The Iowa Blind Asylum

We have received the 5th Biennial Report of the Iowa Institution for the Education of the Blind.  The Board of Directors represent the Institution as in a prosperous condition.

The receipts and disbursements of the Institution for the two years ending Dec. 31, 1861, are as follows:

Balance on hand as per last report.	$1,534.48
Orders on Auditor of State	14,575.00
Other Sources	300.70
Total	$16,401.18
Amount paid out during said term	13,937.83
Balance on hand	$2,472.35

From the report of Mr. Samuel Bacon, principal, we make a few extracts.

It is now more than eighteen years since I commenced teaching the blind.  This is the second institution I have established, and having labored here for nearly ten years I am tired and wish to terminate my connection with this institution by the beginning of the next term.  Whatever occupation I may hereafter pursue I shall always feel a lively interest in the Iowa Institution for the Education of the Blind.

Seventy five pupils have been admitted since the commencement of the Institution, five of whom have died, thirty discharged, leaving at present forty.  As there were forty two in attendance last year it was reasonably expected there would be fifty this but times are such that it is almost impossible for them to get here.

The law under which the Institution is organized ought to be amended fixing a definite time that the trustees shall qualify and enter upon their duties.  Some provision ought to be made for clothing such pupils as are not able to clothe themselves.  As yet the Institution has felt no great inconvenience from this but if not remedied it will eventually embarrass the finances.  The best method would be for the Institution to furnish them and call upon the respective counties to which they belong for the same.  For the support of the Institution no better method can be devised than it now has.

The course of instruction is thorough and as extensive as in most similar institutions.  There are three departments, Industrial, Musical and Academical, which have devoted to them respectively two, three and four hours a day.  In the Industrial Department the males are employed in brush and broom making, the females in  sewing plain and fancy knitting and beadwork, a number of them have learned to use Wheeler & Wilson’s Sewing Machines with success.

The following statement of the operations of this department.

1860
Jan. 1	Total material on hand	$331.81
Jan. 1	Total manufactured articles on hand	96.20
Dec. 1	Total cost of mater’l since Jan. 1, ’60	101.41
		$629.42
1861
Dec. 1	By material on hand	$296.90
Dec. 1	By manufactured articles on hand	186.35
Dec. 1	By sales since Jan. 1, ’60	234.80
		$718.05
	Net gain	$88.63

Music embraces the theory and composition as well as vocal and instruments.

The Academical course for the past two years has embraced reading raised print, writing, grammar, logic, geography, arithmetic, algebra, geometry and natural philosophy.

The following is a summary of the expenditures of the Institution since the 1st of January, 1860.

Salaries	$4,307.00
Rent	452.50
Traveling	391.50
Printing	15.50
Groceries and provisions	3571.15
Furnishing	838.49
Labor	667.40
Music and Instruments	459.51
Books and Stationary	342.77
Fuel and Light	882.02
Industrial Department	201.41
Medical attendance and Medicines	222.25
Clothing	163.01
Repairs	727.98
Miscellaneous expenses	445.27
	$13,637.88
Estimated expenses for December	600.00
	$13,037.88

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

Henry H. Joles, Private, Co. H, 47th Illinois Infantry: Pension Index Card

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Saturday, May 31, 1862

There was still some fighting today with the fleeing rebels, and we took some prisoners, but the main part of the army had too much of a start on us.

The Eleventh Iowa received four months’ pay today. I drew $53.00. We had to make settlement at this time for all clothing purchased.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 51

Henry H. Joles, Private Co. K, 112th Illinois Infantry: Pension Index Card

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

Letter From Hon. Jos. Holt On The Appointment Of Secretary Of War

In a letter from Hon. Joseph Holt to Lieut. Governor Stanton, of Ohio, he uses the following enthusiastic language respecting the appointment of Hon. Edwin M. Stanton as Secretary of War, viz.

ST. LOUIS, Jan. 16, 1862

* * * The selection of the Hon. Edwin M. Stanton as Secretary of War has occasioned me unalloyed gratification.  It is an immense stride in the direction of the suppression of the rebellion.  So far as I can gather the popular sentiment, there is everywhere rejoicing over the appointment, but that rejoicing would be far greater did the people know, as I do, the courage, the loyalty and the genius of the new Secretary as displayed in the intensely tragic struggles that marked the closing days of the last administration.  He is a great man intellectually and morally – a patriot of the true Roman stamp, who will grapple with treason as the lion grapples with his prey.  We may rest well assured that all that man can do will in his present position be done to deliver our poor bleeding country from the bayonets of traitors now lifted against its bosom.

Sincerely yours,

J. HOLT

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

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

LANCASTER, OHIO, Dec. 29, 1863.

My Dear Brother:

 . . . I hear you have gone on to New York, and therefore I must go off without seeing you. I have been off the line of communication since leaving Memphis, save a few hours at Bridgeport, during which I had hardly time to put my official signature to papers demanding my hand. I have made a report of our movements up to the return to Bridgeport and enclose it with this, a copy which I brought here, and which you may keep, only, of course, under the confidence of absolute secrecy until the War Department thinks proper to make the original public. . . .

I suppose you will read this report, and I invite attention to the part referring to the assault on Tunnel Hill. I know that Grant in his report will dwell on this same part. I was provoked that Meigs, looking at us from Chattanooga, should report me repulsed, and that Mr. Stanton should publish his letter as semi-official. Meigs apologized to me for using Thomas's name instead of mine throughout, which he charged to a copyist, but made no amends for the repulse. The whole philosophy of the battle was that I should get, by a dash, a position on the extremity of the Missionary Ridge, from which the enemy would be forced to drive me, or allow his depot at Chickamauga station to be in danger. I expected Bragg to attack me at daylight, but he did not, and to bring matters to a crisis quickly, as time was precious, for the sake of Burnside in East Tennessee, Grant ordered me to assume the offensive. My report contains the rest. Again, after the battle, Granger was ordered to push for Knoxville, but his movements were so slow that Grant, impatient, called on me, and my move was the most rapid of the war and perfectly successful. I could have gone on after Longstreet, but Burnside ranked me, and it was his business, not mine. So I reinforced him all he asked, and returned.

The Fifteenth Corps, now Logan's, and Dodge's division of the Sixteenth Corps are now at work on the railroad from Nashville to Decatur, and from Decatur to Stevenson, thus making a triangle of railroad which it is estimated will relieve the great difficulty of supplies which has paralyzed the Army of the Cumberland. This will take five weeks. I leave my headquarters at Huntsville, and go in person down the Mississippi to strike some lateral blows, to punish the country for allowing guerillas to attack the boats. I go on Friday to Cincinnati, and thence to Cairo, where with Admiral Porter I will concert measures to produce the result. I expect to send one expedition up the Yazoo, and go myself with another up Red River, levying contributions to make good losses to boats, and punish for deaths and wounds inflicted. I think we can make people feel that they must actually prevent guerillas from carrying out their threats that though we have the river, it will do us no good. My address will be Memphis, for a month, and Huntsville after. We can hardly fashion out the next campaign, but it looks as though we should have to move from the Tennessee River. I should prefer to take Mobile and the Alabama as well as the Chattahoochee, and move east from Montgomery and Columbus, Miss.

I wish you would introduce a bill in Congress increasing the number of cadets on this basis — one from each congressional district per annum. In districts not represented, vest the appointments in the Secretary of War out of boys not over eighteen in the armies in the field, to be selected in any manner that may be prescribed by law, or by the regulation of the President. This would hold out to young fellows the prospect of getting a cadetship. Last summer we were called on to recommend candidates, and I was amazed to find so many worthy applicants. All who came forward for examination preferred West Point to a commission. The great want of the army is good subordinate officers. The army is a good school, but West Point is better. It is useless to deny that a special preliminary education is necessary to the military officers, and the cheapest school is now at West Point and is susceptible of infinite increase. . . .

I think the President's proclamation unwise. Knowing the temper of the South, I know that it but protracts the war by seeming to court peace. It to them looks like weakness. I tell them that as they cool off, we warm to the work. That we are just getting ready for the war, and I know the effect is better than to coax them to come back into the Union. The organization of a Civil Government but complicates the game. All the Southern States will need a pure military Government for years after resistance has ceased. You have noticed the debate in Richmond, on the President's proclamation. That is a true exhibit of the feeling South. Don't fall into the error that the masses think differently. Of course property-holding classes South deplore the devastation that marks the progress of their own and our armies, but the South is no longer consulted. The Army of the Confederacy is the South, and they still hope to worry us out. The moment we relax, they gain strength and confidence. We must hammer away and show such resistance, such bottom that even that slender hope will fail them.

I still am opposed to all bounties. The draft pure and simple, annual, to fill vacancies in the ranks. Pay of men in the front increased to even forty dollars a month, and that of men at depots and to the rear diminished to a bare maintenance if not less. Four hundred dollars bounty is an absurd commentary where two-thirds draw bounty and remain absent from their rank and are discharged for disability without hearing a shot. Deal with the army as you would if you were hiring men for special work. Pay those who do the work high; those who are sick, unfortunate, or shirking, pay little or nothing. The same of officers from the major-general to lieutenant. The President must make vacancies for the rising officers, the "creations" of the war. I am willing to quit if a younger and better man can be found for my place. . . .

Your affectionate brother,

W. T. SHERMAN.

SOURCE: Rachel Sherman Thorndike, Editor, The Sherman Letters: Correspondence Between General and Senator Sherman from 1837 to 1891, p. 216-9

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Friday, May 30, 1862

Corinth was evacuated during the night. Upon leaving, the rebels burned the depot and several houses, besides a large amount of other property, and also blew up their powder magazine. They burned some cars loaded with their own supplies which they could not get away because they had no engineers. At daylight General Pope with his force entered Corinth and then went in hot pursuit of the rebels.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 51

We find the following in the Buffalo Commercial:

ON DIT. – That in an interview with the President before the advance of the army, General McClellan said that unless he could raise the Stars and Stripes over Richmond before the 15th of April, he should resign his commission.

– Published in the Iowa State Register, Weekly Edition, Des Moines Iowa, Wednesday, April 16, 1862, p. 1

The Prisoners in Chicago

From the Nashville Patriot, April 1.

The following letter was received at this office yesterday, with a request to publish:

CAMP DOUGLAS,

CHICAGO, ILL., Thursday, March 6.

MR. EDITOR: In behalf of the prisoners captured at Fort Donelson, composing the two companies from Dixon County, I ask permission, through your columns, to say to their friends that they are generally well and properly cared for. Only one (A.L. CUNNINGHAM) has died since we have been here. W.E. WINFREY and M.L. BAKER, of Capt. GRIGSBY's Company, were killed in the fight at the fort. Capt. CORDING lost none. We want to say to our wives, fathers, mothers, and children, not to run away from homes and firesides, as others have done, even if the Federal forces should come in their midst; nor grieve themselves unnecessarily on our account. We know not (if we are detained long) how our wives and children will live; but we are prisoners of hope, and have formed a better opinion of the Northern people and the army than we were accustomed to hear. We are short of clothing, and particularly of money.

JACOB LEECH.

– Published in The New York Times, New York, New York, Friday, April 11, 1862

Some of the Fort Donelson Secesh prisoners . . .

. . . confined at Chicago have written a letter to the Nashville Patriot which they request the Tennessee papers to copy in which they say:

We want to say to our wives, fathers, mothers and children not to run away from their homes and firesides, as others have done, even if the Federal forces should come in their midst; nor grieve themselves unnecessarily on our account.  We know not (if we are detained long) how our wives and children will live but we are prisoners of hope, and we have formed a better opinion of the Northern people and they army than we had been accustomed to hear.  We are short of clothing, and particularly of money.

– Published in the Iowa State Register, Weekly Edition, Des Moines Iowa, Wednesday, April 16, 1862, p. 1

An old friend from Springfield . . .

. . . lately called to see the President.  After the usual greetings, etc., ‘Lincoln,’ said he, ‘when you turned out Cameron why didn’t you turn out all the rest of your Cabinet?’  ‘That,’ said the President, ‘makes me think of something that took place near home in Illinois.  An old man had been pestered with a colony of skunks, that depredated nightly upon his poultry.  He determined to be rid of them, and finally succeeded in getting them into one hole, where he could kill them at his pleasure.  He drew one forth by the tail and executed him, but, said he, in telling the story, this caused such an infernal stench that he was glad to let the rest run.’

– Published in The Cedar Valley Times, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Thursday, April 17, 1862, p. 1

Robbery

On the 27th of January the house of Thomas Brown, of Flint River Township, in this County, was entered by some unknown person a little after dark, when the family was at supper and robbed of sixty dollars – two twenty and one five dollar treasury notes, thee dollars on State of Iowa, four dollars and eighty five cents in gold coin, and the remainder in silver.  The box that contained the money was found a few rods from the house, robbed of its contents excepting papers.  The track was a stocking foot track 11 inches long and very wide; no track outside of the lot.  The family had not been out of the room more than five minutes at a time after dark.  The first thing discovered was the clothing scattered over the floor out of a trunk that was in the room.  The thief must have been an old hand at the business, for the night was dark and raining.

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

Accident To Rev. W. F. Baird

On the last day of the year, Mr. Baird left his home in this city to assist in a series of meetings near Rochester in Cedar county.  On the 2d day his horse got entangled in the snow and ice near the Iowa river, and fell upon him.  Although able to still pursue his journey, he was soon admonished of the severe injury inflicted by the fall.  He reached his destination, but on the sixth took to his bed, where he has since remained.  Hopes are entertained that he will shortly be able to return to his home.

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

What They Think Of McClellan In Russia

At a complimentary dinner given to the officers of the 7th New Hampshire Regiment at the Metropolitan Hotel in New York, the other day, Major Roland, in response to a sentiment in honor of the commanding Chief, General McClellan, stated:

That during a visit to Russia, some time since, he was told by General Totleben, the renowned Engineer of the Crimean war, that he (Gen. T.) thought there were at least two great soldiers in the United States.  One was General Scott, whom he knew well by fame and warlike acts, and the other through his military works, and that was Captain McClellan. [Loud cheers.]  General Totleben predicted that if ever the United States should become involved in war, Captain McClellan would distinguish himself.  [Three cheers and a tiger for General McClellan.]

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Thursday, May 29, 1862

There was heavy cannonading today off on the left flank and the pickets are still fighting. General Pope cut the railroad and with the aid of the Second Iowa Cavalry burned a train of cars and took one thousand stand of arms.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 51

The German Regiment At Somerset

The Ninth Ohio, known as the German Regiment, under command of Col. Bob McCook, was in the battle at Somerset.  It was the 9th that decided the day by an impetuous, irresistible charge with the bayonet.  The Cincinnati Gazette remarks:

Cincinnati has had high hopes of this Regiment of her sons, and she is proudly gratified that her hopes are thus renewedly [sic] realized.  All honor to the German Ninth, and the well tried leader, and let their city, like the Roman matron preserve their names and fame among her brightest jewels.

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

A notable feature of the recent battle . . .

. . . in Kentucky was the splendid behavior of the field officers.  There was not a Colonel, Lieutenant-Colonel or Major who did not do his whole duty.  This shows an immense stride of improvement since Bull Run, where as a general rule, the field officers were lamentably inefficient.

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

The special boast of the rebels . . .

. . . during the war, has been their ability to destroy their enemies in hand to hand combat.  They have constantly flattered themselves that the superiority of their troops in fighting with the bayonet and bowie knife was an indisputable fact.  The Mississippians have prided themselves on the tremendous slaughter they would be able to inflict upon the Yankees with the bowie knife. – It must be especially disheartening to them to learn that at the battle of Webb’s Cross roads these terrible Mississippians with bowie knives two feet long, ran panic stricken before the leveled bayonets of the 2nd Minnesota and the 9th Ohio regiments.

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

The following stirring words . . .

. . . contained in Secretary Stanton’s late order, cannot be to frequently repeated:

“The purpose of this war is to attack, pursue and destroy the rebellions enemy, and to deliver the country from the danger menaced by traitors.  Alacrity, daring, courageous spirit and patriotic zeal on all occasions and under ever circumstance, are expected from the army of the United States.”

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Wednesday, May 28, 1862

Some very hard fighting out on the right flank. Our men were driven back from their line, but rallied and regained the ground lost. In the mix-up we took some prisoners and there were some killed and wounded on both sides.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 51

As there are many who volunteer advice . . .

. . . “in the name of the Lord” to the Commander in Chief, or the President, it may have a suggestive influence with the Government to repeat an interesting anecdote of Cromwell – given in the collection of Percy, on war:

“Cromwell kept is fanatics in order in their own way, for when one of them waited upon him as he said ‘in the name of the Lord’ to know the destination of one of his fleets, Cromwell said, ‘My good friend, the Lord shall know, for thou shalt go with the fleet.’  He immediately gave orders for having him stowed in the hold of one of the vessels then under sailing orders, and actually sent him out, thus confined, with the expedition.”

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

Cairo

It will surprise some people when we state that Cairo is about fifty miles further South than Richmond, Virginia, and full sixty miles further South than Louisville, Kentucky.  This fact may help those doubting to believe the reports that come up from Cairo, that there is not a particle of snow there, but lots of mud.

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

The late strikes at the Government Navy Yards . . .

. . . were caused by an order from Washington to reduce the pay ten per cent., and require ten hours per day labor.  The workmen were much excited, and held an indignation meeting.

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

A correspondent of the Keokuk Gate City writes . . .

. . . that on Saturday week Col. Moor, of the Northeast Missouri regiment, sent out an expedition of 170 men, part mounted, to scour the country around Memphis, Mo.  A secesh woman got an hour and a half start of them, and alarmed the prowling ruffians, who were pursued in scattered bodies a distance of thirty five miles, and eighty of their number captured, though Bill Dunn, their leader, escaped by clean running.  On the return the party burned some secesh distilleries, to cut off the supply of bad whisky, as essential to the marauders. – They returned to Memphis on Monday, bringing in twenty five prisoners, some horses and guns – in all a short and bloodless expedition.  Col. Moore ordered up the eighty prisoners in line, upon first taking them, and picked out the most inoffensive looking to receive the oath of allegiance.

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

Iowa Legislature

DES MOINES, Iowa, Jan 23d, 1862

Sir:  Thinking a paragraph or two in regard to the doings of the Legislature might be interesting to your numerous readers I employ a leisure moment in noting some of the doings of that body.

To-day quite an animated discussion sprang up on the report of the Committee of Ways and Means recommending that the State assume the collection of payment of Iowa proportion of the twenty millions direct tax voted by Congress.  The arguments urged in favor of this measure are that by assuming the assessment and collection of this tax we not only save the fifteen per cent for collection but will be enabled to equalize the burthens imposed by this tax by taxing alike all property of our citizens, both personal and real whereas should the General Government assess and collect this tax it will be assessed on real estates alone.  If it be as it is urged by some that a large amount will remain delinquent and thus the State will lose more than she will gain by the per cent. allowed, it may be said in reply that a revenue law as stringent as that provided by act of Congress would no doubt secure the collection of most if not the whole amount and finally, patriotism and State pride should prompt us to make great sacrifices to maintain the credit not only of our own State but that of the Nation in this crises of our common country.  Entertaining these views, I have no doubt the Legislature will adopt this measure and that the people will see that the tax is paid at any sacrifice.  They know the worth of our free institutions and are prepared to maintain them at nay sacrifice of treasure and blood.

Connected with this question of taxation is the proposition to receive the U. S. demand notes and notes of our State Bank in payment of taxes which has yet received no action in the House although from indications I am inclined to think our State Bank paper will not be received.

Many resolutions on the subject of the rebellion have been introduced and referred to the Committee on Federal Relations.  When that Committee report[s] we shall no doubt have quite an interesting discussion.

From the number of petitions asking a law to protect sheep from the ravages of dogs, I am inclined to think there will be no quarter shown to poor tray [sic] in time to come.

The prohibitory liquor law receives some considerable action.  Numerous petitions on this subject have already been received and referred to a select committee of nine.  A motion to instruct this committee to report a bill to repeal the present law and substitute therefore a license law was lost by a decided vote.  The indications at present are that the law will remain as at present.

A bill is before the House conferring jurisdiction on County Courts in certain cases.  It gives this Court concurrent jurisdiction with the District Court in civil cases in all sums under $500 and appellate jurisdiction in criminal cases before justices of the peace, in which the justice has power to render a judgment of fine and imprisonment or both.  What disposition will be made of this bill, I am unable to say.

Respectfully yours,

C. J. J.

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Tuesday, May 27, 1862

Things are quiet all along the lines today. Our supplies and ammunition are hauled by team from Pittsburg Landing. We still draw our full army rations every five days.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 51

Army Correspondence

FORT HOLT, Ky., Jan. 23, 1862

The 7th Regiment reached Cairo last Saturday evening.  We found Cairo one big, deep quagmire.  Mud, mud, everywhere, of the blackest and most adhesive character.  Although we had been a whole week on the road from St. Louis, yet the authorities had neglected to provide any accommodations for our troops on their arrival.  The Regiment was quartered on board the steamer City of Memphis for the night.  The next day (Sunday) we were ordered to Bird’s Point, but on enquiry it was found that the barracks assigned us, were occupied by other troops. – Next we were told to take quarters in Cairo but here also, we found the 8th Wisconsin Regiment had preceded us and taken the only quarters available.  Finally we were ordered over here.  Accordingly we proceeded very early Monday morning to invade the sacred soil of Kentucky.  Ground was soon marked out for a camp when our tents were set up, and tent life once more commenced.  The weather is pleasant and we manage to live very comfortably.  Our camp is on a sand ridge which borders the river, and on the whole a very charming spot.  In front we have Cairo and Bird’s Point in full view, whilst between rolls the broad expanse of water formed by the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers.  In spite of poor tents and previous hard usage, we consider ourselves very comfortably fixed.

How long we shall remain here is entirely unknown to us.  We are under orders however, to be ready to march at an hour’s notice.

The men are in good spirits and eager for active operations in the field.  We have with us a little over five hundred men – nearly all fit for active service.  Many of those wounded ant Belmont are rejoining their respective companies, and never more anxious than now to do battle in their country’s cause – the cause of Good and humanity.

I would here take occasion to acknowledge the reception of many articles for the sick and wounded of our regiment, from the “Ladies’ Aid Societies” of Burlington and vicinity.  The Congregationalist Church of Burlington has laid us under many obligations for the many and valuable additions it has made to our hospital stores.  The Old Zion Methodist Church, which has made generous provision for the unfortunate sufferers by the fatal fight at Belmont.  More recently Mr. David Leonard, Corresponding Secretary of the Ladies’ Aid Society of the District in which he lives, consigned to my care a valuable box of hospital stores for our wounded in the Mound City hospital.  This box was duly received there, and distributed amongst the Iowa troops, according to the expressed wishes of the donors.  Colonel Lauman has just received a box of hospital stores from the Episcopal Church of Burlington, and also another from Mr. Wm. Lynn, of Pleasant Grove, Iowa, both valuable boxes.  By means of these generous donations and other smaller ones not here enumerated our Regimental Hospital has been well supplied and the comfort of the sick and wounded very materially enhanced.

I doubt not it will be a great gratification to our Iowa friends to know that their efforts to benefit the sick and wounded of our brave State troops are duly appreciated and effective in accomplishing the object assigned.

The river is rising rapidly and my soon drive us from our Camping ground.

J. H. CLARK,

Chaplain of the Iowa Seventh

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Monday, May 26, 1862

It is very warm. Had company drill twice again today. There was very heavy cannonading off on the left flank.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 51

The difference between Republican and Democratic governing and administrative ability . . .

. . . is seen or will be seen in the conduct of the War Department respectively by Mr. Cameron and Mr. Stanton.  And it would be seen in the conduct of all the Executive departments if changes should be made in them.  Mr. Stanton understands this difference – he has learned it from the history of the country – and is therefore appointing only Democrats to the high subordinate positions in his department in place of Republicans removed. – Chicago Times.

This is the way Mr. Lincoln’s liberality and patriotism is met!  What is intended to promote harmony and unite parties in carrying forward the war is construed as an act of necessity – the only way to keep the Government running.  We are the salt of the earth – the governing class, says the Times – we embody all the ability and the virtue extant – Stanton knows this (probably he learned it while in Buchanan’s Cabinet) and is turning out Republicans and putting in Democrats!

We think well of Mr. Stanton and hope much from his Administration of the War Department – not because he is a Democrat, but because he is, as we hope and believe, a true and loyal man, possessing talents and energy, and entirely devoted to the office he now fills.  We care not what changes he makes so that rogues are turned out and honest men put in.  But we doubt very much either Mr. Stanton’s ability or wish to proscribe men for their opinion’s sake and turn out republicans because they are Republicans.

Any exhibition of magnanimity towards the late Democratic party is thrown away – is just about as foolish as the same measures have proven towards the rebels.

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

The Doctrines For The Times

“We thank God,” says the Buffalo Commercial Advertiser, “that the slavery question is now in a fair way of settlement.  We are alike sick of Northern fanaticism and agitation and Southern falsehoods and abstractions.  Let the war go on and let slavery take care of itself is our motto.  If the latter comes in our way crush it, if it does not let it alone.  If in putting down the rebellion, we also put down slavery – as a consequence, not as a part of our policy – then let slavery go down.  The country has too many interests at stake just now to pause in its march for the sake of chaffering about ‘the peculiar institution’ or arguing in regard either to its rights or its wrongs.  Fight first and settle all matters that remain to be settled afterwards is our doctrine.”

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Sunday, May 25, 1862

We stood in line of battle out on picket all night, and were relieved at 9 o'clock this morning. There's a report in camp to the effect that General Pope is desirous of moving his command around by the left flank to get into the rear of Corinth and cut off the retreat of the rebels. General Halleck, however, would not give him permission, as he did not want to take any chances in allowing his army to be divided, thereby giving the rebels the opportunity of attacking and defeating each part separately. It is estimated that Halleck has about one hundred thousand men in his command here about Corinth, and we hear that Beauregard has about the same number.¹

__________

¹ Beauregard had been reinforced and now had a force of 50,000. See Rhodes Vol. III, page 628. — Ed.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 50-1

When George Wallace Jones was sent to . . .

. . . Fort Lafayette for an avowal of his intention to join the southern confederacy and take up arms against the lawful government of the United States in a letter over his own signature addressed to Jefferson Davis, President, C. S. A., Father Mahoney of the Dubuque Herald, made a great outcry. Recently, a more humble but equally guilty villain called Hill, Clerk of the Court in Harrison county Iowa, has been sent to Fort Lafayette for equally treasonable avowals of sympathy with rebellion, and that other traitor, Babbitt, of the Council Bluffs Bugle, even out does Mahoney in his outcry over the matter.  It is an awful outrage upon the freedom of speech and the press that traitors are sent to prison for preaching treason, at least these two fellows pretend to think so.  It may not be amiss to remind them that life and liberty are guaranteed to white men under our free institutions.  Yet white men have been incarcerated in jails and sometimes deprived of life, without violating any provision of our Constitution.  The rights and property of honest citizens can only be protected by punishing rogues, thieves and murderers.

In all ages of the world and under all forms of government to conspire against the lawful Government, adhere to and give aid to its enemies has been held and punished as the greatest crime a citizen could be guilty of, and in times of public peril offenders have always been arrested, imprisoned, tried and condemned by both civil and military authorities as the public good seemed to require.  And of this no loyal citizen ever did or ever will complain.

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

Proclamation of Jefferson Davis, April 17, 1861

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES.

A PROCLAMATION.

Whereas, Abraham Lincoln, the President of the United States, has, by proclamation, announced the intention of invading this Confederacy with an armed force for the purpose of capturing its fortresses, and thereby subverting its independence and subjecting the free people thereof to the dominion of a foreign power; and, whereas, it has thus become the duty of this government to repel the threatened invasion, and to defend the rights and liberties of the people by all the means which the laws of nations and the usages of civilized warfare place at its disposal;

Now, therefore, I, Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America, do issue this my proclamation, inviting all those who may desire, by service in private armed vessels on the high seas, to aid this government in resisting so wanton and wicked an aggression, to make application for commissions or letters of marque and reprisal to be issued under the seal of these Confederate States.

And I do further notify all persons applying for letters of marque to make a statement in writing, giving the name and a suitable description of the character, tonnage, and force of the vessel, and the name and place of residence of each owner concerning therein, and the intended number of the crew, and to sign said statement and deliver the same to the Secretary of State, or to the collector of any port of entry of these Confederate States, to be by him transmitted to the Secretary of State.

And I do further notify all applicants aforesaid that before any commission or letter of marque is issued to any vessel, the owner or owners thereof, and the commander for the time being, will be required to give bond to the Confederate States, with at least two responsible sureties, not interested in such vessel, in the penal sum of five thousand dollars; or if such vessel be provided with more than one hundred and fifty men, then in the penal sum of ten thousand dollars, with condition that the owners, officers, and crew who shall be employed on board such commissioned vessel shall observe the laws of these Confederate States and the instructions given to them for the regulation of their conduct. That they shall satisfy all damages done contrary to the tenor thereof by such vessel during her commission, and deliver up the same when revoked by the President of the Confederate States.

And I do further specially enjoin on all persons holding offices, civil and military, under the authority of the Confederate States, that they be vigilant and zealous in discharging the duties incident thereto; and I do, moreover, solemnly exhort the good people of these Confederate States, as they love their country, as they prize the blessings of free government, as they feel the wrongs of the past and these now threatened in aggravated form by those whose enmity is more implacable because unprovoked, that they exert themselves in preserving order, in promoting concord, in maintaining the authority and efficacy of the laws, and in supporting and invigorating all the measures which may be adopted for the common defense, and by which, under the blessings of Divine Providence, we may hope for a speedy, just, and honorable peace.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of the Confederate States to be affixed, this seventeenth day of April, 1861.

[Signed]

Jefferson Dav1s.

By the President: R. Toombs, Secretary of State.

SOURCE: James D. Richardson, editor and publisher, A Compilation Of The Messages And Papers Of The Confederacy, Volume 1, p. 60-2

According to Custom

The present session of the Legislature commenced its proceedings according to custom.  And as it has been our custom heretofore to condemn such proceedings we again put in our protest against them and without any new excuse for so doing.  We refer to the practice of ordering large numbers of certain documents printed in the different languages in pamphlet form and also that of members voting themselves each about $20.00 worth of the papers printed at the capital.  The present Legislature ordered about 20,000 copies of the Governor’s Message and Inaugural printed in the English, German, Holland and Danish languages and also voted themselves 19 copies each of the daily papers at the capital.  Whatever circumstances in the past made it necessary for this practice they do not now exist.  Almost every county in the State has home paper or papers in which the messages are printed circulated and read long before the same documents are received in pamphlet form from the members of the Legislature.  And as a general thing those who are best able to supply themselves with reading matter, and who care the least about these documents, are the ones who are favored [by] members.  The number received at most only amounting to a fraction of each one’s constituents.  The same as to the papers.  Very few comparatively get to see them but all are taxed alike to pay for them.  The mere matter of postage on these if members send them to their constituents, which is the plea for voting them, that will be changed to the State will amount to some $3,000.  We are down on the whole thing – {Keosaqua Republican.

We agree in the main in the Republican’s strictures.  Whenever a legislative body starts out to put money into the hands of its members or friends [or of] a class of persons for political or other purposes there is never a good place to stop.  After voting money to sustain the papers at the capital and throwing a small sop to the others in the State, after printing messages in diverse languages in order to put money into the pockets of diverse printers, all of which amounts to but little, our Solons find it difficult to resist importunities for material aid form many other quarters.  When a start is once made in this direction there is no good place to stop.

The present General Assembly has thrown away no more money for buncombe than its predecessors, if indeed, as much, and is now laboring earnestly and zealously in the right direction.  All we refer to the matter at all for is to express our regret that a total reformation was not effected.  There never will be a better time.

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

According to the new rule of Secretary Stanton . . .

. . . the place to secure Brigadier General’s commissions will not be at Willard’s Hotel, Washington but in the camp and on the battlefields.  It is well, Mr. Stanton.

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

Farnsworth's Regiment

The Washington correspondent of the New York Times states that Farnsworth’s Illinois Regiment, in Gen. Sumner’s division, across the Potomac, has 250 men sick with typhoid fever.  It is the most afflicted regiment in the army.  Other regiments

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 1.  NOTE: The bottom of the article was cut off during microfilming.

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Saturday, May 24, 1862

The Eleventh Iowa went out on picket at 5 o'clock this evening. It was reported in camp that General Beauregard is moving all of his heavy ordnance and his entire army to the south with a view of evacuating Corinth. The report says that teams loaded with munitions of war are leaving Corinth every day.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 50

Ex-Secreatry Guthrie

A letter has been received at Washington from Hon. James Guthrie, the distinguished Secretary of the Treasury under General Pierce’s Administration, which generally sustains the financial view taken by Secretary Chase.  It also approves of General McCellan’s defensive position upon the Potomac, but he thinks that offensive operations by the Federal columns are the best plans for driving the rebels out of Kentucky.  General Buell is made the subject of his high commendation.

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

Illness Of Col. Brown

The friends of Colonel Brown, the gallant defender of Fort Pickens, will learn with sorrow that the dropsical symptoms developed some time since  by his labors and the climate of the gulf, have recently become so pronounced that it will probably be necessary to relieve him from his important command.

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

Transporation For The Government

As an evidence of the immense business done by the Government in the way of transportation it is stated that during the past six weeks there have been forwarded to Washington, from Baltimore, 15,000,000 feet of lumber (including heavy timberstock,) 12,000 cords of wood, and 10,000 tons of coal.  Since the 20th of October 9,000 car loads, carrying 800,000 bales of hay, have been sent from Baltimore to Washington, together with 5,000 car loads of oats and corn – nearly 8,000,000 bushels.  On the average 100 cars of the largest capacity, heavily laden with freight, have passed over the road every day since the 20th of October.  In addition to this five regular passenger trains, and from one to six extra trains for troops, have passed daily to and from the points above named.

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Friday, May 23, 1862

We formed a line of battle at 4 o'clock this morning, but the rebels did not make their expected attack. The army generally now forms a line of battle every morning at 4 and remains in line until about 6 o'clock. It rained some today, and on account of the wet weather it was only at times that there was activity along the lines.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 50

On the morning of the taking of Fort Donelson . . .

. . . Gen. Johnson, while taking his coffee, narrowly escaped death.  A rifle ball skimmed off the bottom of his coffee cup, leaving the empty sides in the rebel’s hand.

– Published in The Cedar Valley Times, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Thursday, April 17, 1862, p. 1

Appearances indicate that Gen. McClellan’s plan . . .

. . . of operation is something as follows.  As a part of our forces in Kentucky shall advance into Tennessee the remainder, with those at Cairo will operate against Bowling Green.  Forcing the Confederates to abandon this position, their retreat will be cut off, and their condition will be precarious.  Meanwhile the Mississippi flotilla will proceed upon its mission.  If the Burnside expedition shall obtain possession of the North Carolina Railroad, the rebel connection between Virginia and the cotton states will be cut off.  The army at Manassas, thus isolated, must leave its entrenchments either to attack Gen. McClellan or retreat.  If the former result is not doubtful, if the latter, with what power will Gen. McClellan fall upon its rear?

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

Senator John Sherman to Major General William T. Sherman, November 14, 1863

MANSFIELD, OHIO, Nov. 14, 1863.

My Dear Brother:

. . . . . . . . . .

On Tuesday next I start for Gettysburg, to take part in the pageant of a dedication of the battle-field as a national cemetery. From thence I shall probably go to Washington, two weeks in advance of the session. The very first thing I mean to do is to press the enforcement of the draft. The long delay and the various shifts and subterfuges by which the execution of the law has thus far been defeated, is disgraceful, and very injurious to the cause. . . . I notice in some of the Southern papers that a hope is entertained that the draft cannot be enforced. This is idle. The war was never more popular than at this moment. The new call will fall lightly. Ohio must send thirty-five thousand, or one to fifteen of her voters. The apportionment has been made even to townships and wards, and in very many places the quota will be made by voluntary enlistments, aided by large gratuitous bounties from citizens. There is no lack of men or of a determination to send them. The wonderful prosperity of all classes, especially of laborers, has a tendency to secure acquiescence in all measures demanded to carry on the war. We are only another example of a people growing rich in a great war. And this is not shown simply by inflated prices, but by increased production, new manufacturing establishments, new railroads, houses, etc. . . . Indeed, every branch of business is active and hopeful. This is not a mere temporary inflation caused by paper money, but is a steady progress, and almost entirely upon actual capital. The people are prospering and show their readiness to push on the war. Taxes are paid cheerfully, and the voluntary donations for our soldiers and their families are counted by thousands. ... I confide in your success.

Affectionately,

JOHN SHERMAN.

SOURCE: Rachel Sherman Thorndike, Editor, The Sherman letters: correspondence between General and Senator Sherman from 1837 to 1891, p. 215-6

Illinois now has 3,041 miles of railway . . .

. . . laid out and in operation, being 71 miles more than Ohio, which ranks next, having 2,970 miles.  The cost of building and equipping the railroads in Illinois is put down at $113,591,015.  Pennsylvania ranking next to Ohio, has 2,918 miles in operation, New York, next, 2,758, and Indiana, next to New York, has 2,159.  Massachusetts has 1,257 miles, which is less than Virginia and Georgia, the former of which has 1,729 and the latter 1,419 miles.  The entire extent of railroads in operation in all the Free States is 20,683, that of the slave states, 11,111 – total, 31,794.

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Thursday, May 22, 1862

Things were a little more quiet this forenoon, but there was some very heavy cannonading off on the left flank this afternoon. Skirmishing is still going on between the pickets. There are not many men being killed on either side, since they are well protected by their respective fortifications; it is when they have to advance on [sic] skirmish in the open that they suffer losses.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 50

At New Orleans . . .

. . . flour was selling at twenty-two dollars and fifty cents per barrel.

– Published in The Cedar Valley Times, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Thursday, April 17, 1862, p. 1

The degenerate days of fraud . . .

. . . corruption, unfaithfulness to public and private trusts prolific in all descriptions of human monstrosities, have produced no worse characters than the political harpies, who watching every turn in the wheel, with the sole object of securing some advantage, fair or foul for themselves or the party to which they belong.  They give not one thought to the Country or its peril – they care not one brass farthing for our institutions.  They want the country saved but unless it can be saved upon the Douglas or some other platform, saved with or without slavery, as they have severally decreed it must be, they don’t want it saved at all.  Unless their party can use the War to get into or keep in power, and to get into office or keep there, being already in – unless they can get fat jobs and contracts for themselves and friends they can see no earthly use in having a war.  And having offices and contracts, fat takes and a good thing generally, they are in favor of nursing and keeping the war agoing as long as possible.  The Country has no more dangerous enemies, not even excepting the rebels, than these heartless, mercenary politicians by trade, who do not know what patriotism is, and whose gizzards were never surprised by a generous emotion or an honest or disinterested act, in the memory of the oldest inhabitant.  From all such politicians of whatever party or name, whether in office or out good Lord deliver us.

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

The Indications at Washington

The Washington Correspondent of the New York Commercial, one of the most observing and intelligent at the capital, sees in the inspection of the wagon trains and ambulances of the army of the Potomac, “a sure indication of a movement that means business.  There are nine hundred wagons, about two thirds of them drawn by six and the remainder by four horses or mules, seventy five four horse ambulances, one hundred one horse ambulances, the baggage train of Gen. McClellan and staff, the ammunition wagons of the ordnance corps and several portable blacksmiths forges for horse showing.  Every ten wagons form a train, under the direction of a mounted wagon master, and these trains are brigaded under chief wagon masters.  The teamsters are not mustered in, but are subject to martial law, and are under such discipline that they will not again hasten to the front, or join in a stampede to the rear, as they did at Bull Run.  The telegraph corps, the balloon corps, the copyists for recording and writing duplicate copies of orders, the pontooniers, the sappers and miners, the express rider – in short, every necessary appendage to the fighting me of the grand army, is in readiness to march at the word.  Meanwhile, neither leaves of absence nor furloughs are granted except by reason of sickness, upon medical certificates, or ‘in urgent and exceptional cases.’  The order promulgating this states that “the exigencies of the service demand that every officer and soldier of this army able to do duty, should be at his post.”

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

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Wednesday, May 21, 1862

The right wing moved up closer upon the fortifications of the rebels and although they tried to drive our men back, they failed in the attempt. There is very heavy cannonading and skirmishing. The left wing of our army is under command of General Pope. The earthworks between the two armies are getting very close to each other.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 50

How Baber Got His Commission

Armstrong of the Tiffin (Ohio) Advertiser, who has just returned from a visit to Washington, relates the following, which is sufficiently life-like to be true.

Almost everybody about Columbus, Ohio, knows Baber, while out of the capital.

Baber is the individual who published the Douglas and Lincoln debates, and but the ball in motion that finally landed Uncle Abraham into the White House.  Baber, hence claims to be Warwick, the Kingmaker, and for his services has been rewarded with the office of Paymaster in the United States Army.

When the President appointed the Major to his position he desired him to call upon the Secretary of War and receive his commission.  Now Cameron is besieged and hunted by hundreds, and is hard to reach.  Baber stood at the gate for a long while, the hours wore away, and no attention was paid to his appeals by the secretary at the door.

Finally, Baber – who had for long years warred Chase – concluded to call upon that functionary to assist him, on the principle that Chase is always willing to do more for his enemies than his friends.  The Governor went with Baber, and Sesame opened.  Chase with Baber at his side, strode into the War Department and up to Cameron.

“Cameron,” said Chase, “here is the man who beat you and me for the Presidency at Chicago.  Give him his commission, quick, or Abe will have him in his Cabinet in place of one of us.”

Baber got his papers and gleefully relates how courteously his old friend “came down.”

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

A dispatch to the Philadelphia Press says . . .

. . . that there is no doubt that eh Secretary of the Navy will resign and his successor will probably come from New York.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

Very Laconic

An amusing sword presentation was made on the 17th by officers of the Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania to their Colonel, Wm. Sirwell.  The presentation speech of Capt. Gillespie was, “Here we are and here you are.  This is a bully sword and came from bully fellows.  Take it, and use it in a bully manner.”  Col. Sirwell’s reply was, “Captain, that was a bully speech, let us take a bully drink.”

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

A Profitable Crop

A farmer, living near Clinton, Monroe county, brought his last year’s crop of tobacco down last week, for which he received $9 per hundred, in gold, and which averaged 1,200 pounds to the acre, making one year’s products bring up $118 per acre!

A friend of ours asked him if land in his neighborhood could not be bought at from $30 to $40 per acre.  He replied “Yes, from 35 to 37.”  At this rate the products of one acre for one year, would purchase the rise of 15 acres for all time.

Think of the Eastern and Southern farmers and govern yourselves accordingly. – {Hannibal Messenger.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Tuesday, May 20, 1862

Things are a little more quiet today, the cannonading not being so brisk, although the skirmishers are keeping up a lively firing all along the line.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 50

Married

At the residence of the bride’s father, near Burlington, on the 6th inst, by Rev. A. F. Willey, Mr. EDWARD R. HARRIS to Miss MARY WEAVER, both of Des Moines County.

In this city, Feb. [6]th, by Rev. W. E. Westervelt, Mr. [F.] M. BOWMAN, of Mt. Pleasant, to Miss. E. D. McCASH, eldest daughter of W. D. McCash, of Burlington.

In Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, on the evening of Saturday, Feb. 1, 1862, by Rev. Geo. B. Jocelyn, ALPHEUS CORWELL, of the 4th Iowa Cavalry, and Miss FANNIE L.  MORRISON, of Mt. Pleasant.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

Died

Feb. 1, at the residence of her eldest son, Deacon John Penny, of this county, Mrs. PHEOBE PENNY, in the [80th] year of her age.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

Adjutant General Thomas

The character of the man, who issued his shameless report with such indecent haste against Fremont, on his return from the West, is fast coming to light. – The investigation of the Potter Committee into the character of the office holders at Washington, shows that this Gen. Thomas is a partner in the house of Boyce, Thomas & Dodge, that both Boyce and Dodge are notorious secessionist, that Dodge is a Paymaster, and that his clerk, McCobb, is an open and avowed secessionist.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

Sunday Battles

The Parish Visitor records the fact, that, in every modern battle which has been fought on Sunday, the attacking party has not only been defeated, but generally disgracefully routed and panic stricken, without any apparent cause.  The following are instances: Perry’s victory on Lake Erie, McDonough’s victory on Lake Champlain, the battle of New Orleans, the battle of Waterloo, the battle of Bull Run, and the Battle of Mill Spring.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

A Washington dispatch says . . .

. . . “Gen. McClellan’s baggage train is in readiness and only awaits for the order ‘Forward.’  It is a magnificent arrangement, consisting of baggage wagons and carriages for himself and staff, fitted up with sleeping and writing arrangements of the most comfortable description.  The President himself could not ask for more comfortable quarters.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

What Will England Do?

The great body of the English people are far from having a distaste for war, though they may not so much fancy an increase of an already burdensome taxation.  Let me be as frank as I ever have been and tell you the truth in this matter.  The great body of the English, and still more the Irish people, are disappointed and disgusted.  They expected a war.  It is not too much to say that they wished for one.  They expected war, and prepared for it at a cost of two or three millions.  Even the Guards were sent off in hot haste to Canada.  And England, this day, is ready to seize upon any pretext which will allow her to take a belligerent position.  When Lord Palmerston went to the meeting of the Privy Council, which met to consider the Trent affair, his first remark, on laying down his hat was “I don’t know whether the English people are going to stand this American business or not, but I’m d----d if I do!”

There can be no reasonable doubt that the United States must either fight England within the next twelve months, or submit to a series of terrible humiliations.  One question will be raised after another.  The first issue will be on the doctrines of Mr. Seward’s recent dispatch.  Then will come a protest against the permanent closing and destruction of the Southern ports, as against the laws of nations and of nature. – The question of recognition of the independence of the Southern Confederacy will be one of the first brought before Parliament.  Gen. McClellan has little time to lose.  The only logic to which Europe will listen is the unanswerable argument of un fait accompli.  The South must be subjugated, or it will be recognized.  If you do not end the war, France and England will.  France to-day is more the friend of the South, and more interested in her success, than is England, even.  Sympathy with the North, strangely enough is rarer in France and Spain than here.  Further more if you make the war one for abolition, you will have a large party both in England and France.  But it is not a powerful party.  The powerful of both countries have too much sympathy with freedom. – {London Cor., N. Y. Times, Jan 15.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Monday, May 19, 1862

We were ordered to strike our tents and move to the right, but just as we were ready to fall into line, the order was countermanded and we were ordered to go to throwing up breastworks. It was reported that the rebels were going to come out of their breastworks and attack us. The pickets were fighting all day, and there was brisk skirmishing and cannonading all along the front. Our entire picket line has been reinforced by extra men.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 49-50

Sleighing with the Girls

Hurrah! For frosty winter nights,

The old moon shining clear,

When gallant school boys are seen,

Each with his favorite “dear:”

When Cupid scatted sundry darts,

The tide of pleasure whirls;

Oh, what delight, of a moonlight night,

A sliding with the Girls!

CHORUS:	Tramp! – kiss – Tramp! – stumble
	Another kiss and then a tumble!
	Hurrah! For lips and streaming curls,
	And a sliding with lovely girls.

There’s Tom, the wicked rogue,

Is “keeping step” with Kate!

Just watch their mode of courting so,

They’ll not get home at “eight!”

There’s George thrown headlong in the drift,

For Pulling Fannie’s curls.

He thinks that this is not amiss,

A sliding with the girls!

“Come here,” says Jack to Harriet,

“A secret for your ear!”

Just kisses her – and in the snow,

He’s thrown by Hattie dear,

As they both together roll,

‘Mid rich snow-covered curls,

Jack does not miss a snow drift kiss,

A sliding with the girls!

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2.  This poem also appeared as “Sliding With The Girls” in The Pioneer and Democrat, St. Paul, Minnesota, Sunday Morning, February 16, 1862, p. 1.

Ex-Senator Weller wants to be Commodore

While in Washington we heard a good story in regard to Uncle Abe and John B. Weller, “the Mexican killer.”

Weller was at Washington settling his accounts as Minster to Mexico.  After their adjustment, he concluded to pay his respects to Mr. Lincoln, with whom he had served in congress.  He called at the Presidential mansion, and was courteously received.

“Mr. President,” said Colonel Weller, “I have called on you to say that I most heartily endorse the conservative position you have assumed and will stand by you so long as you prosecute the war for the preservation of the Union and the Constitution.”

“Colonel Weller, said the President, “I am heartily glad to hear you say this.”

“Yes, Mr. President,” said Weller, “I desire an appointment to aid in this work.”

“What do you want, Colonel?” asked Abraham.

“I desire to be appointed Commodore in the Navy,” said Weller.

The President replied:

“Colonel, I did not think you had any experience as a sailor.”

“I never had, Mr. President,” said Weller, “but judging from the Brigadier Generals you have appointed in Ohio, the less experience a man has the higher position he attains.”

Lincoln turned off, with a hearty laugh and said – “I owe you one, Colonel.”

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

Russell's Last Letter

The London Times’ correspondent possess admirable descriptive powers, but when exciting events are wanting and he endeavors to penetrate beneath the surface of affairs he makes ludicrous blunders, and exhibits surprising obtuseness.  As there have been no important battles recently, his letters are very dull and contain little or nothing worth copying.  The following paragraph is, however so truthful that we reproduce it:

In the midst of the excitement arising out of the difficulties between the two countries, the American press has with one voice expressed its sympathy with the Queen in her grief, and has announced the event in a manner very creditable to the people and gratifying to us.  It touches the English heart to hear Queen Victoria spoken of as she is by all classes in America, and though the praise may be extorted by the blameless life and domestic qualities of the woman and the sovereign, it is not the less pleasant to us to listen to it, and to take pride in the honor showered on our Queen by those who are by no means friendly to her subjects.  Her misfortune and the calamity to the Royal family and to the country have been treated with respectful condolence in America.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2