1862 July 30 Camp Green Meadow

                   July 30th / 62
           Camp Green Meadow
Dear Father
                    Here we are
as usual in Camp with
with[sic] no present prospect
of our leaving soon
Citizens however fear that
we will leave and many
of them are fleeing to
the north it is very
hard for these poor fellows
who have to leave their
land their homes that they
have labored so long
for under so many
disadvantages too
People at home cant realize
such an event in its proper
light immagine yourself
obliged to leave your pleasant
home that you have labored

[page 2]
so long to procure
also all the necessary
conveniences & comforts
you have gathered around
you all you  [?] &c
leaveing you nothing but
the Clothes upon your back
and you will have
the case of the Union
people of this Country
I will give you a Case
A man named Caldwell
has considerable property in
Monroe County near a small
place called Peters Town a
short distance from the Narrows[?]
of New River just before
the rebellion broke out
he went west leaveing
his family behind he
bought a small piece of
land in Indianna improved
it a little and came back

[page 3]
this spring.  when he arrived
at Raleigh he found us
there & has remained with
us ever since he awaited
our advance anxiously as
it would have been sheer
folly for  him to go to
his home before us
When we advanced to Giles
he crossed the River & got
to his home only for a
few hours however as it
soon became known and
some rebel Cavalry started
after him but he escaped
but did not get back
again until we came
back to Flat Top he then
went by night but
was unable to get to his
house as it was watched
he however remained there
about 12 hours and managed

[page 4]
to signal his wife
he dare not approach his
house or allow his Children
to know he was there
He is a man of undoubted
courage and has done
good service as a scout
Last Friday, Colonel Hayes
with 6 companies Inf one of
Cavalry & one howitzer went
up and brought his family
over.  I accompanied the
expedition. We left
this Camp after noon of
Friday marched down to
the River or near to it (6 miles)
and remained there until
after dark.  then crossed the
River quietly & marched
rapidly up the River 5
miles from the ferry we left
two companies to guard a road
which came down to the River

[page 5]
from a considerable Camp
of the rebels  we then
marched about 7 miles
farther to the mouth of
Indian Cr, arrived there
at 3 Oclock A.M. and halted
the cavalry went on
10miles further to Caldwells
house they were not molested
but when they arrived there
they could see the picket
fires of the Enemy only
a short distance off
hurriedly arousing the
family (who knew nothing
of their comeing) they gave
them time enough only
to put on their clothes and
takeing them on behind them
they hurried away not
even allowing them time

[page 6]
to pack a change of
clothing leaveing behind
them all their stock household
furniture a wagon & crriage
&c &c which before the sett
of another sun would
all be in ashes at the
hands of the Enemy or  his
nearest neighbors & relatives
with whom he had been
brought up. they arrived
at our Bivouac soon after
daybreak We immediately
arose from our short rest
on the cold ground and
without breakfast marched
back to the ferry where
we arrived about 10 Oclock
A.M. after getting some dinner
we came on up to this camp
We had been away from
cam a little ofver 24 hours
and had accoplished about 36

[page 7]
miles hard marching
Caldwell & family left
this morning for his little
place in Ind--he has an
interest family of 5
children the eldest about
12 years old.  Mrs Caldwell
is a pleasant woman &
says she is glad to get away
although they have sacrificed
all their property in the
atempt--several familys
left this morning with
them on their way north.

[letter of James Dinsmore Templeton of the 23rd Ohio will continue on July 31]

1862 July 30 Chapel Hill, N.C.

[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]

Wednesday 30th  It is becoming warmer & warmer every day.  So that visit-
ing is entirely given up until after tea--Mrs. Watters & I went up to Miss
Sally Malletts last night & paid her a long visit--Today we have
all been sewing in my room & eating fruit--So far I have seen
no fruit up here to compare with that we get in Wilmington--
& the country women ask enormously high for what they do bring.
William is still quite unwell everything he eats or drinks he
throws immediately up--Mrs Saunders & daughter called to see
us all this morning & Mrs Guthree has gone into the country--I
received a letter from Tom to day--I was much disappointed at finding
it dated the 4th of July--more than 3 weeks ago-

MSS 6960

1862 July 30 Fredericksburg, Va.

[from the diary of Dr. Brodie Strachan Herndon]

30th  Brother John bears up
wonderfully.  Her sufferings are
so great (from nervousness & difficult
spasmodic breathing) that he longs
to see her released.  Their
parting adieus are very affecting.
Nannie & her father were peculiar
friends. Ellen Mercer is much
sustained.  Poor old Aunt Hetty
is bound to the earth---faithful
old friend!

MSS 2563-b

1862 July 30 Fauquier County,Va.

[from the diary of Anne Madison Willis Ambler]

Wednesday, July 30, 1862

I got up as soon as I wakened as I am
all alone now & have my little folks
to dress before breakfast--
I feel sad this morning--this is so
different from my usual visit home=It
is no visit. I am here for an indefinite time-
& you are far, far, away.  Pa received a
letter from Nat on Tuesday mentioning that
he had seen you in Richmond & you looked
pale; - - -

We talked & talked all day I could
neither read nor write--&  writing this
the next Tuesday--must go on & hastily
fill up the pages till that day-

[as partially transcribed by her granddaughter Anne Madison Wright Baylor in 1972]

MSS 15406

1862 July 30 Staunton, Va.



[from the diary of Joseph Addison Waddell, civilian employee of the Quartermaster Dept.]


Wednesday, July 30, 1862.
Putting up the Harrisonburg telegraph (poles + wire) to-day. The Rev. Dr.
Plumer has published a card defining his position. Having been 
identified with the South nearly all his life, and be-
ing regarded a bold and honest man, his many admirers + 
friends in this region have expected him to take ground 
on our Side. His card shows him to be a  trimmer 
and is very discreditable to him. He curries favor with 
the North, or provides for his own safety, by protesting 
his devotion to the Constitution, Union +c +c. Yet does not 
say that he is in favor of the war.] It is more and 
more apparent that the Northern people are prosecuting 
the war for revenge — they can not bear the idea, more-
over, that 20,000,000 of people should be forced to yield 
anything to 6,000,000 (whites). Gov. Curtin, of Penn., in 
a speech at Pittsburg, rejoices that Lincoln has at last 
come to take a right view of the matter, + that, in a word, the 
"rebels" are to be treated like wild beasts. Well, the "rebels" 
sometimes have a few of the enemy in their hands. Retal-
iation — vindictive, terrible will be the result if the Yankees 
prosecute the war as they threaten. May God help us all. 

[transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]

MSS 38-258

1862 July 30 Lynchburg, Va.


[from the diary of William M. Blackford, bank officer and former diplomat with five sons in the Confederate Army]

Wednesday 30.  Much startled by a telegram
from Dr. Lewis W. Minor, telling me that
I must not send Eugenes horse that
he was doing well.  The inference was
unavoidable that he was either sick
or had been hurt in some way.  The
last letter we had, dated Friday, he said
he was very unwell & feared he was go
-ing to be laid up.  I had as a great
favor gotten Robert Saunders to let
Eugen have his man Pleas as a
servant & had made all arrangements
for him to take the horse down with
morning train.  The mail brought
letter fro Dr. L. W. M. saying Eugene had
fever & had been sick since Monday.
He hoped to break the fever that day
(Tuesday).  I cannot help feeling uneasy
knowing how much Eugene has tasked
his constitution  since he has been in ser
vice.  It is a great pity he shd be sick
just at this time when his service
in the regiment was so important
and was so appreciated.  At night
Dr. Minor brought to see us Revd Dr.
Quintard, formerly of Nashville, but
now chaplain of the 1st Tenn Regt.
He had of late been on Gen Loveings
staff--but is going to join his Regt.
I have rarely seen a more preposses-
sing manner, or more agreeable
gentleman. He was exceedingly popular
in the army and exercised a good
influence.

Charles Todd Quintard, 1824-1898, both a surgeon and an Episcopal bishop. After the war he reestablished the University of the South at Sewanee and served as its Vice Chancellor.

MSS 4763

1862 July 29 Clarke County, Va.

[from the diary of Matthella Page Harrison as transcribed at a later date]

A bright warm day.  A little shower in the evening.  I went to ride with Mr. and Mrs. Jones and Aunt Agnes to the Vineyard. what beautiful view there are on that side.  They are worth the rocky road to see them.  Pen Kennedy and her child were there.  We called in Millwood to ask the news.  Winchester is still beleagured.  We could hear nothing from there.  They vow the intention of  starving out the inhabitants.  Jackson is supposed to be near Madison Court House watching Pope's operations.  Ewell and Longstreet are with him.

MSS 9759

Saturday, July 28, 2012

1862 July 29 Camp near New Bern, N.C.

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

Tuesday
July 29

Wrote a letter home giving an
account of our trip.  Did not do
much but read and lounge.

MSS 11293

1862 July 29 Camp near Harrison's Landing, Va.



Camp Fifth Maine, near Harrisons Landing Va July 29th 1862
Dear Father  Receiving yours of the twenty fourth Just after writing one & placing it in the Mail thought I would set down & answer it right away I am as well as ever which I hope will be the case all along & I can say that I was very glad to hear that my letter pleased you so as to answer it twice although I know that my talents are not great for writing I think myselfe as you say, that I have improved A great deal on my first letters any way  I have tryed  to write you as good letters as I could & think every one is an improvement on the others I suppose by the time you receive the one that I wrote yesterday you will think I had A Nigger fit I tell you it is enough to make any one have one to see how they are treated to what some of the Soldiers are I always stuck up for the Blacks, but if ever I was down upon them it is now things about the Regiment are progressing finely although we are detailed every day for something today there was A squad of Men twenty detailed to fell trees to lay up by the brestworks & they have Just come in having cut four hundred Lengths since seven oclock it now being twelve & to day our Pickets has been extended out A mile furthur  as far as I know there is not A Rebel withing ten miles of ours I think they got enough at Malvern hill on the fourth of July there is only one sick in the Hospital belonging to this Company & he is not dangerously sick our Camp is behind breastworks that stretches for seven miles around to the two ends of the river & in this Brestwork the whole Army of the Potomac that is so about the Massachusetts Battery firing five
tuns of shott & shells & the number of Pieces that belong to the battery is six four Parrots which are called the best guns in the Army & two  howitzers that are to fire grape shott when the enemy are close quarters I will now close by saying that I shall answer your questions bout the banner & that is I will like to have that every other one that you take but do no want you to get any that you do not take & Just remember what I wrote in yesterdays letter about George give my love to Mother & I hope your health & hers will continue good as it has all along From you
 Son Joseph Leavitt

[Letters of Joseph Leavitt of the 5th Maine and his brother George of the 5th New York, were copied into a ledger in the fall of 1865 by their father John as a remembrance of them.  Both boys were mortally wounded in the war, George at 2nd Bull Run and Joseph at Spotsylvania.]



Camp Fifth Maine, near Harrisons Landing Va July 29th 1862
Dear Father  Receiving yours of the twenty fourth Just after writing one & placing it in the Mail thought I would set down & answer it right away I am as well as ever which I hope will be the case all along & I can say that I was very glad to hear that my letter pleased you so as to answer it twice although I know that my talents are not great for writing I think myselfe as you say, that I have improved A great deal on my first letters any way  I have tryed  to write you as good letters as I could & think every one is an improvement on the others I suppose by the time you receive the one that I wrote yesterday you will think I had A Nigger fit I tell you it is enough to make any one have one to see how they are treated to what some of the Soldiers are I always stuck up for the Blacks, but if ever I was down upon them it is now things about the Regiment are progressing finely although we are detailed every day for something today there was A squad of Men twenty detailed to fell trees to lay up by the brestworks & they have Just come in having cut four hundred Lengths since seven oclock it now being twelve & to day our Pickets has been extended out A mile furthur  as far as I know there is not A Rebel withing ten miles of ours I think they got enough at Malvern hill on the fourth of July there is only one sick in the Hospital belonging to this Company & he is not dangerously sick our Camp is behind breastworks that stretches for seven miles around to the two ends of the river & in this Brestwork the whole Army of the Potomac that is so about the Massachusetts Battery firing five
tuns of shott & shells & the number of Pieces that belong to the battery is six four Parrots which are called the best guns in the Army & two  howitzers that are to fire grape shott when the enemy are close quarters I will now close by saying that I shall answer your questions bout the banner & that is I will like to have that every other one that you take but do no want you to get any that you do not take & Just remember what I wrote in yesterdays letter about George give my love to Mother & I hope your health & hers will continue good as it has all along From you
 Son Joseph Leavitt



Camp Fifth Maine, near Harrisons Landing Va July 29th 1862
Dear Father  Receiving yours of the twenty fourth Just after writing one & placing it in the Mail thought I would set down & answer it right away I am as well as ever which I hope will be the case all along & I can say that I was very glad to hear that my letter pleased you so as to answer it twice although I know that my talents are not great for writing I think myselfe as you say, that I have improved A great deal on my first letters any way  I have tryed  to write you as good letters as I could & think every one is an improvement on the others I suppose by the time you receive the one that I wrote yesterday you will think I had A Nigger fit I tell you it is enough to make any one have one to see how they are treated to what some of the Soldiers are I always stuck up for the Blacks, but if ever I was down upon them it is now things about the Regiment are progressing finely although we are detailed every day for something today there was A squad of Men twenty detailed to fell trees to lay up by the brestworks & they have Just come in having cut four hundred Lengths since seven oclock it now being twelve & to day our Pickets has been extended out A mile furthur  as far as I know there is not A Rebel withing ten miles of ours I think they got enough at Malvern hill on the fourth of July there is only one sick in the Hospital belonging to this Company & he is not dangerously sick our Camp is behind breastworks that stretches for seven miles around to the two ends of the river & in this Brestwork the whole Army of the Potomac that is so about the Massachusetts Battery firing five
tuns of shott & shells & the number of Pieces that belong to the battery is six four Parrots which are called the best guns in the Army & two  howitzers that are to fire grape shott when the enemy are close quarters I will now close by saying that I shall answer your questions bout the banner & that is I will like to have that every other one that you take but do no want you to get any that you do not take & Just remember what I wrote in yesterdays letter about George give my love to Mother & I hope your health & hers will continue good as it has all along From you
 Son Joseph Leavitt

[Letters of Joseph Leavitt of the 5th Maine, and George Leavitt of the 5th New York, were copied into a ledger by their father John in the fall of 1865 as a remembrance of them.  Both boys were mortally wounded in the war, George at 2nd Bull Run and Joseph at Spotsylvania]


MSS 66



1862 July 29 Harrison's Landing, Va.


[from the war journal of George Hazen Dana of the 32nd Massachusetts as compiled by him at a later date from diaries and letters]

 Harrison’s Landing
                                                       July 29th 1862
I have been full of importance and business, the past
week, as, my Captain and First Lieut. having been laid
on the shelf, I have been in command of the company.
Now, however, the Captain’s resignation having been re-
fused, he has suddenly recovered and taken charge
again.          ‘Tis more than probable that the next
you hear from me will be after a battle, as orders
read, last night looked as though some arrangement
of the kind were close at hand.          Officers “to in-
stuct their men to discard all clothing but what
was absolutely necessary, to take but small rations
in their haversacks, as we were to continue near
our base of supplies – no more clothing or knap-
sacks to be issued, etc.”          This order, coupled with
a visit from Genls. Halleck and Burnside, makes
                                                                                       
          an immediate forward movement (keeping the James
River, “our base of supplies,” on our flank), more than
probable.
McClellan had a grand review of the whole army three
days since.               Capt. - , (I could plainly see) wanted
to take charge of our company – so did I, and I told
him that it would not do for him to get well so
quickly, after such severe illness, merely for the sake
of going out on parade.          So I had charge.
Our regiment did march splendidly as it passed Mac,
and was the recipient of a compliment to that effect
from him.          My company was not behind the others,
I was told – of course I could not see, as I had to keep
head square to the front.-          I presume every man
felt and stepped proudly as he passed.          All did
with whom I compared notes, and as for myself, I
feel sure, that had I been blessed with a peacock’s
nether appendages, they would certainly have spread
themselves to their fullest extent -           McClellan
looked tough, hearty, and handsome –
But I must rein in pretty soon, the flies bite my
hands so.          You never saw such flies; such swarms
and such utter want of respect toward the ‘lords of
creation’.          And such impudence as you see
continual cases of, is almost beyond belief.

I had rice and molasses for dinner today, and they
covered it, and would follow each spoonful into my
mouth.      –They taste like shrimps. –     . And they
have none of the fear of our Northern flies.          I saw
one on the side of my plate, rather larger that the
rest, and I put my fore fingers on him, and patted
on the back, when, to my surprise, instead of flying
away, he turned his head, looked at me with a
glance of mingled contempt and anger, then, with
a sort of grunt, resumed his meal -          I killed him.
                                                 (Next letter – without date.)
We (our regiment) have just been ordered to get ready
to move today, in fighting trim, with two days’ ra-
tions in our haversacks.          Shall probably see a
little service before we return.          The general im-
pression is that we are going across the James
River, where the rebels are in small force, perhaps
to take Petersburg and cut off the railway there, by
which Richmond receives heavy supplies.          But
nothing is known; we are all mere tools in Mac’s
hand – God grant that we may prove sharp ones,
and cut deep wherever we may be used.
Capt. _  has been quite lively for two or three days
past, but as soon as we received our orders to move,
he went at once to the Doctor, resuming his funeral
     gait, and said he would not go.          He then came
to me and said – I am very sick this morning, and
will not risk my life – Col. Cass was troubled in
the same way as myself, and he went into the
field and died from it.        “Yes,” said your “Uncle,
“and a ball in the head, which I don’t think will
ever trouble you.”     So I am in command of my
company.          The Major called me just now, and
told me that it was a position of great responsibility
for one so young in the service, but I reckon I’ll manage
it.          I only wish Colonel Parker were here.
There is heavy firing on our right this morning -.  I
think we are shelling Fort Darling.

[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]

MSS 5130

1862 July 29 camp near Jumping Branch




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

Tuesday, July 29, 1862

Guard mounting
Practiced
Read some
Parade & drill
Charlie & I dug a small
cellar for our baths
Clear fine day. threatening
rain this afternoon
Did not receive any
letters last night as
I expected


MSS 10317

1862 July 29 near Warrenton, Va.

[from the diary of Ephraim Wood of the 13th Massachusetts, Co. C.




          Tuesday   July 29/62

   Went to the Depot this
morning but found very
little to do.  So came back
to house and went to writing.
After dinner I went to depot,
and we found that we had
been relieved and were all rejoin
our Regt,  As there is a prospect
of a Fight, I am glad it is so.
Capt Smith said he was
sorry to have us leave,
we attended to our duty
so well

[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]

MSS 12521

1862 July 29 Chapel Hill, N.C.

[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]

Mond Tuesday 29th  --We have all been together in my room this
morning talking--Since dinner all have retired to their rooms
it is very warm again today--William was quite sick in
the night but seems better to day--He is walking about &
so fretful--I received a letter from Fan Bradley to day--&
three papers--But no very startling news--Prisoners are to be
exchanged & Captain Johnston will have to go--"Pope"

MSS 6960

1862 July 29 Fredericksburg, Va.

[from the diary of Dr. Brodie Strachan Herndon]

29  We  gather around dear Nannie
Gordon's dying bed & witness the sweet
assurance of faith & love, and
receive her parting injunctions.
    Her countenance becomes radiant
when she speaks of her Saviour,
"Oh how I love my Saviour"
"Jesus I love they charming name"
"And I shall soon meet my
precious mother and she will
say "Nannie have you come
home"  These and many
other sweet expressions gave
much interest to her last day.

MSS 2563-b

1862 July 29 Staunton, Va.



[from the diary of Joseph Addison Waddell, civilian employee of the Quartermaster Dept.]

Tuesday, July 29.
Yesterday evening three wagon loads of Yankee pris-
oners were brought up from Harrisonburg, where they 
had been since the battles at Port Republic. They were 
left in the Hospital. One or two wore bandages and I 
observed a pair of crutches in one of the wagons. They 
were generally hale-looking fellows, and I experienced 
a stronger feeling of resentment towards them than usu-
al. They were guarded by three of our cavalrymen. 
 — a small guard for probably thirty or forty men. — 
We have no news from our armies. Enlistments seem 
to be going on briskly in the Federal States of the 
North, and the 300,000 men will no doubt be 
raised very soon. Towns and individuals are subscribing 
liberally to increase the pay of the soldiers, and en-
courage enlistments. It is evident that the feeling at 
the North is more vindictive than ever, and the war 
will be waged more ruthlessly. The Federal General 
Pope, commanding the army of Northern Virginia, has 
issued several savage orders recently, which indicate 
the present temper of the Yankee nation. Wherever 
the Federal troops penetrate the Southern country, 
the citizens are to be arrested and sent off who refuse 
to take the oath of allegiance, the army is to sub-
sist off the country, property is to be taken as far 
as necessary, the negroes employed for our subjuga-
tion (they do not say as soldiers), people living in their 
lines are to be held responsible for the acts of our 
guerillas, +c. +c. Wherever the Yankees go, therefore, the 
men will fly from their homes, thousands will 
take arms who otherwise would have remained qui-
et, and Gen. Pope will find the number of his 
enemies increased at every step.
Va had a visit yesterday, from one of the poor serv-
                                                                        the sufferings of
ing women of town. She gave a lively description of ^ that class 
of the community, occasioned by the war. Her dresses, she 
said, usually cost her $1.25 each, being made of cal-
ico. Owing to the high prices of goods at this time, she 
would have to work several weeks to make enough money to pur-
chase one dress. But the serving cannot be obtained, as 
people even in good circumstances cannot get the materials 
to work up. The woman wished to know if she could get 
an old dress and pay for it in work. She said the 
women of her class generally were suffering greatly, both 
on account of for want of the means of living and on 
from mental anxiety in regard to the war. — They read 
no papers and are without correct information, and 
are therefore exposed to all the thousand reports which 
fly through the community. Next winter is dreaded 
by many besides the very poor.  

 [transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]

MSS 38-258

1862 July 29 Lynchburg, Va.



[from the diary of William M. Blackford, bank officer and former diplomat with five sons in the Confederate Army]

Tuesday 29  Mr. Willimason left us this
morning--though not recovered enough
I think to travel.  Telegraph from
Wm saying part of Marys baggage
had not come to hand.  I am glad to
find he was in the city. Nothing of
any importance--not a telegram
of any kind.

MSS 4763

[from the diary of William M. Blackford, bank officer and former diplomat with five sons in the Confederate Army]


1862 July 29 Fauquier County, Va.


[from the diary of Anne Madison Willis Ambler]

Tuesday, July 29, 1862

A most miserable breakfast, but we still
managed to eat the snack, at least I did-
F[annie] & Jeannie eat some of their breakfast;
Mrs. T's small carriage came for J. & she left us--the
large one had gone to Fauquier for her. the
day before--It came soon after I left
& as we were to take J's baggage up I went
as far as Berryville with Jacquelin in order
to eat my dinner & rest there before Fannie
came in the evening with Tom & Daisy--
--Jacque behaved dreadfully at Mrs Taylers
he cried all the time we were at dinner &
wouldn't let the servant hold him.  That is
only a taste with how I am to get along
without a servant of my own--"three
children & no nurse"-  I was glad when
the carriage came--We reached home by
seven--& most  delighted we all were
Pa was pleased at our coming as we
did & thought it most strange that father
would not let us make our own arrangements
about it--especially as he lost by it--as Pa
was to have sent two sacks of salt &
some oil--We told him of that & urged
our plan but he wouldn't listed to it--
It was at least twelve o clock before we
were all in bed.  there was so much to hear
about.

[as partially transcribed in 1972 by her granddaughter Anne Madison Wright Baylor]

MSS 15406






Friday, July 27, 2012

1862 July 28 [Moffat's Creek, Augusta County,Va.?]

1862 July 28

Dear Brother

Having a good opportunity of sending
a letter by Mr Kerr or Black I seat myself at this
time to write you a few lines  We are all quite
well at present and  hope you are also enjoying
the same blessing.  Mr Kerr starts this evening for camp
at the on account of the earnest request of his soon. I
suppose he intends to take some provisions along, but
we did not know of his going till this evening and
so we did not have time to prepare anything to
send you. if Grovy[?] would have been willing, even to take it
which I dont  know for it appears to me as if they always
act mighty sly about their going or sending anything. I have
not time to write now for I guess they will be along
shortly I have no news to communicate.  I hope you are
enjoying yourself hugely.  Pa has commenced cutting his grass this
evening.  The men over thirty five are getting home at least a
great many of them. Andy Lencus[?] has I believe got his discharge
I wrote last Friday and sent by mail to Gordonsville I wish you
would say if you please whether you got it or not. for people bring
their letters here without directing them to any place & I dislike the
responsibility of sending.  I have been sending to Gor--the last few mails
& if they are not received I guess I will hear of it.  Well the stage is
coming and I must close                                   Your affectionate sister
                                                                                               Mary

Mr Tom. M. Smiley
Com D 5th Reg Va Vol
                Gordonsville
                               Va.

Care of Mr Black

MSS 1867

1862 July 28 camp near New Bern, N.C.

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding of the 25th Masssachusetts]

Monday
July 28
Rested today.  My feet are very
sore and tender.  Did not do any-
thing except read and lay around

MSS 11293

1862 July 28 Nelson County, Va.

At a Court held for Nelson county on
Monday 28th July 1862 the Court doth
appoint the following Citizens of said County
To wit. AG Pamplin & S.G Perrow of District No
1, Royal Eubank & Wm D Ligon of District No 2
Wm P. Shepherd & E.G. Thurmond of District No 3
J. W Dickinson & Rev. B.M. Wales of District  No 4
D.A Witt o & J. M Baker of District No  5
& Chas. N Patterson & J.H. Shelton of District No 6
a Committee whose duty it shall be to visit
from time to time the battlefields and Hospitals
of our Army in the Confederate states, to hunt
up and administer to the necessities of the
sick and wounded soldiers who have gone from
this County into the various Regiments of the
Confederate Army.  and have been and to fa
cilitate the objects of this order the Court
doth recommend the said Committee to pro
cure as speedily as possible, a list of the
names of all the volunteers from Nelson
County with the name of the company and
No of the Regiment to which they are severally
attached.  The Court doth further pledge
the faith of said County to reimburse the
said Committee for all necessary expenses
they may incur in carrying out the humane
objects of this order.

MSS 15244