Tuesday, March 12, 2013
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Tuesday, February 12, 2013
1863 February 13 New Bern, N.C.
[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F., 25th Massachusetts]
Friday
Feb 13
Did not drill to-day. Have felt very un-
easy and want to be at home. Made
out Thompsons descriptive list as he is going to the
hospital. Phineas has been putting up a cookhouse
It has been pleasant to-day. this evening Frank
Adams has been in here and we have been talking
of home
MSS 11293
Friday
Feb 13
Did not drill to-day. Have felt very un-
easy and want to be at home. Made
out Thompsons descriptive list as he is going to the
hospital. Phineas has been putting up a cookhouse
It has been pleasant to-day. this evening Frank
Adams has been in here and we have been talking
of home
MSS 11293
1863 February 13 camp near Falmouth
[from the diary of Captain Jonathan B. Hager, 14th U. S. Regulars, returning from mustering duty]
Feby 13 I was glad to see the officers nearly all of
whom I had not seen since last summer.
I found myself the senior officer & of course will
assume the command of the regiment.
MSS 9044
Feby 13 I was glad to see the officers nearly all of
whom I had not seen since last summer.
I found myself the senior officer & of course will
assume the command of the regiment.
MSS 9044
1863 February 13 Dumfries, Va.
Dumfries, Virginia
Feb. 13th 1863
Dear Mother
Your kind and wel-
come letter came safely to hand yester
day and I thank you for it. I was
truly glad to learn that you were well
and prospering at home. My health
remains good and I do not think it
will change as camp life seems to
agree with me. I wrote you a letter
but a few days ago and I have not
much news to write you now none
of importance only we received our
pay yesterday for two months $28 for
me. - I have nearly Six months due
me but could only get two of them
We are promised pay again some time
in March. I have nearly fifty dollars
that I can send you, and you can
get it by going to Lanark and pay-
ing Expressage. Perhaps I shall buy
some Boots and clothes so that I cannot
send you more thanfi forty dollars
I shall send you all I can. I want
you to pay Shimer and Gregory some
if you can possibly spare it.--------
[page 2]
The Col. says that we will
go to Washington soon to do
Provo - guard duty If we do
then I shall get my mail
regularly and perhaps we will
have easier times I hope so
any how. Our Company has
been detailed to go to Alexandria
or Washington to get some extra
horses for our Regiment. We start
to-morrow morning at 8 oclock
and will go up the Potomac on a boat
and probably will be gone for sever-
al days. After we return I will
write you again. The Postage Currency
is taken in place of silver in all
cases and for any thing We use
it as change. Believe me Mother
Your Affectionate Son
W. H. Redman
Mrs. Catarine Redman
Please Write Soon
No Sale Mother- - No Sae It will be
the beginning of a separation of the family
W.H.R
[In right hand margin of page 2]
Mother I want to know whether you ever received a likeness
that I sent you from Wmsport?
dont forget to write me
William Henry Redman, Co. C., 12th Illinois Cavalry
MSS 7415
Feb. 13th 1863
Dear Mother
Your kind and wel-
come letter came safely to hand yester
day and I thank you for it. I was
truly glad to learn that you were well
and prospering at home. My health
remains good and I do not think it
will change as camp life seems to
agree with me. I wrote you a letter
but a few days ago and I have not
much news to write you now none
of importance only we received our
pay yesterday for two months $28 for
me. - I have nearly Six months due
me but could only get two of them
We are promised pay again some time
in March. I have nearly fifty dollars
that I can send you, and you can
get it by going to Lanark and pay-
ing Expressage. Perhaps I shall buy
some Boots and clothes so that I cannot
send you more than
I shall send you all I can. I want
you to pay Shimer and Gregory some
if you can possibly spare it.--------
[page 2]
The Col. says that we will
go to Washington soon to do
Provo - guard duty If we do
then I shall get my mail
regularly and perhaps we will
have easier times I hope so
any how. Our Company has
been detailed to go to Alexandria
or Washington to get some extra
horses for our Regiment. We start
to-morrow morning at 8 oclock
and will go up the Potomac on a boat
and probably will be gone for sever-
al days. After we return I will
write you again. The Postage Currency
is taken in place of silver in all
cases and for any thing We use
it as change. Believe me Mother
Your Affectionate Son
W. H. Redman
Mrs. Catarine Redman
Please Write Soon
No Sale Mother- - No Sae It will be
the beginning of a separation of the family
W.H.R
[In right hand margin of page 2]
Mother I want to know whether you ever received a likeness
that I sent you from Wmsport?
dont forget to write me
William Henry Redman, Co. C., 12th Illinois Cavalry
MSS 7415
1863 Feby 13-15 Mississippi River
Mississippi river
Feby 13th 1863
My Dear Parents
We have at last
reached the River of rivers
Last Monday afternoon
took on board Pilot about
forty five miles from the south
West Pass and about mid=
night anchored out side the
bar.
Providence has favored us
wonderfully. we only had one
severe gale. The bunks on the
Starboard side of the ship were
broken down, but fortunately no
one was hurt very bad.
The vessel shipped several seas.
I was in the Second mate's
State-room in the lower berth
the water came in but did
[page 2]
notnot wet me. I thought
however that it was best to
make tracks & I crawled
into the main cabin and
lay upon the floor until
day light & then after the
sun had risen the scene
was grand beyond description.
The saddest part of our
voyage was after we had passed
great Abaco Island when we
had to bury one of our comrades
at sea, and after we got
into the Gulf we had to bury an
other. one has died since we
started up the river and was
carried ashore this morning
about five (5) miles above fort
Philip. we have none very
sick now.
Now for our voyage up the
river. Tuesday at sundown a
[page 3]
tug took us over the bar and
we anchored about two miles
up the channel of the river.
Wednesday morning cool and
pleasant a boat came along
side and I was glad to
see Geo. Smith, he had come
down from Ft. Philip 35 miles
up river, to get Birney, they
had heard that we were on
the bar and could not get
off. Thursday morning very
pleasant and warm, the
tug fastened to us an
we steamed slowly up the
river. got to Ft. Philip last
night about dark, five miles
above the Forts, we came to
anchor in quarantine this
morning the medical officer
came on board ad about
8 oclock we again got under
[page 4]
way, the day has been pleasant
but rather cool. we have seen
the remains of five fats &
wrecks of steamers used &
destroyed at the taking of the
Forts. we have passed former
plantations to-day, could see
them at work gathering the
came have passed some splendid
orange orchards could see the
oranges on the trees we go
so close to the bank that
we can smell their fragrance-
a boat came alongside
loaded with oranges. they were
the best I ever tasted.
this evening we have anchored
close in shore as it is very
foggy. the tug has a ship
on each side & a schooner
behind so you see we do
[page 5]
not make very rapid progress.
the other ship has part of a
Regt. that were wrecked on
Florada Reefs. no lives were lost
I believe.
Saturday Feby 14 1863
We started this morning again
and have been slowly making
our way up river, expect if
nothing happens to reach the
city about nine o'clock
this evening. we have passed
some very large plantations
today, the negroes appear to
be loyal & glad to see us
They jump up & down clap
their hands, & roll over.
We ran so close to them to-day
that a negro threw some
oranges on board.
It will be thirty five days
to morrow that we have
[page 6]
been aboard this craft.
I have got enough of the
sea. hoe we shall go
home by land.
Sunday 15th inst
This has been a pleasant
day, we are anchored opposite
the lower part of the city, the
Col. has gone ashore Y we
shall probably know our destination
to night or n the morning.
This afternoon Elder Blokes came
on Board. he came up the
river with B[?] & two or
three officers that went ashore at
the Forts.
Evening it rains quite hard, the
Col. has come on board. we go
ashore in the morning and go
into U.S. Barracks to recruit a
while & then go up river
this Regt. is assigned to
[page 7]
Nickerson's Brigade which is
this side of Baton Rouge the
Col. did not remember the
name of the place.
The mail leaves here to
morrow at 4 o'clock P.M.
and one is expected to arrive
You must write every week.
for the mail comes quite
regular.
I will write you a letter
George soon, you must consider
this as partly your own
You can write often & it will
be a good exercise for you
You direct to
New Orleans
24th Regt
Banks Expedition
Yours Truly
C.P.M.
Charles Plummer Morrill, 24th Maine
MSS 11031
Feby 13th 1863
My Dear Parents
We have at last
reached the River of rivers
Last Monday afternoon
took on board Pilot about
forty five miles from the south
West Pass and about mid=
night anchored out side the
bar.
Providence has favored us
wonderfully. we only had one
severe gale. The bunks on the
Starboard side of the ship were
broken down, but fortunately no
one was hurt very bad.
The vessel shipped several seas.
I was in the Second mate's
State-room in the lower berth
the water came in but did
[page 2]
not
however that it was best to
make tracks & I crawled
into the main cabin and
lay upon the floor until
day light & then after the
sun had risen the scene
was grand beyond description.
The saddest part of our
voyage was after we had passed
great Abaco Island when we
had to bury one of our comrades
at sea, and after we got
into the Gulf we had to bury an
other. one has died since we
started up the river and was
carried ashore this morning
about five (5) miles above fort
Philip. we have none very
sick now.
Now for our voyage up the
river. Tuesday at sundown a
[page 3]
tug took us over the bar and
we anchored about two miles
up the channel of the river.
Wednesday morning cool and
pleasant a boat came along
side and I was glad to
see Geo. Smith, he had come
down from Ft. Philip 35 miles
up river, to get Birney, they
had heard that we were on
the bar and could not get
off. Thursday morning very
pleasant and warm, the
tug fastened to us an
we steamed slowly up the
river. got to Ft. Philip last
night about dark, five miles
above the Forts, we came to
anchor in quarantine this
morning the medical officer
came on board ad about
8 oclock we again got under
[page 4]
way, the day has been pleasant
but rather cool. we have seen
the remains of five fats &
wrecks of steamers used &
destroyed at the taking of the
Forts. we have passed former
plantations to-day, could see
them at work gathering the
came have passed some splendid
orange orchards could see the
oranges on the trees we go
so close to the bank that
we can smell their fragrance-
a boat came alongside
loaded with oranges. they were
the best I ever tasted.
this evening we have anchored
close in shore as it is very
foggy. the tug has a ship
on each side & a schooner
behind so you see we do
[page 5]
not make very rapid progress.
the other ship has part of a
Regt. that were wrecked on
Florada Reefs. no lives were lost
I believe.
Saturday Feby 14 1863
We started this morning again
and have been slowly making
our way up river, expect if
nothing happens to reach the
city about nine o'clock
this evening. we have passed
some very large plantations
today, the negroes appear to
be loyal & glad to see us
They jump up & down clap
their hands, & roll over.
We ran so close to them to-day
that a negro threw some
oranges on board.
It will be thirty five days
to morrow that we have
[page 6]
been aboard this craft.
I have got enough of the
sea. hoe we shall go
home by land.
Sunday 15th inst
This has been a pleasant
day, we are anchored opposite
the lower part of the city, the
Col. has gone ashore Y we
shall probably know our destination
to night or n the morning.
This afternoon Elder Blokes came
on Board. he came up the
river with B[?] & two or
three officers that went ashore at
the Forts.
Evening it rains quite hard, the
Col. has come on board. we go
ashore in the morning and go
into U.S. Barracks to recruit a
while & then go up river
this Regt. is assigned to
[page 7]
Nickerson's Brigade which is
this side of Baton Rouge the
Col. did not remember the
name of the place.
The mail leaves here to
morrow at 4 o'clock P.M.
and one is expected to arrive
You must write every week.
for the mail comes quite
regular.
I will write you a letter
George soon, you must consider
this as partly your own
You can write often & it will
be a good exercise for you
You direct to
New Orleans
24th Regt
Banks Expedition
Yours Truly
C.P.M.
Charles Plummer Morrill, 24th Maine
MSS 11031
1863 February 13 Norfolk, Va.
Camp 7th New York Battery
Norfolk, Va. F 13th 1863
My Dear Wife
Yours of the 8th received and perused
And as there is not time like the
present for improveing opportunity
I have embraced it And although
there is not much News to write
to you in regards to the war Yet I
think I can make out a Letter
of City doings For the last 3 or 4 weeks
more or less every Night we are startled
from our slumber by the ringing of
Bells and the whole firmament lit up
as if in one Blaze of Fire This of
course accounts for the Bells ringing
soon we told that a large Fire
is raging in the City - and that it
is the work of the Incendiary
Night before last 10 Buildings where[sic]
[page 2]
laid in ashes Last night again another
the particulars I have not yet heard
This is what the Secesh call Lincoln
work But my idea is that this
property is owned by the Secesh
and heavily insured at the North
for ever and above its value they
then set fire to it to obtain the
insurance Two of our Boys have
Deserted us and gone over to the
Rebs their names are Caleb Bush
of Dutchess County and one S Kelley
one we have heard from He is in
Fredericksburgh in the secesh army
In a few Days Rufus H King will
be in power then may we expect
something new The Weather is
again growing Cold Alas what
changes we have seen one Day very
warm the next more than cold
well never mind warm weather
[page 3]
for us will come soon enough
and some how or other I dread
it All is Quiet at Suffolk as far
as we can learn But the most of
our expedition are [centered?] now
on Savannah & Charleston if they
fall then may we expect something
else soon Keep me posted if Jim
goes to the C[?] let me know
the full particulars As yet I
know have had no opportunity
of getting my picture taken when I
do you shall know Remember me
to mother Father and the rest of
my friends My Love to you and
my boy take good care of yourself
and him Your Loving Husband
' Edward Shepard
when the 19 regt get
to Fortress Monroe I
intend visiting them
[letter written for the barely literate Sheppard of the 7th New York Light Artillery by another soldier]
MSS 12631
Norfolk, Va. F 13th 1863
My Dear Wife
Yours of the 8th received and perused
And as there is not time like the
present for improveing opportunity
I have embraced it And although
there is not much News to write
to you in regards to the war Yet I
think I can make out a Letter
of City doings For the last 3 or 4 weeks
more or less every Night we are startled
from our slumber by the ringing of
Bells and the whole firmament lit up
as if in one Blaze of Fire This of
course accounts for the Bells ringing
soon we told that a large Fire
is raging in the City - and that it
is the work of the Incendiary
Night before last 10 Buildings where[sic]
[page 2]
laid in ashes Last night again another
the particulars I have not yet heard
This is what the Secesh call Lincoln
work But my idea is that this
property is owned by the Secesh
and heavily insured at the North
for ever and above its value they
then set fire to it to obtain the
insurance Two of our Boys have
Deserted us and gone over to the
Rebs their names are Caleb Bush
of Dutchess County and one S Kelley
one we have heard from He is in
Fredericksburgh in the secesh army
In a few Days Rufus H King will
be in power then may we expect
something new The Weather is
again growing Cold Alas what
changes we have seen one Day very
warm the next more than cold
well never mind warm weather
[page 3]
for us will come soon enough
and some how or other I dread
it All is Quiet at Suffolk as far
as we can learn But the most of
our expedition are [centered?] now
on Savannah & Charleston if they
fall then may we expect something
else soon Keep me posted if Jim
goes to the C[?] let me know
the full particulars As yet I
know have had no opportunity
of getting my picture taken when I
do you shall know Remember me
to mother Father and the rest of
my friends My Love to you and
my boy take good care of yourself
and him Your Loving Husband
' Edward Shepard
when the 19 regt get
to Fortress Monroe I
intend visiting them
[letter written for the barely literate Sheppard of the 7th New York Light Artillery by another soldier]
MSS 12631
1863 February 13 Newport News
[from the diary of the Rev. Francis E. Butler, chaplain of the 25th New Jersey]
Fri 13. Cool, clear, distributed papers & temperance tracts
thro. whole regt, took stroll – made sketches of map –
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 12935
Fri 13. Cool, clear, distributed papers & temperance tracts
thro. whole regt, took stroll – made sketches of map –
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 12935
1863 February 13 Murfreesboro
[from the diary of Captain William F. Hunter, Co. B., 97th Ohio Volunteers]
Feb. 13th,’63.
Still regaining my
health, & strength.
Clear nearly all day,
but quite cool.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
Feb. 13th,’63.
Still regaining my
health, & strength.
Clear nearly all day,
but quite cool.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
1863 February 13 Charleston [W] Va
[from the diary of Captain Zachariah Heed, 91st Regiment, Ohio Volunteers]
FEBRUARY 13.
Charleston Va. Friday morning, Slightly cold, mud Eighteen Inches deep on the Streets. Afternoon weather moderating. Evening met Dr. E. C. Kreider, of Lancaster Ohio. men are employd throwing mud of[f] Sidewalks.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 13406
FEBRUARY 13.
Charleston Va. Friday morning, Slightly cold, mud Eighteen Inches deep on the Streets. Afternoon weather moderating. Evening met Dr. E. C. Kreider, of Lancaster Ohio. men are employd throwing mud of[f] Sidewalks.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 13406
1863 February 13 St. Helena, S. C.
[from the diary of Sgt. Robert Larimer, Co. C., 62nd Regt. Ohio Volunteers]
Friday 13
Company drill regimental
inspection. dress parade
cool & windy
MSS 38-129
Friday 13
Company drill regimental
inspection. dress parade
cool & windy
MSS 38-129
1863 February 13 Norfolk, Va.
[from the Signal Message Book of Lt. Thomas S. Seabury, 3rd New York]
Feb. 13th
To Lt. Field
I cannot leave today.
Can you defer the excursion
til Sunday.
(Signed) Lt. Van Winkle
MSS 10781
Feb. 13th
To Lt. Field
I cannot leave today.
Can you defer the excursion
til Sunday.
(Signed) Lt. Van Winkle
MSS 10781
1863 February 13 Chapel Hill, N.C.
[from the diary of Eliza Hill Oswald, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]
Friday 13th Christian's off - & we all miss her very much - I thought
I wold go out in the afternoon but company came in & prevented
me - Mrs Poole called & sat nearly the whole afternoon -
MSS 6960
Friday 13th Christian's off - & we all miss her very much - I thought
I wold go out in the afternoon but company came in & prevented
me - Mrs Poole called & sat nearly the whole afternoon -
MSS 6960
1863 February 13 "Hopedale," Albemarle County, Va.
[from the diary of Mary S. Boyden, daughter of the Rev. Ebenezer Boyden, rector of Walker's Parish (later Christ Episcopal), Cismont, Va.]
Friday 13th No school today - I have been busy
making pies &c for Hanson's box - It is to go on
Monday - father returned from Charlottesville
today, & brought some ten pounds of brown
sugar for which he paid $10 - & some black
tea worth $9 a lb- I made a little blank book
which I mean to give to Mr Mountjoy to write
his songs in - Maria out at last. She has been
sick 22 days of this new year - nearly half-
MSS 4288
Friday 13th No school today - I have been busy
making pies &c for Hanson's box - It is to go on
Monday - father returned from Charlottesville
today, & brought some ten pounds of brown
sugar for which he paid $10 - & some black
tea worth $9 a lb- I made a little blank book
which I mean to give to Mr Mountjoy to write
his songs in - Maria out at last. She has been
sick 22 days of this new year - nearly half-
MSS 4288
1863 February 12 New Bern, N.C.
[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F., 25th Massachusetts]
Thursday
Feb 12
Another pleasant day, I drilled in
forenoon, and made out Lon Browns
discharge papers. This afternoon read considerable
This evening ten of our company went down to meet
ing which I enjoyed much.
MSS 11293
Thursday
Feb 12
Another pleasant day, I drilled in
forenoon, and made out Lon Browns
discharge papers. This afternoon read considerable
This evening ten of our company went down to meet
ing which I enjoyed much.
MSS 11293
1863 February 12 Newport News, Va.
(I think my last was No 20) Head Quarters 15th Regt. Conn Vols
(21) Camp at New port News Va Feby 12th [1863]
My Dear Sister Helen..
I suppose you are very
anxiously waiting for a letter from me as you
have no doubt heard of our moving – Well here
we are at Newport News – we started from our old
camp near Fredericksburg Friday morning recd
order that we should be ordered to Fortress Monroe
as soon as we had pleasant weather) Thursday eve
at 6 ock and at 3 A.M. Friday we got orders to pack
and pull up immediately and march to the depot to
take the cars for Aquia creek – well start we did
at about 7 ock and marched to the depot in the mud
and rain but had to wait here until about 7 P.M.
before cars arrived to take us down to the creek –
We finally got there and went aboard the “John
Brooks” and sailed out into the Potomac to wait
until morning – when morning came we took aboard
a few more troops and started down the river having
the 16th & 8th C.V. aboard with us some 2000 men
in all – we were packed pretty thick but got along
very well arrived off Fortress Monroe at about
12 ock Saturday night, Sunday morning we started up
the James river and disembarked at the wharf
here and went right into the empty barracks here,
There are lots of large and small log houses built
here that were occupied by our troops before, and the
boys went right at work fixing up bunks and beds
etc The officers picked out houses to suit them selves,
and commenced repairing and fitting up in good shape
and we are very nicely situated now – we have got
a good sized house, with 2 good windows for the
Col’s quarters then the dining room and cook room
are connected with it and a door leads right into
them form the main room.
See Diagram -> [Here Howard has drawn a sketch of his quarters.]
Oh this is a beautiful country
down here – the weather is very warm and mild
the boys went in swimming the next day after we
arrived here and the sun really was uncomfortable
I hope they will let us remain here for some
time but we shall probably have to start again
as soon as the whole of the 9th Corps get here
but it will take certainly 2 weeks more before
it will all arrive then we expect we shall
have to move further down the coast perhaps
to Newbern. We are very nicely situated here
there is quite a city of log houses laid out,
in good streets and with good windows &
doors and can go down to the beach any time
at low tide and dig all the oysters and clams
one want – had a nice meal of clams this
noon. There is pleanty of good water and wood
here and near at hand. The boys all feel first
rate and I don’t hear them saying any thing about
going home or wanting to Things of all
kinds are much cheaper here than at
Falmouth and much more pleanty – boats
arrive from Fortress Monroe 4 times a day
so that express and mail matter is more
regular than at our old camp.. – The wreck
of the famous “Cumberland” lies about
gun shot distant from the shore here and
I enclose a piece of rope that I saw a
man cut from the wreck as I stood on the
beach and saw him go out to it in a boat
but they do not allow any one to go near it
now as they wish to preserve it and are going
to raise it soon. A little further to the left
and about ¾ of a mile from the “Cumberland”
is the wreck of the “Congress” which was run
ashore and burnt the ribs of her hulk are
visible above water she is very near in shore
I will try to get a piece of her also.. The “Nahant”
one of the Monitor built craft lies off in the
river and cruises up and down on the watch
for game keeps steam up all the time and
she tried the range of her guns a little
yesterday firing up stream I saw the balls
skip over the water – kicking up the spray
like smoke.. we passed lots of gun boats and
craft of all kinds and had a quite near
view of the “Nahant” when we came down
Fortress Monroe is a splendid old fort and
the biggest thing I have seen lately. I should
say she is built of granite or a lightish kind
of stone and mounts an awful lot of guns
I saw the Union guns and another almost as
large that fires across to Sewalls point
and it is a big ways over there I notice..
Rip Raps is a gay old pile of stones and will
make a strong fort when finished..
I recieved your letter dated Jany 3rd
but not numbered am surprised that you had
not recieved the letter with order for boots
and with the money I sent, guess you will
get them before you receive this.. got a letter
from Elbe and one from Hen Wilcox at the same
time of yours The boots I want made of the
same leather as the other but smaller every
way. Ward has got my measure.. would like to
have you hurry up my coat if you have
got me one yet also the drawers and other little
things that I wrote for.. Did Phil Chapin [?] call
at the house or only at the Bank or dident he
call at all? I am well and happy – wish –
Father would take a trip down this way –
before we get further off. would like to have him
call at Fortress Monroe very much.. Yours till next time Jim
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
James Howard 15th Connecticut
MSS 12668
1863 January 12 Newport News, Va.
[from the diary of the Rev. Francis E. Butler, Co. B., 97th Ohio]
Thurs 12. Mild, windy day – drew sketches, rode on
beach with Major – walked with Dr. & had hair
cut. Called on Col. Stevens – his wife gave us mince
pie – pressed sea weed – It seems like Newport days
cloudy, but soft air, fine appearance at dress
parade – Eight or ten regts. in a line –
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
Thurs 12. Mild, windy day – drew sketches, rode on
beach with Major – walked with Dr. & had hair
cut. Called on Col. Stevens – his wife gave us mince
pie – pressed sea weed – It seems like Newport days
cloudy, but soft air, fine appearance at dress
parade – Eight or ten regts. in a line –
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
1863 February 13 Charleston [W] Va
[from the diary of Captain Zacariah Heed, 92st Ohio Volunteers]
FEBRUARY 13.
Charleston Va. Friday morning, Slightly cold, mud Eighteen Inches deep on the Streets. Afternoon weather moderating. Evening met Dr. E. C. Kreider, of Lancaster Ohio. men are employd throwing mud of[f] Sidewalks.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 13406
FEBRUARY 13.
Charleston Va. Friday morning, Slightly cold, mud Eighteen Inches deep on the Streets. Afternoon weather moderating. Evening met Dr. E. C. Kreider, of Lancaster Ohio. men are employd throwing mud of[f] Sidewalks.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 13406
1863 February 12 St. Helena, S. C.
[from the diary of Sgt. Robert Larimer, Co. C., 62nd Ohio Volunteers]
Thursday, February 12, 1863
Company drill & inspection day
a[s] well [as] dress parade - warm
39 Ill. reg. paid
MSS 38-129
Thursday, February 12, 1863
Company drill & inspection day
a[s] well [as] dress parade - warm
39 Ill. reg. paid
MSS 38-129
1863 February 12 Norfolk, Va.
[from the Signal Message Book of Lt. Thomas S. Shepherd, 3rd New York Infantry]
Feb. 12th
To Lt. Van Winkle
Are you engaged to-
morrow? If not, how about
our excursion from Norfolk.
(Signed) Lt. Field
MSS 10781
Feb. 12th
To Lt. Van Winkle
Are you engaged to-
morrow? If not, how about
our excursion from Norfolk.
(Signed) Lt. Field
MSS 10781
1863 February 12 Staunton, Va.
[from the diary of Joseph Addison Waddell, former newspaper publisher and civilian employee of the Quartermaster Dept.]
Thursday night, February 12, 1863.
[transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]
MSS 38-258
Thursday night, February 12, 1863.
Last night, just before going to bed, Va partly wound up the striking side of
our mantel piece clock — having a trick of striking every hour from
twenty to a hundred times, we have had to let that side run down, as the
noise was very loud and distracting. Last night, however, the machine
took another turn, striking at intervals of four or five minutes. [deleted:
I was sitting before the fire reading, and did not observe what Va was
doing till the noise began, when she walked off, remarking that she left
me "some music." After enduring it till the nuisance became
intolerable, I gave the hammer a twist, which prevented its striking the
coil; but after I went to bed, I could still hear the wheels rapidly
revolving, and all the machinery apparently doing its best to alarm the
house as usual. The occurrence was both amazing and ludicrous.]
No war news — the "Dispatch" decidedly dull.
Another
snow storm to-day. Tomorrow is the day appointed for the sale of Mr.
Sowers' property, but if the weather continues bad, I shall postpone it
till Monday. Much talk for several days past about the supposed
opposition to Lincolnism and the war, in the North and West. Many
indications go to show that there is a growing discontent in those
regions; but a victory or two, especially the capture of Vicksburg by
the Yankees, would bring the whole nation together
again. A letter from Christiansburg states that Sister and family
expected to start to Staunton on Thursday next. Va wrote immediately to
tell them not to start till they heard of the arrival here of some few
necessary articles of their furniture. We have engaged rooms for them at
the Academy, till they can get Alick's house, the 1st of
May. Another military enterprise against Midway, the Yankee General at
Winchester, is on foot. Gen Jones has moved from his quarters at, or
near, New Market. A forlorn regiment, or battalion came in to-day from
Variety Springs, where they have been quartered for some time. Some of
the men had no overcoats, and some straw hats — decidedly out of season
in a snow storm. The horses are as woe-begone as their riders. Lt. Col.
Witcher commands. He moves down the Valley in the morning. His force was
raised along the Kentucky border, I believe.
FOR THE CENTRAL PRESBYTERIAN
Another Youthful Martyr.
ADDISON
WADDELL STUART, only son of the Rev. S. D. Stuart, of Christiansburg,
died on Blackwater river, Southampton co., Va., on the 7th of January,
1863 of pneumonia, after an illness of twenty- four hours. He was
seventeen years of age on the 21st day of December, 1862. In the month
of September last, he entered the military service as Orderly to Col.
Henry L. Edmondson, of Roanoke, and went through the Kentucky campaign
under General Humphrey Marshall. After the retreat to Virginia, he was
stationed at Wytheville for a time; the battalion to which he belonged
was then ordered to Richmond, and thence to Petersburg. From the last
named place, he wrote that the troops were on the point of moving, he
knew not wither—the next intelligence concerning him, was a telegraphic
dispatch announcing his death.
The
writer can hardly trust himself to speak of this dear boy, lest
strangers suspect some exaggeration. He was intelligent, cheerful
social, universally popular, always ready to do a kind act to any everyone, however humble. While
on the march, he would dismount and walk, that a soldier somewhat
unwell might ride his horse. Ever bright and happy, he was the light and
joy of his home—the tender comforted of his oft-stricken mother—in the
camp and on the march an example of cheerful endurance, shrinking from
no hardship or danger.
But
the most consoling fact is, that he knew the God of his fathers, and
was owned by Him as one of his children. Early dedicated to God, as soon
as he arrived at years of discretion, he publicly avowed his faith in
Christ and united with the church. His walk and conversation never
belied his profession. All men testify to his upright and conscientious
life. Not long before he was called hence, he wrote to his mother, when
about to start on some expedition, "I go cheerfully, trusting in God."
Hiss illness was brief, but we have his dying testimony to the grace
which alone can sustain in that trying hour. The thought of his mother's
grief troubled him for a moment—"It will kill Ma," he said, "but tell
her I trust in God and am willing and not afraid to die." To his father
he sent word that he hoped to meet him in Heaven. Thus he peacefully
fell asleep. His short and happy life on earth is ended—he has passed
from us like a beautiful vision—but he has entered upon a higher and
happier service in Heaven. For him there is nothing to regret. On the
evening of the 13th inst., his remains were laid in the cemetery at
Staunton, near the grave of his grand-father (the late Dr. Addison
Waddell) and by the side of a little sister who two years before
departed in the triumphs of faith. "Father, I will that they also, whom
thou hast given me, be with me where I am."
This
tribute to another young martyr is placed on record as a memorial of
the devotion which characterises our whole people in the present cruel
war, and especially as an humble testimonial to the faithfulness of God
to those who trust in Him. Thank God for such a life and such a death!
Blessed parents who have their most precious treasure—five lovely
children—laid up in Heaven!
[transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]
MSS 38-258
1863 February 12 Chapel Hill, N.C.
[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]
Thursday 12th Threatning rain - Warm & damp - Mrs Campbell
disappointed in getting off - No Hillsboro Hack came-
After dinner the Miss Martins called - & begged me to come
& see their brother's Wife - I received 2 letters - one from
DuB[?] enclosing one from Mr Davis about Virgil &
the other from Mr Vanosdell.
MSS 6960
Thursday 12th Threatning rain - Warm & damp - Mrs Campbell
disappointed in getting off - No Hillsboro Hack came-
After dinner the Miss Martins called - & begged me to come
& see their brother's Wife - I received 2 letters - one from
DuB[?] enclosing one from Mr Davis about Virgil &
the other from Mr Vanosdell.
MSS 6960
1863 February 11 New Bern, N.C.
[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F., 25th Massachusetts]
Went out to drill this forenoon under Upton
and had a very good drill. This afternoon
I washed my clothes and read some. It has been a
pleasant day. Got a good letter from home. This eve-
ning I wrote to Mary and sent her a picture.
MSS 11293
Went out to drill this forenoon under Upton
and had a very good drill. This afternoon
I washed my clothes and read some. It has been a
pleasant day. Got a good letter from home. This eve-
ning I wrote to Mary and sent her a picture.
MSS 11293
1863 February 11 Newport News, Va.
[from the diary of the Rev. Francis E. Butler, chaplain of the 25th New Jersey]
Wed 11. Cool & cloudy, went by Govt. boat to Fortress
Monroe for mess supplies – very successful – back
in three hours. Officers hilarious with good feeling in Eveg
laughing talking & gymnastics – Gen. Getty sent an
orderly to request less noise – wrote W – at Cuba –
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 12935
Wed 11. Cool & cloudy, went by Govt. boat to Fortress
Monroe for mess supplies – very successful – back
in three hours. Officers hilarious with good feeling in Eveg
laughing talking & gymnastics – Gen. Getty sent an
orderly to request less noise – wrote W – at Cuba –
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 12935
1863 February 11-12 Murfreesboro
[from the diary of Captain William F. Hunter, Co. B., 97th Ohio]
Feb. 11th,’63.
Still recovering health
& strength, I hope.
Clear & pleasant to-
day.
Have pains in my
joints, premonitory,
I fear, of rheumatism.
I neglected to mention,
in its proper place, that
the country around No-
lansville & Triune is very
hilly & broken, in places,
even mountainous; but
from Eagleville towards
Murfreesboro it is low,
flat & marshy.
Feb. 12th,’63.
Cloudy & some rain.
Feel very well to-day.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
Feb. 11th,’63.
Still recovering health
& strength, I hope.
Clear & pleasant to-
day.
Have pains in my
joints, premonitory,
I fear, of rheumatism.
I neglected to mention,
in its proper place, that
the country around No-
lansville & Triune is very
hilly & broken, in places,
even mountainous; but
from Eagleville towards
Murfreesboro it is low,
flat & marshy.
Feb. 12th,’63.
Cloudy & some rain.
Feel very well to-day.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
1863 February 11 Charleston, Va.
[from the diary of Captain Zachariah Heed, 91st Ohio Volunteers]
11.
Charleston Va Wednesday morning, passed the Examination all right was told by the President I had answered all of the questions better than any Officer who had been before the Board.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 13406
11.
Charleston Va Wednesday morning, passed the Examination all right was told by the President I had answered all of the questions better than any Officer who had been before the Board.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 13406
1863 February 11 St. Helena
[from the diary of Sgt. Robert Larimer, Co. C., 62nd Ohio Volunteers]
Wednesday 11
Wrote a letter to Sarah Larimer
- Clear & warm dress parade
Company drill & inspection
MSS 38-129
Wednesday 11
Wrote a letter to Sarah Larimer
- Clear & warm dress parade
Company drill & inspection
MSS 38-129
1863 February 11 Norfolk, Va.
[from the signal message book of Lt. Thomas S. Seabury, 3rd New York Infantry]
Feb. 11th
To Col. Wardrop
Was your Regt.
paid to include October?
(Signed) Lt. Van Winkle
A.D.C.
MSS 10781
Feb. 11th
To Col. Wardrop
Was your Regt.
paid to include October?
(Signed) Lt. Van Winkle
A.D.C.
MSS 10781
1863 February 11 Chapel Hill, N.C.]
[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]
Wednesday 11th Wrote & Knit all the morning - In the afternoon
Mrs Walters & Sarah came round to sit - & soon after Mrs
Poole called - Christian Campbell has been packing all day
she leaves tomorrow--
MSS 6960
Wednesday 11th Wrote & Knit all the morning - In the afternoon
Mrs Walters & Sarah came round to sit - & soon after Mrs
Poole called - Christian Campbell has been packing all day
she leaves tomorrow--
MSS 6960
1863 February 11 Staunton, Va.
[from the diary of Joseph Addison Waddell, former newspaper publisher and civilian employee of the Quartermaster Dept.]
[transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]
MSS 38-258
Wednesday night, February 11, 1863
The
most formidable assaults by the enemy are expected in a short time,
perhaps in a few days, at various points, particularly Vicksburg and
Charleston; perhaps also at Savannah and Mobile. The bad weather has
prevented any movement opposite Fredericksburg. — The enemy has also a
great army at Murfreesboro, Tenn., and smaller ones at various other
points. A crisis is evidently at hand. — No relaxation on the part of
the North. No signs of a termination of the war.
Mr.
Stuart has determined to break up at Christiansburg, and bring his
family to Staunton. We have been much troubled as to how they are to be
accommodated. I have been under a cloud for some time past, and
particularly to-day. The affairs of the Sowers estate occupy much of my
attention. I am decidedly opposed to selling the real estate at this
time, when the currency is so unsettled — we may get larger prices, but
what is the money worth? This remains to be seen. The heirs who are here, however, insist upon a sale.
[transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]
MSS 38-258
Monday, February 11, 2013
1863 February 10-11 Camp Knight
Camp Knight Feb. 10th / 63
My dearest Birdie;
Yesterday morning
Calvin & I went to see Cor. Clark McMahan
in the 132 Pa. regt. He was very well, & fat as
a china pig. To day he came here, & I went
with him to see [Lawrence] Clinton [his brother-in-law]. Clinton dont feel as well
quite as formerly, but is very far from being as unwell
as you imagine. If you could see his broad shoulders
& fat cheeks, I think you would not be so much
alarmed as you seem to be in your last letter.
He has received a very kind letter from Mr
Warden, & has written him a reply & sent him very
flattering recommendations from is Coln & one of
the Lieuts of his Co. More flattering recommenda-
tions than he could have asked for.
There is no vacancy at present in the 132d Pa.
Regt but may be soon, as some of the officers
have been badly wounded. Clark is quite anxious
[page 2]
that Clinton should come into his Regt & will notify
me of the first vacancy. I said there was no vacancy
Clarks Co. (D.) there was a vacancy, but the co.l elected
a Cor 2d Lieut & recommended him but their Orderly
is disposed to veto such an arrangement. & Clark
thinks he has gone home on a furlough for the
express purpose of urging his own claim. And it
strikes me while writing, that if Mr Worden knew
in time, that the dispute could be settled by just
slipping Clinton in. But I fear it is too late now.
There is no mistake but Clinton will get a com-
mission the first opportunity, & now Birdie, you
& your mother must cease your anxiety & worrying
about Clinton & Calvin. When Clinton gets
the commission, as he certainly will, he will be
relieved from those duties & burdens that are
most wearing on a soldier, & most calculated
to break him down. He would like to get a furlough
but dont expect to succeed.
Calvin is pretty well again, & on duty. His
cheeks stick out with fatness. This is so Birdie, &
not merely said to comfort you. I think that
it will be best to get him detailed for something else
the first opportunity. Am waiting your reply
[page 3]
to my former letter on that subject.
Took letters & Poetry to Clinton to read.
You need not fear about Clinton & Callie doing
any thing dishonorable because they are not pleased
with the present prospects of nigger philantropy. Clinton
said to day, that whether he got a comm or not he would
do nothing dishonorable Neither will Callie, Neither
Gov. Andrews, when he refused to furnish more troops
unless Lincoln would adopt the emancipation policy.
& Greely, when he said, if we cannot crush the rebel
ion in three months more vigorous war we had better
acknowledge ourselves whiped & "Make the best allow
able peace." What though the party in power differs
widely from my views, & commits acts I think uncon-
stitutional, & are actuated by unpatriotic & selfish
& sectional & fanatical views & motives, can I love my
country less? Can I, while there is the least shadow
of hope cease to do my might in uniting again my
distracted country? Can I consent to let that "political
heresy," that country destroying principle, Secession
prevail? My patriotic wife, my children, my
country, my God forbid it.
Once crush the rebelion[sic], & return the soldier
[page 4]
home & they will attend faithfully to the abolitionists; you
may depend upon it.
Helen was quite generous. It was quite a compliment too to sub-
scribe for the Mag. How did she know you write for it?
How those we knew in the west are dropping off. It is very sad
to think of it &my college mates are going, going, - & soon will
be all but gone. Why am I left? God only knows! May I be
truly thankful, & endeavor to be more & more faithful in
view of his wonderful goodness & mercy to me.
Our poor Alllie I am very uneasy about her, Love
her and cherish her, take care of her, pray for her,
"Allie flourishes," does she? I have a perfect image of the whole
scene when she was relating the wonderful sights &travels
trab travels experienced in her early life. Kiss her & kiss her, & turn
kiss her
her over & kiss her, kiss her, & shake her & kiss her Kiss my Allie
& bye & bye if God permits I will come home & hold her in my own
strong arms & kiss her myself.
I don't remember the piece "He's Coming."
Birdie don't use that head too much
The weather is stormy & ground very muddy. Cant be any advances
made by land. The whole of the 9th Corps has gone, I believe to
Fortress Monroe, & probably from there with Burnside to N. Carolina
Co. B. has ordered 400 copies of "The Flag of our Pride" to be
printed. They are very proud of their song A good many officers
have written coppies of it. They got them from the Colon's
coppy.
Feb. 11th
Nothing has transpired that gives us any idea when
we will go if we do move.
The sun is shining again this morning.
Our Regt are having a great deal of Picket duty to do
since the 9th Army Corps left. They picet along the river from
Falmouth on below Fredericksburg. The pickets make sailes of
news papers, or pieces of boards, when the wind is fair, & send
them across the river, & thus exchange. The privates talk across
a good deal. the Rebs. wont talk to Union officers at all.
Pickets talking is very strictly forbidden, but still it is done.
My should[er] was dressed for the last time day before
yesterday. Has been two months getting well. All this time
I might have been in Washington at a Genl. Hospital had I
wanted to do so.
Am looking every day for a reply to one or two of my
letters you had not received when your last was written
Good Bye,
Henry
Please send stamps
Captain Henry S. Spaulding, 38th New Jersey Volunteers
MSS 38-353
My dearest Birdie;
Yesterday morning
Calvin & I went to see Cor. Clark McMahan
in the 132 Pa. regt. He was very well, & fat as
a china pig. To day he came here, & I went
with him to see [Lawrence] Clinton [his brother-in-law]. Clinton dont feel as well
quite as formerly, but is very far from being as unwell
as you imagine. If you could see his broad shoulders
& fat cheeks, I think you would not be so much
alarmed as you seem to be in your last letter.
He has received a very kind letter from Mr
Warden, & has written him a reply & sent him very
flattering recommendations from is Coln & one of
the Lieuts of his Co. More flattering recommenda-
tions than he could have asked for.
There is no vacancy at present in the 132d Pa.
Regt but may be soon, as some of the officers
have been badly wounded. Clark is quite anxious
[page 2]
that Clinton should come into his Regt & will notify
me of the first vacancy. I said there was no vacancy
Clarks Co. (D.) there was a vacancy, but the co.l elected
a Cor 2d Lieut & recommended him but their Orderly
is disposed to veto such an arrangement. & Clark
thinks he has gone home on a furlough for the
express purpose of urging his own claim. And it
strikes me while writing, that if Mr Worden knew
in time, that the dispute could be settled by just
slipping Clinton in. But I fear it is too late now.
There is no mistake but Clinton will get a com-
mission the first opportunity, & now Birdie, you
& your mother must cease your anxiety & worrying
about Clinton & Calvin. When Clinton gets
the commission, as he certainly will, he will be
relieved from those duties & burdens that are
most wearing on a soldier, & most calculated
to break him down. He would like to get a furlough
but dont expect to succeed.
Calvin is pretty well again, & on duty. His
cheeks stick out with fatness. This is so Birdie, &
not merely said to comfort you. I think that
it will be best to get him detailed for something else
the first opportunity. Am waiting your reply
[page 3]
to my former letter on that subject.
Took letters & Poetry to Clinton to read.
You need not fear about Clinton & Callie doing
any thing dishonorable because they are not pleased
with the present prospects of nigger philantropy. Clinton
said to day, that whether he got a comm or not he would
do nothing dishonorable Neither will Callie, Neither
Gov. Andrews, when he refused to furnish more troops
unless Lincoln would adopt the emancipation policy.
& Greely, when he said, if we cannot crush the rebel
ion in three months more vigorous war we had better
acknowledge ourselves whiped & "Make the best allow
able peace." What though the party in power differs
widely from my views, & commits acts I think uncon-
stitutional, & are actuated by unpatriotic & selfish
& sectional & fanatical views & motives, can I love my
country less? Can I, while there is the least shadow
of hope cease to do my might in uniting again my
distracted country? Can I consent to let that "political
heresy," that country destroying principle, Secession
prevail? My patriotic wife, my children, my
country, my God forbid it.
Once crush the rebelion[sic], & return the soldier
[page 4]
home & they will attend faithfully to the abolitionists; you
may depend upon it.
Helen was quite generous. It was quite a compliment too to sub-
scribe for the Mag. How did she know you write for it?
How those we knew in the west are dropping off. It is very sad
to think of it &my college mates are going, going, - & soon will
be all but gone. Why am I left? God only knows! May I be
truly thankful, & endeavor to be more & more faithful in
view of his wonderful goodness & mercy to me.
Our poor Alllie I am very uneasy about her, Love
her and cherish her, take care of her, pray for her,
"Allie flourishes," does she? I have a perfect image of the whole
scene when she was relating the wonderful sights &
kiss her
her over & kiss her, kiss her, & shake her & kiss her Kiss my Allie
& bye & bye if God permits I will come home & hold her in my own
strong arms & kiss her myself.
I don't remember the piece "He's Coming."
Birdie don't use that head too much
The weather is stormy & ground very muddy. Cant be any advances
made by land. The whole of the 9th Corps has gone, I believe to
Fortress Monroe, & probably from there with Burnside to N. Carolina
Co. B. has ordered 400 copies of "The Flag of our Pride" to be
printed. They are very proud of their song A good many officers
have written coppies of it. They got them from the Colon's
coppy.
Feb. 11th
Nothing has transpired that gives us any idea when
we will go if we do move.
The sun is shining again this morning.
Our Regt are having a great deal of Picket duty to do
since the 9th Army Corps left. They picet along the river from
Falmouth on below Fredericksburg. The pickets make sailes of
news papers, or pieces of boards, when the wind is fair, & send
them across the river, & thus exchange. The privates talk across
a good deal. the Rebs. wont talk to Union officers at all.
Pickets talking is very strictly forbidden, but still it is done.
My should[er] was dressed for the last time day before
yesterday. Has been two months getting well. All this time
I might have been in Washington at a Genl. Hospital had I
wanted to do so.
Am looking every day for a reply to one or two of my
letters you had not received when your last was written
Good Bye,
Henry
Please send stamps
Captain Henry S. Spaulding, 38th New Jersey Volunteers
MSS 38-353
1863 February 10 across Rappahannock River from Fredericksburg
Camp Fifth Maine Volunteers Near Rapahannock River Va Feby 10th 1863
dear Father -- I now sit down to try & pen you A few lines in answer to
yours of the thirty first there is not much that I can think about Just now but that
General Frederick has been appointed to the command of this Corps in the place
of General Smith who I suppose will have command of the left grand division
the Ninth Army Corps has left this Army & gone down South further & it is repo
rted that they are going with General Burnside who is to have A command of A
expedition which if so I think it is A good thing as I think he is the right General
to appoint to command an expedition but as Commanding A larger Army such
as the Potomac one I do not think he is capable I hope that General McLellan
will visit Portland so you can see for yourselfe what kind of A Man that the
Potomac Army has such A great love for it you want to send anything to me
you can do so as Lieutenant Clarke & Waterhouse are at Home on A furlough
Lieutenant Clarke lives on the Corner of Spring & South Streets & Lieutenant
Waterhouse lives across Green Street Bridge Mother knows who he is as his Wife
called at the House with Mrs McPherson & as their furloughs are but for fifteen
days you better call at once & see wether they can fetch me anything that you
chose to send & when I get paid off again I am going to send you & Lizzie A Minature
to let you see if I have changed any I will close this by saying that my health is
good & hope that these few lines will find you & Mother & all the rest of the
folks the same From tour Son Joseph Leavitt
P.S. Tell Henry that I am much oblidged to him for the
Memorandum book & also four Transcripts.
[letters of Joseph Leavitt of the 5th Maine, and his brother George, of the 5th New York, were copied in a ledger by their father John in the fall of 1865 as a remembrance of his sons, both of whom died in the war, George at Second Bull Run and Joseph at Spotsylvania]
MSS 66
dear Father -- I now sit down to try & pen you A few lines in answer to
yours of the thirty first there is not much that I can think about Just now but that
General Frederick has been appointed to the command of this Corps in the place
of General Smith who I suppose will have command of the left grand division
the Ninth Army Corps has left this Army & gone down South further & it is repo
rted that they are going with General Burnside who is to have A command of A
expedition which if so I think it is A good thing as I think he is the right General
to appoint to command an expedition but as Commanding A larger Army such
as the Potomac one I do not think he is capable I hope that General McLellan
will visit Portland so you can see for yourselfe what kind of A Man that the
Potomac Army has such A great love for it you want to send anything to me
you can do so as Lieutenant Clarke & Waterhouse are at Home on A furlough
Lieutenant Clarke lives on the Corner of Spring & South Streets & Lieutenant
Waterhouse lives across Green Street Bridge Mother knows who he is as his Wife
called at the House with Mrs McPherson & as their furloughs are but for fifteen
days you better call at once & see wether they can fetch me anything that you
chose to send & when I get paid off again I am going to send you & Lizzie A Minature
to let you see if I have changed any I will close this by saying that my health is
good & hope that these few lines will find you & Mother & all the rest of the
folks the same From tour Son Joseph Leavitt
P.S. Tell Henry that I am much oblidged to him for the
Memorandum book & also four Transcripts.
[letters of Joseph Leavitt of the 5th Maine, and his brother George, of the 5th New York, were copied in a ledger by their father John in the fall of 1865 as a remembrance of his sons, both of whom died in the war, George at Second Bull Run and Joseph at Spotsylvania]
MSS 66
1863 February 10-12 Falmouth
[the diary of Jonathan B. Hager of the 14th U.S. Regulars resumes after a 5 month hiatus on mustering duty in Albany N.Y.]
Feby 10
Left Albany this morning and arrived at
Camp near Falmouth on the 13th]
MSS 9044
Feby 10
Left Albany this morning and arrived at
Camp near Falmouth on the 13th]
MSS 9044
1863 February 10 Newport News
[from the diary of the Rev. Francis E. Butler, chaplain of the 25th New Jersey]
Tues 10. Lovely June – like day. Charming spot Shore a
level sandy plain with pine woods in rear.
We are 200 miles fr. our late camp – 100 miles further south –
in direct line –
took Sail boat, Chester Maj: Cap Stevens & Dr. Daily & sailed out in river
good breeze & warm, boarded the Monitor “Nahant” examined
her turrets – has two cannon 11. & 15 inch. Shot of latter 444 & takes 35 & 50 lbs. powder & costs 30 $ to load - & fire once – Lt. Harmony[?]
very polite – one man turns turret, 70 man her, compass above
center of turret reflected down by mirrors – avoid attraction,
Rack solid iron 30 in. above water, stepd. down fr. one boat
to get on her – Saw Minnesota & Galena near, bot 2 bus
oysters, of Negroes, sailed back Maj & Cap opened & ate oysters
on way. Sketched the shore – a beautiful live oak, set
on fire – put it out – in night. With [-] & Capt S,
Soldiers parade – pleasant letters from home.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 12935
Tues 10. Lovely June – like day. Charming spot Shore a
level sandy plain with pine woods in rear.
We are 200 miles fr. our late camp – 100 miles further south –
in direct line –
took Sail boat, Chester Maj: Cap Stevens & Dr. Daily & sailed out in river
good breeze & warm, boarded the Monitor “Nahant” examined
her turrets – has two cannon 11. & 15 inch. Shot of latter 444 & takes 35 & 50 lbs. powder & costs 30 $ to load - & fire once – Lt. Harmony[?]
very polite – one man turns turret, 70 man her, compass above
center of turret reflected down by mirrors – avoid attraction,
Rack solid iron 30 in. above water, stepd. down fr. one boat
to get on her – Saw Minnesota & Galena near, bot 2 bus
oysters, of Negroes, sailed back Maj & Cap opened & ate oysters
on way. Sketched the shore – a beautiful live oak, set
on fire – put it out – in night. With [-] & Capt S,
Soldiers parade – pleasant letters from home.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 12935
1863 February 10 Murfreesboro
[from the diary of Captain William F. Hunter, Co. B., 97th Ohio Volunteers]
Feb. 10th,’63.
Still feel quite well,
but very weak.
This morning went out of my
room, for the first
time since I entered it.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
Feb. 10th,’63.
Still feel quite well,
but very weak.
This morning went out of my
room, for the first
time since I entered it.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
1863 February 10 Charleston [W.] Va.
[from the diary of Captain Zachariah Heed, 91st Regiment, Ohio Volunteers]
FEBRUARY 10.
Charleston, Kanawha Co. Va. Tuesday morning, appeared before E[x]amining Board. Col C. B. White, Lieut Col Cromley, Major E. M. Carey, examined in the Regulations in the forenoon. Tactics in the Afternoon.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 13406
FEBRUARY 10.
Charleston, Kanawha Co. Va. Tuesday morning, appeared before E[x]amining Board. Col C. B. White, Lieut Col Cromley, Major E. M. Carey, examined in the Regulations in the forenoon. Tactics in the Afternoon.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 13406
1863 February 10 St. Helena
[from the diary of Sgt. Robert Larimer, Co. C., 62nd Regt. Ohio Volunteers]
Tuesday 10
In camp 1st Lieut S. B. Larimer
detailed as Captain Orderly Sergt
C.W. Clowe as 1st Lieut &
and Serg't J.B. Larimer as 2nd Lieut
of Co. C. - gathered oysters ----.
dress parade - clear & warm-
er
MSS 38-129
Tuesday 10
In camp 1st Lieut S. B. Larimer
detailed as Captain Orderly Sergt
C.W. Clowe as 1st Lieut &
and Serg't J.B. Larimer as 2nd Lieut
of Co. C. - gathered oysters ----.
dress parade - clear & warm-
er
MSS 38-129
1863 February 10 Norfolk, Va.
[from the signal message book of Lt. Thomas S. Seabury, 3rd New York Regiment]
Feb. 10th
To 1114
You are not on the Roster
at Hd Qrs. Report with your
orders immediately.
143
MSS 10781
Feb. 10th
To 1114
You are not on the Roster
at Hd Qrs. Report with your
orders immediately.
143
MSS 10781
1863 February 10 Chapel Hill, N.C.
[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]
Tuesday 10th this has been a very pleasant day - agreeably
cool - Sarah passed this morning with me - Mrs Mickle called
to see me in the afternoon & Miss Fanny Martin came over
in the morning to get Eliza Mallett to go in the Country with
her - Colonel Martin her brother is to be married tomorrow
to a Miss Casten in Wilmington - & bring his Bride immedi
-ately up here - I had a letter from Eliza to day dated the
2d - She was well & had received Fancy & Bella
MSS 6960
Tuesday 10th this has been a very pleasant day - agreeably
cool - Sarah passed this morning with me - Mrs Mickle called
to see me in the afternoon & Miss Fanny Martin came over
in the morning to get Eliza Mallett to go in the Country with
her - Colonel Martin her brother is to be married tomorrow
to a Miss Casten in Wilmington - & bring his Bride immedi
-ately up here - I had a letter from Eliza to day dated the
2d - She was well & had received Fancy & Bella
MSS 6960
1863 February 9 New Bern, N.C.
[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F., 25th Massachusetts]
Monday
Feb 9
Foggy this morning but cleared off pleasant.
Have been charging clothing today. Wrote a
letter to Daniel, and have also read "the adventures of
Peter Wilkins." Got a report that Foster is in town, and
that he got defeated but dont believe it. We also
have a report that two companies of the twenty Seventh
and two companies of the 44th have been taken prison
ers, but we dont believe that either
MSS 11293
Monday
Feb 9
Foggy this morning but cleared off pleasant.
Have been charging clothing today. Wrote a
letter to Daniel, and have also read "the adventures of
Peter Wilkins." Got a report that Foster is in town, and
that he got defeated but dont believe it. We also
have a report that two companies of the twenty Seventh
and two companies of the 44th have been taken prison
ers, but we dont believe that either
MSS 11293
1863 February 9 Norfolk, Va.
[from the signal message book of Lt. Thomas S. Seabury, 3rd New York Infantry]
Feb. 9th
To Col. Wardrop
Forward to these Hd Qrs
imy. the roster of Officers in
your command as per instructions.
(Signed) J. H. Liebenan A.A.G.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Feb. 9th
To Lt. Field
If anything turns up
let me know.
(Signed) Col. Wardrop
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Feb. 9th
To Wm. Murphy Co. D
Come home your
wife is dying.
(Signed) Mrs. Calbert
MSS 10781
Feb. 9th
To Col. Wardrop
Forward to these Hd Qrs
imy. the roster of Officers in
your command as per instructions.
(Signed) J. H. Liebenan A.A.G.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Feb. 9th
To Lt. Field
If anything turns up
let me know.
(Signed) Col. Wardrop
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Feb. 9th
To Wm. Murphy Co. D
Come home your
wife is dying.
(Signed) Mrs. Calbert
MSS 10781
1863 February 9 en route to Charleston, Va.
[from the diary of Captain Zacharia Heed, 91st Ohio]
9.
Piatt Monday morning Start for Charleston Va, at five oclock A.M. get to Charleston at half past Six oclock A.M. on board of News Boy.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS13406
9.
Piatt Monday morning Start for Charleston Va, at five oclock A.M. get to Charleston at half past Six oclock A.M. on board of News Boy.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS13406
1863 February 9 St. Helena, S.C.
[from the diary of Sgt. Robert Larimer, Co. B., 62nd Ohio]
Monday, February 9, 1863
Saw the first palm & palmetto
gathered oysters - very warm
MSS 38-116
Monday, February 9, 1863
Saw the first palm & palmetto
gathered oysters - very warm
MSS 38-116
1863 February 9 en route to Newport News
[from the diary of the Rev. Francis E. Butler, chaplain of the 25th New Jersey]
Mon 9. Lovely May like morng. Capt invited Col. A. & me to breakfast
& transport [?] on shore in his boat. Air calm & sweet. Visited
fortress Monroe - & reported to Gen. Dix – moat 75 paces wide filled
with water, immense work – beautiful parade, large enc. for
a village 3d N. Y. guard mountg. – splendid drill & fine band.
Sketched Gen Dix’s head Qrs while sitting with Col. Maj. & Dr. Reily under
a live oak tree – beautiful clumps of those trees all about
look like apple tree – or olives – dark olive green leaves.
pretty little acorns gathered some, birds singing –
We are ordered to Newport News immediately – Saw the
rip raps – Am writing in Cabin by an open window near
fortress – transports loaded with troops about us – whole 9th A. C.
go to Newport News – Sailed at noon – about 10 miles to Nep. N.
Saw the wrecks of the Congress & Cumberland sunk by the
Merrimack – Got boat of Capt. Stone & pulled off with Chester
Dr. R. & Captn. Stevens, to Cumberland climbed into her main
top to cut off some of her mast [?] &c for relics.
Regt. went ashore & encamped near shore – which is sandy here
right bet. wrecks of Congress & Cumberland War ships in the
roads – one a monitor, beautiful trees of pine – cypress & live
oak skirt the beach - & fig trees grow close by our quarters
took two old houses one for all our officers & one for horses –
Men in fine spirits - & like it very much
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 12935
Mon 9. Lovely May like morng. Capt invited Col. A. & me to breakfast
& transport [?] on shore in his boat. Air calm & sweet. Visited
fortress Monroe - & reported to Gen. Dix – moat 75 paces wide filled
with water, immense work – beautiful parade, large enc. for
a village 3d N. Y. guard mountg. – splendid drill & fine band.
Sketched Gen Dix’s head Qrs while sitting with Col. Maj. & Dr. Reily under
a live oak tree – beautiful clumps of those trees all about
look like apple tree – or olives – dark olive green leaves.
pretty little acorns gathered some, birds singing –
We are ordered to Newport News immediately – Saw the
rip raps – Am writing in Cabin by an open window near
fortress – transports loaded with troops about us – whole 9th A. C.
go to Newport News – Sailed at noon – about 10 miles to Nep. N.
Saw the wrecks of the Congress & Cumberland sunk by the
Merrimack – Got boat of Capt. Stone & pulled off with Chester
Dr. R. & Captn. Stevens, to Cumberland climbed into her main
top to cut off some of her mast [?] &c for relics.
Regt. went ashore & encamped near shore – which is sandy here
right bet. wrecks of Congress & Cumberland War ships in the
roads – one a monitor, beautiful trees of pine – cypress & live
oak skirt the beach - & fig trees grow close by our quarters
took two old houses one for all our officers & one for horses –
Men in fine spirits - & like it very much
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 12935
1863 February 9 Murfreesboro
[from the diary of Captain William F. Hunter, Co. B., 97th Ohio]
Feb. 9th,’63.
To-day passed off quiet-
ly & Oh! how wearily, a
sick man only knows.
I am rapidly convales-
cent, to-day.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
Feb. 9th,’63.
To-day passed off quiet-
ly & Oh! how wearily, a
sick man only knows.
I am rapidly convales-
cent, to-day.
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 10547-bm
1863 February 9 Campbell County, Va.
[from the diary of George W. Dabney, Clerk of Campbell County]
Feb 9 Mond"
Pleasant overhead - very sloppy & mud
patients improving - put window
in Jesse's cabin - Grubbing - shoe
making & hauling wood - Wd &c
to Paynes to crush corncobs - &
brot home some - planters around
here finished stripping the Tobo
what an oversight with us!!!
MSS 3315
Feb 9 Mond"
Pleasant overhead - very sloppy & mud
patients improving - put window
in Jesse's cabin - Grubbing - shoe
making & hauling wood - Wd &c
to Paynes to crush corncobs - &
brot home some - planters around
here finished stripping the Tobo
what an oversight with us!!!
MSS 3315
1863 February 9 "Hopedale," Albemarle County, Va.
[from the diary of Mary S. Boyden, daughter of the Rev. Ebenezer Boyden, rector of Walker's Church, (later Christ Episcopal), Albemarle County, Va.]
Monday 9th Mr Mountjoy left us this morning,
reluctantly, I hope; (on our side at least, I know)
I gave him a pair of gloves, & a little tract
called "Salvation to the uttermost", & was sorry
afterwards, I had not given him another called
"A call to Prayer", by Kyle - I must try to get
some more tracts - Ma gave him a prayer book
May God bless the gifts to his Eternal good -
He promises to come again soon. May God pro=
tect & bless him with the choicest blessings! He
is to[sic] noble & brave: too bright & loving to perish
ignominiously - May he long live to serve God
& be a useful man in his day & generation--
I wrote a long letter to Lilla today telling her
about Mr M's visit - Sarah out today-
MSS 4288
Monday 9th Mr Mountjoy left us this morning,
reluctantly, I hope; (on our side at least, I know)
I gave him a pair of gloves, & a little tract
called "Salvation to the uttermost", & was sorry
afterwards, I had not given him another called
"A call to Prayer", by Kyle - I must try to get
some more tracts - Ma gave him a prayer book
May God bless the gifts to his Eternal good -
He promises to come again soon. May God pro=
tect & bless him with the choicest blessings! He
is to[sic] noble & brave: too bright & loving to perish
ignominiously - May he long live to serve God
& be a useful man in his day & generation--
I wrote a long letter to Lilla today telling her
about Mr M's visit - Sarah out today-
MSS 4288
1863 February 9 Chapel Hill, N.C.
[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmington, N.C.]
Monday spent the fore noon writing & knitting a Watchguard
In the afternoon sent off a long letter to Mary & then walked up
to Eliza Ann Wrights - Her house looks neat & comfortable
& I almost wished it was mine. She told me several little
pieces of news & I spent a pleasant hour or two with her -
MSS 4802
Monday spent the fore noon writing & knitting a Watchguard
In the afternoon sent off a long letter to Mary & then walked up
to Eliza Ann Wrights - Her house looks neat & comfortable
& I almost wished it was mine. She told me several little
pieces of news & I spent a pleasant hour or two with her -
MSS 4802
1863 February 8
[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding of Co. F., 25th Massachusetts]
Sunday
Feb 8
Went out on inspection, to church this fore-
noon to hear Mr James who preached from the
words "Cast thy burden on the Lord." This afternoon
heard Mr Stone preach on Esau selling his birthright
and I enjoyed the sermon very much indeed. This
evening we had a prayer meeting in Proctors tent, a
very good one, and may God bless its influence on
the company. Dr Whitney took charge of it, and George
and Holman prayed and I made a few remarks, and
prayed and God seemed to be near us. I enjoyed it
much. Dick Collins came into our tent and we talked
with him sometime.
MSS 11293
Sunday
Feb 8
Went out on inspection, to church this fore-
noon to hear Mr James who preached from the
words "Cast thy burden on the Lord." This afternoon
heard Mr Stone preach on Esau selling his birthright
and I enjoyed the sermon very much indeed. This
evening we had a prayer meeting in Proctors tent, a
very good one, and may God bless its influence on
the company. Dr Whitney took charge of it, and George
and Holman prayed and I made a few remarks, and
prayed and God seemed to be near us. I enjoyed it
much. Dick Collins came into our tent and we talked
with him sometime.
MSS 11293
Sunday, February 10, 2013
1863 February 8 camp near Fredericksburg
Camp Fredericksburg, Va.
February 8th, 1863
Dear Pa,
Dick Lowery will leave for home sometime tomorrow. Though I have
nothing of any interest or importance to write, still it is proper that
I should write just to let you know that I am well. We have all managed
to make ourselves pretty comfortable by building chimneys to our tents
or tent flies (as the case may be) and I believe I have suffered less from
cold than we did last winter. We have had great sport of late - snow-
balling; whole regiments and brigades engaging in the mock-war fare with
all the sportive glee of childhood. I have seen snow on an average
twelve inches deep, and in some places fully three feet deep.
Tell the children I think there is a heap of beauty in the snow when
it covers everything up as it does sometimes here in Virginia, but it is
all melted now and the mud at present is as deep as the snow was sometime
ago. I think it hardly possible that we will fight here before March.
The roads are in such terrible condition General Hooker will surely come
at us as soon as practicable. The northern papers say that he will come
with the next big freeze when the ground will be as firm as pavement. I
hope you people have all made up your minds to a long war. No more fur-
loughs will be granted so I will not see you until next winter. After the
war is over I will make a desperate effort to get a commission in the regu-
lar Army. It would bring me a nice living and no work to do, and that
is what I wish decidedly - eighty dollars a month, nothing to do, and a
gray coat, a sword and some authority. In war times this amounts to
nothing, in peace it will be splendid - But the chickens should not be
counted before the eggs are hatched. The next battle may blow me into
thin air. And now with the best wishes for yourself and family I remain
most Respectfully and affectionate your son,
Paul Turner Vaughan
The children think perhaps that I was killed int he last battle. They
are mistaken and all letters directed to P. T. Vaughan, "Co." 4th Ala.
Regiment, General Law's brigade, Fredericksburg, Va. will reach me.
[typed transcript of original]
Captain P. Turner Vaughan, 4th Alabaman
MSS 5586
February 8th, 1863
Dear Pa,
Dick Lowery will leave for home sometime tomorrow. Though I have
nothing of any interest or importance to write, still it is proper that
I should write just to let you know that I am well. We have all managed
to make ourselves pretty comfortable by building chimneys to our tents
or tent flies (as the case may be) and I believe I have suffered less from
cold than we did last winter. We have had great sport of late - snow-
balling; whole regiments and brigades engaging in the mock-war fare with
all the sportive glee of childhood. I have seen snow on an average
twelve inches deep, and in some places fully three feet deep.
Tell the children I think there is a heap of beauty in the snow when
it covers everything up as it does sometimes here in Virginia, but it is
all melted now and the mud at present is as deep as the snow was sometime
ago. I think it hardly possible that we will fight here before March.
The roads are in such terrible condition General Hooker will surely come
at us as soon as practicable. The northern papers say that he will come
with the next big freeze when the ground will be as firm as pavement. I
hope you people have all made up your minds to a long war. No more fur-
loughs will be granted so I will not see you until next winter. After the
war is over I will make a desperate effort to get a commission in the regu-
lar Army. It would bring me a nice living and no work to do, and that
is what I wish decidedly - eighty dollars a month, nothing to do, and a
gray coat, a sword and some authority. In war times this amounts to
nothing, in peace it will be splendid - But the chickens should not be
counted before the eggs are hatched. The next battle may blow me into
thin air. And now with the best wishes for yourself and family I remain
most Respectfully and affectionate your son,
Paul Turner Vaughan
The children think perhaps that I was killed int he last battle. They
are mistaken and all letters directed to P. T. Vaughan, "Co." 4th Ala.
Regiment, General Law's brigade, Fredericksburg, Va. will reach me.
[typed transcript of original]
Captain P. Turner Vaughan, 4th Alabaman
MSS 5586
1863 February 8 Parish St. Jean the Baptiste
Parish St. Jean the Baptiste
Bonnet Carri Feb 8, 1863
Brother Samuel
The last time I wrote you, we were, I think, at Carrollton
or at Camp Williams, for I have forgotten whether I wrote you
before or after I was sick; if after, it was a Carrollton. Since that
time, as you may have learned, we have left that place and are
now, and have been since the middle of Dec., at this point on the
river. It is about forty miles from New Orleans at a bend of the river. The
importance of having troops at this point is said to be this, at this point 'tis
but eight or ten miles to the lake. Besides the lake, runs the N.O. and Jackson
railroad. At this place there is an opening through the swamp to the
lake, also another about ten miles up. This would be a good place
for an army to dross did they design an attack on New Orleans. At
these paths we throw out strong pickets, but all they have to
do now is to take care of the straggler that came down the
railroad. We have a Brigade at this point. Col. [Franklin S.] Nickerson is in
command. It is a good healthy location, but rather too far
from the city to get the paper often. But we get used
to that. Still we get news that are at times rather unpleasant.
For instance, about ten days before We got news of Rosecrans'
victory, Bragg's victory came to us, "A great victory, the yankees
ran six miles" they, the rebels were in full pursuit. But it
turned out that he, (Bragg) forgot to mention that he was
checked in pursuit and driven back with great slaughter (actu-
ally, Bragg was losing then.) At Vicksburg we for a time had
bad luck, were, as you know, beaten, but at this second
trial, it seems we are doing better, we have it from
the rebels themselves, that the Williams Cut, that they
[page 2]
laughed at so much, is now cutting its way through in splendid
style. Larson, who has been on the rear for a long time ,says that
the river will make a permanent channel through the cut, so that
the good people of Vicksburg will have a chance to repent at their
leasure[sic] of the folly of seceding. On the whole I feel more hopeful
than for some time past. The ball is rolling on. One good victory
with the Army of the Potomac would be worth a great dealt o the
country and to foreign nations. All eyes are turned to it from the
fact that so near to the capital of the United States they (the
Rebels) have dared to establish their government, and up to this time
they have succeeded in defending it. It seems to me that a victory,
however great in itself, in any other part of the country would not
have the moral effect that would accompany one on the Potomac,
or with the army of the Potomac. All others seem to be cutting at
the branches, while the tree itself stands fast with roots untouched.
But I hope we have seen the darkest days. May the New Year
bring us new victories. The proclamation, you will have seen, has no
effect in the parishes on the banks of the river for some eight
miles or more above New Orleans. The reason of their being exempt,
I suppose, is from the fact that the parishes elected Representatives
to Congress, but the vote, as every one knows, was very small, not
one in five voting at all, the fact is, and every one here who looks
around him can see it, that not one of the planters on the
river is a Union Man - some - many - are sick of the war, but
you cannot find one who, in heart, does not exalt as much over a
Federal defeat as over a Rebel victory. And this is the only
part of the country where the slave owners have suffered very
[page 3]
severely. For miles along the banks of the river more than
one half of the slaves here have run away. When we landed
at the place in Dec., the slaves came in by twos and threes
till at one time, about two weeks after we landed, we had
fifty or more. Now we feed some three hundred men,
women and children, and have sent away as many more to
New Orleans and Carrollton. We sent away fifty stout, able men
at one tome to enlist under Gen. [Thomas S.] Sherman. Quite a number of men
are required to man the heavy guns at the parapet. Gen. Sher-
man proposes enlisting contrabands (Negro slave brought within Union
lines) as heavy Artillery, and has one or two batteries maned[sic] by
black men. All say they make good soldiers. The best part of all is
that they can never again be slaves, it seems to me impossible if they
have one spark of manliness in them to suffer themselves to again be
enslaved. A great many of them are as ignorant as brutes, but again
some among them are quite intelligent, they will act as leaven. Some
months ago, in the Atlantic, I read with much interest an article on the
overthrow of serfdom in India, and as the serfs were described I could
not help comparing them with the plantation slaves that we have been
in contact with for the last six or eight months. The slaves, as I said
before, are down almost to the level of the brute, but for that we
must thank slavery. And it would be almost impossible to elevate
and educate the adults, but the children can learn as well as the
children of white parents. I know this from the fact that a large
part of the free colored population of the city know how to read,
and are anxious that their children should learn. Also, you will
remember,when I had my fever last fall I stopped at the house
[page 4]
of a free colored woman. the lady who owned the house was
very intelligent. She told me something about the free people of color
in the city. Many of them own property, some are rich, yet all feel
the importance of educating their children. She told me that although
they they[sic] paid taxes for the support of schools, yet they had no privilege
and are obliged to send their children to private schools. This they do,
and the question has come up, if the children of fee blacks learn to
read and write, why cannot the children of the slaves. Of course they
can and if they are free, they will. Many of the contrabands wish to
learn to read but at their age they are rather dull scholars. Gen. Banks'
forces have not started as yet from Baton Rouge, but are soon to move.
Gen. Sherman is in command of the troops for the defence of the city
of N.O. We are in his division, how long we are to stay at this point no
one knows but the Gen. commanding - He will not take the trouble to let
us know.
We have had quite a pleasant winter so far, not more than a
fortnight of cold weather all told. some days have been quite hot, as hot
as June days at home (Maine), roses have been in bloom all winter,
though some frosts of late have almost spoiled them. Accept my
thanks for your picture. I prize it much. Jasper Hutching is at Baton
Rouge, Lt. in the 22d Me. (Maine) I have not seen him yet.
Write often, Afc. Brother
Henry (Gardner)
Later copy of a letter from [William] Henry Gardiner/Gardner of the 14th Maine to Samuel Gardner of Brewer, Maine, with the words in parentheses supplied by the copyist.
MSS 5533-k
Bonnet Carri Feb 8, 1863
Brother Samuel
The last time I wrote you, we were, I think, at Carrollton
or at Camp Williams, for I have forgotten whether I wrote you
before or after I was sick; if after, it was a Carrollton. Since that
time, as you may have learned, we have left that place and are
now, and have been since the middle of Dec., at this point on the
river. It is about forty miles from New Orleans at a bend of the river. The
importance of having troops at this point is said to be this, at this point 'tis
but eight or ten miles to the lake. Besides the lake, runs the N.O. and Jackson
railroad. At this place there is an opening through the swamp to the
lake, also another about ten miles up. This would be a good place
for an army to dross did they design an attack on New Orleans. At
these paths we throw out strong pickets, but all they have to
do now is to take care of the straggler that came down the
railroad. We have a Brigade at this point. Col. [Franklin S.] Nickerson is in
command. It is a good healthy location, but rather too far
from the city to get the paper often. But we get used
to that. Still we get news that are at times rather unpleasant.
For instance, about ten days before We got news of Rosecrans'
victory, Bragg's victory came to us, "A great victory, the yankees
ran six miles" they, the rebels were in full pursuit. But it
turned out that he, (Bragg) forgot to mention that he was
checked in pursuit and driven back with great slaughter (actu-
ally, Bragg was losing then.) At Vicksburg we for a time had
bad luck, were, as you know, beaten, but at this second
trial, it seems we are doing better, we have it from
the rebels themselves, that the Williams Cut, that they
[page 2]
laughed at so much, is now cutting its way through in splendid
style. Larson, who has been on the rear for a long time ,says that
the river will make a permanent channel through the cut, so that
the good people of Vicksburg will have a chance to repent at their
leasure[sic] of the folly of seceding. On the whole I feel more hopeful
than for some time past. The ball is rolling on. One good victory
with the Army of the Potomac would be worth a great dealt o the
country and to foreign nations. All eyes are turned to it from the
fact that so near to the capital of the United States they (the
Rebels) have dared to establish their government, and up to this time
they have succeeded in defending it. It seems to me that a victory,
however great in itself, in any other part of the country would not
have the moral effect that would accompany one on the Potomac,
or with the army of the Potomac. All others seem to be cutting at
the branches, while the tree itself stands fast with roots untouched.
But I hope we have seen the darkest days. May the New Year
bring us new victories. The proclamation, you will have seen, has no
effect in the parishes on the banks of the river for some eight
miles or more above New Orleans. The reason of their being exempt,
I suppose, is from the fact that the parishes elected Representatives
to Congress, but the vote, as every one knows, was very small, not
one in five voting at all, the fact is, and every one here who looks
around him can see it, that not one of the planters on the
river is a Union Man - some - many - are sick of the war, but
you cannot find one who, in heart, does not exalt as much over a
Federal defeat as over a Rebel victory. And this is the only
part of the country where the slave owners have suffered very
[page 3]
severely. For miles along the banks of the river more than
one half of the slaves here have run away. When we landed
at the place in Dec., the slaves came in by twos and threes
till at one time, about two weeks after we landed, we had
fifty or more. Now we feed some three hundred men,
women and children, and have sent away as many more to
New Orleans and Carrollton. We sent away fifty stout, able men
at one tome to enlist under Gen. [Thomas S.] Sherman. Quite a number of men
are required to man the heavy guns at the parapet. Gen. Sher-
man proposes enlisting contrabands (Negro slave brought within Union
lines) as heavy Artillery, and has one or two batteries maned[sic] by
black men. All say they make good soldiers. The best part of all is
that they can never again be slaves, it seems to me impossible if they
have one spark of manliness in them to suffer themselves to again be
enslaved. A great many of them are as ignorant as brutes, but again
some among them are quite intelligent, they will act as leaven. Some
months ago, in the Atlantic, I read with much interest an article on the
overthrow of serfdom in India, and as the serfs were described I could
not help comparing them with the plantation slaves that we have been
in contact with for the last six or eight months. The slaves, as I said
before, are down almost to the level of the brute, but for that we
must thank slavery. And it would be almost impossible to elevate
and educate the adults, but the children can learn as well as the
children of white parents. I know this from the fact that a large
part of the free colored population of the city know how to read,
and are anxious that their children should learn. Also, you will
remember,when I had my fever last fall I stopped at the house
[page 4]
of a free colored woman. the lady who owned the house was
very intelligent. She told me something about the free people of color
in the city. Many of them own property, some are rich, yet all feel
the importance of educating their children. She told me that although
they they[sic] paid taxes for the support of schools, yet they had no privilege
and are obliged to send their children to private schools. This they do,
and the question has come up, if the children of fee blacks learn to
read and write, why cannot the children of the slaves. Of course they
can and if they are free, they will. Many of the contrabands wish to
learn to read but at their age they are rather dull scholars. Gen. Banks'
forces have not started as yet from Baton Rouge, but are soon to move.
Gen. Sherman is in command of the troops for the defence of the city
of N.O. We are in his division, how long we are to stay at this point no
one knows but the Gen. commanding - He will not take the trouble to let
us know.
We have had quite a pleasant winter so far, not more than a
fortnight of cold weather all told. some days have been quite hot, as hot
as June days at home (Maine), roses have been in bloom all winter,
though some frosts of late have almost spoiled them. Accept my
thanks for your picture. I prize it much. Jasper Hutching is at Baton
Rouge, Lt. in the 22d Me. (Maine) I have not seen him yet.
Write often, Afc. Brother
Henry (Gardner)
Later copy of a letter from [William] Henry Gardiner/Gardner of the 14th Maine to Samuel Gardner of Brewer, Maine, with the words in parentheses supplied by the copyist.
MSS 5533-k
1863 February 8 camp near Fredericksburg
Camp Near Frederickbg.
Feby. 8th 1863
My Dear Father
I have not re-
ceived a letter from home since
I wrote last, but I don’t believe
either of us would ever obtain
the position of master of cere-
monies in this respect at least.
If I could get twenty letters a
day from you all I would
find time & pleasure in reading
them. The mail is very irregular
now.
I have been unable to get the
vaccine matter you sent to take
on myself, that I tried it twice
I vaccinated some 12 or 15 & it
took only once, on Bob Knight,
& then very slightly. Nearly all
however had a good mark
on them. There is no alarm
in the army as to the small pox.
[page 2]
Everything in camp is very dull.
The larger portion of our
company amuse themselves
pretty constantly either in smoking
or making pipes out of Ivy
root. Those of us who are disposed
to read generally are able to find
some readable matter for the
little spare time we have; tho’
it is not always as suitable to
our taste as if we had a lib-
rary to select from. There are
several copies of Bulwer’s new
novel, “A Strange story” in camp
& that is going the rounds.
There is a rumour afloat
this evening that Mc Lellan
is again in command
of the federal army, but
it is not believed. I don’t
suppose they would decapitate
Hooker so soon without giv-
ing him an opportunity of
[page 3]
his caliber more extensively
than he has yet done. I don’t
expect to find him a good
general – but think him a
better one than Burnside.
I think he was the greatest
fool ever placed in so prom-
inent a position. Every step
he took while in command
seems to me to have been
a blunder. McLellan is their
best man – hardly equal to Lee
however – but I do not expect
soon to seem him in command
again. But I believe he would
be mean enough to accept
it if offered to him & policy did
not dictate a refusal. I can’t
conceive why the Yankees are
Lyonising Burnside so, unless
it be that the North is full
of factions & his faction is doing
all they can for him. I am
[page 4]
firmly convinced that a little
common sense is all that is
necessary to make a good gener-
al - & there is less need of an edu-
cation technical than there is in
any other calling.
As to our future movements I
have some doubts. We can hold
this position easily I think if we
can subsist our horses. It is
very difficult to get forage – Some-
times our horses have gone three
days without anything to eat - &
when we get rations it is generally
corn for two meals a day. I am
afraid that food for both man
& horse will be scarce.
Lan is perfectly right in saying
the lawyers who remain at home
will get the practice. Pecuniarily
it would be best for me to quit
the army. I have not the least idea
of trying to do so however. It is the
[Written upside down in the top margin on page 4:]
duty of every southerner to remain in
the army, & quit it only when our
cause is triumphant. God grant
that hour may come soon.
[Written upside down in the top margin on page 3:]
If I had the conscience to leave
I have no doubt I could make a
fortune in a very little time by
[Written upside down in the top margin on page 2:]
going to Richmond – I don’t mean
by my profession. But I had much
rather remain poor. My dear
[Written upside down in the top margin on page 1:]
father farewell. Give my best
love to mother, George & all.
Most affly. Yr. son. W. H. Perry Jr.
William H. Perry, Richmond Howitzers
[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]
MSS 7786-d
1863 February 8 Stone Hospital
Stone Genl Hospital Feb 8th
Dear Mother No 90
I received that package
you sent by Mr Bletchford
yesterday and was glad to hear
you was in Boston enjoying
yourself and hope it will
do you good have you
seen "Little Mac" in your
travels yet am glad to see
that he went to the Home
for discharged soldiers
Tell Father I want to see the
old place again before
he sells it as it would
not seem like coming
home to go in a strange
place but dont know
as I shall see it hope he
will sell to good advantage
andClter better himself
You speak about my letters
being a week coming
Yours are about as long
some longer Tell Howell
to thank Mr Emmonds
for me for that
tobacco and he could
[page 2]
not have sent me a better
kind as it was just the
kind I should buy myself
Wonder how he liked the
looks of Little Mac he
was lucky to get a ticket to
see him as a Medical
Student. What a gay tutor
he must make to
Ned I guess he learns Ned
as much deviltry as
anything else another thing
I see is his handwriting is
improved by going to Comers
already What kind of a [?]
[?] did Ned make
the other day Tell him
too that he must not
talk to young ladies while
writing as it is a bad
practice I dont care if
the young lady is from
Vermont Tell him not
to worry about the bed
as I have as soft a one as
I want
[page 3]
Tell Aunt Abby I had rather
have a mince pie of her
own making and a cup
of coffee is nothing, nothing
short of a quart will
suit an old soldier
Tell Jonathan I cant
have him playing off with
sore fingers as I shall
report to Sergeant Mrs
Jones if he does Did you
go to the dedication of the
wigwam if so give us a
full account with
full particulars in
detail Tell Mary I guess
I will get home in about
a year and a half and
if she will wait I will
go to Lyceum with her
then Now if I only was
at home I should want
some of Addie's wedding
cake to dream on
[page 4]
Tell Carrie she must drive
Martha Moulton out if
she talks so as to bother
her What was Wm Mansfield
down Fredg for I shall have
to look into that he
cant say he comes
to see me now it
looks suspicious you had
better believe I found out
what I wanted to know
without going to the
Relief Association the
other day it did not
amount to bosh it
was about the examination
in the convalescent camp
it did not amount to
anything only a big blow
and nobody hurt.
With much love
from you aff son
Wm Wallace
[envelope]
Mrs. E. Smith
Newton Lower Falls
Massachusetts
William Wallace Smith,Co. B 22nd Massachusetts
MSS 15360
Dear Mother No 90
I received that package
you sent by Mr Bletchford
yesterday and was glad to hear
you was in Boston enjoying
yourself and hope it will
do you good have you
seen "Little Mac" in your
travels yet am glad to see
that he went to the Home
for discharged soldiers
Tell Father I want to see the
old place again before
he sells it as it would
not seem like coming
home to go in a strange
place but dont know
as I shall see it hope he
will sell to good advantage
and
You speak about my letters
being a week coming
Yours are about as long
some longer Tell Howell
to thank Mr Emmonds
for me for that
tobacco and he could
[page 2]
not have sent me a better
kind as it was just the
kind I should buy myself
Wonder how he liked the
looks of Little Mac he
was lucky to get a ticket to
see him as a Medical
Student. What a gay tutor
he must make to
Ned I guess he learns Ned
as much deviltry as
anything else another thing
I see is his handwriting is
improved by going to Comers
already What kind of a [?]
[?] did Ned make
the other day Tell him
too that he must not
talk to young ladies while
writing as it is a bad
practice I dont care if
the young lady is from
Vermont Tell him not
to worry about the bed
as I have as soft a one as
I want
[page 3]
Tell Aunt Abby I had rather
have a mince pie of her
own making and a cup
of coffee is nothing, nothing
short of a quart will
suit an old soldier
Tell Jonathan I cant
have him playing off with
sore fingers as I shall
report to Sergeant Mrs
Jones if he does Did you
go to the dedication of the
wigwam if so give us a
full account with
full particulars in
detail Tell Mary I guess
I will get home in about
a year and a half and
if she will wait I will
go to Lyceum with her
then Now if I only was
at home I should want
some of Addie's wedding
cake to dream on
[page 4]
Tell Carrie she must drive
Martha Moulton out if
she talks so as to bother
her What was Wm Mansfield
down Fredg for I shall have
to look into that he
cant say he comes
to see me now it
looks suspicious you had
better believe I found out
what I wanted to know
without going to the
Relief Association the
other day it did not
amount to bosh it
was about the examination
in the convalescent camp
it did not amount to
anything only a big blow
and nobody hurt.
With much love
from you aff son
Wm Wallace
[envelope]
Mrs. E. Smith
Newton Lower Falls
Massachusetts
William Wallace Smith,Co. B 22nd Massachusetts
MSS 15360
1863 February 8 Dumfries, Va.
Dumfries, Va.
February 8th, 1863
Dear Sisters:
It has been Sev-
eral days since I received
your letter (Em's of Jan 11th 1863)
but have had no time to an-
swer it til now; for many
reasons a few of which I
will give you: One is that we
have been moving camp and
have been kept very busy
fixing our tents and log
huts for winter quarters:
Another reason is it has
been very muddy so it has
been very slow working,
But, I am well and pros
pering finely. All goes well
so far and I am glad to
have this to tell you-------
Some of our boys are Sick
-quite a number of them.
I do not think you need
make yourselves any trouble
about me, for I keep my health
and stand all Hardships Bully
In short I am all right on the
soldiering question I hope
this will find you and the
rest of our family well and
enjoying prosperity at Home
[page 2]
I said it is very muddy
This is most truly so , as it has
been raining the most of the time
for two weeks and this country
beats all other countries for mud
and muck anyhow. You may
judge for yourselves when I tell
you that it is almost impossible
to get about on horse back.
It is not very cold - the ground
is frozen a very little - not thick
enough to bare a horse on.--
We do not have so much duty to
do as usual. Another Regiment is
here to help us. - (the 6th Ohio)
The Orderly Seargeant (Alex. Hills)
who helped me to get Old Put
Bunks with me and we have our
tent fixed quite comfortable to
live. We have a nice fire-place to
cook by and we have raised our
tent about three feet so that
we have plenty of room. We
call the whole arrangement (:Our
Shibang") You would laugh to
see how we live.
Our Captain Bronson has
been promoted to Major So you
need not direct your letters in
his care but in care of Capt. Steele who
is our Capt He is a gay little
fellow. - about the size of
G. F. Brock. He was a Sergeant in the
duty serg
three months service - the same no I am now 3d
[page 3]
I can get a furlough now for
fifteen days but I do not think
it would pay me to take one
for that length of time I could
only be at home ten days as
it would take me five for
me go and come. It would
cost me not less than forty
dollars and perhaps more.--
We are expecting to get our pay
nearly every day. Nearly all the
other Soldiers here have received
their pay Then I can send you
some money and will do so.
But you must not look for
it before it comes.
You have already learned
that a change of commanders
has been made in our Army.
Gen. Hooker is our present
Commander. He has a very
familiar and pleasant name
and perhaps he will inscribe
it high on the Scroll of Fame
It is hoped that he may but
it is not probable that he will
if he is hampered like
Burnsides has been by the Ad-
ministration at Washington
I need not tell you that I dis-
approved of the way this war has
been carried out of late. It
would only be reiteration of what
[page 4]
I have told you in former letters
But I will say that I do not
think Our Government will ever
succeed in putting down this
Rebellion. The Old Union of
our fathers must be Severed
I am very Sorry that I am
forced to this conclusion
but I speak upon due con-
sideration and not from a
moments thought and I am but a Soldier
in the army yet I can think
and decide for myself Yes:
and I can speak when Occasion
offers itself. But no more upon
this subject:
Yes: Em I expect it is lone-
some at home I wish that I
could be with you instead of
dragging my life out in this
miserable Army I know that life
would be more pleasant. I do
not like to fight for the Negroe
Em: I am glad to learn that
you are teaching Now I hope that
you will not forget that you
ought to be a pupil yourself,
and improve you time accordingly
How long have you taken your school for
this winter? But I must close. Please
answer soon, and dont forget to tell me
all that is happening at home
and there abouts.. Now do write often
and long letters. Give my love
and regards to all inquiring friends
I remain as ever your true friend
and affectionate Brother
W.H. Redman
Jane Redman
Em. Redman
Write soon
William H. Redman, Co. C., 12th Illinois Cavalry
MSS 7415
February 8th, 1863
Dear Sisters:
It has been Sev-
eral days since I received
your letter (Em's of Jan 11th 1863)
but have had no time to an-
swer it til now; for many
reasons a few of which I
will give you: One is that we
have been moving camp and
have been kept very busy
fixing our tents and log
huts for winter quarters:
Another reason is it has
been very muddy so it has
been very slow working,
But, I am well and pros
pering finely. All goes well
so far and I am glad to
have this to tell you-------
Some of our boys are Sick
-quite a number of them.
I do not think you need
make yourselves any trouble
about me, for I keep my health
and stand all Hardships Bully
In short I am all right on the
soldiering question I hope
this will find you and the
rest of our family well and
enjoying prosperity at Home
[page 2]
I said it is very muddy
This is most truly so , as it has
been raining the most of the time
for two weeks and this country
beats all other countries for mud
and muck anyhow. You may
judge for yourselves when I tell
you that it is almost impossible
to get about on horse back.
It is not very cold - the ground
is frozen a very little - not thick
enough to bare a horse on.--
We do not have so much duty to
do as usual. Another Regiment is
here to help us. - (the 6th Ohio)
The Orderly Seargeant (Alex. Hills)
who helped me to get Old Put
Bunks with me and we have our
tent fixed quite comfortable to
live. We have a nice fire-place to
cook by and we have raised our
tent about three feet so that
we have plenty of room. We
call the whole arrangement (:Our
Shibang") You would laugh to
see how we live.
Our Captain Bronson has
been promoted to Major So you
need not direct your letters in
his care but in care of Capt. Steele who
is our Capt He is a gay little
fellow. - about the size of
G. F. Brock. He was a Sergeant in the
duty serg
three months service - the same no I am now 3d
[page 3]
I can get a furlough now for
fifteen days but I do not think
it would pay me to take one
for that length of time I could
only be at home ten days as
it would take me five for
me go and come. It would
cost me not less than forty
dollars and perhaps more.--
We are expecting to get our pay
nearly every day. Nearly all the
other Soldiers here have received
their pay Then I can send you
some money and will do so.
But you must not look for
it before it comes.
You have already learned
that a change of commanders
has been made in our Army.
Gen. Hooker is our present
Commander. He has a very
familiar and pleasant name
and perhaps he will inscribe
it high on the Scroll of Fame
It is hoped that he may but
it is not probable that he will
if he is hampered like
Burnsides has been by the Ad-
ministration at Washington
I need not tell you that I dis-
approved of the way this war has
been carried out of late. It
would only be reiteration of what
[page 4]
I have told you in former letters
But I will say that I do not
think Our Government will ever
succeed in putting down this
Rebellion. The Old Union of
our fathers must be Severed
I am very Sorry that I am
forced to this conclusion
but I speak upon due con-
sideration and not from a
moments thought and I am but a Soldier
in the army yet I can think
and decide for myself Yes:
and I can speak when Occasion
offers itself. But no more upon
this subject:
Yes: Em I expect it is lone-
some at home I wish that I
could be with you instead of
dragging my life out in this
miserable Army I know that life
would be more pleasant. I do
not like to fight for the Negroe
Em: I am glad to learn that
you are teaching Now I hope that
you will not forget that you
ought to be a pupil yourself,
and improve you time accordingly
How long have you taken your school for
this winter? But I must close. Please
answer soon, and dont forget to tell me
all that is happening at home
and there abouts.. Now do write often
and long letters. Give my love
and regards to all inquiring friends
I remain as ever your true friend
and affectionate Brother
W.H. Redman
Jane Redman
Em. Redman
Write soon
William H. Redman, Co. C., 12th Illinois Cavalry
MSS 7415
1863 February 8 near Brandy Station Va
Camp of 5th Regt. N J vols. Near Brandy Station Va
Sunday Morning Feb 7th 1863
My Dear Wife, I arrived in Camp yesterday (Saturday)
afternoon at 4 o clk, where I found the Regiment under
Marching Orders, at in about one hours, after which was
3 oclk the Regiment Marched off towards the Rapidan
River to meet the Enemy, Where heavy fighting was then
going on, the two armies was then fighting and had been
Since two Oclk in the Morning. I heard heavy Cannon
-ading, and Could hear the Musketry very plain and
very heavy, at dark the Battle Seemed to be getting
Closer to Our Camp. at 8 Oclk. I turned in to my bed
went to Sleep and rested well at 7 oclk this morning I
got up and heard Some Cannon firing bu ti
appeared a great way off, buy which I suppose our
Army has driven the Rebels back. Report Came in
this morning that our people Captured 150 Rebels
No further News yet, the Morning that I left
home, on arriving in Camden, I got on board the
Cars from Trenton, but I did not get to See the Colonel
He had gone to the Regiment, and of Course, I did not
accomplish my Object, I then took the Cars for Bristol
and paid a visit to Thomas Millers. I found them all
well Except Thomas who was Complaining of a Strained
or Crippled Back, they appeared much pleased to See me
and, Show a kind regard for you and Phebe with your
family, and they talk Strong of visiting you next fall
at Six Oclk Thursday night I left there for Philadelphia
and at 11 1/2 Oclk I left Philadelphia and arrived in
Washington at 10 Oclk AM of Friday I then went
to the Paymaster and Received 2.00 Dollars and
that night Sent you two letters with 50 dollars and
Each One. Making 100. dollars, and Sent for you to Send
me ten dollars I have 100 dollars yet to send to you
but I will not Send but 50 dollars at one time.
[page 2]
We have plenty of Mud and muck out here, in Many
places knee deep, and I tell you that I am glad that I
Could Stay in Camp Last Night and to day, for I guess that
It Rained pretty much all night, and it is not Clear
yet. I cannot hear any firing Now, I guess that all
is quiet in front, and perhaps the army will return
in a day or two. 4 Oclk PM as I hear of Nothing
further of Interest from the front, and Nothing New in
Camp Except that a few Rebel prisoners have just
past here on their way to Washington
and Every thing is very quiet in front. I expect
Our army will return to Camp tomorrow
In this Letter I will Enclose another fifty dollars
And you will please Let Christian have one
Hundred dollars, which will Make $150
One Hundred and fifty dollars. I want
him to give you the proper Papers, D[r]awing
Six per cent Interest, And Send Me a Duplicate
Understand Me when I Say that with your Consent
I Loan him the Money for One Year
I Am in good health, but Somewhat Lonesome
please Remember me Kindly to Mr & Mrs Stewart
and family, and to Christian & family
While I ever hope to remain yours affectionate
Husband James T. Odem
Comp F 5th Regt NJ Vols
Army of Potomac
via Washington DC
[Odem appears to be referring to the skirmish at Rappahannock Bridge & Church Grove]
MSS7093-m
Sunday Morning Feb 7th 1863
My Dear Wife, I arrived in Camp yesterday (Saturday)
afternoon at 4 o clk, where I found the Regiment under
Marching Orders, at in about one hours, after which was
3 oclk the Regiment Marched off towards the Rapidan
River to meet the Enemy, Where heavy fighting was then
going on, the two armies was then fighting and had been
Since two Oclk in the Morning. I heard heavy Cannon
-ading, and Could hear the Musketry very plain and
very heavy, at dark the Battle Seemed to be getting
Closer to Our Camp. at 8 Oclk. I turned in to my bed
went to Sleep and rested well at 7 oclk this morning I
got up and heard Some Cannon firing bu ti
appeared a great way off, buy which I suppose our
Army has driven the Rebels back. Report Came in
this morning that our people Captured 150 Rebels
No further News yet, the Morning that I left
home, on arriving in Camden, I got on board the
Cars from Trenton, but I did not get to See the Colonel
He had gone to the Regiment, and of Course, I did not
accomplish my Object, I then took the Cars for Bristol
and paid a visit to Thomas Millers. I found them all
well Except Thomas who was Complaining of a Strained
or Crippled Back, they appeared much pleased to See me
and, Show a kind regard for you and Phebe with your
family, and they talk Strong of visiting you next fall
at Six Oclk Thursday night I left there for Philadelphia
and at 11 1/2 Oclk I left Philadelphia and arrived in
Washington at 10 Oclk AM of Friday I then went
to the Paymaster and Received 2.00 Dollars and
that night Sent you two letters with 50 dollars and
Each One. Making 100. dollars, and Sent for you to Send
me ten dollars I have 100 dollars yet to send to you
but I will not Send but 50 dollars at one time.
[page 2]
We have plenty of Mud and muck out here, in Many
places knee deep, and I tell you that I am glad that I
Could Stay in Camp Last Night and to day, for I guess that
It Rained pretty much all night, and it is not Clear
yet. I cannot hear any firing Now, I guess that all
is quiet in front, and perhaps the army will return
in a day or two. 4 Oclk PM as I hear of Nothing
further of Interest from the front, and Nothing New in
Camp Except that a few Rebel prisoners have just
past here on their way to Washington
and Every thing is very quiet in front. I expect
Our army will return to Camp tomorrow
In this Letter I will Enclose another fifty dollars
And you will please Let Christian have one
Hundred dollars, which will Make $150
One Hundred and fifty dollars. I want
him to give you the proper Papers, D[r]awing
Six per cent Interest, And Send Me a Duplicate
Understand Me when I Say that with your Consent
I Loan him the Money for One Year
I Am in good health, but Somewhat Lonesome
please Remember me Kindly to Mr & Mrs Stewart
and family, and to Christian & family
While I ever hope to remain yours affectionate
Husband James T. Odem
Comp F 5th Regt NJ Vols
Army of Potomac
via Washington DC
[Odem appears to be referring to the skirmish at Rappahannock Bridge & Church Grove]
MSS7093-m
1863 February 8 Norfolk, Va.
Camp 7th New York Independent Battery
Norfolk Va Feb 8th 1863
My Dear Wife
Your ever welcome Letter of the first
came duly to hand finding me
as it left you all enjoying good
health and although the weather
has not been as we would wish
Yet we are thankfull that it is no
worse 3 Days ago we where[sic] visited
by a heavy Snow Storm which lasted
2 days makeing for time very fine
sleighing But as Sleigh Rides down
in Dixie is a Novelty it did not
last long The fancy ones of the
City where[sic] all out in full Bloom
But as I am nearly busy all
the time I for one did not
enjoy a Sleigh Ride Yet I will
not sigh as I hope soon to
[page 2]
have many a one with you my
Wife at Home in Old Dutchess
To Day for the first in some time
we have prospects of fine weather
There is no News stirring in this
place all is as dormant as
if nothing was going on And as
far as I learn by the Papers
will be some time ere a
change takes place anywhere in
our Army The Health of myself
and the rest of the Boys never
was better and I hope and pray
that it may long continue so
to be I am glad that my
Boy is improving. Take good
[?] of the Little One may
Blessings surround you all And
if I am spared to return once
to you I shall never more
[page 3]
leave you again with the help of
God May he watch over you
until old times return once
more and till then and unto
Death I shall ever be You
Loving Husband
Edward Shepard
Remember me to Father Mother and
All
In 18 months more
then Home and more
again to Cheer You
[as written for the barely literate Sheppard by a fellow soldier]
Edward Sheppard, 7th New York Light Artillery
MSS 12631
Norfolk Va Feb 8th 1863
My Dear Wife
Your ever welcome Letter of the first
came duly to hand finding me
as it left you all enjoying good
health and although the weather
has not been as we would wish
Yet we are thankfull that it is no
worse 3 Days ago we where[sic] visited
by a heavy Snow Storm which lasted
2 days makeing for time very fine
sleighing But as Sleigh Rides down
in Dixie is a Novelty it did not
last long The fancy ones of the
City where[sic] all out in full Bloom
But as I am nearly busy all
the time I for one did not
enjoy a Sleigh Ride Yet I will
not sigh as I hope soon to
[page 2]
have many a one with you my
Wife at Home in Old Dutchess
To Day for the first in some time
we have prospects of fine weather
There is no News stirring in this
place all is as dormant as
if nothing was going on And as
far as I learn by the Papers
will be some time ere a
change takes place anywhere in
our Army The Health of myself
and the rest of the Boys never
was better and I hope and pray
that it may long continue so
to be I am glad that my
Boy is improving. Take good
[?] of the Little One may
Blessings surround you all And
if I am spared to return once
to you I shall never more
[page 3]
leave you again with the help of
God May he watch over you
until old times return once
more and till then and unto
Death I shall ever be You
Loving Husband
Edward Shepard
Remember me to Father Mother and
All
In 18 months more
then Home and more
again to Cheer You
[as written for the barely literate Sheppard by a fellow soldier]
Edward Sheppard, 7th New York Light Artillery
MSS 12631
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