Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864 — January 23, 1865: No. 133. Reports of Lieut. Col. Edwin L. Hayes, One hundredth Ohio Infantry, of operations November 30 and December 15-16, 1864.

No. 133.

Reports of Lieut. Col. Edwin L. Hayes, One hundredth Ohio Infantry,

of operations November 30 and December 15-16, 1864.

HDQRS. 100TH REGIMENT OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,                      

Nashville, Tenn., December 6, 1864.

GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by this regiment in the battle at Franklin, Tenn., November 30: My regiment was the extreme right regiment of the brigade and division, my right resting on the Franklin and Columbia pike, fronting nearly south, the left connecting with the One hundred and fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. I had thrown up a temporary breast-work, with head-logs on top and an abatis in front. The First Kentucky Battery was then placed in my line, cutting embrasures in my work, and displacing three companies. To cover these companies I threw up a light earth-work about three rods in rear of my main line. A brigade of General Wagner's division, Fourth Corps, was some 200 or 300 yards in our front. About 4 p.m. the enemy advanced in three lines upon them. They fell back upon us, coming in on the right flank and over our works. They filled our trenches so that we were unable to use our guns, and creating considerable confusion, the enemy reaching our works almost simultaneously with them. I immediately ordered the men belonging to the Fourth Corps to fall back and reform in rear of the second line of works, which order some of my men upon the right mistook as meaning them, and fell back with the colors, but immediately rallied and went back upon my ordering the color-sergeant, Byron C. Baldwin, to advance and plant the colors upon the works. The battery men deserting their pieces, a space was left around the guns between my right and left, which was filled by some men of the Sixteenth Kentucky; at the same time the regiment on the right of the road gave way, and the enemy poured in over the pike onto my right flank. The Forty-fourth Illinois here charged with my right and forced the enemy back beyond the works. From this time until we were ordered to leave the works, at 10.30 p.m., six distinct charges were made upon my right, and repulsed each time. I was exposed to a murderous enfilading fire from our works on the right of the road, which was held by the enemy, never having been retaken by the troops on our right after the first charge. A large proportion of our missing were captured on the skirmish line, which was in advance of the Fourth Corps.

I would particularly mention the distinguished gallantry of Capt. W. W. Hunt (acting major), who fell while nobly fighting at the front works, and of Lieut. M. A. Brown, who was on the skirmish line, and was wounded while falling back upon the main line, and was killed inside of the works, urging the men to stand fast. Color-Sergt. Byron C. Baldwin fell with the colors in his hand, and wrapped them around him in his death struggle.

It would be invidious in me to mention any of the survivors where all did so nobly, both officers and men sustained the character they always bore as brave soldiers.

The following is the number of men engaged and our loss in killed, wounded, and missing: Number of men engaged, 250. Commissioned officers — killed, 2 (1 not mustered); wounded, 1. Enlisted men — killed, 6; wounded, 24; missing, 32. Total, 65.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. L. HAYES,                       

Lieut. Cot., Comdg. 100th Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

Brig. Gen. JAMES W. REILLY,

Comdg First Brig., Third Div., Twenty-third Army Corps.

_______________

HEADQUARTERS 100TH OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,              

Spring Hill, Tenn., December 22, 1864.

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by this regiment in the operations of the 15th and 16th instant:

Our movements on the 15th are not worthy of notice, as we simply moved with the brigade around to the right to the support of General Smith's forces and went into position that evening; that night we threw up a line of works, and on the morning of the 16th found the enemy's line also thrown up in the night in plain view in our immediate front. Skirmishing was kept up until about 3.30 p.m., when a charge was made along the whole line. My regiment advanced up a ravine, driving their skirmishers out of their pits until we reached the enemy's line of works, when, in connection with the Eighth Tennessee Volunteer Infantry, we captured four pieces of artillery and quite a number of prisoners, burns these were at once sent to the rear their numbers cannot be correctly given. The regiment pushed on, making a swing to the right until we formed a line perpendicular to the one we had just left, and on the crest of the hill, where we threw up a new line of works and encamped for the night.

We did not lose a man.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. L. HAYES,                       

Lieutenant-Colonel, Comdg. 100th Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

[Capt. J. H. BROWN,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.]

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 419-20

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864 — January 23, 1865: No. 129. Report of Col. Charles C. Doolittle, Eighteenth Michigan Infantry, commanding First Brigade, of operations December 15-16, 1864.

No. 129.

Report of Col. Charles C. Doolittle, Eighteenth Michigan Infantry,

commanding First Brigade, of operations December 15-16, 1864.

HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD DIV., 23D ARMY CORPS,       

Spring Hill, Tenn., December 22, 1864.

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of this brigade during the recent engagements before Nashville, on the 15th and 16th instant:

In obedience to Special Orders, No. 141, from division headquarters, I assumed command of this brigade on the morning of the 15th instant and withdrew the regiments from the positions occupied by them between Forts Casino and Negley, massing them under the hill and out of sight of the enemy, leaving a company of each regiment to occupy the works until relieved by troops from General Steedman's command. In this movement we were favored by a heavy fog. With the division, this brigade in advance, I moved my command gradually to the right, crossing the Hillsborough pike about two miles from the city and recrossing it at a point about three miles farther out, and, by direction of the commanding general, took up position on the right of Col. George Spalding's cavalry command, the brigade being formed in two lines, on the left of the Hillsborough pike, with One hundred and fourth Ohio and Twelfth Kentucky in first, and the One hundredth Ohio, Sixteenth Kentucky, and Eighth Tennessee in the second line. I had thrown out two companies of the One hundred and fourth Ohio as skirmishers, and was about to move forward, when an aide of General Couch, commanding Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps, rode up with an urgent request from General Couch to go to the support of one of his brigades, which was being hotly pressed. I moved immediately on double-quick and took position on the right of this brigade (Third), which was posted on a hill about 600 yards to the right and as many to the front, preserving the same formation, throwing out skirmishers and relieving it from the danger of being crushed. I remained in this position until after dark, when the Third Brigade, Second Division, being withdrawn, I occupied its ground, placing the regiments in the following order: One hundred and fourth Ohio, Twelfth Kentucky, Sixteenth Kentucky, One hundredth Ohio, and Eighth Tennessee, and immediately proceeded to erect breast-works along the line, connecting with Colonel Casement on my left and refusing my right well, so as to prevent a flank movement. I now occupied the extreme right of the army, and was some distance from support in case of a determined movement of the enemy against us.

The command worked all night, and when daylight appeared we found ourselves within 500 yards of the enemy, who was well posted on high hills, behind works erected during the night, our skirmish lines being not over fifty yards apart in our front. We had a quiet morning, disturbed only by occasional skirmish firing, until about 11 o'clock, when the enemy attempted to move some artillery he had placed in position. My men opened on him with their rifles, provoking him to fire a few shots. We soon silenced his guns and prevented their removal. We remained comparatively quiet from this time until about 4 p.m., when the grand charge was made along our lines, and, according to instructions, seeing the success of the charge on my left, I charged the works opposite me, carrying them and capturing 8 pieces of artillery (light 12's), ammunition in 4 limber-chests, 1 wagon loaded with grape and canister, 2 mules, and between 200 and 300 prisoners; no exact account of these latter can be given, as they were taken to the rear immediately. I went into camp for the night on the ground just taken from the enemy, throwing up light works for protection.

I would notice especially the conduct of the regimental commanders — Col. O. W. Sterl, One hundred and fourth Ohio; Lieut. Col. E. L. Hayes, One hundredth Ohio; Lieut. Col. L. H. Rousseau, Twelfth Kentucky; Capt. Jacob Miller, Sixteenth Kentucky; and Capt. J. W. Berry, Eighth Tennessee — who were always present with their commands, leading them in the charge.

The Twelfth Kentucky, being nearest the enemy's works, were the first to reach them, securing four guns. The other four were taken jointly by the One hundredth Ohio and Eighth Tennessee. I cannot praise too highly the conduct of all the command, both officers and men, and I feel that I was honored in being assigned to such a command at such a time. I would especially mention Capt. J. H. Brown, Twelfth Kentucky, acting assistant adjutant-general, and Lieut. D. M. Stearns, One hundred and fourth Ohio, acting aide-de-camp, who behaved in the most gallant manner.

The casualties of the brigade were small, 9 wounded being the total — One hundred and fourth Ohio, 3; Twelfth Kentucky, 5; Sixteenth Kentucky, 1.

The hill charged being steep, the enemy fired over us, as they also seemed to do in the valley through which the left of the brigade passed.

Before closing this report I would refer to the fact that McArthur's division, of the Sixteenth Army Corps, claim to have taken the four pieces captured by the One hundredth Ohio and Eighth Tennessee without any shadow of right, as the One hundredth Ohio and Eighth Tennessee drove the enemy from them, taking a large number of prisoners, besides the two mules and the ammunition wagon. The One hundredth Ohio had placed a guard over them, but the pieces were subsequently removed by order of Maj. Gen. A. J. Smith, as was also the wagon.

I respectfully submit herewith reports of regimental commanders.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHAS. C. DOOLITTLE,      

Colonel Eighteenth Michigan Infantry, Commanding.

Capt. THEO. COX,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 413-5

Captain Charles Wright Wills: June 10, 1864

Near Big Shanty, Ga., June 10, 1864.

Army moved this a. m. Found the enemy again at this place, and have been in line of battle a dozen times, more or less. Our brigade is in reserve for the rest of the division. This is the Kenesaw Mountain; from the top of one peak the Rebels could see probably 25,000 Yanks. Some ladies were there in sight observing us. We are to-night in a dense wood some three-quarters of a mile southwest of the main road. The enemy does not seem to be close in our immediate front, but there is considerable firing about a brigade to our right. General Sherman's staff say that a general fight is not expected here. A. J. Smith is starting for Mobile from Vicksburg. That's glorious. We to-day heard of the nomination at Baltimore of Lincoln and Johnson. Very glad that Lincoln is renominated, but it don't make any excitement in the army. The unanimity of the convention does us more good than anything else. I received a letter from Gen. "Dick" (Oglesby) last night. He is much pleased with his nomination and has no doubt of his success. Neither have I. If we had the privilege the whole Illinois army would vote for him. We are having a good deal of rain, say about 6 hard showers a day. The roads are badly cut up. The hour or two hours sun between showers makes the men all right. The Rebels have no oilcloths and must be troubled with so much rain.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 257-8

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864 — January 23, 1865: No. 117. Report of Capt. James A. Sexton, Seventy-second Illinois Infantry, of operations November 25-December 2, 1864.

No. 117.

Report of Capt. James A. Sexton, Seventy-second Illinois Infantry, of

operations November 25 — December 2, 1864.

HDQRS. SEVENTY-SECOND REGT. ILLINOIS VOL. INFTY.,                      

Near Nashville, Tenn., December 9, 1864.

LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report herewith the history of this command from the date of its joining the Third Brigade, November 26, 1864, to the date of its assignment to the command of Maj. Gen. A. J. Smith, December 2, 1864.

On the night of the 25th ultimo the regiment moved with the brigade from Columbia across Duck River and bivouacked. On the morning of the 26th ultimo we commenced throwing up works and kept at it all day during a heavy rain. During the day of the 27th ultimo the command lay idle. At night the brigade recrossed Duck River. The Fiftieth Ohio Infantry commenced throwing up works, this regiment acting as a support and to cover the evacuation of Columbia by our forces. At 2 a.m. of the 28th ultimo this regiment again crossed the river, occupying the same works which had been thrown up on the 26th; during the forenoon of the 28th, changed the front of our works; some skirmishing during the day between our pickets and those of the enemy on the opposite bank of the river. Pontoon and railroad bridges were also burned on that day. At 10 a.m. of the 29th of November Lieut. R. H. Mason and twenty men of Company A started with dispatches from General Schofield to the commanding officer post of Williamsport, distant about nineteen miles. He accomplished his errand successfully, passing several parties of rebels during the journey, and returning to his command at Nashville on the 1st of December, without losing a single man. At noon on the 29th ultimo the regiment, with the balance of the brigade, abandoned their works at the river and moved across to the Franklin pike; thence took up their line of march to Franklin. Just before dark, when within three miles of Spring Hill, the brigade passed the wagon train, already halted, and filed to the right of the road. Two companies of this regiment were deployed as skirmishers, the regiment moving forward as their support, forming the right of the advance line of the brigade; constant skirmishing until within half a mile of Spring Hill, when the brigade halted; the skirmishers having moved too far to the right, lost the support of the regiment. In this skirmish the regiment had 4 men wounded. At about 10 a.m. the brigade resumed its march through Spring Hill, and halted about 1.30 a.m., and rested until 3 a.m. of the 30th, at which time the march was again resumed. At about 7 a.m. reached Franklin, the brigade taking position on the right of the road and commenced fortifying, the left of the Fiftieth Ohio resting on the Franklin pike, the Seventy-second Illinois being on the right of the Fiftieth Ohio. Were at work on the fortifications at the time the enemy made their first assault. About 4 p.m., two divisions of the Fourth Corps, being in front of the works, gave way on the approach of the enemy and rushed pell mell into our works. At the same time the support on our left gave way, and the flank of our regiment being turned, the four left companies fell back, and as our right flank also became exposed to the enemy, the remaining companies were also ordered to retire to the second line of works, which was done. At that time, all of our field officers being wounded, I, being the senior captain, took command of the regiment, and a charge was ordered to recover our first position. In the charge all of our color guard, consisting of 1 sergeant and 8 corporals, were shot down, and the night being so dark it was not perceived that our colors, which had been shot to shreds, were missing. An attempt was made to regain the colors, which was unsuccessful. The regiment was ordered to retire by Colonel Strickland, commanding brigade, at about midnight. The regiment then crossed the Harpeth River, and the next morning joined the brigade while on the march to Nashville, at which place we arrived about 3 p.m. on the 1st instant, and camped near Fort Negley. The regiment remained in camp until the 2d instant, when it was assigned to the corps commanded by General A. J. Smith.

The regiment lost in killed, wounded, and missing during the time which we belonged to the brigade, 9 officers and 142 enlisted men. I append a list of casualties.*

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

 J. A. SEXTON,

 Captain, Seventy-second Illinois Volunteers, Comdg. Regiment.

 Lieut. JOHN B. McLOE,

Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 3d Brig., 2d Div., 23d Army Corps.

_______________

* Nominal list (omitted) shows 10 men killed, 9 officers and 57 men wounded, and 75 men missing.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 392-3

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864 — January 23, 1865: No. 101. Reports of Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Cooper, U.S. Army, commanding First Brigade, of operations November 24—December 8 and December 15-16, 1864.

No. 101.

Reports of Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Cooper, U.S. Army, commanding First Brigade, of operations November 24 — December 8 and December 15-16, 1864.

HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND DIV., 23D ARMY CORPS,   

Near Waynesborough, Tenn., January 7, 1865.

LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the First Brigade, Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps, from the 24th day of November, 1864, to the 8th day of December, 1864, inclusive:

On the evening of November 23 I received orders from Major-General Thomas to march my brigade and the Sixth Michigan Battery to Centerville, and guard the ford at that place and Beard's Ferry, five or ten miles above. I procured transportation from Captain Howland, assistant quartermaster, at Johnsonville, and marched on the morning of the 24th via Waverly and arrived at Centerville on the evening of the 27th, when I left two regiments — One hundred and thirtieth Indiana and Ninety-ninth Ohio — to guard the fords at Centerville, and moved with the remainder of my command to Beard's Ferry, which I found to be fifteen miles distant, the nearest road I could go. I found the country infested with guerrillas, who hung upon my flanks and advance and rear guard. I reached Beard's Ferry on the evening of the 28th, and immediately reported to General Ruger, commanding Second Division. I remained at Beard's Ferry until the morning of the 30th, when I received orders from General Ruger (dated November 29) to march to Franklin. I immediately sent orders to the two regiments at Centreville to join me at Killough's, five miles from Beard's Ferry. I marched to Killough's on the 30th and awaited the remainder of the brigade.

At 2 o'clock on the 1st of December I received a dispatch from General Thomas to march on the Nashville and Centerville road, and cross the Harpeth River at the Widow De Moss'. I immediately moved forward and crossed the Harpeth River over the iron bridge on the Hardin pike on the evening of December 2. I learned during the day from rebel deserters that our forces had fallen back from Franklin and Hood's army was probably on the road between me and Nashville, but I moved forward toward Nashville until I reached a high hill eight miles from the city, where I could distinctly see the enemy's camp-fires on both sides of the road between me and Nashville. I then reversed the order of march and moved across to the Charlotte pike, marching all night, and recrossed the Harpeth River at daylight on the morning of the 3d. I reached Clarksville on the evening of the 5th, and remained there until the morning of the 7th, when I moved on the dirt road toward Nashville, and arrived there on the evening of the 8th, making in all a distance of 210 miles.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

 JOSEPH A. COOPER,        

 Brigadier-General of Volunteers.

Lieut. S. H. HUBBELL,

Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Division, 23d Army Corps.

_______________

HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND DIV., 23D ARMY CORPS,   

Near Columbia, Tenn., December 23, 1864.

SIR: In obedience to orders from division headquarters I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by the First Brigade, Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps, in the engagement near Nashville, on the 15th and 16th instant:

In obedience to orders the brigade was in line ready to march at 5.30 a.m. of the 15th, but did not move until 8 a.m. I moved out in advance of the division on the Hardin pike, and formed line of battle on the left of that pike at right angles with the pike, facing west of south. I then moved forward in line of battle about three-quarters of a mile, throwing forward the right until the brigade faced east of south. Nothing of importance occurred until 1 p.m., when I was ordered to form on the right of General Smith, commanding Sixteenth Corps. I moved by the right flank until I passed General Smith's right, and then moved briskly forward to support the dismounted cavalry, who gallantly charged a strong position of the rebels in our front, and captured a number of prisoners and some artillery. I continued to move forward directly across the Hillsborough pike, until in passing through an open field the enemy opened with artillery and musketry from a high hill in our immediate front. As soon as the rebel battery opened the men, without waiting for orders, commenced cheering and rushed forward, charging up the hill at double-quick. The lines were necessarily much broken, owing to the extreme difficulty of climbing the hill, but the men rushed forward as best they could and soon gained the top of the hill, and captured three pieces of artillery and a number of prisoners. As we charged up the hill the enemy opened on us with musketry from a stone wall on our left flank, which enfiladed our entire line, and the Sixth Tennessee Volunteer Infantry changed direction to the left, and charged the wall and captured about 150 prisoners, who were sent to the rear. The brigade took position on the crest of a hill, connecting with Colonel Moore, commanding Second Brigade, Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps, on the left, but without any connection on the right. The enemy still occupied a high hill on my right, and I refused the right of the brigade to protect that flank, and put out skirmishers and commenced building a line of works. Colonel Mehringer, commanding Third Brigade, joined on my right during the night, and connected his line of works with mine. In obedience to orders I sent two regiments — One hundred and thirtieth Indiana and Ninety-ninth Ohio — to build a line of works on the right of Colonel Mehringer's brigade, and sent a detail of 100 men to build a fort on the right of my brigade. I kept strengthening my works during the night, and kept one-third of the command in line all of the time.

On the morning of the 16th I found the enemy strongly intrenched on a hill in my immediate front. Shots were exchanged between my skirmishers and those of the enemy, but without loss to us. The brigade was not otherwise engaged during this day. After the charge made by the Sixteenth Corps I moved forward in line of battle, as ordered, until I crossed the Granny White pike, where I camped for the night.

The officers, without exception, and the men, with few exceptions, behaved gallantly.

The following are the casualties of each regiment in the brigade:

Command.	Killed.	Wounded.
26th Kentucky Volunteer Infantry	2	44
6th Tennessee Volunteer Infantry	1	9
3d Tennessee Volunteer Infantry	3	8
99th Ohio Volunteer Infantry		7
130th Indiana Volunteer Infantry	1	9
25th Michigan Volunteer Infantry		5
Total	7	82

All of which is respectfully submitted.

JOSEPH A. COOPER,         

Brigadier-General of Volunteers, Commanding Brigade.

Lieut. S. H. HUBBELL,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 370-2

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864 — January 23, 1865: No. 98. — Abstract from journal of Brig. Gen. Jacob D. Cox, U. S. Army, commanding Twenty-third Army Corps (temporarily) and Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps.

No. 98.

Abstract from journal of Brig. Gen. Jacob D. Cox, U. S. Army, commanding Twenty-third Army Corps (temporarily) and Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps.

Monday, November 14. — Leave Strickland's brigade at Columbia, and march to Lynnville, eighteen miles. It was formerly a village of about thirty houses, most of which were buried a week ago by the Tenth Tennessee Cavalry in revenge for being fired upon by some rebel guerrillas in the neighborhood. The open, cultivated country ends about ten miles below Columbia, and a rough, hilly country covered with forest begins; the narrow valleys of small streams are tilled and appear to be rich and productive.

Tuesday, November 15. — Heavy rain comes on in the night and continues through the day. March to Pigeon Creek, two miles from Pulaski; meet General Schofield and ride with him about three miles west from the turnpike to examine the position; put the division in camp at crossing of the creek by the pike; headquarters established in dooryard of Mrs. Allen.

Wednesday November 16. — Heavy rain continues; camp very muddy and uncomfortable. When we were ordered from Columbia Hood was supposed to be moving northward, and an attack was anticipated. Later news shows that he has not changed his position, the alarm being caused by some reconnaissances made by him. Not more than one corps of his army is believed to be north of the Tennessee at Florence, and his golden opportunity to take us at disadvantage is past.

Thursday, November 17. — Clear, but weather manifestly unsettled. Colonel Opdycke comes over and dines with me, and we chat about home, &c.; the only old friend from Warren I have met in a long time. Rain begins again in the evening. * * *

Friday, November 18. — Steady rain again preventing our moving camp as intended.

Saturday, November 19. — Still rains; not pouring, but drizzling and misting. Our tents, which we still live in, are far from comfortable, but we are not camped where house-room can be got, and in that respect have not the advantages of the division commanders of the Fourth Corps, who are all nicely quartered in town.

Sunday, November 20. — Still rain, unceasing. News that Forrest is moving northward with heavy force of cavalry; ordered to be ready for immediate movement; roads horrible, and our wagon transportation has not overtaken us yet since we left it at Dalton, Ga.; ride into town in the rain to consult General Schofield.

Monday, November 21. — No movement yet. Forrest has not yet fairly started, and this weather ought to prevent him. Flurry of driving snow all the morning, partly melting as it falls, and sharp wind all day with mixture of snow squalls; the camp in most uncomfortable position and condition. * * *

Tuesday, November 22. — A very sharp, cold morning. Moved my command to Lynnville; reports showing the enemy at Lawrenceburg; reached Lynnville by noon, walking most of the way on foot to keep warm; put Reilly across Lawrenceburg road and Henderson and Casement covering Columbia pike; Wagner's division, Fourth Corps, follows and covers roads south.

Wednesday, November 23. — General Schofield comes up at noon and orders my command up to crossing of Mount Pleasant and Shelbyville road, ten miles. Start at 3 and make the distance by and go into camp, covering the crossing. Rebs apparently pushing for Columbia by Mount Pleasant; our cavalry driven back nearly half way from Mount Pleasant to Columbia.

Thursday, November 24. — Ordered to move at 4 for Columbia; started at once; dark and cold; reached Columbia at 7.30 o'clock, cutting across to the Mount Pleasant pike, two miles from town, just in time to interpose between our retreating cavalry and the pursuing enemy; go into position — Reilly on right, Henderson center, and Casement left; lively skirmish, but we checked the rebs, without loss on our side; Fourth Corps comes up three hours later, and we take up line of works covering whole front of town; headquarters at Mrs. Martin's.

Friday, November 25. — Rebs under Forrest withdrew at night, but drive in again this morning. They make a vigorous reconnaissance of our line in my front, commencing about noon, but were repulsed easily. My loss only about fifteen. New interior line of works made. Fourth Corps, except Wood's division, go into [them], and my command, except Henderson's brigade, ordered north of river, those troops being left to support the picket-line, which remains where it was. Enemy's infantry rumored moving east.

Saturday, November 26. — My movement last night ordered to be made after that of Fourth Corps, and did not begin till nearly I this morning. Crossing the pontoon bridge was slow work in the night, and it was past 3 before troops were bivouacked and trains parked a mile from the bridge. Enemy make pretty vigorous reconnaissance at daylight, but our troops hold the old line as an advanced line. Rain set in just as we moved.

Sunday, November 27. — Rainy and unpleasant. Evacuation of Columbia begun last night, but the difficulty of passing trains, &c., over the pontoon bridge at the new place near the railroad bridge prevented its completion till to-night, when it begins at 7 o'clock. Rebels are evidently well aware of what is going on, and charge the lines as the pickets are withdrawn, but are easily repulsed, and do not attempt further interruption. One span of railroad bridge and the pontoons destroyed.

Monday, November 28. — Rebels push into the town at daybreak, and attempt to get command of the ford in my front, causing a lively combat across the river with artillery and musketry. My position within the long bend of the river is an unsafe one, as the commanding ground is on the south side and gives a cross-fire upon the tongue of land I occupy. As yet, however, I have made my fire the hottest, and command the ford. The Fourth Corps comes into position on good ground in rear, and Henderson's brigade reports to me again.

Tuesday, November 29. — Rebels reported crossing two corps at Huey's Ford, five miles above, having driven away our cavalry and laid a pontoon. Wagner's division, Fourth Corps, move to Spring Hill, where they have a lively engagement with advance of enemy. Kimball's and Wood's divisions, of Fourth Corps, and Ruger's division, of ours, arranged in echelon, connecting with Wagner's. I hold the ford till night, having a sharp affair, losing about 75 men, but holding the enemy from crossing the remaining corps, which, with all their artillery, is in town. March at 7, leaving out pickets till midnight.

Wednesday, November 30. — Battle of Franklin. Reached Franklin before day, having marched twenty miles during the night, passing the rest of the army on the way. No means for crossing Harpeth River, and I am ordered to take both divisions Twenty-third Corps and hold a line above the town till the trains and the rest of the army are over. Enemy follows close, and two divisions of Fourth Corps — Kimball's and Wagner's — are ordered to report to me. Enemy assault at 3.30 p.m. Gain some temporary advantage in the center at first, but are soon repulsed, with terrible slaughter. We held the lines till midnight. My aide, Lieutenant Coughlan, killed.

Thursday, December 1. — Moved at midnight without interruption from the enemy, and take the advance to Brentwood. A little cannonade in our rear, but the rebels do not follow in force. We remain at Brentwood two hours, till all but Wood's division, Fourth Corps, have passed; then march to Nashville, and go into camp between Forts Negley and Morton. My division captured 22 battle-flags yesterday. Our loss in my division, 303 killed, wounded, and missing. Whole loss of the army, about 2,000, of which most was in Wagner's division, which was driven in from the front in confusion.

Friday, December 2. — No change. Enemy's cavalry move up, but their infantry do not appear. The battle of the 30th universally regarded as one of the severest of the war. Enemy's loss not less than 6,000, and probably more. My personal loss in the death of Lieutenant Coughlan is very great. He was one of the noblest young soldiers I have ever known. The only comforting thought is that he wished to die so, having a constitutional disease which gave him little hope for long continued life or vigor of mind.

Saturday, December 3. — Rebels move up and take position across Franklin and Granny White pikes. We have been re-enforced by Sixteenth Corps, under A. J. Smith, and a body of troops under Steedman, making us so strong that we are confident the rebels will not venture to assault. Our troops are put at work making lines of trenches, covered by abatis, &c. Fort Negley, the Casino, and Fort Morton are within my lines. My headquarters established at Mrs. Bilbo's, just in rear of Fort Morton.

Sunday, December 4. — No change, except that the rebels have extended their lines and advanced their pickets somewhat.

Monday, December 5. — Rebels make demonstration and advance their lines on the Franklin pike much nearer to the Fourth Corps front than before. Some of their infantry extend across to the Nolensville pike, nearly two miles in my front, where they intrench. Some cannonading and skirmishing, but no serious fighting. * * *

Tuesday, December 6. — Ordered to be ready at noon for a demonstration in anticipation of our forces attacking on our right. After reconnaissance General Thomas postpones the movement. Rebels evidently shifting to their right, so that their heaviest masses appear to be in my front, across the Nolensville pike, extending to the Franklin pike. Skirmishers keep up a lively fire and occasional cannonade. * * *

Wednesday, December 7. — No apparent change. General Couch assigned to Second Division. As he is a major-general, I am no longer the second in rank in the corps. Weather changes; threatens rain in the morning, then blows off cold and clear.

Thursday, December 8. — Freezing sleet and snow, covering the ground with ice and making movements impracticable. No change in position.

Friday, December 9. — Weather severely cold. Position as before.

Saturday, December 10. — No change, either in weather or position. We hear that Sherman has passed Millen, Ga., without serious resistance, and look for him to make the coast soon.

Sunday, December 11. — Weather the same. A deserter reports two divisions of the rebels gone to try to take Murfreesborough, and that they are expecting to evacuate their present lines. Movement of our forces prepared for first opportunity. Ground too slippery to move trains or artillery.

Monday, December 12. — Weather the same — very sharp and severe. Deserter reports a new line prepared a mile or two in rear of their present one, which the enemy are about to occupy. Some movement visible toward our left, and their pickets are partially retired. Their main force apparently not much changed, though part of it has probably occupied the line spoken of by the deserter. No movement on our part.

Tuesday, December 13. — Weather begins to moderate. Some appearance of rain, but the ice has not yet thawed off the roads and the surface of the ground. No change in the military situation.

Wednesday, December 14. — Orders to be ready for movement to-morrow. Steady thawing to-day, changing everything to a sea of mud. Call on General Schofield in the evening and get instructions. Steedman will relieve us at daylight; Couch's division will support Smith on the Hardin pike mine will support Fourth Corps on the Hillsborough pike, Wilson's cavalry will push beyond Smith's right, and a strong effort will be made to turn the enemy's left flank.

Thursday, December 15. — Battle of Nashville. Movement began as ordered. The preliminary movements go slowly, and it is almost noon before Smith and Wilson are ready for any serious advance. Meanwhile Steedman makes demonstration on our left, which draws a brisk cannonade from the enemy's right. Afternoon, Smith and Wilson push in; we move by their rear to their extreme right near the Hardin pike, then swing in beyond the enemy's flank. The whole line advances with sharp fighting. Several earth-works and 17 cannon captured.

Friday, December 16. — Battle of Nashville. The success of yesterday followed up. The enemy are steadily pressed during the day till 4 p.m., when McArthur's division, of Smith's command, my division, and part of Wilson's dismounted cavalry charge the enemy's line, which is broken, and their left (Cheatham's corps) routed, with loss of 20 cannon and about 5,000 prisoners. My division captured 8 guns in the works charged and carried by them. The enemy retreat in disorder, but night covers them.

Saturday, December 17. — The chase followed up. Our movement last night brought us to the Granny White pike; we moved south on it, following Smith's corps; Fourth Corps moves on Franklin pike, cavalry in advance. About 1,000 more prisoners captured and a number of guns, making about 50 in all taken. We camp between the two turnpikes, near Brentwood. Enemy retreat beyond Franklin, which is occupied by our cavalry.

Sunday, December 18. — Marched from camp to Franklin, and camp on north side of river. Severe rain storm ever since the battle, and our movement having taken us away from our wagons, we have passed two nights in the storm without any shelter whatever, the most uncomfortable bivouacs I have yet experienced. The chase is very slow, as the army and all the trains are confined to one road, the Franklin pike being the only practicable one, others are impassable from the mud.

Monday, December 19. — Enemy reported crossing Duck River. We wait in a hard storm all day for our turn to cross the Harpeth. Visit the battle-field of the 30th ultimo and the family of Mr. Carter, with whom I made headquarters that day. Get many incidents of the day after the battle and evidence of the severe punishment inflicted on the rebels. Camp my division just in front of our old lines near the Lewisburg pike. Second Division has been in advance three days.

Tuesday, December 20. — March at 8 a.m., taking advance of our corps and reaching Spring Hill at 2 p.m., where we encamp. Enemy's rear guard still at Duck River, on Columbia side. Our troops waiting for pontoon train, which passes this evening. The cold rain storm still continues, changing to sleet this evening. Reilly and Henderson went home on leave on 15th; Colonel Doolittle took First Brigade, Colonel Stiles Third, on that day.

Wednesday, December 21. — Still at Spring Hill. Fourth Corps getting down pontoons and preparing to cross Duck River. Very cold and snowy. Have comfortable quarters at Mr. John Cheons', a rebel "sympathizer," who, however, is quite willing to get all the protection possible for his property. Send detachment of 1,000 men to build bridge over Rutherford's Creek and a regiment to repair the road between here and there.

Thursday, December 22. — Spring Hill. No change and no special news from the front. Bridges progressing, but the horrible weather makes everything move slowly. Fourth Corps crosses into Columbia to-day.

Friday, December 23. — March to the Duck River, opposite Columbia, and make headquarters at Mrs. Porter's, where we were on 28th and 29th of November. Troops very nearly in the positions they occupied on those days. Cavalry crossing all day. Sixteenth Corps encamped just in front of us.

Saturday, December 24. — Quite unwell all day with nausea and diarrhea; keep quiet, having nothing to do. Cavalry and their trains with those of Fourth Corps crossing. Weather clear but sharp. Skirmishing between our advance and the enemy's rear guard near Lynnville. Three pieces of artillery found in the river abandoned by the rebels. Over sixty pieces have now been taken since we left Nashville.

Sunday, December 25. — Christmas. Not very well, but feeling better. Sixteenth Corps over the river and their trains crossing. Casement's brigade sent over to garrison the town and keep order, some disturbance and pillage by our troops having been reported. * * *

Monday, December 26. — Quite sick all night, and to-day put myself under Surgeon Frink's care. * * * Move the command across the river and encamp on Pulaski pike about a mile beyond town. Move over myself in the afternoon and make headquarters at Mr. Vaught's.

Tuesday, December 27. — Keep my room, but convalescing rapidly. Prospect of our command remaining here some days, as our trains are needed to help supply the troops already at the front. Hood is making for Lamb's Ferry, near Mussel Shoals. All reports show his army hi terribly demoralized condition. News received that Sherman has Savannah--" The beginning of the end."

Wednesday, December 28. — No change in situation. Meet Generals Couch and Ruger at General Schofield's in regard to organizing new division of the corps. It is finally concluded not to disturb the old ones but make the new division of new troops. * * *

Thursday, December 29. — Still in camp. Make application for leave of absence. * * * Hood supposed to be over the Tennessee.

Friday, December 30. — Orders for Twenty-third Corps to march to Dalton, Ga., to go into winter quarters there. A beautiful march of 150 miles in prospect. My leave granted, and I am waiting only for report of Second Division of battle of Franklin, in order that I may make up that of the corps. Quite unwell.

Saturday, December 31. — Order to go to Dalton countermanded and all uncertain as to our course now. Weather rainy, changing to snow. Report not in yet, and I am still delayed.

Sunday, January 1, 1865. — Columbia, Tenn. Orders received for command to move to-morrow to Mount Pleasant, and thence to the Tennessee River to take part in the further operations against Hood. Under the circumstances, I conclude that it is my duty to go with the command and not take advantage of the leave of absence which I have in my pocket. I had intended to start in the morning, but shall now turn southward. It is very doubtful whether it will be possible for us to do much, but so long as the Government thinks it necessary to continue active operations, I will stay with the army and see what can be done.

Monday, January 2. — March from Columbia to Mount Pleasant. We pass farms and country residences of several of the Polk family, as well as General Pillow's. The country is one of the finest for farming purposes I have ever seen. * * *

Tuesday, January 3. — Continue march from Mount Pleasant. We go five miles on the turnpike, then turn to the right by what is called the Gordon road climb a high hill, after which we find the road following the ridge; we follow this for five miles to the Beaver Dam road, into which it runs; we keep this for five miles more, till we come to the Ashland road, turning to the left. We encamp at the forks of the roads, having made about fifteen miles to-day. The roads would be good in good weather, but as they are now covered with water, and as it rained all the morning, it proved to be hard traveling. Halted at 3 p.m., but the trains do not succeed in getting up. During the p.m. the weather cleared, and has since been bright. Couch's division takes the pike, which, however, is reported to be worse than the road we have come. Ruger's division has not yet left Mount Pleasant. At the Tennessee River we expect to get our supplies by water. * * *

Wednesday, January 4. — The trains were delayed so that they did not come up till near noon to-day. I then ordered rations to be issued, so as to lighten the wagons, and we start again, having a citizen for guide. Our headquarters last night were at the house of a man named Whiteside, now a captain in the rebel army. The place was deserted, not a living thing being about. We continue on the Perryville road, about seven miles, to the headwaters of Grinder's Creek, then take the Ashland mid Waynesborough road leading directly down the creek, which we cross a number of times. After traveling about three miles on the creek, we turn to the right, over the ridge, and come down into the waters of Rock-house Creek, then down this creek, crossing it over a dozen times, to Buffalo River, which- we ford, getting into camp about 9 o'clock in the evening. After reaching Rockhouse Creek it became evident that we could not stop to bridge the stream where we crossed it, and the men marched through the creek, which was about fifteen yards wide and knee-deep. Buffalo River was about seventy-five yards wide and deeper. This was very severe on the men, especially the new regiments, but all stood it admirably. The latter part of the time it was freezing, and the water very cold; but on getting into camp we had large fires of rails built, and made the men dry their clothes. They did not suffer from the exposure as much as we had reason to expect. We camped on the farm of an old man named Churchill, who took the loss of his rails terribly to heart. The old woman, his wife, seemed to think that the end of the World was at hand. Nearly the whole distance from Mount Pleasant we have been on top of a high ridge called the "Barrens," or, as the people here pronounce it, the "Barns." We saw but one inhabited house for fifteen miles.

Thursday, January 5. — Start at 8 o'clock on the march again, passing through Ashland, thence up Creek 48, crossing it three times with the artillery and wagons, but the infantry avoid two of the crossings by following the ridge alongside of the stream. After traveling seven miles we ascend a hill again, and follow a ridge road to the Mount Pleasant and Waynesborough turnpike, which we strike about two miles from the latter place, thence into town, making about fourteen miles to day. We came up to the Waynesborough pike at exactly the same time as General Couch's division reached the place, that division having followed the pike all the way. We took the lead into town and encamped just beyond it. The weather, which has been good till this evening, now turns to rain. General Ruger's division not heard from. It turned off from the road I took, upon one leading to the Laurel Hill Factory, said to be the best road between Mount Pleasant and Waynesborough.

Friday, January 6. — March at daybreak on the Clifton turnpike. Hard rain all day, turning to sleet and snow in the p.m. The wind rose about noon, and it became very cold, making this one of the most disagreeable marches we have ever had. My headquarters last night in Waynesborough were at the house of a Mrs. Anderson. The poor woman had just heard that her husband had been murdered on his way home from Nashville. The report seemed to me to lack evidence, and I tried to console her with the belief that it was probably a false rumor. We find two divisions of the Sixteenth Corps (A. J. Smith's) at Clifton waiting for steam-boats to take them up the river, so I put my troops in camp about one mile and a half from the Tennessee. Pitch tents in a snow-storm, there being no houses in the neighborhood which can accommodate us. The village of Clifton is said to have been a flourishing one formerly, but was burned last summer in the guerrilla warfare between the loyal citizens and the rebels. Two or three houses are all that now remain of the town. Couch's division stops at Waynesborough; Ruger's had not yet got up when I left. General Schofield is also at that place, but expects to come up to-morrow. There is a report that we shall go to Eastport, in Mississippi, on the Tennessee River, and there go into winter quarters; if so, I may get the advantage of my leave of absence yet.

Saturday, January 7. — In camp near Clifton. No news from either up or down the river. General Schofield comes up shortly after noon, and also goes into tents, instead of finding a house, as he has been accustomed to do. The plan of our campaign is not yet developed as to direction or objective aim. If we concentrate near Eastport, as we now have orders to do, it would appear probable that we shall advance along the Mobile railroad to Meridian and then to Selma. We hear nothing of Hood, who is sometimes reported at Corinth and sometimes farther south. The snow which fell last night has nearly all melted off to-day under a clear sky and bright sunshine.

Sunday, January 8. — Steam-boats come to-day to take the remaining Sixteenth Corps to Eastport. Three gun-boats come with them. Rear Admiral Lee called upon me with General Schofield. * * * We shall probably be detained here until these boats can go up the river and return. The weather has been cold and clear for the past two days. The Second Division of the corps (Major-General Couch) came up to-day and encamped in our rear; the First Division (Brigadier-General Ruger) not yet up.

Tuesday, January 10. — No change since Sunday. A severe storm set in last night, raining heavily, with thunder and lightning: this morning it turns to snow; a most disagreeable day. General Couch moves his division down to the river in expectation of transports, but they do not come yet. The troops would have been much better off in their old camps till the boats had actually come. No news whatever from Hood as to his whereabouts. * * * The First Division came up last night and encamped on the old ground left by Couch's division.

Friday, January 13. — The past two days have been fair and fine; Wednesday was very unpleasant. We are still waiting for transports to take us up the Tennessee. Not even Couch's division, which was to precede us, is off yet, and it is doubtful when the boats may be expected. * * * We have had no communication with the lower river yet, and no mails since leaving Columbia. As we now think it likely we shall stay some time at Eastport, we are not sorry to spend it here, where we have a tolerably good camp for the troops. It is reported that East-port is a far worse place than this.

Sunday, January 15. — Orders received to move our troops to Annapolis, Md., with expectation that we shall go to Sherman, in Georgia. I start this evening in advance, and shall get a few days at home before the troops catch up with me. We go by steamer down the Tennessee and Ohio to Cairo, and thence by rail home. Notice of promotion to major-general received.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 356-64

Lieutenant-General Ulysses S. Grant to Major-General William T. Sherman, December 27, 1864

HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES,

City Point, Va., December 27, 1864.

Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN,

Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi:

GENERAL: Before writing you definite instructions for the next campaign, I wanted to receive your answer to my letter written from Washington. Your confidence in being able to march up and join this army pleases me, and I believe it can be done. The effect of such a campaign will be to disorganize the South, and prevent the organization of new armies from their broken fragments. Hood is now retreating, with his army broken and demoralized. His loss in men has probably not been far from 20,000, besides deserters. If time is given the fragments may be collected together and many of the deserters reassembled; if we can we should act to prevent this. Your spare army, as it were, moving as proposed, will do this. In addition to holding Savannah, it looks to me that an intrenched camp ought to be held on the railroad between Savannah and Charleston. Your movement toward Branchville will probably enable Foster to reach this with his own force. This will give us a position in the South from which we can threaten the interior, without marching over long narrow causeways easily defended, as we have heretofore been compelled to do. Could not such a camp be established about Pocotaligo, or Coosawhatchie? I have thought that Hood being so completely wiped out for present harm, I might bring A. J. Smith here with from 10,000 to 15,000 men. With this increase I could hold my lines and move out with a greater force than Lee has. It would compel Lee to retain all his present force in the defenses of Richmond, or abandon them entirely. This latter contingency is probably the only danger to the easy success of your expedition. In the event you should meet Lee's army, you would be compelled to beat it, or find the sea-coast. Of course I shall not let Lee's army escape if I can help it, and will not let it go without following to the best of my ability. Without waiting further directions, then, you may make preparations to start on your northern expedition without delay. Break up the railroads in South and North Carolina, and join the armies operating against Richmond as soon as you can. I will leave out all suggestions about the route you should take, knowing that your information, gained daily in the progress of events, will be better than any that can be obtained now. It may not be possible for you to march to the rear of Petersburg, but failing in this you could strike either of the sea-coast ports in North Carolina held by us; from there you could take shipping. It would be decidedly preferable, however, if you could march the whole distance. From the best information I have, you will find no difficulty in supplying your army until you cross the Roanoke. From there here is but a few days' march, and supplies could be collected south of the river to bring you through. I shall establish communication with you there by steam-boat and gun-boat. By this means your wants can be partially supplied. I shall hope to hear from you soon, and to hear your plan and about the time of starting. Please instruct Foster to hold on to all the property captured in Savannah, and especially the cotton. Do not turn it over to citizens or Treasury agents without orders of the War Department.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

U.S. GRANT,

Lieutenant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 44 (Serial No. 92), p. 820-1

Charles A. Dana to Edwin M. Stanton, June 22, 1863 – 9 a.m.

NEAR VICKSBURG, MISS., June 22, 1863 — 9 a.m.,

VIA MEMPHIS, June 28 — Noon.

(Received July 1 — 11 p.m.)

Joe Johnston's plan is at last developed. He began yesterday to throw his army across the Big Black at various points above Bridgeport, and principally in the vicinity of Birdsong's Ferry. A squadron of the Fourth Iowa Cavalry had a fight at Bridgeport with about 500 rebel horse, and lost 40 or 50 killed, wounded, and captured, besides one mountain howitzer. At once on the receipt of this intelligence the troops prepared for Sherman here, with the division at Haynes' Bluff, proceeded to move out, and before 11 a.m. to-day all will be at their destination on the heights and beyond the bottoms in the headwaters of Clear Creek. Johnston must move up mainly by the Benton or Jackson road, which makes a detour from Oak Ridge Post-Office to the northeast, until in the region of his crossing it nearly touches the Big Black; but the greater part of this road winds along very narrow and precipitous ridges, heavily wooded, where a column cannot deploy, and where the advance can easily be checked or its attack repulsed. On this side of Oak Ridge, about the head of Clear Creek, there is a broad, open region, extensively cultivated, where a great army might deploy and fight advantageously — at least on equal terms. The effort of Sherman will be to settle the question before Joe Johnston can get to this open place. Sherman has in all about 30,000, besides cavalry. General Grant holds in readiness to march to re-enforce him five brigades more, under A. J. Smith and Herron, while Osterhaus, with one brigade stationed at the Vicksburg and Jackson Railroad crossing of Big Black, is to join him in case of need. As to the strength that Joe Johnston commands, we have no new information. If he pushes his advance, a battle may be fought to-day or to-morrow. The roads he has before him have all been obstructed.

Nothing to report here except steady progress in the siege. Ord is working very hard to bring up the lines where McClernand left them behind, but it will take some time to remedy the disorder which that incompetent commander produced in every part of the corps he has left.

Allow me to represent the very great necessity that some first-rate officer, with suitable energy, patient in character, should be sent here, or found here, to take the place of General J. P. Hawkins, and conduct the organization of the African forces. Hawkins is sick, and very probably will not again be robust enough to efficiently resume his duties in this climate, and the public service is suffering terribly in this most delicate matter in consequence of his absence. I do not know here an officer who could do the duty half as well as he, so that I make no recommendation; but none but a man of the very highest qualities can succeed in the work. I am happy to report that the sentiment of this army with regard to the employment of negro troops has been revolutionized by the bravery of the blacks in the recent battle of Milliken's Bend. Prominent officers, who used in private to sneer at the idea, are now heartily in favor of it.

C. A. DANA.

Hon. E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 24, Part 1 (Serial No. 36), p. 105-6

Diary of 2nd Lieutenant John S. Morgan: Monday, April 10, 1865

All the Regts rec orders to be supplied with 5 days rations in their haver sacks. Capt Lacy was in our camp looking well & hearty. Mail is to go out at 10. a. m. until which time spend the time in writing. After dinner Templeton & I go out to see the fortifications, see many pools of blood. Can see Mobile from the forts & see some rebel batteries out in the Bay firing at our gunboats & shelling a pontoon bridge we have across Spanish river See a squad of rebs under guard taking up the torpedos which are thickly strewn, the roads are full, they uncover them & build a fire on them to explode them. the pieces fly about with a wicked noise. Saw one place where in the charge 4 men were Killed by the explosion of one torpdo. The Jonnies had extensive works laid off here which would have taken a year to complete but the works completed are ugly to get to over fallen timber & brush thick abbattis & dead loads of torpedos. About 150 of the men who had been at Spanish fort were captured this morning they not knowing this place had been taken were making their way up here. I was to see them & pronounce them the best looking confeds I ever saw, when the forts here were charged yesterday there were two Genls there, but one was taken & it is supposed the other escaped with some of his men who swam the river, but this evening he was captured. he had secreted himself in an commissary boat & undertook to get out & run for it but there were too many guards with muskets close by to allow that. It is rumored here this evening that about two hundred prisoners were taken, found in their holes close by Spanish fort think this not reliable. A supply train started to Thomas early this morning, saw a small detachment of cavalry from his army who say they saw no rebels between him & no report his men wanting grub. Genl Steeles command is ordered to be ready for a forward movement where to not known, the way to Mobile by land is 130 miles & there is a camp rumor that Steeles corps & Smiths corps are to go to the rear of Mobile & Grangers corps to Thomas Who will opperate somewhere above, heavy firing has been kept up all day in the bay but do not learn with what effect

SOURCE: “Diary of John S. Morgan, Company G, 33rd Iowa Infantry,” Annals of Iowa, 3rd Series, Vol. 13, No. 8, April 1923, p. 588

Diary of 2nd Lieutenant John S. Morgan: Saturday, April 8, 1865

There was tremenduous heavy firing last night from 11 to 1. the sky was lighted with the flash of small arms, could not determine whether it was on the right of Smith or left of Steele, some heavy guns used. After breakfast heavy Guns & rapid firing off to our right. I go out on the left to the bay & take a look at Mobile. The Jonnies throw shells uncomfortably near me out there, returning to camp spent most of this day writing. Capt sent me a paper of the 5th full of good news & rumors of peace propositions from Lee. This afternoon news from Steele is that last night Steele charged on a water battery which the gunboats try to shell him out of & not succeeding the Jonnies charge him 3 times without success he is reported to have taken some prisoners, & later in the evening the report is in that he turned the guns of the captured battery on a ram & brought her in At 5 P. M the batteries all round the line opens on the enemy's work for one hour, the enemy replies quite briskly for a little while but cant stand it long. About 5.30 heavy musketry firing Was heard in front of Smiths Corps & by the yelling it was evident one party or the other was making a charge I was detailed for picket & reported at 7. at Regt Hd Quarters where the detail was formed under the immediate command of Lieut San Cheztereso co F. the picket firing on the right keeps us pretty heavy the Rebs throw a shell occasionally & our batteries throw shells about every 10 minutes. we report with the detail in the pits by the camp of 27th Wis. & wait ½ hour for the coming of the officer of the day whose business it is to relieve the pickets with the new detail, when he come he put part of our detail with a co of the 27th Wis as a reserve & working party. I was ordered to remain with this reserve, we divided the squad into 2 reliefs & making arrangements to work each relief 4 hours the capt lay down leaving me in charge of the 1st relief. Presently. Col Patterson & some other staff officers came through & told us to work with a will for all the saps & paralells must be widened to 6 ft. & finished before morning so that a regt could march through them easily for the works must be carried by assault within three days, the army had been waiting for the fleet to get up & word was it had cleared the channel of torpedos to opposite the fort & would move up in the morning, It is said the engineer who planted the torpedo is taking them out for the fleet. The Off. of the day thinking he needed more men sends in for a detail of two companies. Co D of 27th Wis & Co H. of 35 Iowa came out to work, they bring news that the charge on the right was by Smiths men who took one line of the enemys works & captured 200 prisoners. I rec instructions from the off of the day to work my relief 2 hours as the no of men engaged would finish the work if all worked that long. My 2 hours was up at 11, at which time I waked the capt. & lay down on a rubber blanket to sleep but it was too cold. I went to our camp to get a woolen blanket, & had returned & got into a good nap out of which I was awaked by loud & continued shouting on the right. Could not immagine what was up as the firing had entirely ceased on that part of the line. I looked at my watch which indicated 5 mins after 12, I go forward to the front rifle pits where the picket line is there listen to hear what is said but can distinguish nothing but the commands “cease firing you kill our own men. 2d Brig forward march.” then rose cheering again. The word cease firing passed all along the line. The Off of the day was present. (Capt. Gunn 28th Wis) with whom I jumped the pits and advanced somewhat, but not a jonnie could we hear where not 10 minutes before they had been shooting at us, not yet being satisfied with the looks of things no one was allowed to go to the fort until we see Smiths corps in the middle fort cheering Then Lt. Sanchez, take about a doz of his detail & advances. I did not know he had gone until he was half way over, & followed immediately entering nearly the same time. The Lt. was the first Yank, to mount the work. There was some fear of torpedos which had been reported so thickly strewn about these fortifications which made the men move very carefully for a while, it was half past twelve when we entered the fort. I found it not so strong a position as I had immagined it to be but to assault it would have been an ugly business if resolutely defended. Our shell & shot had handled the inside very rough tearing great holes. The grond nearly every foot of it, was torn up by our Mortar shells & how men could live in there during the heavy cannonading it was several times subjected too is more than I can understand, found 9. pieces of artillery in the fort all in position & spiked. 2 of the guns were splendid 64 lbers. There were bomb proofs enough to about hold the gunners required to work the guns but these were not of the strongest kind, out of one come so strong a stench I was willing to pass it others more inquistive report a no of dead men in it. 8 jonnies come in from the picket line, the Rebs had left in such a hurry they had not taken time to relieve them although they lay within 100 yds of the fort, these say they did not know the forts were to be evacuated, after examining the works to my satisfaction the 94th Ill regt having marched in & unfurled the Stars & stripes I go back to camp bearing no relic but a Reb envelope with stamp on it, on my way in meet floods of yanks going out to see the forts. I was disposed tonight to think the torpedo question on land more talk than cider

SOURCE: “Diary of John S. Morgan, Company G, 33rd Iowa Infantry,” Annals of Iowa, 3rd Series, Vol. 13, No. 8, April 1923, p. 585-7

Diary of 2nd Lieutenant John S. Morgan: Monday, April 3, 1865

Go to the rear this A. M. to see Capt who I find keeping pretty quiet, go to the Commissary & draw 30 days rations, as money has played out. Tobacco is issued to the men today. Every thing about the same today along the line, Heavy details out building forts to mount heavy guns behind The enemy shell those working parties so that it is not a safe business. 75 more prisoners arrive from Genl Steele, the night of the 1st Genl Smith tired on a tug towing a barge, the tug cut loose & run leaving the barge to float in to land, it was loaded with hospital supplies & there was found on it a letter from the surgeon of the fort to some friends in Mobile which stated that “the enemy's sharpshooters annoy us a great deal” & “have killed many of our men”

SOURCE: “Diary of John S. Morgan, Company G, 33rd Iowa Infantry,” Annals of Iowa, 3rd Series, Vol. 13, No. 8, April 1923, p. 583

Diary of 2nd Lieutenant John S. Morgan: Saturday, April 1, 1865

Lay in the rifle pits all night. Could hear Smith in the night shelling the Reb transports during the night. Were relieved at 8. A M. & march the co to camp, have a chance to send out mail at 10. I write in a hurry a letter home. Alexander Moore, who has been guarding at the wharf was up today & reports the Monitor Milwakee to have been raised, but another Monitor lies over a torpedo which they are trying to remove without exploding it, one man lost his life by fooling with a torpedo which had been taken out. Capt Ledyard hurt himself last night while inspecting the picket line & is ordered to the rear by the Doctor leaving the co in my charge, P. M. am told the torpedo exploded in the bay & sunk the monitor which was on it. Boys busy all day building bombproofs to get into where the enemy begins to shell us. There was a vigorous shelling kept up all day. After getting to bed was waked by the Adjt who brought me a detail for the co to go out at 3 A. M. to the paralel about 100 yds to rear of the skirmisher for a support to them

SOURCE: “Diary of John S. Morgan, Company G, 33rd Iowa Infantry,” Annals of Iowa, 3rd Series, Vol. 13, No. 8, April 1923, p. 582-3