Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: February 1, 1864

Hazy, misty weather. Gen. Lovell (who lost New Orleans) has applied for a command in the West, and Gen. Johnston approves it strongly. He designs dividing his army into three corps, giving one (3d division) to Gen. Hardee; one (2d division) to Gen. Hindman; and one (1st division) to Lovell. But the Secretary of War (wide awake) indorses a disapproval, saying, in his opinion, it would be injudicious to place a corps under the command of Gen. Lovell, and it would not give confidence to the army. This being sent to the President, came back indorsed, “opinion concurred in.—J. D.”

Gen. Pillow has applied for the command of two brigades for operations between Gen. Johnston's and Gen. Polk's armies, protecting the flanks of both, and guarding the coal mines, iron works, etc. in Middle Alabama. This is strongly approved by Generals Johnston, Polk, Gov. Watts & Co. But the President has not yet decided the matter.

The Commissary-General is appointing many ladies to clerkships. Old men, disabled soldiers, and ladies are to be relied on for clerical duty, nearly all others to take the field. But every ingenuity is resorted to by those having in substitutes to evade military service.

There is a great pressure of foreigners (mostly Irish) for passes to leave the country.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 2, p. 140

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: October 6, 1863

Gen. Bragg and others recommend Gen. Hood for promotion to a lieutenant-generalcy; but the President says it is impossible, as the number authorized by Congress is full. And Gen. Bragg also gives timely notice to the Commissary-General that the supplies at Atlanta will suffice for but a few weeks longer. This, Commissary-General Northrop took in high dudgeon, indorsing on the paper that there was no necessity for such a message to him; that Bragg knew very well that every effort had been and would be made to subsist the army; and that when he evacuated Tennessee, the great source of supplies was abandoned. In short, the only hope of obtaining ample supplies was for Gen. Bragg to recover Tennessee, and drive Rosecrans out of the country.

The President has at last consented to send troops for the protection of Wilmington — Martin's brigade; and also Clingman's, from Charleston, if the enemy should appear before Wilmington.

I read to-day an interesting report from one of our secret agents — Mr. A. Superviele — of his diplomatic operations in Mexico, which convinces me that the French authorities there favor the Confederate States cause, and anticipate closer relations before long. When he parted with Almonte, the latter assured him that his sympathies were with the South, and that if he held any position in the new government (which he does now) he might say to President Davis that his influence would be exerted for the recognition of our independence.

Mr. Jeptha Fowlkes, of Aberdeen, Miss., sends a proposition to supply our army with 200,000 suits of clothing, 50,000 pairs of shoes, etc. etc. from the United States, provided he be allowed to give cotton in return. Mr. Randolph made a contract with him last year, of this nature, which our government revoked afterward. We shall see what will be done now.

It is positively asserted that Gen. Bragg has arrested Lieut. Gen. (Bishop) Polk and Brig.-Gen. Hindman, for disobedience of orders in the battle of Chickamauga.

Letter From President Davis. — The Mobile papers publish the following letter from President Davis to the "Confederate Society," of Enterprise, Miss.:

Jefferson Davis to J. W. Harmon, September 17, 1863

There is a revival in the city among the Methodists; and that suggests a recent expiring. In my young days I saw much of these sensational excitements, and partook of them: for how can the young resist them? But it is the Cesarean method of being born again, violating reason, and perhaps outraging nature. There was one gratifying deduction derived from my observation tonight, at the Clay Street meeting-house — the absence of allusion to the war. I had supposed the attempt would be made by the exhorters to appeal to the fears of the soldiery, composing more than half the congregation, and the terrors of death be held up before them. But they knew better; they knew that every one of them had made up his mind to die, and that most of them expected either death or wounds in this mortal struggle for independence. The fact is they are familiar with death in all its phases, and there is not a coward among them. They look upon danger with the most perfect indifference, and fear not to die. Hence there was no allusion to the battle-field, which has become a scene divested of novelty. But the appeals were made to their sympathies, and reliance was placed on the force of example, and the contagion of ungovernable emotions.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 2, p. 62-4

Captain Charles Wright Wills: January 4, 1863

January 4, 1863.

There I quit, for we received orders to get ready at once to march to Jackson, Tenn. The colonel ordered me to take charge of the train (wagons) and with my company guard it through by the wagon road, while the other nine companies went through by railroad. The regiment got off that evening, but I was delayed until the 31st, when just as I got my company into line to start a couple of the finest houses in town took fire, and burned down. The colonel commanding the 15th Illinois Infantry, which had just arrived, put me under arrest and stationed a guard around my company, but after an hour's detention, my strong protestations against arrest and my arguments in favor of the honorable acquital of my men of the charges, induced him to allow us to proceed on our way. By Lieutenant Mattison's personal smartness the train was taken from the road in the p. m., while I was ahead selecting camping grounds for the night, and I did not get with it for two days, which I traveled alone. The distance is about 90 miles. The first night I stayed at Holly Springs and slept in the bed which General Pemberton, Van Dorn and Lovell of the Rebel Army, and Hamilton, of ours, in turn occupied. 'Twas in the room they occupied for headquarters. Mrs. Stricklin, the lady of the house, was charming. Her husband is a major in the Rebel Army. I ate my New Year's dinner at Dr. Ellis'. He was not at home, but his lady treated me very politely, and I give her credit for having the noblest face I ever saw on woman. She is a sister of Rebel General Hindman. Stayed at a private house at Lagrange that night (Mrs. Cockes) and heard some delightful music made by a daughter. Saw seven mounted Rebels on the 2d, and felt uneasy traveling alone, but got through safe to Bolivar. Here I caught up with my train which I thought was behind. When we started my men were on foot, when I caught up with them at Bolivar, 38 of them were mounted on horses or mules. Stayed at Medon Station last night, and arrived here at 3 this p. m., all safe. I have to go back to Holly Springs to-morrow to testify against the 109th for disloyalty.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 140

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: April 14, 1863

We have nothing additional from Gen. Wise's expedition against Williamsburg; but it was deprecated by our people here, whose families and negroes have been left in that vicinity. They argue that we cannot hold the town, or any portion of the Peninsula in the neighborhood; and when the troops retire, the enemy will subject the women and children to more rigorous treatment, and take all the slaves.

We have news from Tennessee, which seems to indicate that Gen. Van Dorn has been beaten, losing a battery, after a sanguinary battle of several hours. Van Dorn had only cavalry — 7000. This has a depressing effect. It seems that we lose all the battles of any magnitude in the West. This news may have been received by the President in advance of the public, and hence his indisposition. We shall have news now every day or so.

Albert Pike is out in a pamphlet against Gens. Holmes and Hindman. He says their operations in Arkansas have resulted in reducing our forces, in that State, from forty odd thousand to less than 17,000. It was imprudent to publish such a statement. Albert Pike is a native Yankee, but he has lived a long time in the South.

Gov. Vance is furious at the idea of conscribing magistrates, constables, etc. in North Carolina. He says it would be an annihilation of State Rights — nevertheless, being subject to militia duty by the laws of the State, they are liable under the Act of Conscription.

Well, we are getting only some 700 conscripts per month in Virginia — the largest State! At this rate, how are we to replenish the ranks as they become thinned in battle? It is to be hoped the enemy will find the same difficulty in filling up their regiments, else we have rather a gloomy prospect before us. But God can and will save us if it be His pleasure.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 1, p. 292-3

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: January 6, 1863

To-day we are all down again. Bragg has retreated from Murfreesborough. It is said he saved his prisoners, captured cannon, etc., but it is not said what became of his own wounded. The Northern papers say they captured 500 prisoners in the battle, which they claim as a victory. I do not know how to reconcile Bragg's first dispatches, and particularly the one saying he had the whole field, and would follow the enemy, with this last one announcing his withdrawal and retirement from the field.

Eight thousand men were taken from Bragg a few days before the battle. It was not done at the suggestion of Gen. Johnston; for I have seen an extract of a letter from Gen. J. to a Senator (Wigfall), deprecating the detachment of troops from Bragg, and expressing grave apprehensions of the probable consequences.

A letter was received from R. R. Collier, Petersburg, to-day, in favor of civil liberty, and against the despotism of martial law.

Senator Clark, of Missouri, informed me to-day that my nephew, R. H. Musser, has been made a colonel (under Hindman or Holmes), and has a fine regiment in the trans-Mississippi Department.

Lewis E. Harvie, president of the railroad, sends a communication to the Secretary (I hope it will reach him) inclosing a request from Gen. Winder to permit liquors to be transported on his road to Clover Hill. Mr. Harvie objects to it, and asks instructions from the Secretary. He says Clover Hill is the point from which the smuggling is done, and that to place it there, is equivalent to bringing it into the city.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 1, p. 232-3

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: December 23, 1862

The battle of Fredericksburg is still the topic, or the wonder, and it transpired more than nine days ago. It will have its page in history, and be read by school-boys a thousand years hence. The New York Times exclaims, “God help us — for man cannot.” This is another war sheet. The Tribune is bewildered, and knows not what to say. The Herald says “everything by turns, and nothing long.” Its sympathies are ever with the winning party. But it is positively asserted that both Seward and his son have resigned, to be followed by the rest of the cabinet. That example might be followed here without detriment to our cause. And it is said Burnside has resigned. I doubt that — but no doubt he will be removed. It is said Fremont has been appointed his successor. That would be good news. I think Halleck will be removed, and MeCIellan will be recalled. No matter.

It is said our President will command in Mississippi himself — the army having no confidence in Pemberton, because he is a Yankee.

We have a letter to-day from Gen. Pike (another Yankee), saying the Indian country is lost — lost, because Gens. Holmes and Hindman — Southern men — won't let him have his own way! The news from North Carolina is still cloudy. Gen. G. W. Smith is there (another Northern man).

Gen. Elzey has been appointed to command this department during Gen. L.'s abseuce. Gen. E. is a Marylander. In the President's absence, it is said this appointment was made by Gen. S. Cooper (another Yankee) to insult Virginia by preventing the capital from being in the hands of a Virginian. The Richmond papers occasionally allude to the fact that the general highest in rank in the Confederacy is a Yankee — Gen. S. Cooper.

Gen. Lee says his ammunition is bad in quality, and that his new guns burst in the late battle — all under charge of the chief of the Bureau of Ordnance — another Yankee. Gen. D. H. Hill writes a scathing letter to the department in response to a rebuke from the new Secretary, occasioned by some complaints of Major Palfrey in Gen. Cooper's (A. and I. General) office. I do not know where Major P. came from; but the fact that he was not in the field, gave the general occasion to rasp him severely. It must have been caused by an order transferring, furloughing, or discharging some soldier in Gen. H.'s division — and his patience vanished at the idea of having his men taken out of the ranks without consulting him, by carpet knights and civilian lawyers. He says 8000 are now absent from his command — and that Gen. Johnston's army, last spring, was reduced from the same cause to 40,000 men, where he had to oppose 138,000 of the “rascally Yankees.” He concludes, however, by saying it is the duty of subordinate generals in the field to submit in all humility to the behests of their superiors comfortably quartered in Richmond. But if justice were done, and the opinions of the generals in the field were regarded in the matter of discharges, etc., the lawyers, who have grown fat on fees by thinning our ranks, would be compelled to resort to some more laudable means of making a living.

A letter from Gov. Shorter, of Alabama, introduces Judge Rice, agent for P. S. Gerald and J. R. Powell, who propose to bring goods into the Confederate States through Mexico, to be paid for in cotton, etc. This was referred by the Secretary to the Quartermaster-General — who protests against it on the ground that it might interfere with his agents already engaged in the business.

The President publishes a retaliatory proclamation to-day against Gen. Butler, for hanging Mr. Munford, of New Orleans, who took down the United States flag before the city had surrendered. He declares Butler to be out of the pale of civilization; and orders any commander who may capture him, to hang him as an outlaw. And all commissioned officers serving under Butler, and in arms with negroes, to be reserved for execution.

There is a rumor that an agent of the Federal Government has arrived in the city, to propose an armistice. No armistice, unless on the basis of uli possidetis ante bellum!

Bethel, Leesburg, and Fredericksburg are victories memorable for our great success when fighting in advantageous positions. They teach a lesson to generals; and it will be apparent that no necessity exists for so great an expenditure of life in the prosecution of this war. The disparity of numbers should be considered by our generals. I fear the flower of our chivalry mostly perished in storming batteries. It is true a prestige was gained.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 1, p. 221-3

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: November 19, 1862

Hon. James A. Seddon (Va.) has been appointed Secretary of War. He is an able man (purely a civilian), and was member of our Revolutionary Convention, at Metropolitan Hall, l6th April, 1861. But some thought him then rather inclined to restrain than to urge decisive action. He is an orator, rich, and frail in health. He will not remain long in office if he attempts to perform all the duties.

Two letters were received from Gen. Lee to-day. Both came unsealed and open, an omission of his adjutant-general, Mason. The first inclines to the belief that Burnside intends to embark his army for the south side of James River, to operate probably in Eastern North Carolina.

The second, dated 17th inst. P.M., says the scouts report large masses advancing on Fredericksburg, and it may be Burnside's purpose to make that town his base of operations. (Perhaps for a pleasant excursion to Richmond.) Three brigades of the enemy had certainly marched to Fredericksburg. A division of Longstreet's corps were marched thither yesterday, 18th, at early dawn. Lee says if the reports of the scouts be confirmed, the entire corps will follow immediately. And he adds: “Before the enemy's trains can leave Fredericksburg (for Richmond) this whole army will be in position.” These letters were sent immediately to the President.

A letter from Gen. Holmes' calls for an immediate supply of funds ($24,000,000) for the trans-Mississippi Department. A letter from Gen. Pike says if Gen. Hindman (Ark.) is to control there, the Indian Country will be lost.

We shall soon have a solution of Burnside's intentions. Lee is in spirits. He knows Burnside can be easily beaten with greatly inferior numbers.

We hear of sanguinary acts in Missouri — ten men (civilians) being shot in retaliation for one killed by our rangers. These acts exasperate our people, and will stimulate them to a heroic defense.

The cars this afternoon from the vicinity of Fredericksburg were crowded with negroes, having bundles of clothing, etc., their owners sending them hither to escape the enemy. A frightened Jew, who came in the train, said there was an army of 100,000 near Fredericksburg, and we should hear more in a few days. I doubt it not.

Salt sold yesterday at auction for $1.10 per pound. Boots are now bringing $50 per pair; candles (tallow) 75 cts. per pound; butter $2.00 per pound. Clothing is almost unattainable. We are all looking shabby enough.

Mr. K., the young Chief of the Bureau, who came in with Mr. Randolph, declines the honor of going out with him, to the great chagrin of several anxious applicants. It is an office “for life.”

I shall despair of success unless the President puts a stop to Gen. Winder's passport operations, for, if the enemy be kept advised of our destitute condition, there will be no relaxation of efforts to subjugate us. And Europe, too, will refuse to recognize us. I believe there are traitors in high places here who encourage the belief in the North and in Europe that we must soon succumb. And some few of our influential great men might be disposed to favor reconstruction of the Union on the basis of the Democratic party which has just carried the elections in the North.

Everything depends upon the result of approaching military operations. If the enemy be defeated, and the Democrats of the North should call for a National Convention — but why anticipate?

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 1, p. 191-3

Diary of Judith W. McGuire: July 23, 1862

Letters and papers to-day. It is reported that Hindman has captured Curtis and his whole command in Arkansas. Delightful, if true. The army in Virginia. and our dear ones, well.

SOURCE: Judith W. McGuire, Diary of a Southern Refugee, During the War, p. 128

Diary of Judith W. McGuire: July 28, 1862

The report of Hindman's having captured Curtis untrue; but our army is doing well in the West. Murfreesboro', in Tennessee, has been captured by Confederates — a brigade, two brigadiers, and other officers, taken. “Jack Morgan” is annoying and capturing the Kentucky Yankees.

The true Southerners there must endure an almost unbearable thraldom!

A long letter from S. S., describing graphically their troubles when in Federal lines. Now they are breathing freely again. A number of servants from W. and S. H., and indeed from the whole Pamunky River, went off with their Northern friends. I am sorry for them, taken from their comfortable homes to go they know not where, and to be treated they know not how. Our man Nat went, to whom I was very partial, because his mother was the maid and humble friend of my youth, and because I had brought him up. He was a comfort to us as a driver and hostler, but now that we have neither home, carriage, nor horses, it makes but little difference with us; but how, with his slow habits, he is to support himself, I can't imagine. The wish for freedom is natural, and if he prefers it, so far as I am concerned he is welcome to it. I shall be glad to hear that he is doing well. Mothers went off leaving children — in two instances infants. Lord have mercy upon these poor misguided creatures! I am so thankful that the scurf of the earth, of which the Federal army seems to be composed, has been driven away from Hanover. I would that "Clarke" were as free.

SOURCE: Judith W. McGuire, Diary of a Southern Refugee, During the War, p. 128

Matters at Bowling Green & Conflict near at hand – Floyd and McCulloch at Bowling Green

(From the Nashville Banner, Dec. 30)

The Nashville Banner has an interesting letter from Bowling Green, dated the 30th ult., from which we gather the following extraction:

Ten days since an engagement of no small magnitude was imminent in the quarter – Divisions and columns and batteries were driving forward, and our leaders urging on the advance.  The enemy at Green river was in heavy force, and expecting continually to be joined by their entire and immense army, which was moving down, while their advance were thrown, menacingly, across the stream.  The two armies were thus in close proximity and advancing.  This state of things certainly justified the general expectation of an immediate fight, and quickened the public pulse as regarded the result.  Since that time considerable change has taken place in the military status.  Hindman’s forces, which formed our advance, have fallen back this side of Cave City, while the Federals, frightened by the warm reception given them by the lamented Col. Terry, have for the most part retreated beyond Green river.  The brigade of General Breckinridge is encamped about twelve miles above here while the Kentucky cavalry still remains in possession of Glasgow.  The Federal force this side of Green river is variously reported, but it is fair to presume, from the best information at hand, that it numbers from three to five thousand.  They, for the present seem disinclined to retake a hasty advance.

Mentioning the return of the Texan Rangers the letter says:

They represent the Federals are being afraid of fight, and not anxious to attempt an advance.  They confirm the reported estimate of the army this side of Green river, via that it is from three to five thousand.  On the 29th, the Federals, in heavy force, estimated by some at seven thousand, appeared on the North bank of Green river opposite Brownsville, which is in Edmonson county, and distant from this place 24 miles.  Their actions and manners indicated a design to attempt the crossing of the river, if any such design, however, were entertained, it was abandoned, as none of them have been seen south of the river in that region.

THE CONFLICT NEAR AT HAND

Notwithstanding the falling back of troops on both sides, and the non occurrence of any exciting event during the past ten days, multiplied in numbers and more mighty on the rebound, the two armies are about rushing together for mastery in the conflict.  Our future, and perhaps yours, is to be decided, and soon, too, by the stern arbitrament of the sword.  Like Camilius of old, we throw our steel in the scales before the advancing and extorting Gauls, and tell them it is with that alone we purchase liberty.  The vast accessions referred to as being daily made to the Federal army, and the eagerness they exhibit to find out everything relating to our forces and movements, coupled with the fact that thirty thousand more of their mercenary hordes have been authorized for immediate service in Kentucky, show that they intend to move forward with every available means they can command.  On our side, every indication goes to show an early conflict impending.  Our generals, ever alert, exhibit increased vigilance and activity.  One day they are on the advance lines, the next, inspecting positions, the third reviewing their troops.  They are here, there and everywhere.  Vast reinforcements are pouring in at a rate more rapid than anything that has yet been witnessed.  On arrival, quarters are immediately assigned them, the localities being selected before they reach here.

The instructions are to be ready for any emergency.  A few days since, the Forty-first Tennessee, a full, brave and splendid looking regiment, reached here.  Just after them came three Mississippi regiments.  Yesterday, the entire force from Camp Beauregard arrived. – General Bowen’s entire division, 7,000 strong, are coming – two of the regiments reached here to-day.  They were the Twenty-second Mississippi, Col. Bonham, and the Twenty-second Tennessee.  The others will follow to-morrow.  General McCulloch, the world renowned Ben, is on his way here, with his redoubtable troopers, and General Floyd and his forces, it is stated this evening that he had arrived at Gallatin, whence he would take up his line of march for Scottsville, Kentucky. – If this be true, he is designed to co-operate with Zollicoffer.  Scottville, is twenty five miles east of this place, immediately on the main turnpike leading to the Central part of Kentucky.  Cavalry, artillery, and heavy batteries are also daily coming, in large quantities.  The great conflict, then, though it may not take place as soon as recent events may have led us to suppose, is near at hand, and cannot be deferred.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 1

Bridges between Bowling Green and Nashville Destroyed – The Rebel Evacuation of Bowling Green in Hot Haste – Destruction and Pollution of Springs

(Correspondence of the Louisville Democrat.)

BOWLING GREEN, Feb. 18, 1862.

A man reported here this evening who left Nashville last Friday morning.  He has been engaged in the railroad business in the South, but being loyal in all his sentiments desired to come to the North when the rebellion commenced; but could never succeed in doing so before.  He says he twice succeeded in making his way as far north as Bowling Green, after its occupation by the arch traitor Buckner, but was refused by him permission to continue his journey.

He says the rebels have destroyed all the wooden structures in the way of bridges and tressle [sic] work on the railway road between Franklin and Bowling Green, and was informed that it had been committed on the remainder of the road.  He says the rebels evacuated Bowling Green in the most unceremonious and hasty manner, on the approach of Gen. Mitchel’s [sic] division.  The rebel General Hardee was in the town when Gen. Mitchel commenced shelling it, and left in such “hot haste” as to leave his battle charger behind him, which was taken off by the Texan Rangers, who were last to leave.  In his haste to leave town, Hardee absolutely ran across the pubic square.  My informant told me he had received the statement in relation to Hardee from a rebel officer.  He says the rebels had collected large quantities of grain, chiefly wheat, at various points on the railroad, which not having the means of removing in their precipitate flight, they burned.  He also informs me that Gen. Hindman, in his retreat from Cave City to Bowling Green, had the horses and cattle of Union men driven into the large ponds, which occur at frequent intervals along the road, and shot, with a threat of hanging the owners if they removed the carcasses.  I presume his object was to prevent the use of the water in the ponds by the troops of the United States; but by this atrocious and infamous act he inflicted very great injury and inconvenience on the citizens of the country.  From the fact that there is not a running steam on the road between Green and Barren rivers, the sole dependence of all passengers and citizens for stock water, at least, is on the pond or surface water.  Truly a refined method of making war, worthy of this enlightened age!  What would the London Times, Morning Post, Herald, and other English journals, and the Moniteur, whose sensitive nerves have been so terribly shocked by our use of the “stone blockade,” say of this method of conducting hostilities?

I am informed by most respectable gentlemen, resident in the southern part of the State, who have come to this place since the abandonment by the rebels of the country south of Green river, that no adequate conception can be formed of the destruction and desolation committed on that region.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 1, 1862, p. 2

Rebel Vandalism at Bowling Green

From the Louisville Journal, 29^th.

We have seen a gentleman who left Bowling Green since its occupation by the Federal troops, from whom we have received numerous details of the shameful work of the destruction which has been consummated in that  once beautiful town.  When it was found that place was untenable, and it was resolved to evacuate it, the Confederates commenced their incendiarism on Wednesday, the 12^th, about dark, upon the residence of Warner L. Underwood, Esq., which was entirely destroyed.  At 9 o’clock the pork house of T. Quigley & Co. was fired, and all but the smoke house was burned.  There were about $15,000 worth of hides and tallow stowed there belonging to Campbell and Smith, who had been killing cattle for the rebel army, and these constituted their entire profits.  The incindiaries, in their wanton destruction, seem to have spared neither friend or foe, and the property of rebels and Union men was indiscriminately destroyed.  They next went about 2 o’clock at night, to the old Washington Hotel, at the corner of Main and Nashville streets, and applied their combustibles in the billiard room. – This building was completely destroyed, and the flames were extended to six contiguous stores all of which were burned, though the occupants in some instances saved a portion of their contents.  The first store burned was that occupied by More & Kline druggists, belonging to J. T. Donaldson, all good Union men.  Geatty and Gwin’s, shoe dealers, was the next building, owned by Dr. Moore, of Harrodsburg, then the family grocery store of J. D. Hines, a vile rebel, which belonged to Warner L. Underwood. – Then the conflagration extended to the tenement owned by Mrs. C. T. Dunnivan, occupied by Shower and Mitchell, merchant tailors, who saved most of their stock.  The next building was owned by Mr. H. T. Smith, and tenanted by McClure and Fusetti, jewelers, about one third of their stock escaped destruction.  Over this was a lawyer’s office, occupied by J. J. Wilkins, who acted as receiver for the arms seized from citizens by the Provisional Government, and also the office of Dr. W. D. Helm, a good Union man.  Next to the jewelry store was Hugh Barclay’s drug store.  He is a Union man, and succeeded in saving about half the contents of the house, which belonged to Mr. Pendleton, of Hopkinsville.  The House formerly occupied by S. A. Barclay, a strong Union man, but recently used by the Confederates for storing flour, was next consumed but the contents were all previously removed, the property belonged to John H. Graham, of the city.  The livery stable owned by J. T. Donaldson and occupied by W. W. McNeal, was also burned to the ground.  The next morning the saw mill of D. B. Campbell was burned, he has gone off with the rebel army.  The flour mill of Judge Payne, a Union man, shared the same fate as did the pork house of F. F. Lucas, a rebel sympathizer.

The beautiful iron railroad bridge was destroyed on Thursday last, about 11 o’clock.  The mines were exploded in the towers of the piers, but as the iron work did not fall, cannon were brought to bear, and thirteen rounds were fired before the demolition was completed.  On Friday about four o’clock, the planks were torn off the sides of the turnpike bridge, and tallow strewed it to facilitate the combustion.  This was burned about three hours before the division of Gen. Mitchel came up, which fired shells in and around the town wherever the rebels were congregated.  Then commenced the stampede.  The infantry seized the horses of the cavalry and made off in wild haste.  There were some rebel troops in camp at Double Springs, about one and a half miles north of the town, on the river, who were shelled before they had completed preparations for leaving.  They threw away everything and rushed through the town in panic confusion.  Reaching a hill a little south of the town, the Texas Rangers, Morgan’s cavalry, and some of the less frightened flying mass halted, and after some deliberation turned back.  They went to the Fair grounds and there burned the beautiful amphitheater in which a large amount of corn and wagons was stored.  About 16 of the latter were saved.  The large tobacco factory of Hampton, Pritchell & Co., was next destroyed.  They then proceeded to the railroad depot, which contained a vast quantity of shoes, blankets, medicines, one hundred hogsheads of sugar, and all the articles most needed by them, all of which were destroyed except some flour and pickled beef, which was rescued by citizens for their own use.  The destruction of the property belonging to the rebels was very great.  Some estimate its value at a million dollars, but it is impossible to even approximate the amount of the destruction with any certainty.

The machine shop, known as the Round House, was also burned, it contained two damaged engines and two extra tenders.  There was a train of cars loaded with meat, the engine to which had steam on, ready to start, this was fired, but whether by the Federal shells or the rebel torch our informant is unable to say. – All the cars and contents were burned, and the half consumed meats fell on the track between the rails.  The unsated fiends then proceeded to the McCloud House, the principal hotel of the town, broke open the doors with axes, and scattered firebrands within, consuming officers’ trunks, baggage and everything it contained. – The Highland House, a drinking place adjoining was also burned, with Major McGoodwin’s new store, which was filled with Confederate supplies.  A negro house at Samuel Barclay’s nursery, near town was fired about the same time.  Two men applied incendiary brands to the steam saw mill of a glorious Union man, celebrated for his sash and blinds manufactory, and resisted the efforts of the owner to stop the progress of the flames.  The Federal troops on the other side of the river commenced a discharge at the two men, who ran off and Mr. Donaldson was mistaken as a rebel also until he contrived to improvise some flag of truce, when his friends discovered their mistake and was enabled to extinguish the flames with but a trifling injury to the premises.

We cannot enumerate the many losses around Bowling Green, or the depredation committed by marauders in gangs of six to twelve, who pressed every horse and wagon to be found into the rebel service.  At least one hundred horses were stolen from the side of the bridges before they were burned.  The Rev. Samuel W. Garrison lost twelve.  He had a shot gun, rifle and pistol, which he discharged so rapidly at the robbers that they fell back on the main body and reported that they had been attacked by the main body of the Yankee infantry!

When Gen. Mitchel occupied the north bank of Barren river and commenced shelling the rebels the scene of their flight as described to us, was one of the most terrible routs that can be imagined.  The Nashville pike was completely blockaded with cavalry and infantry, all in admirable disorder, and a long line of carriages, carts and all kinds of vehicles.  Officers were hurrying away their wives on foot, and carrying their children in their arms, while the whole non-belligerent portion of the flying crowd were screaming and shouting at the top of their voices in a frenzy of apprehension.

From the best informed sources, we gather that the Confederates have never had 30,000 troops at any one time in and around Bowling Green.  Their regiments are very skeleton like, not averaging five hundred men and Roger Hanson’s which was the fullest in the service, never had more on its muster roll than eight hundred and sixteen.  They have lost nearly five thousand of their troops by sickness who died for want of medicine, proper treatment and bad hospitals, though fifteen houses had been fitted up for their exclusive accommodation all of which were left in the most filthy condition.  For a long time their average sick list has been three thousand.  The Baptist church and the basement of the Presbyterian church were used as hospitals, all the seats and desks were broken up and the building terribly defaced.  A million dollars will not compensate the county of Warren for losses and injuries.  From twenty-five to sixty beef cattle were slaughtered every day in Bowling Green for the use of the rebels and neither Buckner nor Hardee, when in command, where particular about compensation.  If any outrages were committed, and they were generally done at night.  Buckner always promised resolution if the injured individual could identify the trespassers, which being impossible, was a convenient way to pay debts.

With the rebel hordes, every gambler left Bowling Green.  Jack Valentine, one of the principal ones of the fraternity enjoys a captaincy in the Confederate army.  Shinplasters experienced a rapid decline after the evacuation, they were freely offered at fifty cents for one dollar, but no takers.  A number of private dwellings were set on fire during Thursday and Friday, which were put out, but there evidently existed a determination on the part of the rebels to lay the whole town in ashes.  The fine mansion of Judge Underwood on this side of the river was still standing, but to what interior injury it has been subjected, our informant could not say. – Cripps Wickliffe, late Clerk of the Senate, is not dead, as reported, he had been very sick, but after his recovery, he removed to Nashville.

The most serious injury has been inflicted on the citizens of Warren by the Provisional Government, and its infamous exactions.  Some of its officers have made good speculations out of their temporary fiscal agencies.  John Burnham, Treasurer to the Provisional Government, escaped with about twenty five thousand dollars, mostly obtained from the fines levied upon men in lieu of the delivery of a gun.  When weapons were found they were receipted for at from five to thirty dollars in scrip made ‘payable to the proper officer’ and it will bother the holders to find him.  Lewis W. Potter, the Provisional Sheriff of Warren county has also gone off without settling for a lot of taxes which he had collected by coercion.  His Excellency, George W. Johnson, Provisional Governor of the State of Kentucky, has been heard to declare with emphasis, that the Provisional government is played out! – He retires with the grace and dignity to the vicinity of Nashville.  The banking institutions at Bowling Green have not been molested, except that a thousand dollars of the State revenue, deposited in the Branch of the Bank of Kentucky was taken as the legitimate property of the Provisional Government, probably to pay salaries for the puppets in office.  The books, funds and papers of the Glasgow Branch were taken to Bowling Green, but they are in a situation to be restored without injury.

We stated a short time since that an aged gentleman named Samuel Murrell had been misused by the rebel company under command of Capt. Burns, a son-in-law of Judge Joyes, of this city.  This is a mistake, it was George, Mr. Murrell’s son.  Burns boarded with Mr. Murrell, about twelve miles north of Bowling Green, and in a conversation at the table he spoke very insultingly of all Union men, and said if he had his way he would hang or burn every one of them.  Some time after this Burns’ men seized George without any provocation, rode him on a rail, ducked him in a pond, hoisted him up two or three times over a beam in the barn and inflicted every conceivable insult upon him.  He appealed to Captain Burns for assistance, but the rebel cited his dinner table remark and said he was in earnest when he thus spoke.

We have a few glimpses of the whereabouts of some old acquaintances.  Gen. A. Sidney Johnston was one of the last to leave Bowling Green, but left in such a hurry that he forgot his over coat.  He took the pike to Nashville.  Colonel Thomas A. Hunt left for New Orleans, for the benefit of his health, and Alexander Casseday succeed to the command.  Alexander Casseday and John C. Breckinridge are temporarily at the capital of the State of Tennessee.  Young Tom Clay is on Buckner’s staff, and having left with the General for Fort Donelson, is probably a prisoner.  Generals Hindman and Hardee both went to Nashville.  Henry J. Lyons has left for the purpose of visiting California, not finding Secessia an El Dorado.  Ned Crutchfield is at Clarksville.  Buckner is said to have taken 15,000 men with him from Bowling Green to Fort Donelson.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 1, 1862, p. 1

Movements of Troops in Kentucky

We gather the following information from various sources, all of which we believe reliable and none of which we understand to be contraband:

On learning that the rebels were evacuating Bowling Green, General Buell ordered a forced march by Gen. Mitchel [sic], to save, if possible, the railroad and turnpike bridges on the Big Barren river.  They had, however, been destroyed when Mitchel reached the banks of the river Friday morning, having been burned the night before.  The brigades of Breckinridge and Hindman, were until Thursday evening at Woodland Station.  The rebels left nothing in Bowling Green, except a few old wagons.  Part of the town is reported to have been burned.  Gen. Mitchel has crossed the river and is in Bowling Green.

It is believed that there are now no rebel forces in Kentucky east of the direct road from Bowling Green (via Franklin) to Nashville. – Crittenden is trying to organize another army at Carthage, on the south bank of the Cumberland.  This is the only rebel force on the line from Bowling Green to Nashville.  Breckinridge and Hindman’s brigades have fallen back on Russelville, where Buckner and Floyd’s brigades have been, according to latest reports, stationed for some time.  Hardee and Johnston were also believed to be at that point on Friday.  It is presumed that with the exception of the above brigades, the whole rebel army has been moved to Fort Donelson and Clarksville.  What movement may have been made by the rebel forces since Thursday, can only be conjectured; but the probabilities are that they have concentrated their whole force on the Cumberland.  If, however, they should not have done so, the divisions of Nelson and Mitchel will be amply able to cope with all they may have between Bowling Green and Nashville.

It is believed that the divisions of Generals McCook and Thomas, the former marching by the way or Nolin Creek and Elizabethtown; and the latter by way of Lebanon; embarked at the mouth of Salt river on steamers for the Cumberland, Saturday night and yesterday.  Gen. McCook broke up his camp and Munfordville in the night from Thursday to Friday, in a terrible storm of snow and rain, and marched twenty-one miles to Nolin creek, where he encamped Friday night, and it is believed that on Saturday his division pressed on the mouth of Salt river.  The troops that have been and Bardstown, in a camp of instruction, (including the 1^st and 2d Kentucky, well known here) were at Louisville yesterday embarking for the Cumberland, as is supposed.  Three fresh Indiana regiments and a full battery of artillery leave New Albany to-day. – The aggregate of these reinforcements is at least thirty-five, and is perhaps, forty thousand men.  Gen. Buell, we understand, goes with McCook’s division to take command in person on the Cumberland, where our force will by to-morrow morning number little less than eighty thousand men.  We may confidently look for them to rapidly overcome all obstacles on the way to Nashville.  The proceeding in person of Gen. Buell to take command of the magnificent army on the Cumberland, does not indicate any lack of confidence in Gen. Grant, who is known to be as brave as Caesar and a thorough soldier.  It means, however, that the time for organizing victory is over, and the time for the most energetic action has arrived.  Gen. Buell, we are informed, has for weeks regarded the evacuation of Bowling Green as a certainty, and his plans are, therefore, not in any degree deranged by that event.  Now, while he presses the enemy on the Cumberland with his tremendous force, their flank and rear are menaced by the heavy divisions under Mitchel and Nelson.

Since writing the above we learn that ten regiments, now in the Ohio camps, are ordered at once to the lower Ohio.  The points from which these regiments will be drawn are stated elsewhere. – {Cincinnati Commercial.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 22, 1862, p. 2

A soldier in the rebel army . . .

. . .  writing home to a friend says: –

“I well remember your enthusiastic shouts when the Manassas victory was won, but did you ever dream for a moment that it was our last grand victory!  God forbid, and yet it looks so.  A Zollicoffer has fallen; a Marshall, has had a retreat; Johnson as fallen back; Hardin is mum; Buckner has gone to the sunny South, and we, with Hindman, are loafing around the camp and Barren county, stealing everything that we can lay our hands upon.”

That soldier, if living, might now add a postscript of still more goomy aspect, and include in it Johnson’s and Buckner’s present condition.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 18, 1862, p. 2

The Latest News

We have deferred to the latest moment making up our summary of news. The reader will find but few additional particulars from the battlefield of Shiloh.

It appears that Gens. Johnston, Beauregard, Polk and Bragg had effected a union of their forces at Corinth, Mississippi, a few days before the battle. Corinth is about 90 miles East of Memphis, Tenn., at that point on the Memphis & Charleston Railroad where the Mobile & Ohio Railroad crosses it.

Gen. Grant, commanding the left wing of the Federals, supposed to be 60,000 strong, had pushed his column up the Tennessee River, and landed at Pittsburg, Tenn., a small town on the river, about twenty miles from Corinth. Of this movement our generals were fully aware. The were also advised that Gen. Buell had pushed on his column of 70,000 from Nashville, South, but with the evident design of forming a junction with Grant, at Pittsburg.

Gen. Johnston therefore determined to attack Gen. Grant before Buell could re-inforce [sic] him, destroy his army and return to Corinth.

The Number of our forces is not known; some say 90,000, but we judge that is a large estimate. Our forces moved against Grant on the 6th instant, whose advance column was within 18 miles of Corinth, at Shiloh Church. At an early hour the troops were engaged, and the battle was fiercely contested on both sides during the entire day.

Where all did so well, it would be invidious to particularize, but Gens. Johnston, Polk, Pillow, Breckinridge and Gladden are specially spoken as signalizing themselves. About 2 ½ o’clock, General Johnston fell, a ball having cut the large artery of his leg; he continued in the saddle until he fainted with loss of blood, and expired very soon after. – Gen. Breckinridge is said to have had two horses killed under him, and his clothes were badly torn. Special mention is made of the great valor of the Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana troops, but we have no doubt all fought well. Dispatches state that only 35,000 of Grant’s forces were engaged. – How many of ours is not mentioned. The loss on both sides is said to be heavy, but nothing is mentioned except that our loss is about 3,000, and that we took between 4 and 6,000 prisoners, among whom was Gen. Prentice [sic] and a number of other officers. Eleven car loads of Federal prisoners arrived at Chattanooga on the 9th.

The enemy was completely routed on the 6th, and driven to their boats, leaving in immense amount of ammunition, stores, and guns in our possession, and 100 cannon captured.

On Sunday night Gen. Buell arrived with heavy re-inforcements and attacked Gen. Beauregard vigorously on Monday morning. The battle raged on until 1 o’clock, when both parties seemed to haul off. Gen. Beauregard fell back to Corinth according to General Johnston’s plan, not having been able to save all of his ammunition, supplies and cannon taken from the enemy the day before.

A dispatch from Corinth on the 9th, to the Richmond Dispatch, says, we still hold the battlefield, and it is not though that the enemy will advance. It says that Morgan’s Cavalry on the 8th attacked the enemy in camp and killed a large number of them, and burned the tents of our forces which they had left.

It says that Gens. Gladden, Bushrod Johnson and Hindman were wounded, and at 2 o’clock the firing ceased mutually on both sides on Monday, and both armies fell back.

It is also stated that Gen. Van Dorn had joined Beauregard at Corinth with re-inforcements. Near that point the great battle is yet to be fought.

A gentleman of this City has received a letter from a friend in the west, who states that Ft. Smith had been evacuated by our forces on account of the destitution of forage and provisions in that region, and that Gen. Price had retired to the Arkansas river to obtain supplies. This therefore discourages the rumor of another fight with Curtis.

We learn from dispatches received by the Charlotte Bulletin on the 10th, that Com. Hollins had communicated to the War Department at Richmond that three of the enemy’s gunboats had passed Island No. 10. Of course they will encounter breakers below.

It is states also, that five Yankee batteries commenced the bombardment of Fort Pulaski below Savannah at 6 o’clock A.M., on that day. No fears were felt for the Fort.

We have nothing from the neighborhood of Newbern, except the skirmish given in another article.

A rumor prevailed in Norfolk, which however was believed to be unfounded, that about 300 of our militia had been captured by the Yankees between Elizabeth City and South Mills.

It is also reported that the Burnside fleet was concentrating at Edenton for a supposed advance upon Suffolk. It needs confirmation.

No news about Norfolk or from the Merrimac.

The reported fights on the Peninsula are believed to have been only skirmishes. The enemy was said to be entrenching four miles below Yorktown.

– Published in The North Carolina Weekly Standard, Raleigh, North Carolina, Wednesday, April 16, 1862, p. 1