Diary of 1st Lieutenant Daniel L. Ambrose: February 6, 1865

We move early this morning; our Division is moving by itself upon a lone road, General Corse having orders to move across the country and form a junction with the corps now moving from Pocataligo. The roads are desperate; we only succeed in getting about eight miles to-day.

SOURCE: abstracted from Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 294

Diary of 1st Lieutenant Daniel L. Ambrose: February 10, 1865

We move early this morning, but very slow; these swamps prove to be terrible obstacles to Sherman's seventy thousand. We soon come to the great Saltkatchie swamp at Beaufort's Bridge: we find the swamp all flooded, about one mile wide, and the bridge in the middle. Weak commanders would have faltered; things indeed look frightful, but General Corse gave the command forward. The Seventh led, and into the great Swamp the Fourth Division passed, and through it they waded, the water, winter cold, ranging from waist to neck deep. It did seem that some of the men would perish; that they would be left in that great swamp; but all passed safely through, and gaining a footing on the opposite side, drove the enemy far away, who were all the while disputing our passage. The ammunition train is now ordered to move across (the ammunition being raised out of water's reach); about midway they swamp, and the soldiers of Corse's Division are compelled to go back into the swamp and carry the ammunition boxes out to land.

Remaining here until the trains are crossed, we move forward and join the corps at Midway, on the South Carolina Railroad. Then began the movement on Orangeburg. We notice that Black Jack is at the head of the Fifteenth Corps, having arrived from his campaign on the northern line and assumed command at Pocataligo. We also find that the mounted portion of the Seventh are now (as the boys say) members of his staff. We cross the South Fork of the Edisto River at Halmond's bridge and move to Poplar Springs to support the Seventeenth Army Corps, moving straight to Orangeburg, which is taken by a dash of the Seventeenth.

From Poplar Springs we cross the North Edisto River at Skilling's bridge, and on the fifteenth we

find the enemy in strong position at Little Congaree bridge, but the gallant Logan, with his thundering Fifteenth, soon ousts them, when we move across and go into camp in front of Columbia. During the night our camp is shelled from a battery on the east side of the Congaree, above Grundy, causing considerable stir in the Fifteenth Corps' camp.

SOURCE: abstracted from Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 294-6

Diary of 1st Lieutenant Daniel L. Ambrose: March 14, 1865

We proceed to the Cape Fear river one mile below town where we remain until noon waiting for the 17th Army Corps to cross, after which General Corse leads his division upon the long pontoon bridge. After crossing we move on and go into camp two miles from the river.

SOURCE: abstracted from Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 298-9

Diary of 1st Lieutenant Daniel L. Ambrose: between December 22 & 24, 1864

During the siege of Savannah Major Johnson was off on the flanks of the army with the mounted portion of the regiment, scouting, foraging, doing outpost duty, and gathering up stragglers from their commands. After the fall of the city General Corse sends a dispatch ordering him to join his regiment. On the evening of the twenty-second he halts on a plantation near the Ogeechee River, and after camping his men, accompanied by Lieutenant S. F. Flint, he wends his way to the planter's mansion. It is now dark and raining. The Major knocks at the door, and after an assurance of friendship, they are received into the household. Their sabres’ frightful clang grates harshly upon the ears of the inmates—an old man, woman and daughter and for a while they seem frightened, but the gentlemanly demeanor of the Major and Lieutenant soon wins their confidence, causing them to come to the conclusion that the Yankees were not the wild creatures they had been represented to be. The midnight hour approximating, they all retire, leaving the Major and Lieutenant the occupants of the parlor. In the morning, while all is quiet, they make their exit, leaving the following beautiful lines (written by the Lieutenant,) in the clock:

Where the Savannas of the South

    Spread out their golden breadths to sea,

The fearful tide of war has rolled

    Around this lonely household tree.

I know the hearts that linger here,

    Their broken hopes, their wounded pride,

Have felt what I may never feel,

    Are tried as I have not been tried.

This aged man, this fair browed girl,

    What wonder if they learn to blend

His memory with hate-the foe

    Who might in peace have been their friend.

One common tongue, one blood, one God,

    The God whose ways are dark, are ours;

And He can make war's blackened path,

    Rustle with harvests-bloom with flowers.

And here before he seeks his rest,

    The hated North-man bends his knee,

And prays, restore this household band-

    As dear to them as mine to me;

Oh! let the fearful storm sweep by,

    And spare this roof that sheltered me.

After our entrance into the city, we go into camp in the suburbs, where we remain during the night and the following day.

SOURCE: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 288-90

Diary of 1st Lieutenant Daniel L. Ambrose: between January 25, 1865 & February 4, 1865

About the twenty-fifth of January, Major Johnson, with his detachment, leaves Bonniventure, and joins the regiment at Fort Brown. Receiving marching orders, General Corse, with his division, who were now isolated and alone from the corps, leaves Savannah, marching up the Savannah river as far as Sister's Ferry, where we find Gen. Slocum struggling with the floods. We remain here until the fourth of February.

SOURCE: abstracted from Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 293

Diary of 1st Lieutenant Daniel L. Ambrose: February 4, 1865

In the evening we cross over into the Palmetto State and go into camp three miles from the river; we doubt if ever an army encountered more difficulties than did Slocum's command and General Corse's Division encounter in crossing the Savannah. The river was up, and for three long miles the army was compelled to build a solid road.

SOURCE: abstracted from Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 293-4

Diary of Sergeant Daniel L. Ambrose: November 11, 1864

The grand armies are now moving, headed towards Atlanta. To-night we go into camp upon the Allatoona battle field. The brave General John M. Corse, though his wound is scarcely well, is with us commanding the Fourth Division. As we see him late to-night riding up to his headquarters (having refused to dismount until his division was all in camp), we thought to ourselves, "Brave Johnny, thou art a noble type of an American soldier.” As we said, this is Allatoona's great battle field; here brave men sleep; here noble warriors fought their last fight; here sleep those who stood with us when Allatoona's hills were rocking amid the awful din and clash of steel; stood with us until they fell.

We are now standing by their uncoffined graves. Boon companions lie here. How vividly the hour comes to us when they passed away under the shadow of the flag, the pride of their hearts. We cannot help but cast silent tears to their memory, and turning our faces towards the north star, we are wont to say: Oh! weep, heart of the North, for thy fallen dead who sleep here. The night is growing cold; we will now wend our way to where the weary Seventh lie sleeping.

SOURCE: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 274-5

Diary of 1st Lieutenant Daniel L. Ambrose: November 19, 1864

We move early this morning and go as far as the Ocmulgee river, where we go into camp. Two pontoon bridges are now being spanned across the river, one for the teams and artillery, and the other for infantry. This evening Colonel Perrin receives orders from General Corse to mount his regiment as fast as stock can be captured. The order is received by the boys with great delight.

SOURCE: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 279

Diary of 1st Lieutenant Daniel L. Ambrose: Monday, November 28, 1864

This morning Company H is detailed for foragers. The Fifteenth corps is thrown into confusion to-day. The Third and Fourth Division get all mixed up, General Corse with the Second Brigade takes the wrong road and gets lost in the Pineries, taking some time to extricate himself and get on the right road.

SOURCE: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 281

Diary of Private Daniel L. Ambrose: Monday, October 3, 1864

On Monday, the third of October, it was known to General Sherman that General Hood, with thirty thousand foot and ten thousand horse, supplied with the necessary munitions of war to give battle, was on the north side of the Chattahoochee River, moving northward. Never before in the annals of American history had there been such a succession of startling events. The bridge over the Chattahoochee had been washed away in a storm, Forrest had severed communications between Chattanooga and Nashville, drift-wood had leveled the bridge spanning the Austanula River at Resaca, and a large body of rebel cavalry held Big Shanty. Such was the situation when the stars peeped out from their ether bed in the clear blue sky Monday morning. It was apparent to Sherman that Hood would throw a considerable force against the weak garrison at Allatoona Pass, where were stored over two million of rations. Sherman knew if these were taken his men would be in a perilous condition. A commander with less resources than General Sherman would have contemplated the situation with horror; but not so with the hero of Rocky Face, Kenesaw and Atlanta. Signaling from the summit of Kenesaw, thirty miles across the country, to General Corse, commanding at Rome, he directs him to take all his available force to the Allatoona Pass, and hold it against all opposition until he (Sherman) himself could arrive with help. In compliance with these orders General Corse, with the Twelfth Illinois Infantry and Colonel Rowett's brigade, consisting of the Seventh, Fifteenth and Fifty-seventh Illinois Infantry, and the Thirty-ninth Iowa Infantry, in all about fifteen hundred, proceeds by rail towards the Allatoona hills, where we arrive late in the night and find that one division from Hood's army, commanded by General French, was already surrounding the place. The train that carried Corse and his fifteen hundred might have been checked. The enemy saw the train approaching and permitted it to pass in unmolested, thinking it was a train from Chattanooga loaded with supplies for Sherman's army, and therefore would make a fine addition to their game, which with their overwhelming force they were considering as good as captured. Sad, sad mistake was this, as the sequel will show. As soon as the train moves through the pass the regiment leaps from the train; General Corse and Colonel Rowett soon form their battle lines, making all necessary dispositions for the threatening battle, after which the men are ordered to lie down upon the ground to rest; but it is a night before the battle and the soldiers cannot rest. Men are hurrying to and fro; their voices are hushed, for thought is busy with them all; they are thinking of the coming strife, thinking whether they will live to see the old Union's battle flag float over these hills triumphant; thinking of the sables of grief that will be unfolded in memory of those who will lie down to sleep death's silent sleep ere the sun sinks again beneath the ocean's wave.

“Day is dawning dimly, grayly,

In the border of the sky;

And soon the drum will banish

Sleep from every soldier's eye."

The sun is now rising from behind the eastern hills. The rebels have been at work all night preparing for the assault. Companies E and H, commanded by Captain Smith, are now deployed forward on a skirmish line down the railroad south of the depot. A demand for General Corse to surrender is now made by General French. Says he to Corse: "I have Allatoona surrounded by a superior force, and to stay the needless effusion of blood I demand your surrender." General Corse replies: "I am prepared for the 'needless effusion of blood." Firing soon commences upon the skirmish line from the south, and directly a rebel battery opens with grape and canister upon our line, killing one man belonging to Company H—private John Etterlain, the first to fall in Allatoona's great battle. About ten o'clock we discover the enemy massing their forces on the Cartersville road west of the railroad. Colonel Rowett perceiving that the main battle would be on his front, sent Captain Rattrey, of his staff, to order the companies forming the skirmish line south, to report to the regiment immediately. The skirmish line falls back in order, contesting manfully every foot of ground.

"Hark! A roaring like the tempest !

’Tis a thundering of the war steeds!

Like a whirlwind on they're rushing;

Let them come, but come to die;

Finding foemen ever ready

For the fray, but not to fly."

We cast our eyes to the south-east and behold heavy force moving towards the depot. This force soon strikes our left and forces it back. The whole rebel force, six thousand strong, is now sweeping on to the Allatoona hills. The Seventh Illinois and the Thirty-ninth Iowa are standing like a wall of fire in the outer works to the right and left of the Cartersville road. The storm breaks upon them in all its mad fury; the Seventh is now struggling against the reckless rush of the infuriated rebels that are swarming towards their front. The sixteen-shooters are doing their work; the very air seems to grow faint as it breathes their lurid flame. Colonel Rowett soon after the first onset discovers a rebel regiment charg[ing] on to the right flank from the northwest, threatening to sweep it back like so much chaff. Captain Smith, with noble Company E, is ordered to stem the wild tide in that direction. In a moment he doubles into confusion this rebel regiment. It is soon discovered that it will be madness to attempt to hold the weakly constructed outer works. A retreat is ordered; the Seventh and Thirty-ninth Iowa fall back slowly; rebel shot are plowing great furrows in the earth; rebel shot fill the air; they fly everywhere; men are falling; the ground is being covered with the dead and dying. Colonel Rowett is taken to the fort wounded, from which he soon recovers and vigorously enters into the fight. The forts were gained by a fearful sacrifice. Colonel Rowett, with the Seventh and a few companies of the Fifty-seventh and Twelfth Illinois and the Thirty-ninth Iowa, is now in the fort, west of the railroad. Colonel Toutellotte, with the Ninety-third Illinois, Fiftieth Illinois (Colonel Hanna's old half hundred), takes possession of the fort east of the railroad. General Corse takes his position in the fort with Colonel Rowett's brigade, where seems to be the main drift of battle. The retreat into the forts and the necessary dispositions were all performed in a moment performed amid fire and smoke, while noble men were dying. The hurried retreat into the fort seemed to encourage the demons.

"At once they raised so wild a yell,

As if all the fiends from heaven that fell

Had pealed the banner cry of hell."

On, on, with fiendish yells they come rushing to the breach. Over the hills and up the ravines they charge; it is now hand to hand, man to man; Colonel Rowett and his men fight desperately. General Corse is now wounded; he has been fighting manfully; man never before stood as he stood in this scene of death; never before contended as he contended against these fearful odds. Fainting from loss of blood, he has fallen back upon the blood stained ground. It is now half-past ten o'clock. Colonel Rowett assumes command; his first order is to send for Colonel Hanna and his "half hundred." He knows they are the true steel. By the severe fire from the fort west of the railroad the enemy's lines are broken. Colonel Hanna is now cutting his way to Rowett's fort. Crossing the railroad near the depot, he strikes the enemy attempting to burn the warehouse containing the two millions of rations and in a gallant manner drives them back; he rushes into Rowett's fort with a heavy loss. The rebels are now preparing for another desperate charge; reformed, they rush up like mad men threatening to crush into dust the gallant fifteen hundred.

"I heard the bayonets' deadly clang,

As if a hundred anvils rang."

The hills tremble; the fort is wrapped with fearful flame. Amid dying groans the cannon crashes, to sweep down the angry rebels to a suicidal death. The grand one-half hundred, the reckless Seventh, the undaunted Fifty-seventh Illinois, and the fiery Thirty-ninth Iowa, barricade the Allatoona walls. with their frightful steel. Men are falling; their life blood is streaming. The rebels driven to desperation, attempt to cross the defences, but they are thrown back in wild confusion. But lo! they are rallying again, preparing for a third charge. Again they rush on to engage in the awful work of carnage. The smoke from our cannons makes wrathful heaves. Terrible red hot flames of battle shoot from the hill. During the last three hours an interested spectator has been standing upon Kenesaw, watching the progress of the battle. Soon a dispatch is read in the fort:

 

"Hold Allatoona! hold Allatoona, and I will assist you.

 

(Signed)

W. T. SHERMAN.”

 

Closer and closer the determined rebels come; Many have already fallen. Weaker and weaker the command is becoming. The Seventh, with their sixteen-shooters, which has been the main dependence, is now running short of ammunition, and Colonel Rowett orders them to hold their fire, and let the Fiftieth Illinois and the Thirty-ninth Iowa bayonet the rebels in case they attempt again to scale the defences. General Corse, as brave a spirit as ever battled in the cause of human freedom, raises from his matress and cries "Hold Allatoona! hold Allatoona." The third time the rebels are driven back from the fort; they are now preparing for the fourth charge; Colonel Rowett's fort has become one vast slaughter-pen. But look! the frenzied rebels come swarming on to the breach again. This is the hour that will try our steel. They are now passing over their already beaten road, stained with blood. Again they are charging up to crush the Spartan band. It is now one o'clock; for three long hours clouds of darkness have mantled these hills; they now seem to be growing darker. The command is every moment growing weaker and weaker; a large portion of the fifteen hundred have been killed and wounded, and still the battle rages in its mad fury; still the besieged are pressed hard. Colonel Rowett now succeeds in getting the artillery loaded and manned, which for some time has been silent. It is shotted to the muzzle; all ready, the men are commanded to raise the yell, and into the very faces of the rebels the death messengers are hurled, which is repeated several times until the rebels commence to give way in despair. Just at this moment, half-past one o'clock, Colonel Rowett is badly wounded in the head. Captain Rattrey, a member of his staff, being the ranking officer left, now assumes command and heroically carries on the battle. The awful work of death is drawing to a close; the rebels are now flying.

The Seventh, with their sixteen-shooters, are performing a terrible work of death; the enemy is driven from the Allatoona hills like chaff before the winds of heaven.

"None linger now upon the plains,

Save those who ne'er shall fight again."

The great battle of Allatoona is now over; the six thousand rebels, save those who are dead and wounded, are now retreating in commotion from the Allatoona hills. Corse, Rowett and Tourtellotte, with the survivors of the gallant fifteen hundred, fling their tattered and blood washed banners triumphantly over this field of death. As victors of the Pass they stand with about half of their number lying dead and wounded at their feet. We now look around us and behold the forts dripping with blood. Who do we see lying here, cold and stiff? It is our comrade, Samuel Walker. We cast our eyes to another spot; who is that who lies there in such agony, so fearfully wounded? It is the brave Sergeant Edward C. Nichols. Gallant spirit, we fear it will soon take its flight from its tenement of clay. Noble soldier, thy work is done; no more will you be permitted to stand in war's tempest of fire; no more will you battle in this struggle for man's equality. We attempt to move through the fort defended by Colonel Rowett's brigade, and we find it almost impossible without trespassing upon the dead. Oh! what an awful work of death! Has the blood-wrought history of the nineteenth century equaled it! We think not, and we dare say that this generation will pass away ere another Allatoona shall be given to the history of the western world. We succeed in changing our position. Who do we see here, wounded and bleeding? we look again. Our heart beats quick. 'Tis the Hackney brothers, lying side by side. We are wont to say, here we see the embodiment of manhood. They looked like boys before the battle, but they look like men now. Look at that cheek, behold that frightful gash. 'Tis a mark of royalty. When future years shall have rolled down the stream of time, and when the country is at peace, on that cheek will be a scar that will lead the mind back to the eventful years that saw this nation leap like a giant from her thralldom of tyrany. Night now comes on, and soon it commences to rain. The larger companies, E, H and K, with what men they have left, are placed on picket. This is the most doleful night that ever dawned upon the Seventh. While we stand here on these hills, amid storm and rain, our hearts are sad when we look around and see so many of our number still and cold in death, and so many wounded and dying.

"Ah! this morning how lightly throbbed

Full many a heart that death has robbed

Of its pulses warm, and the caskets lie

As cold as the winter's starless sky."

But we all feel glad to-night to know that we hurled back from the pass Hood's angry hosts; that we sustained the flag, saved the two millions of rations, saved Sherman's army, and helped to save the Union. While out here in these dark woods, while the cold winds are blowing, we are thinking of our noble comrades who were wounded to-day. We know that they are suffering to-night. We are all anxious about the gallant Rowett, for the Surgeon tells us that he is dangerously wounded. The prayer of the Seventh to-night is that he may recover; that he may yet live to lead forth, if need be, the gallant old Third Brigade in other battles in the war for the Union.

SOURCE: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 251-61

Major Charles Wright Wills: February 27, 1865

Tillersville, February 27, 1865.

We have half a mile of bridging to build before we can get across this Lynch's creek, the rains have swollen it so much. Our 6th Iowa foragers we thought captured are all right. They got across this creek before the freshet and it cut them off. The 97th Indiana men are gone up. All of the 20 killed or captured but 3; 11 dead Rebels were found on their little battle field, so the report comes from General Corse, I understand. The Rebels are losing, I should think, about 3 or 4 men to our one, but they are showing more manhood than those who opposed our march in Georgia. It isn't the “militia,” for the 360 prisoners our corps have taken within four days surrendered without firing a shot. They were S. C. chivalry, proper. The men who are most active on their side, I think, belong to Butler's or Hampton's command from the Potomac. They are cavalry and don't amount to anything as far as infantry is concerned, but only think they venture a little closer than Wheeler does. (You are expected to emit a sarcastic ha! ha!! and remark: “They don't know Sherman's army as well as Wheeler does.”) They say we can't cross here until the water falls, and as there is an excellent prospect for more rain, we are thinking of building cabins in which to pass the rainy season.

All our wounded are doing excellently. The surgeons say that the wounded do much better being transported in ambulances than in stationary hospitals. They escape the foul air is the main reason.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 354

Captain Charles Wright Wills: December 5, 1864

Thirty-six miles from Savannah, 

December 5, 1864. 

Corse had the road to-day, but Wood side-tracked, took “catch roads” and got into camp, making 16 miles as soon as Corse. Rather poor country, farms small, and much pine. Negroes swarmed to us to-day. I saw one squad of 30 or 40 turned back. Sherman's order is not to let any more go with us than we can use and feed. A nice yellow girl came to our regiment about an hour after dark. She is the property of Milly Drake, who lives 30 miles back. The girl showed our men where Milly hid her horses and mules, in return for which, after the column passed, gentle Milly took half a rail and like to wore the wench out. Broke her arm and bruised her shamefully. That was all the reason that the girl had for running away. 

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 331-2

Captain Charles Wright Wills: October 7, 1864

The Rebels have left the railroad after being whipped by General Corse at Allatoona Pass. The 14th Corps drove them out to Lost Mountain yesterday. No hard fighting. They tore up not more than eight miles of railroad, which will be rebuilt in a very few days.

Deserters report the whole Rebel Army here, but that the ten days' rations they started with have run out. Other deserters say that their army has started for Nashville, Huntsville, or hell; that they are satisfied they can't make either of the first named places, and would rather go to Sherman than the last named. It is wonderful what confidence this army has in Sherman. Every man seems to think the idea of these Rebels being able to do us any permanent harm is perfectly preposterous, and all are in the best of spirits. I can't help thinking that the Rebels must have all cleared out of this vicinity, or else we'd be going for them. Our stock is in too bad condition to follow them far over the, at present, horrible roads. A man rode along on a poor old bone-rack of a horse a while ago. Some wag commenced, “caw,” “caw,” “caw.” The whole camp took it up and for five minutes you would have thought that 10,000 crows were holding a jubilee. Let some one start a squirrel or rabbit and 500 men will be after it in a minute. Old soldiers are just a lot of men with school-boy spirits.

Officers don't draw meat like the men. I have just had two meals of beef (and no other meat) in the last ten days. All our officers are the same way. It is mostly our own fault.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 306-7

Captain Charles Wright Wills: April 9, 1864

Scottsboro, Ala., April 9, 1864.

Don't be alarmed and imagine that I have “photos” on the brain. This is in all probability the last remittance of the article that I shall make you. General Corse, our old brigade commander, we think a great deal of, and would like to have you preserve his picture. The little soldier, Johnny Clem, was a sergeant at the time of the Chickamauga battle, and fought like a hero. His comrades say he killed a Rebel officer of high rank there. For his gallant conduct in that massacre, General Thomas gave him a lieutenancy and position on his staff, where he now is. He is almost a perfect image of one, Willie Blackburn, who was my orderly in the 7th.

The day of jubilee has come at this post; that is, we have, once more, something fit to eat. This is the first day since we've been here that our commissary has furnished us with aught but regular rations. We can wish for nothing now, except “marching orders.” My men are in splendid condition. Everyone of them in A1 health and spirits. All the veterans of the division are back, except the three regiments of our brigade. The 55th Illinois has at last concluded to veteran. Two hundred of them will be at home shortly. They held a new election, left Malmsberg and Chandler out in the cold, and I understand, a goodly number of their best officers besides. Men who have not been under good disciplinarians, will almost invariably, if an election is allowed, choose good fellows for officers. That is, men who allow everything to go at loose ends, who have no business whatever with commissions. Captain Milt. Hainey and Captain Augustine, I understand, are to be colonel and lieutenant colonel of the 55th. They are said to be good men and officers, and exceptions to the above, but my experience is such exceptions are rare, and I'd rather time would prove them than man's words. I believe my company would veteran, almost unanimously, to-day. I am still on court-martial duty, and having a very easy time. We seldom sit over two hours, and never more than four hours a day. The most of the cases are for desertion, and absence without leave, with occasionally a shooting or cutting affair among some drunken men. The major and several of the other officers are absent at Nashville on a shopping excursion. Captain Wyskoff is commanding. He has been trying for the last eight months to resign, but papers come back every time disapproved. It's hard work now to get out of the army. By a few items I have seen in the papers, believe the 17th Army Corps is coming up the river. Wish they would be sent here. We need another corps to move with us on to Rome. Suppose that Grant thinks he must have the 17th with him at Richmond. Operations cannot possibly commence here for 25 days yet. Wish we could move to-morrow. Colonel Wright and I were out a few miles this p. m. to see a couple of maidens. While we were enjoying our visit a party of excited citizens (all liable to the Southern conscription) rush in, and kindly invite us to go down to Fossets' in the bottom, and clean out a half dozen “guerils” who were there after conscripts. ’Twas only a half mile through the woods to Fossets’ and that was closer than we wanted to be to such a party (we had no arms). So we told the excited citizens that they and the guerillas could all go to the d---1 and we'd go to camp. Within a mile of camp we met a company on the way to look for the Rebels, but I know they might as well look for a religious chaplain in the army as for the Rebels in that swamp. There is hardly a sign of spring here yet. Have certainly never seen vegetation as far advanced North at this season as it is here now. Need a fire every day. The last month has been colder than January was. I met a woman to-day who prides herself on belonging to one of the first families of Virginia and boasts that her grandsire's plantation and George Washington's almost joined, and showed me a negro woman 110 years old, that formerly waited upon George Washington. She claims to be chivalry, par excellence. Her husband is in the Rebel Army. She lives off of the United States Commissary Department, and begs her chewing tobacco of United States soldiers. She's a Rebel, and talks it with her mouth full of Uncle Sam's bread and bacon.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 223-5

Diary of Corporal Alexander G. Downing: Monday, October 10, 1864

A large detail from our regiment was put to work on the railroad. Three of us, Hiram Frank, John D. Moore and I, took French leave this afternoon and climbed to the top of Kenesaw mountain. It is a grand view from the mountain, but we had to pay for our sightseeing, for when we got back to camp we found that our command had left. They were ordered to go on the double-quick to Altoona, Georgia, and we had to run about four miles before we caught up with them. Our bunkmates were carrying our knapsacks, haversacks, canteens and rifles, with all accouterments, and they were about as thankful as we were when we caught up with them.¹

_______________

¹ General Corse had flagged Sherman for reinforcements, as Hood was trying to capture the place. Our army had about one million rations stored at Altoona. Sherman flagged: “Hold the fort; I am coming,” and General Corse answered back that he'd hold the fort to the death if need be. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 220-1

Major General William T. Sherman to Ellen Ewing Sherman, October 19, 1864

IN THE FIELD, SUMMERVILLE, Geo., October 19, 1864.

. . . Hood is afraid to fight me in open ground and therefore he tries to break up the railroad which supplies my Army. First Forrest got across the Tennessee, but never reached the Chattanooga Road. Next, Hood with three Corps, about 40,000 men, swung round by Dallas and broke the road at Big Shanty to Kenesaw. He stole a march on me of one day, and his men, disencumbered of baggage, move faster than we can. I have labored hard to cut down wagons, but spite of all I can do officers surround me. All the campaign I slept without a tent, and yet doctors and teamsters and clerks and staff officers on one pretext or another get tents and baggage, and now we can hardly move. I'll stop this or dispense with doctors, clerks and staff officers as ‘useless in war.’ Hood got up as far as the Tunnel before I could head him off, but at Resaca I broke through the Gap and he at once commenced to move south, and is now beyond my reach. He may now try to enter Tennessee by way of Decatur. I shall make proper dispositions and if seconded can keep him south, but I cannot get anybody to move as quickly as they should, save some of my old favorites. Corse saved Allatoona, by obeying promptly a message sent him by signals over the head of Hood's army. Mower is also coming to me and when I move south I shall have some smart columns. I am not going to stand on the defensive and you will soon hear of me on a bigger road than that to Meridian. Unless things take a turn not anticipated, you will have to get used to being without letters from me for some time, as it will be impossible to keep up mails much further. . . .

SOURCES: M. A. DeWolfe Howe, Editor, Home Letters of General Sherman, p. 312.  A full copy of this letter can be found in the William T Sherman Family papers (SHR), University of Notre Dame Archives (UNDA), Notre Dame, IN 46556, Folder CSHR 2/18

Army Correspondence

ARMY BEFORE CORINTH, MISS.

May 28th 1862

MR. EDITOR:  The ball that will in all probability, decide the terrible conflict now raging in our country, has been opened to-day.  For a week past the two armies have been looking each other in the face – the fortifications of both being about two miles apart, and the pickets continually skirmishing.

I visited the headquarters of this division – the left wing – this morning on an item of business, and was informed by the A. Adj. Gen., Capt. Hammond, that he had more important business on his hands, and could not attend to mine to-day.  “We are to advance to-day,” said he.  Sure enough, the whole division was soon in motion.  The roaring of cannon and the rattle of musketry was soon heard along the whole line.  The first place attacked was a log house in front of our extreme right which had been used by the rebels as quarters for their picket guard.  Their officer of the day was taken prisoner by our men.

Gen. Pope’s division has advanced one and a half miles to-day on our left.  Heavy cannonading has been going on, at intervals, on the left wing all day.  We could distinctly hear the booming of the heavy siege guns in that quarter about five miles distant.  At times the roaring was incessant and terribly sublime.  At first and for a considerable time, no response was elicited from the enemy, and at no time was it brisk. – One bomb from the enemy struck, without exploding very near our breastworks.  Every regiment has been on duty to-day.  The Iowa 6th was especially detailed to defend our earthworks in the morning, but was ordered forward in the afternoon.  To the great joy of the regiment Major Corse commands them.  I saw him this morning reviewing the regiment preparatory to marching to the front.  The officers and men are well satisfied with the present arrangement – they know him and can trust him.

The casualties of the day, as far as I have heard have been light on our side.  A few have been killed, several wounded, some badly.  Early in the day one man had his arm blown off and his eye out by the premature discharge of a gun.  Another had his back broken by the bursting of a shell, and I have not been able to learn either their names or the regiments to which any of them belongs.

Another line of intrenchments [sic] have been commenced and will be completed by morning – a half mile, or thereabouts, in front of our present one.  This will bring the whole army within one and one and a half miles of the enemy’s works.  Our gunners say that they can throw solid shot five miles.  It will then be an easy mater to storm the enemy’s works with shot and shell at the distance of one mile, and to destroy Corinth itself, which will be only two miles distant from our advance works.

Night has set in and silence again reigns supreme.  Scarcely a sound is heard and one can scarcely persuade himself to believe that a terrible and deadly conflict has been going on all day.  The croaking of frogs and the chirping of insects, with now and then a horseman galloping along near by, are the only sounds that break the profound stillness.  The tattoo has beaten and all the soldiers who remain in camp have retired to their quarters.  But all who have gone forward have to lay upon their arms at night without tents, and their two day’s rations in their haversacks.

Hot work is expected in the morning, as I have heard that our heavy siege guns are to be moved forward to-night.  Then in comparison, to-day’s work will be that of to-morrow, as a drop to a shower.

I have written hastily after the day’s work is over, so as to send this by morning mail.  I shall write again tomorrow.

Yours truly,

H. M. ROBERTS

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, June 7, 1862, p. 2

General John M. Corse

From Gen. Halleck's Army

HEADQUARTERS POPE’S DIVISION (LEFT WING,)

Army of the Mississippi, Six Miles North-East of Corinth, Miss., May 14, 1862.

MR. EDITOR:  So many rumors are put in circulation in the camps, and so many sensation articles are published by news mongers – of which there are scores in the different divisions of the army – which are totally without foundation in fact, that I am determined to write nothing which is not well authenticated.  Many items have already appeared in print concerning the army – or rather armies – for it is published both of the Union and Rebel armies – that are utterly false.  The Rebel army has evacuated Corinth – the Union army has occupied – the Rebels have gone to Grand Junction – to Jackson, Mississippi, and the Union army is in full pursuit, etc., with a thousand other rumors equally reliable.  Now the truth is that up to the present writing, there is no truth in any of these statements.  Both armies occupy nearly the same positions they did three weeks ago.  They are drawing a little closer together and skirmishings are frequent between the pickets and outposts; and last Friday one took place, which, in the absence of so numerous an army, might well pass for a battle.  Fifteen thousand men were engaged, and the loss to the Federal army was about fifty killed and one hundred and sixty wounded.  The Rebel loss is not known, except that one field officer and his horse are known to be killed.  Rumor says he was Gen. Bragg.  He rode out in front of the rebel line some twenty rods.  The 42d Illinois was in the border of the woods, with quite an undergrowth in front of them which completely hid them, they lying flat on the ground, and the Rebel officer seemed to be endeavoring to discover their whereabouts.  Two members of company D, of that Regiment cocked their guns, when the rebel officer cried out, “For God’s sake don’t shoot me;” but by the time the words were out of his mouth he fell, and his horse fell on him.  I received this from two of company D, 42d Illinois who were wounded in the skirmish.  Major Course, of Gen. Pope’s staff, confirms the report.  Twenty-six of the wounded were brought into Hamburg on Saturday last.  All this took place three days before I came here.  Since I came no skirmishing has taken place.  All is quiet, and for aught that appears to the contrary to the casual observer, is likely to continue so. But the death struggle will begin soon.  Some firing in front to-day.  An advance has commenced.  Several batteries, with all their camp equipage have passed my quarters to-day to the front.

Our troops are in possession of Farmington – three miles a little north of east of Corinth.  The deadly conflict will probably commence to-morrow.  From all appearance the preparations are all complete.  Our line of battle is sixteen miles long, in the form of a crescent.  General Pope is on the left, Sherman on the extreme right, Thomas and Buell occupy the center.  General Halleck’s headquarters are at Montgomery near the center.  These places do not appear on the maps, nor have I any data from which to locate them accurately. It is reported that General [Mitchell] has been ordered to move down with his force to our left, probably to cut off the enemy’s retreat on the Mobile railroad, or south to Jackson.  We shall know in a day or two for the great battle, so long expected is just at hand.  Gen. Pope, I think, will be honored with bringing it on.  I shall go to the right wing to-morrow.

H. M. ROBERTS

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 1

BREVET MAJOR-GENERAL JOHN M. CORSE

SECOND COLONEL, SIXTH INFANTRY.

John M. Corse is the only military prodigy the State has furnished in the War of the Rebellion. For his family and intimate friends I am unable to speak, but I have knowledge positive that, with all others, his brilliant military career has created the greatest surprise. In civil life, though possessing large self-esteem, he was looked on as having only ordinary ability; and, therefore, his promotion in the army to nearly the highest rank in the volunteer service, was wholly unlooked for.

General Corse is a native of Pennsylvania, where he was born in about the year 1833. When young, he accompanied his parents West and settled with them in Burlington, Iowa; where he has since resided. He was at one time a cadet in the West Point Military Academy, New York; but had spent, I think, hardly two years at the institution, when he was politely informed that, should he tender his resignation, it would be accepted. At all events, he left West Point, and returned to Burlington, where he entered the book-store of his father. Not long after he became a partner in the business, and was thus engaged at the outbreak of the war.

He entered the service as major of the 6th Iowa Infantry, and, up to the time of its arrival at Pittsburg Landing, has a military history similar to that of his regiment. During the siege of Corinth, he was a staff-officer of General Sherman — I think, his inspector-general. From the time of their first meeting, he was held in high esteem by that general. He "was mustered a lieutenant-colonel the 21st of May, 1862; and, on the resignation of Colonel McDowell, was made colonel of his regiment, and returned to its command. From that time forward, he grew rapidly popular.

During his colonelcy and after, the history of the 6th Iowa is one of great interest. It is the same as that of Sherman's old Division. It was the only Iowa regiment in that division. On the assignment of General Sherman to the command of the 15th Army Corps, its division was commanded by General William L. Smith, who, during the siege of Vicksburg, joined the army of General Grant in rear of the city. "Smith's and Kimball's Divisions, and Parke's Corps were sent to Haine's Bluff. * * This place I [Grant] had fortified to the land-side, and every preparation was made to resist a heavy force." After the fall of Vicksburg, the 6th Iowa marched with Sherman to Jackson, where it made itself conspicuous — with the exception of the 3d Iowa, more conspicuous than any other Iowa regiment. On the morning of the 16th of July, Colonel Corse was put in command of the skirmishers of the 1st Division, 15th Army Corps, and ordered to report to Major-General Parke, commanding the 9th Corps. The 6th Iowa was included in the colonel's command; and, to show the part taken by the regiment in the advance of that morning, I quote from his official report:

"I assumed command of the line formed by the skirmishers of the 6th Iowa; and, at the designated signal, the men dashed forward with a shout, met the line of the enemy's skirmishers and pickets, drove them back, capturing eighteen or twenty, and killing as many more. Clearing the timber, they rushed out into the open field, across the railroad, over the fence, up a gentle slope, across the crest, down into the enemy's line, when two field-batteries of four guns each, pointing west, opened a terrific cannonade. The enemy were driven from two pieces at the point of the bayonet, our men literally running them through. In rear of the batteries, two regiments were lying supporting the gunners, and, at our approach, they opened along their whole line, causing most of the casualties in this gallant regiment. With such impetuosity did the line go through the field that the enemy, so completely stunned were they, would have precipitately fled, had they not been re-assured by a large gun-battery, nearly six hundred yards to our right, which enfiladed the railroad line of skirmishers. Startled at this unexpected obstacle, which was now in full play, throwing its whirlwind of grape and canister about us until the corn fell as if by an invisible reaper, I ordered the bugle to sound the 'lie down.' The entire line fell in the corn-rows, and I had the opportunity to look round. * * * * Feeling that I had obtained all the information I could, I ordered the 'rise up' and ' retreat,' which was done in the most admirable manner, under the fire of at least three regiments and seven guns— three of these enfilading my line. But few of those who had so gallantly charged the battery got back. I cannot speak in too extravagant terms of the officers and men of the 6th Iowa on this occasion. * They awakened my admiration at the coolness with which they retired, returning the incessant fire of the enemy as they slowly fell back."

The loss of the 6th Iowa in this encounter was one killed, eighteen wounded, and nine missing. The conduct of the regiment filled the general commanding the division with admiration:

“Head-Quarters, First Division, Sixteenth Army Corps,
"In Front or Jackson, Mississippi, July 16th, 1863.

"Colonel Corse, commanding 6th Iowa Infantry:

"The valor of your noble regiment has been conspicuous, even amidst the universal good conduct that has marked the operations of all the troops of the 1st Division, during our advance upon Jackson, and since our arrival here. I can not too highly commend the gallantry you have displayed in two successful charges you have made. The true heart swells with emotions of pride in contemplating the heroism of those who, in their country's cause, charge forward under the iron-hail of half a dozen rebel batteries, and, exposed to a murderous fire of musketry from behind strong intrenchments, capture prisoners under their very guns. Such has been the glorious conduct of the 6th Iowa this morning; and those who shared your dangers, and emulated your valor, will join me in tendering to you and the brave men under your command my warmest thanks and most hearty congratulations.

" Most truly yours,

" William Lov'y Smith,
"Brigadier-General commanding 1st Div., 16th A. C."

In October, 1863, the 6th Iowa, with its division, (which in the meantime had been transferred to the l5th Corps) marched to the relief of Chattanooga. Under General Hugh Ewing it fought on Mission Ridge. Its position was just to the left of the two brigades of General John E. Smith; and, with those troops, it fought for the possession of that point which covered General Bragg's line of retreat. It was so far to the left that it escaped the flank movement of the enemy from the railroad tunnel, and lost few, if any prisoners. The regiment, however, suffered severely in killed and wounded. Eight fell dead upon the field, one of whom was the gallant Captain Robert Allison. Major Ennis, and Captains Calvin Minton, L. C. Allison and G. R. Nunn were wounded. The total number of killed and wounded was sixty-eight.

If foraging in the enemy's country is always a labor of danger, it is also sometimes attended with sport. Apropos, the 6th Iowa Infantry was one of the most expert and successful foraging regiments in the service. At all events, it was, in this respect, the banner regiment from Iowa; and I am aware how high is the compliment I am paying it. If that sergeant is still living, (I did not learn his name) he will recognize the following: Hugh Ewing's Division led John E. Smith's in the march from Chickasaw on the Tennessee to Bridgeport. That of which I speak occurred between Prospect Station and Fayetteville. We were marching along leisurely through a beautiful, highly-improved country, when, of a sudden, there was great confusion in the front. It would remind you of a crowd running to witness a show-day fight. A sergeant of the 6th Iowa, with a squad of one man, two mules and a revolver, had left his regiment on a foraging excursion, and returned with a whole train, ladened with the fruits of the land. He had fresh apples and dried apples, sweet potatoes and pumpkins, bed-clothes, and butter-milk in canteens: all were loaded on old rickety wagons, drawn by half-starved mules, and driven by American citizens of African descent. To share these spoils was the cause of the confusion. "He had got them for his boys," he said; but precious few of them did his boys ever get.

At Fayetteville, the 6th Iowa was infantry, and, only two days later, when they passed us in the woods near Winchester, nearly half the regiment was cavalry. "What in the d—1 do you go a-foot for?" they said to us; but they lost their horses before reaching Chattanooga, and, like us, fought at Mission Ridge on foot. The regiment was as reckless in battle as it was on the march.

General Corse was severely wounded at Mission Ridge, and disabled for several months. His intrepidity there, and his previous good conduct, secured his promotion to the rank of brigadier-general. When partially recovered, he was, I think, ordered on duty in Indiana. In a short time he was placed on General Sherman's staff, and in August, 1864, was assigned to the command of a division. That passage in his military history which will make his name distinguished hereafter, is that which records his defense of Allatoona, Georgia. At the time in question he was in command of the 4th Division, 15th Army Corps, one of the divisions comprised in General Dodge's command during the march on Atlanta. An account of the defense of Allatoona will be found elsewhere. I give below simply the correspondence of Generals French and Corse, and the congratulatory orders of Generals Howard and Sherman:

"Around Allatoona, October 5th, 8:16 A. M.
"Commanding Officer U. S. Force, Allatoona:

"Sir: — I have placed the forces under my command in such positions that you are surrounded, and, to avoid a useless effusion of blood, I call on you to surrender your forces at once, and unconditionally. Five minutes will be allowed you to decide. Should you accede to this, you will be treated in the most honorable manner, as prisoners of war.

"I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yours,

"S. G. French,
"Major-General commanding forces C. S."

[the Reply.]

"Head-quarters Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps,
Allatoona, Georgia, October 5th, 8:30 A. M

"Major-general S. G. French, C. S. A.:

"Your communication demanding surrender of my command, I acknowledge receipt of, and respectfully reply that we are prepared for the useless effusion of blood whenever it is agreeable to you.

"I am very respectfully your obedient servant,

"John M. Corse,
"Brigadier-General commanding 4th Division, 15th A. C."

How needless was the effusion of blood the following orders of Generals Howard and Sherman will show:

General Field Orders No. 18.

"Head-quarters Department And Army or The Tennessee,
Near Kenesaw Mountain, October 16th.

"Whilst uniting in the high commendation awarded by the General-in-chief, the Army of the Tennessee would tender through me its most hearty appreciation and thanks to Brigadier-General J. M. Corse for his promptitude, energy and eminent success in the defense of Allatoona Pass, against a force so largely superior to his own; and our warmest congratulations are extended to him, to Colonel Tourtellotte, and the rest of our comrades in arms who fought at Allatoona, for the glorious manner in which they vetoed 'the useless effusion of blood.'

"O. O. Howard,
"Major-General.

Official"


Special Field Orders, No. 86.

"HEAD-QUARTERS MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In The Field, Kenesaw Mountain, October 6th.

"The General commanding avails himself of the opportunity in the handsome defense made of ' Allatoona,' to illustrate the most important principle in war, that fortified posts should be defended to the last, regardless of the relative numbers of the party attacking and attacked.

"Allatoona was garrisoned by three regiments commanded by Colonel Tourtelotte, and reinforced by a detachment from a division at Rome, under command of Brigadier-General J. M. Corse on the morning of the 5th, and a few hours after was attacked by French's Division of Stewart's Corps, two other divisions being near at hand, and in support. General French demanded a surrender, in a letter to 'avoid an useless effusion of blood,' and gave but five minutes for an answer. General Corse's answer was emphatic and strong, that he and his command were ready for the 'useless effusion of blood,' as soon as it was agreeable to General French.

"This answer was followed by an attack which was prolonged for five hours, resulting in the complete repulse of the enemy, who left his dead on the ground amounting to more than two hundred, and four hundred prisoners, well and wounded. The 'effusion of blood' was not 'useless,' as the position at Allatoona was and is very important to our present and future operations.

"The thanks of this army are due, and hereby accorded to General Corse, Colonel Tourtelotte, officers and men for their determined and gallant defense of Allatoona, and it is made an example to illustrate the importance of preparing in time, and meeting the danger when present, boldly, manfully and well.

"This Army, though unseen to the garrison, was co-operating by moving toward the road by which the enemy could alone escape, but unfortunately were delayed by the rain and mud, but this fact hastened the retreat of the enemy.

"Commanders and garrisons of posts along our railroads are hereby instructed that they must hold their posts to the last minute, sure that the time gained is valuable and necessary to their comrades at the front. " By order of

" Major-General W. T. Sherman,
" L. M. Dayton,
"A. D. C.
OFFICIAL."

At Allatoona General Corse was again wounded. A musket- shot struck him in the cheek, and, for a time, rendered him insensible. Colonel R. Rowett of the 7th Illinois, as ranking officer, succeeded him in command; and the fighting continued as before with great fury. At twelve o'clock M., Sherman had reached the summit of Kenesaw, and from that point signaled to the garrison: — "Hold on to Allatoona to the last; I will help you." Not long after the enemy retired, having failed to draw their one million and a half of rations.

For his brilliant defense of Allatoona, General Corse was made, by brevet, a major-general. Since that time, he has remained in command of his division. He joined Sherman in the march from Atlanta to Savannah, and from that city to Raleigh. They say Sherman calls him, "my pet.”

Subsequently to the engagement at Mission Ridge, the 6th. Iowa Infantry has been commanded a chief portion of the time by Lieutenant-Colonel J. A. Miller. During the winter of 1863-4 the regiment was stationed with its division along the line of the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, between Bridgeport and Huntsville; but in the Spring was ordered to the front and served through the Atlanta campaign. It fought at Resaca, Dallas, Big Shanty, Kenesaw Mountain, before Atlanta and at Jonesboro; and lost in killed and wounded, in the months of May and June, an aggregate of one hundred and six. Lieutenant Rodney F. Barker, of Company A, was wounded in the first day's engagement at Dallas. On the 28th of May, the day following, Lieutenant F. F. Baldwin was killed, and Lieutenant and Adjutant Newby Chase mortally wounded. The former was killed while saving two guns of the 1st Iowa Battery from capture, and the latter, shot in the throat and mortally wounded, while on the skirmish line. A correspondent of the regiment says: " Better men never drew swords." Lieutenant-Colonel A. J. Miller was severely wounded in this same engagement at Dallas. Indeed, three of the four regimental commanders of the 2d Brigade, 4th Division, were struck, two of them being killed—Colonel Dickerman of the 103d Illinois and Major Gisey of the 46th Ohio. The total loss of the 6th Iowa at Dallas, was seven men killed, and fifteen wounded.

On the 15th of June the regiment joined its division in the brilliant charge near Big Shanty, and, two days later, took part in the unsuccessful charge at Kenesaw Mountain. In that of the 15th instant, Lieutenant J. F. Grimes, acting adjutant, was killed. At the opening of the campaign, the 6th Iowa arrived before Dalton, nearly four hundred strong; and by the middle of July had suffered a loss of fifty per cent. The last services of the 6th Iowa Infantry were performed in the marches from Atlanta to Savannah, and thence to Raleigh.

General Corse is a small man. He is not above five feet eight inches in bight, and weighs less than one hundred and twenty-five pounds. He is small in stature, and, to look at him, a stranger would not think his mind and body much out of proportion. He has more ability than he seems to have. He has sharp features, a dark complexion, large, dark eyes, and black hair, which he usually wears long. In his movements, he is dignified and somewhat consequential, carrying a high head, and wearing a stern countenance.) (I speak of him as I saw him in the service.) Before he entered the service, his neighbors in Burlington told on him the following story. I do not suppose it is true, but possibly it illustrates his character. When he became a partner with his father in the book business, the story goes, there had to be a new sign made. The father suggested that it read, " J. L. Corse & Son;" while the future general insisted that it should read, "John M. Corse and Father."

I omitted to mention in the proper place that, in I860, the general was a candidate for the office of Secretary of State.

Perhaps I ought to omit it now, for I venture to say, he is not proud of that passage in his history; he was the candidate on the old Hickory ticket, with a certain prospect of being defeated.

In battle I believe General Corse to be as cool a man as ever met an enemy. His defense of Allatoona shows that. He has always seemed to act on the principle suggested by General Jerry Sullivan: "Boys, when you have fought just as long as you think you possibly can, then fight ten minutes longer, and you will always whip." General Corse has richly earned his distinguished reputation, and the State will always be proud of him.

SOURCE: Stuart, A. A., Iowa Colonels and Regiments, pp. 153-162