Lieutenant Colonel J. D. Thompson

Company G.

James Danforth Thompson, son of Captain Isaac K. and Emily D. Thompson, is a native of Fredonia, Chautauqua county, New York, and was born on the 19th day of September, 1832. His early life was passed on the farm of his father, attending the common school, and subsequently the academy in his native village. Like many young men having their own way to make in life, he engaged at the age of seventeen in teaching during the winter months, to secure means to defray his expenses at the academy during the remainder of the year. At the age of nineteen years he entered the law office of Hon. O. W. Johnson, in Fredonia, New York, where he continued until he was compelled by ill health to discontinue his studies, and in the fall of 1852 he visited Cincinnati, and subsequently spent the winter in Kentucky. In the summer of 1853 he engaged in civil engineering on railroads in southern Ohio, and in the spring of 1854 for awhile on the Michigan Southern railroad in northern Ohio.

Having regained his health, he resigned his position as engineer and started for Iowa, arriving at Eldora, county seat of Hardin county, on the 10th day of June, A. D. 1854, when he at once engaged in practice of his chosen profession. In the fall of that year he was elected prosecuting attorney of the county, and in April, 1857, as an independent democrat, was elected judge of that judicial district.

In 1861, at the first intimation of war, he announced himself unconditionally in support of the general Government, and as chairman of the democratic central committee united in a call for a public meeting to endorse its action, and was one of the most active at the special session of the State Legislature, in May, 1861, to urge that body to authorize the Governor to tender the United States a regiment of cavalry, armed and equipped at the expense of the members of the regiment. So soon as it was known that the Governor would be authorized to offer the regiment he returned from Des Moines, and at once began enlisting men for a company, buying and furnishing a number of horses to those unable to buy. When the order came to go into rendezvous he marched his command across the country to Burlington, Iowa, at which place he was, on the 31st day of July, 1861, mustered into the army of the United States as Captain of Company G, First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Volunteers. Upon General Fremont refusing to order the regiment into service unless the men would sell their horses and equipments, he was ordered by Colonel Warren to St. Louis to secure a modification of the order, which he was largely instrumental in accomplishing.

On his return Captain Thompson was sent to Davenport to induce Adjutant General Baker to order Captain Heath's and Captain Ankeny's companies to join the First Regiment at Burlington. In this he succeeded. and Companies L and M completed the First Iowa Cavalry.

Being absent from his regiment when ordered to St. Louis, he only joined it after his company had marched with General Fremont to Springfield. and was ordered to escort a supply train from Tipton to Springfield, but upon reaching the Osage river was ordered back to Syracuse, and soon after joined his company.

Was with General Pope in his march to cut off General Raines, and commanded his company at the battle of Milford, on the 19th day of December, 1861, and was present at the capture of Colonels Robinson and McGoffin and their command of 1,500 troops. The next day he escorted General Pope back to Sedalia.

He commanded his company in the march into Howard county. which resulted in the defeat of Colonel Poindexter, at Silver Creek. January 8th, 1862.

When Major Torrence was relieved of the command of the First Battalion, Captain Thompson was placed in command, and on the 22d day of February commanded the cavalry on the march toward the Missouri river.

In April, 1862, he commanded the troops sent to defend Warrensburg from Quantrell [sic], and on the following day defeated Colonel Parker, captured him and fifteen or twenty of his command, and then returned to Sedalia.

In May he was ordered to Lexington. and thence to Clinton. Missouri, He was then detailed to serve on military commission at Butler. Bates county, serving till the commission was ordered to Sedalia. in August, 1862.

In October of that year he resigned (on Surgeon's certificate of disability) from the First Iowa Cavalry.

In 1863, having improved in health, was commissioned Major of the Eighth Iowa Cavalry, and was subsequently breveted Lieutenant Colonel for gallant and meritorious services.

Commanded sub-district west of Nashville in 1863 and 1864. In February, 1864. was ordered to Iowa to escort recruits to their commands, along the railroad from Nashville, Tennessee, to Huntsville, Alabama.

In March was detailed on military commission at Nashville. His health having again yielded to the effects of the hard service and exposure, he was sent to the Nashville hospital, and in the summer of 1864 honorably discharged on Surgeon's certificate of permanent disability.

Returning home. Colonel Thompson engaged in agriculture until 1866, when ho was induced to accept the nomination of the people's party for Congress and was defeated.

In the spring of 1867 he was appointed and confirmed United States Pension Agent at Des Moines.

In 1875 he left Iowa and has since made his home in California. For a time he practiced his profession in San Francisco, but of late years has been engaged in mining, railroading and real estate. His headquarters are rooms 23 and 24, 230 Montgomery street, San Francisco.

SOURCE: Charles H. Lothrop, A History Of The First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Veteran Volunteers, p. 336-9

Finley Anderson

Pvt., Co. G, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862

Shiloh National Cemetery

Emancipation In Missouri - Fire In The Rear

The emotions of the Hard shell [Locofoco] politicians, in the view of the proposed agitation of the Emancipation question in Missouri, may be imagined from the following from the St. Louis Republican:

The formation of Emancipation Societies in Missouri – with the leading society resting in St. Louis – leaves to the people of the state no other alternative than to prepare for the issue thus presented to them. In common with all men who are tired and sick of this disgusting war about the everlasting nigger, we had happed that the demagogues now taking the lead in this movement would at least have waited until the Union had been restored – until the North and the South and the Border States had shaken hands over a ruined country, and agreed upon some friendly and just means to bring us back to a comparative degree of prosperity – before again proposing to disturb the peace of the State by the agitation of this question. It may be safely assumed that nineteen out of twenty of those who are eager to bring on this contest – who are banding themselves together in secret societies, and pledging themselves to support the Constitution of Missouri, although by the prosecution of their object they commit moral perjury – have no interest whatever in the slave property. They own no slaves. They will neither profit nor suffer by the emancipation of them, no matter whether that be done under the Constitution or in defiance of the Constitution. Neither are they working men, who might be supposed to have some interest in getting rid of a species of labor which, by some is erroneously supposed to come in competition with the labor of the white man. They have no pretension of this kind. They are nothing but sham philanthropists in any sensible view of the matter. They are mischief makers and revolutionists. They are political demagogues who have run out of all other capital, and look to this question as the only one which is likely to keep their noses above water. But, from their position in some counties of the State, they have determined to present this question as the issue in the election next August. If it must be so the supporters of the Constitution of this State – those who think that the provision incorporated into that instrument by Benton, declaring “that the Legislature shall have no power to pass laws for the emancipation of slaves without the consent of their owners, or without paying them, before such emancipation, in full, equivalent for such slaves so emancipated,” has yet some binding force and obligation – every man who has any respect for the Constitution or the rights of individuals, is called upon to make like arrangements for an embittered contest. They have a vast interest at stake – the interest which every good man feels in compelling the observance of every clause of the Constitution, for it is only by that we have any guarantee for liberty or property, and the interest which attaches to the ownership of all the slaves in the State. On these grounds, they will, if they are wise, at once get up organizations in every county. No man but a lunatic will say that the State is likely to be in a condition, for some years to come, to pay for the slaves now in the State, and he who proposes to dispossess the owners of them by any other means than are provided by the Constitution is a knave, deserving of the condemnation of every honest citizen. At the election in August next, it will then, be the duty of the friends of the Constitution, and those who are opposed to all schemes of Emancipation at this time, to interrogate candidates, and to ascertain distinctly how they stand on this vital question. Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Secretary of State, candidates for Congress in the several Districts, and members of the Legislature, who will have to elect two Senators in the next Congress, all should be made to answer. If they are honest men, they will do it; if they fall to toe the mark, let the people withhold their confidence from them. If men will push themselves forward to inflame and exasperate the public mind of Missouri, at a time when repose is the thing most to be desired of all others, it should be met at the start and resisted firmly, at the place were resistance is most effective – the ballot box. We have no fear of the result. The Emancipationists will be squelched out.

It is said that the subject will occupy the attention of the conventions soon to meet at Jefferson City. That is very likely. We shall be surprised if it does not. Time may be profitably spent in the discussion of a question which has so direct a bearing on the constitution itself, the provisions of which it is proposed to set aside and spit upon, and we call upon the members of that body, not only to be prepared to discuss the proposition, but to speak the sentiments of their constituents. They are as competent to do so as any other body likely to be convened in the State, and it is their duty to make themselves heard in the struggle which is coming upon us. We can hardly err in supposing that the Mass Convention of the friends of the Union, called at Boonville for the 17th of this month, will also make their views known on a matter of so much importance. That meeting will in all probability be attended by the leading men of the state. It is certain that the people of a large district of the country will be there, and they should speak out open mouthed, more particularly at a time when we are composing all our internal difficulties, and no one desires to enter into a canvass of so exciting and unprofitable character.

Notwithstanding all this, we charge the people to be ready for the issue which dying demagogues are preparing to force upon them.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Max Klein

Company F.

Enlisted at the age of eighteen years in Company F, First Iowa Cavalry, August 1st, 1861. Re-enlisted as veteran January 1st, 1864, for three years. Promoted corporal October 31st, 1864. Participated in the most of the engagements, raids, etc., for which the regiment was noted. He was with his company when they charged Newton's rebel regiment, whilst in pursuit of Marmaduke, and in the celebrated “moonlight charge." When the command reached Little Rock, Arkansas, the then Governor of that State was raising a Union cavalry regiment, and his officers unanimously recommended Mr. Klein for a commission, which was declined, he preferring to remain with his command. His First Lieutenant wrote a letter in which he said. "No better cavalry soldier ever mounted a horse; always ready for duty, with no hospital record." He is a well known business man of Allegheny, Pennsylvania, and is a member of James M. Lytle Post, 128, G. A. R. The title of Major was bestowed upon him since the war.

SOURCE: Charles H. Lothrop, A History Of The First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Veteran Volunteers, p. 336

Jacob Keiler

Pvt., Co. H, 13th Iowa Infantry

Operations in Northern Alabama

BRIDGEPORT, Ala., April 30, 1862

Gen. Mitchell has finished his campaign, by the complete victory which he gained over the forces of Gen. E. Kirby Smith, at this place yesterday afternoon, and which you have doubtless had by telegraph. I left the force of Gen. Turchin evacuating Decatur, and came to Stevenson, knowing that important movements were in contemplation in these quarters.

I found that Col. Sill had on Sunday managed to cross Widow Creek, and was marching on Bridgeport on Monday. On the latter day his brigade was joined by the 3d Ohio, Col. Beatty, and it was understood that Col. Lyttle’s brigade was in the rear, acting as a reserve. On Tuesday, the march began, under command of Gen. Mitchell, who had come up, and we pushed eastward along the line of the railroad, dragging two pieces of artillery by hand for a distance of 20 miles, at the least.

It was about 4 o’clock in the afternoon of yesterday – Sunday – that we came upon the enemy’s pickets, three miles from Bridgeport. They were stationed on the side of a small stream, the bridge across it having been burned, and we soon found they were supported by an infantry and two cavalry regiments, the former of which came up and engaged our advance, the 33d Ohio. This regiment was the only one which appeared to the sight of the rebels, and after half an hour’s work they fell back unpursued, as no means were had by the rebels for crossing the stream.

General Mitchell in the meantime made a detour to the left with his whole force, and after marching a mile came upon a road which led to Bridgeport. He immediately started for this point, and after an hour’s weary march approached the rebel fortifications on the bank of the Tennessee. This march was one of incredible difficulty and danger. Gen. Mitchell was placing himself with five regiments of infantry, two companies of cavalry and two pieces of artillery, between two divisions of an enemy much stronger combined than himself. Had he been defeated he could not have managed to retreat – it would have been an utter impossibility.

We halted at 6 o’clock at the foot of a hill, and the column deployed right and left and formed into line of battle where they stood hidden from the enemy by the hill. The artillery stood in the centre, the 33d and 2nd Ohio on the right, with the 10th Wisconsin and 21st Ohio on the left. As soon as formed in line, the whole column advanced, and reaching the crest of the hill, looked down upon the enemy. Again they came to a halt. Peering above the top of the hill, I saw the whole of the rebel force below the hill, in their entrenchments. The setting sun glistened on thousands of stacked guns, and two pieces of brass cannon. The men had evidently been drawn up in line of battle at the first alarm, but when it had ceased they stacked arms and were now engaged in eating supper. Captain Loomis, when the force halted, stepped forward, saw the enemy, calculated the distance and stepped back undiscovered. In a moment he had given his orders, the cannon were charged with canister and moved to a position in which they were brought to bear on the main body. This evidently consisted of four full or parts of regiments of infantry. The first warning which the rebels had of their danger, or of our near approach, was the discharge of our artillery and the launching of the terrible death-dealing missiles in their very midst. They spring instantly to their guns, hundreds, however, flying in every direction. The main body evidently intended standing, but a second discharge added to the panic, and the whole force fled as our columns in line marched to the top and began the descend of the hill on a charge bayonets. – They frightened, without a single general discharge, broke for the river and quickly crossed the bridge. When we reached the works of the rebels they were deserted, a few dead and wounded alone remaining. The rebels fired with precipitancy, their speed increasing as they went, followed by the shells of Capt. Loomis. – They managed to fire the bridge and a good portion of it was destroyed, but the half west of the island was saved by Gen. Mitchell’s personal exertions. Having reached the other shore the rebels abandoned their camp and stores on that side, and by the whistling of a locomotive, I imagine went off at railroad speed. Capt. Loomis continued to throw shells after them for several rounds, when by order of Gen. Mitchell he ran his two pieces down the hill and placed them in position to receive the body on the railroad, whom it was anticipated would come to the aid of their friends now already and completely defeated. A second line of battle was formed in the works of the rebels, and we awaited for the rest of the rebels to attack us.

We had not long to wait. In a short time we saw the infantry on a double-quick, coming through the woods, along the line of the railroad, and the cavalry right and left. They came into the open fields and forward in splendid line of battle. The cavalry looked Magnificent and came dashing along in splendid style. They got within 300 years of us before they discovered their mistake, and then the artillery told them of it. The canister was poured into them and away they went in every imaginable direction – infantry and cavalry mixed in one conglomerated mass of frightened and flying humanity. The cavalry was sent in pursuit when they had got out of artillery range, and the prisoners were being sent in every hour until I laid down to try to sleep.

This morning I find we have killed and wounded 72 and taken 350 prisoners and two pieces of artillery.

General Mitchell has entire possession of the railroads from Bridgeport, ten miles east of Stevenson, west to Huntsville, thence south to Decatur, north to Athens, and in a month will have the railroad lines running to Nashville via Columbia from Decatur and via Murfreesboro from Stevenson.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

William Marsh

Pvt., Co. F, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862

Shiloh National Cemetery

Bonner's Gray Mare

Mr. Bonner’s gray mare recently did a very great thing upon the Fashion Course. Since last December she was not driven until the third of April, and therefore was not in trotting condition. Nevertheless, on Saturday the 19th, Mr. Bonner drove her a half mile on the above named course, wagon and driver three hundred and forty pounds, 1 minute, 12¾ seconds. This time was taken by Alderman Jenet and James McMann. It is unquestionable, and no more than the naked statement need be given to mark the astonishing feat. – {Wilkes’ Spirit of the Times.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Lieutenant Charles W. W. Dow

Company F.

Lieutenant Charles W. W. Dow is a native of the State of Maine, and was born in the city of Augusta on the 17th day of May, 1838, being the third son of Wm. N. and Sarah Dow. His boyhood days were passed in Massachusetts, and he was educated in part at Boston, and at the Oliver Grammar School at Lawrence in that State. In 1854 we find him at Newport, Rhode Island, where he lived and learned the trade of an upholsterer. And again in 1856, at Iowa City, Johnson county, Iowa, where he resided until 1859. In far off New Mexico we find him engaged in campaigning against the hostile Navajoes [sic] of New Mexico and Northern Arizona. Returning from his second campaign in February, 1861, after having all but lost his life by starvation — the party eating all their riding and pack animals, three of his comrades dying of starvation and three going crazy by the same cause, (his adventures in the southwest would fill a good sized volume) — June found him at Iowa City, Iowa, having ridden his mustang pony from Lower New Mexico to Plattsmouth, Nebraska, all alone; twice escaping the hostile Sioux, first by strategy. and once by the speed of his pony; having accomplished a journey of over one thousand miles.

Again, three days after his arrival home, we find him enlisted as a private in Company F, First Iowa Cavalry, for three years unless sooner discharged; being promoted to first sergeant of his company on September 1st, 1862. Commanded the first platoon at the now celebrated moonlight charge at midnight on Newton's rebel regiment, at Jackson. Missouri, April 28th, 1863. Promoted to be Second Lieutenant July 18th, 1863. Severely wounded in the head by rifle ball, at Holley Bottom, Little Missouri river, Arkansas, on the 4th day of April, 1864. Remained with his company and regiment after its re-muster as veterans, and promoted First Lieutenant February 7th. 1865.

While on leave of absence (sick leave) was married, on April 30th to Lucy E. North, of Iowa City, Johnson county, Iowa, a graduate of the normal department of the State University of Iowa.

Returned to his regiment and served until the end of the war and discharge of the regiment, at Austin, Texas, the 28th day of February, 1866; after which he engaged in farming at Pleasant Valley, Johnson county, Iowa. In 1872 took a Government homestead in Nobles county, Minnesota, where he is now engaged in farming and stock raising. Served over ten years as justice of the peace and town clerk; also as deputy clerk of the district court and deputy sheriff; and in November, 1888, was elected judge of the probate court for his county. He is now the father of twelve children, three boys and nine girls.

The Lieutenant is a pensioner since 1874 for wounds received in action, and present post office address is at Rushmore, Nobles county, Minnesota.

SOURCE: Charles H. Lothrop, A History Of The First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Veteran Volunteers, p. 335-6

Com. Foote Conducting Devine Service Among His Sailors

Our Correspondent with Com. Foote’s flotilla writes as follows:

“On Sunday last the officers of the fleet received an invitation to attend divine service on the flag-ship. The capstan, covered with a beautiful flag (the stars and stripes) served for the preacher’s desk. Com. Foot leaning on Lieut. Phelps, advanced, and laying a book upon the desk, commenced reading some prayers from the liturgy of the English church. – After this he took up the Bible and read the interview between our Savior and Nichodemus, as recorded in the Gospel of St. John. He then preached a sermon to the officers and crew on the subject of regeneration, or the new birth. I did not attend, but I sent a person in my place to jot down the items. He tells me Com. Foote is a good speaker, and was listened to by a large and attentive audience. He spoke about twenty minutes. My locum tenens assures me that the old sailor talks almost as well as he fights." –{Cairo Gazette, May 1.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

A Mere Trifle

Capt. Rodman, having successfully cast a 20-inch gun, and the test showing it to be safe and strong as a smaller cannon, is now at work on a pocket-piece for the President, the ball of which is to weigh 3,000 pounds, to have a range of six or seven miles, of two feet and a half diameter, while the gun itself will weigh somewhere in the neighborhood of 200 tons. It is supposed, if the Warrior, or any other English ship, should be struck by one of the balls from this little joker, it would be difficult for the future historian to tell the precise spot where the English vessel was last seen or at precisely what instant she disappeared from mortal view. Capt. Rodman is now finishing six 15-inch toys for the new Monitors, three or four 20-inch playthings, beside Old Abe’s pocket piece, the 30-inch joker. The story that a guard is set over this gun every night to keep it from being picked up and carried off by some thief, is pronounced a canard.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

1st Iowa Cavalry: Receipt For Fodder

Wolf Creek March 5 [18]63

Recd of Mr Henry Smith five bus corn and one hundred & fifty pounds fodder for A Co 1st Iowa Cavalry. A. P. Boyse

Senator Wright on Confiscation

Senator Wright, of Indiana, made the following remarks on the confiscation bill in the Senate, on the 30th ult.:

Mr. WRIGHT – I am strongly in favor of some bill of this character. Some such bill ought to have passed at the last session of Congress, but we seem to have gone on as though we had no war upon our hands. We must be alive to the exigencies of the hour. This monstrous rebellion must be destroyed, and destroyed speedily; and as a means for such an end I have looked earnestly for the passage of some proposition for the confiscation of the property of those engaged in rebellion against the Government. We have forborne until forbearance has become dishonor.

It is time lawlessness and treason should cease whether under the pretended guise of rebellion, or under the more insidious guise of a free speech, which gloats over every obstacle brought forward to prevent a restoration of the Union. It is time rapine and murder were called by their right names and punishes as they deserve. I can have no possible leniency for those men, educated at the expense of the Government, who turn against it in armed rebellion. We must make it understood that we do not educate men for service in Rebel armies. Yet I would deal leniently with the misguided masses, and I would prefer that the President should have some power to grant a general amnesty. I have no patience, Sir, to listen to long discussions about the power of Congress to pass such an act as this. Congress has the power to declare war and to suppress rebellion, and having those, I take it they have the power to provide for the vigorous prosecution of these objects. The greater power certainly includes the lesser. Neither shall I stop to argue the constitutionality of this measure. – But I may say that in times of great peril to free institutions, when disloyal citizens rise in rebellion to spurn the Constitution and defy the laws, there is a supreme and absorbing duty to which all others are subject – the duty of self-preservation, safety to the Government from disruption, and to the Constitution you talk about from annihilation. Every thing opposed to its existence must be made to yield or be swept away with an iron hand, that the nation may live. All minor considerations must be neglected and all inferior interest must perish. I wish to refer a moment to the character of the war in which we are engaged. Without referring to authorities, I will say in my own language that there are two kinds of war. I will designate one as a perfect war, and the other as a mixed or civil war. A perfect war is where one independent nation declares war against another nation, and its laws are well understood and must be as strictly observed as any other laws. A mixed war or rebellion, on the contrary, is in defiance of society, and meets with no encouragement from the laws of nations. In a perfect war, all the subjects and citizens of one country are considered enemies of the other country with which they are at war; they are so recognized and treated by the laws of nations. There is no exception. All those owning allegiance to one nation are foes of the other.

It is, however, entirely different in the case of a civil war. When we declare war against the rebellion of the South, we do not declare war against the States, but our hostilities are directed only against those who have taken up arms against the government, and the end we seek is the suppression of insurrection and the restoration of order. We do not declare that all the citizens of the seceded States shall be considered alien enemies. Therefore we must be careful how we do anything to destroy the existence of the States. War, strictly speaking, is between two independent Powers, and its code of laws are known as the laws of nations, and no single Power can amend them. Our present condition may be called a mixed war, one of the parties standing to the other in the double relation of enemies and citizens. This rebellion is a mere aggregation of all crime committed by individual citizens, which has grown to the dimensions of a war. All the crimes may be dealt with detail – as murder or arson, as the case may be – and are comprehended under the name of treason. The moment we come to recognize it in its aggregate character, we are in great danger of giving it an undue recognition. The conflict of our armies with these felons ought to be viewed as neither more nor less than an attempt to arrest them for their crimes. The Senator from Vermont (Mr. Collamer) seems to recognize the Rebels as a Power, and not as individual felons, and that they must be treated according the rules of war. If he means simply as the civilized and Christian usages, I agree with him; but if he means that foreign nations might call us to account upon international law, I entirely dissent from that opinion. We might just as well attempt to interfere with Austria or the Neapolitian Government in their treatment of criminals, and surely nothing could be worse. I deny that any Government has a right to call in question our treatment of criminals, or to interfere in this contest any way, unless it be in the matter of the blockade which concerns the commerce of other nations, and I ask the question here, Why should our armies restrict their seizures of rebel property to that found in the camps? If it is on the ground that there is want of proof that the property belongs to rebels, then it is right. If it is on the ground that according the rules of national warfare we cannot take it, then it is decidedly wrong. We seem to labor under the delusion that this is a perfect war, and not an attempt to arrest our own citizens for felony, every one of whom is responsible, and might be prosecuted to the extend of the law. This is in face a measure providing for the release of the great body of criminals, and reserving only a few leaders or punishment. We are contending only for the suppression of rebellion, but also for the respect of the great nations of the earth. I am tired, sir, of hearing the leaders of this rebellion called our brethren. They do no deserve any favors at our hands. They have shocked the civilization of all ages by committing barbarities almost unparalleled in history.

Shall we call those our brethren who have brought sorrow and suffering to almost every hearthstone in this country, who have armed savages against us? Will cooling and soft words change the hearts of those assassins who, in the midnight watches, stealthily creep upon our pickets and murder them in cold blood? Do brethren mutilate the bodies of our soldiers, bury them with faces downward, and do things which we might expect only from savages and cannibals? No, sir, they are not our brethren. They are our mortal foes, and we must treat them as such. The manner in which this people has risen to defend this Government has extorted the praise and admiration of even of those who are opposed to the republican government. – When the citizens of the country have done and are doing so well, shall we neglect the high trust they have confided to us? The people look to this Congress to pass some measure for the confiscation of the property of those in rebellion against the Government. I for one am not willing to disappoint them in their just expectation. They do not ask it from any sordid motive, but from motives which subserve the ends of true justice. I regard this as one of a series of acts essential to the putting down of this rebellion. There also should be another provision – that as our armies advance into the regions where treason is rampant, they must be subsisted upon the enemy, and it is incumbent upon us to make that provision. It is a fact not to be disguised, that many men have grown fat and waxed rich upon the supplies they have furnished to our troops. They would like to have the war protracted until the Treasury was at its last gasp. What care these men for the distresses which befall others so long as their coffers are filled? I would not have our soldiers go starving through the rich Rebel regions of the country. Those who have broken the public peace should be made to subsist those who come to restore it. Such a proceeding would have a magnetic effect in restoring peace at the South. It must not be supposed that I object to laws to prevent pillage and plunder by the soldiers. – Those are all right. But the army must be subsisted upon the traitors according to the proper laws and regulations. If it were left to me to provide a plan, I would have the President make a proclamation, offering an amnesty to all who would lay down their arms within sixty days, and those who still persisted in rebellion after that should be made to suffer all the consequences of such untimed treason. I am tired, sir, of all these quibbles about constitutional provision, and all this talk about the Secretary of State having usurped powers and violated the Constitution in his efforts to preserve the Government. I know no limit in these dark hours of my country to the duty of every man to suppress that rebellion. I would have the President and his officers do everything for the preservation of the Government, but I would hold them all to account for a strict discharge of their duty; but now when treason fills the air around us, I am sure we can trust this Administration to say what is compatible or not with the public interest.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

It is said that curses, like chickens, come home to roost.

The predictions of Dr. W. H. Russell seem to have a like tendency to recoil on their author. In a letter of March 31st, to the London Times, he said he was going to Fortress Monroe. He didn’t go, because Secretary Stanton refused to let him. He stated that the attack on Island No. 10 was an admitted failure, which wasn’t true, and also that New Orleans would probably prove as formidable as the Island, which was correct in a different sense from that which the writer wished to convey.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

The Election

The City election yesterday resulted in the choice of Cavanagh, Democratic candidate for Mayor, by 87 majority. On the west side of the river, the Aldermen elect are all Democrats, and on the East side the Republicans secured but three. One year ago yesterday, a prominent Democratic wiggler said to a republican in this city: “You d----d Black Republicans may go South and do the fighting; but we Democrats intend to stay home and do the voting!” Some folks have queer notions of duty and glory. But there is no accounting for tastes! –{State Register.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Samuel J. Fenton

5th Corporal, Co. F, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862

Shiloh National Cemetery

“Come, sonny, get up,” said an indulgent father . . .

. . . to his hopeful son, the other morning. “Remember the early bird catches the worm.” – “What do I care for worms?” replied the young hopeful, “mother won’t let me go a fishing.”

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Politics in St. Louis. --- B. Gratz Brown vs. Frank Blair

Local politics are assuming an interesting shape. The chief contest will be upon members of the Legislature and members of Congress, and the issue will be emancipation with expatriation. The [Secessionists] remain quiet, and the old Sham Democracy will egg on the different factions of the emancipationists in hopes of slipping a semi-Secessionist into the seat now held by Frank Blair. The late demonstration by Blair in favor of [colonization], as a condition precedent to emancipation, has lost him the entire German vote, while his course against Fremont has done him great injury with another class. Contest will be to commit the Republicans of St. Louis to the Blair doctrine or its opposite. The adverse party is gradually combining in favor of B. Gratz Brown, the old-line free soil Benton Democrat, who wrote Blair into political fame while editor of the Democrat a few years ago. Mr. Brown has written a strong emancipation letter, in which he scouts the idea of [colonization] with force and ability. This letter has made him the representative man against Blair and against the Blair doctrine. The Germans support Brown, and their influence in the Republican party may give him the nomination for Congress. It is currently rumored that a new paper will be started here next month to advocate Mr. Blair’s cause, inasmuch as his old organ, the Democrat, is now arrayed against him. – {Cor. N. Y. Tribune

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

A Depreciated Commodity

The Charleston Mercury for April 5th has a notice of an auction sale of negroes, which shows that, though Confederate “shinplasters” pass for only about sixty cents on the dollar down there, yet slaves are selling at what would have been called there two years ago ridiculous low rates:

“Messrs. Wilber & Son sold a woman, 40 years old, with a boy 13 years of age, for $850 - $425 each; a woman 50 years old with a family of five children, aged respectively 22 years, 9 years, 7 years, 5 years and an infant, for $2,130 – averaging $355; a woman 40 years old, with a boy of 10 years and two girls, aged 7 and 9, for $1,800 – averaging $450; a boy 13 years old, $700; another, aged 15, brought $775; and a man 42 years of aged, sold for $625 – all cash transactions.”

Two years ago an able-bodied slave brought in Charleston from $1,250 to $1,500 in such money as would pass at par all over the Union; today the same persons sell for about half as much in money which is rated at a discount of forty per cent., which makes the real sum, got for “a man of forty two years of age,” not $625, but $375, instead of say $1,250, and this when the price of necessaries of life is enormously enhanced, as appears from the following account of another sale in the same number of the Mercury:

“Sugar cured hams sold for 71 cents per lb.; No. 1 mackerel $38.25 per barrel; letter paper 13@14 dollars per ream; kerosene oil $4 12½@ $5.50 per gallon; Gorham cheese 42½@80c. per pound.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

David M. Brown

Pvt. Co. F, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862

Shiloh National Cemetery

Beauregard a Humbug --- the Surrender of Corinth Denounced in a Memphis Paper

Telegraphic despatches from Corinth to citizens of Memphis, and to the authorities, convey intelligence of the most startling nature, if reliance is to be put upon the intelligence, and it comes to us so well authenticated, and with such an official air about it, that it scarcely admits of a doubt. If this intelligence be true, Beauregard has not only determined to abandon his strong position at Corinth, to the Yankee invaders, without a struggle, but is actually consummating that purpose by withdrawing portions of his splendid army, an army that has been gathered at an immense cost, expressly and solely for the defense of that point. If this intelligence be true, the patriotic people of the southwest, who have so nobly contributed to the establishment of Southern independence, may as well relinquish their hopes of success, and prepare to quietly yield a quiet submission to Northern despotism. With an enemy’s army at our right, untrammeled and unimpaired, with New Orleans in possession of the Lincolnites, and their victorious boats descending the river above us, and with another force penetrating the wilds of Arkansas, seeking to reach this point, there is really no hope left. When General Beauregard came to the West, he brought hope and confidence. His career hither to had been one of the most brilliant success and his name was a tower of strength. We believed then, that notwithstanding the blunders that had been committed, and the disasters to our cause that had resulted therefrom, there was still hope left. We felt confident that the hero of Manassas could and would save the Southwest, but how great is our disappointment if it should appear that the intelligence in print to-day is correct. – Since we have had our confidence in Gen. Beauregard shaken by his defeat on the field of Shiloh, we firmly believe, however much we may have doubted the ability and skill of that lamented officer, that had the brave Johnston been spared our arms would not have been repulsed from that field made sacred by the blood of thousands of brave Southern men. That defeat is attributable to causes within the control of Beauregard, not necessary to be here mentioned. Shall he now evacuate his defenses at Corinth, without first stoutly contesting its occupancy, with the northern hirelings? Shall he throw open the beautiful Mississippi Valley to the invasion of the Vandals who seek its devastation? Shall he decline giving the loyal and brave men who have enlisted under the banner of Southern independence an opportunity to test their prowess with those who seek to make slaves of them? Nay, more: should he basely desert the positions assigned him to defend, and take a coward fly before a blow has been struck, his name, so far from remaining a tower of strength, will become a by word and reproach to future generations. We hope our intelligence is unfounded. We hope – though it is like hoping against hope – that the movement of troops from Corinth was but a step in the development of some master piece of strategy which will surely overwhelm and utterly annihilate the invaders. The public will wait anxiously for the news from the East. – {Memphis Argus, April, 28th.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

From the Seventeenth Regiment

BENTON BARRACKS,
ST. LOUIS, MO, April 26th, 1862

This day the Field and Staff Officers of the Iowa 17th regiment and the commanders of companies met at the quarters of the Colonel, and passed the following resolutions:

Resolved, That our gratitude be expressed and our thanks tendered to the Hon. Samuel J. Kirkwood, the Executive of the State of Iowa, and to Col. N. B. Baker, the Adjutant General, for their exertions in behalf of the raising and organization of the Iowa 17th regiment, to which we belong, and especially for their zeal and energy in securing the acceptance of the regiment, when, from some cause unknown to us, the Adjutant General of the U. S., at Washington, advised that it must be disbanded.

Resolved, That our thanks be tendered to the editors of newspapers in Iowa for their great liberality in commending the Iowa 17th to the able-bodied men of the State, for repeated favorable commendations and for the gratuitous publication of recruiting notices.

Resolved, That we are proud of our noble young State – proud of her gallant regiments now in the field – proud of their moral and heroic prowess displayed in the very jaws of death – proud of the Iowa ladies, ever at the bed of the sick and wounded soldiers – proud of our friends at home who bid us God speed and here being about to step on the battle field, we add the resolve that we will not tarnish the fair fame of the proudest State of the Federal Union.

JOHN W. RANKIN, Colonel.
D. B. HILLIS, Lieut. Colonel.
S. M. WISE, Major.
S. GUTHRIE, Lieut. And Adjutant.
E. J. ALDRICK, Lieut. And Q. M.
Capt. JOHN L. YOUNG, Co. A.
Capt. W. H. HOXIE, Co. B
Capt. S. M. ARCHER, Co. C
Capt. C. R. WEVER, Co. D
Capt. THOMAS PERRY, Co. E
Capt. J. F. WALDEN, Co. F
Capt. WM. HORNER, Co. G
Capt. D. A CRAIG, Co. H
Capt. H. N. MOORE, Co. I
Capt. S. E. HICKS, Co. K

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

A Prayer Encored

The Newark Mercury gives an account of the anniversary exercises of a Mission School in that city, from which we extract the following:

“During the singing of ‘Our Glorious Union Forever,’ two sisters, aged four years and seven, stood on the left of the singers, both having dress and head wreaths of read, white and blue, the eldest representing the Goddess of Liberty and the other the presiding Child Genius, of the Republic. The song finished, the youngest child knelt, and folding her tiny hands offered up the following artless prayer for her country:

Oh Lord, look down from out the sky,
And hear a child who prays to Thee;
A child that loves the United States,
And every wicked traitor hates.
Oh bless our soldiers and our sailors;
George McClellan, and the others;
Our pretty flag with victory crown,
And don’t let any one tear it down,
Bless all that’s good, no matter what,
And don’t forget old General Scott.

“As the child uttered this little prayer, with all the earnestness and simplicity of her innocent nature, a breathless silence came over the audience, and in the lowest depth of every heart there stirred and trembled a gush of genuine feeling that finally burst into wild applause. – The prayer went up to heaven once more, and two [bouquets] fell at the feet of the children.”

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Clement M. Bird

Company E.

Was born October 9th, 1837, in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania. At the age of twelve left school and went to work in a rolling mill, in Dowville, Pennsylvania. At the age of seventeen years came to Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, and there learned the plasterer's trade. At the breaking out of the rebellion he enlisted in Company F, First Iowa Infantry, for three months, April 15th, 1861. Was discharged August 20th, 1861, at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. Enlisted in Company E, First Iowa Cavalry, September 1st, 1861. Wounded March 19th, 1862. Veteraned January 1st, 1864. Final discharge, February 15th, 1866, at Austin, Texas, making an almost continued service of 1,741 days. Since the war he has followed the business of plastering and bricklaying. Was married September 4th, 1866; has raised a family of three girls and one boy, and his present home is at Afton, Union county, Iowa.

SOURCE: Charles H. Lothrop, A History Of The First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Veteran Volunteers, p. 334-5

George W Moury

Pvt., Co. K, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862.

Shiloh National Cemetery

Burlington, May 7, 1862

Pursuant to a call by the Chairman of the Committee of Arrangements a mass meeting of the citizens of Des Moines county was held on Wednesday afternoon, May 7, 1862, at Marion Hall to form a Soldiers’ Relief Association.

Hon. F. Wilcox was appointed Chairman & C. Marble Secretary.

The object of the meeting was stated by Hon. Jon G. Foote, who reported a constitution, which being adopted, Messrs. Putman, Gilbert & Lahee were appointed a committee to report officers, who reported the following:

Thomas French, President; Rev. J. H. Power and Rev. Wm. Salter, Vice Presidents; C. Marble, Secretary; Lyman Cook, Treasurer; J. H. Gear, David Leonard, Geo. C. Lauman, John G. Foote, Jacob Pilger, and C. B. Harrington, Executive Committee.

On Motion the report was adopted.

Hon. John G. Foot presented a memorial addressed to Major General Halleck, for the establishment of a Post Hospital in this city, which was adopted and the Chairman of the Committee (Mayor French) instructed to forward the same.

On motion of David Leonard the following resolution was adopted:

Resolved, That the Local Soldiers’ Aid Societies in this County be invited to become auxiliary to this Society.

On motion of Rev. W. Salter it was ordered that the Secretary furnish a copy of the proceeding of the meeting to the Hawk-Eye for publication.

On motion the meeting adjourned.

C. MARBLE, Sec’y.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Larceny, A Race For The Thief

About A week ago the store of Kimball & Co., was entered by a burglar, and a lot of valuable goods and clothing stolen, including a number of fine silk vests. Other places have been entered also, and jewelry, ladies’ wearing apparel, etc., stolen. A well known notorious character named Pete Mower, was suspected and the officers were on the alert to catch him.

Yesterday, officers Buel & Wilkin, went to Mower’s house on the South Hill, in his absence, searched it and found a large quantity of the stolen articles, amounting in value, to fifty dollars. They then went in search of the thief and succeeded in arresting him. While on the way to the Justice’s office in custody of officer Buel, Wilkin having gone elsewhere, Mower requested to see his wife, then at the house of Mr. Jacoby, Buel consented and went with him up the stairs, but Mower instead of speaking to his wife, immediately leaped from the second story window, which was open, and ere Buel could descend by the stairway, Mower had gained a good start.

Officer Buell pressed a horse into service and went after him on the “double-quick,” but the rascal reached his own house, with the probably intention of secreting the stolen goods, being unaware that they had been removed. He discovered the fact, however, and went out of the back door, while the officer was dismounting in front, and before the latter discovered his flight Mower had gained a long distance. The officer however, was plucky and renewed the pursuit, but the fugitive having reached the locality known as Bogus Hollow was enabled finally to elude the officer and make his escape, the officer’s horse refusing to go over the deep declivities, with which that locality abounds, and the officer himself being to short legged to overhaul the fugitive on foot. We hope the thief will remain at a distance, and thus rid the city of a dangerous character. The sufferers from his depredations relinquish further proceedings unless the thief returns, as they have recovered their goods and think it unnecessary to go to further expense to catch the rogue.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

The following Iowa Soldiers . . .

. . . died in the Hospitals at St. Louis and vicinity during the week ending May 3d:

James Boardman, Co. A, 6th; Z. M. Lanning, Co. B, 6th; Alex. Sheppard, Co. E, 16th; L. W. Larabee, Co. K, 12th; George Reed, Co. C, 6th; John Moultan, Co. K, 2d; Jas. Calhoun, Co. G, 6th; Austin Hall, Co. G, 12th; Charles O. Collins, Co. I, 3d.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Gen. Dix's Famous Order

The editor of the New York Ledger wrote to Gen. Dix to inquire as to the original of the famous order, - “The first man that attempts to haul down the American flag, shoot him on the spot,” this order having been attributed by the Ledger to the fertile brain of Secretary Stanton. In reply to the inquiry, Gen. Dix writes as follows:

You will find the original “Shoot him on the spot” order at the house of my son, Rev. Mr. Dix, 12 Charlton street, framed and hanging in his parlor. When I gave the order I had no idea that such an importance would have been given to it, but when I found it making a stir, I inclosed the original to my son. No man suggested a word or saw it until after it was written. Some months ago it was attributed to Mr. Holt; now, I understand from you, to Mr. Stanton, by the Ledger.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Brevet Brigadier-General John M. Hedrick

Governor Jackson

Claiborne Fox Jackson, traitor ex-Governor of Missouri, is living at Des Arc, Arkansas, with a son-in-law. He is reported to be as poor as a church mouse, and not to feel pretty well himself generally.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

A Hopeful Sign

Wall street was jubilant on Saturday. When government sixes reached par, three rousing cheers were given by the Board of Brokers. Not only are some people’s pockets filled by this good news, but the hears of loyal men, everywhere, greatly cheered.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Pleasant For Them

Messrs. Mason and Slidell will have the comfort of reflecting that, while they are engaged in representing the Southern Confederacy abroad, their homes are in possession of the United States Government. Mason’s residence is near Winchester, and Slidell’s is in New Orleans.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Joseph A. Ross

Pvt., Co. K, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Mortally wounded April 6, 1862 and died April 10, 1862.

Shiloh National Cemetery

The three Cabinet officers of the last Administration . . .

. . . who in its closing hours displayed a zealous attachment to the country, are now all filling high and responsible stations. – Mr. Stanton is Secretary of War; Mr. Holt is one of the Commissioners appointed to examine war claims against the Government; Mr. Dix is one of the Major-Generals of our army.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

A telegraph cable had been laid . . .

. . . across the Potomac at Aquia creek, connecting with the station at Budd’s Ferry, so that Washington is now in direct telegraphic communication with Fredericksburgh.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

What will the Hawk-Eye say . . .

. . . when we assure it that we are glad to hear that Missouri is likely to become a free State by the voluntary act of its own people. – {Dubuque Herald.

The Hawk-Eye believes this the biggest lie ever uttered by Father Mahoney.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

Gen. Geo. W. Jones, late of Ft. Warren . . .

. . . has been in our city during the last few days. – We see by the papers, that he has recently been at Keokuk, Davenport and other points. The fair presumption is that he is organizing throughout the state a party, whose head is at Dubuque, and whose purpose is to resist the collection of Federal taxes. The Dubuque delegation at the capitol last winter avowed their purpose of organizing a party with this purpose in view. That Gen. Jones is traveling in this work we have not a doubt, and that a secret meeting and consultation with the two dozen Burlington secesh was had we have just as little cause to doubt.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

A. F. Wildasin

Company E.

Was born in York county, Pennsylvania, October 10th, 1836. "My father removed with his family to Clark county, Ohio, in 1840, eight miles west of Springfield, on the old National road, where I was reared, and received simply a common school education. On the 18th day of August. 1857, I was married to Mary B. Howott, near Troy, Miami county, Ohio, near which place I lived until the spring of I860, when we moved to the State of Iowa, and engaged in farming with the most flattering prospects of success. But in the spring of '61 the war broke out, and I enlisted in the First Cavalry during the entire war. I append my military history. Enlisted as a private in Company E, First Iowa Cavalry, on the 28th of July, 1861. Was promoted to eighth corporal October 25th, 1861; seventh corporal, May 12th, 1862; sixth corporal, June 8th, 1862; fifth corporal, August 6th, 1862; and on the 8th day of September, 1862, shortly after the fight at Clear Creek, Missouri, where 1 had my horse shot under me, was promoted to fourth sergeant; third sergeant, January 1st, 1863; second sergeant, April 3d, 1865. Was mustered out at Austin, Texas, February l5th, 1866. After the war returned to the State of Ohio, where I have ever since resided. Of late years I have followed mostly the profession of running steam engines. My post office address is Casstown, Miami county. Ohio. There were two children born to us. The oldest. a girl, was born in Ohio, and was about two years old when we moved to Iowa. Our boy was born in Henry county. Iowa, after I had enlisted as a soldier. When I was home on re-enlistmont furlough, he took sick and died. My daughter lives in Cass county, Ohio, the wife of John Hance."

SOURCE: Charles H. Lothrop, A History Of The First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Veteran Volunteers, p. 334

Chivalrous

The latest exhibition of Secession chivalry was at New Orleans on the occasion of the taking of that city by the Federal fleet. Com. Farragut calls the attention of the Mayor to it and his honor makes no denial. It was nothing less than the shooting down of innocent [women] and children, in sight of our fleet, for giving expression of their joy at the restoration of the old flag. Was not that an act of chivalry for you? To be sure our Indian tribes would hardly do such an act; the Mexican greasers – the Hottentots – even the South Sea Islanders would not like to have their names associated with such a wonton act of barbaric cruelty and atrocity. Can’t some of our Secession papers stop their blathering about “Abolition,” long enough to characterize such acts as these as they deserve?

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 2

The War News

Interesting News from Port Royal.

Further Particulars of the Tennessee River Expedition.

Gun-Boat Expedition up Cumberland River.

NORFOLK PLACED UNDER MARTIAL LAW.

Gen. Stone’s Treasonable Doings.

MR. WYKOFF IN CLOSE CONFINEMENT.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

D. D. Burnett

Company D.

Was born in East Plymouth, Ashtabula county, Ohio, August 9th, 1839. Was raised on a farm. At the age of 21 years, in 1860, went to Iowa. In June, 1861, enlisted in Captain P. Gad Bryan's Company D, First Iowa Cavalry. Was wounded at Greer's Place, south of Lexington, Missouri, in March, 1862; was sent home on furlough; rejoined regiment in July, 1862, and remained with company until December, 1863, when he was sent to General Hospital at Little Rock, Arkansas, as unfit for field service on account of rheumatism. Remained there until ordered home to be mustered out in September, 1864. Returned to Ohio, and was married in February. 1865. Went to Iowa and lived one year, then returned to Ashtabula, Ohio, where he now resides. In March, 1872, was run over by cars and lost his right leg below the knee. In 1883 he went into trade as a grocer, which he still follows. Is a member of Paulus Post, No. 4, Department of Ohio, G. A. R.

SOURCE: Charles H. Lothrop, A History Of The First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Veteran Volunteers, p. 333-4

Local Matters

TO COUNTRY SUBSCRIBERS. – Our friends throughout the country will confer a favor by remitting us money that is current here – Iowa and U. S. notes preferred. Those who have occasion to send change will please remit us in three cent stamps.

TRADE OPENED. – Messrs. Kent & Co. have sold this week several city lots; also a good farm, and have several more sales nearly perfected. This speaks well for them and the times.

COLD AGAIN. – After a brace of mild days; converting the snow into slush, the mercury has suddenly dropped and all is ice again. – A slight sprinkling of snow helped to smoothe the roads and continue the sleighing very fine.

RUNAWAYS. – Two or three runaways came off Wednesday evening, which were performed in the usual style; except that one team took the sidewalk down Brady street to Front, threatening destruction to everything in its path, eventually fetching up at the corner of Front; without material damage.

NEW HOSE. – As will have been observed, the city council on Wednesday instructed the committee on fire and water to procure one thousand feet of hose for the fire department. We understand the necessary amount of hose, with patent couplings, can be procured for $1,030 cash, and on time for the same amount with interest added. These couplings, we are informed, cannot be affected by the frost, which greatly interferes with the management of the ordinary couplings. When this is procured, our worthy Chief will be ready to bid defiance to fire and frost.

HOW CAN THEY DO IT? – Mathews at the Hawkeye is selling their Garibaldi Cheroot Cigars for 25 cents a box of 25, or five boxes for $1.00; tip top cooking brandy twenty-five cents a quart; [Alcohol], best pure, 60 cents a gallon; the best Kerosene Oil in town; three large tin boxes Essence of Coffee for 25 cents. You can by any groceries you want at the Hawkeye, corner of 3d and Brady, cheaper than any grocery in Scott county. They keep a big stock and are selling more goods for cash than any grocery house in Davenport. They sell for only one price and buy their goods for cash.

E. S. PIPER, the man whose swindling operations in this neighborhood we have before noticed and who was recently arrested in Medina county, Ohio, it seems has been extensively engaged in a series of forgeries and swindling transactions throughout the West. The detectives of St. Louis, Chicago and [Milwaukee], without any concert of action, were all after him, but those of Cleveland finally captured the rascal. A confederate named [Bouce] had been previously arrested and is now in jail at Chicago. Piper’s forgeries amount in aggregate to over $25,000. He is a cool, calculating villain, but will now receive his deserts.

BOUND OVER FOR HUGGING. – Two persons employed in one of our hotels got into court yesterday under very peculiar circumstances. It appears one of the parties, of the female persuasion, blackened the face of the party of the second part by some dexterous movement, whereupon the latter rushed toward the fair, and throwing one arm affectionately around her neck, hugged and squeezed very ardently. This style of showing attachment, however, was very ungraciously received, and the fair one rushed to a justice’s office and entered complaint against the offender. The ‘squire’ didn’t sympathize much with her, and rather pooh-poohed her out of court. Returning home, disconsolate, she called a council of her friends to see what it was best to do, and they advised her to swear her “life agin the feller.” So off she posted to another squire, and swore her existence was in danger of being suddenly cut short by the miscreant in his ardent moments. The latter was brought into court and to keep him from hugging the “charmer” to death, in one of his fits of affection, he was bound over in the sum of one hundred dollars – leaving him one of the most astonished mortals you could scare up.

ST. VALENTINE claims to-day as his own, though the saint has long been forgotten in the celebration of the day. It is not positively known whence originated the custom of sending remembrances from friend to friend on this day, and different views prevail. The most common notion is that it came from the supposed custom of the birds choosing their mates on that day. Others derived their custom from the saint himself, one of the early Christian martyrs, who was much distinguished for his love and charity, and hence the practice of making presents on this day, which was the former mode of observing it. But the most probable theory we have is that it is a corruption of one of the observances of the Lupercalia, a singular festival of the Romans when the young men drew the names of young women from a box; this festival was held on the 15th of February. We presume, whatever the opinion of the individuals in regard to the origin of the celebration, few will hesitate on that account to pay all due respect to the occasion; the greater danger is that some will be so anxious to observe it that they will not be particular about the missives they send, but will indulge in anonymous flings at those they don’t like.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Stephen Dewitt

Pvt., Co. I, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862

Shiloh National Cemetery

District Court

REGULAR TERM.

HON. JOHN F. DILLON, Judge.
IRA M. GIFFORD, Clerk.

THURSDAY, February 13.

Court opened at 9 0’clock A. M. The jury in the case of State vs. Kornd Fishter found the defendant guilty, as charged in the indictment. The indictment is for an assault with intent to commit murder.

State of Iowa vs. J. J. Humphrey. Assault. Jury trial. The jury found the defendant not guilty and he was discharged.

The following civil cases were disposed of:

5931. Plummer vs. Arlin. Dismissed.
6584. A. Gast vs. Hamilton. Settled and plaintiff to pay costs.
6715. Fish vs. Dodge. Settled by the parties.
6733. Board of Supervisors vs. Davenport et al. Dismissed
5935. Field vs. Bell. Referred to Jno. N. Rogers, Esq., referee.
6753. Smyth vs. Leamer. Motion by plaintiff to dismiss the appeal of the garnishes overruled, and plaintiff excepts.
6876, 6876 1-2. Neff vs. Thorington. Stricken from the docket at cost of appellant.
6934. Dunton vs. McOllough. Judgment as per stipulation.

Court adjourned at 6 o’clock p. m., till 9 o’clock to-morrow morning.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Legislative Summary

(From Des Moines Register, 12th inst.)

Yesterday morning the Senate disposed of a large amount of business, as well as on Monday, but no business of general interest was acted upon finally. Messrs. Hatch, Burdick, Boardman and Hagans, introduced new bills, the scope of which will be seen by a glance at the report. Mr. Dysart’s County Court Bill, as amended by the Judiciary committee, was the special order for two o’clock, and the afternoon was spent in Committee of the Whole on its consideration. The author of the original bill, the learned chairman of the Judiciary committee, and in fact the entire legal ability of the Senate, deserve the applause and gratitude of the people of the State for the zeal, industry, and care devoted to the perfection of this measure. Its consideration in committee was not fully completed, with without material alteration of its present features there is little and perhaps no doubt of its passage.

In the House, H. F. No. 62, a bill for an act to amend Sec. 840, Chap. 46 of the Revision, relating to the establishment of roads was passed; also H. F. No. 104, a bill for an act to legalize certain taxes for School House purposes in Huron Township, Des Moines county; also S. F. No. 33, a bill for an act in relation to Jury Fees. – H F. No. 85, a bill for an act prescribing the duties of Township Trustees and Road Supervisors in certain cases was discussed a long time and finally laid on the table.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Remembrance M. Swan

Company C.

Born in Marshall county, West Virginia, July 27th, 1835. Emigrated with his parents, Henry and Esther Swan, to Henry county, Iowa, on the 8th day of April. A. D. 1838. Ex-member of Company C. First Iowa Volunteer Cavalry. Also member of the Masonic order, Danville Lodge, No. 48, of Danville. Iowa. Also of the Grand Army of the Republic, Burlington, where he resides. His father. Henry V. Swan, was a Lieutenant in Company G, Thirty-seventh Iowa Volunteer Infantry. Occupation through life, farmer and stock dealer; formerly bred the Jersey cattle. Also taught a great many terms of school, in his younger days, in DesMoines and Henry counties. Iowa.

SOURCE: Charles H. Lothrop, A History Of The First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Veteran Volunteers, p. 333

From Maryland

FREDERICK, Md., Feb., 13.

There are rumors here that the rebels are concentrating their forces between Point of Rocks and Leesburg, and also that they are erecting batteries there.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Constitutional Convention

WHEELING, February 13.

The constitutional Convention this morning adopted the following as a section of the article on the fundamental provision of the constitution of the proposed new State of Western Virginia, with the understanding that this action should be a settlement of the vexed question: “No slave shall be brought or free person of color com into the State for permanent residence after this Constitution goes into operation.” This will insure a large majority for the Constitution.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

From Leavenworth

LEAVENWORTH, February 12.

Maj. Gen. Hunter made a formal call on Senator Lane yesterday.

Matters in regard to the Southern expedition remain in statu quo.

Lane has not resigned the Senatorship.

No movements of troops of particular moment have taken place the last two weeks.

The 13th Wisconsin have gone to Fort Scott. The first Kansas is on furlough for 10 days.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Theodore P. Rodman

Pvt., Co. H, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862

Shiloh National Cemetery

XXXVIIth Congress -- First Session

WASHINGTON, February 12.

SENATE. – Mr. Sherman objected to amendment of the treasury note bill, providing for deposit, as it would tend to prevent exchange into bonds, and do great harm.

Mr. King, moved to reduce the percentage to one per cent. Rejected.

The amendment providing for a deposit at five per cent was rejected.

The amendment setting apart the proceeds of the public lands, confiscated property and duties on imports, for the interest of the debt in bonds and notes, and for a sinking fund, was adopted.

Several other verbal amendments of the committee were adopted.

Mr. Fessenden moved to amend the first section, so as to make the bonds redeemable at pleasure in five years instead of twenty, and payable in twenty years.

Mr. Sherman Opposed the amendment as tending to depreciate [the] character of the bonds.

Mr. Fessenden said the amendment was to prevent paying to high interest for a long number of years.

Mr. Chandler said there was no time since the first of November that the war could not be closed in sixty days. Only one obstacle stood in the way for four months, which Congress could remove to-morrow. He believed the order “forward” would be given and the war closed by the first day of May.

A messages was received from the House, saying that it disagreed with the Senate’s amendment to the civil and miscellaneous appropriation bill.

The Treasury note bill was taken up. The question was on Mr. Fessenden’s amendment, to make the bonds redeemable after five years or at the pleasure of the U. S. which amendment was withdrawn.

Mr. Collamer moved to strike out that portion of the bill which makes the notes a legal tender for private debts.

Mr. Wilson apposed the amendment. He considered it unjust to place all this money in the hands of the soldiers and employees of the Government, forcing them to take it, and then not to protect it after it was in their hands.


HOUSE. – The House proceeded to the consideration of the joint resolution, reported by Mr. Holman from the committee on government contracts, authorizing the Secretary of War to pay the Hannibal and St. Joe and Pacific railroad companies for the transportation of troops and munitions of war, but at rates not greater than those required from private individuals. Congress, in granting lands to these roads, reserved the right to transmit troops, &c., free of charge. Without waiving this principle, it is proposed to compensate them on the ground that their ability has been greatly impaired by the rebellion, destruction of their bridges, &c.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

From Mexico

NEW YORK, Feb. 13.

The steamer Columbia brings Havana dates of the 8th inst.

It appears that Miramon, arriving at Vera Cruz from Havana, was arrested by the British Admiral for a former robbery of the British legation in Mexico.

Sickness and death among the allied troops is frightful.

Talcott, formerly civil engineer of the Mexican Railroad, who left to join the rebels in South Carolina, has returned to Havana on the pirate steamer Kate, and is en route for Vera Cruz, in hopes to obtain his old situation, in which he will be disappointed.


NEW YORK, Feb. 13.

The steamer Columbia has arrived from Havana 8th.

A newspaper correspondent reports the sickness among the allied troops in Mexico as frightful.

The rebel schr. Victoria sailed from Havana on the 7th, with a cargo of arms and ammunition.

Lieut. Moffit, late commander of the Federal steamer Canada, is now commander of the rebel schr. Cecil.

Juarez had proposed terms of peace to the allies, which were rejected.


BALTIMORE, February 13.

The steamship Baltimore arrived her last night, bringing Havana dates of the 6th inst.

Miramon was arrested on board the Avon and is confined on H. B. M. ship Challenge and will not be allowed to land in Mexico.

The British ship Gladiator is still at Nassau mounting guns. She will change her flag and become a rebel privateer.

The commissioners had returned from the city of Mexico. The Mexican government insisted upon the withdrawal of the Spanish forces, but accepted the intervention of France and England.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Paul Hendricks

Company C.

Was born February 25th, 1838, in Decatur county, Indiana. At the age of three years his parents moved to the then far west, the southeastern part of Iowa. Here he lived until the date of his enlistment as a recruit, in August, 1862, in the First Iowa Cavalry, Company C, serving one year. He then re-enlisted as a veteran, and served until the close of the war. When he first left home to fight for the stripes and stars he was engaged as a farmer in Lee county, Iowa. Leaving behind a wife and one year old baby girl, he and his only brother William went to help fill up the regiment. At the close of the war he was mustered out as color bearer of his company. He escaped the prison pens of the South, the balls of the Johnnies, but, like all other soldiers who went nobly to the front, he gave his youth and health for his country. On his return home he emigrated to Bates county, Missouri, where he resided sixteen years. He then visited his mother, (his father having died during the war.) in Iowa, on his way to South Dakota, in 1881, where he now resides with his family, in Hyde county. He is the father of five children, one son and four daughters, of whom two died in infancy. Although an old man in looks, with very poor health, he loves to meet the old veterans and talk over old times and tell war stories as well as ever.


SOURCE: Charles H. Lothrop, A History Of The First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Veteran Volunteers, p. 333

Lieutenant Clinton M. Turner

Company C.

Was born May 27th, 1835, in Jefferson county, Indiana. Removed to Iowa with parents at the age of five years, when Iowa was a territory. Was raised on a farm. At the breaking out of the rebellion was a miller and engineer. Enlisted on the night of the 14th of April. 1861, for the First Infantry of Iowa, but owing to the rush of companies did not get into the First or Seventh Infantry as expected. Finally went with a squad of sixteen to Burlington, and enlisted in Company C, First Iowa Cavalry. Was elected first corporal upon organization of the company. In 1862 was promoted to commissary and quartermaster sergeant. In the veteran organization in 1864 was commissioned Second Lieutenant, and in the same year was promoted to First Lieutenant. Under the veteran organization was detailed at different times to command Companies I, L and B, in absence of other commissioned officers.

Participated in all campaigns and engagements of the regiment, closing with the expedition under General Custer into Texas. Was never in hospital a day. Was mustered out with regiment at Davenport, March 15th, 1866 — lacking but thirty days of five years from date of first enlistment.

SOURCE: Charles H. Lothrop, A History Of The First Regiment Iowa Cavalry Veteran Volunteers, p. 332-3

Trevanian H. Teas

Pvt., Co. H, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862

Shiloh National Cemetery

From Fort Monroe

FORT MONROE, Feb. 12.

There was no flag of Truce to-day; no arrivals from the Burnside expedition.

As the boat was coming down from Newport News this morning, a man was picked up in a small boat who left Norfolk yesterday morning and made his escape from Sewall’s Point. He confirms all previous reports and adds, that Norfolk has been placed under martial law and volunteers are to defend the city are called for in vain.

The work on the Merrimac was stopped on Saturday last, and she is now at the Navy Yard, drawing so much water that she could not get out, even if she were ready for sea.

The greatest alarm prevails at Norfolk, and an attack is momentarily expected. – There are said to be only about 200 troops at Sewall’s Point.

A rumor was in circulation at Norfolk that the defeat at Roanoke Island was owing to the treachery of the North Carolina troops.

The great Sawyer gun at Newport News burst yesterday while being fired. Two men of a Massachusetts regiment were instantly killed and another seriously injured. Four or five other persons who were in the vicinity were also wounded, but not seriously.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

From Washington

NEW YORK, Feb. 13.

The Tribune’s Washington Correspondent says of Gen. Stone that he used to have stolen interviews with the rebels, and that a package on at least one occasion, was seen to pass from him to them. He, with surly words, refused a pass to the widow of a volunteer, who wished to seek for the body of her husband within the enemy’s lines, but in the case of the rebel ladies, who on frivolous pretexts desired to go and come, he was all urbanity, and freely gave passes – passes, too, which covered trunks not to be examined.

The Senate military committee will report, at their next meeting, a reorganization of the medical department of the army, increasing the number of surgeons and other members of the service, and making it a separate department.

Gen. Montgomery, military governor of Alexandria, is abusing his office by releasing rebels arrested by his subordinates. Not content with allowing Rev. Mr. Stewart to omit the prayer for the President from the service, he set him at liberty after his arrest on account of the treasonable omission.

The Alexandria Chronicle says much excitement has been occasioned by the arrest of Rev. Mr. Stewart, who in spite of remonstrances and warning, persisted in parading his rebel proclivities in the pulpit.


(World’s Dispatch)

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12.

A well known Citizen here, named Magruder, a shoe dealer, was arrested to-day on a charge of treason, he having been communicating with the enemy. The charges against him in this respect are alleged to be very serious.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 13.

The sergeant at arms pursuant to an order by the house of Representatives, has placed Henry Wikoff in close confinement, selecting the guard house in the Capitol for that purpose. Mr. Wikoff said to-day that this was a kind of capital punishment that he had not anticipated.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Gun Boats Going Up Cumberland River

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 13.

The Democrat learns that Com. Foote, with the gun boats St. Louis, Louisville and Pittsburg, left Cairo for the Cumberland river at 10 o’clock on Tuesday night. The Carondelet was expected to join them at Paducah. In consequence of high water and unusually rapid current on all the rivers, the fleet is not expected to reach Fort Donelson till this morning, and as it was presumed the attack will not be made until there is complete readiness on the part of both land and naval forces, the news of the result cannot be expected before to-night or tomorrow morning.

The Republican of this morning states that Gen. Hitchcock has not yet accepted the appointment of Maj. Gen., but will respond when his commission is received.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Boston, Feb. 12 [1862]

The trouble between Gov. Andrew and Gen. Butler has been adjusted.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

From Ship Island

NEW YORK, Feb. 13.

The store ship Supply brings Ship Island dates of the 24th. She has on board the Captains and crew of the captured rebel steamer Anna Lunes and the schooner A. S. Pren, taken by the New London off Florida. Nothing new at Ship Island. – Troops healthy. Works progressing rapidly. The frigate Niagara, gun-boats New London, Hatteras, [Trasca], Coon, Pampero, Shipblock, Prince and brig J. P. Witherell, were anchored off the Island. The Supply boarded off Florida, on 30th, the British schooner, Saint Hart of Liverpool, whose Capt. said, was bound from Liverpool to Cardenas, but having no papers and being on the route to rebeldom, was taken by the Supply crew, put aboard and brought to this port. Her cargo is supposed to be arms and ammunition.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Additional Details of the Gun-Boat Expedition up Tennessee River

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 13.

The Republican’s Fort Henry correspondent gives further particulars of the Tennessee river gunboat expedition. At every village the people insisted upon loading their visitors with presents, and as far as Florence the river can be navigated almost as safely as the Ohio.

Blessings, cheers and the wildest enthusiasm greeted the gunboats everywhere. – Numbers of prominent men came forward and said that should the Union army enter Tennessee, 50,000 men were ready and anxious to protect their homes, and would at once cluster around it. Under the laws commanding them to join the rebel army or lose their property, they were obliged to succumb in self-defence.

The officers of the gunboats say that it is impossible to doubt the genuineness of the greetings that everywhere met them. The rebel press is wholly under the control of the politicians, and don’t speak the people’s feelings. The secession element is principally composed of lawless portions of the community, who overawe by violence the order loving Union citizens.

At Sarama Lt. Phelps learned that a rebel cavalry regiment was encamped about a mile distant. He immediately ordered a company of 130 men, under Col. Gwin, to march against them, but the rebels hearing of the movement fled in a panic, leaving everything behind them. Their camp was burned, and a considerable quantity of arms and stores were captured.

Only one steamer, the Dunbar, now floats on the Upper Tennessee.

The Appleton Belle had 4,000 lbs. powder aboard, and when fired was purposely anchored opposite the fine residence of Judge Creevatt, a noted loyalist, and which was just completed. The building was much shattered by the explosion.

A partially finished rebel gun-boat, Eastport, is a fine fast steamer 250 feet long, very staunch, and constructed so as to be rendered shot proof, by compressed bales of cotton and iron plates.

The steamer Illinois, brought down a quantity of tobacco yesterday from Paris. A large quantity of pig iron near there will be removed as soon as possible.

The Nashville Union and American of the 5th inst. says that Gens. Beauregard, Pillow and Cheatham were there. It also contains Beauregard’s plan of battle at Manassas, and prodigious speculations as to what he will do at Columbus.

Numerous articles are copied from Southern papers, asking their government to take some measures to keep the soldiers in their service, as their term of enlistment is expiring and they are fast becoming demoralized. The papers also state that a large amount of Confederate stores are lying on the Banks of the Cumberland.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

William R. Bradley

Pvt., Co. H, 3rd Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862

Shiloh National Cemetery

From Port Royal

New York, Feb. 13.

The Baltic arrived brings 700 bales of cotton and crews of the stone fleet. – Eight rebel prisoners were also brought and placed in Ft. Lafayette, who were taken in a boat.

The weather was getting disagreeably warm and heavy rains falling. Contrabands were still picking cotton, and their number fast increasing. Gen. Sherman has succeeded in excluding all reporters from his lines.

Several regiments have been removed from Hilton Head to the fort on Daufuskie Island, the nearest point to Fort Pulaski that can be occupied except Tybee. Several gun boats, a schooner and a number of flats with Parrott guns, howitzers and mortars, accompanied the expedition. Tatnall’s gun boats soon after made their appearance, and three ran the gauntlet to Ft. Pulaski. Stevens’ brigade was prevented from forming a junction on account of obstructions in the river.

Fort Pulaski is said to be in as bad a fix as Sumter was.

Our engineers are driving piles to a marshy island, for a road and a foundation for batteries. This island lies between the Union forces and Fort Jackson.

Our forces make advances every day. Our gun boats had shelled out a post on Pine Island, and made an advance toward Bluffton, where is a large force. Fort Jackson is to be taken, and Savannah will soon be captured.

Another account says, the expedition left Monday, including all the gun boats and transports sufficient for the shipment of 12,000 troops which will go through Calabogue sound into Savannah river, without coming within range of Fort Pulaski’s guns.

The rebels have withdrawn a large number of troops form Charleston and Port Royal to Savannah. 12,000 troops were to leave soon to take the railroad, and thence to Charleston. Three regiments of cavalry join them; also several artillery regiments. Weather healthful – troops enthusiastic.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Benton Barracks, St. Louis, Feb. 8 [1862]

REV. A. J. KYNETTE, Cor. Sec. “Iowa Sanitary Commission”

Very dear Sir:– I received the box of goods and two kegs forwarded by you to our regiment, through “The Western Sanitary Commission,” St. Louis, and they are now in the hands of the Steward of our regimental hospital, by whom they will be faithfully applied as intended. On examining the goods I was surprised and pleased at the good taste displayed in the assorting of the articles. – They are just what we need, and these, together with those before received from “The Western Sanitary Commission” and “The Ladies’ Union Aid Society,” both of this city, will enable us to take such care of our sick as they deserve, and ask kind friends at home desire them to have. Your “Commission,” and all the “Aid Societies” who co-operate with you, are not working for compliments or praise from men; but it is due to ourselves to acknowledge this well-timed material aid, and thus to show that we are not ungrateful for the interest of our friends at home still feel for us; and it is due to you and the public, that you and they may know that you are not laboring in vain, but that you are accomplishing a noble and most important work, for I assure you it is so appreciated by those who receive its benefits. The earnest gratitude of the sick and wounded soldier will be inspired at the sight of these home comforts and luxuries, which but for such organization, he would never enjoy, and by means of which many a tedious day or restless night will be avoided, and perhaps many valuable lives preserved to friends and country.

I remain affectionately yours, &c.

C. G. TRUSDELL,
Chaplain 2d Iowa Cavalry

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Jason D. Ferguson

1st Lieut., Co. D, 12th Iowa Infantry
Killed in action April 6, 1862

Shiloh National Cemetery