Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864 — January 23, 1865: No. 145. Report of Col. William L. McMillen, Ninety-fifth Ohio Infantry, commanding First Brigade, of operations December 15-16, 1864.

No. 145.

Report of Col. William L. McMillen, Ninety-fifth Ohio Infantry, commanding First Brigade,

of operations December 15-16, 1864.

HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION,                       

DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,      

In the Field, December 25, 1864.

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by this command in the recent engagements near Nashville, Tenn., on the 15th and 16th instant:

The following regiments and battery compose the brigade: Seventy-second Ohio Infantry Veteran Volunteers, Lieut. Col. C. G. Eaton commanding; Ninety-fifth Ohio Infantry Volunteers, Lieut. Col. Jefferson Brumback commanding; One hundred and fourteenth Illinois Infantry Volunteers, Capt. J. M. Johnson commanding; Ninety-third Indiana Infantry Volunteers, Capt. Charles A. Hubbard commanding; Tenth Minnesota Infantry Volunteers, Lieut. Col. S. P. Jennison commanding; Cogswell's Independent Battery Illinois Light Artillery, Second Lieut. S. H. McClaury commanding.

On the evening of the 14th instant I received from the general commanding division instructions to have my command ready to move the following morning at 6 o'clock, with three days' rations in haversack and fifty rounds of ammunition per man. I was ready at the hour designated, but owing to delay on the part of the cavalry did not move until near 9 a.m., taking the Charlotte pike, in the rear of the Second Brigade. Reaching the vicinity of Richland Creek, just beyond which the enemy's lines were established, I was directed to deploy, with my right resting on the Charlotte pike near Douglass' house. This was done accordingly, but whilst executing the movement the rebels opened with a battery, unhorsing Col. D.C. Thomas, Ninety-third Indiana Infantry, and severely wounding several men in the One hundred and fourteenth Illinois Infantry. I brought one section of artillery into action and silenced the guns of the enemy. Soon after this orders were received to move by the left flank, keeping my left close to the right of the Second Brigade. In this movement I described the arc of a large circle, and it was continued until we had crossed the Hardin pike, and reached the vicinity of the Hillsborough pike, where the enemy was found strongly posted on the side and summit of a high hill, with a four-gun battery in his lower and a two-gun battery in his upper work. A battery far to our right, belonging, I think, to some cavalry command, was engaging these guns when we came up. Deploying the Seventy-second Ohio Infantry as skirmishers, I advanced my battery to within 400 yards of the enemy's works and opened on them with a rapid and telling fire. Whilst the battery was thus engaged I moved up the balance of the brigade and formed it, the Seventy-second Ohio as skirmishers, the Ninety-fifth Ohio and Tenth Minnesota in the front line, and One hundred and fourteenth Illinois and Ninety-third Indiana in the rear, and made preparations to charge. The Second Brigade formed to my left and one or two regiments of Hatch's division of cavalry on my right. Upon an order from the general commanding division, we advanced upon the works and carried both quickly, capturing the 6 guns, 300 or 400 prisoners, and a lot of small-arms. In this charge I regret to state that the gallant Col. D.C. Thomas, Ninety-third Indiana Infantry, was severely wounded, and a number of brave men were killed and wounded. The cavalry regiments on my right deserve credit for the dashing part they took in assaulting and capturing these works. After collecting prisoners and guns and placing them in charge of the Seventy-second Ohio to be conveyed to Nashville, my command moved on the Hillsborough pike and took a position on its east side, in the rear of the Second Brigade, where we camped for the night. Two cannon, 2 caissons, 1 army wagon filled with arms and accouterments, 7 commissioned officers, and 148 enlisted men were secured and turned over by my command as the fruits of this day's work.

Early on the morning of the 16th I moved out and occupied the temporary works constructed during the night by the Second Brigade, which had already moved forward and become engaged with the enemy. Soon afterward an order to advance and form in two lines on the right of the Second Brigade was received and executed; my first line throwing out skirmishers, who advanced to within a short distance of the enemy's works, which could be plainly seen from a hill in front of a division of the Twenty-third Army Corps, commanded by General Couch, and upon which my battery went into position and did good execution in silencing those batteries of the enemy within range and in covering with a rapid fire an assault made later in the day by my brigade. Throughout the fore part of the day we remained in line, using artillery freely, and occasionally advancing the skirmish line, which invariably met with stubborn resistance. Toward noon I commenced digging a rifle-pit to protect my first line from the enemy's fire and also to enable it more securely to hold the ground in case of an assault, preparations for which, on the part of the enemy, I thought could be seen. In front of Couch's division, Twenty-third Army Corps, there was a very steep hill, over the crown of which the enemy's main line extended, and which formed the key point to his works, in front of our division. This hill once carried and securely held, these works, as far as we could see to our left, became untenable, and would necessarily have to be abandoned. Being a position of so much importance it was, of course, guarded by a strong body of troops, besides being so steep, it was supposed no assaulting party could live to reach the summit. We waited long hours for the division of the Twenty-third Army Corps in front of this hill to carry it, intending to advance at the same time and carry the works at its base and our left. At length General McArthur, tired with the long delay and fearful the day would pass without making any serious impression upon the enemy's lines, directed me to withdraw my brigade and “take that hill.” This was about 2 o'clock in the afternoon. I immediately withdrew my skirmishers, retired the regiments, and moved them by the right flank to a point opposite the hill to be carried; forming in two lines outside of the works occupied by and in front of Couch's division; supplied empty cartridge boxes, and posted my battery so as to command the enemy's position. The front line consisted of the following regiments, named in their order from right to left: One hundred and fourteenth Illinois Infantry, Captain Johnson commanding; Ninety-third Indiana Infantry, Captain Hubbard commanding; Tenth Minnesota Infantry, Lieut. Col. S. P. Jennison commanding; the second line of the Seventy-second Ohio Infantry, Lieut. Col. C. G. Eaton commanding, and the Ninety-fifth Ohio, Lieut. Col. Jefferson Brumback commanding. After the troops were ready the assault was delayed some time, in consequence of a failure on the part of the ordnance department to supply the battery with ammunition. Ten rounds for each gun were finally procured from Captain Reed, of the Second Iowa Battery, and about 3.30 o'clock I ordered Lieutenant McClaury, commanding Cogswell's Independent Battery, to open on the hill, and under cover of this fire advanced to the assault. Regimental commanders had been instructed to move out silently, with fixed bayonets, and, if possible, gain the enemy's works before delivering their fire. A strong skirmish line had been thrown forward, with orders to advance, firing as soon as the brigade moved. Capt. James Fernald, of my staff, was placed in charge of the skirmishers, and, as ever, performed his duty with the utmost daring and gallantry. Quickly and steadily the brigade moved down one hill and up the other to within a few feet of the enemy's parapet, where we received a volley, which on the right went over our heads, but on the left punished the Tenth Minnesota severely. Nothing daunted, this gallant regiment, together with the others composing the front line, cleared the enemy's works with a bound. The two regiments in the second line were inside almost as quickly, having pushed forward with the highest spirit and determination.

Brigadier-General Smith, 84 field, staff, and line officers, and 1,533 enlisted men were captured in this charge, together with 4 battle-flags, 8 cannon, 8 caissons, a large number of small-arms and accouterments. My loss, although not heavy considering the work performed, embraces many gallant officers and soldiers. It mainly fell upon the Tenth Minnesota Infantry, which was exposed to a flanking fire. Two field officers, 6 line officers, wounded, and some 60 enlisted men killed and wounded in this charge alone, attest the fiery ordeal through which the regiment passed; and the fact that it reached the rebel works in its front as quickly as the regiments on its right, which were less exposed, is ample evidence of the courage and daring of both officers and men. Lieutenant-Colonel Jennison, the commanding officer, was conspicuous for his high daring, and set a noble example to his officers and men. He fell severely wounded on the enemy's works, and his loss, even if but temporary, will be severely felt by his regiment. Lieutenant-Colonels Brumback and Eaton, Captains Johnson and Hubbard, commanding regiments, acquitted themselves on this occasion, as they always do, with distinguished gallantry, setting their respective commands examples which must always insure success. In fact, all officers and men of this brigade engaged on the 15th and 16th instant displayed an eager desire to engage the enemy, and a courage tempered with a high resolve rarely, if ever, surpassed. To Lieutenant McClaury, his officers and men, I am under particular obligations for their bravery and efficiency in working their battery. Although but recently attached, they have already won the esteem and admiration of the entire command.

The following is a summary of the prisoners of war, guns, colors, &c., captured and turned over by my brigade in the recent engagements:

General officers	1	Cannon	10
Field, staff, and line officers	91	Caissons	10
Enlisted men	1,681	Wagons	1
	____	Small-arms (estimated)	2,500
Total	1,773	Accouterments (estimated)..sets	2,500

To the officers of my staff — Capt. James Fernald, Seventy-second Ohio Infantry, brigade picket officer; Lieut. O. H. Abel, One hundred and fourteenth Illinois Infantry, acting assistant adjutant-general; Lieut. Josiah Barber, Ninety-fifth Ohio Infantry, acting aide-de-camp, and Lieut. John C. Chittenden, Ninety-fifth Ohio Infantry, acting assistant quartermaster — I am under renewed obligations for that devotion to duty and gallantry under fire which has always characterized them. They have my thanks and deserve the gratitude of the country for their intelligent discharge of every trust, however trying or dangerous. To Lieut. A. L. Whiteside, regimental quartermaster, Ninety-third Indiana Infantry, I tender my thanks for valuable services rendered on both days as volunteer aide-de-camp.

I have the honor to forward herewith a list of the killed and wounded, from which it will be seen that the entire loss in this brigade was as follows: Commissioned officers — wounded, 10. Enlisted men — killed, 22; wounded, 86. Total, 118.

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. L. McMILLEN,   

Colonel Ninety-fifth Ohio Infantry, Commanding.

Capt. W. H. F. RANDALL,

Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Div., Detach. Army of the 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. 440-3

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864 — January 23, 1865: No. 144. Report of Brig. Gen. John McArthur, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, of operations December 15-16, 1864.

144.

Report of Brig. Gen. John McArthur, U. S. Army, commanding First Division,

of operations December 15-16, 1864.

HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, DETACH. ARMY OF THE TENN.,                       

Near Pulaski, Tenn., December 28, 1864.

MAJOR: I have the honor to forward the following report of the part taken by my division during the battles of the 15th and 16th instant in front of Nashville, Tenn.:

Pursuant to orders from the major-general commanding, I moved on the morning of the 15th, at 7 a.m. the First Brigade, Col. W. L. McMillen commanding, consisting of the Seventy-second and Ninety-fifth Ohio, One hundred and fourteenth Illinois, Ninety-third Indiana, and Tenth. Minnesota Infantry Regiments, and Cogswell's Independent Illinois Battery; also the Second Brigade, Col. L. F. Hubbard commanding, composed of the Eleventh Missouri, Eighth Wisconsin, Fifth and Ninth Minnesota Infantry, and Second Iowa Battery, out from the intrenchments around Nashville on the Charlotte road; also the Third Brigade, Col. S. G. Hill commanding, consisting of the Twelfth and Thirty-fifth Iowa, Thirty-third Missouri, and Seventh Minnesota Regiments, and Company I, Second Missouri Artillery, out on the Hardin road; the Third with orders to take position on the right of the Second Division, and the First and Second to swing to the left, and connecting with the Third, so as to complete the line. The two brigades on the Charlotte road waited two hours for the cavalry to take the advance, according to the instructions received the evening previous; but no move taking place on their part, and being informed that the line was awaiting my arrival, I passed through the cavalry line, deploying to the left of the road, right resting on same, until they reached Richland Creek, two miles and a half, encountering the enemy's battery and skirmishers, which were silenced by Cogswell's battery, giving the cavalry an opportunity of advancing. Finding that they were too far advanced, and not connecting with the main line, I moved them by the left flank obliquely to the rear, connecting with the Third Brigade, as designated, the whole line moving forward. My division being on the flank, the whole swinging on our left as a pivot, our march was necessarily long and tiresome.

After crossing the Hardin road the First Brigade encountered the first redoubt of four guns on the enemy's extreme left. Moving up the Second Brigade to its support, they were immediately formed for assault, both batteries taking position about 300 yards distant. After a brisk fire the fort was silenced and the infantry dashed forward. Simultaneous with their advance the cavalry of General Hatch's division charged, and, from their advantageous position, entered the works with my skirmishers and claimed the guns as their capture, which I conceded to them, their gallantry on that occasion being conspicuous, although the fort had been rendered untenable by the fire from my batteries. I then ordered the First Brigade to charge the second hill to the rear of the fort just taken, which they gallantly did, capturing two guns and caissons and a great many prisoners. In this they were supported by the Second Brigade, their skirmishers entering simultaneously with the First Brigade. While this was going on the Third Brigade charged the redoubt commanding the Hillsborough road, and carried it in gallant style; but pressing on in connection with the Second Division, the guns, three in number, were taken into possession by the Fourth Corps, together with a number of prisoners, which might have been properly credited had not Col. S. G. Hill, commanding brigade, been unfortunately killed in the charge. For further evidence of this I refer to Brigadier-General Garrard, commanding Second Division. Immediately following this General Couch's division, which had come into position by moving around my right and rear, charged the fourth position, a strong hill to our left. Simultaneous with the charge I ordered Col. L. F. Hubbard, commanding Second Brigade, to move forward on the left of Couch's division, sweeping around the base of the hill, thereby flanking the enemy's position and rendering the charge of General Couch an easier one. This was a bold and successful movement on the part of Col. L. F. Hubbard's command, and reflects great credit on him in handling his troops so successfully, for he encountered the enemy for a short time in front of him and on his flank, yet did not falter. Our line was then formed for the night and fortified between the Hillsborough and Granny White roads, nearly parallel with the same, thus ending the first day's battle.

On the morning of the 16th, at 8 a.m., I moved the division forward by wheeling to the right on the Twenty-third Corps, forming at right angles to the position held the night previous, with the Granny White road running through between the Second and Third Brigades, and moved up at 9 a.m. to within charging distance of the enemy's main line of works, but finding no dispositions made by the corps on my right to co-operate with me, I ordered the command to construct rifle-pits to protect them from the infantry fire of the enemy's main line, my batteries in the meantime being used with good effect on their works. Continuing in this position until 3 p.m., when, again consulting with Major-General Couch, commanding division on my right, and being informed that he had no orders to advance, and fearing that if delayed until next day the night would be employed by the enemy to our disadvantage, I determined to attack, sending word to this effect to the major-general commanding corps, and no contrary orders being received I prepared for the assault. In order to do so successfully, it was necessary that the hill on the enemy's extreme left and immediately in front of the Twenty-third Corps should be taken first. I ordered the First Brigade, Col. W. L. McMillen commanding, to move by the right flank and take position in front of and to take the hill, Major-General Couch sending forward a brigade to occupy and hold the intrenchments vacated by Col. W. L. McMillen, in case of an emergency, the Second and Third Brigades having orders to charge as soon as the First had advanced half-way up the hill, which was the salient point of the position. The First Brigade, with fixed bayonets, without a cheer or firing a shot, but with firm resolve and without doubting their success, commenced the difficult ascent, and without a halt, although exposed to a murderous fire, which none but the bravest troops could withstand, planted their colors on the very apex of the hill. At the appointed time the Second and Third Brigades — the Third commanded by Col. W. R. Marshall, Seventh Minnesota Infantry — moved forward on the enemy's works. Their path lay across a cornfield, traversed by stone walls and ditches, which, together with the softness of the ground, exposed as they were to a direct fire in front, and enfiladed by batteries on the flanks, for a time held with intense interest the most experienced officers who beheld it; but onward was their motto, and their banners were planted on works defended by the choicest troops of the rebel army, calling forth the remark of the rebel officers that powder and lead were inadequate to resist such a charge. Onward still the division pressed, gathering in prisoners by the hundred and guns by batteries (a list of which is appended) until the hills in rear of the enemy's lines were secured, where the line was formed for the night, and attention turned to the many brave officers and men who had so gloriously maintained their country's honor and sealed it with their blood.

In connection with this I wish to mention the services of the agents of the Christian Commission: conspicuous among which were Mr. Carter, of Wisconsin, and others whose names I failed to obtain, who, regardless of personal danger, were everywhere present, ministering to the wounded. A cause sustained by such and similar agencies cannot fail.

Before closing the report I beg to bear testimony to the gallantry and heroic fortitude displayed by every officer and soldier of my command; their conduct throughout was par excellence.

In addition to the report already forwarded of officers recommended for promotion I would call your attention to the reports of brigade commanders, transmitted herewith, for the names of those officers recommended by them for special mention for gallantry and good conduct. My thanks are also due in an especial manner to the officers and men of the artillery of my division, serving their guns in such a manner as to call forth my highest admiration. I am also greatly indebted to the following members of my staff for valuable services throughout: Capt. William H. F. Randall, assistant adjutant-general; Capts. Duncan MacLean and John W. Gregg, aides-de-camp; Dr. S. W. Huff, surgeon-in-chief, whose duties were arduous, but not beyond his capabilities; Capt. S. Carkener, Thirty-third Missouri Volunteers, judge-advocate and acting aide; Capt. E. R. Applegate, Eleventh Missouri Volunteers, ordnance officer; Capt. Joseph Mayer, Thirty-fifth Iowa Volunteers, temporarily on duty as aide; Lieut. P. Meagher, Thirteenth U.S. Infantry, mustering officer and acting aide; Lieut. Samuel A. L. Law, acting assistant quartermaster; Capt. J. A. Leonard, commissary of subsistence, for efficiency in their respective duties; Capt. J.P. Houston, acting assistant inspector-general, who was unfortunately wounded while charging with the skirmishers the broken ranks of the enemy. He is a valuable officer. I deeply regret his temporary loss. To all of whom my thanks are due.

In addition to the above report I wish to mention the First Brigade, Third Division, Colonel Ward, Fourteenth Wisconsin Infantry, commanding, consisting of the Fourteenth and Thirty-third Wisconsin and Eighty-first Illinois Infantry, for their promptness in moving forward to support my left on the first day's battle and securing many prisoners.

The following is the list of captures, which needs no comment: Prisoners of wary including Brigadier-Generals Smith and Jackson, 4,273; battle-flags, 13; guns with caissons, 24; small-arms, estimated at 4,500; besides several wagons and horses. There were expended during both days' fighting, 4,681 rounds artillery ammunition; 84,000 rounds of musketry ammunition.

My total casualties, as per report forwarded, are as follows: Killed, 68; wounded, 506, and 1 missing; making a total of killed, wounded, and missing, 575.*

All of which is respectfully submitted.

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

J. McARTHUR,         

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

P. S. — I wish particularly to mention in connection with this report the gallant conduct of Col. W. R. Marshall, Seventh Minnesota Infantry Volunteers, commanding Third Brigade, called to take command during the first day's battle and continuing throughout. His admirable management and example stamp him as an officer of rare merit.

J. McARTHUR,         

Brigadier-General.

Maj. J. HOUGH,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Detachment Army of the Tennessee.

_______________

* But see revised table, p. 101

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. 437-40

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

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864 — January 23, 1865: No. 100. — Report of Maj. Gen. Darius N Couch, U S. Army, commanding Second Division, of operations December 15-16, 1864.

No. 100.

Report of Maj. Gen. Darius N Couch, U S. Army, commanding Second Division, of operations December 15-16, 1864.

HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS,      

Near Columbia, Tenn., December 28, 1864.

SIR: I have the honor to report that in obedience to the orders of the major-general commanding the Army of the Ohio, this division moved from the line it occupied in the intrenchments at Nashville at 7.30 a.m. December 15, upon being relieved by the troops of General Steedman, and took position in rear of Maj. Gen. A. J. Smith's corps, on the Hardin pike. At 1 p.m. advanced to within supporting distance of Smith's troops, then engaged. Soon, after was directed by General Schofield to push forward to the right of the former officer's line and engage the enemy. The division marched rapidly nearly two miles, swinging around at a right angle to the east, crossing the Granny White pike at 2.45 p.m., in line of battle by brigades, in the order of Cooper, Moore, and Mehringer. Passing Smith's extreme right more than half a mile, Cooper, assisted by a few hundred dismounted cavalry, charged a high knob held by the rebels with infantry and three guns, carrying it most gallantly. Moore, swinging to the left, aided in taking a stone wall which flanked my position. In the meantime Mehringer, having been thrown to the right and front to occupy a piece of woods, then received the attack of a rebel column, which he completely repulsed in thirty minutes. A brigade of General Cox's division was sent to support him, but it did not have occasion to go into action. The Fifteenth Indiana Battery followed the division and used its guns with good effect until night. My line was fortified after dark, including the knob previously referred to, which proved to be a point of vital importance to our success on the following day. On the 16th Wilson's Nineteenth Ohio Battery was brought on the field from the intrenchments of Nashville and held in reserve. Harvey at daylight occupied the knob fortified during the night. This battery was the only part of my command seriously engaged during the day, Cooper and Moore simply supporting General A. J. Smith in his advance on the enemy's lines from 2 to 3.30 p.m.

The division displayed great gallantry and dauntless courage throughout the action. Should I commend the officers and men by name I would not know where to stop.

The captures were 200 prisoners, 3 guns, and 2 stand of colors.

Appended please find reports of brigade commanders and lists of casualties.*

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. N. COUCH,          

Major-general.

 Maj. J. A. CAMPBELL,

Assistant Adjutant-General Army of the Ohio.

_______________

* Nominal list (omitted) shows 1 officer and 10 men killed and 11 officers and 126 men wounded.

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. 369-70

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

Edwin M. Stanton to Thomas A. Scott, June 10, 1863

WAR DEPARTMENT,         

June 10, 1863.

THOMAS A. SCOTT, Esq.,

Philadelphia, Pa.:

Major-General Couch has accepted command of the Department of the Susquehanna, and will start by first train for Harrisburg, where you had better meet him. Wright had better go on his staff as adjutant. An appointment will be forwarded to-morrow. No time should be lost in organizing for defense. A telegram received from Pleasonton a few minutes ago states that Stuart's raid is designed for Pennsylvania. He thinks that the engagement of yesterday may postpone it for a few days, but how long is uncertain.

EDWIN M. STANTON.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 27, Part 3 (Serial No. 45), p. 55

Major-General Darius N. Couch to Major-General Henry W. Halleck, June 30, 1863 – Received 5:50 p.m.

HARRISBURG, PA., June 30, 1863,                       

(Received 5.30 p.m.)

Maj. Gen. H W. HALLECK,

General-in-Chief:

As telegraphed previously, part of the rebel forces, if not all, have fallen back toward Chambersburg, passing Shippensburg last night in great haste. I expect every moment to hear that my cavalry, under General Smith, has reoccupied Carlisle. My latest information is that Early, with his 8,000 men, went toward Gettysburg or Hanover, saying they expected to fight a great battle there. At Carlisle they said they were not going to be outflanked by Hooker.

D. N. COUCH,          

Major-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 27, Part 3 (Serial No. 45), p. 434

Major-General Henry W. Halleck to Major-General George G. Meade, July 7, 1863

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 7, 1863.

Major-General MEADE,

Frederick, Md.:

I have seen your dispatch to General Couch of 4.40 p.m. You are perfectly right. Push forward, and fight Lee before he can cross the Potomac.

H. W. HALLECK,    

General-in-Chief.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 27, Part 1 (Serial No. 43), p. 83

Edwin M. Stanton to Simon Cameron, June 10, 1863

WAR DEPARTMENT, June 10, 1863.

Hon. SIMON CAMERON, Harrisburg:

Major-General Couch has been assigned to the command of the Department of the Susquehanna, including all of Pennsylvania east of Johnstown. He will go to Harrisburg to-morrow. I wish you would see him, and give him what aid you can. I have given him a letter of introduction to you.

EDWIN M. STANTON.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 27, Part 3 (Serial No. 45), p. 54.

Simon Cameron to Abraham Lincoln, June 15, 1863 – 3:50 p.m.

HARRISBURG, June 15, 1863.

(Received 3.50 p.m.)

Hon. ABRAHAM LINCOLN:

I do not believe that you can get troops in time under your call for six months, but if you authorize General Couch to accept them for the emergency, a very large force will be on hand immediately.

SIMON CAMERON.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 27, Part 3 (Serial No. 45), p. 141

Abraham Lincoln to Major-General Darius Couch, June 24, 1863 – 8:55 a.m.

WASHINGTON, June 24, 1863 — 8.55 a.m.

Major-General COUCH,

Harrisburg, Pa.:

Have you any reports of the enemy moving into Pennsylvania? And, if any, what?

A. LINCOLN.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 27, Part 3 (Serial No. 45), p. 295

Diary of Gideon Welles: Saturday, July 4, 1863

I was called up at midnight precisely by a messenger with telegram from Byington, dated at Hanover Station, stating that the most terrific battle of the War was being fought at or near Gettysburg, that he left the field at half-past 6 P.M. with tidings, and that everything looked hopeful. The President was at the War Department, where this dispatch, which is addressed to me, was received. It was the first word of the great conflict. Nothing had come to the War Department. There seems to have been no system, no arrangement, for prompt, constant, and speedy intelligence. I had remained at the War Department for news until about eleven. Some half an hour later the dispatch from Byington to me came over the wires, but nothing from any one to Stanton or Halleek. The operator in the War Department gave the dispatch to the President, who remained. He asked, “Who is Byington?” None in the Department knew anything of him, and the President telegraphed to Hanover Station, asking, “Who is Byington?” The operator replied, “Ask the Secretary of the Navy.” I informed the President that the telegram was reliable. Byington is the editor and proprietor of a weekly paper in Norwalk, Connecticut, active and stirring; is sometimes employed by the New York Tribune, and is doubtless so employed now.

The information this morning and dispatches from General Meade confirm Byington's telegram. There is much confusion in the intelligence received. The information is not explicit. A great and bloody battle was fought, and our army has the best of it, but the end is not yet. Everything, however, looks encouraging.

Later in the day dispatches from Haupt and others state that Lee with his army commenced a retreat this A.M. at three o'clock. Our army is waiting for supplies to come up before following, — a little of the old lagging infirmity. Couch is said to be dilatory; has not left Harrisburg; his force has not pushed forward with alacrity. Meade sent him word, “The sound of my guns should have prompted your movement.” Lee and the Rebels may escape in consequence. If they are driven back, Halleck will be satisfied. That has been his great anxiety, and too many of our officers think it sufficient if the Rebels quit and go off, — that it is unnecessary to capture, disperse, and annihilate them.

Extreme partisans fear that the success of our arms will be success to the Administration. Governor Curtin is in trepidation, lest, if our troops leave Harrisburg to join Meade, the Rebels will rush in behind them and seize the Pennsylvania capital. On the other hand, Stanton and Halleck ridicule the sensitiveness of the Governor, and are indifferent to his wishes and responsibilities. Of course, matters do not work well.

Received this evening a dispatch from Admiral Lee, stating he had a communication from A. H. Stephens,¹ who wishes to go to Washington with a companion as military commissioner from Jefferson Davis, Commanding General of Confederate forces, to Abraham Lincoln, President and Commanding General of the Army and Navy of the United States, and desires permission to pass the blockade in the steamer Torpedo on this mission, with Mr. Olds, his private secretary. Showed the dispatch to Blair, whom I met. He made no comment. Saw Stanton directly after, who swore and growled indignantly. The President was at the Soldiers' Home and not expected for an hour or two. Consulted Seward, who was emphatic against having anything to do with Stephens or Davis. Did not see the President till late. In the mean time Stanton and others had seen him, and made known their feelings and views. The President treats the subject as not very serious nor very important, and proposes to take it up to-morrow. My own impression is that not much good is intended in this proposition, yet it is to be met and considered. It is not necessary that the vessel should pass the blockade, or that Stephens should come here, but I would not repel advances, or refuse to receive Davis's communication.

I learn from Admiral Lee that General Keyes with 12,000 men has moved forward from the “White House” towards Richmond, and other demonstrations are being made.

Two intercepted dispatches were received, captured by Captain Dahlgren. One was from Jeff Davis, the other from Adjutant-General Cooper, both addressed to General Lee. They disclose trouble and differences among the Rebel leaders. Lee, it seems, had an understanding with Cooper that Beauregard should concentrate a force of 40,000 at Culpeper for a demonstration, or something more, on Washington, when the place became uncovered by the withdrawal of the Army of the Potomac in pursuit of Lee. Davis appears not to have been informed of this military arrangement, nor satisfied with the programme when informed of it. Lee is told of the difficulty of defending Richmond and other places, and that he must defend his own lines, instead of relying upon its being done from Richmond.

_______________

¹ Vice-President of the Confederacy.

SOURCE: Gideon Welles, Diary of Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy Under Lincoln and Johnson, Vol. 1: 1861 – March 30, 1864, p. 357-9

Diary of Gideon Welles: Sunday, June 28, 1863

The President convened the Cabinet at 10 A.M. and submitted his reply to the Vallandigham committee. Save giving too much notoriety and consequence to a graceless traitor who loves notoriety and office, and making the factious party men who are using him for the meanest purposes that could influence men in such a crisis conspicuous, the letter is well enough, and well conceived.

After disposing of this subject, the President drew from his pocket a telegram from General Hooker asking to be relieved. The President said he had, for several days as the conflict became imminent, observed in Hooker the same failings that were witnessed in McClellan after the Battle of Antietam, — a want of alacrity to obey, and a greedy call for more troops which could not, and ought not to be taken from other points. He would, said the President, strip Washington bare, had demanded the force at Harper's Ferry, which Halleck said could not be complied with; he (Halleck) was opposed to abandoning our position at Harper's Ferry. Hooker had taken umbrage at the refusal, or at all events had thought it best to give up the command.

Some discussion followed in regard to a successor. The names of Meade, Sedgwick, and Couch were introduced. I soon saw this review of names was merely a feeler to get an expression of opinion — a committal — or to make it appear that all were consulted. It shortly became obvious, however, that the matter had already been settled, and the President finally remarked he supposed General Halleck had issued the orders. He asked Stanton if it was not so. Stanton replied affirmatively, that Hooker had been ordered to Baltimore and Meade to succeed him. We were consulted after the fact.

Chase was disturbed more than he cared should appear. Seward and Stanton were obviously cognizant of what had been ordered before the meeting of the Cabinet took place, — had been consulted. Perhaps they had advised proceedings, but, doubtful of results, wished the rest to confirm their act. Blair and Bates were not present with us.

Instead of being disturbed, like Chase, I experienced a feeling of relief, and only regretted that Hooker, who I think has good parts, but is said to be intemperate at times, had not been relieved immediately after the Battle of Chancellorsville. No explanation has ever been made of the sudden paralysis which befell the army at that time. It was then reported, by those who should have known, that it was liquor. I apprehend from what has been told me it was the principal cause. It was so intimated, but not distinctly asserted, in Cabinet.

Nothing has been communicated by the War Department, directly, but there has been an obvious dislike of Hooker, and no denial or refutation of the prevalent rumors. I have once or twice made inquiries of Stanton, but could get no satisfactory reply of any kind. . . . The War Department has been aware of these accusations, but has taken no pains to disprove or deny them, — perhaps because they could not be, perhaps because the War Department did not want to. The President has been partial to Hooker in all this time and has manifested no disposition to give him up, except a casual remark at the last Cabinet-meeting.

Whether the refusal to give him the troops at Harper's Ferry was intended to drive him to abandon the command of the army, or is in pursuance of any intention on the part of Halleck to control army movements, and to overrule the general in the field, is not apparent. The President has been drawn into the measure, as he was into withholding McDowell from McClellan, by being made to believe it was necessary for the security of Washington. In that instance, Stanton was the moving spirit, Seward assenting. It is much the same now, only Halleck is the forward spirit, prompted perhaps by Stanton.

Of Meade I know very little. He is not great. His brother officers speak well of him, but he is considered rather a “smooth bore” than a rifle. It is unfortunate that a change could not have been made earlier.

Chase immediately interested himself for the future of Hooker. Made a special request that he should be sent to Fortress Monroe to take charge of a demonstration upon Richmond via James River. The President did not give much attention to the suggestion. I inquired what was done, or doing, with Dix's command, — whether that considerable force was coming here, going to Richmond, or to remain inactive. The President thought a blow might at this time be struck at Richmond; had not, however, faith much could be accomplished by Dix, but though not much of a general, there were reasons why he did not like to supersede him. Foster he looked to as a rising general who had maintained himself creditably at Washington, North Carolina. Chase admitted F. was deserving of credit, but claimed credit was due Sisson,¹ who relieved him, also.

Had two or three telegrams last night from Portland in relation to pirate privateers, which are cleared up to-day by information that Reed had seized the revenue cutter Calhoun, and was himself soon after captured.

The city is full of strange, wild rumors of Rebel raids in the vicinity and of trains seized in sight of the Capitol. They are doubtless exaggerations, yet I think not without some foundation. I am assured from men of truth that a Rebel scouting party was seen this morning in the rear of Georgetown. Just at sunset, the Blairs rode past my house to their city residence, not caring to remain at Silver Spring until the crisis is past.

A large portion of the Rebel army is unquestionably on this side the Potomac. The main body is, I think, in the Cumberland Valley, pressing on toward Harrisburg, but a small force has advanced toward Washington. The War Department is wholly unprepared for an irruption here, and J. E. B. Stuart might have dashed into the city to-day with impunity. In the mean time, Philadelphians and the Pennsylvanians are inert and inactive, indisposed to volunteer to defend even their own capital. Part of this I attribute to the incompetency of General Halleck to concentrate effort, acquire intelligence, or inspire confidence; part is due to the excitable Governor, who is easily alarmed and calls aloud for help on the remotest prospect of danger. He is very vigilant, — almost too vigilant for calm consideration and wise conclusion, or to have a commanding influence. Is not only anxious but susceptible, impressible, scary.

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¹ Colonel Henry T. Sisson, with his Fifth Rhode Island Volunteers, reinforced General Foster in the siege of Washington, North Carolina.

SOURCE: Gideon Welles, Diary of Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy Under Lincoln and Johnson, Vol. 1: 1861 – March 30, 1864, p. 347-51