Incidents of the Taking of Ft. Donelson

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 16.

A special to the Democrat, dated in rear of Fort Donelson, Friday, says:

Last night was very severe on our troops, rain having set in, which turned to snow.  It is freezing to-day, and old citizens say they have rarely known such cold weather in this latitude.  The more I see of the fort the more convinced am I it cannot be reduced without a terrible battle.  The rear seems almost impregnable.  The outer works and bastions of the fort are located on ridges 150 to 200 feet high, covered with dense timber and undergrowth.  Upon a similar gorge of hills outside these our army is drawn up in line of battle, completely encircling the enemy from the Cumberland, south to the fort, to the backwater of a stream which flanks the fort to the north.

Considerable skirmishing occurred during the night, both forces endeavoring in the darkness to crowd in upon the other.  This morning it was discovered that the enemy had placed logs on the top of their breast works, leaving little spaces for them to shoot through, and much diminishing their risks from the unerring aim of our sharp shooters.

The casualties among our artillery thus far, were very small.  The loss of the enemy as far as can be ascertained, is considerable.

Yesterday afternoon, after the storming party had retired and when the rebels had been thickly crowded together to rebel the assault, Capt. Taylor opened on them with shell with terrible effect.  His practice was superb, creating the greatest consternation in the ranks and causing them to take refuge in their entrenchments.

The gun-boat assault was terrific, exceeding even the Fort Henry bombardment.  It lasted about an hour and a half.

The enemy has fronting on the river two batteries, the lower one of nine, and the upper of four guns, besides a 10-inch columbiad.

The wooden gunboats Tyler and Conestoga were engaged in the fight.  Com. Foot pronounces the engagement the hottest he ever witnessed.  Seven of the nine guns in the lower tier of the enemy’s battery had been silenced, and everything was apparently progressing favorably, when the rudder chain was severed.

The Pittsburgh was damaged in her wheel so as to be unable to stem the current, and the pilot house was knocked away, killing the pilot, and slightly wounding several others, among them Com. Foote.  The fleet were then obliged to retire.

One of our shells struck immediately under one of the enemy’s guns, throwing the gun and bodies of the gunners high in the air.  A great number of dead and wounded could be seen carried up the hill.

Com. Foote’s wounds are slight.

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

From Corinth

CAIRO, May 6. – Up to Monday night no general engagement hat taken place at Corinth. Orders had been issued to the troops to march on Sunday night but the movement was prevented by the condition of the roads which heavy rains had made impassable. On Sunday morning Gen. Pope, by placing a battery of artillery in open field at Farrington in sight of three regiments of rebels, succeeded in tolling them on to take the battery, and then took the whole force prisoners, numbering nearly 2,000. Several deserters came into our camp on Monday and [reported] that great dissatisfaction exists in the rebel army, both among officers and men. Beauregard had made a speech to some of his troops that he would make a desperate stand and force the Federal army to retreat, and appealed to them to stand by him. A band of guerrillas still maintain warfare on al passing steamboats, and on Sunday drove in our picket around Savannah, but fled on approach of our infantry. The gunboat Tyler is not plying between Clifton and Pittsburgh Landing, shelling the woods where the rebels are supposed to be located.

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

From Grant’s Army – Railroad Bridges Destroyed

Pittsburg Landing, April 14.

A force of four thousand on five transports left the Landing on Saturday night accompanied by the gunboats Tyler and [Lexington], and proceeded up the stream to a point near Eastport, Miss., landed and proceeded inland to Bear Creek bridge, and destroyed the two bridges on the Mobile & Ohio Railroad, one measuring one hundred and twenty and the other two hundred and ten feet in length. A cavalry force of one hundred and fifty men was found there, who, after having four killed, skedaddled in the most approved southern style. The expedition returned Sunday night, without having lost a man. This was one of the most successful operations of the kind during the war, completely cutting off communication of the main rebel body at Corinth with the rest of the Confederates, except New Orleans.

A flag of truce arrived at our outpost yesterday with Gen. Johnston’s son, of Ky., asking the fate of his father.

– Published in The Gate City, Keokuk, Iowa, Wednesday, April 16, 1862

From Fort Henry

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 12.

A special to the Republican, dated Fort Henry, the 11th, says gun boats Conestoga, Tyler and Lexington returned form the upper Tennessee last night. The boats went as high up as Florence, Ala., and were received with the wildest joy by the people along the river; old men cried like children at the sight of the stars and stripes, and invited officers and men into their house and told them all they had was at their disposal. Large numbers were anxious to enlist under the old flag, and the Tyler brought down 250 to fill up the gun boat crews. Our officers were assured if they would wait a few days, whole regiments could be raised, and if the Government would give them arms to defend themselves, they could bring Tennessee back to the Union in a few months. They said when the secession ordinance was passed, armed men stood at the polls and everything went as certain politicians said. At Savannah, Clifton, Eastport, and Florence, officers and men of our boats went ashore without arms and mingled freely with the people. The Union men along the river comprise the wealthiest and best portion of the inhabitants, large numbers of whom have American flags. Not a gun was fired either going or coming. The rebel gun boats Eastport, Sallie Ward and Mussel, only partially finished, were captured and are here. The Eastport has 25,000 feet of lumber on board, and the Ward had a quantity of iron plating. The steamers Sam. Kirkman, Linn Boyd, Julia Smith, Sam Orr, Appleton and Bell were burned by the rebels to prevent them from falling into our hands.

The railroad bridge at Florence was not destroyed. A quantity of papers were captured on the Eastport, belonging to Lieut. Brown, late of the Federal navy: among them were letters from Lt. Maury, stating that submarine batteries could not be successfully used in the rapid streams of the West.

150 [hds] of tobacco and a quantity of other freight will be brought down from the mouth of the Sanday river to-morrow.

A daily line of packets has been established between Fort Henry and Cairo.

Nothing during the war has been so prostrating to the rebels as the late victory and the gun boat expedition above named.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 13, 1862, p. 1

From Cairo and Fort Henry

Special to Chicago Journal

CAIRO, Feb. 8.

News has been received from Fort Henry up to twelve o’clock yesterday. The gunboats Conestoga and Tyler, which were up the Tennessee river when I left, had returned. They went up some distance towards the bridge of the Clarksville and Memphis Railroad, and reported the enemy in considerable force north of the bridge. – A large land force was just starting from the fort.

General Smith has captured the tents, ammunition and camp equipage of ten rebel regiments opposite Fort Henry, on the heights on the west side of the river.

Three regiments arrived here by river from St. Louis, last night, on the City of Memphis. The Fifty-second Indiana, Colonel Smith, and four batteries of the Second Illinois Artillery, under Major Stolbrand, arrived by rail this morning. You may expect other victories soon.

A company of the seventh Illinois cavalry, under Captain Brakeman, had an engagement near Bloomfield, Mo., with rebel cavalry, day before yesterday, killing two and taking thirty prisoners. Our loss was one killed and two wounded accidently. I go up the river to-night.

The Prima Donna arrived yesterday, from Pittsburg, with four hundred tons of munitions of war, including four thousand thirteen-inch shells.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 11, 1862, p. 1

From The Eighth Iowa Regiment

CAMP PITTSBURG, Tenn., April 18.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE GAZETTE:– Several days have now elapsed since the memorable battle of Pittsburg Landing. I presume from various sources you have received descriptions of the fight. Many reasons, in the form of attendance on the wounded, hunting for acquaintances in other regiments, and fatigue, have prevented an earlier communication. I shall now attempt a brief account of the battle, not attempting a full description, but confining myself to the brigade to which the 8th Iowa was attached, and more especially to the regiment which I had the honor to serve. The information I shall give may be relied on, as it is gathered from personal observation partly, and still more from others, who being combatants and actually in the engagement, are better qualified to give a correct account.


COMMENCEMENT OF THE ENGAGEMENT.

The enemy’s advance lines were in sight of our outposts as early as Friday afternoon, April 4th. The fact that a battery was planted near our lines was communicated to Gen. Sherman, who commanded the division on our extreme right, and in the advance. He had received orders from Gen. Grant “not to bring on an engagement,” and supposing the design of the enemy was to induce skirmishing and endeavor to learn something of our strength, paid no attention to the battery or the skirmishing of pickets. Evidently our commanders were not expecting an attack, but soon as Gen. Buell’s column should come up, intended an advance. Saturday was quiet except skirmishing. On Sunday, April 6th, the attack was made, and found us entirely unprepared. Our line of encampment was somewhat in the form of a crescent. The enemy attacked us by what is termed the letter V movement. The apex of the letter V rested on our center. The two lines, extending back obliquely, where admirably formed for flanking us on both wings. We, who were camped near the river, heard heavy cannonading early on the morning of the 6th for an hour or two before we were ordered out. Meantime, several of our advance regiments were driven back – some had scarcely time to form a line of battle at all; others, overpowered by numbers retreated in good order, loading and firing as [they] fell back. The first regular line of battle was formed about 9 a. m. This was the first I saw, and I believe, from what I can learn, it was the first formed by our main army. I shall now write more particularly of the part taken by the Iowa 8th, which was in this line.



POSITION OF THE EIGHTH IOWA INFANTRY.

Between 8 and 9 a. m. on Sunday, our brigade – third brigade, second division – was ordered out. This brigade consisted of the 8th Iowa, 52d, 7th, 58th, 57th and 50th Illinois regiments, under command of Col. Sweeny, of the 52d Illinois. The 8th Iowa occupied the right center of the brigade, and in the line of battle the brigade was posted in the right center of the line. On our left was Gen. McClernand’s division and I think Gen. Hurlbut’s. On our right the Iowa brigade, formerly Col. Lauman’s, but during the battle under command of Col. Tuttle, 2d Iowa. Shortly after the line of battle was formed, the 52d Illinois moved off to the right, and was soon followed by the 7th Illinois. The design of this movement I have never learned, but it left our right entirely unsupported, and an open space between us and the regiments which filed off. On the right of the 8th Iowa two cannon were placed. Of these guns our gallant Colonel took command for a short time, and so pointed them as to rake the enemy. Col. Geddes was for many years an artillery officer in the British regular service. He saw these guns were not worked too good advantage, and riding up to the man in charge gave directions. The man said, “If you can manage these guns better than I, do so.” The Colonel replied, “I can,” and immediately took command. With what effect the check which the advancing enemy received best tells, and more than vindicates the Colonel’s action. On the left of the 8th was another gun, so pointed as to prevent an oblique movement of the enemy on our left flank and to protect the regiments on our left. All this while the enemy were pouring a tremendous volley from cannon and small arms into our lines. Two guns had been taken from one of our batteries early in the morning. These guns were now in front of our regiment. Their recovery was determined on. Our men had been lying down allowing the enemy’s fire to pass over them; meanwhile Col. Geddes was riding along the line or directing the two guns on our right, smoking his pipe and giving orders with the same coolness as if on battalion drill. It is also due to Lieut. Col. Ferguson and Maj. Andrews to say that they conducted themselves with the utmost coolness and bravery. The recovery of the lost guns being determined upon, the Colonel ordered the 8th Iowa to charge. A more brilliant or successful charge need never be made. Forward after their gallant commander, whom every man loved as a brother and trusted as one more than human, rushed our noble Iowa boys. The guns were seized by our brave boys, and with their own hands hauled off from the enemy. In this charge most of our brave fellows, who were killed in the battle, fell; but they fell not in vain. – I was over the ground on Tuesday morning, when we were gathering up their bodies. I passed over to the place into which they had discharged volley after volley from their trusty Springfield and Enfield rifles. Never have I anywhere seen – at Wilson’s Creek or on this battle ground, over all of which I have ridden – bushes and small trees so completely cut and riddled by rifle balls, as was the spot where our boys took good aim and true, and nowhere on the whole field did I see the rebels shot dead, lie thicker than among these riddled bushes. Other regiments fought nobly, heroically, but we of Iowa may justly be proud to point to that charge of our 8th, and fearlessly challenge any and all to show, on any part of the bloody field, evidences of cooler bravery or more terrible execution. It is with feelings of profoundest sorrow that I have to record, but a few hours after this brilliant and successful charge.


THE CAPTURE OF THE GALLANT IOWA 8TH.

The 8th Iowa, after re-taking the captured guns, returned nearly to their former position. Their right, as already observed, was unsupported. It became necessary now to change front by flanking on the left, both to get the guns they had in charge in good position, and to avoid as far as was possible the raking fire of the enemy. Meantime, the enemy’s fire had taken great effect on the right and left of our line, which was gradually falling back. The 8th Iowa did not fall back with the line, but held its ground some time longer. How this happened, is to me not yet fully explained. I am however, fully satisfied no blame whatever, can be attached to Col. Geddes. He did his duty nobly, heroically. In the charge, his horse was shot under him by a grape, but he sprang from his back and still led his men onward. I conjecture, and from the circumstances, with the utmost probability, that Col. Geddes was not fully aware of his position. He was placed in position by his commanding officer. His duty was to maintain that position as long as possible, or until ordered elsewhere. – Comparatively early in the action, Col. Sweeney, was commanded the brigade, was severely wounded. After he left the field, no order, so far as I can learn, was given to Col. Geddes. From his position he could not see what was going on on his right. He had no time to inquire who were falling back on his left. When overpowered by numbers, he fell back in good order, bringing on the artillery in his charge, until after falling back a mile, or perhaps more, from his first position, he found his regiment entirely surrounded. Nothing now could be done but surrender. I was informed, though I cannot vouch for its truth, that Col. Geddes tendered his sword to the Right Rev. Bishop, Mag. Gen. Leonidas Polk. However, this may be, the officer who received the Colonel’s sword handed it back to him. Their swords were returned to all captured officers, and they were treated in a very gentlemanly manner. The officer who received and then returned their swords to our officers, complimented them upon their bravery. – “You are brave men; you have fought bravely, but fought too long,” said he. Both Col. Geddes and Lt. Col. Ferguson received flesh wounds in the leg, and both were taken with their regiment. A horse was offered to Col. Geddes, but he remarked, “I will walk with my boys.” Where our battalion is by this time, we of course do not know. No information has been received. I presume they are somewhere in Southern Alabama or Mississippi, where they can be kept till the close of the war.

Maj. Andrews was severely wounded by a spent ball striking him on the head. He was carried from the field some two hours before our regiment was taken, and thus escaped. His wound, though very serious was thought by the surgeons not to be dangerous. He started for his home in charge of an attendant several days since.

Capt. Hogan, of Co. F, was killed; Capt. Palmer, 1st Lieut. Craigie, and 2nd Lieut. Wells of Co. H, were wounded. But I sent you a list of the killed and wounded of the 8th Iowa, as far as ascertained.


SURGICAL AID RENDERED TO THE WOUNDED.

It would scarcely be just, in a narrative of the kind I have attempted, not to speak of the surgeon’s department – for during and after a battle no officer is of more importance, or, if true to his duty, more busy and valuable than the surgeon. It gives me great pleasure to speak of the unwearying industry and skill of the surgeon of the 8th Iowa, James Irwin, and his assistant, Aug. Hoffmeister. When our brigade was ordered out, they, with two ambulances and a hospital wagon followed. Soon as the line of battle was formed, they with their ambulances went as near the line as a regard for the safety of the wounded would permit. This position they occupied, dressing the wounds of the wounded brought to them with care and dispatch, until the fire of the advancing enemy admonished them to fall back. Two or three halts were made in the rear, till about noon the order came to fall back to the river. This was obeyed. – Our surgeon established his hospital on a bluff on the river. Her he had tents pitched, in which the wounded men could be placed. All Sunday afternoon and night, Monday and Tuesday, Dr. Irwin and assistant were unremittingly engaged in dressing wounds, not for their own regiment only, but for any poor fellow whom they had the time to examine and relieve. Here, too, the chaplain found employment, and endeavored to “do the little he could do” for suffering humanity.


THE LAST STAND MADE SUNDAY EVENING.

All day long the enemy had driven us back. The roar of cannon, whizzing sound of shells and cracking of rifles and musketry had been incessant. I have never read of any engagement in which the discharge of firearms on both sides was so constant and so long continued. Usually such firing settles the battle in three or four hours. We who were with the wounded heard this firing, and knew the enemy were slowly driving our men back to the river. Thousands of our men, for some reason or other came in by detachments from the field to the river, all declaring that their regiments were cut to pieces. No effort on the part of officers could induce these men to return. They seemed to be entirely unmanned, and for the time at least, where acting as arrant cowards. I had occasion about 4 1-2 p. m. to go from our hospital tents over toward the road leading up from the landing – as I returned I heard a cavalry officer giving orders by the authority of Gen. Buell. I inquired of him, and found Gen. Buell had really arrived on this side of the river, and that Gen. Nelson’s division was then crossing. I put the spurs to my horse and hastened to give circulation as best I could, to this most welcome news. We near the river, who saw how things were, had spent an afternoon of torturing anxiety. The fear of personal danger, though balls and shells often whistled and sung in most unpleasant proximity to my ears, was quite lost in the apprehension that our entire force and armament would be taken. Already the enemy had advanced within half a mile of the color lines nearest the river, and we had the ground left for one more stand. This was most nobly made. Two siege guns and a large iron howitzer were placed along our line in the rear. In front of these was all our available artillery and the infantry which had been under fire all day. Next the siege guns lay the first brigade – perhaps more – of Nelson’s division. It was near sundown when the enemy made their last assault. For half an hour the cannonading and musketry was terrific; but our men stood firm, while our 65 pounders and howitzer poured into the enemy’s line a fire they could not stand. About dusk the enemy withdrew, and quartered themselves in our tents, all of which they had left standing. The enemy expected to capture us – tents, camp furniture and all, so they destroyed nothing of these, though the officers were robbed of trunks, clothing, &c. That night all our troops slept or rather lay on their arms in line of battle. All night the gunboats Lexington and Tyler threw a shell about every fifteen minutes into the camp of the enemy. By the way, these gunboats did good service, and the rebels are very much afraid of their shells. Where I lay out on the bank of the river, I could see the flash and hear the report of the gun on the boat, listen to the shell as it went singing over the timber, and then hear it burst with a report like a 24-pound howitzer. Sunday night it rained very hard for an hour or two, but as it was warm our boys got along very well. It was hard on the poor wounded fellows who lay out.


MONDAY’S BATTLE.

During Sunday night all of Gen. Nelson’s Division had crossed the river; also McCook’s and I believe Crittenden’s; Gen. Lew Wallace was also on hand with his large Division. Our men who had been in the fight on Sunday were in good spirits. Soon as we could see on Monday morning, fresh troops were ordered in the advance – Nelson on the left, McCook the centre, and Wallace on the extreme right, I think. Soon the battle began – the cannonading, and musketry was again terrible, Gen. Buell was on the field near nelson’s Division a little to the left, were balls and shells were falling thick and fast. The place where he stood was shown me by an officer, who received more than one order from him in person; and also a tree just behind the hero, which was riddled by a shell. Of Gen. Buell’s history I know little, but that he is a noble, brave, and eminently capable General is abundantly proven by his conduct on Monday. I have heard military men speak with admiration of his management of the enemy when the flanking operation was attempted. Gen. Buell had his forces so placed that when the enemy fell back to change front and flank, he was held fast, and lost just the distance he had fallen back from his first position.

For two or three hours in the morning the enemy stood well up to the work. They demonstrated on Sunday and Monday that Southern troops lack neither valor nor determination. After a time they began to give way slowly, much as we had done on Sunday; but by the middle of the afternoon they were in full retreat. Their loss on Monday must have been very great, for we pursued them with terrible firing. On Sunday I think our loss was great as theirs, but on Monday, from all I can learn, we must have slaughtered them. All our troops fought nobly on Monday; there was no running to the river, but all stood up to the work. When the sun set on Monday evening, he went down over one of the most glorious victories, as it was undoubtedly the severest battle ever won on this continent. Gen. Albert Sidney Johnston, who planned and commanded on the rebel side in this battle, was killed on Sunday. Johnson, the Provisional Governor of Kentucky, was wounded and captured. When taken he remarked that there was no more chance for Secessia; she had staked her all in this battle and lost. I believe this Gov. Johnson has since died. It was reported that Beauregard was killed, then that he was wounded. I believe him alive, well and in command, and expect we shall have his skill to combat in our next battle. I can form no correct idea of the number killed and wounded on either side. I suppose we will soon know with respect to our loss from the official reports of Surgeons and Adjutants. Gen. Prentiss was wounded and taken prisoner early on Sunday. Gen. W. H. L. Wallace, of Illinois, was badly wounded, and died soon after he was carried to the boat. The 8th, 12th and 14th Iowa and 58th Illinois were taken prisoners. The loss of these noble regiments casts a shadow over what would otherwise be a most glorious victory.


THE PRESENT CONDITION OF OUR ARMY.

Yesterday I rode out beyond our advance lines to the pickets. I found, as they used to say about the army of the Potomac, “all quiet along the lines.” There is occasional skirmishing on our outside cavalry pickets, indicating that a portion of the enemy are about somewhere. An attack was somewhat expected the first of the week. Now the indication seem to be that we shall advance as soon as the roads will permit. – Troops are still coming in, and those camped far back are moving toward the advance. – Our advance division are now so arranged as themselves to form a kind of pickets. – Batteries are in a position of defence, and, from appearances, by five minutes after the “long roll” – ominous sound to the soldier – is beaten, an hundred thousand men would be in line of battle, and all in a position to support each other. Evidently Gen. Halleck does not intend another surprise. We are pretty well prepared for an attack. Our misfortunes of the 6th have taught us a lesson; all now looks fair for success. – There is, I think, good reason to hope that before the summer is ended, rebellion will be effectually crushed out in the southwest. Let us hope the grand army of the Potomac, or Rappahannock, I believe it is now, may also speedily be successful in fulfilling its part of the great work. C.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, April 28, 1862, p. 2

Tribune’s Correspondence

WASHINGTON, April 25.

A special order has been issued form the War Department conferring upon Doctors Brown and Alexander and such assistant surgeons as they may appoint, the right to embalm the dead of the U. S. army, any where within the lines, either in the camp or in the field, and to follow up the advance of the land forces.

Our Minister at London, Mr. Adams, recently visited Paris for an official conference with Mr. Dayton upon an important subject of diplomatic negotiation. The former by the last steamer reports that he has returned to his post.

The House to-day reversed its yesterday’s action on the motion to print 25,000 copies of the agricultural part of the Patent Office report in the German language. Mr. Walton, chairman of the military committee stated that the government printing office has neither German type nor German printers. He said the work would have to be translated.

The Sanitary Commission will to-morrow dispatch the steamer Daniel Webster to Fort Monroe as a floating hospital. She is to carry a large supply of hospital stores, medicines, clothing, ice, &c., and a corps of surgeons, nurses and hospital dressers.

The Navy Department has received dispatches from Com. Foote, enclosing a report from Lieut. Commanding Gwynn, dated 14th inst., in which he says: The Tyler and Lexington conveyed two transports, containing 2,000 troops, infantry and cavalry, under command of General Sherman, to Chickasaw, where they disembarked and proceeded rapidly to Bear Creek bridge, at the crossing of the Memphis and Charleston railroad, for the purpose of destroying it and as much of the trestle work as they could find. The bridge, consisting of two spans of 110 feet each, was completely destroyed, that is the superstructure, together with 500 feet of trestle work and half a mile of telegraph line. The rebels made a feeble resistance to our cavalry, 120 in number, but soon [retreated], losing four killed. Our loss none.

The navy department is desirous of learning the address of Mr. Birney, the inventor of the combustion shell.

A dispatch received at the War department from Ft. Monroe says that the Richmond Dispatch states that a Federal gunboat has successes in passing Ft. Jackson, below New Orleans, but the rebels say they regard it as of little importance, as they have other defences to be depended on.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, April 28, 1862, p. 1

PITTSBURG LANDING, April 23, [1862]

The gunboat Tyler, while reconnoitering up the Tennessee river, captured the rebel steamer J. Robb near the mouth of Crane Creek. This is one of the boats which eluded out first expedition up this river, after the fall of Ft. Henry. Her name has been changed to Lady Tyler. Weather rather more pleasant.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, April 25, 1862, p. 2

Rebel Steamer Captured

PITTSBURGH LANDING, April 23. – The gunboat Tyler, while reconnoitering up the Tennessee river, captured the rebel steamer J. Robb [sic], near the mouth of Crane creek. This is one of the boats which eluded our first expedition up this river after the fall of Fort Henry. Her name has been changed to Lady Tyler.

Weather rather more pleasant.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 3

Gen. Grant’s Official Report

HEADQUARTERS DIST. OF WEST TENN.,
PITTSBURG, April 9, 1862.

Capt. N.H. McLane, A. A. Gen. Dept. of the Mississippi, Saint Louis, Mo.

CAPTAIN: It becomes my duty again to report another battle fought between two great armies, one contending for the maintenance of the best government ever devised, the other for its destruction. It is pleasant to record the success of the army contending for the former principle.

On Sunday morning our pickets were attacked and driven in by the enemy. Immediately the five divisions stationed at this place were drawn up in line of battle, ready to meet them. The battle soon waxed warm on the left and center, varying at times to all parts of the line.

The most continuous firing of musketry and artillery ever heard on this continent was kept up until night-fall, the enemy having forced the entire line to fall back nearly half way from their camps to the landing. At a late hour in the afternoon a desperate effort was made by the enemy to turn our left and get possession of the landing, transports, &c. This point was guarded by the gunboats Tylor [sic] and Lexington, Capts. Gwin and Shirk, U. S. N., commanding, four 20-pounder Parrott guns and a battery of rifled guns. As there is a deep and impassable ravine for artillery or cavalry, and very difficult for infantry, at this point, no troops were stationed here except the necessary artillerists, and a small infantry force for their support. Just at this moment the advance of Major-General Buell's column (a part of the division under General Nelson,) arrived, the two generals named both being present. An advance was immediately made upon the point of attack, and the enemy soon driven back. In this repulse much is due to the presence of the gunboats Tylor and Lexington, and their able commanders, Captains Gwin and Shirk. During the night the divisions under Generals Crittenden and McCook arrived.

Gen. Lew Wallace, at Crump's Landing, 6 miles below, was ordered at an early hour in the morning to hold his division in readiness to be moved in any direction to which it might be ordered. At about 11 o'clock, the order was delivered to move it up to Pittsburg, but owing to its being led by a circuitous route did not arrive in time to take part in Sunday's action.

Before the close of the action the advance of Gen. Wood’s division arrived in time to take part in the action. My force was too much fatigued from two day’s hard fighting, and exposure in the open air to a drenching rain during the intervening night, to pursue immediately. Night closed in quietly and with heavy rain, making the roads impracticable for artillery the next morning. Gen. Sherman, however, followed the enemy, finding that the main part of the army had retreated in good order. Dead bodies of the enemy and many graves were found. I enclose herewith the report of General Sherman, which will explain more fully the result of the pursuit. Of the part taken by each separate command, I cannot take special notice in this report, but will do so more fully when reports of divisions [sic] commanders are handed in.

During the night all was quiet, and feeling that a great moral advantage would be gained by becoming the attacking party, an advance was ordered as soon as day dawned. The result was a gradual repulse of the enemy at all parts of the line from morning until probably 5 o'clock in the evening, when it became evident the enemy was retreating.

General Buell, coming on the field with a distinct army under his command, and which did such efficient service, commanded by himself in person on the field, will be much better able to notice those of his command who particularly distinguished themselves than I possibly can.

I feel it a duty, however, to a gallant and able officer, Brig. Gen. W. T. Sherman, to make a special mention. He not only was with his command during the entire two days' action, but displayed great judgment and skill in the management of his men. Although severely wounded in the hand the first day his place was never vacant. He was again wounded, and had three horses killed under him.

In making this mention of a gallant officer no disparagement is intended to the other division commanders - Maj. Gens. John A. McClernand and Lew. Wallace, and Brig. Gen. S. A. Hurlbut, B. M. Prentiss, and W. H. L. Wallace, all of whom maintained their places with credit to themselves and the cause.

General Prentiss was taken prisoner in the first day's action, and W. H. L. Wallace severely, probably mortally, wounded. His Assistant Adjutant, Capt. William McMichael, is missing; probably taken prisoner.

My personal staff are all deserving of particular mention, they having been engaged during the entire two days in conveying orders to every part of the field. It consists of Col. J. D. Webster, Chief of the Staff; Lieut. Col. J. B. McPherson, Chief Engineer; assisted by Lieuts. W. L. B. Jenney and William Kossak; Capt. J. A. Rawlings, A. A. Gen. W. S. Hillyer, W. R. Rawley, and C. B. Lagow, Aides-de-Camp, Col G. G. Pride, Volunteer Aid, and Capt. J. P. Hawkins, Chief Commissary, who accompanied me upon the field.

The medical department, under the direction of Surgeon Hewitt, Medical Director, showed great energy in providing for the wounded and in getting them from the field regardless of danger.

Colonel Webster was placed in special charge of all the artillery, and was constantly on the field. He displayed, as always heretofore, both skill and bravery. At least in one instance he was the means of placing an entire regiment in a position of doing most valuable service, and where it would not have been but for his exertions.

Lieut. Col. McPherson, attached to my staff as Chief of Engineers, deserves more than a passing notice for his activity and courage. All the grounds beyond our camps for miles have been reconnoitered by him, and plats carefully prepared under his supervision, giving accurate information of the nature of approaches to our lines.

During the two days' battle he was constantly in the saddle, leading troops as they arrived to points where their services were required. During the engagement he had one horse shot under him.

The country will have to mourn the loss of many brave men who fell at the battle of Pittsburg, or Shiloh, more properly. The exact loss in killed and wounded will be known in a day or two. At present I can only give it approximately at 1,500 killed and 3,500 wounded.

The loss of artillery was great, many pieces being disabled by the enemy's shots, and some losing all their horses and many men. There were probably not less than 200 horses killed.

The loss of the enemy, in killed and left upon the field, was greater than ours. In wounded the estimate cannot be made, as many of them must have been sent back to Corinth and other points.

The enemy suffered terribly from demoralization and desertion. A flag of truce was sent in to-day from General Beauregard. I inclose [sic] herewith a copy of the correspondence.

I am, very respectfully, your ob’t serv’t.

U. S. GRANT,
Major-General, Commanding.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport Iowa, Friday Morning, April 18, 1862, p. 2

From Tennessee

PITTSBURG LANDING, April 14.

A force of 4,000 men on five transports left the Landing on Saturday night, accompanied by the gunboats Tyler and Lexington, proceeded up the Tennessee to a point near Eastport, Miss., where they landed and proceeded inland to Bear Creek bridge and destroyed the two bridges, on the Mobile & Ohio RR. One measured 121, the other 216 feet in length. A Cavalry force of 150 men was found there, who, after having four killed, skedaddled in the most approved southern style. The expedition returned Tuesday night without the loss of a man. This was one of the most successful operations of it’s kind during the war, completely cutting off communications of the main rebel body at Corinth, and the rest of the confederacy, except at New Orleans.

A flag of truce arrived at our outposts yesterday with Gov. Johnson’s son of Ky., asking the fate of his father.

– Published in the Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Wednesday Morning, April 16, 1862, p. 1

A Successful Expedition – Two Rebel Bridges Destroyed

PITTSBURGH LANDING, Tenn., April 14. – A force of 4,000, on five transports, left the Landing on Saturday night, accompanied by the gunboats Tyler & Lexington, proceeded up the Tennessee to a point near Eastport, Miss., landed and proceeded inland to Bear Creek Bridge and destroyed the two bridges on the Mobile & Ohio Railroad, one measuring 121 feet, and the other 210 feet in length. A cavalry force of 150 men was found there, who, after having 4 killed, skedaddled in the most approved Southern style. The expedition returned Sunday night, without having lost a man. This is one of the most successful operations of its kind during the war – completely cutting off communication of the main rebel body at Corinth and the rest of the Confederate army, except New [Orleans].

A flag of truce arrived at our out post yesterday with Gov. Johnson’s son, of Kentucky, asking the fate of his father.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 19, 1862

A Successful Expedition - - - Two Rebel Bridges Destroyed

PITTSBURGH LANDING, Tenn., April 14. – A force of 4,000, on five transports left the Landing on Saturday night, accompanied by the gunboats Tyler and Lexington, proceeded up the Tennessee to a point near Eastport, Miss., landed and proceeded inland to Bear Creek Bridge and destroyed the two bridges on the Mobil & Ohio Railroad, one measuring 121 feet, and the other 210 feet in length. A Cavalry force of 150 men was found there, who, after having 4 killed, skedaddled in the most approved Southern style. The expedition returned Sunday night, without having lost a man. This is one of the most successful operations of its kind during the war – completely cutting off communication of the main rebel body at Corinth and the rest of the Confederate army, except New Orleans.

A flag of truce arrived at our out posts yesterday with Gov. Johnson’s son, of Kentucky, asking the fate of his father.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Saturday, April 19, 1862, p. 4

The True Hero!

The Question is already agitating the public mind as to who was the hero of the great battle at Corinth. It is asserted by some that General Grant was the man. Others say it was General Buell. Some are inclined to think it was General Halleck, while others stoutly contend that it was General Wallace. But we have the unspeakable pleasure to state, on the authority of a private telegram received by ye Local at this office, that no one of the Generals above designated was the true hero of the battle. They were all heroes in a subordinate sense.

The victory was positively one by “Old Strategy!” He alone did it, and no one participated with him in the glory of the transaction. While quietly snoozing in his pavilion on the banks of the Pottymack, and while his servitors were fanning the musketoes from his lordly brow, his faithful nose smelled afar off the coming battle at Corinth!

He started from his deep sleep, and called for his boots! His voice as like the rushing of many waters in a Des Moines river flood!

Said he, - “Bring the clothes-line here and establish a Telegraph office immeditly [sic] at the side of this bead-post!” The order was obeyed. The operating instruments were brought in, and the machine was put in motion. All right! Old Strategy had engineered the battle at Fort Donelson by Telegraph, when there was a chasm of 100 miles for the lightning to leap over without the aid of wires! Lightning could do it, and “Old Strategy” did it!

Click! click! went the instrument, making the clothes-line vibrate with thrilling commands.

“There!” said “old Strategy,” wiping his benign visage, and ejecting a dark colored fluid from his mouth, “General Prentiss by my orders has attacked ‘em at Pittsburgh Landing. He is giving ‘em fits!”

Click! click! General McClernand was ordered to reinforce General Prentiss!

Click! click! General Hurlburt’s [sic] Division was thrown forward to support the centre!

Click! click! Major Taylor’s Battery from Chicago was ordered by “Old Strategy” to mow down the luxuriant rebels, and the Battery went to mowing!

Click! click! General Grant was directed to ride among the raining bullets for diversion, with his hat off, and he rid!

Click! click! The federal gun-boats Lexington & Tyler were directed to rain shell on the rebels and they rained for an indefinite period.

At this point the Tennessee terminus of the Telegraph went poking into the ribs of General Wallace, informing him that his services were needed in the battle, and that he was lost in the woods! This was a grand stroke of “Old strategy” which was highly appreciated by General Wallace, although his ribs gave evidence of painful abrasion!

Click! click! General Nelson with new reinforcements was advised that it was his duty to go in on his muscle, and he went in with his sleeves rolled up and his collar unbuttoned!

Click! click! It was ordered that the Iowa Regiments should be restrained as long as practicable, because if they were to let loose on the rebels, they had a dangerous disposition to hurt “our dear Southern Brethren!” This order from “Old Strategy” was the only one which was fully disregarded. The Iowa Regiments waded into the battle with the unconquerable devotion for which they are distinguished, and a part of their war-cry was – “Old Strategy be cussed!”

At nightfall Sunday, “Old Strategy” looked fatigued. He retired early to his couch, and slept with the profound quietude which is characteristic of the classic Pottymack! He arose early, threw back his locks from his massive brow, and called for lunch. – Lunch came, and then came the ubiquitous Telegraph.

Click! click! Generals Wood and Thompson were ordered to reinforce. The reinforcements came.

Finding that he possessed such magnetic and irresistible power over the masses, “old Strategy,” taking a good ready about 3 o’clock in the afternoon, gave a thrilling order to the rebels to “skedaddle” with much haste to Corinth! This was sufficient! No sooner did the words electric reach the rebel hosts, than Beauregard’s arm and army went off simultaneously, and the grand army of the Confederacy, gallantly turning their backs on the enemy, made a Bull Run advance on Corinth with the Federal cavalry in full pursuit. Who, then is the hero of the Corinth battle? “Old Strategy,” of course.

– Published in the Daily State Register, Des Moines, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862

THE GREATEST BATTLE OF MODERN TIMES!

FARTHER PARTICULARS OF THE BATTLE OF PITTSBURG LANDING!

18,000 Federals Killed, Wounded and Missing!

35 to 40,000 Rebels Killed, Wounded and Missing

Chicago, April 9.

The following is the only account yet received of the battle of Pittsburgh landing. – The attack was brought on by three hundred of the twenty-fifth Missouri, under Gen. Prentice, by attacking the advance guard of the rebels, which was stationed on the left wing, firing volley after volley of musketry and shell. Our forces soon formed into line, and returned the fire vigorously. By the time we were prepared to receive them they had concentrated their largest force on our left and center of Sherman’s division and drove our men back from their camps and bringing up fresh forces, they again opened fire on our left wing and the division under the command of Gen. McClernand.

The fire was returned with terrible effect and determined spirit by both infantry and artillery along the whole line for a distance of over four miles.

Gen. Hurlburt’s [sic] division was thrown forward to support center, where a desperate conflict ensued and retreat. The rebels were driven back with terrible slaughter, but soon rallied and drove our men in return from 9 o’clock Sunday morning until night – no possibility of determining what the result would be.

Rebels exhibited remarkable generalship at times engaging our left with apparently whole force. They would then suddenly open terribly destructive fire on center and right. Even our heaviest, most destructive fire did not seem to discourage them or disarrange their solid columns. Major Taylor’s Chicago battery Artillery mowed them down in scores, and the breach would be filled immediately. Most desperate fighting took place afterward. The rebels seemed impressed with the idea that if they didn’t succeed in flanking us their chances for success would be extremely doubtful. At five o’clock they had forced our left wing back so as to occupy fully two-thirds of our camp and were fighting their way forward at a desperate degree, confident in their efforts to drive us into the river.

At the same time, they heavily engaged our right. At this time reinforcements which had been ordered forward had not arrived, Wallace’s division having taken the wrong road from Cruness [sic] Landing, did not come up until nightfall. When they arrived they had no way of crossing the river except by transports used for Quartermaster and commissary stores which were too heavily laden to carry any considerable number.

We were therefore contesting the field against fearful odds, our force not exceeding thirty-eight thousand, while that of the enemy was upwards of sixty thousand. Our condition was critical. Large numbers of men were panic struck, others worn out by hard fighting. Gen. Grant and staff recklessly rode along the lines during the entire day amid unceasing storms of bullets, grape and shell, inciting the men to stand firm until reinforcements could cross the river. In the evening Col. Webster, Chief of staff, got into position with heaviest pieces of artillery pointing on enemy’s right, while a large number of batteries were planted along the entire line from the river bank on the Northwest to extreme right, two and a half miles distant. About four before dusk a general cannonading opened on enemy from along our whole line, with a continual crack of musketry. – for a short time the rebels repelled vigorously, and effectively, but their return became less frequent and less destructive, wile ours grew more rapid and more terrible.

Gun boats Lexington and Tyler which lay a short distance off the left wing, rained shell on rebel hordes. This last support was too much for enemy and ere dark, firing nearly ceased and all combatants rested from work of blood and carnage. Our men rested on their arms, on the field, in the position they held at nightfall until Gen. Wallace arrived with his division and took position on our right. Nelson’s division of Buel’s [sic] army having arrived, was ordered to form on left. Crittenden’s division also of Buel’s [sic] army ordered to his support.

On Monday morning the battle was renewed at day-break, simultaneously by Nelson’s division on left and Wallace’s division on right. Nelson’s force opened most galling fire on rebels and advanced rapidly as the rebels fell back. The fire soon became general along the whole line and began to have terrible effect on the enemy. The men of Gen. McClernand’s, Sherman’s and Hurlbut’s division, although terribly jaded from previous day’s fighting, still maintained the honors won at Fort Donelson. The resistance of rebels was at all points gallant and worthy a better cause, but not enough, however, for the undoubted courage of our troops and dreadful destruction produced by our artillery, which sweeping them off like chaff convinced them that defeat now would be death to their hopes.

The rebel Generals still urged them on in the face of certain destruction, hoping by flanking our right they might turn the tide of battle. Their success was once more cheering as they began to gain ground there, but our left under Gen. Nelson was driving them and by 11 o’clock had succeeded in flanking them and capturing their batteries. They rallied on left and right and forced themselves forward in another desperate effort. Reinforcements from Gens. Wood and Thomson coming in, regiment by regiment was sent immediately to Buell, who had again commence driving the enemy. About 3 p.m. General Grant rode to the left, and finding the rebels still wavering, sent a portion of his body guard to the rear of each. Five regiments were then ordered to charge across the fields, himself leading with brandished sword and waved them on while cannon balls were falling like hail around him. The men followed with shout heard above the roar of battle. The Rebels fled in dismay as from a destroying avalanche and never made another stand, and were followed. By half past five the whole Rebel army were in full retreat to Corinth with our Cavalry in hot pursuit, with what result is not yet learned. It is impossible yet to learn what amount of material is captured; it is known however, a large amount of their artillery and a number of prisoners were taken. The Rebels took some prisoners, estimated several hundred, among them Gen. Prentiss. He is also reported wounded. The killed on the rebel side includes the Commander-in-Chief, A. Sidney Johnson [sic], who was struck by a cannon ball Sunday afternoon.

There is no doubt of this, as the fact is corroborated by several rebel officers taken. It is further reported that Beauregard had an arm shot off. Rebel Generals Breckinridge [sic], Bragg and Johnson, all had commands. Our loss in officers is very heavy, but it is impossible at present to state the number. Among them are W. H. L. Wallace, Col. Pegram, Col. Ellis, acting Brig. Gen., killed; Major Gadduck, 15th Ill., Lieut. Col. Conrad, 72nd Ohio Lieut. Col. Kyle, 41st Ind., Col. Davis, 41st Ill., mortally wounded; Gen. Sherman, Col. Sweeney, acting Brig. Gen., wounded; Col. Dave Stuart, acting Brig. Gen., Shot through the breast Sunday, but remained on the field until Monday. Gen. Sherman had two horses shot under him. Gen. McClernand not hurt but had bullet holes through his clothes. Our loss in killed, wounded, and missing is variously estimated at from ten to twenty thousand – Rebel loss twice that number. This, however, must be greatly exaggerated. Our force on Monday numbered about 80,000.

– Published in the Daily State Register, Des Moines, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862

Battle At Pittsburg Landing

{Correspondence of the Burlington Hawk-Eye}

Sunday morning, April 6th, whilst taking breakfast, we were startled by the rapid firing of cannon in the direction of our advance encampments. There had been a skirmish to our front the day previous, indicating the near presence of the Rebel forces. Yet it was deemed hardly possible that they would venture to attack us in full force. But the continuous roar of artillery, and the heavy vollies of small arms, soon dispelled all doubt, and convinced us that the great battle of the war had commenced. – Directly every camp was busy with the note of preparation. The long roll beat to quarters – ammunition was distributed – the men formed in line of battle, and advanced to support our front. Our camp was nearest the river, and our regiment, the 7th Iowa, was in the 1st Brigade of the 2nd division, (General William L. Wallace commanding,) Col. Tuttle commanded the brigade. When brought to the front, we were placed near the centre. To our left was Gen. Hurlbut’s division, to our right was the division of Gen. McClernand. As we advanced to the front, we were met by stragglers from the regiment that had been driven back, some bare headed – some without guns – some powder begrimed and wounded, and some helping others that were wounded. Army wagons loaded with baggage, and scattered parts of two or three batteries that had occupied a position nearest the advancing forces of the rebels, were mixed up promiscuously with the crowd of flying fugitives. Steadily onward through these advanced the 2d division to the relief of our hard pressed troops in front. We soon reached the point where it had been decided to make a stand. This was at nine o’clock. The fighting was then principally confined to the left wing of our forces. Very soon, however, the enemy attacked our position. To the left was an open field. One of our batteries was placed in position to command this. Gen. Lauman’s brigade, composed of the 31st & 44th Indiana, and the 17th & 25th Kentucky regiments, were ordered to support this, flanking it on the right, constituting also the right of Gen. Hurlbut’s division. The 2nd division occupied ground to the left of this, and was posted in the edge of the woods fronting an open field. These arrangements had hardly been effected before the rebels assailed our forces along nearly the whole extent of the line. The fight was opened by heavy cannonading, which was vigorously replied to by Willard’s Chicago, and Major Cavander’s Missouri batteries. Under cover of this fire, the rebel infantry advanced to the attack. Soon the whole line was one blaze of fire. Our men stood their ground firmly, and repelled four successive attacks. The storm of bullets was terrific. The most desperate charges of the enemy were against the position occupied by Gen. Lauman’s brigade. But not animated by his presence and example, his men behaved like veterans. He rode up and down the lines, perfectly calm, and stopping here and there to address a cheering word to his men. I could not but admire his noble bearing, though momentarily expecting to see him fall. The Major of the 31st Indiana, fell mortally wounded near my side. Assistant Adj’t General H. Schofield, was also disabled by a shot in the thigh. Colonel Crofts was wounded, Lt. Barnes, Aid to General Lauman, your correspondent, and Gen. Lauman himself, successively had our horses shot. But still the fight went on and the rebels were forced to retire. The underbrush in front of our line was literally chopped to pieces by the repeated volleys of rifled musketry, and the ground was covered by the rebel dead. It was now about two o’clock, P. M. The fighting had been heavy all day on both flanks, and now the left began to yield. Gen. Lauman was ordered to move to the support of our retiring troops. This he did; and by the most desperate fighting, and skillful handling of his brigade, saved the left wing from annihilation. But the moving of these troops left a gap in our lines, of which the rebels with their superior forces were not slow to take advantage. About this time the right also began to give way, and the 2d division was soon fairly flanked. The order was finally given for them to fall back, but it came too late to save all. The 8th, 12th and 14th regiments of Iowa volunteers were cut off, surrounded, and after desperate fighting, forced to surrender. – The remains of our army were now driven close to the river, and the prayer of all was, “would that night or Buell would come!”

The rebels were following up their advantages, and seemed on the point of cutting us off altogether. But most fortunately now, General Buell’s advanced forces came up, and ranged themselves in line of battle. Col. Webster, Chief of Gen. Grant’s Staff, had by this time, got some heavy siege guns into position, which began to pour a destructive fire upon the advancing columns of the enemy. They replied vigorously with both artillery and small arms, but were finally compelled to fall back. Night now closed upon the scene, and the forces on both sides slept on their arms.

The Gunboats Tyler & Lexington had taken part in the closing fight and continued to throw shell amongst the rebels at intervals of fifteen minutes during the entire night. The scene was grand, yet sad, for thousands of our brave fellows lay bleeding on the ground, and we knew that the morning’s light would see many more stricken down by the bullets of the enemy. During the night a heavy rain set in which completely drenched our exhausted troops laying out on the naked ground.

Before it was fairly daylight the next morning the battle was renewed by Gen. Nelson’s Division on the left, and Gen. Lew Wallace’ on the right. The rebels soon began to fall back, and were steadily followed up by Buell’s forces who were constantly arriving and immediately sent forward. All through the previous night the transports had been busy ferrying over his forces from Savannah, nine miles below, and also from the opposite side of the river. Gen. Buell everywhere inspired confidence as he rode along the lines and addressed words of cheer to his troops. His superior generalship completely foiled the rebels in all their maneuvres, and whilst he preserved his own line of battle intact, he completely broke theirs, driving them from one position to another until we had regained all the ground lost on the preceding day – captured several batteries, and pursued them far out on the road to Corinth. The troops belonging to Gen. Grant’s army that had fought on the previous day, including Generals McClernand, Sherman, Smith, Hurlbut, and Prentiss’ Division were organized into reserves, and hurried on to the support of Buell’s forces.

The fighting of the second day was principally done by the several divisions under General Buell’s immediate command. All feel that our salvation is due to him alone. He himself arrived at the scene in advance of his troops, and riding up to our men assured them final victory if they could only hold the enemy in check until his troops arrived. At 5 o’clock, p. m., he rode along the lines and said to our jaded and disheartened men, that if they would hold them in check two hours longer, he had men enough to engage them alone in the morning.

IMPRESSIONS OF THE BATTLE

First. That the rebel attack Sunday morning was a complete surprise to our army. We lay with our camps scattered about, perfectly unconscious of danger. The Friday evening previous there had been a skirmish in front of our lines, but it excited little comment, and was supposed to be only a scouting party from the rebel forces at Corinth. No special preparations were made to receive the enemy, and no one seemed to imagine that they were in force close upon our lines. And yet as facts have since shown, they lay camped for several days within striking distance – two miles – of our camp. The rear division of their army had left Corinth on the Monday preceding the battle. The distance from Corinth to Pittsburg Landing is twenty miles. Our camps extended along the main road about four miles from the river. But though they were so near us, and were nearly a week making final preparations for the battle, still the only feeling apparent on the part of our leaders was a fear least they should slip away from Corinth, and decline to give us battle.

Second. That our volunteer cavalry is shamefully inefficient. We have supposed all along that it was the business of the cavalry to keep us posted on the movements of the enemy, and to immediately advise the General Commanding of any change of position. Yet the rebels were allowed to make all their arrangements to attack us with perfect impunity, and in entire secrecy. Moreover, during the battle, they were worse than useless, I have yet to learn of an instance where they either made an attack upon the enemy, or stood a charge from them. As far as my own observation extended they always took special pains to keep out of the way of the enemy’s fire. Whenever a retreat took place they were the first to run, and in two separate instances on Monday and Tuesday, they were the means of creating a shameful panic amongst our troops, and a ludicrous stampede for the steamboat landing. Many of them remained near the river all day Sunday, not venturing out upon the field at all; and others were constantly exciting alarm by circulating reports of the successes of the enemy, and the discomfiture of our own forces. They are regarded here since the battle with a feeling of utter contempt; and if the immense sums of money spent in organizing and equiping [sic] these useless appendages to the army had been employed in fitting out infantry regiments, the result of Sunday’s fighting at least would have been very different in its effects upon the enemy.

Third. I have been more than ever convinced of the importance of discipline and drill in forming an efficient army. Those regiments that had brave and competent officers fought unflinchingly in the face of successive and desperate attacks from the enemy, and when ordered to retire, would do so in good order fighting as they moved back, and forming again into line at the word of command. Others would break and run at the first fire, and could not be rallied by the most strenuous exertions of their officers. One regiment of this sort was met by the 7th Iowa, as it was moving to the front during the fight of Monday. Their officers were incapable of rallying them, seeing which, Maj. E. W. Rice then commanding the 7th, ordered his men to charge bayonets upon the cowardly sneaks. And in this way alone could they be halted and brought into line. – Buell’s force was manifestly well organized and under excellent system of discipline and instruction. They were kept well in hand during the battle, and reflected high credit upon the General commanding. Many of our officers – from Colonels down to Second Lieutenants, openly deserted their posts and fled panic stricken from the field of battle. But notwithstanding all this, through the great mercy of God we were finally delivered from our perilous situation, and enabled to drive back the rebels in utter disorder. This battle is another instance of the vindication of the sanctity of the Sabbath by the Lord of battles and of Providence. The party commencing the attack on the Sabbath were ultimately worsted and failed in all their endeavors.

We expect another battle soon, either here or at Corinth. Gen Halleck has arrived, and is expected to take command in person. But a great deal of rain has fallen since the battle, and the roads are now almost impassible.

Many of the dead still lie unburied. The battle field was one of the most heart rending sights it was ever my lot to witness. For miles the ground was strewn with the mangled remains of the dead, and the dying, and those disabled by their wounds. The loss on each side can only be counted by thousands. The rebels took the most prisoners, but it is probable that their dead and wounded will far exceed ours. The fire of our artillery was terribly destructive to their ranks.

They fought as though the issue of the whole war depended upon their endeavors, and our men fought as knowing that defeat was captivity or death. Enclosed I send a list of the killed and wounded of the Iowa 7th.

C.

– Published in the Burlington Daily Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Friday, April 18, 1862 & also in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 19, 1862