CIVIL WAR JOURNAL OF JAMES B. LOCKNEY
WIS. 28th REGMT., CO. G
February 1865
Copyright © 1986, 1997-2018 [James R. Shirey]. All rights reserved.
Camp 14 miles from Pine Bluff
February 1st, Wednesday 1865
After halting yesterday P.M. all were busy preparing for a
good sleep. A large no. of cattle were driven from the Saline River & some
were butchered last evening, but our mess did not use any as the quality was
very poor. I think our Co. cooked very little that was drawn. I was
up late cooking salt meat & others used the kettle afterward.
We started early our Co. in the advance & Co. A rear guard. Our Regt. was
in the extreme rear & there was much confusion much of this way as the train
filled the road & often occupied both sides of it. We gained slowly &
found the road deep & miey [?], almost impassible in many places. Teams
steamed as they tugged the heavy wagons through the quick sand bottom that
underlie much of the road. Only four days rations are taken with us for
teams & troops. The pontoon train was the hardest to get along & I saw a
part of the floor or track way piled by the way side. This should all have
been left at Pine Bluff & sent to Little Rock on boat or new stuff got there.
We passed 10 or 12 wagons stuck fast in the mud as deep as some of the hubs.
Few would wish to be a teamster or wagon master at such a time as this.
How little of the labor is done by officers; such as working trains
through though they so often get so much or all the Praise. We camped
about 14 miles from Pine Bluff & about 3 miles in rear of the rest of the force.
We stopped about 3 P.M. but were kept waiting till near dark before we went into
camp. We had a dark & dreary task to hunt wood for fire for though we
camped in the woods such was the scarcity of axes that the main dependence was
on wood that we could pick up. I went about in my blowse while others wore
rubbers. We made a fire & put up four blankets for roof, & lay down on oak
leaves & on the rubbers. Day was showery so rubbers were generally used.
Most are tired. I feel well.
Last night we heard Ft. Fisher in N.C. is
ours. I doubt it a little.
Camp at Rock Springs
February 2d, Thursday 1865
Last night many in our Co. were in want of wool blankets as
some of them put theirs in the wagon & the wagons were ahead too far to go for
them. I had my overcoat which I wore & I slept very well, waking but two
or three times in the night. Some of the boys made coffee but I used none.
I cooked a cup of ginger tea with sugar in it & ate some toasted bread.
I heard Reville this morning, but did not heed it & so I slept well afterward.
We had but a short time preparing for starting this morning & many picked out
their guns in the twilight & with nothing eaten for breakfast till after we
started. Rain fell all night & when we began to move today, & continued
till about noon when we reached this place 18 miles from Pine Bluff. We
find here the whole Inf. force in camp. I heard some of the Cav. say they
were going through, to start today; for a long time we were in doubt
whether we would start this P.M. but four from our Co. were detailed for Picket
about 2 P.M. I am one & Lewis. We regretted that it was our turn,
but since we rejoiced as very heavy details for fatigue were made to help get
the wagons out that were [stuck] fast. We have a good post where 10 of us stop.
We have but one on at night & none in day time.
Night before last Lt. Col. Gray was absent from camp till midnight & was not
with the Regt. from the time that we reached town. I heard a reliable
Capt. say he was on a spree & came drunk to camp. After that he made
trouble with Dr. Smith's servant--a colored boy & during his ravings threatened
to shoot him. Our old Luther[?] Fellows goes to Little Rock & furnishes
drink for Gray as they are fast friends (?) or enemies rather. I heard him
--G-- utter a vile obscenity in reference to Act. Adj. Hopper, with whom Gray
became dissatisfied yesterday P.M. & appointed Lt. Bingham of E. Co. in his
place. This is no improvement in any way, but Gray will be better suited
at least for a time.
Marching to Little Rock
February 3d, Friday 1865
As I was just speaking of Gray in my last page, there are two incidents that occurred
the same day, which I will mention. I judge he
was more or less influenced by strong drink all the day & the effects of his
carousal the night before. Once in the P.M. when resting he was near me &
I watched him attentively wondering at his odd grimaces & gazed on him more in
pity than in hate or envy--for I know but few persons so pitiable as he
notwithstanding his tolerable abilities & what many think his present high
position. At length he noticed my gaze & he made a remark to A.D.
Foster--our Co. orderly. I did not distinctly hear what he said, but
thought he told F[oster] to ask me what I would write in my book or diary about the incidents of the day. He has spoken to me once in a jesting way about the
book I was writing--A His[tory] of the War & of the 28th Regt. &c. I much
regret I cannot respect this man, for it would be a pleasure to me to have a man
Chief in Com. in our Regt. whose habits, manners, & principles made him worthy of
every persons respect & confidence; one whose influence would be for
virtue, truth, temperance & true manliness among the Company Officers as well as
among the men. I am convinced that his power is only for drunkenness,
gambling, & licentiousness for so I judge all feel his power that come under its
sway. Later he noticed how sad or stern I looked & at this tried to
create laughter at my expense. I judge he know I think of him not too
highly & tries thus to jest at the lack of respect the men feel toward him.
I have said & felt that in view of his course during the last year & 1/2. I
would prefer to have any other officer in our Regt. to have the honor--which he
would think so great of commanding the Regt. on our return home. This I
would consider in some measure a punishment for his various flagrant acts &
excesses.
I slept well last night & was on Post as vidette from about 4 to 5 1/4 A.M. We
started early at daylight & travelled rapidly till 1 1/2 P.M. when we went
into camp where we stopped the 2d night out. Day was bright & warm.
Roads
muddy & surface wet. Some threw Koats and blankets away. I feel very
well.
On the Marching to Little Rock
February 4th, Saturday 1865
Last night was clear & starry & the clear moonlight afforded
relief after so dreary & wet a season.
We occupied the same camp as on
our 2d night out & were very glad to find everything in order as when we
left it. There was but a short supply of wood but as the air was not so
cold as in the first part of our trip, we did not feel the need of it.
Lewis & I lay out with no roof over us but that of Heaven, as he threw his
wool blanket [away] we had but mine over us & two rubbers over that.
We wore our Great Coats & stockings, & I was warm & comfortable all
night. We started early, just about daylight. The sky was soon
overcast with clouds, & the day was cloudy & cool. We marched
rapidly all day taking rests of 10 to 20 minutes every hour or so. The
roads were much better than before, though mud made it difficult to march afoot,
but the wagons had much less difficulty than before. We reached our camp
at Little Rock about 3 P.M. & great was our joy to be back again in our
home. We felt anxious while coming lest we would go into camp along the
way & I was very desirous that we should come the whole distance.
Others were less so than I for they were less enthusiastic & hearty than I
for my feet & joints were in good order. Some of the boys were
entirely destitute of rations having had none for breakfast or dinner. Our
Co. had a box of tack divided last night, of which about 4/5 were good. I
gave all that I drew to some of the Co. C boys about noon today & very glad
were they to get some though what I had were not first rate. On our
arrival here there was not much display, which was all very pleasing to us
all. I was often cheered while treding through the mud at the prospect of
having good news from home waiting for me. Matt wrote three pages of note
paper date 14th. All were well. Matt had a severe cold which made
him uncomfortable, but John felt as well as ev if not better. Father &
Mother were both well! Maria wrote a full sheet of large letter dated 10th
inst. She & all her people were well. She still attends school
which goes on well. I feeel very well. Hinkley is still sick.
Camp at Little Rock
February 5th, Sunday 1865
Yesterday before we reached camp, we heard that 6 or 7 Regt's
were ordered several days ago to go from this place to New Orleans, & also
that our Regt. was one of those selected to go. I heard not a word of
complaint or dissatisfaction uttered by any of our boys, but on the contrary all
seemed well pleased at the change, for all, or most feel tired of staying in
Ark. as we have been here about two years. Our Regt. is in good order,
healthy, large & efficient for there are about 550 men fit for duty.
All is hurry & bustle, for much is to be done in every Regt. to prepare for
the movement. Still things move in the usual way, for officers pass the
time in drunkenness which should be devoted to the careful selection &
inspection or rations, &c. on which so much depends the health &
efficiency of the troops, & the success of the campaign. We heard
reports that several Regts. had already gone, but this was incorrect. Great
was our joy to lay down our heavy burthens borne so many long miles.
Many of the boys indulged in the luxury of a good wash & a change of their
clothes worn 14 days, for some nice & clean. I had such a pleasure,
yet my sleep was not sound or refreshing as on the march. All in our
quarters slept till after daylight, so we were late all day. I washed some
clothes for myself & Lewis, & finished before noon. I would not
do this on the Sabbath day but we do not know how soon we may start. Some
think we will go by R.R. to Deval's Bluff & down White Riv., though we may
go down the Ark. River.
Last night burst the bubble of
Bence's marriage which took place several months ago at Pine
Bluff. He brought her here about two months ago & I think he better
deserves six feet of good rope than anything else. He is an experienced
raskal! I desired to go to church, but could not do so. I washed my
buckskin gloves today. I still cough often but it is not severe.
Last night was rainy & hail fell & covered the ground this A.M. I
am well!
Little Rock, Ark
February 6th, Monday 1865
Little or no duty, all our time to ourselves. Rations
not too abundant or palatable, no one having much money & most none at
all. All greedy for soft bread & longing for the four days rations
that are promised to begin tomorrow, all ready to move anywhere in 12 hours
notice. Few roll calls in our Co. & often none. Anxious
for pay before we leave that we start not destitute & pennyless, such is the
order of the day, the state that rules in our Regt. & in other
Regiments. It was daylight before we rose this morning & about
daybreak we heard loud shouting made in the camp of the 77th Ohio Regt. as they
started to take the train to Deval's Bluff to proceed thence down White River on
boats, when all the troops are ready. Day was cloudy & not very
pleasant, nor yet cold. We had mail this A.M. I got a letter from
Matt of 24 ult. & a good pair of home-made stockings from Mother. All
were well & happy. Father rode to Muskego on 21st ult. He was so
well & the day was very pleasant, after visiting about he got home at dark
safe & well. When he came home he said he enjoyed the ride on
horseback very well, & was not cold. Mother is first rate. What
glad tidings!! Thanks & Glory to God!!! Little Winnifred was
sick. How I hope she is long since well! 24th was very cold.
On 21st Matt thrashed last year's crop of wheat--two bushels!!!
This P.M. Lewis & I went to town to get some camp
supplies. I had an order for 21 rations of soft bread, but Post bakery is
out of order so I got none. We bought a coffee pot 1 1/2 gallon size for
$1.50, also a fry pan for same price. As we had a short dinner each of us
felt hungry & bought two dry apple pies each. All four cost 50 cts.
I paid 50cts for one!! Stick of liquorice for my cough. Old price
was 10cts. I sold sugar for 25cts a lb. for Heaton, Hinkley, &
I. Amount $1.40. Jocobi is in the Co. well.
Camp at Little Rock
February 7th, Tuesday 1865
Night before last I went to our Capt's' room & found
Gilbert alone, it was then about 9 PM & it was 11 when we parted. I
read a letter from Myron at Madison & one that his sister Sarah wrote to
him. He said she wrote the longest & best letters that he got from his
sisters. She wrote the four pages close full & this is just the kind
of letter that a thoughtful soldier enjoys. Sunday, Moore began a huge
washing for most of the boys & though he worked late into the night--till 11
or 12, yet he hardly finished till next morning. The whole amounted to
about $6. This is the largest job of washing yet done that I know
of. Last night I read in Chicago Tribune of 30 ult. till a late
hour. I afterward had a sound sleep till daylight. I got a Harper's
Weekly of 4th inst. On the last page the comic illustration is very apt,
showing very clearly John Bull's surprise at finding his market for his
combustibles & other vegetables shut up & secured by a strong padlock
marked U.S. Surely this is a joke with a very sharp point to
it! Day began clear & bright but the air was raw all day & PM was
cloudy, so altogether it was unpleasant.
The late mission of Blair to Richmond was for his own private
interests & all rumors of Peace to which his two visits thither gave rise
are without foundation, as Davis still talks of recognition &
independence!! Richmond papers say J.C. Breckenridge has been appointed
Sec. of War. The rebel Gen. J.B. Hood was relieved of Com of S.E. rebel
army at Tupelo, Miss. about 23d ult. & Dick Taylor succeeds him. A
part of our force in Tenn. 23d Schofield's Corps goes E. to join
Sherman.
Mail came & I got a letter from Maria of 24 ult. mailed
27th. Good news. All well. I sent one to her & one to Matt
this PM. 77th O. & 27th Wis. started 2PM + Wilimington, NC. W.H.
Smith cut my hair today. I mended my overcoat today. A.S Kendrick,
our Adj. is returned to Regt. for duty.
Little Rock, Ark
February 8th, Wednesday 1865
No roll call this morning, so we lay till daylight. It is otherwise in other companies, so our advantages are due to Capt. Orderly Sergt. John O'Brien of Co H recd his Com. yesterday as 1st Lieut. & was mustered in the same day. He takes Chandler's place who was lately discharged. Yesterday one of the teamsters in the Regt. refused to hitch his team up--or rather to harness them--because of their poor condition as fodder is in very short supply.. Soon the Regt. Q.M. St. Collier came to our Co & ordered one of the guards to bring him in arrest before Col. Gray. Today he carried a piece of wood on his shoulder by way of punishment one of the guards walked beside him. In any case that involves no principle of right, obedience is the best & pleasantest course in the Army. Today I had a long & heavy job cleaning my gun as I had not touched it since we returned from our trip. I took the lock off & got the barrel out of the stock & gave it a thorough brightening. There was great activity today in our Co packing things that the boys wished sent home. Overcoats, blankets, &c. were made into rolls to be packed in one or two large boxes all to be sent to V. Tichenor in Waukesha, if the proper permits be obtained! I sent a wool & a rubber blanket & a horse comb besides a large slate & book of scraps. My bundle weighed 15 lbs. Today Alexander McNeill brought his traps to Co. having reported for duty in the Co. last evening. McKee & Draper were ordered to report today but have not yet arrived from Pine Bluff. Jacob H. Gelzer was detailed as Co. cook in place of E.P. Hinkley who was unable to do duty. He cooks with one assistant chosen every day for 1/2 the Co. Yesterday our Co drew four days rations of hard bread & about 1/10 of it was damaged & unfit for use. This came instead of the soft bread we expected but which the break in the ovens prevented us from getting. Some of the boys soak the crackers & fry them in fat & thus all will be eaten tonight. We have but little of anything to eat & very little money. All mine is gone. The 9th Wis. are on provost duty today for the first time. It requires 80 privates about 100 all told daily. Morning was bright. Day cloudy & cold.
Camp at Little Rock
February 9th, Thursday 1865
There was some fear expressed last night that we should suffer from the cold, as some of our best blankets were packed up. Some proposed that three lie together & join blankets, but this was not done. Hinkley & I slept warm & comfortable till daylight. The first sound I heard this morning upon awakening was that of McKee & Draper, both of whom came upon the boat last night. They find a very different state of affairs in our way of living from that which they so lately enjoyed at Pine Bluff. There they [had] all, or most of the comforts of home, with no exposure & plenty to eat. We have very short supplies, in fact all our rations of sugar, bread &c. were used last night. Last night we cooked a kettle full of rice which we had for breakfast & we had a bean soup for dinner. It was very much soup & very few beans!! Our peas were used long ago, but our salt pork still lasts & yesterday we drew fresh beef. Coffee & sugar & tea are of little account to me; but to others they are nearly as necessary as bread. We got an officer's requisition for bread--one loaf apiece--but none would be sold at post commissary as the means at command are too limited to afford a full supply. We felt determined not to yield at this so we got an officer's requisition for 90 lbs. of flour as we have baker kettles so we could make biscuit. I & two others went with this about 10 1/2 AM but this was refused, as the clerk said the officer must himself be present. On the way back to camp I bought a loaf at City Bakery for 25cts. I had borrowed 10cts. of this, & as Moore got a requisition for the Co. Mess which had to be taken to Division H'd Qu'rt'rs for approval. I borrowed 25cts more to make my share. Moore tried once more & succeeded! We had good biscuit for supper. Lewis & I were on fatigue PM. We went to post Q.M. office & drew a large quantity of clothing for our Regt. Pants, blouses, Great Coats, socks, boots, rubber blankets, canteens & haverssacks. Day was bright & clear. Air was cold. Moon is full. Edward Everett died in Boston on 15 of January. His was a quick & worthy life.
Camp at Little Rock
February 10th, Friday 1865
How strange a place I occupy this beautiful, clear, moonlit night. How calm & soft is the air & the full moon is indeed as large as the Irishman's Cartwheel, for it is full & truly an object worthy of our admiration & cause for deepest thanks to our bountiful Creator whose love has no end. How grand & lovely a day was this, sky was clear, air pleasant, & the breeze just strong enough to make our largest starry flag in sight wave so as to show it in all its beauty & grandeur, & all that admirable loveliness that it presents to the eye of the enthusiastic Union soldier. We were not up till sunrise, but Moore & Donaldson had been busy some time baking pancakes of which we made our breakfast. I ate 2 1/2 each of the full size of the frying pan & some ate two or three. All had plenty for once, & though the cakes were not light & were somewhat burned, yet they were duly relished. Some of the boys had boxes & cans of butter sent to lately by express from home & I tasted some of it this morning. Oh, how soldiers long for some of the wholesome bread, delicious milk, sweet butter, & palatable fare of home. But now we are 200 days men & those will soon pass. Few were idle in camp today. Clothing &c were issued to the several companies. I drew a good new blouse & I have a pair of new shoes. One new pants & three old ones, & a full supply of everything. I sold some 32 lbs salt, some at 8 & some at 10 cts a lb. Soap was sold & all savings in the Mess were disposed of. A huge coffee pot was bought for each 1/2 of the Co. cost $4.75 each size 4 galls. each. I judge from what I think is reliable that we will form a part of an expedition to go from the Miss. west perhaps by the line of the Red River. Orders are to start at 4 AM tomorrow. I have a troublesome bile below my knee cap.
Marching by RR & Steamboat
February 11th, Saturday 1865
Last night was a busy one with all of a serious or dilligent habit for all such had much to do to be ready for the early start today. I often wonder that so many of a different way can find time to spare however great the hurry to waste hours in games at cards, & yet this is the fact in regard to many. I wrote till about 11 & then stopped only because the candle burned out & I was unable to find another. Soon enough, so though another soon found one & lit it yet reason luckily prevailed over inclination & I lay down to sleep. My sleep was rather unquiet & feverish for the fever in my knee added to the feverishness of the state of mind that generally prevails at such a time were cause enough for the effect. Many of the boys in the Regt. tried hard to get drink & I think some succeeded in obtaining a share from the sutler at $1 for a canteen full of beer or stuff called ale. Others burned boxes &c which could not be taken along & thus made enormous fires, for with many the feeling prevailed & was freely expressed that the[y] wished our whole quarters--20 buildings erected with so much labor, yes 40 including officers qrtrs rather than other troops. Negroes especially should have them to move into & find them in good order. With some of the most thoughtless & ignorant this blind prejudice--this Devilish hatred toward the poor negro who proves himself our friend when he can & renders us so efficient servi[ce] is very strong & bitter. Blum & King are chief in this way in our 1/2 of Co. Wheeler McWhorter formerly a member of our Co. but now a Lieut. in ______________ US Colored Regt. came last evening & visited with us till late. He looks robust & healthy. Jas. Fitzgerrold also of our Co. but for a year past acting orderly in a Co. of _______ Colored Regt. & now Q.M. Sergt. came to see old G. of 28 [Wisc 28th Regt, Co. G--Lockney's company] two times since we returned from the march. He is well & both of those enjoy good health & speak as if they like their places very well. Yesterday PM, Lt. Gilbert went with our boxes to the American Express office. Charges are very heavy @ 7cts a lb.
[February 11th, 1865]
I often hear remarks made in regard to the history Loughney is
writing & of my history of the War &c. This is generally in jest
or mockery, just as if I had not as good a right to soil quires of paper &
waste by a very slow process of Scateration, a large quantity of the best writing
fluid, & thus to waste many precious hours as others have to waste money at
the rate of $1.50 to 3.00 a pack for cards or for each of the many lbs. to
poisonous tobacco which they buy & waste & both of which are so powerful
agents to waste them--their health, life, & energies!!
Again someone asks me seriously "If I write for any
paper in the North?" & it is often difficult for me to refrain from a
good humored smile when such a question is thus asked. When made in good
faith what can I do but kindly give the negative answer. Well what
is all this? One closely written page & still not a word of record that
pertains to the day that heads the Page. Diaries are usually a very short
record of each day written in a very few lines, often very hastily & carelessly, for too often the future value of the regular record, however
condensed, is not thoughts of or is lost sight of when contrasted with the
present pleasure & excitement of winning that game of Seven Up or Poker, or
Forty Five, or Whist or ---- well!! I think the decision of the
scoffing world would be that it is some diary, some history, but chiefly
trash & nonsense. Well defiant & profane world who is it that
makes thy opinion the rule of his life! & what is the immediate & final
result of being the vile slave or servant of thy whims!! If my humble
efforts please any of hose that are my true friends, though small the no. be.
I
will feel repaid.
We were waked by the swelling sound of the bass drum at 3 AM to roll blankets
& gobble a hastily eaten breakfast kept us busy till 4 when our heavy &
plethoric knapsacks were slung which in addition to rations in haversack,
canteen of water, cartridge, box &c made perhaps a weight of 55 to 60 lbs. a
man. The Moon lit our way, & were ready to start soon after daylight,
but were delayed till ______ . We reached Deval's Bluff about _____
O'/Clock, immediately marched on board the stern wheel boat Sir Wm.
Wallace. 1/8 or 1/4 of the boys rode on top of the cars & suffered
from cold. Day was bright & pleasant, with it fresh breeze
blowing.
Camp at Mouth of White River, Ark
February 12th, Sunday 1865
Day was bright & pleasant. Yesterday the train stopped a while at Brownsville Station which is some 1/2 to 1 1/2 miles south of the town. Lieut Bennet Co. B was left there whether by orders, permission, or accident I know not. At Deval's Bluff an inefficient guard was stationed on the gangway, & nothwithstanding all his weak efforts many of the boys went ashore, most to buy bread, tobacco &c. It is almost surprising how great a change has taken place there since I first saw it Aug. 18th 1863--I think. Then scarcely a house was standing for the hand of barbarous rebellion had reduced the few houses & R.R. Depot some cars &c to ashes. A good growth of timber--oak openings--stood but a few rods from the river bank, which was bordered on both sides with woods. Now the forest has receded before the Northman's Axe & many buildings & large camps for troops show the fruits of the industry & perseverence of the Mudsills! Several large warehouses for the storage of Gov. stores are already finished & others are nearly completed. An air of business & industry prevails that is well calculated to please a Yankee Tin Clads--Gunboats 6 & 36 lay in the river with steam up --always-- to be ready for any turn events may take whither a fight or a trip up or down the river. One of Co. B was left behind being a few minutes late. He ran along the bank & while crossing a log that lay over some deep water, he fell in & might have drowned had not a couple of men reached him a pole. Boat tied up last night & pickets were thrown out on the bank. It is supposed that one of Co. E John Robinson fell overboard before daylight this A.M. The Co. was on 2d deck & he was subject to fits. I saw Lt. Charles as we passed, there are a few troops there. Distance from Deval's Bluff to mouth of White Riv. 176 miles. We got here about 2 1/2 PM & landed about 3 1/2 [3:30] -- 126 Ill. from Pine Bluff came here today to stop!
Aboard Steamer St. Nicholas
February 13th, Monday 1865
We occupied the grounds of an old camp & soon after the command Break Ranks was given, our heavy loads were speedily reposing on the ground & up were all, busy gathering logs &c. that remained of old quarters for this we would need for firewood as none knew how long we might remain. Some who made a sudden advance on the single bakery in the place got soft bread but our Co. was tardy, so none was left for us nor could any be had till noon today. Last night was bright & clear in the fore part, but after midnight the sky grew cloudy & daylight came on dreary & threatening rain, which began to fall about 7 AM. Only light showers fell which, as we hoped, did not continue long, for we could not prepare ourselves very well for a heavy rain storm. The surface is flat & quite level, & a heavy shower would set us all afloat. About 8 AM the four first or right Co's. went aboard of the Side Wheel Boat J.C.Swon. I began a letter yesterday PM & wrote some in it last night by fire light & this part was irregular & misshapen for I did not keep the lines and as it was to Mother, were I to follow her practice, I would need to make many excuses for mistakes &c. which I made. I went to the Post Carpenter shop--a small frame building in which 4 or 5 men work-- & asked permission to sit there & write. This was cheerfully given so I went for my Portfolio & sat on one end of a rough coffin, laid my book on a tool chest, & finished & mailed it just before dinner. I regret that I made the last page to show so darkly my state of mind at the time for I fear it will cause her useless anxiety about me. With it I sent several sheets of Diary. Last evening the Wooden Gunboat Tyler fired a shell shrieking after a boat that as trying to go up the Miss. out of White River without reporting at the Post. I heard a rumor that Robinson was found aboard the boat, but one of the Co. said this evening that nothing was known of him, so he must be lost. The Post is a small cleared spot on west side of Miss. & no houses but barracks. I saw Gen. McGennis of Ind. who Com. We started about 1 1/12 PM. Boat is heavily laden.
Aboard Steamer St. Nicholas
February 14th, Tuesday 1865
Last night & today were cloudy, raw, & chill, so that shelter was of much value & was very generally sought. On the first deck are Cos. E G K & B. Hinkley & I were so fortunate as to select a place beside one of the engines on a row of corn sacks, several tiers high. Those were moved except two tiers along one of the main passages from the bow to the stern of the boat, so in the night we laid down [on] the upper tier, & thus made a dry & comfortable bed, in which we slept warm & comfortable. Draper had his bed in so exposed a place that even with all his clothes on & blankets over him he was driven out by the cold, & about midnight he lay down with us where he was able to sleep well till morning. I was glad thus to be able to accommodate Draper, for his way is much kinder & gentler than that of the greater No. But alas his associates are some of the roughest in the Co. I was detailed for guard this AM but said to orderly Foster that I did not feel well enough to do duty. He then went to get another in my place, but I followed him & said I would try to do it, determined not to feel whipped till really beaten. Guess how immensly I felt honored when placed on Post at 10 1/2 AM to find myself in so high & trust a place as that of guarding some dozen bbls. of liquor of some kind & 30 to 50 boxes of trash--tobacco, canned fruits &c. belonging to the Sutler. Such a bloodsucker as is attached to each Regt. for the accommodation of drunken officers, who grant him all privileges he may demand & lets him tax the boys who buy from him, for cash or credit from 15 to 50 per ct. above prices in the neighboring trade stores. I rejoiced that I could be detailed for such duty, but less than 8 months longer at most. This morning I got a plenty to eat of the good things--leavings of the boat hands. This made me feel well & much stronger. At noon I got a cup full & 1/2 from a mess of Negro hands, & this I ate with some toasted bread. For all this how grateful was I . Well this PM at 2 1/2 or 3 O'Clock we reached the world-renowned Fortress--Vicksburg. Many of the boys went through the town, but I was prevented by my right leg. I pricked the bile, it being ripe. Women sold oranges for 10 cts or 3 for 25 cts. The fruit was excellent. Hinkley gave me an orange & an apple. Took on wood & started about dark. Ran all last night.
[February 14th, 1865]
How strange the thoughts that crowd into a wayfarer's mind when he gazes for
the first time on scenes that for so long a time were invested with so great an
interest so universally felt at that of Vicksburg!! While for so many long
months it yet was held by the rebel foe & so as if with the Hey of Fate
locked the tide of The Father of Waters as it ushed [?] from Northern lake &
river to mingle with the warm waters of Gulf, the clear & icy waters of the
land where school boy slides gleefully over the glassy ice & the school girl
--his sister or playmate-- mounts the huge snow drift on her way to the district
school on the bright frosty winter morning. But now how changed is all
this! Instead of Rebel Rags waving defiantly on the morning breeze, now
floats our Loved Starry banner, firm in its hold as the foundations of the
earth, & sure to be kissed on high by the breeze, & to have its bright
stars gilded & made to glisten in the clear sunrise, as long as the breezes
blow and sunrise follows sunrise!! The cannons that once howled Death to
Liberty & Reunion & Peace hold now as high & a stronger place than
ever & though silent are still eloquent orators in defense of Truth &
Right & Justice to all!! How little are we apt to realize the great
privileges of living at such a time as this, when all may act the heroic part of
high & noblest duty bravely done, & this in defense of principles as
pure & high, & privileges as valuable as any that man ever enjoyed or
desired.
The Court House is the first prominent objects that is seen,
& at first in going round the bend you fear you may not approach nearer than
many miles of it; but when the bend in rounded the landing is found
directly beneath it. The bluffs are so high & steep as to afford
better opportunities than any place I ever before saw, & as they rise very
near the waters edge, the range is very short & 3 or four tiers of guns
& works might be made in the face of the hill. The Court house
presents an imposing appearance at a distance, but some of the boys who were at
it say it looks old & decayed. Streets seem to be very narrow.
Lieut. & Adj. Eldridge, formerly of Co. B but now in a Col. Regt. came
aboard of the boat.
Marching to N.O. aboard St. Nicholas
February 15th, Wednesday 1865
Surely all soldiers must agree that marching by R.R. &
steamboat is the pleasantest & easiest yet invented & is sure ever to be
a popular way with all who have worn the blue through mud & storm, or
through Battle deep. I lay down about 7 last night & had some sleep
till 10 1/2 when I went on watch two hours. Previous to this a fog spread
over the river, so thick that the Pilot could not see the bank, so they cast
anchor & waited a short time till the sky grew clear, this was 35 mi. below
Vicksburg. Air was chill & when the boat was under full headway, the
breeze was quite strong. With current & steam the boat makes not far
from 12 miles an hour in daytime & perhaps 15 miles at night as she runs
much better when the men do not run from one side to the other as this makes her
motion unsteady.
Corp. E.B. Smith waked me at 4 1/2 AM to go on
guard & as I was in a fast sound sleep, I regretted the necessity --or lack
of necessity-- that waked me to guard Sutler's trash. While I was on
guard, I asked a colored man, one of the furnace hands, to save me something to
eat, if they had anything left. Most generously did he comply with my wish
for when he saw me soon after he beckoned to me & pointed to a plateful
which he had saved. Hinkley & I ate a hearty breakfast from this &
some other things we had. There were four Irish Potatoes, & some good
beef steak, & good biscuit. Before the War he was a slave in La. below
Donaldsonville. Thanks to God, now he is Free, & soon all his race
will be among us. About 11 AM we stopped at Natchez. Here the bank
rises about 80 ft. above the water in high stage & is very abrupt & not
far from a perpendicular. Roads are made along the side of the bank on an
inclined plane. The outside being guarded as on each side of a high
bridge. None, or very few but officers, were allowed ashore, those went up
into the upper town & described it as exceedingly beautiful & well
built. I had a wish to go ashore, as I pricked the bile, & my leg is
easier--but no private would be allowed & I would not beg to go. Capt.
Murray was Officer of the Day. Nachez Below the Hill is a very small part
of the town. In it we saw a garden almost like Eden. This &
Vicksburg & nearly all the river line is held by Colored troops. Day
was bright & clear & breezy. Corp. Peck was taken sick last
night. Cameron & O'Finley came from Hos.
Going down the Miss. in La. on St. Nicholas
February 16th, Thursday 1865
At Natchez lay a Turtle Back; or heavy Iron Clad at anchor in the River. (There is a bend in the river there, very like that at Vicksburg, but not so large & the high bluffs above & below the town afford grand sites for forts & batteries of great strength & effectiveness.) This boat had aboard the heaviest armament that I ever saw on any gun boat, viz, on her bow: four heavy guns. Stern: two or three, & on each side five--total 16 or 17. There were also two or three tin clads at the landing. On the Iron Clad at the cross trees & about 30 feet above the water, was seen an object that attracted much attention & was scanned by many an eye through field glasses that some of the officers had. It was a man--white our Capt. said-- who had deserted from that boat & enlisted in one of the Regts. stationed at that Post. He had been caught the night before, his two feet placed on a ladder & he was left tied in this straining position till we left about 1 PM. I looked through the glass & thought he was a mulatto. Surely this was sever punishment, but some crimes deserve such. We ran steadily all last night, except a short delay at Baton Rouge & one other place. All regret that we passed the City of Port Hudson, the state Capital, & the mouth of Red River in the night as we had a wish to see all those points of interest. One or two cannon shots were fired at us to bring the boat to, as She was about to run by without reporting. All the day, so bright, clear, & pleasant. We have been all busy admiring such scenes of beauty as were never seen by most of us except in dreamland or in pictures. All the way from above Donaldsonville, on both sides of the River looks like one continuous garden & village. Evergreen trees & shrubs extend almost along the whole line, & in many places the orchards of orange trees now swinging full of golden fruit excite the wonder & the appetites of the sons of the far North as we gaze upon them in all their gorgeous richness. This county is quite an old one, & most of the owners were of French extraction. Plantations are narrow on the river front, but run far back. We drew shelter tents today.
Camp at Algiers, Louisiana
February 17th, Friday 1865
We first gained sight of New Orleans about 3 O'Clock PM yesterday. We did not see many troops along the way, but we heard that an expedition had started yesterday or day before for Mobile. How grew upon our sight the scenes so strange & objects so rare to backwoodsmen. Seagoing vessels of various sizes, vessels of War carrying from two to 20 guns were anchored in the river. Huge buildings lined the east bank & we got glimpses of the streets running back from the River, but those were too long for us to see to the end. We saw none but colored soldiers till we landed about 4 O'Clock when we got off the boats on the west side of the river, which is here in fact East of N.O. We moved into camp 80 or 100 rods from the landing where we found several regt's of our Brig. in camp. There are also a few other white troops here, but chiefly Negro troops do duty & guard. The evening was cloudy & threatened rain. Our campground is low & level ground formerly sugar or cotton ground & it looks much like fields at home with its thick coating of white clover. On our way down from Port Hudson we saw green meadows & pastures all for the first time in Dixie. There was a great scarcity of sticks or poles with which to set up our tents. Lewis & Coons, Hinkley & I are all together. We got our tent made soon after dark & in it we had a good sound sleep. Night was cool & dry. Algiers consists of one street in which are shops & residencies in the rear. There are but few fine buildings. Our camp is near the R.R. depot which runs towards Texas. Yesterday I read Memphis Argus [?] of 11 & N.O. Daily True Delta of 12th inst. Both are Loyal & true to our cause. Today Hinkley bo't Harper's Weekly of 11 inst. & N.O. Independent of today. The latter is an able & true Union sheet. The boys went away two miles & 1/2 & got Buffalo fish in plenty. We had a great mess of them for dinner, but Dr Smith forbid their future use, as being unwholesome. I am well today. I took four pills last night. Day is clear, bright & warm. I mailed a letter to Matt today. Dress Parade at 5 PM.
[Feb 17, 1865]Earth has some sacred spots where we feel like loosening the
shoes from our feet, & treading with holy reverence--where common words of
pleasure are unfitting places, where friendship's hands have lingered in
each other, where vows have been plighted, prayers offered & tears of
parting shed. How the thoughts hover round such places & travel
through immeasurable space to visit them. But of all the spots on Earth,
none is so sacred as that where rest, waiting the resurection, those we once
loved & cherished. Hence, in all ages, the better portions of men kind
have chosen the spots where they have loved to wander at eventide, &
meditate alone. But among the Charnal-houses of the dead, if there is one
spot more sacred than the rest, it is a mother's grave. There sleeps the
mother of our infancy--She whose heart was a stranger to every feeling but Love,
& who could always find excuses for us when we could find none for
ourselves. There she sleeps, and we love the very earth for her
sake--
Nothing furnishes a surer index to a young man's or lady's
character than his or her behavior at church. If you see a young man walk
quietly into church & take his seat & pay proper attention to the
religious services, you may be assured that that young man has self-respect
& a good moral character. The same may be said of the young lady who
acts in like manner. But on the contrary, if you see the smile of scorn
rise to the lips of the young man as he witnesses some portions of the services,
you may set him down as a brainless chap, having neither sense, manners, nor
morals. If a young lady, set her down as frivolous, & be sure never to
select her for a wife. She will cause you sorrow if you conform, as far as
your conscience allows, to the mode of worship practiced at that church & let
your conduct be sober & dignified, & vice versa if you are a Catholic.
Copied in Camp at Algiers, La. Feb 18th, 1865
Camp at Algiers, Louisiana
February 18th, Saturday 1865
I slept well last night, & we were up soon after daylight
this morning. The night was cool & favorable for sleep. Today
was clear & bright & pleasant. The wind blew gently from the
west. We found our new fry pan this AM we supposed it was lost. We
traded some salt pork for bread for our mess, so that with 15 cts worth which I
bought with stamps & what my share from the trade afforded I ate no hard
tack & have some left for tomorrow. I ate a plate full of beans well
boiled at dinner, but this article of food never agrees with me except baked
brown after being boiled. Thus, I regretted eating the mess. I find
my health very greatly improved since we started from Little Rock & my state
of mind & feeling is much better.
After noon, we moved our tents so as to make the arrangment
more regular than before. We signed Co. Clothing Book PM. I have
drawn on this year's amount about $8.20. I shall not need much more.
We hear rumors that we will be required to dispense with very much of our
clothing, so some of [the] boys are packing up Great Coats, Dress Coats, &
blankets to send home. This PM I saw E.M. Randal in our camp & two
ladies with him one, probably his wife. This is the lawyer from Waukesha
or later of Milwaukee & brother to our ex-Gov. I heard that Gray said
we are likely to go to Mobile Point west of the mouth of Mobile Bay & from
there -----. I have heard Gen. A.I. Smith's Division, which we passed at
Vicksburg, came here today. Milk is sold at 10 cts a qt. Apples from
3 to 5 cts apiece. Oranges from 3 to five for 25 cts. This PM I saw
the sutler selling his beer to the boys at 75 cts a canteen full. It
smelled like swill. The peddlers still come to our camp, with bread, pies,
cakes, &c, & the want of money is provoking. They often exchange
those for pork, clothing &c. I saw Gen. Peck sick in Regt. hospital.
Camp at Algiers, Louisiana
February 19th, Sunday 1865
Last night we had a quiet, sound sleep. We did not wake till after daylight, & there was no roll call this AM. We had Co. inspection about 9 O'Clock, & after that was through with, Lt. Gilbert had passes for Danl. McNeill & myself, & we, all three, started off to visit the City of New Orleans. I had no money & I think Dan'l was in the same happy condition, so G.-- paid our fare across, 05 cts. each way apiece. We landed at the foot of Canal St. This is the widest & chief street in the City, & the great Promanade. Lieut. was over yesterday PM & he saw throngs of ladies in costly array, who take so pleasant a walk. We stopped at the Presbyterian Church during the services. Dan'l & I were directed to seats in the gallery. There are four comfortable seats in the gallery, extending the whole length of the church. Perhaps 12 or 15 people could be seated inside the building. The organ was played to accompany the singers. We saw the bronze statue of Henry Clay & on one side of the pedestal is a sentence contained in one of his speeches expressive of his wish that his influence might help toward the removal of the blot of slavery from the character of our Nation. I heard this was inscribed by Gen. B. Butler's order & is most fit & appropriate. We also saw the Equestrian Statue in bronze of Gen. A. Jackson. This is in the beautiful public Garden in front of the Catholic Cathedral, in which we saw trees & shrubbery trimmed so as to form squares or circles or sections of cylinders &c in a manner strange & pleasing. We also passed through the French Market where all kinds of fruits & small wares & articles are daily exposed for sale. Even today many shops were open & business done as usual. Day was cloudy.
Camp at Algiers, Louisiana
February 20th, Monday 1865
Last night was cloudy, but dry & pleasant for sleep. We waked about daylight but as there was no Roll Call, each slept as long as he wished. This is allowed much more in our Co. than in other Co's in the Regt. & this is all owing to the kindness of our Capt. I went down to the River & the waves ruffled its surface as if it were a lake. The water is cold yet owing to the ice in the headwaters of the River. I was told today that the river water is the best in the City, or at least better than any other on this side, & this though roiled & turbid in appearance. Some use cistern water, preferring it for its clearness. I sold a blank book today--3 qrs-- for .50 cts. It cost .75 but I wanted the money, & had no use for this unless I sent it home. I exchanged the coffee pot that Lewis & I bought at Little Rock for $1.50 for .75 cts worth of bread. This was just what we wanted for we have little liking for hard tack. Our Mess of 24 men sold pork today at cts. a lb., amounting to $ for which bread was bought. This gives each man a good full share & is what I like, by all odds the best & this is the general feeling, for few care much for the meat. I packed a bundle of surplus clothes --one pants, my old overcoat, my Bible, & blank book in which I have written some 50 pages since last July. This I put in a barrel with some things that both McNeill's, Heaton, Coons, &c sent home all of which filled it. This we sent by express to W.R. Hunkins, Waukesha, Wis. A large No. of boxes, &c.. were made up & sent off, some by Adams, others by Parker's Express. The rate of freight is 7 1/2 or 8 cts a lb. while from Little Rock it was 15 or 17 cts. Last evening the 33d Iowa came in & camped near us. I saw Brig. Gen. Veatch--commander of our Brig. today. I saw Maj. Gen. Steele yesterday AM. We had Regt'al Inspection PM. Duty is light. Day was sunny & pleasant. An order was read to be ready to march or embark any moment for Dauphin Island.
Algiers, Louisiana
February 21st, Tuesday 1865
Last night I was busy, as I suppose most others were, making the final preperations for starting. I mailed the album which Maria [sent] me some time ago to Matt, for it is too precious to be exposed to the storms of sea & of battle which we may be required to pass through. I hope yet to have it & all such mementoes given by kind & loved ones, where they will be free from both those kinds of storm. I also mailed 'Leisure hours in town' by Bond--the author of recreations of a County Parson, which were pub. in Atlantic Monthly. This I got from Jos. Forward of Co. B. I agreed to pay him .50 cts. at pay day. It is in good order & cost new $1.50. I would like to take it along to read, but consider the risk too great. Today we struck tents early & had everything packed up ready to start before 10 AM. Many women were about-- & children, too, picking up everything of any value. My attention was fixed by one Colored Woman who went about picking up hard tack as she said to eat. White women & children picked them up in large quantities to feed to pigs. I took some from our haversacks & gave them to her, for I felt for her want as she so simply told it. Someone asked her what she did for a living? She said she chopped cord wood--some days 1 1/2 cords a day, for which she was paid $1.00 or 1.25 a cord. What joy she expressed to have the Yankees here when someone referred to her preference for us or the Rebels. Poor innocent Simplicity, how true & real was this expression of her gratitude. In the PM. we had inspection of all our things by an Inspecting officer--a Capt. A change of drawers, shirts, stockings &c. were recommended. Only one pants--those worn-- one wool blanket or great coat, & a pair of shoes in addition to those worn, only blowse or dress coat & as little surplus as possible. The hat worn & no cap. I gave mine away & I had a hard job to do even that with it. After Inspection we were long waiting & ready to go. We started--after having set up most of our tents, & after long waiting while rain fell. Got aboard about dark. I am very well.
Aboard Steamer Belvadiere
February 22d, Wednesday 1865
Last night was one of the few nights that many in our Regt will remember during the first 30 months of soldier life. The right 1/2 of the Regt.--five Companies were on the main deck & the left half were exposed to the rain storm on the upper deck. I heard our Lt. Col. had orders to move us aboard, those he received from the Officer of the day while on the other hand the Capt. of the boat said we would not start till this AM & the propriety, or rather, necessity of giving us for quarters some dry & empty warehouses on the bank was urged, but in vain. Perhaps he was not to blame, but surely someone was. A fatigue party was at work till late getting the 9 or 10 wagons drawn for our Regt. in the hold. This was a very disagreeable job as they had all to be taken to pieces & thus stowed away. Rain fell at intervals through the night. Some lay down & covered up as best they were able, while others with tents & rubber over them sat on their knapsacks & nodded & slept, & slept & nodded in turn. I did thus till about 10 1/2 O'Clock, during which time I had some trouble to keep my haversacks &c. dry. At last I crept in the stairway to the cabin, where the officers--or some of them--were gambling till ---? some, or most on credit. I sat on one of the steps by the guard, placed there to keep privates out of the cabin & slept in such a way as to make the time seem shorter than if awake. At last, day broke, cloudy, dark, & threatening rain. I went ashore & paid my last money--20 cts--for 1 1/2 lbs. onions. I think most of the boys paid out their last dimes for bread, fruit, &c. We were delayed till about 2 PM as 33d Iowa put their wagons & teams aboard. They march to Lake Pontchartrain, & there embark. I have three loaves of soft bread. We drew a new kind of hard tack, which I like better. Regt. drew 69 bx of herrings, our Co got 5 boxes or 8 or 10 to a man. I sold my share for 50 cts. I read N.O. Daily Times. We advance toward Wilmington, N.C. E.D. Morgan of NY is appointed Sec. of Treas, US.
On our way to the Gulf of Mexico
February 23d, Thursday 1865
Yesterday being Washington's Birthday, it was very pleasing to see the vast No. of Flags that waved at the mast head of nearly all vessels in the harbor, as well as from the steamers that bore many Regt's past us to a landing on the east side & below the City. Those I believe were the troops from Tenn. that are commanded by Gen. A.J. Smith. Those will probably go by way of the lake. Salutes were fired about noon, & I read in the paper that the children of the Colored schools would have exercises suitable for the Celebration of the Day consisting of Patriotic Pieces, Songs, &c. Yesterday & today we passed large orchards of orange trees, but being the sweet quality few were to be seen on the trees. I also saw this AM for the first time a genuine Palmetto Tree. I would know it from pictures that I saw of it. Oysters are cheap & plenty in N.O. & they are picked up along the banks of the river, at least so the boys say. The night was rainy at intervals, but Hinkley & I lay dry & warm & slept well. We did not start till some time after daylight. AM was cloudy & some sprinklings of rain fell. I write this sitting under tents which some of the boys tied up. The power of the engine makes the deck tremble, so I cannot write with ease. We passed Forts St. Phillip on the east & Jackson on the west side of the River about 9 1/2 AM. We counted some 30 or 35 guns in the former, some of them enormously large, but we could not count those in Ft. Jackson, so numerous were they & we had not a very good chance. Both are situated very low, there being no high ground below N.O. In the first the guns are in battery, or barbette, but in Jackson there are two tiers in parts of the front. St. Phillip is situated at the angle of the bend in the River so as to command the two sides thus. [figure showing this] & Jackson is inside the curve thus [similar figure]. Two guns were fired for us to stop & an officer came aboard from Ft. St. Phillip & got Papers. Yesterday a few papers were recd. before we started --no letters. Sunshine appeared once yesterday & at three or four several times about noon today. About 2 PM we stopped, cast anchor & mouth of Riv. in Delta & did not go further. PM was breezy & pleasanter. We dried blankets & cleaned our rusty guns.
On Gulf of Mexico
February 24th, Friday 1865
Last night was foggy, damp, & rainy at intervals. We slept as last night on the wet deck, & slept pretty well. The wind blew a stiff breeze all the night & the ship rolled about even in River. We started on our way about 7 AM & were furnished a pilot at a few houses inside the light house where there is a small station. He left us when fairly out in the Gulf waters, though we had not yet got out of the roiled waters of the Miss. Last evening before we anchored we saw three large fishes that passed by us in the river swimming so near the surface as often to show a large fin on their back. When out in the Gulf this morning the attention of all was excited by the appearance of a vast number of those all around the vessel & in every direction as far as one could see over the mist-covered waters that lay on all sides around us. I supposed those are the porpoises of which we read so often long ago, & when we had so little thought of seeing under circumstances such as those in which we were now placed. Union Soldiers bound for Mobile!! We soon passed through the school (?) of Sea Hogs which appeared from 7 1/2 to 10 feet long, and we saw none of them after. Soon after we came to the blue deep waters of the Gulf, all were busy speculating on the chances of seasickness. Faces were seen to grow flushed & pale by turns, & soon one after another became the object of the laughter of the others, each of whom in his turn changed places with those who ranged themselves along the side of the vessel to cast--as some said--all above the soles of their boots into the depths of the sea. About 11 AM I was forced to give up what breakfast I had eaten & felt dull, sleepy, & not very comfortable the rest of the day. I had a sleep for a few hours, but was waked by a shower about noon. Day was cloudy all the time. Sails were used a part of the day. A breeze constantly blew. I could not write the boat rolled so heartly.
Aboard & Ashore
February 25th, Saturday 1865
Last night was passed on the rolling, billowy, waters of the Gulf, encompassed on all sides by the thick mist that shut out everything all around us. During the night, I was awake often & the boat was rocked so violently on the strong arms of the all-devouring & remorseless Sea, that one would think those on each side of the ship would alternately be thrown off into the wrathful waters. Lewis was up in the night & he heard some of the hands or officers of the boat speak of the possible necessity of throwing the 100 mules over board, & that if we were running[??] at the time the danger would be very great, & that had it not been for the two anchors that held her she would not be able to bear the heavy swells that so often struck her. I had no fears at all, & could scarcely believe that we were in so perilous a condition as this. Day came on cloudy & sea rougher than anytime before. Stars peeped out in the night, but no clear sky was seen till late in the PM. Our ship rolled & dashed along through the deep blue waters, the timbers creaked some, & the powerful engines joined their groan to the whistle of the breeze among the masts & rigging. One sail was set in the AM & soon one of the fastenings gave way & for a short time the flapping sail & a block that was fastened to it spread those on the bow in all directions. The block hit one of Co. A & broke his left arm. He was an Arkansas man who enlisted at Pine Bluff. I saw one of those little shell fish--barnacle I think--that raise a little fin or sail & thus float before the breeze. During the AM I felt faint & spitless having eaten nothing since yesterday breakfast, & I longed for such a cup of Texas dear Mother would so gladly make for me. About 9 AM we were glad to see a light house on Round Island & soon after that buoys to mark the channel. We soon saw the blockading fleet & piles driven by the rebels to obstruct entrance to the bay. About 11 we anchored near Ft. Morgan & about noon embarked at the pier in front of the Fort. I borrowed 25 cts from Draper & bought bread on board & felt better PM. We camped near the Fort. Sunshine was at sunset. I saw Maj. Gen. Steele in PM. I was on fatigue a short time.
Camp at Fort Morgan, Al
February 26th, Sunday 1865
It was truly pleasant to me last night to hear some of the boys of some other Regt. sing songs that cheer & enliven the loyal heart, such as Battle Cry of Freedom, Star Spangled Banner, &c. All was hearty & earnest, each one doing his share as best he could, so all united achieved a decided success that must have pleased themselves & all that sympathize in our cause. I often regret that in our Co. & Regt. a song cannot be started & sung without being changed by someone into obscenity, & so soon turned into disgrace. I am also often surprised when I think how little musical talent there is in our Regt. for I have always thought that our band was inferior to every Reg'al Band that I ever heard play, with perhaps one exception. Even our own Co. that was once called " The Schoolmasters Co." is no exception to this rule. It did me good to hear the song Old 'John Brown' which the boys sung. Last night I had a good sleep, but as I tried to enjoy the luxury of a sleep without my clothes, I felt some cold toward morning. The day was a pleasant one, bright & warm, just such a day as we so much needed to dry all our things that had become so thoroughly soaked as to be almost spoiled. Writing paper, envelopes, & all such was wet in knapsacks &c as in some cases to ruin them. I was so fortunate as to have but 1/4 quire of my paper spoiled & that not wholly. There is free admission into Ft. Morgan & nearly all our boys were in. I did not yet go in but wish to very much. Fragments of shells & whole ones are scattered all around in the fine sand that is almost white as snow, & which covers the whole surface here about. There are several houses newly built here some occupied by citizens & some for Gov. use. We hear no mail can leave here for ----- a long time. We had Co. inspection at 11 AM by Lt. Gilbert. Hinkley & I had a wash & a swim in Mobile Bay late PM. Water was warmer than yesterday. Pine trees grow on this point 3 or 4 miles off & some wood was drawn to us for fuel. I saw Capt. Montieth of Co. F who came lately. I wrote some today.
Camp at Fort Morgan, Mobile Point
February 27th, Monday 1865
Last night was clear & starlit. I was up & established for myself a north & south line, for I found the great Dipper & the Polestar. This was much needed for we had no correct line of direction by which to be guided. This might have been done yesterday while the sun shone, but was neglected by me & I suppose by others. Last evening I fried a mess of soaked crackers for me & Hinkley & ere morning I felt their ill effects, or that of some other thing I ate but I felt hungry & greedy for something to eat & in this way they tasted better than dry. But for a long time past I have considered them one of the most unwholesome preparations made in camp. Some of the boys got a requisition for soft bread at .07 cts a loaf or ration, but I had no money & thus--Good Bye to Thee--soft bread!! Well, this way will not long prevail! Oh, welcome day Oct. 13th, 1865... I ate a mess of boiled beans--brown ones--for dinner today & they agreed with me better than I expected. Hinkley mixed some crackers with them & cooked them some in a fry pan, which I think improved them. About 9 AM I went to the Gulf shore & had a meditative walk alone along the surf-beaten strand. I picked up many little shells, & increased my variety in the PM when Gilbert & I took a walk of some two hours in from & E. of Ft. Morgan. During our walk I said to him-- Who once could think we together should go, picking shells on the Gulf of Mexico. Hinkley & I went all through the inside of the Fort this AM. I never saw the like before, nor had I the least conception of the immensity of such a work. We saw a pair of 450 lb. shells when loaded & many 10 inch cannons & 32s, some Brooks' guns, one cast in Richmond 1862, a large piece having a Palmetto tree for an emblem. We saw a 3 inch Whitworth (English) breech loading. This is 9 or 10 feet long, but very slender & light--said to shoot four miles. Ball is 6 to 10 in. long & 12 or 14 lbs. We heard cannonading PM. Day was cloudy.
Mobile Point, Alabama
February 28th, Sunday 1865
As our supply of blankets is limited, we slept in our clothes. Last night the wind blew first from the south, but before daylight rain fell, & during the night the wind blew from the north. Today was cloudy & a cool breeze blew all day. I formed a project yesterday PM to secure some soft bread by selling some sugar we had saved. This ran through my mind most of the night & formed a sort of dream of the night. This AM Draper got a requisition for bread--in all 30 rations--in which Hinkley had with me 11 loaves. This we failed to get, as this is the day on which rations are drawn by each Reg't. for 5 or 10 days at a time, from the Post Commissary. During our stay at Algiers, Sergt. Conant of Co. K was returned for duty in his Co. Sergt. Heath of Co. E appointed in his place. Our Commissary Sergt at Pine Bluff, A. Rogers, was discharged at Little Rock while we were absent on the trip to Mt. Elba & back. This was in consequence of his disability for duty occasioned by his fall at Pine Bluff last summer in Post Com, his leg being so disabled that he could not walk. H-- & I had 2 1/4 lbs. sugar for which we got 55 cts. or 25 cts a lb. I also sold a few lbs. of mess grease-pork fat for 10 cts a lb., both at the bakery here. By the last sale, I obtained .05 cts worth of biscuit or rusks--two small ones--which I ate with avidity & relish. Last evening I saw N.O. Times of 26th inst. & read in it of the capture of Branchville, S.C. with Sherman's right wing within two miles of Charleston. Schofield had effected a junction with Sherman & the City was closely besieged & surely doomed. Pres. Lincoln has called an Extra session of Congress to convene March 4 or 5. Many of the states pass the amendment abolishing slavery in all parts of U.S. which lately passed U.S. Congress by 2/3 vote. Rebels offer Eng. & France to abolish slavery on condition of their recognition. We had Regt. Muster at 10 AM for 8 month's pay now due.
General Remarks for February
During the last month a change of location has been made by
our Regt. for in days past we little thought that during the last 8 months of
our term of service we should visit the shore of the Gulf of Mexico, thus
pitching our camp almost at the tropics, while our friends at home feel yet at
times the cold of Mid-Winter, on the shores of the northern lakes.
The Successes that have been achieved by our arms have been such as to cheer
every loyal heart. The fall of Ft. Fisher achieved with so little loss,
and after the public mind had formed the opinion that a long siege & vast
expenditure of life & treasure would be required to reduce it. Again
Sherman's advance through South Carolina is as successful as any could
wish. By last dates his left wing had captured Branchville, by which all
aid was cut off from Charleston, while his extreme right was within two miles of
that city. It would appear that every effort made by the enemy to check
his progress has been scarcely felt by his forces.
Schofield has joined his forces to those operating against Wilmington, is the
fall of that place is apt soon to take place. None may tell how soon we
may meet with reverses more or less disastrous to the sudden & complete
overthrow of the enemy & his cause, but from all present appearance of
affairs it would seem the rebel cause must fall ere mid-summer. There
seems a certainty of trouble to come with France, because of the course of that
Perjured Trickster that rules her people, & by the relation he has made that
nation to bear toward the newly established Empire in Mexico. I wish some
hidden Providence would remove him suddenly even by Death, that so War &
bloodshed may be avoided! The great Indian Scholar J.C. Schoolcraft died
since New Years. Also Edw. Everett both very learned men.
last modified: 4/21/2018