Again routed out early. Into line on the march through town
to continue our work of destruction. Piling up ties, place the rails on top,
set fire to the ties. When the rails become hot in the center, they warp or
bend, making them useless. The march out of town, along the railroad,
destroying it, makes very hard work for us, as we put in a long day, and not
very much food. We manage to pick up some corn meal and a little flour, which
we make into pan-cakes, called by the boys, Toe-Jam. Some of the boys received
bruises and jams in the work on the railroad. There is much kicking over the hard
work.
In camp tonight, talking over the events of the day,
wondering what the morrow has in store for us. Many buildings and much property
in town have been destroyed by fire, by order of General Hunter. Many of the
women look sad and do much weeping over the destruction that is going on. We
feel that the South brought on the war and the State of Virginia is paying dear
for her part. The loss of our good boys brings us many sad hours. We cannot
help think, and wonder who will be the next one to give his life for our
country.
SOURCE: Charles H. Lynch, The Civil War Diary,
1862-1865, of Charles H. Lynch 18th Conn. Vol's, p. 72-3
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