Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 222. — Report of Col. Gilbert M. L. Johnson, Thirteenth Indiana Cavalry, of operations December 4-9, 1864.

No. 222.

Report of Col. Gilbert M. L. Johnson, Thirteenth Indiana Cavalry, of operations December 4-9, 1864

HEADQUARTERS THIRTEENTH INDIANA CAVALRY,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 10, 1864.

SIR: In compliance with orders received in communication dated headquarters, Murfreesborough, December 5, 1864, I have the honor to report that, in accordance with verbal orders received from Major-General Rousseau on the evening of December 3, 1864, I took up the line of march with my command on the morning of December 4, 1864, toward La Vergne, with the view of camping that night at that point. Upon reaching a point some three miles distant from this place I met a detachment of the Fifth Tennessee Cavalry, which had been stationed at Overall's Creek, retiring upon this point, being pursued by the enemy. I ordered the captain in charge of the same to deploy his men as skirmishers on the left of the road, at the same time throwing a company of my command on the right, and proceeded in this manner one mile to the creek, the enemy's skirmishers falling back to the opposite bank. A brisk skirmish was kept up, the creek intervening, the enemy at the same time opening on us with three pieces of artillery. At this time I addressed a communication to the general commanding, of which the following is a copy:

HEADQUARTERS THIRTEENTH INDIANA CAVALRY,        

Overall's Creek, December 4, 1864.

Major-General ROUSSEAU:

 

GENERAL: I am holding the skirmish line at Overall's Creek. The enemy expose a line double to mine; reported moving column on my right flank; have used three pieces of artillery on me; also reported the same to be used on the block-house. Slight loss; skirmishing rapid; await orders; artillery moving toward their rear on the pike. Heavy artillery firing distinctly heard in the direction of Nashville. I shall endeavor to cross the creek.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

G. M. L. JOHNSON,        

Colonel Thirteenth Indiana Cavalry.

Shortly afterward General Milroy came up with re-enforcements, his infantry relieving my skirmish line, and I formed my regiment in column on the pike, at a distance of 400 yards from the bridge. Just before night-fall I received an order from General Milroy, through Captain Carson, to charge across the bridge, which order I obeyed. After gaining the opposite bank I turned the head of my column to the right, and swung round the base of the hill, menacing the enemy's left flank, which had the effect of causing the retiring of a large part of the enemy's force. My pieces (Enfield rifles) being discharged and difficult to reload when men are mounted, and the enemy having turned their artillery on me, I retired my column to the creek under cover of the bank, and in doing so received a slight fire from our own forces stationed in the block-house, they evidently in the darkness mistaking us for the enemy. I immediately threw out skirmishers, dismounted, and, reforming my line, made another dash around the former position of their left flank and in rear of the hill on which their artillery had been planted. The enemy having retired, I threw out outposts and withdrew my command to this side Overall's Creek. I retired, in accordance with orders from General Milroy, and arrived in camp at this place about 1 a.m. December 5, 1864.

Additional skirmishes and reconnaissances have been had with the enemy on the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 9th of December, 1864. In these my command has captured about 20 prisoners, among whom were 1 major and 1 lieutenant.

Please find the list of casualties appended.*

I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

G. M. L. JOHNSON,        

Colonel Thirteenth Indiana Cavalry.

Major CRAVENS,
        Asst. Adjt. Gen., Defenses Nashville and Chattanooga R. R.

_______________

* Shows 1 officer and 7 men killed and 34 men wounded.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 630-1

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 223. — Report of Col. Thomas C. Boone, One hundred and fifteenth Ohio Infantry, of operations December 2-5, 1864.

No. 223.

Report of Col. Thomas C. Boone, One hundred and fifteenth Ohio Infantry,

of operations December 2-5, 1864.

HDQRS. 115TH REGIMENT OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 27, 1864.

LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to transmit herewith a report of the operations of my regiment during Hood's late advance into Tennessee.

On the 25th of November, as per instructions from headquarters post of Murfreesborough, I started to Duck River Bridge, at the same time sent the adjutant northward toward Nashville on an inspection tour. I found the troops from here to Duck River supplied with the requisite amount of ammunition and subsistence to December 10, 1864. The adjutant returned November 27, making a similar report. I immediately forwarded twenty days' rations to all the detachments of the regiment from Nashville to Duck River, supplying the troops to the 1st of January, 1865.

Block-house No. 2, five miles from Nashville, commanded by Lieut. George D. Harter, was the first attacked by the enemy. About 8 a.m. December 2, 1864, a force was seen approaching the block-house, a large majority of whom were dressed in Federal uniform. The force began gradually to surround the block-house. About this time a railroad train was heard approaching from the south. When it came in sight it was discovered to be loaded with colored troops. The train came up very slowly, and when on the bridge at the block-house was fired into by the enemy's artillery, disabling the engine and wrecking the train immediately. This began the fight, and seven pieces of artillery opened fire on the block-house. The colored troops, which consisted of parts of the Fourteenth and Forty-fourth U. S. Colored Infantry, and numbering in all about 350 men, under command of Colonel Johnson, of the Forty-fourth U.S. Colored Troops, sought protection at the block-house. They were scarce of ammunition, and Lieutenant Harter gave to Colonel Johnson for the use of his command 2,000 rounds, without which they could have rendered but little or no assistance to the block-house garrison. The garrison kept up constant firing on the enemy, forcing them to change the position of their artillery frequently. One piece, however, which did them the most damage, was stationed on a hill about 500 yards north of the block-house. It was loaded under cover of the hill, pushed to the crest, sighted and fired, and then drawn back to reload. The garrison was unable to force this gun from its position. Firing was kept up continually from 10 a.m. until dark. Near 500 rounds solid shot and shell, from 10 and 20 pounder guns, were fired at the block-house. The rebels told our wounded (who were left in their hands) that they fired upward of 460 rounds. Night found the block-house in a ruinous condition, the north wing being completely destroyed, outside casing of west wing was badly damaged, the lookout gone, two large breaches made in the roof, and one of the posts—the main support of the roof—knocked out, while the other center posts were badly splintered. Lieutenant Harter, taking into consideration the condition of the block-house and that his ammunition was nearly all expended, regarded it as certain capture to remain until daylight. Consequently, at 3 a.m. December 3, 1864, the garrison evacuated the block-house, and, accompanied by the colored troops, arrived safely in Nashville at daylight. Upon reporting to Major-General Thomas, Lieutenant Harter was informed that an order had been issued two days previously directing the abandonment of all block-houses from Nashville to Murfreesborough. The courier failed to get through the rebel lines, consequently the order was not received. Casualties of the garrison at this block-house (No. 2) were 1 enlisted man killed and 3 enlisted men wounded.

No. 1 block-house, four miles from Nashville, commanded by Lieut. Jacob N. Shaffer, was attacked and the entire garrison captured December 3, 1864. The amount of firing upon and damage done to block-house and garrison before its surrender has not been ascertained. It is reported, however, that firing was kept up throughout the day and that a flag of truce was sent in five times during the day.

Block-house No. 3, near Antioch, commanded by Capt. D. N. Lowrey, was attacked on the 3d of December by artillery. The rebel guns here were placed in such positions as to prevent the block-house garrison from doing them much injury other than occasionally picking off a gunner. After holding out for thirty-six hours and receiving ninety shots, from 12 and 20 pounder guns, the garrison was compelled to surrender.

Capt. Lewis F. Hake, commanding at La Vergne, received an order December 4, 1864, from Major-General Thomas (which had been issued three days previously), to abandon all the block-houses from Nashville to Murfreesborough and withdraw the forces to the latter place. Couriers were started each way along the railroad on the morning of the 5th to notify the commanders of the block-houses. Sergt. William McKinney, commanding Block-house No. 4, having received this order, was in the act of evacuating his block-house, when he was attacked and compelled to surrender.

On the morning of the 5th of December, 1864, as the command at La Vergne was completing its preparations to march to Murfreesborough (two wagons having already been loaded), the rebels suddenly made their appearance in considerable force on all sides, and a flag of truce was discovered approaching. It was halted at a proper distance and Lieutenant Eadie sent out to meet it. Whilst a consultation was being had under the flag the rebels took advantage of the same and planted four pieces of artillery bearing directly on the command. Under the circumstances, being surrounded by a force greatly superior in numbers, with their artillery in position commanding the whole ground ready for firing, Captain Hake was compelled to surrender his command, consisting of 73 men (regimental martial band included), 25 horses and equipments, 2 pieces of artillery (one 6 and one 12 pounder), and small-arms.

Commanders of block-houses Nos. 5 and 6, Capt. William M. McClure and Lieut. John S. Orr, received Captain Hake's order the night of the 4th. They evacuated their block-houses on the morning of the 5th instant. Rebels in small squads had already made their appearance on all sides. The garrisons were compelled to make a circuitous route around through Jefferson, marching over twenty miles, had several skirmishes with the enemy on the way, and arrived safely in camp at Murfreesborough about 2 p.m. of the same day.

Block-house No. 7, four miles from Murfreesborough, commanded by Lieut. H. H. Glosser, was attacked on the 4th instant by rebel artillery and musketry. Seventy-six artillery shots were fired at the blockhouse, thirty-two of which struck it. The railroad bridge at this point was saved, and but little damage was done to the block-house other than knocking off the lookout. This house was not again attacked with artillery. Sharpshooters remained keeping the garrison hemmed in, as the following communication, being the first that was heard from Lieutenant Glosser, will explain.

BLOCK-HOUSE No. 7, December 18, 1864.

Major-General MILROY:

 

SIR: I am informed by your scout (Mr. Lee) that the rebels have retreated. He tells me that if there is anything I want to send a note to you and say what it is. General, I want nothing but liberty. I have been hemmed in for thirteen days, not daring to put my head outside the block-house. The rebel sharpshooters have left, and I feel better. The health of myself and men is good; am ready for any emergency. General Forrest sent in a flag of truce four times, demanding the surrender of this house, promising to treat me well, and threatening to burn me with Greek fire if I refused. I resolved to believe nothing but such things as I could see; and as I could not see the Greek fire, I thought I would wait until I did.

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

 

H. H. GLOSSER,       

First Lieut. Company E, 115th Regt. Ohio Vol. Infty., Comdg. Block-House No. 7.

No casualties were sustained at this block-house. The garrison kept up firing at all times when the rebels appeared in sight, expending during the whole time nearly 8,000 rounds of ammunition.

The detachments at block-houses between Murfreesborough and Tullahoma, with but one exception, were not attacked by the enemy.

Block-House No. 9, near Bell Buckle Station, Lieut. M. S. Hurd commanding, was approached by flag of truce and its surrender demanded. Lieutenant Hurd promptly refused, telling them "if they wanted the block-house, they must come and take it." The rebels did not open fire with their artillery, and after a few volleys of musketry withdrew from sight. Straggling rebels were now seen all along the road to Tullahoma, quite a number of whom were picked up and forwarded to Murfreesborough.

You are already cognizant of the part taken by the detachment in and near Murfreesborough, which renders it unnecessary for me to mention the particulars. So far as I am able to learn I have good reason to believe that every detachment of the regiment throughout has done its duty as became soldiers.

I feel it my duty here to make special mention of the manner in which Lieuts. George D. Hatter and Henry H. Glosser, with the little bands of veterans under their command, so nobly acquitted themselves under such trying circumstances. Too much credit cannot be given them for so gallantly defending their block-houses against the prolonged attack of the enemy, so much their superior in numbers and furnished with 10 and 20 pounder guns.

Captured, 170; killed, 1; wounded, 4; escaped since capture, 4.

Accompanying this report is a list of casualties in the regiment, as nearly correct as I am at this time able to give.

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

THOMAS C. BOONE,        

Colonel 115th Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Commanding.

Lieut. H. H. SHEETS,
        Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 631-4

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 224. — Report of Col. Thomas Saylor, Twenty-ninth Michigan Infantry, of operations December 13, 1864.

No. 224.

Report of Col. Thomas Saylor, Twenty-ninth Michigan Infantry, of operations December 13, 1864.

HDQRS. TWENTY-NINTH REGT. MICHIGAN VOL. INFANTRY,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 14, 1864.

SIR: I have the honor to report that, in compliance with your order of the 13th instant, I proceeded with my regiment in charge of a train south on the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad for the purpose of obtaining fuel, and reconnoitering with the view of preventing the enemy from destroying the road at any point which time and circumstances would permit me to pass over. About three miles from town, immediately in the vicinity of the residence of Mr. Russell, we found a culvert on fire and a few rebels scattered about the premises. I left a sergeant and fifteen men as a guard to that portion of the road, and proceeded between eight and nine miles, when, on the suggestion of the conductor, I stopped to load the train. About 4 p.m., the train being loaded, I moved cautiously toward town. I had proceeded but a few miles when clouds of smoke were seen to rise from the track a short distance ahead. On approaching the same and halting the train, we were greeted with a volley of musketry from the enemy, who were posted behind a ridge on our left, apparently in large numbers. I disembarked two companies, deployed them, and threw them rapidly toward the enemy, who fell back on their approach. In the meantime the fire was removed from the track and the men lively at work relaying the same, about fifty feet of which was torn up and thrown aside. About the time the track was in sufficient repair to pass over they opened upon us with artillery. I then ordered the train to move forward, when, to my surprise, I found that the brakemen had decamped and the engineer could not be found. He finally made his appearance after an absence of about ten minutes, during which time we were exposed to a galling fire and the engine in great danger of being demolished by the rapid firing of the enemy. We finally got in motion and moved slowly on, with a line of skirmishers in rear of the train, who were at times heavily pressed by the rebels. The water-tank of the engine was rent by a ball and the water escaped, for the want of which the train was brought to a stand about four miles from town, from which point we were obliged to push it home by hand.

In our exertions to repel the enemy and conduct the train safely in we lost in killed, wounded, and missing as follows:1 man killed; 9 men and 1 officer wounded; 6 men missing; total loss, 17.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

THOMAS SAYLOR,        

Colonel, Comdg. Twenty-ninth Regt. Michigan Vol. Infantry.

Capt. E. A. OTIS,
        Assistant Adjutant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 634

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 225. — Report of Lieut. H. Milo Torrence, One hundred and fifteenth Ohio Infantry, Assistant Inspector Railroad Defenses, of operations December 4-17, 1864.

No. 225.

Report of Lieut. H. Milo Torrence, One hundred and fifteenth Ohio Infantry,

Assistant Inspector Railroad Defenses, of operations December 4-17, 1864.

OFFICE ASSISTANT INSPECTOR RAILROAD DEFENSES,                

DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,        

Murfreesborough, December 28, 1864.

SIR: I have the honor to report that on Sunday, December 4, at about 11 a.m., the enemy opened three pieces 12-pounder artillery on block-house No. 7, at distances of 500 and 800 yards, throwing seventy-two shot and shell, thirty-one of which struck the building, five in the lookout and twenty-six in the main building and its entrance way. Of the twenty-six, six were thrown into the inner casing at loop line. It will be remembered that the outer casing of this house is supported above the loop line by pillars twelve to fifteen inches long. The shot were thrown in between the upper and lower logs of the outer case and the pillars. Some of the pillars were struck and shattered but none knocked entirely out. No shot penetrated the main building; no shot struck, however, directly on the loop, the bearing of the guns being such as not to admit of it except at the corner. No shot penetrated the timbers of inner case sufficiently deep to distend the timber on the inside. About 2 p.m. Major-General Milroy engaged the enemy and relieved the garrison. On Monday, the 5th, about 2 p.m., the enemy again opened three pieces on house, at distance of 800 and 900 yards to the northwest, and fired five or six shot and shell, one of which only struck the building, doing but little damage. The garrison were ready for the attack, and had seven or eight loops bearing on the battery. I required them to fire by rank, which was done, and done with such precision as to compel the enemy to limber up and get away at double-quick, with the loss of one horse, and, I learn from rebel authority, three or four wounded men; their sharpshooters left with them. We took advantage of the dark to get more wood and water, and some timbers, with which the floor of tower was made bomb-proof. About midnight a Federal soldier came to garrison, saying that General Bate had sent him to say to garrison that if they would surrender that he (Bate) would parole the whole garrison, respect private property, &c., and that he would send in flag by 6 a.m. or sunrise. At 12 the promised flag came, by order of General Hill, asking surrender upon terms offered by General Bate; was answered that "We would hold the block-house." This morning a picket-line was put out around us, the sharpshooters looking after also. On the 7th flag came in, by order General Forrest, giving ten minutes to surrender or be burned with Greek fire, etc. Four flags came in during the thirteen days. On Friday, the 16th, the pickets were called in. On 17th all disappeared except a few stragglers, who evinced no disposition to molest.

The garrison did not have one man hurt, nor did the house sustain any serious injury.

The deficiency in the block-house, as developed in this case (and as far as I can learn in that of No. 2), is in the staunching supporting the ceiling and in the horizontal bracing at the cap plates. In No. 7 the girder spanning the south wing commenced to give way while the house was bombarded in the opposite side or wings. I had temporary posts put in and other like improvement made as circumstances suggested. I am of the opinion that the rectangular building, properly constructed and located, is the better plan for the blockhouses. I have increased confidence in block-houses as means of defense, from my experience, and believe that they can be so constructed as to resist any artillery that is ordinarily brought to bear against them.

Allow me to recommend to favorable consideration Lieutenant Glosser and his command; they behaved nobly during the siege of fourteen days.

Respectfully submitted.

H. M. TORRENCE,        

First Lieutenant and Assistant Inspector Railroad Defenses.

Maj. JAMES R. WILLETT,
        Chief Inspector R. R. Defenses, Dept. of the Cumberland.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 635-6

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 217. — Report of Capt. Frank Jackson, Twelfth Battery Ohio Light Artillery, of operations December 7, 1864.

No. 217.

Report of Capt. Frank Jackson, Twelfth Battery Ohio Light Artillery, of operations December 7, 1864.

HEADQUARTERS TWELFTH OHIO BATTERY,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 8, 1864.

I have the honor to respectfully report:

I had two pieces of artillery (our 12-pounder field howitzer and 6-pounder smooth-bore field gun), under command of Second Lieut. Joseph Billings, of my battery, in the action of yesterday, the 7th instant. He took position on the left of Wilkinson's pike, and there engaged the enemy with good effect until ordered to retire for want of ammunition. I had one man wounded in head at this place. No other accident or casualties. I have no positive means of knowing the exact amount of damage done to the enemy, but, judging from the close proximity our shells exploded to his position, I think his casualties must have been heavy. The section was soon after ordered to the fortress to get full supply of ammunition, and when returning to the field of action was ordered by Major-General Rousseau to its quarters.

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

FRANK JACKSON,        

Captain, Commanding Twelfth Ohio Independent Battery.

Col. M. T. THOMAS,
        Eighth Minnesota Volunteers, Comdg. Independent Brigade.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 627

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 218. — Report of Col. Arthur T. Wilcox, One hundred and seventy-seventh Ohio Infantry, of operations December 7, 1864.

No. 218.

Report of Col. Arthur T. Wilcox, One hundred and seventy-seventh Ohio Infantry,

of operations December 7, 1864.

I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by the One hundred and seventy-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry in the action of December 7, 1864, near Murfreesborough, Tenn.:

In obedience to orders from Major-General Milroy, commanding, we left Fortress Rosecrans at 8 a.m. on the 7th instant, joined brigade, marched out on Salem pike two miles and a half; from there moved in a northerly direction about one mile and a half, when we were suddenly opened upon by the enemy's artillery. The regiment was ordered by the colonel commanding brigade to support three guns of the Thirteenth New York Battery. Formed my line in rear of the said battery and remained there until the enemy's fire ceased; had four men wounded. The men are deserving of much credit for their coolness, this being the first time the regiment was under fire. We then moved by the right flank and formed line of battle, with our left resting on the Wilkinson pike. Moved forward under fire from enemy's artillery half a mile, when I was ordered by major general commanding to move my regiment to cover the right flank of the division. Formed my line at right angles with our line of battle and parallel with the Nashville pike; sent forward skirmishers at same time, our cavalry being sharply engaged in our front, and our right held that line about one hour, when we joined the brigade and returned to the fortress.

Respectfully,

A. T. WILCOX,        

Colonel 177th Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 628

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 219. — Report of Col. Joab A. Stafford, One hundred and seventy-eighth Ohio Infantry, of operations December 7, 1864.

No. 219.

Report of Col. Joab A. Stafford, One hundred and seventy-eighth Ohio Infantry,

of operations December 7, 1864.

HDQRS. 178TH REGIMENT OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 18, 1864.

LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report the part taken by this regiment in the engagement of the 7th instant.

In the formation of the lines for the attack, the One hundred and seventy-eighth was placed on the left of the second line. In this manner the line advanced until the front line became hotly engaged. By order of General Milroy I moved to the left and front, for the purpose of attacking the enemy on his flank. This attack was successful and the enemy was routed. The regiment was halted in a piece of woods to the left of the Wilkinson pike, a considerable distance from the main line, but shortly after joined the main line by moving by the right flank. The regiment soon after moved back inside of the fortress.

The loss in the regiment was the [three?] privates wounded.

The officers and men all behaved nobly; they deserve the highest encomiums for their gallant conduct.

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

J. A. STAFFORD,        

Colonel, Commanding 178th Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

Lieut. J. H. PINNEY,
        Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Brigade, First Division.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 628

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 221. — Report of Capt. Henry Bundy, Thirteenth Battery New York Light Artillery, of operations December 7, 1864.

No. 221.

Report of Capt. Henry Bundy, Thirteenth Battery New York Light Artillery,

HDQRS. THIRTEENTH NEW YORK INDEPENDENT BATTERY,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 8, 1864.

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that there were fifty-four men of my command engaged with the enemy in the battle on Wilkinson's pike, near Stone's River, on yesterday, the 7th instant. The casualties in men in my command were as follows: Conrad Feisel, private, wounded severely; Christopher Miley, private, wounded severely; Henry Griesel, private, wounded slightly; Joseph Claven, private, wounded slightly. My command took no prisoners from the enemy, and I don't know what casualties my command inflicted upon them. I had four horses disabled.

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

HENRY BUNDY,        

Captain, Commanding Thirteenth New York Battery.

Colonel THOMAS,
        Commanding Brigade.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 629

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 215. — Reports of Col. John S. Jones, One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio Infantry, of operations December 4 and 7, 1864.

No. 215.

Reports of Col. John S. Jones, One hundred and seventy-fourth Ohio Infantry,

of operations December 4 and 7, 1864.

HDQRS. 174TH REGIMENT OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,        

Fortress Rosecrans, Tenn., December 5, 1864.

MAJOR: In compliance with orders received from headquarters Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad, I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my command at the engagement of Overall's Creek, December 4, 1864:

In obedience to orders from the general commanding, my command formed in line of battle to the right of the Nashville pike, throwing out skirmishers to the front, in the direction of Overall's Creek. I was ordered to remain in this position in support of the artillery on our right. My command thus remained until the advance was ordered across Overall's Creek. I then moved my command forward in line of battle to the creek. The skirmishers were immediately thrown across, and the right and left wings were directed to remain in line until the center crossed the bridge and formed on the opposite side. The color company crossed and formed, and the companies from the right and left wings alternately crossed and formed in their respective places in line of battle. This was done under a severe fire from the enemy. The bridge was torn up, and somewhat impeded our progress, but the movement was executed promptly and in good order. The command was then ordered to move by the left flank until the right would rest on the pike, and then move forward by the right flank, which was done as directed. We advanced directly against the enemy, driving him steadily before us until we advanced from one-half to three-quarters of a mile, when we were ordered to withdraw. On receipt of this order we marched back in line “faced to the rear.” On reaching the creek we moved by the left flank by file right, recrossed the bridge, and formed line of battle a little in advance of the position we were in when in the support of the artillery at the commencement of the engagement. I left one company at the bridge, one deployed to the left of the bridge, and one at the right of the same, under charge of the major, to protect the recrossing of the cavalry. Remained in this position until ordered to return to Murfreesborough.

Any allusion to the conduct of the officers of my command may seem unnecessary, as they fought under the eye of the general commanding. It is due them, however, from me to say their conduct was unexceptionable. My lieutenant-colonel, A. J. Sterling, and major, B.C. G. Reed, also my adjutant, Harry M. Dean, performed their respective duties in the most prompt and gallant manner, and my line officers all behaved so well that it would be invidious to make distinction. It affords me pleasure to be able to say their conduct deserves special commendation. The horses of my lieutenant-colonel, major, and adjutant were wounded, and I had my own horse killed during the engagement.

The following is a list of casualties in my command.*

Number of prisoners captured and sent to the rear, 20. The prisoners were from the Second and Seventh Florida Regiments. From the number of the enemy dead and left on the field over which my command passed, their loss must have been severe. Among those left by them was one commissioned officer. All the killed and wounded of my command were brought from the field.

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

JOHN S. JONES,        

Colonel, Commanding 174th Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

[Maj. JOHN O. CRAVENS.]

_______________

HEADQUARTERS 174TH OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 8, 1864.

COLONEL: In obedience to orders, I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my command in the engagement with the enemy on Wilkinson's pike, on December 7, 1864:

In obedience to orders, my command moved out on the Salem pike, crossed Stone's River bridge, and, by direction, formed in double column, at half distance, "in the field to the left of the line of battle." Remained in this position until the receipt of orders to move by the right flank. On reaching the woods I deployed my command into line, it being difficult to move through the woods in double column. On reaching the hill, where we were opened upon by the enemy's guns, my command was formed in line of battle in the edge of the woods to the left of our artillery. I threw skirmishers well to the front in the corn-field and in a skirt of timber to my left, with a view of picking off the enemy's cannoneers. Remained in this position until received orders to move to the right. In the execution of this movement I was directed by the general commanding to move in line "faced to the rear," and then by the left flank, in order that the rising ground in our front might conceal the movement to the right from the enemy. In the formation of the line of battle near the pike my command formed the left center of the brigade. One company (Company E, Capt. George Campbell) was thrown out as skirmishers, and we advanced directly against the enemy across an open field, driving his skirmish-line from their defenses back into the breast-works in the woods. On discovering their main line of works we moved immediately forward and carried them by storm, capturing at this point 1 stand of colors, 8 commissioned officers, and 52 enlisted men. My command moved forward, capturing a large number of prisoners and the two pieces of artillery on the pike in the rear of the enemy's works. We advanced our line beyond the white house, driving back the battery that was shelling our line from the opposite side of the field.

It being reported to me that the enemy were making an attempt to turn our left flank by advancing through the woods to our left, I immediately moved my command to the left, forming the line in the edge of the timber, with the view of checking any movement of the enemy that might be made from that direction. By the direction of the general commanding we remained in this position until he could advance the line on our right. By his order I took command of the three regiments to the left of the white house, and was directed to hold the position until further orders. When the right was brought forward to the line I received orders from the general commanding to move my command by the right flank until my right reached the left of the right wing, and then sweep down by the left flank across the open field in my front. I was in the execution of this movement when the order to return to Murfreesborough was received[.]

My command behaved in the most gallant manner. My major, B.C. G. Reed, was shot dead from his horse while charging the enemy's works. He was an excellent officer, possessing most chivalrous and daring courage, and fell gloriously while waving his sword beckoning the line forward. My lieutenant-colonel, A. J. Sterling, and my adjutant, Harry M. Dean, rode gallantly through the action, and did everything that men could do In cheering forward the line.

I cannot say too much in praise of my line officers. Captain Robb, Company C, and Lieutenants Rigby and White, Company A, were severely, and Lieutenant Swartz, Company C, slightly, wounded in the charge on the enemy's works. One of my color-bearers, Sergt. Joseph E. Crow, Company I, was severely wounded in the same charge. To Captain Beatty, Company A, to whose company is due the honor of capturing the stand of colors; Captain Cole, Company B; Captain Robb, Company C; Captain Combs, Company D; Capt. George Campbell, Company E, whose company led the advance as skirmishers; Lieutenant Price, commanding Company F; Captain Evans, Company G; Captain Basiger, Company H; Captain Garrett, Company I, and Captain McPeek. Company K, special thanks are due for the admirable manner in which they handled their companies during the action. These officers and also their subordinates were conspicuous for their gallantry throughout the entire engagement. I desire to make special mention of First Sergt. William F. Wallace, Company A, to whom the officer commanding the rebel color company delivered up his sword, and who also secured the colors.

On receiving orders to return to Murfreesborough we brought from the field all our dead and wounded, also the wounded of the enemy who were left on the field.

The following is a list of casualties in my command.^† Recapitulation: Commissioned officers--killed, 1; wounded, 5. Enlisted men--killed, 5; wounded, 33. Total killed and wounded, 44. Two horses were wounded in my command (Major Reed's and my own) so severely as to be worthless.

The loss of the enemy was heavy; he left in our immediate front not less than 30 dead and many wounded; among the number mortally wounded was one lieutenant-colonel.

The following is the list of captures: 1 stand of colors; 2 cannon; 60 prisoners, 8 of whom were commissioned officers. A large number of prisoners not included in the above were captured, disarmed, and sent to the rear, there being neither time nor men to spare to collect them in a body and guard them to the fortress.

The number of my command engaged was: Commissioned officers, 20; enlisted men, 555. Number of the enemy not known, but, judging from their lines and reports of prisoners captured, their number must have been much greater than our own.

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

JOHN S. JONES, Colonel,        

Commanding 174th Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

[Col. M. T. THOMAS.]

_______________

* Nominal list (omitted) shows 3 men killed and 1 officer and 49 men wounded.

^† Nominal list omitted.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 624-6

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 212 — Reports of Lieut. Col. Daniel Grass, Sixty-first Illinois Infantry, of operations December 4 and 7, 1864.

No. 212.

Reports of Lieut. Col. Daniel Grass, Sixty-first Illinois Infantry, of operations December 4 and 7, 1864.

HDQRS. SIXTY-FIRST ILLINOIS INFANTRY VETERAN VOLS.,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 5, 1864.

SIR: I have the honor to forward the following report of casualties in my command during the engagement with the enemy at Overall's Creek on yesterday, the 4th instant, viz.:*

Four prisoners were captured by my command, and were left at the guard-house last night near General Van Cleve's headquarters.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

DANIEL GRASS.        

Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Regiment.

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

 

HDQRS. SIXTY-FIRST ILLINOIS INFANTRY VETERAN VOLS.,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 8, 1864.

SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by my command in the engagement near Stone's River yesterday, the 7th instant:

My command, numbering 13 officers and 174 enlisted men, were deployed as skirmishers, and were kept on the skirmish line during the entire engagement. The casualties were as follows.^†

There are no men missing from my command. Forty-five prisoners were taken by my command during the engagement and sent to the rear.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

DANIEL GRASS,        

Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Regiment.

Col. M. T. THOMAS,

        Commanding Brigade.

_______________

* Nominal list (omitted) shows 1 officer killed and 9 men wounded.

^† Nominal list (omitted) shows 1 man killed and 2 officers and 12 men wounded.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 621-2

Official Reports of the Campaign in North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, November 14, 1864-January 23, 1865: No. 211 — Report of Maj. Jerome B. Nulton, Sixty-first Illinois Infantry, of operations December 12-15, 1864.

No. 211.

Report of Maj. Jerome B. Nulton, Sixty-first Illinois Infantry, of operations December 12-15, 1864.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTY-FIRST ILLINOIS INFANTRY,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 22, 1864.

SIR: I have the honor to make the following report in regard to the recent expedition to Stevenson, Ala., which resulted in the capture of the entire train and a portion of the escort:

Pursuant to instructions from the general commanding, the Sixty-first Illinois Infantry, 150 strong, and about forty of the First Michigan Engineers, left Murfreesborough, Tenn., on the 12th instant, with orders to proceed to Stevenson, Ala., and return without delay with the train laden with supplies for this garrison. We arrived at Stevenson on 13th with but little difficulty, and after having procured the supplies required we started for Murfreesborough early on the morning of the 14th. The train was delayed at the Cumberland Mountains in consequence of being unable to ascend the grade, but we finally succeeded in crossing and reached Bell Buckle about dark in the evening, where we received intimation of an enemy in our front. About 2 o'clock at night we were fired into at or near Christiana, and upon being informed by the conductor that he could not run the train back we immediately debarked, formed a line so as to protect the train, and moved on, repairing the road as we came, but our progress was necessarily very slow, from the fact that the enemy had cut the road in various places. Here allow me to state that while in this condition we dispatched a messenger to General Rousseau to notify him of our situation and asking for re-enforcements. Fighting continued brisk until daylight, at which time we were within six miles of this place, but we soon ascertained that we were entirely surrounded by the enemy, with the road cut in our front and rear. Soon after daylight the enemy dismounted and charged our line, but they were handsomely repulsed, with considerable loss in killed and wounded. They then brought their artillery into action, which soon convinced us that we could not hold the train against such fearful odds. Consequently, about 8 o'clock, the colonel commanding ordered the train to be abandoned, and we then attempted to cut through their lines, which we did, but in so doing the colonel, 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, and 81 enlisted men belonging to the Sixty-first were captured, together with the entire portion of the First Michigan Engineers, including the lieutenant in charge.

In justice to the First Michigan Engineers allow me to say that they behaved themselves with firmness, and during the engagement they fought like veterans; also that thirty of Twelfth Indiana Cavalry, who returned with us from Stevenson, were promptly on hand for any duty required; the larger portion of them were also captured.

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

J. B. NULTON,        

Major Sixty-first Illinois Infantry, Commanding Regiment.

Capt. E. A. OTIS,

        Assistant Adjutant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 620-1

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

No. 210.

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

commanding Independent Brigade, of operations December 7, 1864.

HEADQUARTERS INDEPENDENT BRIGADE,        

Fortress Rosecrans, Tenn, December 8, 1864.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

M. T. THOMAS,        

Colonel Eighth Minnesota Volunteers, Commanding Brigade.

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

_______________

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

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

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 619-20

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

No. 209

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

FORTRESS ROSECRANS,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn, December 6, 1864.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

R. H. MILROY,        

Major-General of Volunteers.

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

_______________

FORTRESS ROSECRANS,        

Murfreesborough, Tenn., December 10, 1864.

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

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

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

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

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

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

R. H. MILROY,        

Major-general.

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

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 45, Part 1 (Serial No. 93), p. 615-9