Showing posts with label Theophilus T Garrard. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Theophilus T Garrard. Show all posts

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Diary of Private Richard R. Hancock: Monday, December 9, 1861

General Zollicoffer now had with him. six and a half regiments of infantry, a six-pounder battery of eight guns, and McNairy's, Branner's and McClellan's Battalions of cavalry; also two companies of Brazelton's Battalion, and two independent companies, commanded by Captains Bledsoe and Sanders. Total, about five thousand five hundred present for duty. Two regiments of infantry, two pieces of artillery and McNairy's Battalion were left on the south side of the river; all the other troops were now encamped on the north bank, opposite Mill Springs, intrenching as rapidly as possible.

General D. C. Buell was now in command of the Department of the Ohio, with headquarters at Louisville, Kentucky. General G. H. Thomas was in command of First Division of Buell's army, with headquarter's at Lebanon, Kentucky.

Thomas's Division, which was now in front of Zollicoffer, was composed of five brigades, four regiments each, distributed as follows: The First Brigade, under Brigadier-General A. Schoepf, was now at Somerset; the Second, under Colonel M. D. Manson, and Third, under Colonel R. L. McCook, were posted at Lebanon; the Eleventh Brigade, under Brigadier-General J. T. Boyle, at Columbia; and two regiments of the Twelfth Brigade, the First and Second East Tennessee, under Colonel S. P. Carter, set out from London on the 7th, and arrived at Somerset on the 9th instant, leaving Garrard's Kentucky Regiment at London. Carter's other regiment, the Thirty-first Ohio, was at Camp Dick Robinson.1

Besides his own brigade, which was composed of the Thirty-third Indiana, Colonel John Coburn; Seventeenth Ohio, Colonel J. M. Connell; Twelfth Kentucky, Colonel W. A. Haskins, and Thirty-eighth Ohio, Colonel E. D. Bradley; General Schoepf had with him at Somerset the Thirty-fifth Ohio, Colonel F. Van Derveer, from McCook's Brigade; First East Tennessee, Colonel R. K. Byrd; Second East Tennessee, Colonel J. P. T. Carter, from S. P. Carter's Brigade; First Kentucky Cavalry, Colonel Frank Wolford, and ten pieces of artillery.2
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1 See Rebellion Records, Vol. VII., p. 461, 467, 479 and 480.
2 See Rebellion Records, Vol. VII., pp. 479, 484 and 486.

SOURCE: Richard R. Hancock, Hancock's Diary: Or, A History of the Second Tennessee Confederate Cavalry, p. 92-4

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

William Blount Carter to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 27, 1861

NEAR KINGSTON, ROANE COUNTY, TENNESSEE,        
October 27, 1861. (Received November 4.)

General THOMAS:

SIR: I am now within a few miles of our railroad, but I have not yet had time to obtain all the information I must have before I decide on the course best for me to adopt. If I can get half a dozen brave men to “take the bull by the horns,” we can whip them completely and save the railroad. If I cannot get such leaders, we will make a desperate attempt to destroy all the bridges, and I firmly believe I will be successful.

There are 1,400 rebel troops at Knoxville, some poorly armed, some not armed, and many of them sick. There are 160 at the Loudon Bridge. I know of no other troops in East Tennessee except the 300 about whom I wrote to you from Montgomery. They have gone to Wolf River.

Zollicoffer has 6,000 men all told; 1,000 of these are sick; 600 or 800 are not armed; 1,600 of the 6,000 are at Cumberland Gap; the balance beyond the gap.

Our enemies here are very uneasy for the safety of Zollicoffer, and have been calling on Davis for help; but, as I am informed, Davis says he is so pressed on the Potomac that he can spare none of the Virginia troops.

I can gain no reliable information from Kentucky by way of Nashville. I hear of no troops passing over our railroad.

We hear, by way of Knoxville, that Garrard has driven Zollicoffer back 6 miles. I suppose it is true, as secessionists tell it.

This whole country is in a wretched condition; a perfect despotism reigns here. The Union men of East Tennessee are longing and praying for the hour when they can break their fetters. The loyalty of our people increases with the oppressions they have to bear. Men and women weep for joy when I merely hint to them that the day of our deliverance is at hand. I have not seen a secession flag since I entered the State. I beg you to hasten on to our help, as we are about to create a great diversion in General McClellan's favor. It seems to me, if you would ask it, he would spare you at once 5,000 or 10,000 well-drilled troops. Will you not ask for more help?

I know you will excuse a civilian for making suggestions to a military man, when you remember that I am risking my life and that I am about to ask my people to do the same. I find more deficiency in arms in this part of East Tennessee than I expected. You must bring some small-arms with you. I am satisfied that you will have to take the road by Monticello and Jamestown, unless you come by Cumberland Gap.

I can assure you that whoever is the leader of a successful expedition into East Tennessee will receive from these people a crown of glory of which any one might well be proud, and I know of no one on whom I would more cheerfully bestow that crown than on yourself.

I regret that I can give you no more information, but I will communicate with you as circumstances may require. Perhaps it would be well for you to let General McClellan know that I have reached East Tennesee, as I know he is very anxious for my success.

I write in great haste, but believe you may rely on all I have written.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. BLOUNT CARTER.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 320

Acting Brigadier-General Samuel P. Carter to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, November

HEADQUARTERS EAST TENNESSEE BRIGADE,        
Camp Calvert, November 16, 1861.
(Received November 17.)
Brig. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS, U. S. A.,
        Commanding, &c., Crab Orchard, Ky.:

GENERAL: My brother William has just arrived from East Tennessee, and the news he brings I think of so much importance, that I will dispatch a special messenger to convey it to you. My brother left Roane County, near Kingston, on Monday night last. He reports that on Friday night, 8th instant, of last week, he succeeded in having burned at least six, and perhaps eight, bridges on the railroad, viz: Union Bridge, in Sullivan County, near the Virginia line; Lick Creek Bridge, in Greene County; Strawberry Plains, in Jefferson County, 15 miles east of Knoxville, partially destroyed; Hiawassee Bridge, 70 miles southwest of Knoxville, and on the East Tennessee and Georgia. Railroad; two bridges over the Chickamauga, between Cleveland and Chattanooga, and between Chattanooga and Dalton, Georgia These bridges are certainly destroyed. The Long Island Bridge, at Bridgeport, on Tennessee River, and a bridge below Dalton, on the Western Atlantic road, are probably destroyed.

The consternation among the secessionists of East Tennessee is very great. The Union men are waiting with longing and anxiety for the appearance of Federal forces on the Cumberland Mountains, and are all ready to rise up in defense of the Federal Government. My brother states that he has it, from reliable sources that the rebels have but 15,000 men at Bowling Green, many of them badly armed and poorly organized. The other 15,000 men are distributed at two other points in Southwestern Kentucky.

The above information was obtained from Union members of Tennessee legislature who were at Bowling Green on last Monday was a week ago.

On last Monday, as nearly as could be ascertained, Zollicoffer had in East Tennessee 8,000 men, about 1,000 of whom were unarmed, and about 1,500 on sick list, most of them badly clothed, and many poorly armed. About 6,000 of the above were at different points on Cumberland Mountains; at Jacksborough there were some troops, but the exact number could not be accurately ascertained. There were 1,400 at Knoxville, but only 600 of them able to bear arms. There were 60 at London, 60 at Carter's Depot, and 300 at Jamestown.

The only troops that have passed through East Tennessee in last six weeks was an Alabama regiment, 800 strong, which went to Virginia; they were without arms.

I send you a Nashville paper, brought by my brother, containing some account of the attack on Port Royal.

I to-day moved Colonel Garrard's regiment to the ground which was occupied by the Thirty-third Indiana, and the First and Second Regiments East Tennessee to the heights where the artillery and Thirty-eighth Ohio were encamped. I have heard nothing definite since yesterday from Cumberland Gap, but I have reason to believe that the reported loss of the Union men at Cumberland Ford was not correct. If possible, general, send me some artillery, for if I am attacked with artillery I cannot resist with any hope of success. Some cavalry are also necessary to our security.

General, if it be possible, do urge the commanding general to give us some additional force and let us advance into East Tennessee; now is the time. And such a people as are those who live in East Tennessee deserve and should be relieved and protected. You know the importance of this move, and will, I hope, use all your influence to effect it. Our men will go forward with a shout to relieve their native land.

The brigade commissary has not yet handed in his report of the amount of provisions on hand; but I think we have already nearly, if not quite, a month's supply on hand.

With much respect, I am, dear general, yours, very truly,

S. P. CARTER,        
Acting Brigadier-General, Comdg. East Tennessee Brigade.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 359-60

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Diary of Private Richard R. Hancock: Monday, October 21, 1861

General Zollicoffer sent the following telegram this morning to General Johnston, Bowling Green Kentucky:

One Ohio Regiment said to be twelve miles distant. Another regiment of the enemy a few miles beyond. I will feel of them today with two regiments and some cavalry. My force here is about 5,400.1

Johnston replied, the same day, thus:

Your telegram from London received. The information we have of the enemy in your front is this: 10,000 at Camp Dick Robinson, of these 4,000 are in advance toward Cumberland Gap, but how far is not known; it is commanded by Garrard; and 10,000 dotted from Robinson to Cincinnati.

General Polk ordered two howitzers, one Parrott and three iron guns to be shipped for you to Knoxville, October 15. A company to man this battery will be sent in a few days.2

On advancing with the infantry, about daybreak, Zollicoffer soon learned that the enemy had so blockaded the road, by cutting trees across it, that it was very difficult for infantry to approach the enemy's position, much less cavalry and artillery; and, moreover, the enemy's entrenched camp on Rockcastle Hills was a natural fortification, almost inaccessible, from our side of approach.

Winding their way, as best they could, between two hills, over the fallen timber, and up, up, up the rugged cliffs. Finally, about 9 A. M., the Eleventh (Rains) and Seventeenth (Newman) Tennessee Regiments attacked the Federals in their entrenchments on Rockcastle Hills. The following is taken from Colonel Newman's official report:

NEAR ROCKCASTLE HEIGHTS, October 21, 1861.

As ordered, I formed my regiment from hill-top to hill-top at open intervals to move in rear of Colonel Rains' Regiment and support him. Lieutenant-Colonel Miller was ordered to take command of the left wing, composed of Companies A, D, F and I . . . . and for the movements of said companies on the field I refer you to the report of Lieutenant-Colonel Miller, which is hereto appended and made a part of my report.3 The six companies, viz.: B, C, E, G, H and K, . . . . constituting the right wing, were under my immediate command, and moved forward in line of battle in the direction of the heights in front of our position.

Upon reaching a point within eighty yards of the heights, we discovered a number of men ascending the heights and entering the fortifications, but supposing these men to be a portion of Colonel Rains' command, I did not order them to be fired upon.

At this point we received a heavy volley of rifles and musketry. The command moved on, however, without returning the fire until within forty paces of the enemy's works before we discovered they were not Colonel Rains' men, at which time the men were ordered to cover as well as they could and to return the enemy's fire. In this position we maintained a heavy fire for twenty-five minutes, when I ordered Captain Armstrong and Lieutenant Harrison to move their companies around to my extreme right to prevent a flank movement of the enemy, which I saw they were about to make. These officers executed the order with promptness and alacrity, under fire.

The fire was kept up by all the companies for an hour and ten minutes, and, seeing that it was impossible to fall back without great loss, I ordered the works to be charged. Four companies gallantly charged the works, as ordered. Officers and men seemingly vied with each other as to who should be first to reach the works of the enemy.

After the fortification was reached, and many of my men had got within the works, driving the enemy from the first parallel, not receiving any support, and being nearly destitute of cartridges, I ordered my command to fall back, which it did in good order. While this was being executed the other two companies maintained their position as ordered. . . . . . . . . . . .

Killed, 11; wounded, 34.

All of which is respectfully submitted,
Taz. W. NEWMAN,        
Colonel Commanding Seventeenth Regiment Tennessee Volunteers.4

After he had fallen back to Flat Lick, between Barboursville and Camp Buckner, Zollicoffer sent the following report to A. S. Johnston:

CAMP FLAT LICK, KNOX COUNTY, October 24, 1861.

On the 21st I reached the enemy's entrenched camp, on Rockcastle Hills, a natural fortification, almost inaccessible. Having reconnoitered in force under heavy fire for several hours from heights on the right, left and in front, I became satisfied that it could not be carried otherwise than by immense exposure, if at all. received large reinforcements.

Our loss was forty-two wounded and eleven killed and missing. We captured twenty-one prisoners, about 100 guns and four horses. The loss of the enemy in killed and wounded unknown.

The country is so poor that we had exhausted the forage on the road for fifteen miles back in twenty-four hours. Our subsistence nearly exhausted. Under these circumstances I deemed it proper the next day to fall back. Enemy's camp said to be 7,000 strong, with large reserves near at hand.

Very respectfully,
F. K. ZOLLICOFFER,        
Brigadier-General.5

I have not been able to find Colonel Rains' official report, therefore can give no further account of the part taken by his regiment in the above action, though it would seem that the most of the fighting was done by Newman's Regiment, from the fact that Zollicoffer reports the same number, eleven, “killed and missing" from the brigade that Newman reports “killed" from his regiment; the former, however, reports eight more wounded, which may have been the loss of Rains' Regiment.6

Remaining in front of the Federal position, Zollicoffer made another slight attack about two o'clock, P. M., but still he could not induce the enemy to come from his intrenchments and give battle on equal footing.

The Thirty-third Indiana Infantry, under Colonel John Coburn, and the First Kentucky Cavalry, under Colonel Frank Wolford, did the most of the fighting on the part of the enemy.

I take the following from Colonel John Coburn's official report, addressed to “General A. Schoepf, Commanding Brigade:

They (Rebels) soon came near us7 under cover of a wood, which entirely concealed their approach until we were apprised of their presence by the firing of musketry. At this time we were reinforced by a portion of the First Kentucky Cavalry, dismounted, under Colonel Wolford, about two hundred and fifty strong, who immediately formed and took part in the engagement. The firing at this time was very severe, which caused the cavalry to waver and retreat. They were soon, however, rallied and formed again in order, and fought with good spirit.

The enemy engaged was composed of a portion of General Zollicoffer's command, and consisted of two regiments of Tennesseans, under the command of Colonels Newman and Cummings (Rains). They charged up the hill upon us, and were met by a galling and deadly fire, which wounded and killed many of them. The front of their column approached within a few rods of us with their bayonets fixed, declaring themselves “Union men,” and “all right,” at the next moment leveling their guns at us and firing.

After being engaged nearly an hour, the enemy retreated, bearing off a portion of their dead and wounded and their arms. Our men have buried their dead left on the field and taken the wounded8 to our hospitals. Thirty corpses have been found up to this time (October 22d). A large number of their wounded and dead were carried off in their wagons. It is safe to estimate the loss of the enemy at least one hundred killed. . . . . . . . . .

About the close of the engagement four companies of the Seventeenth Ohio, Colonel Connell, came upon the hill and formed in line of battle. . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . About two o'clock, P. M., we were again attacked. At this time the Fourteenth Ohio, Colonel Steedman, appeared upon the field. . . . . . . . . . . .

At ten o'clock at night Lieutenant Sypher, of Captain Standart's Ohio Battery, came on the hill, on an alarm fired three rounds. They were the last shots fired.

At about two o'clock in the morning we heard sounds which betokened a movement of General Zollicoffer's army. It proved to be a retreat. . . . . . . . . . . .

The number of our loss is a follows: Company D, one killed and five wounded; Company I, one killed and ten wounded, three mortally. Colonel Wolford lost one killed and eleven wounded.9

Colonel T. T. Garrard, Third Kentucky, who was in command at Wildcat before General Schoepf arrived, wrote to General Thomas, under October 25th, thus:

Your aid arrived in time to save us from a certain defeat (what others may say to the contrary notwithstanding). It is not necessary for me to say one word about the fight, for you have no doubt been fully posted. Though don't be deceived as to the number killed by us; my impression is that we did not kill to exceed sixteen, and wounded some thirty or forty.

Many say we lost a great victory by not pursuing the enemy. It is true, if we had have known as much then as now, we might have done.wonders. But we expected an attack the next morning, and every one was sleeping on their arms, and we never knew the enemy had left camps until near eight o'clock. We have a great many here who know precisely how to manage affairs when the enemy is out of hearing, but would be as much at a loss to do so in a fight as I would be.

I am glad to have an opportunity of proving by a Federal Colonel, who was present at Wildcat, that Colonel Coburn did greatly overestimate our loss at that place.

Supposing that all of the missing were killed, Colonel Newman reported eleven killed, but as three of them were only wounded, our loss was really eight killed and forty-five wounded, one mortally.

Colonel Garrard does not say any thing about the Federal loss in his report. General Schoepf reports four killed and eighteen wounded, while Colonel Coburn reports twenty-six wounded from his and Walford's regiments.

Companies A and E, of McNairy's Battalion went back a short distance in the direction of London, crossed over to the Richmond road, and thence around to the east of Wildcat, to keep a sharp lookout for any flank movement that the enemy might be making in that direction. Making no discovery, however, we returned to the wagon train, about half-way between London and Wildcat, a little after dark.
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1 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 209.

2 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 212.

3 Not found.

4 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 213.

5 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 210.

6 Since writing the above I have learned (from Military Annals of Tennessee, p. 293) that Rains lost “one killed and six or eight wounded."

7 On an eminence east of the Federal encampment.

8 Three, one mortally, so General Schoepf reports. See Rebellion Records Vol. IV., p. 207.

9 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 208.

10 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 319.

SOURCE: Richard R. Hancock, Hancock's Diary: Or, A History of the Second Tennessee Confederate Cavalry, p. 59-65

Monday, August 22, 2022

Brigadier-General Albin F. Schoepf to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 28, 1861

CAMP CONNELL, NEAR LONDON,        
Laurel County, Kentucky, October 28, 1861.
[General GEORGE H. THOMAS:]

GENERAL: In compliance with your instructions I have moved my command forward, and now occupy a position about 3 miles north of London, at the junction of the Crab Orchard and Richmond roads.

I have in camp the Fourteenth and Seventeenth Ohio and Thirty-third Indiana and two batteries (Standart's and Kenny's).

I have sent Colonel Garrard's Kentucky and the First Tennessee ahead to occupy London or some convenient point adjacent. The Second Tennessee will be up to-night.

Please advise me of the location, strength, &c., of the several columns of our forces now in Kentucky. I am feeling my way somewhat in the dark, and would like to be kept posted up with reference to the movements of both friends and enemies. I reconnoitered this morning a few miles beyond London to find a better camping ground, but found no position as good as my present, I can here obtain wood, water, forage, and some provisions, which is more than I can do on the other side of London, except by hauling a long distance.

It is reported that Buckner has advanced upon Greensburg. Is it so? A Mr. Burnsides reports himself as beef contractor, but has no documents to show the fact. I understood you to say that he had contracted. Did I rightly understand you?

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. SCHOEPF,        
Brigadier-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 322-3

Friday, August 19, 2022

Colonel Theophilus T. Garrard to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 25, 1861

CAMP WILDCAT, October 25, 1861.
General GEORGE H. THOMAS:

GENERAL: Your aid arrived in time to save us from a certain defeat (what others may say to contrary notwithstanding). It is not necessary for me to say one word about the fight, for you have no doubt been fully posted. Though don't be deceived as to the number killed by us; my impression is that we did not kill to exceed 16 and wounded some 30 or 40. Many say we lost a great victory by not pursuing the enemy. It is true, if we had have known as much then as now we might have done wonders. But we expected an attack the next morning and every one was sleeping on their arms, and we never knew the enemy had left camp until near 8 o'clock. We have a great many here who know precisely how to manage affairs when the enemy is out of hearing, but would be as much at a loss to do so in a fight as I would be.

The teams you ordered turned over to me have for some cause been retained. I have but one team in my regiment. I have detailed Lieutenant-Colonel Ridgell to go to your camp for the purpose of getting some teams for my regiment; also to remain until he can procure clothing for the soldiers. I do not attach blame to any one, but my men are actually-suffering.

Yours, very respectfully,
T. T. GARRARD,        
Colonel Third Kentucky Regiment Volunteers.

P. S.---When I get my train I would like to get permission to move near London, as I would like to be with my family a short time, and I do not want to leave the regiment. I could send for my family to come to London. General Schoepf no doubt would let me go if I was to make the request, unless it was against your wish.

T. T. GARRARD.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 319

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

Lieutenant-Colonel William W. Mackall to Brigadier-General Felix K. Zollicoffer, October 21, 1861

BOWLING GREEN, October 21, 1861.
General ZOLLICOFFER:

GENERAL: Your telegram from London received. The information we have of the enemy in your front is this: 10,000 at Camp Dick Robinson; of these 4,000 are in advance towards Cumberland Gap, but how far is not known; it is commanded by Garrard; and 10,000 dotted from Robinson to Cincinnati. General Polk ordered 2 howitzers, 1 Parrott, and 3 iron guns to be shipped for you to Knoxville October 15. A company to man this battery will be sent in a few days.

W. W. MACKALL,        
Assistant Adjutant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 212

General Albert Sidney Johnston to Samuel Cooper, October 21, 1861

BOWLING GREEN, October 21, 1861.

General Zollicoffer telegraphs to-day from London, Ky., as follows:

One Ohio regiment said to be 12 miles distant; another regiment of the enemy a few miles beyond. I will feel of them to-day with two regiments and some cavalry. My force here is about 5,400.

The above is the dispatch. From intelligent gentlemen I learned the day before yesterday that 6,000 men at Camp Dick Robinson had an advanced force of 4,000 towards Cumberland Gap under Garrard and from the camp stretching back to Cincinnati 10,000 more. I have no means of adding to Zollicoffer's force at present, important as I think it.

A. S. JOHNSTON,        
General.
S. COOPER,
        Adjutant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 209

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

Official Reports: Action at Rockcastle Hills, or Camp Wildcat, Ky.. October 21, 1861. No. 4. — Report of General A. S. Johnston, C. S. Army.

No. 4.

Report of General A. S. Johnston, C. S. Army.

BOWLING GREEN, October 21, 1861.

General Zollicoffer telegraphs to-day from London, Ky., as follows:

One Ohio regiment said to be 12 miles distant; another regiment of the enemy a few miles beyond. I will feel of them to-day with two regiments and some cavalry. My force here is about 5,400.

The above is the dispatch. From intelligent gentlemen I learned the day before yesterday that 6,000 men at Camp Dick Robinson had an advanced force of 4,000 towards Cumberland Gap under Garrard and from the camp stretching back to Cincinnati 10,000 more. I have no means of adding to Zollicoffer's force at present, important as I think it.

A. S. JOHNSTON,        
General.
S. COOPER,
        Adjutant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 209

Monday, August 1, 2022

Theophilus T. Garrard to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 18, 1861—1 p.m.

CAMP WILDCAT, October 18, 1861—1 p.m.
General GEORGE H. THOMAS:

I have information now beyond doubt that Zollicoffer is coming on with a large force and six pieces artillery.

I saw the colonel of the Indiana regiment last night at the river when Mr. Faulkner left. I insisted on his returning to his regiment and coming up and joining me immediately. He said he could not do so unless he was ordered by you.

I am now making arrangements to move my sick and comissary's stores across the river, and intend, if I do not receive more troops, to abandon this place and retreat towards Camp Robinson. I have no idea of having my men butchered up here, where they have a force of six or seven to one, with artillery. I would like to hear from you immediately.

Very respectfully,
T. T. GARRARD,        
Colonel Third Regiment Kentucky Volunteers.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 310

Monday, May 30, 2022

Diary of Private Richard R. Hancock: Thursday, October 3, 1861

Lieutenant Joe Wyatt (Company C) was elected surgeon of McNairy's Battalion, F. W. Hearn (Company B), Quartermaster, and M. D. A. Nolan (Company A), Commissary Sergeant.

Sergeant Major M. W. McKnight, Lieutenant George Alexander and Private T. D. Summer, all from Company E, started home on furlough.

On the 2d instant, Col. T. T. Garrard wrote to General G. H. Thomas thus:

Col. Brown has now enrolled and in camp some 2501 twelve months soldiers. He has muskets, but no cartridge boxes, caps, pouches, nor bayonet scabbards.


Have not heard anything of the Rebels since they reached Barboursville. The last account is that some 100 or upwards were in Barboursville. (Two companies of McNairy's Battalion).


I have got Col. Brown to move all of his men to the river (Big Rockcastle, some two miles to the rear) except one company, and they are outside our camp in a rock house. We have been much annoyed by them, as well as visitors and others who were driven before the Rebels. Some of them returned this evening part of the way home, but heard of the Rebels below London, and they returned to camp. The report, I am satisfied, is false.2

And the next day, the 3d, he wrote thus in reference to Brown's men:

You will see before this reaches you that Col. Brown has moved to the river, some two miles from us. I would be afraid to place them between the enemy and our camp.

Some of his men are, I fear, a little timid, and I doubt whether or not they will do their duty on that side of us.3

And in reference to Wolford's Cavalry, on the 10th, he puts it thus:

When Captain Smith, of the cavalry, reached here (Wildcat), there was not one of Walford's men in camp, nor had there been for several days, and if my informant is correct, some of them that are now here will do no good. They were seen drunk on picket yesterday at, or near, London.4

On the date under which I am now writing, the 3d, Zollicoffer sent the following telegraph dispatch to General A. S. Johnston, Columbus, Kentucky:

I think I have reliable information that Camp (Dick) Robinson was 7,000 strong; 1,000 of these have gone to Lexington and Frankfort; 1,500 remain in camp, the residue believed to be certainly moving toward Barboursville to meet me. Should it appear to me expedient, I wish permission to meet them half way.5

On the same day Johnston replied as follows:

"Dispatch received. Exercise your own discretion in attacking the enemy."6

It was about this time that Captain William Ewing resigned and returned home, and William Parrish became Captain of Company C, First Battalion.

_______________

1 It appears from the above that their force at Laurel Bridge had been overestimated. Including Walford's Cavalry, perhaps they did not exceed 500.

2 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV., p. 290.

3 Ibid, p. 292.

4 See Rebellion Records (Garrard to Thomas), Vol. IV., p. 301.

5 Rebellion Records, Vol. IV, p. 435.

6 RebellionRecords, Vol. IV, p. 435.

SOURCE: Richard R. Hancock, Hancock's Diary: Or, A History of the Second Tennessee Confederate Cavalry, p. 51-3

Colonel Theophilus T. Garrard to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, September 28, 1861—5 p.m.

CAMP WILDCAT, September 28, 1861-5 p.m.
General GEORGE H. THOMAS:

Colonel Wolford has sent me a special messenger to notify you the rebels are within 8 miles or less of London. They suppose there are from 5,000 to 7,000; does not say whether they have artillery or not.

I am in camp one-half mile this side of the intrenchments, and will do our best to maintain our position. It is unnecessary for me to make any suggestions as to more men, as you will understand all.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. T. GARRARD.        

P. S.—I will not seal this. I will authorize the messenger to show it to the commander of any troops he may meet. It is 13 miles from here to London.

T. T. GARRARD,        
Colonel, Third Regiment Volunteers.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 280

Colonel Theophilus T. Garrard to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 2, 1861

CAMP WILDCAT, October 2, 1861.
General GEORGE H. THOMAS:

Since General Carter arrived we have been over considerable country. The general thinks when the work is completed we will be secure against almost any force. With strangers they could not find passways, but persons acquainted with the country could get into our camp really ways. Still, they could not do so if we had a small force at each point. The distance from Little Rockcastle River to Big Rockcastle is some 3½ miles. A considerable portion of this distance is defended by natural cliffs, so that it relieves us from performing much labor at those places. Ten miles of the road south of our camp is almost a dense thicket on each side of the road, and could be defended, or at least we could annoy the enemy with infantry the entire distance, whilst we would be comparatively secure, provided we acted cautiously. General Carter can explain more explicitly.

Colonel Brown desires me to say to you that he can supply his command of twelve-months' men with beef and bread, but will be dependent on you or General Crittenden for sugar, coffee, soap, candles, and such other articles as are furnished. He has no tents or camp equipage. Many of his men are bare of shoes, clothing, and blankets.

Colonel Brown desires to know whether or not he must open a correspondence with General Crittenden or must he address you on all matters connected with his military affairs? He desires such instructions as you may from time to time think proper to give.

Colonel Brown has now enrolled and in camp some 250 twelve-months' soldiers. He has muskets, but no cartridge-boxes, caps, pouches, nor bayonet scabbards. He desires to hear from you as soon as convenient. Mount Vernon is the post-office, if sent by mail.

I have not heard anything of the rebels since they reached Barboursville. The last account is that some 100 or upwards were in Barboursville. I have heard, but do not say that it is reliable, that there is a robbing party going through Knox County, plundering every person (almost) they come across, and that it is headed by men by the name of Arthur, citizens of Knox County, Kentucky.

I have got Colonel Brown to move all of his men to the river except one company, and they are outside our camp in a rock house. We have been much annoyed by them, as well as visitors and others who were driven before the rebels. Some of them returned this evening part of the way home, but heard of the rebels below London, and they returned to camp. The report, I am satisfied, is false.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. T. GARRARD,        
Colonel Third Regiment Volunteers.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 289-90

Sunday, May 29, 2022

Colonel Theophilus T. Garrard to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 3, 1861

OCTOBER 3, 1861.

I have not said anything about the cavalry, as I supposed they would return. It will be very inconvenient for our men to go so far from camp as they should to be effective. The road from our camp towards London for several miles is only tolerable, but from that point to the rebel camp on Cumberland River is as good if not better than and other dirt road in Kentucky that I know.

Respectfully,
T. T. GARRARD,        
Colonel Third Regiment Volunteers.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 290

Colonel Theophilus T. Garrard to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 3, 1861

CAMP WILDCAT, October 3, 1861.
General GEORGE H. THOMAS:

I have no information in regard to the rebels more than I wrote you, except the inclosed order of General Zollicoffer, which I have no doubt is genuine. I could not doubt it, because they carried out the instructions to the letter. I also inclose you a letter directed to Hon. Green Adams, &c.* The bearer of this letter, Mr. Hurst, is reliable, and was in Tennessee sometime since and taken prisoner. The order from Major Coffee, countermanding the blockade of the Madison Fork of the Richmond road, was sent me this evening. If we have one day's notice, which we certainly will have, I can have the road blocked up completely. However, we have been doing and undoing so much, that you may begin to think we are fickle. I should not have ordered the blockade the second time if it had not have been for General Carter, and he was for carrying out instructions.

You will see before this reaches you that Colonel Brown has moved to the river some 2 miles from us. I would be afraid to place them between the enemy and our camp. Some of his men are, I fear, a little timid, and I doubt whether or not they will do their duty on that side of us. There is a tolerable good camping ground about 2 miles beyond our camp. General Carter spoke of' it as we passed it, looking out the points to blockade. It is near Little Rockcastle, and near a point where the road passes between the point of a ridge and Little Rock-castle River. At the point where we are camped there is but little room, though we can stick our tents about on points and sides of hills, and could find room enough to place another regiment on the same kind of ground.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. T. GARRARD,        
Colonel Third Regiment Volunteers.

P. S.—Are there any cartridges for rifled muskets at Camp Robinson? The muskets I received of Captain Cardwell, of Harrodsburg, are rifled. I have not examined, but learn from others the ordinary cartridge will not suit them. Surgeon Hogan has not yet been furnished with a tent. He desires one sent, if there is any to be had.

_______________

[Inclosure.]

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 291-2

Colonel Theophilus T. Garrard to Brigadier-General George H. Thomas, October 10, 1861

CAMP WILDCAT, October 10, 1861.
General GEORGE H. THOMAS:

The point called Laurel Hill I am unable to say anything definite. When I wrote you some days ago I was of the opinion that the hill known as Laurel Hill was beyond Little Rockcastle, and not more than 3 miles from this camp; but now I am induced to believe the hill is beyond Big Laurel Creek; if so, I cannot say anything definite about it.

There is a bridge over Big Laurel, though the stream is not 50 feet wide. There is no ford for several miles either above or below, as I am told by citizens, except near the bridge.

The country on the opposite [side] of the creek from this is level for some 300 yards; then the road forks, one by Barboursville, the other by Payne's Cross-Roads, and unite 8 miles beyond Barboursville, near the Flat Lick. The hill beyond the bridge, some say, commands the roads, though I cannot see how it does.

I have been informed that the rebels have been examining a hill beyond London 9 miles, where there is a meeting-house, near McHargue's. I understand this hill commands the Barboursville road for some distance. They may establish a temporary camp there for the purpose of getting grain, &c., it being one of the best neighborhoods on the road, though this would not command the road that runs by Payne’s Crossroads.

I have understood, but place no confidence in the report, that the rebels intend going through Whitley County and Pulaski, so as to surround this camp. They were in Williamsburg Saturday last; that is, about 200 cavalry.

When Captain Smith, of the cavalry, reached here there was not one of Colonel Wolford's men in camp, nor had there been for several days, and if my informant is correct, some of them that are now here will do no good. They were seen drunk on picket yesterday at or near London, some 10 miles from this camp.

In regard to surgeon and assistant, I will write to Dr. William Atkinson, tendering to him the appointment on conditions, which conditions I will state to him. If he accepts, I will tell him to report to you as he comes to join the regiment.

I would like very much to have had Dr. Hogan as assistant surgeon, as he is very attentive, and so far has treated the cases which he has been called upon to attend in such a manner as to give satisfaction. If it is not contrary to orders, I would like for Dr. Hogan to remain as assistant with the surgeon, so that the surgeon acting with him may have an opportunity of testing his qualifications practically. Dr. Hogan says that he was embarrassed, but still thinks he could undergo an examination.

Inclosed I send you Zollicoffer's proclamation,* also statement of [illegible] about the location of troops. The proclamation was copied from Zollicoffer's.

Captain Smith, of the cavalry, has several men that will not do any good here. I have advised him to send them to Camp Dick Robinson, so that he may get some others in return. I have 975 non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates in the regiment.

Inclosed I send you list of articles received in the regiment agreeably to the different captains' reports.

OCTOBER 11.

I have no late news of the rebels, that is reliable, near us, though some of the officers believe a squad was seen between this camp and Mount Vernon.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. T. GARRARD,        
Colonel Third Regiment Kentucky Volunteers.
_______________

* Not found.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 4 (Serial No. 4), p. 300-1