Col. A. M. Hare

COL. A. M. HARE, one of the pioneers of this county, and a resident of the city of Muscatine, was born near Columbus, Ohio, Nov. 13, 1811, and is a son of Jacob Hare, who was a native of Lancaster County, Pa., and served as a soldier under William Henry Harrison in the War of 1812.  He married Miss Mary Teeters, who was of Scotch parentage, but a resident of Highland County, Ohio, and in an early day they emigrated to Ross County, Ohio, the year the land came into market.  Mr. Hare subsequently removed to Franklin County, Ohio, locating on land near where the city of Columbus now stands. He also owned land situated within the present city limits. He was among the first who developed a farm in that county, where he resided many years. Mr. and Mrs. Hare were the parents of six sons and five daughters, of whom the following named survive: Jeremiah, who is a resident of Marysville, Cal.; A. M., of this sketch; Benjamin F., a resident of Columbus, Ohio; Nancy, who married a Mr. Bruce, and now resides in California; Susan, wife of William Parkins. The parents were both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and were honorable, upright people, highly respected by all. They both died in Franklin County, Ohio.

Col. Hare is one of the self-made men of this county. He did not have the educational advantages afforded by our present system of common schools, but on seeing the need of an education, when starting out in life, he purchased books, and by close application secured a fund of knowledge and information which many who have received good advantages may well envy. When fifteen years of age he went to Dayton, Ohio, and served an apprenticeship of three years to the trade of hatter, receiving only $40 per year and his board. In 1830 he left that city for London, Madison Co., Ohio, where he worked at his trade until the following spring, when he went to Virginia, but remained there only a short time, returning to London in July, 1831. He embarked in business for himself at that place, there following his chosen avocation for ten years, when he removed to Jefferson, a small village in the same county, where he again opened a shop, making hats for the people.

On the 20th of October, 1836, Mr. Hare was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Olmstead, who was born in Franklin County, Ohio. One child graced their union, Danforth, who now resides in Wayne County, Iowa. On the 26th of December, 1837, the wife and mother was called to her final rest, and the following year Mr. Hare came to Iowa to find a location, not wishing to stay in Ohio after his family was all broken up. Muscatine County was then a wild and unsettled wilderness, and he made no selection, but in 1841 he returned to this State and located permanently in Muscatine, where he embarked in the manufacture of hats. In 1844 Mr. Hare was again united in marriage, with Miss Emeline P. Austin, and to them were born two children who are yet living: Austin J., a resident of this county; and Ida, wife of Frank Warfield, who is living in Muscatine. The death of Mrs. Hare occurred Aug. 22, 1882. She was a consistent Christian lady, and belonged to the Congregational Church. While engaged in business in Muscatine Mr. Hare purchased his farm in Sweetland Township, which is known as the Sunnyside Stock Farm.

In the dark days of the Rebellion Gov. Kirkwood offered Mr. Hare a commission as Colonel of the 11th Iowa Infantry, which he accepted, and did much toward organizing the regiment, which was later mustered in at Davenport. They there remained for a short time, after which they were ordered to Benton Barracks, St. Louis, and were finally sent to Jefferson City, Mo., where the regiment was divided, some of its members being sent to California, Mo., and the remainder to Fulton, Callaway Co., Mo., remaining there during the winter looking after the guerrillas. In the spring the men were ordered to St. Louis, and from there were sent to Pittsburg Landing, taking a prominent part in that battle. The Colonel was assigned to a brigade under Gen. McClernand, having command of the 11th Iowa, the 13th Iowa, and the 8th and 18th Illinois Regiments. The Colonel displayed much tact and courage, and was complimented by Gen. McClernand for some of his movements. He was wounded in the hand and wrist, losing one finger, after which his health failed and he was compelled to resign.

SOURCE: Portrait and Biographical Album of Muscatine County, Iowa, Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois, 1889, p. 167-8

Senator John Sherman to Major General William T. Sherman, August 29, 1863

MANSFIELD, OHIO, Aug. 29, 1863.

Dear Brother:

I am very desirous to accept your invitation. The trip would be an instructive and pleasant one, and if I were not restrained by the interests of others I would surely go at once. But we are now involved in an exciting and important political contest. The canvass in Ohio is substantially between the Government and the Rebellion, and is assuming all the bitterness of such a step. If I should leave now, it would be like a General leaving before the day of battle. I have been speaking very often, and must keep it up. I propose, however, to arrange all my business so that I may leave soon after the election, say about the 20th of October, and will then go down the river and spend all the time until the meeting of Congress. I hope to be able to go via Vicksburg, New Orleans, Charleston, to Washington. If a favorable opportunity offers at Vicksburg and New Orleans, I wish to develop my ideas as to a reconstruction of the Union. I know these will suit you a good deal better than they will the administration, but I feel quite independent of the latter and am disposed to follow my own course. . . .

General Ord stopped with me last Sunday on his way East. We were all glad to see him, as he gave us many interesting details of your situation and operations. Your promotion as Brigadier in the Regular Army gave unusual satisfaction. I was in Dayton, Springfield, Marysville, and Stanton's¹ neighborhood and conversed with many about his attacks on you. I find he is terribly unpopular. Your recent success and his libels on you are the subject of general remarks. At one place I mentioned your name in connection with other Ohio Generals who have distinguished themselves, and the crowd stopped me and gave you three as hearty cheers as ever man got. . . .

Affectionately yours,

JOHN SHERMAN

__________

¹ Lieutenant-Governor Stanton, of Ohio.

SOURCE: Rachel Sherman Thorndike, Editor, The Sherman letters: correspondence between General and Senator Sherman from 1837 to 1891, p. 213-4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Thursday, April 17, 1862

The day is fair. Had battalion drill again.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 45

First Session -- 37th Congress

WASHINGTON, April 9. – HOUSE. – The house proceeded to the consideration of the Senate bill to increase the efficiency of the Medical Department of the army.  The debate involved the question of incorporating surgeons of the volunteers with the regular staff, thus giving a board for selection.  This was agreed to.  The bill as amended on the recommendation of the Military Committee was passed.

The bill to abolish slavery in the District of Columbia came up on its second reading, to which Mr. VALLANDIGHAM objected.  The question then recurred under the rule, shall the bill rejected, which was decided in the negative 45 against 93.  The bill was then referred to the Committee on the Hole on the state of the Union.

The Pacific Railroad bill was taken up.  Mr. PHELPS of California, spoke in its favor.  Mr. KELLEY also advocated the bill.  Adjourned.

SENATE. – Messrs. HOWARD, CHANDLER, SHERMAN and TRUMBULL presented petitions in favor of emancipation.

Mr. HOWE presented a memorial from the legislature of Wisconsin, for the establishment of a national armory and depot in that State.

The bill relating to fixing the salaries of District Attorneys was taken up and after discussion was passed, 20 to 19.

The Senate went into Executive session.

Adjourned.

WASHINGTON, April 10. – HOUSE. – Mr. VALLANDIGHAM, from the Committee on Public lands reported a substitute for the Senate joint resolution giving construction to the act of 1856, granting lands to Wisconsin for railroad purposes.  It authorizes a change of location so that the road may be constructed from Appleton to some point on Green Bay at or near the mouth of Fox river.  Passed.

Mr. ARNOLD introduced a resolution expressing gratitude to Almighty God for the glorious triumph of our arms over the rebels and traitors and recognizing the brilliant victories at Island No. 10 and at Pittsburgh Landing, the hand of that Divine Power which has so signally blessed us as a nation; that the gratitude of Congress are due to Com. Foote, Generals Pope, Grant, Buell and Halleck, to each and every gallant soldier, officer and sailor, for the gallantry, endurance and patriotic devotion to the country; their names shall always be cherished and honored by a grateful people.  While Congress honors the brave who escaped death, they would not forget the wounded and dead who fell in their country’s cause.  Congress extends it sympathy to the widows and children and promises relief.

Mr. PORTER, suggested that the name of Maj. Gen. Lew Wallace be added.

Mr. COX thought it proper to include General McClernand and the other officers.

Mr. RICHARDSON had anticipated this difficulty; it was usual to insert only the names of the commanding officers, as they could not embrace the names of all who distinguished themselves.

Mr. ARNOLD consented that the resolution should be referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

Mr. STEVENS from the committee on Ways and Means reported back the Senate amendment to the emancipation bill.

The House concurred in that appropriating thirteen millions to be expended under the direction of the Secretary of the Navy for the construction of iron clad vessels of war as a substitute for the original item.

SENATE. – Mr. Sumner presented a resolution from the Legislature of Massachusetts in approval of the resolutions in accordance with the President’s message in relations to emancipation.

Mr. LANE of Indiana presented a petition for the abolition of slavery in the States.  He said that the petitioners were asking what Congress had no power to grant, but that he was willing that citizens should be heard on the foolish requests.

Mr. WILSON gave notice that he should introduce a bill to amend the act approved in September, 1850, supplementary to the act respecting fugitives from justice and persons escaping from the service of their masters, approved February 12, 1793.

On motion of Mr. LATHAM, the bill to establish a line of steamships from San Francisco to ______ was taken up.  He spoke at length in favor of establishing such a line.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Good for Milwaukie

MILWAUKEE, April 9. – The Chamber of Commerce on the Governor’s recommendation held a meeting to-day for the relief of the wounded at Pittsburg Landing.  After subscribing liberally the doors were thrown open for the reception of hospital stores.  To-night the room is well filled and an agent of the Governor’s accompanied by surgeons will leave to-morrow to render all the aid possible for the comfort of [the wounded.]

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3.  The last two words were cut off when the newspaper was microfilmed.  The exact article appeared in the Burlington Daily Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Thursday, April 10, 1862 which I have used to reconstruct the missing text in this article.

Gen. Halleck to take the Field

ST. LOUIS, April 8. – In response to a serenade to-night, Gen. Halleck said that Beauregard with an immense army advanced from Corinth, and attacked the combined forces of Grant and Buell.  The battle began day before yesterday, and continued till late in the afternoon, with a terrible loss on both sides.  We have gained a complete victory, and driven the enemy within his fortifications.

He also announced his departure for the field [to-morrow morning.]

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3.  The last two words were cut off when the newspaper was microfilmed, the exact article also appeared in the Burlington Daily Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Thursday, April 10, 1862 and I have used that article to reconstruct the missing text.

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Wednesday, April 16, 1862

No news of importance.³

__________

³ There was much discussion among the men over the great battle we had just been through, the battle of Shiloh. The question why the Confederates lost the battle, I should answer as follows: First, they were four hours late in making the general attack on that Sunday morning. The Confederate generals, instead of sending some of their staff officers before daylight to spy out and report to the commanding general what they had seen (according to a report of H. C. Lockett of General Bragg's staff), should have had their first line of battle at the Union picket line by that time, and then charging our pickets and coming in upon the first camps, they could have captured them before they could have dressed; then pushing on to the other commands, they could have put them to rout before they could have formed a line of battle. But their being so late in making the first attack gave our commanders time to form into line. As it was, whenever the Confederates advanced our forces were in shape to fire volleys into them and easily throw them into confusion, thus making their advance slower and more irregular during the day.

In the second place, the Confederates starting four hours late in the morning made them more than six hours late in the afternoon, so in place of being ready to make their last charge of the day at 1 o’clock they did not make it until almost 7 o’clock in the evening. By that time it was too late, since the Union generals had formed a strong line of artillery, supported by all the infantry, who stood loyally by their colors. Then, just before the final charge, one brigade of Buell's army had already arrived and formed in line, and the day was forever lost to the Confederates. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 44-5

In The Review Queue: The Prairie Boys Go to War:

The Prairie Boys Go to War:

The Fifth Illinois Cavalry, 1861-1865

By Rhonda M. Kohl

Cavalry units from Midwestern states remain largely absent from Civil War literature, and what little has been written largely overlooks the individual men who served. The Fifth Illinois Cavalry has thus remained obscure despite participating in some of the most important campaigns in Arkansas and Mississippi. In this pioneering examination of that understudied regiment, Rhonda M. Kohl offers the only modern, comprehensive analysis of a southern Illinois regiment during the Civil War and combines well-documented military history with a cultural analysis of the men who served in the Fifth Illinois.

The regiment’s history unfolds around major events in the Western Theater from 1861 to September 1865, including campaigns at Helena, Vicksburg, Jackson, and Meridian, as well as numerous little-known skirmishes. Although they were led almost exclusively by Northern-born Republicans, the majority of the soldiers in the Fifth Illinois remained Democrats. As Kohl demonstrates, politics, economics, education, social values, and racism separated the line officers from the common soldiers, and the internal friction caused by these cultural disparities led to poor leadership, low morale, disciplinary problems, and rampant alcoholism.

The narrative pulls the Fifth Illinois out of historical oblivion, elucidating the highs and lows of the soldiers’ service as well as their changing attitudes toward war goals, religion, liberty, commanding generals, Copperheads, and alcoholism. By reconstructing the cultural context of Fifth Illinois soldiers, Prairie Boys Go to War reveals how social and economic traditions can shape the wartime experience.

About the Author

Rhonda M. Kohl is a historian and writer in Jeffersonville, Indiana. Her articles have appeared in the Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society, Arkansas Historical Quarterly, Civil War History, and Illinois Historical Journal.

ISBN 978-0809332038, Southern Illinois University Press, © 2013, Hardcover, 328 pages, Photographs, Maps, End Notes, Bibliography & Index. $39.95.  To purchase a copy of this book click HERE. Show more

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From Fortress Monore

BALTIMORE, April 9. – The Old Point boat has arrived.  She left Ft. Monroe about eight o’clock last night.

The Merrimac is confidently expected with seven other gunboats on the first favorable day.

Weather cold and foggy.

The latest news from Yorktown by telegraph, 8th, is that everything is progressing satisfactorily.  A battle is not expected within a day or two.

The American’s special correspondence says:  The storm which arose on Monday afternoon and continued through to-day doubtless prevented the Merrimac coming out as she intended.  She is now looked for confidently as soon as the weather permits.

A gentleman who was on board the steamer Rancorous when she went up with a flag of truce on Monday, says the Merrimac was then lying off Craney Island.  The Yorktown, Jamestown, Teazer and four steam tugs were in company with her – all under steam.  No particular change in the appearance of the Merrimac was noticed.

It was the impression of those on onboard the Rancorous that the whole fleet were on their way down with the flag of truce appeared.

The storm must have been severely felt in the army now advancing up the Peninsula, deprived as they are to a great extent of shelter and tents, and exposed to a constant watchfulness in the face of the foe.  Their discipline, none too good before, will be brought to a poor condition and the public must not be impatient in expecting early results in this direction.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

From Gen. McClellan’s Army

WASHINGTON, April 8. – The following is a summary of intelligence received by the War Department up to 10 o’clock Monday night, of the operations at Yorktown and Fortress Monroe:

“Yesterday the enemy’s works were carefully examined by Gen. McClellan and found to be very strong and the approaches difficult.  The enemy was in force, and the water batteries at Yorktown and Gloucester were said to be much increased.

“There was sharp firing on the right, but no harm done.  Our forces were receiving supplies from Ship Point, repairing roads, and getting up long trains.  It seemed plain that mortars and siege guns must be used for assaulting.”

Another dispatch, received at 10:30 this morning, states that Yorktown will fall, but not without a siege of two or three days.  Some of the outer works have been taken.

A dispatch from Gen. Wool states that Magruder had 30,000 men at Yorktown.

On the afternoon of Sunday, Ship Point had been taken and our gunboats had shelled out the batteries.

There was considerable delay caused in crossing Deep Creek, at Warwick Court House, and resistance was made by the rebels, during which time several casualties occurred on our side.

All the fortified places of importance before Yorktown had been taken at every point.

A further account is contained in the following dispatch:

“Before YORKTOWN, Saturday evening.

“Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, Sec’y of War:

“That portion of the army of the Potomac recently concentrated at Old Point advanced yesterday morning in the direction of Yorktown, fourteen miles distant.  The right was assigned to Gen. Morrill’s Brigade of Gen. Porter’s Division, two companies of the Third Pennsylvania Cavalry and a portion of Berdan’s Sharpshooters acting as skirmishers.

“Nothing of interest took place until their arrival at Big Bethel, twelve miles distant, where they met the outer pickets of the rebels.  The troops were delayed here two hours, constructing a bridge which had been destroyed.

The rebels retreated before the advance of our skirmishers to Howard’s Creek, where they had some abandoned earth-works.  Shots were fired here by the rebels from two field pieces which were soon silenced by the 4th Rhode Island Battery, when the rebels beat a hasty retreat, taking their pieces with them.  The main body of the army rested here for the night, while Morrill’s Brigade advanced three miles to Cuckleville, six miles from Yorktown.  By 7 o’clock this (Saturday) morning, the column was again in motion, and by 10 o’clock was in front of the enemy’s works at Yorktown.

The first shot fired was by the rebels, the shell passing over the heads of Gen. Porter and Staff without exploding.  The batteries of Griffin and the Third and Fourth Rhode Island and 5th Massachusetts were placed in position, replying at every spot from which shot were sent by the rebels.

The position of the rebels is a strong one. – From present indications extend some two miles in length, and mount very heavy guns.  The ground in front of their guns is low and swampy.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Tuesday, April 15, 1862

There’s nothing of importance.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 44

Suspended

LOUISVILLE, April 8. – The Nashville Patriot of this morning says: Gov. Andy Johnson has suspended the Mayor, Aldermen and Councilmen of Nashville who refused to take the oath of allegiance, by filling their places with loyal appointees.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Reception of the News at Washington

WASHINGTON, April 9. – The synopsis of the newspaper reports of the Tennessee battle was read both in the Senate and House.  It was listened too with unusual interest.  In the latter branch there was some slight applause which suddenly ceased.

The latest dispatch from Com. Foote was also read and this was enthusiastically received in the House.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Report of Com. Foote

WASHINGTON, April 9. – The following was received at the Navy Department, this morning:

“Flag Ship BENTON, Island No. 10,

April 8, 1862.

“To Hon. G. Wells [sic] Sec’y of Navy

“I have to inform the Department that since I sent the telegram last night, announcing the surrender to me, of Island No. 10, possession has been taken both of the Island and the works upon the Tennessee shore, by the Gunboats and the troops under command of General Buford. – Seventeen officers & 368 privates, besides on hundred of their sick, and one hundred men employed on board the transports, are in our hands unconditional prisoners of war.

I have caused a hasty examination to be made of the forts, batteries and munitions of war captured.  There are 11 earth works, with 70 heavy cannon, varying in caliber from 32 to 100-pounders, rifled.  Their magazines are well supplied with powder, and there are large quantities of shot and shell and other munitions of war and also great quantities of provisions, four steamers afloat, have fallen into our hands and two others, with the rebel gunboat “Grampus,” are sunk, but will be easily raised.  The floating battery of 16 heavy guns, turned adrift by the rebels, is said to by lying on the Missouri shore, near New Madrid.

The enemy upon the main land appear to have fled with great precipitation, after night, leaving many instances, half prepared messes, in their quarters, and there seems to have been no concert of action between the rebels upon the Island and those occupying the shore, but the latter fled, leaving the former to their fate.

These works, erected with the highest engineering skill are of great strength, and with the natural advantages would have been impregnable if defended by men fighting in a better cause.

A combined attack of the naval and land forces would have taken place this p. m., or to-morrow morning, had not the rebels so hastily abandoned their stronghold to mature the plans of attack, which absolutely required 23 days of preparation.

Gen. Pope is momentarily expected to arrive with his army at this point, he having successfully crossed the river yesterday under a heavy fire, which no doubt led to the hasty abandonment of the works.

I am unofficially informed that the two gunboats which so gallantly ran the fire of the rebel batteries a few nights since, yesterday attacked and reduced a part of the works opposite, dismounting eight heavy guns.

The following is a copy of an order of Gen. McCall on assuming command of the Rebel forces on the 11th inst.

Soldiers:  We are strangers, Commander and commanded, each to the other.  Let me tell you who I am.  I am a General made by Beauregard.  A General selected by Beauregard and Bragg for this command when they knew it was in peril.  They have known me for twenty years.  We have stood together on the fields of Mexico.  Give me then, your confidence.  Soldiers, the Mississippi Valley is entrusted to your care.  Exhibit the vigilance and coolness of last night and hold it.

(Signed.)

W. D. McCALL,

Brig. Gen. Commanding.

I regret that the painful condition of my feet, still requiring the use of crutches, prevented me from making a personal examination of the works.  I was therefore compelled to delegate Lieutenant Commanding Phelps of the Flag Ship Benton.

(Signed.)

A. H. FOOTE,

Flag Officer Commanding.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Monday, April 14, 1862

We had inspection of arms this forenoon. Most of the boys in our company picked up rifles from the battlefield and got better rifles than they had. But it makes it quite difficult for the quartermaster to supply the extra ammunition required for the different kinds of rifles. The weather is quite warm.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 44

Major General William T. Sherman to Senator John Sherman, August 3, 1863

CAMP ON BIG BLACK,

18 miles from Vicksburg,

 Aug. 3, 1863

Dear Brother:

You and I may differ in our premises, but will agree in our conclusions. A government resting immediately on the caprice of a people is too unstable to last. The will of the people is the ultimate appeal, but the Constitution, laws of Congress, and regulations of the executive departments subject to the decisions of the Supreme Court are the laws which all must obey without stopping to inquire why. All must obey. Government, that is, the executive, having no discretion but to execute the law, must be to that extent despotic. If this be our Government, it is the “best on earth” — but if the people of localities can bias and twist the law or execution of it to suit their local prejudices, then our Government is the worst on earth. If you look back only two years, you will see the application. There are about six millions of men in this country all thinking themselves sovereign and qualified to govern. Some thirty-four governors of States who feel like petty kings, and about ten thousand editors who presume to dictate to generals, presidents, and cabinets. I treat all these as nothing, but when a case arises I simply ask: Where is the law? Supposing the pilot of a ship should steer his vessel according to the opinion of every fellow who watched the clouds above or the currents below, where would his ship land? No, the pilot has before him a little needle; he watches that, and he never errs. So if we make that our simple code, the law of the land must and shall be executed; no matter what the consequences, we cannot err. Hundreds and thousands may honestly differ as to what the law should be, but it is rarely the case; but all men of ordinary understanding can tell what the law is. We have for years been drifting towards an unadulterated democracy or demagogism, and its signs were manifest in Mob Laws and Vigilance Committees all over our country. And States and towns and mere squads of men took upon themselves to set aside the Constitution and laws of Congress and substitute therefor their own opinions. I saw it, and tried to resist it in California, but always the General Government yielded to the pressure. I say that our Government, judged by its conduct as a whole, paved the way for rebellion. The South that lived on slavery saw the United States yield to abolition pressure at the North, to pro-slavery pressure at the South, to the miners of California, the rowdies of Baltimore, and to the people everywhere. They paved the way to this rebellion. The people of the South were assured that, so far from resisting an attempt to set up an independent Government of homogeneous interests, the United States would give in and yield. They appealed to precedents, and proved it, and I confess I had seen so much of it that I doubted whether our Government would not yield to the pressure, and die a natural death. But I confess my agreeable surprise. Though full of corruption and base materials, our country is a majestic one, full of natural wealth and good people. They have risen not in full majesty, but enough to give all hopes of vitality. Our progress has been as rapid as any philosopher could ask. The resources of the land in money, in men, in provisions, in forage, and in intelligence, has surprised us all, and we have had as much success as could be hoped for. The Mississippi is now ours, not by commission but by right, by the right of manly power. . . . No great interest in our land has risen superior to Government, and I deem it fortunate that no man has risen to dictate terms to all. Better as it is. Lincoln is but the last of the old school Presidents, the index (mathematically) of one stage of our national existence. . . . Our Government should become a machine, self-regulating, independent of the man. . . .

As to the press of America, it is a shame and a reproach to a civilized people. . . . I begin to feel a high opinion of myself that I am their butt; I shall begin to suspect myself of being in a decline when a compliment appears in type. I know in what estimation I am held by my press, — those who have been with me all the time, — and they are capable to judge, from private to major-generals. I saw a move to bring Grant and myself East. No they don't. . . .

We will be in Mobile in October and Georgia by Christmas if required. . . .

I see much of the people here — men of heretofore high repute. The fall of Vicksburg has had a powerful effect. They are subjugated. I even am amazed at the effect; we are actually feeding the people. . . .

Grant and wife visited me in camp yesterday. I have the handsomest camp I ever saw, and should really be glad to have visitors come down. I don't think a shot will be fired at a boat till Jeff Davis can call his friends about him and agree upon the next campaign. I want recruits and conscripts, and shall be all ready in October.

As ever, your brother,

W. T. SHERMAN.

SOURCE: Rachel Sherman Thorndike, Editor, The Sherman letters: correspondence between General and Senator Sherman from 1837 to 1891, p. 211-3

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Sunday, April 13, 1862

It is clear and warm today. We had battalion drill again, twice today. Not more than two hundred of the regiment are fit for duty. Major Abercrombie, who drilled us, gave us a lecture about getting out to drill. He assured us that the battle we just had would be classed as a skirmish in comparison with what we would have to go through with before this war is over. The boys declared that if he called this battle a skirmish, they would like to know what he called a real battle.²

__________

² Major Abercrombie's words were quite true, as we found out later by experience. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 44

Official War Bulletin

WAR DEPARTMENT

WASHINGTON, April 9, 1862.

Order giving thanks for recent treat victories over the rebels and traitors:

FIRST. – That the meridian of Sunday next, after the reception of this order, at the head of every regiment in the army of the Unites States, there shall be offered by its Chaplain, a prayer, giving thanks to the Lord of Hosts, for the recent manifestations of His power, in the overthrow of the rebels and traitors, and invoking the continuance of His aid in delivering the nation by the arms of patriotic soldiers, from the horrors of treason and rebellion and civil war.

SECOND. – That the tanks and congratulations of the War Department are rendered to Major General Halleck, for the signal ability and success, that have distinguished all the military operations of his department, and for the support and courage manifested by the army under his command, under every hardship and against every odds in attacking, pursuing and destroying the enemy wherever he could be found.

THIRD. – That the thanks of the Department are also given to Generals Curtis and Sigel and the officers and soldiers in their command for their gallantry at the bloody battle of Pea Ridge and to Major Generals Grant and Buell and their forces for the glorious repulse of Beauregard at Pittsburg, Tennessee; and to Major General Pope and his officers and soldiers for the bravery and skill displayed in their operations against the rebels and traitors entrenched at Island No. 10 in the Mississippi river.

FOURTH. – That there shall be a salute of one hundred guns from the U. S. Arsenal at Washington in honor of these great victories.

(Signed.)

E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Gen. Halleck to Gen. Pope

NEW MADRID, April 8. – The following message was sent by Gen. Halleck to Gen. Pope at New Madrid this evening on receipt of the news of the glorious victory resulting in the evacuation of Island No. 10 and capture of nearly all of the army of the enemy.

HEADQUARTERS, ST. LOUIS, April 8.

To General Pope:

I congratulate you and your command on your splendid achievement.  It exceeds in and brilliancy all other operations of the war.  It will be honored by future generations.  You deserve well of your country.

(Signed.)

H. W. HALLECK,

Major General.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Saturday, April 12, 1862

It is still raining every hour and the floors of our tents are very wet.¹ Our camp has become very muddy, which, with constant rain and the braying of mules day and night, makes it a very gloomy time.

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¹ We had not yet learned how to take care of our health, for in place of raising our tents from the ground and building our bunks about eighteen inches high, as we did in later camps, we just laid down our rubber ponchos on the bare ground, covered this with a blanket, then lay down with another blanket for a cover. Our bedding thus was often damp, and it is no wonder that so many of the boys became subject to fevers and rheumatism. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 44

Senator John Sherman to Major General William T. Sherman, August 3, 1863

MANSFIELD, OHIO, Aug. 3, 1863.

My Dear Brother:

Your letter dated July 19, at Jackson, is received. What you say about the injustice of the press was undoubtedly true a month ago, but it is true no longer. Since the fall of Vicksburg each of the officers named by you has been very highly lauded, and that by all parties and papers. With you it has been especially laudatory. Even your old enemy, the Cincinnati “Gazette,” has in several recent numbers spoken of you in very complimentary terms, and without any apparent recollection that it has [libeled] you for months. With the officers of the army you stand very high. Indeed it is now unnecessary for you to care for defenders. I will think of your proposition to visit Vicksburg, and will probably do so this fall. At present I am involved in the political canvass now going on in Ohio, but shall not be long. My position does not require me to take a very active part. . . .

Affectionately yours,

JOHN SHERMAN

SOURCE: Rachel Sherman Thorndike, Editor, The Sherman letters: correspondence between General and Senator Sherman from 1837 to 1891, p. 210

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Friday, April 11, 1862

It rained all day. Troops have been arriving by the thousands every day since Sunday.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 44

Particulars of the Surrender at Island No. 10

CAIRO, April 8, 8 p.m. – I have been able to gather a few more particulars from Island No. 10.  Four hundred and seventy-eight prisoners, including seventeen officers, seventy pieces of artillery, a large amount of ammunition, muskets and small arms, were captured on the Island.  It is said our mortar shells proved very destructive; wherever they struck and exploded, great execution was made in the earth.

It is reported that the Confederates had become perfectly demoralized; in many cases entire regiments would refuse to obey orders. – Much ill feeling prevailed among the officers and none, including the soldiers, had any confidence in their commanding officer.

No farther information has been obtained in reference to the number of prisoners captured on the Tennessee shore, and it will be impossible to get anything further before morning.

Much excitement prevails here over the news of the battle at Pittsburgh.  It is regarded as most fortunate that Gen. Buell came up as he did, with one Division to reinforce Gen. Grant.  It evidently was the expectation of Beauregard to fight the battle before Gen. Buell could form a junction with Gen. Grant.

We hope to get further particulars to-morrow.

At one o’clock, last night a boat came to the flag-ship with a messenger carrying a letter from the commanding officer at Island No. 10 to Flag Officer Foote, proposing capitulation for the surrender of the Island.  Flag Officer Foot replied that he would accept no other terms than an unconditional surrender.  At one o’clock this morning the enemy surrendered unconditionally to Com. Foote.  Several transports and it is supposed one or two gunboats, the celebrated floating battery, cannon, ammunition and stores have thus fallen into our hands.  Too much praise cannot be awarded to the Flag Officer and the gallant officers under his command for this brilliant achievement in capturing the Gibraltar of the Mississippi river, without the loss of a single life.  We have no information at this time as to details, but it is supposed that most of the rebel troops on the Tennessee shore have effected their escape.  It is supposed they commenced leaving soon after the Carondolet succeeded in turning their batteries, as that destroyed all hope of their maintaining their position.  Fleet Captain Hennock, who has achieved wonders in fitting out and repairing gunboats and transports, and furnishing supplies to the fleet, ahs reason to believe that our mortars did terrible execution among the rebels.  It is reported that Gen. Pope had 18,000 troops across the river from New Madrid last night, ready to march and bag the enemy but is believe that he was too late.

Boats commenced running to New Madrid to-day.  The river has fallen four feet within the last two days, greatly facilitating the operations of Gen. Pope opposite New Madrid.

Hon. Jesse Dubois is here en route for the Upper Tennessee.

Hon. Emerson Etheridge has telegraphed to three hundred citizens of Bourbon county, Tennessee, driven out by the rebel troops, to come down and return with him.  They will probably leave to-morrow.

Reliable reports from Jeff. Thompson a week ago place him in the swamps, some eighty miles from here, with a few hundred marauders.  Several men who have heretofore been in his army from the vicinity of Charleston, eight miles from here, in Missouri, have petitioned Gen. Strong for privilege to take the oath and return to their allegiance.  The General authorized the County Clerk, a good Union man, to take and administer the oath.

Dr. Simpson, of the Medical Department leaves this evening for the Tennessee with two large hospital boats most completely fitted out under direction of J. E. Yeatman, Esq., of the St. Louis Sanitary Commission.  They contain 800 beds for the wounded.  The hospitals here have accommodations for 1,400.

Dispatches from New Madrid have been received.  The gunboats Carondelet and Pittsburg, yesterday morning shelled and silenced the batteries on the opposite shore, when Gen. Pope ordered the troops across.  It was effected without loss.

The rebels fled towards Lisbon sinking several of their transports, among others the Grampus.

The floating battery of the rebels, mounting ten guns, drifted down last night, and is aground near Point Pleasant.  It will be recovered with its armament.

The Belle West covered Gen. Paine in the advance on the batteries.

Gen. Pope at once took the Pittsburg and Carondelet, and with a part of his army, turned to and attacked the enemy this morning, and took 2,000 prisoners, mostly from Arkansas and Louisiana.  He will probably get as many more before night.

The rebels fled to the swamps in great consternation.

The victory is complete and decisive.  Great quantities of stores, cannon, and ammunition have fallen into our hands.  All their baggage and supplies are taken.

Gen. McCall, of the rebel Adjutant General’s department, is a prisoner.

The country between New Madrid and Island No. 10, on the east side of the river, is being scoured by our troops.  Many prisoners will doubtless be taken there.

Gen. Bissell, with his transports, is ordered down to Tipton by Gen. Pope, which is twelve miles below New Madrid, to bring cannon and other property up to New Madrid.

Divisions of our army are pursuing the fleeing rebels in all directions.  Their entire force at and about Island No. 10, is either taken prisoners or utterly routed and demoralized.

Hon. Emerson Etheridge has just arrived from Paducah.  To him the news of our success is especially gratifying.  His residence is thirty-five miles south of Hickman.  Gen. Strong will send an escort with him to his home to insure his safety.  Thousands of his former friends will great his arrival with a glorious welcome.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Thursday, April 10, 1862

We are still burying the dead. The lieutenant of Company F was buried today. Nearly all of the dead have been buried now, but there are some of the wounded still dying. I was detailed with two others to bury three of the rebels’ dead. We went out about a half mile north of the camp to a stony knoll where one body lay, and worked all forenoon, the ground being so hard and stony, to dig even a shallow grave into which we rolled the body and covered it the best we could. In the afternoon we dug a double grave for two who had died of mortal wounds.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 43-4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Wednesday, April 9, 1862

Fifteen hundred more of our troops arrived. We are still burying the dead. It rained again today. The ground is so thoroughly soaked that it is difficult to dig the graves deep enough and keep out the water. We bury our dead by companies, all of one company in one grave, and if only one of a company is killed, the body is placed in a grave by itself. The bodies of the rebels’ dead are placed side by side in long graves. The carcasses of horses are removed by burning them.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 43

From Washington

NEW YORK, April 8. – The New York Tribune’s correspondent, writing under date of Washington, April 7, says:

We learn from the Richmond Examiner that Trusten Polk and Waldo P. Johnson, who were expelled from the United States Senate, are both in Gen. Price’s army.

The Richmond Examiner learns that the rebel House of Representatives have decided, by a vote in secret session, to repeal the tariff, and establish free trade with all countries except the United States.  There are said to have been only seventeen votes against the proposition.

The slaves of James M. Mason have decamped from Winchester in a body, and made their way to Philadelphia.  It is currently reported also that one of Mr. Mason’s daughters has become hopelessly insane in consequence of the serious family misfortunes.

A dispatch, April 7th, to the New York World states:  A correspondent of the Philadelphia Inquirer arrived to-day from the Rappahannock.  He reports all quiet along the lines of our advance guard having reached there.  The rebels have destroyed the magnificent bridge over the river, and the smaller bridges along the route.  No signs of the enemy are observed on the opposite bank of the river, although they are supposed to be lurking behind the hills.

Scouting parties of rebel cavalry are said to be roaming over the country, plundering and destroying all property within their reach.  It is thought that they consist of organized bodies of the farmers of the vicinity.

The Herald’s dispatch says:  The committee of nine on the emancipation question will probably consist of Messrs. White, of Indiana; Lovejoy, of Illinois; Bingham, of Ohio; Roscoe Conkling, of New York; Pike of Maine; Allen of Massachusetts; Edwards of New Hampshire; Kellogg of Michigan, and Hickman of Pennsylvania.

General Sickles has been relieved from command of the Excelsior Brigade, by order of Gen. Hooker, commanding the division, on account of the rejection by the Senate of his nomination as Brigadier General.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

From the Gulf

NEW YORK, April 8. – A ship Island letter of the 24th ult., reports the arrival of Gen. Butler on the 20th.

A rebel fleet of seven gunboats made their appearance in Mobile Bay.

The U. S. gunboat, Santiago de Cuba chased a steamer laden with cotton, ashore on the coast of Louisiana, and there a shell into her, burning her to the water’s edge.

The schooner Grace E. Baker, with 130 bales of cotton, &c., from New Orleans for Havana, was captured by the gunboat R. R. Cuyler.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

The War in North Missouri

QUINCY, Ill., April 8. – Col. Glover has at least commenced meting out justice to the North Missouri rebels.  We learn from reliable authority that a man named Jones, whom he arrested last summer in Monroe county, and released upon his taking the oath was again arrested by him about two weeks since in violation of his parole.  He was brought to Shelbyville, and last Thursday was shot by the Colonel’s order.

A portion of Capt. Benjamin’s company, attached to Col. Glover’s regiment, while out on a scout near Walkersville, Shelby county, were fired upon by a party of bushwhackers concealed in a thicket, killing two soldiers and a citizen of that county who happened to be riding with them.  They returned the fire and charged upon the seceshers, who skedaddled, leaving three of their number dead upon the ground.  They did not take any prisoners, that game being about played out, rebel oaths thus far having proved poor property.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Tuesday, April 8, 1862

We formed a line of battle early this morning and remained in line about two hours.¹ So many men throughout the camp were firing off their loaded rifles, preparing to clean them, that the officers thought a battle was in progress out in front. About 9 o'clock word came in from the front that there was no rebel in sight, and we were ordered back to our quarters. We spent the day in burying the dead, both our own and those of the rebels.

Our battle line had been at the south end of Jones’ Field, where a few days before we had cleared the timber for a review ground. This place was fought over so often by both armies and the dead lay so close that one could walk on dead bodies for some distance without touching the ground. There were over three thousand five hundred dead on the battlefield, and something like five hundred dead horses. Seven hundred bodies of the rebels were put into one grave. It is an awful sight to see the dead lying all about. It rained this forenoon, but cleared off this afternoon. The heavy rains have soaked the ground, making it very muddy. About five thousand of our forces arrived today.

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¹ It has been said by some that from General Grant down to the commonest private in the ranks of the entire Army of the Tennessee, all the men cared for on Monday afternoon, the second day of the battle of Shiloh, was to get back to their camps. I cannot believe the statement, for on Tuesday, the 8th, when we were ordered into line of battle, on that gloomy, rainy morning, and a cold wind blowing from the northwest, I know by the sentiment of the boys in my own company, that they would have gone to the front then if ordered to do so. We felt that the loss in our company was too great not to follow up the victory. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 43

Fire

FREEPORT, Ill., April 10. – The grocery store owned by A. H. Altemirer, on Galena street, was destroyed by fire last night.  Goods mostly saved.  Loss about $3,000.  No insurance.  Work of an incendiary.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Died

At her residence near Dodgeville, on the 6th inst., Mrs. JERUSHA JACKSON, in the 67th year of her age.

Mrs. Jackson was an old, well-known and highly respected resident of Des Moines County.  An exemplary member of the M. E. Church, she lived life and died the death of a Christian.

March 28th, at Quincy, Adams Co., Iowa, BENJAMIN NEAL, of Typhoid Fever, aged 58 years.  He was one of the first settlers in the County, and was not only well known by highly respected.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 2

Married

In this city on the 8th inst., by Rev. W. Salter, Mr. HENRY L. DODGE to Miss LILA J. HASKELL, daughter of Mr. Daniel Haskell.

On the 6th inst., by Rev. A. S. Prather, Mr. JESSE WALKER and Miss MARIA CHRISINGER, both of this county.

On the 23d of March, by Wm. Vance, and the residents of the bride’s mother, Mr. FRANCIS BARCLAY and Miss RACHEL KINT, all of Des Moines County.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 2

Hog Packing in Cincinnati

The Cincinnati Price Current furnishes the following statement of the hog packing in that city:

Having obtained a report of the business done at each of the pork-packing establishments, we are now able to give the exact number of hogs packed, which is less than we had supposed, for, owing to the large number of hogs which were received by wagon, we did suppose the packers’ reports would have over run the number of our receipts, as we gathered them from week to week during the season.  We presume that the increase of wagon hogs was taken by butchers for city use, there being but a light supply of slop-fatted, as compared with other years, so that instead of the packers’ report overrunning ours, it does not come up to it by over 10,000 head.

In our paper of the 12th of February we published our last weekly report of receipts, giving the aggregate up to that date, 484,408.  The number packed, the average weight and yield of lard per hog, past and the previous season, compare as follows:

No. Packed		Av. Weight		Yield of Lard
1860 -	1,488,799	221	5-35	38	9-16
1861 -	2,478,267	224	23-34	29	4-18

We did not obtain the yield of lard from all the packers, but got the average weight from all but three.  The above figures, however, as regards the yield of lard, are probably as accurate as necessary.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 2

The Capture of the Skidaway Batteries

U. S. STEAMER SEMINOLE,

WARSAW SOUND, GA., March 25.

ATTACK AND LANDING.

To-day at 12 M., signal was made by the senior captain, John P. Gillis, commanding the Warsaw squadron, for the vessels in the harbor, consisting of the Wyandotte, Norwich and Seminole to get under way.  The Norwich drawing the least water, Captain Gillis boarded her and led the way in the line of battle, and stood up Wilmington river to attack the batteries at Skidaway Island, which have been building for some time.  All hands in the squadron were delighted at the prospect, particularly after having arrived again at Warsaw from our bloodless victory at Cumberland Sound, and the hope of a little work before us animated both officers and crew of these noble ships.

When we arrived within a mile of the batteries, the Norwich fired a shell from her Parrott gun into a body of cavalry that were seen near them.  The horsemen curvetted about in utter confusion and fled.  Proceeding up a quarter of a mile further, the Norwich sent the rebels a couple more shells into their encampment, that was a little back in the woods, which routed them all out.  As they did not seem inclined to return our fire we drew up quietly in front of the battery and let them have a broadside, which cleared them all out, and keeping up a raking fire upon them on their retreat, our boats were manned and formal possession taken of the fort, the flag being planted on the highest rampart by Capt. Gillis in person.

THE STARS AND STIPES HOISTED OVER THE REBEL HEADQUARTERS.

Acting master Steel, with a picket of eight or ten men, then went to the rebel headquarters, tore down the dirty Secession dishcloth flying there, and nailed the glorious old gridiron – the Stars and Stripes – to the staff in its place, never to be removed, amid salvoes of musketry.  The rebels left everything behind them in their haste to get away, even to their dinners, which were still cooking over a hot fire.

Captain Gillis then ordered all the works of the enemy to be destroyed, as we had not troops with us to hold them, and accordingly they were fired.  The sight was beautiful – the flames bursting  forth in every part, utterly destroying everything.  All the flatboats, scows and other means of transport, belonging to the enemy, were also destroyed; but the private property and buildings were humanely spared by order of Captain Gillis, although after we left, the rebels, fearing our occupation, themselves destroyed them. – During the destruction of the works the enemy fired on us from behind the trees in a wood three quarters of a mile distant, but killed no one.  One of our men was slightly wounded by a minie ball passing between his legs and grazing the flesh on the inner side of his thigh.  During the fire of the enemy our men displayed great coolness and bravery.  Captain Duncan should be especially mentioned for his coolness, courage and energy in the destruction of the works amid the fire of the enemy.

DESCRIPTION OF THE BATTERIES.

The works on Skidaway island extend for about half a mile along the Wilmington river, and are built well and very powerfully.  Had the enemy remained and fought, our quadroon would have had much trouble; but hour gunboats seem to strike terror into them at every approach, and their only resource is ignominious flight.  The success of the achievement was great, more on account of its dash and daring, and shows what our noble sailors will do when led by a brave commander.  The channel of Wilmington river, as well as Skidaway island, is now thrown into our hands.  Our glorious cause is still blessed under our arms victorious.

SAVANNAH IN A “BAD WAY.”

After the complete destruction of all their works, that had taken three months for the rebels to put up, the squadron returned to its former anchorage.  Yesterday we took a prisoner, who for some time was sullen and would not answer questions, but he finally came around and told us “Savannah was in a bad way, and was short of provisions.”  By a Savannah paper that he gave us, we learned that they were trying to raise money to build a ram, for the destruction  of Capt. Gillis’ squadron at Warsaw.  This prisoner was taken in a small boat, trying to run the blockade to Fort Pulaski – it is supposed with a mail, but the letters were thrown overboard when he was taken.  From this quarter there is no further military news.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 2

British Iron Tower Ship

We learn from our foreign exchanges that experimental firing has recently been conducted at Portsmouth with Captain Cole’s cupola vessel, having two 100 pounders placed in a tower and firing at a target.  The two 100-pounders were fired singly and together and in quick firing six rounds were fired in as many minutes.  The concussion from the discharge of the guns was but trifling, and was, in fact found to be greater outside the shield than within it.  The smoke cleared off as effectually and the guns, with their carriages, worked with the greatest facility.  The shield ship which is proposed to build on this plan will have no masts, and when afloat will show to the view above her deck merely her funnel and the tops of her shields.  Cleared for action, the ship’s bulwarks are thrown down all around here, level with the upper deck, along the center of which are ranged her cupola shields, resembling gigantic inverted teasaucers, each containing two 100-pounder Armstrongs of 88 cwt.  These shields rest upon towers, which are sunk through the upper deck, and are fixed on a turntable on the deck below, which revolves with the guns, shields and men, as may be required.  The hight [sic] of the shield from the upper deck will be about five feet, which will be but a small object for an enemy to fire at; shot can only strike it at an angle of 45 deg.  The muzzle of the guns will be 9 feet 6 inches from the water.  The sides of the vessel will be covered with armor plating.  The shield ship will be 2,500 tuns measurement, and her estimated cost is, as far as can be ascertained at present, $900,000.  Her draught of water is to be 20 feet, and her speed 12½ knots.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Monday, April 7, 1862

It rained all night. The battle was renewed this morning at 6 o’clock, by our forces under General Buell. The Eleventh Iowa formed and marched forward with parts of broken regiments, in support of the left center of Buell’s army, whenever needed. It was very trying for us thus to stand in line of battle, shells exploding over our heads and cutting off limbs of trees, spent minie balls flying all about us, yet not being able to get into action, because of the line of battle just in front of us. The rebels were fighting desperately, but falling back all the while with great slaughter of men. About 3 p. m. the rebels in front of us began to retreat, with Buell's army after them, but we remained in line. About an hour later the report came that the rebels had left the field, and we were ordered back to our camp in Jones’ Field, arriving there about dark. We had not been in our tents since Sunday morning and they were still standing, but a great many had been hit and badly torn by shells and minie balls. We found the body of a rebel soldier lying in my tent; he had been wounded and apparently had gone in, crawled between our bunks and bled to death. We carried the body out to the parade ground and then got a shovel to clean away the blood from the place where the body had lain in the tent.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 42-3

Diary of Judith W. McGuire: Richmond, Virginia, Wednesday, April 9, 1862

Our victory at Shiloh complete, but General Albert Sydney Johnston was killed. The nation mourns him as one of our most accomplished officers. He fell while commanding in the thickest of the fight. It is an overwhelming loss to the Western army, and to the whole country. Beauregard pursued the enemy, but their General (Grant) having been reinforced very largely, our army had to retreat to Corinth, which they did in good order. This was done by order of General Johnston, should Buell reinforce Grant. They are now at Corinth, awaiting an attack from the combined forces. Van Dorn reinforced Beauregard. We are anxiously awaiting the result.

SOURCE: McGuire, Judith W., Diary of a Southern Refugee, During the War, p. 104

Rebel News

Important from Big Creek Gap – Capture of a Large Number of Confederate Cavalry.

The Knoxville (Tenn.,) Register, of the 16th  March, says:  By a number of cavalry direct from Jacksboro’, we learn that on Friday morning, at daybreak, a regiment of infantry, assisted by cavalry, attacked our cavalry, in the neighborhood of Big Creek Gap, five miles east of Jacksboro’, and thirty miles west of Cumberland Gap.  Our information is exceedingly confused, contradictory and meager.  In our next issue we expect to give more detailed accounts; but from the best information we can gather, the enemy have captured and killed the larger portion of five companies of Colonel Rogers’ cavalry regiment.  By some culpable negligence of our officers, no pickets were out; besides, our encampment was at least a mile from the Gap. – What better inducement for an attack by the enemy could have been held out by the cavalry cannot be well imagined.  The surprise of our forces is consequently complete and successful.

When it comes that cavalry wukk permit themselves to be surrounded by infantry, we think good policy would dictate that they be disbanded altogether, or at least changed into infantry.  We have not been able to ascertain the names of the five companies who were engaged.  Lieut. Col. White, who was in command in the absence of Col. Rogers, is reported captured.

One report is that Fincastle, a village 5 miles above Big Creek, was burned by the Hessians – two of the companies having been stationed at that place, the other three being immediately at Big Creek.

William H. Malone, a lawyer of Jacksboro’, but who had recently removed his family to our city, is reported among the killed, altho’ only a private citizen.

The enemy had possession of Jacksboro’, having ridden down there on the horses captured from our men.  They may constituted the vanguard of the Lincoln army into east Tennessee.  If so, our forces will meet them at Phillippi. – Mark our predication.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 2