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OFFICIAL ARMY RECORDS 1862-3
HOSPITAL NO. 2, Iuka, Miss., September 21, 1862.
COLONEL: I respectfully report the part taken in the action by my regiment while I
remained on the field near Iuka, Miss., on the 19th instant:
In pursuance to your orders and that of General Hamilton the regiment was formed on a line
nearly with and to the left of the Eleventh Ohio Battery, Lieutenant Sears commanding, on the
crest of a hill or ridge receding to the left and semicircular in form. In the rear was placed the
Sixteenth Iowa for our support, and not more than 20 yards from us, and to the left was the
Fourth Minnesota, in continuation of the front. The men were ordered to lie down and to hold
their fire until they could make it effective. There was a deep gulch or ravine which it was
impossible to reach with musketry as the line was then formed. To the right wing of the regiment
the line of fire was much circumscribed, the range being confined to the sharp slope of the hill
opposite and to a descending plane to the front of the line on which we were formed of not over
25 or 30 yards in width. On the left of the regiment the descent of the ground was less rapid and
abrupt, but rolling, and at many points offered a cover to an enemy's approach. The fire opened
upon us by their batteries at about 5 p.m., and at first seemed mainly directed at the battery on
our right, but taking in its range the first and second companies of the regiment, who suffered
early and severely in the engagement. The fire from the batteries was from converging points,
and therefore enfilading, under which those troops to the front and to the right and left of our
battery suffered severely. After their cannonading had lasted half an hour or more circumstances
indicated the approach of an attacking column, of which I promptly informed you. They
advanced in three lines, two deep each. As soon as they were perceived on the summit and
descent of the hill on the opposite side, at about 250 yards distant, we opened our fire upon them
and continued it until they were hidden by the declivity below, resuming the fire as soon as they
came within reach. Here they met us with a volley, and our support having given away, with a
force in our front at least four to one, the regiment followed. They fell back nearly 100 yards,
where they were rallied, and although the line was irregular, they still showed a front to the
enemy and continued to fire. By your direction I advanced to the support of the battery. When
within about 40 yards of it I was wounded and compelled to retire to the rear. The command of
the regiment then devolved upon Lieutenant-Colonel Rugg. His report, which no doubt will
accompany this, will embody all the essential facts connected with the regiment after I left the
field.
Considering that it was the first time the regiment had been under fire and that it was
outnumbered four to one by the veteran troops of the rebel army and that they remained in the
battle to its termination, its conduct may be deemed satisfactory, though not in all respects what I
could wish. To the officers especially much praise is due. They were prompt in the execution of
every command, attentive to every duty, and remained with their men, encouraging them by
word and example, to the last. To Lieutenant-Colonel Rugg I am under especial obligations. He
gave me every aid and assistance while I remained on the field and contributed much to the order
and good conduct of the men. His gallantry was conspicuous at every point of danger. I take
pleasure in also mentioning with approbation the conduct of Adjutant Stanfield, and particularly
that of Sergeant-Major Ellis. Other especial instances of meritorious conduct on the part of
commissioned officers and enlisted men deserving notice will doubtless be mentioned by
Colonel Rugg in his report.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
NORMAN EDDY,
Colonel, Commanding.
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Colonel SANBORN,
Comdg. First Brig., Third Div.
HDQRS. FIFTH REGIMENT IOWA VOLUNTEERS,
September 21, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken in the engagement near
Iuka, on the 19th instant, by the Fifth Iowa Infantry:
We left camp, 6 miles from Jacinto, early on the morning of the 19th instant, leading the
column of the Third Division, and soon came onto the enemy's pickets, posted on the road. Three
companies of my regiment, E, G, and D, were ordered forward as skirmishers, and succeeded in
driving them from their position, and continued to drive them from one position to another,
which they contested, for more than 6 miles, killing 3 and wounding a number, when these
companies were relieved by the Twenty-sixth Missouri Infantry. Our loss was 1 sergeant
severely wounded. The skirmishers soon came onto the main force of the enemy, placed in a
strong position, and received a volley from one or more regiments. My regiment was ordered
into line on the right of the Eleventh Ohio Battery, which had just been placed in position, when
I was informed that a large force was moving on my right, which compelled me to change front,
and had just got into position on the crest of a hill when the enemy, in strong force (two brigades
as I learned), under Generals Green and Martin, came up in front and poured a terrible fire of
musketry into my line, which was promptly returned. The firing continued without cessation on
both sides for more than a quarter of an hour, when I found the enemy was pressing my left
wing, near the battery, and I ordered a charge, which was executed in the most gallant manner,
every officer and man moving up in almost perfect line, cheering lustily. The enemy gave way
before us, when we poured a most deadly fire into their ranks, causing them to fall back down
the hill. They soon returned with renewed vigor on my front and left, cheering as they came, and
were received with a steady fire from the gallant boys of my regiment, holding our position
under the most terrific fire possible. I then gave the command "Forward," and the enemy were
again driven over the hill, but not until they had come so near as to boldly reach out after our
colors, thus showing the United States flag, and saying, "Don't fire at us; we are your friends." At
this juncture the left wing of my regiment was suffering terribly from a cross-fire coming from
the left of the battery, nearly every officer of the three left companies being either killed or
wounded. At this moment four companies of the Twenty-sixth Missouri Infantry came up to the
support of my left, and nobly assisted in holding the ground more than an hour, until I found my
ammunition exhausted, when I ordered my regiment to retire to a field about 100 yards distant,
which was done in good order, and where it was reformed under a galling fire. At this time the
Eleventh Missouri Infantry advanced in order of battle, and my regiment retired by the right of
companies to the rear, passing the Tenth Missouri Infantry, which was advancing to take a
position near the road. Under the direction of an aide-de-camp the regiment was here reformed in
line, ammunition distributed to the men, and, the firing having ceased, the men rested upon their
arms for the night.
The casualties in my regiment were, 7 commissioned officers killed and 8 wounded and 33
enlisted men killed and 168 wounded.
In commanding my regiment before the enemy I was gallantly assisted on the right by
Lieutenant-Colonel Sampson, and on the left by Adjt. R. F. Patterson, acting major, and Lieut.
W. S. Marshall, acting adjutant, which officers, without leaving their places, repeated my
commands and cheered my brave boys throughout the fierce engagement. The long list of
casualties of both officers and men is ample proof of the noble manner in which all stood at their
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posts. The highest praise is due to all. A grateful country will reward them for their deeds of
daring.
Very respectfully,
C. L. MATTHIES,
Colonel, Commanding Fifth Iowa Infantry.
Lieutenant MARTIN,
A. A. A. G., First Brig., Second Div., Army of the Miss.
HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH IOWA INFANTRY,
September 21, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Sixteenth Iowa Infantry, in your brigade,
in the battle on the evening of the 19th instant, 1 miles south of Iuka, Miss.:
The regiment, under command of Col. A. Chambers, was placed in position about 5.30 p.m.
in rear of the Eleventh Ohio Battery, the left of the regiment extending across the road from
which it had filed into position. Immediately after the regiment was formed in line a charge of
grape and shell from a battery of the enemy cut down 6 or 7 men, in-eluding an officer, when the
men were ordered to lie down. In this position but few or none were injured by the repeated
discharges of canister and ball from the rebel battery. In probably half an hour from forming in
line the enemy made a charge of infantry on the battery. Our fire was reserved till the last
moment in the center of the regiment, for fear of killing those manning the battery or the horses
of the same and in the two right companies, till a regiment which was lapping them was
withdrawn; but when the enemy's lines were plainly or partially in sight (which, owing to the
trees and thick underbrush, was not till they were very close), Colonel Chambers ordered the
men to rise and fire, which order was instantly obeyed, for a time stopping the enemy's advance,
but they again charged. The attack was evidently by a very heavy force and with the object of
capturing the battery. Our men stood their ground manfully, and I am not aware that a single
officer or man failed in any part of his duty. They were finally beaten back by the overwhelming
force of the enemy, the center, in the rear of the left section of the battery, retiring first, but
warmly contending with the enemy till they were almost in our ranks. The left, holding a
comparatively safe position, did not retire till they were fired into by one of our own regiments in
the rear. The entire right companies, although under a remarkably heavy fire, held their position
longest and experienced the heaviest loss. Company A, Captain Smith, was the last to leave the
field, and for a time held its ground alone, the regiment on its right having at an early hour been
compelled to retire, and the remaining companies of its own regiment the same at a later hour.
Where all the officers did so well it seems scarcely fair to particularize the conduct or bearing
of one from the other, yet I deem it my official duty to notice the fact that Captain Smith
exhibited in this action bravery and gallant conduct for which he cannot receive too much praise.
He brought out of the battle scarcely half the men he took in it, and the same may be said of
Company F, Captain Fraser. The remaining portion of the regiment was immediately after
reformed by my self and took a position near the battle-field, it then being nearly dark, and soon
after; while changing to another position, was directed to rest on the right of an Ohio regiment,
formed along the Iuka road, where it remained during the night.
I regret to report the severe wounding of Colonel Chambers by gunshot wounds in the
shoulder and neck toward the close of the action. He was taken prisoner at the time of receiving
the wounds, but was left by the enemy in the hospital at Iuka.
I have the honor to inclose herewith a list of the killed, wounded, and missing of the
Sixteenth Iowa Infantry at the late action near Iuka, as complete as it can be made at this time,
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summing up, killed, 14; wounded, 48; missing, 14. the regiment went into the battle with about
350 men, exclusive of details made to take care of the wounded.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ADD. H. SANDERS,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Sixteenth Iowa Infantry.
Colonel SANBORN.
Comdg. First Brigade, Third Div., Army of the Mississippi.
HOSPITAL AT IUKA, MISS.,
September 21, 1862.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to your orders, I marched, on the
morning of the 18th, from camp west of Jacinto, and encamped that evening 6 miles east of the
town on the Iuka road.
On the 19th we marched to within 2 miles of Iuka, the Fifth Iowa Infantry leading the
column; next the Eleventh Ohio Battery, and next the Twenty-sixth Missouri Infantry. About 3
p.m. I relieved four companies of the Fifth Iowa, skirmishers, with Companies B, A, G, and I, of
my regiment, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Holman, who continued to drive back the
enemy's line till they came upon his main body, from which they received a volley, causing
considerable loss. They remained in position till the column came up, and upon my arrival I
ordered them into the line and formed the regiment, according to your orders, in rear of the Fifth
Iowa, the right down a steep ravine and the left resting near the Eleventh Ohio Battery. You also
ordered me, in case the enemy should attempt to flank on the right, to move my regiment in that
direction into the open field. I reconnoitered the position on the right, and seeing no indication of
a flank movement, I remained in position. Shortly after the engagement opened in earnest on the
front of the Fifth Iowa, and Colonel Matthies, finding the left of his regiment next to the battery
too hard pressed, called on me for assistance. I, seeing that the battery was nearly disabled and
that the enemy were directing all their efforts against that point, immediately ordered Major
Koniuszeski to mount and go forward with the left wing of my regiment, composed of
Companies F, E, H, and C, in all 162 men, exclusive of hospital details. I at the same time
ordered the right wing to remain where it was and await my orders. Seeing Koniuszeski
dismount, and that he gave no orders at all, or at least adequate to the occasion, I took command
in person, and remained until I thought the time had arrived to bring up the right wing, with
which, being five large companies, I had intended to charge. In the mean time the colors,
contrary to orders, had advanced with the left wing, and a short time previous to my returning to
the right wing I had ordered the colors back to their former position. When I returned to where I
had ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Holman to remain with the right wing I found it gone, as well as
the colors. I immediately returned to the left wing, where, mixed up with the disabled battery, we
remained, without giving an inch, until I was severely wounded, having been slightly wounded
before. I immediately after this ordered the men to retreat down the ravine, and was carried off
the field. We had lost 79 men, including 5 commissioned officers wounded. The fire was very
severe, and the position, in the midst of tangled horses struggling to get away, was difficult both
to take and to maintain in order.
I did not see Major Koniuszeski during the action. Had he, and Lieutenant-Colonel Holman,
who I since understand ordered the right wing to retreat shortly after I left him, obeyed my orders
properly I think a charge with these fresh troops would have prevented the temporary capture of
the battery.
the Fifth Iowa, with my four companies, fought with great desperation and effect, and we left
the field at the same time. I have no means of knowing with certainty why the right wing left the
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field as it did, as I have not seen the command since I was carried off the field to be able to get
any accurate information; but they could not have left without orders, as they were almost
completely under shelter. It will be necessary for Lieutenant-Colonel Holman to explain this in
his report, which should begin at the time those companies left their position.
It gives me great pleasure to mention the names of several officers engaged with me on the
left wing who behaved with distinguished gallantry and energy: Capt. B. D. Dean and Second
Lieut. J. W. Maupin, of Company F; Capt. Robert C. Crowell, First Lieut. R. B. Denny, and
Second Lieut. J. T. Crowe, of Company E; First Lieutenant Schirmer, commanding Company K,
and First Lieut. J. M. Dennis, of Company C. I was not present with the skirmishers in action,
but understand that all exhibited great coolness and energy.
I inclose a list of killed and wounded, as far as known at this time.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEORGE B. BOOMER,
Colonel, Comdg. Twenty-sixth Regt. Missouri Infty. Vols.
Col. JOHN B. SANBORN,
Comdg. First Brig., Third Div., Army of the Miss.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH REGIMENT MISSOURI VOLS.,
September 22, 1862.
COLONEL: I beg leave to submit the following report of the action of the troops under my
command in the battle near Iuka, Miss., September 19:
By order of Col. George B. Boomer, commanding the Twenty-sixth Missouri Volunteers, I
took command of Companies A, Captain Robinson; B, Captain Welker; G, Captain Rice, and I,
Lieutenant Berry, and relieved the skirmishers of the Fifth Iowa. I deployed Company A on the
left and Company B on the right of the main road leading to Iuka, holding Companies G and I as
a reserve, under command of Captain Rice. I drove back the enemy's pickets without much
firing, excepting on one occasion, when he had taken refuge in a house on the road, where a
brisk skirmish ensued; but we soon forced him to leave his shelter, and continued to advance
under a brisk fire. The enemy's cavalry attempted a charge, but, seeing me prepared to receive
him with a reserve and flanking companies rallying, he promptly fell back. I again deployed and
advanced, and soon came upon the main force, posted about 40 yards above a ridge, covered
with timber and thick undergrowth, his artillery being in position in the road in front. A few
shots were fired by my skirmishers, but the enemy held his fire. At this time I had advanced to
the top of the ridge in the road and discovered the position of the enemy. At this instant
Company B drew the fire of the whole rebel line on the right and fell back and rejoined the
regiment. Company A rallied on the right, and Captain Rice brought up his reserve, and after
getting into position near the top of the ridge these companies gave him their entire fire, and
almost instantly drew the fire of their artillery and two regiments of infantry. My troops were so
protected by the ridge that their fire took no effect. I gave them a few more shots, when Captain
Robinson reported the enemy flanking him on the left and Captain Rice discovered him on the
right. Seeing our battery in position and line of battle formed in my rear I gave the order to retire,
and soon after received orders to rejoin the regiment and await orders. Soon after rejoining the
regiment Colonel Boomer went to the left, leaving Adjutant Schoenen and myself on the right.
The battle soon opened with great fury, the four companies on the left, with the colors, were here
detached by the colonel (as I afterwards learned) and moved forward, under his and Major
Koniuszeski's command, in support of the battery. I remained in position until the advance of the
enemy had turned our left, which placed me and my right under a destructive cross-fire from the
rear, left, and front. The battery had been carried, and one of the caissons came down on my left
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and threw that part of my line into confusion. Seeing that I was being flanked on the left and that
it was impossible to rally the left of my line, which had become disordered, I ordered my
command to fall back to the field a short distance below my first line. This movement was
quickly executed and in good order, when I again formed in line of battle near the edge of
timbers. I then, by order, moved back my line about 150 or 200 yards and took position on the
right of the Tenth Missouri, awaiting the approach of the enemy, where I remained until the close
of the engagement. I was ordered then to remain on arms, which I did until next morning. About
7 o'clock in the evening I was here rejoined by the remnants of Companies E, F, and H, bearing
the colors, in charge of Lieutenant Wheeler and Lieut. Charles F. Brown, regimental
quartermaster. From the opening to the end of the engagement my command was constantly
under a galling and destructive fire, and my loss in killed and wounded was severe.
Permit me further to report that the officers and men under my command, with scarcely an
exception, during the whole engagement conducted themselves with rare coolness and true
soldierly bearing; but Capts. John Welker, T. M. Rice, and William M. Robinson, and Lieut. F.
G. Schoenen, acting adjutant, and Lieut. C.F. Brown, regimental quartermaster, with many
others, are deserving a special notice. Their conduct was truly brave, gallant, and noble. If space
would permit too much could not be said of their signal acts of daring, their coldness and skill in
discharging the duties respectively assigned them on the field. The country may truly be proud of
such men, for under their leadership continued success will mark the progress of our gallant
army. Of those officers above named it will be doing no injustice to any for me to say that
Captains Welker, Rice, and Robinson, and Lieut. C. F. Brown, regimental quartermaster, and
Lieutenant Schoenen, have won for themselves distinguished merits--efficient in camp, brave
and patriotic on the field. I can cheerfully recommend them for promotion in the army.
JOHN H. HOLMAN,
Lieut. Col., Comdg. Twenty-sixth Regiment Missouri Vols.
Col. JOHN B. SANBORN,
Comdg. First Brig., Third Div., Army of the Miss.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., THIRD DIV., ARMY OF THE Miss.,
Iuka, Miss., September 20, 1862.
I have the honor to submit this report of the part the Second Brigade took in the battle of
Iuka:
On the evening of the 18th I received orders to move the next morning at 5 o'clock on
Tuscumbia road toward Iuka, to join in an attack on Major-General Price, who was encamped
with the rebel army at that place. Leaving camp punctually at the time appointed we arrived
within 1 miles of Iuka by 4 p.m., our advance brigade having been skirmishing with the enemy's
pickets for over 6 miles. Halting at this point the First Brigade was formed in line of battle by
General Hamilton, who was in advance, while the Second Brigade was halted on the road until a
reconnaissance could be made of the ground to the left and a position obtained for the battery.
Before a position could be selected the rebels opened a terrific fire along the entire front of our
line, having approached us entirely unperceived, owing to the dense underbrush and broken
character of the ground, and at the same time attempting to turn our position by an attack on both
flanks. I ordered Colonel Holmes, of the Tenth Missouri, to take position guarding our right
flank, while Colonel Perczel, of the Tenth Iowa, with a section of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery,
was ordered to hold a road leading to our left and rear. (their reports are herewith inclosed.) the
position occupied by Colonel Holmes was so important and so effectually checked the enemy's
advance on our right that their artillery fire was directed especially to that point. Although the
enemy's fire enfiladed his line, the movements of his regiments in taking position were
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performed with as much precision as if on the drill ground. His officers and men are en titled to
praise. Colonel Perczel with his command held the position assigned them and drove back a
brigade of the rebels which was advancing to take possession of the road. He gallantly held his
position and 1)y his determined stand led the enemy to believe we were in strong force at that
point and to desist from their attack. Before the disposition of the regiments above mentioned
could be made the rebels, by bringing a vastly superior force against the left wing of the First
Brigade, had driven in the regiments, flanking Sands' battery and occupied a position
commanding the battery, and were moving down the road with the intention of attacking the First
Brigade in the rear. Forming a portion of the Eightieth Ohio and Seventeenth Iowa, which had
been halted in the road, two volleys, rapidly delivered, checked the enemy's advance and drove
them back to the brow of the hill. By this time portions of the Twenty-sixth Missouri Volunteers,
Forty-eighth Indiana Volunteers, and Sixteenth Iowa Volunteers, whose colonels had all been
seriously wounded, with a few of the Fourth Minnesota Volunteers, joined my command and
fought bravely through the remainder of the action. General Hamilton at this time desired me to
save Sands' battery, which was entirely disabled, every officer and cannoneer being either killed
or wounded and all the horses killed. At the order to advance the men gave three cheers, and with
a rush drove the enemy back out of the battery down the hill and were yet advancing, when a
murderous fire was opened on my flank by a regiment of sharpshooters which lay concealed on
my left in the woods. Ordering my men to fall back I reformed my line, which had become
somewhat disordered. The rebels, taking heart at our supposed retreat, advanced with loud
cheers, but were soon undeceived by a volley, followed by an order to charge, which again drove
them below the brow of the hill. Receiving re-enforcements the rebels again advanced, but were
held in check, when the Thirty-ninth Ohio, through a mistake, and without orders, fired a volley
into the rear of my line, killing and wounding more than my whole loss prior to that time. By this
time it was so dark that friends could not be distinguished from foes. The enemy improved this
occasion to remove the guns from their position, but were not able to take them entirely off, and
were compelled to leave the caissons in their original position. At 8 o'clock the firing ceased and
the field of battle was ours. The position in which the battery was planted and which was so
hotly contested was held by our troops.
Lieutenant-Colonel Bartilson, of the Eightieth Ohio, together with his Adjutant, Joseph E.
Philpott, were wounded early in the fight, when Major Lanning took command. The Seventeenth
Iowa Regiment was without a field officer, and Captain Archer, the senior captain, soon fell,
severely wounded, when Captain Young assumed command and did his duty nobly.
Our troops labored under a great disadvantage, from want of knowledge of the ground, by
being compelled to fight in the dense underbrush and in a position chosen by the enemy. The
enemy attacked my position in vastly superior force, a fresh brigade of the rebels having been
sent to relieve the troops first repulsed.
Lieutenant Immell, of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery, is especially mentioned by Colonel
Perczel, and I desire to recommend him to the favorable notice of the general commanding. I am
also indebted to Capt. T. H. Harris, assistant adjutant-general; Lieutenant Jacobson, acting
assistant commissary of subsistence, and Lieutenants Delahoyde and Buchanan, of my staff, for
efficient service rendered on the field. They displayed a coolness under fire worthy of older
soldiers. Lieutenant White, of the Forty-eighth Indiana and the assistant adjutant-general of
Colonel Mower's brigade, who joined me, rendered valuable assistance.
The victory gained is sufficient evidence of the bravery of the men. The number of the dead
and wounded is sufficient evidence of their devotion to our glorious cause. They are justly
entitled to the highest praise, for a battle against such superior numbers and on such ground has
not been fought in this war.
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I inclose reports received from commanding officers of regiments, together with a list of the
killed, wounded, and missing of my brigade.
The regiments of my brigade engaged were: Tenth Iowa, Colonel Perczel; Seventeenth Iowa,
Captain Archer; Eightieth Ohio, Colonel Bartilson, and one section of the Twelfth Wisconsin
Battery, commanded by Lieutenant Immell.
I have the honor, captain, to be, yours, respectfully,
JER. C. SULLIVAN,
Brigadier-General.
Capt. R. M. SAWYER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS TWELFTH WISCONSIN BATTERY,
Jacinto, Miss.: September 20, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the part which the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery took in
the engagement of September 19, near Iuka, Miss.:
I was ordered by General Sullivan to take position, with one section of the battery, on the
road leading to the left and front of the line of battle, which was formed across the main road
leading to Iuka. I took position 500 or 600 yards to the front and left of the Eleventh Ohio
Battery, under the immediate direction of Lieut. Col. W. L. Lothrop, chief of artillery, and
Colonel Perczel, of the Tenth Iowa Volunteers, whose personal bearing won the applause of
myself and men. Several shells were thrown into the field and timber in front, to find the position
of the enemy, who soon advanced from our right through the thick timber. I then fell back a short
distance and took position while Colonel Perczel was engaging the rebel infantry, who now came
in great numbers. It was about this time the Eleventh Ohio Battery was taken and the enemy had
cut us off from the main body. At this time the enemy were driven back with great loss by the
Tenth Iowa and the two guns under my charge, which were served with great dexterity by the
cannoneers, most of the time using canister.
I call your attention to the great bravery of Colonel Perczel, his officers and men, the gallant
manner in which they fought, supported the artillery, and repulsed the enemy with great loss. My
non-commissioned officers and men stood well to their posts. Those most meritorious, I am
constrained to mention, are First Sergt. S. E. Jones and Sergt. Philander Cody, who nobly did
their duty.
At the time the enemy opened fire on us First Lieut. Edward G. Harlow, chief of the first
section, left his section, and I saw no more of him till after the engagement was over. When I
returned to where I had left the second section, in command of First Lieut. William Miles, I
found the guns with the poles broken out of both pieces and caissons, the drivers and horses all
gone, the gunners and cannoneers at their posts, but their commanding officer was gone, while
the battle was still raging in their immediate front. I caused the pieces and caissons to be drawn
off and repaired. The action lasted some time, but the battery was not under fire more than an
hour or all hour and a quarter.
the loss sustained in this engagement was 6 horses killed, 1 man killed (Private James J.
Atherton, Company D, Seventeenth Iowa Volunteers, who was on detached service in the
battery), and 3 men slightly wounded.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. D. IMMELL,
Second Lieutenant, First Missouri Light Artillery,
Commanding Twelfth Wisconsin Battery.
Capt. T. H. HARRIS,
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Assistant Adjutant-General.
CAMP IN the FIELD, September 21, 1862.
SIR: Agreeably to orders from General Sullivan, I advanced on September 19, at about 5
p.m., with my regiment and a section of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery under Lieutenant Immell.
After a short survey of our line of battle I took position with seven companies a cheval on the
Iuka road about a quarter of a mile ahead of our left wing. Sent three companies to the right into
a dense wood; then I put my two pieces into position and threw a few shells in an oblique
direction where I discovered the rebel lines. My three companies in the woods reported a full
brigade of the rebels advancing on our left wing, on which I withdrew them, and leaving only
one company for the observation of the enemy I changed front perpendicular to our line of battle
on the Iuka road. I planted my two pieces anew and thus obtained a dominating flanking
position. Being on a ridge I could watch the enemy's movements, who had to cross a broken
open field in order to attack our forces. They soon emerged from the woods, opened a heavy fire,
and advanced on our lines. Their fire was returned, and I too opened with musketry and canister.
The rebels wavered, fell back a little, but were soon rallied by an officer on a gray horse, and
advanced again, nothing daunted by our fire, which made great havoc in their ranks. They
followed our left wing into the woods and for a short while there was no enemy in our sight; but
suddenly a full regiment marched out from the woods on their side, offering their right flank to
my fire, with the evident intention to advance for the support of their forces already engaged. I
opened instantly with canister and musketry, on which they fell back to the woods, formed there
parallel to my regiment, advanced to the edge of the woods, and commenced a brisk fire. We
replied vividly. They attempted twice to advance, but were driven back each time. We had the
advantage of the ground. Our fire told fearfully upon them, while we suffered next to nothing.
Their fire, up a steep hill, had been altogether too high. In the mean time the battle, wavering to
and fro and apparently approaching the Iuka road, which was our only road of retreat, I got a
little alarmed lest the pieces under my charge should be cut off in case we should be compelled
to fall back. At this time one of General Hamilton's aides-de-camp rode up, inquiring how
matters stood on our side. He told me that the road, although raked by the enemy's fire, was still
in our possession, on which I ordered the pieces back, and they were withdrawn safely. Night
coming on, I drew a little closer to our main body; but on the report of Company I, which I left to
observe the enemy's movements, that a new body of rebels was advancing, I advanced again with
three companies. Advised by the noise of our steps, the enemy opened and gave us several
tremendous volleys. Owing to the darkness, and again to their uphill firing, not a man was hurt.
We returned their fire and made great execution, as we found on the morning of the 20th all the
ground strewn with dead rebels.
They left part of their wounded, having carried away a great number even during the action.
We may safely assert having killed between 60 and 70 and wounded in proportion, while our
loss was 7 wounded and one of my orderlies had his horse killed.
Thus ended our part in this memorable fight.
I have but to add that officers and men behaved with the greatest bravery. All movements
have been executed promptly in spite of the shower of bullets, and I dare to say that the Tenth
Iowa are good soldiers.
I have yet to mention the efficient services and assistance of our brave major, N. McCalla,
and of my adjutant, William Manning, and also the able and brave manner in which Lieutenant
Immell handled his two pieces.
Yours, respectfully,
N. PERCZEL,
10
Colonel, Comdg. Tenth Regiment Iowa Volunteers.
Capt. T. H. HARRIS,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Brigade, Third Division.
HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH IOWA INFANTRY,
Jacinto, Miss., September 22, 1862.
GENERAL In compliance with your request I make the following brief statement concerning
the battle near Iuka on the 19th instant: When you ordered the Seventeenth Iowa to form line of
battle across the ridge at right angles with the road leading up from the hospital building we were
filed off' to the right by Colonel Rankin, then commanding, until a little more than the right wing
of the regiment had filed to the right, when the regiment was halted and brought to a front and
the remainder of the left wing formed on the left of the road. We were then ordered forward. We
advanced a few paces and were ordered to give way to the right, which the right wing of the
regiment obeyed and which I think the left wing failed to hear. The right wing passed I should
think 30 or 40 yards to the right, and was ordered by Colonel Rankin to halt and come to a front.
By this movement of the right wing to the right the regiment was divided near the center. About
this time the firing from the enemy became quite brisk and there seemed to be a strong
inclination to fall back. I communicated this fact to Colonel Rankin, and he told me to do the
best I could for them and keep them together if possible. After this I saw no more of him during
the engagement. I learned afterward from him that his horse was shot under him and that he
plunged him against a tree, which rendered him unable to longer command the regiment.
Lieutenant-Colonel Hillis being absent, and Major Wise being under arrest, I was the next officer
in rank, and I took command of the right wing of the regiment, that being all that was in sight or
hearing of me. About the time I mention as having lost sight of Colonel Rankin our men
retreated without any command, which caused great confusion they had not proceeded far to the
rear, however, until I succeeded in rallying them, and got them back to about where our line was
first formed and succeeded in quieting them for a time. About this time I saw you and told you I
had assumed command, and was told to take command of the battalion and do the best I could. I
then went to near the right of the right wing and urged the men forward. We had proceeded but a
short distance when a tremendous volley from the enemy caused a panic in the battalion, and
with all my efforts, and assisted by Capt. D. A. Craig (who was the only captain I saw after
Colonel Rankin left the field), could not rally them until they had retreated almost to the road
near the old log church. I here succeeded in stopping them, got a line partly formed, and marched
them forward. By the time I had got them to our former line I had I should think about 300 men,
consisting of the right wing of our regiment and stragglers from the Fifth Iowa, Eleventh
Missouri, Fourth Minnesota, Thirty-ninth Ohio, and some others. I now held them near where
our first line was formed for about three-quarters of an hour, waiting orders, not having been told
by Colonel Rankin what the design was in placing us there or whether any of our own forces
were between us and the enemy, and when some of my men fired I ordered them to cease firing
until ordered. About this time a soldier from the Fifth Iowa, I think, came near us and told me
that my men were firing upon our own men. I then ordered my men forward with the intention of
taking a better position to support our men in case they should fall back. We had not proceeded
far when some of my men again commenced firing, which was apparently answered by a
tremendous volley from the direction of the enemy; but a soldier who was some distance in
advance came rushing back and said that our own men were firing upon us. I then ordered my
men to fall back in good order so as not to come in contact with them. I fell back I should think
about. 25 or 30 yards and to near where our original line had been, halted them, about-faced
them, and ordered them to kneel. They remained in this position for some time and until quite a
11
number of men in the front of us came back on the double-quick, which, together with increased
firing from the front, caused another panic among the men, and in spite of all exertions they ran
back about 100 yards, when I succeeded in forming another line, and having advanced a few
yards I ordered the men to stand and wait for orders. We had stood here but a short time when a
tremendous volley was fired by the enemy and was immediately answered by some regiment still
in our rear. We were now between two heavy fires from front and rear. This caused a dreadful
stampede among the men, and all commenced firing in all directions without regard to where
their guns were aimed. This however continued but a short time, for as soon as the guns were all
discharged I had no difficulty in preventing a repetition of the fire. I again rallied the men and
kept them in pretty good line until the retreat was sounded, when I brought the men off and
formed them on the right of the Thirty-ninth Ohio. I brought off I should think about 350 men
belonging to the regiments above named.
It may be said that the foregoing would not add much to the reputation of a regiment, but this
I cannot avoid. I give you a simple statement of the facts that came under my own observation,
hoping to be able to give a better account of the Seventeenth Iowa in the next engagement.
It is due to Captain Craig, Company H; Lieutenants Garrett and Johnson, of Company A;
Lieutenants Rice and Snodgrass, of Company I; Lieutenant Hull, Company E; Lieutenant Morris,
Company F; Lieutenant Stapleton, Company C, and one or two others probably who were with
me during the entire engagement, to say that they acted in a very brave and unflinching manner
and deserve great credit.
I do not wish either to be understood as casting any insinuations upon any officer in the
regiment, but I only mention those whom I saw in the engagement.
Respectfully submitted.
JOHN L. YOUNG,
Captain Company A, Commanding Regiment.
Brigadier-General SULLIVAN,
Comdg. Second Brig., Third Div., Army of the Miss.
HDQRS. EIGHTIETH REGIMENT OHIO VOLUNTEERS,
Camp near Jacinto, Miss., September 22, 1862.
I herewith send you the following report of the part taken in the late engagement near Iuka,
Miss., by my command:
My first position in the field was such that the left of my command rested near the old church
on the hill and the right rested a few rods across the Iuka road, where it turns down the hill, being
at the time exposed to a heavy fire of musketry and grape shot. It was near here that Adjutant
Philpott was shot through the left arm and compelled to leave the field. The Seventeenth Iowa
was at the same time on my right. While there I received orders to advance down the hill,
eastward, through the thick wood and brush. I executed the order by advancing my command
down the hill, across the ravine, and up the next hill, expecting to find a line of our own forces,
which General Hamilton informed me had taken position in front of the place where I was
ordered to take a position. I did not find the line referred to by General Hamilton, and advanced
to within 30 paces of the enemy's line, which I found concealed in the woods, covering my front
and right. The enemy raised and fired upon us, to which salute we heartily responded for about
ten minutes, at which time the enemy fell back to the edge of the field in my front.
During the firing just mentioned my horse was shot dead under me, and I received a severe
wound through the right thigh by a buck-shot. I found myself unable to command longer, and
ordered the company commanders to hold their position until relieved by some proper officer,
which they accordingly did.
12
I must here state that but eight companies crossed the ravine with me and formed in line.
Companies B and G, with Maj. R. Lanning, owing to the thick brush, became separated from the
left, and did not cross the ravine until after I had left the field. Soon after Major Lanning joined
the command with Companies B and G. He, acting under orders from General Rosecrans,
recrossed the ravine, taking position so that the right rested in the ravine, which position he held
about one hour, when he was ordered to take a position on the old road leading in the direction
of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery, which he accordingly did, and remained there until 2.30 a.m.,
20th instant, at which time the command was ordered from the field.
I am, respectfully,
M. H. BARTILSON,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Comdg. Eightieth Regiment Ohio Vols.
Capt. T. H. HARRIS,
A. A. G., Second Brig., Third Div., Army of the Miss.
HDQRS. CAVALRY DIV, ARMY OF the MISSISSIPPI,
Jacinto, Miss., September 23, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the movements and operations of the
cavalry under my command during the advance upon and engagement with the enemy at Iuka,
Miss., on the [9th instant:
the Second Iowa Cavalry, under the command of Colonel Hatch, moved out early on the
morning of the 19th instant on the Tuscumbia road, with instructions to proceed to Peyton's Mill
via Russellville road, and was charged with covering the movements and protecting the flanks of
the advancing columns. At Peyton's Mill he fell in with and had a sharp skirmish with 600 of the
enemy's cavalry, which he drove from their position, they losing 6 men killed, 10 wounded, and
6 prisoners. The Third Michigan Cavalry, under the command of Captain Willcox, with the
exception of four companies employed in escorting trains, formed the advance of Genera
Hamilton's division, which moved east on the Tuscumbia road. At a point about 9 miles east of
Jacinto the enemy's pickets were met and driven in rapidly. About 5 miles south of Iuka the
enemy's cavalry made a stand; but upon being charged by a portion of the advance guard, led by
Sergeant Cutting, Third Michigan Cavalry, they were forced back. Here an officer of General
Hamilton's staff was mortally wounded. Without further loss the cavalry succeeded in driving the
enemy to within 3 miles of Iuka. This point was reached at 4 p.m. Here the infantry skirmishers
were thrown in the advance. About this time the enemy's long roll was beat and they formed line
of battle. Soon the armies became engaged and a terrible conflict ensued. Four companies of the
Third Michigan Cavalry, under Captain Willcox, were sent to the right wing, on the right of
Constable's Ohio battery; two companies were sent to the northeast and the remaining two to the
northwest, to observe the movements of the enemy. A portion of the four companies on the right
wing were dismounted, and becoming engaged with the enemy, prevented a flank movement on
our right wing. At this point Captain Latimer and 2 men were slightly wounded. Two companies
of the Seventh Kansas Cavalry, under the command of Captain Swoyer, were ordered to form a
junction with the Second Iowa Cavalry at Peyton's Mill, which they did, and with this regiment
moved east to the main Fulton road, thence to Thompson's Corners, w here they found tents,
commissary stores, and two wagons be longing to the enemy, which they burned; then moved
west to Barnett's, a point 7 miles south of Iuka, where they arrived about dark. Eight companies
of the Seventh Illinois Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Prince commanding, were the advance of
General Ross' division of the left, wing, under General Ord, which moved on the Burnsville and
Iuka road. In consequence of this division not moving forward on the night of the 19th instant
they were not engaged with the enemy, except in some slight skirmishing.
13
Captain Dyckman, of the Third Michigan Cavalry, on the evening of the 18th instant, with
his company, made a reconnaissance in the direction of Iuka for the purpose of ascertaining the
practicability of a road direct from Jacinto to Iuka and to learn the whereabouts of the enemy. He
conducted the movement in a manner very satisfactory and worthy of high commendation. The
battle near Iuka was sanguine, the firing heavy and rapid, and the ground hotly contested. Night
coming on closed the scene of carnage. The morning disclosed the fact that during the darkness
of night the enemy had evacuated, and were retreating south on the Fulton road. Eight companies
of the Second Iowa Cavalry, under command of Colonel Hatch, and eight companies of the
Third Michigan, under Captain Willcox, were sent in pursuit of Price's retreating army, each
portion of the regiments striking for different points of the enemy's column, while our infantry
followed on the Fulton road. Four companies of the Second Iowa Cavalry, under command of
Captain Kendrick, and two companies of the Seventh Kansas Cavalry, under Captain Swoyer,
were directed to move on the Tuscumbia road, to check the enemy's movements at the
intersection of the Tuscumbia and Fulton roads, 6 miles south of Iuka. The enemy's movements
were greatly retarded and his flanks attacked and his troops harassed by frequent attacks and
skirmishes until our cavalry was forced to retire by the enemy's artillery, which was repeatedly
turned upon them. Seven miles south of Iuka the Second Iowa Cavalry came on the flank of a
heavy patrol of the enemy's cavalry, which they engaged and drove nearly 4 miles, when his
skirmishers, falling back rapidly, drew the Second Iowa upon a masked battery, heavily
supported by both infantry and cavalry. The artillery and infantry opened a very sharp fire, but
did not succeed in doing much damage. Soon the firing ceased and the enemy's cavalry charged,
but were repulsed. The Second Iowa then fell back fighting through the timber until out of the
range of the enemy's guns, and formed line to receive a second charge from his cavalry in force,
in which the enemy were repulsed with loss, the Second Iowa capturing 10 prisoners, from 300
to 400 stand of arms, and one wagon, and losing but 6 men, wounded. The Third Michigan
Cavalry and the two companies of the Seventh Kansas continued the pursuit 11 miles, becoming
several times engaged and causing the enemy repeatedly to form a line of battle. Our troops
being much fatigued from having marched 20 miles the day previous farther pursuit was
impossible. The Third Michigan Cavalry occupied a position for the night at Peyton's Mill,
watching closely the movements of the enemy and following his movements on the succeeding
day until ordered to return toward Jacinto. Taking into consideration the great exposure to which
the cavalry was subjected, that our losses were so slight is most remarkable and truly a subject of
congratulation. One officer and 8 men were wounded and 10 horses killed. During the advance,
engagement, and pursuit the officers and men of the cavalry division displayed great zeal,
enterprise, and gallantry, and are all entitled to great credit. The conduct of all was in a high
degree praiseworthy, and where all behaved so well it is difficult to particularize individual acts
of bravery without a seeming neglect of the claims of others.
Colonel Hatch, Major Coon, and Captain Kendrick, of Second Iowa Cavalry; Captains
Willcox, Latimer, Dyckman, Newell, and Reese, and Adjutant Buchanan and Sergeant Cutting,
of the Third Michigan Cavalry, and Captain Swoyer, of the Seventh Kansas Cavalry, having
command of companies and detachments, with the commands under them, performed their duty
with great energy. Lieutenants McGregor and Martin, of my personal staff, conveyed with
becoming spirit and ability my orders to the various parts of the field, displaying coolness and
efficiency. The usefulness and efficiency of the cavalry on this occasion cannot be too highly
estimated, covering as they did so many important movements, guarding the flanks of the army,
and rendering valuable service, which I feel assured will be fully appreciated, and will gain for
them such confidence and respect as will fully reward them for their efforts to discharge their
whole duty.
14
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. K. MIZNER,
Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Division.
Lieut. C. GODDARD,
A. A. A. G., Army of the Mississippi.
HDQRS. 4TH BRIG., 1ST DIV., ARMY OF the WEST,
Baldwyn, Miss., September 23, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor respectfully to report that about 3 p.m. on the 19th instant I received an
order to move rapidly from line of battle, which had been formed on the Burnsville road the
night previous, to the Jacinto road. In obedience to orders the brigade was rapidly moved. Upon
arriving near the scene of action Brigadier-General Hebert's brigade was formed across the road
and engaged with the skirmishers and artillery of the enemy. My brigade was immediately
formed in his rear. As soon as formed Brigadier-General Little ordered me to take command of
the two regiments of the left wing, to wit, the Thirty-sixth Mississippi and the Thirty-seventh
Alabama, and support General Hebert's left wing, who had become hotly engaged, stating that he
(General Little) would in person take command of the two regiments of the brigade that would
support the right of the brigade already in action. In obedience to orders I moved the two
regiments to the left of General Hebert's brigade, my left resting on the skirts of an old field, and
moved rapidly across a hollow. Upon arriving near the top of the hill, within 30 or 40 paces of
their line, the enemy with three regiments rose and poured a volley upon us. Though the fire was
terrific the fatality was not great, they overshooting us, owing to the cover of the hill. We
returned their fire, advancing slowly, the enemy stubbornly disputing every foot of the ground.
After a fight of three-quarters of an hour it began to grow dusky from the smoke and coming
twilight. By pressing and cheering the men on we had driven the enemy to the brink of the hill,
where they obstinately disputed every inch of the ground. Here, noticing that General Hebert's
brigade had ceased firing, I went down his line and requested Colonel Colbert to give one more
volley to the front, to demonstrate that we were there in force, when the Thirty-sixth Mississippi
and the Thirty-seventh Alabama, with fixed bayonets and a cheer, charged, capturing several
prisoners, from whom we learned that the regiments we fought were the Fifth Iowa, Third
Michigan, and First Missouri. The enemy now gave way and fled in confusion from the side of
the hill and the old field, when the fighting ceased a little after night.
I now received an order from Brigadier-General Hebert to get my two regiments, which had
been placed on the right of his brigade? and form my line to the left of his command and on
continuation of the line of battle which had just been fought, where we rested upon our arms
until near daylight, when we commenced the retreat.
I regret the necessity which demanded the separation of my brigade, as it placed two
regiments of my command entirely beyond my view and control.
I deem it but simple justice to notice the cool gallantry and daring of Colonel Dowdell,
commanding the Thirty-seventh Alabama, who was slightly wounded but did not leave the field.
He was most gallantly assisted by Lieutenant-Colonel Greene, who was in the thickest of the
fight and very severely wounded near its close, and by Major Slaton, who acted bravely and
nobly.
Colonel Witherspoon, of the Thirty-sixth Mississippi, managed his regiment with courage
and discretion. Lieutenant-Colonel Brown behaved gallantly and Major Yates heroically and
nobly.
15
the officers of the line vied with each other in pushing forward the line of battle, and the men
conducted themselves with the coolness and valor of veterans, though for the first time under
fire.
Lieutenant McDonald, of my staff, was cool, courageous, and efficient. His horse was shot
under him.
Lieutenant Worthington, C. S. Army, acted gallantly, cheering the men on regardless of
personal danger.
Lieutenant Ferrell's horse was shot early in the action. Lieutenant Davis acted with daring
and heroism.
The total engaged was about 1,600. the loss in killed [and wounded] was:
Killed. Wounded. Total.
36th Mississippi Regiment 1 21 22
37th Mississippi Regiment 5 27 32
38th Mississippi Regiment 4 4 8
37th Alabama Regiment 12 43 55
Total 22 95 117
For the character of the wounds, &c., reference is made to the report of the brigade surgeon.
For the special part borne by the Thirty-seventh and Thirty-eighth Mississippi Regiments
reference is made to the reports of the commanders of those regiments, herewith forwarded.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
Your obedient servant,
JNO. D. MARTIN,
Colonel, Commanding.
Captain HARDEMAN,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND IOWA CAVALRY,
Camp, near Barnett's, September 19, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to report (complying with Colonel Mizner's order to proceed to
Peyton's Mill, from there on the Russellville road to main Fulton road, and thence via
Thompson's house to Barnett's) that I moved with my regiment at 6 o'clock this morning from
Jacinto to Peyton's Mill. Two miles this side of Peyton's Mill began skirmishing with the pickets.
Drove them into the mill and engaged a regiment of dismounted cavalry. After a sharp firing of
twenty minutes routed the enemy. The enemy, falling back into a swamp, escaped with nearly all
their wounded, leaving 3 dead and 2 mortally wounded. Captured 6 prisoners, then moved
forward to main Fulton road, and from there to Thompson's Corners. Near there found tents and
commissary stores, which we burned, with 2 wagons of the enemy, then moved west to Barnett's
to camp.
Very respectfully, yours,
EDWARD HATCH,
Colonel Second Iowa Cavalry.
W. A. MARTIN,
Lieut. and A. A. A. G., Cavalry Division.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND IOWA CAVALRY,
Camp, near Jacinto, Miss., September 22, 1862.
16
SIR: I have the honor to report, complying with order of Colonel Mizner to pursue the enemy
retreating southward on the morning of the 20th and if possible to fall upon his trains, that I
moved forward with my regiment from Iuka at 9 o'clock in the morning. The enemy's trains and
flankers were so heavily guarded that I could find no practicable point to attack them. Fell on the
enemy's guard about 7 miles south of Iuka, on the main Fulton road; attacked and drove their
rear 4 miles, when, the enemy's skirmishers falling back rapidly, my men were drawn upon a
masked battery, with a support of two regiments of infantry and a strong reserve of cavalry. My
men, being dismounted, dropped flat upon the ground, the guns and volleys of the enemy's
infantry playing over them, not hurting a man. The enemy's cavalry charged the moment the
firing ceased. The charge was repulsed, our men falling back fighting in the timber to my reserve
of mounted men. Learning the enemy had run two of his guns up, fell back, the enemy keeping
up a fire of grape and canister down the road until out of range I then formed four companies of
my mounted rifles (to receive cavalry charge) in rear of fence to open fields, when the enemy
charged in force over the fields and was repulsed with loss, when the enemy again ran up his
guns, forcing us back to another position, where we again prepared to receive a cavalry charge.
Our infantry coming up rapidly, the enemy retreated. We captured 10 prisoners, 300 to 400 stand
of arms, and a wagon. When we were repulsed we destroyed them.
Our loss is very slight; 6 wounded and 3 horses killed. Captain Egbert had his horse killed
under him.
Very respectfully,
EDWARD HATCH,
Colonel Second Iowa Cavalry.
W. A. MARTIN,
Lieut. and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Cavalry Division.
FORT HENRY, October 5, 1862.
SIR: A scouting party from my command, under Major Brackett, Fifth Iowa Cavalry, when
beyond La Fayette, during the night of the 3d instant, were fired upon by rebels and 1 man killed;
the fire was returned, and 1 rebel lieutenant named Maddern killed. The rebels fled in confusion,
but could not be followed owing to dense fog.
W. W. LOWE,
Colonel, Commanding.
Major-General GRANT.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 145.
HDQRS. ARMY OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
THIRD DIV., DIST. OF WEST TENNESSEE,
Corinth, Miss., October 23, 1862.
The general commanding cannot forbear to give pleasure to many, besides the brave men
immediately concerned, by announcing in advance of the regular orders that the Seventeenth
Iowa Infantry, by its gallantry in the battle of Corinth on the 4th of October, charging the enemy
and capturing the flag of the Fortieth Mississippi, has amply atoned for its misfortune at Iuka,
and stands among the honored regiments of his command. Long may they wear with unceasing
brightness the honors they have won.
By order of Maj. Gen. W. S. Rosecrans:
C. GODDARD,
First Lieut., Twelfth Infty., Ohio Volunteers, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
17
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Corinth, Miss., October 24, 1862.
GENERAL: In anticipation of an engagement with the enemy on October 3, upon
information derived from the Engineer Department I selected the large building recently
constructed for a commissary depot as the place best protected by the nature of the ground and
the safest for hospital purposes. The men furnished by the quartermaster worked expeditiously,
and everything was prepared (medicines, instruments, cots, and buckets of water ready) some
time before the first wounded man was brought in. It became evident in a short time that the
building, although a very large one, would be altogether too small for their accommodation.
According to your order, issued upon my recommendation, I then took possession of the
Tishomingo Hotel, and, when it was full, of the Corinth House, as hospitals, preparations having
been made in the morning for that purpose. All the surgeons worked faithfully and diligently,
and by 6 o'clock the wounded were all comfortably disposed of and their wounds dressed.
At 3 o'clock next morning I received your order to remove all the wounded to Camp Corral.
By 6 a.m. they were all collected into the new hospital. The ambulances then went to the scene
of action to bring off those recently fallen.
I am particularly indebted to Surg. J. L. Crane, medical director of Stanley's division, who
superintended the arranging and pitching of the tents, and to Surg. H. Wardner, medical director
of Davies' division, who received and disposed of the wounded as they arrived on both days. I
found upon the railroad platform a large number of tents, which I took possession of and used.
The battle ceased just before noon, and by night all the wounded were under shelter, their
wounds dressed, and provided with cots.
I have to compliment all the surgeons for their kindness, energy, and indefatigable
endurance. Surg. E. Winchester, Fifty-second Illinois Regiment, in charge of the Corinth House;
Surg. P. A. Carpenter, Fifth Iowa Regiment, in charge of the Tishomingo Hotel, and Acting
Assistant Surgeon Swaying, at the commissary building, remained until the last man and all the
property had been loaded and sent to the newly selected hospital.
The wounded, being thoroughly arranged and cared for, were turned over on Sunday
morning, October 5, to the supervision of Surg. N. Gay, in charge of the general hospital. An
ample supply of medical officers was left to take charge of them, and the surgeons of divisions
and regiments, with one assistant to each regiment, reported back to their commands and joined
in the pursuit of the enemy, which occupied from eight to ten days.
I have to state that there was neglect on the part of the rebel surgeons for their wounded. The
surgeon placed by Van Dorn in charge of over i00 wounded left at Ripley neglected to make out
a requisition, although repeatedly urged to do so, with the assurance from myself that all the
needed supplies should be delivered to him within forty-eight hours. Everything that has been
called for from their large hospital at Iuka and the other hospitals within our lines has been
furnished them on your order, except blankets, of which our supply ran short. The balance will
be sent as soon as possible.
It is due to Private H. Douglass, Company A, Thirty-sixth Illinois who acted as my orderly
both in this battle and that at Iuka, to say that no man was exposed to more danger or could
exhibit more bravery than he did in the performance of his duties.
18
Herewith annexed is a statement of the number' of killed, wounded, missing, and prisoners:
Officers. Non-commissioned officers. Privates.
Killed 32 60 223
Wounded 86 276 1,450
Missing 3 12 200
Prisoners .... .... 17
Total 121 348 1,890
Grand total .2,359
The loss of the enemy, calculated from the best sources of information within my reach, was
1,423 buried, 3,000 prisoners, including their wounded left in our hands, and 5,000 wounded
taken away and dropped by the road-side; making 9,423 in all.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. B. CAMPBELL,
Medical Director, Army of the Mississippi.
Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS,
Commanding Army of the Mississippi.
HDQRS. EIGHTH REGT. WISCONSIN VOLUNTEERS,
Camp at Corinth, Miss., October 13, 1862.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Eighth Wisconsin Infantry in the
action at Corinth, October 3 and 4:
The lieutenant-colonel and I, having been on duty at Corinth, were relieved and joined our
regiment at 1 p.m. the 3d instant about 2 miles from Corinth, immediately after which the
regiment, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Robbins, was ordered to march around to the
right, following our old line of breastworks, in the direction of the Chewalla road, our position in
the brigade being the third battalion from the right. Shortly after crossing the road we were
halted and formed a line of battle upon a ridge. About the same time the right of the brigade
became engaged with the enemy. In front of the right wing of my regiment, in the hollow, was an
Iowa regiment engaged with the enemy. My position upon the ridge being exposed to the longrange
guns of the enemy and my left wing becoming engaged and the right wing not engaged, on
account of the Iowa regiment being in front, and the lieutenant-colonel being wounded, at this
juncture I ordered the regiment forward across the hollow, partially mussing the right wing with
the left wing of the Iowa regiment. The regiment now became generally engaged. The enemy
commenced getting around my left flank, and in fact had, and were enfilading us. A change from
front to rear on my first company at this time was necessary; but the Forty-seventh Illinois
Volunteers had closed into my rear so near and the thick wood and ground was such that it would
have been almost impossible to have executed the movement to any advantage. I then ordered
my regiment to march to the ridge originally occupied by us. I had proceeded but a short distance
when a ball shattered my revolver, which I held in my hand, and at the same instant I was
wounded in the shoulder-blade with a missile, rendering me senseless, and was taken from the
field. The senior officer, Captain Britton, informs me that he retired with the regiment in good
order, with the balance of the line, to our fortifications, at which place I rejoined the regiment in
the evening.
The next day (4th) our position was upon the extreme left of General Stanley's division
between Forts ----- and ----. At 11 a.m. I was ordered to send two companies to our front, in our
abatis, as skirmishers Shortly after this the remaining companies of my regiment and the
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Twenty-sixth Illinois were led by General Stanley away to the right to support General Davies.
Subsequently General Rosecrans ordered me to double my column upon the center, in which
position I remained during the night.
I can truthfully state, colonel, that the officers and men, particularly Captain Dawes, who was
wounded in the first day's action, behaved as soldiers should.
With much respect, colonel, your obedient servant,
J. W. JEFFERSON,
Major, Commanding.
Colonel] HUBBARD,
Comdg. Second Brig., Second Div., Army of the Miss.
CAMP SECOND IOWA BATTERY,
October 9, 1862.
COLONEL: In obedience to your orders of this date I submit the following report of the part
taken by the battery under my command in the action of October 3 and 4, as follows:
The battery attached to the Second Brigade, Second Division, Army of the Mississippi, left
camp on the Tuscumbia River on the morning of the 3d, and after remaining some time in line to
the southwest of the town was placed in position on the western part of the fortifications.
Lieutenant Walling rejoined the battery during the forenoon from detached service. A little after
noon the battery was ordered forward by Colonel Mower, and followed the Eighth Wisconsin
Infantry until we passed the road leading to Corinth from the west. At this road the battery was
ordered by General Davies to take a position to the front, and at the same time was directed by
Colonel Mower to follow the brigade. Some delay was occasioned, during which the Second
Brigade had gone into the woods en the right, and the enemy were advancing rapidly. The
infantry about our front were falling back in some confusion. I then placed the battery in position
on the road about 300 yards from the white house en echelon, right in front. As soon as our
infantry had fallen back and the enemy's line appeared on the ridge on which the white house
stands I commenced firing with shell and spherical case shot. In a short time I observed the
enemy moving across an open field on our left, and they attempted to charge, but were repulsed
with canister. Immediately after a heavy column moved down the road past the white house,
directly toward the battery, from the front. This column advanced to within 60 yards of the
battery, exposed to a most destructive fire of canister before it broke and retired in confusion.
After the repulse of this column, the battery being entirely alone, I retired to the rear of the fort
commanded by Lieutenant Robinett. First Infantry. At sunset I received orders from Col. J. V Du
Bois to move into town and await further orders.
On the morning of the 4th, when the action commenced, I received orders to hold my battery
in readiness to move instantly in any direction. When the attack on our right wing was in
progress I was directed to place the battery in position on the ridge to the rear of the town, where
I remained until the enemy were driven back, when I was placed in position on the right of the
Tenth Ohio Battery on the Purdy road, where I remained until I rejoined my brigade on the
morning of the 5th.
I must speak in the highest terms of the bravery and coolness of the officers and men under
my command. Lieutenants Walling and Reed commanded sections and acquitted themselves as
usual--nobly. Lieutenant Reed's horse was shot in the action and he injured by the fall; but he
remained upon the field and has been with the battery since.
First Sergeant Raynolds is deserving of special mention for his efficiency in commanding the
line of caissons. Also Sergts. [John W.] Coons, [Thomas] Tallis, [Jay W.] Kellogg, and Corpl.
20
[Harry D.] Shelly, in charge of pieces' and Corpls. [Albert G.] Atkinson, John Burke, [Oliver P.]
Davis, [Morris] Sober, and [Charles] Norton.
During the action of the 3d I fired all the canister in my ammunition-chests. Four horses were
disabled in the action.
I append a list of casualties. The battery was fortunate in choice of position, and the list is
therefore slight.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. T. SPOOR,
Captain, Commanding Second Iowa Battery.
Colonel HUBBARD.
HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, ARMY OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Corinth, Miss., October 18, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor herewith to submit a report of the operations of my division during the
battles before Corinth on the 3d and 4th instant:
At daylight on the morning of the 3d the division took position on the north of the town,
covering the approaches by the Purdy and Pittsburg roads and the ground between them.
Subsequently I was ordered to the intersection of the Purdy road with the line of rebel
intrenchments 2 miles north of the town. The command was in this last position by 10 a.m., and
communication opened with the right of Davies' division, then resting on the Mobile and Ohio
Railway. The enemy approaching in force between the Memphis and Charleston and Mobile and
Ohio Railways forced Davies by successive attacks back to the vicinity of the town. My front
was gradually changed to meet the advance of the enemy, and so steady and rapid was his
progress that in order to present my front to him my position at 5 p.m. was nearly the reverse of
that when communication was opened with Davies. The division had swung around on the center
as a pivot. Owing to his advance, and in order to carry out the instructions of the general
commanding, I prepared to attack his left flank while he was engaged in front. Brigadier-General
Sullivan with the Second Brigade was directed to move down on the enemy with his left
covering the Purdy road, and having gained a favorable position to attack as soon as General
Buford with the First Brigade should get into position on Sullivan's right to support him in the
attack and to cover his right flank. The ground was too uneven and the forest too dense to use
artillery, and but one battery (Dillon's) was sent forward. This battery took position on Sullivan's
left, on the Purdy road. The other batteries were held in reserve and put in position to cover any
movement on Buford's right flank and rear.
The movement by Sullivan was executed promptly as directed; but Buford, diverging a half
mile to the right beyond any point where he could support Sullivan, became engaged with a force
of the enemy's skirmishers and drove them back, but not until so much time was lost that before
Buford could be brought back into position night had fallen and the attack was defeated. Sullivan
advanced his line to the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, and his skirmishers became warmly engaged
with the enemy's left flank. Unsupported by Buford, I deemed it unwise for Sullivan, with his
small brigade, to attack alone. The movement, however, immediately checked the enemy's
advance on the town and caused him to change front to meet my force. This check I regard as a
most happy result of the movement. Had the enemy pushed his advantage over Davies until night
the result must have been disastrous to our arms. He would have occupied the town, isolating my
division from the rest of the army, and to have reunited we should in turn have been compelled
to assault the town. As it was, the check enabled us, under the cover of the night, to take up new
lines near the town and put the divisions within supporting distance of each other. Sullivan's
contact with the rebel left flank resulted in the capture of about 100 prisoners. Four batteries of
21
the enemy were turned on him for half an hour, with the loss, however, to him of very few men,
so well was he protected by the uneven ground.
The division was withdrawn from its advanced position soon after night-fall, and at 3 o'clock
in the morning was posted nearly in the position occupied the previous morning. The infantry
was drawn up in two lines, facing the north. The batteries were posted at advantageous points, so
as to sweep all approaches from the northwest to the east. The extreme right of the line was
refused, so as to command the approach by the Pittsburg road. Dillon's battery (the Sixth
Wisconsin) was thrown to the front on the ridge to the right of Davies' division, and supported by
the Eightieth Ohio, under Major Lanning, and the Tenth Missouri, under Major Horney. In this
position the dawn of the morning was anxiously awaited.
The commanding general, in assigning the position to my command, had said it was the post
of honor. He was answered that it would be held against any force that might be sent against it.
How well this pledge was redeemed the history of the battle must show.
The enemy opened at early dawn by artillery, with a view of feeling the position of our
batteries. His fire was promptly returned by the batteries in the advance. From sunrise to 9 a.m.
there was little firing; but by 10 a.m., the enemy having completed all his arrangements under
cover of the woods, his columns moved to the assault. The lines of the two armies converged
toward the center, and while one column of attack moved directly across the open ground against
Davies two columns, equally strong, crossed the Purdy road a full half mile north of Davies, and
one deploying as it came upon the crest of the ridge, the other moved over the ridge far to the
eastward, and changing direction to the right deployed under cover of a cloud of skirmishers and
came directly down on my front from the north. While this was being done the column moving
against Davies had progressed steadily up the slope and into the town, sweeping away his troops
and carrying his batteries on the ridge with the bayonet--had swept over the ridge with resistless
force into the valley below. Dillon's battery of my division, on Davies' right, was carried in this
assault; but here the advance of the rebels was checked by the firm stand of the Tenth Missouri
Regiment under Major Horney. Along the ridge and to the eastward on my right, as soon as the
enemy came in sight, my reserve batteries (Twelfth Wisconsin, Eleventh Ohio, and Battery M,
First Missouri) opened with guns double-shotted with canister and sweeping over the whole front
with their storm of iron. The rapid play of these batteries seemed to check the advance of the
enemy, and I directed an immediate advance of my whole line of infantry. It was executed at the
opportune moment. The regiments opened fire, and, advancing with cheers and volleys, their
banners streaming to the winds, they moved to the onset. It was too much for even rebel courage.
Checked by the storm of canister, they could not stand up against the charge of the veterans who
had met and conquered them at Iuka. Halting, wavering, they turned and fell back, pursued by
the whole line. Their left was routed, and, followed up by the regiments on the left of my line
under Sullivan and Holmes, they were driven from the valley over the ridge, followed by a line
of bayonets and a deadly fire. The batteries were all recaptured, and, quick as the hands of brave
men could man them, they again poured into the retreating, routed host the death-dealing
canister. The tide of assault was thus first stemmed and turned on my extreme right by the
splendid charge of Buford's brigade, spread along my left over the ground from which Davies
had been driven through the town, along Stanley's front and to the enemy's extreme right. The
repulse was complete. The day was saved. The victory, which hung in the balance, was ours.
The pleasing duty now devolves upon me of bringing to the notice of the general
commanding the names of the most conspicuous in this successful action.
Brig. Gen. N. B. Buford handled his brigade on the second day with a skill and bravery
worthy of his high reputation.
22
Brig. Gen. J. C. Sullivan was seriously confused by a splinter during his operations the first
day on the enemy's flank. The command of his brigade devolved upon Col. S. A. Holmes, of the
Tenth Missouri Infantry, who managed it with a discretion and gallantry unsurpassed during the
action of the second day. He deserves high praise for his conduct throughout the battle. When the
action became general along my line on the second day General Sullivan sprang from his sick
bed and bravely led the Fifty-sixth Illinois and Seventeenth Iowa Regiments, which took the lead
in the charge against the rebels on my left, recapturing the earthwork battery and guns of the
First Missouri Battery, Davies' division.
The Tenth Missouri Regiment, supporting the Sixth Wisconsin Battery, under the brave
Horney, nobly stood its ground against the panic-stricken regiments that gave way in its front,
and, as soon as its front was uncovered by the retiring soldiers and the caissons and limbers of
the battery, it opened a vigorous fire on the advancing rebels, and then, joining in the advance of
the division, charged the battery with the bayonet, recovering every piece and turning them
rapidly on the enemy.
The commanders of regiments-Col. J. B. Sanborn, Fourth Minnesota; Col. C. L. Matthies,
Fifth Iowa; Col. J. 1. Alexander, Fifty-ninth Indiana; Lieut. (Col. J. H. Holman, Twenty-sixth
Missouri (severely wounded); Lieut. (Col. D. W. C. Rugg, Forty-eighth Indiana (severely
wounded), of the First Brigade; Lieut. Col. G. B. Raum, Fifty-sixth Illinois; Maj. L. Homey,
Tenth Missouri; Maj. R. Lanning, Eightieth Ohio (killed); Major Banbury (of the Fifth),
commanding Seventeenth Iowa, and Major McCalla, Tenth Iowa, in the face of the enemy and
under a heavy fire, were all that officers should be, leading and inspiring their men by their
dauntless bearing.
To Maj. A.M. Powell, chief of artillery, the country is greatly indebted for conspicuous
bravery and the masterly manner in which his batteries were brought to the front and handled,
while of' his brave subordinates, in immediate command of the batteries, Captain Dillon, Sixth
Wisconsin; Lieutenant Nell, Eleventh Ohio; Lieutenant Immell, Twelfth Wisconsin, and
Lieutenant McMurray, of Battery M, First Missouri, I cannot say too much. From the first
appearance of the enemy within range their batteries were handled with a vigor and daring
unsurpassed, and contributed largely to the success of the day.
On the fall of Lieutenant-Colonel Rugg, of the Forty-eighth Indiana, the regiment was
thrown into some disorder, but was promptly rallied, and fought through the engagement under
the command of Lieut. J. W. Archer, aide-de-camp of Brigadier-General Buford.
The Eightieth Ohio, in advance and supporting Dillon's battery on the death of its brave
commander, Major Lanning, early in the action, fell back in confusion, but was stopped by the
second line, and under its senior Captain (Skeels) was held in position to the close of the battle.
To my personal staff, Capt. R. M. Sawyer, assistant adjutant-general; Capt. J. W. Mott,
commissary of subsistence; Lieuts. E. T. Pearce and W. F. Wheeler, aide-de-camp, I am again
under great obligations. All that was required of them they performed with the highest bravery
and promptness. They rallied great numbers of fugitives of Davies' division and led them back to
the field.
Surg. J. H. Murphy, acting medical director, was prompt and un-wearying in his care of the
wounded. No one could have done more or have done it better.
Reports of all subordinate commanders are herewith transmitted, to which I beg earnest
attention, as showing in detail the operations of each command during both days, and in naming
those subordinates, both officers and men, whose bravery was conspicuous, but whose names
cannot be condensed in this report.
A list of casualties in full accompanies this, together with a supplementary report of minor
operations during the battle, as also of the pursuit.
23
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. S. HAMILTON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Third Division.
Lieut. Col. H. G. KENNETT,
Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, ARMY OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Corinth, Miss., October 19, 1862.
COLONEL: The length of my official report of the battle of Corinth precluded the possibility
of detailing many minor operations of the battle, as well as of the pursuit, while justice to
individuals and commands, as well as a thorough understanding of the operations of the division,
renders this supplementary report important and necessary.
In the afternoon of the 3d Buford's brigade, which had been ordered to support Sullivan, by
diverging too far to the right got out of sup porting distance, and the right of his line came upon a
body of the enemy concealed in the woods. General Buford deemed it necessary to dislodge this
force, and ordered a charge by the Fourth Minnesota Regiment, under Col. J. B. Sanborn. The
charge was most gallantly executed and the enemy routed from his position, but not until the
gallant Captain Mooers and one private of the Fourth Minnesota were killed, and Captain Clubb,
assistant quartermaster, and several privates wounded. During the movement of Buford's I twice
dispatched aides to him, with instructions to keep to the left and support Sullivan, but without
effect, and it was only when I sent a peremptory order to him to fall back to the position assigned
him that any change was made in the direction his brigade was moving.
Before this movement of Buford's was made a body of the enemy's cavalry was seen in
position to the west of us, and a company of the Seventeenth Iowa, under Lieutenant Garrett, was
deployed as skirmishers and pushed down to the enemy, soon routing them by an effective fire.
When the division moved out on the Purdy road on the 3d the Fifth Iowa Regiment, Colonel
Matthies, was detached from the First Brigade and ordered into position at the crossing of the
Pittsburg road with the rebel intrenchments east of the town, and held that position until 4 a.m.
on the 4th, when it was recalled to the brigade, and the Pittsburg road covered by an inner
position and a battery of artillery.
When the attack developed itself on the morning of the 4th the deployment of the rebel line
in the woods north of my position reached so far to the eastward as to cover my whole front, and
it was not until this line was driven back over the ridge that the fire of the regiments of my First
Brigade reached the flank of the enemy, then retreating from the town.
When the earthwork battery, occupied by the First Missouri Artillery, on the ridge was
captured by the enemy, Maj. A. M. Powell turned two of his guns on the battery, and by a skillful
fire of spherical-case shot soon cleared the battery of rebels, though the remaining horses of the
battery were killed by his fire.
Immell's battery (Twelfth Wisconsin) fired during this action 507 rounds of ammunition.
When the charge was ordered against the enemy the Seventeenth Iowa captured, with many
prisoners, the colors of the Fortieth Mississippi Regiment. I beg particularly to call the attention
of the general commanding to the gallant conduct of this regiment, which nobly redeemed itself
from the cloud cast upon it by conduct at Iuka.
As soon as the rapid firing and advance of my line on the 4th showed the rout of the rebels in
my front I turned my attention for a short time to rallying the men of Davies' division, who were
running through and over my Second Brigade. With a part of my staff and the whole of my
cavalry escort I succeeded in stopping at least 1,000 just in rear of my lines, and by
24
encouragement and cheers they were moved rapidly back to the ground from which they had
been driven, and I doubt not did good service in assisting to complete the rout of the enemy.
As soon as the enemy had retreated out of sight and beyond the range of fire, in order to be
prepared for another attack, as well as to keep the men from scattering over the battle-field and to
replenish the ammunition, I ordered the whole division back to the position it had occupied when
the attack opened. This closed the operations on the battle-field.
On the morning of the 5th the division started at 7 o'clock without other instructions to me
than to follow McKean's division. By a misunderstanding of the roads the four divisions within a
few miles all came together upon the same road. Much confusion and delay occurred from want
of a commander. I deemed myself restrained by my instructions from assuming the command so
long as the march was without resistance. Had we encountered the enemy I should not have
hesitated to exercise my right of seniority in the absence of the general commanding. The first
day's march was to within 4 miles of the Tuscumbia River, the men suffering much from
deficiency of water. Distance marched about 14 miles.
On the 6th the division marched to within 3 miles of the Hatchie, and there, under orders
from the general commanding, diverged to the Kossuth road and bivouacked at Gum Spring.
Distance marched about 15 miles. Here orders were received to proceed to Kossuth, and from
thence to seize the Hatchie Crossing. Under instructions to post a regiment at Kossuth to protect
supply trains, the Fifty-sixth Illinois, Colonel Raum, was pushed forward from Gum Spring on
the night of the 6th and occupied the town. The division marched at dawn of day. When 3 miles
beyond Kossuth a brisk cannonade, accompanied with musketry firing, was heard in the
direction of Rienzi. Learning that Rienzi had been occupied on the 5th by two regiments of rebel
troops, and knowing that the supplies for the army were to be sent there by rail, and also that the
Hatchie Crossing was in possession of Colonel Hatch with a considerable force of cavalry, I
deemed it my duty to proceed to Rienzi, and to clear that point, in our line of supplies, from any
rebel force. Rienzi was reached after night-fall, the division having marched 23 miles, over dusty
roads, and with but a single well of water on the whole route. The day was exceedingly hot and
the suffering of the men extreme. At least 600 of the command gave out by the wayside during
the last 8 miles of the march. They, however, regained the column during the night and the
following morning. No supplies had reached the place; but at 5 a.m. a train of cars arrived, and
two regiments were forthwith supplied with rations, and moved at an early hour, under Colonel
Matthies, to the Hatchie River. The whole command, together with two regiments, arrived from
Corinth, followed during the day. The 9th was spent at the Hatchie, and the bridges across it,
which had been destroyed by the rebels, were rebuilt.
During the 10th the division returned, under orders, to Rienzi, and during the night rebuilt the
bridge over the Tuscumbia near Danville; and on the 11th reached its old camp near Bridge
Creek, 2 miles from Corinth.
I may here remark that this division, from the morning of the 5th to include the 11th,
marched about 100 miles, over roads almost destitute of water, through intense heat, and did
much severe labor in rebuilding bridges and repairing roads.
I cannot refrain from bringing to the notice of the general commanding the unfailing alacrity
and cheerfulness with which both officers and men bore the labors and privations of this severe
march, and this, with its unflinching courage in battle, leads me to express the encomium that it
is a division which may be relied upon in any and every emergency.
Respectfully submitted.
C. S. HAMILTON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Third Division.
Lieut. Col. H. G. KENNETT,
25
Chief of Staff.
[OCTOBER 3, 1862.]
General HAMILTON:
Your dispatch received. I had no intention to have you occupy the whole front of the rebel
intrenchments, but to straddle the Purdy road, covering it effectually, resting your right flank
upon the works wherever it may happen to come and placing your left within supporting distance
of Davies. Should an attack develop itself on the northeasterly front the Fifth Iowa can get
support from the garrison of the town and that long line from General Davies or General Stanley.
It will be merely necessary to picket that front against a surprise. I would be glad to come out
and examine that ground, but do not think you need it.
By order Major-General Rosecrans:
C. GODDARD,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD DIV., ARMY OF THE MISS.,
Corinth, Miss., October 13, 1862.
SIR: On the 3d instant this brigade broke up its camp at dawn, and before 7 o'clock took up
the position assigned it on the extreme right, on the north side of the city. By order of General
Rosecrans one regiment (I selected the Fifth Iowa, Colone1 Matthies) was sent to hold the pass
of the Pittsburg Landing road where it crosses the fortifications, which it did faithfully until
relieved at 4 a.m. the next day.
About 10 a.m. the column, consisting of the Fourth Minnesota, Colonel Sanborn; Fifty-ninth
Indiana, Colonel Alexander; Forty-eighth Indiana, Lieutenant-Colonel Rugg; Twenty-sixth
Missouri, Lieutenant-Colonel Holman; Eleventh Ohio Battery, Lieutenant Neil, and Battery M,
First Missouri Light Artillery, Captain Powell, moved, by your order, into the Purdy road, and
followed to the extreme outer fortifications made by the rebels, where it was engaged all the day
in watching the enemy, and particularly his left flank. A cavalry force was seen during the day
west of my position and was engaged by skirmishers of' the Second Brigade. At 5 p.m. I obeyed
your order to deploy three regiments at right angles to the Purdy road, but facing south, and cooper-
ate with the Second Brigade in finding the enemy, who was supposed to have crossed the
railroad and got between us and Corinth. I deployed the Fourth Minnesota on the extreme right,
next the Fifty-ninth Indiana, and last the Forty-eighth Indiana, into an open field, but it was
closed on the south and west with down brush-wood and timber: The deployment was made with
Company K, Fourth Minnesota, as skirmishers, which was immediately hotly engaged by a much
larger concealed force. In my opinion it became absolutely necessary to dislodge him. It was
done by Colonel Sanborn, commanding the Fourth Minnesota, most gallantly, at the doublequick,
but not without the loss of the life of Captain Mooers, one of the choice officers of the
service, and 1 private; and of Captain Clubb, assistant quartermaster, who was a volunteer aidede-
camp, and 4 privates of the Fourth Minnesota, wounded. Night approaching the troops
returned and took up the position first occupied in the morning.
At 2 a.m. of the 4th the Fifth Iowa was called in, and the brigade altered its position. At dawn
the cannonading announced the beginning of another sharp contest. It was grand. The different
calibers, metals, shapes, and distances of the guns caused the sounds to resemble the chimes of
old Rome when all her bells rang out. In one hour it was interspersed with one continuous roar of
musketry. It was soon ascertained that the enemy were gaining upon us. The First Brigade was
given to understand that they had no reserve; that not one foot of ground must be yielded. The
Missouri battery had been detached from the brigade. The Fifty-ninth Indiana was assigned a
26
special duty in supporting the ------- Battery [M, First Missouri Light Artillery], which it
faithfully performed. At about 9 o'clock the line of battle was formed, the Twenty-sixth Missouri
on the right, next the Fourth Minnesota, next the Eleventh Ohio Battery, next the Fifth Iowa, and
next the Forty-eighth Indiana. The battle raged with great fury. In front of us we saw regiment
after regiment give way. Our whole front moved forward with the accuracy, precision, and
steadiness of a review. Every man exhibited the resolve that not one foot of ground should be
lost. The Forty eighth Indiana was the first actively engaged, when the gallant Lieutenant-
Colonel Rugg was first partially disabled by a severe wound in the foot, and soon after totally by
his horse being killed. My aide-de-camp, Lieut. J. W. Archer, of the Fifty-ninth Indiana, was at
the moment invited by the senior captain, which was unanimously confirmed by the officers, to
assume the command. He did not hesitate, and the regiment preserved its steadiness and moved
forward to victory. The Eleventh Ohio Battery took up a commanding position and opened an
effective fire. The enemy were soon within range of the rifles of the Fourth Minnesota, the Fifth
Iowa, and the Forty-eighth Indiana. Two of the regiments that had been thrown into disorder in
advance of us rallied under our protection, and were soon proudly advancing.
At about 11.30 the enemy, with a desperation seldom paralleled, broke into the city. He was
met with a valor as steady as his desperation. His slaughter was immense. No success followed
the spasmodic efforts. They recoiled and the repulse was complete. The First Brigade was thus
saved from a hand-to-hand fight, but their readiness was eager.
The gallant bearing of Colonels Sanborn, Matthies, and Alexander, Lieutenant-Colonels
Rugg and Holman, and Lieutenant Neil, commanding the battery, fills me with admiration.
My staff officers, Capt. J.P. Foley, assistant adjutant-general; Lieuts. J. W. Archer and L. B.
Martin; of the Fourth Minnesota, aides-de-camp, conducted themselves so as to deserve
particular mention both days for conduct and courage.
All the officers and men did their entire duty, and for the victory I call on all the brigade to
unite with me in attributing it to Almighty God, who ruleth in the heavens and the earth.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. B. BUFORD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Capt. R. M. SAWYER,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Division, Army of the Miss.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH IOWA INFANTRY,
Camp near Corinth, Miss., October 12, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by the Fifth Iowa
Infantry in the battle at Corinth the 3d and 4th in tent:
In obedience to orders we left camp about 3 o'clock the morning of the 3d with three days'
rations in the haversacks, and marched with the brigade to a point about half a mile north of
Corinth, and were immediately ordered into line of battle. I had just placed my regiment in
position when, by order of General Hamilton, we moved to the Pittsburg road and took a position
within the intrenchments, to prevent a surprise in that direction. Two companies were detached
to support a section of a Missouri battery on the Farmington road and two companies to support
a section of the same battery east of the Pittsburg road.
After strengthening our position with abatis we remained until 2 o'clock on the morning of
the 4th, when, by order of General Buford, I moved my regiment toward town to rejoin the
brigade, and took a position in line of battle, fronting north, on the left of the Eleventh Ohio
Battery. Here he remained until about 10 o'clock, when the brigade was ordered forward, to
prevent a flank movement which was being attempted by the enemy. My regiment advanced
27
double-quick by the right flank to the right of the Eleventh Ohio Battery, and then advanced in
line of battle. After firing two volleys and giving three hearty cheers the enemy retreated, and we
moved rapidly forward to the crest of the hill. Subsequently we took two other positions, when
by order of General Hamilton we returned to our former position in line of battle north of town.
Here we remained until the following morning, when by order of General Hamilton we
moved with the brigade in pursuit of the retreating enemy on the Chewalla road, and encamped
that night about 8 miles from Corinth.
The next morning we were again on the march toward Kossuth over rough and hilly road,
making about 12 miles, passing wagons, camp equipage, ammunition, and arms which the
enemy had thrown away in 1 is hasty retreat.
The following morning we left our bivouac and marched toward Rienzi, reaching that place
about dark, the men worn-out with fatigue and exposure and the suffering to which they had
been subjected in the intense heat over dusty roads and by great scarcity of water, having
marched more than 24 miles.
The next morning I received an order from General Hamilton to take command of the Fourth
Minnesota Infantry, the Fifth Iowa, and one section of the Eleventh Ohio Battery, and proceed at
once to the Hatchie River and seize and hold the bridge. After issuing rations to the men (it being
about 1 p.m.) I marched with this command, reaching the Hatchie River at 5 o'clock, a distance
of 12 miles, and found the bridge destroyed, and Colonel Hatch, with the Second Iowa Cavalry,
who had partially repaired it, preparing to cross. I crossed my command that night, fording the
river, and took a position on the west side of the swamp, which place I held until the morning of
the 10th, when, receiving orders from General Hamilton, I recrossed the river, joined the brigade,
and marched that day back to Rienzi.
We were on the march early the following morning, and reached our present encampment, 10
miles southeast of Corinth, about 1 p.m., the men worn-out with fatigue and many of them
destitute of shoes an, I comfortable clothing.
It gives me pleasure to report that not a single casualty occurred in my regiment during the
battle of Corinth nor during the pursuit of the enemy.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. L. MATTHIES,
Colonel Fifth Iowa Infantry.
Capt. J. P. FOLEY,
Asst. Adjt. Gen, First Brig., Third Div., Army of the Miss.
HDQRS. 2D BRIG., THIRD DIV., ARMY OF THE MISS.,
Camp near Corinth, Miss., October 11, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I herewith submit the following report of the part taken by the Second Brigade,
Third Division, Army of the Mississippi, in the battle of Corinth, on the 3d and 4th instant, and
the subsequent pursuit of the enemy:
At 1.30 o'clock on the morning of the 3d instant I received orders from General C. S.
Hamilton, commanding the Third Division, Army of the Mississippi, to form my brigade and
march to Corinth, distant from my encampment about 3 miles. I was informed by his aide that
Major-General Price, of the rebel army, was expected to make an attack at daylight on Corinth
with 40,000 men, and that our troops were being rapidly concentrated to defend the position.
Allowing the men to cook a hasty breakfast, tents were struck, wagons packed, and the brigade,
with its entire train of camp and garrison equipage, was in motion by 3 o'clock. The prospect of
again meeting General Price aroused the enthusiasm of the troops, which was a sure presage of
victory.
28
On arriving at Corinth our first line was formed under the immediate direction of General
Hamilton, which position was occupied until about 9 a.m., when orders were received to advance
on the Purdy road and occupy the breastworks between the Purdy road and swamp, which lies to
the right of the railroad, and joining which, immediately across the railroad, the right of General
Davies' division rested.
By the time the last position was taken the enemy made a determined attack on General
Davies' division in overpowering numbers, and although resisted gallantly the superior numerical
forces of the enemy compelled our troops to fall back, thus exposing our left flank to the enemy's
attack. Our front was immediately changed, and a ridge was occupied, which gave us an
opportunity to advance and attack the enemy on the flank as they moved forward, following
General Davies' division, which was falling back toward Corinth, and also secure a road on
which we could retire in case of necessity.
The enemy still advancing, General Hamilton ordered me with three regiments to attack their
left flank, while the First Brigade would sup-pert me on my right. Between my position and the
enemy lay a swamp, covered with a dense growth of underbrush, vines, and fallen trees, through
the center of which runs the dry bed of a creek, whose banks, some 6 feet deep, afforded a fine
shelter for the enemy. Cautioning the men to silence, with the Seventeenth and Tenth Iowa and
Eightieth Ohio, numbering about 800 men, I moved forward to the attack. Our advance was so
entirely unexpected by the enemy that, had we been supported as intended, I may be pardoned
for stating that in my opinion the fight of the succeeding day would not have occurred. Taken by
surprise the enemy fell back, but not rapidly enough to save themselves from a loss of 82
prisoners. We were compelled to halt for support, which the enemy noticing rallied and opened
on us a heavy fire of grape and canister from two batteries, when the column fell back in good
order with its face to the foe. This ended the fighting of the day, although a sharp skirmish was
kept up until darkness closed the scene and death ceased from his busy harvest.
Having received a severe contusion during the latter part of the engagement I was unfitted for
service, and the disposition of the troops for the anticipated attack of the enemy the next morning
was made by Col. Samuel A. Holmes, of the Tenth Regiment Missouri Volunteers.
There was no desponding heart in camp that night. Our own general we had tried and
Rosecrans had ever been victorious. But two short weeks before we had slept victors on the
battle-field of Iuka, and memories of that glorious fight but nerved us to more desperate deeds.
Ordnance officers were kept busy distributing ammunition; soldiers were occupied cleaning their
weapons, while general officers were engaged in consultation.
By 3 o'clock perfect quiet reigned through our entire lines. We knew the enemy were
desperate; we felt death was preferable to surrender, and friends separated determined to meet no
more on earth unless victory perched on our banners.
Just before dawn the enemy opened a heavy cannonade. Ere the first report had ceased
reverberating through the woods our whole force was under arms. Our artillery quickly
responded and the ear was deafened with the answering reports. General Hamilton's division
held the right of our line, having been formed in line of battle by General Hamilton himself, with
a support of three regiments, General Davies' division the right center. No attack was made by
the enemy on our right until 8 o'clock, when the rebels in force (commanded by Major-General
Price in person and numbering as many as our whole army) emerged from the woods in front and
advanced rapidly in column of attack on our whole line. Part of General Davies' division fled at
the first fire, leaving several of our batteries exposed which the enemy temporarily took
possession of, the Tenth Missouri Fifty-sixth Illinois, Eightieth Ohio, and Tenth Iowa bravely
holding their ground. The Twelfth Wisconsin Battery coolly playing grape and canister into the
massed columns of the enemy caused them to halt. The desperate charge made by the First
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Brigade recaptured the batteries and drove the enemy from that portion of the field. By order of
General Hamilton two regiments were placed under my command to drive back the enemy, who
had penetrated our center. Heroically our boys rushed to the fight; two well-delivered volleys, a
charge, a cheer, and the enemy fled, leaving us their colors, their dead, wounded, and over 300
prisoners. The enemy was routed on our right wing and our part of the line was sate.
Where each regiment and the batteries of my brigade won imperishable honor by their
steadfastness and bravery through two days' hard fighting it is hard to particularize the deed
which entitles them to most merit. On the first day's fight the Seventeenth and Tenth Iowa and
the Eightieth Ohio, by their steadiness and coolness in marching to make the attack upon the
enemy's flank, deserve special mention. One company of the Seventeenth Iowa fought a superior
force of the enemy until they had expended all their cartridges and were compelled to fall back
for a supply. One company of the Eightieth Ohio brought off safely 33 prisoners, taken under a
heavy fire and in the presence of a greatly superior force of the enemy. The Tenth Iowa
maintained its usual name for discipline and courage.
On the second day the Tenth Missouri and Fifty-sixth Illinois charged the enemy and retook
two batteries. Their courage was deserving of all praise, as five times their numbers had fled
ingloriously from the foe they drove from the field. For over half an hour the Tenth Missouri had
sustained a fire of musketry without answering, losing one-sixth of their number killed and
wounded. The Fifty-sixth Illinois in this their first fight proved that consciousness of a just cause
makes men invincible. All honor to their noble dead; praise and credit to the living.
The Eightieth Ohio, after losing their only field officer present, nobly fought on, nor ceased
until the fight was done. Their list of dead and wounded proves the position they held was one of
danger, and by their valor they made it the post of honor.
The Tenth Iowa sustained the brunt of the first attack of the enemy until the regiment on their
left gave way and their flank was exposed, when they slowly fell back fighting.
The Seventeenth Iowa had the honor of driving back the enemy from the position once
occupied by Davies' division and advancing in pursuit until ordered to halt by General
Rosecrans, who feared their valor was leading them beyond prudence. They captured a stand of
colors, which I suggest be sent to the Governor of their State.
Of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery I cannot say too much. Twice they have been tried in
desperate battles and twice they have proven themselves heroes.
The Sixth Wisconsin Battery effectively worked their pieces in the early part of the action,
but being feebly supported, were so unfortunate as to lost their guns; but when quickly retaken
and returned to their possession did fearful execution in the enemy's ranks.
To Col. Samuel A. Holmes, commanding the Tenth Missouri Volunteers, I am indebted for
assistance while I was temporarily disabled. His intelligence coolness, bravery, and welldisciplined
regiment entitle him to my favorable notice and I trust to some mark of approbation
from the Government.
To Major Banbury Fifth Iowa., temporarily in command of the Seventeenth Iowa; to
Lieutenant-Colonel Baum, commanding Fifty-sixth Illinois; to Major McCalla, commanding
Tenth Iowa; to Captain Dillon, commanding Sixth Wisconsin Battery, and to Lieutenant Immell,
commanding Twelfth Wisconsin Battery, I am especially indebted. Their desire seems to be to
do their duty; their pride in knowing it is well done.
To Major Lanning, Eightieth Ohio, who yielded up his life in battling for our glorious flag,
which traitor hands were trying to destroy, no words of mine can add honor. He died a soldier's
death. His body fills a patriot's grave. He will ever live in the memory of his comrades in arms.
The reports of commanding officers are herewith submitted, with the names of officers and
men who distinguished themselves on those memorable days.
30
Of my own staff, who were under fire during the entire two days, I desire to make particular
mention of Captain Harris, assistant adjutant general, who, while carrying orders on the field,
narrowly escaped with his life, receiving a wound in the hand and having his clothes torn with
bullets. To Lieutenant Jacobson, who was on the field lending assistance, rallying the men and
carrying orders, and to Lieutenant Buchanan, my aide-de-camp, for his willingness and bravery,
I am greatly indebted, and desire to recommend both to the Governor of their State as worthy of
promotion, as they will fill with credit to themselves and honor to the State any post they may be
intrusted with.
To Sergt. B. A. May, Thirteenth Indiana Volunteers, I call especial attention. I recommend
him as worthy to fill, by him education and bravery, a higher position in the U.S. Army.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JER. C. SULLIVAN,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Capt. R. M. SAWYER,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Third Division.
HDQRS. TENTH REGIMENT MISSOURI VOL. INFTY.,
Camp near Corinth, Miss, October 12, 1862.
CAPTAIN: The following is my report of the movements of the Tenth Regiment of Missouri
Infantry during the battle of Corinth and of the Second Brigade, Third Division, while under my
command, by reason of the disability of Brigadier-General Sullivan:
The regiment moved before daylight on the morning of the 3d with the rest of the brigade
from the camp south of Corinth to the plateau to the north, and about 1 mile from the center of
the town. The brigade was here formed in line of battle, Immell's battery on the left, occupying a
crest commanding the Purdy road, supported by the Tenth Missouri Regiment, formed in column
by division on its right, the rest of the brigade extending eastwardly in line facing and near to the
woods. By order of the brigadier-general commanding I detached 300 men of the Tenth
Missouri, under Maj. Leonidas Horney, to make a reconnaissance to the northwest, on the Purdy
road, with instructions to advance 3 or 4 miles, as occasion might require, and observe the
movements of the enemy. Shortly after this the rest of my regiment moved with the brigade out
the same road about 2 miles, and took position in the old rebel intrenchments, supporting the
same battery on the right. The brigade remained in this position until about 12 o'clock, no enemy
showing himself in front, although constant and heavy skirmishing was going on in the woods
with some other part of the army some distance across the open fields to our left and rear. The
brigade now again moved by the right flank down the intrenchments and then filed to the right
along the woods, fronting westwardly on the open fields last named, as I have since understood,
with the view of attacking the left flank of the enemy, advancing down the railroad. I was here
detached from the brigade with the Tenth Missouri and Fifty-sixth Illinois Regiments, with
orders to occupy the edge of the woods, which I did, throwing out two companies as skirmishers
some 400 yards to the front. The remainder of the brigade passed on toward the railroad, where it
encountered the enemy, advancing in heavy force, and, gallantly fighting, was gradually pressed
back toward the Purdy road, on which we had come out in the morning. To my left a portion of
the First Brigade was already posted, and the right now coming up to my position I moved my
two regiments to the right, uncovering its front, with my right resting on the old rebel works. I
was here joined by Major Horney with his detachment, and under the orders of Brigadier-
General Hamilton I moved the Tenth Missouri and Fifty-sixth Illinois Regiments back to the
angle of the Purdy road and the rebel intrenchments and halted. About 4 p.m. I was ordered by
General Hamilton, at the request of Brigadier-General Sullivan, to relieve him and take
31
command of the brigade. I accordingly at once reported to him in person, and finding him very
much exhausted and barely able to keep his saddle, 1 took command. I found the Twelfth
Wisconsin Battery posted near a house, on a prominent crest, on the Purdy road, about 1,000
yards in advance of its first position taken in the morning, supported on the left by the Tenth
Iowa Regiment and on the right by the Eightieth Ohio Regiment, and the Seventeenth Iowa
extended along the road and near to and fronting the woods through which this portion of the
brigade had retired. The enemy kept showing themselves in considerable numbers in front and
particularly to the left of this position, as if designing to penetrate there, but were kept at bay by
the excellent handling of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery, Lieutenant Immell commanding. I
immediately reported to General Hamilton the dangerous state of the case, with a request for the
other two regiments of the brigade, which was granted. I also received orders from him to hold
the ground until dark, and then to quietly remove the brigade back to the position which it
occupied in the morning. Leaving one regiment as outposts, I brought down the Tenth Missouri
and Fifty-sixth Illinois Regiments, and posted them to the left and rear of the Tenth Iowa
Regiment, warding the threatened flank movement of the enemy. At dark I quietly withdrew the
brigade, with the exception of the Tenth Iowa, left as outposts. Immell's (Wisconsin) battery
(Twelfth) was posted in its first position on the crest, supported on the right by the Tenth
Missouri and the Fifty-sixth Illinois Regiments and on the left by the Eightieth Ohio Regiment.
Dillon's (Sixth Wisconsin) battery was placed in the redoubt, supported by the Seventeenth Iowa
Volunteers. About 10 p.m. I received orders to change my whole line, and to take up a position
farther to the right and rear, nearly at a right angle to the one now held, with my right connecting
with the First Brigade. After having examined the ground I brought the brigade into the new
position selected. I placed Immell's (Twelfth Wisconsin) battery at the white house, in the center
of the plateau, supported on the right by the Tenth Missouri, and the Fifty-sixth Illinois in a
second line, 200 yards in the rear; on the left by the Eightieth Ohio Regiment, with the
Seventeenth Iowa in the second line and on the left of the whole Dillon's (Sixth Wisconsin)
battery. The brigade remained in this position until morning.
At daybreak of the 4th, perceiving that my right was too close upon the reserves of the First
Brigade, and that owing to the darkness Dillon's battery was not effectually posted, I advanced
the latter to the crest, commanding the Purdy road, and moved to its support, on the left, the
Eightieth Ohio Regiment, and on the right the Tenth Iowa Regiment, which was now withdrawn
from outpost for that purpose. The Tenth Missouri and Fifty-sixth Illinois were then placed on
the left of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery in line of battle in the order named, the Seventeenth
Iowa Regiment being drawn up in rear of the whole in column by division as a reserve. This was
the position occupied by the brigade during the battle, with the changes incident to the field, my
right resting on the left of the First Brigade and my left connecting with the right rear of Davies'
division.
About 8.30 o'clock the enemy made the grand attack upon the center and right wing of the
army, advancing in heavy masses from the woods all along the front and down the Purdy road.
That portion of the brigade first exposed to attack was Captain Dillon's Sixth Wisconsin Battery
and its supports. These for a while gallantly maintained their position against an overwhelming
force. Soon the line of Davies' division, to their left, began to give way in confusion, and almost
at the same time the Eightieth Ohio Regiment was forced back from its position in disorder,
followed by the limbers and caissons of the battery. The enemy rushed up and took possession,
killing the gunners at their guns. The gallant Tenth Iowa, under Major McCalla, gradually fell
back some 300 yards, fighting as they went. The battery and redoubt to the left of the Sixth
Wisconsin, as well as the whole line, now seemed to be in possession of the enemy, and the
fugitives came pouring on in great numbers through and over the lines of the Tenth Missouri and
32
Fifty-sixth Illinois, which still bravely held their ground under the most terrific fire. Immell's
Twelfth Wisconsin Battery at the white house, as soon as the enemy had obtained possession of
the crest, opened upon them with great effect, and, aided by the well-directed fire of the Tenth
Missouri and Fifty-sixth Illinois, repeatedly drove them back out of sight and prevented the
removal of the guns. Never could any battery do more effective service at a more critical period.
The enemy had now advanced in large numbers from the direction of the redoubt, under cover of
houses, toward the front of the Fifty-sixth Illinois and left of the Tenth Missouri, and were
pouring upon them a most galling fire. Seeing that Lieutenant-Colonel Raum, of the Fifty-sixth
Illinois, was wheeling his regiment to the left, preparatory to making a charge, I gave the order to
Major Horney, commanding the Tenth Missouri, to retake the Sixth Wisconsin Battery with the
bayonet, and away went these regiments to their work at double-quick in the most splendid style.
The Tenth Missouri Regiment retook the Sixth Wisconsin Battery and turned the guns upon
the flying enemy, serving them with such ammunition as was found upon the ground. The Tenth
Iowa Regiment quickly came forward to its original position, which was maintained during the
remainder of the day. The two last-named regiments were here exposed to a severe fire of the
enemy, who still held possession of the redoubt on their left, and from which he was finally
expelled after a sharp contest. The troops of Davies' division gradually came back to their
original position, and the whole line was held to the end of the action. Shortly after it was retaken
Dillon's battery was withdrawn from the field for want of men and ammunition to serve the
guns.
In making this report it may be proper for me to state that during the action I was not advised
of the presence of the brigadier-general commanding upon the field, although later I learned that
notwithstanding his physical condition he was there personally heading a gallant charge of the
Seventeenth Iowa Regiment, taken from the reserve, in which a rebel flag was captured.
For the part taken in the battle by my regiment during the time I was in command of the
brigade I desire to refer to the report of Maj. Leonidas Horney, herewith inclosed. I cannot at the
same time too much commend the coolness and gallantry of that fine officer during the whole
day, and especially in the charge upon and recapture of the Sixth Wisconsin Battery, in which he
was wounded, but refused to leave the field. Adjt. Francis C. Deimling, of the same regiment,
deserves honorable mention for exemplary bravery on the same occasion and throughout the day.
Among other events deserving of a particular mention was the brilliant fighting of the Fiftysixth
Illinois Regiment, under the gallant Lieutenant-Colonel Raum. Too much importance
cannot be attached to his prompt action at a very critical moment of the day. Great credit is also
due to the Tenth Iowa Regiment, under Major McCalla, for the steadiness with which it
maintained its support of the Sixth Wisconsin Battery until overwhelmed and the promptness
with which it again resumed its place. The brave Major Lanning fell trying to rally his regiment
when forced from its position, and deserves to be held in grateful remembrance as a gallant
soldier.
I also desire to make honorable mention of the valuable assistance I received while in
command of the brigade from Capt. Thomas H. Harris, assistant adjutant-general, who was
slightly wounded in the hand; also from Lieuts. T. Jacobson and A. S. Buchanan, of the brigade
staff.
The loss of the Tenth Missouri Regiment in the action was 12 killed, 76 wounded (2 of
whom are since dead), and 3 missing, a list of whom is hereto appended.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
SAML. A. HOLMES,
Colonel, Commanding.
Capt. T. H. HARRIS,
33
Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2d Brig., 3d Div., Army of the Miss.
HDQRS. FIFTY-SIXTH REGT. ILLINOIS VOLUNTEERS,
Kossuth, Miss., October 7, 1862.
SIR: I embrace the first leisure moments to submit a report of the part taken by my regiment
in the battle of the 3d and 4th instant in defense of Corinth:
My regiment was not engaged on the 3d. On the morning of the 4th at 2 o'clock I had my
men under arms. Soon after daylight Colonel Holmes, temporarily commanding the brigade,
assigned me the position of reserve to the First Missouri Battery, which was supported by the
Twelfth Regiment Illinois Volunteers, as I have been informed. About 9 a.m. it became manifest
that a determined enemy was in strong force in front. As soon as the front line engaged him I
deployed my regiment into line and caused both officers and men to lie down. In this position I
watched the progress of events. After delivering a few volleys the front line began to waiver and
fall back. Their retreat soon became a rout, and they came down pell-mell upon us, running over
my men in every direction. The caissons and a number of loose horses came thundering down
and passed through the interval between the Tenth Missouri and my regiment. The gunners at the
battery gave the rebels a parting salute and then made good their retreat. As soon as the debris of
the broken line had passed by I discovered the enemy occupying the earthworks and houses on
the right and left. Expecting him to advance upon us, I reserved the fire for a time, intending at
the proper moment to deliver a volley and use the bayonet. Soon, however, a musketry duel
ensued, the enemy firing over the brow of the hill and up which he came from his place of
concealment; we from the ground. By the giving way of the front line upon my left I was
outflanked and exposed to a galling cross-fire, to meet which I hastened to the left and directed
Major Cooper to change the front of three companies. The din was so great that commands could
not be distinctly heard and three other companies were put in motion, which created a
momentary confusion. This, however, was promptly set to rights by the gallant officers who led
the companies. As soon as my wishes were understood the men again laid down, the left in
position to meet the flank fire. At this juncture the enemy turned one of our guns and opened
with grape upon us. I directed the men to pay their compliments to those who handled it. After
firing 4 rounds the gun was completely silenced. My left flank, which had been so heavily
threatened, was now relieved by the opportune arrival of the Seventh and Seventeenth Iowa
Regiments and the Union Brigade. A few troops of the Twelfth Illinois, numbering perhaps 30,
had formed upon my right. The enemy beginning to waiver I ordered an advance, and my
regiment retook the battery and captured two rebel officers in the works, who, endeavoring to
rally their men, were unable to make their escape. One of the artillery officers, who only
withdrew to my line and to whose bravery I would take pleasure in attesting if I knew his name,
joined in the advance, improvised an artillery squad, and soon rained grape upon the retreating
foe with telling effect. The enemy endeavored to rally at the foot of the hill, but a few welldirected
volleys broke his lines, and he found safety in the depths of the thick woods beyond.
Both officers and men of my command acted with a great deal of coolness and determination.
Major Cooper bore himself gallantly, directing the fire of the left wing with much energy.
Captains Rankin, Cochran. Welsh, and Reavis were at all times at their posts, cheering their men.
Lieutenants Cone, Webber, O'Neal, Scott, and Dempsey, commanding companies, conducted
themselves with great determination. Lieutenant Webber made himself a conspicuous mark by
assisting to erect our colors after Color-Bearer P.M. Hale, of Company G, was stricken down
mortally wounded. Lieutenants Walbright, Joiner, Keffer, and Dillon by their conduct
demonstrated that they are men of courage and ability. Captain Hall, under arrest, was released
for meritorious conduct on the field. Captain Files, also under arrest, remained with his company
34
during the greater part of the fight, urging them to do their duty. The non-commissioned officers
and privates all emulated each other in coolness and courage.
I lost 7 killed and 32 wounded. One since died.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant.
GREEN B. RAUM,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Fifty-sixth Illinois.
Capt. T. H. HARRIS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. TENTH REGIMENT IOWA VOLUNTEERS.
Camp near Corinth, Miss., October 12, 1862.
SIR: On the morning of the 3d instant at this camp I received orders to be in readiness to
march at 3 a.m. with tents and baggage loaded, and at the appointed hour I formed the regiment
in line and marched in the direction of Corinth, which place I passed through, and proceeding to
a distance of about one-half mile north formed in line of battle, my regiment constituting the
right of the brigade, and in pursuance of your order I ordered Companies A and F to be deployed
as skirmishers in front of the brigade at a distance as far as the old intrenchments.
About 8 a.m. I moved the regiment from this position a distance of about one-half mile to the
left, and took a position immediately on the left of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery. At about 9
a.m. I received orders to change position, and marched in a northwesterly direction about 1
miles, and formed a line of battle on the left and in support of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery,
where I remained about one hour, when I was ordered farther to the left and rear, and formed line
near an old farm house northeast from a battery of the enemy, and within easy range of its shells,
several of which fell both in the rear and front of the line. I then ordered the regiment to the rear
about 200 yards, which was marched in line of battle and took a position on the road. Remaining
here near half an hour, I formed column and was conducted by yourself in person in the direction
of the enemy's battery, to the left and front of my late position, through dense woods and brush,
passing the line of our skirmishers. On arriving near the line of the Memphis and Charleston
Railroad came upon the line of the enemy's skirmishers, and passing through it took about 20 of
them prisoners and ordered them to the rear. I ordered a line to be formed on the railroad. During
the execution of the order the enemy opened upon us at a distance of about 150 yards a most
destructive fire of grape and canister, in which several of my men were wounded; but
notwithstanding this severe fire the line was formed on the railroad in excellent order. While in
this position the fire from their batteries was kept up, raking the ground, and would have done
immense damage but for the fact that at this point where the line was formed on the track there
had been a cut about 5 feet in depth the bank of which formed a good shelter, their balls passing
over our heads, many of them lodging in the opposite bank, so closely had they raked the ground.
Seeing an attempt on the part of the enemy to move forward one of their batteries to a point on
the railroad on our right from which they could open upon us an enfilading fire, I ordered the
regiment to file into the dense woods in our rear by the left flank, having cleared the track in time
to avoid a raking fire. I again formed a line of battle and marched to the rear under the incessant
fire of their battery, whose firing had now become too high to do much damage. On arriving at
the road we followed it to the left until our left arrived at a white house, situated on a road
leading directly to the front. On this road the pickets of the enemy were posted in full view about
150 yards in front of us. In this position I deployed the regiment as skirmishers to the right and
remained till morning.
On the morning of the 4th I marched to left and rear about 1 mile, and formed a line of battle
immediately on the right of the Sixth Wisconsin Battery. At about 10 a.m. the firing of the
35
skirmishers in front of us became rapid, and the advancing columns of the enemy soon drove
them back; but they rallied to a point directly in front of our line, and until they had again retired
to our rear I could not order my regiment to fire; but as soon as the space in front was cleared I
gave the order to commence firing, which was kept up with spirit, but without very materially
checking the advance of the enemy, who approached us in overwhelming numbers. My men had
fired from 15 to 20 rounds, when I perceived that numbers of the enemy were passing around the
right and getting in the rear of my line, and also that the battery on my left had been silenced and
taken and the enemy pressing forward to the left of us. I ordered the regiment to fall back, which
it did in good order, to a distance of about 70 yards, when I made a halt, facing about and again
opening the fire; but being unable to retain this position I again ordered the regiment back under
cover of the Twelfth Wisconsin and Powell's regular batteries. Passing to the rear in line of battle
I halted at a position immediately between these batteries. I then marched forward and occupied
the same ground from which I had retired during the action.
The casualties in the regiment were 6 men wounded on the first day, and 1 commissioned
officer, 30 men wounded, and 3 killed on the second day.
During both days I was assisted in the field by Capt. N. A. Holson, acting lieutenant-colonel,
and Capt. Jackson Orr, acting major, also William Manning, adjutant; who acted throughout with
great coolness and courage and to whom much credit is due.
The line officers, without an exception, deported themselves with the greatest gallantry, and
did much to accomplish our successful movements on the field in the presence of danger.
Upon the men of my command too much praise cannot be given for their endurance, courage,
and strict obedience to orders under all circumstances.
Yours, respectfully,
NATHANIEL McCALLA,
Major, Commanding Tenth Iowa Regiment.
Brig. Gen. J. C. SULLIVAN,
Commanding Second Brigade, Third Division.
HDQRS. SEVENTEENTH IOWA INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS,
Camp at Hatchie Church, Miss., October 9, 1862.
GENERAL: As directed by order of General Hamilton, I took command of the Seventeenth
Iowa on the morning of the 3d instant, after the regiment had been marched about one-half mile
north of Corinth by Captain Young. About 7 a.m. we were moved with the rest of the brigade to
the breastworks 2 miles north of town, and after changing position Company A, at about 2
o'clock, under command of First Lieutenant Garrett, was thrown out about three-fourths of a mile
as skirmishers, and was soon engaged in a brisk skirmish of about an hour, during which time it
did good service, leaving quite a number of dead rebels on the ground. Company B was also
deployed as skirmishers in front of our regiment, and while out the regiment changed position,
and it did not get to the regiment until the next day, after the battle on Saturday was over. This
company, under command of Second Lieutenant Hull, of Company E, deserves great credit for
the brave and unflinching manner in which it held its perilous situation until relieved. About 4.30
o'clock this regiment was placed on the extreme right of the brigade and ordered forward in line
of battle, and after marching about half a mile we were met with heavy fire from the enemy's
batteries, which we found were not more than 100 yards in our advance. We also found the
enemy in large force, supporting their batteries, which were three in number, and finding we
were now some distance from the balance of the brigade and entirely unsupported, the enemy
also having commenced a flank movement to our right, we fell back to the road an(l there joined
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the balance of the brigade, which was already in position on the road-side and near where we
were before forming our line. I was now ordered by General Rosecrans to take position on the
right of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery (perhaps the Sixth Wisconsin), and remained there until
the brigade was ordered into the city. I was then ordered by Colonel Holmes, then commanding
the brigade, to take position on the right of the Sixth Wisconsin Battery, where I remained until
10.30 o'clock, when I was ordered to take a position on the left of
Battery, which up to that time, it appears, had been entirely unsupported. I remained here
until about 1.30 o'clock in the morning, when, with the rest of the brigade, I moved the regiment,
and after going out some distance and returning was put in position about 200 yards in the rear of
the Eightieth Ohio Regiment. This position we kept until after daylight on October 4, when we
were ordered into column by General Rosecrans. When the firing from the enemy had become
quite brisk I deployed the battalions into line, and finding we were to be kept back as a reserve I
ordered the men to lie down, which they did, and here remained for about fifteen or twenty
minutes under considerable fire from the enemy, who were now fairly to be seen following our
men, who were slowly giving back, over the brow of the hill. It was while lying in this position
that First Lieutenant Garrett, Company A, and First Lieutenant Morris, Company F, were
wounded, and were compelled to retire from the field. When the enemy had gained fearful odds
by advancing so rapidly upon our ground I was ordered by you to form on the left of a section of
a battery which was then on our left. I remained in this position but a short time when I was
ordered forward, just as the troops on our right were falling back quite fast, and with the balance
of our brigade I marched the regiment forward to the brow of the hill, firing and driving the
enemy before us. After firing and driving the enemy for probably twenty minutes we were
ordered to charge, which we did, taking quite a number of prisoners and capturing a rebel flag
from (I understand from the prisoners) the Fortieth Mississippi Regiment. Corporal King, of
Company G, was the first to lay hands on the rebel colors, and took the bearer prisoner and
brought him to the rear of our lines.
I cannot speak in too high terms of praise of both officers and men throughout the regiment.
Not a man in the entire regiment evinced the slightest inclination to shirk or fall back, and all,
without a single exception, stood up to the work nobly and with an apparent determination to
drive the rebels back at all hazards.
As the regiment was under your immediate observation during the entire engagement I do not
deem it necessary to mention any as deserving of more mention, but will leave for you to say
whether any are entitled to more praise than that already received by this report.
I am, general, your obedient servant,
J. BANBURY,
Major Fifth, Commanding Seventeenth Iowa Infantry.
Brigadier-General SULLIVAN,
Comdg. Second Brig., Third Div., Army of the Miss.
HDQRS. EIGHTIETH REGIMENT OHIO VOLUNTEERS,
Camp on Ripley Road, Miss., October 9, 1862.
SIR: I herewith send you the following report of the part taken in the late engagement at
Corinth, Miss.:
The fight commenced on Friday morning, 3d instant, about 6 o'clock, and continued with
very little intermission until night. The brigade of which we formed a part was not engaged in
action until about 3 p.m., when we were drawn up in line of battle and our artillery planted. Our
position was on the left of our division, the first brigade forming our extreme right. We were
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here subjected to a galling fire from the enemy's battery on our left. Companies A, B, and F were
here deployed as skirmishers. We were then ordered to change position and advance steadily to
the front. We formed our line immediately on the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, the Tenth Iowa on
our right. We were here exposed to a very severe fire from the enemy's batteries, which were
planted in short range in our front and right. We remained here but a short time, when we were
ordered to move a short distance to the left. After some sharp skirmishing we were ordered to fall
back, which we did in good order, capturing about 50 prisoners, including a captain and
lieutenant. We were then ordered to a position near Corinth, where we rested on our arms for the
night. No men killed or wounded.
R. LANNlNG,
Major, Commanding Eightieth Ohio Volunteers,
Per S.S. WEST,
Sergeant-Major and Acting Adjutant.
Brig. Gen. J. C. SULLIVAN,
Comdg. Second Brig., Third Div., Army of the Miss.
HEADQUARTERS SIXTH WISCONSIN BATTERY,
Camp near Corinth, Miss., October 15, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report relative to the part taken by the Sixth
Wisconsin Battery in the action at Corinth October 3 and 4:
Friday morning, the 3d instant, I left camp, southeast of Corinth, between 3 and 4 o'clock,
pursuant to orders, and marched to Corinth, forming in battery with the reserve forces, under
Brigadier-General Sullivan, north of town. In the afternoon I was ordered to take up a position on
the right, and accordingly moved farther out on the road, near where the battle was then raging. I
was here brought under the enemy's fire and had 2 men wounded, but was unable to return the
fire without endangering the lives of our own men, deployed as skirmishers in the woods before
us. Late in the evening I was ordered back to town and occupied two or three different positions
during the night.
Early on the following morning (Saturday, the 4th) I took up a position on the brow of a hill
north of the bastion occupied by the First Missouri Artillery, and to the right of Davies' division.
I was supported on the right by the Tenth Iowa and on the left by the Eightieth Ohio. About 9
o'clock the skirmishers in the woods in our front became engaged and were soon driven from the
woods, followed by the enemy, marching in three separate columns. Being then but a few
hundred yards distant, I opened on them with shell and canister with good effect, though it
scarcely checked their progress. Once, when within less than 100 yards of our guns, they
wavered for an instant, and I hoped to repel them; but on emerging from the woods they had
deployed a column to the left, which had by this time so far gained our right flank as to pour in
upon us a destructive enfilade fire, seeing which they again rallied and came forward. They were
close upon our guns before our left support opened upon them, and many of my cannoneers were
by this time either killed or wounded and the rest had already been driven from their guns at the
point of the bayonet. At this juncture I commanded the limbers and caissons to fall back. It being
now too late to limber up the pieces I was forced to leave them in possession of the enemy. I
succeeded in safely removing from the field all except the pieces and one limber, which was
disabled, upset, and left.
Throughout the action the conduct of my men was uniformly good, each doing his whole
duty---doing his best.
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My loss in the aggregate during the two days was 26---5 killed (including 1 lieutenant) and
21 wounded.
Our pieces soon fell into our hands in as good condition as when abandoned.
When mustering my remaining effective men I again took the field with a four-gun battery,
but I was not again brought under fire during the day.
I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient,
HENRY DILLON,
Captain, Commanding Sixth Wisconsin Battery.
T. H. HARRIS,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Brig., Third Div., Army of the Miss.
HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION,
Corinth, Miss., October 19, 1862.
COLONEL: In compliance with Special Orders, No. 254, of October 9: 1862, calling for
reports from the division commanders of the part taken by their respective commands in the
battle of Corinth and the ensuing pursuit of the enemy, I have the honor to submit the following:
No sooner had the enemy commenced concentrating his forces, by messing his columns at
Ripley, than their movements were discovered by our scouts, and strong parties of cavalry were
immediately sent to Kossuth, toward Baldwyn, out on the Purdy road, and to Chewalla.
On October 1 a portion of the Third Michigan Cavalry, occupying a position near Kossuth,
proceeding via Bone Yard to Davis' Bridge, were attacked by the enemy's advancing column,
and after a short skirmish the enemy retired. Captain Willcox, commanding the party, caused the
bridge over the Hatchie at this point to be destroyed. At this time Colonel Lee, with a portion of
his brigade, was stationed at Bone Yard, from which point he sent out scouting parties on the
various roads, and discovered that the enemy were advancing in strong force from Ripley,
through Ruckersville to Jonesborough and thence northward. Guided by the information gained
from his scouts, Colonel Lee pushed across the Hatchie with a portion of his command to
ascertain the strength of the enemy's column; reached the vicinity of Ruckersville on the evening
of the 1st instant just as the enemy's main column passed the town, and dashing in with a
battalion of cavalry attacked their rear guard, and after twenty minutes' severe skirmishing
completely routed them, capturing 50 prisoners. Colonel Lee then returned to the east side of the
Hatchie, guarding the various crossings of that stream and watching closely the movements of
the enemy. Captain Smith, with the Third Battalion of the Fifth Ohio Cavalry, was stationed at
the junction of the Purdy with the Chewalla and Hamburg roads to watch the movements of the
enemy in that direction. He had some slight skirmishing with the enemy, but held his position
until 2 p.m. on the 4th, reporting frequently; when, finding his communication cut off, he made a
detour to the right of our lines, coming into the Pittsburg road, and after making a reconnaissance
on that road returned to Corinth. Colonel Hatch, with his command, was stationed at Rorey's
Mill with an advance of one battalion at Jacinto. He scouted the various roads leading south and
southeast, but discovered no force moving from that direction.
On the 3d he was ordered, with his command, to Corinth, and was employed during that day
making a reconnaissance north and west of Corinth and in watching the enemy's movements in
that direction.
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On the morning of the 4th Colonel Hatch proceeded with his brigade and a section of
artillery, under Lieutenant Green, north, on the Purdy road, to operate on the enemy's left flank;
but before proceeding beyond the old rebel breastworks met the enemy's skirmishers in heavy
force. He placed his artillery in position, sent forward a battalion of cavalry (dismounted) to its
support, keeping the remainder of his command in reserve, and held this point until General
Hamilton's division came up and occupied the position. The enemy having fallen back Colonel
Hatch then moved north 2 miles, crossing the railroad, moved west 5 miles, then southwest 2
miles. Here he placed his artillery in position to command the Chewalla road, and held his
command ready to intercept the trains of the enemy, and remained at this point until ordered to
return to Corinth. Colonel Lee remained on the Kossuth road until the evening of the 3d, when
he was directed to return to Corinth. He arrived late at night and bivoucked. His command
occupied a position in front of General McKean's division, on our southwest front, sending out
scouts during the night.
On the 4th he took position in line of battle in rear of our left wing and sent four companies
(dismounted) to skirmish on our left flank, relieving the men from time to time during the
engagement.
Major Snoddy, Seventh Kansas Cavalry, was sent, with four companies of his regiment to
guard the Tuscumbia Bridge and to watch the enemy's movements on their right flank. He was
twice engaged with a small force of the enemy and twice routed them. The enemy, after repeated
assaults upon our works and vain but desperate endeavors to occupy the town and drive us from
our position, fell back in disorder and began a precipitate retreat.
The Third Michigan Cavalry, under Captain Willcox, guarded the various roads north of
Corinth during the night of the 3d and during the battle on the 4th was posted in rear of and
protecting our right flank. During the pursuit his command moved with Colonel Hatch's brigade,
to which it belongs. Detached companies were employed from time to time on the 3d and 4th in
keeping the infantry in line and in gathering stragglers; also in patrolling the town and preserving
order. During the retreat the main body of the cavalry formed two flanking columns, one brigade
with a section of artillery, under Colonel Hatch, moving on the north side, and one brigade of
cavalry, a section of artillery, and two companies of infantry, under Colonel Lee, on the south
side of the Chewalla road, making frequent dashes upon the enemy's flanks, harassing them,
hanging continually on their skirts, and impeding their retreat, while different detachments
formed the advance of the main columns.
Captain Smith, with a battalion of the Fifth Ohio Cavalry, formed the advance guard of
General McPherson's column, and was three times engaged with the enemy's rear guard,
capturing prisoners, horses, and arms, and on the return of our forces from Ripley acted as the
rear guard to the troops under General McPherson.
Captain Funke, commanding four companies of the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, formed the
advance to General McArthur's column and performed excellent service. It also acted, in
conjunction with the Fifth Ohio Cavalry, as rear guard to General McPherson's column on the
return to Corinth.
Major Love, with a battalion of the Second Iowa Cavalry and two companies of the Third
Michigan Cavalry, commanded by Captain Reese, the whole under Colonel Ingersoll, Eleventh
Illinois Cavalry, remained during the pursuit as a portion of the garrison at Corinth, and were
employed on picket and patrol duty.
Lieutenant Stoddard, who was charged with the superintendence of the courier line between
headquarters and the advance, deserves mention for his able management and his men for long
exposure and fatigue and for their cheerful and prompt performance of duty as dispatch bearers.
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Colonel Lee, with the Second Brigade, was ordered to move on the road south of the
Memphis and Charleston Railroad to protect the left flank of our pursuing columns; came up
with the enemy's rear guard at Kossuth, drove them from the town, and was skirmishing
continually, always routing them, till he reached Ruckersville, at which place he captured 20
prisoners. There met an advance, under General McPherson; headed this advance column and
moved on toward Ripley. Skirmishing ensued from that point until he reached Ripley. The
enemy formed three different lines of battle, which were successively broken by our troops.
Colonel Lee was the first to enter Ripley, and after heavy skirmishing occupied the town,
completely routing the enemy, capturing 75 prisoners, and held the town until our main column
came up. During this pursuit Colonel Lee's troops captured 140 prisoners.
On the morning of the 5th Colonel Hatch, with his command and a section of artillery, was
ordered to move on the road north of the Memphis and Ohio Railroad; scouted north 5 miles,
thence west 14 miles to the Tuscumbia, and thence up to the old State Line road. At 11 o'clock
received orders to return to Corinth; from thence he marched toward Rienzi; was detained
building bridge at Rorey's Mill; from there skirmished 15 miles with the enemy on road to
Ripley; removed obstructions; cut road through Hatchie Swamp and built bridges.
After reaching Ripley, on the morning of the 9th, made a strong reconnaissance 17 miles
south of Ripley, discovering that the enemy were moving toward Hickory Flats. At Ripley the
cavalry was again massed by the junction of the brigades under Colonels Lee and Hatch, and
were employed in making extensive scouts toward Orizaba, Hickory Flats, and Salem, and,
remaining, occupied the vicinity of Ripley until our main force had returned to their camps at
Corinth. Then following twenty-four hours after the rear guard of the army, returned by two
main routes. Colonel Lee, with his brigade, moving south of the Ripley and Rienzi roads,
returned through Rienzi to Corinth, Colonel Hatch, with the First Brigade, passing quietly north
and to the west of Ruckersville through Jonesborough and thence via Crum's Mill to Corinth.
It is due to the cavalry to remark that, although the nature of their service in this wooded
country is such that they are frequently denied a participation in general engagements, yet those
whose praise and approbation is most to be desired do not lose sight of the invaluable services
performed by them. No service is more arduous, yet, with patience and even a spirit of
indifference to fatigue, has their labor been performed weeks without the shelter of a tent or the
ordinary comforts of camp life. They have traversed the country far and near, and, never
remaining long enough in one position to let their whereabouts become known, have ever been
ready to fall upon the enemy wherever found. To watch and to know being their province, all the
preliminaries to a battle devolve upon them, and in the headlong pursuit and rout of an enemy the
cry is always for the cavalry. Both during the approach of the enemy and his subsequent
disastrous retreat were the invaluable services of the cavalry seen. To a portion of this command,
under Colonel Lee, who, by forced marches and overcoming all difficulties, much praise is due
for taking the lead and being the first to enter, occupy, and hold the town of Ripley until the main
columns were brought up. The distance traveled, the labor performed, and the fatigue endured by
the cavalry is almost incredible, and all this, so cheerfully performed and with such alacrity and
spirit, entitle all to the highest commendations.
The colonel commanding takes pleasure in bearing testimony to the zeal, enterprise, and
spirit displayed by the officers and men of his command, among whom he wishes to mention
Col. A. L. Lee, Seventh Kansas Cavalry, commanding Second Brigade; Col. E. Hatch, Second
Iowa Cavalry, commanding First Brigade; Capt. L. G. Willcox, Third Michigan Cavalry; Maj. D.
E. Coon, Second Iowa Cavalry; Capt. J. C. Smith, Fifth Ohio Cavalry; Capt. Otto Funke,
Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, and Major Shoddy, Seventh Kansas Cavalry, commanding brigades,
41
regiments, and detachments, and the officers and men under their command, who all acted most
nobly.
Notwithstanding the danger to which the cavalry was exposed the list of casualties, I am
happy to state, is exceedingly small. I have only to report 5 killed, 21 wounded, and 12 messing.
Company I, Third Michigan Cavalry, my personal body guard, rendered very valuable
service in rallying stragglers, taking charge of prisoners, and in performing with dispatch all
orders given them. When our center first broke Lieutenant Pope, commanding this company, in
his zeal to aid our troops to reform was captured by the enemy. To the officers of my personal
staff, Lieut. W. S. Belden, Second Iowa Cavalry, and Lieut. W. A. Martin, Third Michigan
Cavalry, much credit is due for their energy and spirited discharge of duty.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. K. MIZNER,
Colonel and Chief of Cavalry.
Lieut. Col. H. G. KENNETT,
Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, ARMY OF WEST TENNESSEE,
October 18, 1862.
SIR: In obedience to General Orders, No. 134, I have the honor to make the following report
of the operations of this division on October 3 and 4, at the battle of Corinth, and also in the
pursuit after the enemy:
At 1.45 a.m., October 3, I received the following order by telegraph:
CORINTH, MISS., October 3, 1862--1.30 a.m.
General DAVIES:
There being indications of a possible attack on Corinth immediately, the following
disposition of troops will be made: General McKean, with his division, will occupy his present
position; General Davies will occupy the line between the Memphis and Columbus Railroads;
General Hamilton will, with his division, take position between the rebel works on the Purdy and
on the Hamburg roads, and General Stanley will hold his division in reserve at or near the old
headquarters of Major-General Grant. The respective divisions will be formed in two lines, the
second line being either in line of battle or close column by division, as circumstances may
require.
By command of Major-General Rosecrans:
TEMPLE CLARK,
Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.
A previous order had been received to hold the command in readiness to move at a moment's
notice. Accordingly the arms were stacked on the colorline at 2 a.m. By some mistake in the
telegraph the order to move at 3 o'clock was not received. Learning that Hamilton's division had
moved, I telegraphed for instructions and the division moved about daylight with three days'
rations in haversacks, and blankets. Being late and the morning intensely hot the command was
very much wearied by the travel of the 6 miles which they had to make to arrive at their position.
On passing through Corinth I reported to General Rosecrans for more particular instructions as to
the position I was to occupy. He told me to proceed out on the Columbus Railroad 1 miles from
Corinth and form in line of battle. I took into action three brigades and fourteen pieces of
artillery. The First Brigade, under General Hackleman, including officers, numbered 1,097 men;
the Second Brigade, under General Oglesby, in like manner, numbered 720; the Third Brigade,
under Colonel Baldwin, acting brigadier-general, numbered 1,117 men; the artillery, under
command of Major Stone, chief of artillery, numbered 264 officers and men. Total number of
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infantry, 2,924 officers and men. Total artillerists, 264 officers and men. An investigation has
been had of all absentees. There are a few absent in some regiments without leave and a few who
left the field without permission. These will be branded in general orders from these
headquarters as cowards and poltroons, who will never gain a military standing among their
brave comrades in war till they shall have wiped out the disgrace in some battle and by orders
from division headquarters. The division was very weak, owing to the large number detailed
from it for duty in and about Corinth. All the cavalry was detailed to report to Colonel Mizner.
The Fourteenth Missouri and Twenty-second Ohio were doing duty in Corinth. The Union
Brigade, consisting of remnants of the Eighth, Twelfth, and Fourteenth Iowa and Fifty-eighth
Illinois, was on duty at the Tuscumbia. Four companies of the Twelfth Illinois were on their way
from Burnsville, and one battery of artillery was guarding the Hamburg and Purdy roads north
and east of Corinth.
The division moved out and formed line of battle at the forks of the Columbus and Chewalla
roads about l miles from Corinth, in the woods, the artillery occupying a hill which commanded
the two roads, Colonel Baldwin's brigade being held in reserve. We heard artillery firing before
we got on the ground, which I soon ascertained to be Colonel Oliver's command of the Sixth
Division falling back from Chewalla, and which had made a stand north of the Memphis and
Charleston Railroad with one regiment and one piece of artillery and at the rebel breastworks
2,400 yards in front and to the left of my position--part of the ground to be occupied by my
division. Thinking a movement forward on the Columbus road would support Colonel Oliver and
prevent the enemy flooding down too rapidly upon us I sent to General Rosecrans for permission
to move forward and occupy the rebel breastworks on the Columbus road. He replied that I could
do as I thought best. I accordingly moved forward 800 yards to an open field that commanded
the Columbus road and a bridle-path leading to the left, and sent forward the Seventh Illinois
with a section of artillery 1,000 yards to the rebel breastworks as a reconnaissance. I soon
received a message from Colonel Oliver that if I did not send him two regiments and some
artillery he could not hold his position. I accordingly sent him the Seventh and Fifty-seventh
Illinois and two 20-pounder rifled guns, under Captain Richardson, all under command of
Colonel Baldwin. About this time Colonel Ducat, General Rosecrans' aide, came to me with
directions from him not to let the enemy penetrate beyond the rebel breastworks, and called my
particular attention to the bridle-path which led out between the Columbus and Chewalla roads. I
accordingly ordered forward Generals Oglesby's and Hackleman's brigades to the rebel
breastworks on the Columbus road, and formed the first line of battle, Hackleman on the right,
Oglesby on his left, and Baldwin supporting Oliver on the extreme left, and some artillery and
the Fiftieth Illinois were ordered back to the forks of the Columbus and Chewalla roads, where I
made my headquarters, to take position as the reserve. About this time I received an order from
General Rosecrans to re-enforce Oliver with two regiments, and replied that it had been done.
Oglesby was then ordered to send a section of artillery to his left, with a sufficient support to
cover the bridle-path.
Having received reports of the distances between my right and extreme left and the presence
of the enemy in heavy force in my front, I sent to General Rosecrans for re-enforcements, telling
him that it would be impossible for me to hold my position with the troops at my command. I
received the reply by Colonel Du Bois, aide to General Rosecrans, that re-enforcements should
be sent. About this time I received a notice that my left, under Colonel Baldwin, could not hold
its position without re-enforcements. I sent forward the last of my reserve, the Fiftieth Illinois.
General Oglesby sent the Eighty-first Ohio, numbering 218 men, all told, with one 24-pounder
howitzer and one 10-pounder Parrott gun, to cover the bridle-path. They were attacked in this
43
position by five regiments on the left, a heavy force on the right, and in front at the same time,
the right being first struck.
The Eighty-first Regiment, Colonel Morton, fired from 15 to 21 rounds upon the advancing
enemy and the artillery mowed lanes through their solid columns. Lieutenant Conant was in
command of this section. This feeble force undertook to do too much. The artillery horses were
nearly all shot and the infantry, after a stubborn resistance (several of his men being bayoneted
in the ditch), were compelled to give way, and the pieces could not be brought off for want of
horses. They were abandoned and captured by the enemy. The Confederates here pressed their
advantage, and, falling upon the balance of General Oglesby's small command, were severely
dealt with by them and the most stubborn resistance made. The enemy here advanced to plant a
battery against us and they succeeded in firing three or four shots, but were promptly silenced by
Captain Welker and Lieutenant Green, the latter being in General Hackleman's brigade and on
the right. The enemy pressed in large force on our left, center, and right center against General
Oglesby's brigade, and the Ninth and Twelfth Illinois were compelled to give way; not, however,
until they had left an honorable mark on the enemy's columns. The infantry of General
Hackleman's brigade, being at the right of the Columbus road, was not engaged.
The operations upon the left on the first line on the Confederate intrenchments were also
overpowered. Colonel Baldwin, who was in the rear of his brigade on the Chewalla road,
wounded, was also cut off from his brigade, and General McArthur took command at the time
my re-enforcements arrived at Colonel Oliver's position. The Seventh Illinois was formed on the
breastworks to the right of the Chewalla road. The Fifty-seventh Illinois was formed on the left
of the Fifteenth Michigan and on the left of the Chewalla road. The two left regiments were
severely attacked, and they replied briskly in conjunction with the artillery, driving the enemy
back. They rallied, brought up re-enforcements, attacked the two left regiments, repulsed them,
and they with the artillery fell back about half a mile. One 2O-pounder rifled gun of Richardson's
battery, named the "Lady Richardson," in the retreat ran against a tree, broke the pole, and the
piece was abandoned and captured by the enemy. The main body of the Confederates, which
swept up in front of the intrenchments and attacked General Oglesby's brigade, was opened upon
by the Seventh Illinois with an oblique fire, which staggered the enemy but did not prevent their
onward march. At the same time Colonel Babcock, of the Seventh Illinois, was attacked in front
and on the left by the force of Confederates, which drove back the two regiments on the extreme
left. After some pretty sharp work Colonel Babcock, to prevent capture by the hosts which
surrounded him on both flanks and front, ordered his regiment to the rear by the right of
companies.
It being apparent, from reports received, that the whole Confederate Army was attacking us
in front, it would have been disastrous, resulting in capture, to make a stand on this line,
particularly as the left had given way and was driven back half a mile. I therefore ordered a
retrograde movement on the Columbus road of Generals Oglesby's and Hackleman's brigades, to
form the second line of battle at the open field, 1,000 yards in rear of the Confederate
intrenchments, and at the same time sent a peremptory order to Colonel Baldwin to fall back to
the junction of the Chewalla and Columbus roads. The messenger was shot, but made his way
through and reported that the Confederates were in force between him and that point and entirely
cut off. The second line of my two remaining brigades was only intended to attract the attention
of the enemy and cause them to form line of battle in my front, which they did.
The movement of the Seventh Illinois was executed with order, and it tell back and joined the
Fifteenth Michigan and Fifty-seventh Illinois and the artillery stationed in the road. The Fiftieth
Illinois, from the reserve, had arrived, and the three regiments of Baldwin's brigade of the
Second Division, and the Fifteenth Michigan and the Seventeenth Wisconsin of McKean's
44
division, were formed in line of battle across the Chewalla road, facing west. The main body of
the Confederates having penetrated beyond this line of battle, Colonel Babcock changed front to
the rear on the tenth company, facing north. The Seventh Illinois was attacked in front and a
messenger came to General McArthur that the enemy were crossing the Chewalla road between
him and town. He ordered a movement of all the five regiments and artillery by the left flank
toward Corinth about half a mile. Before any fighting commenced on Generals Oglesby's and
Hackleman's front a retrograde movement was ordered to be made by them 800 yards back to the
junction of the Columbus and Chewalla roads, with the same view and the same effect as their
previous movement, and the formation of the third line of battle.
Again I sent for re-enforcements and determined to make my final stand at the white house,
950 yards back of the forks and 725 yards in front of Fort Robinett. General McArthur, on the
left, ordered a line of battle on his second retrograde movement facing the north with four
regiments--the Seventeenth Wisconsin on the right, Fifty-seventh Illinois on its left, next the
Seventh Illinois, and then the Fiftieth Illinois on the left. Skirmishers were thrown out in front
and a scattering fire kept up for about three-quarters of an hour. General McArthur then ordered
a charge, and the four regiments went forward in fine style, driving in the enemy's pickets to the
main body and driving the main body back to their reserves, and it was believed the enemy's
center was broken. Here brisk firing continued for some time, when the enemy sent a force
against McArthur's left flank, and two regiments of General McKean's division being brought up
at the same moment fired into the rear of the line, breaking the regiments, which fell to the rear.
They soon rallied again, opened fire upon the enemy, steadily falling back to their original
position. This ended the day's engagement on my extreme left, and the Third Brigade of my
division fell back upon General McKean across the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, and were
ordered to report to me in Corinth, which they did about dark. All these movements were of the
greatest service to my command, by checking the advance of the enemy and giving ample time
to form at the final stand and more time to hope for re-enforcements. I, however, lost t he
valuable services of the Third Brigade for the day. If General McArthur's movement with these
troops had been assisted by the whole of McKean's division on the left and Hamilton's on the
right, by attacking the enemy's flanks and rear while Oglesby and Hackleman had attacked them
in front, the probabilities are that we should have bagged a large portion of Price's and Van
Dorn's army. General Hamilton informed me the reason why his division did not make a
substantial attack was that General Buford took a wrong road and threw his brigade from instead
of toward the enemy. This line at the forks of the road was not completed when a retrograde
movement was ordered, to form the fourth line of battle at the white house, 725 yards in front of
Fort Robinett. This position was selected as the only one from the Confederate breastworks
where the small force under my command had any hope of meeting the enemy with success. At
all other points it could have been flanked and surrounded by the host in the field before as.
Here, in the edge of the woods, the men could lay partially concealed from view, with an open
field in their front. The right flank was measurably protected by a swamp and the left by Forts
Robinett and Williams, at an easy range of from 800 to 1,000 yards. The artillery, too, had a
favorable location to rake the open field and to command the approaches by the road and through
the woods. It was but too evident that the whole army of Price and Van Dorn would soon make
its appearance and give us battle from the ominous stillness on my right and left flanks.
The following dispositions of troops to meet the emergency were made: Hackleman's
brigade, now numbering 1,211 men and officers, on the right, and his right nearly resting on the
Mobile and Ohio Railroad; General Oglesby's on Hackleman's left, with 576 men and officers;
the artillery, under command of Major Stone, eleven pieces, of all calibers, and 264 men and
officers. Total infantry, 1,787. Total artillerists, 264.
45
The day was intensely hot, and the men having been twelve hours under arms, many had
fallen from sheer exhaustion, sun-stroke, and other casualties.
The regiments were disposed in the following order, commencing from the right to the left:
Fifty-second Illinois, Second Iowa, Seventh Iowa, Twelfth Illinois, Eighty-first Ohio, Ninth
Illinois, eleven pieces of artillery, and the Union Brigade well over to the left and a little in front
and nearly over to the Memphis and Charleston road, to cover the left of the artillery. While the
troops were moving into position I received the following circular from General Rosecrans:
CIRCULAR.] 2 P. M.
For fear of a misunderstanding in relation to my orders, I wish it distinctly understood that
the extreme position is not to be taken till driven to it.
By order of Major-General Rosecrans:
S.C. LYFORD,
Acting Aide-de-Camp
The troops had just got their positions when the enemy presented themselves, moving
through the open field and the woods. We sent him a welcome in one of our 20-pounder guns, to
which politeness they returned the compliment. All of our eleven guns were soon at work, and
poured a steady stream, staggering their advancing column, not forgetting the artillery stationed
at a pleasant range in the vicinity of the house in the open field. The infantry essayed time and
again to advance and their artillery helped them in every way possible. The most murderous fire
on their column was kept up for one hour and a half, keeping the whole Confederate force at bay.
Twice our limbers were filled up with artillery ammunition, from a six-mule team running to
Corinth. The artillery ammunition failed, and the supply not coming up in time, Major Stone,
chief of artillery, ordered them to limber to the rear and came to me for orders. I told him to
proceed to Corinth with all dispatch, fill up with ammunition, and return and take the most
favorable position he could get in line with Fort Robinett. The artillery filed slowly to the rear,
men looking more like coal-heavers than soldiers, with perspiration streaming down their faces
blackened with gunpowder, and the wounded horses leaving a stream of blood in the road.
The artillery had fired, of all calibers, over 1,500 rounds of artillery ammunition, and still no
re-enforcements had arrived and no attack made on the right and left flanks and rear of the
enemy to support me. I again sent down to General Rosecrans asking for re-enforcements, telling
him I feared I could not hold my position unless they were sent.
I feel it my duty to state the reasons assigned by Colonel Du Bois, aide-de-camp to General
Rosecrans, why the reserve did not arrive earlier to our support. He said he could not find
General Stanley at his headquarters nor had he left any one to tell of his whereabouts, which
delayed the re-enforcements two hours.
I had successfully gained an hour and a half by the operations of the artillery, and its
withdrawal brought the enemy's column forward in steady line, firing as they advanced, and,
when within short range, the First Brigade as one man rose from its concealment and delivered a
most deadly volley into the enemy's lines. They fell like the leaves of autumn, staggered for a
moment, closed up their openings, and advanced again. Oglesby's brigade, in like manner with
Hackle-man's, gave them an oblique fire with proportionate effect. The foe, after a short and
sanguinary struggle, reeled, broke, and fled in dismay. Again they formed and advanced with
increased numbers. The rattle of musketry on both sides spoke plainer than words can do that a
most deadly and sanguinary struggle for victory was progressing. The enemy's fire was too high,
while our men planted their shots with great precision, and after a well-directed volley the order
was given to charge, when the enemy was forced back at the point of the bayonet with great
slaughter across the open field and into the woods beyond. They then received re-enforcements,
and, nothing daunted, again moved forward, and the fight between them and the First Brigade
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became terribly fierce and obstinate and again they were driven from our front. I here quote from
the very clear and able report of Colonel Sweeny the following:
Just at this juncture part of Mower's brigade moved up to our support, but before they could
be deployed into line they became panic-stricken and broke in confusion. It was while
endeavoring to rally these men that Generals Hackleman and Oglesby were wounded. The
former received his death-wound while thus rallying troops to sustain his gallant brigade. His last
words were, "I am dying, but I die for my country. If we are victorious, send my remains home;
if not, bury me on the field." No nobler sentiment was ever uttered by soldier or patriot. After he
fell the command of the brigade devolved upon me, and the fight continued with unabated fury
until our ammunition was almost expended; but by this time the enemy had almost disappeared
from our front, although it was evident he was massing his troops on our left for the purpose of
turning our flank. About this time a regiment of Colonel Mower's brigade relieved the Fiftysecond
Illinois, who were out of ammunition, and an order being received from General Davies a
few minutes after to fall back, we retired in good order and took up a position on the right of Fort
Robinett.
Here the chivalric and generous Hackleman and the gallant Oglesby fell, the former mortally
wounded and the latter supposed to be so. On some kind attentions being bestowed on the
bleeding Oglesby he said, "Never mind me; look yonder (pointing to the enemy); I have lived to
see my troops victorious." Here too the brave Colonel Baker met his fate while charging at the
head of his regiment. His last words were, "I die content. I have seen my regiment victoriously
charging the enemy." The Union Brigade being attacked in front, being on our extreme left, part
of them gave way. The remainder left a good record for themselves. The intensity of the firing on
our part may be judged of by the fact, as Colonel Sweeny reports, "The guns became so hot the
men could scarcely hold them and the cartridges prematurely exploded in the guns from heat."
This fact having been stated to him by several officers his reply was, "Let them burst; there is no
time to cool off now."
About the time that the enemy had been repulsed a second time the head of Colonel Mower's
column appeared at the white house. He soon came to report to me. I ordered him to form his
brigade in rear of our line.
It becoming apparent, from the fire of the enemy having ceased in our front and other
evidences, that they were massing their troops to turn our left flank through the woods, and the
position being unfavorable to meet such a movement except at great disadvantage, I ordered a
retrograde movement of the troops 725 yards, being 675 yards from the railroad in Corinth, and
form fifth line of battle on Fort Robinett. The movement was executed at common time, no
enemy appearing to interfere. The artillery by this time had been to Corinth, filled up with
ammunition, and taken up their position in obedience to orders. The infantry were disposed in
line of battle, stretching across the abatis to the right, the left supporting the artillery, resting on
the Memphis and Charleston Railroad. We heard nothing more of the enemy, excepting a few
straggling shots, till just sundown, when he sent forward a small reconnaissance upon the
Columbus road. My artillery stationed on the railroad opened upon them, and at the same time
Mower's battery gave them a little canister. These few shots sent them to the rear flying, and we
saw no more of the enemy that night. Thus ended the hard work of Friday, October 3, and the
battle of the white house.
I regret exceedingly that I had not the advice and suggestions of our commanding general on
this day, but with the exception of the orders heretofore referred to in this report I do not
remember to have received any. The exhausted troops now sank to rest and silence reigned, a
striking contrast to the day's din of battle.
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I visited Corinth to look after the wounded. In one room I found my three brigade
commanders. General Hackleman breathed his last while I was with him. General Oglesby was
undergoing most excruciating pain. Colonel Baldwin was sickened from the effects of his
wounds. The Tishomingo Hotel was crowded with the wounded and dying of my command. I
then reported to Major-General Rosecrans, and stated to him that the services of my three
brigadier-generals were lost, many of my officers were killed and wounded and the men worn
out with fatigue, and that he must not depend upon my command on the following day, although
the men would do all they could. He therefore ordered me into the reserve for October 4, and to
take up my position east of the town, near Major-General Ord's headquarters. The order was
executed before 12 o'clock. About 11 o'clock General Hamilton called upon me and delivered an
order from General Rosecrans that my division should occupy an earthwork on the line of battle
on the northwest of the town, facing the Purdy road.
I am satisfied from the accounts given by rebel prisoners and other sources that the Second
Division, Army of West Tennessee, had to contend with the combined forces of Van Dorn and
Price during this day. Their loss must have been very heavy, as I was informed by surgeons and
prisoners that they were conveying their dead and wounded to the rear during the whole of
Friday night, and in corroboration of this view I extract the following from Southern papers:
MOBILE, October 8.--A special to the Advertiser and Register, dated Tupelo, 7th, says:
"Having driven in the enemy's skirmishers, the combined forces of Van Dorn and Price attacked
them in their intrenchments at 9 a.m. on Friday, driving them out and capturing nine pieces of
artillery [should be three]. They continued slowly driving them back till night-fall. Our loss was
heavy during the day. Phifer's and Green's brigades suffered most. General Martin was killed.
Colonels MacFarlane, Erwin, and Moore were seriously wounded."
It has been ascertained by prisoners that General Martin was killed at the charge against
General Oglesby's brigade at the Confederate breastworks, and that the whole charge numbered
16,000 men, in three columns.
Our loss in the First and Second Brigades in casualties was about one-third of the number
engaged. In Colonel Baldwin's the casualties were light. Our loss was particularly heavy in
officers of high rank and commissioned officers.
SECOND DAY, OCTOBER 4.
In obedience to orders I moved my command to the position assigned. On account of the
difficulty of waking up the worn-out men the movement occupied the balance of the night, and
the last two guns were going into position in the earthwork when the enemy opened their
batteries upon the town a little before daybreak. Finding that they were within easy range of my
guns, and seeing the flash of their guns through the woods lying between me and their position, I
ordered Lieutenant Green to open upon them with his battery of 10-pounder Parrott guns, using
shells with 5-second fuses, throwing them so far as just to clear the tops of the trees in front. This
had the effect of slackening their fire. I then ordered 6-second fuses, and the enemy's batteries
ceased firing altogether about midway between daybreak and sunup.
The position assigned to the command was from the north garden fence of the house in rear
of earthwork, and the earthwork pierced for six guns, and an irregular line running along and
across the Purdy road to within 250 yards of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad (see map). The
distance was just half a mile. Colonel Sweeny was in command of Hackleman's brigade, Colonel
Mersy of Oglesby's brigade, and Colonel Du Bois, who arrived upon the ground about 8 o'clock,
was assigned to the command of Colonel Baldwin's brigade.
The following disposition of troops was made for the defense of this line: The Ninth Illinois
was stationed in the yard of the house on the right; two pieces of artillery on the right of the
earthwork and in front of the house; the heavy artillery in the earthwork, and the remainder of the
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artillery stationed near a white house, about midway of the position occupied by Colonel
Sweeny's brigade on the left of the earthwork, and Colonel Du Bois on his left, his right resting
near the Purdy road and his left resting 250 yards from the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, and the
Twelfth Illinois and Eighty-first Ohio were held in reserve.
The strength of the division taken into action on October 4 was as follows: Colonel Sweeny,
commanding First Brigade, had 936 men and officers; Colonel Mersy, commanding Second
Brigade, had 634 men and officers; Colonel Du Bois, commanding Third Brigade, had 713 men
and officers; eleven pieces of artillery, under command of Major Stone, 233 men and officers.
Total infantry, 2,283 men and officers. Total artillerists, 233 men and officers.
The Fourteenth Missouri, Twenty-second Ohio, two companies of infantry, all of the cavalry,
and one battery were detailed from the division in and about Corinth.
The Union Brigade, having lost its commander, was pretty much broken up and many of the
men with the division were unable to do duty from exhaustion and casualties the day before.
The number of infantry upon the front line was 1,877 men and officers; and the number in
reserve was 406 men and officers.
Colonel Sweeny's brigade was formed upon the summit of a very gentle slope toward the
Purdy road and to the woods on our front, with no protection. Colonel Du Bols' brigade, which
relieved General McArthur's brigade, was formed behind a few logs that had been thrown up
beyond the Purdy road, and the ground on his front was nearly level. On my right flank was
formed Hamilton's division, Sullivan's brigade being directly on my right flank, and Buford's
brigade formed on his right, and facing to the northeast, being directly in rear of my command.
Dillon's battery was stationed about 200 yards north of the earthwork that I defended and was
supported by some infantry. Two regiments of infantry of this brigade were in line of battle
facing north, their left resting about 400 yards directly in rear of breastworks. Here we waited till
about 9 o'clock, when some skirmishers were sent out on my front. The Seventh Iowa and
Seventh Illinois were moved forward to their support. Skirmishing becoming very sharp I
ordered them back into line. The skirmishers, too, soon returned in sight. I ordered them to get
out of the way, that I might open upon the enemy with the artillery. They had reached the creek,
about 350 yards from the line. The artillery opened in full cry over their heads and upon the
advancing column of the enemy, which now became plainly visible on the rise of ground in the
woods opposite and at a range varying from 500 to 800 yards, the infantry having all been
ordered to lie down. The column steadily advanced, firing as they came, and when within about
300 yards some few of the infantry fired, and one in particular, whose name I shall take great
pains to find out, fired his piece in the air, ducked his head, and ran to the rear. A very few of
those who fired followed his example, and I only regret that I was not near enough to the
cowards to have shot them down, as I had shot at two the day before on leaving the line under
similar circumstances. All the men upon the line remained at their work, firing steadily and
doing well, when that portion of Sullivan's brigade on our right, and which protected the right
flank, gave way, and the limbers and caissons of Dillon's battery came down the road leading
directly in rear of the house upon the full jump, running toward the town parallel with Colonel
Sweeny's brigade, presenting rather an alarming appearance. The heads of the horses of the
limbers and caissons of my artillery were about on a line with the road, and they became
frightened and unmanageable, floundered about, and those of one or two limbers and a caisson
ran away and joined in the race, all of them running through my reserve (the Twelfth Illinois and
Eighty-first Ohio), running down several of the men, injuring 12 in the Eighty-first Ohio and 9 in
the Twelfth Illinois, and throwing the two regiments into confusion. This communicated a
stampede in the ammunition wagons in the hollow in the rear of the line, and they too started on
the run to the rear. They were quickly brought into order by the members of my staff and myself
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and continued moving slowly to the rear. The guns of Dillon's battery having fallen into the
hands of the enemy, and the enemy pressing very closely upon the earthwork, the officers in
charge endeavored to limber up the heavy guns and lighter pieces, but the space was so small in
the earthwork that, although some of the limbers had nearly succeeded in attaching to the guns,
the horses were so restless and frightened and the enemy pressing so close (within 20 yards) that
the pieces were abandoned and the limbers and caissons made their escape. They passed down
the same road taken by Dillon's limbers and caissons, but Green's battery, farther down the line,
limbered up and retired in order. The artillery moving to the rear and parallel to my lines, and
most of it, including Dillon's, on the keen run, had a very demoralizing effect upon the stability
of the infantry line. The Confederates had now gained the earthwork, turned the flank of the
Ninth Illinois in the yard of the house in the rear, and came in on my right flank, between the
redoubt and the house and in the rear of it, and opened an enfilading fire upon Colonel Sweeny's
brigade. The troops of the Second Division, I regret to say, fell back, beginning from the right of
the line to the left, some earlier than others. The troops of Colonel Sweeny's brigade and the
reserve retired, firing as they went, the reserve 175 yards from their line, and were rallied by
Captain Lovell. Most of Colonel Du Bois' brigade fell back 75 yards and some of it farther. The
Confederates took possession of the earthwork, captured the seven guns left in it, and held our
whole line. Some few of them advanced beyond it some 50 yards, but the troops, having
gallantly rallied, drove back the enemy with slaughter, recaptured the guns, charged the enemy
from the whole line, directing a most murderous fire upon them, punishing them most severely
for their temerity, and in the most splendid style made, I think, a suitable apology for, and
corrected, unassisted, their fault. They continued to charge upon the enemy, cheering and yelling,
till the line had marched 150 yards in front, when Chapman's battery, on the east of the town,
continued a rapid and well-directed fire upon the ground which he supposed the rebels still
occupied, and with such rapidity was solid shot and shell thrown in that it arrested the progress
of Colonel Sweeny's brigade; and although many of our men were killed by the shell and shot
they never wavered, but halted and stood their ground. Seven or eight of these passed directly
over my head, and one very close, brushing my adjutant-general, Captain Lovell, on the right
arm and raising a contusion, and taking off the legs of two of my brave soldiers directly in his
front. Several men of Colonel Du Bois' brigade were also killed by the solid shot and shell from
Chapman's battery. The fire of the battery seemed at first to be directed toward this point, and
prevented the prompt rallying of that brigade. Those who had rallied and made the stand 75
yards from that line were prevented for a time from advancing by the continuous fall of these
missiles in their front and midst, several of Colonel Babcock's (Seventh Illinois) regiment being
killed in this way on the rally. I sent two orderlies in succession to the commander of this battery,
begging him to reserve his fire for the enemy.
When the advancing line had reached the earthwork and recaptured it Captain Lovell, my
adjutant-general, sprang from his horse, captured 5 prisoners in the ditch, and, with the assistance
of one of Colonel Sweeny's men and one bugler of the First Missouri Artillery, manned a 20-
pounder rifled gun, and fired ten or twelve shots at the retreating enemy before the artillerists
returned to their posts.
The enemy did not gain the town on the line assigned to this division to defend, but came in
on the left, over the railroad. The distance from my extreme left to the railroad is 250 yards and
another clear space over the railroad of the same distance or more. The distance from my left to
the railroad was increased to 350 yards by Colonel Du Bois moving the Fifty-seventh Illinois on
the right of his brigade to cover the Purdy road. The two regiments of General Sullivan's brigade,
the left of which rested about 200 yards to the rear of the earthwork on the right of my line and
perpendicular to it, stood fast until the earthwork was retaken, when they made a charge to the
50
north, directly to their front. Lieutenant Miller, Twelfth Illinois, on the advance to retake the
earthwork, seized the colors of the Fifty-second Illinois, whose color-bearer had been shot down,
and planted them on the earthwork.
Colonel Johnson's Confederate brigade now made its appearance out of the woods and made
a second charge in front of my line. They were received with a murderous fire. Colonel Johnson
being killed and falling from his horse, the brigade broke, and the last of the charge against
Corinth was enacted. The brave and noble bearing of the Confederate troops in this charge is
deserving of a better cause. Thirteen Confederate soldiers were found dead in the little ditch of
the earthwork.
A new line was now formed, and in half an hour from the first assault the men were in their
places and I was furnished with four regiments to form a reserve line. The troops stacked their
arms, and when it was ascertained that the enemy had abandoned the idea of further attack the
regiments bivouacked for the night.
Total loss in the artillery arm was one 20-pounder rifled gun, one 24-pounder howitzer, and
one 10-pounder rifled gun, with fixtures complete, 3 caissons, and 131 horses. The casualties in
the division during October 3 and 4 amounted to 114 killed, 705 wounded, 23 sun-stroke, and
159 missing. Total casualties, 1,001.
The following regiments captured prisoners and stand of colors, viz: Seventh Illinois, 74
prisoners; Fiftieth Illinois, 2 officers, 149 prisoners, and 1 stand of colors; Fifty-seventh Illinois,
3 officers, 119 prisoners, and 2 stand of colors; Eighty-first Ohio, 71 prisoners; Fourteenth
Missouri, 78 prisoners; Twelfth Illinois. 40 prisoners and I stand of colors; Twenty-second Ohio,
20 prisoners and 2 stand of colors; Ninth Illinois, 15 prisoners; Fifty-second Illinois, 81 prisoners
(among them 1 colonel, 2 captains, and 2 lieutenants) and 1 stand of colors; Seventh Iowa, 6
prisoners and I stand of colors; Second Iowa, 31 prisoners and 1 stand of colors. Lieutenant
Davidson, Fifty-second Illinois, on Colonel a Sweeny's staff, also captured one stand of colors.
The division in the pursuit captured 78 prisoners. Colonel Burke reports that there were left on
the ground in front of the division, wounded and taken away by the ambulances, and which
prisoners were captured by the division, 693, making a grand total of 1,460 prisoners captured by
the division. Ten stand of colors were captured by the division.
THE PURSUIT.
Pursuant to order the division moved on Sunday morning, October 5, and joined in the
pursuit, the position of the division being in the rear, and on account of the slow motion of the
column and some of the divisions having taken the wrong roads we made but 7 miles advance
that day.
Next morning we moved forward to Chewalla, Colonel Sweeny and Colonel Du Bois
reconnoitering the two fords on the Tuscumbia. I had orders to take charge of public property
abandoned and to make a report, herewith attached. We then moved forward to Tuscumbia and
encamped all night.
Next day we moved to within 2 miles of Jonesborough, across the Hatchie.
The next day we were ordered forward to Ruckersville to support, which we did. We
remained there two days, and were ordered to return to our camp at Corinth by the way of Davis'
Bridge.
While absent our camps were attacked by guerrillas, and I embody the report of H. F. Olds,
wagon-master of the Union Brigade:
CAMP UNION BRIGADE, October 15, 1862.
Sunday evening, October 5, about 3 o'clock, a party of guerrillas, numbering about 100,
made an attack upon the camp of the Union Brigade. There was at the time a number of
convalescents and teamsters in camp. I arrived in camp just as the news came that they were
51
coming. We rallied about 18 men and repulsed them, killing 4 and wounding 3 others. Our loss
was 1 teamster, wounded in the thigh severely.
Respectfully,
H. F. OLDS,
Regimental Wagon-Master, Union Brigade.
It gives me great pleasure to bear testimony to the gallant conduct of Brigadier-Generals
Hackleman and Oglesby on the field. Colonel Baldwin being wounded early in the action,
presents his own record. Colonel Sweeny, commanding First Brigade, behaved in the most
gallant manner throughout, and should be immediately promoted. Colonel Du Bois, though a
very superior officer, had but little opportunity to display his abilities. Captain Lovell behaved in
the most gallant and daring manner, rallying the reserve and bringing them forward to the
charge; turning artillerist at a critical moment with great effect; carrying orders through showers
of bullets, and in various ways proving himself a brave and useful man. I should be glad to see
him in command of a brigade. Colonel Rice I wish particularly to mention for gallant and
meritorious conduct on the field.' Colonel Mersy, of the Ninth Illinois, when Oglesby's brigade
was attacked by an overwhelming force, made a splendid movement with his regiment, which
saved much, but at the cost of many of his officers and men. Colonel Babcock and Lieutenant-
Colonel Rowett, of the Seventh Illinois; Lieutenant-Colonel Swarthout, of the Fiftieth Illinois,
and Major Forsse, of the Fifty-seventh Illinois, behaved in a gallant manner. Colonel Burke,
commanding Fourteenth Missouri (Western Sharpshooters), of this division, although not under
my command, proved himself to be a brave and gallant soldier, having his horse shot seven times
while in command of skirmishers in the enemy's advance. Captain Hanna, as usual, showed
himself to be a brave and gallant man and worthy of promotion; also Lieutenant-Colonel Parrott,
Seventh Iowa Volunteers. Lieutenant Miller, of the Twelfth Illinois, most gallantly seized the
colors of the Fifty-second Illinois when the color-bearer was shot down during the charge to
recapture our line, and placed them upon the earthwork. Acting Lieut. George N. Barr, Fiftyseventh
Illinois, Colonel Du Bois mentions as having particularly distinguished himself.
The color and standard bearers of this division and the color guard performed their duty and
showed great bravery, nor was there a color or standard of this division in the hands of the
enemy save one, that of the Union Brigade, which was captured, but most gallantly retaken by
Lieutenant Maxwell.
All the artillery officers, including Major Stone, chief of artillery, and the men behaved in a
most cool and judicious manner, sustaining the reputation gained at Wilson's Creek. They proved
a most efficient arm, having fired during the two days' engagement 2,155 rounds of ammunition.
I could extend the list to many other brave and gallant men and should scarce know where to
stop, and with the exception of the fault which they committed but speedily rectified, they
behaved throughout the two days' action in a most brave and gallant manner.
To Him who guides the destinies of men and nations may all praise be given for our
victories, and may those who hold temporary power under Him freshen the laurels of the brave
dead and spread the fame of the wounded living.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOS. A. DAVIES,
Brigadier-General, Comdg. Second Div., Army of West Tenn
Colonel KENNETT,
Chief of Staff.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND IOWA INFANTRY,
Rienzi, Miss., October 5, 1862.
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SIR: In compliance with your order I have the honor of submitting the following report of the
part taken by the Second Iowa Infantry Regiment in the engagement which took place at Corinth,
Miss., on the 3d and 4th instant:
The Second Iowa Regiment went into the battle on the morning of the 3d instant,
commanded by Col. James Baker, with 3 field, 2 staff, and 21 line officers, and 320 enlisted
men, making an aggregate of 346.
In the first day's battle, near white house, which was most stubbornly contested, the loss in
said regiment was very heavy, particularly in the officers. In this action 3 lieutenants were killed,
to wit, First Lieut. John G. Huntington, of Company B; First Lieut. Thomas Snowden, of
Company I, and First Lieut. Alfred Bing, of Company C; enlisted men, Corpl. Wesley H.
Henderson, privates John W. Dunn, Marion French, and James C. Manswell, making a total of 7
killed. Wounded, Colonel Baker, mortally, and Second Lieut. V. T. Twombly, severely; enlisted
men, 31; missing, 2; making an aggregate of 42 killed, wounded, and missing on the first day's
engagement.
In the engagement of the 4th Second Lieut. George W. Neal (Company H); Corpls. Henry A.
Seiberleich, A. Stevenson, and Jacob M. Males; Privates John W. King, John W. Klough, W. W.
K. Harper, W. M. Summers, Charles E. Walker, John W. Downs, and Franklin Prouty were
killed. Wounded, Lieut. Col. Noah W. Mills, mortally; Capt. N. B. Howard, Company I, slightly;
First Lieut. C. C. Parker, Company F, severely; Second Lieut. George Blake, Company K,
dangerously; Second Lieut. Frank M. Suiter, Company B, severely. Enlisted men, 44 missing
and I taken at Camp Montgomery on the 5th instant. Killed, wounded, and missing during both
days engagements: Killed, commissioned officers, 4; enlisted men, 13; wounded, commissioned
officers, 7 (2 mortally); enlisted men, 75; missing, 9; making an aggregate loss of 108.
In this protracted and desperate engagement, in many respects the most desperate of the war,
the officers and men displayed the most laudable gallantry and heroism. Colonel Baker fell
mortally wounded on the first day at the very time his regiment was charging upon the retreating
rebels with the greatest enthusiasm and fury. He remarked, as he was being borne off the field,
"Thank God! when I fell my regiment was victoriously charging." Lieutenant-Colonel Mills was
wounded in the second day's engagement while fighting with the most conspicuous courage and
coolness. He was loath to leave the field. Better or truer officers never fought. Exposed to every
danger, they were ever conspicuous for their cool, daring courage, and the ardor of their souls,
blended with pure love for their country, beamed from their countenances and hung about them.
"Like the bright iris o'er the boiling surge," Colonel Baker expired on the morning of the 7th
instant at 11 o'clock, and Lieutenant-Colonel Mills on the 12th instant at-- o'clock. May their
memory ever be cherished by their countrymen.
Lieutenants Huntington, Bing, Snowden, and Neal fell at their posts fighting like heroes.
They died as it becomes the patriot--for their country. Fully as much can be said of the enlisted
men who fell. All honor to their memory.
Among those who distinguished themselves was Adjt. George L. Godfrey, who could always
be seen and heard charging along the line upon his horse, shouting to the men to be steady and
cool. He is one of the most valuable young officers whom I have ever met.
Captains Cowles, McCullough, Mastick, Howard, Ensign, and Davis were marked instances
of bravery and efficiency, and reflected great credit upon themselves and their command.
Captain Holmes, on account of wounds received in battle of Fort Donelson, was unable to
take command of his company during the engagement.
Conspicuous for bravery were Lieutenants Parker, Duffield, Marsh, Wilson, Tisdale, Suiter,
Hall, Blake, Duckworth, Ballinger, Twombly, and McCoid.
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After Lieutenants Parker and Twombly of Company F were wounded Sergt. James Terry
took charge of the company, and he displayed marked efficiency and courage. Likewise, after the
fall of Lieutenants Huntington and Suiter of Company B, Sergeant Lewis, acting lieutenant, took
charge of the company, and rendered most satisfactory service.
Too much credit cannot be bestowed upon our excellent first assistant surgeon, Elliott Pyle,
then in charge of the medical department of the regiment (he was most indefatigable in his
attention to the wounded), nor upon our quartermaster, Lieut. John Lynde, who was ever present
upon the field, to supply the wants of the men.
Sergeant-Major Campbell distinguished himself throughout the battle for coolness and
bravery. Color Sergt. Harvey Doolittle, while supporting the colors, was again wounded, and
Color Corpls. Henry A. Seiberleith, G. C. Phillips, G. B. Norris, J. C. Wise, and John H. Stewart
were all wounded while supporting the old flag.
I join with you and my countrymen in the deepest feelings of regret for the gallant slain.
These sacrifices make our Constitution still more valuable to the civilized world. And while we
mourn their loss, we can unite in rejoicing that they died like true heroes--for their beloved
country. How precious their memories, how sacred their dust! They died at once in the same
cause of Christianity and constitutional liberty, and, excepting the offering of the heart to God,
we can exclaim with Thomas Moore:
"Oh! if there is upon this terrestrial sphere
A boon, an offering, which Heaven holds dear,
'Tie the last libation liberty draws
From a heart that bleeds and dies in its cause."
After the fall of Lieutenant-Colonel Hills, which took place about 9 o'clock on Saturday:, the
command devolved upon myself.
There were 31 prisoners and 1 stand of colors captured by the regiment.
I have the honor to be, colonel, your most obedient servant,
JAMES B. WEAVER,
Major, Commanding.
Col. T. W. SWEENY,
Comdg. First Brig., Second Div., Army of West Tennessee.
HDQRS. SEVENTH REGT. IOWA INFANTRY VOLS.,
Rienzi, Miss., October 10, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Seventh
Regiment Iowa Infantry in the battle of Corinth on October 3 and 4:
On the morning of the 3d I received the order of Brigadier-General Hackleman, commanding
the First Brigade, Second Division, Army of the Tennessee, to march my command from Camp
Montgomery via Corinth in the direction of Chewalla. I left camp with 327 men and 26 officers,
my largest company (K) being on detached service, guarding the railroad, 5 miles east of
Corinth. Line of battle was formed 1 mile west of Corinth, with my regiment on the left of the
brigade. This line was changed to one three-quarters of a mile in front (west). After this line was
formed I was ordered to proceed with my regiment and one section of the First Missouri Light
Artillery and reconnoiter the front as far as the old line of breastworks. I moved my command
cautiously and gained the position designated without discovering the enemy, placed the battery
in favorable position, with my regiment to support it, and dispatched my adjutant to report the
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result of the reconnaissance. The whole division then advanced, and my command was again on
the left of the brigade.
About 1 p.m. a successful charge was made by the enemy on the fortifications defended by
the brigade on my left. Our position was flanked, and I was ordered to move my command about
one-half mile to the rear, where line of battle was again formed. This line was soon changed to
one still farther to the rear, and I was ordered to support the battery. I placed my command in
favorable position immediately on the right of the battery and ordered my men to lie down. The
enemy's battery was placed directly in front of my command, and a most terrific cannonading
ensued. My men held this position firmly and unflinchingly for one hour and a quarter exposed
to a murderous fire of shell and canister. Our battery, having exhausted its ammunition, retired,
and the rebel infantry advanced in strong force. My men were kept concealed until the enemy
advanced to within short range, when I opened fire upon them from my whole line and for a time
held them in check. They soon rallied, and I was ordered to take position farther to the rear. The
enemy moved on, our whole brigade made a sudden charge, and the enemy were again checked,
thrown into some confusion, and repulsed. This gave an opportunity to take a more favorable
position, and another line was formed between the white house and Battery Robinett at a point
where the two howitzers were posted. This position was held until most of the wounded had
passed to the rear and my ammunition was entirely exhausted, when, by order of General Davies,
my command was placed to support a battery on the left of Battery Robinett. Gaining this
position, I immediately supplied my men with 40 rounds of ammunition. Sight coming on, the
battle of the 3d was ended and I had lost many noble men.
At 10 p.m. I received Colonel Sweeny's order to proceed with my command to a position east
of Corinth, and at, 1 o'clock the following morning my regiment was moved to a line north of
Corinth, when a line of battle was formed fronting west, my position in the brigade being still on
the left. At 3.30 o'clock the enemy's artillery commenced shelling the town, and at about 10
o'clock I was ordered to proceed with my command to the front and deploy it as skirmishers.
This deployment was made and the two center companies held as a reserve. After advancing a
short distance I ascertained that the enemy were crossing the railroad in force to a position on the
right. I immediately dispatched Lieutenant-Colonel Parrott to General Davies with this
information, who at once ordered me to return to my former position. I had but gained it for a
short time when the enemy appeared and charged on the battery defended by the brigade on the
right of the first. The brigade on my left was attacked at the same time. I opened a vigorous
oblique fire on the enemy charging the battery and continued it until General Rosecrans ordered
me to cease firing. Soon the brigade on my left fell back. The enemy gaining position on my left
flank, I was ordered to retire a short distance. I halted my command about 50 yards in the rear.
An advance was soon ordered, and I immediately gained the position just abandoned and the
enemy was driven into the woods. They made another attempt, directly in front of my regiment,
to charge the battery. My men held their position firmly, checking the enemy, who took refuge
from the storm of bullets which was rained upon them in the abatis. The Seventeenth Iowa
coming up on my left flank, I advanced rapidly upon the rebel position, when they broke and ran
in great confusion. My command had fired the whole of the 40 rounds of cartridges with which it
had been supplied in the morning, but was immediately supplied, without leaving the field, by
my excellent quartermaster, Lieutenant Forsha, who, regardless of personal safety, was ever
ready to supply my command with ammunition even in the heat of battle. I remained in position
during the balance of the day and at night bivouacked on the battle-field.
The following morning I received orders to move on the road toward Chewalla in pursuit of
the enemy. When about 3 miles from Corinth I was ordered to report with my command to
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General Rosecrans. By his order I bivouacked for the night at the college. The day following I
was ordered 2 miles south of Corinth, and on the 7th of this month was ordered to this post.
Those in the battle, with few exceptions, stood nobly with their colors, dealing death and
destruction to the enemy and only leaving their place when severely wounded or ordered to
change position.
I must make special mention of Lieutenant-Colonel Parrott, who with great bravery and
coolness cheered and encouraged the men to renewed vigor. Nothing but the most undaunted
courage and bitter determination could have been successful for a moment in holding in check
the overwhelming numbers that pressed down upon us on the 3d. Yet with our little band the
enemy were twice checked and repulsed.
Before we were ordered to the last line on Friday my ammunition was entirely exhausted.
It is with pleasure I make favorable mention of almost all my officers who were engaged in
the two days' battle. Major McMullen did efficient service until he was wounded and disabled on
the evening of the 3d. Captain Conn, although wounded, remained with his command through
both days' battle. Captains Hedges and Mahon, left in camp sick, left their beds and came on the
battle-field on Saturday, and did efficient service. Their companies were well commanded Friday
by Lieutenants Dillin and Sergeant. Lieutenant Gale displayed great gallantry, and was very
severely wounded in the battle of the 4th, after which the company was bravely led by
Lieutenant Morrison. Captains Irvin and Reineger also performed their duties nobly. I must also
mention Lieutenants Hope, Loughridge, Irwin, McCormick, Bennett, and Bess. Captain Smith,
who was killed in the last hour of the battle of the 4th, was one of the most promising young
officers of the service. He was brave, cool, and deliberate in battle, and very efficient in all his
duties. Color Sergt. Aleck Field was wounded in the bat-tie of the 3d. Afterward the colors were
borne by William Akers, of Company G, who was also wounded. They were then carried by
George Craig, of Company B, all the color guard, with the exception of one, being either killed
or wounded. Sergeant-Major Cameron, severely wounded, must not escape favorable mention
for his bravery and valuable duties upon the field.
While it is a pleasure to record the noble and heroic conduct of so many of my officers and
men we mourn the loss of our gallant dead, sympathizing deeply with the unfortunate wounded.
More than one-third of those taken into action are wounded or lie dead beneath the battle-field.
With this sad record we can send to Iowa the gratifying word that her unfortunate sons fell with
their faces to the enemy, battling gloriously for their country's holy cause.
Surgeon Lake (to whom I am indebted for the remarkable healthy condition of my command)
and his assistant labored day and night to alleviate the sufferings of the wounded.
We captured a number of prisoners and one stand of rebel colors. The death of Brigadier-
General Hackleman cast a gloom over all who were under his command. His coolness, bravery,
and eminent ability secured for him the entire confidence and esteem of all under his command,
and I beg leave to express for my command the entire confidence they repose in yourself and
Brigadier-General Davies.
With sentiments of high regard, colonel, I am, very truly, your obedient servant,
ELLIOTT W. RICE,
Colonel Seventh Iowa Infantry.
Col. T. W. SWEENY,
Commanding First Brigade, Second Division.
On the 2d of October the brigade was ordered to fall back toward Corinth across the
Tuscumbia River, which was promptly obeyed, and we encamped 4 miles north of Danville that
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evening. At 8 o'clock on the morning of the 3d were ordered to send back a company to destroy
the bridge over the Tuscumbia River and immediately join General Hackleman's brigade at
Camp Montgomery. Before reaching this point the whole division had left, and, judging from the
heavy cannonading, which could be distinctly heard, had already engaged the rebels, but
hastening forward to the front we came up with our division about 2 miles northwest of Corinth
on the Chewalla road, to which point they had retired and a new line of battle was then being
formed. The Union Brigade was thrown forward into an open wood at right angles with the road;
here the men were ordered to lie down in line, and remained there at least an hour, the enemy's
shot and shell ranging from right to left of our whole line, but, fortunately for us, the elevation of
their guns was too great to do us much damage. None of our men were killed, but several
severely wounded.
The artillery which had during this time engaged the rebels at this point retired rapidly
toward Corinth, and our division was drawn up in line parallel to and nearly on the road,
occupying the same ground from which the artillery had just retired. The Union Brigade was
posted on the extreme left of the division, and had but barely got into position when the firing
began with much fierceness on both sides. The men went into the action with the coolness of
veterans and stood manfully until, the enemy emerging from the woods in front massed in
largely superior forces and also attempting to turn our left flank, a portion of our left gave way
across the road and, taking covert behind some of the trees, continued to pour a rapid and heavy
fire into the rebels. The right of our division had already fallen back, and from the overwhelming
force now on our flank as well as in front were obliged also to retire for a time in good order, and
were finally rallied and brought into line in the rear of Fort Robinett with the rest of the division.
This day was one of the hottest of the season and very dry and dusty; the men having
marched about 8 miles, many of them were completely exhausted, suffered much with heat and
thirst, and fell by the way from exhaustion and sun-stroke. We lost this day Lieutenant Tichenor,
a meritorious young officer of the Eighth Iowa, who was killed, and Lieutenant Palmer, of the
Twelfth, shot through the chest and left for dead on the field. He is, however, likely to recover.
Several non-commissioned officers and privates were also killed and wounded.
Here our division rested until between 9 and 10 o'clock, when they were marched to the
eastern side of Corinth, and at 3 o'clock in the morning took position in line on the left of the fort
north of the place, the left resting on the town and the right on the battery south of the fort, our
brigade occupying nearly a central position in the line. Soon after reaching this point the enemy
opened fire from their artillery upon the town and Fort Robinett, which was replied to by our
guns and kept up with terrible vigor till daylight, when the rebel guns seemed to slacken fire and
ceased entirely soon after. No great damage was done by their fire, but some of their guns were
silenced and taken. About 8 o'clock the whole force of the enemy marched upon our lines. In
front of our division they could be seen steadily approaching under a most terrible fire of both
artillery and musketry, but which gave them no apparent check. Finally the battery on the right of
our division rapidly retired; soon after most of the line fell back, some portions of which could
not be rallied, but the greater part returned, and with the reserve aided in securing a complete
victory. Among the troops rallying to close the fight the Union Brigade was fully represented.
The officers and men of the Union Brigade, with some few exceptions, behaved manfully, and
the list of killed and wounded shows that in proportion to the number engaged they suffered as
severely as any other regiment in the field.
Casualties of the brigade please find appended.
On the morning of the 5th of October the Union Brigade, under command of Captain Kittel,
of the Fifty-eighth Illinois, acting major, started with the division in pursuit of the rebels as far as
57
Ruckersville, Miss., when the force was ordered back to Corinth, where they arrived on the 13th,
after a fatiguing march of eight days.
On the 20th of November the Fifty eighth Illinois was detached and was no longer a part of
the brigade. The command then devolved upon Captain Webb. At this place it remained doing
garrison duty. On the 11th of December I returned to Corinth, having nearly recovered from the
wound received there on the 4th of October, and assumed command. On the 17th day of
December I received the following order from General Dodge, viz:
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 62.
HEADQUARTERS DIVISION OF CORINTH,
Corinth, Miss., December 17, 1862.
The formation known as the Union Brigade is hereby dissolved. The Eighth, Twelfth, and
Fourteenth Iowa Infantry will proceed to Iowa to-morrow, the 18th instant, under the charge and
command of Lieutenant-Colonel Coulter, and report to Adjt. Gen. N.B. Baker, of Iowa, for
reorganization. All men on detached service, except those in the First Missouri Light Artillery,
will immediately report to their regiments. All Government property and camp equipage will be
turned over to the post quartermaster.
G. M. DODGE,
Brigadier-General.
L. H. EVERTS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
GEO. M. REEDER,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
On the morning of the 18th, agreeably to the above order, the Eighth, Twelfth, and
Fourteenth Iowa Regiments embarked on the railroad train for Columbus and Iowa, with the
pleasing prospect before them of soon reaching their place of destination, with the hope of
grasping friendly hands and enjoying for a brief space of time the endearments of kindred and
loved ones at home. But war had not yet "smoothed his wrinkled front," nor were these fond
anticipations to be immediately realized, for on reaching Jackson, about noon of that day, it was
reported that the rebel Forrest, with a large force of cavalry and several pieces of artillery, were
in that immediate neighborhood, and that an attack might be hourly expected. Colonel Lawler,
the commander of the post, ordered my command to disembark, to aid in repelling the enemy.
The order was of course obeyed, although many doubted the authority. I felt it clearly my duty,
and it was soon acquiesced in by all, and the men turned out cheerfully to the performance of
whatever work might be before us. Soon after getting into line details for picket and guard duty
were made from our regiment, amounting to two-thirds of our whole force present, and the
remainder were assigned to the defense of the depot building, containing a large amount of
Government stores, with instructions to "defend to the last extremity, and if overpowered fire
and blow up the buildings and retire to the court-house." The first part of the order we were
determined to fill to the letter, which we thought would render the obeying of the latter part
unnecessary. We remained at Jackson until Sunday evening, the 21st, employed as on the first
day. In the mean time large re-enforcements had arrived, and the rebels, being satisfied with the
feint upon Jackson, proceeded northward, and destroyed a large part of the railroad in their route,
taking all the towns and nearly all the posts for guard and defense of the road from Jackson to
near Columbus. On Sunday evening we were ordered forward with the Thirty-ninth Iowa and
two Illinois regiments toward Humboldt, under command of General Haynie, reaching one of the
destroyed bridges about 8 o'clock in the evening, turned out, and after pickets were placed, laid
down upon the ground to obtain what rest and sleep circumstances would permit. We rebuilt the
bridge on Monday, and that night reached Humboldt. My command was ordered back to Forked
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Deer River Bridge, 3 or 4 miles from Humboldt, being assured by the general in command that
we would be attacked before morning. No rebels having appeared, we were relieved in the
morning and again sent forward in the advance with the Engineer Corps, commanded by Major
Tweeddale, arriving at Trenton on the 26th. Here we remained twenty-four hours. Having
procured flour, the men were busily engaged in making it into bread, as that article could not be
obtained from the commissary department. We were ordered to subsist upon the country, and as
the people seemed to have an abundant supply we helped ourselves without much reluctance, the
men faring rather sumptuously. On the 28th we reached Rutherford, and the South Obion, 2
miles beyond Kenton, the 2d day of January; Major Tweed-dale's engineers with our aid having
repaired substantially the road thus far. Approaching the working party on the Columbus side
within 7 or 8 miles, we were relieved from further road duty by General Haynie on the 3d,
reaching Union City the same day, and thence by Columbus and Cairo arrived at Davenport on
the evening of the 7th of January, 1863.
Very respectfully,
J.P. COULTER,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Comdg. Twelfth Regiment Iowa Vols.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FOURTH DIV., DIST. OF WEST TENN.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the movements of my brigade since I received the
order to march at 3 a.m. on Saturday, October 4:
We left our camp at Bolivar and moved forward on the Corinth road about 23 miles and
encamped on the Big Muddy that night. The squadron of cavalry attached to my command,
under Major Hayes, had a slight skirmish near Middleton, in which one or two were wounded.
The next morning, Sunday, the First Brigade, being in the rear, moved forward about 10
o'clock toward Davis' Bridge, on the Hatchie River. I soon heard the report of artillery and knew
that the Second Brigade had met the rebels. At this time I received your order to move forward
quickly and throw out flanking regiments to the right and left of the road (which was done by
placing the Thirty-second Illinois on the right of the road and the Third Iowa on the left) and to
move briskly forward with the balance of my command. I immediately ordered up the Twentyeighth
and Fifty-third Illinois Regiments, and reported to Major General Ord at the bridge, who
at once ordered me to cross the bridge and take position on the right of the road. Here we found a
portion of the Second Brigade, which had preceded us, and were in some confusion. This to
some extent checked our advance, but only [or a moment. We were here assailed by a murderous
fire of shell, canister, and grape; but the men withstood it without once faltering, and continued
to advance through the thicket by the river bank until the nature of the ground enabled them to
deploy into line, when they moved forward up the hill and drove the rebels from their position on
the ridge. In the mean time the Thirty-second Illinois and the Third Iowa Regiments were
ordered from the position previously assigned them, and crossing the bridge, the Thirty-second
joined me on the right, while the Third Iowa formed line of battle on the left of the road, and in
conjunction with the other regiments moved steadily forward until the rebels were driven from
their strong position on the hill and forced to beat a hasty retreat. Here I sent General Hurlbut
word that the road was clear, when he immediately ordered Mann's and Spear's batteries to the
front. They took position on the ground previously occupied by the rebel batteries and opened on
them with telling effect, resulting in their precipitate retreat.
I cannot speak in terms of too high commendation of the officers and men of my command
without a single exception. Exposed for hours to a murderous fire, and not being able, from the
59
nature of the ground, to return it effectively, they maintained their ground without faltering or
giving way for a single instant.
To Colonel Johnson, of the Twenty-eighth Illinois; Col. John Logan, of the Thirty-second
Illinois; to Captain McClanahan, of the Fifty-third Illinois, and Captain Trumbull, of the Third
Iowa, who were in command of their respective regiments; Lieutenant Colonel Ritter and Major
Gillam, of the Twenty-eighth Illinois; Lieutenant-Colonel Hunter and Major English, of the
Thirty-second Illinois, and Captain Earl, acting major of the Fifty-third Illinois; to Lieutenant
Brotzmann and Lieutenant Burrows, commanding batteries, and in short to all the officers I
tender my highest meed of approbation. Never did officers do better; never were men placed
under more trying circumstances.
To Captain Scofield, my assistant adjutant general, and to Lieut. Frank J. Crawford, my aide,
I tender my most sincere thanks for the valuable assistance they rendered me. I can truly say they
were the right men in the right place all the time.
To Colonel Pugh, of the Forty-first Illinois, was assigned the highly important duty of
protecting the train and covering our rear, and to him, his officers and men, belong an equal
share of the glories of the day.
I herewith append the aggregate losses of my command in killed, wounded, and missing,
referring you to regimental commanders for detailed statements, which are herewith appended.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
J. G. LAUMAN,
Brigadier-General.
Capt. HENRY BINMORE,
Assistant Adjutant General.
HDQRS. TWENTY-EIGHTH ILLINOIS VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,
October 9, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to report that my command on the 5th instant numbered 23
commissioned officers and 382 enlisted men, who came under fire at 11.30 a.m., reaching the
bridge at the Hatchie at 12.5 o'clock, having lost 1 officer--Second Lieut. E. P. Durell, of
Company H--wounded and 1 man; crossed the bridge on double-quick time under a murderous
fire with some loss; moved forward to the right of the road near the river bank and halted, the
right of the regiment resting near the foot of the hill on which the enemy was posted, being on
the extreme right of the brigade, although the fourth regiment in column of march, my left being
partially masked by the Fifty-third Illinois Regiment. We remained in this position about 1
hours, suffering severely, returning the fire with but little effect. At this point of time I received
the order to move forward. I moved still by the flank until sufficiently unmasked, my right to the
right of the road leading up the hill to the house, then by the left flank in line to the top of the
hill, in support of Mann's battery. At this time observing a movement of a large body of the
enemy as if to turn our right I reported facts to General Lauman, who sent the Third Iowa, a
portion of the Twenty-fifth and Fifty-third Indiana, to our support, which being posted to the best
advantage, the enemy after a sharp exchange of a few minutes retired rapidly under cover of the
woods and hills to the right of the old peach orchard.
The battle closed about 3.30 p.m., when we found 7 dead of the Twenty-eighth on the field
and 85 wounded, of whom 4 have since died. There are 7 missing, of whom 3 are probably dead.
During the engagement my command captured and sent to the rear over 120 prisoners.
As to the conduct and bearing of my command, with a very few exceptions they behaved
nobly, and under all the circumstances I am only surprised that they staid with me at all. After I
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have learned all the circumstances I will make special mention of those deserving special notice
for gallantry, as well as those who deserve condemnation.
A. K. JOHNSON,
Colonel, Commanding.
Capt. H. SCOFIELD,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD IOWA INFANTRY,
Camp near Bolivar, Tenn., October 8, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Third Iowa Infantry in the battle of
October 3 [5]:
The Third Iowa Infantry, 300 strong, was on the right of the First Brigade (General J. G.
Lauman) and formed part of the reserve. When the reserve was ordered into the action the Third
Iowa led, crossing the bridge with a cheer and at a double-quick under so severe a fire that about
57 men were shot down in a few minutes, including over half the commissioned officers present.
This necessarily threw the regiment into some disorder, especially as the road was very narrow
and on-cumbered with a good deal of underbrush, and the men, pressing for ward, got mixed up
with men of other regiments. I saw no way to extricate the regiment but by planting the colors in
the middle of the road and ordering the men to rally to them and form a new line of battle. This
was promptly done, nearly every man springing instantly to his place. The regiment then moved
forward up the hill, in company with other regiments which had adopted the same plan, the
enemy retreating as we advanced. On reaching the summit the Third Iowa was stationed in the
open plain to the left of the road, and, toward the close of the engagement, were moved to the
right of the road, near the bend of the river, to support the gallant Twenty-eighth Illinois (Colonel
Johnson). The battle was now about over.
I have to regret the loss of First Lieut. W. P. Dodd, commanding Company H, who was
struck by a shell and instantly killed just before we reached the bridge. He was a brave and
faithful officer and his loss will be felt heavily in the regiment.
I have also to regret the permanent disability of Capt. E. I. Weiser, of Company D, and
Acting Second Lieut. D. W. Foote, of Company I, two noble and gallant officers, both of whom
have been wounded in battle before.
Captain Kostmann, commanding Company C, and First Lieut. W. B. Hamill, commanding
Company K, were both severely wounded while gallantly pressing forward in front of their
respective companies.
Second Lieut. C. L. Anderson, commanding Company G, who had done his whole duty all
through the engagement, was severely wounded just at the close of the battle.
First Lieut. J. G. Scobey was especially prominent in rallying the men to their colors.
Second Lieutenant Gary, Company H, deserves special mention for staying in command of
his company after the death of the first lieutenant all through the battle and until he reached
Bolivar, though suffering from a painful but not a severe wound.
Lieutenants McMurtrie and Burdick, of Company D; Lakin and Abernethy, of Company F,
and Moe, of Company C, their duty bravely and well.
Company A was not engaged, having been detailed as guard to the wagon train.
Second Lieut. G. H. Cushman, acting adjutant, and Sergt. Maj. R. W. Montague both
displayed great coolness and courage and rendered me valuable assistance on the field.
The conduct of the rank and file in crossing the bridge under the terrible fire of the enemy's
batteries and in rallying to the flag as promptly as they did deserves the greatest praise. Several
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cases of individual bravery among the men I shall bring to the notice of the general commanding
the brigade as soon as I have fully investigated the circumstances.
I take pleasure here in noticing the gallantry of Corpl. Anderson Edwards, the color-bearer.
This is the third fight in which he has carried the colors of the regiment, and he deserves the
notice of the general commanding.
I am ashamed to say that a few (a very few) cases of misconduct in the presence of the
enemy have been reported to me, which, on further investigation, I shall submit to the general
commanding the brigade, with a request that they may be submitted to a general court martial.
I herewith inclose a list of the killed and wounded in the Third Iowa Infantry in the action of
the 5th. The number of killed is very small, considering the terrible character of the wounds
received.
I have the honor to be, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
M. M. TRUMBULL,
Captain, Commanding Third Iowa Infantry.
Capt. H. SCOFIELD,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
JACKSON, TENN., October 30, 1862.
I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by the Sixth Division in the
battle of the 3d and 4th instant at Corinth, Miss.:
On the 1st instant the division was composed of the following-named troops:
The First Brigade, commanded by Col. Benjamin Alien, Sixteenth Regiment Wisconsin
Volunteers, composed of the Sixteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, commanded by Maj. Thomas
Reynolds; Seventeenth Wisconsin Volunteers, commanded by Col. J. L. Doran ; Twenty-first
Missouri Volunteers, commanded by Col. David Moore, the last-named regiment being
detached at Kossuth, 10 miles from Corinth. Total number of enlisted men present (with their
regiments) in the brigade, 1,415. Brig. Gen. J. McArthur having rejoined, was assigned to
command of this brigade on the 3d.
The Second Brigade, commanded by Col. J. M. Oliver, Fifteenth Regiment Michigan
Volunteers, composed of the Fourteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, commanded by Col. John
Hancock; Eighteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, commanded by Col. G. Bouck; Eighteenth Missouri
Volunteers, commanded by Capt. J. R. Ault, and Fifteenth Michigan Volunteers, commanded by
Lieut. Col. John McDermott, the last-named regiment being detached at Chewalla, 12 miles west
of Corinth, and six companies of the Eighteenth Missouri being also detached, guarding the
railroad toward Bethel. Number of enlisted men present (with their regiments) in the brigade,
1,375.
The Third Brigade, commanded by Col. M. M. Crocker, Thirteenth Regiment of Iowa
Volunteers, composed of the Eleventh Regiment Iowa Volunteers, commanded by Lieut. Col.
William Hall; Thirteenth Regiment Iowa Volunteers, commanded by Lieut. Col. John Shane;
Fifteenth Regiment Iowa Volunteers, commanded by Col. Hugh T. Reid, and Sixteenth
Regiment Iowa Volunteers, commanded by Lieut. Col. Addison H. Sanders, the brigade being
stationed at Iuka. Total number of enlisted men present (with their regiments) in the brigade,
2,189.
The artillery attached to the division, under command of Capt. Andrew Hickenlooper, Fifth
Ohio Battery, acting chief of artillery, consisted of the First Minnesota Battery, four guns,
commanded by Lieut. G. F. Cooke; Third Ohio Battery, six guns, commanded by Capt. W. S.
Williams (the captain and two sections being absent at Bolivar); the Fifth Ohio Battery, four
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guns, commanded by Lieut. B. Matson; the Tenth Ohio Battery, four guns, commanded by Capt.
H. B. White, and Company F, Second Illinois Artillery, four guns, commanded by Lieut. J. W.
Mitchell (one section of this battery also being detached, serving at Bolivar), leaving sixteen
guns, with 367 enlisted men present with the artillery of the division.
The cavalry, under command of Col. R. G. Ingersoll, Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, had orders to
report to the chief of cavalry for consolidation, leaving with the division only a few officers and
men for picket and camp duty.
In the afternoon of the 1st instant Colonel Oliver, with the Fourteenth and Eighteenth
Wisconsin Regiments and a section of artillery, under Lieutenant Clayton, First Minnesota
Battery, was sent out to re-enforce the regiment of his brigade stationed at Chewalla, where
picket skirmishing had been reported during the early part of the day. The remaining troops of
the division present were marched into the new camp, south of the Chewalla road, inside the
exterior lines of defense, 2 miles from Corinth.
On the 2d Colonel Oliver, after considerable skirmishing during the day, fell back, in
accordance with instructions from headquarters, to the cross-roads, near Alexander's, about 7
miles from Corinth, and sent the Eighteenth Wisconsin Regiment (under Colonel Bouck) to
guard the Smith's Bridge. The Third Brigade, under command of Colonel Crocker, returned from
Iuka by forced march and went into camp, and during the night the Sixteenth Wisconsin, under
Major Reynolds, made a reconnaissance up the railroad toward Chewalla.
At 3 a.m. on the 3d, orders having been received from the commanding general designating
the positions to be occupied by the several divisions in anticipation of an advance of the enemy
(Davies' the northwest angle between the railroads; McKean's division on the left of Davies',
with the right resting on the railroad near Battery F; Hamilton's the northeast angle between the
railroads, and Stanley's in reserve), the necessary dispositions were made, and at daylight the
several regiments of this division were in the exact position assigned them. The first line formed
in line of battle perpendicular to the railroad, with the right resting near Battery F; the second
line formed in close column by division, the Twenty-first Missouri Regiment, under the gallant
Colonel Moore, having marched from Kossuth in the night.
About 7.30 a.m. the enemy appeared in front of Colonel Oliver's advanced position, driving
in his pickets, and advanced to attack them, but was repulsed with great energy. The colonel,
being at length satisfied that the enemy were in force, slowly retired, according to his
instructions, contesting the ground and destroying the bridges, until the brigade took a favorable
position north of the railroad and a little in advance of the old Confederate intrenchments, where
another stand was made. In crossing Cane Creek Bottom one of the howitzers was disabled by
the breaking of the axle and abandoned after being spiked, but was subsequently recovered.
Colonel Bouck retired from Smith's Bridge to Cane Creek at the same time that Colonel Oliver
moved.
The position now held by the Second Brigade commanded both the Chewalla road and the
railroad, and it was considered desirable to hold it as long as practicable, and re-enforcements
were sent forward, first the Twenty-first Missouri and afterward the Sixteenth and Seventeenth
Wisconsin Regiments, and Brig. Gen. J. McArthur (who had been on detached duty), having
rejoined, was temporarily assigned to the command of the First Brigade (then re-enforcing the
Second), and took command of the advance. The Chewalla road running through the line
assigned to the Second Division placed our advance in front of a portion of that division, and
Colonel Baldwin's brigade, consisting of the Seventh, Fiftieth, and Fifty-seventh Illinois
Regiments, co-operated in maintaining the position, which was held for several hours. The
enemy, after an unsuccessful attempt to approach by the railroad track (bringing forward a
battery at one time to play upon the main line of the division, which was driven back by our
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artillery), ultimately succeeding in passing to the right of our line, and McArthur's command
again fell back, taking position parallel with and north of the railroad, the left some distance from
Battery F. This compelled a corresponding change of front in the main line. The Second Brigade,
being considerably exhausted by severe duty and hard fighting, was at this time withdrawn, and
formed as a second line in rear of the Third Brigade. The enemy at length appeared in front of
the new line formed by the First Brigade and a charge was made, driving him some distance. The
charge was participated in by the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Wisconsin and Twenty-first
Missouri Regiments, as well as by a portion of Colonel Baldwin's brigade, of the Second
Division. The Seventeenth Wisconsin, under the brave Colonel Doran, occupied a conspicuous
position in this part of the day's work.
After this charge these regiments (having already performed heavy work) were all ordered to
form in rear of the main line of the division south of the railroad, which was done in good order
at 3 p.m., and as I had received notice from the general commanding that a flank movement was
in contemplation by Hamilton's division on the enemy's left, I considered it best to retain my
present position for the purpose of engaging the attention of the enemy until such movement
could be effected. At length I received orders to change front and retire to a position
corresponding with the main body of the division on my right, which had retired toward Corinth
some time previously. This movement had already commenced, when further orders were
received to fall back to the interior line of batteries. The movement was accordingly altered so as
to throw the artillery into a road in rear of the line and leading into Corinth, when the enemy
again appeared, driving in our skirmishers and advancing to attack, and the Third Brigade,
hitherto but slightly engaged, now found an opportunity to participate in the work. Colonel
Crocker with a portion of this brigade was directed to drive back the enemy while the movement
was completed. The colonel executed this order in fine style, succeeding after a severe action in
forcing back the enemy with considerable loss.
In this action the Fifteenth Iowa, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Belknap (Colonel
Reid being sick), and the Sixteenth Iowa Regiment, under Lieutenant-Colonel Sanders, being
most hotly engaged, conducted themselves with conspicuous gallantry, and the whole brigade
while covering the movements of the division maneuvered with all the coolness and precision of
an ordinary drill. The movement of the division being completed, this portion of the brigade
reformed in good order on the right of the first line, and the whole division, with the Seventh,
Fiftieth, and Fifty-seventh Illinois Regiments, moved in perfect order, arriving at sundown and
taking the positions designated within the line of batteries, the Third Brigade and three field
batteries occupying College Hill, and the two small brigades with the Tenth Ohio Battery taking
positions in the town under directions from the commanding general.
Our troops lay on their arms in the ranks during the night, ready to support the batteries
should an assault, as anticipated, be made early in the morning.
About 4 o'clock on the morning of the 4th cannonading by the enemy commenced, and after
daylight, in addition to the assaults on Battery Robinett and other points of the field, heavy
skirmishing took place in front of College Hill. During the morning the First and Second
Brigades were also withdrawn to College Hill, and twice the enemy attempted to assault Battery
Phillips, his columns supported with artillery approaching behind a ridge running nearly parallel
to our line. Each time the head of his column was suffered to approach within short musketrange,
when Battery Phillips and the light pieces of this division opened upon him so hotly that
he hastily retired. Information subsequently received indicates beyond doubt that these
movements were not intended as mere feints. Lieut. C. Marsh, commanding a section of the Fifth
Ohio Battery, is reported to have done good execution at this time, occupying a favorable
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position. The enemy's last effort was on this part of the field, after having been repulsed at all
other points.
During the day General McArthur, with a portion of his brigade, was sent in advance to
reconnoiter, and finding the enemy retiring he took a position at night near Alexander's, and the
balance of his brigade, the Second Brigade and the Tenth Ohio Battery, by direction of the
general commanding, started at 2 a.m. on the 5th to re-enforce him; and the balance of the
division started at daylight in pursuit of the enemy, which was continued this day as far as the
Tuscumbia River.
On the 6th I was directed by the general commanding to take command of the post of
Corinth, said to be threatened by the enemy's re-enforcements, including 10,000 paroled men.
For the subsequent operations of the division during the pursuit to Ripley and the march
back to Corinth I respectfully refer to the accompanying report of General McArthur, who
succeeded me in the command.
In order to give a more distinct idea of the part performed by this division in these important
operations, without the statement of too many details, the following brief is added, by way of
recapitulation:
October 2. Heavy skirmishing by the Second Brigade, under Colonel Oliver, who had
advanced to re-enforce one of his regiments previously stationed at Chewalla, the colonel taking
up a position at night near Alexander's Cross-Roads.
October 3. In the morning the enemy's advance attack Colonel Oliver, but is repulsed, after
which the colonel, ascertaining that the enemy is in force, falls back slowly, according to his
instructions, contesting the ground by severe fighting and destroying bridges until he makes a
stand on favorable ground a little in advance of the old Confederate intrenchments, where he is
re-enforce by the First Brigade under General McArthur, who takes command at that point, for
the purpose of relieving the Second Brigade, already considerably exhausted by severe duty. The
road leading in from Chewalla runs through the line occupied by the Second Division,
commanded by General Davies, and one of his brigades (Baldwin's) now co-operates in holding
the advance position. After several unsuccessful attempts to turn the left the enemy pass to the
right and throw their entire force upon the Second Division, which is forced back, and
McArthur's command, being turned, is obliged to retire again to a new position, which is taken
near the main line north of the railroad, facing north, the main line of this division changing front
to correspond and the Second being now relieved. The enemy at length appearing again, the First
Brigade, together with the brigades of the Second Division, charge, driving him some distance,
when this brigade is called in and formed as a second line. The division still holds its position,
menacing the enemy's right flank, to give time for a flank movement on his left by Hamilton's
division and to delay his advance until the reserve can be posted to support the batteries in his
front. These movements accomplished, the Sixth Division at length being ordered to fall back
within the interior line of the batteries, the enemy again appears and commences a furious attack
after the division has commenced moving, but is repulsed after a severe action by Colonel
Crocker, commanding the Third Brigade, and the division moves in good order and takes a
position at sundown within the line of defenses without the loss of a gun, having during the day
received the first attack of the enemy 8 miles west of Corinth, and having disputed and delayed
his advance until after the division on the right was forced by overwhelming numbers to give
way, and holding its position on the enemy's flank, assisting in retarding his advance on the
batteries until it was too late for him to make an assault on the evening of this day, and finally,
when ordered to fall back to the inner batteries, and the enemy again attacks the division while
on the march, it halts to beat him back, and marches into position within the defenses in good
order.
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October 4. In addition to severe skirmishing in front the division co-operating with the siege
batteries repulsed the enemy in two attempts to force the works on College Hill, and after the
battle the division participated in the pursuit of the enemy as far as Ripley, and on leaving that
place to return to Corinth the rear guard was furnished by this division.
As far as my personal observation extended the conduct of the troops (both officers and
soldiers) was worthy of the highest commendations. All appeared to do their duty promptly and
coolly, advancing with alacrity when necessary, retiring only when ordered, and then in good
order, and promptly halting at the word to face-about and beat back the enemy; the men of Ohio,
Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri standing together and bravely
fighting side by side.
I respectfully refer to the reports of brigade and other subordinate commanders for further
details, which it is impracticable to embody in a report of this nature, and also for notice of those
who by good fortune and the chances of war as well as by personal merit became most
conspicuous for good conduct in this battle.
I propose to make a special report upon this subject as soon as full reports from the several
grades of commanders can be obtained. In the mean time a few cases will here be noticed that
came under my own knowledge. All the commanders of brigades were active in the discharge of
their duties. Colonel Allen, Sixteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, and Brigadier-General McArthur
successively commanded the First Brigade with zeal and ability. Col. J. M. Oliver, commanding
the Second Brigade, which received the first attack of the enemy, is entitled to great credit.
Charged with one of the most embarrassing duties that could be intrusted to an officer, that of
opposing with energy the advance of an enemy and yet retiring slowly when overpowered, a task
involving a tax at the same time upon his judgment, skill, and bravery, the colonel seems to have
been singularly felicitous in the discharge of that duty; a veteran could not have better or
accomplished more. Col. M. M. Crocker, commanding Third Brigade, is entitled to the highest
credit for the skill and bravery with which he executed the various orders for his fine brigade,
and especially for his gallant conduct in the engagement near Battery F. This brigade was
previously well disciplined under his command and the care of the meritorious field officers of
the several regiments. Captain Hickenlooper, Fifth Ohio Battery, acting chief of artillery for the
division, on this as on former occasions showed himself a brave and skillful officer.
Of the field officers Major Reynolds, who commanded the Sixteenth Wisconsin Volunteers;
Colonel Doran, who commanded the Seventeenth Wisconsin Volunteers; Lieutenant-Colonel
Malloy, of the same regiment; Colonel Moore, who lost a leg at Shiloh, and now commanded the
Twenty-first Missouri Volunteers until he lost his horse; Major Moore, who afterward
commanded the same regiment; Colonel Hancock, commanding Fourteenth Wisconsin
Volunteers; Lieutenant-Colonel Ward, of same regiment; Colonel Bouck, commanding
Eighteenth Wisconsin Volunteers; Major Jackson, of the same regiment; Lieutenant-Colonel
McDermott, commanding Fifteenth Michigan Volunteers; Captain Ault, commanding the
battalion of the Eighteenth Missouri Volunteers; Lieutenant-Colonel Hall, commanding Eleventh
Iowa Volunteers; Major Abercrombie, of the same regiment, a veteran of the Mexican war and a
survivor of the battle of Wilson's Creek; Lieutenant-Colonel Shane, who commanded the
Thirteenth Iowa Volunteers; Major Van Hosen, of the same regiment; Colonel Reid, Fifteenth
Iowa Volunteers, who was sick when the battle commenced, but was with his regiment at
daylight on the 4th and remained in command until the regiment returned from the pursuit;
Lieutenant-Colonel Belknap, who commanded the same regiment on the first day of the battle
and displayed great coolness and bravery in the conflict near Battery F; Major Cunningham, of
the same regiment, who was severely wounded; Lieutenant-Colonel Sanders, who commanded
the Sixteenth Iowa Volunteers, and was also severely wounded at the same time, and Major
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Purcell, who afterward commanded the same regiment, are entitled to credit, not only for good
conduct in the field, but for their previous industry in perfecting the discipline of their respective
regiments.
Captains Funke and Zeigler, in command of detachments of cavalry, performed their
laborious duties in a very satisfactory manner. Lieut. A. Roehrig, of the same regiment, rendered
great service in carrying dispatches. The artillery attached to the division proved itself reliable,
and reflects credit upon officers and men of that arm of the service. Captain White, commanding
the Tenth Ohio Battery, is reported to have rendered signal service when the enemy momentarily
entered the town. Dr. Eastman, surgeon Sixteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, acting division
surgeon, was very zealous in the discharge of his duties.
Capt. W. T. Clark, assistant adjutant-general, serving on my staff, who has long served with
fidelity and great intelligence, on this occasion displayed great bravery and energy. Lieut. M. A.
Higley, quarter master and commissary Fifteenth Iowa Volunteers, acting division quartermaster,
performed his arduous duties in a very intelligent man her, and has always shown himself
reliable. Lieut. G. S. Hampton, jr., Thirteenth Iowa Volunteers, who got up from a sick bed;
Lieut. J. B. Dawson, Eleventh Iowa Volunteers, aides-de-camp, and Lieut. L. S. Willard,
Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, attached to my staff, all performed great labors and were fearless and
indefatigable.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant
THO'S. J. McKEAN,
Brigadier-General, U.S. Volunteers.
Maj. JOHN A. RAWLINS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of the Tennessee.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, SIXTH DIVISION,
Camp near Corinth, Miss., October 13, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Third Brigade in the battle of Corinth
and its subsequent movements in pursuit of the retreating enemy:
About 5 o'clock on the morning of the 3d instant the brigade formed two regiments (the
Eleventh and Thirteenth Iowa Volunteers) in line of battle facing the west, and the Fifteenth and
Sixteenth Iowa Volunteers in close column by division in rear of the line. The regiments
remained in that position, with skirmishers deployed in front, receiving an occasional cannonshot,
until about 3 o'clock, when the division on the right having fallen back, a change of front
was ordered. The Fifteenth and Sixteenth were then formed in line of battle perpendicular to the
first line and the Eleventh and Thirteenth in close column by division in the rear.
In this position the brigade remained until about 4 p.m., when orders were again received to
again change front so as to connect the right of the brigade with the left of General Davies'
division, its left to rest in direction of Battery E. After the execution of this order had been
commenced notice was received from General McKean that the division was to move back
inside the inner fortifications, and an order received that the Eleventh and Thirteenth Regiments
form in line of battle a quarter of a mile in the rear of the line formed by the Fifteenth and
Sixteenth, in front of and parallel to the road over which the artillery of the division must pass,
and the brigade to protect the movements of the rest of the division and the artillery.
The execution of the order to move back had just commenced when the enemy, in greatly
superior force, attacked the front line--the Fifteenth and Sixteenth. The officers and men of these
regiments, acting with signal determination and bravery, not only held the enemy in check, but
drove him back, and held their position until notice was received that the artillery had passed
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safely to the rear, when they were ordered to fall back and form in line of battle on the right of
the second line, which they did in good order, the enemy declining to follow. This engagement
lasted three-quarters of an hour; the firing was incessant, and the regiments, especially the
Fifteenth, suffered severely.
I deem it my especial duty to particularly mention Lieutenant-Colonel Belknap, who
commanded the Fifteenth Regiment. This regiment was under the hottest fire, and Colonel
Belknap was everywhere along the line, mounted, with sword in hand, encouraging by voice and
gesture his men to stand their ground.
Lieut. Col. Addison H. Sanders, who commanded the Sixteenth, is entitled to great praise. He
rode along the line of his regiment amid the storm of bullets, encouraging his brave boys who
had so lately suffered at Iuka to remember their duty, and, although severely wounded, remained
with his regiment until it marched off the field.
Majors Cunningham, of the Fifteenth, and Purcell, of the Sixteenth, did their whole duty, and
conducted themselves with great bravery.
Two companies of the Thirteenth Iowa--Company A, in command of Captain Kennedy, and
Company G, in command of Captain Walker--had before the engagement commenced been
deployed as skirmishers. The advance of the enemy drove them in. They were ordered to form on
the left of the Fifteenth Iowa. They formed in good order, fighting like veterans, retiring, under
their brave commanders, without confusion when ordered to do so.
The artillery of the division having passed the brigade followed in good order. On arriving
inside the fortifications we took position, the Fifteenth Iowa in line of battle in rear of and to the
right of the battery commanded by Captain Phillips, First Infantry; the Sixteenth in the rear of
and supporting the Fifth Ohio Battery, which was in position on the left of Captain Phillips'
battery ; five companies of the Eleventh Regiment, in command of Major Abercrombie, in line
of battle, supporting the First Minnesota Battery in position still on the left of the Fifth Ohio
Battery; the Thirteenth Iowa and five companies of the Eleventh in rear of the Fifteenth and
Sixteenth in close column by division as a reserve. At night five companies of the Thirteenth
Iowa, in command of Major Van Hosen, were sent into the woods in front of our position as a
grand guard.
Thus we remained during the night and until the battle had commenced on the morning of the
4th, when five companies of the Eleventh Iowa, as also the five companies of the Thirteenth
Iowa, were relieved, and these regiments formed in line of battle, the Eleventh in the rear of the
Fifteenth and the Thirteenth in rear of the Sixteenth. In this position the brigade remained during
the day, receiving occasional shots from cannon and the enemy's sharpshooters stationed in the
woods in front.
Captain Smith, of Company A, Sixteenth Iowa, having built temporary breastworks to the
right of the Fifth Ohio Battery, behind which he placed his company, kept up a spirited skirmish
with the enemy's sharpshooters and did effective service.
During the day the enemy made two efforts to approach our position, by coming up a ravine,
which sheltered them from the heavy guns of Captain Phillips' fort, but were driven back by the
Fifth Ohio Battery, under command of Lieutenant Marsh, a very brave and competent officer.
At daylight on the 5th the brigade started in pursuit of the retreating enemy, and continued
the pursuit until the evening of the 8th in-stunt, when, after resting one day, orders were received
to return to Corinth with two regiments and to leave two regiments to come back with Brigadier-
General McPherson.
At daylight on the morning of the 10th I started to Corinth with the Thirteenth and Sixteenth,
leaving the Eleventh and Fifteenth, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Hall, of the
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Eleventh, to return with General McPherson. We marched back to Corinth in less than two days,
without any unusual occurrence. The Eleventh and Fifteenth arrived one day later.
During the movements the Eleventh Iowa was under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Hall ;
the Thirteenth under Lieut. Col. John Shane; the Fifteenth, after the first day and during the
pursuit, under command of Colonel Reid, and the Sixteenth, after the first day, under Major
Purcell.
The brigade, during the protracted movements of the battle and pursuit, encountering every
hardship and privation incident to such campaigning, behaved with great fortitude, meeting every
danger and hardship cheerfully; and I acknowledge my obligation to all the field officers for their
cheerful, hearty, and intelligent co-operation.
Col. H. T. Reid, of the Fifteenth Iowa, though prostrated by illness and unable to be in the
field during the first day's engagement, on the second day left his sick bed, joined his command,
and, though unable to ride his horse, remained with his regiment, traveling in an ambulance until
the pursuit was abandoned.
I must not fail to mention the renewed obligations under which I rest to my adjutant, James
Wilson, who during the whole time of the battle and pursuit was tireless in the discharge of every
duty---always at his post, always brave, always reliable.
Lieutenant Lanstrum, of the Fifteenth Iowa, who acted as aide, deported himself as a good
and faithful soldier.
The loss of the brigade occurred principally in the engagement on the 3d instant, the
Fifteenth suffering most. The killed, wounded, and missing are as follows, namely: Killed, 14;
wounded, 110, and missing, 22. Total, 146. A list of which, together with the reports of the
regimental commanders, is herewith submitted.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
M. M. CROCKER,
Colonel, Commanding Third Brigade.
Capt. W. T. CLARK,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
COLUMBUS, KY., October 29, 1862.
DEAR SIR: I am directed by Brigadier-General Davies to hand you a report of the late battle
near Waverly between a detachment of the Eighty-third Regiment Illinois Volunteers, under the
command of Maj. E. C. Brott, and a part of the rebel forces commanded by Colonel Napier. The
official report of the same not having yet been received, having been with the expedition, I give
the facts as correctly as the circumstances will admit.
The Federal force left Fort Donelson on Tuesday, October 22, at 1 o'clock p.m., consisting of
140 infantry, 30 cavalry, and 1 rifled gun of Captain Flood's battery, and proceeded toward
Waverly, which is situated 40 miles north [south] west from Fort Donelson and 9 miles from the
Tennessee River.
On Wednesday afternoon when within 6 miles of Waverly our advance guard of cavalry were
fired upon by 25 mounted guerrillas, but without effect. At sunset of same day our advance came
upon a band of 75 mounted guerrillas stationed in a thicket, one-half mile from the town of
Waverly. They fired upon us, killing 1 private and slightly wounding 2 others. Our force returned
the fire, killing 4 (as near as could be ascertained) and wounding several others. We took 1
prisoner. The enemy immediately took to flight. Major Brott then ordered his command to fall
back 1 mile, where we encamped for the night, troops lying on their arms. From the prisoner
taken we ascertained that the rebel force amounted to 700 or 800 well-mounted men, armed with
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muskets and double-barreled shot-guns, with two rifled Parrott guns taken from the steamer
Terry.
The next morning at 5 o'clock Major Brott ordered his command to fall back to White Oak
Springs, about 14 miles, not thinking his force sufficiently strong to proceed farther. When about
6 miles from camp, at the crossing of a creek, a band of about 300 mounted guerrillas attacked us
on our rear. At the time of the attack our forces were scattered, owing to a misunderstanding of
the place of camping for breakfast. The order was to camp about 4 miles farther on. The enemy
dashed in upon the troops, causing considerable confusion for a time, but they rallied and fired
upon the enemy, the fire lasting about eight minutes, when the enemy retired with 8 men killed
and several wounded, as was reported to us by their two surgeons whom we took prisoners. We
had 1 man severely wounded and 2 slightly. On the battle grounds and on the march we took 15
prisoners. Our forces were then ordered to march back to Fort Donelson, where they arrived on
Friday evening, October 25.
I suppose the reason of the whole of Napier's force not attacking us was from the fact that a
Federal force of about 250 infantry and cavalry, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Patrick, of
Fifth Iowa Cavalry, coming up on the opposite side of the river from the enemy's camp, and they
(the enemy) fearing an attack did not send out a large force. We did not know that Colonel
Patrick was on the opposite side of the river. He was ordered to go out on the road from Fort
Heiman to Paris to reconnoiter, and on his return to camp went over to the river opposite the
enemy's camp. He succeeded in destroying twelve barges and rowboats belonging to the enemy.
He also fired several shots at them.
The foregoing are all the facts of importance that would be of service.
Respectfully, &c:,
JNO. B. COLTON,
Quartermaster Eighty-third Illinois Volunteers.
J. LOVELL,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HOLLY SPRINGS, MISS., November 13, 1862--daylight.
GENERAL: I have just entered this city and my pickets are polluting the "sacred soil" some
2 miles below it. I found a considerable force of cavalry, but they skedaddled. We charged their
pickets 2 miles north of town, capturing 4 and killing 1 man. No loss on our side. Rebel infantry
is below Tallahatchie; cavalry at Lumpkin's Mill and vicinity. I shall send there this morning.
Lumpkin's Mill is 7 miles south.
I am, general, your obedient servant,
A. L. LEE,
Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Division.
Maj. Gen. U.S. GRANT,
Commanding Army of the Tennessee.
HDQRS. U.S. FORCES, CAV. DIV., 13TH ARMY CORPS,
Camp near the Yocknapatalfa River, Miss., December 7, 1862.
COLONEL : In obedience to the order of the major-general commanding I have the honor to
report that at 10 p.m., December 1, while at the headquarters of Major-General McPherson, near
Old Waterford, and 5 miles north of the Tallahatchie River, a communication was received from
Major-General Grant advising me that the enemy had left his works at the river ; that part of our
cavalry had crossed and others were crossing, and ordering me to push on at daylight, take
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command of all the cavalry, and follow the enemy (if retreating) as long as any results were
likely to follow.
At daylight, on Tuesday, December 2, attended by Lieut. J. H. Wilson, Topographical
Engineers, acting as my assistant adjutant-general, and by Lieut. G. T. Davis, of the Eleventh
Illinois Infantry, my acting division quartermaster, and an escort of 10 troopers, Seventh Illinois
Cavalry, under the command of Sergeant Baylor, I pushed rapidly to the front, gathering my
command on the march.
On Tuesday morning, when the pursuit began, the Second Cavalry Brigade, commanded by
Colonel Hatch, consisting of eight companies of the Second Iowa Cavalry, Major Coon; the
Seventh Illinois Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Prince, and a battalion of the Fifth Ohio Cavalry,
Major Ricker, was near Old Waterford. The First Cavalry Brigade, commanded by Col. A. L.
Lee, comprising the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel McCullough; the Seventh
Kansas, Lieutenant-Colonel Herrick, and one battalion of the Second Iowa, Major Love, with the
Third Michigan Cavalry, commanded by Major Moyers, being part of the Third Brigade but
temporarily attached to Colonel Lee's command, were at the Tallahatchie, near Abbeville, and
the Sixth Illinois Cavalry, Colonel Grierson, was on the north side of the Tallahatchie, near
Wyatt's Ferry, about 8 miles from Abbeville, with orders from Major-General Sherman to join
me at Oxford, some 13 miles south of the Tallahatchie. Finding the road obstructed by the march
of General Logan's division, Colonel Hatch was ordered to take his brigade to the crossing of the
Tallahatchie by a lateral route to the right and march to the front as rapidly as possible.
I pushed rapidly forward and overtook Colonel Lee at Abbeville. He had sent the Third
Michigan Cavalry, Major Moyers, on a route toward Oxford, west of the railroad, and his own
brigade proper, under Lieutenant-Colonel McCullough, of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, on the
main Oxford road east of the railroad, Colonel Lee himself being at the time somewhat unwell
and riding in an ambulance. I overtook McCullough's command 4 miles beyond Abbeville, and
sent Captain Wardlaw, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, with his company across to the railroad (threefourths
of a mile distant), where a party of rebels were destroying some trestle-work. In forty
minutes he returned, having captured the entire party, 28 prisoners with horses and arms,
wounding one of the enemy. Moving on to the head of the column I found Colonel Lee had
arrived and was skirmishing sharply near Oxford, where the enemy were resisting with cavalry,
infantry, and artillery. After considerable fighting the enemy (at 4.30 p.m.) was driven from the
town, and Colonel Lee's column occupied the place for the night.
At a mile from Oxford, while Lee was fighting, sharp firing was heard on the hills to the
right, which afterward proved to be the Third Michigan Cavalry engaging the enemy on that
route. An effort was made to communicate with them by a detachment sent to the right, but this
failed by the lateness of the hour and the impassable character of the country.
At 6 p.m. Colonel Hatch reported his command in camp 5 miles to the rear on the main road.
A courier having crossed by way of Colonel Hatch's camp at 10 p.m. brought information that
the Third Michigan had encamped about opposite Hatch and west of the railroad, after having
fought the enemy till near dark and fallen back. A detachment sent from Oxford that night found
the road to the camp of the Third Michigan free from the enemy.
On Wednesday morning Colonel Hatch's brigade was ordered forward in pursuit on the main
Coffeeville road; Colonel Lee's brigade advanced on a route east of the main road. Colonel
Mizner, of the Third Michigan, having reported for duty, was ordered to take command of his
brigade, consisting of the Third Michigan Cavalry and the Sixth Illinois Cavalry, under Colonel
Grierson, which had reported that morning from Major-General Sherman's wing of the army.
Colonel Mizner was ordered to send the Sixth Illinois Cavalry to scour the country to the west as
far as the Tallahatchie, reporting by courier directly to Major-General Grant, and to hold the
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Third Michigan in Oxford, ready to support, at a moment's notice, either Colonel Lee or Colonel
Hatch. Having made this disposition of my command I remained in Oxford in communication
with both columns. Very soon after Lee's brigade left the town Colonel Hatch reported that he
had overtaken the enemy 3 miles from Oxford and was skirmishing with the rear guard,
advancing steadily. At once a courier was dispatched to Colonel Lee, advising him of the fact
and directing him to move cautiously and guard well his right flank. This courier lost his way
and was taken prisoner. About the same time your note enjoining caution and ordering me to
push the enemy as far as possible was received.
At 9 o'clock p.m. on December 3 couriers brought advices that Lee had crossed the Yockna,
or Yocknapatalfa, on the Paris road, about 8 miles due south from Oxford, having driven the
enemy from a burning bridge and repaired it. About the same time a dispatch from Hatch
reported that the enemy had burned the bridge on the main Coffeeville road and had thus far
successfully resisted his attempt to cross; that he had been skirmishing most of the day and was
at the Yockna, and the enemy in considerable force on the opposite bank. At once orders were
sent to Lee to move cautiously, bearing to his right, down the river, and to co-operate with Hatch
in effecting a crossing, and not to advance till the south side of the river was cleared of the
enemy and Hatch communicated with; and to Hatch, that if he failed to effect a crossing in the
morning he should turn up the river to some point where he could cross, and that he should
approach or join Lee's column after crossing, and both, when in communication, should move on
toward Coffeeville.
Before daylight on the 4th couriers reported Hatch had crossed the Yockna at Prophet
Bridge, some 18 miles from Oxford and 7 miles from Water Valley, and about the same distance
down the river from the burned bridge. Again couriers were dispatched, ordering Lee and Hatch
to approach each other, communicate before advancing, and then pursue the enemy hotly.
At 8 a.m. on December 4 Colonel Mizner was sent with the Third Michigan Cavalry and one
piece of artillery, under Lieutenant S. T. Durkee, of Battery G, Second Illinois Artillery, to join
and co-operate with Hatch, while I proceeded on Colonel Lee's route with another piece of
artillery, commanded by a sergeant of the same company, escorted by a detachment of cavalry.
Major-General McPherson, at my request, had sent me the two pieces or artillery. I overtook Lee
near Water Valley, which he was reconnoitering before entering. Here Colonel Hatch came up
with his command, and the two brigades entered the town about the same time. The enemy had
crossed the Otuckalofa and burned the wagon bridge, about a mile from the town. It had turned
out that Lee and Hatch had failed to communicate with each other; that Hatch, on the morning of
the 4th, pushed directly for Water Valley, entered the town before noon, skirmishing sharply
with the rear of that part of the enemy that had crossed the Yockna at and below the railroad
crossing and the burnt bridge, drove them through the town and across the Otuckalofa. About
this time he discovered a strong rebel force approaching from the northeast, upon his left and
rear, and withdrew his main force back through the village to a strong position, facing the road
upon which the approaching force was advancing. The enemy attacked with determined vigor
with a force of cavalry, estimated at eight regiments; but after a fierce fight was worsted and
driven back with considerable loss. Another detachment of the enemy at this moment threatened
the rear of Colonel Hatch's command. Leaving Lieutenant-Colonel Prince with the Seventh
Illinois to hold the ground Colonel Hatch went with the rest of his command to the rear, on the
route he had advanced over. At this juncture Colonel Lee's command made its appearance from
the northeast. Colonel Prince, supposing it to be another detachment of the enemy, thought it
prudent to withdraw to the northwest, on the road upon which he had advanced. The former
approaching, learned from prisoners that Colonel Hatch had been in Water Valley, had had a
fight, and afterward fell back. Inferring that Colonel Hatch had been beaten he advanced with
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great caution, waiting to communicate with Hatch. The country being hilly and densely wooded
it took some time to establish communications. By this chapter of accidents the enemy found
time to escape across the Otuckalofa and burn the bridge near the railroad; but we arrived in time
to save the railroad bridge. We bivouacked on the north bank of the river. While here it was
reliably ascertained that Federal forces from Helena had been at or near Grenada and on the
railroad to the northwest--infantry at Charleston, cavalry at Oakland--and that some cavalry
fighting had taken place at the latter point on Tuesday and Wednesday. The desire to
communicate with these forces, relying somewhat upon the moral effect of their presence at this
point, determined me to press the enemy one day longer.
Colonel Mizner's command, with one piece of artillery, was ordered to take the advance on
Friday morning, followed by Lee's brigade, and that by Colonel Hatch's. Considerable delay
occurred in getting across the river, and Colonel Lee: having found a bridge near his camp,
reached the main road on the south side of the Otuck (as it is familiarly called), before the
advance of Colonel Mizner's command. To avoid delay he was ordered to take the advance, and
did so, followed by Colonel Mizner's command, and his by that of Colonel Hatch's. Thus the
entire command was concentrated, and, from the absence of parallel roads, compelled to move
on the same road.
At about 2 o'clock the head of the column came up with the rear of the enemy and pressed
him sharply. Having discovered a small party of rebel cavalry on our right carefully watching our
movements, a detachment was sent to dislodge it, and an order was sent to Colonel Lee, at the
head of the column, to move cautiously, throw out strong flankers, and show a wide front.
Colonels Hatch and Mizner were also directed to throw out flankers at the head of each of their
commands.
Riding rapidly to the front I found one piece of our artillery moving cautiously forward and
now and then throwing shell beyond our skirmishers as they steadily advanced. At about 1 mile
from Coffeeville a few shells were thrown to the front, when suddenly the enemy opened at short
range upon our position with shell, using, I think, four pieces of artillery, perhaps six. At the
same time his infantry in line opened upon our advanced dismounted skirmishers with rapid
volleys, while heavy skirmishing was in progress on both flanks of the head of our column and
extending to the rear of the head of the column. From all this it was quite evident we had
encountered a heavier force than we were able to combat, under the jaded condition of our men
and horses. Colonel Lee was ordered to fall back steadily in the center and strong parties were at
once sent to the support of our skirmishers on the right and left flanks. The column was faced to
the rear and Colonels Mizner and Hatch were ordered to form successive supporting lines of
detachments on each side of the road to cover the retreat of our skirmishers and check the
advance of the enemy on the main road. The enemy pressing hard upon our retiring forces, the
moving back of the led horses of dismounted men and the reversal of wagons and ambulances
occasioned considerable confusion, though no indications whatever of a panic were at any time
perceptible. Our flanks were repeatedly attacked by the enemy's infantry, but our flankers as
often succeeded in repulsing them. The column was steadily withdrawn about l miles to the rear
to an open field, when the fighting ceased. Night having come on in the mean time the column
was halted at this point, a strong rear guard sent back to watch the enemy and check his pursuit if
attempted, while suitable parties were detached to watch the approaches on the right and left
flanks of the rear. Having waited about an hour to enable our dismounted men to find and mount
their horses the division was marched back to the camps which it had occupied the night before,
arriving there at about 11 p.m. Here I at first thought of resting the next day and sending scouting
parties toward Coffeeville, but upon the advice of Colonel Lee the command was moved early on
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the morning of the 6th to Yockna River, crossing at Prophet Bridge, about 6 miles distant from
Water Valley. The command was encamped so as to watch the approaches and gather forage.
In the action near Coffeeville, as well as during the entire pursuit, the men and officers
behaved in the most gallant manner, cheerfully bearing every hardship in order to inflict injury
upon the enemy.
Lieutenant-Colonel McCullough, of the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, fell while covering the
retreat of our column with the mounted companies of his regiment. He was at first reported
wounded and a prisoner, but it is now ascertained that he was instantly killed. A better or braver
man never fought or fell. He died with his face to the foe, at the head of his command, thus nobly
sacrificing his life for the safety of his fellows. His loss is a severe one to the country and the
service.
Lieutenant Woodburn, of the Seventh Kansas, fell mortally wounded at the first volley of the
enemy. Captain Townsend, Fourth Illinois Cavalry; Lieutenant Colbert, of the Seventh Kansas;
Captain Eystra and Lieutenants Reed, Budd, and Harrington, of the Second Iowa, and Captain
Caldwell, of the Third Michigan Cavalry, received honorable wounds in this action. Sergeant
Baylor, of my escort, was wounded by my side near the close of the action. The horse of Colonel
Lee was wounded; that of Colonel Hatch killed.
The conduct of Colonels Mizner, Lee, and Hatch in the handling of their troops was worthy
of praise. Major Ricker, of the Fifth Ohio Cavalry, conducted the rear guard in the retreat with
cool bravery and good judgment.
Lieutenants Wilson and Davis of my staff deserve special commendation for their efficiency
in transmitting my orders and effecting their execution and for valuable suggestions in the midst
of the action.
Other officers were self-possessed and inspired the men with confidence. I mention only
those whose conduct came under my own personal observation.
As to the troops, they fought well, without exception. The Seventh Illinois and the battalion
of the Fifth Ohio, which had until very lately been illy armed, have proven themselves, with
good arms in their hands, as effective in the face of an enemy as their most noted companions in
the field.
This action was fought under peculiar difficulties. The road was narrow and extremely
muddy, lined nearly all the way on both sides by a dense and almost impenetrable growth of oak
trees and underbrush, running over a broken and impracticable country or through river bottoms
of a miry character. It was impossible to see the enemy's position or note his strength till we were
upon him. It was equally difficult to show a strong front or properly dispose of the wagons and
ambulances and the horses of the dismounted men.
In this pursuit, over muddy roads and through almost incessant rains, in a country destitute of
forage for horses and without rations for men, the enemy was followed four successive days,
skirmishing daily and almost hourly, and chased as far as Coffeeville, a distance of about 50
miles, and after fighting him at that point several hours, engaging his artillery and infantry, I
withdrew my command steadily and fell back to a place of security where I could give the troops
the rest they so much needed.
In the expedition we captured 750 prisoners and near 200 horses and mules; also 5 railroad
cars, 4 wagons loaded with supplies, $7,000 of Confederate money in the hands of a rebel
quartermaster; compelled the enemy to burn several hundred tents and to abandon and destroy
several hundred stand of small-arms; saved from destruction all of the railroad bridges on the
route and most of the trestle work, and obtained a correct map of the country through the
assistance of the assistant topographical engineer who accompanied me.
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We lost 10 killed, 63 wounded, and 41 captured. Of the enemy at least 70 were killed, 250
wounded, and 750 taken prisoners. His loss in stragglers and deserters on the retreat is probably
600 or 700 more.
I transmit herewith a list of the casualties, which is respectfully submitted.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. LYLE DICKEY,
Colonel and Chief of Cavalry, Commanding Cavalry Division.
Lieut. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION,
Near Grand Junction, Tenn., November 22, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that leaving camp at noon of the 19th with detachments
from the Seventh Kansas, Second Iowa, and the Third Michigan Regiments of Cavalry, in all
1,024 men, I encamped at night 10 miles northwest of Ripley. At midnight I resumed the march
and before daybreak had completely surrounded the city of Ripley without disturbing its
inhabitants. In the town I found sleeping Lieutenant-Colonel Hovis, of the Second Mississippi,
Colonel Falkner's regiment; also Major Rogers, of the Second Mississippi Infantry. Several
private soldiers were also found. I here learned that Colonel Falkner and his men were to meet
that morning at a point 13 miles south of Ripley for the purpose of collecting the scattered
companies of his regiment and march to join the rebel army at Abbeville. I sent large
detachments on every road radiating from Ripley in search of the enemy, and myself with 400
men left for the meeting of Falkner. Arriving within 2 miles of the place of meeting his pickets
fired on us and galloped to the main body. From prisoners afterward taken we learned that
Colonel Falkner immediately ordered his force to mount and galloped away. We dashed on,
overtaking his rear guard, firing many shots, when they scattered in the woods in all directions.
We took here several prisoners, including officers. Falkner with about 100 men escaped by
dint of the hardest running, going in direction of Holly Springs. We had parties on all roads
leading to this place of meeting and captured frequently small squads of men, frequently led by
an officer. We also relieved the county of such stock as our present necessities required.
On the present expedition Tippah County has been completely run over, our scouting
extending 15 miles south of Ripley through the Hickory Flats. On my return I sent a regiment
through the country below Salem and through that town. This column made several captures.
I consider Colonel Falkner's regiment now broken beyond any hope of reorganization, and a
great source of petty annoyance to our forces entirely removed.
I report prisoners sent this morning and enumerated in inclosed lists. Commissioned officers,
7; enlisted men, 46; paroled on account of illness or wounds, by myself, 7; total, 60. Taken oath
of allegiance and released: T. J. Adkins, second lieutenant, Third Tennessee Infantry. Stock
captured: Horses, 81; mules, 67; total, 148. This stock is in the hands of the division
quartermaster, and being issued to regiments of this division as they need.
I am, captain, very respectfully your obedient servant,
A.L. LEE,
Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Division.
Capt. R. M. SAWYER,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Left Wing, Army of the Tenn.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 22.
HDQRS. FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
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DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Nashville, Tenn., November 24, 1862.
I. Brig. Gen. D. S. Stanley having reported for duty, in acceptance with the orders of the
Secretary of War, is announced as chief of cavalry, and assigned to the command of all the
cavalry in this department.
II Lieut. Col. W. P. Hepburn, Second Iowa Cavalry, is relieved from duty as acting judgeadvocate,
and announced as inspector of cavalry on the staff of the general commanding. He will
report for duty to Lieut. Col. A. C. Ducat, assistant inspector-general of this army.
III. Maj. Ralston Skinner, having been appointed by the President judge-advocate for this
army, is announced as such, and will be respected accordingly.
IV. Col. James Barnett, First Ohio Light Artillery, being the senior officer of that arm in this
corps d'arme is announced as chief of artillery, and will report for duty at department
headquarters.
By command of Major-General Rosecrans:
J. P. GARESCHE,
Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIGADE, CAVALRY DIVISION,
IN THE FIELD, AT BROWNING'S PLANTATION,
La Fayette County, Miss., December 8, 1862.
MAJOR: In compliance with orders from Col. T. Lyle Dickey, chief of cavalry, I left Oxford
with my command at 7 o'clock on the morning of the 3d. Two miles from town I found the
enemy's pickets, and, by a spirited dash, made by two companies of the Seventh Illinois Cavalry,
captured the entire picket, consisting of one company of cavalry, numbering 43 men and officers.
Continued skirmishing to within 2 miles of the Yocknapatalfa.
Learning that the enemy was in strong force at the bridge near Spring Dale and had cavalry
forces at three bridges on the road, crossing the river toward Water Valley, and learning from
prisoners that the intention was to destroy them on our approach, made a strong demonstration
on the Spring Dale Bridge at 4 p.m., sending two companies to the Free Bridge under Major
Ricker, of the Fifth Ohio Cavalry, and two companies to Prophet Bridge to dash at it when the
enemy's attention was drawn to the other.
At the Spring Dale Bridge we found infantry and cavalry and fought them until dark. Captain
Ashmead (Company I, Seventh Illinois Cavalry) crossed the stream on logs, drove the enemy in
flank until he found him in force, when he retired, taking 3 prisoners with him. The fight
continued until after dark, when I deemed it expedient to withdraw, the enemy having destroyed
the bridge before we reached it. Prophet Bridge was taken by a dash and held by Captain
Blackburn of the Seventh Illinois Cavalry. We captured this day 92 prisoners.
At daylight on the morning of the 4th crossed the bridge, when skirmishing began
immediately, the enemy having dispatched a regiment of cavalry to burn the bridge. Pushed on
toward Water Valley, driving the enemy steadily 6 miles to Water Valley, where I made a
charge, driving them in confusion through the town, losing 1 man killed at this point, pushing the
enemy 4 miles south of Water Valley, capturing a number of prisoners, saving 6 cars of a train
which the enemy abandoned and fired; also 4 wagons loaded with commissary stores and 100
tents and poles, which I ordered burned, when we fell back.
At 12 m. an overwhelming force of the enemy's cavalry attacked me in the rear (reported
eight regiments by prisoners and a small regiment of infantry), approached Water Valley from
Rocky Ford, drove in the scouts I had thrown out northeast, when I fell back on a ridge north of
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the town and awaited their attack. Ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Prince to dismount eight
companies of Seventh Illinois Cavalry, and Major Coon, Second Iowa Cavalry, to dismount four
rifle companies. Our line was not formed when the enemy (dismounting two regiments of
cavalry with his infantry) advanced up the hill, charging both of our flanks with mounted men.
Fortunately we had checked their charge of mounted men before their line of foot had received
our fire. Major Coon and Colonel Prince, holding their fire until the enemy was nearly upon
them, they opened so severely that the enemy fell back, and re-en-forcing his dismounted men
again advanced. Our men being well covered held the enemy in check, when I ordered Major
Ricker with his battalion of Fifth Ohio Cavalry to charge the enemy's left flank, at the same time
Col. E. Prince gradually extending his left flank until his regiment had outflanked the enemy's
right. I advanced the entire line, driving the enemy down the hill. Major Ricker charged with
great spirit, throwing the enemy's left into confusion. The enemy in our front was thoroughly
routed, but owing to a detachment of the enemy's cavalry falling upon our rear, and Colonel
Lee's column also having been reported as the enemy, I left Colonel Prince to hold the ground
and fell back with the Second Iowa and Fifth Ohio Cavalry to fight, losing by this report the
benefit of the victory. Colonel Lee's column, approaching from Spring Dale, was reported for
the enemy, owing to the portion passing the scout being a battalion of the Second Iowa Cavalry,
dressed in grey overcoats.
We captured on the 4th 183 prisoners.
On the morning of the 5th my brigade, in compliance with orders from Col. T. Lyle Dickey,
chief of cavalry, marched at 8 o'clock in the rear of the cavalry division, my command having
been reduced by details to two companies of the Fifth Ohio Cavalry, under Major Ricker; six
companies of the Seventh Illinois Cavalry, under Lieut. Col. Edward Prince, and six companies
of the Second Iowa Cavalry, under Maj. D. E. Coon; in all fourteen companies. At 2 p.m.
detached, by order of Col. T. Lyle Dickey, two companies of the Seventh Illinois Cavalry to the
left flank. At 3 p.m., by order of Col. T. Lyle Dickey, detached two companies of the Fifth Ohio
Cavalry to right and left flank. At 3.30 p.m. was ordered by Col. T. Lyle Dickey to send four
companies of dismounted men to the front and dispatched four companies of the Seventh Illinois
Cavalry.
At 4 p.m. forces engaged in front of us passed to the rear. I brought my line of dismounted
rifle companies, concealed under the ridge, supported by two saber companies, being all of my
brigade not detached. In a few minutes the enemy were advancing in great force, two regiments
by head of column, with skirmishers on their flank. Ordering Major Coon to have his men lie
down until the enemy were close, his men, armed with the revolving rifle, reserved their fire, and
when the enemy were within 20 yards, pouring in our volleys, firing nearly three rounds to each
man, when the enemy, outflanking us, fell back to the next ridge, when we again opened fire,
held our ground until again outflanked, fighting back slowly, standing at every practicable point,
the final stand being made at the junction of the road to Water Valley and Panola. Then, placing
my men behind the fence on the right and the ridge and house on the left, the fighting became
very sharp. Night setting in our men returned the enemy's fire, aiming at the flash. At this time
my horse fell, having received three balls in his body. I immediately prepared to make a charge
in the rear, having been informed that the enemy were between myself and the main body.
Immediately running forward I found the enemy had thrown a company into the road and had
ordered one of our companies to surrender. I ordered all the stragglers near me into line. I opened
fire with revolvers, ordering Company E, of the Second Iowa Cavalry, forward to the charge.
Our fire, however, opened the communication. I then moved my command into the field on the
left, and, covering the left flank with a company of dismounted rifles, moved forward to the main
column.
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The officers of my command fought bravely against an almost overwhelming force, attacking
them in front and on our flanks. In the four rifle companies 5 officers out of 7 were wounded.
Lieut. D. McGregor, acting assistant adjutant-general, was wounded in the thigh. The Fifth Ohio
Cavalry, on the right flank, suffered considerably. Major Ricker held his men well in hand and
fell slowly back, disputing the ground slowly. Colonel Prince, on the left, with the Seventh
Illinois Cavalry, was only driven in by an overwhelming force, disputing every inch of the
ground. Companies E and I, of the Seventh Illinois Cavalry, were surrounded by the enemy after
dark and were ordered to surrender, but gallantly cut their way out.
Of the officers and soldiers of my command I cannot speak too highly, especially of the
officers and soldiers of the Second Iowa Cavalry, who, when the enemy were advancing upon
them from the front and either flank, conducted themselves like veterans, pouring volley after
volley into their advancing columns. The mounted companies of my command held themselves
in readiness to charge the enemy's cavalry, and retired from the field in perfect order.
Lieut. Col. E. Prince, of the Seventh Illinois Cavalry ; Major Ricker, of the Fifth Ohio
Cavalry, and Major Coon and Maj. F. A. Kendrick, of the Second Iowa Cavalry, commanded
their detachments with coolness, efficiency, and courage seldom excelled.
To my staff officers, Lieut. D. McGregor, my assistant adjutant-general, and Lieut. W. Scott
Belden, my aide-de-camp, I am under obligations for coolness and efficiency in delivering my
orders on the field of battle.
EDWARD HATCH,
Colonel, Second Iowa Cavalry, Commanding Brigade,
FORT HENRY, December 10, 1862.
General W. S. ROSECRANS:
Your dispatch of 4.45 p.m. yesterday just received, 3.30 p.m. Hear nothing yet of the
approach of the enemy, though I have scouts out in every direction, in some instances as much as
25 miles. Have made a reconnaissance up the Tennessee River with gunboat as far as Duck
River, and yesterday sent a scouting party to within 12 miles of Waverly. Killed 1 rebel picket
and captured another. Force at Fort Donelson is Eighty-third Illinois Infantry, tolerably strong;
one light battery, four pieces, and one company of my regiment, Fifth Iowa Cavalry. I have
everything else ready to move at a moment's warning, and have been so for two days. A line of
scouts is established between Donelson and Henry, by which I can communicate readily in case
telegraph should be cut. By this I have just received a message through in fifty-eight minutes.
What few troops I have are in grand fighting trim, and everything that can be done has been
done. You shall have a good account of us if attacked. The quantity of stores at Donelson is very
small. I keep the bulk at Fort Henry.
W. W. LOWE,
Colonel, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 42.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Nashville, Tenn., December 22, 1862.
The following list of officers on the staff of the major-general commanding is published for
the information of all concerned: Lieut. Col. Julius P. Garesche, assistant adjutant-general and
chief of staff; Maj. W. H. Sidell, Fifteenth U.S. Infantry, acting assistant adjutant-general and
chief mustering and disbursing officer; Maj. C. Goddard, senior aide-de-camp and acting
assistant adjutant-general; Capt. J. Bates Dickson, assistant adjutant-general First Lieut. Henry
Stone, First Wisconsin Volunteers, acting assistant adjutant-general; Maj. Ralston Skinner,
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judge-advocate; Capt. Charles R. Thompson, aide-de-camp; First Lieut. Frank S. Bond, Tenth
Connecticut Volunteers, aide-de-camp; Second Lieut. Byron Kirby, Sixth U.S. lnfantry, aide-decamp;
Capt. R. S. Thoms, volunteer aide-de-camp; Capt. W. D. Bickham, volunteer aide-decamp;
Lieut Col. A. C. Ducat, assistant inspector-general; Lieut. Col. W. P. Hepburn, Second
Iowa Cavalry, inspector of cavalry; Capt. J. H. Gilman, Nineteenth U.S. Infantry, inspector of
artillery; Capt. J. C. Peterson, Fifteenth U.S. Infantry, acting adjutant and inspector general;
Capt. James Curtis, Fifteenth U.S. Infantry, acting adjutant and inspector general; Lieut. Col. J.
W. Taylor, quartermaster's department, chief quartermaster; Lieut. Col. Samuel Simmons,
commissary of subsistence, chief commissary; Surg. Eben Swift, U.S. Army, medical director;
Capt. James St. C. Morton, corps of engineers, chief of engineers; Lieut. George Burroughs,
corps of engineers; Second Lieut. H. C. Wharton, corps of engineers; Capt. N. Michler, corps of
topographical engineers, chief of topographical engineers; First Lieut. T. Edson, ordnance corps,
ordnance officer; Brig. Gen. D. S. Stanley, U. S. Volunteers, chief of cavalry; Col. James
Barnett, First Ohio Artillery, chief of artillery; Capt. Elmer Otis, Fourth U.S. Cavalry, chief of
courier lines; Capt. J. H. Young, Fifteenth U.S. Infantry, assistant mustering officer; Capt. W. M.
Wiles, Twenty-second Indiana Volunteers, provost-marshal-general; Capt. Jesse Merrill,
volunteers, chief signal officer.
By command of Major-General Rosecrans:
J.P. GARESCHE,
Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIGADE, CAVALRY DIVISION,
Camp near the Tallahatchie, December 29, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to report that, complying with orders from Major-General McPherson,
I marched with eight companies of the Second Iowa and eight companies of the Seventh Illinois
Cavalry at I a.m. on the morning of December 23, to intercept at Rocky Ford the retreat of Van
Dorn, supposed to be moving south. Reached Rocky Ford at 10 a.m., 22 miles from Oxford;
scouted the vicinity, finding no enemy, and, learning from captured prisoners who had left Van
Dorn at Holly Springs that Van Dorn had gone north to Grand Junction and La Grange, supposed
he would cross the railroad and return by the west side. This idea strengthened by reports of the
enemy's cavalry being west of Abbeville, I immediately returned to Oxford, arriving there the
same evening.
At 1.30 a.m. December 24 1 received an order from General McPherson to move to the east
and northeast to intercept Van Dorn's retreat from Saulsbury going south, as soon as I could call
in a portion of my command encamped some miles south of Oxford. Started at daylight, my
pickets to the south and west skirmishing with the enemy's cavalry. The enemy was therefore
aware of our movement. My command was reduced by forced marches for some ten days to 800
men. Moving east, up the south side of the Tallahatchie, scouting the crossings of this river at
Rocky Ford and Big Muddy, my march retarded by the destruction of bridges at various
crossings, I was detained five hours on the Big Muddy, the bridge being destroyed. The night
being dark and stormy it was difficult to find a place to ford or swim the stream.
On reaching the roads leading south to Pontotoc, about 10 miles north of Pontotoc, on the
morning of the 25th, finding no signs of Van Dorn's forces, decided I would take the most direct
route from New Albany to Grenada, which crosses the Tallahatchie at King's Bridge, 6 miles
south of Albany. I moved up that road to occupy the bridge and crossing at King's Ford,
capturing a few prisoners who left Van Dorn at Ripley the evening before. Learning he had made
a stand there against our cavalry I deemed it my duty to move immediately to Ripley. On nearing
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Albany learned that the enemy had passed to the east of me. Encamped 2 miles from Albany, my
command having marched 62 miles in thirty-two hours, including time lost in repairing and
finding crossings over the streams in my route and scouting the country to the east and north.
On the 26th, marched 16 miles.
On the 27th, marched to camp on the Tallahatchie, swimming my command at the crossing
of Tippah Creek.
Annexed I send a list of paroled prisoners taken on the march.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
EDWARD HATCH,
Colonel Second Iowa Cavalry, Comdg. Second Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION,
Mouth of Coldwater River, Miss., December 4, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report in regard to the operations of the forces placed under
my command in connection with the expedition into Mississippi that the force was embarked and
sailed from Helena at about 2 p.m. on Thursday, November 27. The embarkation was delayed
several hours in consequence of insufficient transportation and negligence on the part of the
quartermaster in not having the boats, which had been long in port, properly cooled and in
readiness. In consequence I was not able to make my landing at Delta and disembark the cavalry
forces which composed my command until after dark. The force I had with me was 1,925 strong
and consisted of detachments from the following regiments, viz: First Indiana Cavalry, 300,
commanded by Captain Walker; Ninth Illinois Cavalry, 150, commanded by Major Burgh; Third
Iowa Cavalry, 188, commanded by Major Scott; Fourth Iowa Cavalry, 200, commanded by
Captain Perkins; Fifth Illinois Cavalry, 212, commanded by Major Seley. Total, 1,050.
The above I formed into one brigade under the command of Col. Hall Wilson, of the Fifth
Illinois Cavalry.
Sixth Missouri Cavalry, 150, commanded by Major Hawkins; Fifth Kansas Cavalry, 208,
commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Jenkins; Tenth Illinois Cavalry, 92, commanded by Captain
Anderson; Third Illinois Cavalry. 200, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Ruggles; Second
Wisconsin Cavalry, 225, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Sterling. Total, 875.
The last named were placed under command of Col. Thomas Stephens, Second Wisconsin
Cavalry.
As soon as possible after landing I took up my line of march for the interior and bivouacked
for the night about 8 miles from the Mississippi River. I took no tents or baggage of any kind,
and about three days' rations. I broke camp at daylight on Friday and marched 35 miles on that
day to the west bank of Tallahatchie River, just below its junction with the Coldwater.
During this day's march we captured several rebel pickets and couriers. We found that reports
of our landing had preceded us, and the impression prevailed that we were approaching in great
force. From negroes that we met we learned that there was a force of rebel cavalry encamped at
the mouth of Coldwater, and that a large party of negroes had been collected near there to
blockade the road and throw up fortifications. Wishing to surprise them, if possible, I delayed the
column slightly, so as not to arrive at the river until after night-fall. As we approached the ferry
where they were supposed to be encamped I ordered Captain Walker, who commanded the
detachment of First Indiana Cavalry, to dismount a party of his men and throw them forward as
quietly as possible to the bank of the river, and at the same time to detach his horses from his
small guns and have his men run them quietly forward by hand. He soon came in sight of their
campfires on the east bank of the river, and could distinctly see large numbers of soldiers moving
around them. They were laughing, talking, singing, and enjoying themselves quite merrily.
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Captain Walker immediately brought his guns to bear at a distance of about 300 yards and
opened out with all four at once, while the dismounted men poured a volley into them from the
river bank. The enemy fled with the utmost precipitation, leaving many horses and arms upon the
ground. The next day. 5 of them, very severely wounded, were found in houses by the roadside,
and the negroes reported that they had 3 killed in the engagement.
I encamped for the night on the banks of the Tallahatchie River. The river at this point is
deep and sluggish, and is about 120 yards across. We here found a ferry with one ferry-boat, 40
or 50 feet in length. It was my intention to bridge the river during the night, and for that purpose
I took along with me 5,000 feet of inch pine lumber and five small boats, sent from Memphis;
but an examination of the boats proved them to be leaky and worthless, and we had to delay
operations until morning. Being convinced that the means furnished for bridging were wholly
inadequate, I dispatched parties up the Coldwater and down the Tallahatchie to hunt for boats.
They found two large flats up the Coldwater, but they found the river full of snags, and it was not
until nearly 4 p.m. that they succeeded in getting them down. By 4.30 p.m. I had the bridge
completed, and by 6 p.m. I had my entire force of cavalry on the eastern bank of the river. My
orders were to march my force as rapidly as possible to the rear of the rebel army and destroy his
telegraphic and railway communications. To do the latter the most effectively I thought it best to
march directly on Grenada, knowing that there were there two important railroad bridges across
the Yalabusha River--the one on the Mississippi Central Railroad and the other on the
Mississippi and Tennessee Railroad. The distance to make to reach Grenada was 56 miles, but by
pushing hard I deemed it possible to reach there by daylight next morning. After proceeding
nearly east, along the Yocknapatalfa River (commonly called the Yockna), about 11 miles, the
roads fork, one road going to Panola, the other to Charleston and Grenada. A few yards from the
forks of the road, on the Panola road, is a ferry across the Yockna, and the head of my column
turned down the Panola road to the ferry to water their horses. They were at once fired upon by a
heavy rebel picket. Major Hawkins, of the Sixth Missouri, immediately brought his small
howitzers to bear, and we soon silenced the enemy and drove him away. We afterward learned
that they were the pickets of a cavalry force of 3,000, who were encamped 6 miles up the Panola
road, who on hearing our guns supposed we were bound for Panola, and they retreated to that
point. After leaving this point we were several times fired upon by the pickets of the enemy,
which compelled us to feel our way during the night.
At daylight I found myself at Preston, a little town 16 miles from Grenada. When I arrived
here I found it would be impossible for me to reach Hardy Station, the first station above
Grenada, on the Mississippi and Tennessee Railroad, in time to intercept the up train, which I
ascertained usually left at 8 a.m. I detached Capt. A.M. Sherman, Second Wisconsin Cavalry,
with 200 men of the Second Wisconsin and Fifth Illinois, to cross over to the Mississippi and
Tennessee Railroad, at Garner Station, which was only 4 miles distant, and destroy the telegraph
and such bridges as he could find, and if possible to capture the train. He burned one bridge over
100 feet long and cut the telegraph. He was also instructed on leaving Garner Station to cross
through the woods to the Mississippi Central, a distance of 9 miles, in an air line, and hunt for
and destroy bridges and cut the telegraph. This last, from the character of the country to be
passed over, he found would be impracticable. The train from Grenada did not come up. With
the remainder of the column I passed on down toward Grenada. About 9 a.m., my horses being
thoroughly jaded, I found it necessary to stop and feed and rest them, which I did for about two
hours. I then passed on to Hardy Station. About half a mile below the station I found a bridge
about 100 feet in length, which I burned, and also destroyed several hundred yards of telegraph
wire, and one passenger, one box, and ten platform ears. We here learned that our coming had
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preceded us by several hours, and that the evening previous 1,100 infantry had come down the
road from Panola to Grenada.
At Hardy Station the road we traveled crossed the railroad and passed down between the
Mississippi and Tennessee and Mississippi Central. Passing down the road toward Grenada for
about 2 miles, and hearing from the negroes that trains of cars were running a.11 night down the
Central Railroad toward Grenada, loaded with soldiers, being in a perfect trap between the two
railroads, in a low and densely wooded bottom, with no knowledge in regard to roads, and
knowing that they had had time to send ample force from Abbeville, I deemed it too hazardous to
proceed farther in that direction. I here detached Major Burgh, of the Ninth Illinois Cavalry, with
100 men, armed with carbines, crow-bars, and axes, and directed them to cross the country,
through the woods and canebrakes, until they should strike the Central Mississippi Railroad, and
then destroy the telegraph and all the bridges they could find. They successfully performed the
service, destroying the telegraph, tearing up the railroad track, and burning one small bridge,
being the only one they could find, they having an uninterrupted view of the track for a long
distance each way. While thus employed a train of cars loaded with soldiers came slowly up the
track from toward Grenada, apparently feeling their way to find out where we were. They fell
back on discovering Major Burgh and party. Major Burgh, having done all the damage to the
railroad he could, fell back to the main column.
By this time it was nearly night; my horses and men were too thoroughly tired out and my
knowledge of the country was too limited to justify me in periling my whole force by venturing
farther, and I accordingly fell back about 15 miles and encamped for the night. Before doing so I
hesitated as to the route I should take on my return. I was at the point where the main road from
Abbeville and Coffeeville intersected the road I passed down upon, about 5 miles from Grenada.
I felt the importance of striking Coffeeville and destroying some bridges that I heard of there,
and from there fall back via Oakland, on the Mississippi and Tennessee road. Coffeeville was 13
miles off and Oakland 30; but on reflection I determined not to do so. Had I taken the other road
the result might have proved disastrous.
Sunday night a force of 5,000 rebel cavalry came into Oakland in pursuit of me with two
field pieces. After feeding and resting for a short time they proceeded on to Grenada via
Coffeeville Had I taken the other road via Coffeeville, and the only other one by which we could
return, we should have encountered this force. As we should have been compelled to go into
camp from sheer exhaustion soon after leaving Coffeeville they would no doubt have come upon
us in camp, and with more than double our numbers and a perfect knowledge of the country they
would have had us at great disadvantage.
On Monday morning I broke camp, 4 miles beyond Charleston, and marched to Mitchell's
Cross-Roads, 12 miles from the mouth of Cold-water, where we found that General Hovey had
sent forward to that point about 1,200 infantry and four field pieces. I had scarcely arrived at
Mitchell's Cross-Roads when word came into camp that two companies of infantry, sent out by
Colonel Spicely on the Panola road as a picket, were fighting and in danger of being cut off.
Without waiting an instant I threw my force forward, Captain Walker, of the First Indiana, with
his little howitzers in front, and Major Burgh, of the Ninth Illinois Cavalry, immediately
following. As soon as we came in sight of the enemy Captain Walker and Major Burgh brought
their guns into position, and a few well-directed shots sent the enemy flying. The enemy was
posted on the north side of the Yockna, a deep stream about 125 feet wide, crossed by a ferry. I
immediately threw a portion of Captain Walker's command across the stream, who pursued them
lively for a few miles, until farther pursuit was useless. This force was part of Starke's cavalry.
Being now entirely out of rations I sent into the mouth of Cold-water, where the supply train
was, for two days' rations to be sent out during the night, intending to march early next morning
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and endeavor to reach Coffeeville. My men had their horses saddled up and in readiness at
daylight, but no rations came. Owing to the breaking down of wagons they did not come up so
that the rations could be distributed before 2 p.m.
This day, Tuesday, December 2, it rained incessantly all day. Not being able to march on
Coffeeville, owing to the want of rations, and knowing that the enemy were in considerable force
at Panola, on the Tallahatchie, 14 miles from my camp, where they had fortified to defend the
crossing, and also at Belmont, 7 miles farther up the river, I concluded that I would go up there
and reconnoiter and if possible drive these forces away, so as to have no force in my rear when I
should move toward Coffeeville the following day.
I left camp about 2 p.m. and rode rapidly to Panola. About 1 miles before reaching the town
we came upon their camp (apparently a very large one), but we found nobody to receive us, they
having fled the night before. I sent Major Burgh with the Ninth Illinois Cavalry forward, who
took possession of the town and captured a few prisoners. We also ascertained from negroes who
had been at work on the fortifications at Belmont that they abandoned their works there and fled
in great precipitation when they heard of our approach. After occupying Panola we returned
same night to our camp near Mitchell's Cross-Roads. I did not disturb the railroad at Panola or
burn any bridge, having already rendered it useless to the rebels and knowing we should want to
use it very shortly.
The next morning early I took up my line of march for Coffeeville via Oakland. I ordered
Colonel Spicely, who was in command of the advance infantry and artillery force, to throw
forward for my support as far as Oakland 600 infantry and two field pieces, which he did, under
the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Torrence, Thirtieth Iowa Infantry. The roads were very
heavy and the march was tedious. As we approached Oakland our information was that there was
no enemy there and had been none since Sunday night; but about 1 mile before reaching town
the advance guard from the First Indiana came in sight of 2 or 3 rebel pickets. Each party fired,
and the pickets fled, hotly pursued. The road here was narrow and the ground on both sides lined
with a dense growth of small saplings, with a fence on each side. The advance immediately
formed in line so far as the nature of the ground would admit. They found the rebels dismounted
and drawn up in line in large force in a most advantageous position. The advance stood their
ground manfully and delivered their fire with great coolness and precision. After delivering their
fire the enemy charged upon them in great force, and the ground being such as to render it
impossible for them to reform, they were compelled to fall back about 200 yards to an opening,
where I was able to deploy to the right and left of the road. Supposing that the force was the
large cavalry force that occupied Oakland on Sunday night I felt impelled to move with much
caution and beat up the woods as I proceeded. This occupied some little time, we in the mean
time having got our howitzers in position and shelled the woods in all directions where an enemy
seemed probable. Advancing with our lines extended we entered the town just in time to get
sight of the enemy. Colonel Stephens, commanding the Second Brigade, having deployed on the
left, was first to enter the town, and as soon as he came in sight of the enemy charged upon them
and drove them with great rapidity through the town and down the road to Coffeeville. We
captured a number of prisoners, horses, arms, and 5,000 rounds of Minie-rifle cartridges, and we
found at different houses in town about a dozen so badly wounded that they could not be taken
away, among them Captain Griffin, of the First Texas Legion, whose arm was shattered by a
pistol ball; also a chaplain, surgeon, and 2 lieutenants of a Texas regiment. Some of their
wounded were fatally so.
I have to report no loss of men during the engagement, but about 10 men wounded, only 1 of
them seriously. The First Indiana lost 8 or 10 horses, which were killed daring the engagement,
and my body guard had 6 horses killed, and Lieutenant Meyers, commanding the body guard,
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had his horse shot under him and a bullet shot through his coat. I regret to have to report that
during the confusion that ensued when the enemy charged on the head of our column, and before
the First Indiana could get their guns in position, one of them, which had been too far advanced
to the front, was captured and borne off by the enemy. This is the only event of the expedition
that I have cause to regret; and yet knowing as I do from personal observation the determined
character of the first onset of the enemy I do not regard the event as surprising, or one for which
the company to which the gun belonged is censurable. The conduct of Captain Walker
throughout is worthy of all praise.
When at Oakland I was 15 miles from Coffeeville. From prisoners captured and from citizens
I learned that the rebel army had fled from Abbeville and were falling back rapidly via Water
Valley and Coffeeville. I also learned that the cavalry force which we encountered at Oakland
were Texas troops and about 1,500 strong, and were part of a force which left Coffeeville that
morning in pursuit of me; that it was divided into three different parties, each of about that
number, and left on as many different routes. Concluding that they would all fall back on
Coffeeville, and being satisfied that more or less force from Price's army was at Coffeeville, I
deemed it highly imprudent to proceed farther, as my whole force of infantry and cavalry did not
exceed 2,500 men. I bivouacked for the night on the public square at Oakland. Though near the
enemy in large force, with the precautions I had taken I felt perfectly secure. I knew that the
enemy was retreating on the road not 10 miles in an air line from me, but I felt confident that he
was in too great a hurry to turn aside to fight me, particularly as they had received such
exaggerated reports of the forces under General Hovey's command. I determined to remain here
and send back for a portion of the remaining infantry to be sent up to my support, that I might
proceed on to their line of retreat and harass them as they passed; but about 12 o'clock at night I
received a dispatch from General Hovey transmitting a dispatch from General Steele stating that
the object of the expedition had been fully accomplished and ordering the entire force to return to
Helena immediately. I allowed my men to rest quietly at Oakland until morning, when I quietly
and deliberately, but reluctantly, returned.
The day I returned from Oakland it rained hard all day, and with the previous rains was
calculated to excite just apprehensions that we could not get back with our artillery to the
Mississippi across the low alluvial bottom which we had passed over in going out. No person
that has not passed over this road can have a just estimate of it in a wet time. For 50 miles from
the Mississippi or 10 miles beyond the Tallahatchie the land is an alluvial formation filled with
ponds, sloughs, and bayous, and subject to annual overflow, and the roads are impassable as
soon as the fall rains begin.
In conclusion I beg to say that the result of the expedition has on the whole been eminently
successful. Had I possessed in advance the knowledge I now have I could have done some things
I left undone; but my main object, which was to stampede the rebel army, could not have been
more effectually accomplished. At no time, except at Oakland, had I over 1,925 men, and then I
had 600 infantry and two field pieces, which came up just at night. The impression prevailed
wherever we went that we were the advance of a force of 30,000 that was to cut off Price. The
infantry sent forward to my support at Mitchell's Cross Roads consisted of the Eleventh Indiana,
Colonel Macauley, 400; Twenty-fourth Indiana, Lieutenant-Colonel Barter, 370; Twenty-eighth
and Thirtieth Iowa, Lieutenant-Colonel Terrence, 600, and an Iowa battery, Captain Griffiths, all
under the command of Colonel Spicely, of Indiana, an able and efficient officer.
Of the temper of both officers and men under my command I cannot speak in too high terms
of praise. From the time of my landing at Delta to this time my command has marched over 200
miles. The weather for two days out of six has been most inclement, raining incessantly.
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Without tents of any kind and not a too plentiful supply of rations, I have never heard a word of
complaint or dissatisfaction. The health of the command has continued excellent.
To my personal staff, who accompanied me on the expedition, Capt. W. H. Morgan, assistant
adjutant-general; Capts. John Whytock and G. W. Ring, I am under many obligations for
efficient services.
Respectfully, yours,
C. C. WASHBURN,
Brigadier-General.
Capt. JOHN E. PHILLIPS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CORINTH,
Corinth, Miss., December 29, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the report of the expedition that left this place in pursuit of
rebel forces under Forrest:
My troops consisted of First Brigade, Col. T. W. Sweeny, composed of the Second and
Seventh Iowa and Fifty-second Illinois; and Third Brigade, Col. M. M. Bane, Fiftieth Illinois,
composed of Seventh, Fiftieth, and Fifty-seventh Illinois Infantry; two batteries of the First
Missouri Light Artillery, under command of Maj. George H. Stone; the Fifth Ohio, and Stewart's
and Hurst's cavalry, about 250 strong, left Corinth Thursday at midnight, reaching Purdy at noon
next day, where we were joined by one section of First Missouri Light Artillery under command
of Lieutenant Green, and Forty-eighth Illinois Infantry under command of Colonel Sanford.
Continuing the march we encamped at Sweet Lip Creek.
During the day heard the firing near Jackson, and receiving various conflicting reports of the
position and strength of the enemy, and also that the enemy in some force was marching from
Clifton to the aid of Forrest, I decided to push on to Lexington, regardless of rumors, and stop
the re-enforcements from the Tennessee River or strike Forrest in the rear, as the case might
require. At daylight I marched and pushed through to within 5 miles north of Sodus Creek, on
the Lexington road, and encamped.
During the night I received dispatches from Brigadier-General Sullivan, whose camp was
near Juno, on Jackson and Lexington road, that the enemy, 8,000 strong, were again menacing
Jackson, and that he should return to Jackson.
I immediately dispatched Stewart's cavalry to the Tennessee River opposite Clifton, with
orders to go to Clifton, ascertain facts in relation to the enemy, divide at that place, one part
moving toward Lexington to join me there and one part moving up the Tennessee River to
Pittsburg Landing, destroying all boats and rafts, and thence to Corinth.
This order was executed by Stewart's battalion of cavalry and Captain Ford's company (Fiftythird
Illinois Independent Cavalry) with promptness and efficiency and swept away a cloud of
false rumors. They traveled 90 miles in twenty-four hours, captured a messenger from General
Maney to Forrest, telling him to keep our communication with General Grant broken and to hold
Jackson; and they also captured a messenger from Colonel Roddey, commanding at Tuscumbia,
informing Forrest that he was waiting for orders. I immediately took the messenger's horse and
equipments, mounted one of my own scouts, and answered the dispatch, ordering Colonel
Roddey to hold Tuscumbia and watch the movements of a force said to be approaching him from
Corinth. This, with other rumors that he got, so frightened Roddey that he broke camp and made
south to Bay Springs and then west.
At daylight (20th) I moved forward to Lexington, arriving at noon; ascertained to my own
satisfaction that Forrest's force did not exceed 5,000 men (if so many), with one battery, and that
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he had scattered his forces along the railroad north of Jackson. I captured and paroled 7 of
French's cavalry at this place and immediately pushed toward Pinch with my infantry and
artillery, sending my cavalry to Huntingdon to feel the enemy in that direction.
During the day I rebuilt the bridge across Beech River destroyed by Colonel Ingersoll, and
encamped for the night at Juno or Pinch.
My cavalry reported during the night, and I found that the enemy were then north and east of
Trenton; that no force was threatening Jackson; that no force was east of me toward Tennessee,
and also heard that a force had taken Holly Springs.
I determined to return to Corinth, and therefore marched to Henderson by way of Crucifer
and Mifflin, building a floating bridge across the Forked Deer, and taking the cars at Henderson
Station, sending my train by land with instructions to take all cattle, hogs, and sheep on the road
for subsistence at Corinth. The command reached Corinth December 24, marching 130 miles in
four days and one night.
Great credit is due the officers and men of the command for the soldierly manner in which
they bore up under so fatiguing a march, and also for the orderly manner in which they
conducted themselves on the march, being entirely free from pillaging or unauthorized
depredations of any kind.
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. M. DODGE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding District of Corinth.
Lieut. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of the Tennessee.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE,
Parker's Cross-Roads, near Lexington, Tenn., Dec. 31, 1862.
SIR: In pursuance of your written order of yesterday, the 30th instant, I on that day at about 2
p.m. left Huntingdon in pursuit of the enemy's forces under General Forrest, toward Lexington,
with the brigade under my command, except the Seventh Tennessee, which was by your orders
left to guard the bridge north of Huntingdon. My command consisted of parts of two companies
(A and E) of the Eighteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, mounted, under Captain Davis, 65 men;
the Fiftieth Indiana Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Wells commanding, 525 ; the One hundred
and twenty-second Illinois, Colonel Rinaker, 529; the Thirty-ninth Iowa, Colonel Cummings,
405, and three pieces of the Seventh Wisconsin Battery, 30 men, under Lieutenant Wheelock--in
all, 1,554, rank and file. Notwithstanding all were weary and worn with toilsome marches and
arduous duties already performed our little force pushed vigorously forward and reached
Clarksburg, 12 miles distant, shortly after dark.
As the advance guards (the mounted infantry under Captain Davis) approached the town they
were met and resisted by a company of the enemy. They promptly dismounted, engaged and
repulsed him, killing 3, who were left dead on the ground. Our column immediately moved
forward into and occupied the town without further resistance. Here we bivouacked for the night.
I ascertained from scouts whom I sent out that General Forrest with a large force, said to be
his whole command, were bivouacked at Union Church, 4 miles west of Clarksburg, on the road
leading from McLemoresville into the Huntingdon and Lexington road at Parker's Cross. Roads,
5 miles south of Clarksburg. One of his foraging parties represented his forces at 8,000 strong,
with twelve pieces of artillery. I immediately (2 a.m.) sent a courier to you with a dispatch
saying, in substance, that he was at the point above designated in considerable force and that I
should try to coax or force a fight out of him in the morning. My information induced me to
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believe that he was endeavoring to escape by way of Lexington, and hence would enter the road
to that place at the cross-roads aforesaid, and I determined to there intercept him.
Our little force had breakfasted and was in motion before day. The mounted infantry having
been upon picket through the night were left as a rear guard, and Company A, Fiftieth Indiana,
under Lieutenant Judy, was thrown forward as an advance guard. As the advance approached
Parker's Cross-Roads it was attacked by the enemy's pickets; immediately deployed as
skirmishers and pushed rapidly forward up the hill, the whole column following. As I got with
the advance to the top of the hill I saw what seemed a large company, or two small ones, of the
enemy retreating along the road to the west, upon whom I opened a brisk fire, and the retreat
became a flight to Dr. Williams' house, upon a hill nearly half a mile distant, under the shelter of
which and the outbuildings and timber about it they rallied. Desiring to ascertain whether the
enemy was there in force two guns were ordered up and threw a few shells into the surrounding
timber, when a farther retreat into the woods to the northwest followed. Lieutenant-Colonel
Wells, with the Fiftieth Indiana, was ordered forward to occupy the hill upon which the house
stood and the woods to the right, and reconnoiter. He threw three companies (A, D, and F)
forward as skirmishers, following with the remainder of the regiment and soon took the position
indicated.
No enemy being found Company F, Lieutenant Jones, was sent across a skirt of woods to the
north to reconnoiter and soon came up with and engaged a company of the enemy's mounted
men at a house a little west of north from that of Dr. Williams' and drove them back across a
large field and up and over the crest of a ridge. The "recall" was sounded and they returned to the
house. Soon the enemy was seen coming down the hill toward the house. Company F had in the
mean time been joined by a part of the detachment of the Eighteenth Illinois (the mounted
infantry before mentioned)and the two again deployed and drove the enemy back to the top of
the ridge. At this juncture I saw the enemy deploying a line along but behind the brow of the
ridge, and the "recall" was sounded and the skirmishers again rallied at the house. They had
barely done so when the enemy opened upon them with shell from a gun upon his extreme right,
and soon from another considerably farther to the east, and the skirmishing party was withdrawn
to the regiment at Williams' house.
Determined to ascertain if possible the force and disposition of the enemy, two pieces of
artillery were ordered forward to the edge of the wood, supported by four companies of the
Fiftieth Indiana, under Major Attkisson. From these guns a fire was opened upon the enemy
along the ridge. He replied with at least a full battery, and the fire for a little while was intense on
both sides. Seeing that the enemy had put a heavy force in line along and just over the crest of
the ridge, and having accomplished all I desired at that place and time, I ordered our fire to cease
and the forces there to be withdrawn to the main column at the cross-roads. Two or three of the
horses of one gun having been disabled it was gallantly taken out by a detachment of the Fiftieth
under a heavy fire of grape and shell.
The whole command was then moved south, down the Lexington road half a mile, to the Red
Mound, and placed in line of battle along and behind the crest of the ridge, which ran back from
the road at an angle of forty-five degrees about half the length of the line, where it turns still
more eastward; the left rested upon the road; the right upon a thick wood and ravine; the artillery
was placed at the turn in the ridge. This position covered a field to the west, a considerable part
of the road running south from the cross-roads, and also, by our guns, a portion of the road from
the west to the crossroads. The wagon train was placed in a hollow to the rear, with two
companies (one of the Thirty-ninth and one of the One hundred and twenty-second Illinois
beyond) to protect it. These dispositions were scarcely made, indeed the artillery had not got
fully into position, before the enemy in heavy columns was seen moving from the wood on to the
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road, near Williams' house, and along it toward the cross-roads. Being out of range of our
musketry the artillery was ordered to open fire upon the advancing column, which it did; but
from some cause seemingly with but little effect. Lieutenant-Colonel Wells was also directed to
send two companies of his regiment (the Fiftieth Indiana) toward the cross-roads to watch and
check his advance. Company G, Captain Carothers, immediately moved up the road at double
quick, deployed in the lane, opened a galling fire, and held his position until forced back by
overwhelming numbers. Company B, Lieutenant Davies, also moved forward at the same step
and deployed along the edge of the woods, upon which I afterward changed my line, and did
valuable service.
The enemy moved past the cross-roads eastwardly, and appeared as if desirous of escaping in
that direction. Our forces were immediately and rapidly moved to the north (toward the crossroads),
and a new line formed nearly perpendicular to a prolongation of the first, along the edge
and under cover of the woods, parallel to the enemy's advancing column, the left resting upon the
road and the right upon an open field, with three companies thrown perpendicular to the rear in
the edge of the woods to cover the right flank, and a vigorous attack was commenced. The
disposition of the forces at this time was, Company G, Fiftieth Indiana, in the lane, who when
forced back as aforesaid took position on the extreme left; second, the Thirty-ninth Iowa; third,
the One hundred and twenty-second Illinois; fourth, the detachment of the Eighteenth Illinois;
fifth, the Fiftieth Indiana, holding the right; sixth, the companies, one (Company A) of the
Thirty-ninth and one of the One hundred and twenty-second at the house on the mound, to cover
our rear and protect our train yet in the hollow. All had moved into position with alacrity and
with the steadiness of veterans. The artillery had been ordered forward, with a view to being
placed between the Thirty-ninth and One hundred and twenty-second, where it was thought it
could be made most effective upon the enemy's batteries, and be supported by those regiments;
but it had not yet got into position.
By this time the enemy had got into position and the fire from his batteries had become
intense along our whole line. Our skirmishers had been forced back out of the lane, which the
enemy now occupied, and from which, and a small hill behind which he was to some extent
sheltered, he poured upon our left a galling musketry fire. I looked for our guns; two only had
been brought forward, and they, instead of taking the position indicated, were being put in
position in front of the extreme left. I rode along the line to them. When I came up they had
opened fire upon the enemy in the lane and upon the hill last mentioned. I again ordered them to
move to the place designated. To my utter astonishment I was informed by the lieutenant that his
ammunition was about exhausted, and hence it was useless to change position. Directing him to
do the best he could with his pieces I turned away to do the best I could without them.
Candor compels me to say that from some cause our artillery was throughout strikingly
inefficient, although both the officers and men with it exhibited the greatest bravery.
The enemy at this time had one battery on the ridge in front of and parallel to our line; one on
a ridge nearly perpendicular to but beyond our line to the right, so situated as to enable him to
concentrate a fire upon several portions of our line and to enfilade a part of it, and his fire had
become terrible in its intensity. I determined to take his battery at all hazards--the one on our
right. The requisite orders had been given, and I was riding along the line to see that they were
properly understood, when we were suddenly and furiously attacked from the rear by a heavy
dismounted force which had, under the cover of the hills and woods beyond, turned our right
flank, and was moving to the rear of our main line in a direction nearly parallel to it and between
it and that of the two companies left to protect the train and rear; at the same time a regiment of
cavalry charged up the Lexington road from the south toward the rear of our left. This was the
crisis of the day, and nobly did our gallant men meet it. The main line was faced at once to the
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rear and drove the enemy back, inflicting a heavy loss in killed and wounded and taking a large
number of prisoners. The repulse was complete. The Fiftieth Regiment here made a bayonet
charge in a style never surpassed and seldom equaled, forcing their way entirely through the
enemy's line. The cavalry charging up the road was also completely and severely repulsed by the
two companies protecting our rear, who were promptly put in position for that purpose under the
direction of Adjutant Simpson of my staff; but it rallied and made a second charge upon them
and was again repulsed. When the enemy had been repulsed from the rear of our main line as
above described, the Fiftieth Indiana was placed to cover the route by which he had approached.
It had barely got into position when its right was furiously charged by a heavy cavalry force from
the south, before which it staggered and fell slightly back; but two companies (H, Captain Scott,
and C, Captain Marsh) holding the left quickly changed front and poured into the flank of the
charging force a murderous fire, under which it broke and fled, and the right immediately rallied
and resumed its place. This substantially closed the fighting for the day. The repulse of the attack
upon our rear had brought our line back to Red Mound, where our first had been formed, but at
nearly right angles to it, the left resting where the right of the first had rested. It was in excellent
order. I was passing along it, speaking words of congratulation and encouragement to the men,
when a flag of truce, borne by an aide of General Forrest, approached. I rode forward and
demanded his message. He answered: "The general understands that you have surrendered." I
replied: "The general is entirely mistaken; we have never thought of surrendering." He said a
white flag was hoisted. I answered: "You are mistaken; or, if not, it was done without my
authority or knowledge, and you will so report to your general." He departed, but shortly
returned with his flag of truce and said, "The general demands an unconditional surrender." I
replied: "You will get away with that flag very quick, and bring me no more such messages.
Give my compliments to the general, and tell him I never surrender. If he thinks he can take me,
he can come and try." He left.
In the mean time Commissary Sergeant Thompson, of the Fiftieth Regiment, had informed
me that, when the charge had been made upon the two companies left to protect the train and our
rear, the wagoners had become panic-stricken, had driven the train northwestwardly into a
hollow where it had been captured, and that with a single company he could retake it. I turned to
the Thirty-ninth Iowa and asked, "Will any company volunteer to retake our wagons?" Company
G, Captain Cameron, instantly responded, and was placed under the command of Major
Attkisson, of the Fiftieth Indiana, and recaptured the train, taking several prisoners, among
whom was Major Strange, General Forrest's adjutant-general; Colonel McKee, his aide, and one
or two other officers. This was scarcely accomplished when I learned that you had arrived from
Huntingdon with Colonel Fuller's brigade, and I soon saw his guns moving into position.
It is reported to me by Lieutenant Colonel Wells, who held our right, that on the repulse of
the enemy's cavalry he appeared to commence withdrawing, under the cover of the wood--his
forces passed our right, southwardly--and that when Fuller's brigade opened fire his retreat in
that direction became a perfect rout.
We were not during the entire engagement driven from a single position; but, on the contrary,
whenever an opportunity offered, the enemy was driven before us with resistless vigor. Only in a
single instance did any part of our command get into the slightest confusion. When our line was
ordered to face to the rear and repel the enemy's flanking column a part of the Thirty-ninth Iowa
(some three or four companies of its right) obeyed most handsomely; but the other part, from not
properly receiving or not fully understanding the orders, seemed to hesitate, became confused,
and finally began to break. Seeing this I rode rapidly to them, hoping to remedy the difficulty.
The enemy had seen it also and concentrated upon them a terrific fire from his musketry in front
and the battery on the right, under which they completely gave way and crossed the road to a
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skirt of wood a short distance to the west. Their officers, assisted by my aide, Captain Silence,
and Adjutant Simpson, soon rallied them, and they returned in good order to and resumed their
place in the line in its new position at Red Mound, with their confidence in themselves and mine
in them fully restored. It was one of these companies that, under Major Attkisson, retook our
wagon train. When it is recollected that this is a new regiment, having had little or no
opportunity for drill; that this is not only its first engagement but its first march; that for nearly
two hours it undauntingly maintained its position under the severest fire, and when I call to mind
the terrible ordeal of the moment, the wonder is not that they did no better, but so well, and all
regret for this single mishap is forgotten in admiration of the courage of these gallant men.
Lieutenant-Colonel Redfield and Captain Cameron of this regiment were especially
conspicuous for their coolness and energy at this time. The former, although severely and
dangerously wounded, seemed entirely forgetful of his own sufferings in his efforts to rally his
men. Color-Corporal Armstrong also attracted particular attention, for although his companion
had fallen at his side, pierced by several balls, yet he was ready at every command to put down
his flag as a rallying point.
With the exception of this single incident my entire command throughout the day manifested
the greatest enthusiasm and the most perfect confidence in their success, and at no time more
than the moment before your arrival with the other brigade. The One hundred and twenty-second
Illinois deserves especial notice. It is a comparatively new regiment and a part of it was at one
time more exposed to the enemy's fire than any other; at any rate it suffered more in killed and
wounded. Its gallant colonel fell severely wounded, yet its courage never flagged and it met
every duty and every danger with unwavering resolution. The detachment of the Eighteenth
acted for the most part with it and deserves the same commendation.
To the Fiftieth Indiana, because of its greater experience, being an older regiment, was
assigned the most responsible position of the field, and it is only necessary to say that under its
vigilant and brave commander it so did its duties as to show that the trust was worthily confided.
I should also especially mention Captain Silence and Adjutant Simpson. By their vigilance
and energy in observing and reporting every movement, by their promptness in conveying orders
and in seeing to and aiding in their execution, and in many other ways were they of the greatest
service to me. In the discharge of their duties they were often exposed to the enemy's hottest fire.
Captain Silence had two horses shot under him.
My mounted orderly, Fred. L. Prow, of the Fiftieth Indiana, also did good service in
conveying orders. I should also acknowledge my personal obligation to him. When my own
horse was shot under me he rode forward under a terrible fire, dismounted, and gave me his.
I hope to be pardoned also for mentioning a gallant little feat of Private E. A. Topliff, of the
battery. As our line faced about and pressed back in their engagement of the enemy at our rear
one of the guns of the battery was left behind in the edge of the wood. All the horses belonging
to it had been killed but two. After everybody had passed and left it, he, fearing that the enemy
might capture it, alone, under a smart fire, disengaged the two horses, hitched them to the piece,
and took it out safely.
The losses of my command are: Killed, 23; wounded, 139; missing, 58. Total, 220. Many of
the wounds (probably one-half) are slight. Among those taken prisoners are Captain Hungate,
Quartermaster Adams, of the Fiftieth Indiana, and Lieutenant -----, of the --------, acting
temporarily as my aide. Captain Hungate had been very unwell for two or three days, but had
with great resolution kept with his company. The night previous he became and continued very
sick, and was with the assistant surgeon of his regiment at the rear, where he had established his
hospital. Lieutenant Adams was assisting in arranging the hospital and in making provision for
the wounded already being brought in. They, and also Assistant Surgeon Hervey and the
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hospital steward, were captured by the enemy's cavalry in the charge upon our rear. Dr. Hervey
and the hospital steward were detained for two hours, our wounded in the mean time being left to
suffer for want of their attention. Lieut. D. S. Scott, of the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, was
suddenly surrounded and taken while zealously discharging his duties.
The enemy's losses and the fruits of the complete and overwhelming victory which your
timely aid secured to us are more fully within your own knowledge, and it is therefore
unnecessary for me to make any statement in regard to them.
Respectfully submitted.
C. L. DUNHAM,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade.
Brig. Gen. J. C. SULLIVAN,
Commanding Division.
HEADQUARTERS THIRTY-NINTH IOWA INFANTRY,
Battle Ground, Parker's Cross. Roads, December 31, 1862.
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my
regiment in the battle of Parker's Cross-Roads this day:
Upon arriving at the cross-roads we were halted, and remained in that position some time,
while the Fiftieth Indiana Infantry, deployed as skirmishers and supported by two pieces of
artillery, engaged the rebels upon the hill to the right and west of the road. We were then ordered
to file to the right, up the lane, to take position in the woods upon the hills, and upon arriving
there I was ordered to countermarch and take position about a mile south of the cross-roads, and
there formed in front of a few log houses, upon the left of the One hundred and twenty-second
Illinois Infantry.
About 11 a.m. I changed front forward on first company and moved north about a quarter of
a mile, and again formed on the left of the One hundred and twenty-second Illinois behind a
fence. Here we were exposed to a murderous fire from two pieces of the enemy's artillery in
front and a battery of about six guns upon our right, which enfiladed my entire line; we were also
exposed to a heavy musketry fire from the enemy's dismounted cavalry. My men were in a low
skirt of timber, but returned for a long time, with much energy, the fire from their rifles.
Notwithstanding the grape, canister, and shell of the enemy were falling thick upon them,
wounding many, they behaved admirably and fought with much coolness; and here allow me to
remark that they were greatly encouraged by the presence of Colonel Dunham, commanding the
brigade, who, amid the thickest of the iron hail, rode in front and rear of them, urging them to do
or die for their country.
After fighting for an hour or more in this position some officer came down to my right and
gave an order, which several of my officers say to me was "Rally to the rear." Had the officer
passed down as far as my colors he would have found me, and I am satisfied I could have had
my command heard my voice; have about-faced the regiment, and led them anywhere without
confusion; but, being raw troops and imperfectly drilled, they mistook the command for an order
to retreat and commenced breaking to the rear from near the right of the regiment, which, despite
my efforts, became propagated along the whole line. I hastened toward the right of the retreating
men and ordered a halt and the command to form, and had done much toward reforming when
we were opened upon by a heavy fire of dismounted men, who had advanced under cover of the
thick underbrush to within 50 feet of my men. They then in more confusion fell back toward the
fence, and received standing the fire of the enemy's artillery, and under it and the fire from the
rear the confusion became worse. Companies F and D, and several from other companies,
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formed upon the now right of the One hundred and twenty-second Illinois, which had faced to
the rear, and assisted them in driving the rebels back at the point of the bayonet, taking a number
of prisoners.
Under this fire, so unexpected from both front and rear (and the enemy's cannon seemed to
be entirely concentrated upon our left, to save their own force in our rear), about half of my
regiment broke to the left of our line as formed behind the fence and crossed the road into the
corn-field upon the opposite side.
Assisted by Colonel Dunham, Lieutenant-Colonel Redfield, who was severely wounded;
Major Griffiths, who had been struck on the head by a spent grape-shot, and yourself, I
attempted to halt and reform the scattered men. The enemy turned their cannon upon us and we
were fired upon by their cavalry, and I was unable to form a line until we reached a skirt of
timber about a quarter of a mile from where we laid in line. Here I formed and marched back
upon the left again of the One hundred and twenty-second Illinois.
Let me say that in this confusion we found a number of the One hundred and twenty-second
Illinois and of the Fiftieth Indiana, but they fell in with us and marched back to the battle ground.
Shortly afterward, perhaps half an hour, and at about 1.30, re-enforcements arrived and the battle
ended.
I have omitted to state that at the cross-roads Company A was detached from the regiment
and guarded our trains. When we fell back to the ground on which the battle was fought, they, or
rather all but 15 of them, with Company G, of the One hundred and twenty-second Illinois, were
stationed at the house in the rear of our line of battle. Here they three times repulsed a regiment
of cavalry who attempted to force their way through the lane to reach our main body. The 15
spoken of were near the trains, and there succeeded in capturing over 40 of the rebels.
There were many cases of individual bravery among those under my command; but to
particularize would make my report too lengthy. I must, however, say that, from information
received through reliable men of my command who were taken prisoners and paroled, I am
satisfied that the rebels had men dressed in our uniform so close in our roar that they could see
our exact position--knew the numbers of our regiment and strength.
Allow me to add that while I cannot take the room to name the many of my company officers
who did their whole duty, I must bear witness to the coolness and bravery of Lieutenant-
Colonel Redfield (who ceased his labors only when his wound compelled him), Major Griffiths,
Surgeon Woods, and Adjutant Tichenor. They rendered me all the assistance possible.
The following figures show the number of my officers and men that took part in the
engagement:
Field and staff. 5
Company officers 21
Enlisted men 379
Total 405
My report of casualties is as follows:
Killed 3
Wounded 33
Missing 11
Total loss 47
Company C, with the exception of 5 men, were left on picket at Huntingdon, and did not
arrive in time to take part in the engagement.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. J. B. CUMMINGS,
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Colonel, Commanding.
Lieut. JOHN R. SIMPSON,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF MEMPHIS,
Memphis, November 8, 1862.
Maj. Gen. U.S. GRANT,
Comdg. Department of West Tennessee, La Grange, Tenn. :
DEAR GENERAL: Yours of November 6, from La Grange, was brought to me by Captain
Newell, Third Michigan Cavalry, last night, he having ridden by circuitous routes and reached
me without serious opposition; yet I fear his return might be hazardous, and I have ordered
Colonel Grierson, Sixth Illinois Cavalry, to escort him back with about 300 select cavalry, and in
going and returning to do certain things that will be of advantage to the service. He will show
you his instructions.
I have not yet received the instructions via Columbus, referred to in yours of November 6,
but am prepared on short notice to do anything you may require.
As yet but one regiment has reported to me, the Thirty-second Wisconsin, Colonel Howe, a
strong regiment, of good material, well armed and equipped.
By the reduction of transportation under recent orders, I will have enough wagons for double
my force, and since the incursions of Morgan and Kirby Smith into Kentucky and Stuart's raid
into Pennsylvania, in which they took horses of private owners, we should no longer hesitate to
replenish our stock in the country we operate in, giving owners simple receipts, to be settled for
at the conclusion of hostilities, according to the circumstances.
I deem it good policy now to encourage the non-combatant population to trade with Memphis
their cotton and corn for such articles of groceries and clothing as they need for their families
and servants. Many of them are justly indignant at their own armies and partisans for burning
their cotton, by the sales of which alone they can realize the means of purchase of the articles
they absolutely need to maintain their suffering families, and I would like some expression of
opinion from you on this policy. Of course, a part of these supplies will fall into improper hands,
but the time must come when the inhabitants must choose their rulers, and even now I do not fear
their choice if protected from their Confederate armies and bandits. Some of them, of course,
make loud complaints against our troops burning rails and stealing potatoes, &c., but I tell them
plainly these are the inevitable accompaniments of armies, for which those who provoke war and
appealed to it are responsible, and not we. I am satisfied a change of opinion is rapidly growing
here, which I endeavor to foster and encourage. On Monday next a Union club will come out in
public; will decorate their houses with our flag, and have a public procession, speeches, &c. I
will attend, of course, and aid them with every means to produce effect. The advance of your
army to La Grange will have an admirable effect.
All my information goes to the belief that the force at Holly Springs is reduced by
detachments to the south, so that it no longer threatens West Tennessee. Some farmers just in
report Holly Springs evacuated, but I am not satisfied on that point. I have out two good men,
who ought to be back in a day or two, whose report I will get through to you by some safe
means.
I will keep my force well in hand, but will make a demonstration toward Cold water tomorrow,
&c., to gain information and withdraw attention from you. I do not believe that there is
in Arkansas a force to justify the armies of Schofield, Steele, and Hovey (at Helena) remaining
quiet, and would advise the latter to threaten Grenada and Yazoo by all means.
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I will rapidly organize brigades, and equip all regiments coming to me, and be prepared to act
with promptness the moment I learn the part you design me to play. Colonel McDowell, Sixth
Iowa, Stuart, Fifty-fifth Illinois, and Buckland, Seventy-second Ohio, are fully competent to take
brigades, and I will so dispose of them, unless you send me brigadiers duly commissioned.
Colonels Hillyer and Lagow, of your staff, recently here, will tell you fully of all figures,
numbers, and facts that I deem imprudent to trust by this route.
I have already ordered one officer of every Ohio regiment to proceed with dispatch to
Columbus, Ohio, to bring back the drafted men for the Ohio regiments, seven in number.
Health of troops good, and everything as well as I could wish. I will write to General Hovey,
at Helena, telling him of your movements, and asking him to gather all information he can of the
country toward Grenada.
Deserters come in constantly; one just now from Coldwater, where he was on picket. He did
not know you were at La Grange, and said he deserted because he did not wish to go farther
south. Heard that Price was to go to Jackson, but had not been to Holly Springs for five days.
I am, &c.,
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General.
[P. S.]--I send you our morning papers; one of Mobile, November 3, and Grenada, November
5.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF MISSISSIPPI,
Jackson, Miss., November 12, 1862.
The General Officer Commanding United States Forces, Memphis, Tenn.:
SIR: I am credibly informed that on or about the 11th day of September, 1862, Mr. William
H. White, a citizen of De Soto County, Mississippi, was inhumanly murdered in the presence of
his mother and his wife near his residence on the Hernando and Memphis plank road, about 13
miles from Memphis; I am also informed that this murder was perpetrated by a party of Illinois
cavalry (said to be the Sixth), in the service of the United States Government, and under the
immediate command of one Captain Boicourt. It is further stated that Boicourt himself inflicted
the first wound upon the murdered man.
In view of the reported facts, I have the honor to inform you that, by direction of my
Government, I have taken by lot from the United States prisoners of war captured by our forces
the four whose names follow: James E. Gaddy, Company E, Sixth Illinois Cavalry; Bernard
Collins, Company E, Thirty ninth Ohio Infantry; A. W. Shipman, Company D, Forty-third Ohio
Infantry, and Michael Hart, Company C, Seventh Iowa Infantry.
I am also directed to inform you that if the account of the murder be true, retaliation will be
made on prisoners, unless the murderers are punished.
The case, sir, is very plainly before you; there is not a shadow of doubt that the account of
the murder is true, and I await your decision as to who shall suffer the penalty.
I have directed Maj. Gen. Earl Van Dorn to forward this communication through flag of
truce.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. PEMBERTON,
Lieutenant-General, Commanding
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF MEMPHIS,
Memphis, November 23, 1862.
The Officer Commanding Guard on Board Steamer Metropolitan:
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SIR: I am officially advised by Lieut. Gen. J. C. Pemberton, commanding Confederate forces
at Jackson, Tenn., that he holds four of our prisoners of war, viz, James E. Caddy, Company E,
Sixth Illinois Cavalry; Bernard Collins, Company E, Thirty-ninth Ohio Infantry; A.W. Shipman,
Company D, Forty-third Ohio Infantry, and Michael Hart, Company C, Seventh Iowa Infantry,
on whom he proposes, by order of the Confederate Government, to make retaliation for the
killing of a citizen named White, of De Soto County, Mississippi, in September last. I have
answered him at length by a flag of truce, and now inform you that it is not a case for retaliation,
and have the honor to request that, on arrival at Vicksburg, you make specific demand for these
prisoners, and, if they be not forthcoming, that you withhold from exchange four of like rank
privates, to be ascertained by lot, and that you bring them to Memphis to await the action of our
Government. I regard this as a fair breach of the cartel. White was not a Confederate soldier, or
even guerrilla, and if the Confederate authorities want to offset the killing of White, you can
quote plenty of private murders committed by their adherents.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.
[P. S.]--Don't make known what you propose until you know whether these four men are
ready to be exchanged, and then await an answer by telegraph from General Pemberton.
CLARKSVILLE, TENN., October 17, 1862.
His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, Richmond:
DEAR SIR: Permit me to make known to you the Rev. Mr. Taylor and his young friend Mr.
William Hume, both among the most respectable of our citizens. They have been commissioned
to deliver you a memorial adopted at a town meeting to-day, asking the protection of the
Confederate Government against marauders from the Northwest, who are daily committing the
most gross outrages upon our citizens, briefly set forth in the memorial, and will be more fully
explained by the Rev. Mr. Taylor, who is conversant with the facts, and who is a gentleman of
undoubted integrity and possesses the entire confidence of this community and a thorough
knowledge of the operations of our armies in this section, embracing the valleys of the
Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers, which can and will furnish an immense quantity of
provisions for the Confederate armies if they can be made secure from the depredations of these
jayhawkers from Iowa and Northern Illinois. I am confident there are not less than 50,000 or
60,000 barrels of flour in the mills in this immediate neighborhood, and immense crops of corn
ready for gathering. Two or three regiments of these thieves and robbers are stationed at Forts
Henry, on the Tennessee, and Donelson, on the Cumberland, who are daily visiting and
destroying everything that comes in their way and seem likely to lay waste the whole section.
Our immediate neighborhood has furnished three regiments for the Confederate service--the
Fourteenth, Forty-ninth, and Fiftieth--who have taken most of the arms in the country and left us
entirely without the means of defense. Unless some protection can be afforded before the winter
freshets in our rivers take place most of the citizens will be compelled to abandon their homes
and seek protection in other sections not within the reach of their gunboats.
There is but little difference among our citizens, indeed I may say none, upon the great
questions now in contest between the North and the South, and therefore the Federals more
willingly harass and oppress us than in other sections less united.
I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your friend and servant,
C. JOHNSON.
95
SALTILLO, MISS., November 20, 1862.
General PEMBERTON, Jackson, Miss.:
There is at Corinth a portion of Davies' division, namely, Logan's brigade, and a skeleton
brigade, commanded by Colonel Burke; at Danville, two regiments; at Rienzi, Western
Sharpshooters, 350; Seventh Kansas Cavalry, 275; part of Second Iowa, 360; Sixth Illinois, 500;
Major Fight[?] or Colonel Mercer commanding. On Sunday one regiment of cavalry went
from Rienzi to join the forces on outpost toward Holly Springs.
C. R. BARTEAU,
Colonel.
(Telegraphed to Van Dorn same day.)
GENERAL ORDERS NO. --.
HDQRS. ARMY OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
September 4, 1862.
I. By direction of the general commanding-in-chief Brig. Gen. Gordon Granger will proceed
with the infantry division now under his command, the Second Michigan Cavalry, Col. P. H.
Sheridan commanding, Hescock's battery and Barnett's battery, to Louisville, Ky., and report for
orders to Maj. Gen. H. G. Wright. He will transfer his transportation and spare quartermaster
horses to Capt. J. W. Taylor, chief quartermaster Army of the Mississippi.
II. The chronic sick of his division will be sent to a northern hospital most convenient to his
new station, those of the Seventh Kansas and Second Iowa Cavalry to the general hospital at
Jackson. Dillon's battery will be ordered to report to Brig. Gen. C. S. Hamilton, commanding
Third Division.
III. General Granger will make his movements with the utmost secrecy and dispatch,
covering his front while so doing by the two cavalry regiments he leaves behind. He will relieve
Col. P. H. Sheridan from the command of the Second Brigade, Cavalry Division, and direct Col.
A. L. Lee to assume command and report by telegraph to Col. J. K. Mizner.
IV. Col. J. K. Mizner, Third Michigan Cavalry, will assume command of the cavalry
division, Army of the Mississippi.
W. S. ROSECRANS,
Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, CAVALRY DIVISION,
Rienzi, Miss., September 8, 1862.
General C. S. HAMILTON, Jacinto:
GENERAL: I last evening assumed command of this brigade, late Colonel Sheridan's, and
now composed of Second Iowa and Seventh Kansas Cavalry, and in compliance with orders
from General Granger report to you.
The camps were much disturbed last night by a communication received by Colonel
Alexander from yourself, on which he issued an order to strike tents and move baggage to rear. I
did not do so, but made preparations to meet an attack. There was no disturbance during the
night. My command was so stationed as to guard the roads from Booneville east through
Jumpertown to the main crossing of the Hatchie and north above the region of Kossuth. Both
regiments had been out with their entire force and are still absent from camp. I have no
information which leads me to believe we shall have an immediate attack, though I shall expect
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one when the enemy learns our situation. Their pickets have been on Twenty Mile Creek for six
weeks past. I will try to visit you to-day, though may not be able.
I am, general, respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. L. LEE,
Colonel, Comdg. Second Brigade, Cavalry Division.
HDQRS. DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE,
Corinth, Miss., September 15, 1862.
IV. Col. M. M. Crocker, Thirteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, is hereby assigned temporarily
to command an expedition eastward, to be composed of one regiment to be detailed by Major-
General Ord, the Eighth Wisconsin and Eleventh Missouri, and such other troops of Brigadier-
General Rosecrans' command as may be found east of Glendale. Colonel Crocker will report to
Major-General Ord for instructions before leaving, and afterward report to and receive
instructions from General Rosecrans, reporting by telegraph from Burnsville.
By order of Maj Gen. U.S. Grant:
[JNO. A. RAWLINS,]
Assistant Adjutant-General.
CAIRO, ILL., October 8, 1862--10.35 a.m.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
General Grant telegraphs me that he wants at least twenty regiments as soon as they can
possibly be got. Governor Yates has not got them ready to move. Cannot General Curtis or the
Governor of Iowa send some? I have telegraphed General Wright.
J. M. TUTTLE,
Brigadier-General.
CORINTH, October 9, 1862.
Major-General GRANT:
Paroled now 813 enlisted men, 43 commissioned officers, in good health; about 700
Confederate wounded, already sent to Iowa, paroled; 350 wounded paroled here; cannot tell the
number of dead yet. About 800 Confederates already buried; their loss about eight or ten to one
of ours. Prisoners arriving by every wagon road and train; will send full reports as soon as
possible. No return yet from the hospitals. The woods stink yet with unburied dead. Oglesby shot
through the breast and ball lodged, in the spine; hope for his recovery. No news from Rosecrans.
I understand Hamilton's division, my regiment, and others left Rienzi yesterday at 4 p.m. for
the west; nothing authentic from them. Hillyer is here. Shall I send any wounded Confederates to
Saint Louis?
Our hospitals are full of them. McKean telegraphs me he will be here this night.
P. E. BURKE,
Colonel Western Sharpshooters, Fourteenth Mo. Vols., Comdg.
WASHINGTON CITY, October 10, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
97
SIR: As it is possible, perhaps probable, that the debarkation of the Mississippi expedition
will be contested by the enemy, it is considered important that it should be formed in part of
experienced troops. If the expedition should be limited at first to 20,000 men, one-half or at least
one-fourth of that number should be of such troops, and I think they might be taken from the
Army of the Tennessee (with which I have been identified) without material detriment to the
public service, particularly if their place should be filled by new troops, and since the late defeat
and dispersion of the enemy in West Tennessee.
Taking a few regiments from that army, even if they were only skeleton ones, and
incorporating them with the expedition would be to impart a martial spirit and tone which would
be of great value to it; hence I recommend that the Eighth, Eleventh, Fourteenth, Seventeenth,
Eighteenth, Twentieth, Twenty-eighth, and Thirtieth Illinois, and Forty-third Illinois and
Thirteenth Iowa, the Seventh and Eighth Missouri, and Seventy-eighth Ohio be assigned to the
expedition. Most, if not all, of these regiments are sadly reduced and probably would not average
400 effective men each, giving an aggregate of only 5,200 men.
Some of the regiments named are still more desirable on account of the officers commanding
them. Among the number of these officers are Col. T. E.G. Ransom, of the Eleventh Illinois;
Colonel Crocker, of the Thirteenth Iowa; Colonel Leggett, of the Seventy-eighth Ohio, and Col.
C. C. Marsh, of the Twentieth Illinois, who would make excellent brigade commanders. I would
also name Brig. Gen. L. F. Ross and Brig. Gen. Morgan L. Smith, both now in West Tennessee,
for division commanders; and ask that First Lieut. James H. Wilson, of the Topographical Corps,
be assigned to duty as a member of my staff. I think this would be agreeable to him.
The forces designed for the Mississippi expedition might be concentrated either at Cairo or
Memphis, there being comparatively little difference in their eligibility as places of rendezvous
and for depots of military supplies.
Your obedient servant,
JOHN A. McCLERNAND,
Major- General.
P. S.--Shelter-tents, capable of being carried by the men, are preferable. Also Springfield
muskets (smooth-bore), except for the flank companies of each regiment, which should be armed
with the Springfield or Enfield rifled musket.
All the arms of each class should be of the same caliber, and indeed it would be better that all
of both classes should be of the same caliber if it were practicable.
WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, October 20, 1862.
General W. S. ROSECRANS, Corinth, Miss.:
Dispatch of the 19th in relation to arms received. The 439 Colt's revolving rifles were all that
were on hand.
On the 18th instant, on the requisition of Col. T. L. Dickey, chief of cavalry General Grant's
army, the following breech-loading carbines, with accouterments and ammunition complete,
were ordered to be sent to Columbus, Ky., with dispatch, for the use of the following regiments
and companies in that army:
Second Illinois Cavalry, 330 Sharps'; Fourth Illinois, 280 Sharps'; Sixth Illinois, 220 Sharps;
Thielemann's, 70 Sharps'; Stewart's Battalion, 70 Sharps'; Ford's company (attached to Fifty-third
Illinois), 70 Sharps'; Fifth Iowa, 330 Sharps'; Eleventh Illinois, 630 Smith's; Fifth Ohio, 750
Burnside's. Total, 2,750 carbines.
On the 14th instant 1,000 army revolvers were ordered from the inspector of contract arms to
be sent to Saint Louis Arsenal, and 500 Pettengill army revolvers are now on their way there.
These 1,500 pistols Major Callender has been directed to keep to fill your requisitions. In making
98
them on him make a separate requisition for each regiment, or give the designation of each in a
consolidated requisition, to enable the accounts to be kept with the States.
P. H. WATSON,
Assistant Secretary of War.
CONFIDENTIAL.] WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, October 21, 1862.
Ordered, That Major-General McClernand be, and he is, directed to proceed to the States of
Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa, to organize the troops remaining in those States and to be raised by
volunteering or draft, and forward them with all dispatch to Memphis, Cairo, or such other points
as may hereafter be designated by the general-in-chief, to the end that, when a sufficient force
not required by the operations of General Grant's command shall be raised, an expedition may be
organized under General McClernand's command against Vicksburg and to clear the Mississippi
River and open navigation to New Orleans.
The forces so organized will remain subject to the designation of the general-in-chief, and be
employed according to such exigencies as the service in his judgment may require.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
CORINTH, MISS., October 21, 1862--8.40 p.m.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
Your dispatch announcing the coming of arms for our cavalry was hailed with delight.
Profound disappointment followed the receipt of Mr. Watson's dispatch, which shows they all go
to little detachments, split up and performing picket duty in our rear. The cavalry for whom I ask
are the only ones that are massed, and have had power to chastise and cow the rebel cavalry all
summer. For the others, divided up and acting in our rear, the rebels care not a pin. They ought to
be well armed, but not until the Second Iowa, Third Michigan, Seventh Kansas, Seventh and
Eleventh Illinois have been, for they alone have made the enemy afraid and whipped them in
force. Do something for these brave men, who had not less than three fights per week for the last
thirty days.
W. S. ROSECRANS,
Major-general.
CORINTH, MISS., October 21, 1862.
Hon. P. H. WATSON,
Assistant Secretary of War:
Your dispatch received. Not one of the cavalry command to which you have sent arms has
done any real fighting. The Third Michigan, the Second Iowa, the Seventh Kansas, and the
Seventh Illinois, who have been in continued combats, say more than fifty fights, this summer,
and are the only cavalry that have been massed and managed so as to have power to cow and
scourge the rebels effectually, are entirely overlooked in the allotment of arms. They are under
my command.
W. S. ROSECRANS,
Major-general.
CORINTH, Miss., October 22, 1862--7 p.m.
Hon. P. H. WATSON:
99
Third Michigan Cavalry requires 690 revolvers, 294 Celt's revolving rifles; Fifth Ohio
Cavalry, 88 revolvers, 170 Sharps' carbines; Second Iowa, 30 revolving rifles ;' Seventh Kansas,
250 revolvers, 500 Celt's revolving rifles; Company A, Second U.S. Cavalry, 60 revolvers, 60
carbines--all with slings, pistol-pouches, cap-boxes, and ammunition complete.
W. S. ROSECRANS,
Major-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 311.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF MEMPHIS,
Memphis, November 8, 1862.
A detachment of men, to be composed as follows: Seventy-second Ohio, Colonel Buckland;
Sixth Iowa, Sixth Missouri, six companies Thirty-second Wisconsin, Thielemann's cavalry, and
Bouton's battery, all under the command of Colonel Buckland, will rendezvous at the camp of
the Fifty-fourth Ohio, on the Hernando road, at 9 a.m. precisely, of Monday the 10th instant, for
special service. All will be provided with 60 rounds of ammunition, five days' rations and forage,
one wagon and one ambulance for each regiment, squadron: and battery.
Colonel Buckland will receive special instructions, and brigadiers will see that the
detachments from their commands are well equipped in all respects for rapid marching.
By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman:
J. H. HAMMOND,
Assistant Adjutant-General
HEADQUARTERS, Springfield, Ill., November 10, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
I received your order on the 21st ultimo at Washington to proceed to Indiana, Illinois, and
Iowa and take measures for the preparation of the Mississippi expedition.
Leaving Washington on the morning of the 22d I arrived at Indianapolis on the 23d, and on
the same day had an interview with Governor Morton, who responded cordially to the project of
the proposed expedition.
Leaving Indianapolis on the 24th I arrived at this place on the morning of the 25th, and
immediately sought an interview with Governor Yates, who also responded with similar
assurances.
As soon as the necessary dispatches could be prepared I immediately sent Major Scates,
assistant adjutant-general, to Iowa, to see and confer with Governor Kirkwood, who also entered
zealously into the project.
When I reached here the impendency of the late election in this State, and the interest felt in
it by State officials, in some degree impeded my efforts to forward the troops remaining in the
State.
I should also state in explanation of the tardiness attending enlistments that the scarcity of
necessary labor caused by the very great number of troops sent from this State has hardly left any
of the adult male population behind at liberty to leave their homes. Yet within the short space of
sixteen days I have completed the organization, mustered, and forwarded from the different
camps in Illinois six regiments of infantry and one six-gun battery to Columbus, Ky., and six
regiments of infantry and one six-gun battery to Memphis, Tenn.
From Indiana I have forwarded five regiments of infantry, and from Iowa three, also to
Columbus, Ky. In addition to these there is another regiment of infantry in Illinois now under
100
marching orders, and three others in the same State will be mustered by the middle of the current
week; and ten more in Iowa, as I am informed, are only lacking overcoats, which I hope soon to
furnish. Besides these, probably by the 15th instant twelve or more regiments from Illinois and
Iowa may be moved, making twenty regiments of infantry and two batteries gone and twelve
nearly ready to go. Four other regiments of infantry, six of cavalry, and four companies of
artillery are being enlisted in Illinois, and two other regiments of infantry in Iowa.
Although enlistments in Illinois are less tardy now than before the election, yet the probable
delay that will attend the completion of the cavalry and artillery organizations has induced me to
recommend to Governor Yates the consolidation of all such deficient organizations after the 20th
instant, in order that such as may be completed by this process may be hastened to the field.
Passing from these details to a subject of a more prominent character, I wish to add that the
avidity with which the Mississippi expedition is embraced by the people of the Northwest expose
all who are charged with carrying it into effect to the consequences of popular fury if they should
fail to do so. As for myself I hardly need reiterate the deep and absorbing interest I feel in the
enterprise and my entire willingness to do all in my power to promote it. Yet if, from obstacles
such as opposed you in the beginning or for other causes, the expedition has become an
uncertainty or must be long delayed I trust you will cut my supposed connection with it and
order me to other duty in the field at once. In the latter case my familiarity with the old troops of
General Grant's command and the country in which he is operating would decide me, if I might
be allowed a discretion, to prefer duty with him.
The blockade of the Mississippi River has left to the people of the Northwest but one outlet
for their immense surplus of grains and live stock, and that by the lakes and railroads alone, to
the East. These channels are closed for the greater portion of the most favorable season for
moving these articles to market, leaving the producers and traders at the discretion of exclusive
monopolists.
By combinations or otherwise corporations controlling these outlets have raised freights to
such high rates as either to stop shipments or sacrifice traders. This evil operates most
oppressively upon the energies and enterprise of the people of the Northwest on the one hand and
most advantageously to capitalists in the East owning those roads and the manufacturing
establishments furnishing the various fabrics required for the use of the Army and Navy on the
other. The latter in a pecuniary aspect are deeply interested in continuing it.
What is seen? A comparatively insignificant obstruction has served to continue the blockade
of the Mississippi River now for five months, covering a space during which the products of its
valley are usually borne upon its waters to market, and the period of the investment of Vicksburg
by a strong flotilla of gunboats.
In view of these facts, and the great addition which has been made to our armies under the
late calls for volunteers, and the present inertness of the Mississippi Flotilla, the people so deeply
interested are illy disposed to receive any excuse for further delay in removing that obstacle.
Indeed, any further delay must produce consequences which will seriously complicate our
national troubles by adding another geographical question to the one which is now undergoing
the arbitrament of arms.
Already are there those who are beginning to look beyond the pale of Federal authority for
new guarantees for the freedom of the Mississippi River. The late election, in some instances,
affords unmistakable indications of this fact. Not a few of the candidates preferred to office are
represented to be opposed to the war and the policy that would continue it. Nor is this altogether
surprising, since the earlier inhabitants of the Mississippi Valley, at one time despairing of the
Government's willingness or ability to assert their right to a place for the deposit of their
101
produce near the mouth of the Mississippi River, began to look with growing favor to the
transferring of their allegiance to the Spanish Crown, then holding the outlet of that river.
I am conscious that if something is not soon done to reopen that great highway that a new
party will spring into existence, which will favor the recognition of the independence of the socalled
Confederate States, with the view to eventual arrangements, either by treaty or union, for
the purpose of effecting that object.
The resentments of the people will be inflamed by demagogical appeals designed to array the
people of the West against the people of the East upon the pretended ground that the latter are in
favor of continuing the war and the blockade of the Mississippi, as a means of fostering the
interest of their trade, their manufactures, and their capital invested in both. This sentiment is
reprehensibly wrong; nay, criminal. Our first and highest duty under Heaven is to preserve the
Union and the Government. This we must do; yet wise statesmen will not overlook the
difficulties and dangers which surround them, but will avoid them by timely precautions.
In short delay may bring another separation, and another separation will entail endless
collisions, which, after wasting all the States, must sink them in anarchy and wretchedness, like
that which drapes Mexico in misery and mourning.
Hence, in conclusion, let me appeal to you, and through you to the President, to do
something, and that something quickly, to avert the rising storm, and insure a safe passage to our
good and beloved Ship of State through the strait that now threatens her in the distance.
If I have spoken too freely, pardon my boldness. If I have said too much, charge it to an
honest zeal for the welfare of my country, and forgive it.
Your obedient servant,
JOHN A. McCLERNAND,
Major-General, U.S. Volunteers.
HEADQUARTERS, Springfield, Ill., November 10, 1862.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief:
I received the order of the Secretary of War on the 21st ultimo at Washington to proceed to
Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa and take measures for the preparation of the Mississippi expedition.
Leaving Washington on the morning of the 22d I arrived at Indianapolis on the 23d, and on
the same day had an interview with Governor Morton, who responded cordially to the project of
the proposed expedition.
Leaving Indianapolis on the 24th I arrived at this place on the morning of the 25th, and
immediately sought an interview with Governor Yates, who also responded with similar
assurances.
As soon as the necessary dispatches could be prepared I immediately sent Major Scates,
assistant adjutant-general, to Iowa, to see and confer with Governor Kirkwood, who also entered
zealously into the project.
When I reached here the impendency of the late election in this State, and the interest felt in
it by State officials, in some degree impeded my efforts to forward the troops remaining within
the State
I should also state in further explanation of the tardiness attending enlistments that the
scarcity of necessary labor caused by the very great number of troops sent from this State has
hardly left any of the adult male population behind at liberty to leave their homes. Yet within the
short space of sixteen days I have completed the organization, mustered, and forwarded from the
different camps in Illinois six regiments of infantry and one six-gun battery to Columbus, Ky.,
and six regiments of infantry and one six-gun battery to Memphis, Tenn.
102
From Indiana I have forwarded five regiments of infantry and from Iowa three, also to
Columbus, Ky. In addition to these organizations already forwarded there is another regiment of
infantry in Illinois now under marching orders, and three others in the same State will be
mustered by the middle of the current week; and ten more in Iowa, as I am informed, are only
lacking overcoats, which I hope soon to furnish. Besides these, probably by the 15th instant
twelve or more regiments from Illinois and Iowa may be moved, making twenty regiments of
infantry and two batteries gone and twelve nearly ready to go. Four other regiments of infantry,
six of cavalry, and four companies of artillery are being enlisted in Illinois, and two other
regiments of infantry in Iowa.
Although enlistments in Illinois are less tardy than before the election, yet the probable delay
that will attend the completion of the cavalry and artillery organizations has induced me to
recommend to Governor Yates the consolidation of all such deficient organizations after the 20th
instant, in order that such as may be completed by this process may be hastened to the field.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN A. McCLERNAND,
Major-General, U.S. Volunteers.
MEMPHIS, December 24, 1862.
Major-General CURTIS, Saint Louis:
GENERAL: You perceive by the date hereof that we drag along slowly. I have succeeded,
however, in getting an express-boat from General Hurlbut, who is here in command, and will
start in half an hour. Grant's line of communication is completely severed and cannot be repaired
for weeks. Holly Springs was surrounded by rebel cavalry and surrendered without resistance;
over a million rations burned, several hundred bales of cotton destroyed, sutlers' stores goods on
speculation &c., to a large amount; and 2,000 troops [captured], who were paroled and will
arrive here soon (this I learn from General Asboth). This rebel cavalry force then proceeded
along the Mobile and Ohio Railroad toward Columbus, Ky., and destroyed the road and stations,
and were within 20 miles of Columbus, as I telegraphed you when we passed there. There is a
general stampede here; several hundred cavalry hover around the city, threatening to enter. They
saucily sent in flag of truce yesterday to reconnoiter position of things. Great fear among foreign
traders and loyal citizens and equally strong hope among rebels prevail, making the excitement
intense. General Asboth has command of the fortifications, but his force is entirely inadequate.
He has some 10,000 feet of works to defend with 1,000 men, but little artillery, and not one
artillerist. From his garrison he furnishes the usual guards, patrols, pickets, &c., leaving him very
weak. Columbus was left with like inadequate force. This policy is very questionable, and is a
matter of much surprise to officers. The moral effect of taking Memphis or Columbus would be
disheartening to us, dangerous to our armies in the advance, and inspiriting to our foes; such
risks are perilous. These things are outside of my mission, and I only write as of interest to you.
Asboth sends regards to yourself and staff. He showed the major and myself every
consideration and went with us to General Hurlbut's headquarters.
The Thirty-sixth Iowa is detained here and the transports also. Your messenger, Lieutenant
Dickenson, Bowen's battalion, just arrived in time to go aboard my boat. Hurlbut thinks Sherman
left yesterday with his entire expedition. I think not. The news is conflicting on that point and
nothing official yet received. He certainly has not received a reply to his dispatch asking troops
of you.
As I am on the first boat going down, slow as we have come I could not have gone faster had
I come via Cairo on cars.
103
I would be remembered to Mrs. C., Madame Julia, and Sadie. A Merry Christmas to yourself
and staff.
I fear General Fisk will be too late for operations in this quarter.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. P. CHIPMAN.
HOLLY SPRINGS, MISS., December 24, 1862.
Maj. Gen. J. B. McPHERSON, Oxford, Miss.:
The following dispatch is just received. Send it to Colonel Hatch by to-morrow morning if
possible:
NEAR BOLIVAR,
December 24, 1862.
Major-general GRANT:
I arrived in Bolivar 11 o'clock last night. Pickets at that place were driven in last night. Our
presence no doubt saved the place, as it is evident they did not know of our presence until this
morning.
We struck their trail on Middleburg road this morning, evidently a large force. 7,000 or
8,000. My column is now moving. Have been skirmishing all the morning; a number of the
enemy killed and wounded; no loss on our side.
Later--MIDDLEBURG, December 24.
The enemy repulsed from this place by our infantry. We came up with their rear; they struck
off to the left toward the Van Buren road; we are in close pursuit; their number from 5,000 to
7,000. I have but 1,400 men. Cannot the Seventh Illinois, Third Iowa, and balance of the Third
Michigan be sent after me. From latest information they appear to be going southeast.
Will keep you advised as well as possible.
B. H. GRIERSON,
Commanding
U.S. GRANT,
Major-general.
BOLIVAR, TENN., December 24, 1862--a. m.
General GRANT:
COLUMBUS, KY., December 26, 1862.
Major-General CURTIS, Saint Louis, Mo.:
Safely arrived. We can hold the post against the entire Confederacy, but not strong enough to
go out and whip the rascals. Can you spare the Twenty-ninth Iowa? Send Colonel Cornyn's
regiment to report to me here.
CLINTON B. FISK,
Brigadier-General.
HEADQUARTERS FISK'S BRIGADE,
Columbus, Ky., December 27, 1862.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS,
Commanding Department of Missouri:
104
MY DEAR GENERAL: I reached Columbus yesterday and proceeded directly to business.
Found General Davies very much alarmed and quite nervous. A large force of rebels was
reported as very near and approaching. I was immediately put in command of the left wing of the
forces here, including all the forts on the heights. General Tuttle commands the right wing and
holds the low grounds near the railroad. We have now about 7,000 troops. Your prompt reenforcement
of this point saved it, with its $13,000,000 of Government stores, beyond any doubt;
General Davies has so telegraphed General Halleck. General Davies was inclined to evacuate the
position; had placed much of the government stores on transports ready for departure. General
Tuttle, and myself have resisted any such conclusion. I told General Davies I had come to
Columbus by your order with your forces to aid in saving the post, and I should obey orders. If
he left, I should stay and fight it out. General Tuttle, true to his Iowa grit, said "amen." I fear
General Davies is easily frightened. He has withdrawn his force from Hickman; has destroyed all
the guns and ammunition at Island No. 10; has ordered Colonel Scott, of the Thirty-second Iowa,
to roll his guns into the river at New Madrid, burn carriages, blow up magazines, abandon his
post, and remove his forces to Fort Pillow. You will hardly indorse all this. Colonel Scott was
advised by me of your wishes to hold New Madrid at all hazards. I fear that he has carried out
the orders of General Davies. The Thirty-sixth Iowa did not remain here--was gone when I
arrived. The general thinks they behaved badly to leave him in trouble.
Forces from your department on duty here are as follows: Twenty-ninth and Thirty-third
Iowa, Thirty-third and Thirty-fifth Missouri, Schofield's battery, Colonel Bowen, with three
companies and four howitzers, cavalry all excellent, vigilant troops. I forgot to name the Twentyfirst
Missouri, Colonel Moore. It was very fortunate that you were able to respond so quickly and
in such force.
I have been busy day and night organizing my forces, planting guns, and scouting. Cheatham
and Forrest have a force of about 15,000 very near us. I don't believe they will advance. They
cannot take us if they do. They may make a dash on Paducah. If so, I fear they will capture it. I
am quite convinced that your plan of giving up the long line of railroads and opening and
holding the river is the true one.
The gunboat has not yet arrived; all are anxiously waiting for it. We have one small one,
which has run down to Fort Pillow, where an attack is also expected. All the gunboats and most
of General Grant's army have gone southward, leaving Cairo, Paducah, Columbus, and vicinity
as a prey to the marauding chieftains, Forrest and Cheatham. I am using for my headquarters the
best secesh house in town, formerly occupied by the Right Rev. Maj. Gen. Bishop Polk, C. S.
Army.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CLINTON B. FISK,
Brigadier-General
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, U.S. VOLUNTEERS,
Columbus, Ky., December 29, 1862.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS,
Commanding Department Missouri:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report the forces from your department now on duty
temporarily at this post as in good fighting condition and ready for action at the tap of the drum.
Your prompt response to the call for aid from threatened Columbus must ever be regarded by the
War Department as a very commendable instance of military courtesy.
105
From all the reports I can gather from deserters, intelligent contrabands, and reliable
gentlemen I conclude that the brigand Forrest, with about 8,000 mounted rebels with eight pieces
of artillery, undertook a raid on a large scale upon the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, his intention
being the destruction of the railroad and the immense stock of supplies on hand here, together
with cars, engines, public buildings, steamers, &c., and then fall back toward Memphis and La
Grange. He was rapidly accomplishing his purpose when re-enforcements began to arrive from
Saint Louis. His bands are now scattering, he in the mean time holding his headquarters at a
point about 10 miles distant, where he is throwing up fortifications. I have been begging General
Davies to let me take 4,000 men and go out there and whip him (Forrest), but the general will not
allow the movement, is quite nervous about the post, but I am fully convinced we could defeat or
skedaddle the entire rebel horde. I know I am a young general, but I believe I am old enough to
see through a mill-stone with so large a hole in it. Unless I am much mistaken the entire line of
railroad could be put in order in ten days, and your forces be relieved and sent on down to
Helena, but General Grant cannot keep this line open and running with his present force in this
district. I trust that in no event your forces here and myself will be retained on this side of the
river. I am not yet advised whether or not Colonel Scott, of the Thirty-second Iowa, executed
General Davies' order respecting the destruction of our works at New Madrid and the evacuation
of that post. It is rumored here to-day that Jeff. Thompson and [W L.] Jeffers are marching
toward New Madrid, with quite a large force. I believe Colonel Scott could make a successful
resistance. Gunboat has not yet arrived.
Your boys are all in fine spirits and very desirous to get back under your immediate
direction.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CLINTON B. FISK,
Brigadier-General
HEADQUARTERS, Memphis, Tenn., December 30, 1862.
Lieutenant-Colonel RAWLINS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Holly Springs:
COLONEL: I desire to report to the major-general commanding department that General
Quinby, with his division, escorting a heavy supply train, arrived at this post yesterday. Every
preparation had been made in advance to facilitate the loading, but the teams were fatigued, and
General Quinby deferred commencing until this morning. We have an abundance of rations, and
the commissary of subsistence has been notified by Colonel Haines to keep always 4,000,000 on
hand.
I have obtained 700,000 feet of lumber, and propose to erect within the fort a storehouse for
2,000,000, which, with our other accommodations, will give abundant storage. It will also be
necessary to erect a barrack hospital within the ramparts.
The ground in front of the fort is now being cleared of houses, &c., to distance of about 250
yards, and Captain Prime proposes to erect a flank work at the north end to cover the
quartermasters and commissary's depots and flank the heavy guns.
The garrison is all within the fort except one regiment on provost duty at the square in the
city.
The strength of the command is shown by the returns herewith.
I stopped the Thirty-sixth Iowa for a few days, but have sent them on. The city is restless, but
cowed. I have not hesitated to announce that an attack would involve the destruction of
Memphis. I am enrolling the Union Club as Home Guards and propose to arm them.
106
Since General Sherman took away the force from here smuggling has been unlimited. I
occasionally catch them with cavalry patrols and certificate. [?]
I have ordered General Davies to send down all forces destined originally for Memphis and
Helena and stopped by him, and have forwarded to-day the order of Major-General Grant to the
same effect.
I regret to say that it is my opinion, from all I can learn, that the good of the service demands
inquiry into the conduct of General Davies. The destruction and abandonment of Island No. 10,
the unnecessary accumulation of troops, the keeping these troops so accumulated under arms
night after night, and the neglect to push out forces into the country are strongly reported to me
by rumor. These rumors may be unjust, but I fear they are not altogether so.
I regret to report that the paroled prisoners arrived here in the wildest disorder. Colonel
Ferrell, of the Twenty-ninth Illinois, who commanded after the major-general relieved Colonel
Murphy from duty, exercised no authority over his officers and men, and when the command
arrived at the Nonconah, 7 miles out, abandoned them and rode in an ambulance with his wife.
The example spread, and officers and men came in squads and parties and spread all over the
city. I was compelled to order the provost-guard to arrest all officers and men and force them to
the fort. Colonel Ferrell is under arrest, and I have no doubt, when you receive the report of
General Quinby, will be mustered out of service for disobedience of orders and desertion of his
men. I shall be able to get them off to Saint Louis to-morrow. Colonel Murphy has been arrested
and awaits orders.
Colonel Howe's Third Regular Cavalry, about 200 strong, is here, a fine body of men, but
armed only with pistol and saber. They are all by education mounted riflemen. If the majorgeneral
will send me Grierson's regiment I would be glad to send Howe's in exchange. Two
companies of Third United States are at Corinth. My reason for asking for Grierson is that he is
thoroughly acquainted with this country--will be more useful than any other.
I am of opinion that General Gorman has withdrawn most of his forces from this side of the
river, and I learn from him that the cavalry made an ineffectual attempt to cross from Friar's
Point to Oxford, but were prevented by mud. He is ordered both by Generals Curtis and Halleck
to move by the 3d January toward Little Rock in a combined movement with Blunt, Herron, and
Schofield. A fleet of light-draught boats are now passing down to him, so that I suppose he will
proceed up Arkansas or White River, both now full.
I have no report from Sherman except stories brought up to different persons that Sherman
was at Vicksburg; landed within 6 miles of the town, moving on, and Banks below the city.
I do not think that any troops will come to this place from Helena, but hope for a regiment or
more from Columbus when Davies lets them go.
I have been compelled to postpone the election for member of Congress from the 29th
December to 20th January on account of this raid; by that time I hope the country will be quiet.
I beg you will state to the general that Maj. Gen. John A. McClernand went down the river
this morning on the Express. He will need convoy to get through below.
I am sorry that my health, hitherto good, is failing me. I am unfit for the field on account of
an obstinate erysipelas, which annoys me exceedingly about the face and eyes, that prevented my
riding for two weeks. I am, however, fit for office work and to hold Memphis, especially as
Halleck will not let me go home.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. A. HURLBUT,
Major-General
107
HDQRS. 2D AND 3D DIVISIONS, ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
November 29, 1862.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS, Saint Louis, Mo.:
The cavalry expedition sent by me to Yellville returned last evening, having made the march
of 250 miles in less than five days. It was complete success, and not only were all the saltpeter
works in that section and at Dubuque destroyed, but the arsenal and store-houses of the rebels
were burned. Sixty of Burbridge's command were taken prisoners, about 500 shot-guns and rifles
at the arsenal were destroyed, and over 100 good horses brought out. The rebels have a large
hospital at that place, and the inmates were paroled. The force usually congregated there is now
south of West Plains. Our troops have left the place in such shape that I do not think the rebels
will again attempt to make it a depot. The expedition consisted of the First Iowa Cavalry, the
Tenth Illinois Cavalry, and one battalion of the Second Wisconsin, all under command of
Colonel Wickersham, Tenth Illinois. This movement, with Blunt's victory at Cane Hill,
effectually clears the north side of the mountains of all troops, except guerillas.
F. J. HERRON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS THIRTY-SECOND IOWA INFANTRY,
New Madrid, Mo., December 6, 1862.
Brig. Gen. E. A. CARR,
Saint Louis, Mo., Commanding Southeastern Missouri:
GENERAL: Under your orders, I left Saint Louis on the 25th ultimo with part of my
regiment, and stopped over at Cape Girardeau from the evening of the 26th ultimo until the
morning of the 1st instant, arranging the companies left there. Maj. G. A. Eberhart, of the Thirtysecond
Iowa, commands that post. Lieutenant Bannon is provost-marshal.
I found a state of affairs there that in some respects was unsatisfactory. The Germans as a
class and some few others are fully loyal. The loyal citizens of that place and vicinity are much
dissatisfied with the appointment of General Stockton over the Enrolled Missouri Militia of that
district. I think they will never acquiesce, nor do I believe he will ever aid the Government or
really sustain it. I had no intercourse with him, and am reliably informed that he has not usually
called on parties commanding loyal troops. I look upon his appointment as very injudicious.
What bad results may follow remains for the future to show.
I arrived at this point on the evening of the 3d instant. I have endeavored to inform myself
respecting the state of affairs in this section. I have already learned that, with the exception of
Captain Moore's company of Illinois Cavalry, the troops here have been and still are quite
popular with the rebels. Matters at this post have gone at loose ends to a degree that rendered our
troops quite a convenience to the rebels. There has been quite a trade in contraband stores from
this point to the country west of "the swamps," and much of it to Arkansas.
On the 4th instant I stopped several teams bound to Gainesville, Ark., and each carrying from
two to four barrels of salt. I am informed that certain parties have made regular trips. This state
of affairs could only have occurred through the connivance of the commander of the post, or at
least through great negligence.
I have appointed First Lieut. A. Converse, of Thirty-second Iowa, provost-marshal for this
place. I have no fears that contraband trade will be carried on under his eye.
I learn that the rebels are now preparing to carry off large numbers of fat hogs from the
counties of Stoddard and Dunklin. If I had 100 mounted men, I could send an infantry force as a
nucleus, and could gather in much of this stock, thus distressing our enemy and obtaining
108
supplies for the Government. I will perhaps do so, or attempt it, as it is, at the earliest practicable
moment.
It strikes me that an active force could occupy a central position near Chalk Bluff, on the
Saint Francis, and save the counties of Stoddard, Scott, Mississippi, New Madrid, Cape
Girardeau, and nearly all of Dunklin and Pemiscot from the ravages of the rebels. An important
advantage would be that they would draw most of their subsistence from disloyal men.
It is said that Jeff. Thompson was at Four Mile, Dunklin County, eight days since, and made
a speech to his followers. He is represented as being now without a command, and on a stealing
expedition.
As far as I can learn, the settlers out through and beyond the swamp are more of them loyal
than in this section.
This statement embodies the material facts in my possession. I might add that, only for the
delay in removing the troops from this place to No. 10, the rebels would most likely have been in
possession. I learn that they were counting on such a state of facts.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
JOHN SCOTT,
Colonel Thirty-second Iowa Infantry, Commanding Post.
HDQRS. 2D AND 3D DIVISIONS, ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Camp Prairie Grove, December 10, 1862.
Major-General CURTIS, Saint Louis, Mo.:
One of my spies, who came to the battle-field with Hindman's troops and retreated with them
to Dripping Springs, has just come in. He reports the rebel loss at 2,500 killed and wounded,
including a very large number of officers. Brigadier-General Steen, of Missouri, was killed, and
some 6 or 7 field officers are in the hospitals within our lines. Two batteries were so much
damaged by the firing from Foust's and Murphy's guns as to be entirely worthless, and several
guns were hauled off in wagons. All of their artillery horses were left dead on the field, and the
caissons taken away by mules in the night. Hindman's entire force was here, and from personal
observation I can say they were well clothed and well armed.
My division took over 60 prisoners, including 2 commissioned officers, during the fight, and
all refuse to be exchanged except 12. Over 150 have come in since the battle, and the report is
that hundreds are coming back on the roads to give themselves up.
The large proportion of their dead have been left by them unburied, and were buried to-day
by my order.
The advance has arrived at Van Buren, and the rumor was they were all going to Little Rock.
The loss in my divisions is heavy, and will almost reach 1,000 killed and wounded. For four
hours the fighting was the most desperate I ever witnessed, and within a space of two acres 250
of our own and the enemy's dead were found. The victory is more complete and decisive than I
had imagined. The Iowa regiments fought nobly, the Nineteenth particularly distinguishing itself.
We mourn the loss of Lieutenant-Colonel [S.] McFarland and several other officers of that
regiment, killed. The Twentieth Wisconsin, Twenty-sixth Indiana, and Thirty-seventh Illinois
fought nobly. The battle-field is on the road from Fayetteville to Cove Creek, and just half way
between the former place and Cane Hill.
General Blunt has moved to Rhea's Mills, while I occupy the battlefield. I am strengthening
my line of communication with Springfield, and will have it safe to-morrow. Have established a
hospital at Fayetteville, and removed all our sick and wounded to it. If Steele could take Little
Rock, now is the best opportunity to open the Arkansas River. I hope you will let us do it.
F. J. HERRON,
109
Brigadier-General, Commanding Second and Third Divisions.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI
Saint Louis, December 10, 1862.
Hon. JAMES W. GRIMES:
DEAR SIR: Yours of the -- instant is received. Stanton is here, and will report, according to
orders. In the matter of a down-river movement, Commodore Davis properly states the facts. The
fleet came up to Helena soon after my arrival, leaving the mouths of the Arkansas rivers in the
enemy's hands. My proper lines of operation in Arkansas require me to move across these rivers,
and I was therefore anxious to have possession of them. But the clearing out of the Mississippi,
so that the rebels could not come out of their hives and go prowling up and down the rivers, was
obviously a necessary preliminary measure. Commodore Davis concurred with me, and we came
together at Cairo to confer with our chiefs at Washington. The commodore was ill, and I
conducted a telegraphic correspondence through General Halleck, which concluded by the
general saying, in substance, that the taking of Vicksburg should not be attempted at that time. I
showed my correspondence to the commodore, and went back to Helena, when we got up a joint
movement on a small scale. Went down and took and destroyed a battery in the mouth of the
Yazoo, within 10 or 15 miles of Vicksburg; took a steamer loaded with muskets; marched into
Louisiana, opposite Vicksburg, and destroyed the railroad depot and telegraph station some 15
miles west of Vicksburg. I am since informed that our movement created a great stampede in
Vicksburg.
I am thus careful to reply only simple facts to your letter, as I dislike to speak of what I have
suggested to a superior officer, and should not now have done so, if you had not asked me
concerning what Commodore Davis had informed you. I ask no credit for what I have not done,
it having been my fate to field my hands always busy, as my heart is still earnest, in efforts to
quell this infernal rebellion. Iowa has tarnished every battle-field in the West, with the blood of
her gallant sons and it is enough for me to feel confident the country will award us our due share
of commendation.
You will mourn with me the recent loss of Lieutenant-Colonel McFarland, the only field
officer we lost in the battle near Fayetteville, Ark.
Please give my kindest regards to Mrs. Grimes, and believe me, very truly, your obedient
servant,
SAML. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, December 12, 1862.
Brig. Gen. FITZ HENRY WARREN, Houston:
GENERAL: Our movements in Southeast Missouri are still suspended to await other more
important ones. The return of the rebels on General Blunt somewhat disconcerted my plans, but
your position is the more important since the Army of the Frontier has moved so far away. The
mutations now projected must influence my plans, and I cannot therefore determine anything for
you or myself. The only way is to be always ready to move. I am procuring additional trains at
Pilot Knob, which I expect to turn to your account as a supply train, for I still contemplate a
junction below, perhaps at Mountain Store, as you suggested. Fredericksburg was taken
yesterday, and we suppose fighting is going on to-day, but no dispatches are received when we
most need them. I was glad to get the report from the Iowa deserter. I wish you had given dates
of the times he was at different places. It corroborates reports of others. Send out cavalry to
110
ascertain Burbridge's movements. Thompson is reported southeast from Pilot Knob, and
Davidson, with cavalry, after him. Keep me informed of everything. I have ordered a change of
regiments, so as to put an Iowa regiment in place of the Missouri troops. The down-river move is
pretty well prepared to make a demonstration on Vicksburg. I hope Burnside is pressing "on to
Richmond," but we have had so many miscarriages in that direction one dare not hardly hope for
good news.
I am, general, very truly, yours,
SAML. R. CURTIS,
Major General.
HDQRS. 2D AND 3D DIVISIONS, ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Camp Prairie Grove, December 13, 1862.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS, Saint Louis, Mo.:
Your telegram in regard to the Little Rock force is received. Where is Steele, and does he
propose to move on Little Rock? Without he does and prevents Holmes from forming a junction
with Hindman, we may have to fall back and lose all the results that might be reached from this
hard-fought battle. With a few more regiments of infantry, however, we can whip anything
Hindman can get together. How is it about the Twenty-second Iowa at Rolla? Could they be
ordered forward to me?
F. J. HERRON,
Brigadier-General.
PILOT KNOB, December 19, 1862--8 a.m.
General CURTIS:
I arrived here late last night from my reconnaissance. Forced up this way by the
unprecedented high water, and out of supplies. The bridge at Black River, built by Benton, is
swept away. I have selected Van Buren as the depot, instead of Patterson, and also as the point of
crossing on Current River; and the army is now moving forward to that point. I intend supplying
it by the way of Centreville and Barnesville. It is a better road; is the old State road from Saint
Louis to Van Buren; is 16 miles shorter than by Patterson, and saves two bridges and one ferry. I
shall build a good ferry-boat at Van Buren, as there are two saw-mills near, and timber plenty. I
shall keep my cavalry at Barnesville until ready to move, as that country is rich in corn. The new
route has the advantage of not being stripped of supplies. The Black River was a great obstacle
on the Patterson route, but is now crossed where it has three forks.
Cannot Warren move on to Eleven Points when my troops reach Van Buren? I send up my
inspector-general, Major Lippert, with my map, who will explain in person better than a report.
Gray tells me you said his regiment could go with me if you had a good one to replace it. I will
exchange the Twenty-third Iowa, of my command, for it, as I am compelled to leave two
companies of it as a garrison to Patterson, and the regiment is not a hardy one, nor in good
health. Shall I order up the Twenty-third Iowa before it moves? Gray authorizes me to say he
declines the adjutant-generalship of the State, if he can go with me. I will push everything here
but the land-slide.
DAVIDSON,
Brigadier-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 37.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF the MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, Mo., December 26, 1862.
111
The following officers, constituting the staff of the major-general commanding, will be
addressed, respected, and obeyed accordingly throughout the department: Col. N. P. Chipman,
additional aide-decamp, chief of staff; Col. A. G. Brackett, Ninth Illinois Cavalry, chief of
cavalry; Col. Robert Allen, additional aide-de-camp, chief purchasing quartermaster; Col. Lewis
B. Parsons, additional aide-de-camp, chief of transportation; Col. T. J. Haines, additional aidede-
camp, chief purchasing commissary of subsistence; Col. F. D. Callender, Missouri State
Militia, chief of ordnance; Surg. Madison Mills, medical director; Maj. N. W. Brown, chief
paymaster ; Maj. H. Z. Curtis, assistant adjutant-general; Maj. T. I. McKenny, additional aidede-
camp, acting assistant inspector-general; Lieut. Col. C. S. Charlot, Missouri State Militia,
assistant adjutant-general; Lieut. Col. F. A. Dick, Missouri State Militia, provost-marshal
general; Lieut. Col. S.S. Curtis, Missouri State Militia, acting assistant inspector-general; Capt.
F. S. Winslow, assistant quartermaster, aide de-camp; Capt. Charles N. Turnbull, Corps of
Topographical Engineers, chief of engineers; Capt. W. H. Stark, Twenty-fourth Missouri
Infantry Volunteers, acting assistant adjutant-general; First Lieut. J. Guylee, Fourth Iowa
Cavalry Volunteers, aide-de-camp; Second Lieut. A. Hodge, Fourth Iowa Cavalry Volunteers,
aide-de-camp; Second Lieut. Luke O'Reilly, Thirty-third Missouri Infantry Volunteers, aide-decamp;
First Lieut. R. A. Phelan, First Missouri Cavalry Volunteers, acting aide-de-camp, and
Second Lieut. M. P. Owens, Twenty-fourth Missouri Infantry Volunteers, acting aide-de-camp.
By command of Major-General Curtis:
H. Z. CURTIS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
NOVEMBER 30, 1862.
GENERAL: General Herron telegraphs that the Yellville expedition, of which I wrote you,
has returned. It was successful in destroying the saltpeter works, the arsenal, and the storehouses,
with about 500 shot-guns and rifles. Sixty prisoners were taken, and over 100 horses.
Their sick in the hospital were paroled, and the troops returned last evening, after traveling 250
miles in less than five days. The troops were the First Iowa, Tenth Illinois, and Second
Wisconsin, commanded by Colonel [D.] Wickersham, of the Tenth Illinois.
SAML. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief.
ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Southwest Missouri, November 30, 1862.
The cavalry expedition sent by me to Yellville returned last night, having made the march of
250 miles in less than five days. It was a complete success, and not only have all the saltpeter
works in that section and at Dubuque been destroyed, but the arsenal and store-houses of the
rebels were burned. Sixty of Burbridge's command were taken prisoners; about 500 shot-guns
and rifles at the arsenal were destroyed, and over 100 good horses brought out. The rebels have a
large hospital at that place, and the inmates were paroled. The force usually congregated there is
now south of West Plains. Our troops have left the place in such shape that I do not think the
rebels will again attempt to make a depot. The expedition consisted of the First Iowa Cavalry,
Tenth Illinois Cavalry, and one battalion of the Second Wisconsin, all under command of
Colonel Wickersham, Tenth Illinois. This movement, with Blunt's victory at Cane Hill,
effectually clears the north side of the mountains of all troops except guerrillas.
F. J. HERRON,
112
Brigadier-General.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS.
DECEMBER 10, 1862.
Further details are received from Generals Blunt and Herron from the battle-ground of Prairie
Grove, near Fayetteville, Ark. Our loss in killed and wounded is now estimated at 1,000; that of
the enemy at over 2,000. The rebels left many of their dead and most of their wounded for us to
care for. Extensive hospitals will be improvised in Fayetteville. Prisoners returned report the
enemy 28,000 strong. Their artillery was much crippled. We took four caissons, filled with
ammunition, and a large number of small-arms. General Blunt moves forward to-day to Cane
Hill, General Herron remaining at Prairie Grove, burying the dead and providing for the
wounded. The enemy muffled their wheels and moved off in the night, continuing their retreat to
Van Buren, probably crossing Arkansas River. Colonel [S.] McFarland, Nineteenth Iowa, is
killed. Colonel [J. C.] Black, Thirty-seventh Illinois; Major [W. G.] Thompson, Twentieth Iowa,
and a large number of subaltern officers, wounded. It was a hard-fought battle and complete
victory.
SAML. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief, Washington, D.C.
ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
In the Field, near Fayetteville, Ark., December 8, 1862.
GENERAL: This place, on yesterday, was the scene of a hard-fought and bloody field,
resulting in a complete victory to the Army of the Frontier. The rebel threes, under Generals
Hindman, Marmaduke, Parsons, and Frost, numbered 25,000. My whole force in the field did
not exceed 8,000. I had been holding the enemy on the Boston Mountains for two days,
skirmishing with their advance and holding them in check until General Herron could come up
with re-enforcements.
On the 7th, they drove in my outposts; got possession of the road, by which they commenced
a flank movement on my left during the night, while they made a heavy feint in front. Their
object was to cut off communication between myself and General Herron, who was to be at
Fayetteville at daylight. They attacked General Herron at about 10 a.m., who, by gallant and
desperate fighting, held them in check for three hours, until I came up and attacked them in the
rear. The fighting was desperate on both sides, and continued until it was terminated by the
darkness of the night. My command bivouacked on their arms, ready to renew the conflict at
daylight in the morning; but the enemy had availed themselves of the night to retreat across the
Boston Mountains. The loss on both sides has been heavy. My loss in killed is small in
proportion to the number of wounded The enemy's loss, compared with ours, is at least four to
one. My artillery made terrible destruction in their ranks. They had greatly the advantage in
numbers and position, yet Generals Marmaduke and Hindman acknowledged to me, in an
interview under a flag of truce, that they had been well whipped. Among the enemy's killed was
Colonel Steen, formerly brigadier-general of the Missouri State Guard. The Nineteenth and
Twentieth Iowa, Thirty-seventh Illinois, and Twenty-sixth Indiana Regiments, of General
Herron's division, suffered severely. General Herron deserves great credit for the promptness
with which he re-enforced me by forced marches from near Springfield, as also for his gallantry
upon the field.
JAS. G. BLUNT,
113
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF HE FRONTIER,
Rhea's Mills, Ark., December 20, 1862.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, on the 2d instant, and four days subsequent to the
battle of Cane Hill, or Boston Mountains, of November 28, I obtained reliable information that
the entire force of infantry and artillery of General Hindman's army had crossed the Arkansas
River and joined General Marmaduke at Lee's Creek, 15 miles north of Van Buren, to which
point the latter had retreated after the battle of the 28th ultimo. I further learned that the united
forces under General Hindman's command numbered between 25,000 and 30,000 men, and that
he designed advancing upon me in case I did not attack him south of the mountains.
Determined to hold my position at Cane Hill, unless driven from it by a superior force, I
immediately telegraphed to the Second and Third Divisions to come to my support by forced
marches. I may here mention that I had no knowledge of the whereabouts of these two divisions,
except from rumor, and had not been apprised of their movements or locality for a period of over
two weeks. My telegraphic dispatch reached General Herron, commanding the Second and Third
Divisions, on the 3d, who promptly responded to my order, keeping me advised, by telegraph
from Elkhorn, of his progress. The Second and Third Brigades of the First Division, with my
headquarters, were at Cane Hill; the First Brigade at Rhea's Mills, 8 miles north, where a large
supply train, just arrived from Fort Scott, was halted. My pickets were advanced 6 miles beyond
Cane Hill, on the road leading to Van Buren, and a strong outpost of the Second Kansas
established where that road intersects the Cove Creek road, running from Fayetteville to Van
Buren, and which road passes about 6 miles east of Cane Hill.
On the morning of the 5th instant, this outpost was attacked by a large force of rebel cavalry,
but they were repulsed and driven back some 6 miles through the mountains. Expecting that the
same demonstration would be repeated on the next morning, I directed Colonel [W. F.] Cloud,
commanding the Third Brigade, to strengthen this post by the addition of 100 cavalry and two
howitzers, to be at the outpost at daybreak. In consequence of this order not being promptly
carried out, and the support not arriving at the time directed, the pickets, on being attacked about
daylight by a superior force, were compelled to retire some 3 miles, when, support having
reached them, they held the ground during the day, with continual skirmishing, in which several
of my men were wounded and a number of the enemy killed.
The enemy had now got possession of the Cove Creek and Fayetteville road, and I learned
about 8 p.m. that a force of about 10,000 had advanced beyond the junction of the Cove Creek
road with the Cane Hill and Van Buren road, and were massed upon the mountain in front of my
outpost, while the remainder of the rebel army was below the junction of the roads just named,
about 3 miles in rear of their advance. The Third Brigade, under Colonel Cloud, was ordered to
bivouac for the night on their arms upon the ground south of the town that I had selected to make
a stand upon in case I was attacked in front.
It was now evident that a general engagement must take place next day, and my
apprehensions were that with their superior numbers they would make a feint in front, while with
their main force they would make a flank movement on my left, by the Cove Creek road, to
intercept General Herron before he could reach me from Fayetteville, which point he was
expected to reach by daylight on the morning of the 7th.
About 9 p.m. of the 6th, I received a note from Colonel [M. La Rue] Harrison, of the First
Arkansas Cavalry, who had been ordered down from Elkhorn at the same time that General
Herron started from Wilson's Creek, informing me that he had arrived at Illinois Creek, 8 miles
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north of Cane Hill, with 500 men, and that his horses and men were so tired that he did not think
he could move farther until Monday, the 8th. Whether his regard for the Sabbath or the fear of
getting into a fight prompted him to make such a report to me, I am unable to say; but, judging
from his movements that he was not a man upon whom to place much reliance on the battlefield,
I ordered him to proceed by daybreak to Rhea's Mills, to guard the transportation and
supply trains at that point, the First Brigade having been ordered to join me at Cane Hill. Had he,
instead of making unnecessary delay, promptly obeyed that order, he would not have had a
portion of his command and transportation captured by General Marmaduke's advance, as
occurred on the morning of the 7th.
At about 10 p.m. of the 6th, Colonel [D.] Wickersham, with about 1,600 cavalry, of the
Second Wisconsin, First Iowa, Tenth Illinois, and Eighth Missouri Regiments, who, at my
request, had been sent forward by General Herron, arrived at Cane Hill. I had, as I have before
remarked, considerable apprehension that a flank movement would be attempted on my left
during the night. I therefore determined to send a cavalry force across on a road called the Hogeye
road, running from the north part of Cane Hill east to the Telegraph road, and crossing the
Cove Creek and Fayetteville road about 4 miles north of the junction of the latter with that
running from Cane Hill to Van Buren, already referred to, and from which my outpost had been
driven in the morning.
A Colonel [J.M.] Richardson, of the Fourteenth Missouri State Militia, who had arrives
during the day with about 150 men, importuned me to be detailed for this service, recommending
himself as a brave man, eager for a fight. Committing the folly of taking him upon his own
recommendation, I furnished him 100 additional men, making his force 250. Endeavoring to
impress upon him the importance of the trust with which he was confided, and stating that I
expected the enemy would advance up the Cove Creek road during the night, I directed him to
proceed east on the Hog-eye road to the crossing of the Cove Creek and Fayetteville road, to
select the best position for defense, sending his pickets down the road toward the enemy, and, if
their column approached in that direction, to resist their advance to the last extremity, and notify
me promptly of their movements. How I was deceived in sending the wrong man on so important
a service, the sequel will show.
At daylight on Sunday morning, I had the transportation of the Second and Third Brigades,
of the First Division, hitched up, ready to move to Rhea's Mills, should circumstances render it
necessary, and the Second Brigade was ordered to the front, south of the town, where the Third
Brigade had bivouacked during the night, the First Brigade and Colonel Wickersham's brigade of
cavalry being stationed about 1 miles in the rear, on the north side of the town, where the Hogeye
road intersects that between Cane Hill and Fayetteville, and where it was possible the enemy
might attempt to come in upon my rear.
About 7 o'clock, with my staff, I proceeded to the front. On arriving there, I learned that the
enemy were still in considerable force upon the mountain, and so soon as it became sufficiently
light they threw several shots from their artillery at my advance outpost, which was replied to by
two of my 12-pounder mountain howitzers, without any damage to either party. I directed
Colonel [W. F.] Cloud to withdraw his troops on the outposts, with the view of drawing them out
and ascertaining their force and design. Upon my advance falling back, the rebels came forward
a short distance and formed in line of battle, their right resting on the mountain, their left
extending down the valley, and presenting a front of half a mile. It now became evident that their
demonstration in front was only a feint, and that their main force had gone by the Cove Creek
road, for the purpose of intercepting communication between General Herron and myself, and,
notwithstanding that I had received no intelligence from Colonel Richardson, upon whom I had
relied to watch this movement, I determined to act accordingly. I immediately ordered the
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transportation to Rhea's Mills, by a road leading directly north over the mountain, guarded by the
Third Indian Regiment (Colonel Phillips), keeping the bottom road on the right, leading to the
same point, and also the Fayetteville road, open for the movement of troops. I ordered Colonel
Wickersham, with his cavalry, to move rapidly in the direction of Fayetteville and form a
junction with General Herron. He was followed by General [Frederick] Salomon's brigade, and
the Second and Third Brigades were withdrawn from the front and directed to move rapidly on
the Fayetteville road.
As soon as I determined on this disposition of the forces under me, I sent two messenger
parties with dispatches to General Herron, apprising him of my movements, and what I believed
to be those of the enemy, and urged him to press forward as rapidly as possible, that we might
form a junction of our forces before Hindman could get between us, and also directing him to
send his train to Rhea's Mills. Neither of these dispatches reached him, the messengers being cut
off by Marmaduke's advance.
At about 10 a.m., and after the whole of the First Division was in motion toward Fayetteville,
I received the first intelligence from Colonel Richardson, who coolly informed me that the rebel
forces had been moving up the Cove Creek and Fayetteville road since midnight, and he judged,
from the noise, that several batteries of artillery had passed. I afterward learned that Colonel
Richardson, instead of obeying my orders, had only gone to within 2 miles of the Cove Creek
road, sending a light picket to the crossing, which was driven back by the advance of the rebel
column to where the remainder of the party had halted, and where the valiant colonel was
content to remain until 9 o'clock the next morning, listening to the tramp of the rebel army, and
not even notifying me of the fact until the rear of their column had passed. The con-duet of
Colonel Richardson in this instance, upon whose vigilance and strict compliance with orders
depended the safety and success of my command, is, to say the least, deserving of the severest
censure.
On learning that Hindman's forces had passed north, I ordered Colonel Judson, with his
regiment (cavalry) and two 12-pounder mountain howitzers, to proceed rapidly on the same road
by which I had sent Colonel Richardson the previous night, and to attack and harass them in the
rear, which order he executed with promptness and gallantry, attacking them in the rear with his
howitzers and following them 2 or 3 miles, until they made a stand in such force as to compel
him to withdraw his command.
Moving with my staff in advance of the First Division, on reaching a point some 3 miles
north of Cane Hill, where a road to the left leads to Rhea's Mills, I learned that Colonel
Wickersham, who was in the advance with the cavalry, and had been instructed to proceed
directly on the Fayetteville road, and furnished with a guide, instead of doing so had taken the
left-hand road to the mills. Not deeming it prudent, under all the circumstances, to separate my
command, I was compelled to follow the same road, in order to get my forces concentrated. On
coming up with Colonel Wickersham, I ordered him to proceed in the direction of Fayetteville
with all of his cavalry, and endeavor to open communication with General Herron. I also sent
forward Major [E. A.] Calkins, with the Third Wisconsin Cavalry, for the same purpose. But a
few minutes elapsed after Colonel Wickersham had started with his command, when I heard the
discharge of artillery in a northeast direction, and immediately moved rapidly, with the Second
and Third Brigades, in the direction of the firing, leaving the First Brigade (General Salomon's)
to guard the trains at Rhea's Mills. It was now between 12 and 1 o'clock. The distance to where
the firing was heard was about 5 miles, by an obscure road, leading through a valley, with strips
of prairie and brush alternating across it. The firing between General Herron's command and the
rebel forces was confined to artillery, which, as I approached the field, became more rapid.
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At 1.45 o'clock I came upon the field, in advance of the First Division, when a hasty
reconnaissance discovered the enemy in superior force, strongly posted upon elevated ground,
behind timber, with the Fayetteville road (on which he had advanced) running through it
northeast and southwest. On the north and in front of the enemy's lines was an open valley,
divided into large fields, a portion of them cultivated in corn. At the east end of this valley
General Herron, with the Second and Third Divisions, was engaged with the enemy, having met
their advance early in the day and driven them back to that position.
For the details of the engagement between the rebels and the Second and Third Divisions,
under General Herron, up to the time when I came upon the field, I refer you to the report of that
gallant officer.
The road on which my column was advancing entered the valley at its western extremity and
in front of the left wing of the enemy. They had no intimation of my approach on that road, until
a large force of their infantry, which, for the purpose of flanking General Herron's division and
overwhelming it by superior numbers, had been massed upon their left, was suddenly confronted
by the troops of the First Division, when the engagement soon became general along their entire
line.
At about 2 o'clock the fire from the artillery of the First Division was commenced by Rabb's
battery, which opened a cross-fire upon two rebel batteries and a heavy body of infantry that
were fronting and engaged with General Herron's division. A few moments later and Tenney's
battery of Parrott guns came into position on the right and Hopkins' battery on the left of Captain
[J. W.] Rabb's. The fire from all three of these batteries was first directed to the enemy's right,
where two batteries of the rebels and a heavy body of their infantry were engaged with the
Second and Third Divisions. Shell and case-shot from these eighteen pieces were hurled upon
the enemy's right with terrible effect. The rebel artillery and infantry, being driven from this
position under cover of the wood, the three batteries above named ceased firing, when the
infantry of the Second and Third Divisions advanced upon the enemy's right, and the fire of
musketry was opened on both sides with great vigor. The Twentieth Wisconsin and Nineteenth
Iowa gallantly charged the rebel batteries and drove the enemy from their guns, but were unable
to hold them, in consequence of being overwhelmed by a superior force. The Twenty-sixth
Indiana and Thirty-seventh Illinois subsequently charged the same batteries with the same result.
Observing that the enemy had now thrown a large force upon my center and right, I directed
the infantry of the First Division to enter the wood and engage them, which order was executed
with promptness, Colonel [William] Weer leading the Tenth and Thirteenth Kansas Regiments
of his brigade upon the right; a portion of the Second Kansas (dismounted), under command of
Capt. S. J. Crawford; the right wing of the Eleventh Kansas, under Colonel [Thomas] Ewing, jr.,
and the First Indian, under Colonel [S. H.] Wattles, upon the left; the Twentieth Iowa Regiment
advancing upon the left of the Indians, the left wing of the Eleventh Kansas, under Lieutenant
Colonel [T.] Moonlight, supporting Rabb's and [H] Hopkins' batteries. The First Iowa, Tenth
Illinois, Eighth Missouri, and the First Battalion of the Second Wisconsin Cavalry, under
Colonel Wickersham, and the Third Wisconsin Cavalry, under Major Calkins, were directed to
proceed to my extreme right to watch any flank movement of the enemy that might be attempted
in that direction, and also to guard the road leading to Rhea's Mills, and prevent communication
being cut off with the First Brigade (General Salomon's).
The contest by this time (about 3 p.m.) had become vigorous and determined. The entire
infantry of the three divisions, and also a portion of the Second Kansas (dismounted), were
engaged in the wood with the rebel infantry, three times their number. The rattling of musketry,
uninterrupted for fully three hours, was terrific, The contending armies swayed to and fro, each
alternately advancing and retiring. Some rebel sharpshooters, firing from the windows of a house
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situated in the edge of the wood and a little to my left, were evidently directing their
compliments specially to myself and staff. I directed Captain Rabb to open upon it with shell,
and in a few moments the house was in flames.
While the infantry was vigorously contesting every inch of ground, I directed Lieutenant [E
S.] Stover, with two 12-pounder mountain howitzers, to advance into the wood, which he
promptly did, taking position on a little knoll on the right of the Eleventh Kansas, and directing
his guns across a small field, where a heavy force of rebels were massed. He poured into them
his canister and shell until his ammunition was exhausted and his horses shot down, being
compelled to bring away his guns by hand. I then directed Lieutenant [M.D.] Tenney to advance
his battery to the edge of the wood, on the left of the Eleventh Kansas, taking position about 200
yards in front of the rebel ranks. From his six 10-pounder Parrott guns he opened on them with
terrible effect, driving them back with great slaughter.
Learning that a heavy force was massing on my right with a view of turning my flank, I
immediately withdrew Tenney's battery, and proceeded with it to an open field on the right, at
the same time directing the infantry to withdraw from the wood, in order to draw the enemy from
under cover and within range of my artillery. On reaching the open field on their right, just
alluded to, I discovered the entire division of General Frost advanced to the edge of the timber,
and about 200 yards distant. They opened upon us a fierce fire from Enfield rifles, and were in
the act of throwing down the fence to make an assault on the battery, which had no support
except my own staff and body guard; but Lieutenant Tenney, with commendable promptness,
wheeled his guns into position, when their destructive fire of canister and shell soon sent the
rebel hordes back under cover of the wood. At the same time a fire from the two mountain
howitzers, attached to the Third Wisconsin Cavalry, were directed upon them, farther on my
right, with good effect. It was here that the rebel General Steen fell. A few minutes after this last
repulse of the enemy by Lieutenant Tenney, a rebel battery of ten guns, supported by a heavy
body of infantry, opened from their extreme left, when, bringing his guns to bear in that
direction, he, in less than ten minutes, silenced their battery, dismounting two of their guns and
driving them from the position with a severe loss. While this attempt was being made to charge
my artillery on the right, the same demonstration was made upon Rabb's and Hopkins' batteries,
the enemy following up my infantry as they retired from the wood, and with a wild shout rushed
out from under cover of the trees, when the two batteries, supported by the infantry of the
Eleventh Regiment, belched forth a perfect storm of canister, producing immense slaughter in
their ranks and compelling them again to retire. As darkness approached, the fire, which from
both artillery and musketry had been terrific and uninterrupted for over three hours, gradually
ceased along the whole line, and my command bivouacked upon their arms, ready to renew the
conflict at early dawn.
I could not tell with any certainty the extent of the damage done the enemy, but knowing that
they had a force greatly superior to mine in numbers, I felt assured that they would give us battle
again in the morning, and made my arrangements accordingly.
My wounded were all cared for during the night, the transportation and supply trains of the
whole army sent to Fayetteville, and General Salomon's brigade, which had been left at Rhea's
Mills, ordered to the field; ammunition was brought up and distributed, some refreshments
obtained for the men, and everything was in readiness to renew the battle at the first dawn of
day; but daylight revealed the fact that the enemy had availed themselves of the night to retreat
across the Boston Mountains. Their transportation had been left south of the mountains, and their
retreat thereby made unincumbered and stealthily. I am assured by my men who were prisoners
with them, as well as by deserters from their ranks, that they tore up the blankets of their men to
muffle the wheels of their artillery.
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Just before daylight I received a note from General Hindman, under a flag of truce,
requesting a personal interview, to make provision for caring for his dead and wounded. On
meeting him, I soon became satisfied that no other force was there, except his staff and escort
and a party left to take care of the wounded, and that his forces had commenced retreating early
the previous night.
On looking over the battle-field in the morning, it soon became evident that the enemy had
been most roughly handled, and that our artillery had made fearful slaughter in their ranks.
Though many had been already carried away, their dead lay strewn over its whole extent.
The entire Federal loss is: Killed, 167; wounded, 798; missing, 183; total, 1,148. Of the
missing, the greater portion were taken prisoners, and have been since exchanged. The enemy's
loss in killed and wounded cannot fall short of 3,000, and will probably much exceed that
number, as many of them, not severely wounded, were taken to Van Buren. Their loss in killed
upon the ground will reach 1,000, the greater number of whom have been buried by my
command. The entire force of Federal troops engaged did not exceed 7,000, about 3,000 cavalry
not having been brought into action. The enemy's force, according to their own admission, was
28,000, and all well armed, mostly with the Enfield rifle.
Many instances of individual gallantry and daring occurred during the day, for an account of
which I refer you to the reports of regimental, brigade, and division commanders. As the
immediate commander of the First Division, I deem it but justice to say of Col. William Weer,
commanding the Second Brigade, that he behaved throughout with great gallantry, leading his
men into the thickest of the fight. The same is true of Colonel [T. M.] Bowen and Maj. H. H.
Williams, commanding regiments in the same brigade. Capt. S. J. Crawford, of the Second
Kansas Cavalry, who commanded a battalion of that regiment that fought on foot, displayed
great gallantry, as did also the lamented Capt. A. P. Russell, who fell, mortally wounded. Col.
Thomas Ewing, Lieutenant Colonel Moonlight, and Major Plumb, of the Eleventh Kansas, gave
evidence of their high qualities as gallant officers. To Captains Rabb and Hopkins and
Lieutenants Tenney and Stover, who served their artillery with such terrible and destructive
effect upon the enemy's ranks, too much praise cannot be awarded. All did their duty well and
nobly. Men of Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana mingled their blood
upon the same field, and for the same worthy cause. For their deeds of valor upon the field of
Prairie Grove, their native States may well be proud of them.
I cannot close this report without availing myself of the occasion to express my thanks to
Brig. Gen. F. J. Herron for the promptness with which he responded to my order to re-enforce
me, as also for the gallantry displayed by him upon the field. His conduct is worthy of emulation
and deserving of the highest praise.
To the members of my staff, Maj. V. P. Van Antwerp, inspector-general; Capt. Oliver
Barber, chief commissary; Capt. Lyman Scott, jr., acting assistant adjutant-general, and Lieuts. J.
Fin. Hill, H. G. Loring, G. M. Waugh, D. Whittaker, and C. H. Haynes, aides-de-camp, who
were in the saddle, and with me constantly from before daylight in the morning until the close of
the action after dark, I am indebted for efficient and valuable services on the field. Made a
special target by the rebel troops, in obedience to the notorious address of their commander
(General Hindman), issued on the eve of battle, and a printed copy of which, over his signature,
each of them carried upon his person, "to shoot down my mounted officers," they were saluted
wherever they rode by a perfect storm of balls from the enemy's guns.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAS. G. BLUNT,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS,
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Commanding Department of the Missouri.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF HE FRONTIER,
Rhea's Mills, Ark., December 20, 1862.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, on the 2d instant, and four days subsequent to the
battle of Cane Hill, or Boston Mountains, of November 28, I obtained reliable information that
the entire force of infantry and artillery of General Hindman's army had crossed the Arkansas
River and joined General Marmaduke at Lee's Creek, 15 miles north of Van Buren, to which
point the latter had retreated after the battle of the 28th ultimo. I further learned that the united
forces under General Hindman's command numbered between 25,000 and 30,000 men, and that
he designed advancing upon me in case I did not attack him south of the mountains.
Determined to hold my position at Cane Hill, unless driven from it by a superior force, I
immediately telegraphed to the Second and Third Divisions to come to my support by forced
marches. I may here mention that I had no knowledge of the whereabouts of these two divisions,
except from rumor, and had not been apprised of their movements or locality for a period of over
two weeks. My telegraphic dispatch reached General Herron, commanding the Second and Third
Divisions, on the 3d, who promptly responded to my order, keeping me advised, by telegraph
from Elkhorn, of his progress. The Second and Third Brigades of the First Division, with my
headquarters, were at Cane Hill; the First Brigade at Rhea's Mills, 8 miles north, where a large
supply train, just arrived from Fort Scott, was halted. My pickets were advanced 6 miles beyond
Cane Hill, on the road leading to Van Buren, and a strong outpost of the Second Kansas
established where that road intersects the Cove Creek road, running from Fayetteville to Van
Buren, and which road passes about 6 miles east of Cane Hill.
On the morning of the 5th instant, this outpost was attacked by a large force of rebel cavalry,
but they were repulsed and driven back some 6 miles through the mountains. Expecting that the
same demonstration would be repeated on the next morning, I directed Colonel [W. F.] Cloud,
commanding the Third Brigade, to strengthen this post by the addition of 100 cavalry and two
howitzers, to be at the outpost at daybreak. In consequence of this order not being promptly
carried out, and the support not arriving at the time directed, the pickets, on being attacked about
daylight by a superior force, were compelled to retire some 3 miles, when, support having
reached them, they held the ground during the day, with continual skirmishing, in which several
of my men were wounded and a number of the enemy killed.
The enemy had now got possession of the Cove Creek and Fayetteville road, and I learned
about 8 p.m. that a force of about 10,000 had advanced beyond the junction of the Cove Creek
road with the Cane Hill and Van Buren road, and were massed upon the mountain in front of my
outpost, while the remainder of the rebel army was below the junction of the roads just named,
about 3 miles in rear of their advance. The Third Brigade, under Colonel Cloud, was ordered to
bivouac for the night on their arms upon the ground south of the town that I had selected to make
a stand upon in case I was attacked in front.
It was now evident that a general engagement must take place next day, and my
apprehensions were that with their superior numbers they would make a feint in front, while with
their main force they would make a flank movement on my left, by the Cove Creek road, to
intercept General Herron before he could reach me from Fayetteville, which point he was
expected to reach by daylight on the morning of the 7th.
About 9 p.m. of the 6th, I received a note from Colonel [M. La Rue] Harrison, of the First
Arkansas Cavalry, who had been ordered down from Elkhorn at the same time that General
Herron started from Wilson's Creek, informing me that he had arrived at Illinois Creek, 8 miles
north of Cane Hill, with 500 men, and that his horses and men were so tired that he did not think
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he could move farther until Monday, the 8th. Whether his regard for the Sabbath or the fear of
getting into a fight prompted him to make such a report to me, I am unable to say; but, judging
from his movements that he was not a man upon whom to place much reliance on the battlefield,
I ordered him to proceed by daybreak to Rhea's Mills, to guard the transportation and
supply trains at that point, the First Brigade having been ordered to join me at Cane Hill. Had he,
instead of making unnecessary delay, promptly obeyed that order, he would not have had a
portion of his command and transportation captured by General Marmaduke's advance, as
occurred on the morning of the 7th.
At about 10 p.m. of the 6th, Colonel [D.] Wickersham, with about 1,600 cavalry, of the
Second Wisconsin, First Iowa, Tenth Illinois, and Eighth Missouri Regiments, who, at my
request, had been sent forward by General Herron, arrived at Cane Hill. I had, as I have before
remarked, considerable apprehension that a flank movement would be attempted on my left
during the night. I therefore determined to send a cavalry force across on a road called the Hogeye
road, running from the north part of Cane Hill east to the Telegraph road, and crossing the
Cove Creek and Fayetteville road about 4 miles north of the junction of the latter with that
running from Cane Hill to Van Buren, already referred to, and from which my outpost had been
driven in the morning.
A Colonel [J.M.] Richardson, of the Fourteenth Missouri State Militia, who had arrives
during the day with about 150 men, importuned me to be detailed for this service, recommending
himself as a brave man, eager for a fight. Committing the folly of taking him upon his own
recommendation, I furnished him 100 additional men, making his force 250. Endeavoring to
impress upon him the importance of the trust with which he was confided, and stating that I
expected the enemy would advance up the Cove Creek road during the night, I directed him to
proceed east on the Hog-eye road to the crossing of the Cove Creek and Fayetteville road, to
select the best position for defense, sending his pickets down the road toward the enemy, and, if
their column approached in that direction, to resist their advance to the last extremity, and notify
me promptly of their movements. How I was deceived in sending the wrong man on so important
a service, the sequel will show.
At daylight on Sunday morning, I had the transportation of the Second and Third Brigades,
of the First Division, hitched up, ready to move to Rhea's Mills, should circumstances render it
necessary, and the Second Brigade was ordered to the front, south of the town, where the Third
Brigade had bivouacked during the night, the First Brigade and Colonel Wickersham's brigade of
cavalry being stationed about 1 miles in the rear, on the north side of the town, where the Hogeye
road intersects that between Cane Hill and Fayetteville, and where it was possible the enemy
might attempt to come in upon my rear.
About 7 o'clock, with my staff, I proceeded to the front. On arriving there, I learned that the
enemy were still in considerable force upon the mountain, and so soon as it became sufficiently
light they threw several shots from their artillery at my advance outpost, which was replied to by
two of my 12-pounder mountain howitzers, without any damage to either party. I directed
Colonel [W. F.] Cloud to withdraw his troops on the outposts, with the view of drawing them out
and ascertaining their force and design. Upon my advance falling back, the rebels came forward
a short distance and formed in line of battle, their right resting on the mountain, their left
extending down the valley, and presenting a front of half a mile. It now became evident that their
demonstration in front was only a feint, and that their main force had gone by the Cove Creek
road, for the purpose of intercepting communication between General Herron and myself, and,
notwithstanding that I had received no intelligence from Colonel Richardson, upon whom I had
relied to watch this movement, I determined to act accordingly. I immediately ordered the
transportation to Rhea's Mills, by a road leading directly north over the mountain, guarded by the
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Third Indian Regiment (Colonel Phillips), keeping the bottom road on the right, leading to the
same point, and also the Fayetteville road, open for the movement of troops. I ordered Colonel
Wickersham, with his cavalry, to move rapidly in the direction of Fayetteville and form a
junction with General Herron. He was followed by General [Frederick] Salomon's brigade, and
the Second and Third Brigades were withdrawn from the front and directed to move rapidly on
the Fayetteville road.
As soon as I determined on this disposition of the forces under me, I sent two messenger
parties with dispatches to General Herron, apprising him of my movements, and what I believed
to be those of the enemy, and urged him to press forward as rapidly as possible, that we might
form a junction of our forces before Hindman could get between us, and also directing him to
send his train to Rhea's Mills. Neither of these dispatches reached him, the messengers being cut
off by Marmaduke's advance.
At about 10 a.m., and after the whole of the First Division was in motion toward Fayetteville,
I received the first intelligence from Colonel Richardson, who coolly informed me that the rebel
forces had been moving up the Cove Creek and Fayetteville road since midnight, and he judged,
from the noise, that several batteries of artillery had passed. I afterward learned that Colonel
Richardson, instead of obeying my orders, had only gone to within 2 miles of the Cove Creek
road, sending a light picket to the crossing, which was driven back by the advance of the rebel
column to where the remainder of the party had halted, and where the valiant colonel was
content to remain until 9 o'clock the next morning, listening to the tramp of the rebel army, and
not even notifying me of the fact until the rear of their column had passed. The con-duet of
Colonel Richardson in this instance, upon whose vigilance and strict compliance with orders
depended the safety and success of my command, is, to say the least, deserving of the severest
censure.
On learning that Hindman's forces had passed north, I ordered Colonel Judson, with his
regiment (cavalry) and two 12-pounder mountain howitzers, to proceed rapidly on the same road
by which I had sent Colonel Richardson the previous night, and to attack and harass them in the
rear, which order he executed with promptness and gallantry, attacking them in the rear with his
howitzers and following them 2 or 3 miles, until they made a stand in such force as to compel
him to withdraw his command.
Moving with my staff in advance of the First Division, on reaching a point some 3 miles
north of Cane Hill, where a road to the left leads to Rhea's Mills, I learned that Colonel
Wickersham, who was in the advance with the cavalry, and had been instructed to proceed
directly on the Fayetteville road, and furnished with a guide, instead of doing so had taken the
left-hand road to the mills. Not deeming it prudent, under all the circumstances, to separate my
command, I was compelled to follow the same road, in order to get my forces concentrated. On
coming up with Colonel Wickersham, I ordered him to proceed in the direction of Fayetteville
with all of his cavalry, and endeavor to open communication with General Herron. I also sent
forward Major [E. A.] Calkins, with the Third Wisconsin Cavalry, for the same purpose. But a
few minutes elapsed after Colonel Wickersham had started with his command, when I heard the
discharge of artillery in a northeast direction, and immediately moved rapidly, with the Second
and Third Brigades, in the direction of the firing, leaving the First Brigade (General Salomon's)
to guard the trains at Rhea's Mills. It was now between 12 and 1 o'clock. The distance to where
the firing was heard was about 5 miles, by an obscure road, leading through a valley, with strips
of prairie and brush alternating across it. The firing between General Herron's command and the
rebel forces was confined to artillery, which, as I approached the field, became more rapid.
At 1.45 o'clock I came upon the field, in advance of the First Division, when a hasty
reconnaissance discovered the enemy in superior force, strongly posted upon elevated ground,
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behind timber, with the Fayetteville road (on which he had advanced) running through it
northeast and southwest. On the north and in front of the enemy's lines was an open valley,
divided into large fields, a portion of them cultivated in corn. At the east end of this valley
General Herron, with the Second and Third Divisions, was engaged with the enemy, having met
their advance early in the day and driven them back to that position.
For the details of the engagement between the rebels and the Second and Third Divisions,
under General Herron, up to the time when I came upon the field, I refer you to the report of that
gallant officer.
The road on which my column was advancing entered the valley at its western extremity and
in front of the left wing of the enemy. They had no intimation of my approach on that road, until
a large force of their infantry, which, for the purpose of flanking General Herron's division and
overwhelming it by superior numbers, had been massed upon their left, was suddenly confronted
by the troops of the First Division, when the engagement soon became general along their entire
line.
At about 2 o'clock the fire from the artillery of the First Division was commenced by Rabb's
battery, which opened a cross-fire upon two rebel batteries and a heavy body of infantry that
were fronting and engaged with General Herron's division. A few moments later and Tenney's
battery of Parrott guns came into position on the right and Hopkins' battery on the left of Captain
[J. W.] Rabb's. The fire from all three of these batteries was first directed to the enemy's right,
where two batteries of the rebels and a heavy body of their infantry were engaged with the
Second and Third Divisions. Shell and case-shot from these eighteen pieces were hurled upon
the enemy's right with terrible effect. The rebel artillery and infantry, being driven from this
position under cover of the wood, the three batteries above named ceased firing, when the
infantry of the Second and Third Divisions advanced upon the enemy's right, and the fire of
musketry was opened on both sides with great vigor. The Twentieth Wisconsin and Nineteenth
Iowa gallantly charged the rebel batteries and drove the enemy from their guns, but were unable
to hold them, in consequence of being overwhelmed by a superior force. The Twenty-sixth
Indiana and Thirty-seventh Illinois subsequently charged the same batteries with the same result.
Observing that the enemy had now thrown a large force upon my center and right, I directed
the infantry of the First Division to enter the wood and engage them, which order was executed
with promptness, Colonel [William] Weer leading the Tenth and Thirteenth Kansas Regiments
of his brigade upon the right; a portion of the Second Kansas (dismounted), under command of
Capt. S. J. Crawford; the right wing of the Eleventh Kansas, under Colonel [Thomas] Ewing, jr.,
and the First Indian, under Colonel [S. H.] Wattles, upon the left; the Twentieth Iowa Regiment
advancing upon the left of the Indians, the left wing of the Eleventh Kansas, under Lieutenant
Colonel [T.] Moonlight, supporting Rabb's and [H] Hopkins' batteries. The First Iowa, Tenth
Illinois, Eighth Missouri, and the First Battalion of the Second Wisconsin Cavalry, under
Colonel Wickersham, and the Third Wisconsin Cavalry, under Major Calkins, were directed to
proceed to my extreme right to watch any flank movement of the enemy that might be attempted
in that direction, and also to guard the road leading to Rhea's Mills, and prevent communication
being cut off with the First Brigade (General Salomon's).
The contest by this time (about 3 p.m.) had become vigorous and determined. The entire
infantry of the three divisions, and also a portion of the Second Kansas (dismounted), were
engaged in the wood with the rebel infantry, three times their number. The rattling of musketry,
uninterrupted for fully three hours, was terrific, The contending armies swayed to and fro, each
alternately advancing and retiring. Some rebel sharpshooters, firing from the windows of a house
situated in the edge of the wood and a little to my left, were evidently directing their
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compliments specially to myself and staff. I directed Captain Rabb to open upon it with shell,
and in a few moments the house was in flames.
While the infantry was vigorously contesting every inch of ground, I directed Lieutenant [E
S.] Stover, with two 12-pounder mountain howitzers, to advance into the wood, which he
promptly did, taking position on a little knoll on the right of the Eleventh Kansas, and directing
his guns across a small field, where a heavy force of rebels were massed. He poured into them
his canister and shell until his ammunition was exhausted and his horses shot down, being
compelled to bring away his guns by hand. I then directed Lieutenant [M.D.] Tenney to advance
his battery to the edge of the wood, on the left of the Eleventh Kansas, taking position about 200
yards in front of the rebel ranks. From his six 10-pounder Parrott guns he opened on them with
terrible effect, driving them back with great slaughter.
Learning that a heavy force was massing on my right with a view of turning my flank, I
immediately withdrew Tenney's battery, and proceeded with it to an open field on the right, at
the same time directing the infantry to withdraw from the wood, in order to draw the enemy from
under cover and within range of my artillery. On reaching the open field on their right, just
alluded to, I discovered the entire division of General Frost advanced to the edge of the timber,
and about 200 yards distant. They opened upon us a fierce fire from Enfield rifles, and were in
the act of throwing down the fence to make an assault on the battery, which had no support
except my own staff and body guard; but Lieutenant Tenney, with commendable promptness,
wheeled his guns into position, when their destructive fire of canister and shell soon sent the
rebel hordes back under cover of the wood. At the same time a fire from the two mountain
howitzers, attached to the Third Wisconsin Cavalry, were directed upon them, farther on my
right, with good effect. It was here that the rebel General Steen fell. A few minutes after this last
repulse of the enemy by Lieutenant Tenney, a rebel battery of ten guns, supported by a heavy
body of infantry, opened from their extreme left, when, bringing his guns to bear in that
direction, he, in less than ten minutes, silenced their battery, dismounting two of their guns and
driving them from the position with a severe loss. While this attempt was being made to charge
my artillery on the right, the same demonstration was made upon Rabb's and Hopkins' batteries,
the enemy following up my infantry as they retired from the wood, and with a wild shout rushed
out from under cover of the trees, when the two batteries, supported by the infantry of the
Eleventh Regiment, belched forth a perfect storm of canister, producing immense slaughter in
their ranks and compelling them again to retire. As darkness approached, the fire, which from
both artillery and musketry had been terrific and uninterrupted for over three hours, gradually
ceased along the whole line, and my command bivouacked upon their arms, ready to renew the
conflict at early dawn.
I could not tell with any certainty the extent of the damage done the enemy, but knowing that
they had a force greatly superior to mine in numbers, I felt assured that they would give us battle
again in the morning, and made my arrangements accordingly.
My wounded were all cared for during the night, the transportation and supply trains of the
whole army sent to Fayetteville, and General Salomon's brigade, which had been left at Rhea's
Mills, ordered to the field; ammunition was brought up and distributed, some refreshments
obtained for the men, and everything was in readiness to renew the battle at the first dawn of
day; but daylight revealed the fact that the enemy had availed themselves of the night to retreat
across the Boston Mountains. Their transportation had been left south of the mountains, and their
retreat thereby made unincumbered and stealthily. I am assured by my men who were prisoners
with them, as well as by deserters from their ranks, that they tore up the blankets of their men to
muffle the wheels of their artillery.
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Just before daylight I received a note from General Hindman, under a flag of truce,
requesting a personal interview, to make provision for caring for his dead and wounded. On
meeting him, I soon became satisfied that no other force was there, except his staff and escort
and a party left to take care of the wounded, and that his forces had commenced retreating early
the previous night.
On looking over the battle-field in the morning, it soon became evident that the enemy had
been most roughly handled, and that our artillery had made fearful slaughter in their ranks.
Though many had been already carried away, their dead lay strewn over its whole extent.
The entire Federal loss is: Killed, 167; wounded, 798; missing, 183; total, 1,148. Of the
missing, the greater portion were taken prisoners, and have been since exchanged. The enemy's
loss in killed and wounded cannot fall short of 3,000, and will probably much exceed that
number, as many of them, not severely wounded, were taken to Van Buren. Their loss in killed
upon the ground will reach 1,000, the greater number of whom have been buried by my
command. The entire force of Federal troops engaged did not exceed 7,000, about 3,000 cavalry
not having been brought into action. The enemy's force, according to their own admission, was
28,000, and all well armed, mostly with the Enfield rifle.
Many instances of individual gallantry and daring occurred during the day, for an account of
which I refer you to the reports of regimental, brigade, and division commanders. As the
immediate commander of the First Division, I deem it but justice to say of Col. William Weer,
commanding the Second Brigade, that he behaved throughout with great gallantry, leading his
men into the thickest of the fight. The same is true of Colonel [T. M.] Bowen and Maj. H. H.
Williams, commanding regiments in the same brigade. Capt. S. J. Crawford, of the Second
Kansas Cavalry, who commanded a battalion of that regiment that fought on foot, displayed
great gallantry, as did also the lamented Capt. A. P. Russell, who fell, mortally wounded. Col.
Thomas Ewing, Lieutenant Colonel Moonlight, and Major Plumb, of the Eleventh Kansas, gave
evidence of their high qualities as gallant officers. To Captains Rabb and Hopkins and
Lieutenants Tenney and Stover, who served their artillery with such terrible and destructive
effect upon the enemy's ranks, too much praise cannot be awarded. All did their duty well and
nobly. Men of Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana mingled their blood
upon the same field, and for the same worthy cause. For their deeds of valor upon the field of
Prairie Grove, their native States may well be proud of them.
I cannot close this report without availing myself of the occasion to express my thanks to
Brig. Gen. F. J. Herron for the promptness with which he responded to my order to re-enforce
me, as also for the gallantry displayed by him upon the field. His conduct is worthy of emulation
and deserving of the highest praise.
To the members of my staff, Maj. V. P. Van Antwerp, inspector-general; Capt. Oliver
Barber, chief commissary; Capt. Lyman Scott, jr., acting assistant adjutant-general, and Lieuts. J.
Fin. Hill, H. G. Loring, G. M. Waugh, D. Whittaker, and C. H. Haynes, aides-de-camp, who
were in the saddle, and with me constantly from before daylight in the morning until the close of
the action after dark, I am indebted for efficient and valuable services on the field. Made a
special target by the rebel troops, in obedience to the notorious address of their commander
(General Hindman), issued on the eve of battle, and a printed copy of which, over his signature,
each of them carried upon his person, "to shoot down my mounted officers," they were saluted
wherever they rode by a perfect storm of balls from the enemy's guns.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAS. G. BLUNT,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS,
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Commanding Department of the Missouri.
HDQRS. 3D BRIG., 1ST DIV., ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Cane Hill, Ark., December 15, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by my brigade in the
action at Prairie Grove on the 7th instant:
Having passed Friday and Saturday, the 5th and 6th, in skirmishing with the enemy upon the
Boston Mountains, and lying in line of battle during the night of the 6th, I received your order to
march toward Rhea's Mills at 9 a.m. of the 7th, and marched in the rear of the Second Brigade
until within a mile of the mills, when, hearing heavy firing to the right, I moved in that direction,
by your order, and reached the battlefield, where General Herron was engaging the enemy, under
General Hindman, at 2 p.m., in advance. I found the enemy occupying a ridge of timber, thus
concealed from view, and General Herron occupying the open field in front. By your order, I
placed Rabb's battery in position in the open field, and Hopkins' Second Kansas (trophy) Battery
at his left, and under their fire the rebel battery was soon silenced. Lieutenant Stover, with his
Second Kansas Battery, also did good execution.
The right wing of the Eleventh Kansas Infantry, under Colonel Ewing, was ordered to enter
the wood in front, to attack the rebels.
The left wing, under Lieutenant-Colonel Moonlight and Major Plumb, stood by the guns. The
Second Kansas (dismounted), under Lieutenant-Colonel Bassett and Captain Crawford, and the
First Indian, under Lieutenant-Colonel Wattles and Major Ellithorpe, and Stover's battery, I also
sent into the wood in front. The Twentieth Iowa, of General Herron's command, also formed
upon my left and entered the wood.
While the front was thus occupied by the infantry, the artillery ceased. Soon the entire line
was engaged, and, from the heavy firing, severe work was evidently going on.
Upon the left, the enemy was evidently very strong. The Twentieth Iowa, overpowered by
numbers, retired from the wood to the fence at the foot of the ridge, firing rapidly upon the
enemy, who swarmed upon the crest. Directing my batteries, they fired over the heads of the
Iowa boys, driving the rebels back with heavy loss. Still they pressed on, under cover of the
wood, from our left to our right, causing my infantry to fall back to the fence, and giving my
batteries opportunity to work, which they did successfully, driving the enemy up the hill into
their cover. The infantry would then advance. Still, it was evident that the enemy had superior
numbers; and, as the wood to their left had been abandoned, I rode forward to order the Eleventh
to retire to the fence permanently, when Colonel Ewing, anticipating my order, retired his
command just in time to save it from a heavy flank movement.
The enemy, now strongly re enforced, pressed down in numbers to the fence at the foot of the
hill, and, pouring a shower of rifle-balls upon us, took position within 200 yards of the batteries.
In this fire three of my orderlies were hit, but with spent balls. It now became evident that the
enemy intended a demonstration upon my batteries, with the hope of their capture.
I then ordered the left wing of the Eleventh forward, when they advanced impatiently to the
front, firing rapidly. The batteries met them also with case, canister, and shell. The enemy
seemed determined to succeed, and, as my entire command was within close rifle-shot, I ordered
the batteries to retire, firing, which they did; the infantry also retired slowly. Having obtained a
position beyond their short-range guns, we continued the conflict until dark, when, not being
able longer to see the enemy, firing ceased. My brigade then moved across the valley to the high
ground, and bivouacked for the night. In the morning the enemy were gone.
During the entire conflict, I had the proud satisfaction of watching my command, and am
happy to notice the conduct of the field officers of the First Indian, Lieutenant-Colonel Wattles
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and Major Ellithorpe; of Colonel Ewing, of the Eleventh, and the captains and lieutenants, and of
Sergeant Enright, commanding Company I, of the Second, and especially of Captain Crawford,
who was in command of the First Battalion, who are all worthy of their brave commands. These
officers went into the thickest of the fight, and staid there until, by order or of necessity, the
whole line fell back to more effective positions.
Of Captain Rabb's Second Indiana Battery, Captain Hopkins' Second Kansas (trophy)
Battery, and Lieutenant Stover's Second Kansas (howitzer) Battery, I cannot speak in too high
terms. Their batteries opened the fire, continued during and ended the fight, and the numbers of
killed and wounded of the enemy in front of the batteries testify to their skill.
The hard marching of my command necessarily reduced its numbers, so that my effective
force was much smaller than would have been expected.
My loss, though small, is severely felt. I had 8 killed and 59 wounded, of which about 8 are
considered mortal. Among the latter was Captain [A. P.] Russell, since dead, who was a good
and brave soldier, and a true and gallant friend. His loss is mourned by the entire command.
Herewith I have the honor to transmit the reports of the various commanders of my brigade.
I have the honor to be, general, your obedient servant,
W. F. CLOUD,
Colonel, Commanding Third Brigade.
Brig. Gen. JAMES G. BLUNT,
Commanding Army of the Frontier.
HDQRS. FIRST REGIMENT INDIAN HOME GUARDS,
Cane Hill, Ark., December 12, 1862.
SIR: Your order of this date, requiring me to report to your headquarters the part which my
command took in the action at Prairie Grove, on the 7th instant, has been received.
Soon after daylight, we were ordered to take position at the base of Boston Mountains, on the
road where the small-arms were first brought into play in the running fight of the 28th ultimo.
We remained in that position until the enemy abandoned the hill, and the cannonading
commenced at Prairie Grove, when we rapidly marched for the scene of conflict. On our way, at
Price's Barracks, about 2 miles from Cane Hill, a flanking party put to flight about 40 of the
enemy's mounted men, who were watching our movements about 50 rods from our road.
On arriving at the battle-ground, we dismounted and entered the wood on the left of the
center, with the Eleventh Kansas Volunteers on our right and an Iowa regiment on our left, and
rapidly penetrated to the line of battle of the enemy, which gave way on our approach. At this
time the Iowa regiment gave our left the partial effect of a volley. This fire in front and rear
forced us to retrace our steps, but we rallied and formed again on the first little eminence in the
edge of the wood, after a five-minute panic. On account of the retreat of the Iowa regiment from
this place, we were ordered to the support of Captain Allen's battery, through the corn-field. All
the companies in the command were engaged, except Company B, which was on detached
service.
Major Eilithorpe and all the other white officers were particularly active and efficient during
the whole day.
Of the Indian officers, Captain Jonneh, of the Uches, and Capt. Billy Bowlegs, of the
Seminoles, and Captain Tus-te-nup-chup ko, of Company A (Creek), are deserving of the highest
praise.
Our loss was 2 killed and 4 wounded, as far as reported, but the Indians entertain a prejudice
against speaking of dangerous occurrences in battle, and report no wounds but such as the
necessities of the case demand.
127
Your obedient servant,
STEPHEN H. WATTLES,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Comdg. First Indian Home Guards.
Col. WILLIAM F. CLOUD,
Comdg. Third Brigade, First Division, Army of the Frontier.
HEADQUARTERS HOPKINS' BATTERY,
Rhea's Mills, Ark., December 10, 1862.
SIR: I respectfully submit the following report of the part taken by the battery under my
command in the battle of Prairie Grove, Ark., December 7, 1862, and the series of skirmishes
preceding that action:
Information having been received on the 3d of December that the enemy was advancing in
force from the south, the battery was ordered to take position in advance of the main line, where
it remained until the morning of the 7th, rendering some assistance in checking the enemy on the
Newburg road.
About 10 a.m., December 7, in obedience to orders, I moved the battery into the position
assigned it in column north to Rhea's Mills, and thence, 5 miles east, to Prairie Grove, where the
Second and Third Divisions, Army of the Frontier, under Brigadier-General Herron, were
engaging the enemy, under General Hindman, who, during the night of the 6th, had flanked the
First Division, commanded by Brigadier-General Blunt, passing 12 miles to the left and rear.
Having been ordered into position in an open field, on the left of the First Division, I opened
fire with shot and shell on the enemy, occupying a position on a densely wooded rise of ground,
and drove him back. At this time the only support for my battery was a detachment of
dismounted cavalry, not exceeding 25, under command of Lieutenant [B. B.] Mitchell, Second
Kansas Cavalry. Shortly afterward the enemy again advanced in greater force, moving obliquely
along our front, threatening the left flank. In conjunction with Rabb's battery, which was some
distance on my right, I opened a heavy fire again upon the enemy, and was supported by a
regiment of Iowa troops, which had been driven back by the advancing column. The enemy
appeared to be massing his forces for a charge, and just at sunset moved impetuously forward,
but, by well-directed and rapid discharges of spherical case and canister, their advance was
checked, and the battery slowly retired, firing with prolonges attached. Night coming on, firing
ceased and the troops bivouacked on the field. The next morning it was known that the enemy
had fallen back. By good fortune there were no casualties in my command.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. HOPKINS,
Captain Second Kansas Cavalry, Commanding Battery.
Lieut. S. K. CROSS,
Acting Adjutant, Second Kansas Cavalry.
HDQRS. SECOND BATTERY, INDIANA VOLUNTEERS,
Camp at Rhea's Mills, December 10, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the part my command took in the late
engagement of Prairie Grove:
On the morning of the 7th instant we were in position on the Boston Mountains, south of
Cane Hill, expecting an attack from the enemy, as our pickets were engaged. About 10 a.m. I
received orders from you to fall back toward Rhea's Mills, as the enemy were evidently
attempting to flank us by passing up the Fayetteville road. The First Brigade, under General
Salomon, held the advance in falling back. The Second Brigade, under Colonel Weer, followed,
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while the Third Brigade followed the Second. The Second Kansas Cavalry brought up our rear,
preceded by the First Indian Home Guard. My battery was placed just in advance of the Indians.
Our brigade arrived within a mile of Rhea's Mills about 2 p.m., when heavy firing was heard
about 4 miles to the right, upon the Fayetteville road. You immediately ordered me to take the
advance of the Third Brigade and proceed rapidly to the scene of action. I marched under your
direction across the country, followed by the other commands of the Third Brigade, a distance of
3 miles, where we came upon the enemy, stationed in force upon a commanding hill, covered
with timber. By your order, I brought my battery into position in a meadow, and immediately
opened fire upon the batteries of the enemy. Lieutenant Tenney's battery was placed in position
upon my right, and Captain Hopkins' on my left and rear. Our infantry and cavalry were posted
in supporting distance, to the rear. In less than half an hour the rebel batteries were silenced. I
then directed my fire upon the infantry of the enemy that were advancing from the left toward
our right. An order came at this time for Lieutenant Tenney's battery to join Colonel Weer's
brigade.
In a few moments the infantry and cavalry (the latter dismounted) of your brigade were
ordered to engage the enemy and draw them from the cover of the wood. My batteries ceased
firing for a short time. Five companies of the Eleventh Kansas, under Lieutenant-Colonel [T.]
Moonlight, remained in the open field as a support to my battery. The Twentieth Iowa
Regiment, Col. [W.] McE. Dye's brigade, General Herron's command, advanced into the wood
upon my left, but, after fifteen minutes' firing, was driven back, when I opened upon the enemy,
firing shell over the heads of the Twentieth Iowa. In a few minutes our infantry drove the rebels
to the edge of the wood, when I again, by your order, opened fire upon them. A heavy musketry
fire was then brought to bear upon my command. I answered with canister. For fifteen minutes
my men stood firm, firing their pieces with terrible precision, making roads in the ranks of the
enemy, which were quickly filled by fresh men from the rear. Three times they advanced in
heavy force upon the battery, but were driven back to the wood with heavy loss. Finding that we
were too near the wood, you ordered me to fire, retiring a distance of 100 yards. This order was
successfully complied with, notwithstanding several men had been wounded and horses killed
and disabled.
In our new position, by your order, I threw several shell into a straw pile, near the edge of the
timber, around which large bodies of the enemy swarmed. The straw was soon ignited, and again
we opened with canister for about fifteen minutes. My guns were worked rapidly, making sad
havoc in the ranks of the enemy, who retreated to the wood. I gave them a few shell as a parting
salute, when darkness closed upon us, and we rested upon the field. In about two hours we
removed to a better position, where we rested for the night.
During the heat of the engagement the five companies of the Eleventh Kansas, commanded
by Lieutenant-Colonel Moonlight, stood manfully at their posts, and, when it appeared that the
enemy were about to charge upon me, rushed forward and assisted in driving the enemy back.
I need hardly report to you that every officer, non-commissioned officer, and private of my
command behaved manfully during the whole engagement. Lieutenants [H.] Espey and [W. W.]
Haines and Sergeant [J. S.] Whither, commanding sections, rendered me great assistance in the
management of the battery. Sergeant [G. B.] Sink, when 2 of his men were wounded, took the
company colors, and still superintended his piece while bearing aloft the Stars and Stripes. Corpl.
Samuel Mullen and Private [J.] Warren Dibble were severely wounded early in the engagement,
yet remained at their posts until its close. I had 4 horses killed, 5 badly wounded, and 7 slightly
wounded. The carriages of the battery bear marks of the storm of bullets and buckshot poured
upon us.
I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, &c,
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JOHN W. RABB,
Captain, Commanding Second Battery, Indiana Volunteers.
Col. WILLIAM F. CLOUD,
Commanding Third Brigade, Army of the Frontier.
HDQRS. 2D AND 3D DIVS., ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Battlefield, Prairie Grove, December 9, 1862.
[SIR:] General Blunt has undoubtedly informed you of the battle of yesterday. Hindman
moved in to the east of Blunt, with his entire force (25,000 men), intending to cut off my
command. I had sent forward to Blunt all my cavalry, having left six regiments of infantry, three
batteries, and about 500 cavalry.
General Marmaduke opened on my advance at 7 a.m. with a heavy cavalry force, but I forced
them back to Illinois Creek, 8 miles from Cane Hill. At this point they took a strong position
with infantry and artillery, and tried to prevent my crossing; but, by cutting roads through the
woods, I got the batteries into position, and at 9.30 o'clock opened on them with eighteen guns,
bringing forward my infantry, crossing the creek, and getting them into position under cover of
my artillery. From this hour until 7 o'clock in the evening the fighting was furious.
General Blunt arrived within 1 mile of my right at 4 p.m., opening on the enemy's left.
Learning definitely that he was on the ground, I ordered the infantry to charge the enemy's
batteries. The Nineteenth Iowa and Twentieth Wisconsin did it gallantly, taking a whole battery,
but were afterward overwhelmed and forced to leave it. Colonel Huston, commanding Second
Division, then charged the same battery with the Thirty-seventh Illinois and Twenty-sixth
Indiana, retaking it a second time, but, after holding it half an hour, were compelled to give way.
The fighting was constant and furious throughout the entire day.
I met General Blunt late in the evening, and we arranged the attack for morning; but daylight
found the rebels gone.
Their loss is from 600 to 700 killed and 2,500 wounded. Ours is probably 250 killed and 700
wounded in the Second and Third Divisions. Lieutenant-Colonel [S.] McFarland, Nineteenth
Iowa, is killed, and Colonel [J. C.] Black, Thirty-seventh Illinois, Major [W. G.] Thompson,
Twentieth Iowa, and a large number of line officers wounded. The prisoners state that General
Steen and 5 colonels were killed. We captured four caissons full of ammunition and a large
number of small-arms. Their artillery was knocked to pieces by our batteries, and Major [J. M.]
Hubbard, who was a prisoner with them, reports seeing piece after piece sent off' entirely
disabled. The working of Murphy's and Foust's batteries excelled anything I ever witnessed.
General Blunt and myself had an interview with Hindman and Marmaduke, and I consider
the former just what you stated of him. We are camped on the battle-field. General Blunt moves
to-morrow to Cane Hill, while I occupy this ground.
F. J. HERRON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Second and Third Divisions.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS,
Saint Louis, Mo.
PRAIRIE GROVE, ARK.,
December 11, 1862.
One of my spies, who came to the battle-field with Hindman's troops, and retreated with
them to Dripping Springs, has just come in. He reports the rebel loss at 2,500 killed and
wounded, including a very large number of officers. Brigadier-General Steen, of Missouri, was
killed, and some 6 or 7 field officers are in the hospital within our lines. Two batteries were so
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much damaged by the firing from Foust's and Murphy's guns as to be entirely worthless, and
several guns were hauled off in wagons. All of their artillery horses were left dead on the field
and the caissons taken away by mules in the night. Hindman's entire force was here, and from
personal observation I can say they were well clothed and well armed. My divisions took over 60
prisoners, including 2 commissioned officers, daring the fight, and all refuse to be exchanged,
except 12. Over 150 have come in since the battle, and the report is that hundreds are coming
back on the road to give themselves up. The greater proportion of the dead have been left by
them unburied, and were buried to-day by my order. The advance had arrived at Van Buren, and
the rumor was they were all going to Little Rock. The loss in my division is heavy, and will
almost reach 1,000 killed and wounded. For four hours the fighting was the most desperate I ever
witnessed, and within a space of two acres 250 of our own and the enemy's dead were found.
The victory is more complete and decisive than I had imagined. The Iowa regiments fought
nobly, the Nineteenth particularly distinguishing itself. We mourn the loss of Lieutenant-Colonel
[Samuel] McFarland, and several other officers of that regiment, killed. The Twentieth
Wisconsin, Twenty-sixth Indiana, and Thirty-seventh Illinois fought nobly. The battle-field is on
the road from Fayetteville to Cove Creek, and just half way between the former place and Cane
Hill. General Blunt has moved to Rhea's Mills, while I occupy the battlefield. I am strengthening
my line with Springfield, and will have it safe to-morrow. Have established a hospital at
Fayetteville, and removed all our sick and wounded to it. If Steele could take Little Rock, now is
our best opportunity to open the Arkansas River. I hope you will let us do it.
F. J. HERRON,
Brigadier-General.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS.
HDQRS. 2D AND 3D DIVS., ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Prairie Grove, Ark., December 12, 1862.
GENERAL: After leaving Wilson's Creek, in accordance with the orders from General Blunt
and yourself, I moved my command by forced day marches, the distance being too great for day
and night movements, and, traveling at the rate of 35 miles per day, reached Fayetteville Sunday
morning, the 7th, at 3 o'clock. Resting one hour, I pushed on, and, when 6 miles south of the
town, my advance (Major Hubbard, with two companies of the First Missouri Cavalry) met the
First Arkansas and Seventh Missouri Cavalry coming back in great disorder.
At Cross Hollow General Blunt had sent me an order to send on all my cavalry, which I did,
sending all that was with the Third Division, and sending back for what was with the Second
Division to come up and pass me. The cavalry of the Third Division started from Cross Hollow
on Saturday, the 6th, at 10 a.m., reaching Cane Hill about 10 o'clock the same night. The cavalry
from the Second Division passed me and traveled until 12 o'clock at night, stopping half way
between Fayetteville and Cane Hill to feed and start at daylight. They encamped with the First
Arkansas, this regiment having been ordered forward by General Blunt. Just at daylight they
were attacked by a heavy cavalry force, under Marmaduke, and after several rounds were
stampeded. They came back on me 6 miles south of Fayetteville, at 7 a.m., closely pursued by at
least 3,000 cavalry. It was with the very greatest difficulty that we got them checked, and
prevented a general stampede of the battery horses; but after some hard talking, and my finally
shooting one cowardly whelp off his horse, they halted. I at once formed a battery and two
regiments of infantry and checked Marmaduke.
Taking one section of artillery, four companies of infantry, and some cavalry, I pushed on,
driving them 4 miles, to Illinois Creek, where I found the whole force in position, and the
strongest one I had ever seen. I crossed the creek with one of my staff to reconnoiter, keeping
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every one else out of sight, and, after getting a view of the ground and surrounding country,
determined at once to attack. I learned the whole force had slipped past Blunt, and was between
us, and knew that by opening the fight I could bring him up. Getting two pieces of Cole's over, I
felt their position, they opening on me with twelve pieces from different positions. I then
withdrew the section, and ordered Murphy's battery to cut a road through the wood, crossing the
creek half a mile below, getting it into a fair position opposite the enemy's center. Colonel
Huston's division (the Second) I ordered to the same place, throwing two regiments to the right
of the battery and one to its left. I had divided the battery, placing the halves 600 yards apart.
This movement was entirely concealed, and not visible to the enemy until the two half
batteries were run out to the edge of the brush by hand. I then ordered Colonel [W. W.] Orme,
with the Second Brigade of the Third Division, to cross his battery at the regular crossing,
dividing it and opening fire at once, and to hold his infantry in rear and at the edge of the brush,
at the same time ordering Lieutenant-Colonel [H.] Bertram, with the First Brigade, Third
Division, to follow up Orme, dividing his battery the same way, and forming his infantry to the
right of Orme.
At 10 o'clock all was ready, and Murphy opened. The other batteries crossed under cover of
Murphy's fire, getting into shape and opening up magnificently, so that I had in ten minutes
eighteen pieces hard at work; or, as they afterward styled it, six full batteries. This brought out
the fire of all their guns, twenty-two in number, and for the next eight hours it was hot work.
About half an hour after the firing commenced, they threw a heavy body of infantry on my left
and endeavored to force it back, but I ordered the Nineteenth Iowa and Twentieth Wisconsin to
charge them, which they did in gallant style, pushing on for 1,000 yards and capturing a battery
of four pieces, but such a mass of the enemy came upon them they were compelled to leave it.
The infantry fighting was continuous from 11 until 5 o'clock.
At 4 o'clock a battery opened about 1 mile to the right of my right flank, throwing two shells
into my line of skirmishers. At first I thought the rebels had worked around me, but, upon
making a reconnaissance in person, I discovered it to be Blunt's advance, whereupon I sent him
word to change his fire. For two hours Blunt had a severe artillery fight, and at 6.30 o'clock the
firing closed. I was then about 1,000 yards in advance of the creek crossed in the morning, with
Murphy's battery still in a high position in the rear. We lay on our arms that night, the pickets
within 50 yards of each other.
At 3 a.m. I formed my line ready to open, and while doing so saw a flag of truce
approaching. It proved to be General Marmaduke and staff, with a communication for General
Blunt, in answer, they said, to one he had sent them. I held them, and sent the document to Blunt,
whose quarters were 1 mile from me. He returned by my adjutant-general a verbal reply, which
they refused to accept, and I visited Blunt in person, telling him that I thought they had left the
field. He returned a written reply, with which I started them; but hardly had it disappeared
beyond their pickets until another flag came, asking a personal interview with Blunt. This the
general granted, and at 7 o'clock called for me to accompany him. I saw what was up, and,
before starting, ordered two regiments to advance through the brush on my left and occupy the
hill where the enemy were posted. This they did, the rebel pickets retiring before them. During
the interview, Hindman was informed of it, and asked Blunt to withdraw them. He referred the
matter to me, and I refused.
At 10 o'clock the interview ended, Blunt having given Hindman until 5 p.m. to bury his dead.
They immediately sent forward two regiments of cavalry for that purpose, but instead of doing it
they commenced gathering up arms, &c. I went then in person and notified both colonels that
any of their men found gathering or carrying off arms, or at anything else than burying the dead,
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I would hold them as prisoners of war. This had the desired effect, and we thus secured the arms
on the field in spite of the flag of truce.
My two divisions, the Second and Third, fought splendidly, while the artillery firing of
Murphy's, Foust's, and Backof's batteries was the finest thing I ever witnessed. The artillery
horses of the enemy lie dead, four and six in a heap, wherever their batteries were placed. On
less than two acres of ground laid 300 of our own and the rebel dead. It was terrible--terrific in
the extreme.
The loss in my own immediate division (Third) is 483 killed and wounded; in the Second,
Colonel Huston commanding, 350 killed and wounded, making a total, in my two divisions, of
almost 850. The loss in General Blunt's division is about 150 killed and wounded. I have
established a post hospital at Fayetteville, and removed all my wounded to that point, as has
General Blunt.
We want sanitary goods badly. Lieutenant-Colonel McFarland, of the Nineteenth Iowa, was
killed in the first charge, with 5 captains and a large number of lieutenants of the Nineteenth
Iowa and Twentieth Wisconsin Regiments. In the second charge, made by the Twenty-sixth
Indiana and Thirty-seventh Illinois, Lieutenant-Colonel Black, of the Thirty-seventh, and his
adjutant, were both badly wounded, and the adjutant, with several captains and lieutenants of the
Twenty-sixth Indiana, killed. Major Thompson, Twentieth Iowa, was also badly wounded. Five
of my body guard were wounded and 12 horses killed.
At one time, while passing from the right to the left through an open field, they opened two
pieces on me from a distance of 300 yards, killing 2 horses of my body guard and wounding 1
man. The head was shot off the horse immediately in rear of me. I can assure you it was hot
work.
The rebel loss in killed and wounded is not less than 2,500 men, while by desertion it will be
from 5,000 to 8,000. They are fleeing in every direction. Of over 60 prisoners taken during the
fight, not over 12 will go back, as they positively refuse to be exchanged.
I am now occupying the battle-field, while General Blunt is at Rhea's Mills, 5 miles west.
Two of his brigades are at Cane Hill. We have assisted the rebels in moving all their wounded to
Cane Hill, and have furnished them five days' rations. Had it not been for us they would have
starved to death.
We have as trophies, captured during the fight, four caissons, filled with good ammunition
and everything in good style. We have also about 400 stand of good arms, gathered on the field;
this is clear gain.
In regard to General Blunt, I would say that he is, beyond question, a good fighting man. Last
evening I spent with him at Rhea's Mills. Major Van Antwerp is here, and makes a very efficient
officer.
In conclusion, general, permit me to say that you have here a good, reliable army, but there
are some officers that must be cleared out. They are worse than worthless. It was a narrow
escape getting rid of Colonel Wright.
With kind regards to Mrs. Curtis, Major Harry, and others, I am, very respectfully, your
friend,
F. J. HERRON,
Brigadier-General.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS,
Commanding.
HDQRS. 2D AND 3D DIVS., ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Battle-field of Prairie Grove, Ark., December 19, 1862.
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GENERAL: In reviewing the operations of the 7th instant, I must necessarily commence my
report a few days previous to that date.
On the morning of December 3, I was encamped, with the Second and Third Divisions of the
Army of the Frontier, at Wilson's Creek, Mo., and there received your dispatch announcing the
advance of the rebel forces under General Hindman, and ordering me to move forward, with my
command, to your support, at Cane Hill, Ark. Within three hours after the receipt of your
dispatch, the Third Division was in motion, the Second soon following.
Reaching Elkhorn on the evening of the 5th instant, I there received your order to send
forward all my cavalry to you, and, in obedience thereto, I ordered forward Colonel Wickersham,
with the Tenth Illinois, First Iowa, Eighth Missouri, and First Battalion Second Wisconsin
Cavalry, all of which reached you safely.
On Sunday morning, the 7th instant, at 4 o'clock, I arrived at Fayetteville, having marched all
night, and was pushing rapidly forward, expecting to join you by 10 o'clock of the same day,
when, 6 miles south of Fayetteville, my advance, consisting of two companies of the First
Missouri Volunteer Cavalry, under Maj. J. M. Hubbard, discovered a body of cavalry falling
back on the road in great disorder. It proved to be the First Arkansas and Seventh Missouri
Cavalry, that were moving forward to join you, and had been attacked by a large force of rebel
cavalry, under General Marmaduke, near Illinois Creek, 10 miles from Cane Hill. After some
effort, the retreating cavalry were checked and reformed; but in holding the rebel advance, the
First Battalion First Missouri Cavalry was severely handled and Major Hubbard taken prisoner.
Here the rebels formed in line of battle, but on opening fire upon them with a section of Battery
E, First Missouri Artillery, they were soon put to flight, and driven back 4 miles, to Illinois
Creek. Here I discovered the enemy in position directly in front on each side of the road,
occupying a high ridge, about three-quarters of a mile from the ford of the creek, covered with
timber and thick underbrush.
Wishing to feel the position of the enemy, I ordered the Ninety fourth Illinois Infantry, with a
section of Battery E, First Missouri Light Artillery, across the creek, and opened fire upon them.
Their batteries were in good position, commanding the ford of the creek, and, having excellent
range, compelled my advance to fall back, it being impossible to move my command across the
ford under their fire.
I then ordered Colonel Huston, commanding the Second Division, to cut a road through the
timber, and move Battery F (Captain Murphy), First Missouri Artillery, to a point on the south
side of the creek, and half a mile from the regular ford, my intention being to draw the fire of the
enemy, to enable my infantry to cross the creek at the ford. The movement was entirely
successful, the battery dividing, getting into position, and opening fire on the enemy before they
discovered the movement. Under cover of its fire, I ordered forward the batteries of Captain
Backof, Lieutenant Foust, and Lieutenant Borris, supported by the Nineteenth Iowa, Twentieth
Wisconsin, and Ninety-fourth Illinois Infantry. So rapidly was the order obeyed that the whole
eighteen pieces were at work before the enemy could obtain our range. The fire was rapidly
replied to by the rebel batteries, which had every advantage in position; but so accurate was the
firing that in one hour nearly all their batteries were silenced.
During this time I had formed the infantry, the Second Division, Colonel Huston
commanding, occupying the right, and the Third Division, under my immediate command, the
left of my position. It required but a short time to satisfy myself that the rebels were present in
largely superior force, and I immediately determined to give them the best fight I could until you
could come up with additional forces. The enemy making a movement of their infantry toward
my left, I ordered forward the Second Brigade of the Third Division, under Col. W. W. Orme, to
the base of the ridge occupied by them, and, while their attention was attracted by the fire of the
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Second Brigade, I moved up the First Brigade, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Bertram.
The batteries advanced across the open field with the infantry, pouring in a terrible fire of grape
and canister. When within 100 yards of the ridge, the Twentieth Wisconsin and Nineteenth Iowa
Infantry were ordered to charge a battery placed near a farm house, on the edge of the hill. The
charge was made in gallant style, the enemy driven back, and the battery taken, but the ground
could not be held. Regiment after regiment of infantry was hurled upon them, and they were
compelled to fall back. This was followed by a charge of the rebels en masse upon the batteries
of Captains Foust and Backof, and Lieutenant Borris. Never was there more real courage and
pluck displayed, and more downright hard fighting done, than at this moment by the abovenamed
batteries. Advancing to within 100 yards of the guns, the rebels received a fire that could
not be withstood, and retreated in disorder, receiving, as they ran, a terrible fire, causing great
slaughter among them.
For the management of his battery and the soldier-like qualities displayed by Captain Foust,
Company E, First Missouri Light Artillery, at this time especially, he deserves very great credit.
Colonel Huston was then instructed to move one of his brigades from the right to the support of
the center.
Arriving at the point and discovering the rebel infantry again moving down the hill, Colonel
Huston ordered the Twenty-sixth Indiana and Thirty-seventh Illinois Regiments to charge them,
which they did, Colonel Huston leading them in person. It was a repetition of the first charge; the
same battery was captured, the enemy again driven back, and we, in turn, compelled to abandon
the position by force of numbers.
About this time (2.30 p.m.) a battery opened some distance from my right, which I soon
discovered to be from your division. With the knowledge that you had really arrived, a new
spirit was infused in my command, now almost worn out by the severe work, and they went at it
again with increased vigor. When your column moved up, the Second Brigade of the Second
Division, Col. William McE. Dye commanding, also advanced on your left, having a severe fight
in the timber, and driving the enemy from the hillside. From this hour until dark the firing was
steady and terrific, the batteries of the First Division firing the last round.
My command slept on their arms nearly 1,000 yards in advance of the position occupied in
the morning, and ready to renew the fight at day-break. The arrangement for attack on the 8th;
the flight of the enemy during the night; the trickery of the rebel Generals Hindman and
Marmaduke, are all known to you. Night alone saved them from capture.
I have as captures four caissons complete, and filled with ammunition; a number of sets of
artillery harness, caisson wheels, and about 300 stand of arms. I regret to state that my loss was
very severe. Lieutenant-Colonel McFarland, who led the Nineteenth Iowa in the first charge, a
true man and gallant soldier, sleeps his last sleep. Lieutenant-Colonel Black, Thirty-seventh
Illinois; Major Thompson, Twentieth Iowa, and a large number of line officers, are wounded.
Major Bredett, of the Seventh Missouri Cavalry, a brave and noble soldier, was killed in the
early part of the battle. My troops all did well. Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Missouri,
side by side, proved by the truest test their loyalty and love of country.
Colonel Huston, commanding Second Division, was always in the front and did valuable
service. Colonels Orme, Clark, McE. Dye, and Bertram, commanding brigades, were with their
commands in the thickest of the fight, and performed their duties well.
I must especially mention the working of Murphy's, Foust's, Backof's, and Borris' batteries.
The former fired his guns with the precision of a sharpshooter, while the others worked their
pieces gallantly in the midst of a terrible infantry fire.
My cavalry, the First Iowa, Eighth Missouri, Tenth Illinois, and Second Wisconsin, having
been with you during the day, I know but little of the parts taken by them. They have on other
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fields proved themselves worthy of the name of American soldiers, and I have no doubt
sustained it while with you.
Maj. J. M. Hubbard and his command, the fighting battalion of the First Missouri Cavalry,
gallantly held in check the rebel advance in the early part of the day, and on this occasion
officers and men have added to their already high reputation.
To Capt. William Hyde Clark, my assistant adjutant-general, who had for three days been
carried sick in an ambulance, but mounted that morning to be with me during the battle, I am
much indebted for services on the field, and also to Captain Littleton, commissary of subsistence;
Captain Brewster, Lieutenants Pettit, Shiras, and Douglas, of my staff, for their conduct and
assistance throughout the battle.
There were many instances of individual courage and bravery that I should like to mention,
but will have to refer you to the reports of brigade commanders. Of Lieutenant-Colonel Black,
Thirty-seventh Illinois Infantry, I must say that a braver man never went upon the battlefield, and
he has on this occasion added to the laurels won at Pea Ridge.
In conclusion, general, let me say for the Second and Third Divisions that they had marched
110 miles in three days to join you, and that they came upon the field weak in numbers, on
account of the severity of the march, 3,500 men being all that I had engaged.
I am, very truly, your obedient servant,
F. J. HERRON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Second and Third Divisions. Brig. Gen.
JAMES G. BLUNT,
Commanding Army of the Frontier.
[ Inclosure. ]
HDQRS. 2D AND 3D DIVS., ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Prairie Grove, Ark., December 10, 1862.
FELLOW SOLDIERS: It is with pride and pleasure that I am enabled to congratulate you on
the victory so recently achieved over the enemy. Meeting their combined forces, vastly your
superiors in numbers; armed and equipped in the most efficient manner, contrary to what we had
been led to believe; marshaled by their ablest generals; posted in a strong position of their own
selection, prepared and ready to attack us; entertaining toward us feelings of hatred and fiendish
passion, evoked by infamous lies, which even rebel generals should have disdained to utter, you,
fellow soldiers, after a forced march of over 100 miles in less than three days, weary, exhausted,
and almost famishing, animated only by that feeling of patriotism that induced you to give up the
pleasures and comforts of home to undergo the dangers and hardships of the field, did most
gallantly meet, fight, and repulse the enemy. Your fellow soldiers elsewhere; your friends and
relatives at home; your fellow citizens, and your country, as they learn of the splendid service of
the artillerymen; of the determined daring and brilliant charges of the infantry, will render you
that praise and honor which is justly your due. Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Missouri,
your native States, are proud of their noble sons. I, who witnessed your gallant daring in every
encounter, in behalf of your country and myself, tender you grateful thanks for the services you
have rendered.
While we drop a tear, therefore, for those who have fallen, and sympathize with those who
are yet suffering, let us not forget to render thanks to the Beneficent Giver of all blessings for the
success that has thus far attested the truth and right of our glorious cause.
F. J. HERRON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Second and Third Divisions
136
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Prairie Grove, Ark., December 9, 1862.
SIR: I have the honor to forward herewith a report of the part taken by the division under my
command in the action of the 7th instant.
After a rapid march of 65 miles from Camp Lyon, accomplished in two and a half days, the
division reached Cross Hollow at 7 o'clock on the evening of the 6th instant, and there remained
until 12 midnight, when the march was resumed, arriving in Fayetteville at sunrise on the
morning of the 7th.
I had intended to await at Fayetteville the arrival of the trains, in order to allow the men to
procure breakfast, much needed after their long and toilsome night march. Before the arrival of
the trains afforded opportunity for so doing, a message from General Blunt, with an indorsement
thereon by the general commanding, was received, urging me to bring forward my division as
rapidly as possible. Without a moment's delay I put my column in motion, and before noon had
united with the Third Division on the bank of Illinois Creek, in front of the enemy.
Very soon after my arrival, by direction of the commanding general, I brought forward
Battery F (Murphy's), First Missouri Light Artillery, and, dividing it into half batteries, placed
the three pieces of the right half, under Lieutenant Marr, at a point in the open field, affording a
good command of the enemy's position.
The left half, under the immediate command of Captain Murphy himself, I placed in a more
commanding position, about 400 yards from there to the right, upon higher ground. In
compliance with an order received from the commanding general, I then directed Captain
Murphy to open the attack, which he did in gallant style, followed by the batteries of the Third
Division, posted on lower ground in front.
I had meanwhile placed the Thirty-seventh Illinois Infantry as a support to protect the battery
on the right, and the Twentieth Iowa Infantry on the left, with the Twenty-sixth Indiana Infantry
100 yards in the rear and center, under cover of a thick growth- of young wood, as a reserve.
Occupying this position, the battery did superb execution, and, in conjunction with the other
battery of my command and those of the Third Division, silenced all those the enemy brought
forward, as soon as their position could be ascertained. The enemy's batteries being silenced, I
was ordered to move forward two infantry regiments of my division to the support of the infantry
of the other division, which were falling back, after a desperate assault of the enemy's position,
on the ridge. I brought forward the Twenty-sixth Indiana and the Thirty-seventh Illinois at
double-quick.
Finding, on my arrival at the foot of the ridge, that the other regiments had fallen back so far,
and were so badly cut up that it was necessary to give them time to reform, I ordered the two
regiments to move up the hill to assault the position of the enemy, strongly posted on the crest of
the ridge. Throwing out a company of skirmishers from each to cover their front, both regiments
moved steadily and compactly forward till they reached a point 75 to 100 yards beyond the crest
of the ridge, when the skirmishers commenced firing upon the enemy, of whom comparatively
few could be seen. Suddenly the infantry of the enemy, which had been lying down, concealed
by the thick brush and leaves, rose up in one overwhelming number and poured in a deadly,
galling fire, which was withstood and returned for a time by our troops with the coolness and
firmness of veteran soldiers. The preponderance of numbers on the part of the enemy was so
great that the infantry was eventually forced to retire in some little confusion; but they soon
reformed in good order, taking a position about 250 yards from the foot of the ridge, which they
maintained until the close of the action. The two regiments had lost nearly one-third their number
in killed and wounded in the desperate assault. All these operations took place under my
immediate supervision.
137
During this time the Twentieth Iowa Infantry, which had formed the left support of Murphy's
battery, was, by some mistake in conveyance of an order, without my knowledge brought into
action beyond the extreme right of the line. The movements of this regiment took place beyond
my immediate sphere of observation, but it is only necessary for me to say that it was led by Col.
William McE. Dye, an old, tried, and gallant soldier, and that Iowa's sons will always be in the
front of battle.
For a detailed report of the operations of the regiment, I refer you to the official report of
Colonel Dye, herewith inclosed.
Murphy's battery, from different positions, at distances from 500 to 1,000 yards from the
enemy's lines, which it occupied as occasion required, continued throughout the engagement to
pour a terrible fire into their ranks, nobly sustaining the reputation of its chief, and the regiment
to which it belongs. The first section of the Peoria Light Battery, Lieutenant Borris commanding,
consisting of one 6-pounder field piece and of one 12-pounder howitzer, when the infantry
regiments of the division moved forward, was ordered to a point upon the left of Foust's battery,
of the Third Division, about 800 yards from the enemy's position on the ridge, where he opened a
very destructive fire upon their line; particularly upon two houses, behind which they had taken
shelter. This position Lieutenant Borris maintained during the greater portion of the engagement.
Owing to the momentary repulse of the infantry, I ordered the section to be removed a short
distance to the rear. I soon, however, ordered it back to its old position, where it continued firing
while any sign of the enemy appeared.
The Seventh Missouri Cavalry and two companies of the Sixth Missouri Cavalry, under
command of Major [E.] Bredett, of the Seventh Missouri Cavalry, were ordered, on the day
previous to the battle, to proceed to Cane Hill, and there report to General Blunt. Early on the
morning of the 7th instant, when within 4 miles of General Blunt's camp, while feeding their
horses, Major Bredett's command was surrounded by a force of 3,000 of the enemy's cavalry,
with a battery of artillery, and, after a short engagement, was dispersed, losing a considerable
number in killed, wounded, and prisoners.
Among the missing is Major Bredett (since found dead), commanding the Seventh Missouri
Cavalry, a gallant and accomplished soldier, whose loss is severely felt. The only officer known
to be killed was Capt. William McKee, Company D, Seventh Missouri Cavalry, a brave man,
who fell in the full performance of his duty.
The scattered fragments of the Seventh Missouri Cavalry were reformed later in the day, and,
under the command of Captains Love and Rockwell, brought into action in support of the Peoria
battery. Two companies of the Second Battalion, First Missouri Cavalry, under command of
Major [C.] Banzhaf, forming the general escort of the division, were placed upon the extreme left
to watch the enemy, and toward the close of the day were ordered to the rear to protect the trains.
Major Banzhaf rendered efficient service during the day as aide-de-camp to myself and the
general commanding.
After the regiments were reformed and the batteries placed in the last-named positions, night
soon closed the engagement. The exhausted troops, wearied by their long marches and the toils
of the day, and almost famished by an abstinence of thirty-six hours from food, lay down on their
arms, ready for a renewal of the fight on the coming day, which the retreat of the enemy during
the night prevented.
The officers and men of my division conducted themselves during the entire engagement in a
manner which meets my approval, and does credit to themselves and the States to which they
belong.
Among those whose conduct fell under my special observation, and whom I would bring to
the favorable notice of the commanding general, are Colonel [J. G.] Clark, of the Twenty-sixth
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Indiana Volunteers; Lieutenant-Colonel [J. G.] Black, of the Thirty-seventh Illinois Volunteers,
and Adjt. Dela Hunt, of the Twenty-sixth Indiana, the two latter of whom were severely
wounded ; also Lieutenant Chandler, assistant adjutant-general of the division, who was
conspicuous everywhere upon the field, rendering most invaluable assistance, being the only
officer on my staff present during the engagement.
Under the energetic superintendence of Surg. F. G. Porter, medical director of the division,
the medical corps of the division were active and unceasing in their efforts to relieve the
wounded, performing their duties in an admirable manner.
I have the honor to inclose herewith reports of the commanders of brigades, regiments,
battalions, and batteries composing the division.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant.
DANL. HUSTON, JR.,
Colonel 7th Mo. Vol. Cav., Comdg. 2d Div., Army of the Frontier.
Capt. WILLIAM HYDE CLARK,
A. A. G., Second and Third Divisions, Army of the Frontier.
HDQRS. 2D BRIG., 2D DIV., ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Battle-field of Prairie Grove, Ark., December 10, 1862.
SIR: In obedience to the circular from division headquarters, dated on the 8th instant, I have
the honor to make the following report of the part taken by this brigade in the engagement of the
7th instant:
The brigade is composed of the Thirty-seventh Illinois Infantry, under command of Lieut.
Col. [John] Charles Black; Twentieth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, under command of Lieut. Col. J.
B. Leake; Second Battalion, Sixth Missouri Cavalry, under Maj. Samuel Montgomery, and
Battery F, First Missouri Volunteer Light Artillery, under command of Capt. David Murphy.
The brigade moved by forced marches for about eighty consecutive hours, during the last
thirty-one of which it passed a distance of about 52 miles. On the day of the battle there were
absent from the brigade two companies of cavalry, en route to join General Blunt--one company
at Springfield and the other company guarding the train, with orders to force up all stragglers
lounging around it; also one company from each of the infantry regiments guarding the train, in
addition to the old guard of 100 infantry, who were a part of the train guard. This, with the sick
and stragglers, diminished the brigade to a total fighting force of 644, and aggregate, 694,
infantry; Maj. Samuel Montgomery, of the Sixth Missouri Cavalry (stripped necessarily of his
companies one by one), and Battery F.
The Second Brigade was directed to take a position on the extreme right. Captain Murphy's
battery occupied the most commanding position in the vicinity. Three guns, under the command
of Lieut. John [L.] Matthaei, occupied the right, and three guns, under the immediate command
of Lieut. James Mart, occupied the left, of the line; the first supported by the Thirty-seventh and
the second by the Twentieth, both regiments being well under cover; the former with a defensive
crotchet of two companies on the right flank to prevent a surprise, &c., from that direction
through the thicket; the latter, with a small detachment thrown to the right and rear, to assist in
securing the brigade from surprise.
At 1.30 p.m., Lieutenant Marr, seconded by Lieutenant Matthaei, opened our side of the
contest, and elicited a spirited reply. After about three-fourths of an hour's remarkable artillery
practice, during which time new rebel batteries were being constantly exposed, only to be
silenced, the Thirty-seventh Illinois debouched, and, in battle-line, to the music of their own
voices, moved to an advanced position, far in front of its battery. About fifteen minutes
afterward, Lieutenant Marr's artillery, with its support, was directed to advance to a certain
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position. In doing so we found it necessary, as the battery to our left was moving, to take position
to its right, from which the battery opened on a rebel one within 300 yards (which was being
brought into position in the road near the white house), and, by a few well-directed shots,
prevented its opening upon us. What remained of the battery moved to its left under cover (white
house), which necessitated the moving of ours to a new position to the right.
While doing this, the general commanding ordered the battery to return to a position near that
of the half battery under Lieutenant Matthaei. The Twentieth being a new regiment under fire,
and without orders to return with the battery, I assisted it into a position from which it could
assume the offensive or defensive at pleasure, making its movements secondary to those of other
parts of the line. This regiment, instead of the Thirty-seventh, now occupied the extreme right of
the advanced position.
My special attention was from this time forward directed to the movements of this regiment,
remaining at times with it, and then in a position from which I could see and make its
movements conform to those of the infantry on its left. Under a sharp fire the regiment in gallant
style threatened a strong position of the enemy, and, when commanded, retired with the order of
old soldiers. It continued from this position to annoy the enemy with remarkable effect, by
assaulting and retiring, until the appearance of a large body of advancing men on our right, when
it retired to a more defensible position to cover the flank.
From this point I dispatched messengers to learn what forces were moving toward us, and
learned that it was General Blunt's advance. This information I immediately communicated to
the commanding general (Herron). I also sent General Blunt what information was necessary as
to our position. The firing, which, previous to his appearance, was waging severe on the left, in
which the Thirty-seventh was engaged, now began to wane. The enemy, who evidently had
endeavored to overpower our left before his arrival, now was massing his forces against General
Blunt's.
I immediately sent General Blunt word, as we were near him, and there appeared at the time
nothing else to do, that the Twentieth would move in conjunction with his forces. By a stoutly
contested fight the forces advanced to the crest of the hill (with the assistance of General Blunt's
well-directed artillery), and maintained this corner-stone to the enemy's position until he, under
cover of a feint of moving one regiment against our left, had withdrawn his forces from there and
thrown them in overwhelming numbers against us. The fire was galling. General Blunt's Indians
commenced retiring, and I directed the Twentieth to retire gradually and take a covered position
under the hill. In doing so, General Blunt's artillery, from as yet an unopened battery,
commenced, as he informed me he would do, to deal destruction into the ranks of the advancing
foe, and, under the immediate supervision of General Herron, Murphy's battery soon opened on
the same spot. The Twentieth continued its fire against this force as long as there was an enemy
within sight, and then, under the fatigues of the day, retired to rest on arms. Some firing
continued on General Blunt's extreme right for a short time after this, and night then dropped a
veil over the bloody scene.
At the commencement of the battle, the Thirty-seventh Illinois advanced without order from
or through me. The brigade was entirely broken up by orders, which never reached us, and the
parts sent to widely separated portions on the field.
Finding that orders were constantly being sent directly to officers under my command, I soon
abandoned all hope of harmonizing the movements of the brigade, as such, with those of other
bodies, and devoted the greater part of my attention to the movements of the Twentieth Iowa.
For these reasons I must respectfully refer to the reports of junior commanders for
information as to the conduct of their respective commands, where not immediately under my
eyes, and also for derails.
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The Thirty-seventh Illinois, as will be seen by Major [H. N.] Frisbie's report, claims to have
captured and spiked a battery of three guns; to have captured one regimental color from the
enemy, and to have carried within our lines the regimental flag of the Twentieth Wisconsin,
which had been left on the field.
There were many guns, &c., picked up, but as yet I have not received a list of the property,
all of which I directed to be turned over to the quartermaster.
Although the troops of the brigade did, at least, their part in the charges on the left, as well as
on the right, with General Blunt, yet they did not suffer as severely as some others. They moved
with regularity amid danger.
The brigade lost-------.
The report of Major Montgomery, Sixth Missouri Cavalry, is inclosed. The loss of his
battalion was, before the general engagement, when en route to join General Blunt: Prisoners:
Commissioned officers, 2; noncommissioned officers, 4; privates, 16 (the 10 officers having
since been paroled). Missing: Privates, 8. Wounded: Privates, 1.
Before closing this report, I should, as a duty, publish the recreant. I am delighted to say that
I found none on the field. However much the hot contest of musketry tends to confuse the ideas,
every man's mind appeared to be open for the reception and execution of orders. The very
keystone to discipline and success was exhibited in the midst of thickening danger to an extent
few new troops could hope to rival and none to excel.
Lieut Col. [John] Charles Black, Thirty-seventh Illinois, with the ardor of youth and the
discretion of riper years, gallantly moved his regiment under heavy fire with perfect order, and
continued in command after being severely wounded, until, exhausted by suffering, he was
obliged to turn the regiment over to Maj. H. N. Frisbie, who, by his skill and coolness, gained for
himself and regiment a reputation worthy of the State from which he hails.
Lieut. Col. J. B. Leake, of the Twentieth Iowa, with unsurpassing bravery, moved his
regiment in advance and retreat with a confidence and devotion truly to be admired. Major [W.
G.] Thompson, with the enthusiasm of one devoted to his regiment and cause, continued by his
brave example to encourage the men, until, near the close, with remarkable thoughtfulness, under
severe suffering, he reported personally to me that he regretted to leave the field. Under such
officers the Twentieth Iowa more than sustained the reputation of the State.
To Captain Murphy's battery, reared under his strict but just discipline, we are particularly
indebted as an army. His characteristic concentration to duty has, in his battery, made for him a
reputation of which all might be proud. The equanimity of Lieutenant Marr and careful attention
of Lieutenant Matthaei are qualities possessed in such a degree by them that they can be
discovered on the battle-field, even among the ruins of the enemy's artillery.
Lieut. C. S. Lake, acting assistant adjutant-general, and orderlies did important and
dangerous service, with perfect satisfaction to myself and to those to whom they carried and
delivered the orders.
It required heroism in Major Montgomery and the officers and soldiers of the train to remain
complacently (but necessarily) inactive while the battle was raging.
In the accompanying reports will be found the names of those mentioned for good conduct.
Our men behaved so well that it required but ordinary exertions on the part of officers to be
successful. The fortunate have our congratulations, the wounded our sympathy, and the fallen
our envy.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. McE. DYE,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade.
Lieut. J. G. CHANDLER,
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Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Div., Army of the Frontier.
HDQRS. TWENTIETH REGT. IOWA VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,
Camp at Prairie Grove, Ark., December 9, 1862.
I have the honor to report the part taken by the Twentieth Regiment of Iowa Infantry in the
battle of Prairie Grove, fought on the 7th instant. I think it necessary, in order to have full justice
done to the regiment, to state by what marches it arrived upon the field.
On the morning of December 4, at 4 o'clock, we left Camp Lyon, 22 miles from Springfield,
Mo., on the road to Cassville, and marched to the Three Widows, 12 miles from Cassville, and
on the following day we moved at 5 a.m., and marched through Cassville and Keytesville to
camp, 2 miles from Keytesville.
On the morning of the 6th instant we moved at 5 o'clock, and, passing Elkhorn and Sugar
Creek, arrived at Cross Hollow about 5 p.m. Bivouacked till 10 o'clock, and again commenced
the march. Marched all night. Passed through Fayetteville, and halted for breakfast about 1 mile
beyond.
After remaining one hour, we marched on rapidly until we arrived upon the field of battle,
about 12 m. of the 7th instant, thus having marched a distance of 100 miles in eighty consecutive
hours, the last 57 miles of which we passed over in thirty-one consecutive hours.
Very many of my command marched with shoes so much worn that their feet were on the
ground, and were badly bruised and cut up by the stony roads. A few had been supplied with
boots at Camp Lyon, which fitted them so illy that their feet became much blistered and inflamed
by the continuous marching. A few of these last mentioned carried their boots and marched in
their bare feet to the scene of action.
Under these circumstances we went into the engagement with only 270 enlisted men and 23
officers. I neglected to mention, however, that before moving from our halting-place near
Fayetteville, having learned of the capture of a portion of the train of the First Arkansas Cavalry
a few miles beyond, I was ordered to detail a company, under a reliable officer, to protect our
train, for which duty I assigned Company B, under the command of Captain [E.] Coulter, so that
Company B was deprived the privilege of being present at the engagement, except 3, who joined
other companies.
Pursuant to orders, the regiment was drawn up in line of battle in an open field to the right of
the road, a short distance from the creek, and 50 yards in the rear of the Thirty-seventh Illinois.
After remaining in this position a few minutes, we moved forward by the right flank, following
the Thirty-seventh Illinois, wading the creek, and formed in line of battle in the rear of and
supporting three pieces of Battery F, First Missouri Light Artillery, and under shelter of the hill
upon which the battery was in position. Immediately after forming in line. I was ordered to throw
out a party of skirmishers to protect our right flank and rear from surprise, for which service I
detailed 20 men of Company A, under the command of First Lieutenant [C. L.] Drake, of that
company.
At or near 2 p.m. the battery was moved forward, and we moved forward in line of battle to
the middle of the field on the right of the main road and in front of the white house, on the road
to the top of the hill. By order of Colonel Dye, I immediately moved the regiment to the right,
into the adjoining field and in front of the orchard, to cheek a movement of the enemy on our
right flank. Here we were exposed to the fire of the enemy for a short time, which we returned,
advancing a short distance toward them. At this time a force appeared on our right, advancing
down the valley. I was ordered to fall back behind the fence in our rear, which was executed in
good order, under fire. I then threw out Companies A and F, under the command of Captains [E.
N.] Bates and [N. M.] Hubbard, from the right wing, as skirmishers.
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Shortly after, a cavalry force appeared upon our right and rear. The skirmishers were directed
to assemble on the battalion, and, by order of Colonel Dye, I changed front toward the force
approaching, which was done in good order in the rear of the fence running perpendicular to the
one from which we moved. It having been ascertained that the forces approaching were reenforcements,
under command of General Blunt, I was directed and did immediately move the
regiment to the position behind the fence from which we had changed our front. General Blunt
having taken position on our right in the middle of the field, I was ordered to move forward in
support of his Indians. Skirmishing, I moved forward in line of battle rapidly across the field,
obliquing to the left, across the orchard fence at the foot of the hill; drove the enemy's
skirmishers through the orchard, and advanced beyond the fence, through the wood, a short
distance. The left wing being more severely engaged, the right had passed farther in advance,
through the wood, where some of the Indians came running back through the wood to the right,
gesticulating violently and pointing toward the direction whence they came.
At this moment an officer shouted to me that we were firing on friends. I gave the order to
cease firing, and rode toward the left, fearing that the troops on our left might have ascended the
hill and advanced to our front, when I saw directly in front of us a mass of troops moving down
upon us. At almost the same instant they fired a volley, under which the left wing recoiled to
nearly the orchard fence, where they promptly rallied at my command and renewed the firing
with great rapidity and, I think, effect.
At this moment I received orders to retire behind the fence at the foot of the hill, and hold it,
which movement was promptly executed by the regiment in good order, climbing the fence
under a galling fire and lying down under it, continuing the fire between the fence-rails.
The moment we crossed the fence the orchard was shelled by the battery of General Blunt's
forces on the right, in the field, and that under command of Captain Murphy and Lieutenant
Marr, in position at the point from which we entered the action, from the combined efforts of
which, and our own firing, the enemy were driven from the orchard. They remained in large
force about the house and stone wall, firing from under their protection upon our extreme left
wing. It was here our heaviest loss occurred.
As soon as the enemy were driven from the orchard, I was ordered to retire in good order
from the fence and form in the middle of the field. As we commenced to retire, Major Thompson
was wounded, and the left wing, not receiving the order promptly, remained a little too long, and
retired precipitately nearly to the fence from which we advanced. I rode down, and at the
command they returned and formed at the place designated.
In the mean time the right wing, being much exposed, had moved into the adjoining field,
under the protection of the battery on the right, and at this time, receiving the order to retire to
the fence again, I formed the line behind the fence, in rear of the battery, and moved by the left
flank along it to our original position. This ended our active participation in the contest.
We remained on our arms at the fence during the night, and the next morning before daylight
I formed the line of battle and awaited the renewal of the action.
After daylight, seeing no movement of the enemy in front, I ordered arms to be stacked, and
awaited further orders. The enemy had fled, and the battle was over.
Our loss in killed was 1 commissioned officer and 8 enlisted men; wounded, 5 commissioned
officers and 35 enlisted men, a list of whom is herewith transmitted.
The men acted throughout the action bravely and with entire self possession, retiring under
fire repeatedly, and rallying with the utmost promptness at the word of command. I do not think
there was a moment when they were not under control of their officers.
I would be glad to mention instances of personal heroism which passed under my own notice,
but, when all acted with equal bravery, I fear I would injure others by merely noticing those
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which happened to pass under my own eyes. Of the conduct of the officers of companies, I can
only say that it was all that could be expected or hoped for from men who were gallantly offering
up their lives in a cause in which their whole hearts were engaged.
I was assisted in the discharge of my duties as commander of the regiment by Major
Thompson, who, although exposed to the hottest of the fire on the left wing, conducted himself
with great gallantry and self-possession, and who, fortunately for the regiment, was not wounded
until near the close of the action, and, though suffering great pain, did not leave the field until the
command was safely withdrawn from under the fire of the enemy. The conduct of the chaplain,
Rev. U. Eberhart, deserves particular mention for his activity and zeal in assisting in the removal
of the wounded from the field, and his unremitting attention to their wants in the hospitals. I
would do great injustice to a gallant officer did I forbear to most highly commend the conduct of
Lieut. J. C. McClelland, the acting adjutant, who assisted me on horseback during the entire
engagement.
Permit me to remark, in closing, that I consider the regiment much indebted for their escape
with so little loss from the orchard to the prompt and intelligible manner in which the timely
orders of Colonel Dye, commanding brigade, were transmitted to me, at the most imminent risk
of life, by yourself and James W. Cliff; and Thomas H. Henderson, Sixth Missouri Cavalry,
acting under your direction.
I remain, most respectfully, &c.,
J. B. LEAKE,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Twentieth Iowa.
Lieut. C. S. LAKE,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2d Brig., 2d Div., Army of the Frontier.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD DIV., ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
In Camp at Prairie Grove. December 8, 1862.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to Brigadier-General Herron's
orders, received at Sugar Creek on the morning of the 7th [6th] instant, I reached your command
at Cane Hill at 9 p.m. that evening, after a very fatiguing march of 50 miles, my men weary and
horses jaded and worn out from the long, rapid, and continuous marching of the previous three
days. Later that evening my command received provisions and forage enough to satisfy their
needy wants, through the kindly offices of Colonel Weer, to whom, through you, I beg to return
my grateful acknowledgments.
Next morning [December 7], as ordered, my command was formed in line of battle in the
field east and adjacent to the old camping ground of the rebels at Cane Hill, and from thence, as
ordered, I marched it to Rhea's Mills, being first re-enforced by the Ninth Kansas Cavalry and a
section of howitzers from the Third Wisconsin Cavalry, both under the immediate command of
Colonel Lynde, where, about noon, your order directing me to open communication and effect a
junction with the forces under Brig. Gen. F. J. Herron, then supposed to be engaging the enemy
somewhere between Fayetteville and Cane Hill, was received. In conformity thereto, I
proceeded with my command on the old Fayetteville read, in the order hereinafter mentioned,
consisting of two battalions First Iowa Cavalry, Col. James O. Gower, commanding; two
battalions Tenth Illinois Cavalry, and their two sections 2-pounder steel howitzers, Lieut. Col.
James Stuart commanding; two squadrons First Battalion Second Wisconsin Cavalry, Maj.
William H. Miller commanding, and about 400 of the Eighth Missouri Volunteer Cavalry,
Colonel [W. F.] Geiger commanding. When it had reached a point just as you enter the woods,
the prairie stretching out to the left and front, and about three-fourths of a mile from the point of
intersection of this road and the Cane Hill road, my advance fired into some 30 of the enemy's
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pickets, who fled and disappeared in the woods without returning the fire I then deployed
skirmishers into the woods from the front, and detailed an additional squadron from the First
Iowa Cavalry as advance guard. When the advance guard reached Marr's house, say one-half
mile from the attack just mentioned, it received a heavy fire from the enemy, who were posted
there in force, forming their left wing, luckily injuring but one man, whose name will be found at
the close of this report. My command closed up rapidly to the aid of the advance, and formed in
close column of squadrons. The firing by this time became general between the advance,
supported by another squadron of the First Iowa Cavalry and the enemy. At this juncture a
section of the 2 pounder howitzers was ordered to their support; ere they arrived, their
movements being characterized with no delay, the enemy had fallen back some 150 yards The
howitzers proceeded some 100 yards down the road in advance of my forces, and there received
a terrible fire from the enemy, wounding Corpl. Levi Cassity, of Company B, Tenth Illinois
Cavalry, destroying one of his arms, and Private E. McCarty, of Company G, of same regiment,
both belonging to the front gun, the former in command thereof Corporal Cassity's horse was
killed, and both of the horses attached to the gun wounded. The others, beholding this, fell back
with the remaining gun to the head of the column, then at Marr's house, and opened into the
enemy's ranks with several rounds of canister, killing 30 men.
Finding at this time that our infantry was hotly engaging the enemy from a position a short
distance in my front, from an open meadow adjacent to a corn-field on my left, I left with my
command to support them; when, just before reaching them, I received your order to give way to
the left, to permit your battery to come to their relief, and your further order to support said
battery.
Just prior to these changes, Lieutenant------(name unable to learn), with 20 men from
Companies L and M, First Iowa Cavalry, volunteered to rescue the missing gun--a perilous task,
speedily and meritoriously accomplished. The enemy had not taken it from the field, having been
driven back immediately, subsequent to delivering their fire upon it, by the galling fire of my
howitzer. Here an individual act of heroism became known, and is worthy of mention, namely,
Corporal Cassity wins still with the gun, having refused to desert it.
After the formation in the field, my command met with no further attacks, and, in accordance
with your orders, received after a general engagement had commenced between your battery,
sustained by your infantry, and the enemy's forces, fell back 1 miles on the road toward Rhea's
Mills; and, still later, by your orders, formed a part of the escort to Fayetteville of the
commissary and baggage trains of your command, the rear thereof reaching that place on the
evening of the 8th instant. I then reported with my command to Brig. Gen. F. J. Herron, finding
you were beyond him.
Let me remark, in concluding, that the troops of my command are deserving of mention for
the cool, unflinching spirit they evinced during the attack upon them. Not a man wavered, and
during the short suspension of firing, intervening after the general attack on my front, when all
was suspense and uncertainty, their bearing was soldierly in every regard.
Inclosed I beg you to find a recapitulation of the casualties.
I have the honor to remain, general, with every consideration of respect, very respectfully,
your obedient servant,
D. WICKERSHAM,
Colonel, Commanding Cavalry brigade, Army of the Frontier.
Brig. Gen. JAMES G. BLUNT,
Commanding Army of the Frontier.
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HEADQUARTERS FIRST IOWA CAVALRY,
Camp, Prairie Grove, Washington Co., Ark., December 10, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that, at 6 o'clock on the morning of the 6th instant, in
obedience to orders, with the First and Third Battalions of the First Iowa Cavalry, comprising an
available force of 500 men, Lieutenant-Colonel [P. G.] Bryan, with the Second Battalion, being
detailed as rear guard for the wagon train of the Third Division, I moved from camp on Sugar
Creek, Benton County, Arkansas, and, after marching eighteen consecutive hours, reached the
headquarters of Brigadier-General Blunt, at Cane Hill, near Boonsborough, Washington County,
Arkansas, at 12 o'clock on the night of the 6th instant.
On the morning of the 7th instant, I marched with my command to Rhea's Mills, 8 miles,
thence south 5 miles, to Prairie Grove, as advance guard for General Blunt's division, and
encountered the enemy at 2.30 p.m., posted in the timber. Squadrons L and M, being in advance,
were fired upon, but no one injured. Lieut. R. M. Reynolds, with 20 men from Company A,
being thrown out as skirmishers, were fired upon by the enemy, and one man of Company A,
Private William H. Fortune, severely wounded in the right shoulder, this being the only casualty
to the regiment.
The several squadrons being formed in line of battle in the timber, maintained their position
for one hour against the continual fire of the enemy, during which time Lieutenant [J. M.]
Simeral, of Company L, with 20 men, retook from the enemy one howitzer, lost by the Tenth
Illinois Cavalry.
Upon the arrival of General Blunt's division, at 4 p.m., I was ordered to the support of
Captain Rabb's battery, and moved my command eastwardly to a large corn-field near the
battery, where I remained until 5 p.m., when, by orders, I moved l miles on the road to Rhea's
Mills, and took position, standing to horse until daylight of the 8th instant, when, in obedience to
orders, I moved my command northwardly 4 miles, and accompanied, as rear guard, the wagon
train of General Blunt's division to a camp 1 miles west of Fayetteville, where I remained until
daylight on the morning of the 9th instant, when, as advance guard to the same train of wagons, I
marched to Rhea's Mills, thence south 7 miles, to the present camp.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES O. COWER,
Colonel First Iowa Cavalry.
Capt. WILLIAM HYDE CLARK,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Division, Army of the Frontier.
HDQRS. 1ST BRIG., 3D DIV., ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
December 9, 1862.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, on the 7th instant, after being ordered by you to
place that portion of the First Brigade under my charge into position, the order was promptly
executed by Battery L, First Missouri Light Artillery, supported by the Twentieth Wisconsin
Volunteer Infantry, advancing across the creek. After playing the battery for about thirty
minutes, doing good execution, I observed the enemy's fire to slacken. I then ordered the
Twentieth Regiment Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry to move cautiously forward. They advanced
about 500 yards across an open field; here I ordered them to lie down under cover.
Receiving information that a heavy force of the enemy was threatening my left flank, I
immediately changed front to the left. The Nineteenth Iowa and Ninety-fourth Illinois Infantry
following up the movement, brought us en échelon, the Twentieth Regiment leading on the right.
After the execution of this movement, I observed a battery of the enemy, supported by infantry,
trying to get into position in my front. I immediately ordered the Twentieth Wisconsin to charge
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the battery, which was done in gallant style, Major [H. A.] Starr leading. After taking the battery,
the regiment advanced under a heavy fire to the brow of the hill, where they met a heavy force of
the enemy's infantry, some four or five regiments, advancing, which poured a terrific fire into the
Twentieth Regiment Wisconsin Infantry, and obliged them to fall back, which they did in good
order, destroying what they could while falling back of the battery taken before. The Twentieth
fell back in good style across an open field to a fence, where they reformed and remained until
the firing ceased for the day.
Officers and men behaved nobly, and stood fire like veterans.
I regret the loss of the Twentieth Wisconsin is heavy. As far as I have been able to ascertain,
it amounts to 49 killed, 148 wounded, and 8 missing.
In conclusion, I cannot help but bring to your favorable notice the gallant behavior of Major
Starr, in immediate command of the Twentieth Wisconsin, and also Adjutant [H. V.] Morris, of
the Twentieth, for the cool and prompt manner in which they executed my orders. Captain
Backof's battery (L) behaved nobly, and did good execution, although exposed for a time to a
heavy fire of the enemy's infantry.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
HENRY BERTRAM,
Lt. Col. 20th Wisconsin Vols., Comdg. Portion of 1st Brigade.
Brigadier-General HEBRON,
Comdg. Second and Third Divisions, Army of the Frontier.
HDQRS. 2D BRIG., 3D DIV., ARMY OF THE FRONTIER,
Camp, Prairie Grove, Ark., December 10, 1862.
CAPTAIN: In compliance with General Orders, No. 35, issued from the headquarters of the
general commanding the Second and Third Divisions, Army of the Frontier, I have the honor to
report that in the late action at Prairie Grove, on December 7, I had under my command the
Nineteenth Iowa and the Ninety-fourth Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiments and Battery E, First
Missouri Light Artillery. The Eighth Missouri Cavalry, having been detached from my command
and sent forward to General Blunt the day before the engagement, was not with me during the
fight.
The Nineteenth Iowa was commanded by Lieut. Col. Samuel McFarland. The Ninety-fourth
Illinois was commanded by Lieut. Col. John McNulta. Battery E, First Missouri Light Artillery,
was commanded by First Lieut. Joseph Foust.
When I reached Illinois Creek, under orders from General Herron, I advanced the infantry
across the creek, the Ninety-fourth Illinois on the left of the road and the Nineteenth Iowa on the
right of the road, placing both regiments under cover of the bluffs of the stream. Immediately
afterward the battery was ordered across the creek, and placed in position on the high ground to
the left of the road.
At the ford of the creek the enemy's batteries were in full view, about haft a mile distant in
the road, on a rising ground, at the foot of a hill. Skirmishers were sent forward from both
regiments. The enemy's batteries were opened upon us. The firing was very accurate, the shells
falling on the right and in the rear of the Ninety-fourth Illinois; but they were soon silenced and
compelled to retire their batteries to a less exposed position, from which they fired only at
intervals. The Twentieth Wisconsin Infantry, having advanced on the right of the Nineteenth
Iowa, I sent out three companies of the Nineteenth Iowa as skirmishers, and ordered the
remaining seven companies to advance and support the Twentieth Wisconsin, which was now
moving forward through an open field on the right of the road, and at the same time I ordered the
Ninety-fourth Illinois to advance through the brush to an open field on the left. Here the Ninety-
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fourth received the first fire from the enemy, which was hotly returned, and the enemy fell back
to a position under cover of the fence.
Meanwhile the Nineteenth Iowa had received and returned the fire of the enemy, and now
advanced steadily up the hill to the left of the white house, and across the orchard back of the
house to a fence, behind which the enemy in greatly superior force were concealed. As it
approached, the enemy rose up and poured in a most severe and destructive fire upon it, and the
Twentieth Wisconsin having already commenced to fall back in disorder, the Nineteenth Iowa
was unable to hold its position, and was compelled to fall back across the orchard, when
Lieutenant-Colonel McFarland fell, shot through the body. Major [D.] Kent then took command
and rallied a portion of his men, who had fallen back to the right of the battery, near the position
of the Ninety-fourth Illinois. This detachment he left in command of Captain Roderick, while he
was engaged in rallying the remainder of his men.
Meanwhile the three companies of the Nineteenth Iowa which were sent out as skirmishers
had been advanced to the right of the battery, up to a corn-field, when they were attacked by a
superior force of the enemy's cavalry, which they drove back, and continued to advance near to
the foot of the hill, when they were met by a greatly superior force of infantry and cavalry, which
they dispersed.
I then ordered them to fall back to the corn-field, in order to give the artillery a chance to
shell the wood, where they remained until ordered to join the regiment. The battery meanwhile
had been actively and effectually engaged in throwing shot and shell wherever it was most
needed; changing its position to the front and to the left as circumstances required, and, as the
enemy were making great efforts to turn our left wing, the battery took position in the wheatfield
on the left of the road, supported by the Ninety-fourth Illinois on the left, outside of the fence.
After the Nineteenth Iowa and Twentieth Wisconsin were driven back, the rebels poured
down in large numbers on our left, but were twice repulsed with heavy slaughter by the Ninetyfourth
Illinois and the well-served canister from Battery E. But the rebels continuing to menace
our left flank in large force, and the battery being so far advanced, with no support but the
Ninety-fourth Illinois, which was kept continually engaging the enemy, the battery and the
infantry regiment were ordered to fall back. The battery, from loss of horses, was compelled to
leave one of its caissons on the field, but it was brought away by a squad of the Ninety-fourth
Illinois, under the personal direction of Lieutenant-Colonel McNulta. The battery fell back across
the road, and the Ninety-fourth Illinois also fell back to the road in good order.
The three companies of skirmishers of the Nineteenth Iowa were brought out to the road by
my direction, when they came up in perfect order, under command of Lieut. Richard Root,
acting adjutant of the regiment. The different portions of the Nineteenth Iowa then fell back and
formed in line across the creek.
As the sun set, the firing on both sides closed, the infantry resting on their arms, without
camp-fires during the whole night.
At 3 o'clock on the morning of the 8th, by order of the general commanding, I formed the
Nineteenth Iowa and Ninety-fourth Illinois in line, where they, respectively, took position on the
night of the 7th. Soon after sunrise on the morning of the 8th. I ordered forward a company of
the Ninety-fourth Illinois as skirmishers, advancing them up the hill occupied by the rebels the
evening before; and by direction of the general I also ordered the Nineteenth Iowa and Twentieth
Wisconsin to follow the company of skirmishers, and post themselves on the hill, where they
remained until ordered back to go into camp.
I regret to announce the death of Lieut. Col. Samuel McFarland, commanding the Nineteenth
Iowa, who fell while gallantly leading his men in the charge on the rebels on the hill.
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I cannot speak too highly of the gallant conduct of the officers and men of the Nineteenth
Iowa, for, after being repulsed with great loss by an overwhelming force of the enemy, they
rallied and brought from the field the colors of the Twentieth Wisconsin Regiment. Captain [S..
F.] Roderick, of the Nineteenth Iowa, deserves especial mention for meritorious conduct. He
gathered together some 70 men of his regiment, after it was broken and scattered; rallied them
around the regimental colors, and, under my direction, formed them on the left of the Ninetyfourth
Illinois, where they did good service, and only retired from the field when ordered to fall
back. Lieut. Richard Root, acting adjutant of the regiment, is also entitled to honorable mention.
By direction of his commanding officer, and at the request of the captains, he took charge of the
three companies of skirmishers, and maneuvered them with great bravery and skill.
Too much praise cannot be accorded to the officers and men of Battery E, First Missouri
Light Artillery; and Lieutenants Foust, [C. L.] Edwards, and [J; B.] Atwater are entitled to
honorable notice for their gallant conduct and the signal ability with which they managed their
battery. The Ninety fourth Illinois behaved well. The safety of our left wing depended in a great
measure upon their efforts. They withstood every attack on our left, and repulsed the enemy with
heavy loss.
The intrepid bearing of Lieut. Col. John McNulta inspired his men with courage; and when
the battery retired, leaving one of its caissons on the field, he took a squad of his men and in
person brought it from the field.
Iowa and Illinois may still continue to view with pride the heroic conduct of their volunteers,
for on the field of Prairie Grove, as on all other battlefields of the war, these soldiers have fought
side by side, winning fresh laurels and proudly maintaining the high honor of their respective
States.
I cannot close this report without making honorable mention of my adjutant, Lieut. Hudson
Burr. He fearlessly visited every part of the field bearing my orders, and aiding very much in
rallying the men when their regiments had been repulsed.
One of my orderlies, Private George Wilkerson, of Company E, Eighth Missouri Volunteer
Cavalry, is entitled to notice for the fearless discharge of his duties. He was with me during the
whole engagement, until late in the afternoon, when he was wounded in the left arm while riding
by my side.
I have annexed hereto a statement of the killed, wounded, and missing of the brigade. I also
inclose herewith the reports of the different regiments and detachments of my command.
I have the honor to be, captain, respectfully, yours, &c.,
WM. W. ORME,
Colonel, Commanding Second Brigade, Third Division.
Capt. WILLIAM HYDE CLARK,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Second and Third Divisions.
HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH IOWA VOLUNTEERS,
Camp, Prairie Grove, December 10, 1862.
COLONEL: I have the honor of reporting to you the part taken by the Nineteenth Regiment
in the late battle of the 7th instant.
The Nineteenth Regiment, 500 strong, was ordered into line of battle at 12 m., Lieutenant-
Colonel [S.] McFarland in command. By order of Colonel Orme, three companies were detached
and deployed as skirmishers. The companies were A, B, and C, and, owing to the circumstances,
Lieutenant [R.] Root, acting adjutant of the regiment, was ordered to take command, which was
done. The skirmishers advanced under a heavy fire to a corn-field on the right of Battery E, First
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Missouri Light Artillery, and were ordered to hold it at all hazards, which was done, until
ordered to fall back and form in line of battle. The regiment was then ordered to advance to the
left of the white house on the hill, to support the Twentieth Wisconsin Infantry, which was hotly
engaged. The Nineteenth, led by Lieutenant-Colonel McFarland, advanced up the hill steadily,
and across the orchard back of the house, when the Twentieth Wisconsin gave way. The
Nineteenth still advanced to the fence adjoining the wood, when the enemy, who lay concealed,
arose to their feet, three regiments deep, pouring a destructive fire on us from three sides, which
caused the regiment to waver and fall back to the battery, on the left of the road leading up the
hill. Lieutenant-Colonel McFarland here fell, shot through the body. I then took command, and
rallied what was left of the regiment, as the regiment met with a severe loss in the charge. I then
left the men I had rallied in charge of Captain [S. F.] Roderick, of Company K, and went to rally
some scattered troops. Colonel Orme then rode up and ordered Captain Roderick to fall in and
rally with the Ninety-fourth Illinois, which he did, led by Colonel Orme in person, driving the
enemy back with great slaughter, and holding their position until ordered to fall back and reform.
In the retreat of the Twentieth Wisconsin, the color-bearer was shot, letting fall the colors,
when the enemy made a desperate effort to get them, but a portion of the Nineteenth Iowa rallied
and got possession of and carried them off the field.
In making out the report, it is with pleasure I can say that the officers and men behaved nobly
and fought desperately as if the fate of the battle depended on them alone. I will mention
especially Captain Roderick, of Company K, whom I left in charge of some scattered troops; also
Captain [T. W.] Richmond, of Company H, and Captain [A. M.] Taylor, of Company G; also
Lieutenant [W. S.] Brooks, of Company D, who brought the colors off the field, and in doing so
was badly wounded. Others are equally meritorious, but too numerous to mention at present.
The report of the detachment of skirmishers I send to you as received:
SIR: Having been ordered to take command of the three companies of skirmishers on the 7th
instant, the day of battle, I advanced them to the right of Battery E, First Missouri Light
Artillery, when the right wing, under Captain Bruce, was attacked by a superior force of the
enemy; but a few well-directed shots drove them back. I would here notice the bravery of
Captain Bruce and the men under him. After advancing up near the wood, the enemy came out of
cover, showing a heavy body of infantry and two battalions of cavalry. They met with a warm
reception from the right, under Captain Bruce, which made them scatter. At this time I received
an order from Colonel Orme to fall back to the corn-field, so as to let the battery shell the wood,
which was done in good order, and held until ordered by you to join the regiment.
R. ROOT,
Lieutenant, Commanding Skirmishers.
Major KENT,
Commanding Nineteenth Iowa Volunteers.
On the morning of the 8th instant was ordered into line at 6 o'clock, and advanced across the
creek and formed a line of battle, and advanced up through the timber, on the left of the
Twentieth Wisconsin. Was then ordered to occupy the fence east of the house. Did so, crossing
part of the ground that was fought over the day before. Occupied the position until ordered to fall
back, so as to let both sides have a chance to collect their dead. Selected an advantageous piece
of ground, and occupied it until ordered into camp.
I remain, yours, respectfully,
D. KENT,
Major, Commanding Nineteenth Iowa Volunteers.
Col. W. W. ORME,
Comdg. Second Brig., Third Div., Army of the Frontier.
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HEADQUARTERS,
New Madrid, Mo., December 22, 1862.
I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the forces under my
command in the late expedition to Clarkton, Mo.: The command consisted of Captain [J.]
Hutchinson, Second Lieutenant [A.] Dowd, and 40 men of Company I; First Lieutenant [H. C.]
Raymond, and 57 men of Company C; Chaplain Coffin, and Surgeon Waters. The command left
New Madrid at about 8 a.m. December 17, and went as far as Weaversville, a distance of 22
miles, the first day. Little River, at this place, is from 2 to 5 feet deep at the ford, the bridge
having been destroyed some time since, by order of Major Jones, then in command at New
Madrid; the width of the ford is some 5 rods. We were obliged to ferry the men across in a small
skiff. The roads, notwithstanding the recent heavy rains, were in excellent condition to this point.
The Plank road begins at Weaversville and runs to Clarkton, a distance of 12 miles, through a
swamp.
At daylight on the 18th, we continued our march, and arrived at Clarkton the same evening.
We found the roads almost impassable; culverts, to the number of some 20, had all been
destroyed, and the teams were obliged to pass around them, going down the bank into the water
and mud to the depth of from 3 to 5 feet. The bridge across New River, 4 miles from Clarkton,
we also found destroyed, and we were compelled to cross in the small skiff which we had
brought from Weaversville. The horses and teams were obliged to ford a distance of 200 yards.
The bridges and culverts could be repaired at small expense, as the foundation works are in very
good condition. We halted about 1 mile from Clarkton, and rested until after dark, keeping close
guard that no one should carry intelligence of our approach. Soon after dark, we marched into
town, and immediately surrounded every house, placed our pickets on all the avenues of
approach, and commenced our search for prisoners. Captain McDonald was found at the house
of-----,and arrested. Learning that Captain Pankey was at home on a furlough, Captain
Hutchinson was dispatched with a detachment of men, and soon returned with him as prisoner.
On the following morning three expeditions were organized--one of 15 men, under command
of Chaplain Coffin, who went south toward Kennett, some 5 miles, and took prisoner
Quartermaster-Sergeant Sebecker; he also secured several valuable horses belonging to rebels.
One detachment of 15 men, under command of Captain Hutchinson, went north from Clarkton,
and returned with Captain Page and one Montgomery and his son Lentz, as prisoners, all of
whom were engaged in the guerrilla service; he also took several valuable horses. Another
detachment of 15 horsemen, under command of Captain Peebles, went to Halkolm's Island and
to the Saint Francis River, to the Arkansas border. The last-mentioned detachment took Surgeon
Bartlett and considerable rebel property. We could hear of depredations committed by small
bands of guerrillas, but we were unable to meet any of them. I learned that a band of from 100 to
200 guerrillas were making their headquarters at Chalk Bluff, on the Saint Francis River.
Depredations are frequently committed by guerrillas in the vicinity of Clarkton, and the
perpetrators flee to Chalk Bluff, and thence across the river into Arkansas. A force stationed at
the bluff would do much toward restoring quiet and safety to the law-abiding citizens of
Southeastern Missouri. Many of the citizens claim to be loyal.
The result of our expedition was the taking prisoners of 2 captains, 1 surgeon, and 1
quartermaster-sergeant, all of the Regular Confederate Army; 1 captain and 3 privates in the
guerrilla service. Besides the prisoners, we took 15 horses, some valuable ones; one mule team,
wagon, harness, &c.; 40 head of cattle, and several stand of small arms. Could the expedition
have been absent several days longer, much additional good might have been accomplished.
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On the 20th we returned from Clarkton to Weaversville, and on the 21st arrived at New
Madrid, all the men in better health and spirits than when they started.
I would make honorable mention of Captain Hutchinson, Chaplain Coffin, Lieutenants
Raymond and Dowd for the prompt and faithful manner in which they discharged the duties
devolving upon them.
I am glad to bear witness that every man in the command acted throughout as becomes a
patriot soldier battling for a just cause.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
H. F. PEEBLES,
Captain Company C, Commanding.
Col. JOHN SCOTT,
Comdg. Thirty-second Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH IOWA INFANTRY,
Battle-field near Vicksburg, Miss., December 30, 1862.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken in the battle
before Vicksburg on the 28th and 29th instant by the Fourth Iowa Infantry.
Early on the morning of the 28th I took the position assigned me on the right of the brigade.
In obedience to the orders of the general commanding the brigade, I detailed 30 men from my
regiment, under command of First Lieut. E. C. Miller, of Company G, to act as pioneers and
skirmishers. Of these 30 men 1 was killed and 5 wounded during <ar24_660> the day. The
regiment remained in position on the right of the brigade all day, at intervals under the fire of the
enemy's artillery, without becoming generally engaged. Late in the evening the regiment fell
back with the brigade to the transports and reembarked during the night and moved down the
river 2 or 3 miles.
At daylight on the 29th the regiment again debarked and took the advance of the brigade,
marching about 2 miles, to a point near where General Morgan's division was engaging the
enemy. At this point the regiment was commanded to halt, where it remained until about 3.30
o'clock, when I received orders from the general commanding the brigade to charge the enemy's
intrenchments, about one-half mile distant, near the base of the hill. There is near the base of the
hill a slough, or, more properly, a swamp, which could only be crossed at one place (a narrow
causeway which had been constructed), and at that only by the flank of the regiment. As the head
of the column emerged from the crossing it became exposed to a terrific fire of musketry from
the intrenchments in front and also to a fire from the enemy's batteries on the right and left
flanks. These batteries were so situated as to perfectly command this point. After effecting the
crossing the head of the column filed right, the left coming forward into line, the right resting on
and inside (the side next the enemy) of a strong abatis, which had been formed by the enemy for
his own protection. Here I was informed by the general commanding the brigade that contrary to
his orders the regiment was not supported by others, and that I should hold the position I then
had until be could ascertain if support was coming, providing I could do so, leaving me to judge
of that matter for myself. I held the position about thirty minutes under a fire which cannot be
described. At the end of this time, seeing that I had no support and that none was coming; that
my regiment was the only one on the field; that my officers and men were suffering dreadfully
from a fire which could not be returned effectively, I gave the order to fall back, which was
accomplished in good order though with great loss. The regiment went into this action with 480
men and officers, of whom 112 were killed and wounded.
Among the killed was Lieut. E. O. Miller, of Company G, who had command of the 30 men
on the 28th. No braver officer has fallen in his country's cause. Under any circumstances the loss
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of so many brave men is a matter to be deeply deplored, but in this instance it is doubly painful,
as no advantage commensurate with the loss was obtained. The officers and men of the regiment
join me in tendering the general commanding the brigade our earnest, heartfelt thanks, both for
the part he took in the charge, going as he did at the head of the column, and for the manner in
which he spoke of the action of the regiment in the field.
It would be invidious to speak of individual acts of bravery, as all did well. Every officer and
man did his whole duty and regretted that he could do no more.
Hereto attached you will find a list of the killed and wounded.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. WILLIAMSON,
Colonel, Commanding Fourth Iowa Infantry.
Captain BLACKER,
Asst. Adjt. Gen, Third Brig, Fourth Div,
Thirteenth Army Corps, Right Wing.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, Mo., November 24, 1862.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief, Washington, D.C.:
GENERAL: Another month has transpired since my acceptance of your order placing me in
this command. The enemy has again fallen back, and beyond the Boston Mountains, except
about 6,000 near Cotton Plant and 1,500 near Yellville. In the valley of the Arkansas, as near as I
can ascertain, there are about 50,000, distributed at different points near Little Rock and Van
Buren.
The Secretary of War has ordered a regiment from Alton, and Blair's brigade (three
regiments), and the Second Ohio Cavalry. All except this last regiment go down the river.
Under your order to send General Steele with all I could spare from Pilot Knob, I sent about
4,000. To meet pressing demands occasioned by these drafts from this vicinity, and to guard
prisoners, who have greatly accumulated by the surrender of most of the bushwhackers of
Missouri, I have detained the Thirty-second and Thirty-third Iowa Infantry.
I have authorized a short expedition from Helena on the Arkansas Post? via White River,
which only requires a trip of one day up White River on boats and a 15 mile march. I deemed it
very important to check the progress of fortifications the rebels had commenced at that place.
This move from Helena is so short that it will not prevent the force falling into line just as readily
for a down river movement, which I take for granted you are maturing.
In connection with this, being telegraphed from Elkhorn Tavern that the Arkansas was bank
full at Van Buren, I suggested a move of the Navy on that river with a gunboat; but the rearadmiral
replied that his <ar32_789> boats were all otherwise engaged. The attack on the Old
Post should have transpired before this time.
The Army of the Frontier has been divided, and General Schofield is here recruiting his
impaired health. General Blunt is near Fayetteville, his outposts being in the Indian Territory and
at Elkhorn Tavern. General Brown, with most of the Missouri troops, is in command of the
District of Southwestern Missouri. General Herron commands the main force near Ozark, Mo.,
occupying and scouting the country south of that region. The rebels have recommenced the
manufacture of saltpeter near Yellville, and I have directed a cavalry company to go and
effectually destroy it and the surrounding buildings.
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I halted the main force near Ozark because the enemy some days since moved toward
General Blunt in formidable force; but he fell back, and I only wait to know how far back, in
order to make further use of the force under General Herron.
General Davidson has command of forces in front of Pilot Knob, and is arranging bridges so
as to make it convenient to unite with the forces of Herron, and, if occasion offers, strike down
on to the waters of Black and White Rivers, so as to co.operate with movements from Helena.
Except some bands in Jackson and adjacent counties, the rebels seem to have gone south,
surrendered, or returned to their homes, apparently tired of bushwhacking.
The elections in this State went off without a particle of strife between soldiers and citizens,
except, if you please, in Saint Joseph, where the enrolled militia assailed enrolled sympathizers
or rebels. My orders were that soldiers should only interpose in case of actual riot. The result of
the election is also an important demonstration, showing the loyalty of the people and their
hatred of rebellion. The most radical candidates, taking the boldest stand in favor of the
Government, have been generally elected over men who only sought to run on conservative
Union grounds. The folly of trying to make Missouri a rebel State is thus clearly exposed, and
this result will also speak for other border States similarly situated, such as Arkansas, when we
fairly get possession of the months of her great rivers, and hold them.
Other parts of my department are quiet, and I am only seeking to regulate their careful and
economical administration. With further assurance of my increasing efforts to carry out the
wishes and aims of my commanding general, I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
SAML. R. CURTIS,
Major-general.