Showing posts with label Southern Unionists. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Southern Unionists. Show all posts

Saturday, August 12, 2023

Diary of Private Daniel L. Ambrose: Monday, May 16, 1864

This morning Colonel Rowett moves with the command towards Florence, leaving Company H, Captain Ring, near Cedar and Cox's Islands to guard the crossings. This morning Company H buries the Ninth Ohio Cavalry's fallen soldier, who was killed yesterday evening. We lay him in a lonely place beneath the drooping branches of a large tree on the bank of the Tennessee. Though he is an Ohio soldier, we care for him with the same interest as we would were he one of our own company, and why should we not, since he has been a brave warrior, fighting in the same common cause beneath the same starry banner. A dispatch from Rowett this evening informs us that Roddy crossed the Tennessee last night at twelve o'clock; that he would not fight Rowett on an equal footing. This evening Colonel Rowett arrested Buckee and Judge Foster as hostages for the delivery of Dr. McVay, now held by the rebels because of his devotion to the old Union.

SOURCE: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 241

Saturday, March 25, 2023

Diary of Private Daniel L. Ambrose: Wednesday, December 16, 1863

A cold north wind is blowing all day. This evening the regiment comes in from its expedition—cold and hungry, but we see success beaming from every face, and soon we are told that the regiment met and routed the famous guerrilla Moorland and his band. Killed ten and left them on the field, wounded about thirty, and captured forty prisoners, and strange to say without the loss of a man from the regiment. This can be accounted for from the fact of the superiority of our guns over those of the guerrillas at a long 'range. The boys are all in a glee over their scout, relating many incidents worthy of record. But we will only record one. Close by where our regiment encountered Moorland, two rebels entered a house to obtain their dinners, and in this house dwelt a young lady whose love for the old Union no one ever questioned. Though against her will, their dinners were prepared, and while eating, the young lady walks to the door and down the road she beholds the old Union's flag come flying. She immediately turns, seizes both guns and with one kills one of the rebels and with the other gun takes the other rebel prisoner, turning him over to our men when they advanced. Tell me not that woman is not performing her part in this war. Reader, will you believe me when I tell you that the world in all its knightly history, never produced brighter examples of heroism than have been produced in this southland during these years of terrible strife. The daughters of the south who love the bonny stars and stripes, deal with weapons of death ; stemming war's wild current, braving what men have ever dared to brave, lending a helping hand to those who would perpetuate this union and save liberty from its final grave. We see her walking the battle field at the midnight hour where the messengers from the cannon's mouth have done their fearful work; we see her at the hospital where the angel of death lingers at the threshold waiting for life's brittle thread to break, when it could upon its wings bear the hero-spirits home to an approving God. We see her at the warrior's tomb, see her tears sparkle and her flowers fall on their silent mission of love and peace. Flowers of many hues from many hands, and tears from many heart fountains may fall there, but no brighter treasure, no holier tribute will ever be offered, than noble woman has already offered on the fallen soldier's hallowed tomb.

SOURCE: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 215-6

Monday, March 20, 2023

Dr. Seth Rogers to his daughter Dolly, March 14, 1863—Evening

March 14, Evening.

A curious incident occurred this morning which gave me a full hundred (from both regiments) sick and wounded to examine and prescribe for and fill out my prescriptions. The John Adams started for a secret raid up the river at daylight, without notifying Dr. Minor, the steward and hospital nurse, who were all sleeping on the boat. It was a good enough joke, but for me not so practical as to make me crave a repetition. Tonight our sick and wounded are in the hospital. Colonel Montgomery thought the Lord had grown these handsome shade trees especially for barricades, and I have never a doubt that the Washington Hotel, with its sixteen chambers, and a fire-place in each, was especially intended for a military hospital. Possibly it is because it seems too good to last that I deem it hazardous to bring our sick ashore, but the two Colonels assure me it is perfectly safe to do so.

Our belligerent Chaplain1 is armed with a revolver on each side and a Ballard rifle on his back. He keeps so persistently on the advanced picket line that I could scarcely persuade him to conduct the funeral service of a poor fellow who was shot the other day. Today he got on the track of some cavalry and infantry, and was certain of surrounding and capturing them, if he could only get permission from the Colonel. His hatred of slavery is so intense that his prayers are of a nature to keep his powder dry.

We have burned a good many houses within a mile of town, to get rid of screens for the enemy between us and the woods, where rather formidable trees are being felled to complete our water barricade. The houses are often occupied by women and children whose husbands and fathers are in the Confederate service. The Chaplain, being a man of fire, has much to do with this matter. Today, I questioned him as to his usual mode of proceeding. I found he gave them the choice of the two governments, but with the explicit statement that their friends in arms were to be killed soon unless they came in and surrendered. His division of the effects of these families seems rather scriptural. "What seems to belong to the woman, I yield to her, but what seems to belong to the man, I have brought into camp."

Some of these cases are very pitiful and call out my deepest commiseration. Today I visited a poor widow who has a son in the rebel service. Her house was burned and she, with her children, was brought into town. She has not been able to walk a step during the last five months. On examination I found that her prostration was due entirely to privations and hardships resulting from war. For more than a year her food has been "dry hominy" with now and then a little fish. She was born in Alabama of "poor white" parents. As I talked to her it seemed to me it must be difficult for her to understand the justice of our coming here to invade the homes of those who had always earned their bread by the sweat of their brows.

Yesterday I conversed with a lady who lives in a pleasant cottage, with her beautiful little children and her aged mother. Her husband is a captain outside our barricades and when the Colonel granted her permission to go wherever she chose, she said so many had gone from the river and coast towns to the interior that one could scarcely find a barn to stay in or food to subsist on. She remains here for the present. Her husband was a music teacher and was taken into the army by conscription. From what I can learn of him through Union men, I have no doubt he would gladly return to loyalty. What are we to do with such families? "Things are a little mixed" here in the South, but we must all suffer the results of our great national sin, some one way, some another.

I have given out word that the Surgeon of our regiment will cheerfully and gladly attend to the medical needs of all civilians here. To be the means of relieving suffering is sufficient compensation, but in this case there is the additional good of being able to make anti-slavery statements in a satisfactory way.

I never supposed I could be so much gratified by comparatively level scenery. The river is very beautiful, – quite clear and of a deep amber color. I cannot tell you how much I enjoy my evening bath. Dr. Minor usually goes with me. Once, while in the water, the companies were hurriedly ordered to "fall in," but it seemed so unnatural that one's bathing should be interfered with that we were not startled by the alarm.

We find the rebel women here exceedingly desirous to prove that our soldiers are guilty of all the outrages they might expect from a long-injured people now in power. Many of our soldiers are natives of this place and meet their old mistresses here. On the day of our landing I was over and over implored, by those who knew their deserts, to protect them from the "niggers." It was an awful turning of the tables. I quite enjoyed saying "These are United States troops and they will not dishonor the flag."

Several charges have been preferred against the soldiers, but thus far, when sifted down, have proved quite as much against those who complained as against our men. The Adjutant told me of a lady of easy manners, who had been very much insulted by a soldier. Close investigation proved that he actually sat on her front door-step.

That our soldiers do some outrageous things, I have little doubt. When women taunt them with language most unbecoming, as they sometimes do, I should be very sorry if they did not return a silencer. Thus far they have behaved better than any white regiment has done under such temptations. They "confiscate" pigs and chickens because their captains connive at it and the Provost Marshal cannot do everything alone.

Today the John Adams and the Burnside are off on some speculation up the river. I was too busy to go with them this morning, or should have asked the privilege. Colonel Montgomery has gone with his men. They declare he is a "perfect devil to fight, he don't care nuttin 'bout de revels." His bravery is apparently rashness but in reality far from it. He evidently thinks the true mode of self-defense is to attack the enemy on his own ground.
_______________

1 Rev. James H. Fowler, of Cambridge, Mass.

SOURCE: Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, Volume 43, October, 1909—June, 1910: February 1910. p. 373-5

Sunday, December 25, 2022

Brigadier-General William H. Carroll to Judah P. Benjamin, November 26, 1861

HEADQUARTERS, Knoxville, November 26, 1861.
Hon. J.P. BENJAMIN,
        Secretary of War:

SIR: I have the honor to report that I arrived here on Saturday last, by order of General Zollicoffer, and assumed command of this post on Sunday. I found stationed here Colonel Wood's battalion and several companies of infantry and cavalry. There seemed to be much uneasiness and apprehension felt in reference to the disaffected portion of the population. I have put the city under military rule and have restored peace and security.

I have detailed and sent to the various districts where I had information there were any gatherings of disaffected citizens and had them dispersed, and in many instances the leaders arrested. As soon as possible, I dispatched companies of mounted men to scour the country, with instructions to arrest and send here all persons who were inciting rebellion or were found with arms, resisting the authorities. In all instances where there was no proof of disloyalty I have discharged the prisoners upon their taking the oath of allegiance.

There are now in custody here about 70 persons, many of whom, it, is believed, were either directly or indirectly connected with the burning of the railroad bridges. Colonel Wood, who was in command here before my arrival, had in contemplation a court-martial for the trial of those upon whom proof of guilt seemed to be strong. I concurred with him, and ordered the meeting on the 28th. The board will be composed of some of the most intelligent officers within this post, and I have no doubt their action will be prudent and discreet.

It is important that steam-power should be secured for the purpose of driving the machinery necessary in the alteration of arms. I therefore took possession of the printing establishment of Brownlow. The steam-engine and building are suitable for our purposes, and it was the only one that could be procured here. Brownlow has left, and no certain information of his whereabouts can be obtained; it is, however, certain that he is aiding and abetting our enemies. I have assured his sons, who profess to have sold the establishment to a Mr. Baxter, that full indemnity for the use of the establishment would be paid by the Government. I have every assurance that the sale to Baxter was a false one, and feel that Baxter is not reliable in his loyalty to our Government.

In obedience to your instructions, Novemeber 22, I have given orders that all contracts for hogs or cattle made with the agents of the Confederate Government shall be complied with, and have dispatched several armed parties to see that it is properly executed.

There are 1,140 sacks of salt here. I have directed 400 sacks should be delivered to D. Morris & Co. and 400 sacks to Wilson & Johnson. This is sufficient to meet their present wants, and the balance will be returned, to meet such other demands as may arise. I will report to you again soon.

With high respect, your obedient servant,
WM. H. CARROLL,        
Brigadier-General, Commanding.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 7 (Serial No. 7), p. 704-5

Thursday, October 20, 2022

Diary of Private Richard R. Hancock: Saturday, November 9, 1861

Our brigade moved back from Anderson County to the vicinity of Jacksborough. McNairy's Battalion camped six miles south of town on the Clinton road.

REVOLT OF THE UNIONISTS IN EAST TENNESSEE.

East Tennessee was now ablaze with excitement on account of the uprising and open rebellion of the Union men. They were flying to arms in squads of from fifty to five hundred. Several bridges along the East Tennessee and Georgia, and Virginia and Tennessee Railroads were burned last night.

It appears that William Blunt Carter,1 of East Tennessee, was the prime mover and chief instigator of the revolt and bridge burning above named, and the following communication will show the beginning corner of his plans:

HEADQUARTERS CAMP DICK ROBINSON,        

September 30, 1861.


Major-General George B. McClellan, Commanding Department of the Potomac:


GENERAL: I have just had a conversation with Mr. W. B. Carter, of Tennessee, on the subject of the destruction of the Grand Trunk Railroad through that State.


He assures me that he can have it done if the Government will intrust him with a small sum of money to give confidence to the persons to be employed to do it. It would be one of the most important services that could be done for the country, and I most earnestly hope you will use your influence with the authorities in furtherance of his plans, which he will submit to you, together with the reasons for doing the work. I am, sir, very respectfully your obedient servant,

Geo. H. THOMAS,        

Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.2

Suffice it to say that he received satisfactory encouragement from the Federal Government, and, setting out on his mission about the middle of October, Carter arrived in the neighborhood of Montgomery, Morgan County, Tennessee, on the 22d, and under that date he wrote to General Thomas thus:

I reached here at 2 P. M. to-day. I am in six miles of company of rebel cavalry.


The rebels continue to arrest and imprison our people.


You will please furnish the bearers with as much lead, rifle powder, and as many caps as they can bring for Scott and Morgan Counties. You need not fear to trust these people. They will open the war for you by routing these small bodies of marauding cavalry.


I find our people have suffered beyond all forbearance. Hasten on to our aid. To-morrow night I hope to be near our railroad.


You shall hear from me again soon.3

On the 27th, near Kingston, Roane County, he wrote again to Thomas as follows:

I am now within a few miles of our railroad, but I have not yet had time to obtain all the information I must have before I decide on the course best for me to adopt. If I can get half a dozen brave men to “take the bull by the horns” we can whip them completely and save the railroad.


If I cannot get such leaders we will make a desperate attempt to destroy all the bridges, and I firmly believe I will be successful.


The Union men of East Tennessee are longing and praying for the hour when they can break their fetters.


Men and women weep for joy when I merely hint to them that the day of our deliverance is at hand. . . .


I beg you to hasten on to our help, as we are about to create a great diversion in General McClellan's favor.


You must bring some small arms with you. I am satisfied that you will have to take the road by Monticello and Jamestown, unless you come by Cumberland Gap.4

Having succeeded in maturing his plans, the execution of which resulted in the bridge burning, as previously mentioned. Mr. W. B. Carter set out on his return November with, and arrived at his brother's headquarters at “Camp Calvert," near London, Kentucky, on the 16th, and on the same day his brother, Colonel S. P. Carter (afterward General) sent the following report to General Thomas, whose headquarters had been moved forward from Camp Dick Robinson to Crab Orchard:

My brother William has just arrived from East Tennessee. He reports that on Friday night, 8th instant, of last week, he succeeded in having burned at least six, and perhaps eight bridges on the railroad, viz. : Union bridge, in Sullivan County, near the Virginia line, Lick Creek bridge, in Green County, Strawberry plains, in Jefferson County, fifteen miles east of Knoxville, partially destroyed, Hiawassee bridge seventy miles south-west of Knoxville, and on the East Tennessee and Georgia Railroad, two bridges over the Chickamauga, one between Cleveland and Chattanooga, and the other between Chattanooga and Dalton, Georgia. These bridges are certainly destroyed. The Long Island bridge, at Bridgeport, on Tennessee River, and a bridge below Dalton, on the Western and Atlantic road, are probably destroyed.5

Only five bridges were burned, as the following dispatch from Colonel W. B. Wood, Sixteenth Alabama, who had been for some time guarding the railroad as best he could with the small force at his command, will show:

KNOXVILLE, November 11, 1861.

Adjutant-General Cooper, Richmond:

Three bridges burned between Bristol and Chattanooga, two on Georgia road. Five hundred Union men now threatening Strawberry Plains. Fifteen hundred assembling in Hamilton County, and a general uprising in all the counties. I have about one thousand men under my command.


W. B. Wood,        

Colonel.6

PRIVATE MONROE KNIGHT, Co. E, FIRST BATTALION.

In order to put down this revolt of the Unionists, Stovall's Battallion and a light field battery were sent from Richmond, Virginia, to Bristol, Tennessee (11th), the Seventh Alabama, Col. S. A. M. Wood, from Pensacola to Chattanooga (14th), General W. H. Carroll, with two regiments, though mostly unarmed, from Memphis to Chattanooga (15th), and General Zollicoffer sent the Twenty-ninth Tennessee, Colonel S. Powell, from Jacksborough to Knoxville (ioth). On the nith Col. Danville Leadbetter, of Engineer Corps, was ordered by President Davis to proceed at once from Richmond to East Tennessee, assume command of all the troops to be stationed for the   and Chattanooga, reconstruct bridges, and repair and keep open the line of communication between those points.7

Mr. W. B. Carter happened to enter East Tennessee on his special mission just at the right time for it to be an easy matter for him to induce the Union men of that section to do his bidding. For when Zollicoffer fell back out of Kentucky the Unionists fully believed that the Federal army would be in their midst in a few days.

On the 20th Colonel W. B. Wood wrote to the Secretary of war thus:

The rebellion in East Tennessee has been put down in some of the counties, and will be effectually suppressed in less than two weeks in all the counties. Their camps in Sevier and Hamilton Counties have been broken up, and a large number of them made prisoners. Some are confined in jail at this place and others sent to Nashville. . . . . . . . . . . . .


The prisoners we have tell us that they had every assurance that the (Federal) army was already in the State, and would join them in a very few days; that the property of Southern men was to be confiscated and divided among those who would take up arms for Lincoln.8

In answer to an inquiry in reference to what he should do with his prisoners, Colonel Wood received the following from the Secretary of War:

All such as can be identified as having been engaged in bridge burning are to be tried summarily by-drum head court-martial, and, if found guilty, executed on the spot by hanging. It would be well to leave their bodies hanging in the vicinity of the burned bridges.


All such as have not been so engaged are to be treated as prisoners of war, and sent with an armed guard to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and held in jail till the end of the war. Such as come in voluntarily, take the oath of allegiance and surrender their arms are alone to be treated with leniency.9

Some, I know not how many, were found guilty by a “drum-head court martial” and hung.

As a general thing these bands of traitors would disband and flee to the mountains on the approach of an armed force of Confederates, therefore it was a difficult matter to do any thing with them.

While W. B. Carter was in East Tennessee arousing a spirit of rebellion there, ex-Governor Andrew Johnson was with the Federal army at London, Kentucky, urging upon and pleading with Generals Schoepf and Thomas to move forward into East Tennessee. In fact, this “forward movement” had been so often urged by Johnson, Maynard, the Carters and others of East Tennessee, that it had become quite annoying to the Federal commanders, as the following correspondence will show.

On November 7th, General Thomas wrote thus to Johnson:

Your favor of the 6th instant is at hand. I have done all in my power to get troops and transportation and means to advance into East Tennessee. I believe General Sherman at (Louisville) has done the same.


Up to this time we have been unsuccessful. If the Tennesseans are not content and must go, then the risk of disaster will remain with them.


In conclusion I will add that I am here ready to obey orders, and earnestly hope that the troops at London will see the necessity of doing the same.10

At the same time Thomas addressed a letter to Schoepf as follows:

I find it necessary to reply to Governor Johnson's letter in the manner of the foregoing, which I send to you for your information. It is time that discontented persons should be silenced, both in and out of the service.


I hope you will therefore see the necessity of dealing decidedly with such people, and you have my authority and orders for doing


We must learn to abide our time, or we shall never be successful.11

On the 8th, Schoepf replied to the above thus:

Yours of the 7th instant, with copy of letter to Governor Johnson, is before me, and it is with extreme satisfaction that I note the decided manner in which the case is laid down to Governor Johnson.


This outside pressure has become intolerable, and must be met with firmness, or the army may as well be disbanded.


With importunate citizens on one side and meddlesome reporters for papers on the other, I can scarce find time to attend to the appropriate duties of my position. By the way, cannot something be done to rid our camps of this latter class? I have really reached that point so that I am afraid to address my staff officer above a whisper in my own tent.12

Though, in place of a forward, the Federals made a retrograde, movement from London soon after the above correspondence.

On the 13th, General Schoepf set out from London to join General Thomas at Crab Orchard, with all the troops camped there, except the First and Second Tennessee and Third Kentucky (Colonel T. T. Garrard), which remained at   (Second Tennessee.)13

If you will excuse me, dear reader, for the above digression, I shall now return to Jacksborough and take up the movements of Zollicoffer's Brigade.

_______________

1 A brother of General S. P. Carter, who commanded the Tennessee Federal Brigade.

2 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 284.

3 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 317.

4 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 320.

5 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 359.

6 Ibid., p. 236.

7 See Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., pp. 234, 235, 538.

8 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 250.

9 Rebellon Records, Vol. VII., p. 701.

10 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., pp. 342 and 343.

11 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 347.

12 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 347.

13 See Carter to H. Maynard, Rebellion Records, Vol. VII., p. 468.

SOURCE: Richard R. Hancock, Hancock's Diary: Or, A History of the Second Tennessee Confederate Cavalry, p. 74-80

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

William Blount Carter to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 22, 1861

MORGAN COUNTY, TENNESSEE, NEAR MONTGOMERY,

October 22, 1861. (Received November 4.)
Brigadier-General THOMAS:

SIR: I reached here at 2 p.m. to-day. I am within 6 miles of a company of rebel cavalry. I find our Union people in this part of the State firm and unwavering in their devotion to our Government and anxious to have an opportunity to assist in saving it. The rebels continue to arrest and imprison our people.

You will please furnish the bearers with as much lead, rifle powder, and as many caps as they can bring for Scott and Morgan Counties. You need not fear to trust these people. They will open the war for you by routing these small bodies of marauding cavalry.

It is said here that Buckner has 9,000 men at Bowling Green, and that Zollicoffer has 12,000. I do not give this as reliable. I find our people have suffered beyond all forbearance, Hasten on to our aid.

To-morrow night I hope to be near our railroad. I have not been able as yet to gain any information as to my prospects of success.

I am obliged to send this note unsealed.

In haste, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. BLOUNT CARTER.

Since writing the within I learn there were 300 troops with 140 wagons. Report says they are going to Bowling Green, and that 20,000 more are to follow. You shall hear from me again soon.

W. B. CARTER.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 317

William Blount Carter to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 27, 1861

NEAR KINGSTON, ROANE COUNTY, TENNESSEE,        
October 27, 1861. (Received November 4.)

General THOMAS:

SIR: I am now within a few miles of our railroad, but I have not yet had time to obtain all the information I must have before I decide on the course best for me to adopt. If I can get half a dozen brave men to “take the bull by the horns,” we can whip them completely and save the railroad. If I cannot get such leaders, we will make a desperate attempt to destroy all the bridges, and I firmly believe I will be successful.

There are 1,400 rebel troops at Knoxville, some poorly armed, some not armed, and many of them sick. There are 160 at the Loudon Bridge. I know of no other troops in East Tennessee except the 300 about whom I wrote to you from Montgomery. They have gone to Wolf River.

Zollicoffer has 6,000 men all told; 1,000 of these are sick; 600 or 800 are not armed; 1,600 of the 6,000 are at Cumberland Gap; the balance beyond the gap.

Our enemies here are very uneasy for the safety of Zollicoffer, and have been calling on Davis for help; but, as I am informed, Davis says he is so pressed on the Potomac that he can spare none of the Virginia troops.

I can gain no reliable information from Kentucky by way of Nashville. I hear of no troops passing over our railroad.

We hear, by way of Knoxville, that Garrard has driven Zollicoffer back 6 miles. I suppose it is true, as secessionists tell it.

This whole country is in a wretched condition; a perfect despotism reigns here. The Union men of East Tennessee are longing and praying for the hour when they can break their fetters. The loyalty of our people increases with the oppressions they have to bear. Men and women weep for joy when I merely hint to them that the day of our deliverance is at hand. I have not seen a secession flag since I entered the State. I beg you to hasten on to our help, as we are about to create a great diversion in General McClellan's favor. It seems to me, if you would ask it, he would spare you at once 5,000 or 10,000 well-drilled troops. Will you not ask for more help?

I know you will excuse a civilian for making suggestions to a military man, when you remember that I am risking my life and that I am about to ask my people to do the same. I find more deficiency in arms in this part of East Tennessee than I expected. You must bring some small-arms with you. I am satisfied that you will have to take the road by Monticello and Jamestown, unless you come by Cumberland Gap.

I can assure you that whoever is the leader of a successful expedition into East Tennessee will receive from these people a crown of glory of which any one might well be proud, and I know of no one on whom I would more cheerfully bestow that crown than on yourself.

I regret that I can give you no more information, but I will communicate with you as circumstances may require. Perhaps it would be well for you to let General McClellan know that I have reached East Tennesee, as I know he is very anxious for my success.

I write in great haste, but believe you may rely on all I have written.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. BLOUNT CARTER.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 320

Monday, October 17, 2022

Colonel William B. Wood to Judah Benjamin, November 20, 1861

HEADQUARTERS,        
Knoxville, November 20, 1861.

SIR: The rebellion in East Tennessee has been put down in some of the counties, and will be effectually suppressed in less than two weeks in all the counties. Their camps in Sevier and Hamilton Counties have been broken up, and a large number of them made prisoners. Some are confined in jail at this place and others sent to Nashville.

In a former communication I inquired of the Department what I should do with them. It is a mere farce to arrest them and turn them over to the courts. Instead of having the effect to intimidate it really gives encouragement and emboldens them in their traitorous conduct. We have now in custody some of their leaders—Judge Patterson, the son-in law of Andrew Johnson; Colonel Pickens, the senator in the legislature from Sevier and other counties, and several members of the legislature, besides others of influence and some distinction in their counties. These men have encouraged this rebellion, but have so managed as not to be found in arms. Nevertheless, all their actions and words have been unfriendly to the Government of the Confederate States. The influence of their wealth, position, and connections has been exerted in favor of the Lincoln Government, and they are the parties most to blame for the troubles in East Tennessee. They really deserve the gallows, and if consistent with the laws ought speedily to receive their deserts; but there is such a gentle spirit of conciliation in the South, and especially here, that I have no idea that one of them will receive such a sentence at the hands of any jury impaneled to try them.

I have been here at this station for three months, half the time in command of the post, and I have had a good opportunity of learning the feeling pervading this country. It is hostile to the Confederate Government. They will take the oath of allegiance with no intention to observe it. They are the followers and slaves of Johnson and Maynard, and never intend to be otherwise. When arrested they suddenly become very submissive, and declare they are for peace and not supporters of the Lincoln Government, but yet they claim to be Union men. At one time, whilst our forces were at Knoxville, they gave it out that great changes were taking place in East Tennessee, and the people were becoming reconciled and loyal. At the withdrawal of the army from here to the Gap, and the first intimation that the Lincoln army was like to penetrate the State, they were in arms, and scarcely a man, with only a few honorable exceptions, but what was ready to join them and make war upon us.

The prisoners we have tell us that they had every assurance that the army was already in the State, and would join them in a very few days; that the property of Southern men was to be confiscated and divided amongst those who would take up arms for Lincoln.

I have to request, at least, that the prisoners I have taken be held, if not as traitors, as prisoners of war. To release them is ruinous; to convict them before a court at this time next to an impossibility; but if they are kept in prison for six months it will have a good effect. The bridge burners and spies ought to be tried at once, and I respectfully request that instructions be forwarded at as early a day as practicable, as it needs prompt action to dispose of these cases.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. B. WOOD,        
Colonel, Commanding Post.
Hon. J.P. BENJAMIN,
        Secretary of War.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 250-1

Major-General George B. McClellan to Brigadier-General Don Carlos Buell, December 3, 1861

WASHINGTON, December 3, 1861.
Brig. Gen. D.C. BUELL, Louisville:

MY DEAR BUELL: I inclose two letters, which were referred to me by the President and were intended for your eye. I do so, feeling sure that you sympathize with me in my intense regard for the noble Union men of Eastern Tennessee; that you will overlook all mere matters of form, and that you will devote all your energies towards the salvation of men so eminently deserving our protection. I understand your movements and fully concur in their propriety, but I must still urge the occupation of Eastern Tennessee as a duty we owe to our gallant friends there who have not hesitated to espouse our cause.

Please send, then, with the least possible delay, troops enough to protect these men. I still feel sure that the best strategical move in this case will be that dictated by the simple feelings of humanity. We must preserve these noble fellows from harm; everything urges us to do that—faith, interest, and loyalty. For the sake of these Eastern Tennesseeans who have taken part with us I would gladly sacrifice mere military advantages; they deserve our protection, and at all hazards they must have it. I know that your nature is noble enough to forget any slurs they may cast upon you. Protect the true men and you have everything to look forward to. In no event allow them to be crushed out.

I have ordered one regular and one excellent volunteer battery to join you. To-day I ordered 10,000 excellent arms to be sent to you at Louisville. I have directed all your requisitions to be filled at once. You may fully rely on my full support in the movement I have so much at heart—the liberation of Eastern Tennessee.

Write to me often, fully, and confidentially. If you gain and retain possession of Eastern Tennessee you will have won brighter laurels than any I hope to gain.

With the utmost confidence and firmest friendship, I am, truly, yours,

GEO. B. McCLELLAN,        
Major-General, Commanding U.S. Army.

P. S.—This letter has been dictated by no doubt as to your movements and intentions, but only by my feelings for the Union men of Eastern Tennessee.

_______________

[Inclosure No. 1. Acting Brig.-Gen. Samuel P. Carter to Horace Maynard, November 21, 1861.]

[Inclosure No. 2. Acting Brig.-Gen. Samuel P. Carter to Horace Maynard, November 25, 1861.]

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 7 (Serial No. 7), p. 468

Brigadier-General Felix K. Zollicoffer to Lieutenant Colonel William W. Mackall, November 17, 1861

KNOXVILLE, TENN., November 17, 1861.
Lieutenant-Colonel MACKALL, Bowling Green, Ky.:

SIR: Having blockaded the roads over the mountains near Jacksborough, and believing the fortifications at Cumberland Gap very strong, I do not think an army train of the enemy can pass the mountains anywhere between the Pound Gap, in Virginia, and Jacksborough, a distance of about 120 miles. I have started the regiments of Colonels Statham, Newman, Cummings, and Battle, the first battalion of the Sixteenth Alabama Regiment, and Branner's battalion of cavalry, with Rutledge's battery, around by Wartburg, on the way to Jamestown, Tenn., and Monticello, Ky.

I came here rapidly last night to obtain more definite information of the state of things along the line of the railroad and among the tories generally. I will leave for Wartburg this evening, feeling that there is no necessity for remaining longer. General Carroll telegraphs me from Chattanooga that he is there with two regiments, half armed. I have ordered him here, with such of his command as are not engaged in pursuing Clift, a leading tory of Hamilton County, and his followers. Three different expeditions are moving from different points upon Clift's men. I fear they will disperse and take to the mountain fastnesses, eluding our forces. A Pensacola regiment, I learn, is at Chattanooga, and a regiment from Virginia is near Elizabethton, I hear. The present indications are that the tories are about being rapidly overwhelmed. I am seizing arms of Union men known to be inimical to Confederate Government, and hope in this way to arm Carroll's men who are not already armed. I propose to take and strengthen a position between Monticello and Somerset, giving us facilities for commanding the Cumberland River, the coal region supplying Nashville, &c. If I can clear the banks of the Cumberland of our enemies, supplies may this winter be furnished us by boats from Nashville. So soon as the state of things will justify, I would be pleased that General Carroll's brigade would support me in a forward movement.

Very respectfully,
F. K. ZOLLICOFFER,        
Brigadier-General.

P. S.—I should probably state to you more in detail what I telegraphed on the 15th, that I have information I think reliable that the enemy have no infantry nearer Cumberland Gap than London, where there are four regiments. They have about 200 cavalry at Barboursville. They have, I think, three regiments at Somerset, and are raising a fourth. They have a regiment at Crab Orchard, one at Rockcastle Camp, and one at Camp Dick Robinson. I suppose they have a regiment of cavalry at Somerset and near Monticello. My information is that six regiments, under General Nelson, advanced on Prestonburg, before whom Colonel Williams has retired through the Pound Gap.

Very respectfully,
F. K. ZOLLICOFFER,        
Brigadier-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 244-5

Brigadier-General Felix K. Zollicoffer to Lieutenant-Colonel William W. Mackall, November 20, 1861

BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS,        
Wartburg, one mile from Montgomery, November 20, 1861.
Lieutenant-Colonel MACKALL,
        Assistant Adjutant-General, Bowling Green, Ky.:

SIR: I am moving as expeditiously as possible, with four and a half infantry regiments, a battalion of cavalry, and Rutledge's artillery, to unite with Stanton's command (his and Murray's regiments and McClellan's cavalry) beyond Jamestown, with a view of taking a strong position on the Cumberland River beyond Monticello. The country is sterile from near Clinton to beyond Jamestown, Tenn. The counties of Wayne and Clinton and the western half of Pulaski, in Kentucky, are, I learn, comparatively good counties for subsistence and forage. If I can find a good position on the Cumberland for hutting in winter I hope, by scouring the country on the north bank down to Burkesville occasionally, to command the river, and draw supplies from Nashville when the roads to Knoxville are bad. From this camp as a base of operations I hope in mild weather to penetrate the country towards London or Danville, or in other directions, and command the approaches to Cumberland Gap or Jacksborough. I hope it may be practicable, by scouring the intervening country occasionally by detachments from both camps, to establish and safely maintain a line of express messengers between General Buckner's outposts and my camp.

My information, when at Knoxville, induces me to believe that the numbers under Clift, in Hamilton County, were greatly exaggerated. I doubt whether he had at any time more than 100 to 200 followers. They are not now to be found, having dispersed. The tories in Sevier seem also to have retired where as yet our troops are not able to find them. I sent a few men up to Greeneville to arrest Andrew Johnson's sons and son-in-law. Have no late news from Carter and Johnson Counties. By this time I presume General Carroll is at Knoxville, in command, and instructed to make proper dispositions to guard the railroads and crush the tory combinations.

The recent burning of the bridges brought a crisis which I think demonstrates that but comparatively a small proportion of the population will now give countenance to hostile acts against the Confederate Government, and that those who are still hostile are only running upon their own destruction. They should now be dealt very severely with. Leniency and forbearance have gradually won many thousands over who would have been driven to the enemy had our policy been severe two months ago, but those that are yet hostile can only be cured of their folly by severity. They should be made to feel in their persons and their property that their hostile attitude promises to them nothing but destruction.

Very respectfully,
F. K. ZOLLICOFFER,        
Brigadier-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 7 (Serial No. 7), p. 686-7

Friday, September 23, 2022

Brigadier-General Felix K. Zollicoffer to Samuel Cooper, November 22, 1861

BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS,        
Jamestown, Tenn., Nov. 22, 1861.
General S. Cooper,
        Adjutant and Inspector-General, Richmond:

SIR: Heavy rains have made the roads slippery and will somewhat retard our progress. Day before yesterday I ordered Colonel Stanton, with his regiment, Colonel Murray's and Lieutenant-Colonel McClellan's cavalry, encamped about 10 miles north of Jamestown, to make a rapid and stealthy forward movement to capture the ferry-boats at four or five crossings of the Cumberland, and, if practicable, the enemy's cavalry said to be on this side of the river. I have not heard whether the movement has been made. I see it stated in the Nashville newspapers that General Ward has 2,000 men at Campbellsville, 1,200 at Columbia, and a regiment at Lebanon. It is reported to Colonel Stanton that the two or three regiments between Somerset and the river have moved towards Columbia, to join other forces there. He communicates also a rumor of the crossing of the Cumberland by a force of the enemy at Green's Ferry; but all these reports seem to be uncertain.  I have no dispatches from Knoxville since I left there, but hear through various scouting parties that the tories in Lower East Tennessee are dispersed, a number of prisoners taken, a few Lincolnites killed and wounded, and several hundred guns captured. Citizens have turned out in large numbers and assisted the soldiers in scouring the mountains and hunting down the fugitive traitors. They should now be pursued to extermination, if possible.

Very respectfully,
F. K. ZOLLICOFFER,        
Brigadier-General.
[Similar report to Colonel Mackall.]

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 7 (Serial No. 7), p. 690

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Diary of Private Richard R. Hancock: Wednesday, October 23, 1861

Zollicoffer moved on to, and camped for the night at, Barboursville.

Two companies, A and E, of McNairy's Battalion, were sent out about ten miles from Barboursville on the Manchester road. They returned to Barboursville, a little after midnight, without learning any thing worthy of note.*
_______________

* I shall here relate an amusing incident that occurred while out on the above named scout. It occurred thus: We called on an old gentleman to know if he could furnish us some forage for our horses. He replied, rather emphatically: “No, I have no forage for your horses. My neighbors know I have none; I don't see why they sent you here." As soon, however, as the old gentleman was informed that we were “UNION” men, he cried out in a still higher key, addressing his wife, “O Betsey, these are good Union boys! I have plenty of corn and fodder!” We then fed our horses, and “ Betsey" furnished supper for several of the “good Union boys.”

SOURCE: Richard R. Hancock, Hancock's Diary: Or, A History of the Second Tennessee Confederate Cavalry, p. 65-6

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

Dr. Joseph T. Webb to Maria Cook Webb, April 20, 1865

[Cumberland, April 20, 1865.]

We are all well. The time passes slow now that there is no work in view. The Rebels all feel disposed to quit; the women, if possible, more insolent than ever. It is a bitter pill for the First Families. Most of the 'Gorillas' have signified their desire to quit, but the Union people who have suffered from their atrocious acts, do not feel exactly disposed to receive the murderers back into their arms. The Union citizens who have suffered everything during this war feel outraged at the disposition evinced by the powers that be to take back as erring brethren these fiendish villains.

"While I think the President a good honest man, none better, I am not so certain that his loss at this time is so great a public calamity as many are disposed to think. He was entirely too forgiving. He appeared to have forgotten the thousands of honest, brave, and true men either in their graves or limping about cripples, etc.

“So we go, the world moves on, one man succeeds another. This country is too great, its aim too holy to fail at this period on account of the death of any one man.”

SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 578-9

Sunday, May 1, 2022

Diary of Private Daniel L. Ambrose: August 4, 1863

Early this morning we are off for Corinth. We go into camp twelve miles from Purdy. Our comrades and we now sally forth to get our supper; we soon draw up at a plantation, The lord of the manor espying our uniforms, welcomes us and extends to us his hospitality, i. e. a good supper, and while partaking of his bounty, the old lady stood picket for us, and when leaving, the old man, with tears in his eyes, says, “You are welcome to my house. The boys in blue are men after my own heart. I have lived too long under the protection of the old flag to now rebel against it.” Returning to camp, a comrade rehearses to us his adventure; that he came across some Union ladies this evening, who cheered them as they rode up, told them of secesh neighbors, and proffered to carry up feed for their mules if they would go and take their neighbors' horses. The horses were captured. This we call true Union. God bless the loyal ladies of the South! God bless the loyal ladies throughout America for the part they are playing in the great drama! Their prayers and tears are to-day doing more to save the Union than the armies and navies can do.

SOURCE: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 187-8

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Diary of Gideon Welles: Tuesday, May 16, 1865

Great questions not taken up at the Cabinet. Several minor matters considered. Mr. Harlan, successor of Mr. Usher in the Department of the Interior, was with us to-day. Remarked to President Johnson that Governor Dennison and myself proposed leaving on Saturday next for Charleston, and if the subject of reconstruction and amnesty was to be taken up before we left, there might be haste. He said the whole matter would be satisfactorily disposed of, he presumed, before Saturday; is expecting some North Carolina Union men.

SOURCE: Gideon Welles, Diary of Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy Under Lincoln and Johnson, Vol. 2: April 1, 1864 — December 31, 1866, p. 306-7

Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Diary of Private Richard R. Hancock: Thursday, August 27, 1861

 The writer and a few others were sent to a gap in the mountain, about twelve miles north of Huntsville and within three miles of the Kentucky line, to watch for a Federal paymaster whom Madame Rumor had said would pass through that section. We had only been stationed a few hours, however, when Colonel McNairy, having received orders to move to Jamestown the next day, sent for us to return to camp immediately, though, on account of rain and high water, we remained at Huntsville three days longer.

Scott was rather a poor county, and as the people were mostly “Union,” they were not willing to divide rations with “Rebs”; therefore we suffered more for want of rations while at Huntsville than anywhere else during the war, while in camp.

SOURCE: Richard R. Hancock, Hancock's Diary: Or, A History of the Second Tennessee Confederate Cavalry, p. 37

Friday, February 25, 2022

Diary of Private Daniel L. Ambrose: July 1, 1863

Early this morning, we move on the Purdy road. A great many citizens are now following the command, who have been compelled to leave their homes to seek protection within the Union lines; all because of their adherence to the old Union. About dark we arrive in camp at Corinth. All agree that the mule is a good institution, for there is no complaining of feet being sore to-night. All are cheerful, and eagerly do the boys read the news from Vicksburg, which is indeed cheering.

SOURCE: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 177

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

Diary of Private Richard R. Hancock: Monday, August 5, 1861

We moved on to Camp Zollicoffer. about two miles north-west of Livingston. Here we found the Twenty-fifth Tennessee Infantry, Colonel S. S. Stanton's Regiment. And about this time, or soon after, the Twenty-eighth, Colonel J. P. Murray's Regiment, was organized at this camp. The other three companies of our battalion joined us here. After resting one day at Camp Zollicoffer, the whole battalion took up the line of march again. (Beg pardon, dear reader — right here I find another leaf of my Diary gone.) However, from Livingston the First Battalion marched east to Jamestown, thence south-east to Montgomery, then the county seat of Morgan County, and thence four miles east, through Wartburg, now the county seat of Morgan, to Camp Schuyler, arriving at the last place mentioned on the 14th of August, where we remained one week.

We found that a majority of the men through this portion of East Tennessee had either crossed over into Kentucky to join the Federal army or hid out in the woods. It was reported, before reaching Montgomery, that we would meet a considerable force of Home Guards at that place, but they left before we got there. We saw one woman and one child as we passed through the county seat of Morgan County, but not a single man was to be seen. A “Union” man who remained at home and attended to his own business we did not molest, but we arrested those who were hiding out from home or thought to be preparing to go north, if we could find them.

SOURCE: Richard R. Hancock, Hancock's Diary: Or, A History of the Second Tennessee Confederate Cavalry, p. 35-6

Friday, October 29, 2021

Mrs. Mary Duncan to Major-General Henry W. Halleck, April 26, 1863

Major General Halleck,
Genl in Chief
My dear Sir

I had intended leaving for Washington tomorrow but as circumstances will prevent said trip for a few days I now enclose the letters of Genl Scott and Dr. Metcalf and must beg permission to state my case on paper. – My father in law Dr. Duncan of Miss. (a northerner by birth) has always been a staunch & devoted unionist – and to avoid unpleasant strife with his neighbors (as he is now nearly eighty years old) has remained on his own private country seat near Natchez -  having been off said estate on only two occasions in nearly two years! None of his sons (or sons in law) are in the rebel army, – although they were all conscripted & my husband – Mr. Henry Duncan – would neither serve nor obtain a “substitute.” The Duncan family have had many thousand bales of cotton destroyed by the rebel authorities, have been vilified (even in the public journals) threatened with arrest and confiscation and have suffered peculiarly for their well known unionism. Then when the union troops descended the Mississippi river (on which Stream - ninety miles above Vicksburg opposite Lake Providence there are nine plantations belonging to the United family) we were horribly depredated on, lost very many negroes – & had nearly all the provisions taken away – while my brother-in-law – Steven Duncan Jr had his house stripped of everything including mantle pieces! – Having obtained a “permit” from Washington, I went South the last of January and returned here (to my sister) about three weeks since & when in plantation regions – I applied at once to Gen Grant & the admiral, – found them both most kind & courteous & they on a full hearing our miserably unfortunate position (between guerillas & Federal soldiers) promised protection from other Foraging parties. Genl McPherson was also very kind and I had a delightful visit to the Fleet – having met with nothing but civility from the officers in command. – I had not heard from my husband for my for six months prior to my departure from N. Y. – I had not been south for six months prior to my departure from N. Y. – I had not been south for nearly two years – so the terrible condition of things “below the line” was a double shock to me although – I well know that in war – the innocent must often times suffer for the guilty. Mr. Duncan insisted on my return north as the neighbors threatened us with the arrest & the Union troops (especially the Kansas regiments) were very troublesome despite “protection” papers, while guerilla bands were in unpleasant proximity. Therefore I left the unhappy country & as soon as Vicksburg falls – Mr. Duncan would join me here. – We have been compelled to hire our negroes – & – even as it is – have lost great numbers of them. – so that I think, Dear General, our position doubly trying – as we have been equally pillaged & maltreated by friend & foe, & nothing but Genl Grant’s justice & the kindness of the Admiral – (for the Duncan loyalty was well known to the fleet) saved us from entire ruin. As you perhaps know that “foraging” is an extremely elastic term often times. – & on Mississippi river it seems to include anything that a soldier may see fit to seize. My object, Dear Genl, in thus addressing you, is to claim & request that which – as long-suffering Unionists we have a right to ask viz. – direct protection from headquarters – for owing to the orders of Gen Grant that our property should not the pillaged – & that some fragment should be left from the wreck – various complaints have been made in the newspapers – & the charge of disloyalty implied. Of course there are many officers who would gladly avail of the privilege of seizing our property if the opportunity were aforded them – & I know that some of the men who are under arrest for the violation of our “protection” papers – would too gladly revenge themselves by circulating falsehoods concerning us. I can give every proof of our abiding Unionism, – if you wish other testimony than my own word of honor as a lady – & I can refer you to anyone who knows us for further evidence on the subject. – Will you kindly inform me – Dear Genl – whether the negroes of loyalist (now hired laborers) can be forcibly seized & made to serve the soldiers! & will you not be so good as to give some especial order for the protection of our property? Otherwise Genl Thomas’s new plans may have a direct influence in completing our ruin. Are not Union people to be protected! (even if they are on the Mississippi river!) – & will you not put an end to our agonizing doubts on the matter – by granting me orthodox protection – such as cannot be violated! General Grant has been most kind but – even his orders are violated by our troops & I do not understand clearly whether Genl Thomas will be authorized to countermand Genl Grant's protection of us! So pray be so kind – Dear Genl as to take some speedy step in our favor. Otherwise – we can hardly fail to meet the same doom allotted to rebels. for of course – many of our officers will be tempted by hope of gain (as the Dunkin plantations should be “worked” to advantage by them) to declare that we ought not to have protection. I have no words wherewith to express my heartfelt gratitude to Genls Grant & McPherson & to the Admiral, for they were all most kind & just. Still – I prefer to have your warrant in this ghastly crisis. & make my appeal to you – as one who bears the highest character for honor and justice. Feeling assured that I shall not appeal in vain. If you will kindly promise me a few moments conversation – on my arrival in Washington – I should be greatly indebted for I fully expect to be there during present week. but is it asking too much my – Dear Sir to beg one line in response – telling of your kind intentions in our behalf? For you can imagine my painful anxiety & suspense as all we own on earth is planted in Mississippi mud – & although a northern woman – I have great interests at stake in above state – the best proof that I can offer – perhaps – of my loyalty is in the order issued for my arrest by Mrs Jefferson Davis! As someone informed her Royal Highness that “Mrs Henry Duncan was going south as a Union spy!” The southern journals mildly suggested the propriety of hanging poor old Dr. Duncan –  (who you make per chance have known as a former Vice-President of the “Colonization Society.”) If you would like me to send you a score of letters – bearing witness to our Unionism – I can do so by the return mail, but you need only refer to any chance authority to learn that the Duncan family has never yet been disgraced by a traitor! A line to Genl Grant – & another to Gen Thomas – would be regarded as a great favors Dear General for with your protection – I could be in comparative peace.— forgive this long letter but – I cannot can condense the matter & explain it satisfactory. I will promise, however to be more brief in conversation. I should indeed be greatly indebted by one word and reply—

Yours very sincerely
Mary Duncan.
233 Fifth Avenue                                                                                                                          New York
April 26th [1863]

Dr Duncan has also two sugar plantations in La. — on Bayou Teche — near Franklin & as said States are now in our (Union) lines – can they not be protected?

SOUCE:  This letter was listed and sold at auction oakauctions.com on September 10, 2020. Accessed October 28, 2021