Embarkation of the
Second Battery on the steamer Kill Von Kull, and of the Second Rhode Island
Infantry, on the State of Maine.
Early in the morning
the tents were struck, everything packed up, order was given to mount, and by
nine o'clock we commenced our march through Westminster street; from thence,
through South Main street, to India Point, where the steamers lay, and started
by about four o'clock in the afternoon. The docks were crowded immensely during
the day; the fair sex, especially, was strongly represented. Amid the pealing
of cannon and the farewell cheers of the multitude, we gradually distanced the
shore. Those present will well remember that memorable day. Gov. Sprague and
the patriotic Bishop Clark accompanied the Second Regiment, infantry, on the
State of Maine. On our approaching Fort Adams, we were saluted by the artillery
there. By nightfall, we were made acquainted with the first government ration—pilot
bread, the so-called salt-junk, and a cup of coffee. The meat was of a rather
poor quality, although it was served out with good grace by our respected
captain, W. H. Reynolds.
SOURCE: Theodore
Reichardt, Diary of Battery A, First
Regiment Rhode Island Light Artillery, p. 6
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