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OFFICIAL ARMY RECORDS

1863-3

HDQRS. SKIRMISHERS, FIRST DIV., SIXTEENTH A. C.,

Jackson, Miss., July 17, 1863.

CAPTAIN: On the 16th instant, being in command of the skirmishers of the First Division,

Sixteenth Army Corps, I was ordered by Major-General Parke, commanding Ninth Army Corps,

to which this division is attached, to move on the enemy's works along our entire front, for the

purpose of ascertaining their strength, position, and localities of their batteries.

The following disposition was made of the troops under my command: The Sixth Iowa

Infantry, on the right, deployed as skirmishers parallel to the Jackson and Canton Railroad, about

the length of four companies from the junction of the Livingston road and the Jackson and

Canton Railroad, then making an acute angle with the Jackson and Canton Railroad, running

southwesterly, the right resting on the Jackson and Vicksburg Railroad.

The Ninety-seventh Indiana, on the left, deployed as skirmishers along the Livingston road,

forming a right angle with the line on the Jackson and Canton Railroad, reaching to the Canton

road. The entire line was supported on the right by the Forty-eighth Illinois Infantry, on the left

by the Fortieth Illinois Infantry, and in the center by the Forty-sixth Ohio Infantry.

At the signal designated at 11 a.m. by the general commanding, Colonel Catterson, of the

Ninety-seventh Indiana, whom I placed in command of the line left of the Jackson and Canton

Railroad, moved forward briskly over the crest behind which they lay, down the slope of the

ravine immediately in their front, and up the crest of the opposite slope. The whole line from the

first (the ground being open fields) was exposed to a galling fire of musketry from the parapet of

the enemy's works, and, when fairly exposed, descending the first slope, the batteries of the

enemy commenced playing with terrible effect. The Fortieth Illinois, commanded by Lieutenant-

Colonel Smith, of the Forty-sixth Ohio Infantry, observing the Ninety-seventh Indiana clearing

the ravine, gallantly followed them at a close supporting distance, and, under an intense

musketry and cannonading, took position in the bottom of a ravine along a fence, and held the

line till the Ninety-seventh Indiana were compelled to fall back to them from the crest they had

gained. This line was maintained till late in the afternoon, when the two regiments, finding that

the enemy were trying to throw several regiments on their right flank, fell back to their old line

along the Livingston road. The fire to which both of these regiments were exposed was

exceedingly severe. The conduct of the officers and men commands the highest praise.

The end accomplished by this part of the reconnaissance was the discovery of a two-gun

battery between Colonel Withers' house and the Canton road, a line of rifle-pits about 200 yards

in front of their main works, crossing the Canton road and protected by a rough abatis, two guns

enfilading the Livingston road, and a three-gun battery in the northwest salient commanding the

natural glacis or slope, extending from their main work to the intersection of the Livingston road

and Jackson and Canton Railroad.

I assumed command of the line formed by the Sixth Iowa Infantry, and at the designated

signal the men dashed forward with a shout, met the line of the enemy's skirmishers and pickets,

drove them back, capturing some 18 or 20, and killed as many more. Clearing the timber, they

rushed out into the open fields, across the railroad, over the fence, up a gentle slope, across the

crest, down into the enemy's line, where two field batteries of four guns each, fronting west,

opened a terrific cannonading. The enemy were driven from two pieces at the point of the

bayonet, our men literally running them down. In rear of the batteries two regiments were lying

down, supporting the gunners, and at our approach they opened along their line, causing most of

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the casualties that occurred in this gallant regiment. With such impetuosity did the line go

through the field, that the enemy, so completely stunned were they, would have precipitately fled

had they not been reassured by a large gun battery, nearly 600 yards to our right, which enfiladed

the railroad and line of skirmishers. Startled at this unexpected obstacle, which was now in full

play, throwing its whirlwind of grape and canister about us until the corn fell as if before an

invisible reaper, I ordered the bugler to sound the "lie down." The entire line fell in the corn

rows, and I had an opportunity to look around, knowing my men were safe. On my right,

extending across the railroad, the enemy had a battery of three iron guns. I judged them to be,

from their size, 32-pounders, although they may have been only 10 or 20 pounder Parrotts. To

my right and front I saw two more guns projecting through embrasures in direct range, and in my

front was a field battery of four guns, two of which the gunners had fled from and my men were

lying around them. In their rear I saw two flags and a line of men, I supposed about two

regiments; on my left was another field battery and another line of men. To pass through the

batteries, cross the regiments in our front, ascend the hill, and get inside of their main works was

more than I could accomplish with the slender but gallant line lying on my left and right, and

feeling that I bad obtained all the information I could, I ordered the "rise up" and "retreat," which

I must confess was done in the most admirable manner under the fire of at least three regiments

and seven guns, three of those enfilading my line. But few of those who had so gallantly charged

the battery got back. I cannot speak in too extravagant terms of the officers and men of the Sixth

Iowa on this occasion. They obeyed my commands with a promptness and rapidity I hardly could

have expected from them on a parade. If they challenged my praise at the impetuosity of their

advance, which I found so rapid as to cause me to fear that I could not keep up with them, they

awakened the profoundest admiration at the coolness with which they retired, returning the

incessant firing of the enemy as they slowly fell back. The Forty-eighth Illinois, commanded by

Lieutenant-Colonel Greathouse, handsomely supported the right of the line and held the ground

gained at a severe loss. Major Stephenson, of the Forty-eighth, was severely wounded while

aiding in securing our new position.

Colonel Sanford, commanding the Fourth Brigade, elicited my warmest praise for his

conduct on the field in my aid, and commands my thanks for his generous conduct in invariably

assisting me, by advice or re-enforcements from his gallant command, along the line of

skirmishers since our arrival before Jackson.

The Forty-sixth Ohio Infantry, commanded by Colonel Walcutt, failed to get the notice to

support the center till we had advanced. He, however, hastily advanced and arrived on the field

as we were retiring, and generously assisted us in every way, relieving our tired and wounded

men and covering our weakest points.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JNO. M. CORSE,

Col., Comdg. Skirmishers, First Division, Sixteenth Army Corps.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTH Iowa INFANTRY

Jackson, Miss., July 18, 1863.

SIR: I respectfully make the following report of the operations of this command since leaving

Oak Ridge, Miss, on the evening of the 4th instant, and our arrival at Hill's house, on the Big

Black:

On the evening of the 5th instant, this regiment was ordered to Jones' Ford, on the Big Black,

to effect a crossing, in conjunction with the Forty-eighth Illinois Infantry. I was instructed that

the stream was not more than 3 feet deep, and that infantry could easily cross. The guide sent

with the command, not knowing the route, led us, from about 6 p.m. till about 11.30 p.m.,

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through field, forest, creeks, over highland and lowland, a distance of from 8 to 10 miles,

whereas it was but 2 miles, and that by a good road the greater portion of the way. There I met

Colonel Sanford, the brigade commander, who had awaited our coming over two hours, when we

started an hour before and should have been across by that time. He, not finding us there,

supposed he had been misguided, and did not undertake to cross. On arriving, we immediately

sent some men in, and discovered the stream to be so swift and so deep that not only was it

impracticable to ford, but impossible for the men to swim across, carrying their arms. A couple

of canoes were finally discovered, lashed together, and 3 men placed in them, and started over.

The stream being so swift, and not having oars or poles, they were swept down the stream, and

immediately a fire opened upon us from the opposite shore. The command fell back from the

exposed position, and two companies thrown along the shore soon silenced the firing.

Colonel Sanford, deeming the thing impracticable without boats or pontoons, withdrew part

of the command, sent word back to the general commanding to that effect, and ordered me to

picket the river for 2 miles up and down the stream. I had the boat brought; up, and Private

[William] Miller, Company H, volunteered to take some men across, and had made successfully

three trips, concealing the men a short distance below our position under the opposite bank. The

squad on the west bank, waiting to get into the boat, to cross, were discovered by the enemy

about daylight, and a fire along the entire bank opened. I withdrew everything from that point,

pushed three companies above, and attacked them so as to cover the recrossing of my men on the

other side. The ruse succeeded. Not knowing of their whereabouts, the enemy, seeing us Pall

back, and hearing the fire above, followed and kept up an incessant musketry. While this was

continuing, Private Miller, Company H, went back and forth and reconvened the men he had

crossed, with a very slight loss. I withdrew everything but a line of skirmishers, which replied so

well to the firing of the enemy as to induce them to believe we would endeavor to force that

point, and caused them to withdraw from above, and permitted our forces to effect a crossing.

The Forty-eighth Illinois relieved us, continued to attract the attention of the enemy, and in

the afternoon Colonel Sanford quietly withdrew the regiment, and the brigade went above and

crossed on a flat. The next morning the Fourth Brigade was ordered to the front, and this

regiment supported the Forty-eighth Illinois Infantry in driving the rebels from their camp, near

Queen's Hill, from which they fled so precipitately as to leave nearly all their camp and garrison

equipage, a large number of small-arms, commissary stores, and their sick. A few prisoners were

captured, belonging, respectively, to the Sixth Texas Cavalry, Walker's [?.] cavalry, and

Jackson's cavalry. The night of the 7th we camped between Queen's Hill and Clinton. The 8th

and 9th instant we marched with the division to within 4 miles of Jackson and bivouacked.

Friday, July 10, Sanford's brigade took the advance, and this regiment furnished the skirmishers

covering the right of the division. On passing around to the north of Jackson, the brigade was

ordered back, the skirmishers withdrawn, and another brigade thrown to the front, and again,

when within 3 miles of Jackson, the brigade was ordered to the rear as a reserve, and about 4

p.m. the brigade was moved to the front again. Two companies of the Sixth were ordered by

Colonel Sanford to deploy as skirmishers, and I took charge of them. I pushed them across the

Jackson and Canton Railroad, by direction of Colonel Sanford, so that our left just touched the

lunatic asylum, and then I changed direction, and moved up beyond the line of the Ninth Army

Corps, about a halt' mile toward Jackson, on the Canton road.

The enemy lay in ambush north of the Petrie house, but were driven out by the skirmishers,

and never stopped till they got inside their works, which were visible from the Petrie house. Here

I received word that a line which protected our right flank, under Major Giesy, had been ordered

back by General Smith, and I halted the men, and directed Adjutant Ennis to take command and

hold that line until I could see Major Giesy. He declined remaining, as his orders were

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peremptory, and I sent an orderly to Adjutant Ennis to fall back slowly, and I rode back at full

speed to get permission from the general to remain where we were. I saw him, and he informed

me that Colonel Sanford had deployed my regiment so as to cover the front of the division, and

directed me to connect the line left of the Jackson and Canton Railroad with that on the right, and

to take charge of the skirmishers, and that the several brigades would support me, push up the

Jackson and Canton Railroad, keeping my lines at right angles with that road.

In accordance with these instructions, I moved the line until the enemy made a stand on our

left, when I massed Companies D and F and charged them, driving them through the woods into

their own works. They fired several houses to prevent our attacking their works. Having gained a

good position on the left, I halted it till the right should connect, as we had separated in making

the charge. I found the right had been halted by order of Colonel Sanford, and, connecting the

two lines by pickets, we lay in that position till the next morning, when we received orders to

advance, changing direction to the left. The line moved under a very sharp fire, until I found it

impossible to get the rebels from in front of our center without massing and charging again.

Companies K, E, and B were put in line, and, with a yell and bayonets fixed, they drove them out

of the ditch they held, killing and wounding quite a number. The ground gained was held, and

after forty hours of the most arduous labor the regiment was relieved by another line.

On the morning of the 16th instant, Major-General Parke directed me to assume command of

the skirmishers and push them so as to feel strongly the enemy's line at every point in our

immediate front. The left I placed in charge of the colonel of the Ninety-seventh Indiana, and

assumed command of the line formed by the Sixth Iowa, supported by Sanford's brigade. At the

designated signal, the line pressed forward, capturing some prisoners (so impetuously did they

go), killing quite a number, clearing the forest, railroad, fences, corn-fields in their front, driving

the enemy into their works. On arriving about 100 yards from their main works, we were opened

upon by a battery of siege guns, enfilading our line, and a battery of brass howitzers in our

immediate front, supported by three regiments of infantry. Under this terrific fire it was

impossible to make the works, so I ordered the "lie down" to be sounded until I could reconnoiter

in person.

After convincing myself that the works could not be captured--that I had all the information

the general desired from this reconnaissance--I ordered the men to rise and fall back in the

woods, which they did in good order, and held the woods till next morning, when the line entered

the place.

To Major Miller and Adjutant Ennis I am under obligations for their conduct and support at

the different times they participated in the above operations. Captains Minton and Bashore and

Lieutenant Holmes are particularly worthy of notice in the last action, and there is no officer of

my command but that in some way has rendered himself worthy of honorable mention at some

one of the affairs during our advance on Jackson.

Below I have the honor to submit the casualties of the command since leaving Oak Ridge.

I am, very respectfully, yours,

JNO. M. CORSE,

Colonel, Commanding.

Lieut. E. B. HARLAN,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS. DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE,

Memphis, Tenn., February 2, 1863.

[Maj. Gen. U.S. GRANT:]

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GENERAL: The Eighty-seventh Illinois Infantry will arrive here today. The Tenth Missouri

Cavalry is all here but one company. The Second Wisconsin Cavalry from Helena, and a

battalion First Missouri Cavalry are here. The Fifteenth Regulars from Columbus are here. The

First Regulars from Corinth are under orders, and will be here in a day or two. I have ordered the

Thirty-fourth Wisconsin (en route) to be stopped at Columbus, and that portion of Thirty-fifth

Iowa there to go to Tuttle, at Cairo. I think I shall send the Tenth Cavalry, Colonel Cornyn, to

Dodge, at Corinth, but Dodge is nearly starved for forage, and I may want the regiment here, for

I learn of something every day that confirms the indications that Van Dorn is ready to move on

this road as soon as these divisions of Logan's and Quinby's get away. Undoubted information of

yesterday says Van Dorn has returned from Tupelo, and moved across Yalabusha, at Grenada,

with considerable artillery, moving on railroad, which is running to Coffeeville. Repairs on

railroad were about complete to Oxford.

General Stanley reports to me to-day that a noted secessionist near his camp said yesterday

that no great resistance would be offered at Vicksburg, but that the rebel army would overrun

West Tennessee and Kentucky as soon as your forces were diverted down the river. I do not give

much credence to such a report, but I have little doubt Van Dorn, with all his cavalry and a

division of infantry, will move on this railroad. If he comes, I hope to make him sick of the

experiment.

Quinby seems averse to going down the river, and wished me to speak to you about it. He

must tell you his own reasons. I found, much to my surprise, yesterday, an order from your

headquarters directing Captain [Asher R.] Eddy to sell all the cotton in Government possession,

and it was advertised to be sold to-day. Believing you have not understood the matter fully, I

ordered a postponement of sale until you could investigate and decide. It will not do to sell the

cotton and pay to the owners 25 cents per pound, the price to be paid by speculators. If the

Government has any claim on the cotton, it owns its full value, If the owners can establish their

claims, it will not be for a fraction of the value, but for it all. Either the cotton is liable to

confiscation and belongs entirely to the Government, or it must all be given to the owners. 1

mean all the value of the cotton. Some of the claims have been established beyond cavil, and it

was to avoid any trouble to you that I have had the sale postponed. If the Government will make

a rule to buy all the cotton, taking it out of traders' hands entirely, then it will be fairly entitled to

what profit can be made between purchase and sale; but the seizure of the cotton gives the

Government no right to a profit or to take the profits by force out of the legitimate traders' hands.

Hoping you will soon be here to examine these matters in person, I am, most respectfully,

yours,

C. S. HAMILTON,

Major-General.

P. S.--Have just received a note from Hurlbut, saying he leaves Cairo for Memphis to-night.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLUMBUS,

February 3, 1863--6 a.m.

Maj. Gen. C. S. HAMILTON,

Commanding District of West Tennessee, Memphis, Tenn.:

Island No. 10 is attacked by rebel cavalry and artillery, numbering 3,000 or 4,000. W. C.

Hanford, executive officer U.S. gunboat New Era, reports so in person. One hundred and fifty

men of the Thirty-fifth Iowa leave immediately on tow-boat Stephen Bayard and 400 by steamer

Emma, to re-enforce the small garrison. I send also ammunition for the two guns reported as

serviceable on the island. Will you permit the withdrawal of our troops from Union City to take

the rebels in the rear? I want cavalry badly to occupy Hickman and Clinton. Can we not get

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them from Saint Louis? Another gunboat, in addition to the New Era, would be of great service

to prevent the occupation of the island by the rebels.

ASBOTH.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLUMBUS,

Columbus, Ky., February 5, 1863---2 p.m.

Maj. Gen. C. S. HAMILTON,

Commanding District of West Tennessee, Memphis, Tenn.:

Returned last night from Island No. 10. Was unable to find any trace of the rebel force

reported by the gunboat officer, William C. Hanford. Only small bands of rebel guerrillas are

swarming around.

I ordered that seven guns be immediately unspiked and properly remounted, for the defense

of the island, and balance, seventy-two guns, with carriages and other valuable ordnance stores,

be shipped to Memphis.

Colonel Bissell left yesterday on the Sam. Young, with a portion of the ordnance stores. The

rest will follow as soon as I can get from Memphis or Saint Louis a boat with a sufficiently

strong forecastle for the shipment.

Shall I send more guns from here also, beside the seventy-two above mentioned?

The Thirty-fifth Iowa is back, and already at Cairo, except two companies, left temporarily at

Island No. 10.

I have sent reports by Major [John R.] Edie and Colonel Bissell. Everything is right here. At

Fort Donelson the rebels were handsomely whipped, as telegraphed yesterday, by Major

[Thomas J.]Newsham. At Trenton were killed, wounded, and captured 34 of [W. A.] Dawson's

guerrilla band; 26 horses and 28 stand of arms taken.

Colonel Wood commanded our forces.

ASBOTH.

HDQRS. FISK'S DIV., Helena, Ark., February 10, 1863.

Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS, Saint Louis:

MY DEAR GENERAL: Your valued favor of the 3d instant is received. I thank you for its

kind words of encouragement, and your counsel touching prudence, courage, and faith.

Personally I was not at all pleased with the change, though temporarily, which has transferred me

from your command, yet I know it to be best that all the forces below Cairo be under one

command until the Mississippi River is again open to the commerce of the Northwest, and I wish

very much you had command of the down-river expedition. We require prudent heads in this

campaign. Unless caution prevails, the loss in life will be terrible. We ought not to be

slaughtered when a little time and strategy must give us every rebel stronghold between here and

New Orleans. I saw General Grant when he passed down, a few days since; he seems to

comprehend the great work before us. I hope he will receive the cordial co-operation of all his

subordinates, and that victory may be ours when again we "fall in" before the Gibraltar of

"Dixie."

Matters at Helena are considerably mixed. General Gorman by some means has led the

people to believe that he has been quite devoted to the cotton business. I am inclined to think he

is very much misrepresented in this matter. I fear his sons--both of them have resigned and gone

home-- have prejudiced the general by some imprudences. It is very difficult for a man of

General Gorman's temperament to get along smoothly with such a conglomeration as that of

Helena's military cotton and contraband population.

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I am sorry to see that certain correspondents for the papers at the North have written in such

strain about the last expedition up White River. It was not the fault of General Gorman that the

rebels had fled from Saint Charles and Devall's Bluff. If the rascals would not stay and be

whipped handsomely, we were not to blame. The joint expedition into Arkansas, as arranged by

Generals McClernand and Gorman and Admiral Porter, one party to go up the Arkansas and the

other one to go up the White River, was a good project beyond doubt, and had the water in the

Arkansas been of sufficient depth to float the iron-clads, and McClernand been enabled thereby

to go to Little Rock, the people would have said, "How admirably the expedition was arranged!

General Gorman has driven the rebels from White River right into General McClernand's trap!"

The water was not in the Arkansas. We became satisfied that there were no rebels in force above

Des Arc, and came back.

The satisfaction of knowing what was going on in the interior of this State, and making the

demonstration we did, was worth the cost.

General German's very peculiar manner and method of "doing things" has not made him

popular with the officers of this army, and they all, or nearly all, treat him as no superior should

be treated, however great his peculiarities. I have no trouble with the general. I will not have with

him or anybody else. Shall do all I can to sustain him in his movements against the rebels, even

though he does not do it just as I think I would do under the same circumstances. We are all

human, and miserable sinners at that. I desire to do my whole duty; will labor to learn, and will

ask wisdom from Him who holdeth the destinies of nations in His hands.

I have a fine division, composed of Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin troops; have four Iowa

infantry regiments--Twenty-fourth, Twenty-ninth, Thirty-third, and Thirty-sixth. My hands,

heart, and head are constantly employed. I am doing all I can to improve the sanitary condition

of the army and the town. If General Grant would give me the command of this post, I would

make a good effort at regeneration and purification. I fear a pestilence, unless "the powers that

be" move vigorously in reform.

I am, faithfully, your friend,

CLINTON B. FISK.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Memphis, Tenn., February 16, 1863.

Lieut. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

SIR: I have certain information that Van Dorn, with four brigades of mounted men,

commanded by [W. H.] Jackson, [R.] McCulloch, [J. W.] Whitfield, and [F. C.] Armstrong, with

twelve pieces of artillery and a heavy train, is moving by Burleson, in Franklin County,

Alabama, to the east of Bear Creek. I think he proposes to cross at Florence, and to remain in

Middle Tennessee and operate in rear of Rosecrans. I have telegraphed to General Rosecrans and

to the naval officer at Cairo to push a gunboat up.

As I am satisfied this will remove nearly all cavalry from my front, at the suggestion of

General Hamilton, I have ordered Grierson's brigade to cross the headwaters of the Tallahatchee

to the Yalabusha, by way of Pontotoc, cut the wires, destroy bridges, and demonstrate in that

neighborhood, while the Second Iowa Cavalry, Colonel Hatch, pushes night and day toward the

main road between Meridian and Vicksburg, if possible to destroy the bridge across Pearl River,

in rear of Jackson, and do as much damage as possible on that line, returning by the best course

they can make. It appears perilous, but I think it can be done and done with safety, and may

relieve you somewhat at Vicksburg. To cover this movement, I shall at the same time send Lee

toward Holly Springs, to go to the Tallahatchee or to threaten it sufficiently to make them burn

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the bridge, and then sweep round toward Panola and Hernando, enveloping [G. L.] Blythe's force

and driving them to the Nonconnah or into the swamp. Dodge's cavalry are in Alabama, hanging

around Van Dorn and de laying him by burning bridges in his front. They have taken several

prisoners right out of his column, which, by [reason] of the miserable roads, is very long.

I shall gradually move out the cavalry now here as soon as the roads permit, and concentrate

force enough to whip Van Dorn as he comes back, if he does come back. At present the roads are

horrible.

I desire by the expedition of Lee to ascertain the practicability of reaching the opening

through the Yazoo Pass, so as to be ready to clear your ground should you determine to land

there.

The city of Memphis has more iniquity in it than any place since Sodom, but certain

examples are being made which may do good. As soon as McPherson's corps leaves, I shall be

able to keep better order. Your obedient servant,

S. A. HURLBUT.

COLUMBUS, KY., March 4, 1863.

Major-General HURLBUT,

Comdg. Sixteenth Army Corps, Memphis, Tenn.:

I received from Fort Donelson to-day the following telegram:

I do not think this post is in danger. Van Dorn is about the mouth of Duck River, 40 miles

off.

A. C. HARDING,

Commanding.

To reach Donelson from that point the rebels would have to go back again to the divide ridge,

and thence follow a zigzag course, with great delay, as they cannot proceed along the river across

the many sloughs at present. My impression is, therefore, that Van Dorn will attempt to cross the

Tennessee to Huntingdon, &c., a la Forrest.

I direct Colonel Moore, at Union City, to send out scouting parties in that direction

frequently. Besides the Fortieth Iowa Regiment, I have sent no other troops away, but hold them

in readiness.

I communicate to General Sullivan above telegram.

ASBOTH.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Memphis, Tenn., March 14, 1863.

Lieut. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS, Assistant Adjutant-General:

SIR: Colonel Dougherty, at Paducah, having telegraphed that Fort Heiman was occupied by

rebel forces, I ordered General Asboth, with two regiments and a battery, to disperse any force

there before they obtained a lodgment. I have heard from him at Paducah on his way up. I am

informed by General Rosecrans that he does not think any serious movement is intended there,

but that our expedition will answer a good purpose.

Colonel Hatch, with Second Iowa Cavalry, destroyed the bridge across the Tallahatchee

thoroughly in the face of a considerable force of the rebel cavalry, without loss. Grierson started

from La Grange, and, by forced march, surprised [R. V.] Richardson's camp, near Covington,

killing 25 and capturing 68. The remainder took to the bushes. His camp and camp equipage

were burned. Lieutenant-Colonel Wallace, moving from Germantown for the same purpose,

captured Colonel [R. F.] Looney, Thirty-eighth Tennessee, 3 officers, and several men. Among

the number is the notorious Cushman, who is wounded in the arm.

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I have telegraphed to Saint Louis for 1,500 horses to remount the cavalry and get them into

condition for hard service. Lauman's division (Fourth) is now camped along the city lines, about

2 miles from courthouse. No special news of interest in this vicinity. I inclose copies of

telegrams which strongly indicate the abandonment of Vicksburg. I submit them for what they

are worth. It has been my opinion for some days that they will not risk a large army about

Vicksburg, and that you may expect, as soon as foothold for any large force is obtained on the

east side of Yazoo, that they will retire. Fifty desperate men with small boats, it appears to me,

might drop unperceived past Vicksburg to the month of Big Black, and pulling up that stream

through the swamps, now overflowed, could destroy the bridge over it. I do not think they dread

anything in that shape or from that direction, and suggest it at this distance to the consideration

of those who can judge better on the spot.

Your obedient servant,

S. A. HURLBUT.

HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES TROOPS,

Near Saint Genevieve, Mo., March 14, 1863.

ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL,

Headquarters General Grant's Army, before Vicksburg:

SIR: By orders, of which the inclosed is a copy, I am directed to proceed, on the arrival of

transports, to join the forces under Maj. Gen. U. S. Grant. This command consists of a little over

5,000 men, with one battery of rifled 6-pounders and two companies of cavalry, forming my

escort and provost guard. Capt. C. H. Dyer, assistant adjutant-general, who bears this

communication, will present you with the return for the last ten days, and give what other

information may be required. This command is part of the force which has during the past winter

been operating under Brigadier-General Davidson in Southeastern Missouri. It comprises the

whole of his First Division, under Brig. Gen. William P. Benton, five regiments and one battery,

and half his Second Division, three Iowa regiments, under Col. W. M. Stone, Twenty-second

Iowa. The whole will form what I suppose would be a small division in your army, but I do not

like to reorganize, because I would, in forming two brigades, be obliged to reduce General

Benton's command, and I prefer to wait till I am permanently assigned in your army. In the mean

time General Benton's division is thoroughly organized for any immediate service, as is also the

part of the division under Colonel Stone, which really consists of his original brigade. General

Benton's date is April 28, 1862; mine is March 7, 1862. The troops are in fine health and spirits,

and pleased with the prospect of serving under General Grant. Welfley's battery, First Missouri

Artillery, belongs to this command, but has been detached to Cape Girardeau. General Davidson

promised that it should be returned to me, but I think it doubtful whether I get it. I hope the

general will send orders where to report by the return of Captain Dyer.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. A. CARR.

LEBANON NO. 2, Tallahatchee River, Miss., March 25, 1863.

Brigadier-General Ross, Commanding Division:

GENERAL: In obedience to orders from Brigadier-General Quinby, communicated to me

through your headquarters, the steamers Citizen and Lebanon have been placed in readiness to

get under way for Helena to-morrow morning at daylight, and the detail of guards for each

steamer ordered and on board.

Will you allow me, general, to suggest that it is hardly prudent to separate this amount of

transportation from my brigade at present. I have just returned to my quarters from an interview

10

with Acting Commodore Foster and Captain Walke, senior officers of the naval depart merit of

this expedition. I am assured by both of them that unless they receive orders from Admiral

Porter, directing them to remain here and wait re-enforcements of additional iron-clads and

ammunition, they will weigh anchor for the Mississippi River, via Moon Lake, on the 1st

proximo, and quite probably before that date, and they have no expectation of receiving orders to

remain. In the event of their departure, I suppose the army will follow. The transports leaving

here to-morrow morning cannot make the round trip before the 6th of April under the most

favorable circumstances, and some of them will without any doubt put themselves in condition

not to return. My command now crowd the transports assigned me, and the sickness in my

brigade is fearfully increasing. It would be simply murdering my men to crowd them, as it would

be necessary to do should we be ordered away before the return of the boats, and then is it

probable that other transports will be sent into this expedition empty, to take the place of these

which are expected to return with other troops? It seems to me that every foot of transportation

now here should be retained until our situation is better known, or at least until our naval officers

receive orders, or decide to remain here without orders.

Nearly two hundred new-made [graves] at Helena contain the bodies of men of my command

who were murdered outright by crowding them into dirty, rotten transports, as closely as slaves

in the "middle passage." It was a crime against humanity and Heaven, the packing of our brave

soldiers on the White River expedition. You will, therefore, excuse me, general, if I earnestly

protest against any probable repetition of such an outrage upon the gallant men who confidently

believe that I will do all I can to insure their comfort and safety, without prejudice to the good

cause for which they will cheerfully fight.

The company from the Twenty-ninth Iowa, on the Luella, lost all their arms and clothing by

the sinking of that staunch vessel, and one of my best officers, Lieutenant Nash, will doubtless

die from injuries received thereby.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CLINTON B. FISK.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE,

Before Vicksburg, April 2, 1863.

Maj. Gen. STEPHEN A. HURLBUT, Comdg. Sixteenth Army Corps:

GENERAL: I understand that the Fourteenth, Twelfth, Eighth, and Thirty-fourth Iowa

Regiments are under orders to report to me. You may direct the Fourteenth to be left at Cairo,

and the Thirty-fifth, now at Cairo, to come here. The remainder of these regiments send here

also.

Very respectfully,

U.S. GRANT.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Memphis: Tenn., April 10, 1863.

Brig. Gen. W. S. SMITH, La Grange, Tenn.:

The time for our projected cavalry movement is rapidly approaching. General Dodge, in

connection with General Rosecrans, is about to move on Tuscumbia. After taking that place,

Rosecrans' cavalry will move rapidly to break the Georgia Central Railroad, under cover of my

infantry brigade at Tuscumbia, and the Marine Brigade, of Ellet, now on their way to report to

Dodge.

As soon as this movement is inaugurated, and the attention of the enemy drawn to that part of

our line, your three regiments of cavalry will strike out by the way of Pontotoc, breaking off

11

right and left, cutting both roads, destroying the wires, burning provisions, and doing all the

mischief they can, while one regiment ranges straight down to Selma or Meridian, breaking the

east and west road thoroughly, and sweeping back by Alabama. Rosecrans' cavalry will return

through North Alabama, and thus cut the road from Corinth a second time.

My present advices from Rosecrans are that about Wednesday of next week it will be

necessary for Dodge to move. I shall, therefore, expect your cavalry to be got into the best order

possible, both by grooming and care and by rest and feed. Let no exertion be spared in this

matter. I hope to have horses; if not, and there are supplies of horses in Grierson's regiment or

Prince's, have them appraised and bought in for the United States, and turned over to the Second

Iowa. Let no horses be sold or sent out of the command.

I shall send the Seventh Kansas on Sunday to Corinth. I have now 100 horses for them, and

want 60 more. I have telegraphed for Grierson to return at once, and expect him before

Wednesday. Let the horses be all carefully shod.

Final instructions as to the course, &c., will reach you in time.

As this, if accomplished, will be a great thing, I am specially desirous that nothing interfere

with the proper execution so far as the means in our power will admit. The corresponding

movements from this place and Germantown will be directed by myself.

Chalmers has only about 1,800 men and one battery; no infantry. They are at Panola and

Coldwater, near Senatobia. I have requested Prentiss to throw a force in his rear from Helena.

Hope he will do it.

Your obedient servant,

S. A. HURLBUT.

MEMPHIS, TENN., April 26, 1863.

Lieut. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of Tennessee:

SIR: I learn from Dodge that he occupied Tuscumbia on 24th, and proposed to take Florence

on 25th. Quite a brisk skirmish on Little Bear Creek. Loss not reported, if any. Johnston sent

word to troops at Tuscumbia that he could not re-enforce. Great consternation from the belief

that Dodge is the head of a column to attack Johnston in flank and rear.

Colonel Streight pushes out to-day on his trip. Dodge feels confident of his position.

The column under General Smith dispersed Chalmers, capturing many small-arms,

principally shot-guns, 230 horses and mules, and a number of wagons of provisions and supplies.

Our troops are now all at their stations. Nothing further from Grierson.

The Second Iowa Cavalry is reported to have destroyed barracks, stores, and railroad at

Okolona and Tupelo and at other points. They are not in yet, and may have some trouble, but

Hatch will take care of himself and his men. Everything, so far as I can learn, is moving well on

this line, though Chalmers may make a dash to pass our railroad or capture a train. The men are

in splendid health. Hospitals much reduced, and room enough for patients from below.

Your obedient servant,

S. A. HURLBUT.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Memphis, Tenn., April 28, 1863.

Lieut. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS, Asst. Adjt. Gen. Milliken's, La.:

Asboth reported night before last that Cape Girardeau, now garrisoned by McNeil, was

attacked by Marmaduke. I directed him to send two regiments of infantry there from Columbus,

with a section of artillery, and squadron of Fourth Missouri Cavalry, which has been done. They

are to return to Columbus as soon as troops come down from Saint Louis.

12

I am now temporarily mounting the Sixth Iowa Infantry on horses and mules captured in the

Chalmers expedition, and shall send them, with the Second Iowa Cavalry and Fourth Illinois, to

meet Grierson on his return, and disperse any force that may be gathering to annoy or impede

him. Grierson has the Sixth and Seventh Illinois, and is, I think, strong enough to come through.

Loring has moved to Grenada from Greenwood, but, I think, not in time to interfere with

Grierson.

Your obedient servant,

S. A. HURLBUT.

CAMP OPPOSITE GRAND GULF, May 6, 1863--12 m.

Major-General BLAIR:

DEAR GENERAL: I sent you orders to follow us, leaving two regiments at Richmond and

two at Milliken's Bend, to be relieved by others from Memphis, when these regiments are to

follow and overtake us. General Grant has ordered one brigade of McArthur's division, also, to

remain, and the other to join him. The steamboats here are poor concerns, except the Forest

Queen, and the ferrying across will be a slow process. I would not be surprised if you would

overhaul us before we are all across.

General Grant wants the commanding officer at Milliken's Bend, General Sullivan, I

suppose, to call in all the troops on this road, and occupy the road from my old headquarters to a

point below Warrenton. The road will need a good deal of work. You may send in to Milliken's

Bend all at Richmond, and see that all detachments of my corps either keep along ahead of you,

or return to Milliken's Bend, to be put on that road.

Steamboats, after passing us over to Grand Gulf, will run up to get supplies there, viz, on the

west bank, below Warrenton. You will find plenty of forage along this road, especially this end

of it, viz, from Perkins' to Hard Times. Your map is correct as far as Perkins' place, which is at

the lower end of Bayou Vidal. From Perkins' to this point the road is well marked, following

Lake Saint Joseph, along which you will find some magnificent plantations. At Dr. Bowers' you

can send across the lake in a boat, and procure plenty of beef, hogs, and sheep. Corn is to be

found in all the stables, and from Dr. Bowers' to this place there is growing wheat, oats, and

corn, on which you can feed your horses. The whole distance from Milliken's Bend to Hard

Times plantation is 63 miles; road cannot be mistaken;, better at this end than at yours.

Steele overtook his command, and rode in about an hour ago, and has gone back a mile or so

to give the necessary orders for embarkation. I will cross over to-night, and will try and send you

back all possible orders and information; but in case of accident follow us to Grand Gulf, and

farther, according to the news that meets you there.

Yesterday Grant was at Hankinson's Ferry, 18 miles out of Grand Gulf, on the south side of

Big Black, the enemy facing him on the north bank. No fight since the one near Port Gibson. The

Fourth Iowa Cavalry has just reported to me. It will cross over and join Grant. The other

regiment will remain under General Sullivan, or commanding officer at Milliken's Bend. I am

deeply grieved at the loss of the tug with her precious cargo. We have picked up the barges, and

will save some provisions, but none of the reporters "floated." They were so deeply laden with

weighty matter that they must have sunk. In the language of our Dutch captain, "What a pity for

religion is this war!" but in our affliction we can console ourselves with the pious reflection that

there are plenty more left of the same sort.

Don't hurry your march too much, for I feel certain it will take some days to pass over the

troops now here, and the wagons. Try and arrive in good, compact order, and with as much

provision and ammunition left as possible.

13

Grant reports plenty of meat and corn on the other side, but salt, coffee, sugar, and bread are

out of the question save in our commissariat.

Knowing, as you must, the actual condition of things behind you, give orders or do all you

can to expedite the new line proposed from my old headquarters to yours at Biggs', and so

around to a point below Warrenton. I want my chief quartermaster and commissary to join me by

that route. You will be delighted with the country along Bayou Saint Joseph. On leaving

Perkins', send a detachment of cavalry with a staff officer ahead to ascertain [what there is to

take you across. If you] be delayed, camp back about Routh's place, which is magnificent, with

plenty of corn-fodder and everything. The house and farm have been plundered sadly, but the

planters had all gone off, and no one left to protect them.

I shall begin to look for you on the third day from this, unless we move far inland. Grant is

now 18 miles northeast of Grand Gulf.

I will keep in mind where you are, and await your junction with anxiety.

With great respect, your friend,

W. T. SHERMAN.

CAYUGA, MISS., May 11, 1863.

Maj. Gen. JOHN A. MCCLERNAND, Comdg. Thirteenth Army Corps:

The battery you were expected to send to Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman, commanding Fifteenth

Army Corps, in pursuance of the directions of the general commanding, of this date, was the

First Iowa Battery, Captain Griffiths commanding, formerly with General Sherman. You will,

therefore, order the First Iowa Battery, Captain Griffiths commanding, to report immediately to

Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman. The one you directed to report to him will be returned to you.

By order of Maj. Gen. U.S. Grant:

JNO. A. RAWLINS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

JACKSON, MISS., May 14, 1863.

Maj. Gen. WILLIAM T. SHERMAN, Comdg. Fifteenth Army Corps:

Designate a brigade from your command to guard the city. Collect stores and forage, and

collect all public property of the enemy. The division from which such brigade may be selected

will be the last to leave the city. You will direct them, therefore, to commence immediately the

effectual destruction of the river railroad bridge and the road as far east as practicable, as well as

north and south. The Fourth Iowa Cavalry and a brigade of infantry should be sent east of the

river, with instructions for the cavalry to go on east as far as possible.

Troops going east of the river should burn all C. S. A. cotton and stores they find.

U.S. GRANT.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Memphis, Tenn., May 25, 1863.

Maj. Gen. U.S. GRANT, in the Field, Vicksburg:

GENERAL: We in the rear, and the country behind us, are watching with unspeakable pride

the glorious track of the Army of the Tennessee. Every sort of congratulation for the glory

already won, and the crowning victory to come. I cannot, with business, fashion, as yet, in the

reality of the past and anticipation of the future. [Sic.]

I send the Luminary, with a full cargo of ammunition, reducing me to 100 rounds per man. I

hope it will not be needed for Vicksburg, but it will be in the future.

14

Johnston has called off all troops from above. Anticipating this, I had ordered Colonel Hatch,

of the Second Iowa Cavalry, to take all the mounted men outside of Memphis, and look up

Chalmers. I have just heard from their first interview. Hatch found him in Senatobia swamp.

Charged at once; killed 9, and drove the others into Panola, across the Tallahatchee, except such

as fled toward Helena. Chalmers is reported to have had 2,000 regulars and 1,000 conscripts.

Hatch has 1,700--1,200 cavalry and 500 mounted infantry--four mounted howitzers, and one

section of 6-pounders. My cavalry will be at work all the time as far as I can reach.

As yet I have not called up the cavalry from Helena., as Prentiss has some fears for his place.

The entire line here is now quiet.

Your obedient servant,

S. A. HURLBUT.

MEMPHIS, May 29, 1863--8.30 a.m.

Brigadier-General ASBOTH:

Send, with all possible dispatch, the Third Minnesota, Fortieth Iowa, Twenty-fifth and

Twenty-seventh Wisconsin, by steamer to Vicksburg, reporting here for orders. Let them take

five days' rations, 6 wagons to a regiment, and 100 rounds per man. No tents except shelter tents.

Reduce baggage to the minimum.

Abandon Fort Heiman. Send the One hundred and eleventh Illinois to Paducah or Columbus.

Bring away all Government property or stores worth moving. Send all companies of Second,

Fourth, and Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry by land through Covington. Let them rendezvous at Fort

Pillow. Heavy baggage and stores to follow by steamer, under light guard. You must use the

Fourth Missouri and Fifteenth Kentucky for cavalry duty. Send the remainder of Thirty-fourth

Wisconsin to Memphis. Let all this be done promptly.

S. A. HURLBUT.

HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITIONARY CORPS,

Drumgould's Bluff, Miss., June 2, 1863.

General U.S. GRANT, Comdg. Dept. of the Tennessee:

GENERAL: Since seeing you on yesterday, the Fifth Illinois Cavalry, 750 strong, have

reached this place, bringing with them carbines for the Fourth Iowa Cavalry, now here. The

Fifth Illinois is armed with carbines, and also the detachment of the Second Illinois, now here.

This gives about 1,200 well-armed cavalry. Colonel Johnson believes, With this force, properly

supported with infantry and artillery, he can destroy the railroad bridge over the Big Black north

of Canton. The plan is to move the whole cavalry force toward Mechanicsburg to-morrow

morning by the three roads I pointed out to you, the main body moving by the central road, with

flanking parties on the right and left hand roads, and at the same time to send Mower's brigade,

with a full battery of artillery, by the Yazoo River to Satartia, to land at that point and push to

Mechanicsburg. This will compel [W.] Adams' cavalry, the only force on this side of Black

River, to cross the Big Black River at Kibby's or Cox's Ferry in order to escape capture, and

prevent them from recrossing that river, while Johnson with his entire force can push forward

and destroy the bridge with little risk or hazard; nor will Mower's brigade, provided with

transports at Satartia convoyed by a gunboat, run any risk, especially if he keep out a few cavalry

on the different roads to advise him of the enemy's movements. As for the cavalry force of

Johnson, it cannot be endangered, as there are so many roads by which he can retreat, and the

enemy having no cavalry force sufficient to cut him off from all of them.

I think this plan is judicious and feasible, and, if you will permit it, I will issue the necessary

orders, and leave one brigade of troops at this point for greater security during the absence of

15

Mower's brigade, and with the balance of my command return to your lines in rear of Vicksburg

to-morrow. It will be necessary to send Mower the other two sections of Spoor's battery (Iowa

battery), of which he now has one, or I can give him a full battery from those now with me. I

respectfully submit this plan and await your decision.

Respectfully,

FRANK P. BLAIR.

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 13.

LA GRANGE, TENN.,

June 6, 1863.

I. Col. James I. Gilbert, commanding Twenty-seventh Iowa Infantry Volunteers, will at once

proceed with his command, with camp and garrison equipage and transportation, to Moscow,

Tenn., and take post there for the purpose of guarding railroad. He will march across the country,

and, on arriving there, will put out detachments to guard the bridges over Wolf Creek, one-half

mile west, and over Grissom's Creek, 5 miles west of Moscow, keeping open communications

with the detachments.

II. Col. James I. Gilbert, Twenty-seventh Iowa Infantry Volunteers, will turn over to Col.

James M. True, commanding Third Brigade, the refugee fund in his possession, collected by him

at Jackson, Tenn., taking duplicate receipts therefor, one copy of which he will retain, and the

other forward to headquarters, left wing, Sixteenth Army Corps.

By order of James M. True, colonel, commanding brigade:

E. R. WILEY, JR.,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

GENERAL ORDERS, No. 12.

HDQRS. LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH A. C.,

La Grange, Tenn., June 9, 1863.

I. The cavalry of this command is temporarily organized as follows:

First Brigade, Colonel McCrillis, Third Illinois Cavalry, commanding.--Third Illinois

Cavalry, Sixth Illinois Cavalry, and Ninth Illinois Cavalry.

Second Brigade, Col. Edward Hatch, Second Iowa Cavalry, commanding.--Second Iowa

Cavalry, Third Michigan Cavalry, and First West Tennessee Cavalry.

Third Brigade, Colonel Cornyn, Tenth Missouri Cavalry, commanding.--Tenth Missouri

Cavalry, Seventh Kansas Cavalry, battalion Fifth Ohio Cavalry, and battalion Fifteenth Illinois

Cavalry.

Fourth Brigade, Lieutenant-Colonel Meek, Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, commanding.--

Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, detachment Sixth Illinois Cavalry, detachment Seventh Illinois

Cavalry, and Second West Tennessee Cavalry.

II. The First, Second, and Fourth Brigades will constitute the First Division, under command

of Col. J. K. Mizner, chief of cavalry of left wing, Sixteenth Army Corps.

III. Colonel Cornyn, Tenth Missouri Cavalry, with the Third Brigade, will report to

Brigadier-General Dodge, as heretofore.

By order of Maj. Gen. R. J. Oglesby:

S. WAIT,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

CAMP, Walnut Hills, June 16, 1863--8 p.m.

Lieut. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS,

16

Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of the Tennessee:

SIR: Last night, in company with Colonel Wilson, I rode up to Snyder's Bluff, and this

morning examined the line of pits and batteries in course of construction. They appear to me well

adapted to the end in view, and will enable the two divisions of Kimball and Smith to hold any

three coming from the north and northeast. I examined, in company with Generals Washburn,

Kimball, and Smith, also Colonel Wilson, the valley of the Skillet-Goliath, and have advised that

General Parke dispose his force along that valley, its center near the church at Milldale, left near

Snyder's, and right up toward Templeton, where I have a strong picket. General Parke had not

arrived at the hour of my starting back (4 p.m.), but I saw steamboats coming, which I think

contained his troops. The accounts of the enemy brought in from the front were very conflicting,

and my inference was that Loring is feeling his way cautiously down with cavalry, and a

moderate force of infantry, as far as Post Oak Ridge. It seems the cavalry pickets drew in from

that point last night, but General Washburn assured me he would replace them to-day. The

Fourth Iowa Cavalry have moved, by my orders, to Wixon's, with orders to watch the approaches

from Bush's and Birdsong Ferries. With arrangements now completed, the enemy cannot come

down the Valley road or the Ridge road via Snyder's. If he comes, he must come across the head

of Clear Creek, debouching near Marshall's. That ground cannot well be obstructed, but it is

advantageous to us, and could be rendered more so by constructing two or three detached forts:

one near Marshall's, another at the point where the Bridgeport road leaves the Benton road, and

another intermediate. If you deem it prudent, I will cause the ground to be more closely

examined, and works laid off and begun. As you know, my corps has done much labor, but I will

do anything and everything in human power to achieve final success.

I am, with great respect, your obedient servant,

W. T. SHERMAN.

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 135.

HDQRS. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Camp near Bear Creek, June 26, 1863.

I. The Fourth Iowa Cavalry will take post on Bear Creek where the Birdsong road crosses it,

and will picket at Hill's, and watch the ferries at Birdsong and Jones', with a cavalry patrol up the

valley of Bear Creek, to communicate with General Parke at Oak Ridge post-office.

II. General Parke will keep a cavalry regiment at the point where the lower Benton road

crosses Bear Creek, with a picket at the forks of the road, and a patrol connecting with the

pickets of the Fourth Iowa at Hill's. All cavalry pickets must keep their horses saddled and their

weapons well in hand, and a surprise will be certain ruin to the officer in charge. These pickets

will be carefully instructed, and the commanders of the cavalry regiments will be responsible.

III. General Tuttle will hold the ridge from Trible's down to Young's, with a regiment of

infantry and section of artillery in the woods back of Young's, so as to have a full view of the

fields down the valley of Bear Creek.

IV. General McArthur will hold the ridge from Straus' back to McCall's, with a brigade on

picket near Fox's. This brigade will send daily and nightly patrols down to the ford at

Messinger's. All roads leading from Black River back to the points named will be obstructed by

felling trees at the narrowest points, and division commanders will keep their pioneer companies

and working parties employed all the time; an hour's time now is worth a day after an enemy

makes his appearance. General McArthur will relieve his brigade at Bear Creek Crossing as soon

as General Tuttle places a regiment at Young's.

V. General Parke will hold Oak Ridge, from Nelly's to the post-office, with [W. S.] Smith's

division, and will order the Milldale forces to be prepared on the shortest notice to move to

17

McCall's, to which end he will cause a working party, with an intelligent staff officer, to repair

the road from Milldale to Albertson's and Harris'; thence across the valley of Clear Creek to the

school-house, Wixon's, and McCall's. This will give three good roads from Haynes' Bluff to our

key-point at McCall's and Nelly's.

VI. All commanders will aim to keep on hand from three to five days' rations, and at least

100 rounds of cartridges; wagons, as a general rule, should be kept back of Clear Creek, camps

encumbered as little as possible, and troops well at hand. The vast importance of events, now

drawing to some conclusion, bids us guard against supposed combinations of the enemy rather

than the mere appearances. If Johnston attempts to relieve Vicksburg, which he is impelled to do

by honor and the clamor of the Southern public, he will feign at many points, but attack with

vehemence at some one. Let him appear at any point, he must be fought desperately.

Re-enforcements must not be clamored for, but each commander will fight back, along the

ridge he is guarding, stubbornly, reporting facts and not opinions, that the general in command

may draw his own conclusions. The general in command will be found habitually on the ridge

near McCall's, and, in case of temporary absence, will leave word and orders with a staff officer

at his bivouac. Let all guards and sentinels be carefully instructed, all wandering about stopped

and all citizens found away from their homes be arrested and the rear, sent to Haynes' Bluff, or

Vicksburg.

VII. General Osterhaus, acting in concert with this force, will hold the bridge, and keep his

division well in hand near Bovina, prepared to act decisively on intelligence or the sounds of

battle in the direction of Tiffin's or Fox's plantations.

By order of W. T. Sherman, major-general commanding:

L. M. DAYTON,

Captain and Aide-de-Camp.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Memphis, Tenn., June 28, 1863.

Lieut. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS, A. A. G.,

Department of the Tennessee, in the Field:

COLONEL: The rise in the Tennessee, caused by recent rains, and the probable advance of

Rosecrans on Bragg, have caused the recall of the flying parties north of me and west of the

Tennessee.

It is reported on pretty good authority that Marmaduke has occupied the crossings of the

L'Anguille River, 35 miles northwest of Helena, and that Price's whole force from Jacksonport is

on its way down, threatening Helena, but, as I think, to come in at or near Milliken's Bend, and

unite with Pemberton's force, escaping from Vicksburg by skiffs, &c., which my scouts inform

me they have prepared for effecting a crossing, joining Johnston.

One of our best spies, just from Jackson, reports that unless Johnston is re-enforced by Kirby

Smith and Price, he will not be in condition to attack General Grant.

The feeling throughout Mississippi is despondent, and they all talk of the line of the

Tombigbee River as the next last ditch.

Vicksburg and Port Hudson seem to be given up by everybody. Nothing now looks dark

except the movement of Lee into Maryland and Pennsylvania. This would seem, from the papers,

to be in very heavy force, and may be productive of very serious consequences.

It is affirmed by the rebels at Jackson that a large part of Hunter's South' Carolina forces are

with Banks.

18

The damage done by the recent cavalry movement of Mizner has been very serious, and

deprived Johnston of supplies, which are limited enough. The Mississippi militiamen do not

respond well to the urgent calls for them.

I am delayed in striking for Okolona for want of proper ammunition for the revolving rifles

of Third Michigan and Second Iowa. That which has been furnished is too large, and bursts the

barrels. I hope to have it by the time the roads and rivers will permit.

Will you do me the favor of requesting Major-General Washburn to obtain and send forward

reports from my division with you?

Everything is quiet here, my lines not interrupted, and no force nearer than Ruggles at

Okolona. I learn from spies that a heavy force, under General Sherman, moved out to look for

Johnston, but hear of no results.

I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. A. HURLBUT.

GENERAL ORDERS, No. 49.

HDQRS. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Camp at Bear Creek, June 29, 1863.

The following modifications of existing orders are made and will be executed at once:

I. General Osterhaus will continue, as heretofore, to hold the fortified position on Black

River, at the railroad bridge, with patrols and guards, watching the river below as far as

Baldwin's, and up as far as Bridgeport; his reserves at Clear Creek, near Bovina.

II. General McArthur will occupy Tiffin in force, with guards toward the Messinger ford,

connecting with Osterhaus on the Bridgeport road, and his main guards occupying the main ridge

up as far as Brant's.

III. Major-General Parke will leave a small guard at Milldale and Templeton's, sufficient to

hold those points, and move all the troops of the Ninth Army Corps to the east side of Clear

Creek, connecting his guards at Brant's with McArthur's, his center near Wixon's and his guards

connecting with General W. S. Smith's, near Mrs. Nelly's.

IV. General Tuttle will hold his present position on the spur leading from McCall's to

Markham's and Young's, and will entrench a position back of Trible's.

V. General W. S. Smith will hold as now his position at Oak Ridge Post-Office, with guards

forward on the two Benton roads, and his right connecting with General Parke, at Mrs. Nelly's.

General Smith, in connection with General Washburn, will effectually blockade all roads and

paths coming from the north and lying between the ridge road and Yazoo Valley road.

VI. General Washburn will hold the fortified position at Haynes' Bluff, with Kimball's

division, and will continue to strengthen the lines on the north front. That being our strongest

front, we should invite attack in that quarter.

VII. This disposition of forces makes a connected line from the railroad bridge to Haynes'

Bluff, by Tiffin, Wixon's, McCall's, Nelly's, and Oak Ridge. Each corps and division commander

will proceed to entrench a position near his key-point, sufficient for two batteries and one

brigade, commanding water, and looking to the east and north. All roads to the rear should be

improved; a double track for wagons made by opening fences and trimming out woods. Lateral

roads should also be looked to, to facilitate concentration and lateral movements. Roads to the

front should be obstructed, except such as are necessary for our guards and our own use. The

commanding general, after careful personal inspection, pronounces the points from which we

have most reason to apprehend danger, to be the two fords at Messenger's, and about a mile

below Birdsong, Wixon's, and Nelly's are the best points for concentration, and the ridges by

Fox's and Markham's the best lines of operation.

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VIII. All the cavalry not absolutely needed for orderlies and patrols will be massed under

command of Colonel Bussey, Third Iowa, on Bear Creek, from Young's up to Harris', and is

charged specially to watch the lower Benton road and the ford below Birdsong.

IX. All commanders of corps and divisions, and the chief of cavalry, will report by letter or

staff officer daily to the commanding general at his bivouac near Tuttle's.

By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman:

[L. M. DAYTON,]

Aide-de-Camp

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 147.

HDQRS. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Camp near Baker's Creek

( Champion's Hill), Miss., July 24, 1863.

I. 1. Lieut. Col. J. Condit Smith will proceed to Messinger's Bridge, on Big Black, and

prepare for the crossing of this corps to the west bank during to-morrow. He will see that the

bridge is kept clear, and that all wagons are moved on the west bank so as to leave the road open.

2. He will call upon the commanding officer there for a sufficient detail to guard the bridge

and to carry out this order. He will construct in the cornfield on the east bank a large corral, in

which to collect horses, mules, &c, now in the possession of soldiers and officers belonging to

this army, which have been plundered and taken from the inhabitants of the country.

3. He will appoint suitable officers or agents of the quartermaster's department to take, by

force if necessary, all horses ridden by any officer or soldier of this army not entitled by law to

be mounted, and collect out of the wagons all articles of furniture, chairs, tables, books, papers,

&c.--anything not belonging to the usual equipment of an officer or soldier. He will take steps to

do this effectually and expeditiously, so as not to delay the passage of the bridge by the troops.

Officers having escorts, mounted orderlies, or servants, will keep them near their persons, or, if

required to detach them, will give them a written paper designating their office. Such horses will

not be disturbed, but all else will be taken, and the horses, mules, &c., turned into the corral for

safe-keeping.

4. A board of survey, to consist of Colonel Walcutt, Forty-sixth Ohio; Major Giesy, Fortysixth

Ohio; and Captain Harland, Sixth Iowa, will assemble at the corral thus provided near the

bridge at 8 a.m., July 26, to hear and determine all rights to horses, mules, or other property

claimed as private, and their decision shall be final, and property thus pronounced by said board

of survey as private shall be restored to the claimants, and the remainder will be taken

possession of by the quartermaster and properly branded and accounted for. A schedule or

inventory thereof will be made out and filed at these headquarters, and the property will be taken

up on the quarterly returns and accounted for as if purchased. Should useless property be thus

acquired, the same board of survey may order it burned, or sent to Vicksburg for sale for the

benefit of the United States.

5. Should sick men be conveyed in carriages, buggies, or vehicles other than the usual army

wagons or ambulances, they must be taken out, and the carriages, buggies, &c., disposed of

according to this order, and colonels and surgeons of regiments will send back promptly to

Messinger's their proper ambulances, to take to camp the sick thus conveyed. No excuse will be

received for the passage of any unauthorized vehicle until its title is ascertained in the manner

herein set forth.

By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman:

R. M. SAWYER,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

20

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 158.

HDQRS. SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Vicksburg, Miss., August 3, 1863.

VII. Col. Alexander Chambers, commanding Third Brigade, Sixth Division, will order the

Thirteenth Regiment Iowa Infantry, under command of Col. John Shane, to embark on the

steamer Champion No. 3, and proceed at 4 o'clock to-morrow morning to Yazoo City, under

convoy of the U.S. S. Rattler, to occupy that place during the attempt to raise the vessel De Kalb,

and to render the navy such assistance as may be necessary. Ten days' rations and 100 rounds of

ammunition per man will be taken. The selection of this [regiment.] is made on account of its

discreet and competent commander.

By order of Major-General McPherson:

WM. T. CLARK,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

CAMP ON BIG BLACK RIVER, August 4, 1863.

Lieut. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS,

Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of the Tennessee, Vicksburg, Miss.:

SIR: I have the honor herewith to transmit for the action of the general-in-chief the

proceedings of a general court martial in the case of Private James O] Tebow, Sergeant [Henry]

Blanck, and Captain [William B.] Keeler, of Company A, Thirty-fifth Iowa. These constitute one

case, all involving the burning of a cotton-gin during our march from Jackson back to our camps

on Big Black.

The amount of burning, stealing, and plundering done by our army makes me ashamed of it. I

would quit the service if I could, because I fear that we are drifting to the worst sort of

vandalism. I have endeavored to repress this class of crime, but you know how difficult it is to

fix the guilt among the great mass of all army. In this case I caught the man in the act. He is

acquitted because his superior officer ordered it. The superior officer is acquitted because, I

suppose, he had not set the fire with his own hands, and thus you and I and every commander

must go through the war justly chargeable with crimes at which we blush.

I should have executed the soldier on the spot, and would have been justified, but he pleaded

his superior orders, and now a volunteer court-martial, tainted with the technicalities of our old

civil courts, absolves the officer on the old pleas, good when all men were held responsible alone

for the acts done by their own hands. I believe there is a remedy; General Grant can stamp the act

as a crime, and can pronounce the officer unworthy a commission in the Army of the United

States. This will in a measure relieve our General Government of the obloquy attached to such

acts of vandalism, and this would form a good occasion for a general order announcing to all that

our province is to maintain good law, and not to break it. The burning of this building in no way

aided our military plans. No enemy was within 50 miles. A major riding behind his regiment is

not the man to know the policy of the General Government of the United States. I have issued

orders again and again on this subject, but our commands change so often that time is not

afforded to prohibit all sorts of misdemeanors to each new command, nor is it necessary. This

major had no reason to presume that he, in the presence of his regimental, brigade, and division

commanders, should judge of the policy of the Government, and I was close at hand and he knew

it. He knew that he had no right to order this burning, or, if ignorant, he is Unworthy a

commission.

21

I ask that he be dismissed summarily and in disgrace. Not that I would visit upon him

undeserved punishment, but that the United States authorities should wash their hands of the

obloquy attached to such wanton acts of destruction.

I am, &c.,

W. T. SHERMAN.

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 156.

HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Camp near Big Black, August 6, 1863.

I. The brigade of Colonel Sanford, of the Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, will move

to Oak Ridge Post-Office and take post there, taking tents, sick, and all its transportation,

General Ewing will also designate a four-gun battery to accompany this brigade. The

commanding officer of this brigade will make his morning reports to, and receive instructions, as

heretofore, from, his division commander.

II. The cavalry of this corps, viz, the Third and Fourth Iowa and Fifth Illinois, under the

command of Colonel Winslow, of the Fourth Iowa, will start on Monday next, provided with

four days' rations, and completely equipped in all respects for service, on an expedition

concerning which the commanding officer will receive minute and full instructions. The corps

quartermaster, Lieut. Col. J. Condit Smith, will turn over to the brigade quartermaster of Colonel

Winslow the sum of $3,000 for the use of this expedition, taking receipts therefor.

By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman:

R. M. SAWYER,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HDQRS. FIFTEENTH A. C., Camp on Big Black, August 8, 1863.

Col. E. F. WINSLOW, Fourth Iowa Cavalry:

SIR: In pursuance of Special Orders, No. 156, of the 6th instant, you will take command of

the cavalry forces designated in these orders, and start on the 10th instant for the north. You will

strike for the lower Benton road, and follow it to Mechanicsburg and thence to Yazoo City.

There you will find a gunboat and a supply of provisions, with which you can replenish. After a

short rest, keeping very quiet as to your destination, proceed to Lexington, and thence strike the

Great Central Railroad, and ascertain, if possible, if the locomotives and cars belonging to the

road are still above Grenada. At our last accounts there were between Grenada and Water Valley

an immense number of locomotives (70) and nearly 500 cars. If you find any locomotives below

Grenada, you will endeavor to have them and all cars sent up to and above Grenada, and you will

proceed to that place with your cavalry. General Grant has ordered a force from Memphis to

meet you at or near Grenada. Communicate with them as soon as possible, and with your joint

forces use all possible efforts to get these cars and locomotives into Memphis. I take it for

granted that parties are now employed in repairing the track out from Memphis, and that you will

find everything done on that end of the road. You know that we have so crippled the road from

Canton, south, that no railroad stock can be carried off by the enemy, and, therefore, we have no

interest in destroying it, and, therefore, you will confine your labors and efforts to save it by

moving it toward and into Memphis. You will find plenty of engineers and conductors whom

you can employ, or, if necessary, use force to compel them to work their engines and trains.

I am satisfied all of Jackson's cavalry is at or near Brandon, east of the Pearl. If any

detachments have been made, they are toward Natchez. The Memphis forces will, of course,

drive out of that neighborhood all of Chalmers' men and other detachments of guerrillas more

intent on collecting conscripts than in fighting. No matter which force you meet, attack promptly

22

and resolutely, and so handle your forces that they cannot count your numbers. Do not stay in

Grenada, but occupy the bank of the Yalabusha, the other side of Grenada., till you are in

connection with the Memphis forces, after which act according to your judgment. You carry

money with you, as it is now to the interest of our Government that all plundering and pillaging

should cease. Impress this upon your men from the start, and let your chief quartermaster and

commissary provide liberally and fairly for the wants of your command by paying. Union people

and the poorest farmers, without being too critical as to politics, should be paid for their corn,

bacon, beef, and vegetables. But where the larger planters and farmers have an abundance to

spare, you can take of the surplus, giving in all such cases a simple receipt, signed by your chief

quartermaster and commissary; also, when your horses break down, you can take a remount,

exchanging the broken-down animals, and giving a certificate of the transaction, fixing the cash

difference in value to boot. Deal firmly but fairly with the inhabitants. I am satisfied a change of

feeling is now going on in this State, and we should encourage it. Much importance is attached to

this branch of the subject, and you will see that every officer and man is informed of it. Punish

on the spot and with rigor any wanton burning of houses or property without your specific

orders. If at Grenada you find the Memphis force fully competent to the task of saving the

railroad stock enumerated, you can return via Yazoo City, but if there be any doubt, remain with

them and go on into Memphis and return to my command by the river. On your application, the

quartermaster, Captain Eddy, will furnish boats.

Report to me by letter as often as possible, either by the route you go or around by way of

Memphis. I inclose you the best map we are able to compile; add to it as you progress, and on

your return I shall expect it to be well filled with roads and names of localities not now on it.

With great respect,

W. T. SHERMAN.

BEAZOS SANTIAGO,

November 5, 1863.

Major THOMPSON,

Twentieth Iowa:

MAJOR: As early in the morning as the wind will permit, you will proceed with your

regiment, on board the schooner Emma Amelia, to Point Isabel, and occupy that place. You will

secure your position by strong pickets, and use every precaution to prevent surprise, collecting

all possible information of the enemy, and send the same to these headquarters. In order to keep

up communication with this island, Major Carpenter, assistant quartermaster, will furnish a small

boat and oars, to be kept under your charge. You will treat the people kindly, excepting those

against whom you may have positive information or suspicions of communicating with or aiding

the enemy. All such you will take prisoners.

Collect all the means of transportation, horses, mules, cattle, and such property as may be

useful or necessary for the public service, and have the same turned over to the proper officers.

You will, under no circumstances, permit thieving, pillaging, or any depredations on the part of

your troops, but will be careful to maintain proper discipline among them. There is a quantity of

commissary stores on board the boat, for which you will cause your quartermaster to receipt to

Capt. E. M. Emerson, commissary of subsistence of the division.

If all your command cannot be placed on the boat at once, you will use all possible dispatch

in returning the boat and carrying over the rest, and, as soon as all are over, return the boat to

Major Carpenter, assistant quartermaster.

You will be very economical of the water you may find on the island, as it will be very

scarce.

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By order of Maj. Gen. N. J. T. Dana:

WM. HYDE CLARK,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

BRAZOS SANTIAGO, November 5, 1863.

Brig. Gen. WILLIAM VANDEVER,

Commanding First Brigade:

GENERAL: The Twentieth Iowa Infantry, Major Thompson commanding, has been ordered

to proceed at an early hour in the morning to Point Isabel.

The major-general commanding directs that you move with your brigade at daylight in the

morning to the point on the Rio Grande where the road from Boca Chica to Brownsville

approaches nearest to or strikes the Rio Grande. It will be unnecessary to leave any troops at

Boca Chica, and the regiment now there (Thirty-fourth Iowa, supposed to be) will be moved

forward also.

You will collect all means of transportation, horses, mules, cattle, or whatever may be

necessary or useful for the public service, but will treat the people you may meet kindly,

allowing no pillaging or depredations to be committed by the men, and maintaining strict

discipline amongst them, and enforcing obedience to orders.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WM. HYDE CLARK,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

NEW ORLEANS,

November 22, 1863.

Maj. Gen. N. P. BANKS,

Commanding Department of the Gulf, in the Field:

GENERAL: The news of the, occupation of Corpus Christi was brought night before last by

the steamer Hussar, and was duly communicated by letter to the General-in-Chief by the mail

steamer Washington, which sailed yesterday morning.

The steamer Saint Mary's passed by the bar yesterday morning, and news reached me at 10

a.m. from her that you had captured the garrison at Aransas Bay. I at once telegraphed to Fort

Jackson, and had a telegraphic dispatch, announcing the success to General Halleck, placed on

board.

Captain Dunham being convalescent, and recommended to go north by the medical officers, I

had sent him on the Washington, charged with duplicates of your dispatches by the last steamer,

and a short report on the occurrences of the week to the General-in-Chief and Adjutant-General.

The steamer Corinthian sails to-day, taking two Iowa regiments, 600 men.

The Saint Mary's will be sent to-morrow with about the same number and the transportation.

I have ordered the purchase of three prize schooners for running stores to Aransas, and hope to

get them off today laden with subsistence and ammunition.

I have ordered--have had a standing order with the quartermaster's department to get

possession of any steamer and sailing vessels coming into port which can be used, and have

dispatched them as fast as procured. The Nathaniel P. Banks was so strained getting around to

Brashear that it was not deemed safe to send her to Texas. She will be used between this and

Pensacola.

Yesterday I received very direct information that the rebels in Mobile were moving troops to

Pollard and Bonsecours Bay, intending to attack Pensacola in both directions. I immediately

wrote to General Asboth, warning him, and sent by the steamer George Peabody, which will

24

probably reach him in time to prevent surprise. I have already informed you by the Scott of

General Lee's handsome operation in capturing the Sixth Texas (rebel) Cavalry. It was a dashing

and successful affair; only 25 escaped. Twelve officers and 100 men were captured. Plaquemine

is now well fortified, and secure. Green has undoubtedly affronted [confronted] the Mississippi

River, and no doubt intends to occupy a point to blockade the river. If the occupation should be

at all serious, I shall send up a force to co-operate with the navy in capturing him. This can be

done without interfering with the transportation of troops to your re-enforcement.

I would now recommend raising the embargo on Berwick Bay, as much suffering is caused

by it within our lines on the Teche, and, if properly watched, no mischief call result from a

judicious granting of passes for proper persons, and supplies to the people. Now we have to feed

starving people from the army supplies, who could and would procure for themselves, if

permitted. I intend to send, by next opportunity after the Saint Mary's, the Twenty-second

Regiment, Corps d'Afrique, to Texas, as Major Houston represents the services of colored

regiments much needed there.

NOON, 22d.--Your dispatch of 17th, dated off Aransas Pass, has just been received. I shall at

once communicate with Admiral Porter and Commodore Bell on the subject of gunboats for

Berwick Bay. If they cannot furnish any, I will make two for that service. I fear we shall have to

do this, from the results we have had from former applications.

1 have nothing new to communicate from up the river, although the telegraph is working well

to Port Hudson, and General Andrews has instructions to report frequently. From this silence, I

suppose there has been as yet nothing serious at Morganza.

Very respectfully, I am, general, your most obedient servant,

CHAS. P. STONE,

Brigadier-General, and Chief of Staff.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF,

On Board the McClellan, off Pass Cavallo, November 28, 1863.

Major-General WASHBURN,

Commanding, &c., Matagorda Island:

GENERAL: Your dispatch of this date was received at 4.30 p.m. this day. It is probable the

Saint Mary's can land her rations to-night or in the morning. We will send you the boats you

want immediately from the McClellan and the gunboats, probably five or six. There are also

boats with the Matamoras and the Planter on their way to you. The Matamoras has five days'

supplies for 3,500 men, and, unless some accident should intervene, must soon reach you. A

signal officer is on board, and has instructions to report to you as soon as possible.

There are two 20-pounder Parrotts on field carriages and two on siege carriages at Aransas.

These can be brought up immediately by boats or by land. They are equally effective with the 30

pounder Parrotts, which will be sent you as soon as possible from New Orleans. You may rely

upon 20 pounder Parrotts producing as much effect as 30-pounders for your operations. There

are no gunny-bags here; what were on board were left at Brazos. I will send some to you from

New Orleans immediately. The navy will supply you with boat howitzers.

The gunboats will open at daylight to-morrow morning. A copy of your sketch has been

furnished to Captain Strong, who will keep constant communication with you either by boats or

by signal telegraph. Undoubtedly either to-night or to-morrow morning you will have smooth

water, so as to make your communications constant. Send a strong force as quickly as you can on

the other side of the fort to cut off their communications. Do not be in any hurry to reduce the

fort, as time is in your favor and against the enemy. Captain Strong will receive instructions to

open upon the camp of the enemy as indicated in your sketch.

25

The Hussar carried down to Aransas last night 250 men, with orders to join you. The

Twenty-second Iowa, 200 strong, are at Aransas also. There are four companies, 200 strong, at

Brazos, who Will return in the Alabama, which went down day before yesterday. The Saint

Mary's has 800, and two companies of the Twentieth Iowa are also at Brazos, making altogether

1,550 men who will immediately join your forces. The Scott also has 400 men, who were landed

at Aransas City night before last at dark, and must join you by to-morrow. You should

communicate, if possible, with the Matamoras and the Planter, that are upon the bay, inside.

The 20-pounder Parrotts, on siege carriages, are on board a sloop at Aransas. The Crescent is

ordered to Aransas, to send forward the two schooners there, and the howitzers by the bay. If the

Matamoras gets up to you, you will send her back for whatever may be needed. The floating

battery, which Mr. Comstock reports as near the fort, is a poor attempt at an iron-clad. It has no

guns and can do no harm.

Captain Strong has all the points suggested in your letter, and will put them in execution,

communicating with you as soon as the weather will permit. He is confident his guns, if the sea

is so he can approach, will reach the fort and camp of the enemy, and will furnish you with one

or two 30-pounder Parrotts and men to man them.

With much respect, &c.,

N. P. BANKS,

Major-General, Commanding.

MORGANZA, LA.

September 29, 1863--8 p.m.

SIR: The advanced force stationed at Bayou Fordoche was attacked about noon to-day on all

sides simultaneously by General Green, with probably three brigades. The cavalry escaped, but

the Nineteenth Iowa and Twenty-sixth Indiana, amounting to about 500 men, with two guns,

were captured. They are reported to have made a gallant defense and to have suffered greatly. I

have taken some prisoners, including a colonel.

N. J. T. DANA,

Major-General.

Brig. Gen. CHARLES P. STONE,

Chief of Staff.

HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, THIRTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Morganza, La., September 30, 1863.

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I assumed command of the detachment here at

noon on the 28th instant, Major-General Herron leaving at that time. The troops were stationed at

this point on the river, with an advanced detachment 7 miles out on the direct road to the

Atchafalaya River, being the nearest place where water could be obtained. This detachment was

composed of a part of the Nineteenth Iowa Infantry, commanded by Captain Adams, 320 men; a

part of the Twenty-sixth Indiana Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel Rose, 346 men, one section of

Battery E, First Missouri Light Artillery, Second Lieut. E. S. Rowland, 28 men; detachments of

Sixth Missouri, Second and Thirty-sixth Illinois Cavalry, under Major Montgomery, 160 men.

The whole being under command of Lieut. Col. J. B. Leake, Twentieth Iowa Infantry.

Lieutenant-Colonel Leake's instructions from Major General Herron were to keep the country

well reconnoitered; to keep his cavalry constantly out; to push daily reconnaissances toward the

Atchafalaya, where a considerable force of the enemy were posted, and frequently to push his

advances up to the river, and annoy the enemy's pickets and drive them in. The morning after I

assumed command (yesterday), I dispatched a courier with an escort to Lieutenant-Colonel

26

Leake, with orders, &c.; two wagons loaded with knapsacks belonging to his command were

sent out with a small infantry guard.

The weather had been stormy during the preceding afternoon and night, and the rain was still

drenching and the road bad. Soon after noon, a messenger came back from the wagons, with

information that the road was in possession of a strong force of the rebels, about halfway to

Lieutenant-Colonel Leake's camp, that the guard had skirmished with them, and had held their

ground, but that heavy infantry firing was heard on the road in their front, supposed to be

Lieutenant-Colonel Leake clearing the road. I immediately ordered Colonel Black, Thirtyseventh

Illinois Infantry to march with his regiment to open the communication, and to assume

command of his own and Lieutenant-Colonel Leake's troops and be governed by circumstances,

pursuing the enemy and punishing him as much as possible.

The road was bad and heavy for marching, and the rain was drenching, and when Colonel

Black had proceeded 3 miles, he met Major Montgomery with his cavalry detachment, and from

him and stragglers he learned that the enemy had attacked Lieutenant-Colonel Leake's command

on all sides at once; had surprised him by coming through the cane and corn fields of the

country, as well as by the-road, and by first opening the attack in the rear, and being dressed in

United States uniforms.

Major Montgomery's command checked the enemy, and escaped with the loss of 5 men

missing, and brought off 6 prisoners; but as the enemy was pushed in between his force and the

infantry, he failed to effect a junction, but supposed the infantry force had been captured.

Colonel Black took a strong position in line of battle, and remained there till after dark,

when, at 7 o'clock, an officer bearing a flag of truce from the enemy made his appearance with

the following dispatch:

BAYOU FORDOCHE,

September 29, 1863.

Major-General HERRON,

Or Commander of Forces at Morganza :

GENERAL: I send to you a flag of truce by Captain Bresux, the object of which he will

explain. Considering it an act of humanity, the brigadier-general commanding has instructed me

to send you this message: That you have many wounded and dead, which he cannot bury or care

for, and, if it meets with your approval, hostilities will be suspended for twenty-four hours, to

allow you to take care of the wounded and dead. The general also instructs me to say that he has

left four surgeons and steward to attend on them.

By order of Brig. Gen. Thomas Green:

Very respectfully,

W. B. RATLIFF,

Captain, Commanding Post.

HDQRS. NINETEENTH IOWA VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,

Brownsville, Tex., October 15, 1863.

GENERAL: I have the honor to submit to you a report of the part taken by my regiment in

the engagement at Stirling's farm; fought on the 29th of September, 1863, in Point Coupee

Parish, Louisiana.

On the 5th day of September, the Second Division, Thirteenth Army Corps, commanded by

Major-General Herron, of which command the Nineteenth Iowa formed a part, embarked on

board transports, and proceeded up the river to disperse a force under General Taylor, which was

then on the west side, below the mouth of Red River, seriously threatening the navigation of the

Mississippi. On the 8th day of September, the division was halted near Morganza, La.; landed,

27

and proceeded to the interior; met the enemy's pickets about 2 miles from the river, drove them

in, and drove the rebels back 10 miles across the Atchafalaya. I was left with my regiment and

two pieces of artillery to protect the transports at the river. The division returned to the transports

on the 11th.

On the l2th, the Nineteenth Iowa, Twenty-sixth Indiana, and two pieces of artillery, the

whole under command of Lieutenant Colonel Leake, of the Twentieth Iowa, were ordered out to

feel the enemy. We met the enemy's pickets ---- of a mile from the river, drove them in, and soon

found the enemy in considerable force. We skirmished with them, and drove them back across

the Atchafalaya. We then fell back to Stirling's farm, 7 miles in the interior from where the

transports lay. From this point our advance and pickets skirmished almost daily with the advance

of the enemy.

On the 29th, the enemy, having received re-enforcements, turned our right, and attacked us in

the rear, cutting off our retreat. He at the same time attacked us on the front. My regiment was

first called into action, met the enemy boldly, and, at short range, delivered a deadly volley:

which compelled him to tall back. He, however, rallied again in overwhelming force, and, after a

firm and desperate struggle, in which we were well supported by the Twenty-sixth Indiana, we

were completely overpowered and compelled to surrender; many of our men, however, refusing

to give up until the guns were taken from their hands by the rebels. The rebels were commanded

by General Green in person, and consisted of three brigades--in all, a force of 5,000 men. Our

entire force there was about 500 men. My regiment had only about 260 men in the action, many

having been left sick in convalescent camps at Carrollton, La. They were not on the expedition.

The fight was short but deadly, considering the numbers engaged, the cane and high weeds

concealing the lines until they approached within pistol-shot. Many of our men escaped, and

came straggling into camp for two days afterward.

In the action we had 2 officers and 8 enlisted men killed; wounded, 1 officer (since dead) and

16 enlisted men, and 11 officers and 203 en listed men taken prisoners. The loss in the Twentysixth

Indiana was not so much as ours. The enemy's loss was 50 killed in the field and many

more wounded.

Great credit is due to the officers and men of my regiment, who fought bravely and

desperately against fearful odds. The rebel officers acknowledged it was to them a dearly bought

victory, and were much chagrined at finding so small a capture after so vigorous a resistance.

I was not in the engagement, having been ordered to New Orleans a few days prior. The

regiment was at the time commanded by the senior captain, William Adams, Company E, who

was taken prisoner.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN BRUCE,

Major, Commanding Nineteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry.

Adjt. Gen. N. B. BAKER,

Davenport, Iowa.

DIVISION RETURN.

September 1.--Division in camp at Carrollton, La., and there remained until September 4.

when it was reviewed by Maj. Gen. U.S. Grant, and ordered to be prepared to march

immediately.

September 5.--Embarked on transports, leaving the Thirty-eighth Iowa Infantry and all the

sick, convalescents, and sufficient men to guard the camp and property, behind. It moved without

tents, knapsacks, or woolen blankets, and sailed up the river, arriving at Morgan's Bend on the

28

7th instant. A detachment of cavalry (about 200), under Major Montgomery, accompanied the

expedition.

September 8.--In the morning, the cavalry and Second Brigade were ordered out on a

reconnaissance toward the Atchafalaya River, under command of Colonel Day, who met the

enemy's pickets, and afterward found the enemy in some force, and, after some light skirmishing,

drove them across the Atchafalaya River, and fell back 3 miles until morning.

September 9.--The First Brigade, under Major General Herron, started out and joined

Colonel Day, when Major General Herron proceeded in force to the Atchafalaya to reconnoiter;

arrived about 4 p.m., and immediately began skirmishing with the enemy. Having ascertained

position, &c., and orders being not to bring on an engagement, retired to the Mississippi.

Marched 30 miles. Lost 1 killed, and 1 officer and 2 men wounded.

September 12.--The cavalry force was ordered to the front to keep a close watch on the

enemy, and the Nineteenth Iowa, Twenty-sixth Indiana, and a section of Battery E, First

Missouri Light Artillery, were sent out some 7 miles in front, to strongly picket the country and

support the cavalry, all commanded by Lieut. Col. J. B. Leake, Twentieth Iowa, where all

remained, as ordered by department headquarters, watching and harassing the enemy. The rest of

the division present on the expedition lay on the levee of the Mississippi, without tents, blankets,

or change of clothing, with nothing transpiring of importance, until the 28th instant, when,

Major-General Herron having received a leave of absence, Major-General Dana was assigned to

the command of the division.

September 29.--In the morning, the enemy, having crossed the river in force, surrounded

Colonel Leake's command, and, after a desperate engagement, captured the largest portion of his

men, with the section of artillery. Our loss is: Commissioned officers killed, 2; wounded, 4.

Enlisted men killed, 11; wounded, 30; missing, about 350. It is impossible to obtain correct

reports of the missing, as parts of each regiment are in Carrollton, and all regimental and

company books are there.

September 30.--Division still at Morgan's Bend.

RETURN OF THE FIRST BRIGADE COL. WILLIAM McE. DYE COMMANDING.

September 1.--Brigade yet encamped at Carrollton, La., but in readiness to move on short

notice.

September 5.--Orders received to embark immediately, in the lightest possible marching

order, leaving all baggage and transportation. The Thirty-eighth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, being

unfit for active field service, was ordered into convalescent camp at Carrollton. Left Carrollton at

3.30 p.m., and arrived at Port Hudson, La., at 8 a.m. on the 6th. Remained here until about

midnight, and went from thence to McCollum's Landing.

September 10.--Brigade moved out to Atchafalaya River, 12 miles. Remained there until 3

a.m. of the 11th, and arrived at Morganza at 3 p.m., the transports having moved up during the

night to this place.

September 12.--At 4 p.m. troops embarked and the transports dropped down to McCollum's

Landing.

September 14.--Lieut. Col. J. B. Leake was placed in command of a detachment from the

division, comprising the Twenty-sixth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, one section of Battery E,

detachment of mounted infantry from Twentieth and Thirty-fourth Iowa and Thirty seventh

Illinois, of the First Brigade, and ordered to proceed to the vicinity of Atchafalaya Bayou, to

watch the movements of the enemy, the balance of the brigade remaining at McCollum's

Landing until the 20th; then embarked and moved up to Morganza; there disembarked and

bivouacked on the banks of the river.

29

September 27.--Steamer Brown arrived with the baggage of the command. Health of the

troops generally good.

RETURN OF THE SECOND BRIGADE! COL. H. M. DAY COMMANDING.

September 1.--Brigade in camp at Carrollton, near New Orleans, La.

September 4.--Corps reviewed by Maj. Gen. U.S. Grant.

September 6.--Brigade embarked for up the Mississippi, by order of Major-General Herron,

arriving at McCollum's Landing, near Port Hudson, La.

September 8.--The Ninety-first and Ninety-fourth Illinois, and Twentieth Wisconsin Infantry,

Battery B, First Missouri Artillery, was ordered out on a reconnaissance by General Herron

toward Atchafalaya River, under command of Colonel Day. When the command arrived at the

wood, about 10 miles out, skirmishing commenced between Major Montgomery's cavalry (which

formed part of the expedition) and the enemy, with cavalry, artillery, and infantry, back and

across the river, some 5 miles in all. At 9 o'clock the force arrived at the river, when, few shells

being thrown across, the enemy replied quite sharply. Seeing the enemy posted on the other side

of the river, which was unfordable, after a short artillery practice the command was withdrawn,

to await orders and the advantage of daylight.

September 9.--Colonel Day was joined by the First Brigade. Major-General Herron arriving,

assumed command of forces. Capt. Joseph A. James, Company B, Ninety-first Illinois, was

slightly wounded by a piece of shell; also several men. One corporal killed on picket.

September 10.--Forces marched back to McCollum's Landing.

September 12.--The Nineteenth Iowa was ordered out in the advance, 7 or 8 miles, where it is

now.

September 20.--The division moved to Morganza, La., 3 miles above McCollum's Landing,

and went into camp.

September 26.--Colonel Bertram, with 100 men of the Twentieth Wisconsin Infantry, went in

search of guerrillas up the river, on board tin-clad No. 8, and captured 2 prisoners, a safe, with

about $4,800 Confederate States money, and a few shotguns and muskets.

September 29.--The Nineteenth Iowa and Twenty-sixth Indiana, of the First Brigade, were

attacked by General Green's forces, C. S. Army, and nearly all captured, with a heavy loss in

officers and men. There are at Carrollton some 10 officers and 350 men. Owing to the absence of

the officers of the regiment, no correct report can be made.

September 30.--All the remainder of the brigade in camp at Morganza, La.

HEADQUARTERS FORCES ON ATCHAFALAYA,

Camp McBride, La., October 2, 1863.

MAJOR: I have the honor herewith to tender a full report of the action on September 29 at

the Fordoche Bridge and Mrs. Stirling's place, on the Fordoche, 6 miles from Morganza.

At midnight on September 26, a communication was addressed to Colonel [J. P.] Major,

commanding Major's brigade (encamped on Big Cane), to send one of his best regiments to

Lyons' Ferry, on the Atchafalaya, on the following day (the 27th), and to cross at that ferry and

march to Livonia by the night of the 28th, and on the morning of the 29th to move up to the

Fordoche, near the bridge on the Morganza State road This order was promptly complied with,

Colonel Major sending Phillips' regiment, commanded by Major [George M.] Frazer, of the

Arizona battalion.

On the 27th, the necessary orders were issued to the several commands to make preparations

on the 28th for an advance upon the enemy The means of crossing the Atchafalaya consisted at

this time of two small ferry-flats, carrying together 18 horses or 80 footmen.

30

The crossing commenced at 3 p.m. on the 28th, Waller's and Rountree's battalions leading

with their horses, followed by Semmes' battery, all of which were successfully crossed before

dark. Speight's and Mouton's brigades of infantry were next in order, the Fourth, Fifth, and

Seventh Regiments Texas Mounted Volunteers (dismounted) crossing last. All were safely

landed on the east bank of the Atchafalaya about I a.m. on the 29th. The rain commenced falling

at dark on the evening of the 28th, and continued with only temporary cessation until the night of

the 30th.

At daylight on the morning of the 29th, the troops were ready for the march. Colonel Henry

Gray, commanding Mouton's brigade, was ordered to take up his line of march (Speight's brigade

having been added to his command, together with 15 mounted men from Waller's battalion,

under command of Lieutenant [R. N.] Weisiger) by a trail through the swamp, which intersected

the Morganza State road some 4 miles from that place, and between the enemy's forces at

Morganza and their advance at Mrs. Stirling's and the Fordoche Bridge. Colonel Gray was

ordered to attack the enemy's advance at once on reaching the intersection of road, which he did

by ordering Speight's brigade, under command of Lieutenant Colonel [J. E.] Harrison, to the

attack(see accompanying reports). The balance of the troops, consisting of Waller's and

Rountree's battalions of cavalry, Semmes' battery, the Fourth, Fifth, and Seventh Regiments

Texas Mounted Volunteers (dismounted), took up their line of march by the main State road to

Fordoche Bridge, which point was reached about 11 o'clock. An advance of cavalry was sent

forward to the bridge, and were fired upon by the enemy's pickets at that place. Skirmishing

continued here for half an hour, when the firing was heard from the rear at Mrs. Stirling's. With

one section of the battery, under command of Lieutenant [J. A. A.] West, and the Fourth and

Fifth Regiments, I deployed through a plowed field, and opened with the artillery upon the

quarters at Mr. Catlett's, where a portion of the enemy's cavalry were stationed, and at the same

time ordered Major [H. H.] Boone, with the two sections of battery and the Seventh Regiment, to

move rapidly down the road to the bridge, all of which was done, the dismounted men of the

Fourth and Fifth moving at a double-quick across the plowed field to the quarters, but the

enemy's advance of cavalry had fallen back to their headquarters, 1 mile farther on, at a Mr.

Norwood'a house. The sections of artillery united at the bridge, and the whole command

proceeded with great rapidity toward the house. Majors Boone and Rountree made a dashing

charge upon the enemy's cavalry, drawn up in line of battle near the house, and scattered them

with such effect that they were not seen afterward, having retreated through a lane and turn rows

to a road leading around the rear of plantations, which was unknown to me.

During these transactions, the firing from the rear had continued with slight interruption, and

Major Boone was ordered to take his own command and Rountree's battalion and charge the

enemy at Mrs. Stirling's, which he did most gallantly, charging the enemy's battery and receiving

two severe wounds. This charge closed the fight, the enemy surrendering in detachments as they

retreated and were overtaken by our troops.

The result of the victory consists of 433 non-commissioned officers and privates and 29

officers prisoners, two 10 pounder Parrott guns in fine order, with caissons complete, 2 new

ambulances and 1 hospital wagon, new, filled with medical stores, and 2 stand of regimental

colors belonging to the Nineteenth Iowa and Twenty-sixth Indiana Volunteers. Many small-arms

and accouterments were saved, and every man with an inferior weapon was supplied with a good

and efficient one.

Maj. W. L. Robards, chief of ordnance, was with me on the field and doing all to secure the

fruits of the victory that could be done.

The wounded were sent rapidly to the rear, under the direction of Chief Surg. George

Cupples, who had made every preparation, and by his active supervision saved the lives and

31

conduced greatly to the comfort of the wounded. Too much praise cannot be awarded to him for

his efficiency.

After burying the dead, the line of march was taken up for Morgan's Ferry, Colonel [Henry]

Gray, with Mouton's brigade, having been called in, and Phillips' regiment of cavalry sent

forward toward Morganza to repulse and check the enemy should they attempt to advance. The

artillery reached the bank of the Atchafalaya at 7 p.m., and commenced crossing. Owing to the

state of the banks, and that only one ferry-flat could be used, it was nearly daylight before their

crossing was completed. Many of the infantry and dismounted men fell by the roadside,

completely exhausted; but all were safely crossed the morning of the 30th. A small steamboat

having arrived, was used in crossing the infantry.

I cannot award too much praise to the troops under my command for their rapid movements

under the discouraging effects of a heavy rain and roads knee-deep in mud, and their willingness

and enthusiasm to attack the enemy.

Col. Henry Gray, with his command, proceeded to the point designated in his orders with all

the speed possible, having to pass through the swamp by a trail which was pointed out to him by

Lieutenant [E. A.] Carmouche and Private Newsome, whose services were invaluable as guides.

Colonel Gray was also accompanied by General [J. L.] Lewis as volunteer aide, rendering him

efficient service.

To Lieutenant-Colonel [J. E.] Harrison, commanding,, Speight's brigade, and Colonels [J.

W.] Speight and [F. H.] Clack and Major [John W.] Daniel, who led their commands most

gallantly to the attack, all honor is due; and to the officers of their several commands, who

displayed great coolness in the action. Many of their men had never been under fire before, but

moved like veterans up to the enemy under a heavy fire, and succeeded in driving them from

house to house up to the levee, when Major [H. H.] Boone's charge was made.

The heavy loss sustained by Speight's brigade shows the desperate nature of the conflict, and

it is not out of place to mention here, even where all distinguished themselves, the gallant

bearing and activity of Lieutenant [John B.] Jones, assistant adjutant-general of Speight's

brigade.

The charges made by Majors Boone and [L. C.] Rountree stand forth to be recorded in the

annals of history. The lamented Lieut. W. F. Spivey, of Company I, Rountree's battalion, was

killed in the charge. We deplore his loss, he being one of the most energetic officers in the

brigade, and of tried courage and discretion.

Col. A. P. Bagby, of the Seventh Texas Mounted Volunteers, in command of Green's

brigade, brought his men most handsomely to the charge, and kept them in hand ready for any

emergency, and by his activity rendered most efficient service.

Col. J.P. Major's command, consisting of two regiments and the Pelican Battery, were

stationed on the west bank of the Atchafalaya, to protect the crossing and act as a reserve in case

of necessity. Colonel Major accompanied and gave great assistance to me, acting in his usual

gallant style, and to his staff officers I am indebted for prompt action when called upon.

My own personal staff, Lieutenant [E. R.] Wells, acting assistant adjutant general; Captain

[C. B.] Sheppard, aide-de-camp; Captains Calvitt and [Leander] McAnelly, volunteer aides-decamp,

were active and efficient and rendered me excellent service.

The gallant dead have proven their devotion to our cause, and the wounded in their silent

sufferings have shown that fortitude which a good cause alone could have endued them with.

Notwithstanding the severe march, the troops are ready and anxious to again meet the

invader upon our soil.

Below I respectfully submit a statement of the losses sustained in the action.

I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

32

THOMAS GREEN,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Maj. LOUIS BUSH,

Asst. Adjt. Gen., Sub-District Southwestern Louisiana.

HEADQUARTERS THIRTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Carrion Crow Bayou, November 2, 1863.

GENERAL: We have had a pretty lively time to-day. The enemy made a determined attack

this morning upon our cavalry, killing 1 man and wounding 2 others. General Burbridge at once

rallied, and pursued them. They formed in line, about 1,000 strong, on the same ground they

formed upon the day you entered Opelousas. They were driven away, and took refuge in the

woods. Maneuvering for a long time to draw them out, we failed to do so, and finally

commenced to fall back. They then swung round, and formed a line in the prairie on our left, and

charged down, about 1,500 strong.

Twice they attempted a charge, and as often the plain was swept by our artillery, and they

retired, and finally, about 3 p.m., withdrew altogether. I think their move to-day was to endeavor

to develop our strength.

I directed as little to be exposed to view as possible. After they made their last and most

formidable display, I ordered a part of the troops here up, but they had only moved a mile or two

when it became apparent that they would not be wanted, and they returned to camp. I shall

expect fighting every day that I remain here, and probably we may have to meet their entire force

if we stay long enough for them to concentrate it. I do not apprehend that we shall need any help,

though I wish we had more cavalry.

Should you send out to the Mermenton, would it not be advisable to send a good force?

They, no doubt, think that we are covering a move in that direction, and as soon as they know

that troops are going that way, they, very likely, will dispatch the force now in our front across

by the direct road from Opelousas to the Mermenton Crossing, and if our force there should be

small, they might be handled roughly.

If you do not make that move, but will send here Colonel Mudd and his cavalry, Colonel

Lucas with his mounted infantry, and any other cavalry you can scare up, we will make a strong

effort to capture some of their force before we leave here.

I had a captain of the Twenty-fourth Iowa Infantry shot to-day under circumstances of great

atrocity. He was out with a foraging party west of here, and saw a party of men in the prairie,

about half a mile away, dressed in blue uniforms. He supposed them to be our soldiers, and rode

alone toward them, and the parties were seen to salute each other as he came near them, and the

first knowledge he had that he was approaching enemies was given by a rifle-ball through his

heart. They robbed him of his clothing, watch, and pistol, and fled.

I presume the enemy has come back to his old camp this side of Opelousas. There is little

chance to catch any of his men, unless we can get in his rear. If I had 2,000 cavalry, I believe that

I could make a move at night that would entrap some of them, but, knowing the country as they

do, and with fleet horses, the chance is not the best.

Respectfully, yours

C. C. WASHBURN,

Major-general.

Major-General FRANKLIN,

Commanding Forces in the Field.

HDQRS. DETACHMENT THIRTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

33

Vermillion Bridge, November 7, 1863.

MAJOR: I inclose herewith report of Brigadier-General Burbridge in regard to the battle of

Grand Coteau on the 3d instant; also of Lieutenant-Colonel Robinson, commanding Second

Louisiana Cavalry, and statements of Captain Sims, Sixty-seventh Indiana, and Lieutenant

Gorman, First Louisiana Cavalry, who were wounded and taken prisoners, but who were

supposed to be privates, and were delivered over under a flag of truce with other wounded.

On the 27th instant [ultimo] the First Division of this corps, under Brigadier-General Lawler,

moved from Opelousas back to New Iberia, with a view of being where they could be moved

rapidly to Brashear City, should circumstances require it; that left at Opelousas the Third

Division, under General McGinnis, and one brigade of the Fourth Division, under General

Burbridge, at Barre's Landing, 8 miles east of Opelousas and east of the Bayou Teche, near its

junction with the Courtableau.

On the morning of the 1st instant, by order of Major-General Franklin, the troops of the Third

Division were ordered to march and encamp at Carrion Crow Bayou, while General Burbridge

with the troops under his command were ordered to march down the Teche and cross it, and

move via Grand Coteau, where the road from Vermillion to Opelousas crosses Muddy Bayou,

about 3 miles from Carrion Crow Bayou, in the direction of Opelousas, and go into camp there

on the north side of the bayou. Colonel Fonda, with about 500 mounted infantry, was also

ordered to encamp near him. The troops all moved, and went into camp as ordered. The

Nineteenth Corps on the same day moved back to Carrion Crow Bayou, and on the following

day to Vermillionville, leaving the Third and First Brigades of the Fourth Division of the

Thirteenth Corps to hold the position before named. The position of the troops on the morning of

the 3d instant was then as follows: Brigadier-General Burbridge, with one brigade of the Fourth

Division, about 1,200 strong, with one six-gun battery of 10-pounder Parrotts, and Colonel

Fonda, with about 500 mounted infantry and a section of Nims' battery, on the north side of

Muddy Bayou, and the Third Division, General McGinnis commanding, 3,000 strong, with one

battery, at Carrion Crow Bayou, 3 miles in the rear of General Burbridge. The two bayous before

named run in an easterly direction, nearly parallel with each other, and along the stream there is a

belt of timber about 150 yards in width, while between the two is smooth, level prairie. To the

right of General Burbridge's position was an extensive and dense tract of woods, while on his

front and left the country was high, open prairie.

About 9 o'clock of the morning of the 3d, I received a note from General Burbridge, saying

the enemy had shown himself in some force. I immediately ordered out the Third Division, and

just as I got them into line I received another note from General Burbridge, saying that the

enemy had entirely disappeared. Ordering the division to remain under arms, I rode rapidly to the

front, and learning from General Bur-bridge and Colonel Fonda that all was quiet, and that such

troops of the enemy as had shown themselves had all fallen back, I started to return to my

headquarters near the Third Division. When I arrived about midway between the two camps, I

heard a rapid cannonade. Sending two members of my staff to the rear to bring up the Third

Division, I rode back to the front, and, crossing the bayou and passing through the timber to the

open ground, I soon discovered that we were assailed with terrible energy by an overwhelming

force in front and on both flanks. Many of the troops had broken and were scattered over the

field, and the utter destruction or capture of the whole force seemed imminent. The attack on the

right through the woods was made by infantry, and though our troops fought most gallantly on

that wing, were obliged to give way before overwhelming numbers. Here it was that we lost most

of our men in killed and wounded.

The Twenty-third Wisconsin, Colonel Guppey commanding, Ninety-sixth Ohio, Lieutenant-

Colonel Brown commanding, Sixtieth Indiana, commanded by Captain Goelzer, and Seventeenth

34

Ohio Battery. [Captain] Rice commanding, fought with the greatest desperation, holding the

enemy in check for a considerable length of time, but for which our entire train with our artillery

would have been captured. As it was, General Burbridge was enabled to bring off every wagon

and all Government property, with the exception of one 10-pounder Parrott gun, which was

captured just as it was crossing the bayou, the horses having been shot.

The bringing off of the section of Nims' battery, commanded by Lieutenant Marland, after

the regiment sent to its support had surrendered, extorted the admiration of every beholder.

While the fight was proceeding, the Third Division came up on the double-quick, but by the

time they had reached the middle of the prairie, and 1 miles from the scene of action, General

Burbridge's command had been driven entirely out of the woods, while the rebel cavalry, in great

force, charged through the narrow belt of timber on the left, and were coming down on his rear.

By this time the Third Division had come within range, formed in line, and commenced shelling

them, which immediately checked their farther advance, while General Burbridge, who had

again gotten his guns into position, opened a raking crossfire upon them, when the whole force

of the enemy retreated to the cover of the woods. Our whole force was deployed in line of battle,

and moved as rapidly as possible through the woods, driving the enemy out of it, who retreated

rapidly. I moved the troops up on their line of retreat about 1 miles, while the cavalry pursued

about 3 miles. My men having been brought up at a double-quick, were very much exhausted,

and it was not possible to pursue farther.

Our losses are 26 killed, 124 wounded, and 566 missing. The loss of the enemy in killed was

about 60; number of wounded not known, as they carried all but 12 off the ground, but wounded

officers who were taken prisoners represent the number of wounded as being very large. We took

65 prisoners.

Brigadier-General McGinnis, being very ill, was not able to be on the field. The troops of the

division behaved admirably, under the command of Brigadier-General Cameron, of the First, and

Colonel Slack, of the Second Brigade. The action of General Burbridge was gallant and judicious

from the time I first saw him until the close of the engagement. The conduct of the Sixty-seventh

Indiana Infantry was inexplicable, and their surrender can only be attributed to the incompetency

or cowardice of the commanding officer. They had not a single man killed. Our mounted force,

under Colonels Fonda and Robinson, though very small, behaved very handsomely.

I left at Carrion Crow Bayou, to hold that position, three regiments of the Third Division, viz,

the Eleventh Indiana, Twenty-ninth Wisconsin, and Twenty-fourth Iowa, with one section of

artillery. It was fortunate that I did so, for while the fight was proceeding with General

Burbridge's command, Colonel [George W.] Baylor, of the First Texas Mounted Rifle [Second

Regiment Arizona Brigade,] swept round on our left, and attacked the camp at Carrion Crow

Bayou, but they were driven off, with a loss of 3 killed. We lost none. I refer particularly to the

report of General Burbridge for the names of those deserving honorable mention.

On the 4th instant the enemy sent in a flag of truce, proposing to give up such of our

wounded as they had, not having the means to take care of them. I sent for and received 47. They

refused to give up our wounded officers, among them Colonel Guppey, of the Twenty-third

Wisconsin, a most gallant and meritorious officer. Though wounded, I am pleased to learn that

his wound is not severe, and that all our prisoners were being well treated.

As to the force of the enemy engaged, opinions are conflicting, but, from the best data I have,

I judge them to have been from 6,000 to 7,000, the whole under the command of Brigadier-

General Green.

Respectfully, yours,

C. C. WASHBURN,

Major-General, Commanding.

35

Maj. WICKHAM HOFFMAN,

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF,

Flagship McClellan, off Aransas Pass, Tex., November 18, 1863.

GENERAL: I left Brownsville on the 13th, for the purpose of moving against the passes

above Brazos Santiago. We completed the embarkation of troops at Brazos Island on the 15th,

and sailed on the morning of the 16th for Corpus Christi. The troops on board were the

Thirteenth and Fifteenth Maine, Thirty-fourth and Twenty-sixth Iowa, and the Eighth Indiana

Regiments, and one battery of artillery, numbering in all about 1,500 men. We reached Corpus

Christi the day before yesterday (16th), at 1 o'clock. We expected to be able to cross the bar at

Corpus Christi with the Matamoras, one of the boats brought from the Rio Grande, and drawing

3 feet of water, but we found the passage was impracticable, the bar being covered by only 2

feet. We were, therefore, compelled to land our troops upon the coast. The disembarkation was

superintended by Brigadier-General Ransom (who commanded the troops during the day), and

was commenced immediately upon our arrival, and occupied the night. The troops, after landing,

commenced a movement toward the upper end of the island, a distance of 22 miles. This march,

performed immediately after effecting a most difficult landing by means of boats through the

surf, reflects great credit upon the officers and troops engaged. The enemy was completely

surprised by our arrival, having no intimation of our presence until the morning, when we

presented ourselves. After skirmishing a couple of hours on the island, and some most effective

and well-directed artillery fire from the gunboat Monongahela, the enemy surrendered.

Lieutenant-Colonel - was in command, and we captured altogether 9 officers, 90 men, three

heavy siege guns, a quantity of most excellent small-arms, 80 or 90 good horses, a schooner,

nearly new, and considerable minor land and water transportation.

We shall move to-morrow against Pass Cavallo, the most important pass on the coast except

Galveston. We shall have a sharper contest there than at Aransas, but are confident of success.

The success of our expedition will very likely transfer our operations to the coast. The best

line of defense for Louisiana, as well as for operations against Texas, is by Berwick Bay and the

Atchafalaya. To operate promptly and effectively on this line, we need light-draught sea boats,

drawing 6 or 7 feet of water. A supply of these will be a measure of great economy to the

Government. Larger ships are in great peril constantly, from their inability to escape the

"northers" by entering the bays. We lost one excellent steamer, the Nassau, on the bar at Brazos

from this cause. The steamers Saint Mary's, Clinton, Crescent, and others of that class, have been

of the greatest service, and to them we owe the success of our expedition. It is of the utmost

importance that this number should be increased. We need very much light-draught gunboats on

the Atchafalaya, as, if this line is well protected from Berwick Bay to the Red River, the enemy

necessarily is thrown back from the Mississippi.

Admiral Porter informs me that he had received your orders to send boats down, but that he

was unable to enter the Atchafalaya from Red River, owing to the low stage of the water, and

that his boats could not pass by sea into Berwick Bay with safety. I am quite confident that

watching for fair weather, all his boats can be bouyed around with the assistance of steamers.

The distance is only 40 miles and the sea is often quite smooth. We have frequently sent river

boats around in that way. I respectfully request your attention to this subject.

I have the honor to be, with much respect, your obedient servant,

N. P. BANKS,

Major-General, Commanding.

Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,

General-in-Chief, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.

36

BRAZOS ISLAND,

November 7, 1863---8 p.m.

GENERAL: I have just received your dispatch of 10.30 a.m. of to-day. Brigadier-General

Ransom has arrived, and I had intended to have relieved General Vandever and to have put him

in his place, but I must for the present leave him here to push matters on.

The Twentieth are still on board the Scott, and I will remain here long enough to-morrow to

see that they are sure to be landed, and to see that other things are so far progressed that General

Ransom can understand them, but shall leave some time to-morrow.

Vandever's brigade, except the Fifteenth Maine, is on the march to Brownsville. The

Twentieth Iowa, of Dye's brigade, is at Point Isabel. The Twentieth Wisconsin, of the same

brigade, will march to-morrow for Brownsville.

I see no way immediately of sending the articles I have named in connection with the Scott,

except on lighters which we expect from you by way of the mouth of the river. Will they be in

danger by that route?

I shall send the Saint Mary's to Brashear at noon to morrow. The Clinton and the Crescent

will leave next day, unless otherwise directed.

I have the honor to remain, very respectfully,

N. J. T. DANA,

Major-General.

Major-General BANKS,

Brownsville.

BROWNSVILLE,

November 15, 1863--7 a.m.

GENERAL: I received last night your dispatch of 9 a.m. yesterday, and just before that I had

written you by the sergeant commanding the escort which was furnished to Governor King.

Nothing has occurred since then. The troops sent from here are the Thirteenth Maine, Thirtyfourth

Iowa, and Battery F, First Missouri Light Artillery (six pieces), which, with the Fifteenth

Maine, make about 1,100 men, 100 more than I understood you to have prepared.

The Twentieth Iowa is also at Point Isabel, 300 strong. I mention these things because you

say in your communication "the Thirteenth Maine will probably be here to-night, and I think you

should forward immediately the other regiments," and I am uneasy for fear you may be

expecting more troops from here than I understood you to direct. I will wait to hear from you

further before sending more.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

N. J. T. DANA,

Major-General.

Major-General BANKS,

Brazos Island.

HEADQUARTERS THIRTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Brownsville, November 16, 1863--7 p.m.

GENERAL: I have just received your dispatch of 2.30 p.m. of yesterday. This afternoon

dispatches arrived here through Mr. Pierce, consul at Matamoras, from Mr. Kimmey, consul at

Monterey, addressed to you, which I have taken the liberty of opening, owing to the supposition

that they probably contained information from Eagle Pass or Franklin which ought to be acted on

without delay. I inclose the packages.

37

In replying to Mr. Kimmey, I told him we were buying all the horses and mules which were

presented, and would buy not less than 2,000 of both. I also informed him that if his mails were

sent to our care at this place, via Brazos, we would deliver them to Mr. Pierce. I have sent

Lieutenant Cushing into the interior of Mexico, 30 miles from Matamoras, to procure horses and

mules; he will be gone two days. The fortifications were commenced to-day, and will be pressed

forward I have sent into the interior 30 miles for some cotton which was reported as

approaching the river above here, and I also expect a couple of lots in from a point 70 miles from

here on the King's ranch road. The teamsters came to ask permission to bring it in, and security

that they might sell it. I offered them to pay their freight money ($4 per hundred) on their

delivery of it if they would bring it in of their own accord. They consented, and have gone for it.

The Thirty-fourth Iowa captured and delivered 39 bales on their march down to Point Isabel. I

have ordered a cavalry picket of 50 men, 40 miles from here, on the Corpus Christi road, beyond

the Arroyo Colorado, at the point where the road crosses it at Taylor's Ferry. Also a picket at

Rancho Rucia, on the Rio Grande, 27 miles above here, where the road to Las Animas leaves the

river. Both pickets are ordered to keep out vedettes, and scout the country, &c. We shall keep our

picket line vigilant and strong enough.

I have the honor to remain, with much respect, your obedient servant,

N. J. T. DANA,

Major-General.

Major-General BANKS,

Commanding Department of the Gulf.

HEADQUARTERS COAST EXPEDITION,

Fort Esperanza, December 1, 1863.

GENERAL: I wrote you a brief dispatch yesterday morning, informing you of the fall of this

fort. The boat I intended to send it upon (the Crescent) I was afterward compelled to take to send

to Aransas Pass for supplies, and to order up the light-draught boats there to enable me to move

forward.

All the boats there, with one or two exceptions, are helpless for want of coal, as you will see

by the inclosed note of Ensign Grinnell. The Crescent has just returned, and the Saint Mary's,

with troops and rations, is in the offing, and I hope will be able to cross the bar to-day. I have

determined to move up the Matagorda Peninsula to the mouth of the Brazos River. There are two

forts there which must be taken. If I have good luck, I will have that pass in one week. That will

be my base of supply from which to move to Houston and Galveston. By the time that pass is in

my possession, I shall hope to receive re-enforcements that will enable me to leave the coast and

march on Houston. The latter point, I think, should be captured before moving against Galveston.

The pass here is nearly 2 miles wide, and it is going to be a difficult job to ferry my wagons and

artillery over to the peninsula, but it can be done. While waiting here for supplies yesterday, I

thought it best to make a small demonstration) toward Lavaca. We formed, and drove a company

of mounted men, who were doing picket duty about 3 miles from here, in the direction of

Lavaca. It is my intention to run the transports as far up Matagorda Bay as I can, to land supplies

and troops, but, before doing so, I thought it best to have a gunboat reconnoiter for rebel boats. I

requested Captain Strong to send up his lightest draught boat, which he very readily did. She has

not returned. Up to this time, no troops have joined me since I left Mustang Island. I have

detailed the Twenty-third Iowa, Colonel Glasgow, to garrison this post. My whole force with me

is about 2,800, including the Twenty-third Iowa, but, with what are on the Saint Mary's and on

the way by land, I expect my force will be increased to 4,000 and upward.

38

After writing you yesterday morning, my advance crossed over and took possession of a fort

on Bayncos Island. One 24-pounder field gun was found in position, with about 100 rounds of

ammunition, all in good order. Two other guns had been taken away. All the guns but one 24-

pounder siege gun in Fort Esperanza were spiked. Five magazines were blown up, and two

remain in good condition, with a good supply of ammunition. The ammunition for the large gun

was not destroyed. It is needless for me to make any suggestions in regard to a supply of coal. A

light-draught boat here now, with a supply of fuel, would be worth millions.

1 am, general, your obedient servant,

C. C. WASHBURN,

Major-General.

Major-General BANKS,

Commanding Department of the Gulf.

HEADQUARTERS PASS CAVALLO EXPEDITION,

Fort Esperanza, Tex., December 6, 1863.

MAJOR: I herewith inclose reports of Brig. Gen. T. E.G. Ransom, commanding Third

Brigade, Second Division, and Col. H. D. Washburn, commanding First Brigade, First Division,

Thirteenth Army Corps, detailing the action of their respective brigades in the reduction of this

fort. I refer to these reports as containing most of the details pertaining to the expedition, and for

the names of such persons as deserve specially to be honorably mentioned. On the 21st ultimo, I

arrived at Aransas Pass, with the Thirty-third Illinois and part of the Eighteenth Indiana, on

board steamer Clinton. On the 22d ultimo, I received your order to take command of an

expedition up the coast, for the purpose of capturing this fort. On the same day, I proceeded to

Saint Joseph's Island, and landed the troops and stores on board the Clinton by 12 m. On the 23d,

I pushed forward same day to head of Saint Joseph's Island, 18 miles distant, having previously

sent General Ransom in the advance, with instructions to bridge, if possible, the pass between

Saint Joseph's and Matagorda Islands. On arriving at this pass (called Cedar Bayou), I discovered

that to bridge would be impossible. With a width of nearly 300 yards, a strong current, and

exposed to the terrible winds that here prevail, I saw that our only chance to get over was to

ferry. Fearing that such would prove the case, I brought along on my wagons four yawl boats. By

lashing together, I was able to take over my troops, wagons, and artillery. My horses and mules

were swum across. On the 24th, a terrific norther sprung up, rendering it impossible to cross the

pass, but on the following morning, the gale having subsided, the force commenced to cross, and

by midnight were all over, and the rear went into camp, about 8 miles up the coast, at 3 a.m. On

the 26th, marched over 20 miles, and encamped 10 miles from the fort, and on the 27th, at 11

a.m., came within range of the guns of the fort. Spent the rest of the day reconnoitering the

position, the gunboats which were to co-operate not having come up. I soon discovered that the

fort was a large and complete work, mounting heavy guns, and that all approaches were well

guarded.

The country around was a level plain, and their outworks, which were of a most complete

character, extended across from the Gulf to a lagoon connecting with the back bay. On the night

after our arrival, a fierce norther sprung up, causing my men to suffer greatly, and rendering the

prosecution of operations exceedingly disagreeable. The norther continued for two days,

rendering it impossible for the gunboats to render us any assistance. I applied for launches, with

which I intended to land troops on Bayucos Island and cut off their communication with the main

[land], but the gale prevented their being furnished until too late.

The force within the fort was from 700 to 800, all of whom escaped under cover of night,

excepting 6 belonging to their rear guard. The rebels left 1 man on the ground killed. If they had

39

any wounded, they took them away. We lost 1 killed and 2 wounded. Lieutenant Fifer, gallant

young officer of the Thirty-third Illinois, was severely wounded in the breast. For a description

of the fort, and the captures therein, I refer to the report of Captain Baker, engineer. We also

captured a small fort on Bayucos Island, with one 24-pounder field gun. I cannot express in too

strong language my admiration of the conduct of the officers and men engaged in this expedition.

We left the foot of Saint Joseph's Island without transportation of any kind, except twelve

wagons, which were used for transporting supplies. With this small train I had to supply 2,800

men, together with the animals belonging to the train, and horses for two batteries, nearly 60

miles from my base of supply.

The weather much of the time was very inclement, water very bad, and fuel scarce, but I

never heard a complaint or murmur of any kind. The troops accompanying me were as follows,

viz: Eighth Indiana Infantry, commanded by Major Kenny; Eighteenth Indiana, Lieutenant-

Colonel Charles; Thirty-third Illinois, Col. C. E. Lippincott; Ninety-ninth Illinois, Colonel

Bailey; Seventh Michigan Battery, Lieutenant Stillman, composing First Brigade; Twenty-third

Iowa, Colonel Glasgow, of the Second Brigade, First Division, Thirteenth Army Corps, all

commanded by Col. H. D. Washburn; and the Thirty-fourth Iowa, Lieutenant-Colonel Dungan;

Fifteenth Maine, Colonel Dyer; Thirteenth Maine, Colonel Hesseltine, and Foust's (Missouri)

battery, of the Second Brigade, Second Division, Thirteenth Army Corps, commanded by

Brigadier-General Ransom. It affords me great pleasure to state that the conduct of Brigadier-

General Ransom and Col. H. D. Washburn, commanding brigades, was most prompt, gallant,

and efficient, and deserves the highest praise. The navy has shown every disposition to cooperate

in the most prompt manner, and to Captain Strong, of the Monongahela, commanding

the fleet, and Captain Lamson, of the Granite City, I am under many obligations. Their failure to

take part in the attack on the fort was attributable solely to the gale which at the time prevailed.

C. C. WASHBURN,

Major-General.

Maj. G. NORMAN LIEBER,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

SALURIA, Tex., December 3, 1863.

MAJOR: I beg leave to submit the following report of the part taken by the First Brigade,

First Division, Thirteenth Army Corps, in the reduction of Fort Esperanza, on Matagorda Island:

At midnight, November 25, I had succeeded, after much difficulty, in getting the whole of

my force across Cedar Bayou, upon the island, and marched immediately to join General

Ransom, some 8 miles in advance. After a few hours, rest, we moved up the island, making a

very hard march through the sand of 23 miles; camped for the night, and moved in the morning

for this place, my brigade, by your order, moving along the beach. About 12 o'clock we had

advanced to the light-house, and in close proximity to the enemy's works. The main portion of

the command was halted, and, by your order, I proceeded with one company from each of my

regiments, under the command of Capt. Ira Moore, Thirty-third Illinois, a most excellent officer,

supported by the Thirty-third Regiment Illinois Infantry, to reconnoiter, and endeavor to find the

strength and position of the enemy. Moving cautiously up the beach, we soon drove in the

enemy's picket, and our advance was safely lodged in a range of sand hills, within 300 yards of

the outer work of the enemy--a heavy earthwork, extending from the bay to a lagoon running

from the bay on the mainland side of the island. The work was regularly laid out, about 15 feet in

thickness, and from 10 to 15 feet in height.

The enemy now opened upon us from Fort Esperanza with his 128-pounder and 24s,

throwing shells, but with little or no effect. Having found out the position and apparent strength

40

of the enemy, by your order I withdrew my advance. During the night, a heavy norther coming

on, we were unable to do much the 28th. The night of the 28th, Captain McCallister, of the

Eighth Indiana, and Captain Hull, of the Ninety-ninth Illinois, both of whom had had

considerable experience in that line in the rear of Vicksburg, with a fatigue party from each of

the regiments in the brigade, under cover of the darkness, dug a rifle-pit from the sand hills on

the beach occupied by us the first day, and running parallel with the enemy's works, 210 yards in

length, sufficient to cover a regiment. Sergeant Goodlander, of Company F, Eighth Indiana, with

a small detail from the different regiments, was ordered to move at early dawn in advance of our

rifle pit, and endeavor to gain a position on the outer edge of the enemy's works. The Eighth

Indiana was also moved out, and ordered to lie down in the open prairie, in order to take

advantage of any lodgment our advance might make. Captain Hull, of the Ninety-ninth,

volunteered, and accompanied the advance. The morning was bitterly cold, and our men suffered

severely. Our advance moved up slowly and cautiously, took position on the outside of the work,

the inside being controlled by the enemy in the sand hills between the work and the main fort,

driving in a small picket force on the inside, the force for protection of the work having been

driven by the weather to the sand hills. They endeavored to rally and drive our men back, but in

vain. The Eighth Indiana was immediately sent forward in small detachments, so as to avoid the

fire of the heavy guns of the fort, and gained a safe footing in our rifle-pit and on the enemy's

work. Finding ourselves more successful than I had dared to hope, I returned to the main portion

of my brigade, and immediately sent Colonel Lippincott with his regiment to the front, with

instructions to take command of the force in front, and to advance as fast as prudence would

allow, and to get, if possible, a position where our artillery might be made effective. Colonel

Lippincott moved promptly with his command, and I soon had the pleasure of hearing from him

that he had secured a good position for our artillery.

Adjt. W. W. Zener, of the Eighteenth Indiana, now on my staff, was ordered to bring up two

pieces of the Seventh Michigan Battery, under command of Lieutenant Stillman, which he

accomplished with dispatch The pieces were brought up and placed in battery under a heavy fire

from the fort, fortunately not very accurate, and we soon had the pleasure of seeing our shells

dropping in the enemy's stronghold, and driving them from their guns. Colonel Lippincott had

very judiciously disposed of the two regiments, and had, previously to the arrival of the artillery,

advanced several companies into the sand hills in our front, driving back the enemy nearer his

main work. I also ordered possession to be taken of an old work several hundred yards in our

front, and to the left and rear of the fort, which was gallantly done by Captain McCallister,

Eighth Indiana, with his company. This enabled us to move our advance on the right nearer the

fort. In the meantime I had ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Charles, Eighteenth Indiana, to move his

regiment to the support of the Eighth and Thirty-third, in doing which he passed under a heavy

fire of the fort, but fortunately for him the enemy threw nothing but solid shot, which, from their

size, were easily avoided, and he gained his position with the loss of but 1 man.

Night coming on, found four companies of the Eighth Indiana and five companies of the

Thirty-third Illinois in the sand hills near the fort (725 yards, as shown by measurement). Two

companies of the Eighth Indiana held the old work to our front. The balance of three regiments

held the outside of the new work. The men, although the night was raw and cold, remained upon

the field and in their position. A fatigue party was detailed from the reserve regiments, and

proceeded to move the four pieces of the Seventh Michigan Battery to the work occupied by our

troops, and, by filling the ditch, placed them in a fine position. I also ordered a portion of the

Eighteenth Indiana, under Captain Lowes, to reenforce Captain McCallister, as I believed that to

be an important point. The Ninety-ninth Illinois and Twenty-third Iowa, who were held in

reserve, were to move at daylight to our position, while a general advance of the whole brigade

41

was to take place. These arrangements were hardly completed when, about 12:30 o'clock, an

explosion of gunpowder in the fort warned us that the enemy were on the move. I immediately

ordered an advance of the skirmishers, and found that the enemy had fled, leaving behind him his

stores and ammunition and the personal baggage of the officers. They had, however, piled a large

quantity of cotton around the different magazines, after having scattered gunpowder around in

different places.

The advance pushed on to the ferry, but were too late; the enemy had cut the rope, allowing

the floating bridge to swing around upon the shore. They had also attempted to destroy it by

piling cotton upon it and firing it, but our men were too close, and put out the fire. Six of the 8

men left by the enemy to fire the trains were captured.

At daylight I moved a small force across to McHenry Island, and took possession of a small

earthwork containing one 24-pounder gun, considerable ammunition, and some garrison

equipage. In Fort Esperanza we found one 28-pounder columbiad and seven 24-pounder siege

guns. Two of the magazines were saved. Considerable camp and garrison equipage was in the

fort, but, owing to the danger from the explosion, we failed to save it.

My total loss was 1 man killed and 10 wounded, among the latter Lieut. George H. Fifer,

acting aide-de-camp, a gallant and brave officer, who fell, severely wounded, during our first

reconnaissance. My officers and men behaved gallantly, showing that they had lost none of that

coolness and bravery evinced by them upon the battle-fields of Pea Ridge, Fredericktown, Port

Gibson, Champion's Hill, Black River Bridge, Vicksburg, and Jackson.

Colonel Lippincott, of the Thirty-third Illinois, rendered me great assistance in the advance

upon the enemy's works, and displayed both courage and judgment.

Major Kenny, of the Eighth Indiana, though lately promoted to the position, proved by his

courage and coolness that he was well worthy of the same.

Lieutenant-Colonel Charles, of the Eighteenth Regiment Indiana Volunteers, brought his

regiment in fine style and good order through a heavy fire from the fort to the support of the two

advance regiments.

Colonel Bailey, of the Ninety-ninth Illinois, and Colonel Glasgow, of the Twenty-third Iowa,

who were held in reserve, were both anxious to be moved to the front, and, more by accident

than anything else, were thrown into the reserve. Both regiments had already established their

reputation as veterans in the well-fought fields of Mississippi. I am greatly indebted to Captain

McCallister, Eighth Indiana, and Captain Hull, Ninety-ninth Illinois, for their assistance in the

digging and laying out of their rifle-pit and placing of the battery.

Lieutenant Stillman, commanding Seventh Michigan Battery, rendered very efficient aid in

discomfiting the enemy. Two guns of his battery were worked right under the fire of the guns of

the fort.

My own staff discharged their duties with fidelity, courage, and ability. They are as follows:

Maj. I. H. Elliott, Thirty-third Illinois, inspector and chief of staff; Capt. S. H. Dunbar, Eighth

Indiana, acting assistant adjutant-general; Capt. John Ruess, Eighth Indiana, acting assistant

commissary of subsistence; Lieut. and Adjt. W. W. Zener, Eighteenth Indiana, aide-de-camp and

provost-marshal; Lieut. G. H. Fifer, Thirty-third Illinois, aide-de-camp; Lieut. J. G. Sever,

Ninety-ninth Illinois, ordnance officer. Maj. Joseph H. Ledlie, Ninety-ninth Illinois, senior

surgeon, was detailed on operating board.

I would also make especial mention of Sergt. John Goodlander, of Company F, Eighth

Indiana, and Private Addison Hallenbeck, Company K, Eighteenth Indiana, who were the first to

mount the enemy's works the morning of the 29th. In mentioning the above, I would not have it

understood that any of my officers or men failed to do their duty, and their whole duty.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

42

H. D. WASHBURN,

Colonel, Comdg. First Brig., First Div., Thirteenth Army Corps.

BROWNSVILLE, TEX.,

December 1, 1863.

GENERAL: I have the honor to submit to you an account of the part taken by my regiment in

the expedition against Texas, which was under command of Major-General Banks and started

from New Orleans on the 24th October, 1863.

On the 23d, my regiment embarked on the steamer General Banks. The entire fleet consisted

of sixteen vessels and three gunboats, all loaded with troops, provisions, and munitions of war.

On the 27th, the fleet sailed through the Southwest Pass, and came to anchor outside the bar.

Went to sea on the 29th. On the 30th, we encountered a severe storm from the north. Our ship

being overloaded, as well as old and frail, labored and strained alarmingly. The sea striking very

heavily under the guards and fan-tail, threatened to tear off the latter, rendering it necessary, in

order to save life, to lighten the ship. This was at once done by heaving overboard 11 mules, one

battery wagon, forage, &c., after which she rode easier, but her leakage constantly increased,

requiring the unremitting working of the pumps.

On the 31st October, our fuel was nearly exhausted, and we were taken in tow by the Empire

City.

On the 1st day of November, we came in sight of land, and at 6 p.m. came to anchor off the

bar at the island of Brazos.

On the 2d November, we were the first of the fleet to cross the bar, and about noon effected a

landing. The Nineteenth Regiment was the first command landed, and its colors the first that

floated on the breeze of that desolate island. I was at once ordered out; moved 6 miles to the

front, and held the advance for three days, until a large part of the force was landed and came up.

On the 6th of November, our orders were to move forward, and, after two days' march up the

Rio Grande, crossing the battle-fields of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma, we entered

Brownsville, Tex., on the 7th, without opposition.

The enemy had a small force, which evacuated the place on our approach. Previously,

however, they fired the barracks of Fort Brown and many private buildings, which were

smoldering ruins when we took possession of the town. We captured a large amount of cotton,

and stopped a large trade going on between Mexico and the so-called Confederate States.

Col. William McE. Dye, of the Twentieth Iowa, commanding our brigade (Second Brigade,

Second Division, Thirteenth Army Corps), was made commander of the post, and his brigade

went into barracks in the town, where we still remain.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN BRUCE,

Major, Commanding Nineteenth Iowa Infantry

N. B. BAKER,

Adjutant-General of Iowa.

BROWNSVLLE, TEX.,

December 1, 1863.

GENERAL: I have the honor to submit to you an account of the part taken by my regiment in

the expedition against Texas, which was under command of Major-General Banks and started

from New Orleans on the 24th October, 1863.

On the 23d, my regiment embarked on the steamer General Banks. The entire fleet consisted

of sixteen vessels and three gunboats, all loaded with troops, provisions, and munitions of war.

43

On the 27th, the fleet sailed through the Southwest Pass, and came to anchor outside the bar.

Went to sea on the 29th. On the 30th, we encountered a severe storm from the north. Our ship

being overloaded, as well as old and frail, labored and strained alarmingly. The sea striking very

heavily under the guards and fan-tail, threatened to tear off the latter, rendering it necessary, in

order to save life, to lighten the ship. This was at once done by heaving overboard 11 mules, one

battery wagon, forage, &c., after which she rode easier, but her leakage constantly increased,

requiring the unremitting working of the pumps.

On the 31st October, our fuel was nearly exhausted, and we were taken in tow by the Empire

City.

On the 1st day of November, we came in sight of land, and at 6 p.m. came to anchor off the

bar at the island of Brazos.

On the 2d November, we were the first of the fleet to cross the bar, and about noon effected a

landing. The Nineteenth Regiment was the first command landed, and its colors the first that

floated on the breeze of that desolate island. I was at once ordered out; moved 6 miles to the

front, and held the advance for three days, until a large part of the force was landed and came up.

On the 6th of November, our orders were to move forward, and, after two days' march up the

Rio Grande, crossing the battle-fields of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma, we entered

Brownsville, Tex., on the 7th, without opposition.

The enemy had a small force, which evacuated the place on our approach. Previously,

however, they fired the barracks of Fort Brown and many private buildings, which were

smoldering ruins when we took possession of the town. We captured a large amount of cotton,

and stopped a large trade going on between Mexico and the so-called Confederate States.

Col. William McE. Dye, of the Twentieth Iowa, commanding our brigade (Second Brigade,

Second Division, Thirteenth Army Corps), was made commander of the post, and his brigade

went into barracks in the town, where we still remain.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN BRUCE,

Major, Commanding Nineteenth Iowa Infantry

N. B. BAKER,

Adjutant-General of Iowa.

RETURN OF SECOND DIVISION.

October 1.--The division was stationed at Morganza, La., until the 11th instant, when it

embarked on transports and sailed for Carrollton.

October 12.--Arrived at Carrollton about 10 a.m., and went into camp, where it remained

until the 22d instant, busily engaged in fitting out for a campaign in a new field.

October 21.--The Thirteenth and Fifteenth Maine Infantry were attached to the division by

order of Major-General Banks, and the First Texas Cavalry, First Engineers, and Sixteenth

Infantry, Corps d'Afrique, were ordered to report to Major-General Dana, commanding the corps

and division, though not attached to the division.

October 23.--The division embarked on transports, and dropped down the river.

October 25.--Sailed for the mouth of the Rio Grande.

October 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31 found them still in the Gulf, on board boats, en route to

their destinations.

November 1.--This division, under the immediate command of Major-General Dana, was on

transports, lying off the coast, awaiting an opportunity to land, a storm raging at the time.

November 3.--Commenced landing by lighters and small boats on Brazos Island, consuming

several days, and losing two steamers and two schooners in so doing.

44

November 6.--The Second Brigade, excepting the Twentieth Iowa, marched on, and occupied

Brownsville. On the same day, the Twentieth Iowa occupied Point Isabel. The First Brigade,

excepting the Fifteenth Maine, which remained at Brazos, marched on same day toward

Brownsville, encamped on the Rio Grande, and marched into Brownsville on the 8th. The First

Texas Cavalry marched in detachments, as their horses were unloaded, for same point--a long

and tedious process, consuming several days. The First Engineers and Sixteenth Infantry, Corps

d'Afrique, left at Brazens.

November 13.--The Thirteenth Maine Infantry marched from Brownsville to Point Isabel.

November 14.--The Thirty-fourth Iowa and Battery F, First Missouri Light Artillery,

marched from Brownsville to Point Isabel, and the Fifteenth Maine, having crossed to Point

Isabel from Brazos, the Twentieth and Thirty-fourth Iowa, the Thirteenth and Fifteenth Maine,

and Battery F were placed under command of Brigadier-General Ransom, and proceeded up the

coast by vessel, and landed on Mustang Island.

November 16.--Marched up the island, captured a small fort, with heavy guns, prisoners, &c.,

and proceeded to Saint Joseph's Island.

November 28.--Attacked a fort of the enemy, compelling them to abandon and destroy

everything in it. This portion of the division is still absent, and no further reports have been heard

from them.

November 20.--The First Texas Cavalry, the Thirty-seventh Illinois, and a section of Battery

B marched on Ringgold Barracks, some 200 miles above the Rio Grande, where a force of rebels

were said to be; and are at this date, November 30, still absent. The remainder of the troops are at

Point Isabel and Brazos Island, engaged in fortifying and holding those posts. Health of the

troops generally good. A large amount of cotton and valuable stores have been captured and

turned over to the proper departments, for which the various staff reports will account.

RETURN OF SECOND BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION.

November 3.--The Nineteenth Iowa, Thirteenth Maine, and Battery B, First Missouri Light

Artillery, landed on Brazos Island, and the two regiments proceeded to the Boca Chica, where

the Nineteenth Iowa encamped. The Thirteenth Maine crossed and moved down the coast to the

mouth of the Rio Grande, and encamped.

November 4.--Received orders to land the brigade, and move at once with four days' rations

to Brownsville, and occupy the place. The brigade commander landed with the Ninety-fourth

Illinois, leaving orders to have the rations loaded and sent after him. Moved on the road to

Brownsville, by way of the Rio Grande, passing the Nineteenth Iowa at the Boca Chica, who

were ordered to wait for the artillery and rations, and come on with them. Found the Thirteenth

Maine at the mouth of the Rio Grande, without rations, and also that the Twentieth Iowa and

Twentieth Wisconsin had failed in the attempt to land, having drowned 3 or 4 men in the

breakers and lost a number of arms, accouterments, knapsacks, &c. Pushed on for Brownsville,

leaving the Thirteenth Maine to come on as soon as rations could be procured, and arrived in

front of Brownsville with the Ninety-fourth Illinois, about 125 men, on the evening of the 5th.

November 6.--Moved in at 10 a.m. and took possession. At 4 p.m. the Thirteenth Maine

arrived, and two pieces of Battery B.

November 7.--The Nineteenth Iowa arrived, and the Twentieth Wisconsin on the 10th. The

Twentieth Iowa has not been heard from officially since landing. The Thirteenth Maine left this

place on the 13th instant for Point Isabel, and has not been heard from officially since.

November 21.--One section of Battery B accompanied a scout to Ringgold Barracks.

RETURN OF FIRST BRIGADE, THIRD DIVISION.

December 19.--Left New Iberia, La., for Berwick Bay, La., arriving there on the evening of

the 21st; distance marched, about 60 miles.

45

December 22, 23.--Crossed Berwick Bay, and took cars for Algiers, La., where we are still in

camp, excepting the Thirty-fourth Indiana Infantry and four companies of the Forty-sixth Indiana

Infantry, which have embarked for Texas.

HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, ARMY OF TEXAS,

Lavaca, November 30, 1863.

Brig. Gen. H. P. BEE:

SIR: Acting in accordance with your instructions to me on the 21st instant, I left Hawley's

dredge-boat on Aransas Bay on the 22d, leaving under a flag of truce your communication to the

officer commanding the naval and land forces of the United States Army at Aransas Pass.

On arriving within probably a mile of the nearest vessel of the Federal fleet, I stopped, and

waved my flag repeatedly to attract the attention of their outposts. After the lapse of two or three

hours, I saw, nearing me, a small boat, containing an officer and 5 men. Although they had no

white flag flying, still I determined to await their approach, being very anxious to get an answer

to your communication. As soon as the boat reached me, I made known my business, and handed

the officer my documents.

I was at once placed under guard, and the Federal boat returned to the island, coming back

again in an hour, with instructions to take myself and party, consisting of 2 citizens, within the

lines.

As soon as we reached Aransas City, I was conducted to the headquarters of the officer

commanding the troops at that point. I was here informed that I would be detained until General

Banks, whose headquarters were on Mustang Island, about 5 miles distant, could receive your

communication and act upon it. This gave me an opportunity of seeing very distinctly their entire

force, and forming some idea of the object of the very active movements that were going on. I

soon came to the conclusion that an expedition was being organized to attack our fortifications at

Saluria, which conclusion was verified during the evening.

This expedition consisted of five infantry regiments--the Thirty-third and Ninety-ninth

Illinois, the Eighth and Eighteenth Indiana, and the Twenty-third Iowa--not averaging over 500

men each. Accompanying these troops there were, as near as I could learn, eight pieces of

artillery. This brigade was commanded by Colonel [Henry D.] Washburn, acting brigadiergeneral.

The expedition was directed by General [Cadwallader C.] Washburn, who commands, I

understand, one division of the Thirteenth Army Corps, U.S. Army.

General Washburn marched on Saluria the same evening that I landed on the island, the 22d

instant. About two hours after my landing, I was taken by Colonel [Nathan A.M.] Dudley,

inspector-general of the Thirteenth Army Corps, U.S. Army, to Mustang Island, when the

colonel informed me I would be detained there three or four days for prudential motives.

Quarters were assigned me on one of their transports.

I was detained within the Federal lines four days, during which time, being restricted only by

the limits of the transport on which I was quartered, I had an opportunity of gaining considerable

information respecting General Banks' expedition against our State.

Until the 25th, the five regiments that marched against Saluria and two companies of negroes

that remained on Mustang [Island] comprised General Banks' entire command this side of

Brownsville. On the evening of the 25th, however, a vessel arrived from New Orleans, I think,

with two regiments of infantry--the Twenty-first and Twenty-second Iowa; they also averaged

only about 500 men each. This comprised General Banks' entire command on the islands of

Mustang, Saint Joseph, and Matagorda. When I was released, on the evening of the 26th instant,

he had outside four heavy ships of war--the McClellan, his flag-ship; the Monongahela, their

46

heaviest armed ship; the Granite City, and the Thomas Scott. Inside of the bar, there were six

transports drawing under 8 feet water, all armed but one, their armament consisting of 12-

pounder Dahlgren howitzers and 20-pounder Parrott guns. There were four of each kind; two of

the Parrott guns, however, were in battery on land, two small earthworks having been thrown up

as soon as the island was captured. One of the transports was the Matamoras, from the Rio

Grande, one of the boats owned by Messrs. King & Kennedy, of Brownsville; all of their boats

excepting one are in the hands of the Federals. The Matamoras is still commanded by her same

captain, Dalzell.

While writing here of the Rio Grande, I will mention that the chief of General Banks' staff

told me several times that all cotton in Matamoras would be seized and held by the Federal

authorities.

As nearly as I could judge from my conversations with General Banks' staff officers and

officers of the line, the primary object of this expedition is to completely blockade our coast by

capturing our passes and fortifying them. After this is accomplished, they expect, with the

assistance of their forces in Arkansas and Louisiana, to invade the State and hold it, as they do

other portions of our Confederacy. I was told by one of the above officers that they expected

more troops daily--a sufficient number to defeat the army of 20,000 that they understood we had

in Texas.

Believing this to be about the amount of information I gained during the four days that I was

detained within the Federal lines, I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WALTER L. MANN,

First Lieutenant, and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

WAR DEPARTMENT,

June 15, 1863--2.30 p.m.

His Excellency Governor KIRKWOOD,

Iowa City, Iowa:

The movements of the rebel forces in Virginia are now sufficiently developed to show that

General Lee with his whole army is moving forward to invade the States of Maryland and

Pennsylvania, and other States. The President, to repel this invasion promptly, has called upon

Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia for 100,000 militia for six months, unless

sooner discharged. It is important to have the largest possible force in the least time, and if other

States would furnish militia for a short term, to be credited on the draft, it would greatly advance

the object.

Will you please inform me immediately what number, in answer to a special call of the

President, you can raise and forward of militia or volunteers, without bounty, for six months,

unless sooner discharged, and to be credited on the draft of your State?

EDWIN M. STANTON,

Secretary of War

DAVENPORT, IOWA, June 15, 1863.

(Received 8.35 a.m.)

Hon. E. M. STANTON:

Governor and adjutant-general not returned from Vicksburg. Have telegraphed your dispatch

to Memphis. This State has few militia organizations. Three or four six-months' regiments could

be raised in twenty days. One battalion of cavalry here ready for field excepting horse

equipments.

P. E. HALL.

47

DAVENPORT, IOWA,

June 16, 1863--2.56 a.m.

Hon. E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War:

It is impossible to say with certainty how many men can be raised in a short time among a

population as sparse as ours. If you deem it advisable to call for six-months' men from this State,

let me know how many you want and within what time you want them, and I will do my best,

SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.

HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Camp on Big Black, September 5, 1863.

SIR: Inclosed please find report of Col. E. F. Winslow, Fourth Iowa, of the results of his

expedition to Grenada, Memphis, and back to camp.

His movement was skillful and eminently successful. It would have been better that he

should have destroyed the locomotives and cars left at Winona, but my instructions to him, based

on those of General Grant to me, were to run the cars beyond Grenada and into Memphis. The

destruction of the bridges of the Yalabusha at Grenada made that impossible, and then it was too

late to bring up the cars from Winona. These can be of little use to the enemy, as they cannot

come below Durant, the road being useless thence to Jackson.

I am, &c.,

W. T. SHERMAN,

Major-General, Commanding.

Brig. Gen. JOHN A. RAWLINS,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Vicksburg, Miss.

HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Camp on Black River, August 8, 1863.

Col. E. F. WINSLOW,

Fourth Iowa Cavalry:

SIR: In pursuance of Special Orders, No. 156, of the 6th instant, you will take command of

the cavalry forces designated in these orders, and start on the 10th instant for the north.

You will strike for the lower Benton road, and follow it to Mechanicsburg, and thence to

Yazoo City. There you will find a gunboat and a supply of provisions, with which you can

replenish.

After a short rest, keeping well quiet as to your destination, proceed to Lexington, and thence

strike the Great Central Railroad and ascertain if possible if the locomotives and cars belonging

to the road are still above Grenada. At our last accounts there were between Grenada and Water

Valley an immense number of locomotives (70) and near 500 cars.

If you find any locomotives below Grenada, you will endeavor to have them and all cars sent

up to and above Grenada, and you will proceed to that place with your cavalry. General Grant

has ordered a force from Memphis to meet you at or near Grenada. Communicate with them as

soon as possible, and with your joint force use all possible efforts to get these cars and

locomotives into Memphis.

I take it for granted that parties are now employed in repairing the track out from Memphis,

and that you will find everything done on that end of the road.

48

You know that we have so crippled the road from Canton south that no railroad stock can be

carried off by the enemy; and therefore we have no interest in destroying it, and therefore you

will confine your labors and efforts to save it, by moving it toward and into Memphis.

You will find plenty of engineers and conductors whom you can employ, or, if necessary, use

force to compel them to work their engines and trains.

I am satisfied all of Jackson's cavalry is at or near Brandon, east of the Pearl. If any

detachments have been made they are toward Natchez. The Memphis forces will, of course,

drive out of that neighborhood all of Chalmers' men and other detachments of guerrillas, more

intent on collecting conscripts than on fighting.

No matter which force you meet, attack promptly and resolutely, and so handle your forces

that they cannot count your numbers. Do not stay in Grenada, but occupy the bank of the

Yalabusha, the other side of Grenada, till you are in connection with the Memphis forces, after

which act according to your judgment.

You carry money with you, and it is now to the interest of our Government that all

plundering and pillaging should cease. Impress this on your men from the start, and let your chief

quartermaster and commissary provide liberally and fairly for the wants of your command by

paying.

Union people and the poorer farmers, without being too critical as to politics, should be paid

for their corn, bacon, beef, and vegetables, but where the larger planters and farmers have an

abundance to spare you can take of the surplus, giving in all such cases a simple receipt, signed

by your chief quartermaster and commissary. Also, when your horses break down, you can take a

remount, exchanging the broken-down animal and giving a certificate of the transaction, fixing

the cash difference in value--the boot.

Deal firmly but fairly with the inhabitants. I am satisfied a change of feeling is now going on

in this State, and we should encourage it. Much importance is attached to this branch of the

subject, and you will see that every officer and man is informed of it.

Punish on the spot and with rigor any wanton burning of houses or property without your

specific orders. If at Grenada you find the Memphis force fully competent to the task of saving

the railroad stock enumerated you can return via Yazoo City; but if there be any doubt remain

with them and go on into Memphis and return to my command by the river. On your application

the quartermaster, Captain Eddy, will furnish boats. Report to me by letter as often as possible,

either by the route you go or around by way of Memphis. I inclose you the best map we are able

to compile. Add to it as you progress, and on your return I shall expect it to be filled with roads

and names of localities not now on it.

With great respect,

W. T. SHERMAN,

Major-General, Commanding.

MEMPHIS, TENN., August 22, 1863.

DEAR SIR: I have the honor to report that with my command I arrived here this evening,

having been thirteen days from camp.

I captured a down train at Durant, 14 miles east of Lexington; burned a piece of trestle 5

miles below that place, and moved directly on Grenada with all engines, cars, &c., arriving there

at 7 p.m., 17th instant. I was obliged to leave all rolling stock collected (17 engines and about

100 cars) at Winona, 20 miles below Grenada, as the enemy had destroyed a bridge just above

Winona.

49

Found Lieutenant-Colonel Phillips, with 1,500 cavalry, had reached G[renada] about four

hours in advance of my coming, having driven out Slemons (with, say, 600 men), but not before

the railroad bridges had both been destroyed by fire.

Lieutenant-Colonel Phillips, fearing an attack from Jackson, had set fire to all the engines

and cars in Grenada, about 30 and 200, respectively.

I remained in Grenada one day, and with the whole command moved northward via Panola

and Coldwater, separating from Colonel Phillips at a point 10 miles north of Panola.

Found the crossing at the Coldwater in possession of a force of the enemy under Colonel

Blythe, but he was speedily driven out.

I had not a day's rations when we left Yazoo City, yet we made a very favorable impression

south of Grenada.

Lieutenant-Colonel Phillips had instructions directly antagonistic to those in my possession.

I shall have the honor to make an official report at once, and send or carry it to you.

Very truly, I have the pleasure of being your obedient servant to command,

E. F. WINSLOW,

Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Forces.

Major-General SHERMAN,

Commanding Fifteenth Army Corps.

HDQRS. CAVALRY FORCES, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Memphis, Tenn., August 23, 1863.

CAPTAIN: In accordance with instructions, the forces under my command, consisting of the

Third Iowa, Fourth Iowa, and Fifth Illinois Cavalry Regiments, 800 men, left camp on Big Black

River, at 5 a.m., 10th instant, and halted at 1 p.m. 8 miles below Mechanicsburg, 18 miles from

camp, until 5 o'clock next morning, when we moved through Mechanicsburg to the plantation of

Mr. Roach, and halted at noon, being then 9 miles from Yazoo City, which place was reached at

8 o'clock on the morning of the 12th instant.

The gunboat, transports, and troops had left this place early on the 11th instant, and after

waiting in bivouac until the morning of the 14th I decided, in opposition to the voices of officers

commanding the regiments, to push forward without further delay, and accordingly moved at

4.30 for Lexington via Rankin.

We bivouacked at 10 p.m. on Harlan's Creek, 30 miles from Yazoo City, 8 miles from

Lexington, and entered Lexington at 8 a.m., where the Third Iowa, Major Noble, with Lieutenant

Jones, acting assistant commissary of subsistence, was left to procure rations, while the main

force pushed forward to Durant, 14 miles, and captured at noon a train of cars just from Grenada.

Captain Peters was immediately placed in charge of the engine, and proceeded 5 miles below

Durant and burned a bridge on the track.

I learned that there was one engine and about ten cars below Du-rant, also that the railroad

bridge over Big Black had just been repaired, the captured train being the first one ordered over

it.

Resting till 6 p.m., when the Third Iowa came up, the column was moved to West's Station,

going into bivouac at 11 p.m. on Jordan's Creek, 24 miles via Durant and 20 miles direct from

Lexington. At this point some engines and cars were found, and with the train from Durant,

forwarded to Vaiden, 12 miles, arriving at 11 o'clock, the 16th, where the cavalry was delayed

until 5 p.m. to make up trains.

Reaching Winona, 12 miles, at daybreak, the 17th, it was found that the enemy, who now

appeared in front, had destroyed a small bridge above town; therefore I decided to leave the

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trains, now composing 13 engines and 60 cars, and push forward into Grenada, where I heard of

some force of the enemy being posted.

I had caused to be burned a bridge below West's Station, one below Vaiden, and two below

and near Winona, that the trains could not be carried off if we should be forced to abandon them

temporarily.

Under my instructions I expected to return to Winona, and run the trains to Grenada. Leaving

Winona at 7.30 a.m., the column reached Duck Hill Station, 12 miles, at 11 o'clock, and was

halted to feed and rest at Jackson's Creek, 11 miles from Grenada, till 3 p.m., then moved to that

place, arriving at 7.

From Winona to Grenada, 25 miles, the advance, Third Iowa, was briskly skirmishing, and at

Payne's plantation, 5 miles from Grenada, we came upon quite a force posted behind Berry

Creek, which, however, was speedily forced to abandon the position, retreating eastward.

Upon arriving at Grenada, I found Lieutenant-Colonel Phillips, Ninth Illinois Mounted

Infantry, with two brigades, 1,500 men. The railroad bridge over the Yalabusha having been

burned by the enemy, Colonel Phillips, hearing nothing of our advance, and fearing an

immediate attack from Jackson's cavalry, set fire to the long trains of cars and engines which he

found there.

His arrival about noon had been followed by the burning of the bridges and the retiring of the

enemy (at 4 o'clock), after several hours skirmishing, with little or no loss on either side.

Colonel Phillips had retired most of his troops north of the river, intending to move

northward at once, believing General Ruggles would intercept him at or near Panola.

The whole command being without rations, I decided to remain one day and procure them,

and placing the Third Iowa in charge of the town, with Major Noble as provost-marshal, I caused

the fires on the bridges to be extinguished and prevented the extension of a conflagration which

threatened to destroy the town, two large blocks having already been burned. Keeping the entire

command, except provost guard, picket, and commissary details, on the north side of the river, I

had the condition of the trains examined into, and herewith I submit a statement showing the

number, condition, &c., of all rolling stock on the Mississippi Central and Mississippi and

Tennessee Railroads.

At 4.30 a.m. the 19th instant, the entire force moved northward, via Oakland, to Panola,

where the Tallahatchie was crossed during the evening of the 20th instant after a slight skirmish

with some guerrillas.

On the 21st the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Phillips moved east toward Tchulahoma,

while my proper command marched to the crossing of the Coldwater.

At this point the enemy was found in some force, posted on the opposite bank of the river.

Directing Major Noble, with 75 men of the Third Iowa, to occupy their attention in front, I sent

Major Farnan, Fifth Illinois, with three companies of his own and two companies of the Third

Iowa Regiment (supported by four companies of the Fifth Illinois), all dismounted, with

instructions to cross the river lower down half a mile, and get in the rear of the enemy, if

possible. Through the indiscretion of some of his command the alarm was given ere this was

done, and the enemy in front retreated with some loss, just as the flanking party came in sight.

During this time there was continued skirmishing in our rear and on both flanks, several hundred

men being in that direction.

Repairing the boat we crossed and encamped at dark 4 miles from the river, and arrived at

Cane Creek, 4 miles from Memphis, at noon the 22d instant, having marched 265 miles, with

loss as follows:

Third Iowa, 4 privates wounded, not dangerously; Fourth Iowa, 4 privates and 1 sergeant

missing; Fifth Illinois, I private killed and I wounded seriously.

51

There were captured and paroled 55 prisoners of war, and I brought to this point 25 railroad

engineers and mechanics, thus damaging the enemy much, as this latter class of persons are not

numerous in Mississippi.

The regiments which I have the honor to command did not commit any excesses; did not

enter one house from camp to Grenada, except on duty, and the property was respected, while

the inhabitants were kindly, firmly, and fairly treated by the entire command.

Very few able-bodied citizens were in the country, and there was little hope, apparently, of

success of the Confederate cause.

A large amount of growing corn was everywhere seen and some beef cattle, but bacon is

quite scarce. In the central portions of the State considerable wheat has been harvested.

I could not have returned via Yazoo City without undoing the good conduct and feeling

created, because of the scarcity of provisions, and on account of condition of my command as

regards rations, health, and ammunition, and with consideration for the horses, many of whom

became temporarily unserviceable from sore backs, &c., I deemed it best to return via this city. I

had every reason to believe that a portion of Jackson's cavalry would endeavor to prevent my

return southward.

Nothing could be done toward running the railroad stock toward Memphis because of lack of

means of repairing bridges over the Yalabusha, Tallahatchie, and Coldwater Rivers.

At Grenada there had been burned by Colonel Phillips a large mill with a quantity of flour

sufficient for our entire force, though his division was out of food.

I take pleasure in stating that the cavalry as a whole did everything which could be asked,

and would mention particularly the valuable services of Captain Peters, Fourth Iowa Cavalry;

Lieut. D. E. Jones, acting assistant quartermaster of the expedition, and the gallant conduct of

Major Noble and Major Farnan.

Trusting my conduct and operations will meet your approval, I have the honor to be, your

obedient servant to command,

E. F. WINSLOW,

Colonel, Commanding Cavalry Forces.

Capt. R. M. SAWYER,

Assistant Adjutant-General, 15th Army Corps.

HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION,

Grenada, Miss., August 17, 1863--5 p.m.

SIR: I have to report that in obedience to your order I joined the column from La Grange, at

Oxford, and found that brigade under command of Major Coon, Second Iowa Cavalry. I moved,

without instructions, to Water Valley, being joined 5 miles south of Oxford by the First Brigade

of Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Wallace commanding. The command not having been designed

for me, I had no instructions whatever, either as to the object or destination of the expedition,

though I was the ranking officer; but gathering the object of the expedition from Major Coon's

and Lieutenant-Colonel Wallace's instructions, I moved to Water Valley, where I found that all

the rolling stock of the railroad had been moved toward Grenada. I moved very rapidly on

Grenada, Major Coon's brigade in advance. Brisk skirmishing commenced and was kept up from

a point 8 miles north of Grenada, until I arrived at the Yalabusha River at Grenada. When within

4 miles of Grenada a dense smoke was seen rising from the town, which we afterward found to

be the railroad bridges burning. At the river, Chalmers' forces contended the crossing with

artillery, and a severe skirmish ensued. The regiments fighting us were Slemons' regiment,

McCulloch's regiment, McGuirk's regiment, and Stocks' regiment, with three pieces of artillery.

We found both bridges burned. I captured north of the Yalabusha River 6 engines and 20 cars. At

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Grenada, I captured 51 engines and about 500 cars. Owing to the destruction of the bridges, and I

not being able to learn of ally force from below, as was anticipated, I destroyed these engines

and cars, together with a quantity of ordnance stores and commissary stores in the depot, as the

destruction of the bridges by the enemy would prevent my running them up the road. I captured a

train of 6 wagons with teams belonging to the Confederate Government; also about 50 prisoners,

among them Maj. P.M. Leath, chief quartermaster of Chalmers' division; and with him I captured

$5,700 Government (Confederate) funds. My loss is 2 men wounded; the enemy had several

killed and wounded.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JESSE J. PHILLIPS,

Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.

Brig. Gen. GRENVILLE M. DODGE,

Commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps.

HEADQUARTERS NINTH ILLINOIS INFANTRY,

Pocahontas, Tenn., September 3, 1863.

SIR: I have to report that in pursuance of orders from the commanding officer of the Second

Brigade, Second Division, Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps. I left my camp on the night of the

12th ultimo in command of 330 men of the Ninth Illinois Infantry Regiment, mounted, with

orders, copies of which are herewith sent, marked A and B, but when ready to march a telegram

was sent to me from brigade headquarters directing my march, a copy of which telegram is

herewith sent, marked C, and in accordance with that dispatch I moved toward Salem; thence

crossing the Tippah River at Buck's Springs; thence through Hickory Flats to Rocky Ford,

crossing the Tallahatchie River at that place on the night of the 13th ultimo, moving at 4 a.m. of

the 14th ultimo toward Oxford, where I arrived at 2 o'clock.