Charles Wesley Kitchel

Charles Wesley Kitchel, b. Mar. 1, 1840. Present address De Soto, Iowa, m. Sept. 29, 1867, at Palmyra, Iowa, to Mary Morris, dau. John and Eliza Morris, d. Dec. 1909 at De Soto, C. W. Kitchell enlisted at Indianola, Iowa, in Co. G, 15th Iowa Vol. Inf., Romulus Hanks, Captain, Oct. 19, 1861, to serve three years or until the close of the Civil war. Discharged Dec. 6, 1863, by reason of re-enlistment as Veteran Volunteer, as 1st sergeant, under Capt. Edw. P. Byce, Co. G. 15th Iowa, Vol. Inf., to serve three years or until end of the war Discharged July 24, 1865, at Louisville, Ky., by reason of General Order No. 26. He served under Generals McPherson and O. O. Howard, 3d Brigade, 4th Division, 17th Corps. General Crocker, Brigade Commander, General W. T. Sherman commanding army of Tennessee. He took part in all the battles in which his regiment was engaged. Among them Shiloh, Corinth, Siege of Vicksburg, Lookout Mountain, Atlanta Campaign, Sherman's March to the Sea, Surrender of Johnston and Grand Review at Washington. He was wounded twice in battle. He is a farmer and has lived principally at Palmyra, Winterset and De Soto, Iowa. His four sons average 200 pounds. John and Robert being slightly in excess of that mark while James and Herbert only weigh 195 and 197.

SOURCE: George Chalmers McCormick, John Kitchel And Esther Peck: Their Ancestors, Descendants And Some Kindred Families, p. 34-5

Fugitive Slave Case

WASHTINGTON, May 22. – The fugitive Slave Law Commissioners to-day decided on the points received yesterday, that it was discretionary with them to allow cross-examinations as to the identity of ownership, and therefore they permitted it in the case of Stephen, claimed by a citizen of Maryland.  This case was concluded by the remanding of the slave to the claimant.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Hospital Stores Wanted

PHILADELPHIA, May 21. – The Bulletin contains the following appeal received by telegraph to-day dated, Fortress Monroe, May 21:

I call upon the farmers of the North for supplies of butter and eggs.  Send them here to the care of Doctors Hunt and McCoy, of the Chesapeake and Miland Hospitals.  Sponges, oil silk, rags, bandages, lint and dried fruit are also greatly needed.  In the name of your suffering soldiers I make this appeal.

(Signed)

JOHN HARRIS, Sec’y.

This appeal will doubtless be promptly responded to by the farmers of the north.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3



Collision and Shipwreck

DETROIT, May 21. – The schooner Rapid, Capt. Tulack, was sunk and the Captain drowned, by a collision with the schooner Narraganset, off Clay banks, on Tuesday night.  The cargo consisted of 13,000 bushels of wheat, which as probably a total loss.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Wounded Western Troops

NEW YORK, May 21. – Quite a number of wounded soldiers of Western States troops including Michigan, Iowa, Wisconsin, Ohio and Indiana, have recently arrived in this city from the army.  In the absence of any state agents in this city, Col. Frank E. Howe, of the Massachusetts agency, has taken them in charge, and had their wounds properly attended to, their wants supplied, and provided them with transportation to their homes, after being kindly tended and care for at the New England Rooms.  The agent of New York State declined to furnish them with transportation.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Destructive Tornado

WHEELING, VA., May 21. – A destructive tornado this afternoon unroofed and demolished the Lutheran Church, occupied as a school, killing three and wounding six scholars.  It also blew down the steeple and partially unroofed St. John Episcopal Church.  The same tornado demolished the upper works of the steamer Marion, bound down with troops.  The captain mate and pilot were somewhat injured, but no lives were lost.  The hull of the boat and her cargo were saved.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Special to New York Papers

(Herald’s Dispatch.)

WASHINGTON, May 21. – The President has decided that 50,000 more volunteers shall be accepted.  This is to fill up regiments which have been thinned out by sickness and wounds, and to for a reserve under drill for the future, which may be ready at the decisive moment.

Notwithstanding the solemn threat of certain Senators who hold their refusal to take up the tax bill interwoven over the head of the President, to scare or drive him into a compliance with the programme of conducting the war, the bill was taken up to-day and will be acted upon without delay.  It will probably be shaped and passed before the end of the month.  The impression prevails that Senator Simmons’ substitute is more simple in its provisions, and that the House bill will finally be adopted.

The armor of the Galena which was pierced by the projectiles of the rebel batteries below Richmond, was but three inches thick.

The gunboats on the Western waters are thinly plated but partially clad, which shows the necessity of the six inch plates that have been ordered for the three new gunboats of the Monitor style that are now in process of erection in New York.

The Monitor thus far has stood the fire with her five inch plates, but as guns of enormous caliber and projectiles of great momentum are in view, it is safe to increase the thickness of the armor.

(Tribune’s Special.)

It is not yet precisely determined what number of volunteers to call for, but it will not be far from 100,000, including those needed to fill up the old regiments.

It will scarcely be credited that hay is brought to the army of Virginia from Maine, and corn from Illinois, although these articles are to be had for the taking from premises abandoned by the rebels.  Their armies do not scruple to rob our men of all that can be moved.

A pontoon bridge has been laid and the Rappahannock can now be crossed at four different points.

Orders have been issued for two pairs of shoes and one pair of leggings for the infantry of the army of the Rappahannock.

The greatest activity prevails and striking news may be expected from this quarter before long.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

The Beer Question in New York

NEW YORK, May 20. – The sale of lager beer in concert rooms in Concert Saloons has been declared to be legal.  The opinion in this case was rendered by Judge McCunn this forenoon.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Wreck of the Oriental

WASHINGTON, May 21. – An altogether reliable dispatch received this morning dated Fortress Monroe to-day says the Oriental, in which Brig. Gen. [Saxton] sailed for Port Royal was wrecked on Friday night May 16th, on Bolly’s Island, 33 miles north of Cape Hatteras.  The passengers and crew were saved.  A portion of the cargo was lost – the remainder will be saved on the beach.  Gen. Saxton arrived at Fortress Monroe this morning, and goes to New York this evening.  Most of the passengers will be in New York on Friday.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Cairo Budget

CAIRO, May 21. – The steamer Newton arrived from the Tennessee river this morning.  She brings no news of importance.

A large squad of expelled correspondents came down as passengers.  The others will follow immediately.

Memphis papers of the 17th, announce the arrival of the Federal fleet at Vicksburg.  It was moving up the river, and had been successful.  Ft. Adams is about 100 miles below Vicksburgh, and the presumption was that a fight had taken place there.

The news of the evacuation of Ft. Pillow, and the retreat of the Rebels to Randolph, is received here with every demonstration of delight.  The impression prevails that the defences of Randolph were constructed last summer and are very extensive and formidable, the armament having been replaced so hastily, the place will not long withstand the Federal assault.  Probably the move was only made as a step towards the final evacuation of the river.

OFF FT. PILLOW via CAIRO, May 21. – Specials say that it was made apparent yesterday that it was clearly evident that the enemy had evacuated Fort Pillow and fallen back on Fort Randolph, a strong fortification on the 3d Chickasaw bluff, 12 miles below their former position. 

Officers of the flotilla who went down the river yesterday, with a flag of truce, returned with the startling intelligence that neither troops nor gunboats were visible, and that Ft. Pillow and the river below, as far as the eye could reach, were deserted.  The flag of truce was sent down for the purpose of completing an exchange of prisoners, which was begun some time ago at Corinth.

Preparations were immediately entered into for a reconnaissance by the gunboats to the vicinity of the Fort.  Towards evening, however, a rebel craft made its appearance around Craighead point, with a flag of truce.  The steamer Kennett, having on board the rebels soldiers to be released, then went to meet her.  No explanation was offered, and although our own flag of truce was not answered in the morning, the prisoners were given up and the steamer returned.

Taking all the circumstances into consideration, there is not the least doubt but that the Rebels have evacuated Fort Pillow.

In their new position, they can maintain a more thorough defense, and be less exposed to the deadly fire of our mortars.  Ft. Randolph as the Rebels call it, or more properly Ft. Wright, consists of a succession of long earth works and batteries on the 2d Chickasaw bluff, 65 miles above Memphis, and just opposite the southern extremity of Island No. 34.  The fortifications were constructed early last autumn, but the guns were subsequently removed to Ft. Pillow.

It is expected that to-day, a reconnnoissance of our gunboats will be made, with a view of ascertaining the new position of the rebels.

CAIRO, May 22. – Two refugees from Corinth arrived to-day.  They state that there about 130,000 rebel troops at Corinth, - that Beauregard was there ten days ago.  They report a scarcity of provisions and forage.  There are no fortifications at Granada or Grand Junction.  [Recruits] raised by conscript act are reinforcing Beauregard.

Large numbers of Union citizens are making their way North, mostly on foot, suffering great privations.

The report of the evacuation of Fort Pillow has been confirmed, but the opinion is general among naval officials that the rebels retired to Ft. Randolph.  Their gunboat[s] have retired down the river.

No arrivals from Pittsburg Landing.

The Desoto, from the flotilla, arrived this morning, but brings no additional news of importance.  A flag of truce came up from the rebel fleet yesterday morning, and returned and came up again in the afternoon, but the object of the mission was not ascertained.

The opinion still prevails that Fort Pillow has been evacuated, although nothing definite has been divulged to determine facts.

Twenty two refugees from Corinth arrived this morning – one of them left the Rebel camp last Wednesday.  He reports that Gen. Beauregard was still in command, and had about 130,000 men, of whom 30,000 are held in reserve, under command of Breckinridge.

The rebels are suffering greatly from sickness.  An average of 600 being sent from camp over the Memphis and Charleston road daily, of whom, many die on the passage.

Houses in towns along the Railroad are used as hospitals.

The army is greatly demoralized; the terms of enlistment of many regiments expiring daily, but the men are forced to remain under the conscript act.  Beauregard is continually among his troops, making speeches and using ever effort to encourage his troops.  The troops are subsisting on half rations slat beef of miserable quality is issued once a week.

Price, Van Dorn, Brag, Polk and Cheatham command division in front of rifle pits around Corinth, around all approaches to the Mobil and Ohio Railroad, and are 13 miles long.

The rebels are making extraordinary efforts to procure guns of which they acknowledge they have but poor supply.

Beauregard’s headquarters are in the rear near Corinth.

All cavalry that have been scouring the country north of Corinth, have been dismounted, except 700 stationed at Trenton on the Mobil and Ohio railroad, which is a depot for forage, of which there is a great scarcity.

It is reported that 60 Federal prisoners, taken at Dresden by Clay King’s gang, were released on parole by Beauregard, after being confined at Jackson, Mississippi.

Major Lovell’s army is reported to have arrived at Corinth.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Robert Quigley

Senator from the Thirty-sixth District, composed of Clayton county, was born at Millville, in Clayton county, Iowa, December 31, 1845, of American-born parents. Attended common school In Clayton county, and two years at the N. I. N. at Fayette, Iowa, from which place he enlisted In Company D, 46th Iowa Infantry, and at the expiration of service of said regiment he Joined Company K, 15th Iowa Infantry and served until the close of the Civil War. Entered the office of Elijah Odell at McGregor, Iowa, as a law student November 1, 1866, and remained until April 4, 1867, when he went into the office of Murdock & Stoneman. Was admitted to practice law February 28, 1868, and was elected City Attorney of McGregor at March election, 1868, and with the exception of only six years has held the office up to the present time. Was twice elected County Attorney of Clayton county. Is married and his family consists of a wife, three girls and a boy. Elected Senator [Iowa Legislature] in 1908. Up to 1881 affiliated with the Republican party; since then with Democratic party.

SOURCE: Guy S. Brewer, Compiler, The Iowa Official Register For The Years 1909-1910, p. 649-50

Cashiered by the Rebels

PADUCAH, May 22. – Clay King has been publicly disgraced and cashiered from the Southern service.  The order was publicly read on dress parade at Corinth not long since.

Five deserters from the Southern service came to Fort Henry Sunday and took the oath of allegiance.  500 daily, is the average of deserters from the Corinth amry.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Died of Consumption

LOUISVILLE, May 21. – Professor E. A. Hallyke, late Principal of the Female High School, - a native of Salem, Massachusetts, died last night of consumption.  He is universally lamented.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Specials to the New York Papers

(Herald Dispatch.)

WASHINGTON, May 20. – All are filled with the expectation of the great battles, at Corinth and Virginia before the week ends.  It is expected that these two battles will practically conclude the campaign, and leave nothing else to be done but put down the guerilla fighting.

The recent proclamation of the President begins to give great satisfaction to all classes. – The conservatives are satisfied and the ultras do not find fault.  It is manifest to all that Mr. Lincoln has taken the bit in his teeth and intends to have his own way.  Cabinet or no Cabinet. – The general impression here is since, the utterance of the proclamation, there is no one can approach Abraham Lincoln in popularity.  It is regarded as an evidence of unalterable firmness and true grit.

(Tribune Dispatch.)

A call is soon to be made upon the states for additional volunteers to the number of at least 100,000.  Careful inquiries have elicited the fact that our army is smaller than has been represented, even in official accounts – numbering not 300,000 effective men.  This fresh force is to be merely used as a reserve to be stationed at convenient point to meet emergencies.

The subject of lake defenses and lake commerce was very forcibly and fully presented this morning at a meeting of the New York delegation in Congress by the Hon. Samuel B. Ruggles, who appeared in behalf of the State. – the Principal topics discussed were the present undefended condition of the lakes and the great extend and rapid growth of the commerce on the waters, also the vital importance of the cereal products of the States surrounding the lakes, in furnishing the elements of foreign commerce, and consequently in swelling the amount of duties on imports to be received in exchange.  The two cardinal measures growing out of these discussions, and which must occupy the attention of congress, will be the opening of adequate channels from the eastern and western extremities of the lakes, the first to be effected by enlarging the locks on the Erie and Oswego Canals, and the other by the enlargement of the Canal from Chicago to the Illinois River.  It is hoped that these two great measures may be united as integral portions of one harmonious system, extending from the Hudson to the Mississippi, permitting the passing throughout the line of mail-clad vessels sufficient for the defense of these great waters.

The following is from the World’s correspondent, under the date of Baltimore Cross Roads, Va., 16 miles from Richmond, May 18:  I make the prophecy that Richmond is abandoned by the enemy without a fight, and that we occupy it within forty-eight hours, if not sooner.  This is the advance division towards Richmond – Cavalry are beyond at Bottom Bridge.  The enemy blew it up yesterday.  Little will it impede our progress, the stream is narrow, the water is but 13 feet deep and an easy ford.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

William P. L. Muir

Mr. Muir, b. Dec. 5, 1837, in Philadelphia, Pa. Enlisted August 8, 1861, in Company E, 15th Iowa volunteer infantry. Mustered into United States service Nov. 5, 1861, at Keokuk, Iowa, a private; promoted to first sergeant March 1, 1862. Was in the battle of Shiloh, Tenn., April 6 and 7, 1862; severely wounded in right leg. His regiment was brigaded with the 11th, 13th and 16th Iowa regiments, and known as Brocker's [sic, should be Crocker's] Iowa brigade, and attached to the 17th army corps, Army of the Tennessee. Participated in all the battles and sieges of this army, including battles of Iuka, Corinth, Vicksburg, Jackson and the Atlanta campaign. Oct. 3, 1862, severely wounded in head at battle of Corinth. Feb. 9, 1863, promoted to second lieutenant. Dec. 7, 1863, to first lieutenant. July 20, 1864, breveted captain, and July 22, 1864, major; same day taken prisoner at battle of Atlanta, Ga., and confined in Macon, Savannah and Charleston military prisons until exchanged, Sept. 29, 1864. Detached from his own command during winter of 1864-5, and served on staff of Brigadier General A. G. Malloy as assistant adjutant general. Dec. 15 and 16, 1864, was in the battle of Nashville, Tenn., and March 10, 1865, participated in battle of Kinston, N. C. March 16, 1865, rejoined his own command and assigned to duty on staff of Brigadier General A. Hickenlooper as assistant adjutant general. July 24, 1865, mustered out of service at Louisville, Ky., by reason of close of the war.

SOURCE: Charles Hutchinson Thompson, A Genealogy Of The Descendants Of John Thomson Of Plymouth, Mass., p. 136

James Gamble Day

DAY, James Gamble, jurist, was born in Jefferson county. O., June 28, 1832, of English parentage. He earlv evinced a liking for the law and was graduated in the law school at Cincinnati in 1857, going immediately to Iowa and locating in Afton, Union co., in the southern part of the state. His home town is but a short distance from the Missouri line, and at the outbreak of the civil war the feeling in Afton was intense. Young Day promptly offered his services and was commissioned lieutenant of company F, 15th Iowa infantry. For bravery and distinctive services he was promoted to the captaincy of company I, in the same regiment. Wounded at the battle of Shiloh, Day was obliged to leave the service and he returned to Iowa. In 1862 he was elected judge of the third judicial district of Iowa, retaining the position by subsequent elections until 1870, when he resigned to succeed Judge George G. Wright on the supreme court bench. He served on this bench for thirteen years, retiring the last of December, 1893. He was chief justice three times: in 1871, 1877 and 1883. Judge Day was recognized as one of the deepest thinkers and most logical men that had ever sat on the Iowa supreme court bench. He was married in Steubenville, O., Dec. 1, 1857, to Minerva C. Manly, who was a prominent societv woman and club worker. He died suddenly, in Des Moines, May 1, 1898.

SOURCE: The National Cyclopaedia Of American Biography, Volume 12, p. 518

Important from Below

FT. PILLOW EVACUATED!

The Federal Fleet at Vicksburgh.

(Special to the Burlington Hawk-Eye.)

CAIRO, May 21.

Fort Pillow is evacuated.  The Rebels have retreated to Fort Randolph, 12 miles below. – The fact was ascertained by the Steamer Kennett which went with a flag of truce to exchange prisoners, and found the Rebel works deserted, and not a gunboat was to be seen.  Some half hour afterwards a rebel boat came round the point with a flag of truce – they would make no explanations.

Capt. Davis has not yet occupied the fort.

Memphis papers of the 17th says that the Federal fleet was opposite Vicksburg bound up the river.

Fifteen reporters from Pittsburg Landing arrived here to-day.

STREET.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

From Cairo

(Special to the Hawk-Eye.)

CAIRO, May 22.

Nothing from Fort Pillow.  Further reports of the evacuation are generally credited here, though it is believed the fort is not yet occupied.

Two refugees direct from Corinth arrived today and report that there is much sickness in the rebel camp and that men are kept on half rations.

Whole families of Union people are wending their way northward as best they can.  They are enduring much exposure and privations.

No arrival from the Tennessee.

STREET.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

A Vacation Proposed

WASHINGTON, May 20. – An effort will be made in the House to-morrow to adjourn on the 28th inst., until the 2nd of June in order to enable members to visit their homes, and afford time for putting the hall in summer trim.  Those who favor the proposition say that such an arrangement will not delay the business as the House is far in advance of the Senate in this respect. – The House only contemplates a holiday.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Later From Europe

NEW YORK, May 21. – The steamer Nova Scotia arrived at 1 o’clock this afternoon.

The Sumter remained at Gibraltar.

Mr. Layard Stated in the House of Commons that as far as the Government knew that Mercier’s visit to Richmond was without instructions from France, and was attended with no political results whatever.

The Paris correspondent of the new Confederate organ, the Index, asserts that M. Mercier was under instructions to ascertain certain points and will report in person to the Emperor.

The Independent Belge asserts that to object of Lovalt’s recent Visit to London was to induce England to consent to common intervention in America, and England agrees on condition that  the Roman question was first settled.  The French Government gave ear to this and has led to conference relative to intervention.

Layard in announcing the conclusion of a slave trade treaty in the House of Commons said its conditions gave every reason to hope the traffic will be effectually suppressed.

Mr. Bright said Earl Russell’s late statement that he hoped in a few months that the Northern States would allow the independence of the South.  He said the war had paralyzed business in Lancashire for the time being, and showed how little he knew of the sentiments of the North.

The Times, editorially speaking of the distress in Lancashire, says it is for the honor of the nation that this distress be known to the world that it may see the sacrifices made in the cause of neutrality.  The Times regards the new slave trade treaty as the first fruits of secession, but says it is not a blow at the South, but a victory over the North.

The Paris correspondent of the Morning Herald says it is beyond question that the recognition of the South is seriously contemplated by the French Government.

The Bourse was flat 70f 80c.

Rumors of the approaching solution of the Roman question are more and more general.  It is reported that the Papal Government is prepared for sudden departure.

LATER. – LONDON, May 11, P.M. – Consols – further decline, closing today 92½@92¼.

American Stocks – I. C. 49½@46½ discount; Erie 32¼.

Liverpool Breadstuffs Market – Authorities report flour neglected and offered at slight reduction, 24s 6d@30s.  Wheat dull and nominally unchanged, red western 10s@10s 10d; white 11s 6d@11s 10d.  Corn in moderate demand but freely offered at 27s 9d@28s for mixed.; white 23s@33s per quarter.

LATEST. – May 10, P.M. – The market is nominally the same as yesterday, but holders would accept lower soles [sic] of buyers of approved provisions.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Review: The Civil War: The First Year

The Civil War:
The First Year Told by Those Who Lived It

Edited by Brooks D. Simpson, Stephen W. Sears and Aaron Sheehan-Dean

One hundred and fifty years have passed.  Thousands upon thousands of books have been, and continue to be, written.  And yet interest in the American Civil War has never waned. As we approach the beginning of the commemoration of the sesquicentennial of the war and its events it is easy to pull a book off the shelf by historians such as Brooks D. Simpson, or Stephen W. Sears, or Aaron Sheehan-Dean, and read through its pages and get an understanding of the war’s history.  Yet, as admirable as these author’s works are, their readers are often at a remove, cast as silent observers, to the events about which they are reading.  While reading these history books one can’t help but wonder what it must have been like for those who lived through those four cataclysmic years of war.

To get a sense of what those war years must have been like it is imperative to read the first-hand accounts written by the people who lived through them.  It is a more difficult task than what it may at first seem, as these documents, letters, diaries, memoirs are published in hundreds of books, and housed in archives all across the country. One could wear out his library card, or put many miles on the odometer of his car to find and read these touchstones of American History. Thankfully, due to the efforts of Brooks D, Simpson, Stephen W. Sears and Aaron Sheehan-Dean, editors of “The Civil War: The First Year Told By Those Who Lived It,” we have a single volume that we can pull down from the bookshelf filled with primary source material.

Culled from thousands of documents, letters, diaries, speeches, military reports, newspaper articles and memoirs, the editors have included in their work the most literary and historically significant of those documents, and presented them in chronological order.  Their book does not present a single point of view, North and South, men and women, black and white, rich and poor, soldiers and civilians are all represented.  The resulting tome is a well balanced multifaceted and broad look at the first year of the first year of the war from the Abraham Lincoln’s election in November of 1860 to January 1862.

Through these primary sources, the barriers have been removed, their readers are transported back across the distance of time to experience the war, day by day as it progressed, to see and feel the war and its events through the eyes, minds and hearts of the people who lived through them.

“The Civil War: The First Year Told By Those Who Lived It” is the first in a four volume series by The Library of America, each volume of which will cover roughly each year of the four year struggle from 1861 to 1865.

ISBN 978-1-59853-088-9, Library of America, © 2011, Hardcover, 840 pages, Maps, Chronology, Bibliographical Notes, Endnotes & Index. $37.50

Review: Old Abe, Eagle Hero

Old Abe, Eagle Hero:

The Civil War's Most Famous Mascot

Written by Patrick Young

Illustrated by Anne Lee

There were a few well known regimental mascots during the American Civil War, and probably the most well known of them all was the 8th Wisconsin Infantry’s eagle Old Abe.  Patrick Young, great great grandson of Captain Victor Wolf, commander of Company C, 8th Wisconsin Infantry, has written a children’s book about the famous bird.

Mr. Young’s text follows Old Abe throughout his life, as a young eaglet raised by Native Americans, his war time experiences, and his life after the war are all detailed in the book.

The Civil War can be a tough subject to introduce young readers.  The concepts of war and death are scary to many adults, not to mention children, but Mr. Young’s book, with illustrations by Anne Lee, treads very carefully around these issues.  Written for readers between five to nine years old, the text does not go into the complicated issues of the war, but rather treats it as a mundane event, and is not at all scary for the readers of the younger set.

Anne Lee’s water color and ink illustrations are simplistically rendered with a gentle nod to the sensitivities of her young readers.  Battle scenes are shown, but from a distance, and therefore do not offer any graphic depictions of war,  In one close up, Old Abe can be seen dragging an unconscious soldier to safety with bullets flying through the air and explosions all around, but even this illustration does not offer graphic or gruesome images of the realities of war.

“Old Abe, Eagle Hero” never once talks down to, at, or over the heads of its young audience, though the facts of war, its causes and consequences are largely glossed over.  Through Old Abe, children can be gently introduced to the Civil War, and if they have questions about the war, I’m sure their parents and teachers can and will appropriately address those issues with the children.

ISBN 978-1-935279-23-5, Kane Miller Book Publishers, © 2010, Hardcover, 48 pages, Illustrations, $15.99

From the Gulf

WASHINGTON, May 21. – Voluminous dispatches are received from the Gulf go-day.  They relate principally to the details of the recent movements connected with the capture of New Orleans.  The vessels of the fleet have been judiciously distributed under Com. Lee, going up as far as Vicksburgh for purposes which it would be improper to state.

It appears from documents that Com. Farragut carried out his instructions to the letter and was cheerfully sustained by all under his command.

On our forces occupying Pensacola, the Mayor promised that the citizens would behave themselves peacefully.  The rebels had evacuated the place on hearing that our steamers the day before were going to run into Mobile bay and that the squadron and mortar boats would soon follow.

Com. Porter left Ship Island on the 7th with a steamer belonging to the mortar fleet and the Sachem for Mobile bar, for the purpose of fixing a place for the mortar vessels to lie and plant buoys for the ships to run in by when they should arrive.  Great excitement seemed to exist within the forts at the progress of the fleet.

There was reason to believe that Fort Gains was evacuated and that the troops there were leaving to reinforce fort Morgan.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

Guerrilla Depredations in Missouri

ST. LOUIS, May 21. – A train of seventeen wagons loaded with Government stores, which left here Monday, was overtaken to-day when about twenty miles out on the Springfield road by a band of guerrillas who burned the wagons and contents and carried off all the mules – eighty-six in number.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 3

"When You Is About, We Is."

The Boonville correspondent of the Cincinnati Daily Commercial writes:

These Missouri niggers know a great deal more than white folks give them credit for, and whether Missouri goes for the confederacy of for the Union, here slaves have learned a lesson too much to ever make them useful as slaves.  I was struck with the apt reply of one of a crowd who came from a big house to the road to see us pass, the other day.  Says I, “Boys, are you all for the Union?”  “Oh yes, massa, when you’s about we is.”  “And when Price comes you are secesh are you?”  “Lord, Yes, massa, we’s good secesh, then.  Can’t allow de white folks get head niggers in dat way.”  The darkey understood the whole question and the game played.

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

Sylvester Rynearson

SYLVESTER RYNEARSON, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 26; P. 0. Gettysburg. Abraham, the father of Sylvester, is a native of Ohio, born in Warren Co. on the 27th of April, 1812. He married Rachel Ball, who is a native of the same State and county, born on the 12th of August, 1817 ; they have seven children living, viz.: Sylvester, Alice (Mrs. Huffer), Emeline, Stroud, Cyrus, Minerva (Mrs. Fouts) and Letha. Mr. Rvnearson came to Darke Co. in 1836, where he now resides, being 67 years old; Rachel, his wife, being 62. Sylvester, the subject of this memoir, is a native of Ohio, born in Warren Co. on the 5th of December, 1835: he received a good common-school education in the district schools: he remained at home till he was 21 years of age, assisting his father in the cultivation of the soil; he then left home and began to work for himself by the month on the farm, which he followed for a period of four years, except three months, when he worked in a flouring-mill, and in four years he put in forty-four months of hard work, which speaks volumes for his industry and correct business habits; in the four years' work he saved $350; however, during this time, he made a visit to Iowa (Mahaska Co.), where he worked on a farm, receiving $15 per month part of the time, and $10 for the other. On the 1st day of November, 1861, he enlisted as a private in Company C, 5th [sic] Iowa Regiment (infantry), James A. Silvers. Captain of the company, and Col. H. T. Reid, regimental commander; he was an entire stranger to all, but approached the Captain with the salutation, "Captain, I have come to enlist in your company." This regiment, when its organization was commenced, in November, 1861, was intended by Gen. Fremont for the protection of Missouri; when it was mustered in at Keokuk, in 1862, the programme was changed and it was sent down to do duty on the Tennessee River; they joined Grant's army at Pittsburg Landing, and in the battles of the 6th and 7th they lost one-fourth of their number; and it was in these hard-fought battles that he ever fired an army gun, the first fire being at the would-be destroyers of the Union. Mr. Rynearson, as well as the 15th Iowa V. I., has a proud record; for three years and a half he, with his compaivy, bore the brunt of battle, participating in many of the hardest fought engagements of the West, from Pittsburg Landing down to the capture of Vicksburg, Atlanta, and all the bloody battles preceding it; followed Sherman in his conquering march through the heart of the South, and their battle-torn standards bear them witness that they preserved their valor well. Mr. Rynearson entered the company as a private, but, through his heroism, strictly temperate habits, and his intelligence, filled every non-commissioned and commissioned office of the company, returning as Captain of Company C. The original strength of the regiment was 1,038; of these only 712 remained on the roll, and only 535 officers and men were present to be mustered out on July 24, at Louisville, Ky. Their several marches, added together, show that during his service he marched 7,898 miles. The company entered the service with 108 men, of whom only fourteen returned home. He was in twenty-two hard-fought battles, and was under fire of the enemy from the 9th of June, 1864. until the 2d of September, 1864; he participated in every engagement that the company had, every march; sickness never prevented him from discharging his duty, and returned home without a scratch from the enemy's bullet, receiving his discharge at Davenport, Iowa, on the 3d of August, 1865. After his return, he followed farming for his father, and in June, 1866. he purchased 100 acres of land near Farmland, Randolph Co., Ind., for which he paid $4,000. On the 13th day of September, 1866, he celebrated his marriage with Miss Mary Jane Clark, an accomplished young lady, daughter of John and Sarah Clark, who was born in Warren Co., Ohio, on the 29th day of December, 1839. In the fall of 1866, he moved on his farm, where he remained until 1870, when he sold his farm for $5,300, and purchased 140 acres in Darke Co., Ohio, Adams Township, Sec. 26, paying $11,000. where he now resides. Mr. Rynearson has accumulated a considerable amount of property by his hard labor, in which he has been nobly assisted by his good and amiable wife. They are active workers in the cause of religion, being members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Gettysburg; he is a charter member of the Masonic order of Gettysburg; also one of the managers of the Darke County Agricultural Society; recommended by Gen. W. W. Belknap, who says of him: "He is a very worthy man, and was a gallant officer of my regiment (15th Iowa), during the war." They have one child, viz., Eddy, born in Randolph Co., Ind., on the 23d of June, 1867.

SOURCE: The History of Darke County, Ohio, W. H. Beers & Co., Chicago, Illinois, 1880, p. 564-5

John H. Farson

Farson, John H. (b. 1837-1895), doctor, Laurens, was a native of West Virginia, the son of William and Susan C. Farson. At eighteen he moved with his parents to Madison county, Iowa. After completing the common school course he pursued his education as a private student. In 1863 he was drafted and served until the close of the civil war, as a member of Co. I, 15th Iowa. During this period he served considerable time as a nurse and often performed the duties of the chaplain. He possessed considerable natural ability, and, after the war, engaged in the practice of medicine in Madison county. In 1884 he located in the new town of Laurens and continued the practice of medicine until his death at 58 in 1895. He was affable and pleasing in his manners and was highly esteemed by those who knew him.

In 1859 he married Susan Kesler, who died leaving two children, John Wesley, a carpenter, who in 1884 married Nancy O. Clanton, and lives at Laurens; and Elizabeth Ann, who in 1880 married Stephen Clanton, a farmer, Laurens. In 1892, Dr. Farson married Louisa Bradshaw, who, with one daughter, Florence, survives him and lives at Laurens.

SOURCE: Robert E. Flickinger, The Pioneer History Of Pocahontas County, Iowa, p. 778-9

John T. Guning

GUNING, JOHN T., far., sec. 6; born Dec. 12, 1828, in Smithport, McKean Co., Penn.; in 1844, came to Linn Co.; in 1851, came to his present farm; owns about thirty-five acres, valued at $20 per acre. Married Catherine Klumph in 1876; she was born in 1838; have two children by a former marriage — Clara E. and John B. His mother lives with him; she was born May 13, 1811; his father was born March 14, 1801, and died March 27, 1875. Enlisted in 1863 in Co. A, 15th Iowa V. I.; served to the close of the war.

SOURCE: The History of Linn County, Iowa, Western Historical Company, Chicago, Illinois, 1878 p. 680

Nathan J. Moore

Sergeant, Co. H, 3rd Iowa Cavalry

“Them Harness.”

A poet says – Oh, she was fair, but sorrow came and left his traces there.  What became of the rest of the harness he don’t state. – Erie Dispatch.

Oh, no!  Further down the hill of poetry it says – “Come wi’ me, my lassie, and I’ll take thee to thy home.”  The balance of the harness is still missing however. – La Cross Democrat.

You are mistaken about that.  The same poet, speaking of the same young lady says – “And all the lines that sorrow left have laded out in joy.”  The rest of the harness is still missing. – Exchange.

No, – still another piece has turned up for further on, the “poick”  informs us that “Loving hands with simple flowers had decked her for the bridal.”  Nothing yet has transpired as to the whereabouts of the rest of the harness. – York Republican.

All mistaken – for hath not Addison said: “give me but the belt his waist hath bound a fig tak all the rest the world around?”  Don’t be discouraged friends – the “rest” of that harness is “bound to come.” – O. State Journal.

Of course it is.  For hath not the poet said – “When Greek meets Greek then comes the tug of war.”  Pass along the balance. – Toledo Blade.

We found a part of it “within a mile of Edinboro’ town,” where the lassie blushed and frowning cride, No, no, it will not do; cannot wannot, mannot buckle to.”  Who can “hitch up” the remainder of the harness? – Clev. Herald.

Shakespeare has furnished another installment of the lost harness in the couplet: “Must I give way and room to your rash choler?  Shall I be frighted, when a madman stares?” – Dav. Gaz.

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

The Latest from Fort Donelson

A TERRIBLE BATTLE PROGRESSING.

The Loss Sever on both Sides.

Our men Fight like Tigers.

THE REBELS HOIST THE BLACK FLAG.

CUMBERLAND RIVER,

NEAR FORT DONALSON [sic], Feb. 15.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CAMP IN THE FIELD, near Ft. Donelson,

Feb 15th, p.m.

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

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

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

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Feb. 15.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Several mortar boats are leaving Cairo daily.

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

Surrender or extermination appear to be the alternative.

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

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

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

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

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

Louisville, Feb. 15, [1862].

To Major Gen. McClellan: – Mitchel’s [sic] division, by forced march, reached the river at Bowling Green to-day, making a bridge to cross the river, the enemy having burned the bridge.

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

George W. Jones

GEORGE W. JONES was born in Vincennes, Indiana, April 12, 1804. His father, John R. Jones, was a Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Missouri. The son, George W., was educated in Transylvania University in Kentucky. When a small boy he served as a drummer in a volunteer company in the war with Great Britain. In 1823 he made the acquaintance of Jefferson Davis who was a young officer in the military service on the frontier. They met again in the Black Hawk War and later served long together in the United States Senate and were warm friends. George W. studied law and in 1827 removed to Michigan Territory where he engaged in mining. During the Black Hawk War he served on the staff of General Henry Dodge. In 1835 he was elected delegate from Michigan Territory to Congress. Michigan at that time embraced that region of the northwest which was divided into the States of Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa and the Dakotas. He secured the organization of the Territory of Wisconsin, in 1837, was the first delegate in Congress from that Territory and procured the establishment of Iowa Territory. In 1845 he was appointed Surveyor-General of Iowa and removed to Dubuque. In 1848 he was chosen one of the first United States Senators from the State of Iowa. He was thoroughly devoted to the interests of the new State and during his long term of service in the Senate worked untiringly for its material prosperity. His intimate knowledge of needs of the northwest, derived from long residence on the frontier and his wide acquaintance with the public men of that period, enabled him to secure such legislation as was required for the rapid development of the great natural resources of the new State. In 1852 he was reelected for a term of six years but before its expiration the State passed under the control of the Republican party. As General Jones was a lifelong Democrat he could not hope for a third election and President Buchanan appointed him United States Minister to New Grenada in South America. After his return from that mission in 1861 General Jones was arrested by a United States marshal and confined in Fort Lafayette for about two months on a charge of disloyalty. He had written a private letter to his old friend, Jefferson Davis, which had been intercepted by a Government official. In the letter were found indiscreet if not disloyal expressions and in that time of great public excitement over secession and Rebellion the arrest followed. He was never indicted or placed on trial and President Lincoln soon ordered his release. In 1892 General Jones was granted a pension by special act of Congress for services in the Black Hawk War. In April, 1894, Governor Jackson and the General Assembly of Iowa then in session, tendered to General Jones a public reception in recognition of his valuable services in the formative periods of the Territory and State. General Jones died at his home in Dubuque July 22, 1896, at the age of ninety-two.

SOURCE: Benjamin F. Gue, History of Iowa, Volume IV: Iowa Biography, p. 146-7

The Traitor Jones

Geo. W. Jones, the Iowa traitor, is now in Fort Lafayette.  A few feeble remonstrances against his incarceration were made by some of the newspapers at the time of his arrest.  We have never had any doubt that he merited the punishment he is receiving.  He was not only disloyal himself, but he encouraged his sons to be disloyal too.  One of them G. W. G. Jones, went south and joined the rebel army at Nashville, and was made a captain.  He was under Tilghman at Fort Henry, and is the Captain Jones who was taken by General Grant.

We learn that a number of young men in Dubuque, Iowa have been written to by rebel officers to come south and get positions.  It is not a compliment to any man to be written to by a traitor; but in this instance, probably, the persons thus addressed had no agency in the matter.  Their names were, no doubt, placed in the possession of the rebels by one of the Joneses – father or son. – Chicago (Ill.) Post.

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

The following appears in one of our exchanges . . .

. . . and contains more truth than can be found in whole columns of any partisan Democratic sheet in the country:

“An effort is being made to restore the Democratic party to its original greatness upon the basis that slavery is the natural relation between the white man and the negro.  Its friends are extremely anxious lest the war will abolish their pet institution as well as the ‘basis’ of the party.  Hence all their [shalts] are aimed at the abolitionist.  It is an easy step from pro-slaveryism, to secession and rebellion.”

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

The Victory at Roanoke Island

As Roanoke Island has recently fallen into the hands of Government there is a natural desire to become fully acquainted with its geographical position in regard to important points still in the hands of the rebels.  From a lengthy article on the subject in the Cincinnati Gazette we compile some interesting facts.

Roanoke Island commands the strait between Pamlico Sound on the south, and Albemarle and Carrituck Sounds on the north, being about midway between them and all being separate from the ocean by the narrow sand spit which runs the whole length of the North Carolina coast.  The first English settlement in America was made on this island by Sir Walter Raleigh, in 1585.  The island is about fifty miles north of Hatteras Inlet, and nearly twenty miles long.  The rebels had an intrenched camp in the center, and five forts at the most commanding points.  They had been fortifying this island ever since the capture of Hatteras and owing to the treason, which notwithstanding the efforts of Government, still exists at the North, they were fully advised of the destination of the Burnside expedition long before it sailed, as they have been by the same means of every movement made or contemplated in this war.  Our soldiers fight treason in front and treason and treachery in the rear.

The question which now occurs to the people is, what is the strategic value of this situation?  As the natural advantages of it to an invading army, North Carolina is open before it, “where to choose,” for two hundred miles north and south, penetrated by numerous rivers, bays and lagoons, giving access to many important towns, but of course we cannot appropriate all this wealth of opportunities, nor do our expeditions go about destroying towns.  About twenty miles north of the island is the foot of Albemarle Sound, which stretches west sixty miles, and from five to fifteen miles broad.  At the head of the bay, Chowan River enters from the north-west, by which our lightest draft boats could probably ascend to a point forty or fifty miles below the line of the railroad, which runs from the great North and South line at Weldon, N. C., to Norfolk, Va.  Carrituck Sound runs along the coast from the foot of Albemarle Sound to within thirty miles of Norfolk.  It is navigable for vessels of light draft, but cannot be regarded as much more commanding than the sea itself, near and parallel to which it runs.

Near the foot of Albemarle Sound Pasquatunk river, a broad, shallow arm of the Sound, enters from the northwest.  At the head of this, twenty miles from the Sound, is Elizabeth City, where our vessels captured the rebel gunboats, and which the rebels set on fire.  This place is connected with Norfolk by navigation, partly by a small stream and partly by the Dismal Swamp Canal.  At the head of Albemarle Sound is Edenton, which has also surrendered to our forces.  There are many towns accessible by the various streams and sounds but the country from the coast to near the head of Albemarle Sound is generally swampy, except near the margin of the sounds and lagoons.  For sixty miles from the cost the country is a chaos of land and water.

The enemy has railroad lines for transferring troops from Petersburg, to Richmond and Manassas, to resist any advance of our troops into their interior.  Therefore it will be seen that an advance must be supported by large re-inforcements, or by an aggressive movement from the Potomac that would prevent the diversion of troops from Manassas or Richmond to resist Burnside.  His force is supposed to be from 15,000 to 18,000.  It is not sufficient to advance far into a hostile country which has railroad communication with an army of 100,000 to 200,000 men, unless it is supported by a general movement from the Potomac.

The railroad lines below Petersburg give the rebels means of concentrating their forces either in the direction of Norfolk or Weldon.  It is presumed that other movements are to be made in combination with this; and that warned by the inadequate result of the former expedition to that vicinity, the general in command has made arrangements to support this by the general movement of his strategic plan, which will result in the capture of Norfolk and Richmond.

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