Civil War Journal of James B. Lockney (June 1865)

CIVIL WAR JOURNAL OF JAMES B. LOCKNEY

WIS. 28th REGMT., CO. G

June 1865

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On board Steamer Continental.
At anchor in Mobile Bay
June 1^st Thursday 1865

Last night we lay on the wharf & many were much troubled by the Muskittoes (mosquitoes). I got a good supply of pickles in our tin pail, some of which would have wasted had not the boys saved them. About 8 P.M. I began to write so as to finish a letter I had nearly written. While thus engaged our Brig. Commander Col. Cretz of 27th Wis Inf came to my candle to light his pipe & he remarked about me writing home. To my assent he remarked that I must let them know whither we were going & that I should tell them the whole truth & nothing else. I was pleased at his familiarity & said I would be very glad if he would tell me what place was our destination, that as yet we were in doubt & in the dark whether we would go to N.O. or Texas. He complied with my wish & said our Division was ordered to go to Santiago, Texas. This was the first statement on this subject so interesting to us, that I considered reliable or trustworthy & was for the first time settled in my mind. We had ford hopes of starting home soon, but now we feel resigned & ready. At most I hope we will return in 45 or 60 days. I went about town some this morning for the boat did not return till about 7 A.M. & it was near noon when we were ready to start down the bay. I visited the market which was thronged at an early hour by sellers & purchasers. Prices are high. Ripe blackberries 40 cts a qt. & for one large green cucumber was asked 25 cts. Old Irish potatoes & new ones are in the market, also new & old onions. The channel down the bay is very winding & is marked by piles driven on both sides. We passed two strong water batteries, one mounting 8 & another 6 heavy guns. We found the steamer some 15 miles down the bay waiting for us aground. The day was bright & we found the sun quite hot. I mailed a letter & a [?] before starting. I feel very well, thanks to God!!

Aboard in Mobile Bay
June 2^d Friday 1865

Yesterday evening clouds gathered in the west before sundown & as rain was threatened H. & I made our beds under a life boat as that would shelter us some. This was unnecessary however, for the night was clear & starry & moonlit. We had a good sleep & did not awake except to hear the drums of 33^d Iowa beat roll call till the sun was an hour high. The boat that took us down yesterday morning carried the 33^d Iowa down but they stopped on the Pearless, alongside til P.M. today. The Continental lay aground till about noon, though two boats worked long & hard trying to pull her off. She lay about 12 ft deep, drawing 10 feet without load. While trying to get her off our Regt. all moved on to the Peerless & again moved back. This made much labor & the boys were kept moving as Hinkley said 'six inches square of room, or surface to each man & moving every 1/2 hour'. Last evening there was a scarcity of water, a canteen full being issued to each man at 9 A.M, but this was not enough. After dark more was issued. Some 30 to 50 large blocks of ice was brought down on the boat yesterday & was loaded on to the Continental. While it was loading & unloading, it was difficult to keep the boys from picking at it. Dear Northland!!!! who would forsake thee for any southern clime! Since thou hast all the four seasons in all their beauty & perfection!! Ice sells here at 5 cts a lb. It is as cold as at home, but wastes very fast when exposed. We got to Ft. Morgan about 2 P.M. & anchored soon after. A boat came alongside with 100 bbls flour, bacon, & a vast quantity of tack. About 4 P.M. the 33^d moved aboard, we having the left & they the right hand side. Water is in great plenty today. All the sick were sent to Ft Gains this P.M. I was sorry Chas. Wiegert was not sent. Chas Finley, L. Bowers, & Layhee went from our Co. They will all be discharged soon I think. I read or wrote but little. How time flies! for this is the 2^d last day of my 29^th year. Day was bright & warm. All's well.

Afloat on Gulf of Mexico
June 3^d Saturday 1865

Last night we lay at anchor at the mouth of the bay of Mobile. It was a pleasant night, breezy enough to be pleasant & the moon gave a pleasant light. We slept well. I rose about daylight. The horizon was clouded, so that the sun rose many degrees--say 10--ere it was visible. The air grew hazy toward noon & the heat of the sun was oppressive as no wind was stirring. Because of one or two or a hundred causes, we were delayed so we did not start till noon. Just before starting the guns & accoutrements of those Co's above & on the upper deck were stowed away below. This would guard against loss from such falling overboard if the sea were rough & also the boys would have less to take care of. We got water aboard to make coffee, but H-- & I gave ours away as he did not care for it & I had some tea. Water was plenty all day. Capt. Tichenor went off on the Peerless last night & it was expected he would be back early this A.M. but he did not return when we started. It was supposed he was sent for orders as to our destination. Two vessels went out last evening & two others loaded with troops started at the same time we did. We have about 50 cartridges each, & as many more are taken along in boxes. The surface was very smooth at the time we started, but the wind blew gently out in the wide Gulf. This was partly caused by the speed of the boat, she making some 12 miles an hour. About 5 P.M. we saw many porpoises playing near our ship. Earlier we saw small fish--perhaps flying fish, gamboling nearby. Our course is between ssw & sw. I feel well.

On the Gulf bound for Texas
June 4^th Sunday 1865

Last night was clear & moonlit, & a breeze blew that greatly increased the pleasantness of our situation. We passed the mouths of the Mississippi about 11 O'clock P.M. While passing, a supply of fresh water was taken in for the use of the troops. I & many others were awake & we saw the lighthouse at Pass L. Outre--I think-- perhaps 10 or 12 miles distant. For several hours after I lay awake busy with thoughts & roving fancies. At last I fell asleep & did not wake till about sunrise. The surface this A.M. was very smooth & the air close & rather oppressive, but during the P.M. a pleasant breeze blew & continued till night. The ship rocked a little P.M. more than we thought it should in so quiet a sea. Still it was so little as to be pleasant than otherwise, & no one was made sick by it. We were out of sight of land all the day & the watery waste all around us afforded a beautiful view of the horizon. Again we saw porpoises & little fishes that would appear to fly several rods, nearly on a level above the water. Generally the waves did not roll or rise more than 12 or 18 inches. Water was divided one in A.M. & coffee was made for the troops twice, but as it cooked in the same boiler or tank in which our salt beef was cooked last evening, it was not liked by the boys. The beef was very salt[y] & horrible stuff to have to eat & many threw theirs overboard to soak. We passed many sail vessels three being in sight at one time in the P.M. We passed a small brig a short time before sundown that was bound in the same direction. She bore the British flag. There were about 10[?] men aboard & as many women, 1/2 of them white. They cheered us heartily, especially the colored ones.

Afloat on Gulf of Mexico
June 5^th Monday 1865

Last evening Lt. Hopper [of] Co. A came aloft where we are & passed an hour with us in familiar converse. I was writing my daily record when he came, so he facitiously remarked about my history of the war & his wish to have a copy when it will be published!! After this we exchanged remarks about a few of our chief historians & literary men as Bancroft, Everette, &c. He said if W. Irving lived he would like to have a history of the War written by him. I expressed my opinion of J.T. Hualey [?] in regard to his abilities as shown in his 1st vol. of the present War. This was the first time he & I had any familiar converse, on any subject. I think he is a person of temperate & regular habits & of good principles. He was I believe a farmer & teacher before he enlisted.
When the brig bearing the English flag passed us I was a little surprised to hear every one ask "To what nation the flag belonged?" From the first I thought it was some of the kinds of flags used among the British Marine, but I was mistaken in thinking it was the Union Jack. This made me think how little we know as a people of critical or exact knowledge, though on general subjects better informed than any other people. We kept steadily on our way all last night. The sky was clear. A gentle breeze blew constantly. The moon set in clouds that rose in tiers along the horizon & behind such the sun rose this morning. All day a steady breeze blew & our ship rolled more than any time before. This continued all day, increasing toward night. A few of the boys cast up some of the contents of their stomachs. This A.M. bacon that was rather poorly cooked was distributed in our Regt, but that I got--in fact all of it--was so fat & repugnant that I could not touch it. Though much against my wish I felt compelled to buy a breakfast ticket for $1.00. Many of the boys did this today & yesterday. I felt well all day.

Afloat on Steamship off Santiago Harbor, Texas
June 6^th Tuesday 1865

Our ship kept steadily on her course last night & early this morning we saw the light house lamps glimmer in the distance. We reached the anchorage ground about sunrise when the anchor was dropped & so we floated all day. The day was bright & the sky clear, a pleasant lively breeze blowing all day. We put our tents up for a shade & thus we lay lazily all day. Some read, while others passed the time playing cards. I ate nothing since breakfast yesterday & I felt quite hungry. I tried to buy a ticket for that meal & failed. I could not eat the fat palboiled bacon that we drew yesterday for the sight almost sickened me, so I hoped to get dinner, but there was such a rush that I failed this time again. After 1 P.M. I ate a cracker & soon after that I got a quart of soup & four or five cold boiled potatoes which I ate with another cracker. This was the hardest trial I ever had for something to eat for almost every time the fates seemed against me. I had strong longings for the end of soldier life for money often will not get what one wants to help him to live. What a yearning one has for the time of plenty to come when plenty to eat & to do will come with every day. What a feeling of envy one has toward the hands of the boat who have such a great plenty of good food to eat regularly as we had long ago. They also have shelter & a place for their things with work every day. But "In God is our Trust"
We saw perhaps 40 vessels lying at anchor to the south of us, perhaps at the mouth of the Rio Grand River. Near the entrance to harbor here is a wreck of one of our vessels. A part of her engine is to be seen above water. She was wrecked about a year ago. During the day the 33^d Iowa & four of our Co's went ashore on a small steamer.

At anchor off Brazos Santiago
June 7^th Wednesday 1865

We expected to go ashore last evening but were disappointed in this, so we lay as usual on the poop deck. The early part of the night was bright & clear, but we were early waked by rain sprinkling our faces & just about daylight heavy clouds overcast the sky & ere long rain fell plentifully for about two hours. All had cause to rejoice that we were not so crowded as we were yesterday, for as it was our situation was not an enviable one. Gradually the storm wore away & toward light the sun shone bright & pleasant. I had some practice in stratagy this morning in which I was defeated, but I will be better prepared next time. I got a ticket for breakfast, but as the boys began too soon to gather round the cabin door word was given out that there would be no breakfast for such so I & some others went back to the clerk & got our money back. Thus was the crowd scattered, but soon after the same tickets were sold again but I was too late to get one this time till all were out. Thus I lost breakfast. After awhile I went to the bow of the boat where I had a monstrous charge, greater surely than any I ever made upon the field of battle. I met one of the boys of the ship who said he would sell me a loaf of bread for $1.00. This I gladly accepted though it weighed but about 1 1/2 lbs. I ate a part of this for breakfast & some more with a qt of soup 10 cts worth for dinner. I mailed 3 books home, leaving them in the clerk's office. Sea was rough all day. Saw many sailboats & some pelicans. All's well.

Aboard & Ashore
June 8^th Thursday 1865

Last evening looked like rain so I slept in the hold of the vessel for I did not like to risk being waked by the rain pattering in my face. Yet was I luckily disappointed for the night was dry & breezy throughout. It was a breezy place where I lay, but extremely filthy for the boys were crowded in it so long & it was not washed out as the upper deck was daily during the trip. In spite of all the attacks & desperate charges made by Graybacks fleas &c. I slept soundly till daylight. One of the first things I did was to examine my clothes in search of the enemy & I found him both large & small in his many fastnesses & great was the destruction that I wrought. The day was bright & hot & our ship rocked & pitched greatly, borne as she was on the bosom of the agitated waters. I was one of a fatigue detail to load rations on to a small brig that was tugged out & anchored alongside. I worked about 2 hours, when others relieved us. After she was loaded many got aboard & there they lay furiously rocked on the little craft for many a long hour till at last long after M. the tug came & brought her through the passage which was too difficult for her to venture alone. Later the tug returned & we that remained got aboard. Such a run & hurry I seldom saw & though the sea continued rough not a person was hurt nor a thing lost in making the transfers. The tide ws out & as the water is very shallow, we had some fears of getting aground as she subbed very hard two or three times. Still she kept on her way & we soon reached the landing & tied up alongside the Alice Dell over which we passed. We camped on a low level strand on which not a tree or twig grows. Fronting the Gulf are many high banks of dry white sand. Our flag floats free, & near by is a line of works. The [? ] ing gun was fired at sundown.

Texas
Camp on Brazos Santiago Isl.
June 9^th Friday 1865

Last evening as soon as we got our straps off there was a general advance made toward an old campground about 1/2 mile distant. There each one got the best pieces of boards that he found & each bore a heavy load back with him. We got enough to set our tent & about 1/2 enough to cover the place on which we slept. About dark [?] Bluhm, H--, & I went to the water nearby & had a wash, & we swum some. After this I went to the bakery & tried to buy some bread, but as the establishment is a small one, adapted to the wants of a few Regt, they would not sell me any. One of the hands--a soldier-- told me the country for 60 miles back is adapted only to grazing, not being at all fit for farming. He said the only timber was Chaperelle. He told me the people here were lawless as could be, three being arrested lately for murdering a man--to which they confessed-- & all the money they got --that being the object-- was $4.00 He said much jealousy existed among the Royal Party in Mexico composed as it is of four parts, viz the French, Austrians, Belgians, & the Mexicans that favor the empire. The opinion of many was that if a demonstration of support was made in favor of Mexico by U.S. that Maximillian would flee from the country & thus would end Napoleon's Pet Empire. How much I wish to see it end in ruin most complete. There is a line of stages running between this place & Brownsville some 28 or 30 miles distant. Some of our officers have been at Bagdad in Mexico at the mouth of the Rio Grand River. There was Inspection in light order this P.M. Capt. Williams had charge of it. I worked 2 1/2 or 3 hours on my gun & yet it was not fit to be seen. I sold some paper & envelopes today. Edw. B. Smith sold some also. There was a scarcity of water for our Co. because of slight mismanagement. On the boat I mailed a letter & three books. The day was bright, a breeze blows constantly.

Camp 28^th, Wis
Brazos Santiago Island
June 10^th Saturday 1865

I think few fell in as good & natural a state of health as we did a year ago, or most times past. This is our third day off the boat & yet we have not drawn any rations & our Co drew none during the last days on the boat. For this reason nearly every one is hungry. The boys run to the sutter shops & buy some crackers at 50 cts a lb, those are poor things & money does not go far or amount to much when so invested. Yesterday I got 25 cts worth of those & I spent as much more for poor trash of candy hearts. I felt in want of something to eat & knew not what else I might buy. I was on guard today & I went to the bakery to try to get a loaf of bread to buy, but as usual I failed. I used entreaty offering pay at the same time, but in vain. I then went out of camp among the shops & what few houses there are near the landing determined to get my dinner at the eating house where some get meals for $1.00 each if I could not get something to eat elsewhere. I saw a member of 46^th Colored Regt on guard at the bakery & he told me to go to Co C. & the Orderly Sergt might sell me some. In going through the Regt I found some eating dinner--fresh fish & hard tack. I asked them to sell me a dime's worth, & they gave me what made very nearly enough for my hunger. They were willing to give me more, but this I declined. I afterward bought a loaf for which I paid 20 cts. I found some studying the Old Elementary Spelling Book & I saw that books are used in nearly every tent. I never saw quarters kept cleaner or arms so bright, nor brass shining as among the blacks. The 46^th U.S. was first known as the 1^st Ark & was organized at Helena in 1862 when we were there. I asked one how he liked being a soldier. He said he liked it well & that if he could get in a Col. Cav. Regt. he would never leave the army. Happy Boy --thought I --how much you differ from m[e?]. Capt. Tichenor joined us today & more troops came. No mail. Rations were drawn P.M. I am well.

Camp 28^th, Wis Inf.
Brazos Santiago, Texas
June 11^th Sunday 1865

For the first time in some months I was on guard last night. The wind blows constantly, & the roar of the waters has a sort of mournful sound, as if in regret for the many noble true & brave as well as the countless lovely ones who have fallen a prey to his heartless fury. There may be 'music in its roar' but certainly I think it very sad & wailing & scarcely to be enjoyed except perhaps with dearly loved ones near & then to me the company would be the chief charm or source of pleasure.
Capt was officer of the day today. I asked him for a requisition for some flour, but though he did not refuse it, yet I did not get it. He said there were three mails for us at Mobile. When he started out of this he got his share, but started too early in the morning to be able to bring it. What a treasure of Love are we prevented from enjoying by the non-receipt of those missiles of good will, those messengers of Joy.
The day passed drearily for there is little to read except a few trashy novels & those I have no inclination to read. I feel but little inclined to write during the day, for I am too much troubled with the feeling of hunger to think of much else. The nights are too breezy to use a candle, so we sleep most of the time that is dark. Capt. said he heard 30 or 35 vessels were loaded with troops on the Atlantic Coast destined for the trans-Miss. Dept. & that some had already reached Mobile Bay. We hope those will relieve us. Water is in reasonable supply, but still much want is felt.

Camp 3^d Brig. 3^d Div
Brazos Santiago, Texas
June 12^th Monday 1865

A few days since I bought a can of condensed milk for 75 cts & from it I made several cupfulls of a pretty good substitute for the original sweet milk that can not here be obtained in its prime state. There is not a cow on the island. This A.M. I went about & sold some envelopes & paper & some writing fluid. I was most among the boys of the 46th U.S. Colored Inf. Many of them are learning to write & many spoke of having to write to their Mother or sister at Helena, Ark, or N.O. I went part way through the boys of 35th Wis & was surprised to find so many of them Germans & rough coarse in the expression of their countenances. Scarcely one of them bought anything, the word being very common-- "Have no money". I did not feel surprised at this as many of them gambled away what they got in pay.
A few days ago I went through a part of the 7th Vt veteran Regt & they had the same for answer--"No money". It seems strange that ever since we reached Mobile Point last Feb. this Regt has been a synonym for conceit & cowardice!! It is the only Eastern Regt. that I know of in our Div. & I often try to defend it against the numerous abusive charges made by men of every other command. I got a batch of biscuit baked by a negro boy for I ate no dinner.
When I got back to camp at M[idnight]. all was uproar, as orders had been rec'd to move camp a distance of 60 rods. We carried our boards, pitched tents & fixed up & ere dark orders came for our Brig. to march early tomorrow. Capt & other officers were at Bagdad in Mexico at mouth of Rio Grand. He bought many articles cheap. Day was bright

On the March to
Clarksville on Rio Grand, Texas
June 13^th Tuesday 1865

Last night I was one of a detail of 15 or 20 from the Regt to move a quantity of Commissary store that were drawn by our Regt, but were not issued to the several Companies. Those consisted of some 12 or 15 bbls of meat, as many boxes of tack, &c. A part of those we carried & the bbls we rolled 50 or 60 rods. We felt surprised a little that this should be so, as many teams are idle every day & the only excuse for them not being used for such purposes as we were required to perform is that those are Post Teams!! The question was very applicable--are we beasts of most account? We felt chagrined at the reflection that in regard to hardships of labor a beast or mule & a steamboat are considered of more account than the comfort or convenience of a Private!! How glad would we be to know this was a lie! but 2-1/2 years experience has proved to us it is too true.=== Rations were drawn, which we would have to carry along & having already more than enough to carry this only increased our troubles. === After a rather broken night's sleep, we were waked before 4 this A.M. by the drums. It was bright & clear in the moonlight. I had a great quantity of truck to carry, two boxes of envelopes & some paper, a qt. bottle of fluid, 7 or 8 lbs. of flour, &c. but was so fortunate as to able to get all on the wagon, three of which drew officers' baggage, &c, thus my knapsack was not at all heavy. We drew salt mackerel last night--two for each man & H[inckley] cooked them early this A.M. I ate some of those & biscuit for breakfast & more for dinner. We started about 6 O'Clock & for a wonder had none of those halt so troublesome in times past--just after starting. Ours was the rear Regt. so the sandy track was well beaten by those ahead. Our route lay along the Gulf shore to the mouth of the Rio Grand Riv & encamped 80 or 100 rods above that point. We got to camp about 10 O'Clock. Dry sand covers the surface & a scattering growth of weeds & grass. Day was clear & bright. I am well.

Clarksville, Cameron Co, Texas
June 14^th Wednesday 1865

Soon after we stacked arms all scattered in search of timber to use for sitting our tents, for not a shrub or tree was to be seen on the U.S. side of the river. Poor as was the prospect enough was soon picked up along the River & Gulf coast to set the tents of the entire Brig. We soon found a little shanty where hot biscuits were made cold for 5 cts, each. Such was the demand that I could get but two that I ate for dinner. After that I bought small loaves for 10 cts each. Many of the boys went across the river to the town of Bagdad & bought not quite everything. Liquors were bought for 25 & 50 cts a bottle, such as in times past cost 3 to $5. This many thought a grand chance to get drunk cheap. This was carried to excess today & much difficulty & distrubance was made by our men. Later in the PM. the officers in Com[mand] of the forces on the other side ordered all our men to leave the town, but as usual they were in no hurry to comply. Col. Kretz [Conrad Krez]--Brigade Com. went across & it was decided to allow no more of our men to cross. 'Till we came here yesterday a Co of the 46th U.S. Colored Inf. did guard on our side, but a detail was made from our Regt today, thus a chain guard is kept up on both sides & it is very difficult to get across. Sergt. Snyder & Corp. D. McNeill of our Co were over yesterday P.M. & tis said they were both drunk & Capt said he would recommend their reduction to the ranks. I am sorry for those boys for this is a step in the downward path. Their self respect is diminished & the hopes of their friends blasted. our boys reel & stagger & use insulting language to the people. The French Flag waves in many places over the town. Many lighters--boats from 50 to 100 tons burthen--are constantly taking goods from the 30 or 40 vessels that lie about a mile from shore opposite the mouth of Rio. Two or three Regts of our Div. passed camp from Brazos & marched up the bank. I sold out all our ream of paper & we are very safe on our investment. Day was clear & hot.

Camp at Clarksville, Texas
June 15^th Thursday 1865

Last evening Hinkley & I went to the Gulf & had a wash. The wind constantly blows from the S.E. night as well as day. This is quite unpleasant in the night, being cool & strong. I was much disturbed last night by fleas which are quite numerous here. I was waked early this A.M. & was up before sunrise, then it was cloudy & sprinkled rain, but that soon passed over & the day was hot, bright & breezy. Chas. Wiegert & I went down to the river soon after breakfast & there we saw many who crossed from Bagdad in boats with various articles for sale: canned fruits, bread & bottles of wine were in great plenty & sold at moderate prices. One man had boiled potatoes, fried shoulder of ham, & little moon fish fried. I bought one of the latter for a dime & a dime's worth of potatoes, five of fair size & quality. We ate them & bought 10 cts worth of cakes that would not be very cheap at 1/2 price. Pineapples were plenty at 50 cts each, & cocoa nuts with the outside covering on at same price. H. & I saw two parrots, one of which was quite noisy. I do not remember ever to have seen such before. After looking about an hour or more, we returned to camp. I asked two or three citizens the name of this County & with difficulty I found from a fourth it was Cameron Co. In the town opposite I think there is no news paper of any kind published. Today one of our Co. bought an N.O. Times of 10 inst. It contained little news of importance, but was very welcome being the last we saw since that of the 3d that Cap. bought. We hear that Co.Kretz late in Com. of our Brig. was relieved & ordered to his Regt. Brig. Gen. Slack succeeds him. I wrote a sheet of note to Anthony to send with what I wrote aboard. Pork was drawn & distributed today. I am well

Camp at Clarksville, Texas
Cameron Co Texas
June 16^th Friday 1865

I heard our Capt say yesterday that it was lately ascertained our muster rolls were never properly signed by Capt. Trowbridge, U.S. Mustering Officer at the time of our muster in, nor by Capt. Enos of our Co. Thus it would appear we never were really mustered into the service of the U.S. The prospect of getting home soon is not very bright & the worst of the case is that many of our Com. Officers would & do, now prefer to stop [stay] in the army drawing high wages rather than to be discharged with the Regt. & compelled to resume their former occupations. Thus, they feel very little anxiety if any, for our immediate discharge. Capt. said he heard even Col. Kretz of 27 Wis. express his willingness to remain in the service till the end of the term of his Regt. some 8 or 10 months yet. Now very few privates or non-Com officers feel thus but nearly all are anxious to return to their old friends, homes, & labors. Capt. said a good way for us to do would be to draw up a Petition, which all might sign that would to be sent to Gov. Lewis, that he would use his influence with the General Government so there be no neglect or unnecessary delay about our discharge from the Army. He would help such a movement, but thought not many others would. I wish this would be done.
This A.M. the Co. of 46th U.S.C.I. left here to join the Regt. at Brazos Santiago. I mailed a letter to Anthony sent it by hand to Brazos. The restrictions in regard to crossing the river become more stringent. Orders are out prohibiting all but Commissioned Officers & citizens from crossing. Soldiers dress in citizens clothes & cross frequently. I spoke to Col. Gray this A.M. about crossing, & he said he would see Gen. Sleck about such cases as mine. I saw the Gen. this P.M. There was Parade in our Brig. this P.M. I began reading Bayard Tayor's 'China, India & Japan'

Camp at Clarksville, Texas
Cameron Co Texas
June 17^th Saturday 1865

I mailed a letter to Matt today. Yesterday while down at the river I saw a soldier steal a hat from a man who brought a lot across the river to sell. I felt what a low mean excuse of Humanity he must be for He did not need it, his hat seemed in good order. The price was only $1.25. How many returning soldiers will steal after we get back. A few days ago one of Co I went over & got drunk & I heard others & himself speak of the many things he was able to steal without getting caught. Wines have risen to $1.00 or $1.25 & much of it is smuggled across. Bread is sold at 10 cts a loaf, or three for 25 cts. Today I bought 6 loaves for 50 cts & two cans of peaches for $1.00
Last evening we went to the Gulf shore & stopped playing with the breakers for nearly 1/2 an hour. The water is always dark colored & as this comes from the river & colors the Gulf out quite a distance. The water is intensely salty. Banannas are sold from five to 10 cts each. Pineapples 50 to 75 cts each. Orders were read last evening for two hours drill each day, except Saturdays & Sundays & dress parade daily. There is the usual amount of rumor, now that we go to Brownsville again, that we will go home after a few days. I sometimes think how anyone can live here so lazy, so idle, for any considerable length of time. I hope we will not be detained much longer. Yesterday I heard a citizen of the Liberal Party say he was driven from his home in the City of Mexico by the Imperialist. He said the Liberal Party wished to be annexed to U.S., while the Mexicans who favor France prefer to be a colony to that Government, if not an independent Empire, as there is little hope for the latter. I see but two parties in regard to affairs in the distracted land of Mexico, viz, the United States & France. I hope the designs of the latter will not be accomplished such as I dislike war with so powerful a nation as France. If war begins no one can tell when it may end. But I hope we will not abandon Mexico to the cruel mercies of the Tyrant that rules France.
Day was bright & warm. Night clear. I am well.

Camp at Clarksville, Texas
Cameron Co Texas
June 18^th Sunday 1865

Fifty years ago today was ended the decisive Battle of Waterloo in which the fate of Napoleon Buoneparte was decided & his project of Universal Empire overthrown forever. What would have been the results of his success we can never know, but I think mankind in the main has been benefitted by the results of that great & bloody battle. I have no doubt but that failure would have resulted sooner or later, for it must be impossible ever to maintain supremacy over even the civilized parts of the globe from any one central power & if provinces be set apart & governors appointed over them, division irrevitably follows.
Some of our Regt & Co. were at Brazos Santiago yesterday & brought conflicting rumors in regard to the army changes. One was that the rest of our Corps--13th & 16th Army Corps were ordered to this Dept. The 25th of Colored Troops, in Command of [by] Gen. Wietzel has been lying off that place & the troops are debarking as fast as the limited means will allow. I had hoped this Corps would relieve us, but it may now be otherwise. Another rumor was that orders were issued to muster out the 13th Corps. I heard today that our Government asked France to withdraw her troops from Mexico. I think this is not at all improbable & that the movement of troops this way is to support such a demand.
Today was bright & breezy as usual, the heat was very great at noon. I read some this A.M. but soon fell asleep, & did not wake for many hours. Thus we do little else than eat, drink, & sleep with too little of exercise to keep one lively & so little to interest that a longing if felt by everyone. We had no Inspection today. We heard of the death of Wm. Jones in hospital at Brazos Santiago last night.

Camp at Clarksville, Texas
Cameron Co Texas
June 19^th Monday 1865

Yesterday we saw several French officers going through our camp. Some of those wore red Pantaloons, in other respects their uniforms were much like those worn by our officers. One had Epaulettes in which were heavy gold fringes. Our officers go across frequently & 'tis said they often drink & behave in a disgraceful way. Today one of Co K was put upon a barrel with[?] guard by him with bayonet fixed. Here he was kept many hours & for very little cause, but chiefly as if it were to gratify his personal spleen or malice. Sometimes the peddlers who bring bread &c for sale to this side of the river put some bottles of liquor in their baskets & this is against orders, as they [do it] in that way pay no duty. Sometimes some of our officers examine such baskets & when they [find] bottles of drink they seize them & declare them confiscated!! to their own personal & special use & benefit. I have no sympathy with the sale of liquor , but such a way of procuring drink is too mean to be adopted by any other official in the world, except perhaps some of those in our Army. Last evening I went alone & had a wash in the roiled waters of the Gulf. I played awhile with the breakers as they dashed along the shore & when tired of that I returned to camp. Yesterday P.M. the wind that had blown constantly since we came here from S. E. changed suddenly to N.E. & I've felt its force but little since & today was hotter in consequence. Yesterday Geo. Church & Wm. Boyce went to Brazos Santiago expecting to see Wm Jones of our Co but found him dead. They got an escort in 35th Wis & after a hard days work buried him. He died of Flux & was unwell since we left Mobile

Camp at Clarksville
Cameron Co Texas
June 20^th Tuesday 1865

Yesterday P.M. I was taken suddenly with such a pain in my bowels as I never felt before. This was colic, with which many of the boys were troubled since we came here. It was quite a sharp piercing pain, & was felt at intervals of two or three to five minutes for about two hours. Hinkley warmed some water & applied it with a towel. This afforded relief very soon & ere night I felt easy. This continued all night & day. Today I lay on our bunk nearly all day & I felt weak when I moved about late in P.M. I ate a very hearty dinner yesterday, boiled peas & raw onions with fried shoulder & soft bread. For the first time since I left home--except when we crossed the Gulf last Feb-- I had a fit of vomiting. This did not last long & after it I felt much relieved.
There was sick call last evening & I was one of several that were excused from drill. Last evening one ration of flour was drawn & many of the boys make pancakes. I was on fatigue yesterday A.M. Orders were to report at daylight but it was later when we reported. Our work was to roll cotton off a boat that came down from Brownsville. There I saw & conversed with a member of 2d Texas Union Cav. They are at Brownsville together with two Co. Regt. From Hina I learned much of interest in regard to Texas. Many teams came down the river & took a load of cotton to Brazos Santiago. There while at work I saw Mexicans or the first time. They were almost as brown as Indians & even the women were little better in appearance, nor much different. What was my surprise afterward to see the guard of 2d Texas--he was a native of the Cherokee Nation-- in our camp looking for a soldier who asked to see a ring he wore, & who then made his escape in the crowd. Capt. Williams seized several bottles of liquors, took them to Regt. Hd.Q'rtrs where many of our officers had a merry drinking time. This is executing law with a vengence!! Day was bright.

Clarksville, Cameron Co. Texas
June 21^st Wednesday 1865

I read many pages in Bayard Taylor's 'China, India & Japan'. This is the first of his books I ever read, & I find it both interesting & instructive. The boys buy many novels, many of which are peddled by some of the soldiers & willingly bought by others. Some of those are of average quality, while others are of the commonest trash. I was surprised to see Dicken's 'American Notes' marked 75 cts as the publisher's price. I saw a copy of 'Southern Generals' of some 475 or 480 pages illustrated with several well executed Steel Portraits. The price was $3.50, but I thought this is too high. A fair price would be about $2.00 or, in cheap times 1.75. It will not do to buy many books while prices are so high, but I fear books will not be so cheap for many years to come, as they were before the War. I think duties will cause many things to be high for many years to come. I wrote three pages of letter, interlined, to Matt. I felt quick & comfortable all day, though the heat was severe about noon. Yesterday there was a salute fired from one of war vessels at anchor off the mouth of the river. Someone said it was from a British ship in honor of the Queen's birthday. The No. of vessels at anchor off the coast continues as large as when we first came to Brazos Santiago. More than 40 are daily in view. Fort the first time I ate dates day before yesterday. The taste is a little like figs, but more like that of a rich plum preserved in sugar. The fruit seems of about the size of a large dark-colored native or wild plum in Wis. They are dear so I bought a dime's worth. At N.O. women only did peddling, here men only. As the roads are sandy here five mule teams draw each wagon. A negro Regt. came today from Brazos Santiago. A mail came this evening from May 1st to 5th inst. I got two from Matt & one from Anthony.

Clarksville, Texas
June 22^d Thursday 1865

The good tidings from home were all that I could wish for. All were well. Mother wrote May 14 that Matt had not felt first rate for two weeks, but probably this was slight as he does not speak of it. Anthony & Matt both wrote on 4 & 5th inst. They had washed sheep. Weather was dry & Mother said in her letter that rain was wanted then. Matt said May 14th that all he did was sleeping & working. Of course he has not time now to think of marrying. How I wish I had a part of his work & he 1/2 of my leisure. Father's health is very good, so too is John's. How joyous is this compared with what I feared last spring would ere this be the result. Heartiest thanks to God!!! Anthony's letter was full & complete as usual, covering four full pages; truly such is a treasure to get. His account is most satisfactory & the pictures he draws of his happy little household are truly lifelike & joyous. His little boy pulls the cat about & like little Winnifred is healthy & strong. May they ever be innocent & always happy. Glad it is that homes may be so happy in a land so Free. Catharine was well. "She ws singing a pleasant tune" while he wrote. Well I hope we shall all yet be happy with 'Home & Friends around Us'. I mailed a letter to Matt today. Now mail goes to Brazos Santiago daily. I made an experiment today in getting cool drink. At different times I got four drinks of lemonade at 10cts each. This was not half satisfactory, so I bought a lump of real cold ice & put it in a pail of water. For the ice I paid 25. I got two drinks of cool water out of this & passed the rest about among our Co. I longed for the time when I can slake my thirst at the cool spring or well like that at home. Day was bright & hot. This evening I read Harper's Weekly of 10 inst. Capt. bought one. N .Y. papers of 3d are for sale & I read N.O. Times & Delta of 14th. I had a pleasant time with Hinkley about 5 P.M. washing & swimming in the Gulf. H. saw a porpoise, there are rumors of persons being bitten by sharks. I am well.

Camp at Clarksville
Cameron Co, Texas
June 23^d Friday 1865

Last evening I was struck or very strongly impressed with the unusual beauty & grandeur of the vast picture of God's power & greatness at the time of sunset. The dark clouds seemed to form a vast altar from which ascended vapors as if of incense to the Creator & Preserver of all. Nothing could be grander than the vast cornices [?] of gold that appeared about the altar. While I beheld the wondrous scene I very voluntarily bowed in mental worship to the Author of all things. During my future life I will think many a time of the grandest sunset I have ever beheld.
We hear Gen. Steele has been superceded by Gen. Wietzel, with all or a part of the 25th Army Corps. & that this takes effect today. A month ago today the grand review of the eastern armies began in Washington. This was the grandest military pageant ever witnessed on this continent. None to equal it may again occur till a century will have passed. There was also a review at Mobile. Many of our boys have noticed that for several days past, few flags fly in Bagdad compared with the No. shown a week ago. We have rumors that two of 35th Wis. are in custody in Bagdad for stealing & that they are to be shot tomorrow. This causes much excitement among some of our boys, who declare it should not be allowed, that if done they would volunteer to cross & destroy the town &c. I wrote some today & read but little. I got a Harper's Weekly. Also a fine linen pants for $2.75. I ate some bread to the cost of 25 cts, a bananna for 10 cts. There was a disgraceful liquor fight in Co. B at the time of dress parade last evening. On parade were read orders of the promotion of our Adj. A.S.Kendrick to rank as Capt. & A.A. Gen. of U.S. Vols. The Rio Grand is falling. Day was bright & hot.

Clarksville, Texas
June 24^th Saturday 1865

Again am I reported for duty. I feel pretty well, though not so well as usual. Few feel really strong & healthy, disorders of some kind affecting nearly everyone. Diarreah prevails, owing to the large quantity of trash eaten & drank by the boys & the bad quality of the water. I heard all the whites- soldiers sick in hospital at Brazos Santiago were discharged since we left there, & many of them sent home.
This A.M. we were surprised to see nearly a hundred negroes, each bearing many canteens, which they brought to secure a supply of water. They came from Brazos Santiago, 9 miles such being the scarcity of water among the troops there. Some of our boys went down today & when they returned they gave a shocking account of the scarcity of water there. It is said a large No. of troops--all colored--have been landed there, some of them have left there, moving to the river above us. The boys say water could not be got there for love or money & they would have suffered severely had they not carried a supply of water from this place. One got dinner for a dollar but was allowed only one pint of water.
We heard many cannon shots this morning about daylight from some of the vessels that lie at anchor. We do not know the cause of this. This P.M. the captured blockade runner Heroine entered the river & brought several generals. Some of the boys said they saw Steele & Canby, & we heard Phil. Sheriden was among them. Ere they were here long, we heard the 33d Iowa Regt. had orders to prepare to start home soon. It is said no more of the 7 Regts. here of whites are in included at present. Those are 27th & 28th Wis, 29 & 33 Iowa, 7th Vt., 77th Ohio, & 35th Wis.
I bought a hat today for $2.00 No drill Saturdays or Sundays.

Clarksville, Texas
June 25^th Sunday 1865

Day was bright & hot. I am well. Last evening I cleaned my gun in preparation for inspection this A.M. There was quite an animated talk among the boys as to the rights of foreigners who enlist in our army & serve their term. Some argued that this act of itself made them citizens if they saw fit to accept & continued their residence without interruption. I thought it must bind them to citizenship if at all conferred, not leaving it wholly optional with them to accept or reject it. It was finally decided that such must go through the process of Naturalization. This morning I went to the Gulf & with Gelzer, & we had a pleasant bath. While in the water I felt something, I thought like a fish, touch my leg. This made me leave the water hastily. Yesterday we heard that two of 35th Wis. were seized by something while swimming in the river above us & were dragged under the water & seen no more. This may be true, but I think it would be a cunning way to cover desertion to Mexico if one wished to do so. Still there is cause to believe that either sharks or alligators are in the waters hereabouts, for when we first came to Brazos Santiago, we heard the Col. of 46th U.S. Colored Inf. was lost a few days before in a similar manner.== We hear nothing more of the 33d Iowa leaving. Orders were read on parade this evening of the change of the A.A. Gen. in our Brigade. We hear rumors that our Serg. Major Jerome McGill has recd. Commission as Adj. Some say he has already been mustered in. Probably his Com. was applied for six months ago.
This P.M. there was a detail of 50 men from our Regt & as many from 33d Iowa, to raise a shaft or flagstaff about 80 feet long. Two commissioned officers & one of the Brig. aids another strap & two sailors were in command. After long waiting & bustling delay the pole was raised 10 or 12 ft from the ground when a rope broke & all fell to the ground. A member of Co. H was badly hurt and one of 33[d Iowa] slightly.

Camp at Clarksville
June 26^th Monday 1865

This morning we had a queer sort of drill. Orderly Sergt Foster took the Co. out on the level sandy plain along the bank of the river. There we stacked arms--some 80 or 100 rods from camp--when we all broke ranks & passed an hour or an hour & a half talking, standing about & cutting capers. Some remarked how much better would games of ball be for the health of the boys & how much more enjoyed by all. No one seems to care or take interest in the drill, & we feel that it is of no use & but a nuisance. Wm. H. Smith & I had a pleasant wash & swim in the calm pleasant waters of the Gulf this morning. When dressing I found a $5 Confederate Bank note. It is now worthless, but I will send it home to be preserved. I was not a little surprised this morning to hear the boys speak of the death of E. N. Walden, the report of which came by last mail. He was unfit for duty much of the time, & was furloughed nearly a year ago from Pine Bluff. I liked him better than many of our boys did, for he was rather still, almost taciturn, less rough & disorderly than the boys generally, but they knew him before I did. He did not swear nor speak obscenely often as others did, though I believe he had little if any religious beliefs. Having no relations he left his effect to some young ladies at whose Father's he had made his home. Some say he was raised from infancy by an old lady--now in want-- & to whom it is said he left nothing. I hope this is not true.
Alas , how our numbers diminish, one dies here, another at home &c. Of the 100or 112 that gathered 33 months ago & of whom 95 or thereabouts formed Co G., now but barely 40 remain. How good is God that I am spared. It is said Chester Tuller Ord. Sergt of Co. B has been appointed Sergt. Major. I heard our new Adj. was wetting [evetting?] his appointment today according to Bacchus. I read some, & wrote in diary &c. Mail came last night. I got one from Matt. All were well a month ago!!

Clarksville, Texas
June 27^th Tuesday 1865

At length, one of the white Regt here--men of '62 have started on their way home. The 33d Iowa broke camp & started for Brazos Santiago about 5 o'clock this A.M. All are well pleased at this for we come next in turn & it seems may be the next to start. Many have high hope that we will start before 30 days & that this is all the more likely as our teams & those left back with them at Mobile have not yet come on, though many vessels have since made the trip. Rumor says those were sent to N.O. The 33d are to report at Galveston.
Soon after daylight this morning a heavy shower of rain began to fall, but it did not last long. The day was more breezy than usual, so little heat was felt.
We had a drill this A.M. verly like that of yesterday. It was the same with the other companies. The time was passed chatting & in play. Today I saw a German who has lived in Texas 13 years & served all through the War. Before that time he lived in Milwaukee where he was in Ludington's employ as clerk & elsewhere in Wis. He is a person of much more than ordinary ability & to all appearance well informed, a ready talker, having a good & correct memory. After dinner a woman came along having crout & mashed potatoes. I got 25 cts worth. The potatoes tasted well, but they are scarce & dear. Ripe bannannas sell for 2 or 3 for a dime. For the first time I tasted a mango. The taste is not pleasant, being more like a very ripe pumpkin than anything else I know of & ripe bannannas taste much like a rich muskmellon. I wrote some & read in Harper's Weekly of 17th inst. I am well.

Clarksville, Texas
at Mouth of Rio Grande
June 28^th Wednesday 1865

During the last week more than a dozen small shanties of various shapes have been put up on this side of the river. Those are built by citizens from the other side, many of whom are fugitives from this state to escape rebel conscription, while many are from N.O. to escape duty first--on the rebel side but since on ours. I notice some of those latter are Irish. If we keep troops here to any considerable numbers there will soon be quite a village here. There are many rumors in regard to the dissolute character of some of the few females that have yet crossed. It is said there was quite a village here before the War, but for some cause unexplained, the rebels burned it. I am told the old battlefield of Pola Alto is up the river 15 miles. I would like to see the ground. It is said some earthworks yet remain. An old man came along yesterday to sell us bannannas, & from him I heard many things of interest. He is a resident or citizen of Texas. He told us of the Peon system of which I had never heard. It prevails in Mexico to a very great extent, in some sections 3/4 to 4/5 of the people being Peons. One comes to be a Peon in this way: being indebted to some person to any amount, almost however small--say $25 or $50. He binds his time & services to his creditor till payment is made. His indebtedness oftener increases than diminishes, & so he is often bound to this condition for life. Usually his family comes to share his condition & thus very often are whole families of poor held by their richer relatives. Wages to the amount of $4-1/2 a month are allowed each able male Peon & I suppose to others in proportion together with food & clothing. He said the country on both sides of the river to the distance of 100 or 150 [miles] back on each side & 400 miles up the river is one [of] vast waste, unfit for cultivation, but affording some pasturage. Our flag was hoisted yesterday P.M. Day was bright & breezy.

Clarksville, Texas
June 29^th Thursday 1865

Last night I was detailed for camp guard. I liked this much better than to be detailed for a day's patrol or guard on the river bank. I was on post from 8 to 11 P.M. I lay on my rubber, my gun laid near me, unloaded & my bayonet unfixed. This was easy guard, not like the watchfulness required in the past times of active war. I felt very dozy & almost slept. I had the grand roar of the Gulf for music, the sky for a picture gallery, over which passed many clouds in broken fragments behind which waded the crescent moon casting her mild light over the sandy waste expanse. For mental entertainment I had memories of the past & thoughts of home. I had a good sleep till past sunrise. The day is bright & breezy. I did not go on drill this A.M. Some of the Capt's go out with their Co's. but ours seldom does this for no Private dislikes drill more than he. Last evening our new Adj. acted for the first time. Sergt. Vanderpool comes in Ord. of Co. B. Yesterday I was standing in a shanty for a few minutes, when they cut up a pine apple & passed it among those in the room. I liked it well. There was a rumor in all our camps yesterday A.M. that orders had been rec'd for ours, & 27h Wis & 29th Iowa to start very soon for N.O. Some thought we might start ere the end of three days & others inside of a week. Nothing is heard today to support or confirm this. I bought Bannannas ripe at 2-1/2 cts each. I like them well. I read some in Harper's Magazine for June. I wrote part of a letter to Anthony. We hear 33d Iowa is yet at Brazos Santiago. Today is so breezy as to be rather disagreeable. There are rumors of fighting at or near Matamoras in which it is said Liberals are victorious. Rumor says the French troops desert in large numbers. Vive L'Replblique Mexicano

Clarksville, Texas
June 30^th Friday 1865

I cleaned my gun last evening to be ready for Inspection & Muster at 5 O'clock this A.M. We were up early & formed on our parade line. There was no inspection & muster was speedily got through with. We had no drill & this pleased everybody. The day was hot till late in the P.M. when the sky was suddenly overcast with heavy clouds. Soon rain began to fall which continued for two hours when it partially ceased, but still continued till near dark. By timely preparations we succeeded in keeping our things & ourselves pretty dry & safe. This was the heaviest shower that fell since about the 20th of March when marching on Mobile Point. I should have stated that by our second last mail, we--I-- heard from Matt that S. Gilbert & Corp. Geo. H. Pack of our Co reached home on 3d inst. R.R. Griffing of our Co. who went home nearly a year ago from Pine Bluff, & who most of the time since was on duty in Madison, Wis, was allowed to go home to remain there till the time of the discharge of our Regt when he will be discharged. He must have a happy time of it as his wages continue as if still in active service in our ranks. Today for the first time I ate genuine Bannannas, those commonly so called being properly Plantains. The former are quite rare & are sold at a much higher price than the latter. Mangoes are sold at 3 for a dime & seem to be little liked. A few days ago we heard that much excitement & dissatisfaction was created across the river by an order requiring permits to trade on this side to be procured at Matamoras. I heard a man say this A.M. that he had to give $8 in greenback for $3 in specie in Bagdad. Others pay from 50 to 100 percent. Goods have risen to double since we came here. I wrote some today. I am well.

General Remarks for June

I heard from home but twice during the month, the latest being 5th inst. The news was as good as could be desired. All well & prosperous. Crops were much in need of rain in May till a rain fell & again at the time of last writing the growth of crops was retarded by the dry weather that continued. The negro troops from VA that we heard would follow & relieve us came & having after long waiting, disembarked at Brazos Santiago & after suffering severely by the short supply of water, they have been sent to various places, but still are we not relieved. Our hopes have often been high by reason of rumors & statements in circulation most of which had more or less shadow of probability, but thus all seems to have been mere illusions, for we see no more prospect of going now than was two or three weeks ago. It seems orders were issued to discharge first those troops mustered in on or before Oct 1st. By some blunders & ignorance or callousness on the part of somebody--our first Col. Lewis among them--we come in the 2d class--those mustered after. I have become reconciled to the hardship of the idleness & discomfort of such a way of living & wasting so many of the best days of our lives, for the simple reason that fretting will not help us. Our latest papers are of 19th. N.O. & 10th N.Y. Gold recps at about 1.35 & fluctuates but little. We continue at Peace with foreign powers..

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