Thursday, February 14, 2013

The Battle At Pittsburg

FURTHER PARTICULARS
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CAIRO, April 10. – A man who arrived here to-day says the enemy adopted a ruse to surprise our forces at Pittsburg, by making the first attack.  Their head column not only carried the stars and stripes but wore the uniform of the Federal officers.

Gen. Albert Sidney Johnson [sic] is certainly killed, the body being found on the field.  Persons are here who saw the body and heard the fact communicated throughout the camp.

Gen. Bragg is reported killed, and John C. Breckinridge a prisoner, but the report is unreliable.

Provisional governor Johnson of Kentucky is mortally wounded and a prisoner.

It is also reported that Gen. Prentiss, who was taken prisoner the first day, escaped in the confusion of the retreat, the next.

Our total loss in killed, wounded and missing is about 7,000 and this is the estimate of the military commanders who were in the engagement.  Of these about 2,000 were taken prisoners, the balance killed and wounded in the usual proportion.

Gen. Wallace of Ottawa, was reported killed as it was deemed impossible for him to live but a few minutes before the close of battle, but he was not only living Wednesday, but improving rapidly.

Gen. Halleck passed Cairo on his way to Pittsburg, at 10 o’clock this morning.

About 5,000 prisoners are expected up from Island No. 10 to-night.  Of these 1500 will go to Chicago, 1,000 to Springfield, and the balance to Wisconsin and Columbus, except 25 or 30 officers who will be sent to Fort Warren.

No lists of killed or wounded of any regiment or company have been received here yet.

Every preparation possible is being made for the reception and care of our wounded at this place.

The following is a list of killed and wounded officers so far:

KILLED – Col. C. E. Grier, acting Brig. Gen.; Col. Bllis [sic], 10th Ill.; Lieut. Col. Canfield, 72d Ohio; Col. Kyle, 31st Ind.; Col. Davis, 46th Ill., wounded, since died; Capt. Carson, Gen. Grant’s scout; Capts. Morton and Dillon, 18th Ill.; Capt. Mace, 55th Ill.; Capt. Carter, 11th Ill.; Major Page, 57th Ill.

WOUNDED – Gen. W. H. Wallace, dangerously; Gen. W. Sherman, slightly; Col. Sweeney, Acting Prig. Gen., seriously; Col. Dave Stuart, Acting Brig. Gen., dangerously; Col. Chase Crofts, 33d Ill., Acting Brig. Gen.; Col. Mace, 48th Ill.; Col. McHenry 17th Ky., killed; Lieut. Col. Morgan, 24th Ind., Col. Mason, 71st Ohio; Maj. Eaton, 18th Ill., Acting Col., fatally; Maj. Nevins, 11th Ill.; Col. John Logan, 32d Ill., seriously.

We are just beginning to get some reliable details from the great battle at Pittsburgh from several gentlemen who were on the field afterwards or in the fight.  The following is gathered and sent without any reference to the agreement or otherwise with despatches heretofore given you.  Our informants left the battle field on Wednesday morning at 5 o’clock.

The rebels attacked Prentiss’ brigade at 6 o’clock on Sunday morning, while eating breakfast.  It consisted of the 6th Illinois, Col. Fry, 16th Wisconsin, 24th Indiana and 1st Ohio. – The rebels were said to be 12,000 strong.  Prentiss had no artillery, his brigade was cut to pieces and forced to retreat, with Prentiss and many others taken prisoners.

At 12 M. the entire line was fiercely engaged but in full retreat.

At 4 o’clock the enemy had taken Swartz’ battery of 6 guns, and another Ohio battery, name not given.

Thousands of our soldiers had taken refuge under the bank of the river and utterly refused to fight.  In fact they could not, for officers and men were in inextricable confusion.  The army seemed utterly demoralized.

Gen. Mitchell’s division about this time arrived on the opposite side with 15,000 men, and were ferried across.

During the evening and night the gunboats Lexington and Taylor opened a tremendous fire of shell upon the enemy, and kept it up every half hour during the night, saving the army from utter ruin.  The set the woods on fire, and many of the dead rebels were burned.

At 7 o’clock the firing generally ceased.  At midnight the rebels attempted to plant a battery within 300 yards of our siege guns, but they were driven back by the gun boats and siege guns, supported by three regiments of Mitchell’s Division.

Our informants persist in estimating our loss on Sunday at 3,000 killed and 5,000 wounded.  As a fair fight it was undoubtedly tremendous.


MONDAY – During the night the rebels were reinforced by Prace and Van Dorn from Arkansas, with a large force.

Gen. Lew. Wallace came up from Crump’s Landing with the 11th and 23d Indiana, 44th Illinois and 8th Missouri, and Williard’s battery, and in the morning attacked fiercely the wing of the enemy.  They went into the fight on the double quick, with tremendous shouts, and did terrible execution.  By 10 o’clock they had driven the rebels back two miles.  The battery performed prodigies of valor.

About 10 o’clock the rebels were reinforced, and for a few minutes our boys were forced to yield.  The other divisions of Buell’s army now appeared, and at once became fully engaged, and for two hours all the destructive elements of earth seemed striving for the mastery on that fatal field.

Southern chivalry proved no match for the unflinching courage of the army of freedom, and the rebels fled in all directions.

With some 12,000 troops, mostly cavalry, Gen. Buell followed the fugitives, taking thousands of prisoners and killing without mercy those who would not surrender.  He was reported to have taken Corinth with all its immense stores of arms and ammunition.

Carson, the scout, had his head taken off on Monday by a round shot.

The rebel troops were mostly from Louisiana, Texas and Missouri, with many form Georgia and Alabama; they fought like tigers.

Our informants could ride through the battle field where our forces were posted, but the dead were so thick in the enemy’s lines that they could not do it.  They assured us that the rebels occupied our camp on Sunday night, took care of our sick and wounded, but destroyed nothing, expecting confidently to have our entire army the next day.  They thought the battle almost won.

On Sunday Gen. McClernand cut his way thro’ the enemy that had surrounded him.  Most of his troops behaved with great gallantry, but the 53d Ohio was ordered to the rear in disgrace for refusing to fight.

Capt. Harvey of Bloomington, Ill., is among the killed.

Our informants were assured by those who know him that J. C. Breckinridge was taken prisoner.  They saw him pass to the guard quarters.

It is impossible as yet to get lists of killed and wounded.

The Chicago delegation of physicians and nurses arrived this morning and have gone to Pittsburgh in the hospital steamer Texana.

Dr. McVicker is here awaiting the arrival of Gov. Yates on the steamer from Quincy to see especially to Illinois wounded soldiers.  They will establish a depot and hospital here for our sick and wounded.

No official despatches have been received here this morning.

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

Special to New York Papers

(Times Special.)

WASHINGTON, April 8. – Gen. T. W. Sherman just relieved by Gen. Hunter, arrived here to-day from Port Royal and reported himself at the War Department.  He expresses the opinion that before this Fort Pulaski has been attacked and has no doubts of its final capture.

A General who arrived here from Port Royal yesterday says several contrabands who came within our lines a few days since and reported that they were direct from Charleston, and that the people of that city were fearing an attack from our forces, and complained bitterly that nearly all their troops were in Virginia, and in the west.

Maj. S. W. Crawford was nominated by the President to-day, to the Senate as Brigadier General of Volunteers.

The Times correspondent writes from Liverpool Point, April 8th, that several Virginians belonging to Falworth, Fredericksburg, and Stafford, have come over to Liverpool Point.  They say that the reconnoissance created the most intense excitement at Fredericksburg.  Every vehicle capable of transporting goods was bro’t into requisition; while whole families left for Richmond, leaving everything behind them.  Orders were given by Gen. Walker, commandant at Fredericksburg, for all his available force to leave immediately for Brookstown, along the line of the railroad, and repel the advance of the invaders.  They also report a battle having been fought between 500 Texas cavalry and Sickles’ entire forces, just before entering Stafford; they put down Sickles’ loss at 350 and their own as only 13.  The effective force of the rebels between Fredericksburg and Acquia Creek is less than four thousand; beyond Fredericksburg to Richmond, probably ten thousand including a few batteries of artillery.

There was no scarcity of provisions.

Confederate bonds can be bought for 5 cents on the dollar.  Shin plasters issued by banks and private parties are of more value, commanding a hundred dollars in specie for every thousand dollars.

It is said to be the intention of the Confederate Government to abandon Virginia unless the people of the State render more aid of men and money.

Gen Wigfall commands a brigade five miles from Fredericksburg.  He has had a serious misunderstanding with the General commanding Holla, and has accordingly forwarded to Richmond his resignation.

All men supposed to be for the Union are relieved of their property with impunity, and no redress can be had.  In consequence of this most Union men are very quiet.

During the embarking of our troops from Liverpool Point a large number of Maryland slave holders lined the shore on horseback, said to be looking for lost slaves.

No slaves from Maryland or Virginia were allowed to go on board our transports.  Some few negroes were taken as servants.  There were about 800 female slaves left at Liverpool Point and Mulatto Woman Creek without any protection.  Some of the slave owners threaten to make trouble.


(Special to World.)

WASHINGTON, April 9. – The World’s correspondence at Warrenton brings the following to-day:

The advance forces are now resting on the Rappahannock, our pickets extending to that stream.  The railroad is now in running order to Cedar Run, within two miles of Warrenton Junction and thirteen miles from the Rappahannock River.  It will take several days to complete the bridge over Cedar Run, as the recent storm has swollen all the streams very much. – Neither Bull nor Cedar Run can be forded at present, and no troops can move except by rail.

The cavalry pickets extend some distance south-east of Brentsville, and skirmishes with the rebel scouts are of daily occurrence.

As the army proceeds south the country begins to present fewer of the ravages of the enemy, though in no vicinity has there yet been discovered sufficient supplies to support either the men or horses for more than one day.

The reports of the enemy’s position are indefinite and uncertain.  Contrabands and refugees from Fauquier and Culpepper say that the rebel army have dwindled greatly in its proportions, and that it is retreating upon Richmond as fast as possible, leaving nothing but scouts and guerrillas in its rear to watch our movements.  It would seem from this that the rebels are not reinforcing Magruder, and intend to make a stand this side of Richmond.


(Tribune’s Dispatch.)

It is understood that the Department of the South, of which Gen. Hunter has been put in command, will be thoroughly re-organized.  Gen. Sherman will be followed North by his Brigadier Generals Wright and Viele; but it is unknown who will fill the place they vacate.

It is also believed that Gen. Hunter will rightfully treat South Carolina and Georgia as rebels, and not as sovereign States.

The Senate to-day ratified two treaties, the commercial treaty with the Ottoman Porte, and the Mexican extradition treaty, negotiated by Minister Corwin.

The former, which is extremely liberal in its provisions, provides for its continuance for 50 years.  One stipulation of the latter is to the effect that the frontier States, the respective parties shall deliver up persons for whose surrender application is made without delay and expense of an appeal to Washington or the City of Mexico, elicited much discussion, and finally passed by barely one more than the constitutional majority, 27 to 13.

– 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 24, 1862

No news of importance.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 46.

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Confirmations

WASHINGTON, April 10. – The Senate in Executive Session to-day confirmed the nomination of Col. G. M. Dodge of Iowa, Col. R. S. Canby of the 19th Infantry, and Paymaster Benjamin Brice to the Brigadier Generalship of Volunteers.

Bayard Taylor of New York, Secretary of Legation to St. Petersburgh.

Green Clay of Kentucky, Secretary of Legation at Turin.

John Mallen of Illinois, Register of the Land office at Vermillion, Dacotah territory.

William Burnett of Oregon, to be Marshal of that State.

William Gallop, Postmaster of Tiffin, O.

Lieuts. Prince and Haggerty, J. R. M. Matoney, C. Marie, O. P. Rogers, to be commanders in the Navy.

The Washington and Alexandria Railroad was sold to-day at Alexandria, and purchased by Alexander Hay of Philadelphia.  He is the owner and attorney for claims for more than $200,000.

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

From New Mexico


KANSAS CITY, MO., April 7. – The Santa Fe mail has arrived.

The Texans, one hundred and fifty strong, had evacuated Santa Fe and were marching down the river.

It was reported that Col. Canby had intercepted an express with orders to the commander of the Texan forces to evacuate the territory and return to Texas.

Col. Stough had left Fort Union with 1,400 men to effect a junction with Col. Canby.

The Texans were exacting contributions and forced loads from the inhabitants – as high as $20,000 being extorted from single individuals residing near Albuquerque; clothing and provisions were taken from merchants without regard to politics or circumstances.

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

The Hospitalities of Cincinnati

How fitting and beautiful it was that Cincinnati, the City of Pork, should offer a tribute of eggs to Wendell Phillips, the Advocate of Ham, or at [least, the descendants of Ham!]

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3.  Editors Note: the bracketed text was cut off when the newspaper was microfilmed.  The same article appeared in Vanity Fair, April 5, 1862 and I have used that article to reconstruct the missing text in this article.

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Wednesday, April 23, 1862

We have company drill twice a day and more of the boys are getting out again for drill. The artillery men are receiving fresh horses to replace those killed in the battle. The weather is beginning to get very warm.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 46.

Marriage Of Baron Rothschild

The civil marriage of Mlle. Adele de Rothschild with Baron Solomon Rothschild, took place on Wednesday, March 12th and Frankfort.  The religious ceremony was performed on the following day, at the synagogue, by the great rabbi of the consistory of Paris.  All the members of the Rothschild family from Paris, London and Vienna were present.

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

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

James B. Dodds

JAMES B. DODDS, a general merchant and prominent citizen of Wyman, this county, was born in Westmoreland County, Pa., March 7, 1841, and is a son of Joseph and Mary (Boal) Dodds, who were natives of Ireland. At the age of eleven the father emigrated to America, locating in Pennsylvania, where he became acquainted with and wedded Mary Boal. Remaining in that State until 1855, he then removed with his family to Iowa, and in 1857 located in Louisa County, where he purchased 200 acres of land on section 28, Elm Grove Township, which was then in a wild, uncultivated state. He immediately began its development, and made his home upon that farm until his death, which occurred in 1884. He was a man who took great interest in the religious growth and welfare of the community, was a consistent Christian gentleman, and a devoted member of the Covenanter Church. In his death the county lost one of its best and most worthy citizens, the family a kind and loving husband and father. Mr. and Mrs. Dodds were the parents of seven children: Archie, a resident farmer of Colorado; Eliza, wife of A. M. Hill, of Colorado; James, who died in infancy; James, our subject, being the second of the family of that name; George, who is employed as a teacher in the Elliott Business College of Burlington; and William, who is living upon the old homestead in Elm Grove Township. Mrs. Dodds, the mother of these children, died in 1886. She also was a devoted member of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, and a most estimable lady.

Our subject was educated in the common schools of Louisa County, after which he followed farming until the breaking out of the great Rebellion, when he enlisted in Company C, 11th Iowa Infantry, for three years’ service. He participated in the battle of Shiloh, was with Sherman on the march to the sea, engaged in the battle of Corinth, and was with the gallant 11th Iowa through all of its long marches for three years, during which time he was ever found at his post ready for any duty devolving upon him as a soldier. He was honorably discharged from the service in the fall of 1864, after which he returned to his home, and again turned his attention to farming.

In the month of February, 1866, Mr. Dodds led to the marriage altar Miss Matilda Stewart, who was born in Pennsylvania, and is a daughter of Matthew Stewart, also a native of the Keystone State. To them have been born four children: Mary M., Calvin S., and two who died in infancy. After eight years of happy married life, in February. 1874, Mrs. Dodds passed away. She was a devoted member of the Covenanter Church, and a lady beloved by all who knew her. After the death of his wife Mr. Dodds sold his interest in the old home, and went to Columbus City, where he engaged in clerking for eight years in a general merchandise store. In 1883 he removed to Wyman, where he established himself in business, carrying a full stock of general merchandise valued at 15,000. His fair, honest dealing, combined with an earnest desire to please his customers, has won the confidence of the community, and his trade is constantly increasing, Mr. Dodds is one of the leading citizens of Louisa County, Iowa, has done all in his power to advance its social and educational interests, and is an active worker in the church.

SOURCE: Portrait and Biographical Album of Louisa County, Iowa, Acme Publishing Co., Chicago Illinois, 1889, p. 502-3

Lieut. Elias G. Jackson

LIEUT. ELIAS G. JACKSON, a general farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section 32 Elm Grove Township, was born May 25, 1828, in Randolph County, Ind., and is a son of Joseph and Phoebe (Cox) Jackson, the former a native of Stokes County, N. C., born Aug. 23, 1804, and the latter of Montgomery County, Ohio, born April 19,1807. They were united in marriage in 1827, in Randolph County, Ind., where Joseph Jackson followed the occupation of farming. The paternal grandfather of our subject, Samuel Jackson, served during the Revolutionary War, while James Jackson, an uncle, fought in the War of 1812, and was under the command of Gen. Hull when he surrendered to the British at Detroit. In every war of our country the Jackson family has been represented, in all of which, as soldiers, they proved efficient and faithful.

In 1856 Joseph Jackson, accompanied by his family, came to Louisa County, Iowa, where he resided until his death, which occurred March 25, 1858. His wife is still living, at the advanced age of eighty-two, and makes her home with our subject. They were the parents of nine children, the four eldest being born in Randolph County, Ind., two in Wayne, one in Delaware, and the two youngest in Tippecanoe County. Elias, our subject, is the eldest; John H. is a farmer in Franklin County, Kan.; Reuben G, who served in the 11th Iowa Infantry, is now a railroad builder and contractor of Kansas; Jesse S., who was a member of the 11th Iowa Infantry, is now living in Kansas City; Elizabeth A. is the wife of Henry Martain, a farmer of Keokuk County, Iowa; Sarah Jane wedded Evan Crawford, of Coffee County, Kan.; Henrietta is the wife of Henry W. Snider, a soldier of the 5th Iowa Infantry, now engaged in farming in Jasper County, Ind.; Joseph J., who was also a member of the 11th Infantry, resides in Nevada; Abner J., a blacksmith by trade, is now living in Idaho. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson were both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Our subject received his education in a subscription school in his native county, which was taught in a log house, and there resided until 1852, since which time he has made his home in Louisa County. He was compelled to leave his native State on account of ill-health, but his family resided there until 1856, when, having determined to make this his future home, he returned and brought them to Louisa County. He was united in marriage, Nov. 13, 1853, with Miss Margaret Beauchamp, who was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, May 20, 1827, and is a daughter of John and Nancy (Wilson) Beauchamp, who were of French descent. By their union six children have been born: Magdalene, who became the wife of William Hewitt, is now deceased; Margaret F. is the wife of William I. Huston, a farmer of Elm Grove Township; Albert is at home; Oletha wedded John Sickafoose, who is engaged in farming; Martha is the wife of George Spangler, of Henry County, Iowa, and Fred, who is at home.

In 1854 Mr. Jackson purchased 120 acres of land on section 32, Elm Grove Township, and upon that farm all his children were born and grew to maturity. Beginning life in Louisa County in very limited circumstances, he, by hard labor, with good management and economy, gained a comfortable competency, gave each of his children good educations, and as they left the parental roof aided them in establishing in business for themselves. When the Rebellion broke out Mr. J. responded to his country's call for volunteers, enlisting in the 11th Iowa Infantry for three years' service, as a member of Company F. Upon the organization of the company he was elected Sergeant, filling the office creditably and well. In 1863 he was unanimously elected Second Lieutenant, holding that office at the time of his discharge. He participated in many of the hard-fought battles of the war, including those of Shiloh, Corinth and Iuka, and was with Grant when he started to meet Gen. Sherman at Vicksburg. On the way the regiment was under fire for several days, and finally had to retreat, but at length reached Vicksburg, where it participated in the siege. Mr. Jackson then engaged in the siege of Jackson, Miss., and was with the gallant regiment from 1861 until August, 1863, when, on account of failing eyesight, he was obliged to resign and return to his home. Brave and faithful, he fought earnestly to preserve the Union, suffering the trials and hardships of war uncomplainingly, and was honorably discharged after two years’ service.

Returning to his home, Lieut. Jackson there remained until 1864, when he made a trip to the West, reaching home again in 1865, after which he once more turned his attention to farming. He makes a specialty of raising fine horses, and to him is due much credit for the fine grade of stock to be found in this part of the State. For the past few years he has retired from active life, and is now living upon the fruits of his former labors. In his political sentiments he is a Republican, and is deeply interested in the success and welfare of that party, being an earnest advocate of its principles. Socially, he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and the G. A. R., belonging to the post at Winfield, while religiously, he is a member of the Christian Church, He is numbered among Louisa County's most honored citizens, who have aided in her growth and prosperity, and his sketch deserves a prominent place in her history.

SOURCE: Portrait and Biographical Album of Louisa County, Iowa, Acme Publishing Co., Chicago Illinois, 1889, p. 485-6

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Tuesday, April 22, 1862

It is quite pleasant again after some rain — thunder showers. The wheat fields are looking fine.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 46.

Monday, February 11, 2013

After the Philadelphia Inquirer

WASHINGTON, April 10. – Secretary Stanton orders the Military Supervisor of the telegraph to stop all telegraphic communications to the Philadelphia Inquirer, until it is satisfactorily proven that their despatches from the army near Yorktown was duly authorized.

All applications for passes by editors and newspaper correspondents are referred to E. S. [Sanford.]

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3.  Note:  The last word in this article was cut off when microfilmed.  The same article appeared in the Rock Island Argus, Rock Island, Illinois, April 11, 1862, and I have used that text to complete the missing text and reconstruct this article.

Contributions for the Wounded

PEORIA, April 10. – Seventeen hundred dollars in money, and one car load of delicacies, have been contributed by the citizens of this place for the benefit of the wounded at Pittsburg.

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

From Yorktown

NEAR YORKTOWN, April 9, 1.20 P. M. – The weather still continues unfavorable for military operations.  It has been raining for nearly two days; the creeks are very much swollen, and the low grounds covered with water, making the roads almost impassible for empty wagons.

Information received shows that the rebels have a force of 60,000, which is being rapidly added to by troops from the neighborhood of Richmond, which is one day from Yorktown by railroad and river – they having four steamers and sixteen transports in use, and by the time the roads are in condition for the Union army to move, the rebels may be able to meet them with one hundred thousand – the flower of their army, with the best arms in a strong entrenched position opposed to our troops, occupying their present position.  The military authorities have no means of ascertaining the extent of the rebel works.

Information obtained through deserters, contrabands and other sources show that the enemy have nearly 500 guns, some of them of the largest caliber.

The rebel Gen. Johnson [sic] with some of his forces has arrived; he takes command in person.  The intend making a desperate resistance to our advance.  Their forces extend from the James to the York rivers, entirely across the Peninsula.

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

A Proclamation

WASHINGTON, April 10.

By the President of the United States:

It has pleased Almighty God to vouchsafe signal victories to the land and naval forces engaged in suppressing an internal rebellion and at the same time to avert from our country the dangers of foreign intervention and invasion.  It is therefore recommended to the people of the United States at their next weekly assemblages, in their accustomed places of worship, which shall occur after this proclamation shall have been received, they especially acknowledge and render thanks to our Heavenly Father for these inestimable blessings; that they then and there implore especial aid in behalf of all those who have been thrown into affliction by the councils of sedition and civil war; and that they reverently invoke the Divine guidance of our national councils to the end that they may speedily result in the restoration of peace, harmony and unity throughout our borders, and the hasty establishment of fraternal relations among the countries of the earth.

In witness whereof I have here under set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.  Done in the city of Washington, this 10th day of April in the year of our Lord 1862.

(Signed:)
ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

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

Snow

PHILADELPHIA, April 10. – Twelve inches of snow fell last night, but it is rapidly disappearing under the sunshine.

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

Welland Canal

ST. CATHARINE, C. W., April 9. – The Welland Canal will be opened for navigation of the 15th inst.

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

Re-admitted to Mails

WASHINGTON, April 10. – The Freeman’s Journal is, by order of the Post Office Department, re-admitted to the mails from this week.

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

Another Fight Expected in Arkansas

ST. LOUIS, April 10. – The Republican’s correspondent with Gen. Curtis says: From facts learned in camp, another battle between the Federal and Rebel armies in that direction is not at all improbable, and that within a short period.

Two hauls of counterfeits were made here yesterday, and $100,000 in bogus U. S. Treasury notes and $10,000 on the State Bank of Indiana, together will a complete set of engraver’s tools, plates, presses, &c., have been captured.  The guilty parties were also arrested.  The bills are well executed and calculated to deceive the best judges.

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

Fire in New York --- Investment of Beaufort

NEW YORK, April 10. – Last night a fire broke out in the five story marble building, No 69 Duane street, the premises of David Sterritt & Co., importers of laces and embroideries.  The entire building and its contents were destroyed.  Sterritt & Co.’s loss is supposed to be $50,000.  The first floor was occupied by Hoffman, Place & Co., dealers in gentleman’s furnishing goods.  The greater part of the stock was removed.  Loss about $5,000; said to be insured.  Loss on the building about $20,000.

The Times’ Beaufort letter of March 31st says Lieut. Hoxton, from Chippewa, landed yesterday and had an interview with Major Allen touching the arrangements for the capture of the Fort.

A guard from the Rhode Island 4th crossed over on Saturday and Sunday, taking possession of the beach south west of Fort Macon, and cutting off the communication with the cattle on which Colonel White has drawn heretofore for his supplies of fresh beef.  Thus, step by step, the fortification is surrounded by our forces and final attack will not be long delayed.

Guards have been placed aboard the British ships Reliance and Condor, found at Beaufort loaded with rosin and turpentine.

Since the conflagration after the battle at Newbern it is reported that some seven thousand barrels of spirits of turpentine have been consumed in this vicinity.  About 10,000 barrels are now loading for New York.

– 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 21, 1862

Our camp is becoming more unhealthy all the time, and the odor from the battlefield at times is very disagreeable. This is the result of the heavy rains followed by warm weather.

Troops are arriving here every day and going on to the front. The army is advancing on Corinth, Mississippi, and we hear that there is almost continuous skirmishing between the outposts of the two armies.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 46.

Sunday, February 10, 2013

Connecticut Election

HARTFORD, April 9. – Gov. Buckingham’s majority is greater than last year; it is 2,000.  The Senate is a united against the Democrats.  The House stands 181 Republicans against 56 Democrats.

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

The Great Battle

CAIRO, April 9. – Maj. Kuykendall of the 31st Ill., who left the field of action on Monday evening, reports that Gen. Johnston was killed, and Beauregard was wounded, a cannon ball having shot his arm off.

No arrival from Tennessee since early this morning, but one is expected every moment.

There is a rumor by way of Paducah that our forces occupy Corinth and that the enemy is completely routed.  We have taken a large number of prisoners.  Carson the scout was killed early in the engagement.

Lieut. Col. Canfield of the 72d Ohio was killed and his body has arrived here.

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

From Fortress Monroe

BALTIMORE, April 10. – The Old Point boat has arrived.  The news of the capture of Island No. 10 caused great rejoicing and enthusiasm. – The storm had somewhat abated toward evening.

Reports from the army represent our forces facing exposure undauntedly.  The enthusiasm and anxiety to meet the enemy was unabated and confidence in Gen. McClellan was undisturbed.  The time has not been lost, and the retreat of Magruder and is forces or their defeat is considered certain.

The present prospect of clearing up is looked for with anxiety at Old Point, in the belief that sunshine and the Merrimac come together.  All seem confident that she will be captured or sunk.

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

Island No. 10

ST. LOUIS, April 10. – a special report from Island No. 10, says 200 hogsheads of sugar, several hundred barrels of molasses, 80 cannon, 400 wagons, 126 horses, 600 mules, 5,000 stand of small arms, 30 pieces of light artillery, and a great quantity of blankets, clothing, &c., have fallen into our hands.  The total number of prisoners captured is 5,000 – one Maj. Gen., McCall and Brig. Gens. Gaull, Waller and Scham.  The prisoners are being embarked for Illinois as rapidly as possible.

About 56,000 solid shot and immense quantities of ammunition also taken.

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

From New Mexico

(Correspondence of Mo. Republican.)

FORT UNION, NEW MEXICO, March 31. – Our Column, under the command of Col. Stough, is breaking up camp for a forward movement south, toward the rebel forces.

The Texan army occupies a strong position in the vicinity of Albemarque [sic], 17 miles south of this depot, about midway between this and Ft. Craig, where Col. Canby was at last accounts.  The Texans have taken up this strategic point doubtless intending to march upon either Col. Canby, as they leave their stronghold of Fort Union or Fort Craig, and by their superior force, which is estimated at 2,400 strong and 21 pieces of artillery, face about and assault the column before it can form a junction and cut us up in detail.

It would appear that Col. Sturgh [sic] and Col. Canby, department commanders, are not acting in concert, and some men are of opinion that this movement of the most difficult of military combinations may not prove successful, and at our depot at Fort Union the other supplies left as comparatively defenceless.  I can scarcely believe, however, that Col. Sturgh will march beyond supporting distance of this department, and Texans are occupying Santa Fe, 100 miles south of this, with from 100 to 200 men.

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Sunday, April 20, 1862

John T. Rice, a member of Company E, Eleventh Iowa, was buried this afternoon with military honors.2  He died of his wound accompanied with fever. Three other men who died of disease were also buried today. We learned that Wilson Simmons of Company E died of lung fever on the 15th at Mound City, Illinois.
__________

2 Rice was buried in the Shiloh National Cemetery, Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, his grave being 175, Section 9. — A. G. D.

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

EDITOR’S NOTE:  According to the Shiloh Monument Location System, John P. Rice (middle initial also verified using the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System) is buried in Section G, grave # 2061, Shiloh National Cemetery.  Both his pension index card (located via Fold3.com) and the Roster and Record of Iowa soldiers in the War of the Rebellion, Vol. 2, p. 376 list his middle initial as “T.”

John T. Rice, Private, Co. E, 11th Iowa Infantry: Pension Index Card


SOURCE:  Civil War And Later Veterans Pension Index at Fold3.com

Saturday, February 9, 2013

Further Particulars Of The Fight

CAIRO, April 10. – Particulars are arriving hourly bringing more accounts of the great battle.  The Chicago Batteries gained new laurels in the struggle.  Taylor’s Battery did fatal execution; their praise is in the mouth of every one.  Waterhouse’s battery was in the first attack and was badly cut up and mostly killed.  Taylor is said to have practiced his men by particular movements that dealt destruction to the enemy.

Company A, Chicago Light Artillery, under command of Peter Wood was in the hardest of the fight and performed wonders.  Their feats could not have been surpassed.

Taylor’s Battery followed the enemy within four miles of Corinth.

The 20th Illinois regiment was badly cut up.  Col. Marsh was slightly wounded; his Aid was killed.

The 15th Illinois regiment, under command of Col. Ellis, was badly cut up; most of its field officers killed, among them Col. Ellis, Major Godard, Capt. Wayne, and others.

Col. Davis, of Freeport, was shot through the lungs, but is still alive.

Gen. Wallace was shot through the head, the ball entering back of  the left ear and coming out at the nose, taking out one eye, but he is not dead as reported.

Gen. Johnson [sic] was certainly killed.

General Halleck and staff, have just passed here, en route for the Tennessee river, on the steamer Continental.

Gen. Cullom has arrived here to look after the river defences.

Gen. Strong and Secretary Scott met General Halleck on the boat and had a conference.  Gen. Halleck did not come ashore.

Col. Scott, Assistant Secretary of War, has gone down to New Madrid.

The list of prisoners captured at Island No. 10 foots up to 4,346, rank and file.  Transports have gone down to bring the prisoners to Cairo.  What disposal will be made of them is unknown.

The value of property captured at No. 10 amounts to over two millions of dollars.

As the Continental rounded to at Cairo this morning, Gen. Strong had a salute of 10 guns fired in honor of Maj. Gen. Halleck.


ST. LOUIS, April 10. – Two steamers, fitted up as floating hospitals, left here yesterday for the Tennessee river.  Large contributions of all kinds and supplies are being made to-day, to furnish more steamers, which will leave this evening.

The Western Sanitary Commission are moving earnestly and energetically with this matter, and every effort will be made for the speedy relieve of our wounded soldiers at Pittsburg Landing.

Col. Kellon, 1st Adj. General, and General Ketham are in charge here, while Gen. Halleck is in the field.


EVANSVILLE, Ind., April 10. – The steamer Charley Bowen left here at 11 a. m. for, for Pittsburg Landing, with a delegation of Surgeons and nurses, and a full supply of hospital stores from Indianapolis and Warwick county, Indiana.  They will take on board another delegation of Surgeons and supplies from Posey county, and Mount Union.

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

The Great Battle

FUTHER PARTICULARS

CAIRO, April 9. – No official accounts have been received from the great battle near Pittsburg.  A few persons who witnessed most of it have arrived, and as many of their reports are as follows they differ somewhat from the first report to you:

The Federal army was posted between two streams about four miles apart that runs into the Tennessee nearly at right angles.  It is about two miles east of Pittsburg.  The left front was commanded by Gen. Prentiss, who had several raw regiments and in his rear was Gen. Sherman with his division.  The right front was headed by Gen. McClernand, with Gen. Smith in his rear.  Gen. Hurlburt [sic] was in the center, somewhat in the rear of the front line.

Beauregard attacked Gen. Prentiss’ division at 4 o’clock on Sunday morning, surprising them and driving them and Sherman’s Corps near the river, till protected by the gunboats, and taking Prentiss and two regiments prisoners.

While driving in Prentiss and Sherman, a large force of the enemy got in the rear of Gen. McClernand’s division, completely cutting it off from the main army.  Gen. McClernand put himself at the head of his troops and cut his way through the rebel hosts and rejoined the army.

The fight had now become desperate, and Gen. Grant assuming command, the enemy was driven back and the Federal forces occupied at the right nearly the same position they did in the morning.  The fight lasted fifteen hours.

During the night Major General Lew Wallace came up from Crump’s Landing with 19,000 troops, and in the morning the battle was resumed with great fury; neither party seemed disposed to yield, and between 10 and 12 the fight was terrific.

Soon after noon General Buell d crossed the Tennessee and attacked the enemy in the flank with 40,000 men, and the rout soon became general.  Buell pursued with 12,000, mostly cavalry.  The last rumor was that he had taken Corinth.

Our informants can give no accounts of our loss, further than it is terrible.  Eight hundred wounded are reported on the steamer which will be brought down.

Col. John Logan (not the General) is reported wounded in the shoulder.

The enemy took 36 pieces of our artillery on Sunday.  They are reported all returned and 40 of the enemy’s on Monday.

Gen. Strong certainly expects Gen. Halleck here in the morning, en route for Tennessee.

It was Gen. Cowan McCall that was taken by Gen. Pope’s forces.

Gen. Strong has received notice of a large number of physicians, nurses and hospital stores coming from Chicago, Springfield, St. Louis and other places.

Several barges of ice are ordered up the Tennessee for the wounded.

The Silver Wave is expected up from New Madrid to-night with a load of rebel prisoners.

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

Great Battle In Tennessee!

THE MOST BLOODY ENGAGEMENT DURING THE WAR.

Beauregard Defeated and His Army Cut to Pieces!!

GEN. A. S. JOHNSON KILLED

Rebel Loss 35,000 to 40,000!

Federal Loss 18,000 to 20,000!
__________

(Special to Herald.)

PITTSBURGH, via FT. HENRY, April 9, 3.10 A. M. – One of the bloodiest battles of modern days has just closed, resulting in the complete repulse of the enemy, who attacked us at day break Sunday.  The battle lasted without intermission during the entire day, and was again resumed on Monday morning and continued until 4 o’clock in the afternoon, when the enemy commenced their retreat and are still flying towards Corinth, pursued by a large force of our cavalry.

The slaughter on both sides is immense.  We have lost in killed and wounded and missing from 18,000 to 20,000.  That of the enemy is estimated from 35,000 to 40,000.

It is impossible in the present confused state of affairs to ascertain any details.  I therefore give the best account possible from observation, having passed through the storm of action during the two days that it raged.

The fight was brought on by a body of 300 of the 25th Missouri regiment of Gen. Prentice’s [sic] brigade attacking the advance guard of the rebels which were supposed to be the pickets of the enemy in front of our camp. – The rebels immediately advanced on Gen. Prentice’s division on the left wing, pouring volley after volley of musketry, riddling our camps with grape, canister and shell.  Our soldiers soon formed into line and returned their fire vigorously and by the time we were prepared to receive them, had turned the heaviest fire on the left and center of Sherman’s division and drove our men back from their camp and bringing up a fresh force opened fire on our left wing under Gen. McClernand; this fire was returned with terrible effect and determined spirit, by both infantry and artillery along the whole line for a distance of over four miles. – Gen. Hurlburt’s [sic] division was thrown forward to support the centre when a desperate conflict ensued; the rebels were driven back with terrible slaughter, but soon rallied and rove back our men in turn from about 9 o’clock, the time your correspondent arrived on the field, until night closed on the bloody scene, there was no determination of the result of the struggle; the rebels exhibited remarkably good generalship at times – engaging the left with apparently their whole strength, they would suddenly open up a terrible and destructive fire on the right or center; even our heaviest and most destructive fire on the enemy did not appear to discourage their solid columns.  The fire of Maj. Taylor’s Chicago Artillery raked them down in scores, but the smoke would no sooner be dispersed than the breech would be again filled.

The most desperate firing took place late in the P. M.  The Rebels knew that if they did not succeed in whipping us then, that their chances for success would be very doubtful, as a portion of Gen. Buell’s forces had by this time arrived on the opposite side of the river, and the other portion was coming up the river from Savannah. – They were, however, aware that we were being reinforced, as they could see Gen. Buell’s troops near the river bank a short distance above us, on the left, to which point they had forced their way.  At five o’clock, the rebels had forced our left wing back so as to occupy fully two-thirds of our camp, and were fighting their way forward with a desperate degree of confidence in their efforts to drive us into the river, and at the same time having engaged our right.

Up to this time we had received no reinforcements, Gen. Lew Wallace failing to come to our support until the day was over, having taken the wrong road from Crump’s landing, and being without other transports, than those used for Quartermaster’s and commissary stores, which were too heavily laden to very any considerable number of Gen. Buell’s forces across the river, those that were here having been sent to bring the troops from Savannah.  We were therefore, contesting the field against fearful odds with a force not exceeding 38,000 men, while that of the enemy was upwards of 60,000.

Our condition at this moment was extremely critical.  Large numbers of men were panic stricken, others worn out by hard fighting, with the average per cent. of skulkers, had straggled towards the river, and could not be rallied. – Gen. Grant and staff, who had been ceaselessly riding along the lines during the entire day, perceived that Buell’s batteries of grape and shell were about arriving, now rode from right to left inciting the men to stand firm until reinforcements could cross the river.  Col. Webster, Chief of Staff, immediately got into position the heavy pieces of artillery, pointing on the enemy’s right, while a large number of the batteries were planted along the entire line from the river bank northwest to the extreme right, two and a half miles distant.

About an hour after dusk a general cannonade was opened upon the enemy from along our whole line, with a perpetual crack of musketry.  Such a roar was never heard on this continent.  For a short time the rebels replied with vigor and effect, but their return shots grew less frequent and destructive, while ours grew more rapid and more terrible.

The gunboats Lexington and Taylor, which lay a short distance off, kept raining shell on the rebel hordes.  This last effort was too much for the enemy.  At six o’clock the firing had nearly ceased, the day closing on all the combatants, who rested from their awful work of blood and carnage.  Our men rested on their arms in the position they had at the close of the night, till the forces under Maj. Gen. Wallace arrived and took position on the right, and met Buell’s force on the opposite side, and Savannah being now converted to the battle ground, the entire right of Gen. Nelson’s Division was ordered to form on the right, and the forces under Gen. Crittenden were ordered to support him in the morning.


SECOND DAY’S BATTLE.

Gen. Buell having arrived the previous evening, the ball was opened at daylight simultaneously by Gen. Nelson’s Division on the left and Major General Wallace and Davis on the right.

Gen. Nelson’s forces opened a most galling fire and advanced rapidly as the rebels fell back.  The fire soon became general along the whole line, and began to tell with terrible effect on the enemy.

Generals McClernand, Sherman and Hurlburt’s men, though terribly thinned from the previous day’s fighting, still maintained their honors won at Fort Donelson, but the resistance of the rebels at all points was terrible and worthy a better cause, but they were not enough for our braves, and the dreadful destruction produced by our artillery which was sweeping them away like chaff before the wind, but knowing that a defeat here would be a death-blow to their hopes and that their all depended upon this great struggle, their Generals still urged them on in the face of destruction, hoping by flanking us on the right to turn the tide of battle.  Their success was again for a time cheering as they began to gain ground, on appearing to have been reinforced, but our left, under Gen. Nelson, was driving them, and with wonderful rapidity, and by 11 o’clock, Gen. Buell’s forces had succeeded in flanking them and capturing their batteries of artillery.  They however again rallied on the left and recuperated, and the right forced themselves forward in another desperate effort, but reinforcements from General Wood and Gen. Thomas were coming in regiment after regiment, which were sent to Gen. Buell, who had again commenced to drive the enemy.

About 3 o’clock p. m. Gen. Grant rode to the left, where the fresh regiments had been ordered, and finding the rebels wavering, sent a portion of his body guard to the aid of each of the five regiments, then ordered a charge across the field, himself leading.  As he brandished his sword and waved them on to the crowning victory; while cannon balls were flying like hail around him.  The men followed with a shot, that sounded above the roar and din of artillery, and the rebels fled in dismay as from a destroying avalanche, and never made another stand.

Gen. Buell followed the retreating rebels, driving them in splendid style, and by half past five o’clock the whole rebel army was in full retreat to Corinth, with our cavalry in hot pursuit, with what further result is not known, not having returned up to this hour.

We have taken a large amount of their artillery and also a number of prisoners.  We lost a number of our forces, taken prisoners yesterday, among whom is Gen. Prentiss.  The number of our forces taken has not been ascertained yet.  It is reported at several hundred.  Gen. Prentiss is reported wounded.

Among the killed on the rebel side was their General-in-Chief A. Sydney Johnson [sic], who was struck by a cannon ball in the afternoon of Sunday.  Of this there is no doubt, as the report is corroborated by several rebel officers taken to-day.  It is further reported that Gen. Beauregard has his arm shot off.

This afternoon Generals Bragg, Breckinridge and Jackson were commanding portions of the rebel force.
Our loss in officers is very heavy.  It is impossible at present to obtain their names.  The following were among the number:

Brig. Gen. W. H. D. [sic] Wallace, killed.
Col. Pegram, acting General, killed.
Col. Ellis 10th Illinois, killed.
Major Geary, 15th Illinois, killed.
Lieut. Col. Conard, 72d Ohio, mortally wounded.
Lieut. Col. Kisul, 41st Indiana, mortally wounded.
Col. Davis, 46th Illinois, mortally wounded.
Gen. W. T. Sherman, wounded in hand by cannon ball.

Col. Sweeney, 52d Illinois, Acting Brigadier General, wounded; received two balls in his only arm, having lost one in Mexico, also a shot in one of his legs.  Col. Sweeney kept the field until the close of the fight, and excited the admiration of the whole army.

Col. Dave Stuart, 55th Ill., Acting Brig. Gen. shot through the breast on Sunday, returned on the field on Monday.

Col. Chas. Crofts, 31st Ill., Acting Brig. Gen. shot through the right shoulder, not dangerous.

Col. Haynes, 48th Ill., Col. J. C. McHenry, 17th Ky., Lieut. Col. Stout, 17th K., wounded slightly; Lieut. Col. Morgan, 25th Ind., wounded severely; Lieut. Col. Ransom, 11th Ill., wounded in head badly; Col. Mason, 71st Ohio, wounded slightly; Maj. Eaton, 18th Ill., acting Col. wounded fatally; Maj. Nevins, 11th Ill., wounded slightly; Capt. Cumming W. Carson, Gen. Grant’s scout had his head shot off by a cannon ball; Capt. Preston Morton wounded mortally – since died; Capt. Dillon, 18th Ill., Capt. Mace, 5th Ill., Capt. Carter, 11th Ill., Maj. Page 57th Ill., killed.

There never has been a parallel to the gallantry and bearing of our officers, from the Commanding General to the lowest officer. – Gen. Grant and staff were in the field riding along the lines in the thickest of the enemy’s fire during the entire two days of battle, and all slept on the ground Sunday night, during a heavy rain.  On several occasions, he got in range of the enemy’s guns and was discovered and fired upon.  Lieut. Col. McPherson having his horse shot from under him along side of the General.  Capt. Carson was between Gen. Grant and your correspondent when a cannon ball took off his head and killed and wounded several others.

Gen. Sherman had two horses killed under him.

Generals McClernand and Hurlburt each received bullet holes through their clothes.

Gen. Buell remained with his troops during the entire day, who, with Gens. Crittenden and Nelson road continually along the line encouraging their men.  Gen. Buell’s advance will probably reach near Corinth by to-morrow evening.


STILL LATER.

CAIRO, April 9. – Further advices from Pittsburgh Landing, give the following about the battle:

The enemy made the attack at 4 o’clock Sunday morning.  The brigades of Sherman and Prentice being first engaged.  The attack was successful and our entire force was driven back to the river where the advance of the enemy was checked and our forces increased by the arrival of Gen. Grant with troops from Savannah and inspired by the report of the arrival of two divisions of Buell’s army.  Our loss this day was heavy, and besides the killed and wounded, embraced our camp equipage, and 36 field guns.  The next morning our forces, now amounting to 80,000 assumed the offensive and by 2 o’clock in the afternoon had retaken our camp and batteries together with some forty of the enemy’s guns and a quantity of prisoners, and the enemy were in full retreat, pursued by our victorious forces.

The casualties are numerous.  Gen. Grant wounded in the ankle slightly; Gen. W. H. Wallace killed; Gen. Smith severely wounded; Gen. Prentice prisoner; Col. Hall 16th Ill., Killed; Cols. Logan, 32d Ill., and Davis of 51st Illinois wounded severely; Major Hunter 32d Ill., killed; and our loss In killed and wounded and missing not less than 5,000.  Col. Peabody, 25th Mo., also severely wounded.

From New Madrid we learn that Gen. Pope has 3 Generals, 7 colonels and 5,000 men prisoners, 100 guns, camp equipage and stores in great quantity.


VERY LATEST.

CAIRO, April 9. – It is reported by an officer who left Pittsburg Monday evening, that our forces occupy Corinth, and that Beauregard’s arms were shot off by a cannon ball, and the body of Gen. A. S. Johnson was found dead on the field.  Nothing later.

– 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 19, 1862

Nothing of importance. Everything appears to be so lonesome.

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

Friday, February 8, 2013

Latest from Fortress Monroe

WASHINGTON, April 10. – The latest news received from Cherry Stone reports everything quiet in the vicinity of Fort Monroe.  A strong wind was blowing and the sea running very high.

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

Occupation of Beaufort

NEW YORK, April 10. – A letter to the Times from Beaufort, North Carolina, Dated the 31st of March, says that a detachment from General Parker’s Brigade, consisting of the Rhode Island 4th and 8th Connecticut, crossed to Beaufort on Tuesday night.  In the day time their passage would have been disputed by the Fort, but they landed and entered the town without opposition or without finding so much as a guard to challenge their approach.

In the morning the citizens found their houses were guarded by Union troops, and the town in their possession.  The visit, however, was by no means a surprise.  The head men came out and met Major Allen, and tendered to him and his troops the freedom of the city.  They were invited to their houses, and every evidence of good will was exhibited by the people towards the new comers.  On the whole, their reception was courteous and gratifying.  They declared they had never given their adhesion to the rebel government, and were good Union men.

Large numbers have daily come to the Major’s Headquarters to take the oath of allegiance.

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

Provisions for the Sick and Wounded

LOUISVILLE, Ky., April 9. – A large meeting of the citizens, the mayor presiding, was held to make arrangements for taking care of the sick and wounded from Corinth.  Thirty-five hundred dollars were contributed, and any further amount desired offered.

The steamer Commercial left for the Tennessee river to-night, with medical stores and other supplies.  The steamer Dullent will leave tomorrow with nurses and supplies.

Any amount of hospital accommodations in this city were offered.


CINCINNATI, April 9. – A boat has been commissioned to take physicians, nurses and stores to the scene of battle in Tennessee.

A meeting of the Chamber of Commerce was held and a committee of five appointed to take subscriptions to buy food and other necessaries for the wounded, and a large amount was raised in an hour.  Capt. Dickinson is authorized to pay for the boat.

The Committee appointed by the Chamber of Commerce will go to Columbus to-night, to urge the legislature to make an appropriation to charter other boats and procure necessary supplies.  It is probable that three or four boats will leave here this week for Tennessee.  A large number of nurses have offered their services.


BOSTON, April 9. – Gov. Andrews [sic] telegraphs to headquarters to-day tendering the services, without compensation, of a number of Massachusetts surgeons, ready to go west and aid the wounded.


INDIANAPOLIS, April 9. – A special train with surgeons, hospital stores and supplies for the wounded at Pittsburg Landing, leaves here to-night.

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

From Island No. 10

NEW MADRID, April 8. – The Union force captured to-day 6,000 Confederate prisoners who were endeavoring to retreat from Island 10 and other rebel fortifications.  Three Generals and other officers were taken with them.  General McCowan was in command assisted by Generals Stuart, McCall, Gray and Gavitt.  Gen. Stuart was a class mate of Pope’s.

The rebel floating battery Pelican came drifting down the river last night.  It was caught and towed into Point Pleasant, where it now lies.  Some shots were fired into it from our batteries as it passed them, under the impression that some ruse was attempted by the enemy in thus giving up an engine of war, which was intended to accomplish marvelous results for them.  No one was on board, and no damage was done to the machine.

A gunboat also drifted down nearly to the upper fort, where it sunk and is now almost out of sight – the smoke stacks and some of the machinery only being visible, which the rebels stole last summer and transferred into the Confederate service, was scuttled by them last night and set adrift.  She was caught, however, and brought in to shore here just as she was sinking.  She has since been pumped out and is now nearly ready for use.

Gen. Pope returned to his head-quarters to-night, having been absent since yesterday morning.  He has not yet made public his plans for future operations.

This encampment will probably be broken up in a day or two.  A heavy rain is falling to-night, which in addition to previous storms, make our level camping ground quite too moist for comfort.

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Friday, April 18, 1862

No news of importance.1
__________

1 While the battle of Shiloh was a Union victory, nevertheless it was dearly won, and could easily have been a defeat. Even at that time the men in discussing it, pointed out some of the mistakes made by the Union forces. I wish to point out how the day at Shiloh was almost lost to the Union Army. In the first place, when the different commanders called out the troops under arms at 6 o'clock on Friday evening, April 4th, they kept them in line until midnight, when, since the immediate danger was past, they ordered them to return to their quarters. Then it was that a great mistake was made, for instead of sending the men back to camp, they should have been put to work, every man with shovel, pick or axe, digging trenches, throwing up breastworks and fortifying their camps. Thus by the morning of the 6th they would have had two or three lines of works. That this was not done must of course be charged to General Sherman. Each man behind the works would have been equal to five men in the open. General Prentiss’ men, protected in the old, sunken roadway, in making their attack upon us. proved the worth of a man protected, to one out in the open. The mistake cost the Union army more than a thousand men, besides those captured.

In the second place, when the Union army was attacked on that Sunday morning, there were but four regiments in line of battle and ready for the assault of the Confederates. The officers did not succeed in forming a continuous line of battle until late in the day. Regiments and brigades would march to the front and form in line, but they were usually unsupported by troops on the right and left at the same time. This enabled the Confederates to come in on the flanks and the rear, thus compelling our forces to fall back or be captured. This continued till late in the afternoon, when Webster succeeded in forming a continuous line of artillery, supported by all arms. This, together with the arrival of Buell's brigade, which formed a line on the left, saved the day to the Union cause for all time to come. — A. G. D.

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

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Gen. Pope’s Canal – Gen Halleck assumes command, &c.

ST. LOUIS, April 9. – Gen. Pope’s Official report says that the canal across the Peninsula at New Madrid, through which four steamers and several barges were taken, is twelve miles long, six miles of which were through heavy timber, which ad to be sawed off by hand – feet under water.  This great and laborious undertaking originated with Schuyler Hamilton, and the work was performed by Col. Bissell’s Engineer regiment.

Gen. Halleck and portion of staff left for Tennessee river this afternoon, and will immediately assume command in the field.


(Democrat’s special.)

The rebels were pursued by eight thousand of our cavalry.

Rebel prisoners state that Beauregard made a speech to his troops before entering the fight, saying that he would water his horse in Tennessee river or in hell; that the fight before them was hell unless successful.

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

Washington News

WASHINGTON, April 9. – The Secretary of War has submitted to Congress a communication on the northern coast defences, enclosing an elaborate report from Edwin S. Johnson, of Conn., well known as a practical civil Engineer and connected with the Joint Commission of 1817 and 1819, for running and marking the north eastern boundary line.  Mr. Johnson recommends the passage of Senator Morrill’s bill, and the adoption of the policy of placing in the hands of the President the necessary power to accept loans of money from the several States for the public defences, and therein provided.  Among the modes of defence contemplated are the use of railways and floating ball-proof batteries, in addition to the ordinary system of fortifications.

His report is the result of a careful examination of the matters in question, including a long list of documents, based on a thorough acquaintance with the philosophical, geographical and topographical feature of the country.

James T. Pike, Minister to the Netherlands, in transmitting to the State Department, a copy of the tariff and revenue system of that country, concludes his dispatch as follows:


“It will be observed that there is no direct tax on personal property, or on _____, as such taxes are believed to stand in the way of industrial and commercial developments, and to operate to expel capital.

“The decisive successes of the Federal Government in Tennessee, have produced their natural effect on this side of the water.  When Charleston and Savannah shall have fallen, and our gunboats traversed the Mississippi, all interest in the affairs of the conflict will cease in Europe.”


About two weeks ago, Com. Foote, in telegraphing the Navy Department, said that Gen. Pope intended to make a transverse movement, which would astonish the secesh on Island No. 10.  The fulfillment of this predication is already known to the country.

The Senate was several hours in Executive session to-day.  It confirmed several military appointments of low grade and Sam’l Brown of Ohio, to be Attorney of the Territory of Colorado.

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