Ulysses S. Grant to Jesse Root Grant, May 2, 1861

GENERAL HEAD-QUARTERS, STATE OF ILLINOIS,

ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE

Springfield,

May 2nd. 1861.

DEAR FATHER:

YOUR letter of the 24th inst was received the same evening one I had written to Mary was mailed. I would have answered earlier but for the fact I had just written.

I am not a volunteer, and indeed could not be, now that I did not go into the first Company raised in Galena. The call of the President was so promptly responded to that only those companies that organized at once, and telegraphed their application to come in, were received. All other applications were filed, and there are enough of them to furnish Illinois quota if the Army should be raised to 300,000 men. I am serving on the Governor's staff at present at his request, but suppose I shall not be here long.

I should have offered myself for the Colonelcy of one of the Regiments, but I find all those places are wanted by politicians who are up to log-rolling, and I do not care to be under such persons.

The war feeling is not abating here much, although hostilities appear more remote than they did a few days ago. Three of the six Regiments mustered in from this state are now at Cairo, and probably will be reinforced with two others within a few days.

Galena has several more companies organized but only one of them will be able to come in under a new call for ten regiments. Chicago has raised companies enough nearly to fill all the first call. The Northern feeling is so fully aroused that they will stop at no expense of money and men to insure the success of their cause.

I presume the feeling is just as strong on the other side, but they are infinitely in the minority in resources.

I have not heard from Galena since coming down here, but presume all is moving along smoothly. My advice was not to urge collections from such men as we knew to be good, and to make no efforts to sell in the present distracted state of our currency. The money will not buy Eastern exchange and is liable to become worse; I think that thirty days from this we shall have specie, and the bills of good foreign banks to do business on, and then will be the time to collect.

If Mary writes to me any time next week she may direct here to

ULYSSES.

SOURCE: Jesse Grant Cramer, Editor, Letters of Ulysses S. Grant to His Father and His Youngest Sister, 1857-78, p. 31-3

Surgeons's Report

MR. EDITOR:  In order that the following report be rightly understood by your readers, it may be necessary to say that, though the whole is signed by Drs. Maxwell and Gamble, it is a joint report only up to the 29th ult., from which date it is continued by Dr. Maxwell alone, Dr. G. having entered the U. S. service as surgeon of the Iowa 3rd Infantry.  It is also proper to state that Dr. Maxwell is now in the employ of the State, and is therefore no longer under the direction of the Scott Co. Soldier’s relief Association, but is now acting under Dr. Hughes, Surgeon General of Iowa.  Respectfully,

EDWARD RUSSELL, Corres. Sec.

To H. Price, President Scott County Soldiers Relief Society; Rev. A. J. Kynett, Corresponding Secretary Iowa Sanitary Commission:

The undersigned surgeons, deputed by your respective societies to visit the scene of the late sanguinary conflict at Pittsburg Height, Tenn., beg leave to report:

We, together with Messrs. Burwell and Brown, as nurses, left Davenport on Thursday morning, April 11th, by railroad, and arrived at Cairo on the morning of the 12th, at 6 o’clock’ where we immediately reported to Dr. Taggart, medical surveyor, and Gen. Strong, commander of the post; also to Dr. Douglas, agent for sanitary commission.  The medical surveyor tendered us the position of surgeons in charge of rebel prisoners on their way to Columbus, Ohio.  This position, as well as several others of a similar character which would have interfered with our special mission, we respectfully declined.

To facilitate the purpose for which we were sent, at 8 o’clock on the morning of Friday we held a consultation with Gov. Yates and the Surgeon General of Illinois, at the St. Charles Hotel, Cairo, which resulted in many fair promises on their part, but which promises were afterwards studiously evaded by his Excellency and suit.

At 9 o’clock a. m., by order of Gen. Strong, we proceeded to Mound City Hospital, to care for about seven hundred wounded soldiers, just arrived from Pittsburg on board the steamer “City of Memphis.”  Here we were tendered the position of ward surgeons, by contract, but deeming the position incompatible with your instructions to us, we declined the same.  Among the wounded on board the Memphis, your committee labored several hours in dressing wounds and supplying the immediate wants of such Iowa troops as we could find on board – of which there were about seventy.  A full list of their respective names, regiments and the character of their wounds was also obtained.  Here Dr. Maxwell, by detail, remained until the next day, to assist in several surgical operations; and when he left the troops were all in comfortable quarters in the hospital.  And by special request, Dr. Cottle, of Albany, Ill., promised to see such as needed particular attention.

Dr. Gamble and Messrs. Burwell and Brown returned to Cairo and took passage on the steamer Empress for Pittsburg. – They arrived at Savannah on Sunday morning, and learning that there were many wounded soldiers there, and in need of surgical aid, Dr. Gamble remained whilst Messrs. Burwell and Brown proceeded up to Pittsburg.  At Savannah were found about three thousand wounded and sick solders, among whom were about four hundred Iowa troops.  Among these Dr. Gamble labored assiduously until Tuesday, rendering such professional and pecuniary assistance as could be conferred under the circumstances.  Here were found several regimental surgeons, with whom we most cheerfully co-operated.  It is but right that we should here state, that the regular as well as the volunteer surgeons were seriously embarrassed in their efforts to relieve the wounded, by the want of material to dress wounds, and also the want of medicines and proper food for the sick. – The preparation for the sick and wounded was very imperfect.  They were crowded into any and every place without regard to location or comfort, and often left for days together without medical aid, or even the common attentions of camp life.

On Tuesday your committee met at Pittsburg and reported to Dr. Simons, Medical Director, and solicited and obtained transports to remove our wounded and sick soldiers to a more northern clime.  We also spent a portion of our time in visiting the several Iowa regiments then in camp – Ascertaining the names of the wounded, their condition and the character of the wounds, and also the location of such as had been removed previous to our arrival.  In our efforts to obtain transportation for the wounded, we were ably assisted by Mrs. Wittermyer [sic] of Keokuk, and by Mrs. Senator Harlan, of Iowa; also, by our fellow citizen, Hiram Price of Davenport, and Mr. E. Clonky, of Iowa City.  By the steamer D. A. January we removed nearly all our wounded remaining at Pittsburg, and all at Savannah except about one hundred.

On Thursday we returned to Savannah, and have since been diligently laboring in the various hospitals, which number about thirty, among the wounded and sick, rendering such aid as we could.  We have also labored most assiduously, day and night in getting our wounded men on board transports on their way north.  Those remaining here will be removed as soon an opportunity offers.

On our way up from Cairo, care was taken to visit all hospital boats, and make inquiries as to the condition and destination of the troops on board; and when opportunity offered, accurate lists of the names, regiments, and casualties, were made.  At Cairo a meeting of the surgeons, nurses, and citizens of Iowa there present, was held, and Dr. Emeis, of Iowa, at his on request, was delegated to remain and visit all the hospital boats arriving at that point, and obtain the names, destination, and character of the wounds of such troops as were on board. – This was done that none should be overlooked.

While at Savannah, we co-operated with the Wisconsin delegation, at the head of which was Gov. L. P. Harvey, whose suite consisted of some of the most eminent men of that State; among them were general Broadhead, Quartermaster General; Gen. Wadsworth, Com. General; and Dr. Wolcott, Surgeon General of the State.  In them we found accomplished gentlemen, and active and efficient co-laborers.  Our intercourse served but to create an unusual respect for them, which will long be remembered with pleasure.  This intercourse was suddenly terminated, on the evening of the 19th, by the accidental drowning of Gov. Harvey.  While we were sitting in the cabin of the steamer Dunleith, counseling as to the best plans for accomplishing our humane mission, the steamer Hiawatha came alongside, and the Governor stepped out to obtain passage for a portion of his suite.  A moment after, we were startled by the cry of “A man overboard!”  Immediate investigation proved it to be the Governor. – Prompt and heroic efforts were made to render him assistance, but in the extreme darkness of the night, the rapid current, and amidst steamboats and barges, all proved useless. . .  Gov. Harvey, the accomplished gentleman, the friend of suffering humanity, and the devoted practical Christian, was thus in a moment taken from his field of usefulness to his reward.

Mr. Brown, being sick, was put on board the Hiawatha for home; Mr. Burwell had previously left on the D. A. January, with our wounded for St. Louis.

What of the future?  In view of coming events, your committee would earnestly recommend that efficient agents be appointed, by authority of the State, and be assigned to positions with the army, and at the nearest post hospitals, whose duty it should be to take charge of the sanitary goods, and be on hand and ready at all times to render immediate and efficient aid to our forces in the field, and to the sick and wounded of the battle.  They should also be required to communicate with our State officers and communities, from time to time, and advise them of the particular wants of the sick and wounded.  After the battle, and until the wounded soldier is removed to the hospital, is when assistance is most needed – immediate and efficient aid then would save hundreds of lives.  Here let us most earnestly protest against States, or cities sending large delegations, calculated to interfere with the operations of the army near the scene of conflict.  This is worse than useless.  A few efficient agents can do great good, but a multitude does great harm.

When it is practicable, the State should have a large, well-ventilated steamer. Properly furnished for hospital purposes, and provided with able surgeons and practical nurses, to visit the nearest navigable point to the scene of the battle.  This course, your committee think, would prove more beneficial to the soldiers and meet more directly the intentions of the people than any other; and in a pecuniary point would not be objectionable.  The States that have adopted this plan have done much more for their men than those who have relied entirely upon government transportation.

Your committee having thus given you a brief memoranda of their labors, deem it but just to themselves to state some of the difficulties with which they have had to contend.  From the time of leaving Iowa they have fared as the common soldier.  They have been obstructed at almost every step by official arrogance and egotism – more especially was this the case by the Regular Army Medical Staff.  While traveling on boats they have had to furnish their own provisions and bedding, and when on land, they have traveled through drenching rains and deep mud – the latter such as only Tennessee can produce.  At night they have frequently slept on the ground with only a thin blanket for a covering.  When they did rely on the public for accommodations, the charges were enormous, and the fare most miserable.  Your committee, however, do not regret their hard fare, as amidst it all, many were cheering evidences of kind appreciations received from the suffering soldiers, and many the kind and gentlemanly courtesies tendered them by the surgeons of the volunteer regiments, among whom we take pleasure in mentioning Drs. Gibbon, of the 15th; Nassau, of the 2d; Staples of the 12th, and Watson and Loyd of the 11th Iowa regiments.  Also Dr. Leggitt, of the Ohio 15th.  To Dr. Taggart, Medical Purveyor, and Dr. Douglas, Sanitary Agent, of Cairo, we are also under obligation for many gentlemanly courtesies.

On the 24th we proceeded to Pittsburg Landing, to visit all Iowa regiments, to learn their condition, and found men and officers of the 7th, 11th and 13th in good spirits.  The 8th, 12th and 14th were somewhat dissatisfied, having been, contrary to their wishes, forced into a “Union Brigade” with the 28th Ill. regiment, and commanded by a Captain of that regiment, being rank officer.  I think it, however under the circumstances, the best that could be done.

On the 25th, by the kindness of Capt. G. Dodge, of Port Byron, of the 4th Ill. Cavalry, we were provided with horses and equipments to visit regiments.  We were able to find all but the 15th and 16th – they being on the front lines, we did not reach them.  There are not less than 500 sick in our regiments – 200 in hospitals here – principally camp fever.

On the 26th, Dr. Gamble, with a view of being assigned to the 3d Iowa regiment, which was without a surgeon, entered the U. S. service by contract; since which, I have operated single-handed in both the field and hospitals.  On my return to Savannah, I found the steamer Tycoon taking on the wounded.  I succeeded, by the politeness of Dr. Woods, of Cincinnati, in getting on, in comfortable quarters, all of the Iowa’s sick and wounded here that would come under the general order, in all 30 – destination Cincinnati.  During our absence on the 25th, a number of sick and wounded were taken by the City of Memphis to St. Louis.

29th. – Visited all hospitals here and had our remaining sick and wounded put into the best hospitals, being about thirty still here.  I. H. Work hand his leg amputated, on the 24th, and died 28th.

May 1st. – I visited, by order of Dr. McDougal, of Gen. Halleck’s staff, Hamburg, six miles above Pittsburg Landing, and aided in establishing hospitals for the convalescing soldiers.

2d. – Returned, after putting into quarters 3,700 sick; and having everything in running order under surgeon Vairous of N. Y.  But few Iowa sick are there, but those that are there are in good condition and fair quarters.

3d. – This morning I have the promises from surgeon in charge of Black Hawk to take on a few of our worst cases here and leave them at Quincy, Ill.  I have to report to Dr. McDougal this morning.

On the 2st inst. I received Adj. Baker’s orders, and Mr. E. Russell’s of the 12th ult. – the only communication, save the telegraph dispatch to remain here until otherwise ordered.  I am doing all I can to relieve our sick and wounded.  You will see by my financial report I have expended but little money safe for board and traveling expenses.  This owning to the fact that I used in all cases, when I could get them, sanitary supplies for soldiers.  I have reported by letter to Prof. Hughes for instructions, &c.  Below I give you the character and number of Iowa wounded:  Head 27, face 39, neck 21, chest 107, abdomen 13, back and spine 31, upper extremities 422, lower extremities 381, large joints, 52.

Respectfully submitted.

A. S. MAXWELL, Chn.

JAS. GAMBLE

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, May 9, 1862, p. 2

From Cairo

CAIRO, May 2.

The river is stationary, and eight inches higher than was ever before known.

The news from Pittsburg is of the highest importance, but its transmission over the wires is prohibited.

The bombardment of Fort Pillow is continued by mortars, at short intervals.  It was generally believed that a simultaneous attack would be made by the fleet before the close of the week.

Deserters say that the entire rebel gunboat fleet, under command of Hollins, had arrived at Fort Pillow, and would make an attack on Com. Foote as soon as preparations were complete.

A Memphis paper of the 24th April says a meeting held the night previous had concluded to burn the city in case of the approach of the Federal fleet.

The fall of New Orleans is referred to, but no particulars are given.

An editorial urgently calls on the people to reinforce Price at Fort Pillow, as the only hope of salvation of the city.

Gov. Yates left here to-ni9ght for Pittsburg, with the steamer Champion, fitted up to accommodate 400 wounded Illinois soldiers.  He also takes up a large quantity of sanitary stores for distribution among the Illinois hospitals.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, May 5, 1862, p. 2

The Battle At Pittsburg

FURTHER PARTICULARS

__________

CAIRO, April 10. – A man who arrived here to-day says the enemy adopted a ruse to surprise our forces at Pittsburg, by making the first attack.  Their head column not only carried the stars and stripes but wore the uniform of the Federal officers.

Gen. Albert Sidney Johnson [sic] is certainly killed, the body being found on the field.  Persons are here who saw the body and heard the fact communicated throughout the camp.

Gen. Bragg is reported killed, and John C. Breckinridge a prisoner, but the report is unreliable.

Provisional governor Johnson of Kentucky is mortally wounded and a prisoner.

It is also reported that Gen. Prentiss, who was taken prisoner the first day, escaped in the confusion of the retreat, the next.

Our total loss in killed, wounded and missing is about 7,000 and this is the estimate of the military commanders who were in the engagement.  Of these about 2,000 were taken prisoners, the balance killed and wounded in the usual proportion.

Gen. Wallace of Ottawa, was reported killed as it was deemed impossible for him to live but a few minutes before the close of battle, but he was not only living Wednesday, but improving rapidly.

Gen. Halleck passed Cairo on his way to Pittsburg, at 10 o’clock this morning.

About 5,000 prisoners are expected up from Island No. 10 to-night.  Of these 1500 will go to Chicago, 1,000 to Springfield, and the balance to Wisconsin and Columbus, except 25 or 30 officers who will be sent to Fort Warren.

No lists of killed or wounded of any regiment or company have been received here yet.

Every preparation possible is being made for the reception and care of our wounded at this place.

The following is a list of killed and wounded officers so far:

KILLED – Col. C. E. Grier, acting Brig. Gen.; Col. Bllis [sic], 10th Ill.; Lieut. Col. Canfield, 72d Ohio; Col. Kyle, 31st Ind.; Col. Davis, 46th Ill., wounded, since died; Capt. Carson, Gen. Grant’s scout; Capts. Morton and Dillon, 18th Ill.; Capt. Mace, 55th Ill.; Capt. Carter, 11th Ill.; Major Page, 57th Ill.

WOUNDED – Gen. W. H. Wallace, dangerously; Gen. W. Sherman, slightly; Col. Sweeney, Acting Prig. Gen., seriously; Col. Dave Stuart, Acting Brig. Gen., dangerously; Col. Chase Crofts, 33d Ill., Acting Brig. Gen.; Col. Mace, 48th Ill.; Col. McHenry 17th Ky., killed; Lieut. Col. Morgan, 24th Ind., Col. Mason, 71st Ohio; Maj. Eaton, 18th Ill., Acting Col., fatally; Maj. Nevins, 11th Ill.; Col. John Logan, 32d Ill., seriously.

We are just beginning to get some reliable details from the great battle at Pittsburgh from several gentlemen who were on the field afterwards or in the fight.  The following is gathered and sent without any reference to the agreement or otherwise with despatches heretofore given you.  Our informants left the battle field on Wednesday morning at 5 o’clock.

The rebels attacked Prentiss’ brigade at 6 o’clock on Sunday morning, while eating breakfast.  It consisted of the 6th Illinois, Col. Fry, 16th Wisconsin, 24th Indiana and 1st Ohio. – The rebels were said to be 12,000 strong.  Prentiss had no artillery, his brigade was cut to pieces and forced to retreat, with Prentiss and many others taken prisoners.

At 12 M. the entire line was fiercely engaged but in full retreat.

At 4 o’clock the enemy had taken Swartz’ battery of 6 guns, and another Ohio battery, name not given.

Thousands of our soldiers had taken refuge under the bank of the river and utterly refused to fight.  In fact they could not, for officers and men were in inextricable confusion.  The army seemed utterly demoralized.

Gen. Mitchell’s division about this time arrived on the opposite side with 15,000 men, and were ferried across.

During the evening and night the gunboats Lexington and Taylor opened a tremendous fire of shell upon the enemy, and kept it up every half hour during the night, saving the army from utter ruin.  The set the woods on fire, and many of the dead rebels were burned.

At 7 o’clock the firing generally ceased.  At midnight the rebels attempted to plant a battery within 300 yards of our siege guns, but they were driven back by the gun boats and siege guns, supported by three regiments of Mitchell’s Division.

Our informants persist in estimating our loss on Sunday at 3,000 killed and 5,000 wounded.  As a fair fight it was undoubtedly tremendous.

MONDAY – During the night the rebels were reinforced by Prace and Van Dorn from Arkansas, with a large force.

Gen. Lew. Wallace came up from Crump’s Landing with the 11th and 23d Indiana, 44th Illinois and 8th Missouri, and Williard’s battery, and in the morning attacked fiercely the wing of the enemy.  They went into the fight on the double quick, with tremendous shouts, and did terrible execution.  By 10 o’clock they had driven the rebels back two miles.  The battery performed prodigies of valor.

About 10 o’clock the rebels were reinforced, and for a few minutes our boys were forced to yield.  The other divisions of Buell’s army now appeared, and at once became fully engaged, and for two hours all the destructive elements of earth seemed striving for the mastery on that fatal field.

Southern chivalry proved no match for the unflinching courage of the army of freedom, and the rebels fled in all directions.

With some 12,000 troops, mostly cavalry, Gen. Buell followed the fugitives, taking thousands of prisoners and killing without mercy those who would not surrender.  He was reported to have taken Corinth with all its immense stores of arms and ammunition.

Carson, the scout, had his head taken off on Monday by a round shot.

The rebel troops were mostly from Louisiana, Texas and Missouri, with many form Georgia and Alabama; they fought like tigers.

Our informants could ride through the battle field where our forces were posted, but the dead were so thick in the enemy’s lines that they could not do it.  They assured us that the rebels occupied our camp on Sunday night, took care of our sick and wounded, but destroyed nothing, expecting confidently to have our entire army the next day.  They thought the battle almost won.

On Sunday Gen. McClernand cut his way thro’ the enemy that had surrounded him.  Most of his troops behaved with great gallantry, but the 53d Ohio was ordered to the rear in disgrace for refusing to fight.

Capt. Harvey of Bloomington, Ill., is among the killed.

Our informants were assured by those who know him that J. C. Breckinridge was taken prisoner.  They saw him pass to the guard quarters.

It is impossible as yet to get lists of killed and wounded.

The Chicago delegation of physicians and nurses arrived this morning and have gone to Pittsburgh in the hospital steamer Texana.

Dr. McVicker is here awaiting the arrival of Gov. Yates on the steamer from Quincy to see especially to Illinois wounded soldiers.  They will establish a depot and hospital here for our sick and wounded.

No official despatches have been received here this morning.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Major General Ulysses S. Grant to Congressman Elihu B. Washburne, November 13, 1863

Head-Quarters,

Military Division of the Mississippi,

Chattanooga, Tennessee, November 13, 1863.

SOME of the citizens of Northern Illinois have expressed the conviction that a regiment of cavalry can be raised in a short time from that section of the state if special authority be given the Governor to accept them, and have desired that I obtain the authority for them. I want no special favor for myself, and cannot ask the desired authority on that ground. If, however, it is the policy of the Government to accept new organizations, I would recommend that authority be given Governor Yates to accept a regiment of cavalry to be raised in Northern Illinois.

Hon. E. M. Stanton,

Secretary of War.

SOURCE: James Grant Wilson, Editor, General Grant’s Letters to a Friend 1861-1880, p. 30

Further News from Fort Donelson

3,000 Rebel Prisoners ask to be Armed and Enrolled in the Armies of the Union.

Clarksville Evacuated.

WHITE FLAGS FLYING AT NASHVILLE.

TENNESSEE VIRTUALLY REDEEM’D

CAIRO, Feb. 20. – Only sixteen remain of company G., 11^th Illinois regiment, who are not killed, wounded or taken prisoners.

Gov. Yates and staff left for Fort Donelson last evening.

The Wounded officers of the 11^th Illinois are Lieut. Col. Ransom, Lieut. Churchill, Co. A, Lieut. Wilcox, Co. B, Lieut. Dean, Co. D., Capt. Andrews, Co. D, Lieut. Duncan, Co. H, and Lieut. Blackstone, Co. I.  The killed are Capt. Shaw, Co. B, Lieut. Boyce, Co. G.  The Missing are Lieut. Kenyon, Co. K, and Lieut. Vore, Co. E.  Not over 100 effective men are left of the 11^th regiment.  The wounded are partly at Mound City and the rest at Fort Donelson.  It is thought that this regiment will return to their old quarters at Bird’s Point.

One thousand secesh prisoners left for Camp Douglas last evening, via the Illinois Central Railroad.  More will follow to-day.  Those sent yesterday were Mississippians and Texans.  Two boat loads have arrived and will be forwarded immediately.

The 2^nd Michigan Artillery arrived last evening by steamer City of Alton.

Jas. Friedeman of Co. D, 8^th Wisconsin was buried today at Bird’s Point.

A rebel officer states that the exaggeration of Major Post of the 8^th Illinois who was taken prisoner before the surrender of Fort Donelson materially aided in preventing any further resistance on their part.

The body of Lieut. Colonel White of the 31^st Illinois has just arrived.

Three thousand rebel prisoners at Fort Donelson have asked to be allowed their arms and enrolled in the army of the Union.

A special order was issued to-day forbidding the issue of passes to Fort Donelson and other points on the Ohio river above Cairo.

The report is current and uncontradicted that Clarksville is evacuated.

It is reported that Gov. Harris has convened the Legislature of the State of Tennessee to repeal all laws passed by the Confederate Legislature inconsistent with the Federal Constitution.

White flags are flying at Nashville, and Gen. Grant has been invited to occupy Clarksville. – If this is true, Tennessee can be counted out of the Southern Confederacy.

The casualties among the officers of the 18^th Illinois, are, Killed, Capt. J. S. Craig, company A, Lieut. John Mauseur, Company C.

Wounded – Col. Lawler, Capt. D. H. Brush, company K; Capt. H. S. Wilcox, company B; Capt. J. W. Dillon, company C; Capt. P. Lawler, company D.

Supposed to be taken prisoners – Lieut. Tole, company D; Lieut. Kelley, company E; Lieut. Thompson, company F; Capt. Cruise, company G; Lieuts. Lawrence and Conner, company K.

The whole number of killed in the regiment is 50, wounded 150.

There is an awful flutter at Columbus, but we hear nothing decisive.

Brig. Gen. John Pope arrived from St. Louis, to-night.

The number of field pieces taken is much larger than heretofore telegraphed.  We have at least 70 guns.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 22, 1862, p. 3

From Cairo

CAIRO, Feb. 18. – Gov. Yates, Lieut. Governor Wood, auditor Dubois and many prominent citizens from all parts of Illinois are here to look after the wounded Illinois soldiers from Ft. Donelson.

Gov. Morton and many prominent citizens of Indiana are also here for a like purpose on account of the gallant men of that State who participated in the battle.

A salute of fifteen guns was fired this morning by order of Brig. Gen. E. A. Paine in honor of the arrival at this place of Governor Yates, commander-in-chief of Illinois troops.  It was answered at Bird’s Point at 2 o’clock P. M.

His Excellency held a public reception at the St. Charles Hotel, and all of the officers paid their respects to the Governor.  He was received by Col. Buford and the officers of the 27^th Illinois, and the officers of each regiment came up in a body lead by their several regimental bands.  Col. Beauford [sic] said they came to welcome the man who had so supplied the wants of the Illinois boys and so nobly cared for all the troops he had sent forth to avenge the wrongs and injuries of our country.

Gov. Yates responded briefly but with deep feeling, paying a handsome tribute to the memory of the fallen at Fort Donelson, and congratulating their brethren in arms for the achievement of this late victory of our arms over a traitor foe.

About 7,000 of the rebel prisoners from Fort Donelson have arrived here and departed up the Mississippi river to be disposed of by Gen. Halleck.  The question of what to do with them was discussed among the Commanding officers here last night, and the conclusion seems to be that they will be divided, a portion going to Alton, another portion to Chicago, and probably a third portion going to Fort Wayne and Detroit.

Troops are continually arriving and departing for the seat of war, and our army will soon again be in readiness to advance.

It is believed, that if permitted to do so, very many of the rebel prisoners would gladly take up arms on the side of the Union.  The privates, almost to a man, declare that they have seen quite enough of the secession elephant. – The officers, however, are generally very morose and bitter in their expressions relative to the North.

In addition to the list of killed and wounded previously reported, are the following:

46^th Illinois, Commissary Sergeant Traverse, Killed; Lt. Col. Maltby, ball in the leg; Cornelius Shay, flesh wound in the thigh; Lieut. H. H. Boyce, severely wounded in the hip from a Minnie ball; George P. Appleton, severely wounded in the foot.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 22, 1862, p. 3

From Cairo

The following dispatch was received yesterday afternoon:–

REV. A. J. KYNETT, Sec’y San. Com.

Sanitary supplies wanted.  Your committee from Davenport leave for Tennessee, with Gov. Yates, to-day.  No definite news of Iowa troops.  Mark Packages to me.

REV. E. FOLSOM, Agt. San. Com.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 12, 1862, p. 1

From Cairo

CAIRO, February 18.

Gov. Yates, Ex-Gov. Wood, Auditor Dubois and many prominent citizens from all parts of Illinois are here to look after the wounded Illinois soldiers from Fort Donelson.  Gov. Morton and many prominent citizens of Indiana are also here for a like purpose, on account of the gallant men of that State who participated in the battle.

A salute of fifteen guns was fired this morning by order of Brig. Gen. E. A. Paine, in honor of the arrival at this place of Gov. Yates, commander-in-chief of the Illinois troops.  It was answered at Bird’s Point at 2 o’clock p.m.  His Excellency held a public reception at the St. Charles Hotel, and all the officers paid their respects to the Governor.  He was received by Col. Buford and the others of the 27th Illinois, and the officers of each regiment came up in a body led by ther several regimental bands.

Col. Buford said they came to welcome the men, who had supplied the wants of the Ill. Boys and so nobly cared for all the troops he had sent forth to avenge the wrongs and injury to the flag of our country.  Gov. Yates responded briefly, but with deep feeling, paying a handsome tribute to the memory of the fallen at Fort Donelson, congratulating their brethren in arms, for the achievement of the late victory of our arms over a traitor foe.  Seven thousand of the rebel prisoners from Fort Donelson, have arrived here and departed up the Mississippi, to be disposed of by Gen. Halleck.  The question of what to do with them was discussed among the commanding officers here last night and the conclusion seems to be that they will be divided, a portion going to Alton and a portion to Chicago and probably a third portion to Fort Wayne and Detroit.  Troops are continually arriving and departing for the seat of war, and our army will soon again be in readiness to advance.

It is believed that, if permitted to do so, very many of the rebel prisoners would gladly take up arms on the side of the Union.  The privates almost to a man declare that they have seen quite enough of the secession elephant.  The officers, however, are generally very morose, and bitter in their expressions relative to the north.

In addition to the list of killed and wounded previously reported, are the following:

45th Illinois, commissary serg’t Traverse, Killed; Lt. Col. Maltby, ball in leg; Cornelius Shay, flesh wound in the thigh; Lieut. H. Boice, severe wound in hip from a minie ball; Geo. Poppleton, severely wounded in the foot.

Times’ Dispatch

CAIRO, Feb. 18.

Col. Buford, with a small force, went down the river on a reconnoisance to-day.  When within four miles of Columbus, heavy cannonading was heard, not, however, with any regularity.  On moving across the river, where a view of the place could be obtained, he discovered a heavy cloud of smoke, covering a large space.

Col. Buford believes the solution of the affair to be, that the rebels are dismounting their guns and blowing up magazines preparatory to evacuating the place.

A large number of the rebel prisoners brought down yesterday belonged on the Cumberland river, as they passed their homes looked wistfully for some face of recognition.  Many were under the impression they would be paroled, and when they found they were to be sent North, were ready to take any oath.  Two-thirds manifest a desire to return to their allegiance.  Some acknowledged they had been humbugged into their present unfortunate position.

Six thousand prisoners have already arrived here, and the others will be brought down as soon as transportation can be procured.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 1

It seems to us . . .

. . . at this distance, that Gov. Yates and Mrs. Major Bell Reynolds are doing a large amount of steamboating on the Tennessee River this spring.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 31, 1862, p. 1

The Latest from Fort Donelson

A TERRIBLE BATTLE PROGRESSING.

The Loss Sever on both Sides.

Our men Fight like Tigers.

THE REBELS HOIST THE BLACK FLAG.

CUMBERLAND RIVER,

NEAR FORT DONALSON [sic], Feb. 15.

The Chicago Tribune, to relieve the anxiety of the people, presents the following special to be sent in advance of publication:

Our firing commenced again at daybreak and continued at intervals all day long up to 4 o’clock.  No Movement or assault by the land force had been made.  Night before last an attempt was made by the rebels to take Taylor’s battery of light artillery, but they were repulsed by two regiments and driven back beyond their entrenchments.  Our loss in wounded is considerable but not more than 3 or 4 are dangerously wounded.

Six gunboats arrived yesterday and commenced an attack on the fort at 2 p.m.  The firing was very rapid and severe, and lasted 1 hour and 20 minutes, when our gun boats fell back.

The four iron clad boats went within 300 yards of the Fort.

All of the river guns except six were either dismounted or silenced.  The first shot fired from the Louisville dismounted the rebels’ 128 pounder.  The Louisville received fifty-seven shots, two of which took effect, on striking the starboard side of her deck and passing through the length of the boat, and broke her tiller rope a short distance from the pilot house.  The rope was then managed by some of the hands, when a shell from the Taylor [sic], which lay some distance astern, burst over the Louisville, scattering the men at the tiller rope and so much disabled the steering tackle that the boat was compelled to drop astern.

One shot struck the Pittsburg in the bow and stove an immense hole in her, which caused her to withdraw out of action.  The leak however, has been stopped.

One shot struck the pilot house of the St. Louis, passing through it between the pilot’s legs without injuring him.  All of the boats were more or less injured, but none but the Louisville seriously.  There were 5 killed and two wounded on the Louisville.

The gunboats will not be in condition to renew their attack before to-morrow morning.  In consequence of the [height] of the bluffs on which their fortifications are built, our shot cannot have as much effect on them as those of Fort Henry; therefore it will require a much longer time to reduce this fort.

The rebels have raised the black flag.  It can be seen flying from the bank, a short distance above here.

CAMP IN THE FIELD, near Ft. Donelson,

Feb 15th, p.m.

The right wing of our forces commenced the storming of the right wing of Fort Donelson about noon, and have taken the right wing of the enemy’s fortification, over which the stars and stripes are now floating in triumph.  The opposing forces are now almost breast to breast, ready to open the work of death on each other almost at any moment.

We have lost two Lieut. Cols. Killed, one of whom is Lieut. Col. Smith, of the 48th Illinois and two Cols. Wounded.  The 18th regiment fought like tigers, and are [badly] cut up.  The loss on both sides is pretty severe.  More particulars soon.

Schwartz’s battery captured by the rebels this morning has been retaken.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Feb. 15.

Assistant Secretary of War Thomas A. Scott arrived here to-night from Cairo.  He reports that the fighting at Fort Donelson was suspended on both sides yesterday. – Our troops are suffering considerable from exposure, being unprovided with tents. – They are in excellent spirits, however, and are eager to resume the battle.

Dispatches to Gov. Yates, from the commanding officer at Cairo, state that the fort is completely invested, the enemy driven in from their outworks, and all chances for retreat or reinforcements cut off.

Col. Morrison is said to be severely, but not mortally wounded.

The success of the army is considered beyond the possibility of doubt.

The supposition at Cairo is, that Columbus will be attacked at once by land forces from below and by the river from above.

Gen. Grant is said to have at least 50,000 men under his command.

Several mortar boats are leaving Cairo daily.

Gen. Halleck telegraphs Gen. McClellan that the fort is completely invested – retreat form it and reinforcements to it being cut off.

Surrender or extermination appear to be the alternative.

Pillow, Floyd, Buckner and other noted rebels are in the fort.

Four Brigadier Generals are reported now in the Fort.  Gens. Pillow, Buckner, Floyd and Johnston [sic].

Altogether out loss to-day is about 250 in killed and wounded.  Capt. Mitchell of the 7th Ills. Was killed early in the morning.

Col. Ogelsby says, we came here to take that fort, and we do not intend to leave until we do it.

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

By Telegraph

WASHINGTON, February 17.

Gen. McClellan has received a dispatch fully confirming the capture of Fort Donelson.

ST. LOUIS, February 17.

Dispatches from Gen. Grant to Gen. Halleck announce the surrender of Fort Donelson with 15,000 prisoners, including Johnston [sic], Pillow and Buckner.

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 17.

Further official advices from Fort Donelson say Gen. Floyd escaped during the night with 5,000 men, and the rebels in the fort denounced him as a black hearted traitor and coward.

The enemy are known to have had thirty thousand troops, fifteen thousand of whom are our prisoners.  Five thousand escaped, and the balance are reported killed, wounded or otherwise disabled.

Our loss is not stated, but the slaughter in our ranks is mentioned as terribly severe.

Previous to the surrender our forces en route had most all arrived.

Gen. Halleck intended to leave to-day, but orders for preparations were countermanded on receipt of Fort Donelson dispatches.

The steamer John Warner left to-day with Gen. Hamilton, the 25th Mo. Regiment and 3d Mich. Battery, for the Tennessee river.

The greatest activity prevails at the Arsenal here, backing cartridges and loading shell for shipment down the river.

It is reported on high military authority that Gen. Curtis captured most of Price’s men after leaving Springfield, including his Chief Adjutant.

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 17.

Fort Donelson surrendered at 9 o’clock yesterday morning to the land force.  The gun boats were present at the time.

An immense amount of war material is among the trophies of the victory.

Floyd skulked away the night before the surrender.

The gun boat Carondolet, Capt. Walker, arrived at Cairo with the news.

A large number of our wounded have been brought to the Paducah and Cairo Hospitals.

This city is wild with excitement and joy.  The news was received at the Union Merchants exchange, creating the most intense enthusiasm.  The Star Spangled Banner, the flag of our Union, and Red White and Blue were sung by all present, after which they adjourned and marched to the army headquarters, 120 to 150 strong, where three rousing cheers were given for Halleck and Foote.  Halleck appeared at the window and thanked the people for their hearty demonstrations and said: “I promised, when I came here, that with your aid I would drive the enemies of our flag from your State.  This has been done and they are virtually out of Kentucky and soon will be out of Tennessee.”

More cheers were given for the Union, the Star Spangled Banner was repeated, and the crowd dispersed.

Judge Holt wept for joy when he heard the news.  Many stores are closed, and the city is being decorated with flags, and evidences of great joy are everywhere manifest.

Gov. Yates, Sec. Hatch and Auditor Dubois, of Ills., left for Ft. Donelson this forenoon, to look after the wounded Illinois troops.

A requisition has been made for all the steamboats in this vicinity, to be held in readiness for the transportation of troops and Government stores.

ST. LOUIS, February 17.

The casualties on the gun-boats at Fort Donelson are as follows: St. Louis, 3 killed, including P. R. Riley of Cincinnati.  Two wounded, among them Lieut. Kendall, slightly.  Louisville, 5 sailors killed; 4 slightly wounded and 2 severely, each having both arms shot away.  Carondelet, 4 killed and 6 badly wounded, including Wm. Hunter.  Pilot, 2 severely.  Pittsburg, 2 wounded.

The force en route for Fort Donelson, had mostly come up and were located on the left.

Gen. Lew Wallace, with the 8th Missouri and 11th Indiana arrived Friday.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 18, 1862, p. 1

Gov. Yates en route for Fort Donelson

TELEGRAPH OFFICE, CHICAGO, Feb. 17.

The following message was received from the Governor this evening:

PULASKI, Ill., Feb. 17.

I am on my way, with Auditor Dubois, Sen. Hatch, and Gen. Wood, to Fort Donelson.  Many sad hearts, but a glorious victory.  People by the thousands on the road and at the stations, with shoutings and with flags.  Thank God that our Union is safe, now and forever.

Send surgeons, friends, and clothing, for the wounded.

Signed,

R. YATES, Governor.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 18, 1862, p. 1

From Cairo

(Special to the Hawk-Eye.)

CAIRO, May 14.

The steamers Memphis and Thomas, just arrived from Pittsburg Landing, bring little news of importance.  The Memphis brings 400 sick.

Deserters from Corinth are coming in hourly.  They report 200,000 men under Beauregard, and say our forces are reported to them at 350,000.

The woods about Corinth were full of deserters.  A Mississippi Regiment is placed as guard.  Thirty dollars was offered for the arrest of each deserter.

The Memphis Avalanche says the Federal fleet was returning to New Orleans, and glories over the late victory at Fort Pillow – says they lost two men killed and eight wounded.

STREET.

CAIRO, May 15.

Gen. Mitchell has reached Corinth, bringing over two thousand prisoners, taken in Alabama.

The rebel cavalry are roving over the country, between the Tennessee and Mississippi rivers, doing what damage they can, and keeping the inhabitants in constant terror.

Gov. Yates and staff arrived this evening on a special train, on their way to Shiloh.

The Gunboat Louisville has rejoined the fleet.

The rebels tried to shell our mortar fleet which lay behind Craigheld’s point, but it remained uninjured.

The gunboat Mound City will soon be ready for active service again.

A secret letter of Jeff. Davis has reached us.  He calls for deeds of patriotism and hopes to receive dispatches of success.

STREET.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 17, 1862, p. 3

From Corinth

CAIRO, May 8. – The roads near Corinth are in such a horrible condition as to stay all contemplated movements of the army. The headquarters of Gen. Halleck and Grant are not located at Monterey. There is a large number of hospital boats at Pittsburg landing, sent by Sanitary Commissions from Chicago, St. Louis, Louisville and Cincinnati. The Illinois sick and wounded on them are all taken care of by the State, besides the steamer Champion now coming down, enroute for Quincy, Illinois. Governor Yates yesterday charted the steamer City of Alton, to bring home sick Illinois soldiers. The river is still receding.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 3

Cairo Budget

CAIRO, May 7. – Capt. Hazell, of the Second Ohio, has arrived her on sick furlough. Neither himself, Capt. McKinney, nor Lieut. Dial were taken prisoners at Pulaski, as was reported. By an arrival from Fort Henry, we learn that it is probably that not less than 200 of the Curtis Horse were captured in the recent skirmish with Clay King’s band. The affair occurred about 12 miles west of Fort Heisman [sic] on the opposite shore from Fort Henry. It does not appear that any of the union men were killed, but those who were not captured made good their escape. A strong force has been sent out from the fort in pursuit of the guerrillas, and it was thought that the band, with their prisoners, would be taken to-day. Gov. Yates and party have not yet been permitted to land at Pittsburg. Gen. Halleck was notified that they were at the landing, and desired to go ashore. The General pertinently replied that he had old women enough there. The river is falling rapidly here, and is now several feet below the top of the levee. The I. C. track is out of water and is being replaced. It will be in running order by the first of next week. Another arrival from below to-night brings no news of Mr. Bodeman of the Chicago Tribune. A party of women who were set adrift in a flat boat some days ago by the [Provost] Marshal of Cairo, have found their way back here, and were today taken into custody again. They will be shipped off North by railroad. The rumor of the evacuation of Corinth and its occupation by our forces, is repeated by every arrival of deserters. There is no doubt that Beauregard while holding his forces in line of battle, is gradually falling back on Grand Junction. He seeks to avoid a general battle though frequently offered him by Gen. Halleck. The opinion gains ground that there will be no general engagement between the two armies at or near their present position. A force of 1500 rebels is reported to be concentrated near New Madrid. They are thought to be preparing for a demonstration on the half deserted down. Our forces at Island No. 10 and Tiptonville are amply sufficient to drive the guerrillas away. A Citizen of Jackson, Mississippi, who formerly resided in Pennsylvania, reached here to-day from the South. He fled his Southern home to escape the conscription act which he represents as being rigidly enforced throughout the South. No one is spared. Merchants, bankers, mechanics and planters are all alike being forced into the ranks. In Mississippi there are two camps of instruction, one at Grenada and the other at Jackson. The conscripts are sent to these camps, where they remain until they are deemed fit for service. My informant passed through Grand Junction on Saturday last, and came by the Mobile & Ohio Railroad as far as Newton, where he proceeded on foot to Hickman. He says there were few troops at grand junction and none at Jackson, Tennessee. Most of the troops at the former place had been marched to Pocahontas, on the Memphis & Charleston Railroad, nearly midway between Corinth and Grand Junction. The head quarters of Gen. Beauregard are located at Pocahontas, and not far from the 75,000 troops are concentrated around him. This information confirms the report of the evacuation of Corinth. My informant also confirms the report of the arrival of Federal gunboats off Vicksburgh. Lovell’s army was at latest accounts at Patchapaho, on the New Orleans & Jackson Railroad, about fifty miles north of New Orleans.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 3

Cairo Budget

CAIRO, April 28. – our army at Pittsburg is still gradually advancing, but everything is quiet. Reconnoissance on Friday discovered a camp of the enemy at Pea Ridge, some 72 miles beyond our line of pickets, but they did not advance to attack them.

There is no news from Fort Pillow. The mortars fire occasionally, our gunboats being some distance above.

Refugees from Memphis report a strong Union feeling existing there, and a majority of the people anxiously waiting the arrival of our forces to take possession. It was not believed that the city would be burned, but all cotton sugar and molasses would be destroyed.

Van Dorn, Price, and Jeff Thompson were at Memphis with about 6,000 miserably clad troops. They seemed there to awe people into submission to the conscription act, which was being enforced. Hundreds of inhabitants were leaving daily to avoid impressment.

Most of the twelve months men whose term of service is about to expire, refuse to re-enlist under any circumstances and are deserting in large numbers.

All passes to citizens to go up the Tennessee river are refused.

The river is rising slowly.

CAIRO, April 28. – Six refugees from Memphis arrived here this morning. They left on Sunday, the 20th, in a skiff, and reached our fleet, opposite Fort Pillow, on Friday. Five of them are natives of Connecticut, the other from Freeport, Illinois. They crossed the Mississippi 6 miles below Randolph, making the rest of the way to Ozark, on the Arkansas shore, being often compelled to carry their skiff over bluffs and through fields. They represent that a strong Union feeling exists in Memphis. Several Union clubs met nightly and were constantly increasing in members.

General Prentiss and Federal prisoners taken at Pittsburg were in Memphis two hours, and were taken to Tuscaloosa, Alabama. They received marked attention from Union citizens while in the city, who are becoming bolder daily. Gen. Prentiss made a speech from the platform of the cars, assuring the people that they would all cheer for the Stars and Stripes in two or three weeks. Our prisoners united in singing the “Star Spangled Banner,” and were loudly applauded by the people.

The refugees left Memphis to avoid being impressed, as the conscript act recently passed by the rebel Congress was being enforced. All male inhabitants between the age of 18 and 35 are compelled to take up arms. Large numbers were daily leaving the city and making their way towards our fleet.

Van Dorn, Price and Jeff. Thompson were at Memphis with about 6,000 troops, poorly equipped, most of their clothing in rags. Gov. Harris is at Corinth.

Twenty-nine deserters, from Fort Pillow, arrived yesterday.

Some 6,000 hogsheads of sugar and between 10,000 and 15,000 barrels of molasses were piled on the bluff, ready to be thrown into the river on the approach of the Federal fleet, which was daily expected, as it was generally conceded by the rebels that our fleet would compel them to evacuate Fort Pillow. Gen. Villipgue [sic] was still in command.

It was reported that Gen. Curtis’s scouts had reached the mouth of White River, and that his advance was within one day’s march.

All ideas of burning Memphis had been given up. The gunboat Mallory had been in the course of construction for some time and was rapidly approaching completion. She is plated with railroad iron. Rebel gunboats were continually plying between Memphis and Fort Pillow.

The Fortifications near Memphis have been abandoned, there being no guns mounted on any of them. All rebel stores and machinery had been removed to Columbus, Mississippi.

Negroes had recently advanced considerably in value. At an auction sale, two weeks ago, several were sold at prices ranging from $500 from to $1100. Coffee retailed at 80 cents, rice 7 [¼] cents, bacon 25 cents, chickens $1 each, eggs 40 cents per dozen.

Boats from below report nothing new. Mortars fire occasionally, but with what effect is not [known].

Gen. Halleck is moving forward slowly.

Reconnoissances in force, commanded by Gen. Garfield, went out on Friday and discovered the enemy’s advance about three miles beyond our out posts, encamped on Pea Ridge. Pickets are continually firing on each other.

Our heavy siege guns are being moved to the front as fast as the condition of the roads will permit.

The river continues to rise. Rain has set in, accompanied by strong wind, which may send water over the levee.

Rebel Cavalry have appeared in considerable force upon the river, about 20 miles below Savannah, near Clifton. One of the gunboats had been sent down the river to watch movements.

All boats leaving this point for above have brass pieces on board each side, besides armed guards upon hurricane deck, to return fire from guerrillas on shore.

CAIRO, April 29. – The river has risen an inch since morning.

Intelligence from Pittsburgh indicates an immediate forward movement of our whole army.

Gen. Pope, on Sunday, advanced his division over four miles into the interior from Pittsburg.

A battle was daily expected.

Generals Halleck and Grant have moved head quarters to front and are personally superintending the details of preparations.

Steamer Desoto arrived from gunboat flotilla, but brings no further news.

Deserters from the rebel army confirms the reports of the taking of New Orleans, but gave no particulars.

The Desoto brought 54 bales of cotton and a lot of hides from Osceola, Arkansas.

Gov. Yates has charted the steamer Champion, and is fitting her up as a hospital boat for wounded soldiers. She leaves for St. Louis on Wednesday night, with a fully corps of surgeons and nurses, and will proceed thence up the Tennessee river to await the coming battle.

Later arrivals report the gradual advance of our army from Pittsburgh.

Rumors of the evacuation of Corinth were reiterated by deserters who had arrived at Gen Halleck’s headquarters.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 3, 1862, p. 4