Slavery Abolished in the District of Columbia

The bill for the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia passed the House of Representatives on Friday by a vote of 98 against 39, and was, promptly signed by the President.

Eighteen months ago no one dreamed that such an event was probable during this generation, and yet to day it is an accomplished fact. So much at least the rebellion has accomplished in the right direction, and it would not be more strange if eighteen months hence slavery should be abolished in the Border States. Events crowd upon each other in rapid succession, and produce sudden and radical changes in the condition of public affairs and in the policy of Government and in the sentiment of the people.

– Published in The Gate City, Keokuk, Iowa, Tuesday, April 15, 1862

The Rebels and the Battle in Tennessee

FORT MONROE, April 17.

Copies of the Richmond Dispatch and the Norfolk Day Book were received here last evening. The Dispatch contains a telegram from Beauregard, dated Corinth, 9th inst., stating that he was strongly entrenched and prepared to defy the Federals in whatever numbers they might attack him. He claims the battle of Pittsburg Landing as a most important Rebel Victory. He says: “We captured 6,000 Federal prisoner [sic] and 36 cannon.”

The Dispatch, commenting on the above thinks that the total route of Gens. Buell and Grant is certain. No mention is made of Beauregard being Wounded.

The Dispatch says, in reference to affairs on the Peninsula, that no anxiety need be felt as to the result of the forthcoming battle. The Yankees are to be driven back to the Fortress, and thoroughly vanquished by our forces under Generals Lee, Johnson and Magruder.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 19, 1862, p. 1

The French Marching on the City of Mexico

NEW YORK, April 24. – The Spanish steam frigate Isabella Catolica has arrived from Havana 17th.

The Diaro states that persons direct from New Orleans report the rebel defenses much exaggerated; that Forts Jackson and St. Phillip have been abandoned and the cannon taken away; there is nothing to prevent the Federal fleet sailing directly to New Orleans The Diaro does not vouch for the truth of these reports.

Later News from Vera Cruz had reached Havana.

After an unsatisfactory conference between the Allied commanders, the French General decided to march his division against the City of Mexico, taking upon himself the responsibility. The English and Spanish plenipotentiaries thereupon decided to withdraw their troops.

It was stated that the Juarez Government is ready to give every satisfaction to the Allies in the matter of claims, but will not listen to the idea of a monarchy, and in case the Allies advanced to the Capital would retire from it.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 3

COLONEL JOHN WALKER RANKIN

FIRST COLONEL, SEVENTEENTH INFANTRY.

John W. Rankin was born on the 11th day of June, 1823. He is of Scotch Irish descent, his mother being a relation of Burns, the poet. He was educated at Washington College, Pennsylvania, where, graduating at the age of sixteen, he was complimented with the Latin Oration. After leaving college, he taught school for a few years, and then studied law. He was admitted to the bar in 1844. Before coming West, he practiced his profession in Wooster, and in Ashland county, being, at the latter place, a partner of Judge Sloan. He settled in Keokuk, Iowa, in 1848. Since living in Iowa, he has been district judge, State senator, United States assistant quartermaster, and colonel. He was appointed Assistant Quarter-Master of United States Volunteers in the summer of 1861, and discharged the duties of the office with credit. In the winter of 1861-2, he was granted authority by the Secretary of War to raise a regiment of volunteers. He entered with energy upon the business of recruiting, and, in a little more than thirty days from the time he began active operations, the 17th Iowa Infantry was mustered into the United States service. Colonel Rankin received his commission on the 17th of April, 1862, and two days later, under orders from Halleck, left Keokuk with his regiment for St. Louis.

In what I have to say of the 17th Iowa, I desire to be impartial. That it was composed of as fine a body of men as ever went out from the State, is true, in proof of which I may state that, at the time it was enlisted, it was supposed, by both the State Executive and the Secretary of War, that it would be the last regiment furnished by the State for the war. Lieutenant C. J. Ball, mustering officer, and Surgeon S. B. Thrall, examining officer, both able and efficient in their respective departments, will bear me witness that no man was passed if he had the slightest physical blemish, and no man mustered unless, in size, he more than filled the letter of the regulations.

It was supposed at the time the 17th Iowa entered the service that the war was near its close. This was the opinion of the chief military men of the day; though nearly all of these men are fossils now. The resplendent victory at Fort Donelson threw the North into ecstasies of joy. That one was soon followed by the bloody triumph at Shiloh; and then it was declared that no more troops were wanted. It might have been so, had first reports been true; for the news of the battle of Shiloh, which was read to the 17th Iowa on dress-parade, declared that twenty thousand Union troops had been placed hors du combat, and that the enemy had lost more than double that number.

The regiment stared in amazement, and thought there were none left to kill. It was well for the enemy that the news was false; for, had it been true, he would have marched back to Corinth with hardly a corporal's guard. The war would have been near its close. "I can crush the rebellion in the South West with what men I have," a certain general in the West declared to the Secretary of War; and an order was even issued for disbanding the 17th Iowa, and was only recalled, after the utmost exertion on the part of Colonel Rankin. Many honestly believed that the 17th would never fire a gun: nevertheless, the regiment has fired more guns, and slain more rebels, than almost any other equal number of men in the field.

The first march of the 17th Iowa was from the St. Louis wharf to Benton Barracks: the debarkation and march was made in the mud and rain; and the regiment experienced a foretaste of soldier-life. Embarking on the steamer Continental, Colonel Rankin left St. Louis with his command for the front, on Sunday morning, the 4th day of May, 1862, and arrived at Hamburg Landing, on the evening of the 6th instant. Under orders from General Halleck, he reported to General Pope, and was assigned a position at the extreme left and front of the besieging army at Corinth. Here began the brilliant record of the 17th Iowa; for, though it was once disgraced on paper, and over the signature of a major-general, it was never disgraced in the eyes of its sister regiments. The regiment arrived at the front, on the evening of the 9th of May, the day of the battle near Farmington, where the 2d Iowa cavalry, and the troops of Colonel Loomis' Brigade deported themselves so handsomely. On the afternoon of that day, the 17th beheld for the first time terror-stricken cowards fleeing from the scene of action. Never present in battle, they are always the first to herald disaster. "Turn back! turn back!!" they said; "the whole army is killed and captured!" but on arriving at the front all was found quiet.

On the 28th of May, 1862, Colonel Rankin received orders to advance his regiment as skirmishers, and, having ascertained the character and strength of the enemy's works, to fall back. Accompanying the order were the compliments of General S. Hamilton in the following language: — "For gentlemanly and soldier-like conduct, your regiment has been assigned this post of honor." The reconnoissance was made in connection with the 10th Missouri, and resulted in a sharp fight. More than one hundred rebels were killed and wounded; and that same night Corinth was evacuated. Next followed the march to Boonville, Mississippi, in pursuit of General Beauregard, and on which General Pope captured thirty thousand stand of arms, and ten thousand prisoners. (?) These were splendid successes; but, though the 17th Iowa had marched near the van, it first learned the glad news while encamped in the woods near Boonville. Beauregard made good his escape, and Pope returned to Corinth. To new troops, this march was one of great hardships. It was made in the early days of Summer, when, in that climate, the days are hot and the nights cool. Uninured to the hardships, and ignorant of the customs of soldier-life, the 17th Iowa suffered severely; for they parted with nothing, and struggled along with burdens that would have broken down even veterans. They would not throw away even a cartridge.

Ordered into camp at Clear Springs, Mississippi, the 17th remained there until the latter part of June, and then joined the forces which marched out beyond Ripley. One incident on this march will be remembered by every member of the regiment who joined in it. It happened on the evening of the second day of the return to Camp Clear Springs. In the evening of that day, which had been cold and rainy, camp was made in a low bottom, and soon after the camp-fires were lighted, a dense fog arose, which was almost blinding. This proved the cause of the fright which followed. At about eight o'clock, sudden cries of alarm were given from the hill above— "For God's sake get out of there, or you will be all dead in half an hour." The regiment was filled with fright, and in ten-minutes' time every camp-fire was deserted. That night the poor fellows slept between corn-rows on the hill-side. Dr. McG– was a wag as well as a good surgeon, and, whether he perpetrated the above in sport or in earnest, I never learned. After returning from the Ripley march, the 17th Iowa remained at Camp Clear Springs until the middle of the following August, and then marched with its division to Jacinto, about twenty-five miles south of Corinth, where it remained till just before the battle of Iuka.

In August, 1862, Hon. Samuel F. Miller, Colonel Rankin's law-partner, was appointed to a judgeship of the United States Supreme Court. The business of the firm was large and complicated, embracing many cases of great importance, which required the personal attention of one of the original members of the firm. Indeed, I am informed that it was the understanding, when Colonel Rankin entered the service, that, in case Judge Miller should leave the firm, the colonel was to resign his commission. At all events, he tendered his resignation, which was accepted on the 3d of September, 1862. On the 19th of September, 1862, was fought the rough-and-tumble battle of Iuka; and Colonel Rankin had not yet left for his home.

Iuka was the 17th Iowa's first engagement, and by the fortunes of war the regiment was temporarily put in disgrace. It was gross injustice, and the fact that the commanding general who issued the order of censure was afterwards retired in shame from an important command affords us no satisfaction. And now I regret for the first time that I was a member of the 17th Iowa, for in stating the truth some may think me partial. How the battle of Iuka was brought on is explained in the sketch of General Matthies. Rosecrans either blundered or disobeyed orders, and it matters not which; for, in either case, he is equally censurable. The battle was fought on the afternoon of the 19th of September, and that morning the 17th Iowa, with its brigade, marched from Jacinto some twenty-five miles southwest of Iuka. Immediately after arriving at the front the regiment was hurried into the action. Its position was at the cross-roads and along an open ridge; and just across a narrow ravine, filled with dense brush, were the enemy. Hardly had the regiment come into line, when it was met with a terrible volley of grape, canister and musketry, and General Sullivan ordered it to a less exposed position. While Colonel Rankin was giving the proper command for the movement, that happened which was the cause of the regiment being censured. A portion of Rosecrans' body-guard, in reconnoitering at the front, came on the enemy's line. Surprised and alarmed by the terrible fire which met them, they rode hurriedly back, and finding the 17th Iowa drawn up across the road dashed through its ranks, knocking down and injuring several men. At about the same time, Colonel Rankin's horse was shot, and, becoming unmanageable, ran and threw him, his head striking the roots of a tree, which rendered him insensible. Captain Anderson of the 80th Ohio, supposing him dead, laid him by the side of a tree, where he remained till late that night. For months afterward, I am told, the colonel did not recover from the effects of this stroke.

Standing for the first time under a galling fire; overrun and its ranks broken by stampeding cavalry; its commanding officer disabled, and all happening in the same instant, is it matter of wonder that the 17th Iowa was thrown into temporary confusion, and partially disorganized? A portion of the left wing got separated from the right; but the greater part of the regiment was present throughout the engagement. Indeed, it may be said that, in all its hard-fought battles, the 17th Iowa never did better, all things considered, than it did in its luckless fight at Iuka. Go read the inscriptions on its battle-flags! go count its gallant dead, whose bleaching bones give additional sacredness to a dozen battle-fields! or, what you may more easily do, go ask those who know its history, if the regiment has not a gallant record. And it was not ingloriously begun at Iuka.

The losses of the 17th Iowa at Iuka, numbered about forty. Among the killed was Lieutenant Oliver H. P. Smith, a good man and a brave officer. He was shot in the midst of confusion, and doubtless by our own men; for the ball entered the back of his head, and he never turned his back to the enemy. Captain, now Lieutenant-Colonel S. M. Archer was among the severely wounded. He had just before assumed command of the regiment.

It was reported that Colonel Rankin was under the influence of liquor in the action at Iuka. If he was, and if the injury he received was attributable to that fact, I do not know it. I have been told by officers of the regiment (for I was not present in the engagement) that all the liquor was destroyed before the troops were marched out from their camps. In addition to this, I was told by Assistant Surgeon McGorrisk, afterward surgeon of the 9th Iowa Infantry, and still later, surgeon-in-chief of the 1st Division, 15th Army Corps, that, while the command of Rosecrans was en route for Iuka, General Stanly rode up to Colonel Rankin and asked him for a drink. The colonel, pulling his flask from his pocket, replied, "I am sorry, general; but you see I hav’nt [sic] got any." Lieutenant Delahoyd, brigade adjutant-general, was present, and confirms the above statement. I am no particular friend of Colonel Rankin, for he is the only officer who ever threatened to put me in arrest, and, as I think, unjustly. But then, it is my duty to give facts as they are. The truth is, the conduct of the 17th Iowa would never have been censured, had it not been for the malice of a certain brigadier, and the disappointment of a certain aspiring captain, who dared in no other way to strike at the reputation of Colonel Rankin.

Colonel Rankin is a small man, with light complexion, and a nervous-sanguine temperament. Before entering the service, he was unused to hardship and exposure, and, for many weeks after entering the field, suffered much from sickness. He is warm-hearted, generous and unassuming; and no man of his influence and standing, in the State, has fewer enemies than he. In politics, he is an ultra-Republican, though with both parties in his county he has always been popular. With an average democratic majority of five hundred, he was, in 1858, elected to the State Senate from Lee county. All were surprised, but only a few disappointed. The colonel is quick to invent, quick to execute, and has one of the best legal minds in Iowa,

SOURCE: Addison A. Stuart, Iowa Colonels and Regiments, p. 313-20

Our report from which we copy . . .

. . . enumerates the Fifteenth Iowa infantry amongst the regiments that ran on Sunday morning when attacked in camp by the enemy. Another report has it the 16th Iowa. Whatever maybe the truth in that respect it seems to be conceded that there was no disgrace attached to the movement, and so far at the 15th is concerned the heavy loss of the regiment, and the fact that three field officers were wounded indicate that they must have done some hard fighting during the progress of the battle.

It is useless, however, to undertake to speculate without a broader foundation of facts.

– Published in The Gate City, Keokuk, Iowa, Tuesday, April 15, 1862

Mail Lettings

WASHINGTON, April 24. – At noon to-day was commenced the announcement of the decisions on the proposals for carrying the mails on the Pacific coast and in the West and Northwest, &c. A large number of bidders were in attendance at the Post Office Department. The proposals for the Pacific coast are very much higher than formerly, and those from Kentucky and Missouri are considerably advanced, owing doubtless to the military disturbances in those States, while in Indiana, Illinois, and other States, the rates are lower. In all the number of routes are about 2,500, averaging ten bids for each. The sum total of the offers for the entire lettings is about equal to that of four years ago for similar service.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 3

Cairo Budget, A useless attempt to Whitewash Grant – Affairs at Pittsburgh – at Fort Pillow, etc.

CAIRO, April 22 – The steamer Charley Brown reached here to-day from Paducah. From Captain White, one of her passengers, I gather Pittsburgh news of Sunday Night.

The weather has been exceedingly unfavorable in that quarter for the movements of our army, for the last three days. The rain has fallen incessantly, and it is now an utter impossibility for the army to move on account of the great depth of mud. Preparations, however, are going on steadily, and when the roads improve the army will be in readiness for the battle.

Beauregard is being constantly reinforced and citizens of Memphis and New Orleans are throwing up their business occupations and flocking to his standard, believing that in the coming battle depends the fate of the Valley of the Mississippi.

It is thought by those who ought to know, that the majority of the Southern People are ready to throw down their arms and return to the Union if they are defeated at Corinth, while the leaders are still as desperate as ever.

Major Belknap, of the 15th Iowa, has been promoted to the Colonelcy of a Wisconsin regiment, for gallant conduct at the battle of Pittsburgh.

I hear it from excellent authority, that every charge brought against Gen. Grant, will be shown to be groundless, and facts not generally known tend to exculpate him from any blame whatever. The charge, among others, that he landed troops on the Pittsburgh side of the river contrary to the orders of General Halleck, is easily cleared up, by the fact that the whole opposite side of the river was flooded with at least three feet of water, making the debarkation of troops on that side impossible.

The impression is gaining ground that Gen. Grant not only acted prudently under the circumstances, but conducted himself with marked bravery throughout the battle.

Five of the rebel miscreants who fired upon the steamer Minnehaha, during her recent trip up the Tennessee river, have been captured, together with a quantity of ammunition and quite a number of horses bearing the U. S. mark. – They are to be shot.

Gen. Smith is lying dangerously ill at Savannah. His division was commanded at the battle of Pittsburgh by Gen. W. H. Wallace.

Capt. J. R. Gardiner, Co. F, and Capt. R. R. Henderson, Co. H, 13th Ohio, reported killed in the battle of Pittsburgh, in the Chicago Tribune of the 19th, are both alive, and though wounded are doing well.

The gunboat Eastport, captured at Nashville, is now being rebuilt at Mound City. She is to be somewhat larger and narrower than the gunboats now in service, and is to be provided with a large iron ram at the prow. Otherwise she will be erected after the pattern of the Benton and other gunboats. She is to be completed in about four weeks. Capt. Pennock, the naval officer in command at this post, is superintending the construction of the Eastport.

The Captain of the Minnehaha arrived here to-day, and brings the particulars concerning the drowning of Gov. Harvey. The Governor was returning in company with a number of gentleman of Wisconsin, from Pittsburgh, whither they had gone [to] relieve the wounded Wisconsin troops. At Savannah they stopped some time visiting the wounded in the hospital and started to return. The party were passing from the steamer Dunleith on board the Minnehaha, when Gov. Harvey lost his footing and fell into the river. He endeavored to swim against the current and while in this act, Dr. Clarke, one of the Governor’s particular friends, plunged into the stream to his rescue. But before he could reach him however, Gov. Harvey was carried under a coal boat. Since then nothing has been seen of his body, though every exertion has been made to recover it. A reward of $1,000 has been offered by the State of Wisconsin, for the recover of the body.

The post-master at Cairo requests all postmasters in mailing letters for the army, which should properly be sent to his office for distribution, to put them in separate packages, and endorse the letters “Soldier’s Letters,” Cairo D. P. O. The enormous increase of letters received makes this an absolute necessity.

The steamer Shingers arrived from Fort Pillow this morning, but brought nothing of importance from the flotilla. She left our fleet on Sunday evening and reports that there was no firing on either side during that day. A few shots were exchanged on Saturday. Our mortar boats occasionally throw a shell into the rebel fortifications. Nothing lively may be expected from the flotilla until after the battle of Corinth.

First Lieut. John Seek, Co G, 41st Illinois, wounded at the battle of Pittsburg, died while coming down the river yesterday.

The river here is at last at a stand, and if any change is occurring is slowly receding.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 3

More Gold Discoveries

NEW YORK, April 18.

The Steamer Ariel from Aspinwall, 4th, via Port Royal, 15th, has arrived. He has six hundred and seventeen thousand in treasure. Indian graves, containing gold, had been discovered on Island Santa Clara, in Guayaquil river, occasioning much excitement.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 19, 1862, p. 1

Wounded Iowa Soldiers at Keokuk

(Special to the Hawk-Eye.)

KEOKUK, 23. – The following names are among those arrived here to-day from the battle field at Pittsburg Landing, by the steamer January:

Privates Jas Buckly, co B, 2d; H A Smalley, co I, do; C Carthers, co F, do; J A Dunlap do do; Geo Risner, co A, do; J. M Moles co A, 2nd; D A Seargent, co A, 2nd; H Harden, co. K, do; Jas Williams, co. B, do; S H Morgan, co. B, do; G T Husbard, co H, do; Geo H Watson, co. K, 3d Iowa; Corporal V R Rider, co. K, do; 1st Lieut W B Hamill, co. K, do; Orderly Gilbert H Pulver, co. K, do; Chas C Morilton, co. K, do, Albert C Smith, co. A, do; Jas Ruburn, co. H, do; Reuben Dick, co. G, do J Sheriden, co. D, do; G L Whight, co A, do; Z Armstrong, co D, do; Solomon A Lyon, co H, do; Jos W Hase, co E. Sixth Iowa – Captain F Brydolf, do; private Jas Kellogg, co E, do; W H Mulligan, co I, do; J J Corbly, co A, do; R Ross, co B, do; A J Kelley, co B, do; Natham P Hewett, co D. Seventh Iowa – Wm B A McKell, S M Piatt, co I, M A Eddy, W R Austin, co H Ed F Larning, co G, do; Jackson West, co G, do; J B Shipley, co C, do; Bruce Jarvis, co D do; Bemhart Deuse, co K, do; F M Edgar, co D, 11th; S N Rucker, do, do; Penthus A Shaw, co I, do; Wm H Gara, co I, do; Geo Wallcott, do; Corp W Rogers, co D, do; private Dan Bemhart, co H, do; 1st Lieut G W Lumberoker, co C, do; private Zeph Bell, co I, do; 1st Lieut W T Dagley, co K, do; private Jas Marsh, co B, do, John Millsop, co D, do; Chas Laporte, co D, do; Sergeant Bercher Chatfield, co D do;

The above wounded brave Iowaians [sic], with many others whose names cannot be ascertained to night, in time for telegraphing, are well cared for in comfortable quarters at the new Estes House. Many have already received forloughs [sic] and will leave for their homes to-morrow.

Adjutant Baker is very active at this post, doing everything possible, and he has a full corps of volunteer assistants who are rendering every aid necessary, and furnishing many delicacies and comforts to the wounded and sick. P.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday April 26, 1862, p. 3

Straits of Mackinaw and Lake Pepin open

MILWAUKIE, April 18.

The propeller, Queen of the Lakes, has just arrived from Buffalo, through the straits. Lake Pepin, and the Mississippi is also open. The Keokuk is the first boat through.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 19, 1862, p. 1

We regret to learn . . .

. . . that a son of Mr. A. W. Gordon, of Benton tp., Des Moines County, was instantly killed, Thursday afternoon, by the accidental discharge of a gun. While blowing in the gun he attempted to push back the hammer with his foot, which slipping, discharged it into his mouth and blowing off the top of his head. He was about seventeen years of age.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 3

A Terrible Hurricane

ST. JOSEPH, Mo., April 16.

A most violent hurricane passed in a south-easterly direction from this place to-night. The [illegible] freight house of the P. C. RR. Was demolished, injuring several persons. The steamer Major of the H. & St. Joe RR. Line was torn from her moorings and carried down the river several miles, but finally made a landing, being badly damaged. The passengers were all saved. The steamer Dacotah of the same line sunk, and is a total loss. She carried down her engineer, a railroad conductor, and two others. To what extent damage is done in other sections below, is not known, as the telegraph line is down between here and Atchison.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 19, 1862, p. 1

Ensign H. King

Ensign H. King was the second Adjutant. He enlisted as a private at Osceola, Clarke county, Iowa in 1861, and was First Sergeant of Company I, was in the battle of Shiloh, and his Company officers being all killed or wounded, he commanded the Company on Monday, April 7, 1862. He, with Sergeant McArthur of Company K, joined about ninety men under the command of Major Belknap, and fought on the left of Gross’s Brigade of Nelson’s Division on the evening of Sunday, April 6. They were placed there by order of General Grant to Major Belknap personally, Major Belknap having reported to General Grant, and seeing him then for the first time. He Became a Second Lieutenant on July 4, 1862, vice Hamilton Killed at Shiloh, and became First Lieutenant on December 10, 1862, and on April 22, 1863, he was made First Lieutenant and Adjutant. He was in all the campaigns in which the Regiment took part. He especially distinguished himself during the battles near Atlanta in 1864. In the charge of July 21, on the right of the Third Division, which enabled that division of the 17th Corps to capture and hold “Bald Hill,” which could not have been captured had not the Iowa Brigade made this charge, the 15th Iowa, after its work was done, fell back into the earth works. It was soon discovered that Lieutenant-Colonel Hedrick, with three Companies of the Regiment, had not fallen back and were still under a heavy fire, and within close proximity to the enemy’s works. Colonel Belknap ordered Adjutant King to return and notify them. It was a hazardous and dangerous duty, but he did not flinch. Up he went through severe firing. He says himself: “It was about the severest trial I had during the war.” But he did it well. On the next day when Lampley, the Colonel of the 45th Alabama, was captured, King brought in the youngster, Lee, who had so bravely stood by his Commander. Lampley died soon after.

Lee now lives in Clayton, Alabama, thoroughly reconstructed.

On October 27, 1864, Adjutant King was appointed Chaplain and he was as faithful and devoted in that branch of the service as in the other. As Adjutant he was prompt, accurate and reliable; he continued in the work, most intelligently of the Adjutant Pomutz on the Regimental Record, and the service he did will live to do him honor always. He was, as all truly religious men are, thoroughly brave and unostentatious, but still aware of his own rights and prompt to maintain them. Both as a soldier of the country and soldier of the cross, he came up to the mark, and the men of the 15th Iowa will always have a pleasant word for King. He now is a Minister of the Gospel, connected with the Methodist Church and resides at Napa City California.

SOURCE: William W. Belknap, History of the Fifteenth Regiment Iowa Veteran Volunteer Infantry, p. 39-41

From Cairo

(Special to the Chicago Journal.)

Water rising rapidly, and families removing from the houses and leaving for the country for shelter and safety; also sending off their horses and cows. The railroad track is under water on the Pache bottom, just above the city. A heavy N. W. wind would drive the Mississippi over the levee. The Chicago train waited till daylight for the downward train at Mound City junction – it came in three hours behind time. The telegraph line is in jeopardy.

We are all surprised here this morning at finding the intelligence from Ft. Pillow given to the country through the Navy Department at Washington, and published in all the papers yesterday morning, when we have regularly had the same intelligence stricken out of the dispatches up to last night.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 19, 1862, p. 1

Died

In this city on Wednesday the 23d inst., MARY JANE WATT.

At her residence near Bloomington, Indiana, on the [illegible] of April, 1862, MRS. NANCY JANE KILPATRICK, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Jamison, in the 22d year of her age.

The deceased was united in marriage to Mr. Thomas Kilpatrick in the Month of February, 1861, and shortly after her marriage, connected herself with the Reformed Presbyterian congregation near Bloomington, having been certified from a neighboring congregation of the [illegible] Presbyterian Church.

Mrs. Kilpatrick gave satisfactory evidence that here religion was real; her great theme was Christ, and [illegible] through Him. She believed that Christ was [illegible] and willing to save her, and in Him and His perfect righteousness she placed all her trust. She was deeply righteous for the spiritual welfare of her friends, her great desire was that they might be Christ’s, to glorify Hime here, and enjoy Him hereafter.

Her list illness was short, and from its commencement she was fully resigned to the will of her Redeemer – His time was hers, and she hastened to be ready. She leaves behind her husband and an infant babe, besides a large circle of friends to mourn their loss.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 2

From the Potomac

WASHINGTON, April 17.

Intelligence was received to-day from the Potomac flotilla, which, on the 14th inst., visited the town of Serbana [sic]. A boat’s crew was sent ashore there, but when within a few yards of the beach, they were fired upon by the rifled pieces. No one was injured. The boat received several shots in her hull. The Jacob Bell being nearest immediately opened fire on the rebels, which scattered them in every direction.

After this, the flotilla proceeded on its voyage towards Fredericksburg. Arriving opposite Lowry’s Point battery they commenced from the whole fleet to shell the works and fortifications, driving out the pickets who have occupied it since its evacuation twelve days ago by a large body of the rebel army, after the shelling. The boat’s crews landed and proceeded to burn some 150 plank and log houses, used by the rebels as quarters, which were entirely consumed. After which the boats returned to their ships, loaded with blankets, medicines and muskets, left by the rebels in their flight.

The fleet then proceeded to the town of Tappahannock, about two miles above Fort Lowry, and arriving off which, a blank cartridge was fired and a flag of truce hoisted, which was responded to by the people of the town, by displaying a number of white flags. Our commander with his gigs and crew landed, when they were met at the beach by a large concourse of people of all colors, and it seemed with great demonstrations by the dark population. The American flag was run up over one of the largest houses in town, when it was hailed with enthusiastic cheering by the crews of our own gunboats. Subsequently, our commander was informed that some of the people of the place had said as soon as we left it would be torn down. Our commander then politely told them that if it was he would give them six hours to leave the town before he burnt it.

Information was given by the contrabands that four large schooners and other obstructions had been placed in a narrow channel of the river, five miles this side of Fredericksburg, to prevent our approach to that place, where lies the steamers St. Nicholas, Eureka and Logan – the former mounted with two guns.

As far as could be learned there were no rebel soldiers on the neck of land lying between the Potomac and Rappahannock, excepting a few picket cavalry, composed of Marylanders, to prevent the escape of negroes.

On the 15th inst. the fleet lay off Rappahannock.

About 50 miles below Fredericksburg our fleet captured the sloop Reindeer, loaded with oysters, shad, cedar posts and carpet bags containing a quantity of clothes for the rebels, with many letters; from which was ascertained the rebels were evacuating Fredericksburg, and talking of burning the town to keep it from falling into our hands. The fleet then proceeded down the river to Collin’s Creek, and there cut out two very fine schooners.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 19, 1862, p. 1

An ex-legislator, named John M. Anderson . . .

. . . was mulcted in $10,500 before the Supreme Court, at Philadelphia, last week, for seducing the daughter of a hotel keeper, at Harrisburg, whose acquaintance he made while attending his legislative duties at the capital.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 2

Handsome Victory in New Mexico

{Correspondence of the Missouri Republican.}

APACHE GLEN, NEW MEXICO,
BETWEEN SANTA FE AND FT. UNION, March 30.

Since I wrote you Col. Slough’s column, 1,300 strong, have advanced to Hegan’s Ranch, 25 miles north of Santa Fe, where they encountered the enemy – strength not known – and immediately engaged them. Maj. Crittenden, 1st Colorado volunteers and two companies U. S. infantry, under Capt. Lewis, were sent across the Moir to fall upon their rear. Col. Slough, according to programme, gave way gradually, which left the supply train of the rebels unsupported, which Maj. Crittenden and Capt. Lewis easily captured, together with about fifty loaded wagons, which were burned, and twenty prisoners and one 2-pound howitzer taken from us at Fort Craig, which was spiked by our troops.

Col. Slough who commanded them fell back to a strong position. Our trophies are 100 prisoners; privates and officers; 50 loaded wagons burned; one piece of artillery of the enemy spiked, from 100 to 200 killed and wounded, one major, two captains, &c. Our loss is about 18 or 20 killed including Lieut. Baker of Colorado volunteers, and 30 or 40 wounded.

It is supposed the rebel Gen. Sibley will advance upon Col. Slough’s column with his entire force, from 2 to 3,000 strong, and that Col. Slough will fall back upon the trenches at Depot Union.

At last accounts Col. Canby had not left Fort Craig. With Col. Slough’s command it is believed he can hold Fort Union against any force the rebels can bring against it.

The whole command engaged on our side behaved with signal gallantry and coolness, both volunteers and regulars.

P. S. – March 31. – 95 prisoners with 11 officers of the rebel army have just passed under an escort and will arrive at Fort Union to-night or early in the morning.

Col. Slough’s entire command has fallen back to Bencal Springs, 44 miles from Fort Union, and within supporting distance.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 19, 1862, p. 1

JOHN M. HEDRICK

John M. Hedrick, of Ottumwa, was the third and last Colonel of the Regiment. He entered as 1st Lieutenant of Company D, became Captain of Company K, and while in command of his Company in the battle of Shiloh on April 6, 1862, was wounded and captured. After being in captivity for several months he was exchanged and returned to the Regiment on January 7, 1863. He became Major on January 17, 1863, on the resignation of Major Cunningham; Lieutenant-Colonel, on April 22, 1803, on the promotion of Colonel Belknap; and Colonel in 1864, on the appointment of the latter as Brigadier, and remained its Colonel until the close of the war, when he was brevetted as Brigadier-General of Volunteers, a rank which he had won by active service. He was a most brave, zealous, energetic, competent and extremely popular officer. His manner and demeanor attracted his men, and he was beyond question one of the most gallant and brilliant officers in the Service.

While at the front, in the battle of Atlanta, on July 22, 1864, he was fearfully wounded twice. His conduct was witnessed by the Colonel of the Regiment (Belknap) who writes these lines, and he makes this lasting record of General Hedrick's service and fearless courage in that terrible action. He was too severely wounded to remain with the regiment, but was detailed on Court Martial duty at Washington and was retained in service for several months after the muster out of his Regiment.

He resides at Ottumwa, and is a reliable and public-spirited business man, prominent in public and private affairs. But his wound still gives him trouble, and reminds him constantly of his service in the field.

Since the above was written, General Hedrick was on September 29, 1886, stricken with paralysis, caused undoubtedly by the wound received in the battle of Atlanta, and died on October 3.

It is believed that no more fitting tribute can be paid him here than the following account of his funeral services from the Ottumwa Courier, of October 5, 1886, written by his devoted friend, Major A. H. Hamilton.

Resolutions passed at a meeting of the Regiment are also appended.


THE LAST SAD RITES
TO THE LAMENTED GENERAL HEDRICK.

From the Ottumwa Courier, October 5, 1886.

Tuesday at the appointed hour for the funeral services, 9:30 A. M., West Second street, on which the family residence of the lamented dead is situated, was thronged with people and carriages. Great numbers had arrived by teams from all parts of the country, and hundreds came by trains. It being also the opening day of the reunion of the gallant 2d Iowa Infantry, there had arrived during the night and the early morning, soldiers of various Regiments from all parts of this and other states to attend the funeral and to participate in the reunion. General W. W. Belknap, of Washington, D. C.; Dr. W. H. Gibbon, of Chariton, Major H. C. McArthur, and Capt. R. H. Whitenack, of Lincoln, Neb., all old comrades in arms of the deceased, arrived also during the night. Others of General Hedrick's old Regiment were here from abroad, but their names we have not been able at this hour to obtain. To the four mentioned [sic] deceased was knit with a brotherly affection. How strong and enduring this affection was will be found expressed in the short address of General Belknap, which follows further on.

Gen. Belknap brought with him the old silk flag of the 15th .Iowa, carried in the battle of Corinth, which was laid upon the coffin of the dead hero and enshrouded his remains as they were borne to their final resting place.

There were floral tributes of great beauty and abundance. There was a beautiful wreath and four pillows of flowers, containing the following designs and mottoes in flowers: "Our Father," " Courage'' "J. M. H.," and a sword and pen crossed in evergreen, surmounted by the figure "30" in pink flowers - "30" is the printer's finis,

The face of the dead was wonderfully placid and natural. The living brothers and sisters, besides the General's own family, were all present, and also some more distant relatives from abroad. The family residence, though large, could accommodate but a few of the great crowd which assembled in respect for the dead and in sympathy with the bereaved family. The services were opened by a hymn rendered by the choir of the First Methodist Church of this city. The Rev. W. F. Cowles then addressed the Throne of Grace in fervent prayer, after which the Rev. J. B. Blakeney read a lesson from the scriptures and spoke briefly of the deceased and his many virtues, closing with words of comfort to the bereaved. The remains were then viewed by the vast concourse of people, the sad parting leave taken by the family, and the immense procession took up its journey to the grave in our city cemetery. The head of the procession was taken by Co. G. I. N. G, of this city, preceded by Prof. Carl Schwabkey's band. Next came the army veterans, Cloutman Post No. 69, G. A. R., and soldiers of other Posts, and they were followed by the chaplain, hearse, family and relatives in carriages. The friends followed in carriages and on foot. The number of carriages in line was one hundred and sixty.

The business houses of the city were closed and there was an outpouring of the people enmasse to attest their respect and love for the deceased soldier, citizen and friend, and their sympathy with the sorely bereaved family.

Arriving at the cemetery the casket was borne to the open grave and deposited preparatory to being lowered to the final resting place of all that is mortal of the honored dead, when, in the presence of two thousand people, General Belknap in a clear, strong, but tremulous voice, as though his sad heart was struggling for the mastery, delivered the following beautiful and feeling address:

FRIENDS OF OUR FRIEND AND COMRADES OF THE ARMY:

When one who has been called away is bound to some by the bonds of kindred, and to all by the ties of affection, there is a mournful pleasure in the act of love which honors the memory of the dead. It is not for me to intrude upon the sanctity of the sorrow, which falls like a burden upon the broken hearts of those who were of his own household. The bitterness of this bereavement comes, in a measure, to us all. But, knowing him as I did, I willingly recall some memories of the past, and in this solemn hour give the tribute of my best affection to this most noble gentleman. I recall him when in the full flush of beautiful manhood, he joined the 15th Iowa in 1861, and received his commission as captain. Bright as day, quick in movement, and sincere in friendship, he tied himself to the men of his command, and at once captured our regard. On the fearful field of Shiloh, where the crash of the conflict came so suddenly, he bore himself bravely and as a true soldier should. Captured there, he was a prisoner for months, and returned to the Regiment to become its Major, its Lieutenant-Colonel and its Colonel. That General Hedrick filled all these positions with great judgment and military skill, all of his comrades know, and none better than myself. I recall him in that severe siege of Vicksburg, when the fire of the Southern batteries shook the stoutest heart, and well remember that smile of joyful happiness which showed how he welcomed victory, with a cool confidence that could not be disturbed. I recall him, and so do you, my comrades of the Iowa Brigade, when he moved on that bright morning in July, 1864, with the entire 15th Regiment deployed as skirmishers in the advance of the 4th Division upon the opposing works. His figure and form were the perfect development of young manhood, as he moved his men to the charge. I seem to hear now his voice, which, like a clarion, called to the men to be steady, and nerved them for their work, and we remember again that group of Generals — McPherson, Blair and Gresham, who looked with admitted admiration upon his skillful leadership, and united their cheers with his and those of his victorious comrades as they swept up the parapet and captured the work. We recall him again in that bloody assault on July 21st, when the Regiment marched like men up to the blazing mouths of the batteries, and in that battle of giants on the next day — July 22, 1864 — when, in the midst of action, in the extreme front, and with his sword on high, waving in encouragement among his men, he received that fearful wound, which for twenty-two years has been sapping the foundation of his life.

Well do I recall his heroic demeanor on that eventful day. Seeing him come from the line, with the blood streaming from arm and side, I said "Where are you wounded?" "I am shot all over, Col.," he said, but there was no complaint, though with the consciousness that it might prove fatal soon. That battle at great cost ended in victory. I knelt down by the stretchers on which he and his brother lay side by side, during a lull in the fight, and spoke to him of his heroic conduct and cheered him as best I could amid the havoc of action. But he needed no words from me to aid his courage. With a smiling face and a strong heart, he was carried to the hospital, and the President brevetted him Brigadier-General for his great gallantry.

The men of his command had no truer friend than he. and they trusted him with the firm reliance of devoted faith. The words of discipline which came from him as an officer, came so firmly and yet so gently that it was happiness to obey. His tender words and cheering voice in the hospital smoothed the rough pillow of the dying soldier, and brought to him the blessings of the sick. His career since the war is known to you all. As a man of affairs he was earnest, courageous and true. This gathering of old men and matrons and young men and maidens is a sure tribute to his worth as a citizen, while his comrades of the army bind upon his brow the laurel wreath which he has won, as he leaves them to march without fear and with calm faith, into the presence of the God of Mercy and of the God of battles.

General Hedrick was my fond and faithful friend. I loved him as I did no other man on earth. For years associated with him in camp and fight, in field and march, there never was the shadow of a shade to come between us. The tender memories of his manly love all come to me now, and I bless Heaven that I have known him so long and well.

Two weeks have not passed since I met him in Burlington by appointment, and we journeyed together to Chicago and spent a day there together. We were both interested in the history of our Regiment of which he had the charge, and his last act, in my presence, was to arrange for the publication of the likenesses of all the men of the Regiment in that work. Devoted to his men his last act there was for them and theirs.

Original in his ideas, brilliant in conversation, the life of every circle, and the loved of his friends, my comrades "we shall not look upon his like again." Our hearts go out in sympathetic affection to those who bear his name. No words of ours can be their solace. The blessed memory of his beloved companionship and kindest care is theirs to keep forever. This will be a joy to them in their darkest days, and though some plans in life may fail and hopes be broken, they cannot lose the recollections of this manly, noble life.

Comrades — Trouble may be with us in the passing years, and the vicissitudes of life may bring disaster, but those who have been side by side in the fire of battle are bound to each other by a confiding devotion which no blow can break.

The hour has come. The flag of his Regiment lies upon his bier. The march which he has made will soon be ours. He has crossed the unknown river, and is with that great army whose spotless tents are pitched near the celestial city.

Rev. J. B. Blakeney pronounced the benediction, and the large concourse silently wended their way to their homes.


Resolutions of Respect and Condolence Adopted by Members of the 15th Iowa on the day of General Hedrick's Funeral.

At a meeting of members of the 15th Iowa Volunteers, at the Ballingall House, Ottumwa, Iowa, on October 5th, 1886, Col. Wm. H. Gibbon, of Chariton, was called to the chair and Major H. C. McArthur, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was appointed secretary.

On motion of Ben. Johnston, of Keosauqua, the following resolutions were adopted:

Resolved, That, with all the members of the 15th Iowa, we mourn the death of our brave comrade and commander, Brigadier-General John M. Hedrick. Gifted in a marked degree with ability, both as an officer and a citizen, he fastened himself to us by his generous character, his considerate kindness and thoughtful regard. As a comrade he was our personal friend; as a soldier, he was heroic in every act; as a Commander, he led instead of followed; and as a man he kept the esteem which his kindly ways had won. We shall cherish to the end the memory of his noble life.

Resolved, That we give to his loving widow and children the sincere assurance of the unfeigned sympathy of the Regiment, in this, their most sad hour.

H. C. McARTHUR,
Secretary.


SOURCE: William W. Belknap, History of the Fifteenth Regiment Iowa Veteran Volunteer Infantry, p. 30-7

“Sambo, what you tink ob de future state.”

“I tink him very long one!” “But I mean do you tink de wicked will be condigned to eberlastin’ misery?” “I don’t tink no such ting. I tink Gabriel ‘minister de oaf and let em go?”

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 2