Senator John Sherman to Major General William T. Sherman, April 17, 1864

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 17,1864.

My Dear Brother:

. . . Our finances are bubbling up and down in that feverish state where a panic might easily come. Chase is a man of ability, but in recent measures he has failed. I have been generally the laboring one in the Senate, on these measures, though very often my judgment has been against them. I have felt like a subordinate officer, who, while he does not approve the plan of operations, yet deems it his duty fairly to execute his part of it rather than by fault-finding to impair it. The war is daily driving us to extraordinary measures, and our form of Government is not unit enough to carry them out. We are embarrassed by state banks, state laws, and local issues and interests. The other day a determined effort was made in New York to run gold up to 200, but was promptly met by a free sale by the Government of gold and exchange, and the movement failed. It was aided by this very bad news from Fort Pillow, not so bad from the loss of men, but from the question of retaliation raised by the massacre of negro troops. We all feel that we must either disband negro troops or protect them. It is fearful to think about the measures that may be necessary, but what else can we do? An investigation will be made by the Secretary of War and by Congress, and if the rebels are determined to massacre prisoners, then a new and terrible stage of this war will be commenced. . . .

Affectionately yours,

JOHN SHERMAN.

SOURCE: Rachel Sherman Thorndike, Editor, The Sherman Letters: Correspondence Between General and Senator Sherman from 1837 to 1891, p. 233-4

Shiloh

A Requiem.

(APRIL, 1862.)

SKIMMING lightly, wheeling still,

      The swallows fly low

Over the field in clouded days,

      The forest-field of Shiloh—

Over the field where April rain

Solaced the parched ones stretched in pain

Through the pause of night

That followed the Sunday fight

      Around the church of Shiloh—

The church so lone, the log-built one,

That echoed to many a parting groan

            And natural prayer

      Of dying foemen mingled there—

Foemen at morn, but friends at eve—

      Fame or country least their care:

(What like a bullet can undeceive!)

      But now they lie low,

While over them the swallows skim,

      And all is hushed at Shiloh.

SOURCE: Herman Melville, Battle-Pieces and Aspects of the War, Harper & Brothers, Publishers, Franklin Square, New York, New York, 1866, p. 63

Ulysses. S. Grant to Commanding Officer Advance Forces (Buell’s Army), April 6, 1862

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE,

Pittsburg, April 6, 1862.

 COMMANDING OFFICER ADVANCE FORCES (BUELL'S ARMY), Near Pittsburg:

The attack on my forces has been very spirited from early this morning. The appearance of fresh troops on the field now would have a powerful effect, both by inspiring our men and disheartening the enemy. If you will get upon the field, leaving all your baggage on the east bank of the river, it will be a move to our advantage, and possibly save the day to us. The rebel forces are estimated at over 100,000 men. My headquarters will be in the log building on the top of the hill, where you will be furnished a staff officer to guide you to your place on the field.

U.S. GRANT,

Major-General, Commanding.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume X, Part II (Serial No. 11), page 95

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Tuesday, October 28, 1862

The regiment worked on the fortifications today for the third day in succession. I was not with my company though, being on other fatigue duty. The forts under construction are arranged so that if one fort should be captured, the guns of two other forts could be turned upon the enemy in that one. The floors of the forts and the rifle-pits are raised from four to ten feet by filling in earth, and then laid with the lumber from the houses which were pulled down to make room for the fortifications. The ramparts are faced on the outside with long woven baskets of hickory withes and filled with earth to keep them in shape. The forts are built with a view of standing some time, and should last for four or five years. We commenced drawing bread instead of crackers.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 78

Major General William T. Sherman to Senator John Sherman, April 11, 1864

[NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE, April 11, 1864]

Of course I have enough to do, but more to think about. We have now been two years and more at war, and have reached a period when we should consider the war as fairly begun. Don't you delude yourself that it is even approaching an end. For a shrewd people we have less sense even than the Mexicans, paying fabulous bounties for a parcel of boys and old men, and swelling our muster-rolls, but adding nothing to our real fighting strength. Instead of enlarging, we are all cutting down our organizations. I shall have the fragments of seven corps on the Tennessee, but over thirty thousand animals have died, and it is going to be a terrible job to replace them, and to accumulate to the front the necessary food for mules and men in time; but though assured that the country for a long distance into Georgia and Alabama is stripped as it is on this side, yet at the right time I shall go ahead, and, if necessary, feed on anything. I shall not be behindhand when the grand beginning is announced. I can tell you nothing more.

. . . I expect soon to have a new howl against me. The pressure to go in our cars to the front was so great and the difficulty of getting to Chattanooga so momentous, that I ordered absolutely no citizen, private freight, or anything but freight purely military to be taken till the wants of the troops were supplied. . . .

It will require the conjoined energies of the whole nation to meet the shock this spring, and it may be the end will be made certain, but still the long, persistent struggle with half a million of men far more desperate than our old Indians is yet to come. . . .

I enclose you a letter of instructions I made to my adjutant Sawyer, who remained at my headquarters, Huntsville, when I went to Meridian. I should not object to have this letter printed, as it is something new and is true. Sawyer tells me it had a powerful effect on the people of Huntsville. As the letter is equally applicable to large districts still to be gone over, its publication would do no harm except to turn the Richmond press against me, as the prince of barbarians.

Yours in haste,

W. T. SHERMAN

SOURCE: Rachel Sherman Thorndike, Editor, The Sherman Letters: Correspondence Between General and Senator Sherman from 1837 to 1891, p. 227-8

Major General William T. Sherman to Major R. M. Sawyer, January 31, 1864

HEADQUARTERS DEPT. OF THE TENN.,

VICKSBURG, Jan. 31,1864.

MAJOR R. M. SAWYER,

A. A. C. Army of the Tenn.,

Huntsville, Alabama.

Dear Sawyer: In my former letters I have answered all your questions save one, and that relates to the treatment of inhabitants known or suspected to be hostile or "Secesh." This is in truth the most difficult business of our army as it advances and occupies the Southern country. It is almost impossible to lay down rules, and I invariably leave the whole subject to the local commanders, but am willing to give them the benefit of my acquired knowledge and experience. In Europe, whence we derive our principles of war, wars are between kings or rulers through hired armies, and not between peoples. These remain, as it were, neutral, and sell their produce to whatever army is in possession.

Napoleon when at war with Prussia, Austria, and Russia bought forage and provisions of the inhabitants, and consequently had an interest to protect the farms and factories which ministered to his wants. In like manner the Allied Armies in France could buy of the French habitants whatever they needed, the produce of the soil or manufactures of the country. Therefore, the general rule was and is that war is confined to the armies engaged, and should not visit the houses of families or private interests. But in other examples a different rule obtained the sanction of historical authority. I will only instance one, where in the siege of William and Mary the English army occupied Ireland, then in a state of revolt. The inhabitants were actually driven into foreign lands, and were dispossessed of their property and a new population introduced.

To this day a large part of the north of Ireland is held by the descendants of the Scotch emigrants sent there by William's order and an act of Parliament. The war which now prevails in our land is essentially a war of races. The Southern people entered into a clear compact of government with us of the North, but still maintained through state organizations a species of separate existence, with separate interests, history, and prejudices. These latter became stronger and stronger, till at last they have led to war and have developed fruits of the bitterest kind. We of the North are beyond all question right in our cause, but we are not bound to ignore the fact that the people of the South have prejudices which form a part of their nature, and which they cannot throw off without an effort of reason or the slower process of natural change. The question then arises, Should we treat as absolute enemies all in the South who differ from us in opinion or prejudice, kill or banish them, or should we give them time to think and gradually change their conduct so as to conform to the new order of things which is slowly and gradually creeping into their country?

When men take up arms to resist a rightful authority, we are compelled to use like force, because all reason and argument cease when arms are resorted to. When the provisions, forage, horses, mules, wagons, etc., are used by our enemy, it is clearly our duty and right to take them also, because otherwise they might be used against us. In like manner all houses left vacant by an inimical people are clearly our right, and as such are needed as storehouses, hospitals, and quarters. But the question arises as to dwellings used by women, children, and non-combatants. So long as non-combatants remain in their houses and keep to their accustomed peaceful business, their opinions and prejudices can in no wise influence the war, and therefore should not be noticed; but if any one comes out into the public streets and creates disorder, he or she should be punished, restrained, or banished to the rear or front, as the officer in command adjudges. If the people, or any of them, keep up a correspondence with parties in hostility, they are spies, and can be punished according to law with death or minor punishment. These are well-established principles of war, and the people of the South having appealed to war, are barred from appealing for protection to our constitution, which they have practically and publicly defied. They have appealed to war, and must abide its rules and laws. . . .

It is all idle nonsense for these Southern planters to say that they made the South, that they own it, and can do as they please to break up our Government and shut up the natural avenues of trade, intercourse, and commerce. We know, and they know, if they are intelligent beings, that as compared with the whole world they are but as five millions to one thousand millions, that they did not create the land, that the only title to use and usufruct is the deed of the United States, and that if they appeal to war they hold their all by a very insecure tenure. For my part, I believe that this war is the result of false political doctrine, for which we are all as a people more or less responsible, and I would give all a chance to reflect, and, when in error, to recant. I know the slave-owners, finding themselves in possession of a species of property in opposition to the growing sentiment of the whole civilized world, conceived their property to be in danger and foolishly appealed to war, and that by skilful political handling they involved with themselves the whole South on this result of error and prejudice. I believe that some of the rich and slave-holding are prejudiced to an extent that nothing but death and ruin will ever extinguish, but I hope that as the poorer and industrious classes of the South realize their relative weakness and their dependence upon the fruits of the earth and good-will of their fellow-men they will not only discover the error of their ways and repent of their hasty action, but bless those who persistently have maintained a constitutional government strong enough to sustain itself, protect its citizens, and promise peaceful homes to millions yet unborn.

If the people of Huntsville think differently, let them persist in this war three years longer, and then they will not be consulted.

Three years ago, by a little reflection and patience, they could have had a hundred years of peace and prosperity, but they preferred war. Last year they could have saved their slaves, but now it is too late, — all the powers of earth cannot restore to them their slaves any more than their dead grandfathers. . . .

A people who will persevere in war beyond a certain limit ought to know the consequences. Many, many people, with less pertinacity than the South has already shown, have been wiped out of national existence.

My own belief is that even now the non-slave-holding classes of the South are alienating from their associates in war. Already I hear crimination and recrimination. Those who have property left should take warning in time.

Since I have come down here I have seen many Southern planters, who now hire their own negroes and acknowledge that they were mistaken and knew not the earthquake they were to make by appealing to secession. They thought that the politicians had prepared the way, and that they could part the States of this Union in peace. They now see that we are bound together as one nation by indissoluble ties, and that any interest, or any fraction of the people that set themselves up in antagonism to the nation, must perish.

Whilst I would not remit one jot or tittle of our nation's rights in peace or war, I do make allowances for past political errors and prejudices.

Our national Congress and the Supreme Court are the proper arenas on which to discuss conflicting opinions, and not the battle-field.

You may not hear from me again for some time, and if you think it will do any good, call some of the better people of Huntsville together and explain to them my views. You may even read to them this letter and let them use it, so as to prepare them for my coming. . . .

We are progressing well in this quarter, but I have not changed my opinion that although we may soon make certain the existence of the power of our national government, yet years must pass before ruffianism, murder, and robbery will cease to afflict this region of our country.

Your friend,

WM. T. SHERMAN,

Major Gen'l Comd.

SOURCE: Rachel Sherman Thorndike, Editor, The Sherman Letters: Correspondence Between General and Senator Sherman from 1837 to 1891, p. 228-33

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Monday, October 27, 1862

Our entire regiment was at work on the fortifications. Nathan Chase and William Cross of my company had a fight today, all over some trivial matter. It seems that it is enough to have to fight the rebels without the men fighting among themselves. They were put into the guardhouse.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 78

Army Correspondence

HAMBURG, TENN., Night, April 29, ’62.

FRIEND SANDERS:– Once again I write from this point, though I remain behind with the stores, the regiment being five miles out on the Corinth Road.  Two days since while on picket guard, Corp. Miller, of Co. G, was taken prisoner.  Today the 3d battalion, while out on a scout, was suddenly opened on by a masked battery.  Wm. Faxton was instantly killed, by a grapeshot through the head, and three of Co. I wounded by grape.  Corp. J. B. Smith, in leg, James Bontriger in thigh, and Wm. Bremner in the shoulder.  Bremner’s horse was killed the first fire, and while retreating on foot he was struck.  Co. [B], of first battalion was advance guard, and after a slight skirmish captured twenty prisoners.  The 2nd Cavalry are in front, and will endeavor to prove worthy.

The river which had fallen some, has risen four feet in the past two days.  Most of our forces have advanced from the river, but more arrive daily.  Last night rain again, and to-day has been cloudy without rain.

Perhaps many are asking why don’t Gen. Halleck advance and attack Beauregard?  Why don’t he move? &c.  Let me describe faintly my ride out to camp, a few hours before dark, and return.  Leaving the river I pass through a slough, where the water runs into the wagon box, then up a bluff of thirty feet.  In the distance of a mile and a half, I count two hundred and fifty six mule, and four horse teams, loaded with powder, shot shell and ammunition of all kinds, camp equipage, stores, forage, &c., &c.  For this distance the road is level, with many mud holes; here is one larger than others, with four teams stuck at once, and one of four mules so deeply imbedded that but for ears, one might think them lumps of mud, just beyond we pass a slough that in places swims the mules.  Here is a jam, some teams are coming, others going, some wait for a chance, others don’t.  There are on these sloughs no “mill dams” but at these particular points the other kind is unlimited.

A few rods and the road stretches for four hundred yards up a smooth bold bluff, at an angle of thirty degrees at least.  On the top of this bluff were five thirty pound Parrott guns, that had been brought from the river over this road, and drawn up this hill by twenty four horses to each gun.  These will go to the front, and send pills to the rebels not easily digested.

The clay on the bluffs, and in the cuttings is of a red color.  For three miles we pass over a fine gentle rolling country; covered though not densely with timber, then down a hill as steep as we came up, a valley with a stream of beautiful clear spring water – and over the same bluff or hill, higher and rougher yet.  This is the country we are in.  These are the roads that not only the troops must march over, but up and down, must be drawn all the camp and garrison equipage, the rations for a hundred thousand men, forage for thirty thousand horses and mules, those heavy guns, and tons upon tons of shot, shell, grape and canister.  As I returned after dark, the mud holes were filled with wagons, stuck teams unhitched, and drivers in despair, and a wagon blockade for a mile, camping for the night as they stood.

This jam and bustle is not for an hour.  It begins with daybreak, and closes as just described only when darkness draws a curtain over the scene.  Besides fighting a formidable enemy inch by inch in front, this difficulty of transportation lies in the way of an advance of twenty or thirty miles a day.  It is further necessary that an army should eat as well as fight, and they can travel no faster than their rations can be transported.

We have a rumor from secesh prisoners that New Orleans is ours.  May it prove true.  In a few days, perhaps Corinth will be ours.

A few days since, an order was received to muster out regimental adjutants and quartermasters and battalion quartermasters.  Lieutenants and quartermasters Samuel Gilbert, J. M. Hannum, and George R. Ammond, formerly of Cos. A, K, and F, were ‘mustered out,’ and left for Iowa a few days since.  Better men are not in the service.  They had won for themselves, not only the respect and confidence, but the love of the regiment.  Could the unanimous loud voice of the regiment avail, they would be called to return, and fill honorable positions among a body of men that part with them with sincere regret.

I am writing this in a wagon, and the mules hitched to the tongue are playing smash with my periods.  Besides owning to the breeze and original shortness, my candle is nearly out.  More next time.

DIFF.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, May 9, 1862, p. 2

Collapse of the Rebellion

Forney in a recent letter from Washington to the Press says:– “The collapse of the so-called Confederacy will unveil the details by which the conspiracy was enabled to maintain itself, and will startle the whole civilized world.  The President, commenting last evening upon the capture of New Orleans, took occasion to repeat his confidence in the restoration of the Union.  If the rebels will not surrender they will be doomed to a terrible retribution; and if they yield, there will be no exhibition of revenge or of retaliation, save that which offended justice, as against the chiefs of the revolt may demand.  There are so many means now at the disposal of the Government to force the surrender, so many reasons for indulgence to a misguided people, and so many fast interests that would be encouraged by such a result, that you need not be surprised if the conversion of the Southern masses to the old flag should be as sudden and as sincere as their submission to the rebel rule was rapid.  If other nations were amazed at the progress of this conspiracy, they will be wonder-stricken at the manner in which it is about to be put down.”

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, May 9, 1862, p. 2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Sunday, October 26, 1862

The Eleventh Iowa was detailed to work on the fortifications under construction down in town. It was quite cold all day, and disagreeable, as the snow is still on the ground.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 78

From Washington

WASHINGTON, May 6.

The U. S. gunboat Huron captured, on the 19th ult., off Charleston, the schooner Glide, of Charleston, while attempting to run the blockade.  She was bound to Nassau, and was loaded with 1,000 bales of cotton and five tierces of rice.  Her papers and logbooks were thrown overboard during the chase.

A number of members of the committees on military affairs of both Senate and House, accompanied by Gen. Clark, executive clerk of the Senate, and Mr. Smith, clerk of the House’s military committee, have gone to Ft. Monroe and the headquarters of Gen. McClellan, to prosecute enquiries touching the charges against Gen. Smith, and other matters of importance in the prosecution of the war.

Senator Wade’s bill, in aid of agricultural colleges, provides that the public lands shall be donated to the States and Territories which may establish colleges to teach the science of agriculture and the mechanical arts, in proportion of 30,000 acres for each senator and Representative.  The funds acquired by the sale of the lands to be invested in government or other stocks yielding at least five per cent.  One college at least must be endowed and supported in the State or Territory which received the donation.

The Senate committee on Finance has reported about 260 amendments to the House tax bill, after having heard delegations representing various interests.  Among the amendments, they have stricken out the tax on ale, and mixed and increased that on distilled spirits to 20 cents per gallon, to be collected at distilleries, but not to operate on stock on and previous to the passage of this act.  The tax on domestic wines is stricken out.  Lager beer and other malt liquors remain undisturbed.  3 per ct. is proposed on the gross receipts of railroads, steamboats, &c.; 30 instead of 5 cts. on cattle, adding 5 cts. on calves; tobacco 20 cts. per lb.; cigars from 10 to 35 cts. according to quality.  The tax of 1 ct. per lb. on cotton is stricken out, and schedule A, taxing pianos.

An order from John M. Casson, assistant P. M. General, directs that all letters for New Orleans should be sent to New York for transmission by government steamers.

The associated press agent gives some additional particulars from our advance near Williamsburg, dated Monday evening:  In the fight there our loss was 17 killed, and about 40 wounded.  80 rebels were left dead on the field, and 40 wounded.  We took nearly 200 prisoners.  Their dead were buried by us on the field.  A stand of colors, belonging to rebel cavalry captured are now on the way to Washington.

Gen. McClellan and staff arrived on the field at 5 o’clock.  He rode to the front greeted by cheers from the troops.  He immediately assumed command.

The rain has poured down in torrents all day.

Jeff. Davis was at Richmond at last accounts.

The enemy’s works [at] Williamsburg were very formidable, extending across the peninsula.

Herald’s Dispatch.

The report of the finance committee of the Senate upon the tax bill is accompanied by an amendment, offered by Senator McDougal, one of the committee, as a substitute for the whole bill.  The bill proposes to raise revenue from the following sources:  1st, capital active and circulating, to be reached by a tax on receipts of business, as hotels, &c., one hundred and ten millions.  2nd, capital fixed, and realized income duties on interests, from interest paying bonds and securities, ten millions.  3d, excises on spirits, malt liquor and manufactured tobacco, forty millions.  4th, duties on legacies and inheritances, granted from one to eight per cent., seven millions.  The system of payment by ad valorem stamps is adopted throughout.  The officials employed to be, 1st, a commissioner of internal revenue at Washington to supervise all.  2nd, inspectors in the several districts with deputies to be appointed by them.  3d, a stamp agent in each district, or more than one if necessary, for the disposal of stamps.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

From Cairo

Special to Chicago Times

CAIRO, May 6.

The steamer Ella, from Pittsburg Landing, with advices to nine o’clock last night, has arrived.

Gen. Halleck has issued an order restraining civilians and all others from visiting the army.  The steamers going up during the last week have been crowded with civilians, going to gratify their curiosity by the sight of a battle, none of whom have been allowed to pass the lines.

Four deserters came in on Sunday, and reported that the enemy had not evacuated Corinth, but, on the contrary, had been largely reinforced of late.  Other deserters, however, report that Beauregard has withdrawn the greater part of his forces.  It has been impossible to ascertain which of these reports is correct.

The guerilla Morgan again made an attack on our pickets at Savannah on Sunday, but was driven back after light skirmishing.

The steamer Brown reached here this morning from Ft. Pillow, but brought nothing of interest.  The rebel fleet had not made its promised attack.  Preparations were quietly making for an active bombardment of the rebel stronghold.

At the election held here to-day for a member of Congress from the 9th Congressional district, votes were cast as follows: Judge Allen, of Williamson county, 210; Haynie, 83; Marshal, 29; Dougherty, 22; Sloan 1.

The nomination of Marcellus V. Strong for asst. Adjt. Gen. on the staff of General Strong, commanding at this post, has been confirmed by the Senate.

The steamer Bowen, which arrived here this p. m. from above, brought intelligence that a party of Capt. Hollin’s company of flying artillery, while out on a scouting excursion near Paducah last night, were captured by a company of rebel guerillas.

Up to Monday night no general engagement had taken place at Corinth.  Orders had been issued to troops to march on Sunday night but the movement was prevented by condition of roads, which heavy rains had made impossible on Sunday morning.  Gen. Pope, by placing a battery of artillery in an open field at Farmington, in sight of three rebel regiments, succeeded in drawing them on to take the artillery, and took the whole force prisoners, numbering nearly 2,000.  Several deserters [came] into our camp on Monday, and reported that great dissatisfaction exists in the rebel army, both among officers and men.  Beauregard had made a speech to some of the troops saying that he would make a desperate stand, and force the Federal army to retreat, and he appealed to them to stand by him.

A band of guerrillas still maintain warfare on all passing steamboats, and on Sunday drove in our pickets around Savannah, but fled on the approach of our infantry.  The Gunboat Tyler is now plying between Clifton and Pittsburg Landing, shelling the woods where the rebels are supposed to be located.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Saturday, October 25, 1862

It is very cold today. It snowed about two inches this afternoon. We are well fixed for a mild winter in camp, with plenty of wood for fires in our Sibley tents.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 78

Arrival of the Edinburg

NEW YORK, May 6.

The Edinburg arrived this evening from Queenstown, 24th.

The Times of the 24th says, “Advices from America indicate the recent battle had no effect in creating the hope among the lending houses, that the termination of the war was at hand.  Shipments of gold were beginning to excite apprehension, and it would surprise no one to hear of a decree from Washington, prohibiting the export of specie.”

The Times announces the termination of is correspondence from the Potomac, and says that the President formally decided that Russell would not be permitted to avail himself of McClellan’s invitation to accompany the army; that the Federal Government fears independent criticism; that the hopes were desirous of carrying with them an historian whom the world would believe; that Russell would have been received with joy in the rebel camp.  But out of scrupulous regard for confidential trust, and fear of imputation that he would afford them useful information he returned to England.

LATEST.

Breadstuffs quiet and steady.  Provisions very dull.

LONDON, 24th. – Consuls closed 93 7-8a94 for money and account.  American stock dull.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

From Tennessee

MONTEREY, Tenn., May 6.

Rain has fallen in torrents for the past thirty hours, putting the roads in horrible condition.

Yesterday the commanding General arrived from camp near Pittsburg Landing, and encamped near here.

Our pickets can distinctly hear the drums beat and locomotives whistle at Corinth.

Because of the horrible condition of the roads, the army has not moved.  The enemy are receiving heavy reinforcements daily.  On Sunday last, Bragg made a speech to his troops assuring them that it was the intention of Beauregard and his generals to give a battle at Corinth.  Great dissatisfaction prevails among the twelve months men on account of the conscription law.

The roads are improving fast.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Friday, October 24, 1862

I went to wash clothes today. Company washing squads are sent out daily, except Sundays. A squad consists of eight men with a captain, a lieutenant and two sergeants. This method is necessary because we have to go so far, two miles, and a smaller group could easily be taken by the rebels' cavalry.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 78

National Typographical Union

NEW YORK, May 6.

The printers National Union have elected the following officers: Jno. M. Farquhar, President; Wm. A. Montgomery, first Vice President; Jas. H. Walker, second Vice President; Thos. J. Walsh, Secretary and treasurer, and Theo. Vogle, Cor. Secretary.  Several states represented in the convention.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

More Wounded From Pittsburg

The steamer Tycoon arrived at Cincinnati last week from Savannah, Tenn., which place she left with 140 wounded and 60 sic, of which number four died on the passage.  We find the following Iowa names among her list of passengers:

Dan. A. McCleary, Co. A, 3d infantry; wounded in right arm.

Jas. R. Smith, Co. B., 6th, right leg.

Henry Z. Howler, Co. E, 8th, left arm.

M. Schellaberger, Co., A, 11th, shot in right arm.

John Ramsey, Co. B, 11th, right arm.

H. B. Moon, Co. A, 12th, diarrhea and typhoid fever.

John Dolloson, 12th, typhoid fever.

____ Heallison, Co K, 12th, bilious fever.

J. Darth, Co. G, 13th, shot in left arm.

Wm. J. Jackson, Co. G, 13th, left arm broken.

Thos. B. Pearce, Co. A, 16th, lung fever.

Thos. G. Stockdale, Co. B, 16th, rheumatism.

Aug. Shultz, Co. B, 16th, gathering in the head.

Peter Esmoil, Co. C, 16th, left hip.

Joshua Carbin, Co. D, 16th, typhoid fever.

Daniel Holcomb, Co. D, 16th, left elbow.

Gabriel Miller, Co. D, 16th, kidneys affected.

Henry Biscall, Co. I, 16th, wounded in left arm and side.

Ira Rhodes, 16th, chronic diarrhea.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Loyal Blacks for the Forts

Several officers of Port Royal, among them the Colonel of a Pennsylvania regiment, write in hearty approval of the suggestion made by Senator Grimes, that the forts ought to be garrisoned by loyal blacks.  The Colonel says that he would like to raise a regiment of blacks in Philadelphia, with which to garrison Southern forts.  He promises to do it in ten days after he is empowered.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Gen. Franz Sigel

A gentleman just from St. Louis informs us that General Sigel, who has been ill for some time, in that town, has so far recovered that he will soon be able to take the field.

Sigel seems to have been a special mark for McCullough’s sharpshooters at the battle of Pea Ridge.  Our informant conversed with a rebel Colonel, a prisoner of war, captured at Pea Ridge, a short time since.  The rebel officer informed him that McCullough, during the battle, selected thirty marksmen from among his sharpshooters, and directed them to bring down the “d----d Dutchman.”  Fortunately they were not as successful as their Chief desired – not, however, from lack of chances to sight their game; for Sigel was almost constantly exposed on the field.  An unseen hand warded off the bullet. – Cleveland Plain Dealer.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Clinton, Iowa, May 6 [1862].

The water was on a stand-still Sunday, and has fallen one inch up to noon to-day.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Thursday, October 23, 1862

No news of importance. The roads are quite dusty.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 78

The Hope of the Rebels

The condition of the rebels in becoming more and more hopeless the necessity of the rebellion being crushed before the approaching hot weather renders it hazardous to fight the insurgents on their own ground, is causing the Government to put forth every energy to its suppression.  Driven from Yorktown and Corinth, their two strongest positions, there are no other points upon which the rebels can concentrate their forces with any show or hope of success.  Since the beginning of the year they have sustained defeat in every engagement and in almost every petty skirmish they have had with the federal troops.

Fighting in a bad cause, and without a particle of hope for the future, led by wicked men who never had higher aspirations than personal aggrandizement, the incentives to bold and determined action have been wanting.  Like the hirelings of the despotic governments, the rebel soldiery have fought from pure love of fighting, from the excitement it brings and the pay that was promised them, without any of those ennobling feelings that fill the hearts of men contending for their dearest rights.  Defeated at every point, in very desperation they now obey their unprincipled leaders, and doggedly fight without one ray of hope to illuminate their darkened minds.  Shakespeare has said, that “the miserable hath no other medicine, but only hope.”  Even that is denied the rebels, and of all men they are certainly the most miserable.  As the same author further says: –

“So weary with disasters, tugg’d with fortune,

That they would set their lives on any chance,

To mend it or rid on’t.

So cowards fight, when they can fly no farther.”

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Col. Jennison

An anonymous correspondent of the Democrat denies the murder of Col. Jennison’s wife and child in Kansas.  The statement of their murder was first published in the Buffalo Express, and had a general circulation over the Union, and as we never had seen it contradicted, of course we believed it to be correct.  We hope it may be true that Col. Jennison’s family are still living, as he has suffered enough from the Border Ruffians without that cruel stroke.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Andrew Johnson And The Directors Of The State Bank Of Tennessee

Andrew Johnson has quietly notified the directors of the State Bank of Tennessee, who handed over the assets of that institution to the rebel leaders, that they will be held individually responsible for every cent of interest the State had in it.  They are very sorrowful, for many of them have great possessions.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Iowa Officers in Memphis

The Memphis Daily Appeal gave a list of the Federal officers captured at Shiloh, furnished by Gen. Prentiss.  This list was not complete.  The following Iowa officers were named:

Col. Geddes, and Lieut. Col. Ferguson of the 8th, Major Stone of the 3d, and the following captains in the 8th: W. B. Bell, Calvin Kelsey, John McCormick, F. S. Cleveland, Wm. Stubbs; also Capt. Galland of the 6th, and Capt. Hedrick of the 15th.

Also the following Lieutenants:

H. Fink, 15th; Dewey Welch, 8th; H. B. Cooper, 8th; D. J. O’Neil, 3d; John Wayne, do.; J. P. Knight, do.; J. M. Thrift, 16th.

Also the following officers of the 12th:

Adj. N. E. Duncan; Quartermaster J. B. Door; Sergt. Maj. G. H. Morrissy, Capts. S. R. Edington, W. C. Earle, W. W. Warner, J. H. Stibbs, W. H. Haddock, L. D. Townsley, E. M. Van Duzee; Lieuts. L. H. Merrill, J. H. Borger, H. Hale, J. Elwell, Robert Williams, J. W. Gift, W. A Morse, J. F. Nickerson, L. W. Jackson, John J. Marks, J. J. Brown.

Also Adj. C. C. Tobin, 21st Missouri; Lieutenant Thomas Richardson, 21st Mo.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Wednesday, October 22, 1862

We had brigade inspection today with all accouterments on. There is a report in camp that the army is soon to make an important move south into Mississippi. It is rumored that there are soon to be some changes of brigade and division commanders.¹

_____

¹ There was a sentiment even then among the rank and file of the men, that General Grant was the man to lead them. Some expressed the opinion that In the course of time he would be placed In command of all the armies of the United States. The men had the utmost confidence In his leading the army to complete victory. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 77-8

General Phelps

A ship Island correspondent of the Gloucester Telegraph sketches Gen. Phelps’ peculiarities after the flowing fashion:

“Gen. Phelps is a character.  He is perfectly democratic in his habits.  Many a Colonel, and even captains, would do well to follow his simplicity and style.  He lives in a common tent, which is pitched close by the sidewalk, with nothing to distinguish it but a sentinel who paces before it during only the day.  Close by is what I supposed for some time to be a traveling daguerreotype saloon, but at last found out was his office.  He does not have a bed but takes his blanket and sleeps on the floor.  His food is common soldier’s fare.  One of our Lieutenants heard him the other day tell what a nice dish of rice and molasses he had for supper the night before.  He dresses with great plainness, has but one servant and does not even keep a horse.  He takes only his monthly pay from the government and all his allowances he turns into the treasury.  He says that extravagance is ruining the government, and he will not be a party to it.  Every officer he holds to a strict account, especially the Quartermasters.  No one can do anything that he does not have an oversight of.  He has made the Zouaves doff their showy trappings and don the regular uniform.  He puts the officers through in great shape, and does not hesitate to blow them up on parade when they deserve it.  To his men he is very kind and lenient, and is much beloved by them all.  He has a rich Yankee drawl in his voice which it makes one laugh to hear.  This model General honored me with a brief speech on parade the other day, to-wit: ‘Sergeant, turn about and stand perfectly still.  Don’t budge and inch.’”

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

The following are all the . . .

. . . Iowa boys now in Hospital, May 3d, at the City Hotel, Evansville, Ind.:

3d Iowa – Corporal G. W. Gurney, Co. D; Private Isaac Boonhoner, co. I; M. J. Collins, co. F; Wm. Dennison, co. C; John Palt, co. K.

6th Iowa – Private B. F. Hutchinson, co. K.

10th Iowa – Private John Watts, co. B.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Tuesday, October 21, 1862

Some very fine weather. We have received orders to have company drill twice a day now, and dress parade every day at 5 p. m. We are getting over the effects of our hard service of the past two months.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 77

Not Dead Yet

Major Ben. Runkle, in the battle of Pittsburg Landing, was hit seven times.  Though minus seven teeth, a portion of his jaw and tongue, his great toe, a shaving from his heel, a hole through each cheek, and a brush on the shoulder, he is said to be doing well.  There were strong grounds for the report that he was dead.  He saw the 71st on the battle-field on Monday fighting manfully. – Springfield News.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

[The War News]

Fredericksburg Permanently Occupied.

Treasonable Organization at Dubuque.

THE ENEMY DEFEATED AT WILLIAMSBURG.

PARTICULARS OF THE CAPTURE OF NEW ORLEANS.

REBELS LOST 11 GUNBOATS AND THE “MANASSAS.”

Our loss 150 Men and One gunboat.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 1

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Monday, October 20, 1862

No news of importance. We are again drawing regular army rations, having a railroad to our base of supplies. There is little to be secured by foraging around Corinth, as the rebels’ attempt to retake the place has resulted in keeping a large force of our men here and food and feed has been almost cleaned up, with the men for a part of the time on short rations.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 77

Local Matters

R. KRAUSE sells goods cheaper than anybody else in town.  *

MR. J. NEWBERN has removed back to his old stand, 54 Brady street, where he will be glad to see his old friends again.  *

INSURANCE. – The Elevator, burned on Tuesday evening, was insured in the Lamar of New York, and Phoenix, of Brooklyn (not Hartford.)

VEGETABLES. – Mr. P. B. Simmons has taken the store on Brady street, next the Hawk-eye, where he will keep flour, and fruit, vegetables, &c., in their season.  He will also deliver them free of charge in any part of the city.

A DEAD HORSE. – Quite a crowd collected yesterday afternoon at the corner of Third and Main Street to witness a horse in the agonies of death from colic.  He was a noble animal and valued at $150 by his owner.  Mr. Grace, Sr., of this county, to whom he is a serious loss just at this time.

CITY ATTORNEY. – At the meeting of the Council yesterday afternoon, D. L. Shorey, Esq., was elected to the office of city Attorney.  This is an excellent selection, and we have no doubt friend Shorey will discharge the duties of his office in a perfectly satisfactory manner.

SHEET MUSIC. – Gen. Grant’s March, dedicated to the brave men who captured Fort Donelson, and Kingdom Coming, song and Chorus by Henry G. Work are the titles of a couple of pieces of sheet music we have received from the publishing house of Messrs Root & Cady, No. 95 Clark st., Chicago.

A DIFFICULTY. – During the fire on Tuesday evening, some of the firemen belonging to Rescue Co., refused to work.  The foreman reported the fact to the Mayor, who disbanded the company temporarily.  Yesterday the foreman reported the names of the derelict to the Mayor.  A notice of his subsequent action in this matter will be found elsewhere in to-day’s paper.

‘ARTEMUS WARD.’ – Don’t forget the lecture of the inimitable showman this evening.  He stands at the head of his profession, not for his ‘was figgers,’ but for his figures of speech.  The N. Y. World says, ‘To those who enjoy a deft mingling of common sense and humor, we recommend Mr. Browne’s lection on ‘The Children in the Wood.’  In every city at which ‘The Children have stopped, they have received ovations.

THE CONCERT last evening was attended by a full though not crowded house.  The performances were generally excellent, and the audience seemed will satisfied, as was manifested by their encoring most of the performances.  We have not space to specify which of the pieces was best executed, and indeed it would be difficult to say.  We know that we were pleased, and we think most of the people present were.

CLOSE SHAVING. – A portion of the grain which was destroyed Tuesday evening was insured in the Metropolitan and Lorillard companies, with Mr. Simpson, to the amount of $2,000, on the same day at noon.  Another risk of $1,200 in the New England would have expired yesterday noon.  This is rather more unfortunate for the company than lucky for Mr. Converse, as that gentleman always keeps properly insured, and doesn’t run any needless risks.

EXPLULSION OF FIREMEN. – At the meeting of the City Council yesterday, May 7, the following action was had:

At the recommendation of the Mayor, and on motion of Ald. Noe, the following persons were expelled from the Fire Department for refusing to work at the fire on Tuesday evening, viz: P Kisler, H. B. [ ]oonhoef, J. Brusler, S. Bartschir, and Peter S[ ]oll; and this action of the council was ordered published in the daily papers.

RIPLEY STREET. – Among the more substantial improvements in progress this season is the two story and basement brick house, being put up by Mr. B. H. Lahrmann for his own residence, on Ripley street below Second.  It is to be twenty two feet front by about forty deep.  This building is on the corner of the alley.  Between it and the German Theater, on Second, Mr. Lahrmann has laid the foundation for a new building, which he will put up probably next season.  This latter building will be of the same h[e]ight as the theater, one roof covering both buildings.  It will have no ground floor, the structure being supported on two large arches.  It is Mr. Lahrmann’s intention to extend his hall the entire depth of the building on Ripley street to the dwelling house, 128 feet in all, by 40 in width, making it, when completed, much the largest hall in the city.  Mr. Lahrmann is one of our most enterprising citizens, and has done as much in the way of improvement as any person of his means in the city.

THE SAFE at the Elevator was taken out yesterday morning, and forced open, the key being unable to turn the lock.  Everything inside was found all right, except that some of the leather on the books peeled off as soon as touched, and the glue in the binding had melted and run.  There were a few hundred dollars in bills lying loose in the safe, which were unharmed.  A small amount of silver change was a little discolored, though almost imperceptibly.  This fire was one of the severest tests a safe can ever endure.  A white heat prevailed where it stood; and tried it in such a manner as to remove all doubts of the wonderful utility of these protections.  It was rendered useless, however.  It was one of Herring’s manufacture of New York.

DOGS. – Remember, ye owners of howling quadrupeds, that you have only till the 15th – just a week to-day – to get your canines registers; after that, they will be liable to sudden death by the hands of constables, policemen, &c.  Be careful you don’t give them a chance to make a quarter out of your faithful pointer’s carcass.  A gentleman riding in the country the other day, says he counted sixty dollars’ worth of revenue under the dog law, in a distance of two miles.  We hope to see this law rigidly enforced; it will both diminish the number of useless animals, and increase the school fund of the county.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 1

Council Proceedings

DAVENPORT, May 7, 1862.

Council assembled.  Present all but Ald. Le Claire.

The minutes of last meeting were read and approved.

Several petitions for improvement of streets were referred to committee on streets.  The petition of Kohrs and Bielenburg and others for permission to work out their poll-taxes on the alley, in block 8.  Referred to committee on streets with power to act.

The petitions of Catharine M. Veiths, for refunding of tax and of Catharine Gorman for remission of tax, were referred.

Ald. Noe read a number of proposals for roofing the City Hall.  The work was awarded to Mitchel & Pool, as the lowest bidders at $339.

The Mayor announced the resignation of Ald. Le Claire

The following committees were announced:

Finance. – Davenport, Noe, and Ochs.

Ordinances. – Renwick, Schmidt, and Lambach.

Streets. – McCarn, Ochs, and Huot.

Public Buildings and Grounds. – Lambach, Davenport, and Mitchell.

Fire and Water. -  Noe, Schmidt, and Renwick.

Gas. -  Mitchell, Cunningham and Lambach.

Claims. – Ochs, Renwick, and Mitchell

Police. – Glasmann, Davenport and Huot.

Printing. – Cunningham, McCarn, and Noe.

Licenses. – Huot, Glasmann, and Renwick.

Markets. – Renwick, Noe, and McCarn.

Reports of City Officers. – McCarn, Schmidt, and Davenport.

The Mayor announced that at the Fire on Tuesday evening, some of the firemen of the Rescue Engine Co. refusing to work, he had disbanded the company temporarily.  The foreman had presented him with the names of some firemen who had refused to work, and he recommended their expulsion.

Ald. Noe moved that said firemen be expelled from the department, and that the action of the Council be published in the daily papers.

On motion of Ald. McCarn, the contract for the brick work on the new roof of the city hall was awarded to Marsh Noe at $45.

Ald. Davenport presented a petition of T. Lewis, offering to pay the city $75 in lieu of taxes for the last for years.  Referred

The Mayor presented his bond, which was approved.

The report of the City Sexton was presented.  The whole number of interments for the past year was 148.

Ald. Renwick moved that James Grant, Bleik Peters, and Enos Tichenor be appointed to a board of equalization, they to receive two dollars each per day for their services.

Ald. Renwick offered a resolution instructing the Ordinance Committee to amend the hog ordinance.  Adopted.

The Mayor announced that he had appointed Mr. Brown as policeman, subject to the approval of the Board, and had also appointed Adam Hamaker as special policeman at Bard’s lumber yard.  Appointments approved.

Ald. Renwick moved that an election for Alderman of the Fifth Ward be held on Saturday, the 17th. Inst.  Adopted.

Ald. McCarn offered a resolution, that the lower floor of the city Hall be fitted up for offices for city officers.  Adopted.

The mayor announced that after consultation with several Aldermen, he had purchased a safe for $200, which amount was ordered paid.

A number of bills were ordered paid.  One for burying 70 hogs, at 25 cents each, and one of officer Brown, for killing and burying dogs and hogs were referred.

Ald. Noe offered the following resolution, which was adopted.

            Resolved,  That the fire and water committee be instructed to get 12 hose spanners made for the use of the two companies now in service, as they are much needed.

Ald. Renwick moved that a special committee be appointed to consult with the executors of the Le Claire estate for purchase of the Reserve landing.  Adopted.

Ald. Renwick, McCarn, and Noe were appointed to such committee.

Ald. Noe moved, that whoever claims a reward for killing a dog shall produce the tip of the nose of the animal sacrificed before getting his pay.  Adopted.

Ald. Renwick moved to elect City Attorney.  Carried.  Messrs. Armstrong, Congdon, Skinner and Dittoe were placed in nomination. – First ballot resulted: Cogdon, 5; Skinner, 4; Armstrong, 1, Dittoe, 1.  Mr. Shorey was placed in nomination.  Second ballot – Shorey, 5, Congdon, 4; Skinner 1; Dittoe, 1.  Third Ballot – Shorey, 6; Congdon 4; Dittoe, 1.  Mr. Shorey was declared elected.

Messrs. Lambach, Kennedy, Motie and Baker were placed in nomination for Street Commissioner.  First ballot resulted – Motie, 5; Lambach, 4; Baker, 1; Kennedy, 1.  Second ballot – Motie, 5; Lambach, 3; Kennedy 1; Baker, 1.  Third ballot – Motie, 6; Lambach 4; Baker 1.  Mr. Joseph Motie was therefore declared elected Street Commissioner.

Mr. A. Braun was nominated for City Sexton.  On the ballot, Nicholas Crambach had 6 votes, A. Braun 5.  Mr. Crambach was therefore declared elected.

Ald. McCarn presented the petition of David Kelly and others to gravel Commercial street.  Referred.

Adjourned.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 1

Hickory Grove Township

Yesterday Col. J. H. Ross brought in the following donations towards the Soldier’s Monument, being less than one-half the amount subscribed by those he say during a couple of days.

James H. Ross, $1.00; Abram Curtis, $1.00; Jas Birch, Sr., 50c.; D. W. Nutting, 50c.; Leander Curtis, $1.00; Ira Birch, $1.00; Joseph Weymer, $1.00; L. D. White, 50c.; Lewis Pickens, 50c.;Oliver Wooster, 50c.; Saml. Calderwood, 50c.  Total, $8.00.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 1

Executive Committee S. C. R. A.

At a meeting of the Executive committee of the Scott County Soldiers’ Relief Association, held May 7, 1862, Messrs. J. L. Davies, J. W. Thompson and G. S. C. Dow were appointed a committee to select a suitable person to go to the field of operations in Tennessee, at the expense of this Association, and remain there as an agent for the Scott Co. Relief Association, rendering all assistance in his power, and keep said Association fully advised of al casualties occurring, hospital stores needed, &c.  It was resolved to appropriate the sum of fifty dollars to purchase materials to be worked up into hospital effects by the Ladies’ Aid Society of this city.

The Burial Committee reported that the body of John S. Christian, of Co. B. 8th Iowa volunteers, had been properly interred by them.

The committee adjourned to met next Saturday at 8 o’clock P. M.

ERNST CLAUSSEN, Secy.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 1

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Sunday, October 19, 1862

Nothing of importance. This is our first Sunday in a quiet camp for more than two months. We had company inspection this morning and dress parade at 5 o'clock in the evening.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 77

Regiments Brigaded

The 58th Illinois, 8th, 12th and 14th Iowa regiments have been brigaded together and will act as one regiment until further orders of Brig. Gen. Davies.  Capt. Healy, of the 58th Ills., is the acting Colonel; Capt. Fanton, of the 12th Iowa, Lieut. Colonel; Capt. Kettle, 58th Ills., Major; 1st Lieut. S. E. Rankin, 8th Iowa, Adjutant.  The 58th Ills. is divided in to three companies, A, D and F.  The 8th Iowa into three companies, I, C and H.  The 12th Iowa into one company, K.  The 14th Iowa into three companies, E. G and B.  This general order, it is said, has caused much excitement among Iowa troops.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 1

EDITORS NOTE:   I believe "Capt. Fanton" to be John G. Fowler, of Company K, 12th Iowa, Infantry, as the following paragraph appears on page 271 in Henry Lamson Boies’ History of De Kalb County, Illinois:

“Following the fight at Shiloh, the shattered remnant of the 58th was united with similar fragments of the 8th, the 12th and the 14th Iowa, and called the Union brigade. Three captains, G. W. Kittell and R. W. Healy, of the 58th, and Captain Fowler of the 12th Iowa were detailed to serve as field officers.”