Major-General Ulysses S. Grant to Jesse Root Grant, July 6, 1863

VICKSBURG, July 6, 1863.

DEAR FATHER, — Vicksburg has at last surrendered after a siege of over forty days. The surrender took place on the morning of the 4th of July. I found I had continuously underestimated the force of the enemy both in men and Artillery. The number of prisoners surrendered was thirty thousand and too hundred. The process of parolling is so tedious, however, that many who are desirous of getting to their homes will escape before the paroling officers get around to them. The Arms taken is about 180 pieces of Artillery and over 30,000 stand of small Arms. The enemy still had about four days rations of flour and meat and a large quantity of sugar.

The weather now is excessively warm and the roads intolerably dusty. It cannot be expected under these circumstances that the health of this command can keep up as it has done. My troops were not allowed one hour's idle time after the surrender but were at once started after other game.

My health has continued very good during the campaign which has just closed. Remember me to all at home.

ULYSSES.

Massachusetts Historical Society, Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, Volume 47: October 1913—June 1914, p. 478-9

Major-General William T. Sherman to Major-General Ulysses S. Grant, July 17, 1863—8 p.m.

JACKSON, July 17, 1863—8 p.m.

I have just made the circuit of Jackson. We are in full possession, and Johnston is retreating east, with 30,000. men, who will perish by heat, thirst, and disappointment. The place has been well fortified. We have the heavy guns and about 400 prisoners, and more being picked up hourly. I do not pursue, because of the intense heat, dust, and fatigue of the men; but I will perfect the work of destruction, and await orders. Trains all safe. I propose to break railroad 10 miles south, east, and north, and out for 40 and 60 miles in spots. We are in possession of some 50 cars, which will be burned. What more shall I do?

W. T. SHERMAN,        

Major General.

General GRANT.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 24, Part 2 (Serial No. 37), p. 528

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 216. — Report of Lieut. Col. John O'Dowd, One hundred and eighty-first Ohio Infantry, of operations December 7, 1864.

No. 216.

Report of Lieut. Col. John O'Dowd, One hundred and eighty-first Ohio Infantry,

of operations December 7, 1864.

HEADQUARTERS 181ST OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,        

Fortress Rosecrans, Tenn., December 8, 1864.

COLONEL: I have the honor to report the part taken by my command in the engagement of the 7th.

My regiment was formed west of the Wilkinson pike, with the Eighth Minnesota on my right and the One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio on my left. I advanced my command on the double-quick about 300 yards, driving the enemy's skirmishers in confusion, and capturing three prisoners. I halted my command for a few moments to form and send forward my skirmishers, encountering the enemy in heavy force in my front. I reported the same to General Milroy. I was immediately ordered to advance through the cornfield. I drove the enemy from the edge of the woods. I halted to form, and found the enemy in my front: occupying a hastily constructed rifle-pit. I charged these works and captured them, killing Colonel Weaver and capturing 2 commissioned officers and 33 men. I formed my command immediately, executing in a northwesterly direction with the intention of capturing a section of artillery that was to my right and rear. The enemy, seeing this movement, commenced falling back as I advanced. My men shot the artillery horses and captured two guns. The enemy's loss in my front will not exceed 25 or 30 killed and wounded.

The following are the number of killed, wounded, and missing in my command: I commissioned officer wounded, 1 enlisted man killed and 33 wounded; aggregate, 35; number of men engaged, 540.

JOHN O'DOWD,        

Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding 181st Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

[Col. M. T. THOMAS.]

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. 627

Silas A. Hudson to Brigadier-General Grenville M. Dodge, July 11, 1863

Memphis Tennessee, July 11th, 186[3]*,

General Dodge:

I have just arrived here from Headquarters and am on my way home with Master Fred, the General's son, who will remain some time north for the benefit of his health.

Before leaving, I had a confidential interview with the General and it gives me pleasure to be able to inform you authoritively that your name will head the list to be sent forward by him for promotion to Major Generalship.  I am also authorized to say to you that his recent success gives him more real pleasure and gratification because it enable him to advance the interest of meritorious officers in his command who have nobly stood by him, and have so largely contributed to his present fame and position, than from any other consideration.  And although he has known you but little except in an official capacity, you have his full confidence, and he approves your management of the duty [assigned] you fully and completely.

We have taken 31,277 prisoners, one Lieut. Gen. and 14 Majors and Brig. Gen. and about 60 Cols. Etc.

So far as we are able to obtain record by actual count, we have 66,000 stands of arms, 173 Field and large guns, 660  bbls flour[,] corn in quantities, five million dollars in clothing—their invoice, 250,00 lbs. of sugar, large amou[n]ts of bacon, &c. &c. and ammunition sufficient for years, and of the best quality as are their arms, 30,000 of which have never been used, and which we will exchange our[s] for, and so make the caliber used by us uniform.

SOURCES: Grenville M. Dodge, Biography of Major General Grenville M. Dodge from 1831 to 1871: written and compiled by himself at different times and completed in 1914, p. 111 accessed on archive.org January 17, 2022. *General Dodge in this, his typewritten manuscript, misdates this letter as July 11, 1862.  John Y. Simon, Editor, The Papers of Ulysses S. Grant, Volume 8, p. 145 places this letter in 1863.

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 210 — Report of Col. Minor T. Thomas, Eighth Minnesota Infantry, commanding Independent Brigade, of operations December 7, 1864.

No. 210.

Report of Col. Minor T. Thomas, Eighth Minnesota Infantry,

commanding Independent Brigade, of operations December 7, 1864.

HEADQUARTERS INDEPENDENT BRIGADE,        

Fortress Rosecrans, Tenn, December 8, 1864.

MAJOR: I have the honor to make the following report of the operations of the Independent Brigade in the engagement of the 7th instant on the Wilkinson pike, near Stone's River:

In moving round the fortress the enemy was first discovered in force about one mile left of the Wilkinson pike and two miles from the southwest corner of the fortress. Two sections of artillery, one of the Twelfth Ohio and one of the Thirteenth New York Batteries, were placed in position and engaged the enemy with spirit, and showed him to be well posted and in strong force. Having but a limited amount of artillery ammunition (fifty rounds per piece), the brigade was moved by the right flank until the Eighth Minnesota Regiment had crossed the Wilkinson pike, when it was formed in line of battle to the front, with its left resting on the pike, One hundred and eighty-first Ohio on the left of the pike, and One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio on the left of it, the Sixty-first Illinois being deployed in front as skirmishers. An advance was immediately made of several hundred yards, when an interval appeared in the skirmish line. Two companies of the One hundred and eighty-first Ohio were thrown forward to strengthen it, and the line being corrected the brigade again advanced in double-quick time until the enemy's skirmishers were driven about one mile. This advance was made, forcing back a heavy line of skirmishers, and under a heavy fire of artillery, without much loss, until we had advanced to the center of an old cotton field, when we were confronted by the enemy in the timber beyond the field, well covered either by woods or rifle-pits. At this point the firing from both sides was furious and very destructive. After an incessant fire for ten or fifteen minutes, a charge was made by the whole line and the rifle-pits and woods cleared, the enemy leaving, probably, 100 dead and wounded, two 12-pounder Napoleon guns, and 197 prisoners in our hands. The enemy having disappeared, except a mounted force, which was driven pell-mell by our artillery (it having just returned from the fortress where it had gone to replenish its ammunition), the troops were withdrawn in as good order as if coming from an afternoon drill, and reached their quarters at 6 p.m. The fight was sharp and decisive, and the battleflags of our country floated again victoriously over the memorable field of Stone's River.

Inclosed please find reports of subordinate commanders, giving complete list of killed and wounded.

The conduct of the troops for steady, determined bravery, and rapidity of movement could not be excelled.

The enemy engaged consisted of Major-General Bate's division, with two brigades attached, and Forrest's cavalry, the whole force amounting to probably 4,500 men, with two batteries of artillery.

The Independent Brigade took into the fight 1,800 officers and men. Their total loss was 21 killed and 167 wounded.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

M. T. THOMAS,        

Colonel Eighth Minnesota Volunteers, Commanding Brigade.

Maj. JOHN O. CRAVENS,
        Assistant Adjutant-General.

_______________

Recapitulation of the killed and wounded in the following regiments and batteries composing the Independent Brigade in the engagement of the 7th instant:

Command.	Killed.		Wounded.		Number Engaged.
	Officers.	Men.	Officers.	Men.	Officers.	Men.
61st Illinois Volunteer Infantry		1	2	12	13	174
8th Minnesota Volunteer Infantry		13	3	74	29	520
181st Ohio Volunteer Infantry		1	1	32	25	540
174th Ohio Volunteer Infantry	1	5	3	35	20	555
13th New York Independent Battery				4	2	54
12th Ohio Battery				1	1	40
Total	1	20	9	158	90	1,883

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. 619-20

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 209 — Reports of Maj. Gen. Robert H. Milroy, U.S. Army, of operations December 4 and 7, 1864.

No. 209

Reports of Maj. Gen. Robert H. Milroy, U.S. Army, of operations December 4 and 7, 1864.

FORTRESS ROSECRANS,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn, December 6, 1864.

GENERAL: In obedience to your orders I proceeded on the afternoon of the 4th instant to the relief of the block-house at Overall's Creek, four miles and a half north of this place, on the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad, which was besieged by a considerable rebel force with artillery. I took with me, by your order, the Eighth Regiment Minnesota Veteran Volunteer Infantry, Sixty-first Regiment Illinois Veteran Volunteer Infantry, One hundred and seventy-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and a section of the Thirteenth New York Artillery, under Lieutenant McGurrin. I proceeded on the Nashville pike to Overall's Creek, where I found the Thirteenth Indiana Cavalry (Colonel Johnson), who preceded me some hours, engaged in skirmishing with the enemy's sharpshooters, who were deployed across the creek. I threw Lieutenant McGurrin, with his section of artillery, forward to the bluff of the creek, who engaged the enemy's battery in gallant style, which was posted on an eminence about 900 yards distant, on the opposite side of the creek, between the railroad and the Nashville pike. I at once deployed the Sixty-first Illinois as skirmishers, and sent up the Eighth Minnesota to the block-house at the railroad crossing, about half a mile below the pike, with orders to cross there, if practicable, and flank the rebel battery on the right. I then advanced the skirmishers across the creek, most of them crossing the bridge under a galling fire, and drove back the rebel sharpshooters. I then threw forward the One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry (Colonel Jones), who crossed the bridge under a sharp fire, both of artillery and small-arms, and formed in good order on the opposite bank. Being under the impression that the forces opposing me consisted of a portion of Forrest's cavalry, dismounted, I supposed that their three-gun battery operating against us could be run over and taken by Colonel Johnson with his gallant regiment, who were anxious to try the experiment. So, after the One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio had formed on the north bank of the creek, the ground being favorable for a cavalry charge and the smoke of the battery and approaching darkness rendering my movements invisible, I directed Colonel Johnson to cross the bridge, pass through an opening in the line of the One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio, charge the battery and take it if possible. The colonel moved forward on the enemy in the most splendid and impetuous style, but finding the battery strongly supported by infantry he turned and passed off to the right. I then moved forward the One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio, which advanced with a terrific rolling fire upon the enemy, capturing a number of prisoners who dared not to arise from the ground to run away amid a sheet of lead. From these prisoners I learned that the force confronting me consisted of General Bate's division of infantry.

It being now quite dark, and the enemy having been driven back near eighty rods and ceased firing, and the Eighth Minnesota not having found a crossing, I withdrew the One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio with the skirmishers of the Sixty-first Illinois to the south bank of the creek. These regiments withdrew in the most perfect order, bringing off their dead, wounded, and prisoners. The Thirteenth Indiana Cavalry also returned to the bridge and crossed to the south side of the creek in good order. The evening being cold I drew my force up in line on the south bank of the creek and kindled fires the whole length, and waited till 9 p.m., when, not hearing of the enemy, I moved back to the fortress.

The Eighth Minnesota, being a veteran regiment of long and true service, would of course have done efficient service could they have found a crossing at the block-house; the Sixty-first Illinois, being also a veteran regiment and much reduced by long and hard service, well sustained their reputation as veterans. But the One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio being a new full regiment, and for the first time under fire since its organization, I was most agreeably surprised at the promptness, steadiness, and bravery they evinced; no veterans could have behaved better in action, but this I discovered (as I have in every other instance where I have found an efficient and reliable regiment) is owing to the energy, bravery, and efficiency of its colonel.

My staff—Major Cravens. Captain Carson, Captain Wilkinson, Lieutenant Worthington, and Lieutenant Frowe—well deserve and have my thanks for the assistance rendered; also Capt. J. G. Mohler, of the One hundred and fifteenth Regiment Ohio Veteran Infantry, who volunteered his services on the field and rendered himself very useful to me. Major Cravens and Lieutenant Worthington both had their horses shot under them. My thanks are also due Surgeon (Major) Birney, who volunteered as medical director, and rendered very valuable service in care of the wounded.

I captured 20 prisoners. My killed, wounded, and missing amount to 64—the Thirteenth Indiana Cavalry yet to hear from. I have no means of knowing the loss of the enemy, who fell back five miles that night; some 8 or 10 dead were counted on the field.

Inclosed I send copies of reports received from regimental commanders, giving names of killed, wounded, and missing.

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

R. H. MILROY,        

Major-General of Volunteers.

Maj. Gen. LOVELL H. ROUSSEAU,
        Commanding District of Tennessee.

_______________

FORTRESS ROSECRANS,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 10, 1864.

GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to your order, I proceeded on the 7th instant to make a reconnaissance and feel the enemy in the vicinity of this post. I took with me, by your direction, seven regiments of infantry and a six-gun battery, under the command of Captain Bundy, of the Thirteenth New York Artillery, and a small detachment of the Fifth Tennessee Volunteer Cavalry. The regiments consisted of the One hundred and seventy-fourth, One hundred and seventy-seventh, One hundred and seventy-eighth, and One hundred and eighty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Sixty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Eighth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and Twelfth Indiana Volunteer Cavalry (dismounted). For convenience, I divided these regiments into two brigades (pro tempore), as follows: First Brigade, Colonel Thomas, of the Eighth Minnesota, commanding, consisted of a six-gun battery, Eighth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, Sixty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry, One hundred and seventy-fourth and One hundred and eighty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 1,973 strong. The Second Brigade consisted of the One hundred and seventy-seventh, and One hundred and seventy-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and Twelfth Indiana Volunteer Cavalry, 1,326 strong. Total strength of my infantry, artillery, and cavalry combined, 3,325. I started on the Salem pike about 10 a.m., and threw out the detachment of the Fifth Tennessee Cavalry in advance, who struck the rebel vedette in less than half a mile after passing our pickets. The rebel cavalry fell back rapidly before my advance. I threw out a portion of the Sixty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry as skirmishers, to assist the cavalry in driving them. Upon arriving at Stone's River, two miles out, a body of about 300 rebel cavalry were discovered across the river. I brought up a section of Captain Bundy's battery and shelled them a few minutes, when they retreated rapidly, and I crossed the bridge and continued my march. Upon arriving at Mr. Spence's fine residence, four miles out, I learned from his accomplished lady that there were two brigades of rebel cavalry, under Generals Jackson and Armstrong, at Salem, a mile farther out, and that Generals Forrest and Bate, with a large force of infantry, artillery, and cavalry, were north of me, on the Wilkinson pike, three miles from Fortress Rosecrans. I deemed it best to turn my attention in that direction, but before doing so I detailed a company and sent them back with a drove of sixty fine, fat hogs, belonging to Mr. Spence, that would have fallen into the hands of the rebels if left. I proceeded north till within half a mile of the Wilkinson pike. My skirmish line encountered that of the enemy, and in a few minutes afterward they opened on me with much rapidity from a six-gun battery stationed in the edge of a wood on the opposite side of a field in my front. I at once ordered forward Captain Bundy's battery, which replied in an equally spirited style. Having only taken along what artillery ammunition that could be carried in the limbers of the guns, the shell and solid shot of my supply was exhausted in about thirty minutes. Finding that the enemy would not come across the field to attack me, and not being able to ascertain his strength, and the left of his line, extending parallel with the Wilkinson pike, was as near Fortress Rosecrans as my right, I deemed it prudent not to engage them with my infantry without having the fortress in my rear, and accordingly fell back through the forest until out of sight of the enemy, and then moved by the right flank in a northeasterly direction until my lines were partly across the Wilkinson pike, where I formed them to the front in two lines of battle, Colonel Thomas' brigade forming the front line and Colonel Anderson's the second line. The Sixty-first Illinois was deployed as skirmishers in front of the first line. In this order I advanced upon the enemy, through the brush, cedars, rocks, and logs, under a heavy fire of artillery. I had sent my artillery back to the fortress for ammunition before commencing my last advance, and consequently had no artillery to reply to that of the enemy. Skirmishing with small-arms began very soon after commencing my advance, but my skirmish line advanced rapidly, bravely, and in splendid order, considering the nature of the ground, driving the rebels before them for about one mile, when coming to a cotton-field I found the enemy strongly posted in a wood on the other side behind a line of works constructed of rails and logs. The enemy's fire of small-arms here became so strong that my skirmishers withdrew to the flanks of my line of battle, opened on the enemy a terrible fire, while it still advanced in good order to the middle of the field, when the line halted and the fire from both sides was most furious and destructive for about ten minutes, when I ordered an advance, and the front line moved forward into the edge of the wood, where for a few minutes the roar and fire of musketry was like the thunder of a volcano, and the line wavered as if moving against a hurricane. Fearing that my front line would fall back, I ordered the One hundred and seventy-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry to move on the double-quick from the left of the front line, and the balance of the rear line to advance to support and relieve the front line; but before this could be fully executed the gallant regiments composing the first line, seeing themselves supported, advanced with a yell and darted over the enemy's works, capturing many prisoners and putting the enemy to a hasty flight. A rapid pursuit of half a mile resulted in the capturing of many more prisoners, one battle-flag, and two fine pieces of artillery (12-pounder Napoleons), with their caissons. The ammunition of some of the regiments being exhausted, I ordered them to halt and replenish from the ammunition wagon that overtook us at that point.

While this was going on, I received your dispatch, general, admonishing me of the report of a large rebel infantry force from the north, and directing me to return to the fortress, if I could do so with safety. My artillery, which I had sent back for ammunition, arrived at this time, and a large body of the enemy's cavalry being in plain view I directed the artillery to open on them rapidly for a few minutes, when they rapidly disappeared out of sight.

I cannot speak too highly of the bravery exhibited by my troops, especially by those in the front regiments, under the gallant Colonel Thomas. Never did troops fight better for the time they were engaged. Every officer and man performed his duty with the most unflinching bravery and promptness. The conduct of the Second Brigade, under Colonel Anderson, also deserves much praise; for, though the regiments of the brigade did not take much part in the firing, yet their coolness and promptness in supporting the first line added greatly to its confidence and morale, and did much to discourage the enemy by the appearance of two lines of battle moving on them. I regret deeply the death of the brave men killed, and added their lives to the hundred of thousands of patriot heroes who have died for their country. Particularly among the killed do I regret the death of Major Reed, of the One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, who fell while gallantry leading on his regiment to victory. The history of his services and adversities in the present war is stranger than fiction.

My total loss in killed and wounded amounts (as per inclosed reports) to 208, of whom 22 were killed. I have no means of arriving at a knowledge of the loss of the enemy, but from the number of dead and wounded observed on the field it must have been greater than mine. Among their dead on the field were observed two lieutenant-colonels. We captured and brought in 197 prisoners, among whom 21 were commissioned officers. Forty-three different regiments are represented by the prisoners. The enemy were commanded by Generals Forrest and Bate, and about 5,000 strong.

I am much indebted to the gentlemen of my staff' for their prompt, gallant, and efficient assistance throughout the day; and I avail myself of this opportunity to tender to the major-general commanding the District of Tennessee my most grateful acknowledgments for his kindness in affording me the two late opportunities of wiping out to some extent the foul and mortifying stigma of a most infamously unjust arrest, by which I have for near eighteen months been thrown out of the ring of active, honorable, and desirable service.

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

R. H. MILROY,        

Major-general.

Maj. Gen. L. H. ROUSSEAU,
        Commanding District of Tennessee.

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. 615-9

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: June 23, 1864

Clear and warm.

The news of the capture of 1600 Federals, 4 guns, etc., yesterday at Petersburg, has put the people here in better humor, which has been bad enough, made so by reported rapes perpetrated by negro soldiers on young ladies in Westmoreland County. There has been talk of vengeance, and no doubt such atrocities cause many more to perish than otherwise would die.

A Mr. Sale, in the West, sends on an extract from a letter from Col. —— proposing to the government to sell cotton on the Mississippi River for sterling exchange in London, and indicating that in this manner he has large sums to his own credit there, besides $100,000 worth of cotton in this country. Col. —— is a commissary, against whom grave charges have been made frequently, of speculation, etc., but was defended by the Commissary-General.

Mr. Harvey [sic], president Danville Railroad, telegraphs to Gen. Bragg to send troops without delay, or the road will be ruined by the raiders. Bragg sends the paper to the Secretary of War, saying there are no troops but those in the army of Gen. Lee, and the reserves, the latter now being called out. Ten days ago, Mr. Secretary Seddon had fair warning about this road.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 2, p. 236

Diary of Sergeant David L. Day: May 18, 1864

ON THE SICK LIST.

Since the affair over on the railroad, I have been on the sick list and have suffered severely with chills and fever and from other causes. I am not yet able to do much and I fear I shall not be able to go on many more excursions with the boys. The regiment has been out nearly every day, and has suffered a loss of more than 200 men, killed, wounded and prisoners. In the fight at Drury's Bluff, two mornings ago, we lost heavily, some 150 men being killed, wounded or taken prisoners. Heckman's brigade was almost annihilated. He was taken prisoner together with Capt. Belger, who lost four pieces of his battery, and Col. Lee, with nearly the whole of the 27th Massachusetts regiment, besides a good many officers and men of the 23d Massachusetts and 9th New Jersey.

SOURCE: David L. Day, My Diary of Rambles with the 25th Mass. Volunteer Infantry, p. 140

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 198. — Report of Lieut. Sidney O. Roberts, Acting Provost-Marshal, of operations December 15-16, 1864.

No. 198.

Report of Lieut. Sidney O. Roberts, Acting Provost-Marshal,

of operations December 15-16, 1864.

HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIFTH DIV., CAVALRY CORPS,                

MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,        

Gravelly Springs, Ala., January 20, 1865.

MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report in regard to captures, &c., by this brigade:

The redoubts taken by this brigade in a charge December 15, 1864, confirmed four James rifled guns. With these guns, about sixty prisoners were taken. Lieut. George W. Budd, Second Iowa Cavalry, with a portion of his company, was the first to enter the fort. At this time the enemy on the right of our line was on an eminence of 300 feet, about 600 yards distant, protected by earthworks and two field howitzers. Col. D. E. Coon, commanding Second Brigade, ordered his command to charge the position. When coming up to the earth-works a hand-to-hand fight ensued, in which Capt. J. W. Harper, commanding Ninth Illinois Cavalry, was severely wounded in the arm. Lieut. J. H. Carpenter, Ninth Illinois Cavalry, was the first man to enter the works, and killed a captain of a rebel battery standing at his guns. The color-bearer of the Second Iowa Cavalry, Sergt. John F. Hartman, was mortally wounded after planting the colors of the brigade on the fort. In this redoubt the brigade captured two field howitzers, 130 prisoners, 130 small-arms, and 1 wagon loaded with spades, picks, &c. The command again formed and moved forward. Colonel Coon seeing that the enemy had brought artillery to bear on the infantry in position on the left of his brigade, and, at the same time seeing the two regiments of the First Brigade, Fifth Division, were in an advantageous position to move, advanced with these two regiments and drove the enemy from his position on a hill, capturing four pieces of artillery on the left of the Hillsborough pike.

December 16, in a charge the Seventh Illinois Cavalry took seventy-three prisoners. Nearly an equal number were made to surrender, when the enemy received re-enforcements and partially drove the regiment from the position it had taken, and retook the prisoners that had surrendered. In this conflict Maj. John M. Graham, commanding the Seventh Illinois Cavalry, was severely wounded in the arm. The following named officers were also wounded during this engagement: Capt. William McCausland, mortally, Lieut. Uriah Brant, and Lieut. John J. Shriner, all of the Seventh Illinois Cavalry, wounded; and 11 enlisted men wounded, and 1 killed in the same engagement. Late in the afternoon, while pursuing the enemy on the Granny White pike, the enemy made a stand. We attacked and drove him from the position. The Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, in a charge on the right of the pike, rode down the enemy. Capt. J. C. Boyer, Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, had a hand-to-hand fight with General Rucker, of Forrest's command. The general struck the captain a severe blow with his saber; the captain forced the saber from his hand, and the general, at the same time, acquired possession of the captain's, who drew his pistol and shot the general in the left arm, causing him to surrender.

The division colors borne on the report as captured by the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry were taken by Private B. Watson, Company G, Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, who killed the rebel standard-bearer. At this, a rebel officer rode up to him and said, "Stick to your colors, boys!" "I'll do it," said Watson; and he did. The standard was given into the possession of General Hatch, and is now at Nashville, Tenn. One hundred and fifty prisoners and three stand of colors captured by the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry were forced from the sergeant in charge of them by an infantry command. The facts were reported to General Thomas, and [he] assured the commanding officer that he should have credit for them. Many prisoners were sent to the rear and turned over, and no receipt given. The colors of Ross' rebel brigade were captured by the Second Iowa Cavalry. First Sergeant Coulter, Company K, Second Iowa Cavalry, brought off the colors after a desperate fight, in which he was wounded in the shoulder. Around the flag and within a few feet of where it was captured seven rebels lay dead, as well as two Federal soldiers of the Second Iowa Cavalry, to attest the desperate nature of the conflict. The Ninth Illinois Cavalry, on the right of the brigade, closed in on the pike, and caused the enemy to abandon three pieces of artillery, which were brought off by the regiment with the assistance of Lieutenant McCastlin [McCartney], Company I, First Illinois Artillery.

While advancing on Columbia the brigade caused the enemy to abandon 6 pieces of artillery, 3 caissons, and a number of wagons, ambulances, &c.; 4 pieces of artillery were taken out of the river by the infantry.

All the property mentioned in the report has been turned over to the division and corps provost-marshals. The receipts are held by different parties. Many of the trophies are at the headquarters of this division at Nashville, Tenn. The saber taken from General Rucker is now in possession of Captain Boyer, Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, who will forward it at the earliest opportunity.

It is proper to state that the Sixth Illinois Cavalry participated in all the engagements where the entire brigade was engaged. Officers and men conducted themselves with becoming gallantry on all occasions.

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

S. O. ROBERTS,        

Lieut. and Provost-Marshal, Second Brig., Fifth Div., Cav. Corps.

Maj. J. M. YOUNG,

        Provost-Marshal, Cavalry Corps.

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. 594-6

Diary of Colonel Rutherford B. Hayes: Sunday, November 13, 1864

Windy and very cold. General Powell on Front Royal road captures from McCausland two guns, two colors, and two hundred prisoners! A fine affair. Rode to the front. Rebels gone.

SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 535

Colonel Rutherford B. Hayes to Lucy Webb Hayes, Sunday, November 13, 1864

CAMP FOUR MILES SOUTH OF WINCHESTER, VIRGINIA,

November 13, 1864. — Sunday.

MY DARLING:- You see we have made one day's march towards civilization, and, as we hope, towards our much wished for winter quarters. The weather has been and still is very favorable for the season - cold and windy to be sure, but very little rain. We do not know how far north we shall go. No doubt as far as some railroad and telegraphic communication. We have halted here for four days past, probably on account of reports that the Rebel army, reinforced and reorganized, is following after us. We do not know how it is, but if they wish to try conclusions with us again, it is likely General Sheridan will meet them.

My first brigade went to Martinsburg a week ago. It was hoped that they would not have to come back, but the probability now is that they will return. If so, I shall assume command of them again. General Duval has returned cured of his wound. I could perhaps keep a division, but under the circumstances I much prefer my old brigade. It has been greatly improved by the addition of the Ninth Virginia Veterans, who now with the Fifth form the First Virginia Veterans under Lieutenant-Colonel Enochs — a splendid regiment.

We are rejoiced that Captain Hastings is improving; he is still low but decidedly improving. His sister, whom you know, and a brother are with him.

Lincoln's election was so confidently expected that it does not cause so much excitement as we sometimes see, but it gives great satisfaction here.

Generals Sheridan and Crook both voted for him. It was General Sheridan's first vote!

I have no decided feeling about the little soldier's name. But I can't help thinking, suppose he should die after living long enough to become very dear to all of you. Would it not be awkward to think of the dear lost ones by the same name? And is not the idea of death now associated with the nickname “Little Jody"? But I am quite indifferent. Decide as you wish, or leave it to be decided by the boys.

Give my love to the kind friends.

Captain Reed, who sent you the dispatch, is an officer on Colonel Thoburn's staff — who was thoughtful enough to contradict the false report.*

Affectionately ever, your

R.

P.S. — Doctor and I rode to the front this P. M., a very cold, windy, raw day. From the best information I can get, nothing but cavalry has been seen. I think the Rebel army is not a-going to disturb us again. General Powell took two guns, two flags, and two hundred prisoners from General McCausland last night. A very handsome affair. The Second Virginia Cavalry is getting as good as any of them under General Powell.

MRS. HAYES.

_______________

*See "Life of Hayes," Vol. I, page 257.

SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 535-7

 

Colonel Rutherford B. Hayes to Lucy Webb Hayes, October 21, 1864

CAMP AT CEDAR CREEK NEAR STRASBURG, VIRGINIA,

October 21, 1864.

MY DARLING:— We have had another important victory over General Early's oft-defeated army. Reinforced by a division or two of Longstreet's Corps, he was foolish enough to follow and attack us here on the 19th. In the darkness and fog of early morning he was successful in doubling up our left flank, held by General Crook's little First Division, and so flanking our whole army out of its position, capturing for the time our camps, a good many cannon, and perhaps fifteen hundred prisoners. But soon after it got light, we began to recover and finally checked and held them.

In the afternoon we took the offensive and without much difficulty or loss flogged them completely, capturing all their cannon, trains, etc., etc., and retaking all we had lost besides many prisoners. The Rebels marched off a part of our prisoners. For a time things looked squally, but the truth is, all the fighting capacity of Early's army was taken out of it in the great battle at Winchester a month ago. My loss was small. In the Thirteenth Lieutenant-Colonel Hall, a conspicuously brave and excellent officer, was killed. Lieutenant McBride (of [the] Twelfth) was wounded in [the] Twenty-third; two officers of [the] Fifth (Virginia] ditto.

As usual with me I had some narrow escapes. While galloping rapidly, my fine large black horse was killed instantly, tumbling heels over head and dashing me on the ground violently. Strange to say I was only a little bruised and was able to keep the saddle all day. (Mem.: — I lost all my horse trappings, saddle, etc., including my small pistol.) I was also hit fairly in the head by a ball which had lost its force in getting (I suppose) through somebody else! It gave me only a slight shock. — I think serious fighting on this line is now over.

. . . I suppose you are pleased with the result of the election. Of course, I am, on general reasons. My particular gratification is much less than it would be, if I were not so much gratified by my good luck in winning “golden opinions” in the more stirring scenes around me here. My share of notoriety here is nothing at all, and my real share of merit is also small enough, I know, but the consciousness that I am doing my part in these brilliant actions is far more gratifying than anything the election brings me. Love to all. I am more than anxious to see you again.

Affectionately ever, your

R.

MRS. HAYES.

SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 527-8

General Robert E. Lee to James Seddon, May 5, 1864—11 p.m.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA,        

May 5, 1864—11 p.m. (Received 6th.)

The enemy crossed the Rapidan yesterday at Ely's and Germanna Fords. Two corps of this, army moved to oppose him Ewell's, by the old turnpike, and Hill's, by the plank road. They arrived this morning in close proximity to the enemy's line of march. A strong attack was made upon Ewell, who repulsed it, capturing many prisoners and four pieces of artillery. The enemy subsequently concentrated upon General Hill, who, with Heth's and Wilcox's divisions, successfully resisted repeated and desperate assaults. A large force of cavalry and artillery on our right flank was driven back by Rosser's brigade. By the blessing of God we maintained our position against every effort until night, when the contest closed. We have to mourn the loss of many brave officers and men. The gallant Brig. Gen. J. M. Jones was killed, and Brig. Gen. L. A. Stafford, I fear, mortally wounded while leading his command with conspicuous valor.

R. E. LEE.

Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 36, Part 1 (Serial No. 67), p. 1028

Colonel Rutherford B. Hayes to Lucy Webb Hayes, October 10, 1864

HEADQUARTERS SECOND INFANTRY DIVISION A. W. VA.,

CAMP NEAR FISHER's Hill, SOUTH OF STRASBURG, VIRGINIA,

October 10, 1864.

DEAREST:— I am very anxious to hear from you. I hope you are doing well.

We have slowly returned from our splendid campaign to this point. The Rebel cavalry impudently undertook to harass us as we approached here. General Sheridan halted his army and sent his cavalry back supported by two of my infantry regiments (Ninth and Fourteenth Virginia) and gave them a complete flogging, capturing their cannon (nine), train, and many prisoners. They were chased from the field at a run for twenty miles.

I don't know when we shall return to Winchester, but probably soon. This valley will feed and forage no more Rebel armies. It is completely and awfully devastated — "a belt of desolation," as Sherman calls it for one hundred and twenty-five miles or more from our lines. — My love to all.

Ever affectionately,

R.

P. S. — Just heard through Captain Douglass (10 A. M.) that I am the father of another boy. God bless the boy - all the boys - and above all the mother.-H.

MRS. HAYES.

SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 523-4

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: April 21, 1864

Bright sunshine all day, but cool.

Gen. Bragg received a dispatch to day from Gen. Hoke, of Plymouth, N. C., stating that he had (yesterday) stormed Plymouth, taking 1600 prisoners, 25 cannon, stores, etc. etc. This put the city in as good spirits as possible.

But the excitement from Hoke's victory was supplanted by an excitement of another kind. A report was circulated and believed that the President resolved yesterday to remove the government to South Carolina or Alabama; and the commotion was very great. The President's salary is insufficient to meet his housekeeping expenditures; and Mrs. D. has become, very naturally, somewhat indignant at the conduct of the extortioners, and, of course, the President himself partook of the indignation.

At 2 P.M. to-day the President's papers came in. Among them was one from the Commissary. General, stating that the present management of railroad transportation would not suffice to subsist the army. This had been referred to Gen. Bragg yesterday (who seems to rank the Secretary of War), and he made an elaborate indorsement thereon. He recommended that all passenger trains be discontinued, except one daily, and on this that government agents, soldiers, etc. have preference; that arrangements be made at once to hasten on the freight trains (taking military possession of the roads) without breaking bulk; and finally to reduce consumers here as much as possible by a reduction of civil officers, etc. etc. in the departments—that is, sending to other places such as can perform their duties at distant points. On this the President indorsed a reference to the Secretary of War, requiring his opinion in writing, etc. Since then, the President and cabinet have been in consultation, and we shall probably know the result to-morrow.

If the departments are sent South, it will cause a prodigious outburst from the press here, and may have a bad, blundering effect on the army in Virginia, composed mostly of Virginians; and Gen. Bragg will have to bear the brunt of it, although the government will be solely responsible.

Gov. Vance recommended the suspension of conscription in the eastern counties of North Carolina the .other day. was referred by the Secretary to the President, by the President to Gen. B. (who is a native of North Carolina), and, seeing what was desired, Gen. B. recommended that the conscription be proceeded with. This may cause Gov. V. to be defeated at the election, and Gen. B. will be roundly abused. He will be unpopular still.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 2, p. 189-90

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: April 22, 1864

A bright day and warmer. Cherry-trees in blossom. We bave the following war news :

PLYMOUTH, N. C., April 20th.

To GEN. BRAGG.

I have stormed and captured this place, capturing 1 brigadier, 1600 men, stores, and 25 pieces of artillery.

R. F. HOKE, Brig.-General.

The President has changed his mind since the reception of the news from North Carolina, and has determined that all the government shall not leave Richmond until further orders. All that can be spared will go, however, at once. The War and Navy Departments will remain for the present. The news is said to have had a wonderful effect on the President's mind; and he hopes we may derive considerable supplies from Eastern North Carolina. So do I.

Gov. Watts writes to the Secretary that commissary agents, who ought to be in the ranks, are making unnecessary impressments, leaving to each negro only four ounces of bacon per day. He says the government has already some 10,000,000 pounds of bacon in Alabama; and that if the other States, east of the Mississippi, furnish a proportional amount, there will be 60,000,000 pounds—enough to feed our armies twelve months.

The Commissary-General's estimates for the next six months are for 400,000 men.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 2, p. 191

Major Charles Wright Wills: March 3, 1865

Five miles south of Cheraw, S. C., March 3, 1865.

General Wood says we have made 24 miles to-day. Our whole corps on one road and hardly a check all day. This is Thompson's Creek, and the Rebels under Hardee thoroughly fortified it. Logan's orders are to carry the works to-morrow, but as usual the Rebels have left. The 17th A. C. took Cheraw this p. m. without a fight, getting 27 pieces of field artillery, 3,000 stands of small arms, besides a great deal of forage.

There were only two or three small farms on the road today. Poorest country I have seen yet. An intelligent prisoner captured to-day says that Kilpatrick has taken Charlotte, N. C., and that Lee is evacuating Richmond. Saw the sun to-day; had almost forgotten there was such a luminary.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 356

Major Charles Wright Wills: March 5, 1865

March 5, 1865.

The 17th and all our corps, except our division, have crossed the river. We follow in the morning. The enemy did not attempt to oppose us. The boys say that an intercepted dispatch from Hampton to General Butler reads: “Do not attempt to delay Sherman's march by destroying bridges, or any other means. For God's sake let him get out of the country as quickly as possible.” Were I one of the S. C. chivalry I'd be in favor of turning out en masse and building up roads for him,

We will get out of S. C. to-morrow. I have not been in a house in the State occupied by a citizen. Everything in Cheraw of any value to the enemy, including cotton and business houses, is going up in smoke. Hear to-day that Schofield is in Goldsboro or Fayetteville, N. C.

General Wood says we have 120 miles yet to make. You may give the credit of Wilmington, Charleston and Georgetown to whom you please, we know Sherman deserves it. We hear that that miserable Foster is claiming the glory over his capture of Charleston. We are yet pretty short of breadstuffs, but have plenty of meat. Sherman has been heard to say that this army can live on fresh meat alone for 30 days. I'd like to see it tried on him. We think to-day that Goldsboro is our resting place. You must understand that we don't know anything at all about anything. Our foragers all went across the river this morning and got plenty of flour, meal and meat. They were out 11 miles and saw a few Rebels. The Rebels left seven cannon on the other side of the river, and burned a very large amount of commissary and ordnance stores.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 357

Diary of Colonel Rutherford B. Hayes: Sunday, October 9, 1864

Felt a great repugnance to fighting another battle last night; all right this morning. Our cavalry flogged the Rebels handsomely today. Took nine pieces of artillery and many prisoners and train. Captain H. J. Farnsworth. a quartermaster, reported to my division.

SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 523

Major Charles Wright Wills: February 19, 1865

February 19, 1865.

Another block of the city burned to-day. Our regiment was out and stopped the fire from spreading further. Have seen the men work better on other occasions. In destroying some captured ammunition to-day the 63d Illinois, by an explosion, lost three killed and 20 wounded. We captured about 20 cannon here. I noticed one complete battery of fine Blakely guns.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 351