Diary of Private Daniel L. Ambrose: Saturday, February 15, 1862

It snowed again last night, but this morning the sky is clear; the clouds have disappeared, and the sunlight is seen again on the Cumberland hills. How cheeringly does it fall around the weary soldiers. It is indeed a blessing sent from heaven, for Grant and his army. But hark! we hear the rattle of musketry. It comes from the right wing. Soon we learn that Lawman's [sic], McArthur's and Oglesby's brigades are engaged. The battle is now raging furiously. Our regiment is ordered to hasten to the left: Down the ravines, over the hills and across the abattis, the Seventh, led by the brave Colonel Babcock, and cheered by the gallant Rowett, go thundering on to where the wild battle storm rages. Arriving at the scene of action, we find the Second Iowa and an Indiana regiment in position near the enemy's works, breasting manfully a rebel battery playing upon them from a hill inside the outer works. Rushing into the conflict, Colonel Babcock forms the regiment under the galling fire. At this moment the veteran General Smith, moving through the fearful storm, draws rein to his charger in front of the Seventh, and says to Colonel Babcock, “I never saw a regiment make such grand movements under such a fire in all my military life as your's has just made. Colonel, I thank God for your command at this moment. Charge that rebel battery! charge it with your steel and silence its work of death !” The Seventh's bayonets are soon up and bristling. The battle is now raging furiously. The general casts his eyes towards the west, and beholding the sun fast sinking towards the horizon's bar, he turns to Colonel Babcock and says, “I countermand the order given you to charge that battery. It is now too late; I will leave that work for you to do to-morrow." The direful death-dealing elements are still flying thick and fast. The Seventh is now baring its bosom against the angry storm. Its colors are planted and flying over the works. Simultaneously with the Second Iowa the Seventh Illinois pass over the outer works, but they go no farther; the rebel batteries' deadly sweeps check them. The gallant Iowa boys claim the honor of being the first to scale Fort Donelson's walls. They claim it rightly, too, and history will award to them the honor of being a little ahead of the Seventh Illinois. As it is said the brave are always generous, the Seventh Illinois will demonstrate it by giving the Iowa boys the credit of what they claim, feeling assured at the same time that they will give the Seventh Illinois the credit of being with them very soon after they scaled the defenses, when together we drove the rebels back in confusion. Night now comes on, putting a stop to the carnival of blood. It is dark now, though as we look around we can see, faintly, the bodies of the gallant dead. It is indeed heart rending to see how many noble men have perished, and to see how many are wounded and how many are dying. Blood from thousands has flowed to-day, and as the sun went down it shed its light upon the field, adding beauty and hallowed glory to the crimson life blood flowing from the Anglo Saxon's heart, down through rippling rills and gurgling brooks to where the beautiful Cumberland flows.

SOURCES: Daniel Leib Ambrose, History of the Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, p. 33-5

Charles A. Dana to Edwin M. Stanton, June 14, 1863 – 8 a.m.

BEHIND VICKSBURG, June 14, 1863 — 8 a.m.,

VIA MEMPHIS, June 17 — Noon.

(Received 7 p.m.)

All the indications point to the speedy surrender of this place. Deserters who came out yesterday say that the Tennessee and Georgia regiments have determined to stack their arms within three days and refuse to continue the defense on the ground that it is useless, and that it is impossible to fight on the rations they receive. All the deserters are worn out and hungry, and say the whole garrison are in the same condition; besides, the defense has for several days been conducted with extraordinary feebleness, which must be due either to the deficiency of ammunition, or exhaustion and depression in the garrison, or to their retirement to an inner line of defense. The first and third of these causes no doubt operate to some extent, but the second we suppose to be the most influential. These deserters also say that fully one-third of the garrison are in hospital, and that officers, as well as men, have begun to despair of relief from Johnston. The troops of General Herron got into position yesterday. The advance of the Ninth Army Corps is also believed by General Grant to have arrived at Young's Point, though he has no positive report, and does not expect one till it has its place as a part of the besieging force on the south of the city, whither he has sent orders for it to proceed. After the arrival there of this corps, General Herron is to move to the right of General Lauman, and occupy that portion of the lines which is now held by Hovey's division, which McClernand will then station as a reserve to support the other divisions of his corps. All of W. S. Smith's division are now at Haynes' Bluff, where I saw them yesterday working upon the intrenchments with admirable zeal. The fortifications there for an army of 25,000 troops will be in a condition for practical use by the 16th instant. It is a stronger defensive position even than Vicksburg. The distance hence to Drumgould's Bluff is 11 miles, to Haynes' Bluff 14. Drumgould's, on which the rebels placed their most elaborate works, is an isolated mamelon. Snyder's and Haynes' Bluffs are connected by a ridge, though flanks on the river side are separated by two ravines and a bayou slope. Snyder's commands the lower, Haynes' the upper bend of the Yazoo. Snyder' Bluff is now being fortified. When the works there are completed, they will be extended around Haynes' also. They will then form an intrenched camp for 50,000 troops. From Joe Johnston there is no news since my last dispatch, except that which merely confirms its principal contents. He has made no new movements in this quarter.

Sebastian, Senator from Arkansas, has determined to claim his seat in the next Congress. With the fall of Vicksburg, he says that all west of the Mississippi is emancipated from the Confederacy, and that Arkansas can be brought back into the Union. He has taken no part in the war.

Please inform me by telegraph whether you wish me to go to General Rosecrans after the fall of Vicksburg, or whether you have any other orders for me. I should like to go home for a short time.

C. A. DANA.

Hon. E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 24, Part 1 (Serial No. 36), p. 98-9

Captain Charles Wright Wills: November 15, 1862

Camp at Lagrange, Tenn., November 15, 1862.

We're having more of a rest here than we anticipated when we arrived. Suppose that the organizing of the army into divisions and brigades delays us some; and, maybe, the change of commanders in the Potomac army has something to do with it. Or possibly we're waiting for McClernand to move from Memphis. I don't think our army here (the Corinth and Bolivar forces) is very large, though some estimate it quite strong, as much as 50,000 or 60,000. I think we have about 35,000, maybe less. General Lauman has been relieved from command of our division by General McKean and ordered to Memphis. Am sorry to lose him. He has few equals for skill in handling a division or honor and courage as a soldier. Am much afraid that the rainy season will catch us in the midst of our slow motions, and then good bye all hopes of the war's closing next spring. McPherson and Logan promised in speeches a few days since that we would finish up the business within 40 days; and I believe we can, West of Georgia, if this weather will continue and our commanders will improve it. Don't believe that Price will dare to fight us anywhere, certainly not this side of Jackson. We can't have more than 40 days' of marching weather yet until the rains come, and in that time we ought at least to make 250 miles. The more I think about the matter, the surer I am that we won't do much before next May. Well, I enjoy soldiering and can stand the delay in proportion; but inactivity when a fellow can't see the reason therefor, is provoking to a degree extensive. We made a capital start from Peoria to this place in five days, but the thing hasn't been followed up. Our cavalry has been doing some dashing work here, sums up about 300 prisoners, etc. But the 7th hasn't figured much therein, at least not in reports, although the 7th boys say they did their share. I have seen all my acquaintances in the 7th, and the 8th Infantry is also here. Fred Norcott and Milo are both looking splendidly. Also Ben Rockhold. 'Tis said that General Logan publicly disgraced the 17th to-day for some insult to himself. Never thought much of that 17th and think less now than ever before. They certainly show no signs of discipline that can be seen by the naked eye. The 7th Kansas Cavalry, 'tis said, proposed in writing to General Grant, that if he would give them a certain time, (no other condition), they would capture or kill General Price. I wish he'd do it. They would raise the d---1 around the Rebel army, and I believe it practicable at any time for 500 daring men to reach the person of any of our commanders, and why not theirs. They are cutting our baggage down to a very small compass, so that six wagons can haul for ten companies. I'm opposed to it, but Halleck ranks me and I will have to submit. Nobody in this country seems to care a cuss whether McClellan is removed or not. General feeling is that the Potomac Army is only good to draw greenbacks and occupy winter quarters. We're in hopes that Pope will be sent back to us after he finishes hanging those Indians. I don't believe there is a regiment in this army that would not cheer him as its corps commander. Everybody seems to be willing to bet something on Pope. Hurlbut is the most popular man here as a division commander, and I think that Grant could get more votes than any other man for commander of the army, always excepting Rosy. Grant is not so popular among the general officers, as far as I know, but the whole line believe in him, mostly, because he is for going ahead and will fight his men. The Memphis force hasn't moved yet that I can hear of. Everything goes on swimmingly in the 103d. The old regiments try to bore our boys by calling them conscripts and $40 men, but don't succeed well. In a march of 15 miles last week an old regiment, 3d Iowa, tried to run us down but it ended in our marching right through them. Dorrance is an excellent fellow in the field, wouldn't trade him for any other lieutenant in the regiment. The Democratic victories at the polls don't excite anyone here. We only wish the soldiers could vote. Illinois would talk differently if we could..

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 143-5

Captain Charles Wright Wills: December 12, 1862

Provost Marshal's Office, Waterford, Miss.,

December 12, '62.

From captain of the provost guard, I have been changed to provost marshal. I had charge of two companies, doing the guard duty for the provost of our division until yesterday; the division was ordered forward to Oxford, except our regiment, which was left to guard the railroad between this point and the Tallahatchie river. Headquarters being here, Colonel Dickerman appointed me provost and sent my company to guard a bridge one and one-half miles south of this place. My business is to attend to all prisoners, deal with citizens (administer oaths, take paroles, etc.), give all passes for citizens and soldiers leaving, have charge of all soldiers straggling from their regiments, issue permits to sutlers, etc., and overlook the cotton trade. Altogether, quite enough for any one man to attend to. The little advantage of having a comfortable house to live in, etc., is worth something; but I kind o' feel as if I would rather be with my company. Another regiment came in to-night, 12th Indiana, and we may possibly be relieved to-morrow. Shall be glad if we can only get with our division again. General Lauman has again taken command of our division, and although we know nothing against McKean, yet we know so much good of Lauman, that we're much pleased. Eight of our companies are guarding bridges, so we only have two here. Confound this railroad guarding; I'm down or. it. 'Tis more dangerous than regular soldiering, harder work, and no shadow of a chance for glory. There's a smart chance of fun in my present business, particularly in the citizens branch thereof. It would have furnished you with amusement enough for a month, could you have heard an old lady talk who visited me to-day. She was a F. F. and blooded, Oh, Lord! We let all come within the lines; but before they can pass out, an oath or parole is required of them. How they squirm! Rebels, though they are, 'tis shocking and enough to make one's blood boil to see the manner in which some of our folks have treated them. Trunks have been knocked to pieces with muskets when the women stood by, offering the keys, bureau drawers drawn out, the contents turned on the floor, and the drawer thrown through the window, bed clothing and ladies' clothing carried off and all manner of deviltry imaginable perpetrated. Of course the scoundrels who do this kind of work would be severely punished if caught, but the latter is almost impossible. Most of the mischief is done by the advance of the army, though, God knows, the infantry is bad enough. The d----d thieves even steal from the negroes (which is lower business than I ever thought it possible for a white man to be guilty of) and many of them are learning to hate the Yankees as much as our "Southern Brethren" do. The army is becoming awfully depraved. How the civilized home folks will ever be able to live with them after the war, is, I think, something of a question. If we don't degenerate into a nation of thieves, 'twill not be for lack of the example set by a fair sized portion of our army. Do you remember that I used to write that a man would no sooner lose his morality in the army than at home? I now respectfully beg to recall the remark, but I believe the sight of such devilish, pointless wickedness disgusts me, and that your brother's moral principles are strengthened by contact with these ungodly. Instance, in my present position, I know without danger of exposure, I could pocket at least $500 within five days; but for conscience sake and my self-respect, I sit back with my purity, and tumble my keys and comb round in my otherwise empty pockets and feel good. Well, it won't do to brag on such a subject, but my confidence in the honesty of man has waned so much since I entered the army that I can't help saying, there are few that would not, in my position, make a raise. Can't hear anything from the front. Know that part of Sherman's army has returned to Memphis to join the expedition down the Mississippi and that is all. This town only contains a dozen or 20 houses, but they are good ones. Great many here profess to have always been Union, and many are taking the oath willingly. Good joke on them when the guerrillas come in after we leave. Suspect they have most all been Rebels, so I don't pity them as much as I do out-spoken seceshers. I rode out in the country eight miles day before yesterday, and found three convalescent soldiers of Price's army at one place, A lieutenant of the 53d Illinois was with me, so we brought them into camp and put them with the other prisoners. We have now nearly 3,000 soldiers in the hospital at Lagrange and yet the army is very healthy. Don't be much surprised if you hear of us being gobbled up by the guerrillas, for these railroad guards are only baits for them; nothing more.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 135-7

Governor Samuel J. Kirkwood to Senator James W. Grimes, March 24, 1862

How about our Brigadiers? You know I long ago recommended Crocker, Dodge and Perczel and I yet think them among our best colonels as you will find when they are tried. Dodge has been tried at Pea Ridge and has turned out just as I expected. I think him one of the very best military men in the State. Has Lauman been appointed? He acted manfully at Belmont and deserves it. Tuttles charge at Donelson is one of the most brilliant of this or any other war. I have been on the ground he charged over, and I believe that none but Iowa troops could have done it. Vandever did nobly at Pea Ridge, so far as I have learned, and all our colonels and all our men will do the same as they get the chance.

Can't we get some more Brigadiers? What is the situation about Washington generally? Don't things look more hopeful? Take time to write me a long letter showing just how things stand. I thank you for your speech on the navy and the gallant Foote. He is a man all over.

SOURCE: Henry Warren Lathrop, The Life and Times of Samuel J. Kirkwood, Iowa's War Governor, p. 214

Nathaniel B. Baker to Rush Clark, February 19, 1862

STATE OF Iowa, ADJUTANT GENERAL’s Office

February 19th, 1862.

HON. Rush CLARK,

Speaker of the House of Representatives.

SIR: I have just received the following despatch from Chicago:

CHICAGO, Feb. 19th, 1862.

To ADJUTANT GENERAL BAKER:

The Second Iowa acquitted themselves with great bravery at Fort Donelson — led the best and most successful charge —have suffered terribly. Besides the Second, there were the Seventh, Tenth, Eleventh, Twelfth and Fourteenth Iowa Infantry in the fight. The friends of Cols. Tuttle, Lauman, Perczel, Hare, Wood and Shaw, will rejoice that the glory of the fight and the victory belongs, and is attached to their names, and to the brave officers and soldiers under them. Another glorious page has been recorded in the history of Iowa by her gallant troops in the field.

With great respect, I have the honor to rejoice in the glory of Iowa, and the triumph of Union men.

N. B. BAKER.

Adjutant General of Iowa.

SOURCES: Henry Warren Lathrop, The Life and Times of Samuel J. Kirkwood, Iowa's War Governor, p. 207; Iowa House of Representatives, Journal of the House of the Ninth General Assembly of the State of Iowa, p. 342

Governor Samuel J. Kirkwood to the House of Representatives of the State of Iowa, May 23, 1861

Gentlemen of the House of Representatives: — In reply to your resolutions of inquiry in regard to clothing furnished the First Iowa Regiment, I have the honor to say:

When the telegraphic dispatch from the Secretary of War informing me of the requisition for the First Regiment reached me, I did not anticipate the uniforming the men at the expense of the State, as such course had not, so far as I knew or could learn, been pursued in the Mexican War. Fearing, however, that the suddenness of the danger might render it desirable to furnish uniforms, I immediately wrote to the Secretary of War asking information on that point; but the interruption of communication at Baltimore prevented me from receiving any answer. Judging from the fact that other States were preparing for uniforming their volunteers, that it would be desirable to have the same done here, I sent an agent to Chicago to purchase materials for uniforms; but the sudden and great demand for that kind of goods had exhausted the supplies in that city. On learning this by telegraph, and fearing there would not be time to await a supply from New York, I immediately instructed the persons acting as Commissaries to purchase materials and make uniforms at the points where the several companies had been raised. The persons who had the matter in charge at the several points were, at Dubuque, D. N. Cooley Esq. and Capt. F. J. Herron. Capt. Herron was sent specially from Davenport to Dubuque to select the materials and direct the uniforms in such manner as the companies preferred. At Cedar Rapids, Dr. Carpenter; at Davenport, Hiram Price Esq.; at Muscatine, Hon. Jos. A. Greene, and at Burlington, Major J. G. Laumau. At Muscatine and Iowa City the material was purchased and the making of the clothes superintended by committees of citizens. Under these circumstances it was impossible to procure the same uniform for the whole regiment. All that could be done was to have the men of each company clothed alike, but differing from those of other companies. It was also impossible to procure as good material as would have been desirable, had more time been allowed. Much of the clothing was made by the ladies, which to that extent lessened the cost. The amount of clothing furnished, so far as the means now in my possession enable me to state, is as fallows:

Capt. Herron's company, Dubuque; each man, hat, frock coat, pants, two flannel shirts, two pairs of socks and pair of shoes.

Capt. Gottschalk's company, Dubuque; blouse instead of coat, and other articles same as Capt. Herron's.

Capt. Cook's company, Cedar Rapids; hat, two flannel shirts, pants, socks and shoes, no jacket or coat.

Capt. Mahanna's company, Iowa City; hat, jacket, pants, two flannel shirts, socks and shoes.

Capt. Wentz's company, Davenport; hats, blouse, pants, two flannel shirts, socks and shoes.

Capt. Cumming's company, Muscatine; cap, jacket, pants, two flannel shirts, socks and shoes.

Capt. Mason's company, Muscatine; same as Capt. Cumming's.

Capt. Matthies' company, Burlington; hat, blouse, pants, two flannel shirts, socks and shoes.

Capt. Streaper's company, Burlington; same as Capt. Matthies’.

Capt. Wise's company, Mt. Pleasant; same as Capt. Matthies’.

I am not certain that all the companies were furnished with socks, shoes and shirts. Some of the shoes, I have reason to believe, were not of good quality costing only from $1.25 to $1.50 per pair, others I know were good, costing from $2.00 to $2.50 per pair. One thousand extra shirts were sent to Keokuk to supply any deficiency that may have existed in that particular. Most of the material for pants was satinett, and not of good quality, costing, as far as the same came under my observation, from forty to sixty cents per yard by the quantity. The entire amount expended for clothing, so far as I can give it from the data in my possession, is about $12,000 or $13,000. If it be desirable in your judgment to have the companies of this regiment uniformed alike, it will be necessary to furnish all with coats and pants of the same make, and to furnish an additional number of hats or caps. Hats were procured for all, but some preferred the cap and procured it, and the cost has been provided for. I cannot think that all the companies need new shoes, as some of the shoes furnished were of excellent quality and have not yet been worn more than two or three weeks.

I am satisfied that it is for the comfort of these troops that many of them be furnished with pants and shoes, and some with socks. As the Second and Third regiments will be clothed throughout alike, it would no doubt be very gratifying to the First regiment to be placed in the same position, and it will afford me much pleasure to carry out whatever may be your wishes in regard to it.

SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.

May 23, 1861.

SOURCE: Henry Warren Lathrop, The Life and Times of Samuel J. Kirkwood, Iowa's War Governor, p. 131-2

Major-General Ulysses S. Grant to Rear-Admiral David D. Porter, May 23, 1863

NEAR VICKSBURG, MISS., May 23, 1863.

Rear-Admiral DAVID D. PORTER,

Commanding Mississippi Squadron:

Your note of this date is just received. I am satisfied that you are doing all that can be done in aid of the reduction of Vicksburg. There is no doubt of the fall of this place ultimately, but how long it will take is a matter of doubt. I intend to lose no more men, but to force the enemy from one position to another without exposing my troops.

I have information that the enemy under Johnston, who have been threatening me, have gone back to Calhoun, on the Mississippi Central Railroad. There is but about 8,000 of them, much demoralized.

A force is collecting at Yazoo City which numbers now about 2,000 men. Does this expose your boats now up the Yazoo? If so, I will send Lauman to disperse them, although I do not like to detach any troops until this job here is closed up. One week is as long as I think the enemy can possibly hold out.

 U.S. GRANT.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 24, Part 3 (Serial No. 38), p. 343

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Monday, May 25, 1863

Fighting commenced this morning all along the line, but it proved to be mostly picket fighting. There was also some heavy cannonading and the mortar boats and the gunboats were in action. Our command, the Sixth Division, lay in bivouac all day. In the evening the rebels came out and captured some of our pickets, and we then formed a line of battle.  The First Missouri Battery threw some shells into the rebels' camp after night. General Lauman's division arrived this morning, but did not get into action.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 118

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Tuesday, May 19, 1863

All is quiet here at Grand Gulf. We heard some heavy cannonading up at Vicksburg. The Third Brigade of General Lauman's Division arrived this afternoon, and about 10 o'clock our brigade (the Third of the Sixth Division) and the Third Brigade of Lauman's received orders to embark at once for Vicksburg. The Eleventh and the Thirteenth got on board the "Queen Forest."

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 116

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Sunday, May 17, 1863

There was some very heavy cannonading out at the front today, and word came that a battle was fought at a place called Champion Hills, with heavy loss on both sides. The rebels are falling back towards Vicksburg. The river is falling and troops are still arriving. General Lauman's Division arrived last night.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 116

Army Correspondence

FORT HOLT, Ky., Jan. 23, 1862

The 7th Regiment reached Cairo last Saturday evening.  We found Cairo one big, deep quagmire.  Mud, mud, everywhere, of the blackest and most adhesive character.  Although we had been a whole week on the road from St. Louis, yet the authorities had neglected to provide any accommodations for our troops on their arrival.  The Regiment was quartered on board the steamer City of Memphis for the night.  The next day (Sunday) we were ordered to Bird’s Point, but on enquiry it was found that the barracks assigned us, were occupied by other troops. – Next we were told to take quarters in Cairo but here also, we found the 8th Wisconsin Regiment had preceded us and taken the only quarters available.  Finally we were ordered over here.  Accordingly we proceeded very early Monday morning to invade the sacred soil of Kentucky.  Ground was soon marked out for a camp when our tents were set up, and tent life once more commenced.  The weather is pleasant and we manage to live very comfortably.  Our camp is on a sand ridge which borders the river, and on the whole a very charming spot.  In front we have Cairo and Bird’s Point in full view, whilst between rolls the broad expanse of water formed by the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers.  In spite of poor tents and previous hard usage, we consider ourselves very comfortably fixed.

How long we shall remain here is entirely unknown to us.  We are under orders however, to be ready to march at an hour’s notice.

The men are in good spirits and eager for active operations in the field.  We have with us a little over five hundred men – nearly all fit for active service.  Many of those wounded ant Belmont are rejoining their respective companies, and never more anxious than now to do battle in their country’s cause – the cause of Good and humanity.

I would here take occasion to acknowledge the reception of many articles for the sick and wounded of our regiment, from the “Ladies’ Aid Societies” of Burlington and vicinity.  The Congregationalist Church of Burlington has laid us under many obligations for the many and valuable additions it has made to our hospital stores.  The Old Zion Methodist Church, which has made generous provision for the unfortunate sufferers by the fatal fight at Belmont.  More recently Mr. David Leonard, Corresponding Secretary of the Ladies’ Aid Society of the District in which he lives, consigned to my care a valuable box of hospital stores for our wounded in the Mound City hospital.  This box was duly received there, and distributed amongst the Iowa troops, according to the expressed wishes of the donors.  Colonel Lauman has just received a box of hospital stores from the Episcopal Church of Burlington, and also another from Mr. Wm. Lynn, of Pleasant Grove, Iowa, both valuable boxes.  By means of these generous donations and other smaller ones not here enumerated our Regimental Hospital has been well supplied and the comfort of the sick and wounded very materially enhanced.

I doubt not it will be a great gratification to our Iowa friends to know that their efforts to benefit the sick and wounded of our brave State troops are duly appreciated and effective in accomplishing the object assigned.

The river is rising rapidly and my soon drive us from our Camping ground.

J. H. CLARK,

Chaplain of the Iowa Seventh

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

Col. James M. Tuttle Headquarters Monument: Chambers Field, Shiloh National Military Park

U. S.

* * *

HEADQUARTERS, 1^ST BRIGADE,

2^D DIVISION,

ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE.

COL. J. M. TUTTLE, 2^D IOWA,

COMMANDING.

* * * * *

ESTABLISHED BY BRIG. GEN. LAUMAN,

MARCH 19, 1862.

See Also:

• Official Report of James M. Tuttle

Colonel Jacob Lauman to his wife Louise D. (Viele) Lauman, February 17, 1862

FORT DONELSON, TENNESSEE, Feb. 17, 1862.

Dear Wife:

I am again safe. My life is still prolonged. Let me hope it is for some good purpose. We have had a great battle, the fight lasting for three days, but you will hear of it, and the great result to flow out of it long before this reaches you.

I commanded the Fourth brigade of the Second division, and my command made their mark. * * * Poor Jack Slaymaker was killed, gallantly leading his men to the charge on the last day — indeed, the only day the Second were in the engagement. Capt. Cloutman fell, also bravely doing his duty. Harry [Doolittle] was wounded very severely, but the surgeons say he will recover. I left my command to see him and poor Jack last evening. I have ordered Jack's remains to be properly cared for, to send home to his parents, and will see that it is done properly, although my time is so occupied I have scarcely time to write this note, nor do I know when or how it will leave here. I am now in command of Fort Donelson, and my brigade are quartered in the fortifications. We will be ordered forward soon, I hope, and I sincerely trust our success will be the harbinger of a speedy close of the horrid rebellion. I received your two letters just before we were ordered into action, and I had to laugh over your congratulations at my good quarters in Smithland, when for two nights I had been camped under a tree, and it raining and snowing on me, without a tent. But my health is improving. My cold under which I have been suffering is getting better, and I am able to endure a great deal of hardship.

Gen. Smith (Paducah Smith) is a good soldier. The reputation of the Iowa Seventh is as bright as ever, although their loss is trifling. The state may well be proud of their troops.

I lost all of my bedding yesterday, and doubt very much if I find it again. We marched out of camp leaving everything behind, and our friends helped themselves. I will look after Harry — I think he will do well. Dr. Marsh says the wound in his stomach did not penetrate far enough to do any serious injury. I trust this may be so. He is in good spirits, and bore his flag like a hero. Love to all. Good bye.

Yours affectionately,

J. G. Lauman.

SOURCES: Army Service Schools Press, Donelson Campaign Sources Supplementing Volume 7 Of The Official Records Of The Union And Confederate Armies  In The War Of The Rebellion, p. 160-1; Samuel H. M. Byers, Iowa In War Times, p. 104-5

Colonel Jacob Lauman to His Brother, February 19, 1862

FORT DONELSON, TENNESSEE, Feb. 19, 1862.

DEAR BROTHER:

The battle is fought, the dead are buried and the wounded cared for, and we are again settling down to the old routine of military discipline. But what a scene we have passed through, and what a victory we have won! We have already sent off eight or nine thousand prisoners, and we have more yet to send. But such a lot of humanity I never saw before — all butternut color; but they can shoot, as many of our boys can testify.

I have made my report to Gen. Smith, which I suppose will be published, and before this reaches you, you will know more about the battle than I do. I have already seen that the Iowa Seventh was all cut up on the first day's fight. I hope you did not let any of these reports disturb you. We had a hard time. For three nights we lay in the open air without tents, and some without blankets, raining and snowing all night. The last night we remained under arms all night, prepared to repel an assault; but when morning came — and oh! how long it was in coming — the enemy attracted our attention to their white flag, and I received proposals for capitulation, which we promptly forwarded to Gen. Smith, and through him to Gen. Grant. Gen. Grant refused terms and insisted on unconditional surrender, and an hour was given them to consider. At the end of that time the loud shouts of the men gave indications that the surrender was unconditional. Then commenced the rejoicings. I claimed for my brigade the right to enter first, which was accorded; when with drums beating and colors flying we entered the fort. The Rebels were drawn up in line, with their arms in great heaps, and looked quite woe-begone, I assure you, as the victors passed along.

My brigade is in the fort, of which I have command. Gen. Smith's division is quartered all around about. The fortifications extend over the country for miles, and the other divisions of the army encamped at other points. The greatest loss was on our right, in McClernand's division. The enemy endeavored to cut through at that point, and fought with great desperation — loss very heavy. But you know all this and more, and this will be stale news to you. I found the pistols I lost at Belmont at Fort Donelson, or others just as good.

Capt. Rhiza will return to Burlington, he informed me today, for a short time. So he informed me, but he may not be able to get off. If he does, I will send a flag, secesh, captured in the fort. They either destroyed or secreted their flags, as none could be found. I have not yet seen the reports of my commanding officer, but Gen. Grant has caused a highly complimentary order to be read to the troops. Gen. Smith is a good officer, and as brave as a lion. I am proud to be under him. I had a good brigade, and I believe they like me. I hope the rebellion will receive such a shock from this that they will not be able to hold up their heads for some time to come. I am obliged to Jennie for her kind and very acceptable letter, and hope she will write again. I received a letter from Gov. Kirkwood covering the resolutions of the legislature of Iowa, and had them read to my regiment last evening. Tell Lou that Harry Doolittle is doing well. I went to the boat to see him, but it had started before I got there. He will remain for the present at Paducah, I suppose. I met, as I was on my way to Dover, where the boat was lying, Drs. Marsh and Nassau of Iowa Second, who gave me this information. Among the hundreds of wounded and dead, it is almost impossible to keep the whereabouts of anyone. I must now bring this to a close. Let Lou see this and it will be the same as though I had written to her. Capt. Slaymaker's remains were forwarded to St. Louis for preparation to send home. I cut off a lock of his hair and sent it to Betty for his friends, fearing something might occur that the coffin could not be opened when it got home. Give my love to all, and if anything should befall me, take good care of wife and little ones, and believe me to be your affectionate brother,

JACOB.

SOURCES: Army Service Schools Press, Donelson Campaign Sources Supplementing Volume 7 Of The Official Records Of The Union And Confederate Armies  In The War Of The Rebellion, p. 161-2; Samuel H. M. Byers, Iowa In War Times, p. 105-6

Specials to New York Papers

(Special to Tribune.)

WASHINGTON, March 3. – The following nominations were made to the Senate to-day as Major Generals: McDowell, Burnside, Buell, Pope, Lewis and Wallace.  As Brigadier Generals, Cols. Oglesby, W. H. Luella, Cook, McArthur and J. G. Lauman, who commanded brigades at Donelson.  Col. Berry of Maine and Fry of Connecticut, are to rank in the order named – Gen. McDowell thus out ranks the rest  and out ranks Sigel.

In Answer to a requisition of the Senate, the Secretary of War incloses [sic] the instructions of the Adjutant General to Gen. Hunter touching the Hunter Lane expedition, dated Jan. 20.

The order to Gen. Hunter says the General in Chief, in giving you this information, desires it to be understood that a command independent of you is not given to Gen. Lane, but he is to operate to all proper extent, under your supervision and control and if you deem propert, you may yourself, command the expedition which may be undertaken.

Under these circumstances the General in Chief will not give you a formal leave according to your instructions, but he authorizes you to absent yourself from your command for 30 days at your discretion.

The Herald’s Washington dispatch says it is understood that arrangements have been made for release from their parole of all the officers of our army, regulars and volunteers, who have been out on parole by the enemy.  We have such a host of rebel prisoners that there is no longer need that a single officer or private shall be any longer on parole.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 8, 1862, p. 3

Gen. Lauman

A correspondent of the Philadelphia Press says:

In the telegraphic accounts of the capture of Fort Donelson, published in the Press of yesterday morning, it was stated that General Lauman’s brigade, of Gen. Smith’s division, was the first to enter the upper end of the fort. This Gen. Lauman is a native of York county, in this State; but for the last ten or twelve years has resided in Burlington, Iowa.  At the breaking out of this wicked rebellion, he raised a regiment of Iowa volunteers, and has been in service ever since.  He participated in the fight at Belmont, and was severely wounded on that occasion.  His mother, a brother and two sisters now reside in the town of York. – General Lauman is a man of undoubted courage and generous impulses, and we are glad to observe that he is not among the killed or wounded on this occasion.  Long may he live to defend our time-honored flag and enjoy the blessings which it dispenses!

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 8, 1862, p. 1

Letter from Lieut. Col. Parrott

(From the Gate City)

FORT DONELSON, TENN.

Feb. 18, 1862

MY DEAR WIFE:  I am happy to inform you that James and myself escaped without a scratch.  Col. Lauman, Major Rice, and in fact all our commanding officers with a few exceptions, are all safe.  Although we had a strong force and an almost impregnable fort to contend with yet they had to yield, and we all look upon it as one of the most signal victories that has yet been gained, in which our gallant little 7^th and the Iowa 2d bore a conspicuous part.  We fought almost side by side, and when our official report shall be published it will show to the world that Iowa stands high on the scroll of military fame.

I will now allude to the plan of attack.  On Wednesday night last we arrived in front of the Fort.  On top of an eminence was planted a battery of the 1^st Missouri of two pieces of Parrot riffled 20 pounders, which battery I was ordered to support with the 7^th.  The boys moved up the hill with a steady and firm step, knowing that it was a post of great honor.  We were compelled to lay on our arms all night without fire and not even a blanket, but taking it all through we spent the night very comfortably.  The night passed quietly, and in the morning I was ordered to join my brigade, which constituted part of the left wing.  Col. Lauman commanded the fourth brigade of the second division, leaving me in command of our regiment.  We joined our brigade and the command was given to storm the enemy’s breastworks at a charge, and away we went, and nothing but fallen timber, deep ravines and other impediments prevented us from mounting their entrenchments.  We gained a secure position within 75 to 100 yards of their works, and kept up our firing until dark, doing considerable execution.  At night we withdrew our forces and bivouacked on the ground we occupied the night previous.

I was suffering severely from a sick headache, and knowing that they would not attack us out of their entrenchments, I retired to the rear for the night. As comfortably as the circumstances of the case would admit, for it was one of the most inclement nights I almost ever witnessed.  It commenced raining about 7 p. m. and poured down for about two hours then it commenced sleeting, and to wind up, it snowed about three inches, and in the morning we had a pretty good Iowa winter.

On Friday morning the 2d Iowa arrived and I had the pleasure of meeting my son and many warm friends, who were delighted to think they had a prospect for a fight.  On Friday we kept up our skirmishing and at night laid upon the ground again.  Col. Lauman and myself bunked together by the side of a log with no covering but one blanket and the canopy of heaven. – About 9 p. m. it again commenced snowing and fell about two inches.  We passed the night with very little comfort, but as good soldiers we did our duty and scarcely heard a murmur from our men.

On Saturday morning the fight opened in earnest on the right wing, and we were for some hours held in suspense on our wing, but shortly after noon we found that the time had come for us to make the decisive blow, and at it we went, Col. Lauman giving the post of honor and danger to the more than gallant Iowa 2d.  They made a most magnificent charge and the no less gallant 7^th followed close to their heels, and drove the enemy like chaff before the whirlwind to their second breastworks, where they again made a stand and gave us all some warm work.  Night approaching we fell back to the rear of their first entrenchment, and bivouacked for the night on the cold frozen ground without fire, Col. Lauman and myself occupying the root of a mammoth oak looking for an attack hourly; but daylight came and with it the sound of bugles from the enemy’s camp.  As soon as it was light I mounted the entrenchments and found that the enemy were displaying the white flag..  I was ordered forward to receive it and met them half way between the entrenchments.  They made a proposition to surrender on conditions.  Their proposition was sent to headquarters and the reply sent back “surrender unconditionally or the fight continues.”  In a short time our terms were complied with, and on that beautiful quiet, still Sabbath morning we marched in under martial music, amid the shouts of thousands of happy and loyal hearts, and took possession of an immense Fort and all its equipments, and thousands of prisoners.  But amid all this rejoicing there were some sad hearts.  Some of our brave boys had bit the dust and many were wounded and suffering.  But such is the fate of War!

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

Private Letter from Adjutant Tyner of the 14th Iowa

ON THE CUMBERLAND RIVER,

NEAR DOVER, TENN., Feb. 17.

MY DEAR FATHER. – I expect you all imagine I am dead by this time, but thank God I am here safe, and with but slight injuries.  We left Fort Henry on the 12^th of February, marched all day and encamped three-fourths of a mile from this fort – so near that we dare not make camp fires for fear of drawing shells from the enemy.  We were up bright and early on the morning of the 13^th, got our breakfast of hard crackers and water, and awaited orders.  About 9 o’clock, A. M., we drew up in battle line, loaded our rifles, and in a few moments were marching in full battle front, through the thickest woods, and over the deepest ravines.  We were halted and put over the brow of the hill in front of the enemy’s entrenchments.  This part of their fort is situated on top of a high hill, with high entrenchments and rifle pits thrown up all around.  In front of this entrenchment is a miserable steep hill, on the side of which was fallen timber very thick.  At the bottom was a ravine, and then came another hill, thickly grown with timber.  On top of this was where our regiment was drawn up – we on the right, the 25^th Indiana on our left, and the 7^th Indiana on the extreme left of them.

Just previous to our moving, Col. Lauman, of the 7^th, Iowa, senior Colonel commanding our brigade, detailed me as one of his aids, but allowed me the privilege of being with my regiment – as much as possible, as Col. Shaw and myself were the only officers commanding the regiment.  Our Lieut. Col. was a member of the court martial at St. Louis, and could not be released.  Major Leonard was sick at the time of the fight, and could not go, consequently the Colonel and myself were the only mounted men in the regiment.

The Colonel gave me the command of the left wing of the battalion, and I was behind this part of the regiment when we moved down the hill.  We had not got down in the ravine before the enemy fired at our Colonel and myself.  They had thrown out their sharp-shooters as skirmishers, and they were hid behind fallen trees in our advance.  From this concealment they fired at us – one ball coming so near my face as to make me gracefully nod my head.

We continued our march, and in going up the hill over a little point our regiment was received with grape, shell, canister, ball and musketry.  Such a fire soldiers seldom encounter.  They had three concealed batteries, which they opened on us, and all their men were concealed; not one could we see during the fire – only as they popped their heads over the breastwork, and then woe to them; for we shot every man we saw.  During the first charge the regiment directed the right wing going to the right, to save themselves behind a portion of the hill.  The left wing under my command, instead of giving way, went on until I told them to save themselves behind trees, which they did by laying close to the ground.  About this time a spent ball struck my horse, knocking him down and me with him.  I jumped up and followed the boys until the fire became uncomfortably warm.  I sat down behind a tree, for every man in the regiment had to do this to save himself, but not a man retreated.  They seemed to have spotted every officer in the regiment, for their sharpshooters played on us unmercifully.  I could get in no position to evade the range of some of their rifles.  I will venture that fifty shots were fired within one foot of my head, one passing through my hair on the back of my head.  The whole regiment was under this galling fire for three hours, but by laying close to the ground we saved ourselves, as they could not get the range of their guns low enough.  We had two men killed instantly and 14 fell wounded.  The sharp shooters on our side then commenced work, and silenced every battery we were exposed to, thus leaving us an opportunity to get the regiment out of the fire, and form in the hollow or ravine below, where we were secure from their shots in this position.

We remained until after dark, when the order was given to cautiously move to our quarters of the night before.  The 25^th Indiana, on our left were obliged to quail as we did.  A part of their regiment moved up the hill to a little further than we, but suddenly the enemy from behind the entrenchments, opened fire on them, and they had to run for dear life.  In their retreat to the bottom of the hill, it seemed as though two-thirds of their men fell; but only 14 were killed and 50 wounded.  The unnecessarily exposed themselves and suffered the consequences.  The Iowa 7^th, in this action was cautions to lay low; it lost only one man that day, and he was in our regiment, or where we were.  It is equally as brave as any regiment yet.  The bitter experience at Belmont taught them to move cautiously.  I must say, Colonel Lauman is a brave man, yet I think our Colonel is the bravest man I ever saw.  He was as cool as a human could be, never manifesting either fear or excitement.  He remained on his horse during the whole engagement, and sat there with his legs thrown across the saddle, lady style.  I was not frightened, until they seemed to direct their shots particularly at me, and then I felt as though mere chance would effect my escape.  All the boys yelled and begged of me to move to save myself, and I headed their advice as soon as I could.  In Friday, the day following, we did little but to skirmish and pick the rebels off were we could.  We slept on our arms at night, out in the woods.  The greatest hardship I ever endured in my life, or ever expect to, I realized this trip.  We lived on hard crackers and water, and slept on the ground with only a light blanket.  One night it rained till 12 o’clock, then snowed until morning.  I slept on the damp ground with my little blanket over me, and in the morning every particle of clothing was frozen hard.  I thawed myself out by a large camp fire in the morning.

On Saturday the fight became general.  The gunboats had done all they could, so the only thing left for us was to take the fortification at the point of the bayonet.  The Iowa Second made the first charge, supported by the Iowa 7^th and 14^th, also the Indiana 25^th.  We marched up the hill in as heavy a fire as could be, and men fell on every side.  Capt. Slaymaker, Iowa Second, fell just above me, and I almost stumbled over his body.  We took the first entrenchment, and held the second in spite of the fire.  We laid under their entrenchments all night, in mud that froze us in tight.  On Sunday morning the rebels formed in battle line on their entrenchment without their arms, under the white flag.  They surrendered unconditionally, and the order came for the Second Iowa to march inside the entrenchments first, followed by the 14^th Iowa and then on the 7^th.  We took the fort and marched in first.  Ours was the 4^th brigade, composed of the Iowa 2d, 7^th, and 14^th, also the 25^th Indiana, and Birge’s sharpshooters, all commanded by Col. Lauman.  We all fought like devils, and would have died by inches rather than retreat.  The entire fight lasted four days, during two of which we fought all day. – All the regiments here – 40 in number – had fighting to do, and only those who have seen, can imagine how a battle-filed looks.  Our loss in the 14^th is 3 killed and 21 wounded.  In all the Iowa regiments, 47 killed, and 237 wounded; the Iowa 2d having 40 of the killed and 160 of the wounded.  I had my horse knocked from under me the first day, and was knocked head over heels the second day by a piece of shell, which struck me on the side and stomach, not tearing the skin, but bruising me.  I am up and around, and only a little sore.  My injuries are not worth mentioning.

Your affectionate son,

N. N. TYNER.

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

Obituary of Capt. Jonathan S. Slaymaker

OBITUARY OF CAPT. JONATHAN S. SLAYMAKER, OF DAVENPORT, IOWA, WHO FELL AT FORT DONELSON FEB. 15,1862, IN THE FAMOUS CHARGE OF THE SECOND IOWA INFANTRY.

BY THE FORMER EDITOR OF THE ANNALS.

Yet surely there is some record

When a brave young hero dies.

T. Juynes Bailey.

The subject of this obituary notice, Jonathan S. Slaymaker, the son of Samuel K. Slaymaker, was born in York, Pa., on the 31st of March, 1835, and was baptised, in infancy, by Rev. Albert Barnes, then pastor of the Presbyterian Church there. He had the advantages of early religious as well as secular education, attending in his youth the Sabbath School, and in his young manhood becoming a teacher of others in the Sunday School.

At eighteen years of age he entered upon railroad labor, as a civil engineer, and subsequently he engaged in business at Davenport, Iowa, where he still continued his interest in Sunday Schools, being connected with the 2d Presbyterian congregation, in which his uncle, the late H. Y. Slaymaker, was so prominent, and imitating the zeal and generosity of that uncle in liberally contributing for the support of the Gospel in that connection, while that organization continued.

Afterward, the 2d Presbyterian Church enterprise having been suspended, he attended at St. Luke's Episcopal Church. The Rev. Mr. Powers, Rector of that church, says of his character: "Before the war, he taught in my Sunday School and attended my church. I think I can safely assure you that his heart was given to God. He was not communicative on religious subjects, yet I have reason to believe that nearly two years ago he began to draw graciously heavenward. Many things convince me that, in spirit, he was a disciple of the Lord Jesus. His daily life was exemplary, and it seemed that he was waiting to feel settled in his place of residence before he openly connected himself with the church."

His military history began with his enlistment in company C, of the 2d Iowa Regiment of Volunteer Infantry, in which he held the rank of First Lieutenant at the time of mustering, May 2d, 1861, but was promoted to be Captain on the 3d of October, 1861. In a letter to a friend, about the time of his enlistment, he says: "Shall I be one of those destined to be left behind when the conquering hosts return to receive the thanks of their fellow countrymen for the precious service they have rendered? is a question that frequently suggests itself to my mind. One thing I know: I enlisted in this war from principle, and I feel that I am willing to make any sacrifice that is in my power, to assist in our good and just cause. I shall not want to return unless we gain our end."

Nor did he return till borne a corpse from the bloody field of Fort Donelson. Brig. Gen. Lauman wrote on the occasion: “We have had a great victory. * * * * Poor Jack Slaymaker lost his life in one of the most brilliant charges on record. He had, with his regiment, reached the breastworks and passed in, when a ball shot him in the thigh and severed the main artery. He bled to death in five minutes. I enclose a lock of his hair, which I secured myself, that you will hand to his bereaved parents. He was as gallant a soldier as ever carried a sword. After he was wounded, he raised himself on his side, waved his sword and called his men to go forward, then sank down and died. He was a good and steadfast friend of mine, and I mourn him much. It is melancholy to think, that the first time he was under my command should be his last. But he died gloriously. What more can a man do for his country?"

His remains were brought to Davenport, Iowa, and his funeral was numerously attended from St. Luke's Church at 2 o'clock P. M. on the 27th of Feb., 1862.

Such was the heroic patriot, the steadfast friend, the affectionate son and brother, the faithful companion, the constant Sunday School teacher, at home, the Christian soldier abroad.

– Many die  as suddenly,

Few as safe. –

This brief notice, by a friend who knew him, (in connection with the 2d Presbyterian congregation at Davenport, so long sustained by his uncle, H. Y. Slayraaker, with great sacrifice,) cannot better be closed than in the words of the Rev. Albert Barnes to his bereaved parents: "My heart bleeds for you in your loss. Your son was lovely in his life — in appearance, in his manner, in his spirit, in his hopes and promises in regard to future life, in all that could bind the hearts of loving parents to a son. God has done it, whatever be the instrument. It seemed good to God, that he should fall as he has done. "When you gave him to God, you gave him to Him to live as long as He should please, to serve Him in any way He should direct, and then to lie down and die when, where and how God should appoint. 'I opened not my mouth,' said the Psalmist, 'because thou didst it.'"

S. S. H.

SOURCE: Annals of Iowa, No. VI, April, 1864, p. 283-5