The Kentucky Grand Army

The Kentucky Grand Army

There are about 115,000 troops in Gen. Buell’s department, divided into three brigades of from 3,000 to 5,000 each and four grand divisions from 20,000 to 30,000 each.  The division commanders are:

1.  General Alexander McDowel McCook.

2.  General George H. Thomas.

3. General Ormsby M. Mitchell.

4. General Thomas L. Crittenden.

Gen. Thomas has left the line, at Somerset and London, on the road to East Tennessee.  Gen. Mitchell has the center, and is now at Bowling Green.  Gen. Crittenden has the right of the line, and with a portion at least of his command, has co-operated with Gen. Grant at Fort Donelson.  The division of Gen. McCook is the “reserve,” and is in the rear of bowling green.

This army has some of the best military talent in the country among its leading officers, as it has also some of the best troops.  The following are among the brigade commanders: –

General Ebenezer Dumont, of Indiana.

General AlbinSchoepf, of D. C.

General Thomas J. Wood, of Kentucky.

General William Nelson, of Kentucky.

General Richard W. Johnson, of Ky.

General Jerre T. Boyle, of Kentucky.

General James S. Negley, of Penn.

General William T. Ward, of Kentucky.

Also of Colonels commanding brigades: –

Colonel John B. Turchin, 19th Illinois.

Colonel William B. Hagen, 41st Ohio.

Colonel Joshua W. Sill, 33d Ohio

Colonel Henry B. Carrington, 18th regulars.

Colonel Edward N. Kirk, 34th Illinois.

Colonel Mahlon D. Manson, 10th Indiana.

Colonel Carter, 1st East Tennessee

There are five other brigades (Twenty in all) but we have not the names of their commanders at hand. – Chicago Tribune.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

Price’s Rear Guard Overtaken

Dispatches were received at Headquarters last evening by Gen. Halleck, from Gen. Curtis, to the effect that he had pursued and overtaken price’s rear guard, captured nearly all of its baggage, and taken more prisoners than he knew what to do with.

In this connection, it is also stated that in the list of prisoners are several of Gen. Price’s Staff. – Mo. Dem. 17 inst.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

An Irish Patriot

The North Iowa Times publishes an obituary notice of John Lyon, a private in Co. C, 3d regiment Infantry who died at the St. Louis Military Hospital, and says:

He was at the battle of Blue Mills Landing, and behaved himself like a true soldier.  He leaves a wife and three children at McGregor.  It will be remembered that he did not enlist till the morning of the departure of the company, and while the steamer Canada was lying at our wharf ready to carry “the boys” to Keokuk, the writer of this tribute to his memory met him on that morning in soldier’s clothes and inquired  where he was going.  The reply was, “I am going to fight for my adopted country.” “But,” said I, “John, why didn’t you enlist a month ago, like most of your comrades, and not surprise your friends in this way?”  “Because, sir,” said the noble-hearted soldier, “I am too proud to let Relief Committees take care of my wife and children, while I have stout arms to labor for them.  I intended from the first to enlist, but I chose to provide for my little home, rather than to tramp up and down the streets and idle away that time, while they and myself would be dependent upon the liberality of the who public.”

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

Theodore Peyre Ferry . . .

third master of the gunboat Essex, has died from injuries received at the bombardment of Fort Henry.  Mr. Ferry is of French descent, his father and uncle both having been officers in the army under Napoleon.  He has been in service, in various capacities, in the united States Navy, for nearly fourteen years.  He planted the first American flag upon the coast of Japan, and has seen much service in California and Washington Territory.  He was a man of undoubted bravery, and Commander W. D. Porter says “That by his death he has lost one of his best officers” a tribute worthy both to the noble man who gave it, and to him who fell defending the country he loved.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

Border State Loyalty

A leading banker of Baltimore, who, like a large majority of the commons and a small minority of the aristocracy of that city, is heartily for the Union, recently assured a friend from this city that a majority of the Legislature of Maryland – four-fifths of them elected expressly as unionists – were now in heart with  the rebel confederacy.  “Why so?”  “Because they have been alienated by so much emancipation talk at Washington this winter.”  “Well, what do you think would make Maryland heartily and steadfastly loyal?”  “The abolition of slavery, sir,” replied the Baltimorean; “That and nothing else!” – N. Y. Tribune.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

Albert Phipps

In every community there are men whose strong personality and forcefulness make them leaders. Such a one was the subject of this sketch. Tall in stature but well proportioned, he was a commanding figure in any assembly; his symmetrical head and high forehead betokened intelligence of a high order. He was one of the original Milford Colony, of which this history has had much to relate. Of this colony of rugged New England pioneers not one remains; all have been called from earthly activities and are sleeping the long, deep sleep called death. They have left a rich heritage to their descendants. Their story is one of activity, replete with self-sacrifice, of hardships endured; of thrilling adventure; of the overcoming of the wildness of nature and of still wilder men — the Indians. When one reviews the history of this little band of liberty-loving, home-longing people who left comfortable and, with a majority of them, cultured homes nearly three score years ago to secure the homes and independence for which they longed in the wilds of northwestern Iowa, who has followed them step by step as the writer of these pages has done in relating the story of this "Winning of the West" from the planting of the foundation stone by these hardy pioneers to this era of well cultivated farms, populous and prosperous towns and cities which forms the fairest rose in the garland of ninety and nine counties which constitute the state, "The Beautiful Land," and realizes the great benefits these conferred upon those who came after them and to extend forward as a benison to those yet unborn, the pen hesitates when the attempt is made to sketch the achievements of individuals of the heroic band.

The story of Albert Phipps is that of a leader and his name has been frequently mentioned in the pages of this history. A history of this county without the name of Albert Phipps would be like writing the play of Hamlet with Hamlet left out. Something of the great heartedness, the hospitality and public spiritedness of the subject of this sketch is gleaned from the reminiscences of his oldest son, Luther, which appears in these volumes. Much more is revealed in- the narrative of the "First Events" and the "Organization of the County" and "County Government." It remains only to briefly outline here his family connections and events not enumerated in the preceding pages.

Albert Phipps was born in the town of Milford, Worcester county, Massachusetts, October 7, 1820, two hundred years after the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers on the wild New England shores. Aaron Phipps, father of Albert, was also a native of Massachusetts and a descendant of English ancestors. Aaron's father was Samuel Phipps. The Phipps family was noted for the great number of blacksmiths it contained, the trade having been handed down from father to son for generations. Albert Phipps' mother was Polly H. Phipps, daughter of Jason Phipps of Revolutionary fame. She was born in Connecticut, and after her marriage to Aaron Phipps settled in Massachusetts, where she resided until her death, which occurred in October, 1826. Aaron Phipps was a stone worker and cutter by trade. He and his wife were the parents of eight children, six sons and two daughters, six of whom are living. He died in June, 1839.

Albert was the fifth child of the family and his mother died when he was six years of age. Thus left an orphan at so tender an age, he early began life's conflict for himself. His opportunities for gaining an education were very limited. He learned the shoemaker's trade, serving an apprenticeship of three years. After mastering this industry he engaged in the manufacture of goods which are now rapidly turned out by machinery. He followed this occupation at intervals for twenty years and in the spring of 1856 came to Iowa, with the Milford Emigration society when not a wheel track had flattened the native prairie grass. He preempted a quarter section of land, upon which he began making a home. He erected a small log cabin just north of the present town and afterward purchased other lands and improved them. All that was produced for market had to be hauled by ox teams a great distance and sold very low. The hardships endured were enough to have disheartened any man, but Mr. Phipps' courage never faltered, and he remained with his undertaking. Soon there were evidences of better days; emigration commenced to flow westward and the country began to develop. He was a careful farmer and with the help of his sterling sons placed his large farm under a high state of cultivation and soon was numbered among the wealthy farmers of the county.

In 1844 he was married to Miss Martha Littlefield, a most estimable young lady, a daughter of David Littlefield, Esq. She was born in Middlesex county, Massachusetts, in the same neighborhood in which Mr. Phipps was brought up. After coming to Iowa, during those long, dark pioneer days she not unfrequently longed for the once happy home in old New England, but sighs and heartaches would not take her back to her childhood home in the old Bay state. With the passing years, the coming of children and the forming of new friendships, this feeling was assuaged and in time she learned to love the prairie home, in the establishment of which she was no small factor, even more than the New England home for which she pined during the first years.

To Mr. and Mrs. Phipps were born the following children: Anna B. Wakefield; John A., deceased; Adaline H. Burroughs; Henry L.; Frank F.; Arthur I., deceased; Nathan A.; and Mattie Prescott. All still reside in Cherokee county except Mrs. Burroughs and Nathan who live in Chicago, but yet call Cherokee their home.

Mr. Phipps was a veteran of the Civil war, being a member of Company I, Fifteenth Iowa Infantry, which was assigned to the Army of the Tennessee, General McPherson commanding. He took part in the siege of Savannah and the battle of Bentonville, and was with General Sherman on his famous march to the sea, and back through the Carolinas to Goldsboro, to the final surrender of the Confederate General Jo. Johnston. On account of exposure Mr. Phipps contracted rheumatism and was sent north to Philadelphia, where he was honorably discharged. He at once returned to his home in Cherokee county.

Politically he adhered to the republican party, and held various county and township offices. He served the county ten years as supervisor, holding that office when the supervisor system first became law in 1861, and at a time when the whole county was in one great civil township. He himself composed the board of supervisors — was a sort of king. But he was elected to such position on account of his good sound judgment and his strict integrity of character, which he ever maintained. Had it not been for his sterling qualities at an early day the land sharks and contract swindlers would doubtless have ruined the finances of this county, as they did in adjoining counties. Many an overture was made to him to put up jobs to swindle Cherokee county tax-payers, all of which were rejected with disdain. Mr. Phipps was an active member of Custer Post, No. 25, G. A. R. Mr. Phipps retired from farming in 1890, he with the aid of his stalwart sons having amassed a comfortable fortune, and removed to the city of Cherokee, where he resided until his death, which occurred April 11, 1901. One week later he was followed to "that bourn whence no traveler returns" by his life companion of fifty-seven years. Thus short was the earthly separation of this worthy couple before being reunited in the home eternal. They were loved and honored in life and in death their memories are enshrined in the hearts of many who received kindnesses from this whole-souled couple during the formative period of the county.

SOURCE: Thomas McCulla, History of Cherokee County, Iowa, Volume 2, p. 252-6

Capt. Porter

We regret to learn Capt. Porter is seriously ill from the scalding he received in the Essex at the Fort Henry bombardment.  His lungs were dangerously affected by the inhalation of the hot steam. – Mo. Dem. 17th.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

A singular incident of the attack on Fort Henry . . .

. . . is related by the Evansville Journal.  The rains, which had fallen for some days before the fight, softened the earthworks into a sort of heavy mud.  During the engagement a shot from the Essex threw a great wad of this mud into the muzzle of the 10-inch columbiad in the fort.  The rebels not noticing the queer cartridge thus furnished them, rammed in theirs and of course drove the mud in ahead of it, filling up the vent and chamber so that the gun could not be fired.  The Journal says the double load of mud and powder is still in the gun and will take some trouble to get it out.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

From The Iowa 2d Regiment

STEAMER S. L. McGILL, bound for Dixie, February 12.

EDITOR GAZETTE. – On the 10th the 2d Iowa left St. Louis in a manner not in accordance with our usual custom.  General Hamilton saw fit to issue an order to disgrace the regiment, for acts that it had no cognizance of until they were read as we were ready to march through the city.  If the acts of vandalism were committed by members of the regiment, they kept it a secret from their comrades.

Last September, while on the march from Ironton to Cape Girardeau, a soldier, while intoxicated, took possession of a horse.  He was drummed out and an example made of him before the regiment.  That case is similar to the present, except that now the innocent must suffer with the guilty.

The regiment cannot but feel the injustice done them and the Iowa troops in general.  Citizens never have complained of our behavior while we have been stationed among them.  We have some men in the regiment that are not as they should be.  What regiment has not?  What city, town, or school district has not men that reflect discredit upon the community?  Never have we shown better discipline than we did by the quiet, orderly manner in which we submitted to an order that all felt to be so unjust.  All marched with a soldierly bearing, feeling conscious that they held their fame in their own hands, and that it was not in the power of any General to make or unmake their reputation.

We will be in Paducah to-morrow morning, but will continue our journey to Dixie’s land with as little delay as possible.  We hope you will hear from us in the field of action in a few days; but we have been disappointed so often that we have but little faith that we will meet with an opportunity of trying our steel with the enemy.

We are in good fighting condition at present, and feel able to give a good account of ourselves.  We know we must fight to win laurels, after the fierce encounters of the 1st and Springfield and the 7th at Belmont.  We left all the sick at the St. Louis general hospital, where they will be taken care of.

DISCIPLINE,

2nd Iowa Regt.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

A sale of Government horses . . .

. . . took place at Warsaw, Ill., last week. They had been purchased by some swindler for Government, and been rejected as unfit for the service. There were 111 sold, at prices ranging from $13 to $55.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

We are informed that . . .

one of Jones’ sons is in the Federal army, and doing faithful service to the Government.  Perhaps the Gazette will say this too is all nonsense. – Dubuque Herold.

It’s all moonshine – We doubt if one of the generation is fighting on the side of his Government.  If the Herald will prove it, we will gladly publish the fact.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

The thievish propensities of Floyd . . .

. . . stuck out to the end of the chapter.  The last heard of him was, that he stole away from the fort at night and in the darkness, and made his escape, leaving his coadjutors to their fate.  The last thing he will take will be a piece of hemp cord, with a noose on the end of it. – Chicago Tribune.

It was the perfect understanding of the last fact, to save his neck from hemp, that caused the chivalrous Floyd to skedaddle.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

Deaths of Iowa Troops at St. Louis

The mortality of our troops at the St. Louis general hospital weekly decreases owing in part to increases healthfulness, but mainly to the few troops now stationed there.  The following are all the deaths there for the week ending with the 15th inst.

Feb. 8. – Albra Miller, Company M, 3d Cavalry.

Feb. 10. – Alfred Fleming, Company F, 14th regiment.

Feb. 13. – Charles Walker, Company K, 12th regiment.

Feb. 13. – Hy. McWilliams, Company B, 13th regiment.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

Floyd and Pillow

We sincerely hope that Parson Brownlow, of Knoxville, is yet alive, and in reaching distance of Fort Donelson; and it is so, that he may find his way thither, and see those men who so fatally to themselves plotted against the Union and the noble men who are in it, among whom he is one.  What an era in his life would it be for him to find his printing press in the fort, and there to issue those powerful missiles again at those who so basely and so wantonly conspired against the liberties of their country!  The army should send for him and retain him in their service, not only in the fort but in their all conquering march to the extreme South.  Let his bulletins fly in every direction among his deluded brethren.  They would be more dreaded than our columbiads.

We trust Floyd and Pillow have not escaped, but are caught, and will be sent to Washington City and as far as Boston, that they may look into the eyes of hones men, and conscience stricken, feel the strength of that noble indignation which burns in the breast of freemen, against such betrayers and murderers of a nations honor and peace.  They would then, like Macbeth, exclaim:

“Better be with the dead

Whom we, to gain our place, have sent to peace,

Tan on the torture of the mind to be

In restless ecstasy. Duncan is in his grave;

After life’s fitful fever he sleeps well;

Treason has done his worst.”

The retributions of justice may be slow, but sure.  It may have the feet of velvet, but it has also the hand of steel; and with all the certainty of doom, will the rebels and their sympathizers meet the punishment due to them.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, February 20, 1862, p. 2

Arrival of the Kangaroo

NEW YORK, February 19.

The Kangaroo has arrived, with dates of the 6th.

The Nashville was last seen on the 3d, outside of the Needles, steaming down the channel.

There is no confirmation of the report that another Federal vessel, supposed to by the Brooklyn, was cruising off the Isla of Wright.

There were rumors of a three-masted paddle steamer, supposed to be a privateer, off Cape Ann.

At the annual meeting of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, the blocking up of Charleston Harbor was strongly denounced, and the efficiency of the blockade questioned; but continued non-intervention was generally approved.  A letter was read from Mr. Cobden, showing the paramount importance of settling belligerent rights, and the necessity of England agreeing to the American doctrine relative to private property at sea.

Bright, in a speech at Birmingham denied the American blockade was inefficient and ridiculed the idea that America was in a position to be trampled on.  He points out the dangers of interference, and strongly urged neutrality.

It is stated that the Minister does not conceal his indignation at Earl Russell’s late letter to the Admiralty, relative to the use of British ports.  There are also considerable differences in political circles as to the policy and propriety of the act.

It is asserted that the allied powers are determined that their armies shall march on the capital of Mexico next month, and the report is revived and gains strength the Arch-Duke Maximilian will be tendered the throne of Mexico.

It is asserted that the French government is determined to revise the navigation laws.

There are popular demonstrations in Parma and Florence against the Pope’s temporal power and in favor of Victor Emanuel’s.

QUEENSTOWN, 6th. – The Federal gunboat Tuscarora left Cowes Thursday morning for the westward.

LONDON, 5th. – The Spanish Ministry deny that any arrangements have been made for Mexico, and declare that the Mexicans will be free to choose their own government.

The Paris Moniteur says the allies must complete their work by giving Mexico, in accordance with the wishes of the nation, a strong and durable government.

PARIS, Feb. 6. – A committee has been appointed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the regulation of the indemnity due from Mexico to France.

MADRID. Feb. 6. – Correspondence is received, saying that Sumter was still lying at St. Roche, not having funds enough to pay expenses she has incurred.

The U. S. Consul has given a banquet at Cadiz to the former prisoners of the Sumter.

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

From Washington

WASHINGTON, Feb. 18.

The nomination of Gen. Grant as Major General was sent into the Senate to-day.  He will be confirmed.

President Lincoln’s boy, William, is still in a critical condition.

The bill which the territorial committees of both houses are maturing, will organize the rebel country into free territories, on the principle that by rebellion these States committed suicide, and that with them their local laws and peculiar institutions have died.

Congress has passed a joint resolution directing Commissioner French to illuminate the public buildings in honor of the recent victories.

Saturday evening an illumination of private dwellings will probably be requested as a means of distinguishing loyal from disloyal citizens.

In a speech in Stark’s case, Mr. Carlisle of Va., to-day foreshadowed a pro-slavery policy in the treatment of the rebel states saying that the Senate must receive persons duly accredited hereafter, by the Legislature of Missouri, even if they have been in arms against the government.  It is coming to be generally hoped that Carlisle will be obliged this to give his seat back to Mason.

Secretary Stanton has recently said that the victory of Fort Donelson is due to Gen. Halleck, who planned, to the President, who recognized, and to Gen. Grant, who executed the campaign.

N. L. Wilson, President of the Marietta and Cincinnati R. R., is here, and says that the Baltimore and Ohio R. R. will be open within thirty days.

Very few private flags have been displayed in Washington for our late victories.

An order was issued to-day, at the request of the entire Indiana delegation, terminating the furlough under which Capt. Hazzard, of the army, was allowed to serve as Col. Of the 37th Ind. Vols.  He is charged with tyranny to his troops.

Schuyler Colfax has sent $100 to Quartermaster Pierce, at Paducah, to be expended in the relief of soldiers wounded at the attack on Donelson.

Capt. Craven, in command of the Tuscarora, is not like the other captains who have pursued rebel privateers.  If he catches the Nashville, he will blow her out of water, avoiding capture if possible.

A subscription is on foot at Alexandria, among the women, for the purchase of a flag to be presented to Farnsworth’s Illinois Cavalry Regiment.

The bill reported from the naval committee of the House, framed after consultation with Assistant Secretary of the Navy Fox, provides for the grades of naval officers, viz: Five flag officers, eighteen commodores, thirty-six captains, seventy-two commanders, one hundred and forty-four lieutenants and masters.  Boards to recommend for promotion or retirement.  Flag officers to be appointed only if they shall have received the thanks of Congress, and upon the President’s recommendation for services in battle.

Senator Harris introduced a bill to-day, making rebels outlaws, so far as civil rights are concerned: the fact of plaintiff’s treason to be a complete defense in bar of any action.

Mr. Trumbull’s confiscation bill is the special order of the Senate to-morrow.

Gen. Grant will not be confirmed as Maj. Gen. until his official report of the battle has been received.

The Senate District of Columbia committee, to-day summoned a number of witnesses to investigate the truth of the allegations in deputy jailor Dupall’s letter, relative to barbarities practiced within the jail, on an alleged fugitive slave.

Col. McConnel, of the inchoate and considerably mythical Third Maryland regiment of Vols., has at last been mustered out of service.  Upon evidence that recruiting was going on in Philadelphia to fill up the ranks of the loyal Virginia brigade being raised by John C. Underwood, and order was issued to-day breaking up the organization.

Tribune’s Correspondence.

Gen. Lander’s resignation has not been received here, and people who know his impatience for a fight pray it may not come.

Little has been said of the prize money earned by the crews of our blockading squadron, but the amount cannot be small.  The share due to Commander Alden, of the North Carolina, which made so many captures in the gulf, is over $100,000.  Nineteen times that sum is to be divided among his officers and men.

Gen. Grant was nominated as Major General to-day.  The Senate, which has since had no executive session, will not confirm until the official reports are received.

The House committee on territories will soon report a bill organizing Arizona as a free territory.  The Wilmot Proviso will probably be part of the bill.

Mr. S. A. Allen has been appointed as an agent to accompany our forces into Tennessee to take charge of the cotton crop in behalf of the Government.

Times Dispatch.

Andy Johnson will probably proceed to Nashville, as soon as Gen. Buell’s army take possession of that city, and assist in organizing a provisional government for Tennessee.  The people there are panting for freedom and resumption of their connection with the Union.  They will probably send a full delegation of loyal men to Congress by the last of March.

The President to-day nominated Colonel Garfield, of Ohio, Brigadier General, in compliment for his thrashing Humphrey Marshall.

The war Department has proofs, which are considered conclusive, that young Walworth is a spy.

WASHINGTON, February 19.

Gen. U. S. Grant, the hero of Fort Donelson, has just been unanimously confirmed by the Senate as Major General, an honor conferred in testimony of his gallant conduct in battle.

The reading the Tax Bill will be commenced in the Ways and Means committee to-morrow.  The Bill will not be printed till ordered by the House of Representatives.

In the House of Representatives this afternoon Representative Wickliffe, of Ky., announced the capture of Gen. Price and his army.

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

From St. Louis

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 18.

A disgraceful affair occurred at Jefferson City yesterday.  The local sheriff seized a contraband on the arrival of the train from Otterville.  Lieut. Hannah, of the Ohio Cavalry then attempted to procure his release, when the sheriff threatened to shoot him.  An order from headquarters released the negro and prevented a serious collision.

The 21st Illinois is now at Greenville and about to start for Bloomfield.  The 33d and 38th are still at Pilot Knob and Ironton.

A second seizure of goods was made at the residence of W. J. Clark to-day, to make up a deficit existing after the former sale.

Steamboats are loading with troops as fast as possible.

Mr. Wm McSheen of this city, accompanied by 12 experienced nurses, and an immense store of hospital supplies, leaves here this p.m. by railroad, to supply comforts to the Fort Donelson wounded.

Several secessionists who have been particularly bitter since yesterday, have been arrested.  Secession here is generally remarkably quiet.  Claimants whose claims are ready for delivery from the claim commission of this city are requested by the Secretary of the commission to send or call for them immediately.

Memphis is spoken of by Gen. Halleck, as the next place in his department to fall.

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

From Missouri

Special to the St. Louis Democrat.

SPRINGFIELD, MO., Feb. 18.

Gen. Curtis has driven the rebel army beyond the Arkansas line.  At 10 o’clock Sunday night, we were 69 miles south of Springfield.  The Federal flag now floats in Arkansas.

Several skirmishes have taken place in the defiles of the mountains.  We had six wounded, and the enemy lost sixteen killed and a large number of prisoners.

A messenger says we are only a short distance behind prices main body, and would chase him up the next morning. – When twenty miles out the messenger heard heavy firing.

There is a great abundance of forage and provisions on the route, except flour.  A train of sugar and beans started forward from here to-night.

SEDALIA, MO., Feb. 19.

Brig. Gen. Edward Price, son of Sterling price, Col. Phillips, Maj. Cross and Capt. Crosby were captured near Warsaw on Sunday night and brought to this place.  These prisoners were captured by Capt. Stubbs of the 8th Iowa.  They had some 500 recruits for Price in charge, who had just crossed the Osage river, but as Capt. Stubbs had but a small force he did not follow them.

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

Gen. John M. Hedrick

Gen. John M. Hedrick, a native of Indiana, came to Wapello County in 1844. He passed his winters in teaching and summers on his father's (Hon. J. W. Hedrick) farm. He became a clerk in 1852, later a partner and then sole owner of a business establishment. In 1861, he largely assisted in recruiting a company of men for the Civil war, received a commission as first lieutenant of Company D, Fifteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry. A few months later he was made quartermaster of the regiment, and was then promoted to the captaincy of Company K. He distinguished himself in the war and returned to Ottumwa with the brevet of brigadier general. He was appointed postmaster of Ottumwa and held the office until 1870, and was supervisor of internal revenue for the states of Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, Colorado and Dakota, 1870-76. During his incumbency as postmaster in 1866, he became editor of the Courier and in 1869 owned a half interest in the paper. In the latter year Major Hamilton bought the other half and they together had charge of the publication until January 1, 1878. Retiring from the Courier, General Hedrick gave his time chiefly to looking after the interests of the Cedar Rapids, Sigourney and Ottumwa Railway Company, of which he was president. He was active in many enterprises of local benefit. He died October 3, 1886.

SOURCE: Harrison L. Waterman, Editor, History of Wapello County, Iowa, The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois, Volume 1, p. 271-2

From Cairo

CAIRO, February 18.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Times’ Dispatch

CAIRO, Feb. 18.

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

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

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

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

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

Additional from Fort Donelson

FT. DONELSON via CAIRO, Feb. 17.

Two more regiments were captured to-day, and the rest of the entrenchments, and a number of troops have come in and gave themselves up.

About 12,000 stand of small arms have been taken.  Many of the rebel troops destroyed their arms, and large numbers were thrown in the river.

There are two water batteries – the upper one with the heavy rifled 32-pounders, two 32 lb carronades; the lower contains eight 32- pounders and one 10-inch columbiad, mounted on embrasures.

Two thousand bbls. of flour and twelve hundred boxes of beef with a large amount of other provisions were captured.

All of to-day has been occupied in embarking prisoners and gathering up stores of munitions and burying the dead.  There are a great number of dead rebels still unburied, as it has been thrown upon our men to do.

Capt. Logan, aid to Gen. Grant, goes to Clarksville to-morrow under flag of truce, with the bodies of two Colonels, and to effect an exchange of our wounded prisoners who have been sent to Nashville.

Gen. Grant received the official notice last night of the creation of a new military district – the district of Western Tennessee, – of which he is appointed commander, with headquarters at Fort Donelson.

Gen. Grant’s staff remains at present, with Maj. W. W. Leland attached as chief of commissary.

Ashland’s cavalry and Willard’s battery suffered no loss in killed.  Taylor’s battery acted nobly and was charged on five times on Sunday evening, every time repulsing the enemy with great slaughter.

Among the killed are the following officers: Capt. Wilson, Lieuts. Marsh, Sheats, Howell and Monroe of the 8th Ills.; Capt. Shaw, Sergt. Bendard of the 19th; Adjt. Kirkpatrick of the 30th.

Cols. John A. Logan, M. K. Lawler and Lt. Col. Ransam are but slightly wounded.

Maj. Post, who was reported killed was wounded and taken prisoner.

Capt. J. S. Slaymaker, of the 2d Iowa, was killed.

The Confirmation of Gen. C. F. Smith was received with great satisfaction by the soldiers.  His gallant charge of Saturday has made him deservedly popular among his men.

Gen. S. A. Hurlburt (sic) reported for duty to Gen. Grant this evening and has been assigned a division.

It is currently reported that Gov. Harris of Tenn., has ordered all Tennessee to lay down their arms.

The greatest indignation exists among the prisoners against Pillow and Floyd.

FORT DONELSON, Feb. 17.

The great fire, which was seen up the river from this point last night, was the burning fo the Tennessee rolling mills, some four miles from here, by our gunboats.  The works have been used by the rebels for the manufacture of shot and shell, and other materials of war.  It was an extensive concern.

Our soldiers have been engaged to-day in burying the dead on the battlefield.  The rebel dead will also be decently interred.  The spectacle on the field is a horrible one.

Gen. Grant has promulgated the most stringent orders against plundering from inhabitants, and also against stealing property taken in battle, all of which belongs to the government.

Before surrendering the rebels threw all their late mails into the river.   Col. Markland, U. S. Postal Director, succeeded, however, in seizing a number of mail bags and some outside letters, supposed to contain important information.

Floyd’s brigade when taking their departure threw their arms into the river to prevent them from falling into our hands, as they expected to be caught by our gunboats.  Their arms were Minie rifles of the best kind.  The crews of our gun-boats are now engaged in fishing them out of the river.

Capt. Dickson, the rebel chief of artillery and the engineer who constructed the fortifications here, was killed in the bombardment of Friday in one of his own batteries.  He is represented to have been a superior officer, and a great strength of the fortifications here attest the truth of this representation.

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

William Dyer

DYER, WILLIAM, farmer; Sec. 14; P. O. Boone; was born in Clay county, Indiana, February 8, 1823. and when young accompanied his parents to Coles county, Illinois, and was there raised a farmer; continued that until January, 1862, when he enlisted in company B, Fifteenth Iowa infantry; he was detailed after the battle of Shiloh to take charge of government wagons, and while thus serving was accidentally thrown to the ground, a wagon passing over him: he escaped with his life but utterly disabled to do further duty and was discharged. June 17, 1862, on account of disability; he came to this county in 1863 and has since resided here, owning 230 acres of land under good improvements; December 23, 1842, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Cartright, of the same family as the celebrated Peter Cartright; their family consists of six children: Andrew J., William R , Sarah A., Zimri P., John W. and Clara E.; lost one: Redic J. (died March 3. 1866); Mr. Dyer commenced life without a dollar and has succeeded admirably by his own efforts and with the assistance of his excellent wife and children in making home a comfortable one.

SOURCE: The History of Boone County, Iowa, Union Historical Company, Des Moines, Iowa, 1880, p. 640

From the Cumberland River

ST. LOUIS, February 19.

The Republican’s Cairo dispatch says:

Latest from Donelson reports the gun boat St. Louis, Capt. Paulding, proceeded up the Cumberland to Clarksville, and found the enemy abandoning that place in a panic. – Two flats laden with munitions of war, were captured at a rolling mill, just below Clarksville.  Everything was being moved to Nashville as fast as possible, where the next rebel stand would be made.  Everything at Donelson is progressing satisfactorily.  Our army are encamped in the capitulated works, having comfortable quarters in the log huts and tents of the late garrison.

Our soldiers are enthusiastic and anxious to march at once against Nashville.

With the exception of severe colds, consequent upon the recent exposure, our army was well.

The actual number of prisoners taken was 13,000.  Among them Gen. West, not previously mentioned.

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

Bridge Destroyed

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 19.

A Union scout who has been operating up the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers reached here this morning, and reports that one span of the Memphis and Charleston R. R. bridge crossing the Tennessee at Decatur, Ala., was destroyed on Saturday last by Union men in that vicinity.

It was reported that the bridge at Bridgeport, some seventy miles above had been destroyed, but this is not confirmed.

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

Proclamation for the Observance of Washington’s Birthday

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19.

It is recommended by the President to the people of the United States, that they assemble in their customary places of public worship on the 22d day of February, inst., and celebrate the anniversary of the birthday of the Father of his Country, by causing to be read to them his Farewell Address.

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

Jerome Shadbolt

Jerome Shadbolt passed away at the venerable age of eighty-three years, six months and twenty-two days, on the 31st of October, 1906. He had long been a resident of Butler county, having arrived here in the year 1855. He was a man well known for his business integrity and enterprise and much of his admirable character is indicated in the fact that he was in partnership with one man for thirty-two years. He was born in Stillwater, Saratoga county, New York, April 9, 1823, and when three years of age was taken by his parents to Genesee county, that state, where he remained until he reached the age of twenty-four. It was on the 3d of September, 1846, in Batavia, Genesee county, that he married Miss Louise L. Main, who was born there May 13, 1829, a daughter of William and Sophia (Briggs) Main, the former a native of Maryland and the latter, of Boston, Massachusetts. Mrs. Main was a daughter of Dr. William Briggs, a native of England, who after coming to America enlisted as a physician and surgeon under General George Washington at the time when he first took command of the American forces. Dr. Briggs was a prominent member of the medical profession in Boston and was a splendidly educated man. Following the war he took an active part in governmental affairs. His daughter Sophia was left an orphan at the age of nine years, at the age of nineteen was a teacher in a high school of Boston and at twenty-two years of age was married, becoming the wife of William Main, a merchant of that city. She died in Batavia, New York. In their family were eight children who reached adult age but Mrs. Louise Shadbolt is the only one now living.

In the year 1847 Jerome Shadbolt and his young wife emigrated westward to what was then the territory of Wisconsin. They arrived in Milwaukee on the 14th of October but Mr. Shadbolt did not believe the little village by the lake would ever amount to much and made his way northward a distance of twenty-one miles, to Grafton, Wisconsin. There he purchased the water power rights and erected a large factory for the manufacture of chairs. The business proved very profitable and he made money in that connection until he sold out to his partner preparatory to coming to Iowa. He arrived in Clarksville on the 4th of July, 1855, and was thereafter a resident of Butler county. He was a contractor and builder by trade and here entered into partnership with John Madigan, the relationship between them being maintained most harmoniously and profitably for thirty-two years, during which period they erected many substantial structures in and around Clarksville. Mr. Shadbolt also operated a steam sawmill here for some time.

The only interruption to his business career came when in 1864 he responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting in the Fifteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, with which he went to the front. He participated in the celebrated march to the sea under Sherman and was in the grand review in Washington, D. C., where thousands of victorious Union soldiers marched through the streets of the capital city from which hung a banner emblazoned with the words: "The only debt that the country owes which she cannot pay is the debt that she owes her soldiers." With the close of the war he was honorably discharged at Davenport, Iowa. In his later years he held membership with the Grand Army of the Republic and took great delight in meeting with his old army comrades. He returned from the war and again resumed his place as a business man of Clarksville and in connection with his building operations he engaged in farming for five or six years.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shadbolt were born seven children: Jerome, who enlisted at the age of fifteen years for service in the Union Army, being at the front at the same time as his father, died December 15, 1871. Ida M. is the wife of William Walsh, of Clarksville. C. Sumner is living at Minneapolis, Minnesota. Albon B. is a resident of Bremer county. Rouen is the wife of J. P. Martin, of Butler county. Jessie O. is the wife of H. E. French, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume, and Charles P., died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Shadbolt united with the Presbyterian church on the 15th of April, 1900. Mrs. Shadbolt is a charter member of the Women's Relief Corps and is the oldest living member of that body. She is at this time eighty-four years of age and a most remarkable woman for her years, still hale and hearty, physically and mentally. Mr. Shadbolt was ever a man of unassailable integrity and during his long residence in Clarksville he made many friends by reason of his enterprise, perseverance and reliability in business and his trustworthiness in other relations of life. He lived to witness many changes during the period of his residence here, covering more than a half century, and at all times he bore his full share in the work of general development and improvement.

SOURCE: Irving H. Hart, History of Butler County, Iowa, Vol. 2, p. 59-61

John Morton

John Morton, a retired farmer living in New Hartford. He was born in Hadley, Massachusetts, in 1835 and came to Iowa in 1858. In 1861 he enlisted in the Fifteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry and served during the entire course of the Civil war. His wife, Emma Cumming, was born in Ohio in 1850 and died in 1909. They had five children: Nina A., who has passed away; Anna S.; Ida I.; Charles A.; and Myra.

SOURCE: Irving H. Hart, History of Butler County, Iowa, Vol. 2, p. 286, abstracted from biographical sketch of Robert G. Wolfensperger.

Citizens’ Meeting

A respectable number of citizens assembled at the LeClaire House yesterday morning, for the purpose of devising ways and means for the relief of the wounded at the taking of Fort Donelson.  Mr. John L. Davies called the meeting to order, and on motion, Hiram Price, Esq., was elected Chairman, and Mr. Chas. H. Eldridge Secretary.

On motion a committee was appointed to report ways and means for carrying out the objects of the meeting.  Messrs. J. L. Davies, J. C. Todd, J. E. Henry, W. Barrows and I W. Gifford were named as such committee. – While they were out, a committee on finance was appointed by the Chair, as follows: R. Lowry, T. C. Campbell, J. Thorington, Wm. Burris, and Rev. H. N. Powers, who at once went to work, and took the subscriptions of those present, which were given with commendable liberality.

The first committee appointed presented a report recommending that Messrs. Willard Barrows, L. J. Center and Ira M. Gifford be appointed a committee to proceed to the relief of the sufferers, and furnish them such aid as might be needed.  It having been suggested that some physicians should be put on this committee the report was sent back with instructions to leave the names of the delegation blank.  The names of Mr. Barrows, Mr. Center, Dr. Stephenson and Dr. Maxwell were subsequently reported.  It being suggested to appoint a German on the committee, a discussion arose, which resulted, finally, in fixing upon the following persons, viz: Dr. McCarn, L. J. Center and Dr. Maxwell.

Messrs. Hirschl and Lischer were added to the finance committee.

On motion of Mr. Davies, Rev. H. N. Powers was appointed to consult with the Ladies’ Aid Society, in regard to such aid, as they may be disposed to furnish, with power to act.

The delegation was instructed to report by telegraph, when they reached Cairo, the names of the killed and wounded, and whether any further and what assistance should be needed.

On motion of Mr. C. H. Eldridge, a telegram was ordered to be sent to the commanding officer of the Iowa 2d, informing him that a committee was on its way to their relief. – It was resolved to request the railroads the committee might use to pass them free.

The thanks of the meeting were tendered to the proprietors of the LeClaire House.  The meeting then adjourned.  The whole amount subscribed for the relief of the soldiers was $350, nearly all of which was paid in at the time.

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

Public Lecture

We are requested to state that Rev. Mr. Oxenhart will deliver a lecture at the congregational Church on Wednesday evening of next week for the benefit of the Soldier’s Aid Society.  Mr. O. has recently delivered lectures at several points in Illinois with very flattering success.  He is a young man of good address, a very pleasing speaker and is giving his time and talents to the good work without compensation.  The charge of admission will be only 10 cents and all the receipts go to the relief of the sick and wounded among the Iowa soldiers.  Under these circumstances the house should be crowded.

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

Local Matters

THE proceedings of the Republican meeting held Tuesday, and other items, are unavoidably crowded out to-day by telegraph dispatches that came in at a late hour.

WESTERN TRAINS. – Owing to the quantities of snow on the track, the western trains, due at 8 o’clock a.m. and 4 o’clock p.m. yesterday had not arrived at 10 o’clock last night.  The eastern trains were also delayed an hour or two yesterday.

THE CONTINENTAL MONTHLY. – We have received the third or March number of this capital magazine.  It is, as usual, filled with choice literature, including several papers on national policy.  We presume it may be had at our bookstores.  Secure a copy before they are all taken.

RAILROAD SHIPMENTS. – The following are the figures of shipments by railroad from this city for the week ending February 15th: 2,081 brls. flour, 14,400 bu. Wheat, 6,000 do barley, 1,000 do corn, 221 sacks malt, 20 tons bran, 59 dressed hogs, 54 live do, 3,080 lbs. hides, 1,500 lbs. butter.  Total value of shipments about $21,000.

CONTINUED. – The fair and festival of St. Luke’s church which was held last evening, but on account of the weather was rather thinly attended, will be continued this afternoon and evening at Metropolitan Hall.  Admission 10 cents.  This festival, it will be remembered, is got up by the ladies of St. Luke’s for the benefit of that parish.  There should, therefore, be a good attendance.

SLIPPERY. – Very few persons have been exempted from falls on the slippery walks this season.  One man, as we write, just measured his fall length in the snow before our window, to the great merriment of a full half dozen lassies who were in a sleigh waiting his return.  He should have done as we did the evening before on the same spot – choose the shades of night for his feat in tumbling.

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



The Curtis Horse

This splendid body of cavalry, numbering 1,200 men nearly all of whom are effective, are hereafter to be considered an Iowa regiment.  Adjutant General Baker has received intelligence to this effect from the Department at Washington, and is ordered to commission officers to fill whatever vacancies may occur.

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

Whereabouts Of The Wounded

It having been reported that the wounded soldiers would all be brought to St. Louis, a telegram was sent to Gen. Halleck, inquiring the facts, so that the relief committee might be guided thereby.  The following is Gen. Halleck’s answer:

TO C. H. ELDRIDGE:  All wounded are sent to Cincinnati, Mound City, Evansville, and St. Louis.  No distinction is made between States, or between friends and foes.  It is simply a question of humanity.

H. W. HALLECK,

Major General.

This entails more labor on the committee than was expected, but it will be cheerfully performed.

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

‘THE BAYONET’ is the title of . . .

. . . a good looking, well edited newspaper issued at California, Mo., by the Iowa 11th Regiment, the first number of which is dated February 15th, has reached us.  Its editors are O. A. A. Gardner, an old settler of Scott county, and E. C. Holmes.  From it we learn the Chas. Tichner, Co. H, 11th regiment, died on the 12th ult., aged 19 years.

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

Funeral Notice

The Funeral of LIZZIE DONALDSON, Wife of ADD. H. SANDERS, will take place this, Thursday, afternoon at 2 o’clock, from the residence on 8th street, between Perry and Rock Island streets.  The friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend.

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

A Sad Affliction

Yesterday we announced the sudden death of the beloved wife of our brother, he who so long stood at our side in the editorial capacity of the GAZETTE, and only recently left us to engage in the service of his country.  Widely known, and loved by all that knew here, the unexpected announcement of Lizzie’s death has caused deep sorrow in a large circle of friends.  Within a few years our brother has had the affliction, which only a parent can know, of burying five children, three of whom have lived to an age when the affections of the heart become so deeply enlisted in them.  As each one left, the affections of the parents were centered more deeply on those remaining, but they are all gone, and last of all she who has shared so much affliction with him has been taken away, and an infant is all that is left of his family.

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

An Incident

When the subscription was being taken up at the public meeting yesterday, for the relief of the wounded soldiers from Iowa, a couple of strangers present each put down ten dollars, and credited the amounts to “Philadelphia.”

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