Specials to the New York Papers

(Special to Tribune.)

WASHINGTON, March 25. – The senate Committee on Foreign Relations reported a bill to-day requiring the allegiance of Americans in Europe who may select passports from our Consuls and Ministers.

The debate on Slavery both in the Senate and House was very bitter to-day. Republicans generally voted against taxing slaves.

Mr. Blenker was to-day restored to his position.  This is a victory over Schurz, who desired his place.

The Tax bill was only amended to-day by placing license on dentists of ten dollars per year.

The circulation of the National Republican and Tribune has been forbidden among the regular troops of the army of the Potomac on the ground that articles against McClellan are calculated to incite an insurrectionary spirit.

The commanding officers of various companies have issued official orders to-day that no boats will be allowed to visit Mount Vernon.

The Committee on Naval Affairs determined to-day to report a bill for the construction of iron-clad steamers.

The City Council made an earnest remonstrance against the abolition of Slavery in the District of Columbia.

The victory at Winchester turns out to be one of the most brilliant of the war.

(Times’ Despatch.)

WASHINGTON, March 25. – It appears that Secretary Stanton, late on Monday night, concluded to forego his purpose to order the arrest of the editors of certain New York and Boston papers.

Advices received from Fortress Monroe are quite conclusive that the Merrimac is out of the dry dock and prepared to run out when she chooses.  The Monitor is on hand.

(World’s dispatch.)

The main body of the rebel army cannot be very far distant as it is known that scouting parties have been discovered within the past 24 hours but a short distance from Manassas Junction.

Appearances indicate that the enemy are strongly fortified behind the line of the Rappahannock.

(Herald’s dispatch.)

Gen. Sumner has issued an important order, prohibiting acts of marauding.  He assures the people of Virginia that their only safety is the General Government, and that it will be his constant endeavor to protect them in their lives and property to the extent of his power.

The General has also determined to accept no resignations in his corps during the campaign.

(Tribune Special.)

WASHINGTON, March 26. – Gen. Halleck’s commissioners appointed to visit the Ft. Donelson prisoners at Chicago had reported the names of one thousand rebels as adverse to taking the oath of allegiance, but Schuyler Colfax protested against their release on these or any other terms, and the President revoked the commission and prohibited the discharge of any more rebels.

(World Specials.)

A gentleman named Pollock reach here to-day having come from Culpepper, Va., near where the rebel army now lies.  He is known in Washington as a reliable and intelligent gentleman.  Mr. Pollock states that in the vicinity from which he came there is a loyal insurrection among the white people who are bitter in their opposition to the rule of Jeff Davis.  The people he says feel that the rebel cause is hopelessly lost since the retreat from their stronghold at Manassas.  The rebel defeat at Winchester has also depressed them.  Though every effort was made to conceal the news from the public and that portion of the army which were not engaged in the fight, he doubts whether the rebels will have pluck to make a stand if they are attacked at Gordonsville.

(Post Specials.)

A few days since the pickets along the lower Potomac and the Chesapeake Bay were driven by Gen. Hooker.  The rebel sympathizers in tory Maryland took this as an indication that the U. S. forces were about to leave and immediately commenced to send their slaves to Virginia for the rebel service.  This perfidy did not escape the vigilance of the General who immediately ordered the arrest of some six our eight of the ringleaders, who were among the most prominent citizens of that section of Maryland.  They will be handed over to the authorities at Washington with the evidence against them, which is said to be of the most conclusive character.

The following nominations by the President were referred to the Military Committee: Ward B. Burnett, of N. Y., Carl Schurz of Wis., M. S. Haskell of Ind. John W. Geary of Pa., Horace Warden of Ill., J. T. Bradford of Ky., James D. Hutchins of Ky., Alonzo J. Phelps of Ohio, and S. M. Hamilton of Ill.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 3

John L. Miller

Corporal, 12th Tennessee Cavalry, USA

Died April 19, 1865, Eastport, Mississippi

Officer’s Circle

Shiloh National Cemetery

NOTE:  I believe when this headstone was ordered the handwritten abbreviation for corporal, "corpl." was misread as "capt."  Considering 19th century handwriting it is an easy transcription error to make.  I have checked the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System, as well as his Compiled Service Records and his Pension index card on www.Fold3.com and none of his records list him with the rank of captain at any time.

Official Reports of the Battle of Shiloh: No. 21. Col. William T. Shaw, 14th Iowa Infantry

No. 21.

Report of Col. William T. Shaw, Fourteenth Iowa Infantry.

ANAMOSA, IOWA, October 26, 1862.

SIR: As by the terms of my parole I am precluded from making as yet any official report of the part borne by my regiment, the Fourteenth Iowa, in the battle of Shiloh, on the 6th of April last, and as I feel it due alike to the regiment and to myself, after so long an imprisonment, that their conduct shall be fully reported, I take the liberty of laying before you, unofficially, the following statement:

You will remember that the regiment then formed a part of the brigade of Gen. W. H. L. Wallace, included in the division of Gen. Charles F. Smith. On that day, however, in consequence of General Smith’s illness, General Wallace commanded the division, and Colonel Tuttle, of the Second Iowa, our brigade, which consisted of the Second, Seventh, Twelfth, and Fourteenth Iowa Regiments. Our division occupied the center of the line, having that of General Prentiss on its left, with General Hurlbut beyond him, while the divisions of Generals Sherman and McClernand were on its right. Our brigade occupied the left of the division, and was arranged in the order given above, from the right, so that the Fourteenth occupied the extreme left of the division, next to General Prentiss’ command.

Our line of battle was formed about half past 8 o’clock a.m., about 500 yards from the enemy's artillery, which at once opened a severe fire upon us. The ground was rolling and wooded, but free from underbrush, interspersed here and there with cleared fields and cut up by several roads.

In a short time the enemy's infantry made their appearance, advancing in line of battle. I at once perceived that the line of our brigade was not parallel with theirs, but inclined to it at an angle of about 45 degrees, the left in advance, thus exposing my left flank to the enemy some distance in advance of General Prentiss’ line, upon which it should have rested, and about 200 yards from his extreme right. After consulting with Colonel Woods, of the Twelfth, who was next to me on the right, I threw back my regiment and the left wing of the Twelfth, so as to bring our part of the line parallel to the advancing enemy and in line with General Prentiss’ division, but still failing to connect with it by an interval of about 200 yards. This also improved our position, which had previously been directly upon a ridge, exposed to the enemy's artillery, and gave us that ridge as a partial shelter. The enemy advanced steadily in two lines, about 200 yards apart. I ordered my men to lie down and hold their fire until they were within thirty paces. The effect of this was, that when the order to fire was given, and the Twelfth and Fourteenth opened directly in their faces, the enemy's first line was completely destroyed. Our fire was only returned by a few, nearly all who were not killed or wounded by it fleeing in every direction. I then immediately advanced my regiment, in which I was gallantly joined by the left wing of the Twelfth. Passing almost without opposition over the ground which had been occupied by the first lines, we attacked and drove back their second for some distance, until I was forced to recall my men for fear of my left flank being turned, no part of General Prentiss’ division having advanced with us. In this movement we took a number of prisoners, including 1 captain, whom I sent to the rear. Returning, the Fourteenth took up its old position in the line of battle, and Colonel Geddes, of the Eighth Iowa, now formed his regiment on our left, in line with us and General Prentiss’ division, filling up the gap which had previously existed there. That division, however, with the one beyond it, materially changed its position in the course of the forenoon, its left falling back repeatedly, until the line of these two divisions had swung around almost at right angles to us. I now perceived a large force of the enemy approaching from the left and front, and immediately reported the fact to Colonel Tuttle, who, at my request, sent me a couple of brass 6-pounders, which were near by. These I got into position just  in time to receive the enemy. They advanced with the most desperate bravery, the brunt of their attack falling upon the Eighth Iowa, by whom it was most gallantly borne. I have good authority for saying that the firm resistance of the center at that time was the chief means of saving our whole army from destruction. The fighting continued with great severity for about an hour, during which we repelled what General Beauregard in his official report counts as three of the five distinct charges made by the rebels that day upon our center, and at the end of that time the enemy facing us fell back fully repulsed. Colonel Geddes now withdrew a short distance to take care of his wound, and at his request, as his position was more important and exposed than my own, I moved to the left and occupied it, thus leaving an interval on my right between us and the Twelfth. When Colonel Geddes reformed it was on the right of General Prentiss, with whom Colonel Geddes fought during the rest of the day.

General Prentiss’ line had now swung around so far as to be almost parallel with ours, and back to back with us, about 150 yards in our rear, at our end of the two lines. In this position he was again engaged by a large body of the enemy, who had advanced from the left, having driven in General Hurlbut’s division. At about a quarter to 5 p.m. I received an order from Colonel Tuttle to about-face and proceed to engage the same body of the enemy. In order not to interfere with General Prentiss’ lines I marched by an oblique, passing close to the Eighteenth Wisconsin in his line, and here for the third time that day the Fourteenth engaged with the enemy. After less than half an hour we repulsed them and made a short advance, which revealed to me the facts of our position. The enemy’s center had advanced over the ground defended by us before our change of front and were now attacking us in the rear. Both wings of their forces had advanced so far as to form a junction between us and Pittsburg Landing, their right, which we were now facing, meeting at an angle with their left, which had driven in McClernand's and Sherman's divisions on our right, and into this angle we were about being pressed by this new attack on our rear. General Prentiss having already surrendered with a part of his command, the Fourteenth was left in advance of all that remained, but completely inclosed, receiving the enemy's fire from three directions. The regiment still kept its ranks unbroken and held its position facing the enemy, but the men were almost completely exhausted with a whole day of brave and steady fighting and many of them had spent their whole stock of ammunition. It was therefore useless to think of prolonging a resistance which could only have wasted their lives to no purpose, and at about a quarter to six p.m. I surrendered them and myself prisoners of war. I have only to add that I feel under the deepest obligations to both officers and men of my regiment for their admirable conduct through the day. This was so complete and free from exception, that it would be impossible to mention individuals without doing injustice to the rest. Their steadiness and courage, the accuracy of their fire, and precision of all their movements entitle them to the highest credit, and their general demeanor, both upon the battle-field and in the trying scenes through which we passed as prisoners of war, will always be remembered by me with pride and gratification.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

 WM. T. SHAW,

 Colonel Fourteenth Iowa Volunteers.

Hon. SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,

Governor of Iowa.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume X (Serial No. 10), Part I, pages 152-4

Washington News

WASHINGTON, March 25. – The commission appointed by Gen. Wool to inquire into the condition of vagrants or contrabands, say in their official report that they stated with the general proposition that the military power have not only the right but it is among its privileges to avail itself of any and all means within its control to perfect its discipline, to render its position secure or make it effective for an advance against an enemy, and for these ends it has the right to employ for service or use anything which a military necessity may demand.  At the same time they consider that necessity is the only proper measure by which this power can be exercised.  The number of contrabands is given as 1508.  Those distributed at Fortress Monroe, 691; at Camp Harris, 743; at Camp Butler and Newport News 74.

Little inclination is manifested by them to go North.  Comparatively few contrabands come to our camps.  The navy is decidedly popular with them; they are treated as boys and receive pay every month.

The Commission point out various abuses and suggest remedies.

It further appears from the report, that Gen. Wool has issued an order that hereafter all wages by them will be paid the contrabands for their own use and support under such regulations as may be deemed proper.

Representative Steel, a member of the Government Contractor’s Investigating Committee, returned to-day from Cairo, whither he was accompanied by his Colleague, Mr. Washburne. – Their business was to look into the Quartermaster’s and other departments.  The discoveries and suggestions of this Committee have been the means of saving large amounts of money to the Government.

Petitions in favor of a general uniform bankrupt law are to be received.

Until further orders, no boats or vessels will be allowed to visit Mount Vernon.

WASHINGTON, March 26. – The House having addressed an inquiry to the Secretary of War regarding the purchases of vessels for carrying water, he replied to-day by enclosing a letter from Assistant Secretary Tucker, explaining these purchases.

Frequent applications are made as to the disposal of public lands in the Territory of Nevada, but as the land districts have not yet been organized therein, no claims can now be located.  There seems to be no doubt that those who at present occupy lands will be secured in their locations by future legislation.

A Democratic conference was held last night, continuing in session until a late hour.  The call was signed by all excepting four or five of the members of Congress who were elected as Democrats.  Representative Corning presided, and Pendleton and Steele acted as Secretaries.

An injunction was placed on all present not to reveal the proceedings.  It is however, ascertained from private conversation to-day, that the conference was principally confined to the consideration of the resolutions reported from a committee, of which Vallandigham was chairman, declaring in substance, that the restoration of the Union and maintenance of the Constitution, would require that the organization and principles of the democratic party of the United States should be fully and faithfully adhered to by all good citizens without distinction of section or party, to co-operate with the democrats in support of the constitution and restoring the old Union.

A committee of one from each State represented by a democrat, either in Senate or House, was appointed to report at a future conference.  The names of the members are not yet known.

It is understood that several messengers from the Border Slave States were present, and participated in the proceedings.

The entire number at the meeting was about forty.  The proceedings are represented as having been harmonious.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 3

William M. Wilson

WILLIAM M. WILSON, attorney at law at Osceola, is one of the prominent members of the Clarke County bar. He was born in Guilford County, N. C., near the city of Greensborough, April 23, 1838, his parents, R. D. and Ruhama (Spoon) Wilson, being natives of the State of North Carolina. They removed with their family to Iowa in the spring of 1853, locating in Mahaska County, and in 1860 settled in Warren County, this state, near New Virginia, where the parents still make their home, the father being now eighty-one years of age and the mother seventy-five. To them were born six children, five sons and one daughter, all of whom are yet living.  William M. Wilson was fourteen years of age when he came with his parents to Iowa, and received his primary education in the log school-houses of Mahaska county. In the fall of 1857 he entered the high school at Oskaloosa where he pursued his studies until 1861, returning to his home in Warren County at the breaking out of the late war.  He enlisted in Company D, First Iowa Cavalry, and was immediately sent to Missouri, then to Northern Texas, most of his term of service being spent West of the Mississippi River. He served three years and three months, during which time he participated in many severe engagements, including the battle of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, and the skirmish at Black Water. He was honorably discharged in September, 1864, when he returned to his home in New Virginia.  In February, 1865, he was married to Miss Martha Fleming, of Warren County, a daughter of Asa Fleming. After his marriage Mr. Wilson located on a farm on which was erected a steam saw-mill, which he operated in connection with attending to his agricultural pursuits, until 1867.  He then began reading law under Mr. Conklin, of Osceola, and also under Judge Chaney. He was admitted to the bar in 1869, at Indianola, Judge H. W. Maxwell presiding, and was admitted to practice in the supreme courts in June, 1872. He began the practice of his chosen profession at Osceola in the fall of 1869, where he has since been actively engaged, and has established a large and lucrative practice.  Mr. Wilson was elected a member of the State Senate, to represent Clarke, Lucas and Union counties in the State Legislature. He was elected mayor of Osceola in the spring of 1875. In 1876 he was appointed receiver of the First National Bank, of Osceola. In 1880 he was appointed one of the commissioners to appraise and lay off the Fort Ripley Military reservation, it having been, by an act of Congress, thrown open for settlers. In 1882 he was appointed by the Secretary of the Interior, one of the commissioners to establish and locate the United States post office building, at Council Bluffs, Iowa. In 1885 he was elected First Lieutenant of Company A, Fifth Regiment, Iowa National Guards, and December 14, of the same year, was promoted to Judge Advocate with rank of Major, on the staff of Brigadier-General H. H. Wright, which position he still holds.  Mr. Wilson is a member of the Methodist Protestant church. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to the blue-lodge, chapter and commandery. He is also a member of the Good Templars and a life member of the W.C.T.U. and State Alliance, of Iowa. He has six children living, three boys and three girls – the oldest girl is married to S. M. Gilbert and now resides in Salem, Dakota. At the reunion of veteran Union soldiers, held at Creston, Iowa, August 17, 18, and 19, 1886, Mr. Wilson was chosen as Colonel of the First battalion and commended with credit.

SOURCE: Biographical and Historical Record of Clarke County, Iowa, Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois, 1886 p. 260-1

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Saturday, January 4, 1862

Some of the boys went out today on a ’possum hunt. They were very successful, as this is a good ’possum country, especially over on the banks of the Missouri river.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 28

Captain W. H. H.

Officer’s Circle

Shiloh National Cemetery

Official Reports of the Battle of Shiloh: No. 10. Col. Marcellus M. Crocker, 13th Iowa Infantry

No. 10.

Report of Col. Marcellus M. Crocker, Thirteenth Iowa Infantry.

HDQRS. THIRTEENTH REGIMENT IOWA INFANTRY VOLS.,

Camp near Pittsburg, Tenn., April 8, 1862.

SIR: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Thirteenth Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry in the engagement with the enemy on the 6th and 7th instant.

Early in the morning of the 6th the alarm was given, and heavy firing in the distance indicated that our camp was attacked. The regiment was formed in front of its color line, its full force consisting of 717 men, rank and file. It was at once ordered to form on the left of the Second Brigade, and proceeded to that position at a double-quick, and was then formed in line of battle in a skirt of woods bordering on an open field to the left of a battery. Here it remained for some time inactive, while the enemy's guns were playing on our battery. In the mean time a large force of the enemy's infantry were filing around the open field in front of our line, protected by the woods and in the direction of our battery, opening a heavy fire of musketry on the infantry stationed on our right and charging upon the battery. The infantry and battery to the right having given way, and the enemy advancing at double-quick, we gave them one round of musketry and also gave way. At this time we – as, indeed, all our troops in the immediate vicinity of the battery – were thrown into great confusion, and retired in disorder. Having retired to the distance of 100 or 200 yards we succeeded in rallying and forming a good line, the Eighth and Eighteenth Illinois Volunteers on our left, and having fronted to the enemy, held our position there under a continual fire of cannon and musketry until after 12 o’clock, when we were ordered to retire and take up a new position. This we did in good order and without confusion. Here, having formed a new line, we maintained it under incessant fire until 4.30 o’clock p.m., the men conducting themselves with great gallantry and coolness, and doing great execution on the enemy, repulsing charge after charge, and driving them back with great loss.

At 4.30 o’clock p.m. we were again ordered to fall back. In obeying this order we became mixed up with a great number of regiments falling back in confusion, so that our line was broken and the regiment separated, rendering it very difficult to collect it; but finally, having succeeded in forming, and being separated from the brigade, we attached ourselves to the division commanded by Colonel Tuttle, of the Second Iowa Volunteers, and formed with his division in front of the encampment of the Fourteenth, Second, and Seventh Iowa Volunteers, where we sustained a heavy fire from the enemy's battery until dark, and there remained during the night on our arms. During the day we were under fire of the enemy for ten hours, and sustained a loss of 23 killed and 130 wounded.

On the morning of the 7th we were ordered to continue with Colonel Tuttle’s division and to follow up and support our forces that were attacking and driving back the enemy. We followed them up closely, moving to support the batteries until the enemy was routed, after which we were ordered to return to the encampment that we had left on Sunday morning, where we arrived at 8 o’clock p.m.

Our total loss in the action of the 6th and 7th is: Killed, 24; wounded, 139; missing, 9; total, 172.*  The men for the most part behaved with great gallantry, and the officers exhibited the greatest bravery and coolness; and I call especial attention to the gallant conduct of my field officers, Lieutenant-Colonel Price and Major Shane, who were both wounded in the action of the 6th, and acknowledge my great obligations to my adjutant, Lieutenant Wilson, who during the entire action exhibited the highest qualities of a soldier.

Respectfully, &c.,

M. M. CROCKER,

Colonel Thirteenth Iowa Infantry.

 C. CADLE, Jr., A. A. A. G., First Brigade, First Division.

__________

* But see revised statement, p. 100, and division return, p. 123.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume X (Serial No. 10), Part I, pages 131-2

Further Particulars of the Winchester Battle

WINCHESTER, March 25. – The details of last Sunday’s fight have been received.  There have been more deeds of heroic daring performed in this battle, than in any other in history.  Capt. Schrieber, Aid and Inspector General of Gen. Shields’ division, while riding to the crest of a hill to the left of stone ledge, with two Orderlies, was confronted by five rebel cavalry, who emptied their revolvers, killing to Orderlies.  Capt. Schrieber charged them, running one of them through to the hilt of his sword, and received a ball in his cap, but was unharmed.

Capt. Perkins, Chief of Gen. Banks’ staff, was mainly instrument in planning the attack and performed deeds of skill and valor.

The twelve rebel regiments engaged were all Virginians, which were 1st, 2nd, 4th, 13th, 23rd, 42nd and 22nd, and one Provisional and one Irish Regiment.  They had Ashby’s Cavlary, two eight gun batteries and one six gun battery.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 3

From Fortress Monroe

FORTRESS MONROE, March 15. – The boat for Old Point has arrived, but no news has yet been obtained.

The steamer Louisiana from Hatteras Inlet has arrived, but brings nothing later.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 3

A Review

WASHINGTON, March 25. – Several state prisoners were released to-day on taking the oath of allegiance.

McDowell’s Corps was reviewed by McClellan.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 3

William W. Williams

W. W. WILLIAMS, deputy sheriff of Clarke County, was born in Coshocton County, Ohio, May 15, 1842. His parents, James and Sarah (Wilson) Williams, were also natives of Ohio. When he was four years of age his mother died. He remained with his father until he was thirteen years old; then came to Clarke County with Garner Hunt, with whom he lived until the outbreak of the civil war.  He then enlisted in Company I, Fifteenth Regiment, Iowa Infantry, which belonged to the Army of the Tennessee. His first engagement was at the battle of Shiloh. In the early part of the battle he had command of a squad of sixteen men, who carried ammunition from the boat. He lost six of the sixteen men. He participated in the battles of Atlanta, Corning, and the siege of Vicksburg. Just before the battle of Atlanta he was promoted to Second Lieutenant. He had charge of thirty-seven men, and came out with seven. He was in the famous march to the sea, and was then ordered to Washington for the grand review. Here Mr. Williams took command of his company, and was then ordered to Louisville, Kentucky, thence to Chicago, thence to Davenport, where he was mustered out in June, 1865, having served three years and seven months.  He then returned to Osceola. In 1864 he married Miss Eliza McDonald, of Keokuk, Iowa, and a native of Virginia. After his return from the war he engaged in agricultural pursuits two years, then came to Osceola and started a livery, with J.M. Ball as partner, which business he followed for eight years. After this he was appointed deputy sheriff, under J. M. Ballou, serving in this capacity four years. He was then appointed Government storekeeper, at Atlantic, Iowa, and remained there until the office was abolished. In 1883 he was again appointed deputy sheriff, under E. E. Rankin, and upon the election of J. C. Bonar, was re-appointed.  Mr. and Mrs. Williams have three daughters – Della, wife of Edwin Sperry, Sophronia, and Nellie May. Mr. Williams belongs to the Knights of Pythias. He served as vice-president of the Clarke County Agricultural Society.

SOURCE: Biographical and Historical Record of Clarke County, Iowa, Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois, 1886 p. 406

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Friday, January 3, 1862

Mrs. Hemmenway gave some of the boys permission to have a dance at her home last night. Quite a number of the boys went and they declare that they had a good time. The girls of the locality were there and most of them either smoked or chewed tobacco. They would dance a while, then rest and smoke, but those that chewed did not care to stop.¹

__________

¹Craven Lane, a member of Company E, died of lung fever on this day at Jefferson City. He had been with us but a short time and was a very quiet boy. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 28

Unknown: Grave # 3582

Officer's Circle
Shiloh National Cemetery

Official Reports of the Battle of Shiloh: No. 6. Col. Marcellus M. Crocker, 13th Iowa Infantry, Commanding the 1st Brigade, 1st Division, Army of the Tennessee

No. 6.

Report of Col. Marcellus M. Crocker, Thirteenth Iowa Infantry, commanding First Brigade.

HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION,

Camp near Pittsburg Landing, April 8, 1862.

SIR: I have the honor to report the part taken by the First Brigade of the First Division in the action of the 6th and 7th instant, after 4.30 o’clock p.m. of the 6th, at which time Col. A. M. Hare was wounded and carried off the field and the command of the brigade devolved upon me. At this time the Thirteenth Iowa Volunteers, Eighth and Eighteenth Illinois Volunteers retired together, in obedience to command of Colonel Hare, and were rallied by me, and formed after we had retired to position in front of the camp ground of the Fourteenth Iowa Volunteers, and for the rest of the day and until the enemy was repulsed they maintained that position under constant and galling fire from the enemy’s artillery. The fire of his guns ceased at dark, and during the night we remained under arms in that position.

On the morning of the 7th we were ordered to advance with the division, at that time commanded by Colonel Tuttle, of the Second Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and form a reserve to the advance of our forces that were driving back the enemy and to support our batteries, which we did during the day, most of the time exposed to the cannon and musketry of the enemy. Just before the rout of the enemy the Eighteenth and Eighth Illinois Regiments were ordered to charge upon and take a battery of two guns that had been greatly annoying and damaging our forces. They advanced at a charge bayonets, took the guns, killing nearly all the horses and men, and brought the guns off the field. The enemy having retreated, and there being no further need of the regiments under my command in the field, Colonel Tuttle directed me to return with my regiments, the Eighth and Eighteenth Illinois and Thirteenth Iowa Volunteers, together with the guns captured, to our encampment, which we had left Sunday morning. This I did, arriving at the camp at 8 o’clock p.m. of Monday. During this day our loss was small, the principal loss of the brigade having occurred in the action on the 6th instant.

The entire loss of the brigade in this action during the two days engaged is: Killed, 92; wounded, 467; missing, 18. A list of the killed, wounded, and missing is herewith submitted.*  We went into action with 2,414 men, and came out of it on the evening of the second day with 1,795. Most of the officers and men behaved with great gallantry and coolness.

Of Dresser’s battery and the Eleventh Iowa Volunteer Infantry I can say nothing, excepting that I found what was left of them in camp upon my return on the evening of the 7th, they having been separated from the brigade during all the time that it was under my command.

Respectfully, &c.,

M. M. CROCKER,

Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Major BRAYMAN,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

__________

* Nominal list omitted; but see revised statement on p. 100, and division return on p. 123.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume X (Serial No. 10), Part I, pages 125-6

The Fighting Near Winchester

FULL PARTICULARS.

WINCHESTER, Va., March 25. – On Saturday at 2 o’clock p. m., the enemy showed themselves a mile and a half from Winchester.  The enemy consisted of 500 of Ashby’s cavalry and two guns.  They drove in our pickets and then skirmished with the Michigan cavalry and a portion of the Maryland 1st.

Gen. Shields brought up his artillery and fired several rounds of shot and shell, drove them back and took several prisoners.

Gen. Shields was wounded in the arm by the first fire of the enemy.

Jackson had been informed by the inhabitants that the town was destroyed by the union troops and he advanced to retake it.

Gen. Shields’ forces slept on their arms Saturday night.

On Sunday morning at sunrise, Jackson being reinforced, he attacked Gen. Shields near Kingston.

The enemy’s force consisted of 500 of Ashley’s cavalry, 5,000 infantry, nine pieces of artillery with a reserve of 18 pieces of artillery.

The fight was kept up till noon, when a charge made by the Ohio infantry, 1st Michigan and 1st Virginia Cavalry on their right, drove them back half a mile when the enemy got their guns in position again in a dense wood, flanked by infantry, they drove us back.  A short artillery engagement ensued.

At 10½ the enemy made a feint on our left, when Gen. Shields ordered Col. Tyler of the 7th Ohio, to turn their left flank, which was executed by our troops by with considerable loss, the enemy being protected by a stone bridge.

The 84th Pennsylvania and 13th Indiana charged their centre and the fight became general.  Col. Murry, of the 84 Pennsylvania was killed.

The enemy retired slowly, bringing their guns to bear at every opportunity.  Our men rushed forward with yells when a panic ensued among the enemy.  Our troops followed and drove them until dark, capturing three guns, three caissons, muskets, equipments, &c., innumerable.  Our troops bivouacked on the field.  Gen. William’s first brigade, Col. Donelly, of the 28th New York, commanding, reinforced Gen. Fields.

Gen. Banks, who was on his way to Washington on Sunday, returned and assumed command.

Gen. Shields’ Division pursued the enemy beyond Newton, shelling them the whole way.

Jackson’s men were perfectly demoralized beyond control.  They threw overboard the dead and wounded to lighten the wagons.

It is noticeable that nearly all the Confederate wounded were shot in the head and breasts, testifying to the superiority of our marksmen.

The loss on our side were chiefly Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana troops.

Those who conveyed the false intelligence to Gen. Jackson, causing this disaster to the rebels have a heavy weight of guilt to shoulder.  It was evidently known to many in the town that Jackson was approaching from the holiday attire and buoyancy of spirits among men and women here.  Gen. Shields’ command being screened from observation on the east side of the town led the informants to believe that all our troops were evacuating and that Jackson could enter unmolested.  Good Judges say the enemy’s loss is over 200 killed 500 wounded and 300 prisoners including an aid to Jackson.  Our loss is about 65 killed and 125 wounded.

On Sunday morning the rebels received reinforcements under Gen. Garnett, amounting to 500 men.  The Union forces did not exceed 1000 men, and with the exception of about 500 were of Gen. Shields’ division exclusively, commanded by acting Brig. Gen. Sullivan, opening a heavy fire of artillery, while the real attack was directed against our right, with the object of flanking it.  Gen. Kimble commanded on the right, where the heaviest fighting was done. – The enemy were strongly posted in woods and behind a stone wall, and the rebel artillery was posted on eminences on both sides of the left wing.  Our whole artillery force was engaged consisting of 24 parrot guns in all.  The combat raged furiously till 3 o’clock p. m., the fighting being done chiefly by the artillery and musketry at a range of not more than 300 or 400 yards, and often much less.

The rebel infantry opposite our right emerged from the woods and attempted to capture David’s Battery by a charge.  The first effort was nearly successful, but the heavy discharges of grape compelled to retire in confusion.  A second and third attempt likewise failed, and the enemy fell back with heavy loss behind the stone parapet.  Gen. Tyler now ordered his brigade to charge the enemies batteries on the left and a most deadly encounter followed.  Twice our men recoiled under the storm, but in the third effort they routed the rebels with tremendous slaughter.

Our loss in these struggles was heavy.  Out of 300 men in the 84th Pennsylvania 26 were killed and 83 wounded.  Many officers were killed and wounded.

The Fifth and Eighth Ohio shared the glory and the loss with the Eighty-forth Pennsylvania.  The enemy’s killed and wounded strewed the ground in profusion and their left wing was utterly broken and their centre wavering.  On their side the Fourth and Fifth Virginia Regiments suffered most.  The former was totally demolished.  Several attempts to rally the right wing failed, and to add to the confusion the Irish Battalion of 150 men, were brought forward, ordered to fire upon our troops refused and a rebel regiment immediately drove this gallant little band forward, but could not compel them to fire upon us.  Forty corpses of the hundred and fifty afterwards strewed the field.  Meanwhile the rebels gave way on their left and center with a loss of 70 killed and wounded and 236 taken prisoners.  Besides these about 1500 muskets were taken and many other valuable trophies.  Our loss does not exceed 100 killed.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 3

Joshua B. Wells

J. B. WELLS, dealer in wood and coal, at Osceola, was born August 14, 1838, in Belmont County, Ohio. His father, Isaac Wells, was a carpenter by trade, and J. B. learned the same trade, which he followed for several years. His mother was Provy (Byers) Wells, a native of Maryland. In 1853 the family started for Iowa, coming by way of Alexandria, Missouri. While at this place the father died. The family then came to Clarke County and settled on Otter Creek, in Osceola Township. Here the family separated. The mother had died one year previous to their leaving Ohio, and J. B. was thus early thrown upon his own resources.  His first work was to carry mortar for the plastering of the old court-house, which is still standing, but abandoned. He rented a farm one year, and after putting in a corn crop, sold that and moved to Osceola, where he engaged in carrying the mail from Osceola to Afton. In the fall of 1856 he went to Nebraska, remained three years and returned to Osceola. Later he again went to Nebraska, thence to Denver, Colorado, returning to Nebraska, and, finally, came to Mahaska County, Iowa.  In 1861 he enlisted in Company C, Thirty-third Regiment Iowa Infantry, as a private soldier. He was promoted to First Orderly Sergeant, then to First Lieutenant, and in 1864, to Captain of his company, in which rank he served until the close of the war. He was mustered out July 17, 1865, at New Orleans. He took part in the battle at Jenkins’ Ferry, April 30, 1864, Helena, Arkansas, July 4, 1863, and many small engagements. At Jenkins’ Ferry he received a gun-shot wound through the right thigh, for which he receives a pension.  After being honorably discharged, Mr. Wells went to Plattsmouth, Nebraska, and remained there until the fall of 1866, engaging in auctioneering and subsequently ran a meat market and grocery, then removed to Osceola and worked at his trade one year; then followed teaming for about three years, after which he again turned his attention to his trade. Later he took a trip to Old Mexico (in the interest of the Knott’s Mexican Silver Mining Company), then returned to Osceola and engaged in the stock and grain business, shipping to Chicago and Peoria. This he continued until 1881, when he commenced dealing in wood and coal. He discontinued the cattle and grain trade. He is located on Main street, one half block from the southeast corner of the square. He is doing a thriving business.  In 1865, Mr. Wells married Miss Harriet S., daughter of John Chick, of Oskaloosa. They have two children, – Nellie F., wife of Charles H. Currier, cashier of the Osceola Bank, and Grace, who lives at home. Mr. Wells has served as township clerk, four, and as trustee two years. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order, the Good Templars, the Grand Army of the Republic, and V. A. S.

SOURCE: Biographical and Historical Record of Clarke County, Iowa, Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois, 1886 p. 339-40

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Thursday, January 2, 1862

Nothing of importance. The weather is quite cold, but since we are in a building with stoves and plenty of wood, we do not suffer from the cold. Lookout Station is a small town on the railroad between California and Jefferson City; there is a store, tavern, and twelve residences, some of which are vacant, and the country around is heavily timbered.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 27-8

John Mathews

Quartermaster, USS Essex, United States Navy

Scalded badley in the assault against Fort Henry and died February 6, 1862

Officer’s Circle

Shiloh National Cemetery

Official Reports of the Battle of Shiloh: No. 20. Col. Joseph J. Woods, 12th Iowa Infantry.

No. 20.

Report of Col. Joseph J. Woods, Twelfth Iowa Infantry.

MAQUOKETA, JACKSON COUNTY, IOWA,

April —, 1862.

On the morning of April 6, the rebels having attacked our advanced lines at Shiloh, Tenn., the Twelfth Iowa Infantry was rapidly formed and joined the other regiments — the Second, Seventh, and Fourteenth — of the Iowa brigade, being the First Brigade, under Brigadier-General Tuttle, of the Second Division, under General Wallace. The brigade was marched to near the field beyond General Hurlbut’s headquarters and formed in line of battle, the Second and Seventh on our right, the Fourteenth on our left. The Eighth Iowa, of Prentiss’ division, was on the left of the Fourteenth, forming an angle to the rear with our line. An open field lay in front of our right. Dense timber covered our left. A small ravine was immediately behind us. In this position we awaited the approach of the enemy. Soon he made a bold attack on us, but met with a warm reception, and soon we repulsed him. Again and again repeatedly did he attack us, trying vainly to drive us from our position. He failed to move us one inch from our position. On the contrary, we repulsed every attack of the enemy and drove him back in confusion.

Thus matters stood in our front until about 4 p.m., at which time it became evident, by the firing on our left, that the enemy were getting in our rear. An aide-de-camp rode up and directed me to face to the rear and fall back, stating, in answer to my inquiry, that I would receive orders as to the position I was to occupy. No such orders reached me, and I suppose could not. The Second and Seventh Iowa had already gone to the rear, and on reaching the high ground between our position and General Hurlbut’s headquarters we discovered that we were already surrounded by the enemy, caused by no fault of our own, but by the troops at a distance from us on our right and left giving way before the enemy. Seeing ourselves surrounded, we nevertheless opened a brisk fire on that portion of the enemy who blocked our passage to the Landing, who, after briskly returning our fire for a short time, fell back. A brisk fire from the enemy on our left (previous right) was going on at the same time. Seeing the enemy in front falling back, we attempted by a rapid movement to cut our way through, but the enemy on our left advanced rapidly, coming in behind us, pouring into our ranks a most destructive fire. The enemy in front faced about and opened on us at short range, the enemy in our rear still closing in on us rapidly. I received two wounds, disabling me from further duty. The command then devolved on Captain Edgington, acting as field officer. The enemy had, however, already so closely surrounded us that their balls which missed our men took effect in their ranks beyond us. To have held out longer would have been to suffer complete annihilation. The regiment was therefore compelled to surrender as prisoners of war.

Lieutenant-Colonel Coulter was much reduced by chronic diarrhea and Major Brodtbeck was suffering from rheumatism. Being myself the only field officer on duty, at my request Captain Edgington acted as a field officer, the duties of which he performed in an able and efficient manner.

Quartermaster Dorr, though his position did not require him to go into action, volunteered to do so, and throughout the day behaved in a brave and gallant manner, daringly, if not recklessly, exposing his person to the enemy. He made himself very useful in carrying messages and spying out the positions and movements of the enemy and firing on them as occasion offered. Energetic and efficient in his own department, he would fill a higher one with credit to himself and honor to the service.

Adjutant Duncan proved himself on this, as on all occasions, a faithful and efficient officer.

Captains Earle, Warner, Stibbs, Haddock, Van Duzee, and Townsley performed well their part, as did all the lieutenants in the action, in a prompt and willing manner.

The non-commissioned officers and men stood bravely up to their work and never did men behave better.

In the death of Lieutenant Ferguson, of Company D, the regiment lost one of its best-drilled officers and a gallant soldier. It also lost a good man and a good officer in the death of Lieutenant Moir, of Company A.

 J. J. WOODS,

 Colonel Twelfth Iowa Volunteers.

 ACTING ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL,

First Brigade, Second Division.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume X (Serial No. 10), Part I, pages 151-2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Wednesday, January 1, 1862

I am back with the company again. The boys are having a big chicken dinner today, Lieutenant Compton having bought four dozen chickens and presented them to the company for a New Year's dinner.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 27

Andrew Johnson’s Appeal to the People of Tennessee

FELLOW-CITIZENS:  Tennessee assumed the form of a body politic, as one of the United States of America, in the year seventeen hundred and ninety-six, at once entitled to all the privileges of the Federal Constitution, and bound by all its obligations.  For nearly sixty five years she continued in the enjoyment of all her rights, and in the performance of all her duties, one of the most loyal and devoted of the sisterhood of States.  She has been honored by the elevation of two of her citizens of the highest place in the gift of the American people, and a third had been nominated for the same high office, who received a liberal though ineffective support.  Her population had rapidly and largely increased, and their moral and material interests correspondingly advanced.  Never was a people more prosperous, contented and happy than the people of Tennessee under the government of the United States, and none so little burdened for the support of the authority by which they were protected.  They felt their Government only in the conscientious enjoyment of the benefits it conferred and the blessings it bestowed.

Such was our enviable condition until within the last year just past, when, under what baneful influences it is not my purpose no to inquire, the authority of the Government was set at defiance, and the Constitution and laws contempted, by a rebellious, armed force.  Men, who in addition to ordinary privileges and duties of the citizen, had enjoyed largely the bounty and official patronage of the Government, and have by repeated oaths, obliged themselves to its support, with sudden ingratitude for the bounty and disregard for their solemn obligation, engaged, deliberately and ostentatiously, in the accomplishment of its overthrow.  Many, accustomed to defer to their opinions and to accept their guidance, and others, carried away by excitement or overawed by seditious clamor, arrayed themselves under their banners, thus, organizing and treasonable power, which, for the time being, stifled and suppressed the authority of the Federal Government.

In this condition of affairs it devolved upon the President, bound by his official oath, to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution, and charged by the law with the duty of suppressing insurrection and domestic violence, to resist and repel this rebellion force by the military arm of the Government, and thus to re-establish the Federal authority.  Congress, assembling at an early day, found him engaged in the active discharge of this momentous and responsible trust.  That body came promptly to his aid, and while supplying him with treasure and arms to an extent that wound previously have been considered fabulous, they, at the same time, with almost absolute unanimity, declared “that this war is not waged on their part in any spirit of oppression, nor for any purpose of conquest or subjugation, nor for the purpose of overthrowing or interfering with the rights or established institutions of these States, but to defend and maintain the supremacy of the Constitution and to preserve the Union with all the dignity, equality and rights of the several States unimpaired; and that as soon as those objects are accomplished the war ought to cease.”  In this spirit, and by such co-operation, has the President conducted this mighty contest, until, as Commander-in-chief of the army, he has caused the national flag to float undisputed over the capitol of our State.  Meanwhile the State Government has disappeared.  The Executive has abdicated; the Legislature has dissolved; the Judiciary is in abeyance.  The great ship of State, freighted with its precious cargo of human interests and human hopes, its sails all set, and its glorious flag unfurled, has been suddenly abandoned by her officers and mutinous crew, and left to float at the mercy of the winds, and to be plundered by every rover upon the deep.  Indeed the work of plunder has already commenced.  The archives have been desecrated; the public property stolen and destroyed; the vaults of the State bank violated, and its treasures robbed, including the funds carefully gathered and consecrated for all time to the instruction of our children.

In such a lamentable crisis, the Government of the United States could not be unmindful of its high constitutional obligation to guarantee to every State in this Union a republican form of government, an obligation which every State has a direct and immediate interest in having observed towards every other State, and from which, by no action on the part of the people in any State, can the Federal Government be absolved.  A republican form of Government, in consonance with the Constitution of the United States, in one of the fundamental conditions of our political existence, by which every part of the country is alike bound, and from which no part can escape.  This obligation the national government is now attempting to discharge.  I have been appointed in the absence of the regular and established State authorities, as Military Governor for the time being, to preserve the public property of the State, to give the protection of the law actively enforced to her citizens and, as speedily as my be, to restore her government to the same condition as before the existing rebellion.

In this grateful but arduous undertaking, I shall avail myself of all the aid that may be afforded by my fellow citizens, and for this purpose I respectfully, but earnestly invite all the People of Tennessee, desirous of willing to see a restoration of her ancient government, without distinction of party affiliations, or past political opinions, or action, to unite with me, by counsel and co-operative agency, to accomplish this great end.  I find most, if not all of the offices, both State and Federal, vacated, either by actual abandonment, or by the action of the incumbents in attempting to subordinate their functions to a power in hostility to the fundamental law of the State, and subversive of her national allegiance.  These offices must be filled temporarily, until the State shall be restored so far to its accustomed quiet, that the people can peaceably assemble at the ballot-box and select agents of their own choice.  Otherwise anarchy would prevail, and no man’s life or property would be safe from desperate and unprincipled.

I shall, therefore, as early as practicable, designate for various positions under the State and county governments, from among my fellow citizens, persons of probity and intelligence, and bearing true allegiance to the Constitution and Government of the United States, who will execute the functions of their respective offices, until their places can be filled by the action of the people  Their authority, when their appointments shall have been made, will be accordingly respected and observed.

To the people themselves, the protection of the Government is extended.  All their rights will be duly respected, and their wrongs redressed when made known.  Those who through the dark and weary night of the rebellion have maintained their allegiance to the Federal Government will be honored.  The erring and misguided will be welcomed on their return.

And while it may become necessary, in vindicating the violated majesty of the law, and in re-asserting its imperial sway, to punish intelligent and conscious treason in high places, no merely retaliatory or vindictive policy will be adopted.  To those, especially, who in a private unofficial capacity have assumed an attitude of hostility to the Government, a full and complete amnesty for all past acts and declarations is offered, upon the one condition of their again yielding themselves peaceful citizens to the just supremacy of the laws.  This I advise them to do for their own good, and for the peace and welfare of our beloved State, endeared to me by the associations of long and active years, and by the enjoyment of her highest honors.

And appealing to my fellow citizens of Tennessee, I point them to my long public life as a pledge for the sincerity of my own motives and an earnest for the performance of my present and future duties.

ANDREW JOHNSON.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 1

William C. Watson

W. C. WATSON, section 8, Jackson Township, Clarke County, Iowa, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, February 22, 1840. His father, Hugh Watson, was born in Inverness, Scotland, in 1809, and died in Dunlap, Michigan, in 1873. His mother, whose maiden name was Isabella Chisholm, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1814, and died in her native county in 1847.   W. C. was the second of a family of four children. His only brother, Alexander, was born February 2, 1838, and died while in the service of his country, at Bowling Green, Kentucky, February 7, 1863. He was a member of Company K, Twenty-third Michigan Infantry. His sister, Margaret, born in March, 1842, and Jennet, born in May, 1844, are living, the former in Iowa, and the latter in Michigan. After the death of his mother, when eight years old, he went to live with an uncle, William Chisholm, and with him came to Iowa in 1861.  August 13, 1862, he enlisted in Company A, Thirty-sixth Iowa Infantry, but was unable to serve his entire term of enlistment, as he was taken sick with typhus fever, which resulted in total deafness, and he was discharged at the general hospital at Benton Barracks, St. Louis, February 27, 1863. From 1863 till 1869, he was under the care of physicians, trying to regain his health and hearing. Although not successful in the latter he has never regretted the part he took in saving his country from her enemies, and the nation’s flag from dishonor.  During these years following his return from the war, he made his home with his uncle, William Chisholm, in Monroe County, Iowa. In December, 1869, he formed a partnership with Isaac Elder, of Eddyville, Wapello County, and engaged in farming, and feeding and herding cattle, Mr. Elder furnishing $25,000 worth of property, and Mr. Watson giving his experience and time to the management of the work.  In April, 1873, he moved to Clarke County, Iowa, and bought ninety acres of land of Joseph Heasley, forty acres of which had been improved. To this he has added at different times until he now owns 220 acres, 200 acres being under cultivation, and twenty acres timber land. He makes a specialty of stock-raising, and claims to have as fine herds of high-grade, short-horn cattle, Berkshire hogs, and Clydesdale horses as can be found in the county.  Although he has never been well since leaving the army, being totally deaf and suffering constantly with a pain in his head, he has been ambitious and has been successful beyond his most sanguine expectations. Few men in his condition physically, would think themselves able to perform manual labor, but notwithstanding the difficulties which are constantly to be encountered he has persevered, and save the small pension given him by the Government, has supported his family and acquired a good home.  Mr. Watson was married December 22, 1872, to Martha E. Hamilton, daughter of Alexander and Freelove Hamilton of Monroe County, Iowa. They have five children – Hugh Alexander, William, Matilda, Charles and Jennet; aged respectively fourteen, twelve, ten, eight and six years.

SOURCE: Biographical and Historical Record of Clarke County, Iowa, Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois, 1886 p. 295-6

Col. Abraham M. Hare Headquarters Monument: Jones Field, Shiloh National Military Park

U. S.

* * *

HEADQUARTERS, 1ST BRIGADE,

1ST DIVISION,

ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE.

COL. A. M. HARE, 11TH IOWA,

COMMANDING.

* * * * *

ESTABLISHED BY GEN. OGLESBY,

MARCH 21, 1862.

See Also:

• Official Report of Col. Abraham M. Hare
• Supplemental Report of Col. A. M. Hare
• Official Report of Marcellus M. Crocker
• Iowa Colonels and Regiments: Abraham M. Hare
• Iowa Colonels and Regiments: Marcellus M. Crocker

Official Reports of the Battle of Shiloh: No. 9 – Lieut. Col. William Hall, 11th Iowa Infantry

No. 9.

Report of Lieut. Col. William Hall, Eleventh Iowa Infantry.

HDQRS. ELEVENTH REGIMENT IOWA VOLUNTEERS,

April 9, 1862.

SIR: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Eleventh Regiment Iowa Volunteers in the action of the 6th and 7th instant as follows:

At between 7 and 8 a.m. on the 6th instant I received orders from you to form my regiment, consisting of an aggregate of 750 officers and men, and march them in close column about 200 yards to the front and there await orders, which I did. In about half an hour I received orders from you to march about one-fourth of a mile to the left and there form as a reserve. On arriving at the place indicated I immediately deployed in line of battle. In a very few moments I received orders from Major-General McClernand to advance to the front, which I did at a double-quick for a distance of over a quarter of a mile, my right resting on a pond and supporting Dresser's battery, my left resting along a road and on another battery. I had scarcely got into position before the enemy appeared in force, and I opened fire immediately, throwing them into confusion. They soon reformed and opened on me a very destructive fire of musketry and artillery, which I sustained for nearly two hours, during which time my loss in killed and wounded was very severe. Major Abercrombie, who commanded the right wing and who rendered me the most gallant and efficient aid, here received a severe wound in the head, which necessitated his retiring from the field, remaining, however, during the time above mentioned. My horse was here shot under me, and I received while on foot a slight wound in my left ankle. A large force of the enemy appearing on my right and apparently endeavoring to turn it, I received orders to retire, which I did, forming about 100 yards from the left of the regimental parade ground with Companies A, B, C, E, G, H, and K, the left wing and Company C retiring in good order. Companies D, F, and I, while retiring, were exposed to a most galling fire of artillery and musketry, which swept the open space through which they had to go, and were thrown into confusion and did not form. I immediately received orders from Major-General McClernand to take my position about 50 yards in advance, where I remained under cover for a short time until the enemy approached quite close, when I fired and advanced at double-quick, driving them before me and capturing a standard from the enemy.

When about 50 yards in the rear of my position, when supporting Dresser's battery, in the morning, I received report from the commanders of companies that the men were out of ammunition, which fact I immediately reported to Major-General McClernand in person, and held my position until I was re-enforced, when I received orders from General McClernand to retire and procure ammunition. Before I issued the order to retire the troops ordered to occupy my ground broke in confusion, throwing my men into temporary disorder, but they rallied and formed at my camp, where I learned that my ammunition had been taken to the river half an hour before, and I could not learn, after repeated inquiries, where I could procure any, and the fire becoming very hot, I retired until I received ammunition, and was joined by part of Companies D, F, and I. While issuing ammunition I received orders from Major-General Grant to advance immediately, and ordering Companies B and C, who were armed with rifles and were then unable to procure cartridges of a suitable caliber, to remain until they procured them and rejoin the regiment, I immediately moved forward, taking the first road to the left, until I found a line, and formed on its right, opening fire on the enemy, where I remained until ordered to retire and form on the left of a battery of heavy guns placed behind corn sacks. I held that position until I received orders from General Grant to advance and deploy skirmishers and feel of the enemy. I advanced some hundred yards or more, deploying Company A, Captain Grant, with instructions to find the enemy, and remained until the batteries in my rear opened fire, when I returned to the rear of the batteries, and remained until ordered to advance and support a battery placed on the left of the heavy guns before mentioned. Here I detailed 12 men from Company G and ordered them to take charge of two 12-pounder howitzers which I found without officers or men, and which they used with good effect. I remained in this position until the enemy were repulsed and during the night.

On the morning of the 7th I received orders from General Grant to move out on the main road leading from the river and to take the first road leading to the left, and to advance until I found the line. After marching about a mile and a half I found a heavy gun which was playing upon the enemy. I immediately formed on its left in support and remained until ordered to move to the right and front, where I formed in line of battle, when I received orders from General Hurlbut to advance and deploy skirmishers to the left and front. I immediately advanced, deploying Company B to the left and Company A to the front. The firing after some time becoming more remote, I recalled my skirmishers and remained in line of battle until ordered to return to my camp.

With but few individual exceptions all my officers and men conducted themselves with the greatest gallantry. I make special mention of Capt. John C. Marven, of Company K, who rose from a sick bed, not having been able to do duty for ninety days.

Respectfully submitted.

 WILLIAM HALL,

 Lieutenant-Colonel Eleventh Regt. Iowa Volunteers, Comdg.

 Lieut. C. CADLE, Jr.,

A. A. A. G., First Brig., First Div., Army of the Tennessee.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume X (Serial No. 10), Part I, pages 130-1

John M. Wallace

JOHN M. WALLACE, a successful and enterprising farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section 36, Green Bay Township, was born January 8, 1833, in Ross County, Ohio. His parents, John and Jane (McCune) Wallace, had a family of six children – Sarah, Caroline, Mary, Elizabeth, John and Ellen. John M. was two years old when his parents removed with their family to Jasper County, Indiana, where the father died some six years later. After the father’s death the mother and her children settled in Cumberland, Pennsylvania. John M. Wallace was reared to maturity on a farm, receiving his education at the common schools. At the age of eighteen years he went to Clarke County, Ohio, remaining there three years, when he went to Knox County, Illinois. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company E., Eighty-third Illinois Infantry. He was at Fort Donelson, Fort Henry, Clarksville, and in the campaign from Nashville to Florence, Alabama. He was honorably discharged at Nashville, Tennessee, June 26, 1865, and mustered out of the service at Chicago, Illinois when he returned to Knox County, Illinois. He remained there till the fall of 1868, when he came to Clarke County, Iowa, locating in Green Bay Township, on the farm where he still resides. He has brought his land from a wild state into a well-improved farm, has erected a substantial residence, which is comfortably furnished throughout, and has good barns and out-buildings for the accommodation of his stock. His farm now contains 225 acres of choice land, under the best of cultivation, and he is numbered among the representative men of his township, where he has made his home for so many years. Mr. Wallace was married October 19, 1865, to Mrs. Priscilla (Westfall) Hall, of Knox County, Illinois, and to this union have been born five children – Frank C., John E., Jenny M., Harvey E. and Frederick E. (twins). Mrs. Wallace has two children by her first marriage – George W. and Ella S. In politics Mr. Wallace is a Republican. He has served efficiently as township trustee for two or three terms.

SOURCE: Biographical and Historical Record of Clarke County, Iowa, Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois, 1886 p. 338-9

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Tuesday, December 31, 1861

The boys are all preparing for New Year's Day celebration. Thus ends 1861.²

² The last day of 1861 found our regiment stationed as follows: Company K at Lookout Station, Companies B, G, K and H at California, Companies A, C, D, F and I at Fulton, all in the State of Missouri, and not far apart. They were all in winter quarters, occupying vacant store buildings. We saw some pretty hard service during the month of December, but only in the suffering by exposure to the cold weather. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 27