The War News

Gen. Burnside’s Fleet Started for Roanoke Island.

GEN. NELSON’S DIVISION IS ADVANCING.

Jeff. Davis on Railroads.

THE GEN. LANE DIFFICULTY AT AN END.

The Rumor in Regard to French Intervention Denied.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

Democrat On The Rebellion

In a headless, and we may add brainless, leader, in the Democrat of Saturday, the editor takes the position that the Republican party is responsible to the country for the rebellion now existing, and that the party now “presents the only real difficulty in the way of conquering a peace.” It represents the New York Tribune as having said that ‘whenever a considerable section of our Union shall deliberately resolve to go out, we shall resist all corrective measures designed to keep it in,’ and the GAZETTE and the Republican party as endorsing the sentiment. It is needless to say that it is all the creation of a beclouded imagination, that the GAZETTE nor the Republican party never endorsed such an idea. Our neighbor would compromise with treason under the garb of ‘conservatism,’ and laughs to scorn any attempt to subjugate the rebels that has [sic] a tendency to free their salves. But a few months since he was radical in his opposition to all attempts to ‘subjugate’ or ‘coerce’ the rebels under any circumstances. The phrases above quoted were as common and as glibly pronounced by him then as the word ‘conservative’ is now, but public sentiment has caused him to modify his views, and he now favors the subjugation of the South, provided in so doing you do not hurt the negro, nor interfere with his inalienable right of being a slave.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

Local Matters

MEASLES. – We notice, in some of our exchanges, and unusual prevalence of this complaint in different parts of the State. It has prevailed to some extent in this city but in a very mild form.

THE REGULAR Semi-Annual Meeting of the Scout County Republican Club, for the election of officers, will be held at the Court House this evening (the 2d Monday in February) at 7 o’clock.

• JOHN COLLINS, Prest.
• J. W. GUITEAU, Secy.

AT THE Hawkeye, corner, Third and Brady, they have been buying a large lot of teas, coffees, sugars and pure liquors, for cash, and are now selling them off cheaper than any grocery in Davenport. Call at this great cheap grocery, and our word for it you will be satisfied. dw*

KIRKSOW & Co., of Rock Island, have on hand one of the largest stocks of dry goods, carpets, etc., ever brought to this part of the country. They were purchased when goods were down, and are selling at prices to suit the times. Now that we have a good bridge over the river, it will pay our citizens to cross over and take a look at their splendid stock.

LUMBER. – The excellent sleighing we have enjoyed for some time has brought in a number of teams from a distance, bearing grain and other produce. In return a great deal of lumber has been hauled from town, and some loads going as far as fifty miles out. – Teams have come here this winter from counties to the north, some of them passing two railroads to reach this place, showing that Davenport is one of the best markets in the State.

ALMOST A ROW. – Considerable excitement was created around the Post office Saturday evening by the threat of an irate citizen to use up the ‘clerk’ at the delivery, and the Post office generally, for which purpose, after a tempting offer from the irate individual, the whole party adjourned to the alley; but as only two of the officials made their appearance, Irate seemed to think there wasn’t enough to begin on, so he consoled himself with the reflection that said officials were not confirmed, and he’d see that they wouldn’t be.

GOT ANY EGGS? Is the question, and ‘Nary egg,” is the answer of the grocers about town, almost if not quite, unanimously given. – there seems to be trouble among the hens. It may be they are ‘secesh’ in principle, and are disposed to starve us out, by way of assisting the rebellion indirectly; or it may be they are indignant at the low prices which prevailed last season, and which hardly paid for the advertisement that cackled their wares to the world. As things are now, eggs are not quotable in this market, for the very good reason there are none to quote.

VALENTINES. – As St. Valentine’s day is approaching, the dealers in the missives which make that day conspicuous above all others, are opening out their stock of Valentines. Of course, they have the usual variety of sentimental effusions, done up in tinsel and relieve, with charming cupids and shivered hearts; while the supply of caricatures is equally varied. We notice the military come in for their share of complimentary notices of this character. We do not anticipate, however, a very lively business in this direction for the Post Office this year; a practice which has fallen into gradual desuetude of late years, is not likely to be revived much this season.

SLEIGHING. – The sleighing we have this season has been the longest continued for many years; and the use which has been made of it attests how welcome it was. – Large parties of enjoyment-seekers crowd into omnibus sleighs and drive over the country, winding up with a sociable at some farmer’s house, and coming home in the “small hours,” having obtained about as much of the enjoyment they sought as they can conveniently carry. Others, less gregarious in their habits, get a horse and cutter and one other occupant – just one other – and away they go, skimming over the snow like a bird. Of the two modes, it is hard telling which is the most enjoyable – they both are keenly delightful, notwithstanding the growl of some cynic, that he would enjoy himself as well with his feet in a bucket of ice-water, and rattling the shovel and tongs. He must have been fitted by some “charmer” on one of these adventures.

THE PRICE OF GAS. – Nearly every town in the State – our own not excepted – that boasts the possession of Gas works, is growling over the prodigious high rate exacted for the luxury of gas, while the citizens of many of them are repudiating it altogether and resorting to kerosene. The fact of it is that $4.50 per thousand feet and 25 cents per month for rent of meters is entirely too high. The latter item renders it equivalent in most families to $5.00. Kerosene is now as cheap and so good withal, that unless there be a reduction in the price of gas in our State the citizens will generally resort to its use. We should suppose it would be to the profit of the Gas companies to reduce the price, but presume they will study their own interest in the matter.

MR. SANDERS:– The people of Pleasant Valley and vicinity have been having a good time. The prosperous and happy community seem not to be affected at all by the hard times. Their benevolence and hospitality flows as freely as ever. Last Friday, some two hundred and fifty persons met at the M. E. Church, spread a sumptuous board, supplied the inner man to complete satisfaction and after having a general good time socially departed, leaving in their wake fifty dollars in cash, and thirty dollars in domestic necessaries, for the benefit of Rev. J. Z. Coleman, pastor of the church. May Heaven’s blessings rest upon the liberal sonis [sic].

RELIGIOUS NOTICE. – Edwards Congregational Church. – service will commence hereafter at 10 ½ o’clock a.m. and 5 o’clock p.m., instead of 7 ½ o’clock in the evening as heretofore. Seats free.

DIED. – On Saturday evening, Feb’y 8th, ROSE ANNA, infant daughter of JOHN F. and ANNA P. DILLON.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

Public Lecture

Dr. Parry has kindly proposed to deliver a lecture for the benefit of the Soldier’s Aid Society, on next Wednesday evening, 12th inst., in the Congregational church, on the subject of ‘Camp Life.’ As the subject is an interesting one at the present time, and the lecturer capable of making it so, and the Society being much in need of funds, it is hoped there will be a good attendance. The admission fee will be small, and the entire receipts be appropriated to the Society.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

Have You?

John W. Forney writing from Washington to the Philadelphia Press, makes the following pertinent inquiries: “Have you ever heard a secessionist talk politics who did not claim to be a Democrat? Have you ever heard a sympathizer with secession talk politics who did not boast of his Democracy?” Forney declares that the men who always tried to break down the Democratic party in its days of honor and loyalty are now seeking shelter under the name of Democracy, in order the more successfully to assist the rebels in arms against the Constitution and the laws.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday May 3, 1862, p. 2

Mrs. Wittenmyer at Work

A letter was received last evening from Mrs. Wittenmyer by the President of the Ladies Aid Society giving an account of her labors among the wounded at Pittsburg Landing. She writes: “I have been making and distributing soup all day to our poor, faint, and suffering soldiers. I have been going around with a bucket and dipper through the boats and tents administering to the wants of our brave men who are very weak and faint from long fasting and the pain [caused] by their wounds. Mangled bodies, wounded, dying and dead are lying around me in every direction. I am here to do all that I can; my goods are being rapidly used up by the hundreds of wounded around me, and I am wishing for more.”

She earnestly appeals to the Ladies of Iowa to prepare and forward supplies for the suffering volunteers with all possible Dispatch.

– Published in The Gate City, Keokuk, Iowa, Thursday, April 17, 1862

12th Michigan Infantry Position Marker: Shiloh National Military Park

U.S.

12TH MICHIGAN INFANTRY
PEABODY’S (1ST) BRIG., PRENTISS’ (6TH) DIV.,
ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE

ABOUT FIFTY MEN OF THE REGIMENT WERE ENGAGED HERE FROM 9 A.M. TO5 P.M. APRIL 6, 1862 AND WERE SURROUNDED AND CAPTURED WITH GENERAL PRENTISS.

Walter E. Partridge, Pvt., Co. F, 36th Illinois Infantry

W. E. Partridge, now living retired in Alta, is numbered among the old settlers of Buena Vista county and is one of the few remaining veterans of the Civil War. He is a native of England, born in Berkshire, June 3, 1833, a son of James and Anne (Edwards) Partridge, who spent their entire lives in that country. The father was a mechanic, being a wheelwright by trade, and he also engaged in farming. His family numbered thirteen children, of whom twelve grew to years of maturity.

W. E. Partridge, whose name introduces this review, spent the years of his boyhood and youth in his native land and when fifteen years of age accompanied a brother to the United States. He first located in Maryland and secured work on the construction of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in that state, after which he spent two years working on the canal. He then took up his abode in Pennsylvania and from that state removed to Illinois, where he engaged in farming until 1882 when he came to Buena Vista county and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 34, Nokomis township. This was an uncultivated and unimproved tract when it came into his possession but he at once began to develop the land, erected a good house, barns and outbuildings, and now has a well improved and valuable farm property, whereon he made his home for twenty-seven years. He planted a good orchard, which is now in bearing, and beautiful shade trees add to the attractive appearance of the place. In addition to general farming he engaged in raising stock, keeping registered shorthorn cattle and good grades of hogs. In 1908 he removed to Alta and is now living retired.

Mr. Partridge’s private affairs were interrupted at the time of the Civil War when, loyal to the best interest of his country, he enlisted September 9, 1861 at Aurora, Illinois, as a member of Company F, Thirty-sixth Illinois Infantry, joining the regiment at St. Louis. From that city they made their way to Rolla, Missouri, and Mr. Partridge participated in many of the important battles, including Pea Ridge, Perryville, Chickamauga, Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville, and was with Sherman on his march to Atlanta. He was also for four months on duty at New Orleans, his regiment acting as guard to General Sheridan. After a hard service lasting four years and two months he was mustered out at New Orleans and was honorably discharged at Springfield, Illinois.

When the country no longer needed his services, Mr. Partridge returned to Illinois and took up his abode in Kankakee county, where he purchased eighty acres of land, which he operated for sixteen years prior to taking up his abode in Iowa. It was prior to his enlistment for service in the war that Mr. Partridge was married, the lady of his choice being Miss Harriett Cottew, who was likewise born in England, coming to America when but two years of age. Their marriage was celebrated in Ottawa, Illinois, in 1860, and their union has been blessed with ten children: George, who follows farming in Nokomis township; Martha, the wife of William Miller, a farmer of Linn Grove, Iowa; Lizzie, the wife of Charles Reese, of Nokomis township; Charles who follows farming on the hold homstead in Nokomis township; Lincoln, who is engaged in farming in Minnesota; Ida, the wife of G. H. Tutt, a resident of Marathon, Iowa; Kate, the wife of John Sassman, who follows farming near Albert City, this state; Frank, who carries on farming near Marathon; Hugh; and William who died when eighteen months old.

Mr. Partridge gives his political support to the republican party and cast his first presidential ballot for Abraham Lincoln. He has held some township offices. He keeps in touch with his old army friends through his membership in the Grand Army of the Republic at Alta, of which he has served as vice commander. He has been identified with the Methodist Episcopal church at Alta for several years. His labors have contributed in substantial manner to the development and progress of Buena Vista county and not only as a worthy pioneer settler but also as a loyal defender of the Union cause he is well deserving of mention in this volume. His circle of friends is large and all esteem him for his genuine worth. In 1908 he had the pleasure of visiting his old home in England where he remained from July 12 until the 23rd of August.

SOURCE: Wegerslev, C.H. & Thomas Walpole, Past and Present of Buena Vista County, Iowa, S.J. Clark Publishing Co., Chicago, IL, © 1909, p. 279-280

David Andrew Griffith, Sgt., 11th Ohio Infantry

D. A. GRIFFITH - The retired farmers living in Winterset are highly esteemed and contribute not a little to the advancement of the community. Among them is D. A. Griffith, who was born in Holmes county, Ohio, on the 15th of April, 1841, a son of Isaac and Margaret (Archibald) Griffith, the former born upon the ocean in 1808 while his parents were crossing to this country from Wales and the latter born in Jefferson county, Ohio, in 1816. Isaac Griffith was a miller and shoemaker and followed those trades in Holmes county, Ohio. In 1843 he removed to Portsmouth, Ohio, where he ran a mill until he removed to Scioto county, that state, which was his home for ten years before his death. He died in 1848 and was survived by his wife for three years.

D. A. Griffith at the usual age entered the city schools of Portsmouth, Ohio, and there laid the foundation of his education. When he was eleven years of age, however, his parents died and he was taken by a family who mistreated him and he accordingly ran away. He became a farm hand and thus provided for his support and was so engaged until the outbreak of the Civil war. On the I5th of April, 1861, he enlisted in Company C, Thirteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry under Captain Dan Parnell. The command rendezvoused at Columbus, Ohio, and Mr. Griffith was made first duty sergeant. After being three months with Company C he was transferred to Company D, of the Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry and served as sergeant in that command for a year, after which he was made first lieutenant. He was under fire in Virginia, at the battle of Charleston, Maryland, at Bull Run, Antietam, South Mountain, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge and the siege of Chattanooga and accompanied Sherman on the memorable march to the sea. He was wounded by a bayonet thrust at South Mountain, Maryland, and lost his hearing at the battle of Antietam, as his regiment was for hours in the midst of eight hundred pieces of artillery. His regiment, which in that engagement lost five hundred men, together with the Eighteenth Pennsylvania, charged the Burnside bridge and took it. Colonel Coleman, who led the charge, fell pierced by seven bullets. Lieutenant Griffith succeeded in capturing some rebel cannon and his record throughout the war proved him a fearless and an able officer. He has a medal presented him by the state of Ohio for continuous and meritorious service. He was mustered out on the 3d of July, 1865, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and later in that year removed to Fairfield, Iowa.

In 1870 he came to Madison county and began farming in Jefferson township, where he lived for five years. At the end of that time he removed to Union township and engaged in agricultural pursuits there until 1893. In that year he purchased two hundred acres of land in Douglas township on North river and gave his time and attention to the operation of that farm. He was very successful in all that he attempted, his energy, determination and knowledge of the best methods of agriculture making him one of the leading farmers in his township.

On the 4th of March, 1866, Mr. Griffith was united in marriage to Miss Hester E. Miller, who was born in Brown county, Ohio, December 27, 1847, a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Hillis) [sic] Miller. Her father was born in Germany in 1822 and upon emigrating to this country settled in Cincinnati, where he followed the blacksmith's trade until his health failed. He then removed to Brown county, Ohio, which remained his home until 1865. In that year he migrated westward and settled in Jefferson county, Iowa, near Fairfield. Nine years later he homesteaded land in Buena Vista county, where his death occurred in 1875. His wife, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1820, passed away in Buena Vista county in 1904, having survived him for almost three decades.

Mr. and Mrs. Griffith are the parents of seven children: Anna B. gave her hand in marriage to Elias Van Scoy, of Logan county, Colorado, by whom she has four children. U. Grant, who was born May 7, 1868, died January 20, 1907. Isaac, born on the 5th of September, 1869, is a well-to-do farmer who is married and has three children, David A., Winifred and Hester. Jerome is represented elsewhere in this work. David T., whose birth occurred on the11th of July, 1879, is engaged in the implement business at Van Meter, Iowa. Linnie E., born November11, 1880, passed away February 4, 1890. Robert S. was born on the 16th of October, 1888.

Mr. Griffith is identified with the republican party and has always been as true to the best interests of his country in times of peace as he was when he led his command upon the battlefields of the south. None begrudges him the competence and the leisure which are now his, as they were won by industry and sound judgment.

SOURCE: History of Madison County Iowa and Its People, Volume 2, p. 285-7


NOTE: According to the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System, David A. Griffith of Companies D & H, mustered in as a private and out as a sergeant. David A. Griffith is listed on page 148 of J. H. Horton & Solomon Teverbaugh’s A History of the Eleventh Regiment (Ohio Volunteer Infantry) as “an original member; promoted to Sergeant; veteranized, and was left at Chattanooga.”

Des Moines Correspondence

DES MOINES, Feb. 6, 1862.

This morning the Governor sent to the House a communication in response to a resolution of inquiry in regard to rebels of Missouri making an asylum of Fremont county. The citizens of said county a short time since sent a petition to the Legislature, through their representative, Mr. Mitchell, praying that some action be taken in this matter. Mr. Mitchell, after presenting the petition, offered a resolution calling upon the Governor, for all the information in his power bearing on this subject. To-day his excellency [sic] has favored the House with a communication of some length and nearly a dozen letters relating to the matter. From this correspondence it is easy to see that some parties down there need looking after. The Governor feels perfectly satisfied that many rebels who feared a retaliation on the part of the Union men of their own State for their lawless acts, and who also feared the confiscation of their property, have sought a refuge in this State, and have found an asylum with their sympathizers across the line. They have brought their horses and other property, and placed it in the hands of these friends for safe keeping. These friends have shielded this property and its owners from harm. This course has led to much lawlessness in the county of Fremont. The Governor is convinced that the recent disturbances there were occasioned by rebel sympathizers, and that those same persons are the ones who went over into Missouri and arrested Union men. From his message and from the accompanying letters it would seem that a state of affairs exists in said county very disgraceful indeed, and which will lead, unless promptly checked, to a border warfare. Senator English is mentioned in these letters as one of the most conspicuous of the rebel sympathizers. His case needs investigation. He was not accused of any surplus loyalty at the extra session, and these developments would seem to indicate that he has gone jus as far as he dare go in aiding the cause of the rebels. Perhaps he can clear his skirts; if so let him do it. We wish law-givers now who are above suspicion. Men who are obliged to prove their loyalty have no business in power now. It is to be hoped this matter will be thoroughly sifted, and that the Governor and Legislature will very shortly set things right down on the South-western border.

The message and accompanying correspondence were laid on the table and 5,000 copies ordered printed. This will enable the people of the state to examine the subject for themselves.

Mr. Stanton, of Washington, offered a resolution stating that while we do not endorse the views of the President on the slavery question as connected with the war, we desire our Congressional delegation to use all constitutional means to uphold the President in this or any other policy the exigencies of the case or the suppression of this rebellion may require. Like all similar resolutions that have preceded it, it created some excitement. The Democrats seem determined, if possible, to take the lead of the Republicans in supporting the President. They are bound to attach to every report or resolution, when it can be attached, some clause setting forth their endorsement of Abraham Lincoln’s slavery policy. There will be considerable wrangling on this subject before the season is over. The speeches will commence nest Tuesday evening. – A full and animated discussion of Federal Politics will ensue and these evening sessions will possess nor ordinary interest. We have men here who possess the ability to make good speeches; and most of these members feel a deep interest in this question, one way or the other. If feel anxious to have the time come. They wont hurt anybody, if they do no good. They will keep the discussion of these matters as much as possible out of the regular daily sessions, and hold evening sessions for their discussion. The resolution offered to-day was, after considerable sparing between Republicans and Democrats, and between radical and conservative Republicans, referred to the committee of the whole House on Tuesday evening next.

Mr. Hardie, of Dubuque, offered a resolution to-day, instructing the committee of ways and means to inquire into the expedience of imposing a tax of $10 per head upon bachelors over 25 years of age. If I hadn’t thought the gentleman was in sport, I would send in a protest against adding to the burdens and personal discomforts of this class of human beings.

The bill to prevent the spread of fire on the prairies was passed by a vote of 70 to 8. A bill providing for the vacation of town-plats was also passed; likewise, a bill to amend sec. 5066 of the Revision of 1860, in reference to taking a change of venue before the justices of the peace.

The Senate has been engaged in good part of the day on a bill relating to the manner of collecting the federal tax assumed by the State. The features of the bill I will give in a future letter.

This evening, Senator Schaffer read a humorous poem on Humbug before the Lecture Association. Not having been present, I cannot speak of its merits.

Gen. Baker, as you are aware, has been called home by [sickness] in his family. Several members of the House have been suddenly summoned home on similar errands.

J. R. C.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

WASHINGTON, February 8 [1862]

Neither Senate or House are in session, both Houses having adjourned over from yesterday until Monday.

The rumor in regard to French intervention is denied, to-day, by high authority. The rumor, however, excites much comment.

The Ericsson gun boat is in great favor here. It will be thoroughly tested in New York by the Navy Department.

The Senate finance committee is in session to-day, on the legal tender clause of the treasury note bill. It is thought there is a majority against it.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

Herald’s Dispatch

The president of the American Telegraph Company leaves Washington for New York to-morrow morning. Frequent satisfactory interviews with the Secretary of War, have convinced Mr. Sanford that the measures adopted by Government in relation to the transmission of telegraphic dispatches, are imperatively demanded by the public welfare, and interfere with neither the private rights of citizens, nor the interests of the Telegraph company.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

Times’ Correspondence

The Senate finance committee had a meeting to-day, for the purpose of considering the House treasury note bill. Enough was said to show that there is considerable opposition to the legal tender clause. They finally ordered the bill printed, and it will come up for final action at their meeting to-morrow.

Owing to the sickness of Mr. Covode, the projected interview with the President, in relation to the Lane expedition, will not take place to-day, and probably never will. Senator Pomeroy had an interview with him on the subject, but the President was unable to see any way out of the difficulty. He expected Gen. Lane to have arranged matters with Gen. Hunter on his arrival at Leavenworth. He reiterated that while he was willing that Gen. Lane should have a command of 10,000 or 15,000 men, he had no idea of his outranking Gen. Hunter of in any way interfering with his command. This is evidently the end of the Lane expedition.

This evening a son of Chancellor Walworth was arrested at the Kirkwood House in this city on a charge of treason. His trunks and papers were seized but not yet examined.

The various rumors to the effect that Secretary Stanton is to assume the active management of the army, leaving to Gen. McClellan the command of the army of the Potomac only, has this foundation: A week since, the staff of Gen. McClellan were notified to be in readiness for a movement across the river. They made every preparation for so doing, and Maj. E. M. Green, of their number, went to New York for the propose of purchasing certain personal supplies for their use. In consequence of the state of the roads they have not yet been ordered over, but they are ready to go, and when they do go Gen. McClellan will turn over to the temporary charge of Mr. Stanton the control of the entire army with the exception of the army of the Potomac.

It will be remembered that when Gen. Scott went to Mexico, he proposed a similar course, thus leaving himself free to attend to the more important matters in hand.

Gen. McClellan and Mr. Stanton are on the best of terms.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

Correspondence of the N. Y. Tribune

The difficulty in Gen. Lane’s case arises from the fact that he is almost the junior Brigadier General, and in a department commanded by a superior officer, and that to give him a separate command wound involve the necessity of manufacturing a lot of senior Colonels into Brigadier Generals for his especial necessities.

The difficulties in Col. Berdan’s regiment will be settled by a removal of the Colonel, the arming of the men with Colt’s rifles and revolvers, and sending them to the front.

The Senate committee on foreign affairs had Mexican matters under consideration for two hours this morning; no conclusion was reached. New interest has been awakened by the new victory at National Bridge, and the friends of Mexico are sanguine that some one of the plans for her assistance by the U. S. will be adopted.

Senator Latham is preparing a report from the military committee, authorizing a survey to establish telegraph communication from San Francisco, via Behring Straits, to the mouth of the Amoor river. The measure will be pressed on Congress with urgency.

Senator Harris, from the Judiciary committee, made to-day a resolution, that Mr. Stark of Oregon is entitled to his seat, because the senate has no power to investigate the question of loyalty until he has taken his seat.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

5th Independent Battery Ohio Light Artillery

Organized at St. Louis, Mo., under authority of General Fremont August 31, 1861, and mustered in at St. Louis, Mo., as 5th Ohio Battery September 22, 1861. Moved to Jefferson City, Mo., October 11, and duty there till March 7, 1862. Attached to Dept. of Missouri till March, 1862. Artillery, 6th Division, Army of the Tennessee, to July, 1862. Artillery, 6th Division, District of Corinth, Miss., to November, 1862. Artillery, 6th Division, Left Wing 13th Army Corps (Old), Dept. of the Tennessee, to December, 1862. Artillery, 4th Division, 17th Army Corps, to January, 1863. Artillery, 4th Division, 16th Army Corps, to July, 1863. Artillery, 13th Division, 16th Army Corps, to August, 1863. Artillery, 3rd Division, Arkansas Expedition, to November, 1863. 3rd Brigade, 2nd Division, Army of Arkansas, to January, 1864. 3rd Brigade, 2nd Division, 7th Army Corps, Dept. of Arkansas, to May, 1864. Artillery, 2nd Division, 7th Army Corps, to October, 1864. Artillery, 1st Division, 7th Army Corps, to July, 1865.

SERVICE.--Ordered to Pittsburg Landing, Tenn., March 7, 1862. Battle of Shiloh, Tenn., April 6-7. Advance on and siege of Corinth, Miss., April 29-May 30. Duty at Corinth, Miss., till November. Battle of Corinth October 3-4. Moved to Grand Junction November 2. Grant's Central Mississippi Campaign. Operations on the Mississippi Central Railroad November 2, 1862, to January 10, 1863. Moved to Moscow, Tenn., and duty there till March 8. Moved to Memphis, Tenn., and duty there till May. Ordered to Vicksburg, Miss., May 17. Siege of Vicksburg, Miss., May 25-July 4. Advance on Jackson, Miss., July 5-10. Siege of Jackson July 10-17. Assault on Jackson July 12. Ordered to Helena, Ark., July 25. Steele's Expedition to Little Rock, Ark., August 3-September 10. Bayou Fourche and capture of Little Rock September 10. Duty at Little Rock as Garrison Artillery till July, 1865. Expedition from Little Rock to Little Red River August 6-16, 1864. Expedition from Little Rock in pursuit of Shelby August 27-September 6, 1864. Non-Veterans mustered out September 20, 1864. Veterans and Recruits at Little Rock till July, 1865. Mustered out July 31, 1865.

Battery lost during service 5 Enlisted men killed and mortally wounded and 36 Enlisted men by disease. Total 41.

SOURCE: Dyer , Frederick H., A Compendium Of The War Of The Rebellion, Part 3, 1489

5th Battery Ohio Light Artillery Monument: Shiloh National Military Park

OHIO

5TH BATTERY LIGHT ARTILLERY
COMMANDED BY
CAPT. ANDREW HICKENLOOPER
PRENTISS’S (6TH) DIVISION
ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE

THIS BATTERY WENT INTO ACTION AT 7:30 A.M., APRIL 6, 1862 IN SPAIN FIELD. AT 9 A.M. IT RETIRED TO THIS PLACE WITH 4 GUNS AND WAS HOTLY ENGAGED UNTIL 4 P.M. WHEN IT RETIRED WITH 3 GUNS TO McARTHUR’S HEADQUARTERS, WHERE IT WAS ENGAGED IN LAST ENCOUNTER OF THE DAY.

ITS LOSS WAS 1 MAN KILLED: 1 OFFICER AND 18 MEN WOUNDED. TOTAL 20.

IT HAD 2 GUNS CAPTURED AND 1 DISABLED.

From Fort Monroe

FORT MONROE, Feb. 7.

The steamer Eastern State arrived here this morning, having left Hatteras yesterday. She brings the important news that Gen. Burnside’s fleet left their anchorage on Wednesday morning. The gun-boats started at sunrise and the troops and ships followed soon after. The destination was Roanoke Island. News of the arrival of the fleet at the island was expected. Three or four regiments were left at the inlet. – Nothing had been heard at Norfolk of the Burnside expedition.

The only copy of the Norfolk Day Book received contains an editorial censuring the newspapers for giving publicity to the statement that the Merrimac is a failure. It admits that fact to be true, and gives a full statement of the difficulties in regard to her. It appears that the calculations were erroneous. An error amounting to more than 200 tons was discovered when the ship was floated off, and this causes the present detention.

The chief subject of regret, however, is that when she was shoved up again, the ship caught upon the blocks and received a considerable strain. It is vain to deny that it is a serious injury, but we are happy to state that it is by no means irreparable.

The Norfolk Day Book of yesterday has the following:

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Feb. 5.

On Sunday, Lieut. Col. White’s cavalry encountered a force of Lincoln’s infantry in Morgan county, Tenn., on the mountain side. The Lincoln force was estimated at from 150 to 300. White charged upon the enemy. Capt. Duncan rallied his men twice, when he was shot through the head and killed. The Kentucky Unionists were then completely routed, and fled in confusion, leaving seven of their dead on the field.

The Savannah Republican says: There were no new movements of Federal vessels lying in the cut north of the river, beyond an addition to their number. Vessels occupying their position can readily command the main passage.

The Richmond Dispatch says that the Burnside expedition will at least have the effect of making us look well to our defence in that quarter. - Roanoke Island ought to be made impregnable, and all our batteries there and elsewhere should be provided with bomb proof coverings; the channel should be obstructed, and no means left to foil the enemy.

The editorial on the Merrimac also says the great draft of water will prevent her from taking part in active operations. – This draft originally was about twenty-four feet, and it has been considerably increased. The editor comforts himself that at all events she can be used as a floating battery.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

Southern News

NEW YORK, Feb. 8.

Southern newspapers received here state that the rebel leaders are devoting much attention to the subject of new railroads. – Jeff. Davis recommended to Congress in secret session the completion of the Miss. And Ala. Road, so as to connect Selma, Ala., with Meriden, in Miss.; and Congress proposed to appropriate $15,000 for that purpose. The N. O. Picayune also notices the fact that the road form Mobile to New Orleans, via Jackson and Meriden, has been completed, and remarks that it is most opportune, as the Yankees have possession of the Sound, and may destroy the coast line at any moment. A million of dollars, it is said, has been estimated by Mr. Davis, to construct a railroad between Danville, Va., and Greensboro, N. C., as a matter of military necessity.

By the frigate Savannah, we learn that the expedition on the Savannah river has been greatly magnified. It consisted only of a few small gun boats, and a brigade of 200 men, which sailed from Port Royal to reconnoiter and exercise the men. The main part of the expedition had returned with the Savannah left. A number of cannon were being sent through the Creek, but for what purpose is not known.

Com. Dupont has, and will in future, prohibit all communication between Port Royal and the north, as the correspondents of the press have materially aided in foiling many of his plans; and not steamer or sailing vessels will be allowed to leave until all has plans are perfected.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 10, 1862, p. 1

Battlefield Etiquette

Do not climb on or sit upon the monuments or cannon. It is disrespectful to the men who fought, were wounded and killed on the very ground upon which you are standing. Many of the monuments you see were placed on the battlefield by the veterans themselves in honor of their service and their fallen comrades. Many of the markers stand in areas that saw the heaviest fighting, mark significant events during the battle, troop positions and camps, or where specific individuals died.

A battlefield is not a playground or a ball park. If you bring children to a national battlefield, do not let them run wild, or leave them unsupervised. Monuments, markers and cannon are not playground equipment and should not be treated as such. Do not allow your children to climb upon them, and do your best to try to keep the noise level down to a minimal level. Do not bring sporting equipment and play ball among the monuments, not only is it disrespectful to the memories of the men who fought and died there, it is incredibly disrespectful to your fellow park visitors.

Picnic in designated picnic areas only. Many battlefields have designated picnic areas. Do not pick a spot and set up camp to have a meal in the middle of a battlefield.

Do not leave trash in a National Park or battlefield for others to pick up. What you take in to a national park you must also take out. Pick up your trash and take it with you out of the park, or place it in designated trash receptacles. Do not leave it for others to pick up. As Woodsy the Owl used to say, “Give a hoot. Don’t pollute!”

Do not park your vehicle directly in front of a monument. Period. I do not care if there is a parking spot there or not. Others may want to read or photograph the monument in front of which you may be parked. Go on a little bit further down the road, pull off to the side and walk.

Yield to the person with the camera. Do not linger in front of a monument or marker when it is obvious that there is some one wanting to take a photograph of a monument, marker or battlefield vista. Move out of the way, it only takes a second to take a picture, and if you are in the frame you will be remembered forever, and probably not in a good way.

I would love to hear any other ideas, or rules of proper behavior & etiquette to be used when visiting a national battlefield. Please feel free to comment.

8th Iowa Infantry Monument: Shiloh National Military Park

IOWA
IN MEMORY OF HER
8TH INFANTRY
SWEENY’S (3D) BRIGADE
W. H. L. WALLACE’S (2D) DIVISION
ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE



IOWA

8TH REGIMENT INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS
COMMANDED BY COL. J. L. GEDDES

THE REGIMENT HELD THIS POSITION FROM ABOUT 11 A.M., APRIL 6, 1862 UNTIL ABOUT 4 P.M. WHEN IT CHANGED FRONT TO THE LEFT AND HELD THIS SECOND POSITION UNTIL ABOUT 5 P.M. WHEN NEARLY SURROUNDED IT ATTEMPTED TO RETREAT, BUT FINDING ALL AVENUES OF ESCAPE CUT OFF, SURRENDERED ABOUT 6 P.M.

THE REGIMENT ENTERED THE ENGAGEMENT WITH AN AGGREGATE OF ABOUT 600 MEN.

ITS LOSS WAS KILLED 40; WOUNDED (18 MORTALLY) 113; MISSING 340; TOTAL 493.


See Also:

• Dedication Exercises of the Eighth Iowa Regimental Monument
• The Iowa Monuments At Shiloh National Military Park
• Official Report of Col. James L. Geddes
• Iowa Colonels and Regiments: James Loraine Geddes