01. Civil War Diary part I
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Transcription For Civil War Diary of Arminius Bill, detailing his time spent in the Civil War.
( ) parenthesis mark any word I am not sure of, but have an educated guess as to its meaning and/or placement in the passage
(???) Parenthesis with question marks within them mark words that are wholly undistinguishable to me and cannot be read.
… ellipses are used when part of a text is covered or blocked off by newspaper clippings or letters. There is no physical copy of the diary currently available, so information covered and not taken seen in the digital copy is not available. Where, in cases a later page shows the rest of the covered text I have endeavored to include the full text together without ellipses
Newspaper clippings, unless the print is small or difficult to read are not transcribed, unless they are accompanied by relevant marginalia.
Sketching and drawings of maps are naturally not able to be described. Instead I give a brief description of what they depict as well as a transcription of all relevant marginalia.
Cover
Image pictures a Winter, 1866 Tourism pamphlet for Florida and the south, through car lane. The diary was heavily annotated by the author later on after the war. He took several tours of various Civil War locations.
Collection of letters and newspaper clippings.
Then and Now, May 30th 1914
This article talks about how it’s been 48 years since the first G.A.R. post was established in Decater, Ill.
Army Corps
A list of all the corps that served in the Civil War with brief descriptions of them. Highlighted on the following page are descriptions of the fourteenth and fifteenth Corps who the author, Arminius Bill served under.
Letters-
Letters, most of which is detail items put on collection at the U.S. Military Institute.
Business Card
Business card of William L. Powell, a licensed civil war battlefield guide.
Continuation of newspaper clipping: “The Army Corp”
FIFTEENTH CORPS. My Corps after 1864, 2. (Mig) 4 div. (???)
+ 2 divisions of 16th
This Corps was organized Dec. 18, 1862 from the troops of the original Thirteenth Corp under Gen. Grant. The 15th Corps retained its organization until the disbandment of the army, and was commanded by Generals Wm. T. Sherman, F.P. Blair, John A. Logan, P. J. Osterhause, and W.B. Hazen.
SIXTEENTH CORPS. My Corps until 1864
2 – Brig 2 (???)
The sixteenth Corp was organized at the same time and in the same manner as the fifteenth. It was first commanded by General S.A. Huribut and afterward by General N.J.T. Dana. This Corps did not preserve its individuality, its troops being more or less scattered. In March 1864, part of it, under General A.J. Smith was “loaned” by General Sherman to whose command it belonged, to General Banks for his Red River expedition. It was to have returned at the end of 30 days to rejoin Sherman’s army for the Atlanta Campaign, but it did not do so, and continued that year to operate along the Mississippi until December, when it joined the force of Gen. Thomas at Nashville and contributed to the defeat of Gen. Hood at that place. Two divisions of the Sixteenth under General. G. M. Dodge, took part in the Atlanta campaign with the army of the Tennessee General Dodge was wounded before Atlanta and after the fall of that place the Corp was broken up, one division being assigned to the Fifteenth and the other to the Seventeenth.
The Fighting Before Atlanta July 22,
Newspaper Clipping
A detailed description of the battle of Atlanta in which the 15th and 16th along with the 66th Ill, which Bill was enlisted in were among the participating Corps.
Fighting Before Atlanta Page 2
Newspaper clipping A list of all major and Brigadier Generals commissioned during the war. It also shows all who were killed or died during the struggle
Newspaper clipping about General Ulysses S. Grant detailing about his life.
Continuation of Grant Article
Author writes in top hand corner G.S.A army, 8 generals, 19 lt. generals, 81 maj. Generals, 366 Brig Generals, 474 total.
Newspaper Clipping
Two points of view
Newspaper Clipping
Continuation of Grant Article
Newspaper Clipping Continuation of Grant article
Remainder of Grant article.
Also, an analysis of the soldiers in the war, ages, cost of the war.
Terrible Sultana Disaster
Newspaper clipping
highlighting the disaster of the Sultana, a packboat that caught fire, burning more than a thousand troops returning home. 500 survivors, beneath and overhead it is written:
Comrade Goodrich of our post, Lyon post 7-66 G.A.R. Michigan, was a survivor of this disaster.
A list of names and dates are also written here:
(Ranillies) 1708
(Uargengo) 1800
(Oudinarde) 1708
Malplaquet 1708
(Pultmac) 1709
Quebec 1759
Nice 1798
Marathon B.C. 490
Salamis B.C. 480
Syracuse B.C. 413
Arbela B.C. 331
Hannibal’s defeat B.C. 207
Arminius Victory A.D. 9
Rome Sacked A.D. 408-12
Attila the Scourge A.D. 451
Islam’s defeat A.D. 732
Crusades 1095-1272
Hastings 1066
Stamford Bridge Sep. 25
Harold of (Hardrade)
Hastings Oct. 25
Harold 40.000
William 60,000 French
(Carsi) 1346
Portiers
(Agincourt) 1415
Orleans 1429
Granada 1491
Armada 1588
(Blenheison) 1704
Newspaper Clipping
Clipping from Almanac 1896 survivors from Revolutionary War and War of 1812
-Newspaper Clipping
Pension Office, Disbursements 1895
Newspaper Clipping
A list of pensions from 1885. Along with a newspaper clipping on Captain Driver and a newspaper clipping about an island where confederate prisoners were kept. At the top of this clipping, the author writes: I have been aboard
Newspaper Clippings regarding the War
Newspaper clippings
looking back at battles. At one side, several drawings of confederate flags. Written underneath is: Three styles of Confederate flags used during the war 1862-1865
Newspaper Clippings
List of men at Lyon Post. G.A.R. Newspaper clippings highlighting the cost, monetarily and fatality wise.
Newspaper Clippings
The page included loose clippings including a piece advertising the Richmond Libby Prison Camp’s removal from Richmond to Chicago.
Also included is a tourist pamphlet for the railroad between Louisville and Nashville
Arrive at Pulaski Tenn – Nov. 11 1863
Nov. 9th 1863 Monday –
Arrive toward evening at a small factory village in Alabama. This is Rodgersville at which we have some suspicions of meeting an attack. None came.
Nov 10th Tuesday –
Men move out over excellent roads in fine spirits. We have the road to march on part of the (time)
We are moving north from the Lawrence River. The danger was while we were pausing along the river north of (mussel) shoals.
Nov 11th- Wednesday –
Arriv at Pulaski, Tenn. –a very pleasant village- a 100 miles N.E. of Cornette. The approach to Pulaski from the was over a wide, low (plain) and by crossing Richland creek.
Nov. 12th 1863 Thursday (some of text is covered by a letter)
Our regiment is marched to the (side)…
A mile from town and ordered to (arrange)…
When we left camp Davies we…
His staff had a couple of small wall…
Tent about 14 x 18 – It was new…
The stop was Buier + had been used 3…
Packed away. We find it to be now…
Conditions. We put it up however….
Is the ambulances to be (???) for…
The new style of “shelter tents”…
Issued to us at the ferry – also the…
The “Dog tent” is made by buttoning…
Together. Thus – (An image is presented here to demonstrate the tent’s appearance)
Rubber blanket with opening to put head through. A (???) of cloak or (???) 2 yrds long 1 yrd wide weight 2 ½ lbs.
Part of a letter to home also reads
Tents or shelter of any kind. Except our blankets we march all the way from Camp Davies here and carried our knapsacks. (nearly 140 miles from Camp D. I think) We are all in good health and hope this will find all at home enjoying the same. The weather is not very cold, but it rains a greater part of the time + there is no end to mud. The soil is quite rich around here + some very nice farms. Pulaski is a (tolerable) govel sized place and is the county seat of this county (Giles co) Some of the new buildings have been burned. There is a large cotton factory here and the owner is a Union Says he will burn it if our forces evacuate the place. In time of (peace)…
Louisville & Nashville Railroad pamphlet
Further news clippings of pension rates
At Pulaski Tenn, Nov 12 1863, Thursday
It makes a good shelter + with the rubber blanket + the woolen blanket, two men together make up a comfortable bed anywhere except in a swamp, or a sharp rock. In Rain the tents are so low that a few brush at either end permit (???) in + stop the air very materially. In hot suns the shelters may be put up for an awning -
Three or 4 men go together sometimes + make a large tent. We see them up in every shape.
(Following text blocked partially by a note)
…of his gun ammunition. + as before.
…(blanket) + a rubber blanket. Few
…blanket takes its place. When fixed
…woolen blanket + his half a shelter tent.
…closely together, guns in a train this the
…(Further) making something not unlike
…over he’s head – over one shoulder + round
…roll he throws on after he has put
…sack + canteen. The roll forms a
…the musket, or rifle to (???) upon
…is rolled (???) outside the roll + to
…(???) blanket adds materially to a soldiers
…marching in wet weather slow.
…blankets flat + early then drawn up
…suspend The blanket very nicely there.
Note:
The town would probably contain 4,000 inhabitants. Forage for government stock is purchased from the citizens + government vouches given all our suppliers come by wagon trains from Nashville + Columbia. A great many of the boys have bought the Henry Rifle a 16 shooter. There are some 145 in the regiment when they all arrive + they are expected soon. Col. Burke is after them now. 25 of the men who own guns of that sort now are mounted and are Gen. Douglas’s Body Guard. Our regiment is divided all up. 25 men are detailed to shoot Rebs. Across the Tennessee river. 2 companies are on the railroad. + one in Colombia Tenn. Please excuse this scribbling. My hands are cold. Give love to all. Please write soon. I haven’t had a letter in a long time. Yours Affect- A.W. Bill
Losses in Battle
In 1806
Jeva –Prussians 105,000 Loss 21,000
-French 90,000 “ 19000
195,000 – 40,000 lives.
In 1807 Elyau Russians 73,000 “ 25,000
French 85,000 “ 30,000
In 1809
Wagram. Austrians 100,000 loss 25,000
French 85,000 “ 23,000
In 1809 – 2 days
Asperre Austrians 80,000 “ 20,000
French 70,000 “ 35,000 = ½ French defeat
Borodius Russians – 132,000 loss 45,000
French – 132,--- loss 50,000
264,000 – 95,000
French defeat
In1866 Sadoura
Called also Koriggratz -400,000 engaged, 50,000 killed
i.e – Austrians 40,000
-Prussians 10,000
In AustroPrussian War
In 1862
Antietam – 100,000 26,568 lost
i.e. Federals 12,469
Confeds. 14,000 Federal victory
July 2,3,4 1863
Gettysburg 200,000 engaged, 43,000 loss
C.S.A. attack 70.000 CSA 23,000 + odd
78,000 U.S.A 23,000
52,000 (???) in both
1812
Waterloo (French attack) – French 80,000 252 cannons, 26,300 loss
English 72,000 186 cannons 23,185
Muchden Japanese
Russian
This book was begun in the 7th year -1881 of my pastorate in Menominee. And continued in 1887, 8,9, 1890 + 1 at Menominee in 1892, Gainesville, Texas.-x 6 years pastorate at Westminster (???) Milwaukee, Wis and 10 ½ yr at Fond Du Lac, Wis. And from 1901 on to present in Menominee as a retired minister
This day is Feb 16th 1916 and I am 70 years, 8 mos. + 11 days old.
This book was written from penciled scraps preserved among my personal belongings after the war - - letters and memoranda sent to my sister, uncle, + aunt E.D. Bill Sheffield, Memory, and talks with my comrades. Also from sketches and books read.
The pictures are copies in some cases, but most are my own rough (untutored) sketches.
The maps are largely reductions from U.S. gov’t maps in Library at Milwaukie + other public (???)
I have been a member of the G.A.R. (now 1916) for 32 yrs. And have buried most of my comrades, + have held all the offices my membership has been in Lyon Post. 266. Menominee
At visiting comrades Wolcot “ Milwaukie
E.C Brown “ 130 Fond Du Lac. Wis
L.H.D. Crane “ 54 Beloit Wis.
In 1891 I (need) a pension of $6.00 for was (presently) increased to $8.00, then $12.00 + now it is $25. + I would find myself very poor without it.
Map of Sheffield 1861
My First recollection of political matters is the candidacy of Col. (???) C. Fremont for President. + Dayton for vice President. The Republican Party originated as a distinct party movement as the action of a few Men at Ripon, Wis. Feb 29th 1854. Nov 4, 1856, Tues – Col Fremont was the first nominee of the party for President. Buchanan + Breckinridge were the Dem. Nominees and were elected. I was then 11 years old.
We boys understood that Buchanan + Breckenridge meant in some way the supremacy of the South over the North and with that the existence of Slavery. We heard it said also that there was likely to be war between the North and South over the question of Slavery.
As far as I understood, the relation the general government to the states, I was a federalist + believed in the supremacy of the federal union over the sovereignty of the States.
And on the abstract question of Slavery, I was an abolitionist, having read “Uncle Tom” + “(???)”
The constitutional questions, agreements, reserved state rights or (???) were obscure + mysterious to me, but I was for the union + the flag – First Last and Always.
My next recollection of Politics brings up the great Wigwam in Chicago, Ill. In May 1860 – when the Republican Party nominated Abraham Lincoln of (???) for President + Hannibal Hamlin for vice President.
On the 19th (Saturday) A conservative Dem. Party nominated at Baltimore, Bell + Everett. June 18th Monday, the Regular Dem. Party nominated at Baltimore Douglass + Johnson while the extreme Southern Dem. Party nominated June 28th, Breckinridge and Louise. Again, the poles meet up. Our flag flying Bell + Everett, the other Lincoln and Hamlin.
I remember attending the meeting which bought the flag 34 x 16 + the enthusiasm over the prospect of Electing our republican Candidate.
Meanwhile, the border wars in Kansas -1856 broke out and the name of John Brown was heard. The
Dred Scott decision was rendered March 6th 1886.
The Atlantic Cable was laid and a message sent Aug 17 1858
The overland mail for California began from St. Louis – Sept 16. 1858
There was the Morissey + (???) fight. The Paul Morphy chess playing. Key shot by Sickles in Washington. Pikes Peak fever May 1859. John Browns raid Oct. 16 1859 – the oil fever + the potato bug. The Great Eastern (?) 28 1860. Prince of Whales + Finally Nov 6th 1860. The election of Abraham Lincoln. President of the U.S.
In the margins: Explosive Bullets were invented by a Frenchman named Pertuiset in 186-
Dec. 20th Thursday 1860. South Carolina passed an ordinance of Secession.
Dec. 26th + 27th Wednesday + Thursday – Maj Robert Anderson moved his garrison from Ft. Moultree –dismantled the fort and occupied Fort Sumpter.
8th Census of the U.S. Taken, Population: 31,443,321 (1860)
Spencer Rifle + Parrolt gun invented – 1860
Jan 9th. Tuesday 1861 – Steamer Star of the West approaching Fort Sumpter under the U.S. flag fired upon by two batteries flying a Palmetto flag + driven back. This was the first overt act of war.
Jan 9 1861 Mississippi Seceded.
Jan 11 Florida and Alabama Thursday
Jan 19th Georgia Friday
Jan 26th Louisiana Friday
Jan 29th Kansas re’cd into the Federal Union. The 34th State. Monday
Feb 4 1861 Texas seceded
Feb 4 The provisional Confederate gov’t was organized at Montgomery Alabama by 42 delegates from 6 seceded stated. Jefferson Davis of Mis elected President + A.H. Steveus of Ga V. P. U.S. Property seized by confederates in revolted states.
March 4 Monday 1861. Abraham Lincoln Inaugurated President of the U.S.
March 1861 – The confederate flag is designed + adopted.
April 11. General Beauregard C.S.A. demanded the surrender of Sumpter. This was refused.
April 12 Sumpter was bombarded + on 14th surrendered
Underneath image of flag: Changed Dec. 1863 to a white flag with the battle-flag for a union.
April 15, Monday, 1861- Pres. Lincoln called for 75,000 soldiers from the state militia
April 17, Wednesday – Virginia seceded
April 18, Thursday – Some Pennsylvania companies arrived at, Washington via Baltimore. A mob threatened them in Baltimore
April 19th, Friday, - The 6th Mass. arrived in Baltimore on its way to Washington. It was attacked by a large mob. 3 soldiers were killed, 1 mortally wounded, several injured. 9 of the mob were killed.
May 3rd – 42,000 additional soldiers called for for 3 years
May 6th- Tennessee seceded, also Arkansas by act of legislation.
May 13 – West Virginia refused to secede and became a new state.
May 14 Geo B. McClellan – an engineer officer in the regular army who had had charge of the Ohio militia x was appointed a Maj. General of Ohio + West VA Volunteers in the U.S. Service + ordered to drive armed secessionists out of West VA + occupy Harpers Ferry.
May 16. Benj. F. Butler, a lawyer of Lowell, Mass was appointed a Maj. General, to command in East VA + ordered to occupy fortress Monroe.
May 20th – 4 propellers + some other boats were armed + organized into a flotilla by Capt. J.H. Ward of the U.S. Navy + ordered to sail to Hampton Roads + report to Com. Stringham. On the way the flotilla was fired upon by a rebel battery at Sewall’s Point. The battery was silenced.
May 21st North Carolina Seceded
May 23 – A Confed. Flag was captured at Alexandria, VA. The 1st of the war.
Gen. Jos. E. Johnson, a former U.S. officer was appointed to the command of the secessions troops at the Harpers Ferry VA.
May 24th – 1861 – 13,000 US troops crossed the Potamacat night + occupied Arlington Heights + Alexandria
The 1st column was under Gen. McDowell crossed at Georgetown.
The 2nd Column under Gen. Mansfield crossed by the (Loug) Bridge
The 3rd column under Col. E.E. Ellsworth went down the river on 2 schooners + occupied Alexandria. C.S. pickets already there fired + fled. Col. Ellsworth was killed in Alexandria
June 1st – 1861. Robert E. Lee – a former U.S. Officer was made Comd in chief of the C.S. Army. 75 cavalry men from U.S. force at Arlington Heights were sent to reconnoiter Fairfax court house. They were fired upon by seceders – 6 men were killed -5 wounded. 20 of the enemy were killed + 5 captured.
June 3rd – The U.S. Armed ship Perry captured the C.S. privateer Savannah.
1100 U.S. Troops under Col. Kelly crossed the Ohio river at Wheeling + marched to Philippi –West VA, where they met 1500 C.S. troops under Col. Porterfield + whipped them – taking 380 musketeer
June 10th – Two places near Fortress Monroe. Big + Little Bethel were held by 4.000 C.S. troops under Cols. Hill + Magruder. Gen. Butler ordered two detachments to assault Little Bethel at night. They made a mistake and fired into each other – Hearing the fire the C.S. troops followed them, but were defeated at Big Bethel, losing 16 killed, 34 wounded, + 5 missing –
June 18. Gen Lyon at Boonville, MO. Captured 2 C.S. cannons and 20 men.
June 27th 1861. The Potomac flotilla under Captain Ward had several engagements with C.S. batteries at various points. Aquia Creek, June 1. Matthias Point June 27.
June 30 – The C.S. Privateer out destroying U.S. merchantmen in West Indies.
July 2. The C.S. General J.E. Johnson moving toward Winchester VA was pursued by U.S. Gen. Patterson + overtaken at Falling Waters. A drawn battle ensued. Johnson went on to Hainesville + Patterson to Martinsburg.
Map pictures area of battle and surrounding towns
July 5th – 1861-
1500 union, MO militia under commander Sigel in MO attacked Gov. Jackson and 5.000 C.S. Troops near Carthage, MO and were defeated losing 13 k. 31 w. 90 p. - + 4 cannons.
July 11. 1861 – The C.S. forces concentrated at Manassas TE + the U.S. at Grafton. Detachments of these forces met in some strength near Beverly, fought the battle of Rich Mt. – the next day, July 12th, the U.S. troops attacked again fighting the Battle of Canucks Col. Pegram, C.S. surrendered 1500 men on 14th + West VA was freed from enemy
1861
July 17. A U.S. train with troops was fired upon by 2 cannon in the hands of secessionists near the town of Vienna on the L.H.R.R. 5 were k. 6 w.
July 21st 1861 – the C.S. troops in the East were at Manassas TE under Gen. P.G.J. Beauregard with attachments at Centerville – Fairfax C.H. An army was with J.E. Johnson in the Shenandoah Valley near Winchester watched
Map of the area and battlefield.
In purple: General Johnson moved his command to Manassas TE + took command there. Patterson did not follow promptly + was not in the fight in time to help McDowell.
Upper Right Hand corner of Map: The U.S. forces at Bull Run were
1st Div. Gen. Tyler 11 regts. Infy (regiments infantry). 3 cos. Cav. (Companies Cavalry) + Artillery
2nd Div. Gen. Hunter. 8 rgts. iny 6 Cos. Cav + Artillery + 1 regt. (???) 300
3rd Div. Gen. Heintzelman 10 regts Infy. 3 cos., Cav, + artillery
4th Div. Gen. (???) 7 rgts Infy.
5th Div. Gen. Miles 9 rgts infy. 2 batteries
45 regts. Infy.
4 cos. Cavalry
9 batteries Artillery 35,000 men
500 marines
Gen. Irvin McDowell in command. Up to this time this was the largest army under one man ever on this continent.
Lower Left Hand Corner of Map: The C.S. Army up to this time was under Gen. P. Beauregard at Manassas Gap + under Gen. Joe Johnson in the Shenandoah besides the troops of Price + McCullough in MO + Ark.
In Dark Red: It is said that John A. Logan, a member of Cong. Took active part in this battle dressed in black brood cloth + wearing a tall sick hat. + that after in he went home and raised the 31st (???) (???)
By Gen. Patterson with U.S. Force at Martinsburg – Gen. McClellan at Wheeling and Grafton West VA. Saturday Eve. July 20th. 3 div. of the U.S. army moved + occupied Centerville. Sunday the Battle of Bull Run was fought. The U.S. troops were beaten + driven back to Washington. U.S. Loss K.W.+P 3500- 1300 (???) C.S. Loss 2,500-2600 (???) This defeat roused the North. 500,000 3ys. men were called for + $5 million voted for expenses
1861
July 22nd 1861. Gen McClellan superceded Gen. McDowell in command of the Army of the Potomac. Gen. W.S. Rosecrans took McClellans old command in West VA
July 31. – Gen. Pillow gathered 12,000 C.S. Troops + attempted to move upon Cairo, Ills. Gen. J.C. Fremont just placed in command of U.S. Troops in MO + the west – gathered 3800 Vols. At St. Louis armed them + moved down the river on 8 steamers –whereupon Pillow fled.
The army of the Potomac organized under McClellan, 152,000 strong + armed with European muskets brought over by Fremont.
Aug. 2. 1861. The Cherokee – Choctaw + Chickasaw Indians in Mo. Ark. + rest joined the C.S.
The U.S. troops under Gen. Lyon in Mo. Won the small battle of Dug Springs.
Aug. 7th – 1861. The C.S. General Magruder burned the town of Hampton near Fortress Monroe + in consequence of this Gen. Butler (At Wilson’s Creek) was superseded by Jno E. Wood.
Aug. 10 1861- In Mo. Near Springfield, a C.S. force of 23,000 were gathered under McCullough + Price. McCullough in command. Gen. Lyon + Sigel with 5000 U.S. Troops marched from Springfield + attacked them, but were defeated – Gen. Lyon was killed. The U.S. loss was 1300. The C.S. 3000
Aug 28+29 – English Blockade runners began supplying the Confederacy at Hatteras Inlet. Gen. Butler + Com. Stringham succeeded in capturing two C.S. forts there – taking 715 pris. 25 cannon + 1000 (???) of arms
Sept. 1. Burnets Miles. MO 1 k 8w. Boone Court H. W. VA. 6 W.
2. Dallas MO. 2 k. ft Scott, MO, 4K 9 W. Bohers Mills MO, 3 (???) k 5 (???) w,
Sept. 4, 1861 – The C.S. forces seized Columbus + Hickman on the Miss. River.
Sept. 6 1861 – Gen. U.S. Grant in command of U.S. Forces at Cairo seized Paducah
Sept 9 + 10 Gen. Floyd tried to regain West VA but was met by Gen. Rosecrans at Carnifex Ferry + defeated 16 k 102 w.
Sept 11. (Leurinsville) VA 6k 8 w.
Sept 12th to 20th Gen. Price captured 2,800 U.S. Troops at Lexington, Mo. – 42 k 108 w 25-75 –
Black River, Mo 5 Can k.
Sept 13 – After Floyds defeat at carnifex Ferry Gen. Lee sent 5,000 men again to take West Va. They were met at Cheat Mt + defeated (9k 12 w : 0-80)
Sept 14. Con. Privateer destroyed 3 -15
15 (???) Mills, VA 1- 0 8-75
17 Moristown, Mis. 2 – 6 : 7-0
1861
Sept. 1861. A Confederate Battle Flag was designed + adopted (Picture)
Sep 18. Barbourville West Va. 1-1 : 7-0
On the 20th of Sept 1861 – I gave in my name to form one of a company to meet others at Rock Island Ills. There to organize in company formations + proceed thence to St. Louis, Mo – There to join others in a regimental organization. I was 16 yrs, 3 mos, 7 day old. Quite slim + tall + the neighbors did not expect that I would be excepted. Up to this date 967 men had been killed on the Federal side and 2,376 wounded.
The occasion which led to this company was the appearance of a poster signed by one Ensign Coucklin of Rock Island. The poster was authorized by Gen. Fremont + called for men to form a rifle regiment to serve as sharpshooters in the army for 3 yrs or during the war – ie if war closed in less than 3 yrs we were to be discharged.
The plan was to enlist men on trial at shooting. The trial was at a 10 inch target 250 yrds distant. 5 shots. 3 to hit + 1 to touch the bull’s eye. If anyone failed he could be dismissed + return home.
During the summer of 1861 the newspaper contained accounts of the movements of U.S. + C.S. Forces. The victories + defeats, + everyone was interested. Harpers Pictorial Weekly was especially sought for.
In July + Aug I went out with others to harvest on the large farm of Mr. James Curtis. A mile or so from town. There were 10 of us. I distinctly remember the impression made upon us by news of defeat at Bull Run. We heard of it Monday Evening, July 22, when we came in to wash + get ready for supper. 3 of that group of 10 served afterward in the U.S. Army. After this the ordinary conversation instead of being about crops, prices, yield per acre comparative volume of whets + horses – cattle + feats performed in farming, breaking colds - + was about the war – the prospect of the north overcoming the South – the wrong or right of Secessions – Slavery – Mettle of men in South + North, weapons used in war, chances of wounded, death + (???)
Early in Sept. I returned to my Uncle’s Store in Sheffield. Was sick about a week with Bilious fever. About this time some of the 3 mos, men returned home from Cairo – wearing their uniforms – which were jackets –pants + cap of dark blue cloth with lighter blue trimmings. These men had only seen camp duty; but they were the town heroes. Groups of soldiers began also to be seen passing on the cars + there was much military enthusiasm. Previews to the summer in the spring through May + June – we had formed a Home Guards Co - + bought a uniform – jacket – pants – cap of grey flannel trimmed with red + drilled considerably.
Enlistment
A man who had been in the Mexican War drilled us + we gained considerable proficiency in the facings, handling our shotguns + in the step + marching. Before the rifle company was formed an artillery company forming at Princeton in July had been my choice. But my name was not accepted there on account of my youth + slenderness. Yes on the farm of Mr. Curtis I performed a man’s work harvesting, keeping up my station with 5 men after a 6 ft reaper. I ought not to have done it, however, it was exhausting to my unknit frame. After giving in my name to the Sheffield squad for the Rifle Co. I spent much of the time practicing with a rifle in the woods. (in purple ink)
Sept 21 Balls Bluff VA, 220-266: 36-264
22 Osceola, MO 17-0 - - Elliots Mills MO 1 – 5
23 Romney West VA, 3-50: 35-0
25 Chapmansville, West VA, 4-9: 20-50
On the morning of the 30th Sept 1861- Our squad left Sheffield for Rock Island. We were met at the depot by Mr. Conklin + others + escorted to the Island City Hotel for our lodgings + board. The expense was borne by “Uncle Sam”. (in purple ink)
Sept 26 Duncas Bend, KY, 0-0: 4-0
29 Munsons Hill – 9 -25: ---
My outfit from home was an old valise, so I could throw it away presently. The clothes I had on, also old, so they could be thrown away. A new heavy blue flannel shirt, which pricked + scratched me, a good pair of boots.
Some Hkfs, writing paper, testament + $5 in gold. Also a little loose change in my pocket.
Fitzhugh Reed, Marcus Wood, (William) Wilson were of my regiment.
At Rock Island, Sep 30 1861. Monday
At the Island City Hotel we found some 40 or 50 others who had responded to Mr. Coulkins Circular. Some were from Iowa, but most were from Ills. In the vicinity of Rock Island. Farmers + Merchants + young men chiefly.
It was a motley crowd.
There was one stumpy little fellow from Iowa who was considered great on a speech. He was called out + “Had to come” + do his best.
9 mos after this I helped bury him in the slope of a field 2 miles south of Corinth, Miss. (June 1862) – He was gunstruck pursuing the C.S. forces after the evacuation of Corinth by Beauregard.
There was another Iowa man with an immense nose, large mouth, smoothly shaven face –long haired + lank. But he was full of fun + gave us many a laugh. He went through the war, but emerged pale, somber + utterly wrecked in health.
There was another young fellow. Long, lank and bow legged, black haired and coarse grained, uncouth, uneducated + clumsy. No one thought he would last, but he did. He was in every camp. Battle + march of the regiment – never flinching, sick, nor hurt. He went home with a robust constitution, corporal stripes on his arm + money in his pocket.
Of that company many were marked for fatal disease. For the balls of the enemy, + they are lying now in unknown southern graves.
Oct. 1. 1861. Marcus Wood + myself chose each other as mates – We had a room + one bed at the hotel + awoke from the night’s sleep refreshed. Ate a hearty breakfast, had my hair cut + then procuring a skiff we rowed across the Mississippi river to Davenport + visited that city. We –
Went up the steep bluff + after seeing all we could we rowed a mile or so up the river under the bridge. A gale came up.
Pictured a Map of the area surrounding Cairo and troop placements
Upper Right hand Corner:
May 27. 1861. Brig Gen. McDowell of Reg. army was appointed to the (Command) of East Va. + what afterwards became the army of the Potomac. He fought Bull Run July 21 1861.
Brig. Gen. McClellan commissioned by gov of Ohio + placed in command of Dept. of Ohio – including Indianna, West PA, + West Va.
May 11. 1861 – McClellan took com’d of army of Potomac in July + Col. Rosecrans succeeded to the command of the Dept. of Ohio.
Lower Left Hand Corner:
July 27 1861, 38,000 at Washington
18.000 at Harper’s Ferry under Patterson
40,000 with Butler at Fort Monroe
“ Banks in Maryland
“ McClellan in West VA
96,000 + about 4000 in MO under Fremont.
(Continued from last page) + we had some difficulty and a drenching of from spray in getting back.
Oct. 2nd Wednesday (Or Thursday) 1861 – wrote a letter home detailing experiences. This p.m. we went out of the city a couple miles + visited Camp Blackhawk where there were about 200 men in tents + sheds + awaiting assignment to their Regt.
Oct 3 Thursday 1861 – A few recruits from Sheffield joined our Co. today. We elected temporary officers.
Ensign Couklin of Rock Island. Ills –Captain
Wm Wilson of Sheffield Ills. 1st Lieutenant.
Robert Adams of _____ Iowa, 2nd Lieutenant.
About 5 P.M. we were embarked on the Steamer Pomeroy for Fort Madison, Iowa. We were furnished such bedding at the Steamer had + slept on the cabin floor. But there was more noise often than sleep.
Oct 4th Friday 1861 – Arrived at Ft. Madison at noon – took cars for Keokuk Iowa, over the roughest 20 miles of RR track I was ever on. Arrived at Keokuk in the evening + remained on a boat until morning
Oct 5th Saturday 1861 – We were embarked on the Steamer St. Louis for St. Louis this A.M. + spent the day + night on the boar we had the floor.
Oct 6th Sunday 1861 – Arrived in St. Louis 9 A.M. + were immediately landed – marched through the city to Benton Barracks (Old fair grounds) ½ miles beyond city limits. The church bells were ringing as we marched + there was a touch of sadness in the sound. The “Barracks” was a large enclosure. Throngs of men – some in uniforms, but mostly in citizen dress greeted our entrance with cries of “roots: i.e. recruits
We reported at the Guard House + were assigned quarters.
Benton Barracks, St. Louis.
In the woods + open ground west of the Barracks were our targets for rifle Practice.
We had the range of a very pleasant country here for several miles. We generally went out from ½ to two miles for target practice. There were open places, corn fields, gullies, oak woods + often as many as 15 to 20 squads were out for target practice at a time.
The bunks were to accommodate 2 men each. With all their equipment + were very comfortable when we had blankets enough.
Pictured Map of Barracks ground. Barracks and Bunks.
Captioned beneath: Open ground used for cavalry + artillery maneuvering+ drill, Several acres in extent.
Caption Right: Benton Barracks could accommodate 30,000 men. I have drawn the general appearance of the camp, but reduced to accommodate 3 regiments or 3000 in place of 30,000 - - When I have drawn a barrack for 1,000 there was room for 10,000 infantry, some artillery had a camp in the rear + west
Caption bottom right corner: The barracks accommodated a company to a section with officer rooms in ends. Cooks in rear + mess tables in the open spaces between sections.
Benton Barracks
Oct 7,8,9,10______fixing our quarters which were in centre barracks (Monday) we had plenty of room but could not get blankets. A thin coarse horse blanket was issued to each man – the nights were frosty + we after woke up benumbed + stiff. We had no straw for our bunks –nor the opportunity of gathering around a fire at night. The rations also were scanty and quite poor. Our first experiences were depressing our citizens clothing old + miscellaneous + our appearance anything but soldierly + gratifying to ourselves.
(Wednesday) On the 9th at night I stood guard for the first time. The “detail” was made out in the morning. We reported at the guard house + were armed with old muskets, carbines + c. My armament consisted of rusty, dilapidated old fashion carbine. I did not know whether it was loaded or not + the lever was so rust I could not work it to find out. My time to serve did not come until night. I was then marched out with several others, on the ‘rounds’ – we numbered some 18 or 20 men –the line of guards was just outside the South + west side of the barracks where there was no fence. At the Q.M ground + at the lockup –there were guards at the Officers quarters in the Guard House + at the gates toward St. Louis – but other places were filled by men who had uniforms and clean guns. Our guard duty was to prevent straying at night from the barracks + to watch the wagons + mules in the Q.M. camp. The operation of relieving first sentinel we came to was a matter of great interest to me. The procession approached him headed by the Corporal of the
On guard at Benton barracks. Wednesday Oct 9, 1861
(Continued from previous page) Guard who was a short, middle aged German to whom English was a mystery. His orders + instructions had to be guessed at. He was a corporal evidently because he had been in the “Landwehr” in the “Faderland” – We approached the Sentinel until suddenly he commanded halt. We halted. Who comes there asked the sentinel – “A friend” – replied the corporal.
“Advance + give the countersign.” Exclaimed the sentinel. The German corporal bidding us stop here went out to the sentinel. Their guns were held, slantingly across their breasts + as they came together were struck + crossed. Then the corporal leaned over + whispered in the sentinel’s ear. The sentinel straightened up and said “Alright” – whereupon the corporal faced about + ordered us to formal march. We marched up to the sentinel and the Corporal said Halt. We halted. + No. 1 was taken out and told to relieve the Sentinel. He performed with his gun as the corporal had done. The sentinel gave the new one his instructions. The corporal assured himself that the new man had the countersign. The old sentinel fell in behind our party + we marched out to the next sentinel. This was repeated at each post, until my number came.
Pictured: Sketch of the new recruits relieving guards.
Writing in journal overlaid by a letter which reads:
Personal – Camp Benton (St. Louis) – I was 16 yrs, 5 months, 5 days old.
Camp Benton, Sunday, Nov, 10th, 1861
Dear Uncle.
As the men are out on parade this will be the best time to write I will get. I wrote to Sister Mary this week in answer to letter she wrote to me. She asked for my likeness. I have not got money enough to get mine taken here now + if it pleases you send her the one I had taken in Sheffield + when I get my uniform I will get mine taken here and send it to you. I was in the Hospital one week + I hope I shall never have to go there again. The Hospital I went to was a very large brick building. It was divided into 9 wards; each ward contained nearly 100 men, some quite that number. The wards were lettered. I was in ward D. There were 6 attendants and 1 female, all are catholic. I had a sickness like that I had when quite harvesting, only more fever. I have not got entirely over it yet, but am gaining a little every day. There have been several sent to the hospital (+)
The Backside of the letter Continues:
Out of our company, but only 1 out of the regiment has died. The medicine you sent me cured me, but it hard stuff to take. I send back many thanks for the box of sweetsmeats sent to me: It was very nice especially the cookies: we cannot get such things here: there are Irishmen who peddle around small cakes for 5c + 10c + they taste like Indian meal dough. Has Henry (Burrows) paid up that money he owed? If he has I wish you would send me 1 dollar. I have been obliged to spend considerable of late for bread to eat, some flaw in the quartermaster’s department. So we did not get any bread for some time + we have had to purchase it off the (sutler) + he sells everything very high. I had to pay 15c for a small square (About a foot) piece of cloth half cotton + half linen for a towel + 35cts for a little diary book. They charge 3c for this sheet of paper + envelope: They cheat like everything. General Curtis has resigned + got a higher officer. He was Brigadier General, he is now Major General. The Generals name is Strong. There is another Camp located a little ways from this. I do not name of it. It is the one (Claire) Jackson was driven out of by one of our generals. General Fremont visits this camp today I shall try to see him if I can. The picture on this paper only represents half of it. 3 rows of barracks are not shown at all, but it was the best I could get. The large house in the back in the background is the commander’s quarters.
On another page the letter continues:
The next time I write I will send a picture of the house in the fairgrounds where we go to meeting Sunday afternoons. I have been every Sunday that I could. There is no probability of our getting our pay for 2 months to come. There was considerable disturbance in St. Louis night before last caused by arrival of Frank Blair something between 1,000 + 2,000 of the friends of Fermont were going to mob Blair. The soldiers + artillery were called out + the mob was compelled to retire. Most all in camp here thing Blair ought to be hung. For my part I know nothing about him. The Sheffield Boys are for the most part in good health. A great many in camp are sick with measles. I am very glad I had them while I was at home. I just throwed in 5c towards buying some sweet potatoes; I’ve got some quite often. They are very nice, cost 80 cts a bushel. My mouth often waters for a bowl of milk + some of grandmother’s nice Indian bread, but I cannot get it. There is an old Irish woman peddles (sour) skin milk 5c a quart. I get a quart once in a while but it (is) not much like home. I was glad to have grandma + aunt Adah write + hope you will write every time: Of course this letter is for you all. Please put in Emma’s letter next time. I will write a small letter to Herman + put it in this + save a postage stamp. Tell Lyford Craig I will write to him soon. I was very glad to get his present of papers + books. We have had a stove put up in the barracks. It is beginning to get quite cold here now. A fine brass band has lately joined the regiments. For some (???)
Continued on Back of 2nd Page:
We have not received our uniforms yet although we have plenty of under cloths. We hope to get it soon anyway. Tell Jeffery he must write to me + not wait for me to write to him. If I knew where to direct my letters I would write to cousin Oscars. Are you all well+ are all my friends in Sheffield well? I hope you and Mrs. (Ensign) will prosper in the store this winter. I think those who run off + leave debts unpaid have more of a desire to get rid of their debts than to serve their country. Has any of the enemy attracted the Home Guards? If so, I have an old rusty musket I will send to Captain Smith to protect himself with. So (???) news good (???)? I got McDowell to direct my letter to you. Please excuse my poor writing + spelling mistakes for I am weak yet + my hand trembles a great deal. Give my love to all + my respect to Mrs. (Ensign) + my friends in Sheffield. Please write me soon as convenient + grandma + aunt Adah write a little too. I like to hear from all.
From your nephew A. W. Bill
On Guard, Benton Barracks Wed. Oct 9 1861
I relieved the sentinel as I had seen the others do + received the countersign “Ticonderoga” the German Corporal could not pronounce it, but I found out what it was from the others + the party went on, leaving me alone in the twilight. My station was near some wagons + horse sheds on the outskirts of Camp near the Q.M Dept. My beat was about 100 yards. At the end of which I met the other guard, but we were not to speak to each other. I trampled back + forth for two hours, - then was relieved 4 hours. Then went on guard again two hours. Then 4 hours relief – then 2 hours Guard as the dawn came. There were reports that Confederate Sympathizers in St. Louis were trying to trouble sentinels + that we had been shot while on guard. This kept me awake + on the alert. I watched + listened carefully. Pointed my rusty old carbine at supposed moving objects two or three times during the night, but came off safely. In the morning a new guard detail came on duty + I was through my first soldierly service. So impressed was I with the duty of not divulging the countersign to anyone except to one who could give it to me that I would not tell what it was for a month afterward. On the 10th (Thursday) I think it was we permanently elected our officers – sergeants + corporals. Oct 11,12,13,14,15,16 (1861) – Secured straw for our bunks – had daily drill – got better rations + began to be quite comfortable.
Our Regiments name is “The Western Sharpshooters.” We are accredited for the present to the state of Missouri + numbered as the 14th MO Infantry, an arrangement
Getting Rifles –Benton Barracks-
(Continued from previous page)
Which does not please the Illinois, Iowa, + Ohio men.
About 20 men in each Co. have been sent to the city to select their rifles. We go to a large Hardware + gun-store “Dimmies” where some 3,000 rifles and accoutrements are collected. The rifles are of all makes – sizes + calibers. They are numbered + each man is allowed to select his rifle, powderhorn, bullet pouch, moulds, capbox. Then to try the rifle 3 weeks when if not satisfied with it, he may select another. When he has a gun which suits him, he keeps it. It is charged to him by number. He is furnished also with a wrench and a screwdriver – powder, bar lead. He must mould his own his own balls. Secure his ball patches, grease (???) (???)
Captioned under Belt:
The belt passed through 2 close loops on the back of the pouch + held it close to the body snug + tight)
Captioned beneath Bag, Horn, and powder tin:
The bullet pouch in which were carried from 40 to 60 bullets according to caliber of rifle – the bullet moulds, the (nipple) wrench + screwdriver – also gun (???) + patches (???) the outside cover was made of Buffalo skin with the hair on.
The powder horn contained our fine grain rifle powder.
Attached is a tin tube to measure the powder + charge with.
Oct. 17, Thursday – Letters from home. 10 more Sheffield men join us. I go on fatigue duty to day – sweeping camp- - - -
Captioned below picture:
Fatigue Duty. Very dusty + fatiguing.
Civil War Photograph
On paper covering page reads the following:
Our regiment was projected by Henry W. Birge, by suggestion I have heard of Gen. J.C. Fremont then com’d Dept. of Mo. Birdge was to be colonel, but for some reason was not assigned to command. Although the regiment was named “Birges Sharpshooters”, “Western sharpshooters, “Squirreltail” 14 Mo Infantry last of all 66th Ills.
In 1863 Birge with commission of Colonel commanded the 3rd Brig. Of 4th Div. 19th A.C at Port (???) pn Miss. River. In March of 1864, he was a Brig. Gen. Com’d the 2nd Brigade of the 2nd Div. 19th A.C. In Red River expeditions performing good service + was (???) (maj) (gen).
The regiments in his brigade were
13th Conn
1 La
90 N.Y.
159 N.Y.
In Hospital – St. Louis Mo, Oct 26 1862
Oct 18th-24 Friday – Thursday – Spent time in daily drill. 4 hours AM + 4 hours P.M .On guard again. A severe diarrhea distresses me in common with many others. It is the effect of the cookery + water. I received a bottle of medicine from home, but it does me no good.
Oct 25 Friday – Diarrhea continues, fever + (???) comes on. Was finally sent to a hospital in the city – the Sisters Of Charity.
Oct 26 + 7 Sat + Sun. In the hospital. It is a large two story + basement building – the ward I am in appears to have 25-30 beds in it most of which are occupied apparently by recruits from the various barracks + camps. Nurses are Roman Catholic women very quiet + pleasant. The drs appear to be army men + one or two civilians – they are very cheery + kind. The ward is clean - warm –fresh + every way agreeable. It is not all the horrible place I had supposed. Yet I feel very lonesome. The soup is palatable + strengthening.
Oct 28th Monday – Feel very much better, but weak. After much begging secure a permit from Dr. to return to my regt. An excuse from duty for 2 weeks. Started out on foot + by resting frequently got as far as to a street car line. Went into a German saloon and bought some cockeys + a very bitter glass of bear. Took a stretch car + rode part way to camp + late in the afternoon reached the barracks.
Oct 29th Tuesday – Lay around
Oct 30th Wednesday – Wrote a letter to Uncle E.
Nov 1st Thursday to 9th Friday – Lay around trying to get well.
Mustered into U.S. Service. Nov 9 1861
Nov 9. 1861 – Mustered into U.S. Service.
We were marched out by companies + formed into line near the upper end of the camp. Then a very small man in uniform with very large brass buttons + shoulder straps took the company in detail. Examining our eyes – having us extend our hands –wiggle our fingers – stamp our feet – turn around + Apparently satisfied with what he saw, he bade us hold up the right hand. Which we did + then each one took by repeating it over after him The oath of allegiance to the U.S. This constituted our muster in for 3 yrs. Or during the war. The little gentleman with Big Buttons is lieutenant Slaymaker U.S. mustering officer for troops at St. Louis.
Nov. 13th Wednesday– Having turned over my accoutrements when sent to hospital I went to “Dimmies” today + selected new ones
Nov 14,15, 16, 17 – Target practice. Many recruits + troops coming in
Nov 18th Monday – Changed our quarters to barracks on opposite side of parade ground. About 30,000 men said to be here. Barracks built for only 15 – 20,000. We are crowded + obliged to “double up”
Nov 19, 20 Tuesday, W – to Dec. 1st. Warm + pleasant days. Target shooting.
Dec 1st Sunday – Our uniforms have come + are distributed. We have the regulation dress with trimmings of green. The hat only is peculiar, it is a gray felt hat 0 with a tuft of black squirrel tails + is front a leather visor.
Drawing Uniforms – Benton Barracks
The cap or hat is quite comfortable in this cool weather – but would be very heavy + hot in summer. Our knapsacks are made of strong muslin cloth tarred + glazed – there is a square part with a light modern frame + a sack part, All weighing perhaps 1 ½ pounds. The straps are leather + it requires practice to pack it, put it on + take it off. Or “Sling” + “wrestling” it. On top are 3 leather stripes to hold the overcoat. The haversack is a bag of light canvas or strong muslin – capable of holding 3 ordinary loaves of baked bread. It has a flap with straps + buckle to cover food from rain + dust – a tin cup buckles in the heap strap. There is a canvas sling to put over neck to carry haversack. Inside we have a tin plate, a knife + fork – an iron spoon.
The canteen is of tin covered with grey woolen cloth. It is suspended from the neck by a cloth strap – it has a tin capped cork which is fastened to the canteen by a light chain. The canteen holds a quarter or 3 pints.
The complete outfit of the individual soldier is –
One rifle – powderhorn + measure – bullet mold – nipple screw – screwdriver – screw for draining ball – ramrod – patches + grease – cap box (???) – powder + lead. Our knapsack – haversack – canteen – cup –plate –knife –fork + spoon. One Blanket – overcoat – dress coat – fatigue sack – hat – fatigue cap – one pair pants – shoes – 2 pr. Woolen socks – 2 woolen shirts – 2 pr cotton flannel drawers – each company has 5 tents – 5 iron camp kettles – a frying pan – an iron spoon – a bugle – a drum + a fife – ale supplied by the U.S. quartermaster
Sham Battle Benton Barracks
Dec 2nd 1861 –Monday to 9th Monday – A letter from home enclosing $3.00.
We have advanced from squad drill to company + battalion drill. On the 7th Saturday or 8th Sunday there was a sham fight on the parade ground between infantry + cavalry. The infantry were drawn up in line across the parade from barrack to barrack. They had two pieces of artillery in the center. The cavalry formed up back of the quartermasters tent + wagons + presently appeared wheeling into line away at the further end of the parade.
The artillery opened at once. The cavalry trotted out in fine style and moved up. The infantry began firing. The cavalry sped up into a gallop + then their rush began. The infantry fixed bayonets + stood at charge. Cavalry fired revolvers – drew sabers + came on – but did not break the lines. They recoiled + retreated + the infantry fired after them. One infantry man was killed by man behind him in rear rank, who became excited + forgot to withdraw his ramrod – the gun went off and drove the ramrod through the head of the man in front.
One horse also became frantic + rushed upon the bayonets receiving a stab in the chest from which he soon bled to death.
The artillery practice considerably, the cavalry also are accustoming their horses to hearing pistol - shots from near their ears
The 2nd Iowa Infantry have come into the barracks from
Picture of General William Sherman.
Benton Barracks Dec 1861
(Continued from previous page) the Battle of Belmont. They have their slightly wounded with them. They are dressed in the handsome gray uniforms of the state of Iowa + make fine appearance. But this gray uniform cause(s) them to be mistaken for enemy + gave difficulty.
These men are heroes of the barracks.
Bought a large Bowie knife for $2.00
Had a (???) of myself in uniform, knife (???) taken.
I look like a (beau) (pole) supporting a cannon.
Dec. 10th Tuesday – 11th Wednesday – We receive notice that we may be called upon “to march” pretty soon. This produces a great excitement. Marching Orders is the talk. There are many conjectures as to our destination. Everyone writes letters home. We practice packing knapsacks + wonder how we are to crowd all supposed necessary articles in + if we will be able to carry the load. Not one of us but jams in three times as much as can be carried.
The regiment appears to be very nearly full. We have seen the man who is said to be our Lieut. Col. But have not seen our Colonel Major or Adjutant. We member probably 900 men. We have a rather shabby looking brass ban + the performance of the band is worse than the appearance. We are none of us well drilled – our heavy rifles made only for shooting prevent much exercise in the maneuver of arms + we cannot make much of a soldierly shout.
Another picture of General William T. Sherman and captioned
Residing in New York after the war until his death
Departure From Benton Barracks – Dec, 12 1861 (Thursday)
Dec, 12th Thursday -1861- Today we are off for the wars – At an early hour we were ordered to fall in + soon our line stretched out finely. We are kept waiting sometime. Some men of a Missouri Co. are crazy with whiskey – they set fire to an old house in the rear of the barracks + one man is badly pounded in a fight. About 10 A.M. the command rings out – “Attention – shoulder arms – right face – forward march – file right march” + we go through St. Louis to the depot of the North Mo. RR. Arriving at the depot we wait a couple of hours. The day was very bright + warm. Our huge knapsacks with haversacks having 3 days cooked rations –our bullet pouches having 60 bullets – powder – canteens of water (???) have brought out the perspiration plentifully + everyone is busy( physicking) his knapsack. This one march of 2 miles or more has forced the conclusion that we had more in our knapsacks than we needed. After this the amusements vary from rifle shooting across the Mississippi – to sleeping – cord playing – talking + loafing.
Some time afternoon we are a aboard a train of cars + pull slowly out of the city away toward St. Charles MO arriving there in the evening. We are ordered off the cars and wait around in the twilight until finally we are all got across the Missouri river on ferry boats. We take the cars on the opposite bank + proceed on our way. The train runs very irregularly making frequent stops. Outside it is as dark as pitch. Finally a hurried order comes to
On the Cars, North MO RR Dec 12 1861 Thursday
(Continued from previous page) load + be ready to repel an attack. We load our rifles for rebels. It is the first time we have ever done this + many of us are fidgety + nervous. We are moving out into the center of MO. + bushwackers are reported to be around. For an hour we keep up careful watch + then doze off to sleep. I slept an hour or so sitting in my seat when between 3 + 4 A.M. there came a crack which threw me upon the floor and woke me up. I listened – all seemed still – I felt if myself. There were glass splinters on me, but no cuts + no broken bones. For a moment I supposed we had been fired into by artillery. Then the cars swayed and creaked some + I heard a groan. A moment later lights appeared outside and voices were heard. Then we saw what had happened. The end of the car was completely smashed in. 5 Men were more or less hurt one fatally. My seat was about the 6th from the end. The men hurt were near the down the platform. We now learned that the coupling had broken. The forward coaches had gone quite a distance before it was discovered. The engineer was ordered to turn back + recouple. He ran back so rapidly + so carelessly as to collide with our car + smash it – He was suspected of treachery. A man was placed at his side with a revolver + the rest of the trip was made without incident.
Friday Dec. 13th 1861 –
About 4 PM arrived at Centralia a small town in Boone Co. MO. Here we left our train – got off our tents + baggage + proceeded to form an encampment.
At Centralia, MO, Dec. 12 – 1861 – Friday
For the first time in our lives we handled + put up tents. There were 5 tents to a company each one capable of holding 20 men. So we were not crowded. They were round. Wall of tents of a French Pattern + we thought they would be very comfortable, + that camping out was not so bad.
We made many failures in putting them up aright + in the right place. Finally we got ours up + others got theirs up + we now beheld the tented field.
The company letters were now assigned (???) + I found that I belonged to Co. I Capt Ensign Couklin of the 14th M Infy W.S.S. – to be commanded by Col. Birge who was just now sick at St. Louis. We got out our camp kettles gathered full + the cooks proceeded to boil some coffee + meat + this with bread (???) in our haversacks made us our first meal in the field. By this time it was dark. Roll was called + we went to bed.
Scouting Expedition
But we were not left to an undisturbed repose. Towards morning one shot was heard on the picket line – the bugler blew an alarm. The word to fall in was passed from tent to tent + in a few minutes we were all up + in great confusion. One man lit a candle + another blew it out lest the enemy “Should be guided in firing by the light. Then in the darkness we tried to find our guns + accoutrements. Some got the wrong guns + could not get a bullet in – or a man with small bullets got a gun of large caliber into which he bullet dropped like a pea. Some went out in stacking feet. Some coatless + some hatless. Finally a line was formed + we moved out back of the tents towards the prairie. A skirmish line was formed which went forward but found nothing. One of the pickets had fired in the darkness at some moving object. That was all. So we retired again + slept until morning.
Dec 14th Saturday – Fixing camp. Some teams impressed from farmers.
Dec 15 Sunday – 1861 – Company A. I were detailed for a scouting expedition into the country. Three impressed teams were taken to convey our tents + rations + blankets. We each carry one blanket rolled up + strung over the shoulder – our guns – ammunition + some cooked rations in haversack. We see hardtack for the first time. Our march began about 8 A.M. We went some 9 miles today – our first military march + camped in a field by the road about 4 PM. My big bonnie knife was called into requisition to butcher some sheep + one beef – to furnish meat for the command. We put up our tents + retired early.
Scouting Expeditions, Boon Co, MO Dec 16th- Monday
Dec 16th, 1861. We Break camp early this morning + march on from 10 to 15 miles through farms and stretches of oak woods. We find apples + fresh meat in abundance. I have a hard cold which keeps me coughing + breaks up my sleep at night. Dec 17th – “Marching on”
Dec 17th – Still marching on through the woods + over the farms, we find no organized force of enemy. But exchange now and then a shot with ‘Guerillas’
Dec 18th – Wednesday – Today we return to camp having moved around one side, the camp in a half circuit + marched some 50 miles. We have captured 5 prisoners.
Dec 19th – Thursday – We are ordered out again today. Taking a N.W. general direction. This time we carry for rations only hardtack, coffee, + salt, relying on the country for all (we) needed. 9 Teams impressed from the farms go with us this time. We march 16 miles easily
Dec 20. Friday – Today we approach a hill over which the road pauses. + the men string along down the road side + on the banks in the corners of the rail fence + c toward the foot. Suddenly – there is a cry “Look our” + the next instant we hear – “fall in” – looking up we see a group of “Butternuts” on horses on the hill. They are as much astonished as we + before either party can fire. They are turned + fled down the road away from us at a great pace. Our men rush up + fire upon them, killing 3, wounding 5, + taking 2 prisoners – capturing also the Co Roster.
Christmas 1862, Wed Dec. 25
We then followed the enemy for several miles, but saw no more of him.
Dec 20th – Friday, Marched on through the village + went into camp, far away – where we remained until the 25. Our rations begin to get low + foragers go out, bringing in meal.
Dec 25th –Wednesday – 1861 – Christmas Day –
During our camping out here we had been joined by Co F + C of our own regiment. And Co A of the 6th MO. Capt. Weller, this company was armed with Springfield muskets + had bayonets. They were a welcome addition. We were now 5 companies or about 400 men. Capt. Weller, holding the oldest commission took command of the entire force. Christmas day was rainy + warm. Toward evening it grew colder + snowed some. By midnight it was bitter cold. I was detailed for picket duty. 2 hours on + 4 off. Our pickets were not grouped, but placed on beats, like camp guards + some ¾ mile from camp. We had heard rumors of rebel gatherings nearby + some negores had reported that our camp was to be attacked Christmas night. Our instructions as pickets prohibited us from moving about as much as usual on the beat + from talking with the man on adjacent beat. We were also to keep a very sharp look out for a surprise.
All this served to keep me awake + nervous + besides this, it was deemed so dangerous to relieve pickets that tonight we were to go 4 hours on + 2 hours off. I went on at 6pm stood my 4 hours until 10 and was relieved. At 12 I went on again + it was stinging cold. All had been quiet + the camp was asleep
Christmas 1861 - Wednesday
Our careful instructions were repeated to us + then we went out + silently relieved those on post. My post this time was near a tall hickory tree in a pasture which had patches of hazel bushes here + there over it. (???) oak + hickory trees were scattered around _ on the right the pasture was bounded by heavy timber. The light snow had frozen crisp+ made the open spaces look clear + white while bushes + timber looked black + lonesome. In front of me there was a slight depression which sloped away into a ravine full of bushes. That ravine (???) down + lost in the dark distance + woods was a suspicious looking place to me from the first + I kept special watch upon it. There was no disturbance however anywhere for about half an hour + I had become somewhat familiar with my surroundings when away off in the woods to the right some dogs began to bark. This aroused my suspicion of some movements of men in that direction. Presently away off in front of me a shower of sparks shot upward as from the chimney of some large fireplace. So I said to myself. The people are certainly getting up. Nothing followed from all this however + I began to get quiet again when – what was that? A slight crunching sound as of a footstep on the frozen snow – There! – I heard it again + again – my ears were now strained to listen and distinctly in the distance – away down in the gloom of that ravine
Picket Guard, Christmas 1861 Wednesday
I heard approaching footsteps softly + slowly crunching the shallow snow. I could make out about the number, some 18 or 20. It certainly is an attack on the pickets I said. Looking behind me toward camp I marked out my line of retreat picking out some large trees to keep between myself + “The enemy” as much as possible.
Then I laid myself flat down on the ground slightly sheltered by the root of the tree I was under + watched + listened. Slowly the footsteps approached + now I could see the tops of the bunch move + waver. They are coming on their hands + knees I said- I cocked my rifle + aimed it toward the moving bushes. The footsteps came on. My excitement rose + then cooled down again. I did not feel the cold. My heart beat like a double force pump. Presently the bushes panted slowly + a white face appeared. I covered it with my rifle + waited. The face pushed forward slowly – then the shoulders + in a moment there stood before me looking around a large white sheep. + in a few moments more some 20 followed.
I uncocked my rifle + got up. I could have taken that sheep in my arms with a grateful hug. Then I realized how cold I was + began to walk + stamp around to get warm. It was not near 2 o’clock morning of the 26th – but more stirring events than my private scare were to come. Before my time was out I was relieved + ordered to join my company in camp. I found the Co. up + preparing to march. I fell into my place in line. A few who were
Mule Lane, MO, Christmas 1861, Wednesday
(Continued from page previous) unable to march were left to look after camp + the teams. We were out on an expedition planned to surprise + capture a camp of rebels ascertained to be lying about 3 or 4 miles away. The expedition consisted of Cos A, C, + I of the W.S.S. + Co A of the 6th MO. Infy under command of Capt Weller. 20 of our men were mounted on confiscated horses, 9 were to ride in advance as scouts + be our “Cavalry”. We were given a sort of watchword by which to know each other in the dark. This was “Wilson’s Creek” – after the battle fought –
We were now on a rather narrow road of half-frozen + deep mud. With high rail fences on both sides. Suddenly above our footsteps we heard the hurrying advance of our 20 “Cavalrymen” - They were coming on the gallop. We were halted. Co A. of the 6th MO in advance (faced) across the road. Cos. C + F W.S.S. were to go to the left over the fence to join our Co. A 6th MO. We of Co. I were to go to the right + form on the right of Co A. 6th MO. + Co A. W.S.S. was to join on our immediate right. Co. F. was considerably in the rear. Co. A 6th MO opened its front + let the scouts through. It then closed ranks and began firing into what appeared to be a body of horsemen following the scouts. Co A + C of our regts hurried into their places. Co I also – when we were interrupted by a fire in our rear which drove the scouts back upon us with
A newspaper clipping on this page reads:
Summary of Bill.
The bill sponsored by Senator Harold indorsed by the G.A.R. National Legislative Committee printed in the adjoining columns follows the wording of the present law governing pensions except in the figures of increased rates and in certain wording as pointed out below. It complies absolutely with the recommendations of the national encampments of the G.A.R. of 1924 + 1925.
Section I grants a flat rate of $72 per month to all survivors of the Civil War and Mexican War now on pension rolls.
Section 2 grants $125 per month to those so totally helpless and disabled as to require the regular personal aid and attendance of another person.
Section 3 increases the rate of pension of the maimed soldiers of all war periods to rates ranging from $85 to $125 per month. A similar section is carried in the Spanish War pension bill and was contained in the bill introduced by Senator Barsum and was satisfactory to the National Maimed Soldiers League.
Section 4 increases the rate of pension of all civil war widows now on the rolls to $50 per month; increases the allowance for minor children to $8 per month and raises the age limit to 18 years for such minor children. This section also carries a proviso placing widows married to a veteran since June 27, 1905 on the same rating as other widows provided they had lived with their soldier husband for five years preceding his death unless such marriage was terminated sooner by reason of death of such veterans.
Section 5 increases the rate of pension to army nurses to $50 per month maintaining the same relative standing as the widows.
Section 6 fixes the date of commencement of payment of the increases provided for at the approval of the act for all now on the pension roll and at date of application for new pensioners.
Section 7 provides that pension to men on the medal of Honor roll shall be in addition to any other pension granted.
Section 8 fixes the amount of fee of attorneys and provides penalties for violation of that section
Section 9 provides for conflict of this bill with former acts
Mule Lane. Christmas 1861 Wednesday
(Continued from page previous) a rush. My place in the Co. Lone was near the rear of (left in front) coleman Most of the Co. were over the fence, but a number of us who had been obliged to wait were yet in the road. The frightened scouts came riding upon us. Their horses leaping + themselves shouting. In the darkness we could not tell who they were. We supposed that we had been surprised by a party of mounted rebels who had broken through Co. F in the rear + were now riding upon us. A large gray horse ran next to me + I struck him with my gun to keep him off. The man on his back was yelling + it seemed to me as if he was trying to hold the horse back, but in the excitement I could not tell. I cocked my rifle + placed it up almost 3 feet from the man’s body
But I did not set the trigger – nor fire. The firing all around now was rapid + bullets were humming + striking the rails. In a second more the horse backed away + I was free. Seeing the opportunity I darted in between some rails + got over the fence, expecting every moment to feel a sabre cut or pistol shot. But I got over all right + joined my company now in line. A moment more + the firing was over. Then we found out what it was all about. The 20 scouts moving cautiously along through the dark came upon a drove of mules, loose in the road. Examination satisfied them that there was a body of mounted men behind the mules + that the loose drove of mules was being driven along toward camp for a blind. Immediately they turned + moved back toward our columns. The mules followed + the faster
Christmas 1861 Wednesday.
(Continued from previous page) Our movement, the faster the mules went. By the time the scouts reached us the mules were close by + the advance Co. across the road had difficulty in keeping them from going through when the scouts went through. But they succeeded + not knowing what the mules were – supposing them to be a mass of rebel cavalry – they immediately opened fire upon them. This was the firing in front. In the rear Co. F never having been out before forgot about the cautions given as to our 20 mounted scouts + hearing the firing in front+ immediately after the rush of the 20 scouts galloping to the rear – they supposed the 20 scouts were rebel cavalry who had broken through the front line + at once opened fire on them killing two men + 2 horses dead. One man was named Kyle + was in Co I from Sheffield. He was shot through the heart. 5 mules were shot dead + a number wounded.
The 2 dead men were placed in a wagon + taken back to camp. Whither we all sadly marched. After reforming we started out again under guide I think of a negro + in the gray light of a winter morning. Dec 26 Thursday 1861 – arrived at the rebel camp. The fires were burning – we deployed + advanced cautiously, but found the camp deserted. After lingering awhile + scouting through the woods we returned back to our camp + buried our dead.
Mrs. Phillips told me that a guerilla leader “Bill Anderson” had a sharp fight at Centralia about 2 weeks after the Mt. Zion fight. + there shot 8 federals after they had surrendered + that he was a terrible “Mean man(???)” – shooting all he could in the head – she thinks her brother was shot that same way afterward in revenge by a federal wounded Bay
Map indicated the area covered by Bill marking such things as the car line and the Mule Lane Incident.
Second map illustrates settlements of the United States over time.
March to Columbia, MO, Dec. 27 1861
Dec. 27th. 1861, Friday – Today we are ordered to move to Columbia the county seat of Boon Co. MO. Our march thither was uninterrupted + we arrived before night. The town has some 2,000 inhabitants. The University of the State of MO is located here with quite a fine campus. We made the college our quarters using the recitation rooms to sleep in. The town was levied upon for rations + we got a supply of soft bread, fresh beef, + molasses of which all partook freely + which acted as a prompt + potent physic. We remained in Columbia 2 days - + had imposing parades on the campus without 4 companies (For Co. F returned to the regiment) + our 1 fife and 2 miserable drums.
On the 30th – Monday – Dec at 2 in the morning we were ordered to move with the utmost possible silence + haste + so deftly left we the town that no one knew of our departure so far as we could learn.
All through the night we marched rapidly on - + all the a.m. of the 31st Tuesday – arriving before noon at Sturgeon on the North MO RR. A short distance from Centralia (About 16 miles) – but 25 miles from Columbia. We made the march in a very little over 10 hours. At Sturgeon we learned of the successful engagement at Mt. Zion (M.E. Church – in which 5 companies of the W.S.S.(A,B,D,F,H) with 3 companies of the 5th Ohio Cavalry under Gen. Prentiss has on the 28th defeated 700 rebels. Only 150 of our men with the cavalry were in the fight. 6 of our men were killed + 15 wounded. Of the rebels some 150 were K + W,
As the result of our expedition we bought I 35 prisoners + lost 2 of our men killed
[(???) 2, 1890. I met a Mrs. Phillips at Hot Springs Ark, who lives some 5 miles NE of Mt. Zion church + who remembered the battle at the church. She said the rebel force at Mt. Zion came from below the Missouri river. None there were immediate inhabitants. After the battle they scattered + went back across the river, Mrs, Phillips said she + all her neighbors expecting (???) man were confederate (???) sentiment. She had a brother killed in 1864,]
Jan 1st, Wednesday, 1862 to Feb 3, Monday – 1862 – At Sturgeon we joined the
Written in red ink, top of the page: Jan 19 1862 Batt. Of Mill Springs Thomas + Zollicaffer. Thomas defeated + killed Zollicaffer thus holding Eastern Ky + Cumberland Gap.
Jan 27th. Gen. Beauregard appt to Com’d CSA in west.
Jan 31. Foates flotilla of 12 gunboats + 126 guns fitted out at St. Louis –
STURGEON MO, to Feb 3 1862, Monday –
(Continued from previous page_ regiment + went into winter quarters. We put up our tents + made them warm. A house was used for our guard house + gunsmith shop. A large building was fitted up for a hospital + during the winter there was quite an epidemic of small pox – Capt. Wellers’ Co. remained with us part of the winter. We had abundant rations. My health was excellent + I went on guard of picket duty about every other night. Our camp guard was on a line around the camp some 400 yards out - + the pickets were in groups of 2 + 3 with reserves some mile or more out. There were two (???) bridges near town to guard + we had frequent alarms + “Fall out” – but no serious skirmishing –
Picture of Counties and RR systems with levels. And a portrait of Maj. Gen. Sterling Price
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