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OFFICIAL ARMY RECORDS
1864-6
Extract from statement of John Wells, of Elliott's battalion, Jeff. Thompson's brigade,
Shelby's division, prisoner at Keokuk, Iowa, October 31, 1864.
I first saw Major Wilson when he was taken prisoner and was under guard. I was under arrest
and under guard at that time. I was a soldier in Company A, Capt. Anderson Bolles, Elliott's
battalion. I was put under guard for being on a spree, noisy, and would not go on duty on the day
we got to Pilot Knob before the fight commenced. The fight commenced in the morning, I think,
and ended that evening. They retreated out of the place that night, I believe. I heard the magazine
blow up. Next day, some time, Major Wilson was brought in, and he was put in, him and a
captain--I don't know his name--with some more prisoners, I think about twenty-five or thirty;
some were citizens and some were soldiers. The citizens were taken up to press into the army, I
think. These prisoners were brought up when we were in a street in the town, passing through the
town. Major Wilson was not wounded that I know of. The wounded had been left in hospital.
Some time that evening on the march I spoke with Major Wilson, tramping along the big road
together. Major Wilson was laughing about the looks of Price's men, ragged and on poor horses,
and wondered if Price expected to stay in Missouri with such an army. I told him I had heard if a
man deserted and came North he would be kept in prison during the war. He said it was not so;
that they would let him take the oath and go about his business. I told him if they did not keep
their eye on me mighty close I was going to Iowa or Illinois. The next night out about Potosi all
the prisoners, including Major Wilson, were turned over to headquarters guard at General Price's
headquarters in a big field. I remember the place exactly; there was a big spring there. I don't
think it was more than five or six miles from Potosi. It was after we passed Potosi. I was returned
to duty that night. That was the last I saw of Major Wilson. I never heard that he was badly
treated or hurt afterward. Major Wilson had on a blue blouse with shoulder straps. I think he had
blue pants with yellow cord, but am not certain about that; a black hat. He was a man about
medium size, slender made. I don't remember his eyes sure, but think they were black, or at least
dark; upper lip shaved; goatee, or beard growing below chin and lower part of his cheek; his hair
was dark; am not sure whether it was right black.
Question. Repeat what you stated when first examined in regard to an interview between Jeff.
Thompson and Major Wilson.
On the road between Pilot Knob and Potosi Jeff. Thompson came up and shook hands with
Major Wilson, laughing, and said that the tables were turned; that some time he (Major Wilson)
had him (Jeff. Thompson) prisoner, and that now he (Jeff. Thompson) had him (Major Wilson).
He told the commander of the escort to treat him well. Captain Bolles was in the advance of the
escort. It was under the command of a Lieutenant-Colonel Priste or Fisk [Fristoe] or some such
name. At that time the major was afoot, and I think Jeff. Thompson ordered him a horse or mule
to ride. He was on a mule or horse when he was turned over to headquarters.
KEOKUK, IOWA, October 31, 1864.
Maj. J. F. MELINE,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Milwaukee, Wis.:
MAJOR: The assistant quartermaster at Davenport states that no horses are purchased there
for the Cavalry Bureau. No protection worthy of the name can be afforded against guerrilla raids
except by a mounted force, and as no cavalry is at hand I repeat the suggestion made in my letter
of the 29th, that thirty horses be provided here, which, with twelve horses here, including
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ambulance horses, would enable us to make up a small mounted force of convalescents, if
necessity should arise. The horses can be kept here in charge of the quartermaster and groomed
by details from the convalescents, under direction of non-commissioned officers. Horse
equipments not sufficiently serviceable for continued use in the field, but sufficiently so for
temporary use, can be obtained from among those turned in at the ordnance depots at Saint
Louis. If these suggestions meet the approval of the major-general commanding, I respectfully
ask that thirty horses and equipments for forty horses be procured and sent to this point. There is
but one line officer here, a lieutenant commanding the company of Second Battalion Veteran
Reserve Corps. I respectfully ask that Lieutenant Morton, Veteran Reserve Corps, now at Camp
Reno, be ordered here for duty. I wish him to act here as provost-marshal of this place. Service
of this kind is needed here. I also respectfully repeat my suggestion, that if practicable the
services of a detective from Saint Louis, one who has had experience in Missouri, be secured
here for a few weeks. The season in which guerrillas can conveniently operate is about ending by
the approach of cold weather, and Price's retreat must in great part, it is thought, restore quiet.
Because of this and because I am aware that the force in this department is small and little at
hand for use in this section, I content myself with making the above suggestions.
With great respect, major, your obedient servant,
T. C. H. SMITH,
Brigadier-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 269.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF ARKANSAS,
Little Rock, November 1, 1864.
V. The Twenty-ninth Iowa Infantry Volunteers is hereby transferred to the Second Brigade,
Second Division, Seventh Army Corps, and will proceed to Pine Bluff without delay, and report
for duty to the commanding officer of that post, taking with them their regimental property,
transportation, and the necessary amount of subsistence for the march.
VI. Upon the arrival of the Twenty-ninth Iowa Infantry at Pine Bluff, the Twenty-eighth
Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers will be relieved from duty at that post and will proceed to Little
Rock, and report for duty to the commanding officer First Division, Seventh Army Corps.
By order of Maj. Gen. F. Steele:
W. D. GREEN,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, STATE OF IOWA,
Des Moines, November 1, 1864.
Maj. Gen. JOHN POPE:
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 19th ultimo
relative to alleged dangers on the southern border of this State, and inclosing copy of one from
Mayor J. M. Hiatt, of Keokuk, on the same subject. The probability of formidable raids into this
State by Missouri bushwhackers was quite imminent some weeks ago; in fact, a gang of mounted
men crossed over into Davis County, murdered three of our citizens, and committed other
depredations of various kinds. They did not advance far into the State, however, and soon
returned to Missouri. Since then we have not been molested, and I am inclined to the opinion that
with the expulsion of Price from that State, and the vigorous measures which have been adopted
by Generals Rosecrans and Curtis, that but little danger need be apprehended from that quarter at
present; yet I cannot say that the people living along that exposed line are at any time entirely
safe while the war continues. But they are very well supplied with arms, and I am endeavoring as
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rapidly as possible to complete the organization of the militia, so as to place them in a reasonable
position of defense against these irregular visitations from Missouri. Accept my thanks, general,
for the interest you manifest in the safety of this State and your willingness to aid in the
protection of our borders, and be assured that if circumstances require your assistance I shall
promptly advise you of it.
I am, general, very truly, yours,
W. M. STONE.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., November 2, 1864.
Hon. WILLIAM M. STONE,
Governor of Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa:
GOVERNOR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 1st instant.
Ten days since I sent Brigadier-General Smith to Keokuk with orders to look after the security of
the southern border of your State, and to make such arrangements for that purpose as were
practicable. I inclose a copy of his report to me. He is still at Keokuk, and will remain there until
all excitement has subsided. I will communicate to you anything of consequence which I have
from him.
I am, Governor, respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Major-General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., November 3, 1864.
Brig. Gen. T. C. H. SMITH,
Keokuk, Iowa:
GENERAL: Your several reports have been received and are entirely satisfactory. I transmit
inclosed copy of a letter just received from Governor Stone, to which I invite your particular
attention. You will observe that the Governor considers the Iowa militia abundantly able to
protect the border against guerrilla raids, or any other danger to be anticipated since the retreat of
Price. I desire to remind you that it is not always good policy to inaugurate a regular system of
military precautions, and to post troops and prepare for hostilities, where no such arrangements
have hitherto existed. I gather from your reports, as also from the letter of the Governor, that the
anticipation of danger entertained some weeks since has nearly subsided, and is rapidly
subsiding. It is my experience that it is very much easier to establish military arrangements and
post troops than it is to do away with such arrangements and remove the troops afterward. Once
establish such a system and I fear it will be fixed upon us long after its necessity or propriety has
passed away. I fear if you make the arrangements you suggest, the clamor of the people will
force us to continue them at much expense and inconvenience long after the necessity has
passed. I am therefore very reluctant to go into any system of defense for the border of Iowa,
except what is and what always has been furnished by the local militia. We may get an elephant
in our possession which we will not be able to get rid of for a long time to come. I prefer greatly
to stand upon the Governor's letter and the belief that since Price's retreat there is really no
danger on the Iowa border, except what the local militia can attend to, as they have always done.
I shall delay sending horses, therefore, until I hear from you again. As soon as you think you can
do so safely, you had best return here, placing Major Ten Broeck in charge of matters in
Southern Iowa, if you think it judicious. You will readily understand what I mean without further
explanation.
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Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Major-General, Commanding.
KEOKUK, IOWA, November 3, 1864.
Maj. J. F. MELINE,
A. A. A. G., Hdqrs. Dept. of the Northwest, Milwaukee, Wis.:
MAJOR: I went up yesterday to Ottumwa, the county seat of Wapello, to learn the condition
of things west of this and the views and wishes of the citizens. Colonel Viall, of the staff of the
Governor of this State, and who, as he informs me, is intrusted with the administration of the
militia system in the southern counties, accompanied me. There are over 1,000 militia in each,
organized in the counties of Van Buren, Davis, and Wapello. Of these a company of about forty
in Van Buren and fifty in Davis are now in active service, patrolling, each company, the southern
border of its county, being mounted infantry, drawing pay and a per diem allowance for use of
horses. None of the other militia are on this basis, but the majority of the companies have agreed
to come to drill mounted, and act, if called out, as mounted infantry, most of them being farmers
owning horses. They are well armed with Enfield rifles (all the militia, whether armed or not)
and a number of the officers and many of the men have been in the volunteer service in this war.
As estimated., this mounted force, which could act at once hi an emergency, numbers over 1,600,
about equally distributed in the three counties named. In this county, for the reason that the use
of horses involves more expense and inconvenience (few of the members of the militia
companies owning horses), there are no militia organized as, or who will act as, mounted
infantry or cavalry. The measure suggested in my previous letters, to provide a small mounted
force here, will thus complete the protection by mounted force of the three counties in the
southern border next east of the Mississippi River. I was glad to receive this morning the
dispatch by telegraph from the major-general commanding in regard to detectives.
With great respect, major, your obedient servant,
T. C. H. SMITH,
Brigadier-General.
LITTLE ROCK, November 4, 1864--5 p.m.
Brig. Gen. POWELL CLAYTON:
It is uncertain when the Twenty-eighth Wisconsin will be ordered up. The Twenty-ninth
Iowa was to start to-morrow morning for Pine Bluff, but they have been ordered to remain here
awaiting the movements of the enemy.
C. H. DYER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 306.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, Mo., November 4, 1864.
2. The detachment of the First Iowa Cavalry now at Schofield Barracks will proceed to and
take post at Benton Barracks for the purpose of procuring remounts and refitting for field service.
Capt. J. L. Woods, assistant quartermaster, will furnish necessary wagon transportation to
Benton Barracks.
KEOKUK, IOWA, November 4, 1864.
Maj. J. F. MELINE,
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A. A. A. G., Hdqrs. Dept. of the Northwest, Milwaukee, Wis.:
MAJOR: The rapid and vigorous organization and arming of militia forces in the southern
counties of this State, which Price's advance in Missouri induced, has given the people
confidence in their ability to dispose of any raiders, and since his retreat their apprehensions have
almost entirely died out. I can see but one indication of mischief as things are now. There can be
no question that the recruiting parties which dispersed into Northern Missouri are still many of
them there, and it is possible that before making their way south, they may suddenly collect
together and attempt some undertaking of consequence. It is matter of common knowledge here
that mounted men (suspicious characters) have been making their way into Illinois the past few
weeks. The men arrested by my order were on a recruiting errand. Colonel Duffield, late of the
Third Iowa Cavalry, who was captured on the evening of the 2d instant on the packet from Saint
Louis to this port, the Kate Kearney, at Clarksville, and who was subsequently paroled, told me
that he conversed with a number of the party and came to the conclusion that they were rebel
recruits from Illinois. I am told here that it is matter of common knowledge in Hancock County,
Ill., opposite, that recruiting and drilling have been going on there for weeks. In view of these
and other similar facts, and of the notorious complicity of the secret political societies formed
against the Government, with the rebels, in this region at least, and of the giving out as to what is
to be done on election day, I think it better that I should remain here till after the 8th instant.
With great respect, major, your obedient servant,
T. C. H. SMITH,
Brigadier-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. --.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF ARKANSAS,
Little Rock, November 6, 1864.
I. Col. William McE. Dye, Twentieth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, commanding First Brigade,
Third Division, Nineteenth Army Corps, will proceed with three regiments of his brigade, viz,
Twentieth Iowa, Twenty-third Iowa, and Thirty-fifth Wisconsin, to Brownsville, and will await
further orders at that station. The other regiments of his brigade will join him as soon as
practicable after the arrival at Devall's Bluff of a brigade now under orders at the mouth of White
River.
II. The assistant quartermaster at Devall's Bluff will furnish such land transportation as may
be necessary to carry five days' rations for the command and ten days' rations of forage for the
animals pertaining thereunto.
By order of Major-General Steele:
WM. D. GREEN,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 275.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF ARKANSAS,
Little Rock, November 7, 1864.
V. Col. William McE. Dye, Twentieth Iowa Infantry Volunteers, commanding First Brigade,
Third Division, Nineteenth Army Corps, will proceed with three regiments of his brigade (the
Twentieth Iowa, Twenty-third Iowa, and Thirty-fifth Wisconsin Infantry) to Brownsville, and
there await further orders at that station. The other regiments of his brigade will join him as soon
as practicable after the arrival at Devall's Bluff of a brigade now under orders at the mouth of
White River. The assistant quartermaster at Devall's Bluff will furnish such land transportation
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as may be necessary to carry five days' rations for the command and ten days' rations of forage
for the animals pertaining thereto.
By order of Maj. Gen. F. Steele:
W. D. GREEN,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SIOUX CITY, IOWA, November 7, 1864.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.:
SIR: I learn that the expedition against the Indians is now at an end, but still some 2,000 or
3,000 men are retained at the different military posts on and near the Missouri River, above this
place. This number of men, in my opinion, is not required for this service. At least 1,000 can be
spared for service elsewhere. I believe I understand the situation, and I do not like to see these
men retained here when they are needed so much elsewhere. The officers and men of the Sixth
Iowa Cavalry, as I am informed, desire to go south, and I request that this regiment be ordered
south immediately. It is not needed in this field of service. You are aware that I have always
advised a less force in this service than has been employed. If sent south it should be done at
once, before winter commences.
Very respectfully,
A. W. HUBBARD.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 311.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, Mo., November 9, 1864.
5. The detachment of men belonging to Colonel Winslow's cavalry brigade, of the Right
Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps, now in this city, in charge of Sergt. R. K. Miller, Company D,
Fourth Iowa Cavalry, will take post at Benton Barracks, Mo., until the division to which they
properly belong arrives at this post.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 139.
HDQRS. FIRST DIV., 7TH ARMY CORPS,
Little Rock, Ark., November 10, 1864.
I. During the absence of Col. A. Engelmann, Forty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Col.
John A. Garrett, Fortieth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, is hereby assigned to the command of the
Second Brigade, First Division, Seventh Army Corps, and post of Little Rock.
By order of Brig. Gen. F. Salomon:
A. BLOCKI,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SAINT LOUIS, November 10, 1864--11.10 p.m.
Col. S. H. MELCHER,
Commanding, Jefferson City:
Dispatch written by Captain Thoms--I only saw it this morning. All troops of Sixteenth and
Seventeenth Army Corps are to be sent here. The First Iowa and Seventh Kansas Cavalry are to
come here; all other troops mentioned by you to go into camp--a stragglers' camp--and their
horses to be as well cared for as possible. No stable will be built, as it is believed there are
stables enough at the Fair. Grounds for the use of troops temporarily at the post. As soon as
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orders are given assigning the troops to their permanent station a copy will be sent you, and then
stragglers and men on detached service can be sent to their regiments.
JOHN V. DU BOIS,
Colonel and Chief of Staff.
HEADQUARTERS NORTHWESTERN INDIAN EXPEDITION,
Sioux City, Iowa, November 10, 1864.
Capt. J. H. PELL,
Assistant Adjutant-General:
CAPTAIN: Yours of the 26th of October reached me only to-day. I send my answer back by
express. Your actions I approve, and have reported to headquarters. When they bring in the white
woman prisoner you are authorized to give $200, or three unserviceable horses and a lot of
rations, &c. I calculate horses at the old rate among Indians, i.e., $50 per horse. You are also
authorized to make them a good present in rations when they arrive, and tell them I will go in a
few days where I can talk with their Great Father, and will send word to them when I will be
there to see them and make peace with all who wish to be at peace; that though the Government
is determined to fight till they either exterminate all the Indians or have no more war, yet their
Great Father would be glad to hear he had no more trouble with his red children, and that after I
see him and talk to him I will come myself this winter and talk to them and tell them all he says,
and I will send word ahead, and runners, &c., that they can all come in and talk to me; that they
can trust me, for nothing will I say but what I will do.
Yours, &c.,
ALF. SULLY,
Brigadier-General.
HEADQUARTERS NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Mouth of White River, Ark., November 11, 1864--10 a.m.
Lieutenant-Colonel CHRISTENSEN,
Assistant Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I forward the last advices from General Steele received this morning. Have sent
copy of General Steele's letter of 9th to General Halleck. Brigadier-General Dennis with two
regiments of Second Brigade, Second Division (Slack's), and the Twenty-sixth New York
Battery, four guns (Captain Fox), are now going on board boats, and will be off for Devall's
Bluff immediately. The remainder of that brigade will probably get off to-morrow morning. I
inclose correspondence with Brigadier-General Dennis in reference to his permitting Mr.
Hudson, who, I understand, lives south of the Arkansas River, to bring cotton within our lines at
this post. There are eight bales here which the assistant quartermaster has been ordered to hold
for the present. General Dennis was all ready to go to Devall's Bluff when these developments
were made, and I did not place him in arrest. He seems to regret his conduct in the matter, but, so
far as I can see, has no excuse for a plain violation of existing orders. Lieutenant Eyerly,
Thirteenth Iowa Volunteers, the mustering officer of the Second Division, has gone home to be
mustered out of service, leaving only one mustering officer in the corps. If there is any officer in
New Orleans at all suitable for the position, please appoint him as mustering officer of the corps,
and order him to report to these headquarters in person. Lieutenant Earl is now on a scout
between White and Arkansas Rivers. If it is possible we will find out something about the man
who shot General Canby.
Very respectfully, &c.,
J. J. REYNOLDS,
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Major-General.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, STATE OF IOWA,
Des Moines, November 11, 1864.
Maj. Gen. JOHN POPE.:
GENERAL: Your letter of the 2d instant, inclosing copy of report made to you by Brigadier-
General Smith from Keokuk, is before me. Since writing to you on the 1st instant I have
examined more fully into the condition of things on our southern border, and find that while the
danger of any formidable raids into this State is somewhat remote, we are quite subject to the
incursions of mounted marauders from Missouri, who, by dashing into the State at points which
are unguarded, are enabled to penetrate some distance, doing much damage to our people, and
return with impunity. A militia, however well organized and armed, are not a complete
protection against them, and some measures are necessary to forewarn our people of their
intended approach and designs. If we could be thus prepared we are competent to defend
ourselves. For this reason I approve the suggestion of General Smith to employ a detective to act
in conjunction with the provost-marshal at Keokuk, who, by means of his acquaintance with men
in Price's army and knowledge of men in Missouri, may be able to keep our authorities duly
advised of hostile designs against this State. I hope his suggestion will be adopted, as it would, in
my opinion, supersede the necessity of keeping troops on constant duty here.
I am, general, very truly, yours,
W. M. STONE.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 46.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., November 12, 1864.
In accordance with the terms of General Orders, No. 251, current series, from the War
Department, Adjutant-General's Office, the command of the Military District of Iowa being
composed of mixed troops equivalent to a brigade, the Military District of Iowa is hereby
designated as a Separate Brigade, to date from October 25, 1864.
By command of Major-General Pope:
J. F. MELINE,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
JEFFERSON CITY, November 13, 1864- p.m.
Col. JOHN V. DU BOIS,
Chief of Staff:
The Mars left to-day at daylight, the Evening Star at 12 o'clock, the Ewing at 3 p.m., the
Enterprise at 4.30, the Omaha at 4.30. The War Eagle will leave at daylight to-morrow. They
have taken all the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Army Corps, First Iowa Cavalry, and Winslow's
cavalry, so far as I know of. The Hannibal is just in. Callison also here. If the Thirty-third
Missouri and Battery K, [Second Missouri Artillery,] are ordered there is transportation ready.
S. H. MELCHER,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS NORTHWESTERN INDIAN EXPEDITION,
Sioux City, Iowa, November 13, 1864.
Maj. Gen. J. POPE,
Milwaukee:
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GENERAL: I inclose you a copy of a letter just received from Colonel Dimon, First U.S.
Volunteers, as I thought it might interest you. I shall leave here in a day or so for Milwaukee. I
think by a little good management we can end all troubles, and I will be glad to see you on the
subject.
With much respect, your obedient servant,
ALF. SULLY,
Brigadier-General.
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
Devall's Bluff, Ark., November 14, 1864--9.30 a.m.
Col. THOMAS H. BENTON, Jr.,
Twenty-ninth Iowa Infantry, Little Rock, Ark.:
COLONEL: General Andrews directs that you assume command of the brigade at once, with
headquarters temporarily at Little Rock. Move to Pine Bluff when your regiment moves.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEORGE MONROE,
Assistant Adjutant-General
GENERAL ORDERS No. 1.
HDQRS. 2D BRIG., 2D DIV., 7TH A. C.,
Little Rock, Ark., November 16, 1864.
1. In obedience to Special Orders, No. 178, from headquarters Second Division, Seventh
Army Corps, the undersigned hereby assumes command of the Second Brigade of said division,
with headquarters temporarily at Little Rock, Ark.
2. First Lieut. E. J. Tremble, Sixty-second Illinois Veteran Volunteer Infantry, is hereby
announced as acting assistant adjutant-general, and First Lieut. S. H. Blanc, One hundred and
sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, as brigade quartermaster. They will be obeyed and respected as
such.
3. Commanders of regiments and detachments will forward their reports to the acting
assistant adjutant-general at this place until otherwise ordered.
THOMAS H. BENTON,
Colonel Twenty-ninth Iowa Infantry Volunteers.
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Devall's Bluff, Ark., November 21, 1864.
Col. J. R. SLACK,
Commanding Second Brigade:
COLONEL: You will please cause the Twenty-first Iowa Infantry Volunteers of your
command, with its entire force, camp and garrison equipage, &c., to embark on steamer Rose
Hambleton to-morrow morning, the 22d instant, at 10 a.m., or as soon as possible after that time.
By order of Brig. Gen. E. S. Dennis:
RICHARD A. KENT,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Benton Barracks, Mo., November 22, 1864.
Col. J. J. WOODS,
Commanding Third Brigade:
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COLONEL: I am directed by the general commanding to inform you that the following
assignments of boats has been made for embarking your brigade: The steamer Camelia will carry
brigade headquarters, the Thirty-third Missouri Volunteers, and the Thirty-fifth Iowa Volunteers;
the Silver Cloud will carry the Twelfth Iowa Volunteers and the Seventh Minnesota Volunteers.
You will please commence embarking the wagons to-morrow morning at 8 o'clock. Cause
sufficient details to be made to take the wagons apart and put them on board. The wagons and
harness will be put in the hold, the wagon-beds and ambulances upon the roof; the camp and
garrison equipage and stores as much as possible in hold. The troops will be kept in camp in
readiness to embark as soon as everything else has been put on board. They will be furnished
with ten days' rations, commencing to-morrow, which can be drawn and be put on board the
boats. The boats are arranged at the levee by brigades, so that there will be no trouble in having
your command together.
I have the honor, colonel, to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. H. F. RANDALL,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
MILWAUKEE, WIS., November 22, 1864.
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, DEPT. OF THE NORTHWEST:
SIR: In regard to the letter from Hon. A. W. Hubbard to the Secretary of War about sending
some of the troops now in my district South, which letter has been referred to me, I have the
honor to state I have nearly 2,000 men in that section of country, not 2,000 or 3,000 as stated.
These men garrison posts from Fort Union down the Missouri to Sioux City, and from there
north to the Minnesota frontier. Take from these 2,000 the sick, men on quartermaster's duty as
teamsters, &c., and it will leave but about 1,500 men; not a very large force, considering the
extent of country they occupy. Should peace be permanently made this winter with the Indians a
part of this force could be withdrawn, but I do not think it would be prudent to do so now. As
regards the Sixth Iowa Cavalry, I would like that regiment to be sent South, if their place could
be filled by other troops. The regiment has only one year to serve, and it would be a benefit to it
to see service a little different from the Indian service they have been in since they have been
organized.
With much respect, your obedient servant,
ALF. SULLY,
Brigadier-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 50.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., November 23, 1864.
At the request of the brigadier-general commanding the Military District of Iowa, the
headquarters of that district are hereby transferred to Dubuque, Iowa.
By command of Major-General Pope:
J. F. MELINE,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 194.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., November 23, 1864.
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II. Brig. Gen. A. Sully will proceed immediately to Dubuque, Iowa, to which place his
headquarters are this day transferred by General Orders, No. 50, current series, from these
headquarters.
By command of Major-General Pope:
J. F. MELINE,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 109.
HDQRS. DISTRICT OF LITTLE ROCK,
Little Rock, Ark.. November 25, 1864.
I. The Twenty-ninth Iowa Infantry is assigned to duty at the post of Little Rock as city guard.
Lieut. Col. R. F. Patterson, commanding, will report to Col. John A. Garrett, commanding post.
By order of Brig. Gen. E. A. CAIT:
C. H. DYER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 193.
HDQRS. SECOND DIV., 7TH ARMY CORPS,
Devall's Bluff, Ark., November 25, 1864.
I. Col. James M. True, Sixty-second Illinois Infantry Volunteers, having returned from
veteran furlough with his regiment and reported for orders, will assume command of the Second
Brigade of this division and establish his headquarters at Pine Bluff, Ark.
Col. Thomas H. Benton, jr., Twenty-ninth Iowa Infantry, will transfer to Colonel True the
records and public property of said brigade headquarters, and report to him for orders.
By order of Brig. Gen. C. C. Andrews:
GEO. MONROE,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY FORCES,
MIL. DIV. OF WEST MISSISSIPPI,
New Orleans, La., November 20, 1864.
1. The undersigned hereby assumes command of the cavalry forces Military Division of West
Mississippi, ordered to report to him by paragraph 1 of Special Orders, No. 189, of November
19, 1864, from headquarters Military Division of West Mississippi.
II. The following-named officers are announced on the staff of the brigadier-general
commanding, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly: Maj. A. G. McQueen, First Iowa
Cavalry, chief of staff; Capt. A. S. Montgomery, First Louisiana Cavalry, acting assistant
adjutant-general; Capt. Charles H. Thompson, U.S. Volunteers, chief commissary of subsistence;
Asst. Surg. A. Hartsuff, U.S. Army, medical director; First Lieut. Theodore D. Johnson,
regimental quartermaster Third Iowa Cavalry, chief quartermaster; First Lieut. E. A. Denicke,
Signal Corps, U.S. Army, chief signal officer; First Lieut. B. K. Roberts, Seventh Iowa Cavalry,
acting aide-de-camp.
J. W. DAVIDSON,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Cavalry, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 110.
HDQRS. DISTRICT OF LITTLE ROCK,
Little Rock, Ark., November 27, 1864.
12
I. Col. Thomas H. Benton, jr., Twenty-ninth Iowa Infantry, having been relieved from
command of Second Brigade, Second Division, will assume command of his regiment, reporting
to the commander post of Little Rock.
By order of Brig. Gen. E. A. Carr:
C. H. DYER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 152.
HDQRS. FIRST DIV., SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
Little Rock, Ark., November 27, 1864.
I. The Thirty-sixth Iowa Volunteer Infantry is hereby detailed to relieve that portion of the
Twenty-ninth Iowa Volunteer Infantry now on duty at the saw-mill on the Benton road. The
commanding officer Thirty-sixth Iowa Volunteer Infantry will cause all Government property on
said place to be guarded and protected, quarters erected for his command, and proper works to be
constructed for the defense of the place.
By order of Brig. Gen. F. Salomon:
A. BLOCKI,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 153.
HDQRS. FIRST DIV., 7TH ARMY CORPS,
Little Rock, Ark., November 28, 1864.
II. Lieut. Col. Arthur Jacobi, Ninth Regiment Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, is hereby
relieved from the command of the First Brigade, First Division, Seventh Army Corps.
III. Col. C. H. Mackey, Thirty-third Iowa Volunteer Infantry, is hereby detached from his
regiment and assigned to the command of the First Brigade, First Division, Seventh Army Corps.
By order of Brig. Gen. F. Salomon:
A. BLOCKI,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
PINE BLUFF, ARK., November 28, 1864.
Brigadier-General CARR:
Will the Twenty-ninth Iowa take the place of the Twenty-eighth Wisconsin? I desire to
know, so that the quarters of the Twenty-eighth may be reserved for the Twenty-ninth.
POWELL CLAYTON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF THE FRONTIER,
Fort Smith, Ark., November 28, 1864.
Col. S. H. WATTLES, Commanding Indian Brigade:
SIR: The ox train is so much longer than I anticipated in reaching Fort Gibson that I deem it
necessary that you send up some more troops to meet the mule train coming from Fort Scott
under escort of four companies already sent by you. The escort which I have directed you to send
back with the ox train from Fort Gibson will not, I fear, meet the mule train far enough above
Neosho to make the mule train safe. Hence you will start at once two companies of the Second
Kansas Colored Regiment and three companies of Indian troops, with orders to go till they meet
the mule train coming down. As you will probably take these companies from the troops now
with the ox train, I would send up the Eighteenth Iowa to meet the ox train. I suppose some of
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Colonel Blair's troops are with the ox train or will be with the mule train, these will go back with
the ox train, but if they are not sufficient to make ox train safe going back, you will see that it has
a sufficient escort through to Fort Scott.
JOHN M. THAYER,
Brigadier-General
P. S.--I learn from Colonel Blair that there will be about seventy mule teams with the ox
train, but there is another mule train coming down which is the one I refer to in the above
communication.
J. M. T.
LITTLE ROCK, November 29, 1864.
(Received 10.15 a.m.)
Brig. Gen. POWELL CLAYTON:
The brigadier-general commanding the district directs me to say that it is not intended to send
the Twenty-ninth Iowa to Pine Bluff at present.
S. E. GRAVES,
Captain and Acting Aide-de-Camp.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Memphis, December 8, 1864.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff:
Your dispatch of December 6 received this morning. Only four nominal regiments of cavalry,
say, 1,000 effective men, remain at Memphis; but stock in poor condition from long, hard service
and want of hay. I have ordered up four regiments from Vicksburg, say, 1,500 effective men,
who have just returned from a successful raid on the Mississippi Central Railroad, destroying the
bridge over the Big Black, near Canton, Miss., and a large amount of army stores. The cavalry
from Vicksburg will arrive in five or six days, and every effort will be made to accomplish your
orders. I can operate successfully against the enemy's communications if I have the cavalry. The
Fourth Iowa, Third Iowa, and Tenth Missouri Cavalry are moving from Missouri to join General
Thomas in Middle Tennessee. These regiments belong to this command. An order will reach
them if telegraphed immediately to Colonel Wins-low, Fourth Iowa Cavalry, at Cairo, Ill., who
awaits your orders and authority to bring the cavalry to Memphis. One-half of these regiments, in
detachments, are already at Memphis, with all camp and garrison equipage.
N. J. T. DANA,
Major-General.
HEADQUARTERS POST,
Salina, Kans., December 8, 1864.
Maj. B. S. HENNING,
Comdg. District of Upper Arkansas, Fort Riley, Kans.:
MAJOR: I have the honor to state that I have this day ordered Second Lieut. Charles E.
Everton to take command of this post, and I will start to-morrow with a detachment of my
company and number of citizens in pursuit of Indians. They are on Clear Creek (a tributary of the
Solomon River), about forty miles from here. I have suitable scouts that can take me to where
they were on the 7th instant. There are about 100 Indians. They drove in some buffalo hunters.
Messrs. White and Chapman are here; they are direct from where the Indians were. I have no
doubt but what I can be able to attack them by daylight on the 10th instant. I hope that this move
will be sanctioned by you.
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I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ELISHA HAMMER,
Capt. Company G, Seventh Iowa Vol. Cav., Commanding Post.
HEADQUARTERS U.S. FORCES,
Morganza, La., December 9, 1864.
Lieut. Col. C. T. CHRISTENSEN,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Mil. Div. of West Miss., New Orleans, La.:
SIR: I have the honor to report the arrival of the following-named regiments at this place last
night from the mouth of White River: Thirty-fourth Iowa Infantry Volunteers; One hundred and
fourteenth Ohio Infantry Volunteers, and Eighty-third Ohio Infantry Volunteers. In pursuance of
Special Orders, No. 205, paragraph 9, dated headquarters Military Division of West Mississippi,
New Orleans, December 5, 1864, the last-named regiment was at once dispatched to Natchez,
Miss.
I have the honor to remain, your most obedient servant,
DANIEL ULLMANN,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 222.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, Mo., December 9, 1864.
By direction of the President of the United States (General Orders,
No. 294, War Department), I hereby assume command of the Department of the Missouri.
All orders now in force and all staff officers now on duty will be recognized and obeyed until
otherwise ordered. The following additional staff officers are announced: Maj. J. W. Barnes,
assistant adjutant-general (in charge of office); Capt. George E. Ford, Fourth Iowa Infantry, aidede-
camp; Lieut. George C. Tichenor, Thirty-ninth Iowa Infantry, aide-de-camp; Lieut. Edward
Jonas, Fiftieth Illinois Infantry, aide-de-camp.
G. M. DODGE,
Major-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 1.
HDQRS. 1ST BRIG., RESERVE CORPS,
MIL. DIV. OF WEST MISSISSIPPI,
Memphis, Tenn., December 12, 1864.
In obedience to Special Orders, No. 205, headquarters Military Division of West Mississippi,
the undersigned hereby assumes command of the First Brigade, Reserve Corps, Military Division
of West Mississippi, consisting of the following regiments: Twenty-eighth Illinois Volunteers,
Twenty-ninth Illinois Volunteers, Ninety-ninth Illinois Volunteers, Forty-seventh Indiana
Volunteers, Twenty-first Iowa Volunteers, Twenty-ninth Wisconsin Volunteers. Commanding
officers of regiments will forward to these headquarters, without delay, a full roster and a copy
of their tri-monthly of their respective commands for the 10th instant.
M. K. LAWLER,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, Mo., December 13, 1864.
15
13. The Forty fifth Missouri Volunteers will proceed without delay by rail to Louisville, Ky.,
reporting by telegraph to Major-General Thomas, upon arriving at that point, for further orders.
The quartermaster's department will furnish transportation.
14. The emergency having passed which required that the veteran portion of the First Iowa
Cavalry be retained on duty in this department, that portion of the regiment now within this
department will proceed without delay to join the main portion of the regiment in the Department
of Arkansas, in compliance with paragraph 4 of Special Orders, No. 87, current series, from
headquarters Military Division of West Mississippi. The quartermaster's department will furnish
transportation.
By command of Major-General Dodge:
FRANK ENO,
Assistant Adjutant-General
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 53.
HDQRS. 1ST BRIG., 1ST DIV., 7TH A. C.,
Little Rock, Ark., December 14, 1864.
The Twenty-eighth Regiment of Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, having been relieved from
duty at Pine Bluff, Ark., and joined the brigade, in obedience to Special Orders, No. 269,
Department of Arkansas, of date November 1, 1864, will proceed at once to prepare winter
quarters, as provided in General Orders, No. 57, headquarters First Division, Seventh Army
Corps, of date October 3, 1864.
By order of Col. C. H. Mackey, colonel Thirty-third Iowa Volunteer Infantry, commanding
First Brigade, First Division, Seventh Army Corps:
A. S. KENDRICK,
First Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, December 14, 1864.
Lieut. Col. C. T. CHRISTENSEN,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Mil. Div. of West Miss., New Orleans, La.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that by direction of Major-General Halleck the
Thirty-ninth, Forty-fifth, Forty-seventh, and Forty-eighth Regiments Missouri Infantry and
Second Regiment Missouri Cavalry have been ordered to report to Maj. Gen. George H.
Thomas; also the battalion of the First Iowa Cavalry have been ordered to join their command
and the Sixth Missouri Cavalry to join their regiment in compliance with former orders.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. M. DODGE,
Major-General.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF IOWA,
Dubuque, Iowa, December 16, 1864.
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, DEPT. OF THE NORTHWEST:
SIR: The following dispatch was this day received from Captain Pell, assistant adjutantgeneral:
GENERAL: Mrs. Kelley was delivered up by the Indians on the 9th instant. The Indians
talked humbly at the council and seemed delighted to be at peace. They expect you here with
presents to ratify a peace.
16
I have telegraphed back to the Indians that I could not come at present but would write to
them and report what they had said to the President.
With much respect, your obedient servant,
ALF. SULLY,
Brigadier-General.
HEADQUARTERS POST,
Salina, Kans., December 19, 1864.
Lieut. J. E. TAPPAN,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dist. of Upper Ark., Fort Riley, Kans.:
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to state that on the 16th instant I sent Sergt. Malcom P.
Doud and seven men of Company G, Seventh Iowa Volunteer Cavalry, to scout the country in
regard to Indians. They proceeded as far as Spring Creek, a tributary of Salt Creek, and
southwest to Saline River, and down said river to this place. They saw no Indians. They were
within about ten miles of where they were encamped. They report that they saw smoke about the
same place where they were. I sent one corporal and two men to-day to Fort Solomon with
instructions to get Abraham White and Mr. Ingersoll (citizens) to go with them and to see
whether the Indians are still at same place. If not there to find their location and strength, if
possible. The corporal and one of the citizens will report to you if they find them.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ELISHA HAMMER,
Captain Company G) Seventh Iowa Vol. Cavalry, Comdg. Post.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., December 19, 1864.
Hon. WILLIAM M. STONE,
Governor of Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa:
GOVERNOR: I have returned to General Sully, at Dubuque, certain papers with indorsement
of General N. B. Baker, adjutant-general of Iowa, in relation to turning over to the U.S. military
authorities certain prisoners charged to be guerrillas and bushwhackers who have been
committing depredations in Southern Iowa and who were captured by a force of State militia. Of
course, I am quite willing to take charge of these prisoners and make the necessary disposition of
them by courts martial or military commission, but I would suggest to you that the effect would
be infinitely better if these men were tried and punished by the authorities of the State of Iowa.
Having been captured by the State militia, acting under your orders, they are properly amenable
to punishment by the authorities of the State. So long as these villainous bushwhackers and
guerrillas understand that they are finally responsible only to the Federal authorities they will
avail themselves of every opportunity in the absence of U.S. troops to invade Iowa and commit
robbery and murder. Once let them understand that they will be promptly and summarily dealt
with by the State authorities, and that Iowa is abundantly able to protect herself against them, or
bring offenders to condign punishment by her own officers, and without delay for reference to
the U.S. authorities, and I feel sure that your southern border will not long be infested by these
rascals. I offer this suggestion for your consideration, and have directed General Sully to confer
fully with you in this view, because I believe the measure suggested to be most conducive to the
best interests of the State and to a permanent peace on the southern border. If, however, you
think otherwise, or are not able to carry out this view, General Sully will take charge of the
prisoners and make such disposition of them as seems best.
I am, governor, respectfully, your obedient servant,
17
JNO. POPE,
Major-General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS,
Fort Riley, Kans., December 22, 1864.
Lieut. J. E. TAPPAN,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., District of Upper Arkansas:
LIEUTENANT: For the information of the colonel commanding the district, I have the honor
to call your attention to the following matters in connection with the District of Upper Arkansas
on which he will be called to act: First, the report of Capt. E. Hammer, Seventh Iowa Cavalry,
stating that he discovered a large body of Indians on Fifth Creek, a branch of Salt Creek, which
is a branch of the Solomon, and about twenty-five miles from Fort Solomon; second, to the fact
that there is a large force of Colorado soldiers under command of Colonel Chivington, First
Colorado Cavalry, in the district in pursuit of Indians, and at last date were at Fort Lyon and
expected to proceed to Fort Larned (see report of Major Anthony, dated December 2, 1864);
third, that the Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians have been congregating near Fort Lyon for some
time, but that the Cheyennes were attacked and dispersed by Colonel Chivington and Major
Anthony, and no Indians were supposed to be in that immediate vicinity at last date. My opinion
is that a large portion of the hostile plain Indians are now in the northeast portion of the district,
and should judge on the Solomon and Republican, and close watch will be necessary to prevent
their committing depredations on the frontier. The term of service of the First Colorado Cavalry
on duty in this district is expiring, and arrangements should be made to fill their places by other
troops, as there is no doubt but that the operations of Colonel Chivington will create great
activity on the part of the Indians in their depredations and should be guarded against. Of the
officers and soldiers I can speak in the highest terms, and have no doubt but that the colonel
commanding will find them all he could desire. With my best wishes for his success,
I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. S. HENNING,
Major Third Wisconsin Cavalry.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 88.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF ARKANSAS, &c.,
Little Rock, Ark., December 26, 1864.
Lieut. Col. R. F. Patterson, Twenty-ninth Iowa Infantry, is hereby appointed provostmarshal-
general of the Department of Arkansas.
By order of Maj. Gen. J. J. Reynolds:
W. D. GREEN,
Assistant Adjutant-General
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS,
October 1, 1864.
SIR: For the Second Division, Nineteenth Corps, at the recent battles of the 19th last near
Winchester and 22d last near Fisher's Hill, Va., and the operations immediately connected
therewith, I have the honor to make the following report:
At 2 a.m. on the 19th the division, being the advance of the Nineteenth Corps, left its camp
near Berryville and marched in the direction of Winchester. When within about two miles of the
Opequon ford, pursuant to orders, we halted to allow the Sixth Corps, moving on our right with
its ordnance and ambulance train, to take the advance. Soon after daylight the firing of artillery
18
and small-arms became quite rapid in the direction of Winchester, and I received orders to push
forward, in advance of the before-mentioned train, with all practicable rapidity. Having arrived at
the front, the division was rapidly formed in two lines of battle on the right of the Sixth Corps.
General Birge's (First) brigade formed the right and Colonel Sharpe's (Third) brigade the left of
the first line, with Colonel Shunk's (Fourth) and Colonel Molineux's (Second) brigade on the
right and left, respectively, of the second line. In this order, at 11.45 a.m., in conjunction with the
Sixth Corps on the left and the First Division in echelon on the right, the lines advanced over a
country much broken, and quite densely wooded on our left, and soon encountered the enemy in
strong position and force, with artillery well posted and served. The enemy's first line was
broken and driven in by our steady advance with considerable loss on our side, but without
check. During this advance, owing to the nature of the ground and the greater obliquity of the
movement on the left than could have been anticipated, an interval of some 400 yards occurred
between the left of General Birge's brigade and the right of Colonel Sharpe's. I do not think,
however, that in the general result this interval operated to our disadvantage, as it enabled us to
cover greater distance to the right where the enemy nearly outflanked us in strong force. To
prevent, however, the enemy from taking any advantage of this interval Colonel Molineux's
brigade was ordered to advance from the second line and cover the opening. Upon the arrival of
General Birge's brigade to an advantageous position, and in prolongation of the line held by the
troops on the left, it was ordered to halt and lie down and await orders, but having driven the
enemy from his first line, in the noise and excitement of the battle, though from my personal
observation the officers without exception did their duty, they were for a time unable to restrain
the impetuosity of the ranks, and the whole brigade charged as a man and drove the enemy some
300 yards beyond where its flanks were supported or could at that time receive the proper
support. Receiving a fire of artillery and small-arms upon front and flanks, of course it was
obliged to retire. It did not do so, however, until the lines on the left had retired, including
Colonel Sharpe's brigade, which held its position until its left was exposed to the enemy's
advance by the falling back of the troops on his left. As the advance line retired the reserve line
moved forward in front of the woods from which we had at first debouched, and with the
assistance of two sections of Captain Bradbury's (First Maine) battery, held the enemy
completely in check. Colonel Sharpe, commanding the Third Brigade, was severely wounded in
the first advance, and the command of his brigade devolved upon Lieutenant Colonel Neafie, of
the One hundred and fifty-sixth New York, who still held his command on the immediate right
of the Sixth Corps. General Birge's brigade reformed on our second line in the edge of the woods
on our right, the Fourth Brigade holding the front on that flank, while Colonel Molineux's held
the advanced position on the left. This ground was hotly contested for some hours, and the
enemy pressed heavily upon our right flank and annoyed our lines considerably by a battery
which nearly enfiladed them. When the ammunition of these brigades was expended they were
relieved by the First Division and resupplied themselves from the rear.
I must make special mention here of the excellent service done by the Eleventh Indiana
Volunteers, Colonel Macauley commanding, and the One hundred and thirty-first New York,
Colonel Day commanding; the One hundred and fifty-sixth New York, Lieutenant-Colonel
Neafie commanding, and the First Maine Battery, Captain Bradbury commanding. None of the
troops, however, who were here engaged failed to do their whole duty and to reflect credit upon
the soldiership of the rank and file and upon the gallantry of their commanders.
At a little after 3 p.m. General Crook's command took position on our right and moved upon
the enemy's flank, and an advance of the whole line was immediately ordered and executed with
alacrity. The enemy, though disputing the ground stubbornly with artillery, continued to retire,
inflicting at the same time but small loss upon our advancing lines. We bivouacked at dark for
19
the night just beyond the town of Winchester. On the 20th the division marched to Strasburg, and
on the next day nothing worth mention occurred, excepting a reconnaissance by the Ninth
Connecticut, who found the enemy in some force on the other side of the Shenandoah and
returned to camp about 9 p.m. The enemy was here in our front in strong position, with two lines
of works. Early on the 22d the army moved to fire immediate front of the works, the Second
Division, Nineteenth Corps, on the extreme left. Hastily-made works were thrown up along the
whole line, under the immediate direction of General Birge on the right and Colonel Molineux
on the left. Constant though not heavy skirmishing, with some artillery practice, continued all the
morning on both sides. To strengthen and shorten our lines it became necessary to drive in the
enemy's skirmishers and occupy their lines. This was handsomely done by the One hundred and
twenty-eighth New York Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Foster commanding, supported by the
One hundred and seventy-sixth New York Volunteers, Major Lewis commanding, after a most
efficient and beneficial shelling from a battery under the immediate supervision of Captain Taft,
chief of artillery of the corps, and one section of Captain Bradbury's battery. A strong working
party immediately commenced strengthening the position thus seized, and though under a hot
fire, especially of artillery, the line was nearly finished in its entire length when the order to
advance was received along the whole line. Though the ground was very unfavorable for an
advance, the troops pushed on with the greatest zeal and with all the rapidity possible, cheering,
and with colors flying. The enemy, after firing a few rounds of artillery and doing some not very
effective musketry firing, fled from behind their works, so closely followed up, however, as to be
unable to take away their artillery or its ammunition. One company of the One hundred and
seventy-sixth [New York], commanded by Captain Entwistle, was, I think, undoubtedly the first
upon the works, and the captain took possession, with his company, of four pieces of artillery.
He was so closely followed by the Twenty-eighth Iowa, Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson
commanding, that there could have been but a short interval of time between the arrival of both,
but to Captain Entwistle, with his company, I think, is due the honor of first taking possession of
the pieces. A large quantity of small-arms, too numerous to count or collect in the hurried pursuit
of the enemy, were found scattered over the ground in rear of the works. We found our advance
well into the works about dark, and I was ordered to push the advance of my division, without
waiting to organize or collect those who had become separated in the hurry of the advance, upon
the road taken by the enemy. A portion of Colonel Molineux's brigade, being the nearest at hand,
was hurried to the front, and a line of skirmishers, consisting of the Eleventh Indiana Volunteers
and One hundred and thirty-first New York Volunteers, were hastily thrown out on the left and
right of the road, and the advance commenced. About 8.30 p.m. we came upon the rear guard of
the enemy, consisting, as we were informed by a prisoner, of the Sixth Georgia Volunteers. The
firing between our skirmishers and the enemy was rapid, but of short duration, the enemy
retiring. The advance was continued without interruption for about an hour, when again our
skirmishers were checked by the enemy's fire of musketry, supported by two pieces of artillery,
well trained upon the road. Lines of battle were immediately hurried forward, but the enemy
retreated and we saw no more of him during the night. I regret to say, that from some
unaccountable misconception of our position in front by the troops in the rear, on both occasions
when the skirmish line was fired upon by the enemy it was also fired upon by troops in the rear,
notwithstanding every precaution was taken to prevent such an occurrence. Our losses were not
heavy during the night advance, but owing to the intense darkness and the broken character of
the country, the advance was very slow and extremely tedious. The immediate command of the
skirmish line was conducted at first by Colonel Molineux, and, subsequently, by Colonel
Macauley, to both of whom great credit is due for their zeal, activity, and success under very
adverse circumstances. At about 4.30 a.m. on the 23d our advance reached Woodstock, about
20
twelve miles from Strasburg, where the army bivouacked until 12 m. During the advance from
Strasburg about 200 prisoners fell into our hands, and six wagons were abandoned and burnt on
the road by the enemy.
For list of casualties in both battles and in the advance to Woodstock see appendix.
For further details, I have the honor to inclose the reports of brigade commanders and the
commander of the battery.
In closing this report I would respectfully ask the attention of the major-general commanding
the corps to the gallantry in battle as shown by the success wherever placed and the heavy list of
casualties consequent thereon of this command; also, in addition to the regiments and officers
specially mentioned in reports of brigade commanders and the commander of the battery, I
would make mention for their gallantry and untiring zeal during the operations covered by this
report of Brigadier-General Birge, commanding First Brigade; Col. E. L. Molineux, commanding
Second Brigade; Col. Jacob Sharpe, commanding Third Brigade, at Winchester, where he was
severely wounded; Col. Dan. Macauley, commanding Eleventh Indiana Volunteers, and Third
Brigade, after the absence of Colonel Sharpe; Colonel Day, commanding One hundred and
thirty-first New York Volunteers; Lieutenant-Colonel Neafie, commanding One hundred and
fifty-sixth New York Volunteers; Captain Bradbury, commanding First Maine Battery, and the
following-named officers of my staff, viz, Capt. Joseph Hibbert, jr., assistant adjutant-general;
Maj. E. McD. Hart, One hundred and fifty-ninth New York Volunteers, acting assistant
inspector-general; Capt. H. A. Darling, commissary of subsistence; Capt. D. H. Finley,
Thirteenth Connecticut, mustering officer; Captain Rhoades, Third Massachusetts Cavalry;
Captain Curtis, provost-marshal; First Lieutenant Parsons, judge-advocate; First Lieut. T. C.
Otis, aide-de-camp.
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Cedar Creek, Va., October 28, 1864.
SIR: Brevet Major-General Grover, commanding division, being temporarily absent on
account of wounds received during the action of the 19th instant, I have the honor to submit the
following report of the operations of this command on that day and the 20th and 21st instant:
Tuesday evening, October 18, orders were issued by General Grover to the First Brigade
under my command, Second Brigade, Colonel Molineux, and Third Brigade, Colonel Macauley,
to be in readiness to move at 5.30 the next morning, for the purpose of making a reconnaissance
toward Strasburg, the Fourth Brigade, Colonel Shunk, being directed to move forward and
occupy as soon as vacated the line then held by the First and Third. In compliance with these
orders the whole command was under arms in light marching order, and the First Maine Battery
hitched up at 5 a.m. 19th instant, the relative position of the brigades being as follows: Four
regiments of the Second Brigade, the First Brigade, and four regiments of the Third Brigade
formed the first line from right to left as named, the right connecting with the First Division of
this corps, the left reaching nearly to the pike. The remaining regiments of the Second Brigade
and the Fourth Brigade formed the second line, the One hundred and seventy-fifth New York
being detached from Third Brigade as guard to ammunition train, a picket-line of 350 men from
Second and Third Brigades covered the front, connecting with the picket-line of the First
Division on the right and that of the Eighth Corps on the left. The First Maine Battery occupied
commanding ground on the right of Third Brigade and in front of the Fourth. The whole position
was very strong against attack from the front, and had been strengthened by earth-works thrown
up along the front of the first line, the general direction of which was parallel to Cedar Creek, but
was entirely commanded by the high ground on the left of the pike, occupied by the Eighth
Corps, and was indefensible against an attack from that direction. About 5.15 a.m. and before
21
any of the troops had moved out on the projected reconnaissance, musketry firing was heard,
apparently on the left of the picket-line of the Eighth Corps, and soon after on our own picketline
in front. By direction of General Grover, the following disposition of the forces under his
command was promptly made: The first line occupied the works in their immediate front,
sending out sharpshooters and skirmishers to the banks of the creek; the One hundred and
seventy-sixth New York and part of the One hundred and fifty-sixth New York, on the left of the
Third Brigade, were thrown back nearly at a right angle with the brigade line, and the Fourth
Brigade moved to the left, connecting with and forming on the prolongation of this line; the
Twenty-second Iowa and Third Massachusetts [Cavalry (dismounted)], from the Second
Brigade, were moved to the left as support to the battery. While these movements were being
made, the firing in the direction of the Eighth Corps became very heavy and incessant, and our
pickets in front were gradually driven back to the creek. As day dawned the enemy appeared in
strong force on the high ground on the left of our position, from which he had forced back the
Eighth Corps and rapidly advanced, his lines extending from the creek to our left and rear as far
as could be seen through the smoke and prevailing fog. The troops on the left, thus attacked in
front and flank, made a stubborn resistance, and on the line of the Third Brigade a hand-to-hand
conflict ensued, during which the colors of the One hundred and seventy-sixth and One hundred
and fifty-sixth New York Regiments were seized by the enemy, but in both instances were torn
from the flag-staffs and saved. At the same time a battery opened on our lines from the left and
another from the high ground in front and on the opposite side of the creek. Pressed by an
overwhelming force, said having already lost very heavily, our line was forced back, retiring in
good order, but leaving some prisoners in the hands of the enemy. Colonel Macauley,
commanding the brigade, was severely wounded early in the engagement, and Major Hart, of
General Grover's staff, soon after received a wound from which he died the next morning.
Lieutenant-Colonel Neafie, One hundred and fifty-sixth New York, took command of the Third
Brigade. The enemy now made a desperate effort to secure the guns of the First Maine Battery,
four of which were in their original position, and well and rapidly served, Lieutenant Haley
commanding, the other section, under Lieutenant Morton, having been sent to the left. Lieutenant
Haley was wounded, and Lieutenant Snow succeeded in getting all but two caissons off the
grounds, but was finally obliged to abandon one gun and three caissons, the horses being shot.
Lieutenant Morton was killed and one gun of his section captured, but all were subsequently
retaken. In the meantime the First Brigade and that part of the Second Brigade not engaged were
holding their respective positions, but losing from infantry and artillery fire from front, flank,
and rear. By order of General Grover they now fell back, the First Brigade along the line of
works, forming a new line on the crest of the hill to the right and perpendicular to the original
line, and holding it till turned by the enemy, when it fell back to the hill previously occupied by a
brigade of First Division. Making a short stand here, it was again pressed back, and again made a
stand in an open field, with the Fourth Brigade on its left; having, in the efforts made to check
the advance of the enemy, lost severely in killed and wounded and some prisoners. The Second
Brigade moved out by the right flank and formed on the right of the Sixth Corps, taking
advantage of every favorable position to halt and cheek the advancing enemy, which it did
several times very gallantly. The Third Brigade withdrew more to the left, and being ordered to
form on the right of division of the Sixth Corps operated with it till about 10 o'clock, and about
11 joined this command. From the position taken by the brigades, as above described, they
gradually retired, conforming to the movements of the army, and making stands at three different
points until, between 10 and 11 o'clock, an advance was ordered, and the division moved some
distance to the front, forming on the right of the Sixth Corps in two lines, the First and Second
Brigades in the first, and the Fourth and Third (which came up about this time) [in] the second
22
line; the First Division of this corps on the right. A strong skirmish line was deployed to the
front, which was driven in about noon, and the enemy in Strong force attacked our lines, but was
effectually repulsed. He continued, however, to annoy us with his artillery, but inflicting slight
loss. Soon after the repulse another advance was ordered, General Grover directing that the
connection with the Sixth Corps should be maintained on the left, but the right pressed forward
more rapidly, thus gradually swinging to the left. The troops advanced with the greatest
impetuosity, under a severe fire from the enemy's infantry on the crest of a hill in front and an
accurate and rapid fire from a battery on the hill beyond, drove him out and occupied the hill,
where a halt was ordered. While holding this position, and shortly after gaining it, General
Grover, who had been wounded early in the day, was again wounded in the arm, compelling him
to leave the field, and I then took command of the division. About 4.30 p.m. I received orders
from Brevet Major-General Emory to advance, and the troops again moved forward with the
same gallantry and impetuosity as in the previous charge, the enemy retreating in great confusion
and our forces pursuing without a halt till the camp which had been left in the morning was
reached. By direction of the brevet major-general commanding the pursuit terminated here, and
the division went into camp, each brigade occupying its original ground. At 8 p.m., in
compliance with orders from the brevet major-general commanding, the Fourth Brigade moved
toward Strasburg and bivouacked for the night in rear of the First Division, occupying the town.
At 7 a.m. on the 20th the division marched to the heights overlooking Strasburg, and, by
direction of General Emory, was placed in position, where it remained until 7 the next morning,
21st, when the whole division returned to its former camp on Cedar Creek.
I inclose reports of brigade commanders, to which reference is invited, for more minute
details of the part taken by each in the battle of the 19th than the limits of this report permit.
A numerical list of the casualties in the division is appended. A nominal list has been
forwarded.
Of the gallantry, steadiness, and good conduct of the troops of this division during the
various and trying phases of the action of the 19th I cannot speak in too high terms. Every
brigade kept its organization during the day, and with few exceptions the behavior of officers and
men was all that could be asked for. Of the Second Brigade, operating in connection with mine
and moving on the same line, I am able, from personal observation, to speak with the highest
commendation. In the Fourth Brigade every regimental commander was wounded. Of the
desperate resistance to the advance of the enemy early in the day made by the Third Brigade I
have already spoken. Its conduct during the advance in the afternoon was no less praiseworthy. I
respectfully ask the attention of the brevet major-general commanding to the instances of
individual heroism and meritorious conduct mentioned in the reports of brigade commanders.
To the members of General Grover's staff, who reported to me for duty after he was
wounded, my thanks are due for their efficient aid and support. Their gallantry on the field was
conspicuous. To Capt. E. A. Fiske, Thirtieth Massachusetts Volunteers, and Captain Godard,
Twelfth Maine Volunteers, of my own staff, I am very greatly indebted for untiring attention to
their duties, performed with ability and good judgment, and their bravery in action deserves
special mention.
Respectfully,
HENRY W. BIRGE,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers, Commanding Second Division.
Maj. DUNCAN S. WALKER,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Detachment Nineteenth Army Corps.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., SECOND DIV., 19TH ARMY CORPS,
23
Near Harrisonburg, Va., September 26, 1864.
SIR: In compliance with orders I have the honor to submit the following report of the
movements of this brigade since September 19:
At 2 a.m. on the 19th of September the brigade promptly moved on the Berryville pike
toward Winchester, and was halted, in common with the other brigades of the division, until the
Sixth Corps and its train had passed. The Opequon Creek was passed in good order and the
column well closed up, and, after advancing about two miles, was, in obedience to orders,
formed in line of battle some 200 paces in rear of the Third Brigade. The Twenty-second Iowa,
being on the left, was exposed to the view of the enemy, and being shelled by them, was formed
a little to the rear in echelon. At 11.30 a.m. the brigade advanced, following the movements of
the preceding brigade, the right passing through a heavy belt of timber, the left through an
exposed ravine. While advancing I received an order to advance my brigade to cover an opening
which had occurred between the First and Third Brigades in the front line. The line advanced at
quick step in admirable order, under a very heavy fire of musketry and artillery, and was only
checked in its advance by the flanks being exposed by the retiring of the troops on the right and
left. The line was halted, and immediately opened a destructive fire on the enemy, the Eleventh
Indiana, on the right, obliquing its fire to check the enemy advancing on its flank. At the same
time the One hundred and fifty-ninth New York and Twenty-second Iowa, on the left, stubbornly
contested their ground with the advancing enemy, exposed to a deadly flank fire. At this time I
received the order to fall back and form in the edge of the belt of timber immediately in the rear.
This was accomplished by the right of the brigade promptly and in good order. The center and
left being on more open and exposed ground and not being sheltered by timber, were obliged to
fall back some 300 paces in the rear, losing very heavily in killed and wounded. The advancing
columns of the enemy, which outflanked us from the left, captured a number of prisoners from
the One hundred and fifty-ninth New York and Thirteenth Connecticut; but our left, in falling
back, brought in an equal number of the enemy. While this was occurring on that flank the
Eleventh Indiana, One hundred and thirty-first New York, and a portion of the Third
Massachusetts [Cavalry (dismounted)], and a regiment from the Third Brigade (One hundred and
seventy-sixth New York) promptly opened a heavy and well-sustained fire upon the advancing
lines of the enemy, which soon caused them to fall back. These gallant regiments followed them
for some distance, took up a position on an advantageous ground, and caused the enemy's retreat
to become a hasty flight. This advanced position was held by us until every cartridge was
exhausted. Finding this to be the case, and that the regiments on the left of my brigade were not
effecting anything, from the nature of the ground they occupied, I formed my left wing in rear of
my right for the purpose of sustaining and relieving it. About the same time certain regiments of
the First Division relieved the Eleventh Indiana, One hundred and thirty-first and One hundred
and seventy-sixth New York, and Third Massachusetts, who were then formed in the edge of the
timber, and the whole brigade resupplied with ammunition. The command while remaining in
the woods suffered somewhat from the artillery fire of the enemy, which enfiladed the position
from the right, but were in good order and spirits when again ordered to advance in line of battle
in support of the First Brigade, whose line I re-enforced on the left by one of my regiments (the
One hundred and thirty-first New York). The brigade remained in support of the First Brigade
during the advance upon the remaining positions of the enemy, and, although several times
exposed to a well-directed and destructive fire of solid shot and shell from the enemy's batteries,
steadily advanced in perfect line until the retreat of the enemy from the field ended the battle.
I cannot too warmly express my admiration of the coolness and steadiness of the officers and
men of the brigade during this engagement; but in simple justice I would call to your notice the
conspicuous gallantry of the following officers and enlisted men: Col. D. Macauley, Eleventh
24
Indiana; Col. N. W. Day, One hundred and thirty-first New York; Lieut. Col. L. D. Sargent,
Third Massachusetts; Lieut. Col. W. M. Rexford, One hundred and thirty-first New York; Maj.
G. Butler, Eleventh Indiana; Maj. C, Lewis, One hundred and seventy-sixth New York; Actg.
Adjt. Samuel D. Pryce, Twenty-second Iowa; Lieutenants Ripley, Beaton, and Maddux,
Thirteenth Connecticut; Captains Noyes, Dean, and Twitchell, Third Massachusetts; Lieutenants
Stevens, Grover (wounded), Cunningham, and Brownell, Third Massachusetts; Captain
Richmond, Lieutenants Smith and Howard, both wounded, One hundred and fifty-ninth New
York; Captains Hunt, Corsa, and Raymond, Lieutenants Pinckney, Henry, and Abbott, One
hundred and thirty-first New York; Capts. Jesse Custer and Ross, Lieutenants Mullen (killed),
Woods (wounded), and Adjutant Macauley, Eleventh Indiana; Sergt. Maj. George A. Remley
(killed), Twenty-second Iowa; Sergeant-Major Bonneif, One hundred and thirty-first New York;
Sergeant Simonds, Third Massachusetts; Color-Sergeant Seston, Eleventh Indiana, (killed);
Corporal Bierbower, Privates Regan and Sterling, Eleventh Indiana; First Sergeant and Acting
Lieutenant Leith, Corporals Scott and Miller, Private Roach, One hundred and thirty-first New
York; Sergeants Brown and Coons, One hundred and fifty-ninth New York.
To the following officers of my staff I am indebted for prompt and gallant services under
fire: Capt. G. W. Hussey, Lieuts. B. F. Copeland, G. W. Handy, and H. D. Pope.
I regret that my loss in killed, wounded, and prisoners is very heavy, especially amongst the
sharpshooters, who rendered efficient service and lost more than half their number. I have the
honor to inclose herewith a list of the killed, wounded, and missing in the engagement (marked
A).
On the morning of the 20th I broke camp at 5 o'clock and marched to Strasburg, where we
went into position, and camped on the extreme left near the ford. On the 21st changed camp to
the right of the Strasburg and Woodstock pike. On the morning of the 22d moved to the right and
formed in line of battle in rear of First Brigade. About 8 a.m. I was ordered to march back and
take up a position on the left, protecting our line of communication with Strasburg, with orders to
assume command of all the infantry and artillery in that position. Finding the Third Brigade,
Colonel Macauley commanding, throwing up works to protect the hill and the ravine to the right,
I formed my brigade in rear and threw up a second line. I then placed two companies of the
Twenty-second Iowa in the stone mill on the Shenandoah to guard against any advance in that
direction, and sent the One hundred and fifty-ninth New York to throw up and hold a rifle-pit in
the orchard and on the road, to more completely guard against any attempt to outflank us on our
left. The works held by the two brigades were strengthened, so as to enable the First Maine
Battery to open on the enemy a very effective fire. Our working parties and the battery were
much annoyed by the enemy's sharpshooters in a line of rifle-its directly in our front, and at 1
o'clock I was ordered to make a simultaneous attack in connection with a regiment of the First
Division and one from my own line upon their rifle-pits. The following disposition was made:
Colonel Macauley ordered the One hundred and twenty-eighth New York to deploy as
skirmishers. A strong working party was assembled in the rear ready to rush forward to
strengthen the advanced position when taken; the One hundred and seventy-sixth New York
(Third Brigade) in support of the working party, and the Twenty-second Iowa, of my own
brigade, deployed and held in reserve in case the One hundred and twenty-eighth New York
failed to carry the position. The attack was entirely successful. The rifle-pits taken were
immediately strengthened to one continuous line, and the enemy showing some disposition to
retake the position, the Twenty-second Iowa was thrown out to support our advance parties,
while a new line was reformed in our old position ready to repel any attack. The new line of
battle consisted of regiments and parts of regiments of the Second and Third Brigades, the
remainder being engaged as working parties and supports in the front.' At 4.30 p.m. I received
25
orders to open a fire of artillery and infantry to divert the enemy's attention; this was accordingly
done. At 5 p.m. received orders to advance. I requested Colonel Macauley to take command of
the right wing of the attack (while I more immediately attended to the left), and I would
respectfully refer to that gallant officer's report of the regiments which he then had under his
command. We advanced under an annoying fire, with some loss, and occupied the new works,
while the skirmishers advanced to the front. Upon the charge being ordered, the men advanced
with great spirit, driving the enemy, who made but a weak resistance, from our front. The ground
was very much broken, and, in consequence, although the troops advanced with great rapidity, I
found the main position on the hill had been already taken by other troops, but to the right of
those regiments which I led, the One hundred and seventy-sixth New York, of the Third Brigade,
supported by the skirmishers from the Twenty-second Iowa, had captured four pieces of artillery.
On arriving at the fortifications at the crest of the hill with the Eleventh Indiana and One hundred
and thirty-first and One hundred and fifty-sixth New York in good order in line of battle, I
received an order to push forward up the road, leading the head of the column. I threw the
Eleventh Indiana and One hundred and thirty-first New York on each side of the road as
skirmishers, supported by the Third Massachusetts and Twenty-second Iowa as reserves, with a
company of the Fourteenth New Hampshire (with fixed bayonets) some distance in advance of
the road to prevent any dash of cavalry which might annoy the head of the column. In
compliance with orders, the advance was made with as much rapidity as the darkness and the
nature of the ground would permit. About 9.30 p.m. our skirmish line was fired upon, and by
some unfortunate mistake the regiments in the rear, not belonging to my command, opened a fire
on my reserves and skirmish line, from which I lost a number of men. The skirmishers held their
ground, and as soon as the confusion had ceded, advanced again. I sent word to the rear,
particularly requesting that the troops in rear should be cautioned not to fire, but hardly had we
advanced a mile when a brisk fire was again opened upon us from musketry and artillery in front,
and again 1 sustained a fire from our own troops in the rear. The enemy was evidently prepared
to meet us at this point; wire and other obstacles had been placed to delay the skirmish line, and
two pieces of artillery were well trained upon the road. After a short delay the advance was again
made and the enemy driven with but little opposition. The road was found strewn with the
remains of burning wagons, and a large number of prisoners was captured by the command, and
sent to the rear. At 3.30 a.m. we bivouacked on the south side of Woodstock. The conduct of the
troops was most admirable, especially the Eleventh Indiana and One hundred and thirty-first
New York, who sustained their reputation under most trying circumstances, viz, a night attack
and a fire from the rear. I would especially mention the conduct of Lieutenant-Colonel White,
commanding the reserve, and Major Butler, the skirmishers on the left of the road. At 9 a.m. the
One hundred and fifty-ninth New York arrived, having been detailed as a guard for prisoners.
This regiment succeeded in capturing a number of the enemy, who had been passed during the
night the main army. Left Woodstock at 12 m. and marched to a point one mile and a half south
of Edenburg, and went in position in reserve and on the left. On the morning of the 24th broke
camp at 6 a.m. and marched to New Market, and encamped to the right and rear. On the morning
of the 25th broke camp at 6 a.m. and marched to Harrisonburg and encamped to the west of the
town.
I herewith inclose a list of killed and wounded in the action at Fisher's Hill, and upon the
march since that action (marked B).
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
EDWARD L. MOLINEUX,
Colonel 159th New York Volunteers, Comdg. Second Brigade.
Capt. J. HIBBERT, Jr.,
26
Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Div., 19th Army Corps.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., SECOND DIV., 19TH ARMY CORPS,
Near Cedar Creek, Va., October 23, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the movements of my brigade during
the action of the 19th instant:
Having received orders on the previous evening from the general commanding the division to
have my brigade ready to move out of the works on a reconnaissance in light marching order at
5.30 a.m., I caused breakfast to be prepared for the men at an early hour, and at the appointed
time we were in line awaiting orders. At about 5.40 a.m. I heard the sound of heavy musketry in
the direction of the position of the Eighth Corps, and apprehending an attack immediately
ordered my command into the rifle-pits, throwing out a few sharpshooters to give me early
intimation should an attack be made on my front. Shortly afterward I received orders to detach
two regiments to my left to support the battery which commanded the pike and ground about the
main bridge, and accordingly I sent the Twenty-second Iowa and Third Massachusetts
(dismounted) Cavalry, in the meantime directing that the other regiments pack their shelter-tents
and other property, permitting a few men to do so at a time, the rest remaining in position. By
this time a battery of the enemy directly in my front on the other side of the creek opened a fire
of shell upon us, and the mist breaking from the valley discovered a line apparently prepared to
attack us. It was not long before a fire of shell, enfilading our line from the left, with another
directly in my rear, and a sharp musketry fire from the same direction (the position occupied by
the Eighth Corps), showed me that the enemy had outflanked us. I sheltered my men as much as
possible in the rifle-pits, and awaited orders. In the meantime the troops on my left and the
batteries passed me, together with the two regiments of this brigade which had been sent in
support of the batteries, all apparently retiring toward the pike (the two regiments mentioned
rejoined me subsequently). Finding that we were completely outflanked, that the retreat was
general, and that my men were rapidly falling from a fire they could not return, and that a line of
battle was being formed in the rear by the Sixth Corps, I moved out by the flank in good order,
detaching the Eleventh Indiana, by order of Brevet Major-General Emory, to hold the hollow and
stone wall near the headquarters of the Second Division. With the remaining regiments, in
compliance with the order of Brigadier-General Grover, I filed to the right and formed in line on
the right of the Sixth Corps, then going into position, but immediately received orders to retire
about 100 yards to support a battery. Hardly had I done so before the battery retired without
firing. The position I then occupied was an exceedingly favorable one, on a hill directly in front
of the white house, and one which supported the flank of the Sixth Corps, then actively engaged
with the enemy. To support the battery would be retiring without doing anything to check the
advance of the enemy, and would leave a gap between the Sixth Corps and part of the Nineteenth
Corps then engaged on my right. General Grover therefore countermanded the former order, and
directed me to hold the position, and if possible to keep it, at the same time cautioning me that
the line of battle was about to fall back, and to cover the movement by my infantry fire as long as
possible. The Eleventh Indiana and the Twenty-second Iowa here reported to me, but the enemy
showing symptoms of outflanking us on our right and gaining possession of a dangerous belt of
woods sent the One hundred and fifty-ninth New York and Eleventh Indiana and my
sharpshooters to watch that point, and they were soon engaged fighting on the right, and with the
First Brigade, Second Division, and portions of the First Division. It was not long before our line
of battle commenced moving back in good order followed by the enemy. Up to this time my men
had been concealed and were lying down, but our time had now come, and rising up we poured
in upon them so rapid and close a fire that we soon had the gratification of seeing their line retire
27
for shelter behind a hill. Another attempt was made by the enemy to advance, but was foiled by
our fire, when I received orders to retire to a line abreast of the Sixth Corps, which was done in
good order. In the subsequent positions (three) taken in retiring, the brigade behaved with great
steadiness, and the skirmish line formed and held by the Eleventh Indiana more especially
redounds to the credit of that noble veteran regiment. About 11 o'clock orders were received to
advance again, which was done, and a line formed, this brigade on the left of the Sixth Corps, in
a heavy belt of timber, a breast-work of rails thrown up and skirmishers sent to the front. After a
heavy shelling the enemy made an attack upon our front, the brunt of which, I believe, fell upon
this brigade. It was repelled very easily, but I have to regret the loss at this point of the gallant
and patriotic soldier and gentleman, Capt. Duncan Richmond, One hundred and fifty-ninth New
York, who fell mortally wounded while encouraging his men. After the repulse of the enemy a
heavy artillery fire was opened upon us from the front, and soon after we were ordered to
advance, keeping up the connection with the Sixth Corps, and gradually to swing around toward
the left. The Thirteenth Connecticut was deployed as skirmishers in front, and we advanced in
the following order from right to left: Third Massachusetts, One hundred and fifty-ninth New
York, Eleventh Indiana, One hundred and thirty-first New York, Twenty-second Iowa. Upon
passing the edge of the woods the line came up to the skirmishers, who were unable to advance,
the infantry fire of the enemy being exceedingly heavy, and their shell practice admirably
accurate. The Confederate infantry was advantageously posted behind a stone fence about 400
yards in advance. Behind them about the same distance, on the hill, under cover of a stone wall
and rails, was a second line, supporting a battery. A heavy fire was opened upon them, the line
halting to deliver it, and then a most gallant and brilliant charge was made, driving the enemy in
scattered and broken squads from both positions. The regimental colors of this brigade were
almost simultaneously planted on the hill, but to Corporal Bierbower, of the Eleventh Indiana,
must be awarded the honor of first planting the colors there, almost instantly followed by those
of the One hundred and thirty-first and One hundred and fifty-ninth New York and a regiment of
the Sixth Corps (Fifteenth New Jersey). I claim, and I believe with justice, that the brigade, with
one regiment of the Sixth Corps, occupied this portion of the line some minutes before the left
came up and had to charge up a most difficult hill of plowed ground under a terrific fire of
musketry and artillery. In this charge one regiment alone, One hundred and fifty-ninth New York
Volunteers, captured 3 commissioned officers and 31 privates of the enemy. This position was
held by us for some half hour under a heavy fire of shell and round shot, most of my men being
without cartridges; yet when again ordered to advance they did so with great animation and
spirit, supplying themselves with ammunition from dead bodies and prisoners. From this point
the enemy made but feeble attempts to stand, and it was not long before we arrived at our old
ground and went into camp.
The conduct of both officers and men during this trying day was most admirable--cool and
steady in retreating, patient under fire, and impetuous in the attack; and I trust their conduct will
meet with the unqualified approval of the division and corps commanders. All did well; those of
whom I have had the pleasure of making honorable mention in report of former actions won new
honors. I cannot refrain from naming for personal and conspicuous gallantry Col. N. W. Day,
One hundred and thirty-first New York; Lieut. Col. William Waltermire, One hundred and fiftyninth
New York; Lieut. Col. W. W. Darnall, Eleventh Indiana, and the other regimental
commanders. Color-Sergeant Gray, One hundred and thirty-first New York, Color-Sergeants
Coons and Hallenbeck, One hundred and fifty-ninth New York, and Color-Corporal Bierbower,
Eleventh Indiana, have been especially named to me for conspicuous bravery.
It has been my exceeding good fortune to be supported in this action, as well as former ones,
by a brave and efficient staff, and my thanks are due to the following members: Capt. G. W.
28
Hussey, acting aide-de-camp; Lieut. B. F. Copeland, acting assistant adjutant-general; Lieut. H.
D. Pope, acting provost-marshal, and Lieut. David Wilson, acting aide-de-camp.
I herewith submit list of casualties.
I am, sir, your most obedient servant,
EDWARD L. MOLINEUX,
Colonel 159th New York Volunteers, Commanding Brigade.
Capt. JOSEPH HIBBERT, Jr.,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Div 19th Army Corps.
HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-SECOND IOWA INFANTRY,
Harrisonburg, Va., September 26, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to make the following brief report of the part taken by the Twentysecond
Regiment Iowa Volunteers in the late battles of the Opequon, September 19, and Fisher's
Hill, Va. September 22, 1864, and the march to this place:
On the morning of September 19 we took up our line of march from Berryville, Va, and
reached the vicinity of Winchester, Va., about 10 p.m. [a.m.] Having formed a line of battle we
were ordered to charge the enemy strongly posted in a piece of timber immediately in our front.
In doing this we were compelled to advance over an open field about half a mile distant from the
enemy's lines, and were subjected to a destructive fire of musketry, grape, and canister.
Advancing to the crest of the hill a short distance from their line, we were ordered to lie down to
protect ourselves from their terrible fire of musketry, grape, and canister, the latter opening on us
at short range and doing terrible execution in our ranks. The protection afforded by the ground
upon which we were ordered to lie down was very slight, and the right of our re, merit advanced
to the ravine occupied by the One hundred and fifty-ninth New York. Having remained in this
position about half an hour, we were ordered to retreat and fall back to our original position. This
withdrawal was made absolutely imperative from the fact that the brigade on our left broke in
confusion as soon as we had gained the crest of the hill, and from the destructive enfilading fire
from the enemy, who were advancing in that direction, it was very apparent that we were obliged
to advance or retreat to save being surrounded and captured. In the meantime the enemy had
been driven from their position and retired in the direction of Winchester. Rallying our men the
best we could, we advanced with the brigade through the timber in pursuit of the enemy. In this
advance we were subjected to a fire of shot and shell, and had many killed and wounded. By
night the enemy had been completely routed and driven from the field, and we were ordered to
go into camp and rest until morning.
In this engagement officers and men never fought with more valor. It would be invidious to
particularize when all did so bravely. If we were not successful at first it was no fault of ours. In
every instance we did as we were ordered, and not a man shrank from duty on, the field of battle.
The following is a list of casualties this battle:
On the morning of the 20th we again took up our line of march in pursuit of the enemy, and
reached Strasburg on the evening of the same day. We rested one day, and the next morning
were again ordered to advance, the enemy being posted in a very strong position on Fisher's Hill.
At noon of the same day the Twenty-second Iowa was ordered to support the One hundred and
twenty-eighth New York Regiment, which was to advance to carry the enemy's rifle-pits. The
One hundred and twenty-eighth carried them in gallant style, and we were ordered to advance as
skirmishers some 200 yards in front of the rifle-pits, and remained in this position until our army
was ordered to charge the enemy's works. During the time we occupied this line we kept up a
continual fire on the enemy, and fired on an average of 120 rounds per man. We rallied the
skirmish line and started in pursuit of the enemy, who had fled from their strong position. During
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the excitement of the moment we had not sufficient time to rally our men, who were deployed
three-quarters of a mile in length, and in consequence of which the men were very much
scattered the remainder of the evening. In the pursuit the Twenty-second Iowa was ordered to
support the Eleventh Indian,, which was deployed in the advance of the army. We continued the
advance until one hour before daylight the next morning, when we had reached the town of
Woodstock, and went into camp until morning. At midnight we received a temporary check from
the enemy's rear guard, who were drawn up in line of battle to impede our advance. In this action
and on the march the following is a list of casualties.
In the late march the men have acted cheerfully and willingly, but have suffered severely for
want of shoes, a great many being barefooted.
Hoping that this report in brief will give you all the information necessary, I have the honor
to be, sir, your obedient servant,
HARVEY GRAHAM,
Colonel, Commanding.
Lieutenant COPELAND,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-SECOND IOWA INFANTRY,
Cedar Creek, Va. October 22, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report in brief the part taken by the Twenty-second Iowa Volunteers
in the late action of Cedar Creek, Va., on the 19th instant:
On the evening of the 18th orders were received from the brigade commander to be in
readiness to move at 5.15 o'clock in light marching order. In obedience to this order my regiment
was in line at the stated time, momentarily expecting to move on are reconnaissance in the
direction [of] Strasburg. While thus in line a heavy fire of musketry broke out on the left of the
line, in front of the Eighth Corps, which proved to be an assault upon our works by the enemy. In
a short time we were ordered to move forward in support of a battery; but had no sooner arrived
upon the ground before the enemy had possession of our works and were advancing in heavy
force, pouring a deadly fire of musketry and artillery in our ranks. There being but two
regiments in this perilous situation (Twenty-second Iowa and Third Massachusetts), and the
troops in our front having fled in confusion through our ranks, it was impossible to hold the
enemy in check with this small force, and our lines were broken and the men retreated in
disorder. About three-fourths of the regiment having reached the crest of the hill, rallied and held
the enemy in check for a short time, but could not stand against such an overwhelming force of
the enemy, and again fell back. In this stand the enemy were so close to our ranks that their fire
burnt the clothes of our men, and while falling back many were captured. Having fallen back to
the rear a considerable distance our lines were again formed and awaited an attack. In the
afternoon we were again ordered to advance with the brigade, and after an obstinate fight drove
the enemy from our front, and in a short time unfurled our flag in the camp occupied by us in the
morning. In this part of the engagement the enemy were completely routed and fled in every
direction. We found our camp totally destroyed by the enemy, losing all of our tents, knapsacks,
blankets, haversacks, and rations, leaving the regiment almost entirely destitute of clothing and
subsistence, in consequence of which the men have suffered from the effects of the cold weather.
In view of this fact, that we were ordered out in light marching order, with not sufficient time to
break camp, before the enemy had attacked our position on the left and had broken our line,
rendering it necessary for us to lose no time in getting to the scene of action, I deem it very
proper that the men should be remunerated for the losses which they have sustained by the
casualties of war in thus being deprived of everything through no neglect of their own.
30
The casualties in my regiment were 72 in number, a nominal list having been forwarded to
your headquarters.
I cannot close this brief report without mentioning with pride the gallant conduct of both
officers and men in this severe engagement, ending in the most brilliant victory of the war.
Hoping that this report will meet your approbation, I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient
servant,
HARVEY GRAHAM,
Colonel, Commanding.
Lieut. B. F. COPELAND,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2d Brig., 2d Div., 19th Army Corps.
HEADQUARTERS 156TH NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS,
Near Harrisonburg, September 30, 1864.
In obedience to orders I have the honor to report the following operations of my regiment
from the 19th of September to the present date:
I broke camp on the advanced line on the right of Second Division, Nineteenth Army Corps,
at Berryville, at 1 a. m. September 19, and reported with my command at headquarters Third
Brigade, Second Division, at 1.30 a.m.; marched from thence to about one mile and a half
beyond Opequon Creek and formed line of battle about 10.30 a.m. My regiment formed the left
of the brigade line, and joined the right of the advance line of the Sixth Corps, and threw out a
line of skirmishers under the command of Capt. Alfred Cooley, which joined with the skirmish
line of the Sixth Corps, and covering the front of my regiment. The line was immediately and
warmly engaged by the enemy's skirmishers in the woods on our front. About 11 a.m. I was
ordered to advance and guide on the right of the Sixth Corps, which order I executed, and in
order to do so I was obliged to oblique my regiment very much to the left. The advance was
made under a severe fire, across an open field of about 500 yards in width, until we came within
150 yards of the enemy, who were posted in two lines with cavalry in their rear and a battery
directly in our front, when the left of my regiment plunged into a thick woods. From this point
our advance Was down a Slope, exposing us to a terrific fire from both lines of the enemy. We
still advanced until we came within thirty yards of the enemy's line, when, finding that we had no
support in our rear and the line on our left and right was giving way, we were obliged to fall back
about 200 yards, where we halted, rallied the men on the colors, and opened fire on the enemy,
which checked his advance. At this time 1 saw a line advancing to our support on our right flank,
and fell back with my regiment to the woods from whence the right of the Sixth Corps had
advanced. I there halted and reformed my line under a severe fire, which was vigorously
returned.
The enemy now began to fall back, when we charged and drove him in disorder over the hill,
capturing some prisoners, the enemy leaving a number of killed and wounded behind him. I
halted, realigned regiment at the edge of the woods, and gave three cheers, and then advanced
about seventy-five yards to the brow of the little hill commanding their position. I then ordered
my command to tie down, and opened a rapid and effective fire on the enemy's line. About this
time I was notified that Col. Jacob Sharpe, commanding Third Brigade, was wounded, and that
the command of the brigade devolved upon me. I then moved the One hundred and twentyeighth
New York, under the command of Captain Anderson, to the right of the One hundred and
fifty-sixth New York and on the same line, and a portion of the Thirty-eighth Massachusetts,
under command of Captain Bennett, on the right of the One hundred and twenty-eighth New
York (a portion of the Thirty-eighth Massachusetts, under command of Major Allen, being with
the Second Brigade), and the entire line opened a vigorous fire. About 3 p.m. I saw that the line
31
on our right was advancing at a charge, and I ordered an advance of the entire brigade line,
which was executed in gallant style. The One hundred and fifty-sixth New York, Capt. James J.
Hoyt commanding, had expended all their cartridges, and advanced without firing a shot, driving
the enemy rapidly before them, capturing a number of prisoners, among them a colonel and
lieutenant-colonel. The advance was continued up to the works on the top of the hill, when the
line was crowded out by the advance of the troops on our right, and the brigade was halted for a
short time to replenish our ammunition. The advance was continued to two miles beyond
Winchester, where I reported to General Grover and went into camp for the night.
Colonel Foster having joined he assumed command of the brigade next morning, September
20; the regiment marched to Strasburg that day, and on the next day, September 21, we went into
position on the hills. On the 22d the regiment was moved to a hill in the front of the enemy's line
on Fisher's Hill. My regiment occupied the extreme left of the brigade line. I was ordered to
fortify the hill and hold it at all hazards. About 12 m. I was ordered to send a working party,
without arms, to fortify a hill in case the One hundred and twenty-eighth New York succeeded in
driving the enemy's front in. The left wing of my regiment, under command of Capt. James J.
Hoyt, and supported by the One hundred and seventy-sixth New York, advanced to the hill
occupied by the skirmishers of the One hundred and twenty-eighth New York and fortified the
hill under a severe fire. The rest of my regiment was subsequently sent forward under my
command, where we remained until relieved by the Twenty-eighth Iowa. I then marched my
regiment back, took our arms, and about 6 p.m. advanced on the left of the Second Brigade to
attack the enemy, and charged them in line of battle for a distance of two miles. Since that time I
have nothing of unusual importance to report. We have accompanied the brigade in all its
movements to the present date.
My total loss on the 19th at Winchester was: Wounded, commissioned officers, 3; enlisted
men, 88. Killed, enlisted men, 20. At Fisher's Hill, September 22: Wounded, enlisted men, 4.
Total, 115.
I cannot close without expressing my appreciation of the bravery and good conduct of the
officers and men of my command. To mention one of the officers would seem to impute that
others did not do their whole duty, which was not the ease, but I cannot close without expressing
my thanks to Lieut. M. Hasbrouck, acting quartermaster, who volunteered his services and
rendered me efficient aid. I regret to state that he received a severe wound from a piece of shell
during the last charge, which disabled him temporarily. I would further state that the colorsergeant
and four corporals were shot down under the colors, doing their duty bravely and well.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ALFRED NEAFIE,
Lieutenant-Colonel: Commanding 156th New York Volunteers.
Capt. CHARLES W. KENNEDY,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Third Brigade.
HDQRS. FOURTH BRIG., SECOND DIV., 19TH ARMY CORPS,
Harrisonburg, Va., September 26, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the following operations of my command since leaving
Berryville, Va., September 19, 1864, to the present date:
On the morning of the 19th instant moved from camp near Berryville, and after crossing the
Opequon took position on the extreme right of the line in rear of the First Brigade as supporting
column. After a short rest, orders being given to advance, moved forward about 100 yards in rear
of General Birge, and was still advancing when the left regiments were thrown into confusion by
the falling back of the front line and an enfilading fire from the enemy's battery at short range.
32
The regiment on the right (Eighth Indiana) held its position until all on the left had retired, when,
to avoid being flanked, it fell back in good order, and after being rejoined by the Eighteenth
Indiana, in accordance with orders took position on the right flank and held it until relieved by a
portion of General Crook's command. The Twenty-fourth and Twenty-eighth Iowa, under their
respective commanders, with a part of Colonel Molineux's brigade, moved to the support of the
battery stationed in the strip of woods on the left of my brigade, and gallantly repulsed the
enemy, who was advancing to take the battery. The loss of those two regiments (Twenty-fourth
and Twenty-eighth Iowa) in this part of the engagement was very heavy, especially in line
officers, of whom over one-half were killed or wounded. Upon the advance of the Sixth Corps,
my brigade having been reformed, I moved forward on the right of the division in the advance
line and so continued until we bivouacked at Winchester. The casualties during the engagement
were 4 officers and 25 men killed, 12 officers and 137 men wounded, and 27 men missing; total
loss, 16 officers and 189 men.
On the morning of the 20th advanced toward Strasburg, arriving there in the afternoon, and
took up position on the left, near the Shenandoah River, and bivouacked for the night in rear of
General Birge. On the morning of the 21st I was ordered to the right of the pike, and on the 22d
moved still farther to the right, in the woods, and erected fortifications in rear of First Division.
In the evening, in obedience to orders from General Birge, moved to the left and occupied the
works erected by Colonel Macauley's brigade, where I remained about an hour, and then pushed
forward after the retreating enemy. Early in the afternoon of the 22d the Twenty-eighth Iowa was
detached and sent forward as skirmishers, being under the direct orders of General Grover, and
advanced to the enemy's works, passing the sharpshooters of the advance brigade. They charged
the battery in their front in the face of a heavy fire, and Succeeded in routing the enemy, who
fled precipitately by cutting their horses loose and retreating pell-mell. This regiment, with
Captain Entwistle's company, One hundred and seventy-sixth New York Volunteers, captured
four pieces of artillery and followed on in the advancing column after the retreating enemy about
three miles, when I ordered them back to camp to get their knapsacks, which had been left
behind when ordered out in the afternoon. They rejoined the command at Woodstock the
following morning. As we advanced on the pike, after the retreating enemy, our advance was
fired into about four miles from Strasburg, when I formed my brigade in line of battle on the
right of the pike, and moved forward until the enemy retired, when I again proceeded by the
flank, and at 5 a.m. 23d instant arrived at Woodstock and bivouacked. The casualties during the
afternoon and night were 3 officers and 12 men wounded.
Great credit is due to the officers and men of the command for their endurance and bravery in
the several engagements, but I would especially mention Lieut. Col. B. W. Wilson, commanding
Twenty-eighth Iowa, who behaved in so gallant a manner in repelling the enemy's charge on our
battery at Winchester, as well as his conduct in the charge on the enemy's battery at Strasburg,
which resulted in its capture.
I will forward a nominal list of casualties as soon as completed.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DAVID SHUNK,
Colonel Eighth Indiana, Commanding.
Capt. JOSEPH HIBBERT, Jr.,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Second Div., Nineteenth Army Corps. HDQRS. FOURTH BRIG.,
SECOND DIV., 19TH ARMY CORPS,
Cedar Creek, Va., October 24, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of operations of my command in
the engagement on the 19th of October, instant:
33
On the evening of the 18th instant I was ordered to move forward on the following morning
(19th) at 5 o'clock and occupy the works of the First and Third Brigades, who were ordered on a
reconnaissance in the direction of Fisher's Hill, where the enemy were encamped. Accordingly,
at that hour my command was under arms, when heavy musketry firing was heard on our left in
the direction of the Eighth Corps, and I was ordered to move by the left to protect the flank,
which I immediately did, my right resting near the left of the Third Brigade the line extending
diagonally across the pike, the right regiment (Eighth Indiana) supporting Battery D, First Rhode
Island Artillery. In consequence of the dense fog, which existed at the time, the enemy advanced
on the battery and were within a short distance of it before we could distinguish whether they
were friends or foes, the more so, as we supposed them to be a portion of the Eighth Corps, and
notwithstanding we received a very heavy fire from that direction we did not reply to it until
they charged directly on the battery. Five pieces were withdrawn successfully, and while
attempting to save the last one Major Hart (of General Grover's staff), Capt. William D. Watson,
and Lieut. George W. Quay (both of Eighth Indiana) were killed, and Lieut. Col. A. J. Kenny
(commanding Eighth Indiana) severely wounded. By this time the left had entirely given way
and the enemy's line was on my flank and rear, when I fell back about 500 yards and took
position with my line facing the pike, and held it until the enemy in large force had crossed the
pike, when to avoid being cut off I again fell back, passing to the west of the stone house
(General Sheridan's headquarters) to a point nearly half a mile north of it, when I halted, formed
line on the left of First Brigade (General Birge's), and remained until ordered to move by right of
regiments to the rear, which I did, taking position on the right of the Sixth Corps as supporting
column of Second Brigade (Colonel Molineux's), where we formed a temporary breast-work of
fence rails. One regiment of my command (Twenty-fourth Iowa) was here, by order of General
Emory, moved to the right of the First Division to protect the right flank, and did not rejoin me
until we moved forward and had advanced some distance. At 3.30 p.m. we assumed the
offensive and advanced upon the enemy,. steadily driving them from every position, until we
again had possession of the campground occupied by us in the morning; here we halted. About 8
p.m., in obedience to an order from General Birge -(commanding division), I moved forward to
near Strasburg to support First Division, Nineteenth Army Corps, and under order from General
Dwight bivouacked for the night without fires, the men suffering severely for want of blankets
and proper clothing to protect them from the excessive cold. On the following morning (20th) the
Second Division moved up and I rejoined it with my command.
It would appear invidious to mention individual cases of gallantry during the day where all,
both officers and men, did their whole duty. I can only refer to A. J. Kenny, lieutenant-colonel,
commanding Eighth Indiana; W. S. Charles, lieutenant-colonel, commanding Eighteenth
Indiana; J. Q. Wilds, lieutenant-colonel, commanding Twenty-fourth Iowa; B. W. Wilson,
lieutenant-colonel, commanding Twenty-eighth Iowa, who were wounded early in the
engagement, while bravely leading their men against the enemy; Ira Hough, private, Company E,
Eighth Indiana; Richard Taylor, private, Company E, Eighteenth Indiana, who each captured a
battle-flag from the enemy.
My brigade captured during the day 42 prisoners.
The casualties in my command were 28 officers and 304 enlisted men killed, wounded, and
missing.
I cannot close this report without referring to the bravery of the lamented Major Hart (of
General Grover's staff), who was killed while cheering on the men in their attempt to save the
last gun of Battery D, First Rhode Island Artillery. In him we have lost a noble, brave, efficient
officer.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
34
DAVID SHUNK,
Colonel Eighth Indiana, Commanding.
Capt. E. A. FISKE,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Div., Nineteenth Army Corps
HDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH IOWA INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS,
Camp Russell, Va., November 19, 1864.
COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Twentyfourth
Regiment Iowa Infantry Volunteers in the battle of Opequon or Winchester, Va.,
September 19, 1864:
The regiment was commanded by Lieut. Col. J. Q. Wilds, but circumstances beyond his
control prevented him from making an official report prior to the battle of Cedar Creek, at which
place he was severely wounded and has since died; for this reason I take the responsibility of
making it myself. On the 18th of September orders were issued from army headquarters
requiring all transportation to be sent to the rear, also all extra baggage, retaining only such
articles as could not be dispensed with, these to be carried by the men and officers' horses. Thus
stripped of everything that would encumber its movements, the Army of the Shenandoah retired
to rest in camp near Berryville, Va., on the evening of the 18th, with orders to be in line of battle
ready to move at 2 o'clock next morning. The Twenty-fourth Iowa belonged to the Fourth
Brigade, Second Division, Detachment Nineteenth Army Corps. The brigade, consisting of the
Eighth and Eighteenth Indiana Veteran Volunteers, and the Twenty-fourth and Twenty-eighth
Iowa, was commanded by Col. D. Shunk, Eighth Indiana Veteran Volunteers; the division, by
Brig. Gen. C. Grover; the corps, by Brevet Major-General Emory. At 3 o'clock the advance
sounded, and the Nineteenth Corps moved out on the Winchester pike, halting about three miles
west of Berryville for the Sixth Corps, commanded by Major-General Wright, to pass, as it was
to have the advance.
The Army of West Virginia, under command of General Crook, moved by another road to
the right. Shortly after sunrise, the Sixth Corps having passed, the Nineteenth Corps was put in
motion. The Second Division, having the advance, arrived at Opequon Creek about 9 a.m., when
heavy skirmishing and some cannonading was heard in the front near Winchester. Here we
received orders to push forward rapidly, as the cavalry and Sixth Corps were already engaged.
When we had reached a point about three miles from Winchester we turned to the right and
moved in the direction of the Winchester and Martinsburg pike about one mile, and formed line
of battle on the right of the Sixth Corps. The Second Division was formed in two lines; the First
and Third Brigades formed the first line, and the Second and Fourth Brigades the second. The
Twenty-fourth Iowa was on the left center, the Twenty-eighth Iowa on the left, Eighth Indiana on
the right, Eighteenth Indiana on the right center, the Fourth Brigade being on the extreme right.
Soon after the First Division, Nineteenth Corps, commanded by Brigadier-General Dwight, came
up and formed in the rear as a reserve. In this position we remained until about 12 m., when the
advance sounded and the whole line moved forward steadily. The front of the whole division was
covered by a strip of woodland nearly a third of a mile wide. Beyond this woodland was an open
field, about a quarter of a mile wide, beyond which was woodland again. When the second line
emerged into the open field the first line was just entering the wood on the opposite side, having
driven the enemy's skirmishers across the open field, and were driving the enemy. The enemy,
discovering that our right flank was unprotected, threw a heavy column of infantry, with one
battery of artillery, around on our right nearly at right angles with our lines, and kept them
concealed in a deep hollow. In consequence of a flank fire from this column the first line gave
back and passed through the second, when about half way across the field. This created some
35
confusion, but the line was soon in good shape again and moving forward steadily. When within
100 yards of the woods the column that had been thrown around on our right opened out with
musketry and canister-shot, showering the iron hail along and almost parallel with our ranks and
mowing down our men by the score.
As soon as the flank movement was discovered the whole line was ordered to fall back to the
woods, which was done in as good order as could be expected under the circumstances. The line
was reformed and advanced about one-fourth of the way across the field and halted, holding the
enemy at bay until some troops could be thrown around to our right, as the enemy's lines
extended nearly half a mile to the right of ours. Up to this time the Twenty-fourth had had 2
officers mortally wounded, and 2 more severely, 6 enlisted men killed, and about 30 wounded.
This line was held under a most destructive artillery fire from both the front and right flank for
about two hours, when General Crook came up with the Army of West Virginia and formed on
the right, relieving the most of the Fourth Brigade. Captains Rigby, Smith, and Martin, with
Lieutenant Lucas, had been posted with their commands in a point of timber nearest the enemy,
with orders to hold it at all hazards, and were not relieved. I had supplied them with ammunition,
and when the fresh troops in making the final charge came up even with them they moved
forward with the line, which drove the enemy from every position taken, until it became a perfect
rout. In this last charge the Twenty-fourth lost a number of brave soldiers wounded and one
killed. After the Fourth Brigade was relieved (except as above mentioned) boxes were filled up
with ammunition, and it was moved to the extreme right in order to prevent any more flank
movements of the enemy, but General Averell coming in with his cavalry rendered the
movement entirely unnecessary. After the enemy was entirely routed and driven pell-mell from
the field the regiment was got together and marched about two miles, and went into camp near
Winchester on the Front Royal pike.
Casualties during the day: Officers mortally wounded, 2; severely, 4; enlisted men killed, 9;
wounded, 56; captured, 3; total, 74, a list of which is hereto appended.
I cannot close this report without referring to Capt. J. R. Gould, of Company D, and Lieut. S.
S. Dillman, of Company E, both having been mortally wounded while leading their men on in
the hottest of the bat' tie. Both were brave almost to rashness. In them the Twenty-fourth lost two
valuable officers and society two valuable men.
I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
ED. WRIGHT,
Lieutenant-Colonel Twenty-fourth Regiment Iowa Infty. Vols.
Col. N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
HDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH IOWA INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS,
Camp Russell, Va., November 19, 1864.
COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Twentyfourth
Regiment Iowa Infantry Volunteers in the battle of Fisher's Hill, Va., on the 22d of
September, 1864:
It had been a matter of doubt in my mind as to whether the part taken by the Twenty-fourth
in that engagement was entitled to a report, but having received an order from Brevet Major-
General Grover, commanding division, to have it inscribed on the banner of the Twenty-fourth as
one of the battles in which the regiment had been engaged, I thought proper to make the
following report and forward it with the historical memoranda for 1864: The Army of the
Shenandoah, after having driven Early from Winchester, Va., on the 19th, arrived at Strasburg on
the evening of the 20th, and found the enemy posted in a strong position on Fisher's Hill, his line
36
reaching from the base of the Massanutten Mountain to near the base of Little North Mountain,
fronting on Strasburg, and about one mile and a half south. During the 21st continual skirmishing
was going on in front, with but few casualties on either side. The Army of West Virginia, under
command of General Crook, was thrown forward in the direction of Little North Mountain and
near the enemy's left. The Sixth Corps, commanded by Major-General Wright, followed Crook,
and occupied the center. The Nineteenth Corps, Brevet Major-General Emory commanding,
moved in between Wright's left and the Shenandoah, the line passing through the north side of
Strasburg. In this position both armies rested on their arms during the night, the pickets within
hailing distance.
On the morning of the 22d strong skirmish lines were thrown out, the whole army being put
in motion and moved to the right near two miles, which threw a portion of Crook's command
beyond the enemy's extreme left. The Nineteenth Corps was formed in two lines immediately in
front of Fisher's Hill, the left resting on Strasburg, the Second Division on the extreme left, the
Third Brigade (Colonel Macauley) and First Brigade (General Birge) forming the first line. The
Second Brigade (Colonel Molineux) and Fourth Brigade (Colonel Shunk) formed the second
line, the Fourth Brigade being on the right. In this position we were ordered to throw up works,
as the enemy could reach us with his artillery, occasional shots from which were bounding
through our lines. The works were immediately commenced, and by 10 p.m. works of sufficient
strength were completed to protect us from the enemy's shells, which were increasing. During
this time heavy skirmishing was going on in front, and Crook was winding his way along the
base of Little North Mountain, endeavoring to get to the enemy's rear. By 3 p.m. the enemy's
skirmishers had been driven back near half a mile, and Crook was progressing finely. The
Twenty-fourth was now ordered out and moved to the extreme left through a shower of the
enemy's shells, having to cross an open plain immediately in front and within easy range of the
enemy's guns on the hill, and took position in support of the First Maine Battery, which was
keeping up a vigorous fire on the enemy's works. This position we were ordered to hold at all
hazards. The Second Division, Nineteenth Corps, was moved to the left, and took position
immediately in front of the enemy's works on the hill, but concealed behind a ridge from which
the enemy's skirmishers had been driven during the fore part of the day. About sunset it was
ascertained that Crook had been successful in getting in the rear of the enemy's left, when, at a
preconcerted signal from Sheridan's headquarters, the whole line was ordered to advance at the
double-quick, which was done, accompanied by such yells as Sheridan's army only can give.
The enemy, seeing the whole line advancing, prepared to receive the attack and opened on the
lines with all the artillery that could be brought to bear, which was promptly answered by our
artillery and the loud shouts of the advancing lines. Our lines pressed forward, driving the enemy
from every position taken, until every rebel was either driven from the hill, killed, or captured.
The victory was complete, everything that could impede their progress was left behind, guns in
position and caissons with teams all ready to move. Early's army was now for the second time
"skedaddling" up the Valley.
It was now dark, but we were ordered to push forward in hopes of capturing more of the
fleeing enemy. The pursuit was kept up all night, arriving at Woodstock at daylight on the
morning of the 23d, where tired, hungry, and sleepy, the victorious army rested for a few hours.
The night was very dark, the route to be passed one entirely strange, and the enemy, finding that
he was pursued, kept out a rear guard with one piece of artillery, the only one left. The guard
fired on us frequently during the night at different points, rendering the march very difficult. The
Twenty-fourth was very fortunate, although at one time receiving the entire volley of the enemy's
rear guard at close range.
Casualties, 1 officer severely wounded and 4 men slightly.
37
The officers and men all did their whole duty and were anxious to push forward.
I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
ED. WRIGHT,
Lieutenant-Colonel Twenty-fourth Regiment Iowa Infty. Vols.
Col. N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General, State of Iowa.
-----
HDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH IOWA INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS,
Camp Russell, Va., November 19, 1864.
COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Twentyfourth
Regiment Iowa Infantry Volunteers in the battle of Cedar Creek, Va., on the 19th of
October, 1864:
The regiment belonged to the Fourth Brigade, Second Division, ;Nineteenth Army Corps,
Brevet Major-General Emory commanding corps, Brigadier-General Grover commanding
division, and Colonel Shunk, Eighth Indiana Veteran Volunteers, commanding brigade. The
brigade occupied the left of the second line, which was about 200 paces in rear of the line of
works occupied by the first line. The left of the brigade rested about 200 yards to the right of the
pike leading from Winchester to Staunton. The works in our front were occupied by the Third
Brigade, Second Division, Nineteenth Army Corps, with Battery D, First Rhode Island Artillery,
near the pike on the left. The regiment occupied the right center of the brigade, with the Twentyeighth
Iowa on the left. The Eighth Corps, under command of Major-General Crook, was posted
on the left of the pike and about 300 paces to the front. The Sixth Corps was on the right of the
Nineteenth, with its right thrown back toward Middletown about one mile. Our teams parked
about one mile in the rear. The enemy was in camp at Fisher's Hill some four miles to the front.
In this position we all retired to our "virtuous couches" on the evening of the 18th, not even
suspecting our danger or the Yankee trick that Early was going to play on us next morning. Soon
after retiring to bed Colonel Wilds, then in command of the regiment, received orders to have
the men under arms at precisely 5 o'clock next morning, as the first line was to make a
reconnaissance to the front and the Fourth Brigade was to move up to the works as soon as
vacated. In obedience to this order, at 5 o'clock the regiment was all in line of battle and ready to
move to the works. Having reason to believe the reconnaissance would not last more than one or
two hours, as the order was not to bring on an engagement, everything except arms and
accouterments were left in tents. At 5.10 o'clock firing commenced on the picket-line of the
Eighth Corps. Supposing it to be only a reconnaissance by the enemy it created but little alarm.
In a few minutes heavy firing commenced on the left and front of the Eighth Corps.
It was not yet daylight, and a dense fog, which had settled to the ground, rendered it almost
impossible to distinguish objects at any distance. Soon after the firing commenced on the left the
brigade was ordered to move by the left flank until the left of the Twenty-fourth Iowa rested on
the pike. Colonel Wilds ordered me to ride to the left of the regiment and lead it to the place
indicated, but before reaching the pike I was ordered to halt and take position, as we were
already receiving the enemy's fire. The regiment was halted, and the right thrown forward so as
to form a line across the crest of the hill at an angle of 45 degrees with the pike, the right of the
brigade, Eighteenth Indiana Veteran Volunteers, supporting the battery on the left of the first
line. The fog was so dense that it was impossible to tell what was in front of us, and as the Eighth
Corps was falling back at the time our fire was reserved until the enemy had pressed his columns
close up to and charged the battery on the right, one piece of which was captured. We held the
position, however, until Colonel Shunk, discovering that the enemy had thrown a column across
the pike on our left, ordered the brigade to fall back about 500 yards and take position parallel to
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and facing the pike. This was done in good order, and the position taken and held until it became
necessary, in the opinion of General Grover, to fall back in order to prevent being cut off
entirely. Up to this time the regiment had lost 6 men killed and about 40 wounded. The order was
given to fall back as rapidly as possible in the direction of the camp of the Sixth Corps. The
enemy came in heavy force on our left and captured 4 officers and about 40 men. The brigade
fell back about one mile and formed between the First Brigade, General-Birge; and the Sixth
Corps, which was on the left. Previous to this time Colonel Wilds had been wounded and carried
from the field. I had also received a bruise on my hip from a piece of shell, and a wound from a
musket ball in the left arm, near the elbow, which sickened me so that I could not ride for near an
hour, and the regiment was commanded by Capt. L. Clark during my absence.
Soon after I returned to the regiment, which was then in the position above mentioned, the
enemy made a flank movement to the left of the Sixth Corps, rendering it necessary for it to fall
back, and we were ordered to retire by the right of regiments to the rear. We moved in this
manner nearly three miles, halted, took position, procured ammunition, and prepared to renew
the battle. After we had rested about half an hour, Major-General Sheridan came on the field,
having been absent since the morning of the 18th. He ordered the Eighth Corps to take position
on the left of the pike between Middletown and Newtown, the Sixth Corps the center, and the
Nineteenth Corps the right. Sent two divisions of cavalry to the right and one to the left. The
Fourth Brigade was formed on the extreme left of the Nineteenth Corps, connecting with the
right of the Sixth Corps. In this position the troops were ordered to rest and throw up some
temporary works. About 12 o'clock I was ordered to move the Twenty-fourth Iowa to the
extreme right of the Nineteenth Corps and protect the flank. I immediately moved to the place
indicated, took position, and threw out a skirmish line. In this position I remained until 3 p.m.,
when I received orders to call in my skirmishers and take my place in the line as it was going to
advance. My skirmishers had just reported when the advance was sounded. In order to get my
position in the line I had to double-quick about one mile, and during the greater part of this
distance we had to pass through the fire of the enemy's guns, which overshot our advancing
columns, the shells exploding in the rear. About 3.30 o'clock I got my place in the line, which
steadily advanced, driving the enemy from every position taken until we reached the camp we
left in the morning. Here we halted and made some coffee (those of us who were fortunate
enough to have any), the first we had tasted since the evening of the 18th. We found one
wounded officer there, who had hidden among the rocks during the day, and quite a number of
our wounded men. Everything was taken from our camp, leaving the men and most of the
officers without haversacks, blankets, or shelter-tents. At 8 p.m. the regiment moved forward
with the brigade to a point near Strasburg to protect the parties that were sent out to collect the
property abandoned by the enemy in his hasty retreat. There we bivouacked for the night without
fires, the men suffering severely for want of blankets and proper clothing to protect them from
the excessive cold. On the following morning (20th) the remainder of the Second Division came
up, and we went into camp about one mile from Strasburg.
It would appear invidious to mention individual cases of gallantry during the day, when all,
both men and officers, did their whole duty. I cannot close, however, without referring to the
bravery of our lamented Colonel Wilds, who was wounded soon after daylight, and died
November 18. In him we lost a noble, brave, and efficient officer. Captain Knott and Lieutenant
Kurtz were wounded and captured, but both were retaken in the evening. Captain Smith and
Lieutenant Davis were captured in the morning about daylight.
The loss of the regiment was: Killed--enlisted men, 7. Wounded--officers, 6; enlisted men,
39. Captured--officers, 2; enlisted men, 39. Total casualties, 93, a list of which is hereto annexed.
I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
39
ED. WRIGHT,
Lieutenant-Colonel Twenty-fourth Iowa Infantry Volunteers.
Col. N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General State of Iowa.
HDQRS. TWENTY-EIGHTH IOWA INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS,
Near Harrisonburg, Va., September 26, 1864.
COLONEL: In compliance with orders from brigade headquarters, I submit the following
report of the part taken by my regiment in the engagement near Winchester, Va., on the 19th day
of September, 1864:
Early on the morning of the 19th instant I broke camp near Berryville, Va., and advanced
with the rest of the brigade on the Winchester pike. After crossing the Opequon we formed in
line of battle, my regiment occupying the extreme left of the brigade. On receiving orders to
advance I immediately moved forward, and was soon warmly engaging the enemy. The First
Brigade of our division (being in advance) gave way and were pressed back through our lines,
yet we moved steadily forward for about fifty yards under one of the most withering fires of shot,
shell, and canister I have ever witnessed. Here I was ordered to halt. At this point the fighting
was most terrific, yet, I am happy to say, none showed a disposition to either flinch from duty or
fallback. We remained in this position until the right of the brigade, being pressed back, exposed
my command to a severe flank fire, and I was forced to fall back a short distance to the cover of
the timber, where we rallied and drove back the enemy, who were in the act of charging one of
our batteries (First Maine). We soon charged forward and took possession of our former position,
where we remained until, our ammunition being expended, we were relieved by troops from
Crook's command. We then obtained a fresh supply of ammunition and pressed forward to the
front line again, where we remained until ordered to join the brigade in pursuit of the retreating
foe. We followed them beyond Winchester. Here, night overtaking us, we lay down to rest and
dream over the events of the day.
Too much cannot be said in praise of both officers and men who stood boldly forth in
defense of the old flag and did their duty so nobly. Not an officer flinched nor a man gave back,
except by my order. I cannot forbear making especial mention of the following officers for
gallantry on the field: Capt. J. W. Carr, of Company C, was severely wounded, yet he continued
to cheer the men under his command until borne from the field. Adjt. Joseph G. Strong was
wounded in the early part of the engagement, had his wounds dressed on the field, and refused to
leave the same, although advised to do so by surgeons, but continued to rally and cheer the men
until victory was ours. He is a brave and fearless officer and worthy of promotion. First Lieut. D.
S. Dean, of Company C, was wounded, and told his own son not to leave the ranks to assist him
until the rebels were whipped, and he did not until ordered to do so by me.
Casualties: Killed, 12; wounded, 53; missing, 22; total, 87.
With many respects, I remain, your obedient servant,
B. W. WILSON,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Twenty-eighth Iowa Infantry.
Col. D. SHUNK,
Eighth Indiana Infty., Comdg. 4th Brig., 2d Div., 19th Corps.
-----
HDQRS. TWENTY-EIGHTH IOWA INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS,
In the Field, near Harrisonburg, Va., September 27, 1864.
COLONEL: In compliance with your request, I submit the following
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report of the part taken by the Twenty-eighth Iowa in the battle of Fisher's Hill, Va., on the
22d day of September, 1864:
On the morning of the 22d we moved forward a short distance toward the enemy, who were
strongly intrenched at Fisher's Hill, a naturally strong position, a short distance above Strasburg.
Some considerable maneuvering was made in the early part of the day, but we finally got a
position and were ordered to fortify. We had scarcely commenced work when I received orders
to report with my regiment to General Grover for special duty. On reporting, I was ordered to
the front line, a commanding position from which the enemy's skirmishers had just been driven.
As a battery immediately preceded me, I supposed that I was there as its support. I soon had
constructed a sort of intrenchment, a protection against the bullets of rebel sharpshooters. Here I
remained until about 4 p.m., when I was ordered by General Grover to deploy as skirmishers on
the right of the Twenty-second Iowa and to proceed as far as practicable toward the intrenched
position of the enemy. We steadily advanced toward their works to within about 300 yards,
when, pouring in volley after volley with great rapidity, the enemy seemed to waver, whereupon
I ordered a charge. With a prolonged shout we went after them, scaling their works, driving them
in confusion before us, capturing a six-gun battery, a large quantity of ammunition, and a number
of prisoners. After following them for about a mile, and heavy lines of infantry coming up, I
received orders to return for the knapsacks of my regiment which had been left previous to
making the charge.
I have no fault to find with either officers or men; all deserve praise; not one flinched or fled,
when it seemed as though we were charging into the very jaws of death.
My loss was extremely light; I lost only five wounded in the charge.
With respect, I am, your obedient servant,
B. W. WILSON,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Regiment.
Col. D. SHUNK,
Eighth Indiana Infty., Comdg. 4th Brig., 2d Div., 19th A. C.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST MAINE BATTERY,
In the Field, near Harrisonburg, Va., September 26, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my command
in the recent engagements and pursuit from September 19 to September 26:
In obedience to orders, I marched with the column at 2 o'clock on the morning of the 19th.
The march was urged rapidly until the enemy was discovered in position, when I halted under
cover of rolling ground and awaited orders for the general advance. I had no part in the
engagement until it became general, which was late in the forenoon, when the line of battle
passed through the first piece of woods which separated us from the enemy's line and which was
being held by our skirmishers under a brisk fire. I then advanced through the wood, moving in
the rear of the First Brigade, until the opening was reached on the other side, where I brought
four pieces into position upon the left of the road and opened fire upon the enemy's line, which
could be seen about 800 yards distant, lining the edge of the opposite wood. These two sections
were commanded by Lieutenants Morton and Snow. Our troops were now heavily pressed upon
the right of my position, and I moved down a section under Lieutenant Sanborn to help sustain
that portion of the line. I had scarcely got in battery upon the edge of the woods when the line in
front of me gave way and I was left without any infantry in my front. Only one thing remained to
be done. The troops must have time to reform, and I was ordered into the gap which they had
left. The section galloped into position immediately, and opened a most destructive fire upon the
enemy's line and upon a battery which he had just planted directly in our front. This section was
41
now under heavy fire from sharpshooters, from the battery in front, and from an enfilading
battery upon the right, which was concealed by a piece of woods. The lieutenant commanding
the section was wounded quite early and carried from the field. But affairs did not long remain in
this condition. The infantry had reformed and charged most gallantly. The enemy fled after a
most obstinate resistance, and the battery, after firing its last round of ammunition, retired to
procure a fresh supply. It is proper for me to state, in this connection, that when the line of
infantry broke, all my caissons, which had been within easy distance, were ordered to the rear by
the corps chief of artillery, and some delay was consequent in obtaining ammunition. The portion
of the battery upon the left of the road had been engaged and under a heavy fire throughout. As
soon as ammunition arrived, Lieutenant Snow's section was thrown out to where Captain Taft
had placed a section in advance of our former position upon the right. As our line had continued
to advance steadily, the repulse of the enemy now became a rout, and I pursued with the infantry,
as rapidly as the nature of the ground would permit, coming in battery at every available point
and shelling the enemy whenever it was possible to do so. Fatigued with success and tired in
pursuit, we gladly availed ourselves of the order to bivouac for the night near Winchester.
On the 20th we marched from Winchester to Strasburg without being engaged. Nothing of
importance occurred, and upon the 21st I made some experimental firing from the heights on the
left of the pike before Strasburg with one piece of artillery, with no results. On the 22d, it having
been decided to attack the enemy in his Strasburg position, my battery was placed in position
upon the line of Colonel Molineux's brigade, two pieces upon the first line, two upon the second,
and two upon the high ground just in rear of the second line. The only firing was done upon the
first line. Throughout the early part of the day the firing was desultory and directed mainly upon
the enemy's skirmish line, which was at times very annoying. At 12.30 p.m., a general advance
having been ordered along the line, a vigorous shelling commenced and continued for half an
hour, when the line advanced. As upon the 19th, the enemy was routed, and the pursuit was kept
up until the morning of the 23d, when we rested at Woodstock. At 12 m. marched from
Woodstock and encamped for the night near Edenburg. On the 24th the column moved at 7 a.m.
and encamped for the night beyond New Market. Though the enemy's rear was closely pressed,
my command took no active part in the engagement. On the 25th we marched to Harrisonburg,
where we are still in camp.
Where all my subaltern officers behaved so admirably, it would be unjust to discriminate
between them. Lieutenant Sanborn's position was, perhaps, the most trying, and he was wounded
while gallantly working his guns under the most terrific fire of the day; I am happy to be able to
state that his wound is not dangerous. My non-commissioned officers and men cannot be too
highly praised for their steadiness and valor. I desire also to mention Captain Rigby, Twentyfourth
Iowa, who retired slowly and with great coolness amid much confusion, and halted his
men at my guns with a cheer. Upon this nucleus many men were induced to halt and reform who
might otherwise have been still more demoralized.
My casualties were 2 men killed and 1 officer and 6 men wounded. I lost 5 horses killed and
3 disabled by wounds.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. W. BRADBURY,
Captain, First Maine Battery.
Capt. E. D. HALEY,
Commanding First Maine Battery.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., SECOND DIV., 19TH ARMY CORPS,
Near Cedar Creek, November 3, 1864.
42
Maj. DUNCAN S. WALKER,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Nineteenth Army Corps:
SIR: I have the honor to report that, as corps officer of the day, I visited the pickets and
reserves of this corps about 4 o'clock this morning. I was accompanied by Lieutenant-Colonel
Ilsley, Second Division officer of the day, and Lieutenant Wilson, of my brigade staff. I found
the First and Second Brigades, First Division, and the First Brigade, Second Division, doing their
duty very creditably. The Third Brigade, First Division, had small fires upon their posts;
otherwise, they were doing duty very fairly. The Second Brigade, Second Division, had no fires
upon their posts, but at the time I arrived their reserves were not under arms nor the pickets
deployed. We rode between their posts and into their reserves without being challenged, or, in
fact, hardly noticed. The Third Brigade of the Second Division had fires on their posts, and we
rode between the posts without challenge, and coming from the direction of the vedette we made
prisoners of the two men on post, one being asleep, the other without arms. Passing ourselves off
for Confederates, we gained in a whisper a full knowledge of position of the line of picket-posts
and reserves, and the number of men in the reserve. These men belonged to the One hundred and
seventy-sixth New York, and were Germans, with but a poor knowledge of the English language,
and had but little idea of what their duty was. Lieutenant-Colonel Ilsley had shown the picket
officers of the Second Division the written division instructions when he went on duty as
division officer of the day. The officer whom I deem most culpable in neglect of duty is Captain
Shockey, Twenty-second Iowa; and next, I would mention First Lieutenant Leland, One hundred
and seventy-sixth New York.
Most respectfully, your obedient servant,
NICHOLAS W. DAY,
Colonel 131st New York Volunteers, Commanding Brigadier.
HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Near Hillsborough, Ga., November 19, 1864.
Brig. Gen. GILES A. SMITH,
Commanding Fourth Division:
GENERAL: In accordance with instructions from department headquarters, the Third Iowa
Infantry will report to the commanding officer Second Iowa Infantry (Fourth Division, Fifteenth
Army Corps), as directed by Special Field Orders, No. 159, extract I, the first time we are
encamped near the Fifteenth Army Corps.
By command of Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair:
C. CADLE, JR.,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS NO. 310.
HDQRS. SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Near Savannah, Ga., December 18, 1864.
VIII. Brig. Gen. J. W. Sprague, commanding Second Brigade, First Division, will cause the
pontoon bridge now being protected by him to be taken up at once and sent, with the train
belonging to it, to park in the fields in rear of these headquarters. He will leave in his present
position the two smallest regiments of his command and with the rest will proceed to King's
Bridge at an early hour to-morrow morning, reporting to General Easton, chief quartermaster
Military Division of the Mississippi, and relieving the First Brigade of the Fourth Division. He
will cause the section of artillery now with him to report to Maj. A. C. Waterhouse, chief of
artillery, Seventeenth Army Corps.
43
IX. Brig. Gen. J. W. Sprague, commanding Second Brigade, First Division, will detail from
his command two commissioned officers experienced in working men and one good noncommissioned
officer. They will report to Lieut. Col. A. Hickenlooper, assistant inspectorgeneral,
Seventeenth Army Corps, at King's Bridge, at 7 a.m. to-morrow-row, and will remain on
duty with Lieutenant-Colonel Hickenlooper until the wharf is finished. He will detail each
morning, to report to Lieutenant-Colonel Hickenlooper, at King's Bridge, at 7 o'clock, 150
axmen, properly officered, and six wagons with teams complete, but without beds, with two men
to each team as assistants. First detail will report to-morrow morning.
X. Maj. J. C. Marven, Eleventh Iowa Volunteers, provost-marshal, Seventeenth Army Corps,
and Capt. J. H. Davis, Forty-first Illinois Volunteers, commanding pioneer corps, Fourth
Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, are hereby authorized, subject to the approval of the War
Department, to raise a regiment of U.S. Colored Troops, to be employed in this corps as
pioneers. Maj. J. C. Marven will at once select ten good men, upon recommendation of division
commanders, and assign them to the duty of recruiting the regiment. As fast as companies are
organized men will be assigned by orders from these headquarters as officers, and their names
forwarded to the War Department for appointment.
XI. Col. B. F. Potts, commanding First Brigade, Fourth Division, will, on being relieved tomorrow
morning at King's Bridge, by the Second Brigade, First Division, report to Brig. Gen. G.
A. Smith, commanding Fourth Division.
By command of Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair:
C. CADLE, JR.,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 81.
HDQRS. FIRST DIV., 15TH ARMY CORPS,
Savannah, Ga., December 28, 1864.
I. During the temporary absence of the general commanding, Col. James A. Williamson,
Fourth Iowa Infantry, will assume command of this division.
By order of Brig. Gen. C. R. Woods:
FRED. H. WILSON,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 8.
HDQRS. 3D BRIG., 1ST DIV., 15TH A. C.,
Savannah, Ga., December 28, 1864.
During the absence of Col. James A. Williamson, temporarily commanding the First
Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, Col. George A. Stone, Twenty-fifth Iowa Infantry, will assume
command of this brigade.
By order of Col. James A. Williamson:
CHARLES MACKENZIE,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 61.
HDQRS. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Savannah, Ga., December 30, 1864.
In accordance with paragraph 3, General Orders, No. 59, headquarters Department and Army
of the Tennessee, series of 1863, the following-named officers are relieved from duty with their
respective commands and are hereby assigned as acting assistant inspectors-general, and will be
44
obeyed and respected accordingly: Capt. Albert Head, Tenth Iowa Volunteers, for Second
Brigade, Third Division, Fifteenth Army Corps; Lieut. A. D. Cameron, Seventh Iowa Veteran
Volunteers, for Second Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps.
By command of Maj. Gen. P. Joseph Osterhaus:
MAX. WOODHULL,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
GENERAL ORDERS NO. 83.
HDQRS. FIRST DIV., 15TH ARMY CORPS,
Savannah, Ga., December 31, 1864.
I. The general commanding having returned to duty, Col. James A. Williamson, Fourth Iowa
Infantry, will reassume command of the Third Brigade of this division.
By order of Brig. Gen. C. R. Woods:
FRED. H. WILSON,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Savannah, Ga. December 26, 1864.
CAPTAIN:
The orders issued regulating the march of the columns from Atlanta south assigned me again
to the extreme right, with the privilege of using one or more parallel roads, if it did not interfere
with the columns on my left (Seventeenth Army Corps). I respectfully refer the major-general
commanding to the accompanying map, marked B, for the routes taken by and the camps of the
different divisions at the end of every day's march.
On November 15, 1864, in pursuance of orders received, the Fifteenth Army Corps left its
encampments--Generals Woods, Smith, and Hazen, marching in one column from Atlanta,
arrived via Rough and Ready, in the vicinity of Stockbridge; General Corse, who had on the
previous night reached the Chattahoochee River, was necessarily delayed at Atlanta, receiving
and issuing quartermaster's stores, which were laid apart for them, and therefore had to halt for
the night in the vicinity of Rough and Ready. The head of the former columns (First, Second, and
Third Divisions) found near the aforesaid railroad station some rebel pickets who, evidently
surprised at our unexpected appearance, fled. Near Stockbridge the rebel general, Lewis, with
about 1,000 mounted troops and one section of artillery, held a position, but he also yielded it
after a very feeble show of resistance. This rebel general subsequently indulged merely in the
destruction of bridges to oppose our advance, keeping his troops at a very discreet distance. The
First, Second, and Third Divisions were encamped in the vicinity of Stockbridge, with a view to
prevent a collision with the Seventeenth Army Corps, whose march was also directed toward
Stockbridge.
McDonough being the point to be reached on the 16th of November, I directed General
Hazen (Second Division) to march on the main road via Stockbridge, while Generals Woods and
Smith moved via Lee's Mills, and General Corse was to take a direct road from his camp at
Rough and Ready, by Lee's Mills, to McDonough. At McDonough the whole of the Fifteenth
Army Corps was for the first time assembled, and the divisions in supporting distance of each
other.
The corps marched on November 17 in one column to Locust Grove, where, to facilitate the
movement, two columns were formed, moving toward Planters' Factory, on the Ocmulgee River-
-Generals Woods and Hazen via Indian Springs, Generals Smith and Corse via Jackson. On the
same day I succeeded in pushing the Twenty-ninth Missouri Infantry to that river, and secured
45
both banks for the intended bridges. As soon as the pontoon could be laid down at the Ocmulgee
Factories, General Smith crossed and took a defensive position on the east side of the Ocmulgee
(November 18), the other divisions of the corps remaining in their respective camps until the
Seventeenth Corps had crossed.
At 7.30 a.m. November 19 the Seventeenth Corps yielded the bridge to us and we
commenced crossing, General Hazen leading. General Smith had previously received orders to
march on the direct road to Hillsborough, Generals Hazen and Woods were to follow Smith,
while General Corse, who brought up the rear, had orders to march, via Monticello, to
Hillsborough. This general was also directed to destroy, before leaving the west bank of the
Ocmulgee, the cotton factory, &c. which had been used for military purposes by the rebel
Government. Rain, very bad roads, and the long trains of the whole Army of the Tennessee,
including those of the cavalry, and the pontoon trains and some 4,000 head of beef-cattle,
delayed General Corse considerably. His rear could not leave the river before next morning
(November 20), and he could march only as far as Monticello, while Woods, Smith, and Hazen
reached the vicinity of Clinton that day. General Kilpatrick's cavalry had preceded us to that
place and left on our arrival for Macon. Some rebel cavalry kept hovering around Clinton, and
repeatedly attacked our pickets without making any impression.
Early on the morning of November 21 I pushed the Twenty-ninth Missouri (mounted) toward
the Macon railroad, with orders to destroy the track, and thus prevent the further use of the road
for military purposes. Colonel Gage struck and broke the road at 10 a.m. General Smith's
division marched the same day from Clinton on the direct road toward Gordon, while Woods and
Hazen moved toward Irwinton. A large force of the enemy being reported at Griswoldville, near
which place the outer column (Generals Woods and Hazen) had to pass, it was considered
prudent to move only the most necessary trains (ordnance) with this exposed column, and give
the bulk of the trains, in charge of General Smith, the inner route. The divisions of Woods and
Hazen camped for the night in supporting distance of each other near the Macon railroad. The
enemy showed, notwithstanding the presence of the large cavalry force of General Kilpatrick,
some temerity, and attacked the column of Woods several times. As it appeared impossible for
General Corse's division, with the incumbrances clogging his movements, to reach Clinton in
time on November 21 to secure that place against rebel assault, I ordered a brigade of Hazen's
division (Col. Theodore Jones) to remain there until the arrival of General Corse. Colonel Jones
was constantly annoyed by rebel cavalry. When General Corse came up on next day, he
considered the remaining of Colonel Jones most desirable, and this zealous officer therefore held
his position until all and everything had safely gone by this point of danger, and then followed
General Corse on the direct road to Gordon.
Your orders for the 22d of November were to make a demonstration against Griswoldville,
while our trains were to be pushed on toward Gordon with all the dispatch the terrible condition
of the rutted roads permitted. I consequently ordered one brigade (General Walcutt's) of General
Woods' division to move early on the south side of the railroad in the direction of Griswoldville.
When I joined General Walcutt to accompany the expedition, I found a brigade of General
Kilpatrick's in his front, and a portion of it, which had tried to drive back the rebel advance line,
had just come back without having succeeded. General Walcutt was ordered at once to relieve
the cavalry, and the advance was sounded. A strong line of skirmishers, supported by two
regiments and some cavalry, which General Kilpatrick had kindly furnished, soon struck the
rebels, who were in line behind a creek, or rather swamp, in an open pine land and caused them,
with that peculiar spirit of our troops, to look for their horses and run. General Walcutt kept
pushing forward, and his men pursued in double-quick with cheers and laughter the fleeing
horsemen, waded the creek, marched through the belt of timber beyond until they reached an
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open prairie-like field, which was in possession of large rebel cavalry forces. General Walcutt
halted here just long enough to correct his lines, caution his skirmishers and supports to be
prepared for a cavalry dash, and then they emerged into the open field and made for the rebels,
who, throwing away the best chance that can be desired by an intrepid cavalry, fled in confusion.
General Walcutt followed rapidly, capturing many horses, equipments, &c. When beyond
Griswoldville the rebels, who were commanded by General Wheeler in person, took different
roads; and as I had some knowledge of Wheeler's way of maneuvering--which is not formidable
in the dash of arms, but sometimes successful by great activity and circumspection--I ordered
General Woods to have General Walcutt's command rallied and take a defensive position near
the open field mentioned above. The position selected was in the edge of the timber and along a
slight rise in the ground, at the base of which a kind of marshy swamp formed a natural
obstruction to the approach; the right and left of the position was pretty well secured by swamps,
&c. Light breast-works, built of rails, were put up to cover our men, and a section of artillery of
Captain Arndt's (First Michigan) battery was ordered there. These preparations were considered
sufficient to meet any of General Wheeler's reconnaissances, which he might undertake after
finding out that he was no longer pressed, but had to stand a more severe trial. In the afternoon
the rebel commander brought forward four brigades of infantry and a battery of artillery,
supported by a strong cavalry force, to dislodge General Walcutt from his position. For several
hours their attempts were repeated with the greatest impetuosity. Their artillery threw a terrific
fire into the frail works of Walcutt, while their columns of infantry marched in heroic style to
within fifty yards of our line. It was all in vain! Walcutt and his brave brigade proved that
superior skill, coolness, and valor made up for the great disparity in numbers. When night came
the enemy retired, leaving over 300 dead on the battle-field and a number of wounded, who were
taken care of by our medical corps; also a number of prisoners were taken. Our loss was
comparatively light. The brave General Walcutt was wounded by a piece of shell during the
fight, and Colonel Catterson assumed the command of the brigade.
During these operations at Griswoldville the division of General Hazen had passed behind
General Woods and taken a defensive position in his support two miles south of Gordon. General
Smith entered Gordon and General Corse passed by Clinton. A portion of General Woods'
command during the day was employed in destroying the railroad track from Griswoldville to
within three miles of Gordon, and General Smith, immediately after his arrival, put his men to
work to meet General Woods' parties. General Smith finished the work of destruction in the next
two days.
General Hazen advanced on the 23d within seven miles of Irwinton, and Woods intrenched a
line south of Gordon commanding all the approaches from the west and south. Both divisions
marched the following day to Irwinton. At last, on November 24, General Corse's division and
the brigade of Second Division (Colonel Jones) arrived with all the trains at Gordon, relieving us
of a great deal of anxiety. These officers deserve the highest credit for their faithful execution of
orders under difficulties almost insurmountable. They brought a train of many hundred wagons
fifty miles and over roads whose condition beggars all description. General Corse encamped for
the night in the position vacated by General Woods; Colonel Jones joined his division. The
corps was to cross Oconee River, at Ball's Ferry, consequently the four divisions marched early
on November 25 from their respective camps toward that point. Hazen and Woods arrived at the
ferry; Corse and Smith at Milton and Irwinton, respectively. In order to protect the right flank of
our column during its crossing of the river against some rebel forces reported to be at Big Sandy
Creek, the Twenty-ninth Missouri (mounted) was stationed along that stream, with orders to
destroy all bridges and guard all such points where crossing could be effected. They found some
opposition at the Light Wood Knot bridge, but succeeded in destroying it, notwithstanding.
47
When I arrived at the Oconee I found there the First Alabama Cavalry, who reported the enemy
in position on the east bank. A reconnaissance confirmed the report; but their number was
apparently small, and, perceiving that we were preparing in earnest to force a crossing, they left
during the night.
Bridges were laid in the morning of November 26, and the corps crossed in the following
order: Corse, Woods, Hazen, and Smith. The latter general had orders to remain until the bridge
was taken up and the trains all on the way. The two leading divisions marched the same
afternoon to Irwin's Cross-Roads, and from there three brigades were detailed on next morning to
destroy the Savannah railroad to Station No. 13. The remaining brigades and trains of these
divisions (Woods' and Corse's) marched the afternoon ([November 27) on the Augusta dirt road
to the intersection of the Savannah dirt road, with orders to proceed, on November 28, on the
latter road, to a point near railroad station No. 11, and there meet the divisions of Generals Smith
and Hazen. These divisions came to Irwin's Cross-Roads on the morning of November 27, and I
intended to march with them on next day, by plantation roads, to the point of meeting;
consequently all the divisions of the corps encamped the next night (November 28) in supporting
distance and within seven miles of Station 11.
On November 29 Woods and Corse followed a very dim road (called the Democrat road) to
its intersection with the Swainsborough and old Savannah road. The divisions of Hazen and
Smith marched on the main Sandersville and Savannah road until they struck, one mile south of
Station No. 11, the Seventeenth Army Corps, who had the right of way. The ground permitting, I
ordered a parallel road to be cut for about two miles to a fork which led into a road that ran
parallel to that taken by Woods and Corse. The country here is almost a perfect wilderness--longleaved
pines cover the poor sandy soil but sparsely, and exclude all other vegetation except
where an occasional creek or marsh, lined with narrow skirts of shrub-like undergrowth, breaks
this monotony; but what makes the soil almost worthless for agricultural purposes rendered it
favorable to our operations. An energetic corps of axmen to corduroy roads across the creeks and
marshes opens hi a short time enough space for any number of columns. On November 30, when
we marched toward the little town of Summerville, the Second, Third, and Fourth Divisions
moved part of the way abreast of each other. Generals Woods and Corse reached that day a point
within three miles and a half of railroad station No. 9 l/2. Generals Hazen and Smith halted at
Summerville. As the accompanying map shows, there are two roads running substantially
parallel to and south of the Ogeechee River and the Savannah railroad; they unite opposite
Station No. 2. Both roads were represented practicable, and consequently the corps was divided
into two columns--Hazen and Smith were to march from Summerville, via Statesborough, to No.
2; the left column (Woods and Corse) on the inner route. I took care to regulate the marches
daily, so as to have the columns always in supporting distance, and used a portion-of the Twentyninth
Missouri (mounted) to keep up communication and explore the intermediate ground
between the columns. The two columns crossed Scull's Creek on December 2, and were ordered
to lie over on December 3, to give the columns to our left time to come up with us. The troops of
these columns were partly employed in breaking the railroad, and in order to assist this work,
detachments of General Woods' troops had crossed the Ogeechee, at Green's Bridge, on
December 1 (which we had to repair), and burnt the railroad in the vicinity of Station No. 8.
Next day (December 2) a pontoon was ordered to be laid opposite Station No. 7, and large
portions of the divisions of Generals Corse and Woods put to work destroying the railroad there,
which they did most effectually for many miles. On the 4th and 5th of December the two
columns continued their routes, bringing the left column opposite Guyton (Station No. 3), while
the right column camped about four miles off on the headwaters of Black Creek, December 5.
General Hazen, who led the right column, on both days with a force of General Wheeler's
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cavalry; after a lively skirmish at Statesborough, the rebels dispersed and did not make their
appearance any more. The next day the corps had to lie over again; but very early in the morning
I pushed the Twenty-ninth Missouri forward to secure the crossing of the Ogeethee River, near
Station No. 2 (at Wright's and Jenks' Bridges). We found the bridges burnt. I ordered at once a
foot bridge to be constructed on the remains of Wright's Bridge, and directed General Woods to
send one brigade to the bridge and hold it. The commanding officer of the brigade (Colonel
Williamson) threw a regiment across the Ogeechee, and constructed on the east side breastworks,
and then pushed a detachment of fifty men, under Captain McSweeney (Ninth Iowa), to
the railroad with orders to break it, and thus prevent the enemy from re-enforcing his troops, who
opposed the advance of the columns on the east side of the river. Captain McSweeney moved
directly for the railroad about two miles off and broke it in plain view of a train coming down
loaded with troops. He then fell back pursued by the rebels, but he kept them in check. When in
the evening the enemy attempted to drive Colonel Williamson's men from the breastworks
thrown up in the afternoon, he was repulsed with some loss. Our appearance on the flank of the
rebels drew their attention to the lower crossing, and they sent a detachment of infantry to Jenks'
Bridge, three miles below Wright's.
The next morning December 7) the divisions of Generals Woods, Smith, and Corse were
concentrated near Jenks' Bridge. General Hazen was ordered to send, by way of a diversion, the
brigade of Colonel Oliver, which had been pushed on the day previous toward Jenks' Bridge, to
the Cannouchee and take possession of the bridge near Bryan Court. House; with the rest of his
command General Hazen was to follow Colonel Oliver's brigade as far as Black Creek. When
Colonel Oliver withdrew in the morning from Jenks' Bridge he left the Ninetieth Illinois
(Colonel Stuart) there to watch the rebels on the east side of the river. General Corse on his
arrival at Jenks' Bridge found Colonel Stuart behind a line of rifle-pits, lively disputing the
crossing. To re-enforce Colonel Stuart one section of Arndt's battery was brought into position
and opened. They succeeded in keeping the rebels under cover while some pontoons were
launched, and, manned by the Ninetieth Illinois (Colonel Stuart), crossed the river. As soon as a
boat-lead of men got a foothold on the other bank the rebels fell back to a line of works at the
eastern extremity of a long dam or levee, which formed the connection across the swamp
between the river and the high land. The dam is about half a mile long. Our pontoniers could lay
the bridge without being molested any further. While this work was going on and the floodbridges
in the dam were repaired, General Corse crossed a portion of his command in boats, and
they worked their way through the swamp and the thick woods toward the rebel position. To
facilitate their dislodgment General Woods was ordered early in the morning to push Colonel
Williamson's whole brigade across Wright's Bridge above and try to strike the enemy's flank.
When the pontoons were laid I ordered the advance. The Second Iowa Infantry, of General Rice's
brigade (Corse's division), confronted the rebels. They moved up in very good style, pushing
sharply on the enemy's wings, and forced them very soon to make for their support, which was
intrenched in double line on an elevation where the road from Jenks' Bridge crosses at right
angles the Wright's Bridge road. Colonel Williamson's brigade was advancing on the latter road.
When I had cause to believe this column in supporting distance, I directed General Rice to attack
the rebels in their breast-works. The Second Iowa rushed up to them over an open plain and
carried the works, killing and wounding a number and capturing about thirty prisoners. Colonel
Williamson arrived at the moment the works were taken, and he dispatched some companies to
the railroad, while General Rice advanced on a parallel road to the station. The enemy fled. A
portion of Corse's division was stationed at the railroad station, while the remainder of the
division and Colonel Williamson's brigade intrenched and occupied a line at the cross-roads
mentioned above.
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In the evening (December 7) General Hazen reported that Colonel Oliver had arrived at the
Cannouchee, but found the bridge partly burnt and strongly defended. The crossing of the river
was deemed essential in order to destroy the Gulf railroad, which was largely used by the rebel
authorities at Savannah. Under orders from headquarters Department and Army of the Tennessee
I moved next morning (December 8) toward Cannouchee River with General Hazen's division
and that of General Woods', except Williamson's brigade, which was to occupy Station No. 2
until the arrival of the Seventeenth Army Corps. After reconnoitering the Cannouchee River I
brought, however, only General Hazen's division to the bridge near Bryan Court, House, halting
Woods' four miles norther it at the forks of the road to Fort Argyle. The enemy's position on the
south side of the Cannouchee was naturally very strong. Wide, impassable swamps line both
sides of that stream, and there are but very few points where a crossing is practicable. There is
none below Bryan Court-House, and parties sent twelve miles upstream could not learn of
another above. From the Court-House a good road leads to the bridge, but an impenetrable liveoak
swamp is on the other side of it. A levee and three bridges, Of an aggregate length of 800
feet, lead through the swamp to the highland; the levee and bridges were swept by a section of
artillery and by infantry covered by breast-works. I was, however, informed that there had been
an old ferry below the bridge, and thus I hoped to be able to effect a crossing there if the exact
spot could be found. By minute inspection of the banks during the night the landing of the old
ferry was detected, and an expedition sent in a boat across the river struck high ground and a
rebel picket. Our men fired and crested the greatest alarm in the rebel camp. They opened with
infantry and artillery most vigorously, and, to my astonishment, they left the position by 2 a.m.
The next morning (December 9) showed that the contemplated crossing at the old ferry,
which the rebels could not prevent, would have exposed their flanks, and, therefore, their sudden
departure. Troops were crossed as fast as possible in boats, while the damaged bridge was being
repaired. I ordered General Hazen to send two of I is brigades to the railroad, which was in full
work yet. One brigade marched toward King's Bridge and Way's Station, the other to Fleming
Station; both with orders to destroy the road as effectually as possible. (This work of destruction
was afterward completed and extended for twenty miles by General Hazen.) The remaining
brigade was placed in reserve at the bridge. The expeditionary brigades returned during the night
from their work at the railroad, having, with the assistance of the Twenty-ninth Missouri
(mounted), driven everything from the road and taken some prisoners.
On the morning of December 8 General Smith was left in charge of the trains corralled at
Jenks' Bridge (west side), and General Corse, who was on the east side of the Ogeechee River,
moved his division down the stream toward Dillon's Bridge, which he found burned, however,
and had to be replaced by pontoons. On the following day (9th) the general pushed on and met
some rebels at the Savannah Canal and drove them back to their main line, which he assaulted
and carried, taking 1 piece of rifled artillery and some 60 prisoners. General Corse's report was
laid before you, and I respectfully refer to it for the particulars of this brilliant affair. General
Corse followed the rebels across Little Ogeechee and to the north fork of it; but was recalled by
General Howard behind the Ogeechee, where he threw up a line of defense. General Smith, with
the trains of the Third and Fourth Divisions, moved to the canal, and, early on the morning of
December 10, from there up the towpath along the canal (south side) abreast of General Gorse,
who advanced again beyond the Little Ogeechee on the Savannah road.
I left, on December 10, General Hazen, with orders to march by way of a foot bridge
constructed at Dillon's Ferry to the support of Corse, while General Woods, with the trains of the
First and Second Divisions, moved across the Ogeechee River by the pontoon bridge near
Dollon's and closed on Smith's division (the trains were to be left at the canal). General Corse's
advance, which I had joined, found no opposition west of the north fork; but behind that stream,
50
which is rather a wide swamp subject to the influence of the tides, the rebel fortifications and
camps were stretched out. The rebel troops gathered on and behind the parapets, and with their
banners defiantly unfurled awaited the approach of our column. The open and exposed ground,
swamps, and stream in front of the rebel works forbade all sudden attacks, and the men of the
advance were kept accordingly under cover, while skirmishers probed all along the lines as
closely and carefully as possible. I ordered Captain De Gress' 20-pounder Parrott battery to be
brought forward in a position from which it could throw an oblique fire into their main works,
which covered the Savannah road, without coming under fire of the rebel batteries. With wonted
precision De Gress landed his shots and created great commotion in the garrison. The profiles of
the works and the traverses were too heavy, however, to inflict any serious damage. A section of
Battery H, First Missouri Artillery, opened from an advanced position near the Savannah road,
coveted only by some trees. It caused the rebels to open at once with six guns and great
vehemence; so much so, that it was not considered prudent on our side to continue the fire. The
troops of the four divisions were before night in the positions assigned to them and encamped
just out of range of the enemy's artillery. In pursuance of orders received during the night, the
Fifteenth Army Corps was to occupy the ground on the right of the Savannah road, and
accordingly in the morning of the 11th of December General Corse shifted to the right and as
near the Gulf railroad as the march would permit, Woods occupying ground between Corse's left
and the Savannah road. General Hazen camped d'cheval of the road about two miles in the rear
of the front divisions, and General Smith moved to Station No. 1, on the Gulf railroad, pushing
his pickets forward on that road and to the right to cover the approaches from the south. These
movements were very difficult to execute owing to the rain which had converted the road
through the marshy soil into a sea of mud and quagmire. To prevent serious delays hereafter I
ordered the pioneers at once to construct a double corduroy track from our front to the rear.
On the 12th of December I sent, on the general's order, a section of 20-pounder Parrotts and
the Twenty-seventh Missouri Infantry (General Woods' division) to Cheves' rice mill, to assist in
some movement against Fort McAllister; and in the night the division of General Hazen, with
Battery H, First Missouri Artillery, and the remaining section of De Gress' 20-pounder Parrotts,
were ordered to march very early on the 13th, via King's Bridge, to the aforesaid fort and take it.
Fort McAllister was very strong and apparently well garrisoned. General Hazen arrived before it
at 2 o'clock, and at 3.45 p.m. he had completed his arrangements for the assault. They proved to
be in keeping with that noble soldier. When the advance sounded the brave men rushed through a
line of torpedoes and heavy abatis, jumped into the wide and deep ditch, and climbed in one
heroic elan, which secured them the fort after a few minutes' struggle, but not without a heavy
loss, mostly occasioned by the explosion of the torpedoes. Twenty-three siege and field guns and
215 men, the entire garrison, were the immediate prize of the capture; but the most important
feature of this victory was that it opened communication with the fleet and thus furnished to our
armies the necessary supplies, and put beyond doubt the final capture of Savannah, whose
garrison and inhabitants were, according to all information, but scantily supplied. The Second
Division garrisoned the captured fort. The artillery was ordered back to take a part in the
preparation for the contemplated assault on the Ogeechee lines, as General Hardee, the
commander of the rebel forces in Savannah, had refused, on December 17, to surrender. Generals
Woods and Corse since December 13 had steadily pushed their line forward and were in close
proximity to the rebel works. All points which offered a chance for crossing the swamps and the
river between our and the rebel works were looked up and most carefully studied; in fact,
everything was done to complete our knowledge of the difficult ground before us. I caused a
number of substantial batteries to be thrown up. In selecting the sites for these the principal
attention was paid to the rebel fort on the Savannah road, where they had a number of heavy
51
siege pieces in position, and which they undoubtedly considered the key of their whole line. The
rebels had also a number of batteries farther to their left, and their fire annoyed Generals Smith's
and Corse's lines to some extent; however, the guns used in these batteries were light field
pieces, and it appeared that the enemy thought their left sufficiently secured by the natural
obstructions; at least, its lines of infantry there were weak, and I did not wish to disturb this
belief by an ostentatious display of activity. The ground on our side was covered with timber,
and thus permitted us to prepare for any operations that might become desirable in perfect
concealment.
On the 19th of December I received your orders to prepare everything for an assault on
December 21. The closest investigation of the ground before us showed that the stream could be
crossed in two places (in addition of the Savannah road), where it is but very narrow and the
approaches to it practicable. One of these points was in General Woods', the other in General
Corse's front. Both places never had drawn the enemy's attention, and parties of General Woods
and General Corse had gone across in boats without being observed by the rebels. Trestles were
built and pontoon-boats gotten ready; the rifle-pits were pushed within 150 to 200 yards of the
rebel works. Major Stolbrand, chief of artillery, brought ten pieces of artillery on and to the left
of the Savannah road, keeping the remaining eight pieces in reserve, and in a convenient place
where they could be ordered to any point where the contemplated attack might demand them. On
the morning of December 20 an impression was created that the rebels were withdrawing their
pieces from the fort on the Savannah road. To prevent such an undertaking I ordered Captain
Zickerick (Twelfth Wisconsin) on the Savannah road battery and Captain Arndt on the Cemetery
battery to open on the fort. Their practice was splendid. The enemy, who, after considerable
work, succeeded in opening his heavy batteries, had to cease firing very soon under the terrific
accuracy of our guns. General Woods' advanced line of infantry, which was rather less than 150
yards from the rebel main line, kept the enemy's sharpshooters completely silent and behind their
breast-works. This morning's experience gratified the best hope of a successful assault in the
coming night, but orders from General Sherman postponed the attack. During the night of the
20th General Woods' pickets kept the enemy closely under their control, always fearing they
would get away. Their fears were correct. Leaving their guns and ammunition in the fort, the
rebels sneaked away in the darkness of the night, and the Sixth Iowa Infantry entered, before
daylight, their fortifications. Savannah was ours. It proved the richest capture of the war. In my
immediate front on the Little Ogeechee and in the portion of the lines around Savannah, which
was assigned to the Fifteenth Army Corps on the morning of 21st of December, forty-seven
guns, with all ammunition, were found, not counting in the armament at McAllister.
In order to recapitulate, I state that since October 4 to December 21, the Fifteenth Army
Corps had marched, in forty-six actual marching days, 684 miles; cut, corduroyed, and otherwise
constructed thirty-two miles of road and built 1,502 yards of bridge; while it destroyed most
effectually over 60 miles of railroad. Being on an exposed flank, the corps had a large share of
the fighting during the campaign, and the actions at Allatoona, Griswoldville, and McAllister
will shine as bright stars in the record of the corps.
Our losses in battle were comparatively light, and I am happy to state that, thanks to the very
efficient and skillful medical corps under the direction of Doctor Niccolls, surgeon of volunteers,
not a single man of our wounded was left behind and given up to the mercies of a prejudiced
enemy. All those poor sufferers came with us through the wilderness of Georgia, and are all
doing well. It is a consoling thought that even the remains of those noble martyrs are resting in
soil which soon will be redeemed from treason and become our country once more. Lists of
casualties have been forwarded.
52
Notwithstanding we were dependent on the country for the subsistence for men and beasts,
and large numbers of foragers were necessarily and constantly at large, the system adopted to
regulate these parties was efficient enough even in the face of ubiquitous rebel cavalry on our
flanks. The troops and animals were more than amply supplied. At times the men fared
luxuriously; and while but very few of our men were taken prisoners, our foraging parties
captured a considerable number of rebel officers and soldiers; in one instance they secured the
bearer of important dispatches from General Hardee to General Wheeler.
I cannot look back on this campaign without feeling under the greatest obligations to the
officers under my command. With the assistance of Generals Woods, Hazen, Smith, and Corse,
there are but few things which cannot be achieved by such officers and men as the Fifteenth
Army Corps is composed o£ I had occasion before this to bring the services of the above
generals, and of General Walcutt and other officers, officially to the notice of the major-general
commanding the army. I here beg to express my high admiration of them.
My thanks are due to the officers of my staff, namely: Colonel Fort, chief quartermaster;
Colonel Carpenter, chief commissary of subsistence; Major Gordon, acting senior aide-de-camp;
Major Woodworth, medical inspector; Major Gillette, provost-marshal; Captains Whitehead and
Wheeler, assistant adjutants-general; Captain Hubbard, acting aide-de-camp; Captain Perkins,
acting assistant inspector-general; Lieutenant Dickey, commissary of musters; Lieutenant Perry,
acting aide-de-camp; and Lieutenant Mitchell, ordnance officer. They performed their arduous
duties with great zeal and proved to be reliable soldiers.
To Major Stolbrand I have to acknowledge important services during the campaign as chief
of artillery of the corps. Through his energy and skill that branch of the arms which was under
his immediate care was in most excellent condition.
Captain Klostermann, the acting chief engineer, filled the position with marked ability. He
did most valuable services in exploring roads through the virgin forests of Johnson, Emanuel,
Bulloch, and Bryant Counties, where for miles and miles there is no guide or landmark, and the
compass his sole reliance.
I respectfully refer to the inclosed reports of my subordinate commanders.
I remain, your most obedient servant,
P. JOS. OSTERHAUS,
Major-General, U.S. Volunteers.
Capt. SAMUEL L. TAGGART,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department and Army of the Tennessee.
HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Massey's Farm, Ga., November 23, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the affair of yesterday at Duncan's farm, near
Griswold, was of greater magnitude than was at first supposed.
Early in the morning I received orders from Maj. Gen. P. J. Osterhaus, commanding
Fifteenth Army Corps, to take up a strong defensive position near the church, and with one
brigade to make a demonstration in the direction of Macon. I selected the Second Brigade,
commanded by Brig. Gen. C. C. Walcutt, composed of the following regiments: Fortieth Illinois
Infantry, Lieut. Col. H. W. Hall commanding, 206 enlisted men; Forty-sixth Ohio Infantry,
Lieut. Col. I. N. Alexander commanding, 218 enlisted men: One hundred and third Illinois
Infantry, Maj. A. Willison commanding 219 enlisted men; Sixth Iowa Infantry, Maj. W. H.
Clune commanding, 177 enlisted men; Ninety-seventh Indiana Infantry, Col. R. F. Catterson
commanding 366 enlisted men; One hundredth Indiana Infantry, Maj. R. M. Johnson
commanding, 327 enlisted men; total present for duty, 1,513; and one section of Battery B, First
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Michigan, Captain Arndt commanding. About the time I started, the pickets of Brig. Gen. J.
Kilpatrick were driven in by a superior force of the enemy. General Walcutt moved forward
about two miles and a half on the Griswold road, with a heavy line of skirmishers, which drove
everything in front of them to a point beyond Griswold. The forces met on this reconnaissance
were a part of Wheeler's cavalry. I then, by direction of General Osterhaus, drew General
Walcutt's brigade back to a strong position on the Duncan farm, and posted it in the edge of the
woods, with open fields in front, the flanks resting near a swamp, impassable except at one or
two points, and directed temporary works of rails and logs to be thrown up. About 2 o'clock the
enemy attacked with infantry (militia), three lines deep, and numbering about 5,000, four pieces
of artillery (12-pounder Napoleons), and two brigades of Wheeler's cavalry in reserve. The
enemy moved across the open fields in three compact lines and gained a ravine within seventyfive
yards of our works, from which they made three assaults, but met each time with a bloody
repulse. The fight continued until sundown, when they retired, leaving their dead and wounded
on the field. Shortly after dark the brigade Was withdrawn to the position near the church. About
the middle of the engagement Brig. Gen. C. C. Walcutt was wounded severely in the lower part
of the leg; he retired from the field, and Col. R. F. Catterson, Ninety-seventh Indiana Infantry,
assumed command of the brigade. He showed marked ability in the manner in which he handled
the troops. Shortly after the engagement opened the section of the battery was withdrawn on
account of the severe fire from the enemy's lines, then within 100 yards of our position, and very
destructive to the men and horses of the battery. About 4 o'clock I sent Major Baldwin, Twelfth
Indiana Infantry (First Brigade), to report his regiment to Colonel Catterson, who put him on the
right of his lines to prevent the enemy from turning that flank. I also applied to Colonel Murray
for some cavalry to cover the flanks; he kindly sent a regiment on each flank, covering and
watching the crossing of the swamp.
I cannot speak in too high terms of the coolness and gallantry of Brig. Gen. C. C. Walcutt
and Col. R. F. Catterson, Ninety-seventh Indiana Infantry. The skill with which they handled the
troops and the results obtained show them to be men of marked ability.
The rebel loss, as near as could be ascertained without actual count, was 300 killed and from
700 to 1,200 wounded. Major-General Philips, Colonel Munn, Fifth Georgia, and Colonel
George, are reported by the prisoners taken to have been killed, and Brigadier-General Anderson
to have been wounded. Twenty-eight prisoners were captured and turned over to the provostmarshal
of the army corps. Fifteen wounded were brought in and left at a house, not having
transportation for them. Our loss was 13 killed, 79 wounded, and 2 missing.
Inclosed please find a list of killed and wounded.
I will forward Colonel Catterson's report as soon as received.
I have the honor to be, captain, your most obedient servant,
CHAS. R. WOODS,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers.
Capt. FREDERICK WHITEHEAD,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Fifteenth Army Corps.
HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Fort Thunderbolt, Ga., January 15, 1865.
I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by this division during the
campaign from Atlanta to Savannah:
On the 15th of November last my command started from White Hall, near Atlanta, moving
southward on the old Macon road. When the head of the column had arrived in the vicinity of
Rough and Ready, indications of the enemy became apparent. However, the rebels steadily
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withdrew before my skirmishers, as they were from time to time developed. In the afternoon,
after having gone into camp, the Twenty-ninth Missouri Mounted Infantry developed a cavalry
force of the enemy, some 900 strong, in our front, who made use of two light field pieces.
However, they soon withdrew, and the advance, via McDonough and Indian Springs, was
continued without interruption until reaching the Ocmulgee River on the 19th. My command
crossed the same day on the pontoon and marched to within seven miles of Hillsborough.
Passing through Hillsborough and Clinton, the Macon railroad was reached the night of the 21st
at a point some thirteen miles east Macon. The morning of the 22d, in accordance with
instructions from the major-general commanding, I promptly ordered two regiments--the
Seventy-sixth Ohio Infantry and Ninth Iowa Infantry--at work tearing up the railroad. Some four
miles were completely destroyed, in addition to a large trestle-work bridge that was burned by
the Seventy-sixth Ohio. Being ordered to make a reconnaissance in the direction of Macon to
develop the enemy in that vicinity, I dispatched the Second Brigade, Brig. Gen. C. C. Walcutt
commanding, for that purpose. I send herewith my official report of this reconnaissance as made
at the time to Major-General Osterhaus. The morning of the 23d of November the march was
resumed, and continued uninterruptedly until reaching the Oconee River, which was crossed on
the afternoon of the 26th. November 27, in compliance with orders received from the majorgeneral
commanding the corps, I ordered one of my brigades--the Third, Col. J. A. Williamson
commanding--to the Macon railroad for the purpose of destroying the rails and ties. Colonel
Williamson rejoined the division the same evening at Riddleville, reporting that he had
completely destroyed some three miles of the track. From this time until December 6 nothing
worthy of record transpired. The line of march lay through a desolate piney barren, dotted with
numberless swamps and sluggish streams, that were a constant hinderance to our advance, often
causing delays of three, four, and five hours' duration. I may state, however, that when encamped
on Scull's Creek, December 3, I sent one regiment beyond the Ogeechee River for the purpose of
destroying the iron and ties on the Central railroad; one mile of the track was torn up and burned.
December 6, the Third Brigade, together with one section of my battery (Twelfth Wisconsin),
was ordered to Wright's Crossing, for the purpose of securing the crossing over the Ogeechee
River at that place. The bridge, however, had been destroyed, but Colonel Williamson managed
to cross the Twenty-fifth and part of the Ninth Iowa Infantry, who at once secured a firm
foothold on the east side of the river. The rebels here made their appearance in small force, and
some considerable skirmishing occurred. Three companies of the Ninth Iowa were advanced as
far as Station No. 2 on the railroad; but before they could succeed in tearing up any of the track a
superior force of the enemy appeared, and the companies were obliged to return to the river
crossing. The next morning, having been directed to send one brigade down on the east side of
the river toward Jenks' Bridge, and if possible to Station No. 2, the Third was dispatched with
these instructions; and that evening Colonel Williamson reported to me his arrival at the latter
place, having met but little opposition. The advance was continued on the 8th, and December 9 I
sent one brigade (the First) forward to Eden, where it took position, covering movements being
made beyond the Ogeechee River.
December 10, crossed the Ogeechee River at Dillon's Crossing, where I was joined by the
First Brigade, and my command at once marched eastward, following the towpath of the
Ogeechee Canal. Continuing some nine miles I struck the Augusta and Darien road, and bearing
off to the right for the distance of three miles I went into position, throwing up works in my front
and connecting my skirmishers with those of the Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, on my
right, while the nature of the ground on my left was such as in itself to afford protection. The
night of the 11th my division was moved to the right about twelve miles, to the neighborhood of
Anderson's plantation, where I again took position, with my left resting on the Savannah and
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King's Bridge road, and my right connecting with the Fourth Division of this corps. The enemy
was soon developed, strongly posted about one mile to my front, with low, marshy ground and
the Little Ogeechee River intervening. This stream, about thirty feet wide and from twelve to
fourteen feet deep, followed their line of works from twenty to fifty yards in front of the same.
The only approach to the rebel lines was over the main road, which was but a naked causeway,
completely swept by artillery admirably posted. From this time I continued to strengthen my
works and advance my lines, so that by the 20th of December I was strongly intrenched, with a
good earth-work for my guns, and with my skirmishers advanced to within 100 yards of the main
line of the rebels. December 21, my division marched with other portions of the army into
Savannah, the enemy having evacuated, and camped on the south side of the city.
During the march from Atlanta to Savannah my command built more than four miles of
Corduroy road, one mile and a half of bridging over the swamps, creeks, and bayous, besides
cutting eleven miles of road through the timber for the passage of trains and troops.
I lost in killed 15 enlisted men; in wounded, 8 commissioned officers and 80 enlisted men,
with 2 enlisted men missing; making a total of 105.
My division captured during the entire campaign 9 commissioned officers and 45 enlisted
men (total, 54), besides killing and wounding a great many.
The rebels abandoned 16 pieces of artillery in my immediate front when they evacuated the
works around Savannah.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. R. WOODS,
Brevet Major-General.
Maj. MAX. WOODHULL,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Fifteenth Army Corps.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FIRST DIV., 15TH ARMY CORPS,
Savannah, Ga., January 2, 1865.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that at 6 a.m. of the 15th day of November, 1864, I left
camp at White Hall, Ga., with my brigade; marched on the road toward Rough and Ready with
the balance of division. My brigade consists of the following regiments: Seventy-sixth Ohio
Veteran Volunteers, Col. William B. Woods commanding; Twenty-seventh Missouri Volunteer
Infantry, Col. Thomas Curly commanding; consolidated battalion Thirty-first and Thirty-second
Missouri, Maj. A. J. Seay commanding; Twelfth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Maj. E. D. Baldwin
commanding; Twenty-sixth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Maj. John Lubbers commanding; Twentyninth
Missouri Volunteer Infantry, Lieut. Col. Joseph S. Gage commanding. The latter regiment
being mounted and on duty at headquarters Fifteenth Army Corps, I respectfully refer you to the
report of Lieut. Col. Joseph S. Gage. I marched, via McDonough and Indian Springs, toward the
crossing of the Ocmulgee River at Nutting's Factory, meeting with no resistance on the roads,
striking the Georgia Central Railroad about ten miles east of Macon, near Griswoldville, on the
evening of the 21st of November, and encamped for the night.
On the morning of the 22d one regiment---the Seventy-sixth Ohio Veteran Volunteer
Infantry--was ordered to report to Brig. Gen. C. R. Woods to destroy railroad, which was done
by said regiment destroying three miles of railroad, including one large bridge and trestle-work
over a stream near Gordon Junction. I moved with the balance of my brigade about three miles
and halted; was ordered into position on each side of the road running from Gordon to
Griswoldville, where I put up a line of works. The cavalry under Brigadier-General Kilpatrick
had been skirmishing with the enemy in our front. Brigadier-General Walcutt, Second Brigade,
First Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, was on a reconnaissance toward Griswoldville, when they
56
found the enemy in considerable force, and my brigade was ordered from the line of works to the
support of Second Brigade. After moving three-quarters of a mile, I was ordered to return to the
works which I had just left, and was ordered to extend them to right and left to cover more than
my brigade front. One regiment---the Twelfth Indiana, Major Baldwin--moved on to the support
of Second Brigade, and went into position on the right of the line, advanced skirmishers, meeting
the enemy's skirmishers just in time to prevent them from flanking the Second Brigade. The
Twelfth Indiana had one man slightly wounded. Adjt. Marshall H. Parks had his horse shot from
under him while assisting in forming the lines of his regiment. The skirmishers had advanced but
a short distance in front of the line when they were engaged, and soon drove the enemy from
their front. As soon as it became dark I was called on for one more regiment, which I sent out on
the road near where the fighting had been done during the day, and was put in position forming
on the right of the road, and there remained until about 9 o clock, when the troops were
withdrawn and my regiment returned to the line of works I had built during the day. At 12 p.m.
the Seventy-sixth Ohio, Colonel Woods commanding, returned from the railroad.
The next day we resumed our march, marching about five miles, and was assigned a position
on left of road, where we halted, facing to the rear, and put up a line of works. Marched again
about 2 o'clock same day, halting for the night about five miles farther, at Gordon CrossRoads,
and put up another line of works. Next morning at 7 o'clock resumed our line of march and
moved on toward Irwinton, crossing the Oconee River at Planter's Ferry, and encamped that
night at Irwinton Cross-Roads, where we lay in camp until 12 m. the next day, resuming our
march, keeping all the time on the right of Central railroad. Nothing of any importance
transpiring; capturing mules and horses and contrabands every day. Moving toward Savannah,
we struck the Ogeechee River below Millen, and after crossing Scull's Creek halted for one day,
my brigade crossing the river and destroying about one mile of railroad; returned the same day.
Marched the next day. My brigade, having the advance, was delayed about one hour in repairing
the bridges over Nevil's Creek, this being the 4th day of December. Fitch day we marched about
sixteen miles, encamping four miles south of Mill Creek. Lay in camp on the 6th until noon,
marched nine miles, and encamped for the night. 7th, lay in camp until 12 m., changed front, and
encamped for the night, having three regiments in my front line behind works which I had
thrown up. Next day marched seventeen miles, and encamped for the night. About 1 o'clock of
the 9th, by order from Brig. Gen. C. R. Woods, my brigade was ordered three miles farther, with
instructions to report to Major-General Osterhaus, at Eden Court-House, where we took a
position and threw up works. At 12 o'clock that night I received orders from Major-General
Osterhaus to move at 4 o'clock on the direct road to Dillon's Bridge, and to take measures to pass
the camp of Second Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, by 7 o'clock in the morning, which I did,
crossing the Ogeechee River on a foot bridge at Dillon's Crossing, my teams crossing on the
pontoon about two miles farther up the river, and moving on the towpath along the canal until we
struck a cross-road running to the King's Bridge road, filing right, and encamping for the night
near the Little Ogeechee River close in front of the enemy's works.
Next day we tried to get to King's Bridge road, but could not on account of the road being
full of cavalry moving. After dark I moved with the balance of the division across the causeway,
in front of the enemy's guns, and camped on the King's Bridge road, nine miles from Savannah.
Nothing of importance transpired for some days. Remaining in the same camp, and, with a detail
from my brigade, put up a line of works and furnished one regiment each day to support the
battery by the cemetery from the 13th to 22d [21st], when it was discovered that the enemy had
evacuated the night before, and I marched in with the balance of the division to the works just
outside the city of Savannah.
57
The Twenty-seventh Missouri Infantry has been on detached service from 14th of December,
guarding the rice mill of Doctor Cheves', on the Ogeechee, and in garrisoning Forts Rosedew and
Beaulieu, on Wassaw Sound; the Seventy-sixth Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry are on duty as
provost guard in the city; the Twenty-ninth Missouri Volunteer Infantry, being yet on duty at
corps headquarters, is encamped in the city; the Twelfth Indiana, consolidated battalion Thirtyfirst
and Thirty-second Missouri, and Twenty-sixth Iowa, are encamped on the left of the
Ogeechee road, and inside of the inner works.
Our march has been a perfect success.
The loss from my brigade has been 1 man captured and 2 slightly wounded.
We have captured a great number of mules and horses, which have all been either put into
teams in place of others which were jaded, taken up, or turned over to provost-marshal or
division quartermaster. The men are in much better health than when we started, and our animals
have improved at least 25 per cent.
All of which I respectfully submit.
MILO SMITH,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade.
[Capt. FRED. H. WILSON,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.]
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST DIV., 15TH ARMY CORPS,
In the Field, near Gordon,, Ga., November 23, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the engagement between this
brigade and the enemy, near Griswold, on the 22d instant:
Early on the morning mentioned six regiments of the brigade, General Walcutt commanding-
-viz, the Forty-sixth Ohio Infantry, Ninety-seventh and One hundredth Indiana Infantry, Sixth
Iowa Infantry, the Fortieth and One hundred and third Illinois Infantry--were ordered to move on
the road leading to Macon, Ga., for the purpose of feeling the enemy's position in that direction.
Proceeding about one mile, we met the enemy's cavalry, under Wheeler, and drove them beyond
Griswold. The object of the reconnaissance having been accomplished the brigade was retired
about one mile and took position at a point known as Duncan's farm. The enemy seeing this
move followed up with three brigades of militia, numbering in all between 6,000 and 7,000 men.
We had scarcely taken position in the edge of timber skirting the farm on the east when our
pickets were fired upon. The brigade, thus posted behind a light barricade of rails hastily
prepared after our pickets were driven in, lay anxiously awaiting his appearance. He was soon
discovered emerging from the woods about 800 yards from our position, and rapidly running
across an open field toward us in three lines of battle, either of which more than covered our
brigade front. General Walcutt ordered Captain Arndt, of the First Michigan, Battery B, to open
fire upon them, which he did with one section of his battery in position on the road near the
center of our line, which was replied to sharply by four guns of the enemy in the open field, at a
distance of about 800 yards, to the right and front, the first shot striking and damaging a caisson.
On came the enemy, endeavoring to gain possession of a ravine running parallel to and about
100 yards to our front, but the fire was so terrible that ere he reached it many of his number were
stretched upon the plain. It was at this moment that General Walcutt received a severe wound
and was compelled to leave the field. I immediately assumed command, and discovered the
enemy moving to the right. I supposed he contemplated turning my right flank. As I had already
disposed of every available man in the brigade, and my left being so strongly pressed that not a
man could be spared from it, I sent to the general commanding the division for two regiments.
The Twelfth Indiana Infantry was sent, and immediately placed in position on the extreme right;
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also, a squadron of cavalry to watch the right and left flanks, but the day was already ours, as the
enemy had been repulsed and driven from the field. I immediately sent for'-ward a line of
skirmishers, who succeeded in capturing about 42 prisoners and 150 small-arms. The battle
commenced at 2.30 p.m. and lasted until sunset. During the engagement the enemy made three
separate charges, and were as often repulsed with terrible slaughter.
I would gladly notice the many deeds of daring during the action, but to do so of every man
who distinguished himself would be to mention each man by name in the brigade; but suffice it
to say, the conduct of both officers and men was most superb.
The loss of brigade in killed was 14; in wounded, 42--this number includes only those sent to
hospital.
The loss of the enemy in killed and wounded could not have been less than 1,500, about 300
of whom were killed.
The total number of men engaged was 1,300.
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT F. CATTERSON,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade.
Captain WILSON,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Div., Fifteenth Army Corps.
HEADQUARTERS 103D ILLINOIS VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,
Greene Square, Savannah, Ga., January 2, 1865.
In compliance with instructions received from brigade headquarters, I have the honor to
make the following report of the part taken by the One hundred and third Regiment Illinois
Volunteer Infantry in the campaign just ended:
On the morning of November 13, 1864, the regiment moved from camp at Vining's Station,
Ga., with the division. At 7 a.m. crossed the Chattahoochee River and passed through the city of
Atlanta, and bivouacked one mile and a half west of the city, where we remained until the
morning of the 15th of November, when we broke camp and marched with the brigade and
division through Rough and Ready Station. Here our advance had a slight skirmish with the
enemy. Nothing occurred along the line of our march until the morning of the 22d of November,
when, with the brigade, my regiment moved out early on a reconnaissance toward
Griswoldville, Ga. We soon found the enemy in force, and deployed Companies A and B on the
left of Ninety-seventh Indiana [as] skirmishers. Advanced and had a brisk skirmish, in which the
enemy was driven before them through Griswoldville. Here our skirmishers were halted, and
were soon withdrawn to an open field where two pieces of artillery were in position on the east
side of the field. We took our position to the right of the Sixth Iowa, the Ninety-seventh Indiana
on our right. Here we rested, and at 1 p.m. the skirmishers were attacked by the enemy's advance
and driven. A strong line was soon seen forming on the west side of the field, and advanced. At
this time my regiment had no works for defense, but hastily constructed a small, temporary line
of works and awaited the approaching enemy, who was advancing in column by brigades. As
soon as they came within range of our muskets a most terrific fire was poured into their ranks,
doing fearful execution. Still they moved forward to a ravine which ran in front of the line,
within forty-five yards of the works. Here they attempted to reform their line again, but so
destructive was our fire that they were compelled to retire. At one time it seemed that they would
overcome our thin line, as our ammunition [was] nearly exhausted and none nearer than two
miles, but fortunately a sufficient amount was procured, and our boys kept up a continual fire for
nearly three hours, when skirmishers were sent for ward to capture any of the enemy left on the
field. A few prisoners were brought in, besides a number of wounded. In our front were, by
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actual count, 51 of the enemy killed and wounded; 83 stand of small-arms were left in our hands
and turned over to the ordnance officer. Our loss was 4 killed and 8 wounded. At 8 o'clock we
received orders to be in readiness to move, and at 9 p.m. moved off the field and rejoined the
division.
On the morning of the 23d again resumed the march, and at 12 m. on the 24th camped at
Irwinton, Ga. Here we laid over until the 25th, when we moved to the Oconee River, and crossed
on the 26th of November.
On the 1st of December, with the command, we halted near the Ogeechee River. My
regiment was ordered to the Ogeechee bridge, to hold it and burn the railroad at Station No. 8
1/2. Joined the brigade December 2 and crossed Scull's Creek, where we remained one day.
December 3 [4], resumed our march. On the evening of the 6th camped and put up works; here
we remained until early in the morning of the 8th of December, and again moved toward the
Cannouchee River and camped within six miles of said river. On the 9th was ordered out on a
reconnaissance; moved out some six miles to the right, and finding no enemy returned.
December 10, moved across the Ogeechee River and up the canal within nine miles of Savannah,
and put up works. On the 11th of December heavy cannonading to our right. In the evening
moved to the right, and here remained, doing duty with the brigade in supporting the First
Wisconsin Battery and skirmishing with the enemy, until the morning of the 21st of December,
when the enemy evacuated the city of Savannah, and we marched with the command to the city;
since which time we have been on duty in the city.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. WILLISON,
Major, Commanding 103d Illinois Volunteers.
Capt. O. J. FAST,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2d Brig, 1st Div., 15th Army Corps.
HDQRS. FOURTH DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Savannah, Ga., January 15, 1865.
MAJOR:
The command by consecutive marches passed through Kingston, Allatoona, and Marietta,
and arrived at Atlanta on the morning of the 15th [November], just as the Fifteenth Corps
debouched from the town. Twenty days' supplies were loaded on the trains, and the command
moved to overtake the corps, and encamped near East Point on the night of the 15th. During the
16th and 17th the column was on the road, and bivouacked near Jackson, Ga., on the 18th. On
the night of the 18th the division was put in motion and marched until 10 a.m. of the 19th, when
it arrived at the Ocmulgee Mills, where it lay until the entire corps and corps trains had crossed.
At noon of the 20th, by direction of the major-general commanding the corps, the division
crossed the river. The pontoons were taken up and the train placed under my change. From the
Ocmulgee to Gordon we had continuous wet weather and heavy roads. The command,
incumbered by the pontoon train, about 300 wagons belonging to the cavalry division, and a
drove of 3,000 head of cattle, struggled through the mud and swamps, making fair progress, and
arriving at Gordon, where we for the first time joined our corps after leaving the Ocmulgee
River. Here we were relieved of the additional trains, and after one day's rest at Gordon took up
our line of march, arriving at the right bank of the Oconee, at Ball's Ferry, November 26, at 10
a.m. The pontoons being speedily laid, the division crossed in advance of the corps and marched
to Irwin's Cross-Roads, where we encamped during the 27th.
In accordance with orders from corps headquarters, two brigades (Rice's and Hurlbut's) were
sent to the Georgia Central Railroad, at No. 13, to destroy the road between that point and the
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Oconee River. Six miles were effectually destroyed on the 27th, and the division united again at
a point about twelve miles southeast of Wrightsville. The march from here to the point at which
we crossed the Ogeechee was through a country well watered, sparsely inhabited, furnishing,
however, by means of extensive foraging parties, abundance of vegetables and stock. On the 3d
of December we camped on Scull's Creek, near No. 7, to which point Rice's brigade was sent to
destroy the railroad, while Adams' brigade was so disposed as to cover the working party and
prevent any sudden dash of cavalry from driving them away. On the 4th the command was again
united and put in motion, the head of the column directed toward Jenks' Bridge over the
Ogeechee, where the Savannah road crosses and strikes the Georgia Central Railroad. About
noon of December 7 the command arrived on the right bank of the Ogeechee River, at the bridge
crossing to Bloomingdale, or Station No. 2, on the Savannah and Macon Railroad. The bridge
having been destroyed by the enemy on the approach of our forces, was replaced by a pontoon
bridge. A force from the Second Division thrown across was skirmishing quite lively on the
arrival of the head of my column. By direction of Major-General Osterhaus I crossed the leading
brigade (Rice's), which gradually cleared the woods, driving the rebels back across an open field
into barricades and rail works they had thrown up for their protection, necessitating the
deployment of two regiments (the Second and Seventh Iowa Infantry), which, gallantly charging
across the broken fields, entered the rebel works, driving them, capturing, killing, and wounding
about 25. Our loss was 2 killed and 4 wounded. Rice's brigade, re-enforced by Williamson's
brigade, of the First Division, was then directed to hold the station and remain on the east side of
the Ogeechee the night of the 7th, while the rest of the division lay with the corps on the west
bank of the river.
The division was again detached from the corps on the 8th, and moved with its transportation
to Station No. 2, Bloomingdale. The Seventeenth Corps was distant in our rear about thirteen
miles, separated from us by the Little Ogeechee River; the Fifteenth Corps out of supporting
distance by noon on the west side of the Ogeechee proper. Leaving the transportation of the
division at the station in charge of Williamson's brigade, which was to remain until relieved by
the Seventeenth Corps, the head of the column was directed on the road leading to Dillon's
Bridge across the Ogeechee, near the mouth of the canal. The first line of works, distant from
Bloomingdale about two miles, we found evacuated. The Seventh Illinois Mounted Infantry was
thrown out as an advanced guard, and during the day ran into the enemy several times, bringing
in five prisoners, among them one commissioned officer. Our flanks were well protected by the
two rivers; the ridge between furnished a fine road, occasionally blockaded, not sufficiently
serious, however, to occasion much detention. The head of the column arrived at the canal about
noon, and discovered the bridge still in flames. A new one was speedily constructed by the
pioneer corps, and a portion of the Third Brigade crossed and threw up a tete-de-pont, and the
Seventh Illinois Mounted Infantry moved out to reconnoiter the enemy's position. From the
citizens we ascertained that a force of the enemy had erected works at the junction of the Dillon's
Bridge road with the King's Bridge and Savannah road. The numbers were variously estimated
from 1,000 to 5,000. Under the circumstances, our great distance from any supporting columns,
the utter destruction of Dillon's Bridge over the Ogeechee, and the absence of pontoons, General
Howard deemed it not advisable for me to push any farther. The command was then placed in
camp on the north bank of the canal, and intrenched itself for the night. No communication could
be effected till late that evening with that portion of the Fifteenth Corps that had moved down the
right bank of the Ogeechee. Occasionally we heard their artillery, and learned later that General
Osterhaus was forcing a crossing over the Cannouchee. The reconnaissance of the mounted force
developed the enemy in force with artillery at the cross-roads above designated, about three
miles from our camp.
61
The transportation arrived during the night of the 8th under guard from the First Brigade, and
with two brigades (Adams' and Rice's) and Brunner's battery we moved out about 9 a.m. on the
9th to obtain possession of the cross-roads and try to open communication with the rest of the
corps by way of King's Bridge. The trains with the exception of a few wagons for ordnance, were
left with the Third Brigade at the canal. The two brigades moved out, Adams' in advance,
covered by a line of skirmishers from the Sixty-sixth Illinois Volunteers, and the flanks well
protected by the Seventh Illinois Mounted Infantry. The battery moved in rear of Adams,
followed closely by Rice in column. Not until the pickets were driven in and the skirmishers
quite warmly engaged did Adams deploy his regiments to their support. The dense undergrowth
rendered the movements in line exceedingly difficult, and the advance of the line soon developed
the artillery of time enemy, one section of which swept the road on which we were advancing.
The reserves were massed on either side where open space could be secured, and one section of
artillery under Lieutenant Brunner pushed as near the enemy as the blockaded condition of the
road would permit. It was impossible to see through the dense woods, and the enemy's artillery
swept the road so as to render it untenable, compelling Brunner to play on their works from a
field separated from their position by a dense forest and to fire altogether by the sound of their
guns. At this time information was brought that a column of the enemy was moving on my right,
and I pushed Rice, with two regiments, toward the King's Bridge road and ordered Adams to
push on with vigor. The increased volleys of musketry and sudden cessation of the enemy's
artillery, with the significant yelling of our men, indicated that the assault was in progress, and
before I could reach the center, or Rice could make the road, our troops were in the enemy's
works with quite a squad of prisoners and one piece of artillery as a trophy. The enemy were
pursued for four miles, and the Seventh Illinois Mounted Infantry swung around on Adams'
right, struck for the Gulf railroad, arriving there in time to tear up a rail and capture a locomotive
and eighteen cars, with about forty prisoners. The brigade left at the canal with the supply and
ordnance trains was then brought up, and before dark, by order of General Howard, we went into
camp near the main branch of the Little Ogeechee River, with a good line of defense. King's
Bridge was found in ruins. By means of a boat communication was opened with General
Osterhaus, who had crossed the Cannouehee with a portion of the First and Second Division and
struck the Gulf railroad west of the Ogeechee. The Third Division had arrived at the canal, near
Dillon's Bridge, with a pontoon train, and we received information that the pontoon could be
thrown across the Ogeechee early, placing again the Fifteenth Corps in close communication.
The morning of the 10th General Osterhaus went with the advanced brigade, commanded by
Colonel Hurlbut, until we struck the north branch of the Little Ogeechee, where we found the
enemy apparently in heavy force and so separated from us by the swamps and rice fields as to
render an assault impracticable till the arrival of re-enforcements. The artillery of the main fort
occupied by the enemy mounted guns of so much larger caliber than our light field pieces as to
induce the general to order up a battery of 20-pounder Parrotts before opening. The skirmishers
were pushed as close as mud and water would permit, and thus we lay until the subsequently
day: Colonel Hurlbut's brigade in line, covered by skirmishers; Rice's brigade in column in
reserve, and beyond range of the enemy's ordnance. The Second Brigade, Colonel Adams
commanding, was sent to the railroad on our right to create a diversion and also effect a crossing
between the Gulf railroad bridge and a point known as the Hermitage, nearer the coast. On the
14th the division was united and placed in position near the forks of the Little Ogeechee, Woods'
division on our left, John E. Smith on our right. No effort was made to assault the enemy's lines,
which were separated from ours by the north branch of the Little Ogeechee and the rice swamps
that abound on either bank of that stream. On the night of the 19th I obtained permission to
attempt a lodgment on the other side, which was successfully made by Lieut. William Pittman,
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Eighty-first Ohio Infantry, with ten men who volunteered for the purpose. Having demonstrated
the practicability of crossing a column I desired to push a sufficient force over during the night,
and move the division over the following day and assault the enemy. The general commanding,
deeming it not expedient, directed me to withdraw my men, which was done without any
casualties or without awakening the suspicions of the enemy as to what we were doing. On the
morning of the 21st Savannah was found to be evacuated by the enemy, and in accordance with
orders I moved my division into the city and went into position on the east side of Savannah, my
left resting on the river, my right occupying Fort Brown. The march was in some respects an
arduous one, [but] proved on the whole to have been pleasant and even beneficial to the
command. The health of the men was never better nor were they ever in better spirits or
condition than when they took possession of Savannah.
On reference to memoranda I find that we have obtained on the march, beyond what was
necessary for daily issue, 1,000 head of cattle, about 300 head of horses and mules; that nearly
seven miles of road were corduroyed and thirty bridges built by the pioneer corps of this
division.
The list of casualties is exceedingly small.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. M. CORSE,
Brigadier-General.
Maj. Max. WOODHULL,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Fifteenth Army Corps.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FOURTH DIV., 15TH ARMY CORPS,
Savannah, Ga., December 29, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following as my report of the recent campaign which
resulted in the capture of the city of Savannah, as participated in by the First Brigade, Fourth
Division, Fifteenth Army Corps:
In compliance with orders from headquarters Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, Brig.
Gen. J. M. Corse commanding, the brigade destroyed its camp in connection with all property,
public and private, fin' which transportation was not furnished, and left the city of Rome, Ga., at
8 a.m. on the 11th day of November, 1864. From thence I marched the brigade, via Kingston,
Allatoona, Big Shanty, Marietta, and Turner's Ferry, to the city of Atlanta. Here I supplied my
command with shelter-tents and clothing. This having been hastily done I left the city on the 15th
day of November, it being also the date of my arrival, having joined my brigade with the grand
army of General Sherman. We passed through Rough and Ready, McDonough, and Jackson,
crossing the Ocmulgee River at Seven Islands on the evening of the 19th and morning of the
20th. Here the division on took charge of the pontoon train, moving steadily and slowly along
over or rather through roads made almost impassable by the incessant rains. Having passed
through the towns of Monticello, Hillsborough, and Clinton, the fair weather had greatly
improved the roads, and after we had been relieved of the pontoons we moved southward
rapidly. We crossed the Georgia Central Railroad at Gordon, and marched on a road south of and
parallel to the railroad through the town of Irwinton. Crossing the Oconee River at Ball's Ferry,
we camped at Irwin's Cross-Roads during the night.
On the morning of November 22 we struck the Georgia Central Railroad at mile-post 138,
and from thence we effectually destroyed the road by burning the ties, bending, twisting, and
breaking the rails as far as Station 13, a distance of three or more miles. Moving again on the
road south of and parallel to the railroad, we crossed the Ogeechee River, and once more made
an effectual destruction of three miles of the same road to Station No. 7. We recrossed the river
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and struck it again after a long march at a point south of Station No. 2. Here the enemy resisted
the crossing, but were easily forced back by the Second Iowa Infantry, which I had deployed as
skirmishers, supported by the Seventh Iowa Infantry. The country for nearly three-quarters of a
mile was nearly waist deep with water in the swamps and lagoons, through which the troops
waded with a good will, driving the enemy into a small rail-work which they had hastily
constructed. I endeavored to turn their position and gain the rear of their defenses by throwing a
portion of the Second Iowa to their left under cover of a thick woods in that direction, but the
troops in their front and on their left could not be held back. They dashed forward with an
unparalleled impetuosity, right over the rail-works, capturing 20 prisoners, killing 2, and
wounding 4 men. The balance of the rebel force rushed to the railroad, and taking the cars moved
off in the direction of Savannah. In this skirmish the Second Iowa Infantry lost 2 men killed and
2 wounded, and the Seventh Iowa Infantry 2 men wounded. The night after the skirmish I threw
up a line of works near Station No. 2. On the following morning we took the road north of the
Ogeechee River, moved down that stream, crossed the canal and supported the Third Brigade in
the skirmish for King's Bridge Cross-Roads on the 9th day of December, 1864. On the 10th day
of December the enemy was found occupying a strong position On the north side of the Little
Ogeechee River. Here the troops were placed in position. My brigade was assigned the right of
the line, which rested on the Anderson plantation one mile west of where the Gulf railroad
crosses the Little Ogeechee River. Here we skirmished slightly with the enemy and made
demonstrations and reconnaissances until the 21st day of December, when, Savannah being
evacuated by the enemy, the brigade marched into the city.
Officers and soldiers conducted themselves remarkably well during the march. Dwelling
houses were not entered by soldiers of this brigade; citizens were not molested in their persons or
peaceful pursuits, Forage, cattle, mules, potatoes, rice, and produce of all kinds were freely taken
by the proper forage details and carefully distributed to the troops. The command was
abundantly supplied until it reached the Little Ogeechee and took up position in front of the
enemy, when a scarcity of rations was observed. The health and spirits of the troops were never
better than during the campaign just closed.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. W. RICE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Capt. A. W. EDWARDS,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 4th Div., 15th Corps.
HDQRS. FIFTY-SECOND ILLINOIS INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS,
Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: In accordance with instructions from your headquarters, I have the honor to
submit the following report of the part taken by this regiment in the late campaign:
The regiment broke up camp at Rome, Ga., at 10 a.m. November 11, marched eighteen miles,
and bivouacked for the night three miles southeast of Kingston. November 12, the regiment
marched at 4 a.m. and bivouacked for the night two miles south of Allatoona, having marched
eighteen miles. November 13, the regiment marched fifteen miles and bivouacked for the night
two miles north of Marietta. November 14, the regiment marched fourteen miles and bivouacked
for the night on the right bank of the Chattahoochee River, five miles below the railroad bridge.
November 15, the regiment crossed the Chattahoochee River, and marched twelve miles and
bivouacked for the night near East Point. November 16, the regiment marched twenty miles and
bivouacked for the night southeast of Jonesborough. November 17, the regiment marched
twenty-five miles and bivouacked for the night near Jackson, Ga. November 18, the regiment
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rested until night, and then marched ten miles and bivouacked until morning. November 19,
marched six miles and bivouacked for the night on the right bank of the Ocmulgee River.
November 20, the regiment crossed the Ocmulgee River, and marched eight miles and
bivouacked for the night near Monticello, Ga. November 21, the regiment marched nine miles
and bivouacked for the night near Hillsborough, Ga. November 22, the regiment marched nine
miles and bivouacked for the night near Clinton, Ga. November 23, the regiment marched nine
miles as rear guard for the division train, and did not bivouac until 2 a.m. the next morning.
November 24, the regiment marched ten miles, passed through Gordon, and bivouacked for the
night in an advanced position three miles southeast of that place. November 25, the regiment
marched eighteen miles and bivouacked for the night eight miles south of Irwinton. November
26, the regiment marched six miles, crossed the Oconee River, and bivouacked for the night at
Irwin's Cross-Roads, having marched fourteen miles. November 27, the regiment marched six
miles to the Georgia Central Railroad, and took their part with the rest of the Fourth Division in
burning the railroad for a distance of four miles to Station No. 13. November 28, the regiment
marched seventeen miles in a southeasterly direction and bivouacked for the night. November
29, the regiment marched eighteen miles and bivouacked for the night near Slater's Mills.
November 30, the regiment marched sixteen miles, and bivouacked for the night near
Summerville.
December 1, the regiment marched ten miles and bivouacked for the night six miles west of
the Ogeechee River. December 2, the regiment marched to the Ogeechee River, and after some
delay a pontoon bridge was laid, and the regiment, with the exception of two companies left to
picket the right bank of the river, crossed the river and bivouacked for the night on the left bank.
December 3, the regiment marched to the Georgia Central Railroad, and, in conjunction with the
other regiments of the brigade, burned two miles of the railroad track to Scarborough Station.
The regiment recrossed the river at night and bivouacked near the right bank. December 4, the
regiment marched twelve miles nearly parallel with the Ogeechee River and bivouacked for the
night. December 5, the regiment marched twenty-two miles in a southeasterly direction and
bivouacked for the night. December 6, the regiment rested all day. December 7, the regiment
marched thirteen miles to Jenks' Bridge, crossed the Ogeechee River, and supported the Seventh
Iowa Infantry, which regiment, in conjunction with the Second Iowa Infantry, supported by the
Sixty-sixth Indiana Infantry on our left, drove the rebels some distance beyond Station No. 2, on
the Georgia Central Railroad. At sunset the regiment returned half a mile, and bivouacked two
miles from the bridge for the night,' and built a breast-work of rails. December 8, marched
fourteen miles in a southeasterly direction, bivouacked for the night near the Ogeechee Canal,
and threw up breast-works. December 9, the regiment marched four miles, bivouacked for the
night near the Savannah and Gulf Railroad, and threw up breast-works. December 10, the
regiment marched slowly a distance of four miles, and bivouacked for the night on the left of the
Savannah road, eight miles distant from the city. December 11, the regiment moved two miles to
the right and bivouacked. December 12, the regiment remained quiet all day. At night the
regiment moved down near the Little Ogeechee River. Companies G and I were deployed as
skirmishers, and advanced to the bank of the river without eliciting any shots from the enemy.
After lying upon the bank of the river about an hour the skirmishers were withdrawn and the
regiment returned to camp. The regiment, with the exception of details for picket, then remained
quietly in camp until the morning of December 21, when it marched eight miles and bivouacked
near Savannah.
The regiment sustained but one casualty during the campaign, Sergt. T. Busby, Company E,
wounded on the picket-line near the Little Ogeechee River, December 14. No men of the
regiment were sent to hospital during the campaign. I would also state that there were captured
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by the regiment during the campaign 17 horses and 13 mules; also, I horse was lost and I mule
died during the campaign.
I have the honor to be, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. D. DAVIS,
Lieutenant Colonel, Commanding.
Lieut. H. J. SMITH,
Aide-de-Camp, Hdqrs. First Brig., Fourth Div., 15th Army Corps.
HDQRS. SIXTY-SIXTH REGT. INDIANA INFANTRY VOLS.,
Savannah, Ga., December 28, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: In compliance with General Orders, No. 11, headquarters First Brigade,
Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, I have the honor to submit the following report of the
part taken by this regiment in the late campaign:
The regiment, with the brigade and division, marched from Rome, G., at 7 a.m. November
11, and passing through Kingston, encamped near the railroad, two miles south of the town. At 4
a.m. the following day the march was resumed, passing through the towns of Cassville,
Cartersville, and Allatoona, also crossing the Etowah River, encamping for the night on
Allatoona Creek. The next night bivouacked near the base of Kenesaw Mountain, having passed
the towns of Acworth and Big Shanty. On the 14th the regiment marched to the Chattahoochee
River, encamping for the night on the west bank of the same, several miles below the railroad
bridge. On the 15th Atlanta was reached, and the column halted while the trains were being
loaded and clothing and rations issued to the men, after which the march was resumed, halting
for the night five miles south of the city on the McDonough road. Early the following morning
the command moved, marching by side of the trains, which was very difficult this day, owing to
the narrow road and thick undergrowth; bivouacked for the night about five miles southeast of
Jonesborough. November 17, marched at 6 a.m. on the Jackson road, passing through
McDonough, and encamped ten miles from the Ocmulgee River. The following day did not
move until after dark, the Seventeenth Corps having the road during the day. Marched through
Jackson and rested until daylight, when the march was resumed, reaching the river in the
forenoon. At dark, with the Seventh Iowa, the regiment crossed the river and camped two miles
beyond. The following day the march was resumed, the regiment being the rear guard, and the
roads very heavy owing to the drenching rain of the night before. Monticello and the camp of the
division was not reached until after night. Left Monticello early next morning and arrived at
Hillsborough at dark. November 22, marched on the road to Clinton, camping near the town
during the night. The heavy roads again delayed us, and but a short distance was marched. At
noon the next day the regiment moved and continued the march until 1 o'clock at night. This was
probably the most disagreeable march of the campaign, owing to the darkness of the night and
roughness of the roads. November 24, marched on the Gordon road, passing the town, and
encamped two miles beyond. November 25, passed through Irwinton and camped near the
Oconee River, the regiment this day having the advance of the division. November 26, crossed
the river and camped at the cross-roads, six miles beyond. November 27, this day the brigade
destroyed three miles of the railroad, camping for the night near Tennille. November 28, 29, and
30, the march was continued through a barren and swampy country.
December 1, this day the march was attended with some difficulty, the road being occupied
by the Third Division. December 2, the brigade crossed the Ogeechee River; this regiment, with
the Fifty-second Illinois, remained at the crossing, and during the night threw up works to protect
the same. December 3, the regiment, with the brigade, was engaged in destroying the road to
Scarborough Station; later in the afternoon recrossed the river and encamped for the night.
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December 4 and 5, the march was continued down the right bank of the river, encamping near
the same during the night; also during the following day and night. December 7, the regiment,
with the brigade, crossed the Ogeechee River again, and the enemy being found, a portion of the
Second and Seventh Iowa were deployed as skirmishers, and drove them, the former supported
by the Fifty-second Illinois and the latter by this regiment; during the night breast-works of rails
and sand were thrown up two miles from the river. December 8, the regiment was this day the
rear guard, and when near Eden was fired into by a concealed enemy. Three companies were
immediately deployed and pursued the enemy, who fled at once. No casualties occurred. At the
railroad crossing the regiment halted and built a barricade, and remained until 8 p.m., when it
marched, having charge of the teams of the division, to the Savannah Canal, where it arrived at
midnight. December 9, marched in rear of the Second Brigade, who met the enemy early in the
morning, but drove them before this regiment, which was deployed on the extreme right, came
under fire; built a line of works during the night. December 10, marched on the road leading to
Savannah, and found the enemy on the opposite bank of the Little Ogeechee, seven miles from
the city; from this time no movement occurred in which this regiment took part until the morning
of the 21st, when the city was taken possession of.
There were no casualties in this regiment during the campaign of any kind whatever; the men
were in better health and spirits at its close than at its commencement.
Number of public animals lost, 1 horse; number of animals captured, 1 horse and 2 mules.
I have the honor to be, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROGER MARTIN,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.
Lieut. HENRY J. SMITH,
Aide-de-Camp, 1st Brigade, 4th Division, 15th Army Corps.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND IOWA INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS,
Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864.
SIR: In compliance with General Orders, No. 11, headquarters First Brigade, Fourth
Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, December 25, 1864, I have the honor to submit the following
report of the part taken by the Second Regiment Iowa Infantry Volunteers, in the campaign just
ended:
November 11, the regiment marched from Rome, Ga., on this day with the brigade and
division at 7 a.m., passed through Kingston, and camped three miles beyond on the Cassville
road. November 12, continued to march, passing through Cassville, Cartersville, and Allatoona,
camping two miles beyond the latter place. November 13, the march was resumed at 7 a.m. and
Marietta reached, nothing of note occurring. November 14, on this day the regiment was the rear
guard of the division, marching behind the train, reaching Turner's Ferry at sunset; the men kept
well in ranks. November 15, the regiment moved out with the command on the White Hall road,
passed Atlanta, halting beside the road long enough to issue clothing to the men, and encamped
four miles beyond the city. November 16, the march was continued on the McDonough road, the
command moving alongside the train; the march was rapid and very fatiguing, the weather being
warm. November 17, moved at 6 a.m. on the Jackson road and camped four miles from that
place, making a tiresome march of twenty-three miles; about one-third of the men fell out of
ranks during the day. November 18, on this day the regiment did not leave camp until about 9
p.m., when it moved to the river at Ocmulgee Mills and remained until morning. November 19,
did not move, the bridge being occupied by other troops crossing. November 20, the regiment
crossed the river at 8 a.m. and, with the Fifty-second Illinois Infantry, remained to protect the
pontoons till they were taken up, then marched with the brigade to Monticello, the brigade being
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the rear guard. November 21, regiment marched at daybreak, passing through Monticello, and
camped at Hillsborough; the day was cold and rainy. November 22, the march was continued on
this day to within two miles of Clinton and was much delayed by the pontoon train. November
23, the march was resumed at 12 m. on this day and continued till 1 o'clock at night; much
confusion existed during the night march on account of the troops marching beside the train.
November 24, on this day we marched through Gordon Station, where we reunited with the
corps. November 25, passed through Irwinton on a fine road and with fine weather. November
26, on this day the regiment, with the command, passed the Oconee River on pontoons, at 2 p.m.,
and camped ten miles beyond.
The regiment at this place was joined by the three companies of the Third Iowa Infantry,
which had been transferred to it. November 27, the regiment, with the remainder of the brigade,
was as on this day engaged in destroying the railroad, and advanced but a few miles from its last
camp. November 28, the march on this day was most of the time through pine barrens over new
roads. November 29, about twenty miles were made to-day, through a very poor country.
November 30 and December 1, the march was continued on both days with no occurrence
worthy of note.
December 2, the Ogeechee River was reached on this day and crossed, and the regiment, with
the Seventh Iowa Infantry, tore up one mile of the railroad track below Millen. December 3, the
regiment, with the brigade, was engaged all day in destroying the railroad, and recrossed the
river at night, camping on the west side. December 4 and 5, marched both days down the river
road and camped at the cross-roads opposite Station No. 3. December 7, the regiment marched at
7 a.m. and reached the river at 12 m. at a point opposite Station No. 2, where a crossing was to
be effected. The enemy appeared in light force on the opposite side with the evident intention of
contesting the passage. Pontoons were laid, and the First Brigade being ordered to cross, my
regiment, which had the advance, was thrown across at about 1 p.m. and was deployed as
skirmishers as soon as the peculiarities of the ground would admit. The enemy's skirmishers fell
back, lightly contesting our advance, to a barricade in an open field one mile and a half from the
river. Our skirmishers, supported by the reserve of four companies and the Seventh Iowa,
advanced briskly and drove the enemy from his position, killing and wounding several, and
taking twenty prisoners. An attempt was made to take the enemy's position in flank by
advancing the right of my line, with the reserve, along the timber bordering the field, but the
sharpness with which the center attacked and the discovery of the flank movement caused the
enemy to retreat in confusion before it could be effected. The station, one mile farther on, was
occupied by us without further resistance. The loss in the regiment in this affair was 2 killed and
2 wounded, all belonging to Company E. December 8, on this day we made a rapid and fatiguing
march of about twelve miles, to the Savannah Canal. December 9, the regiment moved out
suddenly with the brigade on this day. The advance of the division came up with the enemy
about three miles out, and after considerable skirmishing drove him from his position, but the
regiment was not brought under fire during this affair. December 10, on this day the command
marched on the direct Savannah road and found the enemy on the opposite side of the Little
Ogeechee. December 11 to December 21, in the operations in front of this place, on and near the
Little Ogeechee, the regiment performed its duty as a part of the brigade without becoming at
any time directly engaged with the enemy, and entered the city on the 21st instant with the
command.
The losses in the regiment are as follows: Number of public animals lost, 2 mules; number of
prisoners captured, 20, all in the affair of the 7th instant; number of animals captured, 10 horses
and 8 mules.
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Among the losses of the regiment during the march it pains me to enumerate Capt. John A.
Duckworth, who died of disease on the 13th instant. He was a veteran actuated by the purest
feelings of patriotism, and his loss is one of the greatest the regiment has endured since its
organization.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. B. HOWARD,
Colonel Second Iowa Infantry Volunteers, Comdg. Regiment.
Lieut. H. J. SMITH,
Aide-de-Camp, 1st Brigade, 4th Division, 15th Army Corps.
HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH IOWA VETERAN INFANTRY,
Savannah, Ga., December 26, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: In compliance with General Orders, No. 11, dated headquarters First
Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864, I have the
honor to make the following report of the part taken by the Seventh Iowa Veteran Infantry in the
recent campaign from Rome to Savannah, Ga., during the months of November and December,
1864:
The regiment left Rome, Ga., on the 11th of November, 1864, and camped two miles south
of Kingston, having marched a distance of sixteen miles. November 12, marched to Allatoona
and camped two miles south of that place; distance, eighteen miles. November 13, marched
seventeen miles and camped near the eastern base of Kenesaw Mountain. November 14,
marched to the Chattahoochee River, camping at Turner's Ferry; distance, fifteen miles.
November 15, marched to Atlanta, drew clothing, rations, &c., then marched five miles and
camped in the vicinity of East Point; distance, fourteen miles. November 16, marched on the
McDonough road and camped on Indian Cotton Creek; distance, twenty miles. November 17,
passed through McDonough and camped near Jackson; distance, twenty miles. November 18,
remained in camp all day; broke camp at dark, marched through Jackson and camped in the
vicinity of the Ocmulgee River about 12 midnight; distance, ten miles. November 19, left camp
early in the morning, and after some delay crossed the Ocmulgee at sunset; marched two miles
and went into camp; distance, five miles. November 20, remained in camp till 1 p.m. (detained
by pioneer corps, who were taking up pontoons), then marched eight miles and camped in a pine
grove. November 21, left camp at 12 m., weather rainy and unpleasant; marched through
Hillsborough, camping about dark near said place. November 22, marched 7 a.m., weather very
unpleasant and cold, with snow; marched about ten miles, and, being in advance of the brigade,
and owing to the bad condition of the roads which detained the train, camped on a, creek some
two miles in advance of the brigade. November 23, left camp about 11 a.m., passing through
Clinton; marched till 1 a.m. next morning and camped near cross-roads; distance, thirteen miles.
November 24, marched to Gordon and went into camp about one mile from town; distance, eight
miles. November 25, broke camp at 5.30 a.m., and marched eighteen miles, passing through
Irwinton, and camped at Duryea's Store. November 26, left camp at 6 a.m., crossed the Oeonee
River at 12 m., marched eight miles beyond, making in all fourteen miles. November 27,
marched at 6 a.m. in the direction of the Georgia Central Railroad and destroyed one mile of the
same, then proceeded to Station No. 13 and camped, having no transportation with the brigade.
November 28, marched at 5.30 a.m.; at 9 a.m. came in contact with Third Division; camped at 3
p.m. near a large swamp; distance marched, ten miles. November 29, left camp at 5 a.m.,
crossing the swamp, and marched over bad roads, camping at sunset; distance marched, eighteen
miles. November 30, marched at 6.30 a.m., passing through the town of Summerville, and
camped four miles from the Ogeechee River; distance, fifteen miles.
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December 1, marched at 7 a.m. toward the Ogeechee, then down the river, parallel with it, a
distance of fifteen miles. December 2, marched at 6.30 a.m.; crossed Scull's Creek; then crossed
the Ogeechee and proceeded to the Georgia Central Railroad, and destroyed one mile of it about
four miles east from Millen; camped at dark near railroad. December 3, moved at daylight, and
commenced further destruction of the road; at 2 p.m., had destroyed two miles, as far as Station
No. 7; then recrossed the Ogeechee and went into camp. December 4, took up our line of march
at 6 a.m., and marched twelve miles. December 5, marched at daylight; the Seventh Iowa was
soon ordered to the front in support of the Second Brigade, but did not overtake them; camped at
dark near the Ogeechee; distance, eighteen miles. December 6, remained in camp all day.
December 7, marched at 6.30 a.m. and struck the Ogeechee at 11 a.m.; laid pontoons and crossed
about noon. Met the enemy in small force; had a lively skirmish and drove them to Station No. 2,
where they went on board a train and left in the direction of Savannah. In this skirmish I had two
men slightly wounded. Moved to the rear of Station No 2 about one mile and camped for the
night, leaving Company K on picket guard at the station. December 8, marched at 8 a.m. and
struck the Ogeechee and Savannah Canal at 2 p.m., where we went into camp. Here shovels were
sent to the front, and we, for the first time on the march, threw up works. December 9, left camp
at 9 a.m., crossed the canal, and proceeded in the direction of the Coast Railroad. At 10 a.m. the
regiment was formed in line of battle; two companies, commanded by Major Mahou, were
deployed as skirmishers and moved obliquely to the right and front. The regiment moved by the
right flank on the doublequick till it reached a road leading from the river; then proceeded up
said road, but before arriving at the place of action the enemy had fled, leaving a disabled 10-
pounder Blakely rifle gun. Camped at 2 p.m. and threw up works. December 10, marched at 9
a.m., and after proceeding a short distance found that the enemy had flooded the country by
letting the water out of the canal, which the men were obliged to wade for some distance; but the
obstruction was slight, and we soon reached the Little Ogeechee River. The regiment was
ordered into line of battle, and moved forward through a heavy-timbered, dense swamp until I
came in sight of the rebel works on the opposite side of the Little Ogeechee. In the afternoon I
moved the regiment, under orders, about 100 paces to the rear and camped for the night.
December 11, moved to the rear and encamped on Anderson's plantation, where we remained
encamped until the 21st, keeping up all the time a lively skirmish on the picket-line. On the night
of the 19th my regiment was ordered to effect a crossing of the Little Ogeechee. I marched the
regiment to the vicinity of the river, Company A being detailed to carry boards for the purpose of
crossing sloughs, and Company B was detailed to carry a boat for the purpose of crossing a
detachment to reconnoiter the opposite bank. Major Mahon, with four picked men, crossed the
river, and from his reconnaissance it was found to be impossible to cross the regiment on account
of swamps and morasses on the opposite bank. At 12 midnight the regiment was ordered back to
camp. December 20, was quiet all day. December 21, reports were in circulation at an early hour
that the enemy had abandoned his stronghold on the Little Ogeechee. The brigade was ordered to
move to the front, and at 2 p.m. entered the city of Savannah without firing a gun, the enemy
having made a hasty retreat.
During the march my regiment captured 24 horses and mules, 8 of which were turned over to
Captain Rattray, acting assistant inspector-general, Fourth Division, at the crossing of the
Oconee River. The remaining 16 were turned over to Lieutenant Martin, acting assistant
quartermaster, First Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, at Anderson's plantation.
My regiment also captured a number of cattle, hogs, &c., and unearthed many bushels of sweet
potatoes, all of which were properly disposed of.
My whole casualties on the march were three men wounded, as follows: Job A. Clark,
Company B, slight, December 7; Oliver Kneudsen, Company C, slight, December 7; Alexander
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Krieger, Company D, severely, December 11. Three men are missing since leaving Rome, but
whether they are deserters or were captured by the enemy I am unable to say.
My regiment to-day is in fine condition, there being but eight men sick.
I have the honor to be, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant,,
J. C. PARROTT,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.
Lieut. H. J. SMITH,
Aide-de-Camp, First Brig., Fourth Div., Fifteenth Army Corps
HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., FOURTH DIV., 15TH ARMY CORPS,
Savannah, Ga., January 3, 1865.
CAPTAIN :
On the 15th [November] arrived at Atlanta. Remained at this place a few hours; received
some supplies and clothing, and then moved out four miles and a half and camped near East
Point. On the 16th, 17th, and 18th passed through the towns of Rough and Ready, McDonough,
and Jackson, and arrived at the Ocmulgee River on the morning of the 19th, nothing unusual
occurring. The First and Second Divisions were crossing. Here the Seventh Illinois Infantry
Veteran Volunteers were ordered to be mounted, and they have succeeded in mounting 4
commissioned officers and 120 enlisted men. At daybreak on the 20th crossed the Ocmulgee. On
the 21st passed Monticello and Hillsborough; on the 23d passed Clinton, and on the 24th reached
Gordon at 12 m. Left camp at 6 a.m. the 25th, and, passing Irwinton, reached the Oconee River
on the 26th at 11 a.m. The bridge being soon completed, the brigade was the first infantry that
crossed the river at Ball's Ferry. Received orders on the 27th to move with two days' rations, and
proceeded to the Central railroad at Deep Cut, and, in connection with the First Brigade,
destroyed the road to Station No. 13, a distance of six miles; camped that night at Tennille, near
General Sherman's headquarters. On the 28th broke camp at 5.30 a.m., and marched to Peacock's
Cross-Roads, and camped on Little Ohoopee River. Moved at 5 a.m. on the 29th, the First
Brigade in the advance, and joined the Second Brigade at 12 m., at cross-roads. 30th, moved at
5.30 a.m., passing Summerville; camped on Scull's Creek.
December 2 and 3, remained in camp; the men cleaned up. An inspection of the command
was held, and its condition was found as good as could be expected. The command moved at
6.30 a.m. December 4, nothing unusual occurring, and reached cross-roads, one mile from Jenks'
Bridge, over the Ogeechee, on the 7th. At 5.30 a.m. on the 8th the command proceeded forward
with two days' rations in haversacks, accompanied by no more train than was necessary; crossed
the Ogeechee River at 7, the Seventh Illinois in advance. Moved through Eden Station, and took
the right-hand road in the direction of the Ogeechee Canal. Soon after some slight skirmishing
took place, and the Seventh Illinois captured one rebel lieutenant and three privates. The roads
were obstructed by fallen timber in several places. At noon reached the canal at Dillon's Bridge,
and found the bridge, which had been fired by the enemy in the morning, still burning. Two
regiments of my command crossed the canal, remained a short time, and were ordered to recross,
and the whole went into camp. The mounted portion of the Seventh Illinois, sent in advance,
having proceeded to the cross-roads, encountered a rebel force of infantry intrenched. On
skirmishing an hour, and finding the enemy well fortified, the mounted Seventh returned to the
command, having one man wounded so severely it was impossible to remove him. He was
captured by the enemy, but has since escaped. Remained in camp on the 9th until 11 a.m., and
were then ordered forward; moved in a south direction until we entered the main road leading
from King's Bridge, over the Ogeechee, direct to Savannah, which we followed for two miles,
and went into camp on the left of the same, and, under orders from the general commanding,
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threw up strong breastworks in our front, the enemy being reported in the immediate vicinity. On
this day the mounted portion of the Seventh Illinois, under Colonel Perrin, moved in advance of
the Second Brigade, and, on approaching the cross-roads, moved on the flanks of the brigade,
skirmishing with the enemy during the engagement that followed; and, after taking possession of
the cross-roads, by direction of General Corse, Lieutenant-Colonel Perrin proceeded with one
company to the Gulf railroad, which he effectually destroyed for a distance of 200 yards, thereby
stopping and capturing a locomotive and train of cars, which he destroyed, and capturing 25
prisoners, whom he turned over to the provost-marshal-general. On the morning of the 10th, at 2
a.m., five companies of the Thirty-ninth Iowa Infantry were ordered to report to Captain
Barbour, chief of grand guard of the division were sent forward by him on the Savannah road. At
7 a.m. the brigade moved forward, being the advance of the division; two miles out crossed Salt
Creek, where the road for some distance was submerged by tide water. A little farther on came
up with the five companies of the Thirty-ninth Iowa, sent forward as before stated. On moving
still farther two companies of the Thirty-ninth Iowa were detailed to rebuild a small bridge that
had that morning been destroyed by the enemy. Here the Seventh Illinois were thrown forward
and deployed as skirmishers, and exchanged shots with the enemy. It being soon ascertained that
the enemy had planted a portion of his artillery so as to command the road, the column was
ordered to keep to the right of the road under cover of the timber. On reaching a field the column
was ordered to form in line of battle by battalion; did so; moved across the field and halted. The
skirmish line was here strengthened, the right by two companies from the Thirty-ninth Iowa, the
left by one company from the Fiftieth Illinois and one from the Fifty-seventh Illinois. The
command then moved forward three-quarters of a mile until the camp of the enemy was
distinctly visible some 1,500 yards distant across open fields and on the east side of the Little
Ogeechee, strongly intrenched. By order of the commanding general the battalions in reserve
were ordered to halt under cover of timber. I ordered the Seventh Illinois as skirmishers, with
strong reserve, to advance across the open field and develop the enemy, which was done most
valiantly, under command of Major Johnson, who advanced his skirmishers to within about 400
yards of the works under heavy fire from enemy's artillery. Remaining in present position until 4
p.m., received orders to move the battalion, then in reserve, into camp about three-quarters of a
mile to the rear, Major Johnson, holding skirmish line until relieved at night, coming into camp
about 7 p.m. December 11, moved to right and rear three-quarters of a mile; was ordered to make
permanent camp. Remained in camp until morning of the 21st, in the meantime furnishing men
for skirmish or picket duty on our front. No casualties occurred to the men, and but slight firing,
while on duty. Moved in town 21st, and bivouacked in suburbs of city. December 22, moved into
Fort Brown and ordered to make camp. During the march the men have deported themselves as
good soldiers. The march being long and tedious a portion of the time the men were quite short
of rations, but expressed no complaint.
Thus ended a march of some 375 miles through the heart of Georgia, a march memorable for
the ease and rapidity by which it was accomplished, and the good, soldierly conduct of the men.
My losses were 1 man of the Fifty-seventh and 1 of the Fiftieth Illinois Infantry, died of
disease; and 1 of the Fifty-seventh and 1 of the Seventh Illinois Infantry, wounded.
I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
F. J. HURLBUT,
Lieut. Col. Fifty-seventh Illinois Infantry, Comdg. Brigade.
Capt. A. W. EDWARDS,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Fourth Div., Fifteenth Army Corps.
NASHVILLE, TENN., November 15, 1864.
72
Col. W. B. SIPES, Columbia:
You have been relieved by order of Major-General Thomas. The Fifth Iowa Cavalry is here,
and is ordered to Columbia.
By command of Major-General Rousseau:
B. H. POLK,
Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 13.
HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Nashville, Tenn., November 18, 1864.
III. The Fifth Iowa Cavalry will proceed without delay to Columbia, Tenn., and report thence
by telegraph to Brig. Gen. R. W. Johnson, commanding Sixth Cavalry Division, for duty. All
unserviceable horses will be turned in at the Cavalry Bureau, and the dismounted men left to
secure remounts and join the regiment as soon as ready for the field.
By command of Brevet Major-General Wilson:
E. B. BEAUMONT,
Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 15.
HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Nashville, Tenn., November 20, 1864.
III. Col. E. F. Winslow, Fourth Iowa Cavalry, will proceed without delay to Memphis, Tenn,
on duty connected with the transportation of his command to this place.
IV. Lieut. Col. J. H. Peters, Fourth Iowa Cavalry, now at Memphis, will proceed to Saint
Louis, Mo., and superintend the transfer of that portion of General Grierson's (formerly Colonel
Winslow's) division now in Missouri to this place.
By command of Brevet Major-General Wilson:
E. B. BEAUMONT,
Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS U.S. FORCES,
Columbia, Tenn., November 24, 1864.
Colonel CAPRON,
Commanding Cavalry Brigade:
COLONEL: I am directed by the general commanding to say that you will hold your position
as long as possible, and he will send the Fifth Iowa Cavalry to support you this morning.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN B. McLOE,
Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Hurt's Cross- Roads, November 28, 1864---8.30 p.m.
Maj. J. A. CAMPBELL,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Headquarters Army of the Ohio:
I have succeeded in concentrating my command here. Capron's brigade, re-enforced by the
Seventh Ohio and Fifth Iowa, have been holding the fords in front of here all day, in spite of
73
determined efforts of the enemy to cross. The main rebel force having crossed at Davis' Ford,
and moved by the Murfreesborough road, struck our people in flank and rear about Rally Hill.
Colonel Capron seems to have got off, leaving the force at the fords to get out as well as they
could. Major Young assumed command, and after several vigorous charges, came through in
good shape The force of the enemy is believed to be all of Forrest's command moving in this
direction. The orderly who left your headquarters late this evening with the dispatch in regard to
Colonel Stewart's brigade saw nothing of the enemy moving toward the Franklin pike. He is
evidently aiming for this road or Murfreesborough. The Sixth Illinois is at Chapel Hill to-night,
having found no enemy at Shelbyville. I have sent for them to come here at once, and have also
sent a party to Spring Hill for Colonel Stewart's brigade and Hammond. I'll communicate from
here again as soon as the movements of the enemy can be determined in the morning. Prisoners
say that Hood is going to flank us on one side or other.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General.
GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. FIFTH DIV., CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
No. 2. In the Field, November 28, 1864.
This division will consist of two brigades. Regiments and commanders are assigned as
follows:
First Brigade, Col. R. R. Stewart, Eleventh Indiana, commanding: Eleventh Indiana Cavalry,
Twelfth Missouri Cavalry, Third Illinois Cavalry, Tenth Tennessee Cavalry.
Second Brigade, Col. D. E. Coon, Second Iowa, commanding: Second Iowa Cavalry,
Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, Sixth Illinois Cavalry (200), Seventh Illinois Cavalry, Ninth Illinois
Cavalry (100).
Regiments will report immediately to their respective brigades. Brigade commanders will
send full returns of their commands, with rosters, to these headquarters at the earliest moment.
By order of Edward Hatch, brigadier-general, commanding:
J. P. METCALF,
Captain and Acting Assistant Inspector-General
HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CAVALRY DIVISION,
November 28, 1864--10.25 a.m.
Capt. J. N. ANDREWS,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Cavalry Corps:
CAPTAIN: The captain commanding reconnaissance toward Lewisburg and Cornersville
reports having driven in the enemy's pickets soon after crossing Duck River, at "Morse's Ford"
(as I read it), and are now following them, skirmishing. He also reports, on what Major Young,
Fifth Iowa (who forwards this report, under date of 9.20 a.m.), says is good authority, a brigade
of rebel cavalry encamped within two miles, and that Wheeler and Forrest are moving in that
direction (eastward); this is common report of citizens. Colonel Capron says he has ordered the
force across the river to push the enemy sufficiently to develop their force.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. W. JOHNSON,
Brigadier-General.
By E. T. WELLS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
74
(In the absence of the general.)
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
November 28, 1864.
[Capt. E. T. WELLS,
Assistant Adjutant-General :]
CAPTAIN: Direct Colonel Harrison to take command of Capron's brigade. Unite Fifth Iowa
and Seventh Ohio under Colonel Garrard, colonel of the Seventh Ohio. The Fifth Indiana will be
down to-day or to-morrow and will join Harrison's brigade.
Yours,
R. W. JOHNSON,
Brigadier-General.
MEMPHIS, TENN., November 29, 1864.
Lieutenant NOYES,
Second U. S. Cavalry, Aide-de-Camp:
LIEUTENANT: I desire you to represent to the major-general commanding the corps the
following condition of cavalry to remain at this point, in accordance with the decision of Maj.
Gen. C. C. Washburn, as today made:
Regiments remaining: Second New Jersey Cavalry, about 1,400; Fourth Missouri Cavalry,
about 450; First Mississippi Mounted Rifles, about 350; Seventh Indiana Cavalry, about 850;
aggregate, 3,050 men.
The Second New Jersey are high-bounty men, and about 600 are recruited of late for one
year. The Fourth Missouri are veterans and recruits, with, say, two years to serve. The First
Mississippi Mounted Rifles were organized here, and are yet without regular organization,
enlisted originally, I believe, for three years. The Seventh Indiana is a good regiment, which has
about two years to serve. There is no good feeling existing between officers and men of this
regiment and those of the others. I think, with care and attention, the Seventh Indiana could be
made an effective regiment, but now it lacks discipline and prompt attention to the duties
devolving on both officers and men. I give it as my opinion, that if this regiment can consistently
be withdrawn from this place, in addition to those already ordered off (viz, Third and Fourth
Iowa and Tenth Missouri), it will be much better for the command generally, and especially for
this Seventh Indiana. With the attention which could be given it and the example of the other
regiments to follow, its effectiveness could be increased at least 50 per cent. The regiment wants
(badly) different association. The men fight well.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. F. WINSLOW,
Colonel Fourth Iowa Cavalry.
OFFICE OF ACTING ASSISTANT INSPECTOR-GENERAL,
FIRST BRIGADE, THIRD DIVISION, 16TH ARMY CORPS,
On Board Steamer America, November 30, 1864.
Lieut. RICHARD REES,
Actg. Asst. Insp. Gen., Third Div., Sixteenth Army Corps:
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report that the troops of this command embarked on
steamers at Saint Louis, Mo., on the 24th instant, under orders to report at Cairo, Ill., and at that
place, which was reached on the 27th, were ordered to proceed to Nashville, Tenn. The One
hundred and nineteenth Illinois Infantry Volunteers is commanded by Lieut. Col. Samuel E.
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Taylor, is armed with the Springfield rifled musket, model 1861, caliber .58. Lieutenant-Colonel
Taylor reports 384 men present for duty, 384 stand of arms, 9,000 rounds of ammunition, in
good order. The men are well clothed and the arms and accouterments are generally in good
condition. The health and efficiency of the regiment is good. The Twenty-first Missouri Infantry
Volunteers is commanded by Lieut. Col. Edwin Moore, is armed with the Springfield rifled
musket, model 1861, caliber .58. The arms and accouterments are in good order. Lieutenant-
Colonel Moore reports 450 men present for duty, 465 stand of arms, and 18,000 rounds of
ammunition, in good order. The health and general sanitary condition is good. The efficiency of
the regiment is good. The Eighty-ninth Indiana Infantry Volunteers is commanded by Lieut. Col.
Hervey Craven, is armed with the long Enfield rifled musket, caliber .58. The arms and
accouterments are in good condition. Lieutenant-Colonel Craven reports 464 men present for
duty, 410 stand of arms, and 16,350 rounds of ammunition, in good order. The health and
general sanitary condition of the regiment is good. The efficiency of the regiment is good. The
One hundred and twenty-second Illinois Infantry Volunteers is commanded by Lieut. Col. James
F. Drish, is armed with the Springfield rifled musket, model 1861, caliber .58. The arms and
accouterments are in good order. Lieutenant-Colonel Drish reports 388 men present for duty, 364
stand of arms, 13,800 rounds of ammunition, in good order. The health is generally good, and the
efficiency of the regiment is good. The Ninth Battery Indiana Volunteers is commanded by
Second Lieut. Samuel G. Calfee, is armed with two 3-inch rifled guns and two 12-pounder
bronze guns (light), in good order. Lieutenant Calfee reports 90 men present for duty, 660 rounds
of ammunition, in good order. The horses and mules of the battery are in a fair condition, having
drawn some new ones since last report. The health and general sanitary condition of the men is
good. The efficiency of the battery is good. The adjutant's department of each regiment and that
of the brigade is in good condition. The books are generally complete, and orders properly filed.
The quartermaster's department of the regiments, battery, and that of the brigade is in a fair
condition, though they are somewhat behind with their reports and returns on account of being
on the march for some time past; but every effort is being made to make them out. The books are
generally well kept.
I have the honor to be, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ALONZO CONVERSE,
First. Lieutenant, Thirty-second Iowa Infantry Volunteers, and
Acting Assistant Inspector-General, First Brigade.
HDQRS. CAV. CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Two Miles and a Half East of Franklin,
November 30, 1864--1.45 p.m.
Maj. Gen. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Commanding U.S. Forces:
GENERAL: Colonel Dorr, First Tennessee [Eighth Iowa] Cavalry, reports rebel infantry
approaching Hughes' Ford, three miles above Franklin, apparently with the intention of crossing.
I have sent a, officer to ascertain the facts, and directed General Johnson to resist as long as
possible any real advance.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General.
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Memphis, Tenn., November 30, 1864.
76
Capt. E. B. BEAUMONT,
Assistant Adjutant-General:
CAPTAIN: Captain Woodward, my assistant adjutant-general, wrote you a few days since in
my name. I authorized him to do so, thinking I should be in Memphis the next day, but I went to
Springfield, Ill., to confer with the Adjutant-General with regard to filling up the Sixth, Seventh,
and Ninth Illinois Cavalry Regiments. I arrived here this morning; did not see Lieutenant Noyes,
of the general's staff, as he had left the afternoon before. It has finally been decided to send
Wins-low's brigade to Nashville, leaving the balance of the division here. This brigade consists
of the Third and Fourth Iowa and Tenth Missouri, with two lifted pieces. They are splendid
troops; the best in the division. General Washburn declines issuing the order until General Dana
arrives. He is expected here on Saturday. As soon as the order is issued, I will use all possible
dispatch in getting them transported to Nashville. As soon as they are under way, I will report to
you in person. I have this morning received a dispatch from Lieuten-ant-Colonel Benteen,
commanding the detachment of the brigade in Missouri. He has just arrived in Saint Louis,
where he has orders to refit and embark for Nashville. I have sent him word to telegraph me the
day he will be ready to leave Saint Louis, and I will endeavor to have the detachments from here
and from Saint Louis meet at Cairo and proceed to Nashville together.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. H. GRIERSON,
Brigadier-General.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Two Miles East of Franklin, November 30, 1864.
Brig. Gen. R. W. JOHNSON:
GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you send the Fifth Iowa Cavalry, to
proceed by the north bank of the river, to the right of infantry line, and picket from that line well
down the river--pickets of observation.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. N. ANDREWS,
Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General
November 30.--The battle of Franklin occurred. The Fifth Iowa Cavalry held the extreme
right of the army and skirmished heavily with the enemy; the other regiments were on the
extreme left and were not engaged.
December 1.--After the battle of Franklin this division--only the Eighth Michigan, Fourteenth
and Sixteenth Illinois, Fifth Iowa, and Seventh Ohio Cavalry being present--fell back with the
army to Mill Creek, and on the 2d to Nashville, Tenn., crossing the river and going into camp at
Edgefield, Tenn., on the morning of that day, where we remained ten days. The Sixth Indiana
Cavalry joined (dismounted) on the 7th instant, and the Third Tennessee Cavalry, dismounted
and partially disarmed, on the 13th instant. Battery I, Fourth U.S. Artillery, joined the command
on the 5th instant. The ten days of rest allowed was devoted to recuperating and reshoeing horses
and equipping and clothing the men. To increase the efficiency of the troops, none of the
regiments being fully mounted, the Eighth Michigan and Fourteenth Illinois Cavalry were
dismounted and their horses transferred to the other regiments. Two brigades were organized for
the purpose of the anticipated operations--one mounted, consisting of the Seventh Ohio, Fifth
Iowa, and Sixteenth Illinois Cavalry, under command of Col. T. J. Harrison, Eighth Indiana
Cavalry; the other dismounted, consisting of the Fourteenth Illinois, Sixth Indiana, Third
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Tennessee, and Eighth Michigan Cavalry, under command of Col. James Biddle, Sixth Indiana
Cavalry.
January 1, 1865.--The mounted brigade of this division--Sixteenth Illinois, Fifth Iowa, and
Seventh Ohio Cavalry Regiments--and the battery marched from their camp at Elk River to
Mooresville, Ala, reaching that place on the 2d instant.
January 8.--Marched from there to Pulaski, Tenn. The Fifth Iowa and Seventh Ohio Cavalry,
being transferred to the Fourth Division by order of the corps commander, marched to Eastport.
HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
Eastport, Miss., January 10, 1865.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report the operations of my command from the date of their
arrival at Nashville, Tenn., pursuant to orders from Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman, commanding
Military Division of the Mississippi, November 30, 1864, to the present date.
Debarked the First and Third Divisions on the 30th and the Second Division on the 1st of
December. On the 1st, by your direction, the command was placed in line of battle for defense of
the city of Nashville, as follows: The right resting on the Cumberland River, about three miles
from the city in a direct line, and the left resting on the Hillsborough pike, about two miles and a
half in a direct line from the city, forming a line of three miles from right to left. Breast-works
strong enough to protect the men from either artillery or musketry were immediately constructed
by the troops along the whole line. The command not being sufficiently large to form a
continuous front line and still have any troops for a reserve, with your consent, one brigade was
withdrawn from the works on the left and placed in rear of the left center, immediately on the
right of the Hardin pike, to be used as circumstances might require, their works on the left being
occupied by a division of the Fourth Corps, which had then arrived. The enemy made his
appearance on the evening of the 2d and took position beyond artillery range in my front, which
respectful distance was retained throughout the siege, with the exception of an occasional picketpost
or reconnoitering party. Until the 14th of December the troops were employed in
strengthening the works and some slight skirmishing. A spirited dash made by sixty of our
cavalry, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Blackburn, of a Tennessee regiment, in which
some few prisoners were captured from the enemy, and desultory artillery firing at long range at
small parties of the enemy, were all that occurred in my front. In the meantime transportation
was obtained, ammunition and commissary stores loaded, and everything placed in readiness to
move at an hour's notice.
On the night of the 14th orders were received to move outside the works early the next
morning and form on or near the Hardin pike, the left connecting with the right of the Fourth
Corps, the cavalry passing behind and forming on my right, the whole to wheel to the left, with
the Fourth Corps as a pivot, and make a vigorous assault upon the enemy's left. This movement
was commenced by my command at 6 a.m. on the 15th. The Second Division, Brig. Gen. K.
Garrard commanding, moved out on the Hardin pike, and then moving by the left flank until he
connected with the Fourth Corps, forming my left. The First Division, Brig. Gen. J. McArthur
commanding, moving out next by the Hardin and Charlotte pike, formed on the right of the
Second Division. The Third Division, Col. J. B. Moore, Thirty-third Wisconsin Infantry
Volunteers, commanding, moving out by the Hardin pike, formed in rear of the center to act as a
reserve to either flank.
The First and Second Brigades of General McArthur, which moved out by the Charlotte pike,
owing to the roads diverging widely, and the stubborn resistance of the enemy's skirmishers, he
having to silence one battery, did not connect with the main line until nearly 8.30. The cavalry
then passed to our right and the movement began about 10 a.m., our orders being to touch to the
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left and guide right. Throwing out a strong skirmish line they became almost immediately
engaged with the enemy's skirmishers, driving them back easily, and the line advancing and
wheeling gradually, assumed a position almost parallel with the Hardin pike. Pressing forward
we came to the first works of the enemy, about half a mile south of the Hardin pike, and one mile
and a half from the main line of works around Nashville--a small earthwork on the top of a hill,
in which were four 12-pounder brass guns, the fort covered by another on the hill about 400
yards west, in which were two 12-pounder brass guns. Four batteries opened on the first fort,
soon silencing their guns, and General McArthur directed to take two brigades and carry the
works by assault. Placing the First Brigade, Col. W. L. McMillen, in advance, supported by the
Second, Col. L. F. Hubbard commanding, the work was carried at a run. The cavalry on our
right, at the same time charging directly under the guns of the rear fort on the hill, entered the
first fort simultaneously with our skirmishers. The guns in the fort were all captured and about
150 prisoners. The cavalry claimed the guns as their capture, and more for their gallant charge
than because they were entitled to the pieces, they were conceded to them. The First and Second
Brigades of McArthur's division, obliquing to the right without stopping, carried the second fort,
capturing the two guns and about 200 prisoners, the First Brigade moving directly to the top of
the hill, and the Second flanking it on the left. During the assault upon these two forts the
Twenty-third Corps passed in my rear by the flank to my right, and by the time the forts were
taken had formed on my right. Advancing Colonel Ward's brigade, of the Third Division, to fill
the gap caused by the oblique movement of Colonels McMillen's and Hubbard's brigades, in the
charge of the second fort upon the hill, the line again advanced, skirmishing heavily along its
whole extent. A small earth-work containing two guns on a hill in front of Colonel Hill's (Third)
brigade, of McArthur's division, was carried by that brigade in gallant style, capturing the guns
and many prisoners, the skirmishers from the Second Division entering at the same time from the
east. On entering this work Col. S. G. Hill, Thirty-fifth Iowa Infantry, commanding Third
Brigade, First Division, was unfortunately struck in the forehead by a musket-ball and died
almost instantly. In consequence, the guns and prisoners were not properly taken care of and
turned over, but were taken possession of by other troops, and the brigade did not get the credit
which it justly deserves. At the same time Col. E. H. Wolfe's (Third) brigade, of the Second
Division, crossed the Hillsborough pike and carried the earthworks on the hill immediately to the
left of that pike, capturing two guns in the fort and one more a short distance from it, which the
enemy were endeavoring to take away.
At the time these last two assaults were made, which were almost perpendicular to the
Hillsborough pike, the Fourth Corps charged, parallel with the pike, the works in their front,
thereby crowding out the First and Second Brigades of the Second Division, the enemy's works
at that point making nearly a right angle with the salient angle in front of the right of the Fourth
Corps and the left of my command. I therefore passed the First and Second Brigades, Second
Division, by the right flank, to the right and rear of Third Brigade, same division, and directed
them to form on the right of that brigade. The Fourth Corps also took possession of the guns
passed over by Colonel Wolfe. In the meantime the First Division and the brigade of the Third,
advancing on the right, drove the enemy across the Hillsborough pike, dislodging them from the
stone walls on either side, capturing 2 pieces of artillery, a large number of prisoners, and about
1,000 muskets. Night coming on, the troops bivouacked in line of battle. During the night, a
request coming from General Schofield, commanding Twenty-third Corps, for re-enforcements, I
sent him the Third Division, Col. J. B. Moore commanding, just before daylight.
On the morning of the 16th, advancing my lines in the same order as on the previous day, the
First on the right and the Second Division on the left, it was discovered that the enemy had taken
position at the base of a chain of hills called the Brentwood Hills, with a front nearly
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perpendicular to our line, and had strongly intrenched themselves by throwing up breast-works
and massing artillery in every available position. Changing my front by a half wheel by brigades,
the command moved slowly in echelon from the right, so as not to break connection with the
Fourth Corps, and took a position directly in front of the enemy at a distance of about 600 yards,
my right resting at the base of a hill on the top of which was the enemy's left, and my line, being
the whole front of the two divisions, extending about one mile. The enemy opening a heavy
artillery fire upon my brigade as they went into position, all the batteries of the First and Second
Divisions, six in number, were brought into action at a distance of about 800 yards, and after a
fierce cannonading of about two hours succeeded in quieting the enemy's guns in our front. The
Twenty-third Corps was on my right in the intrenchments thrown up by them the night before,
and nearly at right angles with my present line. Expecting that corps to take the initiative, as they
were on the flank of the enemy, I held the command in its present position, keeping up a slow
artillery fire at their lines without eliciting any reply. About 1 o'clock I received a request from
General Schofield, and a few minutes later an order from you, to send another division to his
assistance, he having retained the one sent at daylight that morning. Not having any reserve, and
my whole line being immediately in front of the enemy and liable to be attacked and broken at
any point, where even a brigade should be withdrawn, I therefore sent a staff officer to him to
state the condition of my command and ascertain if he could not get along without the division.
The officer reported to me that General Schofield's line was not engaged, and upon the condition
being reported to him, that he said he did not need the additional force, consequently it was not
sent.
About 3 p.m. General McArthur sent word that he could carry the hill on his right by assault.
Major-General Thomas being present, the matter was referred to him, and I was requested to
delay the movement until he could hear from General Schofield, to whom he had sent. General
McArthur, not receiving any reply, and fearing that if the attack should be longer delayed the
enemy would use the night to strengthen his works, directed the First Brigade, Col. W. L.
McMillen, Ninety-fifth Ohio Infantry, commanding, to storm the hill, on which was the left of
the enemy's line, and the Second and Third Brigades of the division to attack in front when the
First should be half-way up the hill. Accordingly, Colonel McMillen formed his brigade in two
lines, with the One hundred and fourteenth Illinois Infantry, Ninety-third Indiana Infantry, and
Tenth Minnesota Infantry in the first, and the Seventy-second Ohio and Ninety-fifth Ohio in the
second line, and gave his men orders not to cheer or fire a shot until the works should be gained.
Throwing out a strong party of skirmishers, under a rapid fire from them and his artillery, he
commenced the ascent. He had no sooner fully commenced his movement than the Second
Brigade, Col. D. F. Hubbard commanding, eager in emulation, also took up the attack,
immediately followed the Third Brigade, and, lastly, the Second Division. The enemy opened
with a fierce storm of shell, canister, and musketry, sadly decimating the ranks of many
regiments, but nothing save annihilation could stop the onward progress of that line. Sweeping
forward, the right of the line up the hill and the left through mud and over walls, they gained the
enemy's works, calling forth the remark from one of their general officers that "powder and lead
were inadequate to resist such a charge." The enemy were whipped, broken, and demoralized.
Prisoners were taken by the regiment and artillery by batteries. The pursuit was continued until
dark, when the troops bivouacked in line.
In this one charge the two divisions captured 27 pieces of artillery complete, over 4,000
prisoners, among whom were Maj. Gen. Edward Johnson and Brigadier-Generals Jackson and
Smith, 12 stand of colors, General Johnson's headquarters wagons, and many ammunition and
baggage wagons. I am not able to give you the exact number, as we left the next morning in
pursuit, without collecting them, leaving them to be taken care of by the reserve troops in
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Nashville. The Second Division claims that they captured four more guns on the left, which were
afterward taken possession of by the Fourth Corps, but as they were on the Fourth Corps line,
and they were undoubtedly assisted by that corps in their capture, I am not disposed to question
their right to them. I only hope that there may always be the same ardent desire to capture from a
disloyal enemy his means and munitions of war; it is certainly a laudable rivalry. The three guns,
however, taken by Colonel Wolfe on the 15th properly belong to and should be credited to him.
The sum total of the captures on both days is: 36 pieces of artillery; 5,123 prisoners, among
whom were Maj. Gen. Edward Johnson and Brigadier-Generals Jackson and Smith; about 6,000
stand of small-arms; 16 battle-flags; and about 30 wagons of various kinds.
Instances of individual merit were numerous. Colonel McMillen deserves to be specially
mentioned for his conduct of the charge of the second day. Col. L. F. Hubbard, Fifth Minnesota,
commanding' Second Brigade, First Division, had three horses shot under him on the 16th.
Going into action with a total of 1,421 muskets in his brigade, he captured over 2,000 prisoners,
9 pieces of artillery, and 7 stand of colors, and the casualties in his brigade number 315.
For details and particulars I refer you to the reports of division and brigade commanders,
herewith inclosed. Inclosed, also, is a complete list of the casualties.
The prisoners and artillery were all sent back to Nashville to be turned over to the proper
officers there. The stands of colors are in possession of the officers and men who captured them,
which I will send to you with a list of the names.
On the 17th, in compliance with orders, my command, the Third Division having joined that
morning, moved out on the Granny White pike about four miles, and thence south to the Franklin
pike, with orders to fall in the rear of the Fourth Corps. From thence we marched, via Franklin,
Columbia, Pulaski, Lawrenceburg, and Waynesborough, to Clifton, and from thence on
transports to this place, without anything of importance occurring.
My division commanders deserve much credit for the able and soldierly manner with which
they managed their commands and their ready and hearty co-operation in every respect. The
Third Division, Col. J. B. Moore commanding, only needed as favorable an opportunity to have
done equally as well as any. His troops that day upon the field were all tried soldiers, who have
fought many a battle with credit and honor to themselves.
I have exceedingly to regret the loss of one gallant brigade commander, Col. S. G. Hill,
Thirty-fifth Iowa Infantry, who was killed in the charge on the 15th. Long with the command, he
has endeared himself to every member of it; brave and courteous, the service has lost a gallant
officer and society a gentleman by his untimely death.
The officers of my staff, each and all, deserve special credit for their personal services, both
on the field and in their respective departments. They rendered invaluable aid on the field by
their activity and discrimination and their acute perception of the weak points and the proper
time and moment for executing the different movements with which they were charged.
In the supply department everything moved with a prompt energy and reliability that gave an
additional impulse forward to each officer and man.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. J. SMITH,
Major-General.
Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE,
Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland.
HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, DETACH. ARMY OF THE TENN.,
Near Pulaski, Tenn., December 28, 1864.
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MAJOR: I have the honor to forward the following report of the part taken by my division
during the battles of the 15th and 16th instant in front of Nashville, Tenn.:
Pursuant to orders from the major-general commanding, I moved on the morning of the 15th,
at 7 a.m. the First Brigade, Col. W. L. McMillen commanding, consisting of the Seventy-second
and Ninety-fifth Ohio, One hundred and fourteenth Illinois, Ninety-third Indiana, and Tenth.
Minnesota Infantry Regiments, and Cogswell's Independent Illinois Battery; also the Second
Brigade, Col. L. F. Hubbard commanding, composed of the Eleventh Missouri, Eighth
Wisconsin, Fifth and Ninth Minnesota Infantry, and Second Iowa Battery, out from the
intrenchments around Nashville on the Charlotte road; also the Third Brigade, Col. S. G. Hill
commanding, consisting of the Twelfth and Thirty-fifth Iowa, Thirty-third Missouri, and Seventh
Minnesota Regiments, and Company I, Second Missouri Artillery, out on the Hardin road; the
Third with orders to take position on the right of the Second Division, and the First and Second
to swing to the left, and connecting with the Third, so as to complete the line. The two brigades
on the Charlotte road waited two hours for the cavalry to take the advance, according to the
instructions received the evening previous; but no move taking place on their part, and being
informed that the line was awaiting my arrival, I passed through the cavalry line, deploying to
the left of the road, right resting on same, until they reached Richland Creek, two miles and a
half, encountering the enemy's battery and skirmishers, which were silenced by Cogswell's
battery, giving the cavalry an opportunity of advancing. Finding that they were too far advanced,
and not connecting with the main line, I moved them by the left flank obliquely to the rear,
connecting with the Third Brigade, as designated, the whole line moving forward. My division
being on the flank, the whole swinging on our left as a pivot, our march was necessarily long and
tiresome.
After crossing the Hardin road the First Brigade encountered the first redoubt of four guns on
the enemy's extreme left. Moving up the Second Brigade to its support, they were immediately
formed for assault, both batteries taking position about 300 yards distant. After a brisk fire the
fort was silenced and the infantry dashed forward. Simultaneous with their advance the cavalry
of General Hatch's division charged, and, from their advantageous position, entered the works
with my skirmishers and claimed the guns as their capture, which I conceded to them, their
gallantry on that occasion being conspicuous, although the fort had been rendered untenable by
the fire from my batteries. I then ordered the First Brigade to charge the second hill to the rear of
the fort just taken, which they gallantly did, capturing two guns and caissons and a great many
prisoners. In this they were supported by the Second Brigade, their skirmishers entering
simultaneously with the First Brigade. While this was going on the Third Brigade charged the
redoubt commanding the Hillsborough road, and carried it in gallant style; but pressing on in
connection with the Second Division, the guns, three in number, were taken into possession by
the Fourth Corps, together with a number of prisoners, which might have been properly credited
had not Col. S. G. Hill, commanding brigade, been unfortunately killed in the charge. For further
evidence of this I refer to Brigadier-General Garrard, commanding Second Division.
Immediately following this General Couch's division, which had come into position by moving
around my right and rear, charged the fourth position, a strong hill to our left. Simultaneous with
the charge I ordered Col. L. F. Hubbard, commanding Second Brigade, to move forward on the
left of Couch's division, sweeping around the base of the hill, thereby flanking the enemy's
position and rendering the charge of General Couch an easier one. This was a bold and
successful movement on the part of Col. L. F. Hubbard's command, and reflects great credit on
him in handling his troops so successfully, for he encountered the enemy for a short time in front
of him and on his flank, yet did not falter. Our line was then formed for the night and fortified
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between the Hillsborough and Granny White roads, nearly parallel with the same, thus ending
the first day's battle.
On the morning of the 16th, at 8 a.m., I moved the division forward by wheeling to the right
on the Twenty-third Corps, forming at right angles to the position held the night previous, with
the Granny White road running through between the Second and Third Brigades, and moved up
at 9 a.m. to within charging distance of the enemy's main line of works, but finding no
dispositions made by the corps on my right to co-operate with me, I ordered the command to
construct rifle-pits to protect them from the infantry fire of the enemy's main line, my batteries in
the meantime being used with good effect on their works. Continuing in this position until 3
p.m., when, again consulting with Major-General Couch, commanding division on my right, and
being informed that he had no orders to advance, and fearing that if delayed until next day the
night would be employed by the enemy to our disadvantage, I determined to attack, sending
word to this effect to the major-general commanding corps, and no contrary orders being
received I prepared for the assault. In order to do so successfully, it was necessary that the hill on
the enemy's extreme left and immediately in front of the Twenty-third Corps should be taken
first. I ordered the First Brigade, Col. W. L. McMillen commanding, to move by the right flank
and take position in front of and to take the hill, Major-General Couch sending forward a brigade
to occupy and hold the intrenchments vacated by Col. W. L. McMillen, in case of an emergency,
the Second and Third Brigades having orders to charge as soon as the First had advanced halfway
up the hill, which was the salient point of the position. The First Brigade, with fixed
bayonets, without a cheer or firing a shot, but with firm resolve and without doubting their
success, commenced the difficult ascent, and without a halt, although exposed to a murderous
fire, which none but the bravest troops could withstand, planted their colors on the very apex of
the hill. At the appointed time the Second and Third Brigades--the Third commanded by Col. W.
R. Marshall, Seventh Minnesota Infantry--moved forward on the enemy's works. Their path lay
across a cornfield, traversed by stone walls and ditches, which, together with the softness of the
ground, exposed as they were to a direct fire in front, and enfiladed by batteries on the flanks, for
a time held with intense interest the most experienced officers who beheld it; but onward was
their motto, and their banners were planted on works defended by the choicest troops of the rebel
army, calling forth the remark of the rebel officers that powder and lead were inadequate to resist
such a charge. Onward still the division pressed, gathering in prisoners by the hundred and guns
by batteries (a list of which is appended) until the hills in rear of the enemy's lines were secured,
where the line was formed for the night, and attention turned to the many brave officers and men
who had so gloriously maintained their country's honor and sealed it with their blood.
In connection with this I wish to mention the services of the agents of the Christian
Commission: conspicuous among which were Mr. Carter, of Wisconsin, and others whose names
I failed to obtain, who, regardless of personal danger, were everywhere present, ministering to
the wounded. A cause sustained by such and similar agencies cannot fail.
Before closing the report I beg to bear testimony to the gallantry and heroic fortitude
displayed by every officer and soldier of my command; their conduct throughout was par
excellence.
In addition to the report already forwarded of officers recommended for promotion I would
call your attention to the reports of brigade commanders, transmitted herewith, for the names of
those officers recommended by them for special mention for gallantry and good conduct. My
thanks are also due in an especial manner to the officers and men of the artillery of my division,
serving their guns in such a manner as to call forth my highest admiration. I am also greatly
indebted to the following members of my staff for valuable services throughout: Capt. William
H. F. Randall, assistant adjutant-general; Capts. Duncan MacLean and John W. Gregg, aides-de-
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camp; Dr. S. W. Huff, surgeon-in-chief, whose duties were arduous, but not beyond his
capabilities; Capt. S. Carkener, Thirty-third Missouri Volunteers, judge-advocate and acting
aide; Capt. E. R. Applegate, Eleventh Missouri Volunteers, ordnance officer; Capt. Joseph
Mayer, Thirty-fifth Iowa Volunteers, temporarily on duty as aide; Lieut. P. Meagher, Thirteenth
U.S. Infantry, mustering officer and acting aide; Lieut. Samuel A. L. Law, acting assistant
quartermaster; Capt. J. A. Leonard, commissary of subsistence, for efficiency in their respective
duties; Capt. J. P. Houston, acting assistant inspector-general, who was unfortunately wounded
while charging with the skirmishers the broken ranks of the enemy. He is a valuable officer. I
deeply regret his temporary loss. To all of whom my thanks are due.
In addition to the above report I wish to mention the First Brigade, Third Division, Colonel
Ward, Fourteenth Wisconsin Infantry, commanding, consisting of the Fourteenth and Thirtythird
Wisconsin and Eighty-first Illinois Infantry, for their promptness in moving forward to
support my left on the first day's battle and securing many prisoners.
The following is the list of captures, which needs no comment: Prisoners of wary including
Brigadier-Generals Smith and Jackson, 4,273; battle-flags, 13; guns with caissons, 24; smallarms,
estimated at 4,500; besides several wagons and horses. There were expended during both
days' fighting, 4,681 rounds artillery ammunition; 84,000 rounds of musketry ammunition.
My total casualties, as per report forwarded, are as follows: Killed, 68; wounded, 506, and 1
missing; making a total of killed, wounded, and missing, 575.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. McARTHUR,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
P. S.--I wish particularly to mention in connection with this report the gallant conduct of Col.
W. R. Marshall, Seventh Minnesota Infantry Volunteers, commanding Third Brigade, called to
take command during the first day's battle and continuing throughout. His admirable
management and example stamp him as an officer of rare merit.
J. McARTHUR,
Brigadier-General.
Maj. J. HOUGH,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Detachment Army of the Tennessee.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION,
DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
Near Pulaski, Tenn., December 27, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit for the information of the general commanding the
following details of the operations of the Second Brigade, First Division, Detachment of the
Army of the Tennessee, in the battle of the 15th and 16th instant, near Nashville, Tenn.:
On the evening of the 14th instant I was directed by the general commanding to hold my
brigade in readiness to move promptly at 6 o'clock on the following morning. In compliance
therewith I moved at the hour designated from the line of works occupied by the brigade, and
formed in column of regiments near and to the left of the Charlotte pike. At 8 a.m. I moved out
on the pike in column, by the flank, and about a mile from the point of starting was directed by
General McArthur to move to the left across the country to the vicinity of the Hardin pike, or
until I should be able to connect with the line of the Third Brigade. In executing this movement I
encountered a skirmish line of the enemy, which I was required to engage and push back. This,
however, involved but little delay; the connection was readily formed and my line established
upon the right of the Third Brigade. The regiments were formed in the following order from right
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to left, viz: Ninth Minnesota Infantry, Fifth Minnesota Infantry, Eleventh Missouri Infantry, and
Eighth Wisconsin Infantry, with the Second Iowa Battery in reserve. I advanced in order of
echelon by battalion, the formation being made on the left, and with a line of skirmishers,
consisting of four companies, one from each regiment, deployed in my front. A steady advance
was maintained until about the hour of 12 m., no force of the enemy being encountered that the
skirmishers were not enabled to press back. The line swung gradually to the left as the advance
progressed, crossing the Hardin pike at an angle and in a southerly direction. About a mile from
the point where the line crossed the Hardin pike the enemy began to develop himself in
considerable force and to dispute our advance more stubbornly. An intrenched battery of four
guns, posted on a commanding eminence to the right of the Hillsborough pike, and a section in
position on a hill some 400 yards to the rear, opened upon our advancing line, to which the
Second Iowa Battery, in conjunction with the other artillery of the division, returned a spirited
fire. A position for the artillery at close range was obtained, and some very effective practice
upon the part of our batteries witnessed, which, in conjunction with the operations of the
skirmishers, effectually silenced the enemy's guns. Company E, Eleventh Missouri Infantry,
Captain Notestine, engaged as skirmishers, advanced to within a dozen yards of the more
advanced work of the enemy, from whence they drove the gunners from their pieces. By
direction of the general commanding I gained a position as near the enemy's battery as
practicable, formed the brigade in two lines, the Fifth and Ninth Minnesota constituting the first
and the Eleventh Missouri and Eighth Wisconsin the second line, and prepared to assault the
work.
Simultaneously with the line upon my right I advanced at a double-quick, and crossing a
deep ravine, moved in a manner to turn the right flank of the position. The enemy made but a
feeble effort to check the assault; his infantry gave way in disorder, and his artillery fell into our
possession. Captain Notestine's skirmishers, of the Eleventh Missouri, were the first to enter the
work, and assisted in turning the captured guns upon the retreating enemy. I pursued as far as the
Hillsborough pike, steadily driving everything in my front, and capturing many prisoners, my
skirmishers the while pressing up the hill to the rear of the captured position, and entering the
work of the enemy simultaneously with the troops upon my right. The enemy now made a strong
effort to rally, and showed himself in some force upon my left, which at this time was wholly
unsupported. His line of battle was being formed, running across my left, toward the rear, and his
skirmishers showed a bold front, and were advancing. I had already deployed a line of
skirmishers covering my left flank, which I now re-enforced and ordered forward; at the same
time changed front upon the center, right wing forward, thus facing southeasterly, and crossing
the Hillsborough pike at nearly a right angle. The Second Iowa Battery in the meantime had
taken position to my left and rear, and was throwing shell with marked effect at a body of the
enemy maneuvering in my front. The fire of the artillery, and the rapid advance of my
skirmishers, two companies of which---Company D, Eighth Wisconsin, Captain Williams, and
Company D, Eleventh Missouri, Captain Erwin--charged along the Hillsborough pike at a run,
had a very demoralizing effect upon the enemy, who surrendered in large numbers, or retreated
in utter disorder. The two companies mentioned captured about 450 prisoners, among whom
were several field officers. The prisoners were turned over to Lieutenant Kelly, of General
Thomas' staff. I was now directed by the general commanding to remain where I had established
my line across the Hillsborough pike until support could be brought up for my left, unless an
advance movement was made upon the right; in which case I should also move forward. At
about 4 p.m. the troops of the Twenty-third Army Corps, that had formed line upon the right but
somewhat to the rear of my position, commenced an advance, which I took up, and swinging to
the right, moved across the pike and through the timber up the hill. I had advanced but about
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sixty rods, when I encountered the enemy in force. His line of battle was formed along the crest
of the hill, in a position of some natural advantage, very favorable for defense, and from which I
received, for a moment, a sharp and somewhat effective fire; but a very brief encounter with the
veterans of the Second Brigade sufficed to break the enemy's line, which recoiled under our
withering fire and fell back in disorder before the steady advance I maintained. In the pursuit the
retreat of the enemy was rendered a rout; the killed and wounded were strewn thickly along the
field, and straggling detachments surrendered at almost every step. Upward of 400 prisoners
were sent to the rear. Captain McGrew, of my staff, turned over to Lieutenant Kelly 218 in one
body, and numerous squads of from 10 to 20 and upward were sent under guard to the general
corral. The pursuit was continued to the Granny White pike, where two pieces of artillery were
captured, the enemy being so hotly pressed that he abandoned them in the road.
Finding myself far in advance of the troops on my right, and being wholly without support
upon the left, I deemed it prudent to order a halt, particularly as the enemy was moving up reenforcements
toward my left, and maneuvering as if to turn my flank. I retired my line a few
yards, and formed along the crest of a ridge, at the same time ordered up the Second Iowa
Battery, whose effective practice checked the movements of the re-enforcing column of the
enemy and served to increase the confusion of the retreat. A brigade of the Twenty-third Corps
soon formed upon the right in continuation of my line, and the Third Brigade of this division
closed up upon my left. It had now become quite dark, and the general commanding directed that
I maintain my present position for the night. The men were directed to lay on their arms, each
regiment supplied with tools and instructed to intrench its front. I deem it necessary, to complete
the record of the Second Brigade in this day's work, to state that in breaking the enemy's line in
the final charge of the day, I completely turned the right flank of the position in front of the
Twenty-third Corps, which undoubtedly contributed in some measure to the success of its
capture and the repulse of its support. At about sunrise on the morning of the 16th instant the
general commanding directed me to advance my brigade and feel for the enemy's position. I
moved out in line, maintaining the formation of the previous day, my left resting on the Granny
White pike. An advance of perhaps a hundred rods developed the enemy's position, and drew
from his line a very galling fire. I found him posted behind a line of works running parallel to my
front and crossing the Granny White pike at a right angle. I continued to advance under a severe
fire until I had reached a point within 300 yards of the works, where the men could cover
themselves in a measure, halted, formed the brigade in two lines as on the preceding day,
preparatory to an assault, and reported progress to the general commanding, who instructed me
to maintain my position until further dispositions could be made. The Second Iowa Battery, with
other artillery of the command, was brought forward and placed in favorable positions for an
effective fire against the enemy's line. The Second Iowa occupied a point on elevated ground to
the right and rear of the brigade, where it performed most efficient service for several hours
during the day, effectually silencing one of the enemy's batteries, exploding a limber, and
damaging the defenses with the precision of its shots. Company H, Fifth Minnesota, Captain
Morehouse, and Company F, Ninth Minnesota, Lieutenant McMillan, deployed as skirmishers,
advanced to within 100 yards of the enemy's works, and, though suffering severely, stubbornly
maintained their position until the final assault. For the purpose of securing for my men a better
cover from sharpshooters, who kept up an annoying fire, as well as to provide for possible
contingencies, I directed my first line to intrench its front.
At about 4 p.m. I received the order to assault the works in my front. The order was no
sooner communicated to the command than each regiment moved forward with a determination
that bespoke success. Every officer and man was at once in his place, and fully comprehending
the duty of the hour, resolved upon its fearless discharge. My line of advance lay across a corn-
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field, through every foot of which the men were exposed to a direct fire from the line of works in
front and a cross-fire on either flank. My line was no sooner in motion than it was met by a most
withering volley, and as the regiments struggled on through the muddy field, softened by the
recent rain, their ranks were sadly decimated by the continuous fire they encountered. A battery
on my left enfiladed my line, and with fearful accuracy poured its discharges of grape through
the ranks. But seemingly unmindful of the storm of missiles they were breasting, the veterans of
the Second Brigade did not falter, but, pressing steadily on, gained the works and carried them,
in literal execution of the order they had received. Almost simultaneously the colors of the Fifth
and Ninth Minnesota Infantry were pushed over the parapet, closely followed by the flags of the
Eleventh Missouri and Eighth Wisconsin. Large bodies of the enemy surrendered in the works;
some, however, attempted to escape by retreating to the hills in the rear. Directing the Ninth
Minnesota and Eighth Wisconsin to pursue up the hills, I swung the Fifth Minnesota and
Eleventh Missouri to the left, and sweeping along the flank of the enemy, inside the works,
captured many prisoners, and driving the support that was attempting to rally in protection of the
battery, from whose fire I had suffered so fearfully, captured it entire. Three pieces of artillery
were also taken by the Eighth Wisconsin and Ninth Minnesota, which they compelled the enemy
to abandon in his hasty flight. The enemy kept up a desultory fight as he retreated in straggling
bodies up the hills, but the pursuit did not cease until the heights were gained and darkness had
put a period to the operations of the day.
The material results of this day's work were to be seen in the 1,200 prisoners sent to the rear--
among whom was Brigadier-General Jackson, who surrendered to Lieut. J. F. Bishop, Fifth
Minnesota Infantry--7 pieces of artillery, with caissons, captured, and the colors of seven rebel
regiments, in possession of the brigade, making an aggregate of captures made by the brigade in
the two days' operations of 1 brigadier-general, over 2,000 prisoners, 9 pieces of artillery, and 7
stand of colors. The brigade went into action with a total of 1,421 muskets, and expended 61,000
rounds of musket and 1,500 of artillery ammunition.
As the brigade acted for the greater part of the time during both days under the eye of the
general commanding, it is unnecessary for me to speak particularly with reference to the conduct
of the command during the trying ordeals of the 15th and 16th instant. I cannot, however, in
justice to the gallant officers and men of the Second Brigade, conclude this report without
recording my high appreciation of their conduct on every occasion during the two days' fighting,
and returning to every officer and soldier of the brigade my thanks for the heroism they
displayed, and for the promptitude with which they responded to every order given them. To
regimental and battery commanders I am much indebted for efficient co-operation, especially
manifested in their successful execution of the various movements incident to the operations of
the command. Col. J. F. Marsh, commanding Ninth Minnesota; Lieut. Col. William B. Gere,
commanding Fifth Minnesota; Lieut. Col. William B. Britton, commanding Eighth Wisconsin,
and Lieut. Col. Eli Bowyer, commanding Eleventh Missouri, each handled their regiments in an
admirable manner, and by examples of personal gallantry encouraged their men to deeds of
glorious daring. Lieut. Col. William Markham and Maj. H. B. Strait, Ninth Minnesota; Maj. J. C.
Becht, Fifth Minnesota, and Major Green, Eleventh Missouri, were prompt and efficient in the
discharge of their respective duties. Capt. J. R. Reed, commanding Second Iowa Battery,
performed highly important service in both days' operations.
I cannot cite in evidence of the character of the work the Second Brigade performed in the
battle of Nashville anything more suggestive than the list of casualties it suffered. Three hundred
and fifteen officers and men were killed and wounded in the two days' fighting. Lieutenant-
Colonel Bowyer, Eleventh Missouri, received a very severe wound in the arm, and with great
reluctance was taken from the field. Major Green, while subsequently commanding the regiment,
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had his horse killed under him, and was himself painfully wounded. Lieutenant-Colonel Gere
and Major Becht, Fifth Minnesota, had each a horse killed under them in the thickest of the fight.
The colors of the Fifth Minnesota were four times shot down in the final assault, and the flag of
the Eleventh Missouri fell the third time, but both were still borne onward.
To my staff the thanks of myself and the command are due for very valuable service in all the
operations on the field. Lieut. William H. Sargent, Eighth Wisconsin Infantry, and acting
assistant inspector-general of the brigade, was killed in the last day's fight. He had distinguished
himself by great personal gallantry during the assault, and was urging forward in the pursuit,
after the enemy's works had been carried, when he fell. Endowed in an eminent degree with
those qualities that endear man to his fellow, and a bright ornament to his profession, the fall of
Lieutenant Sargent adds another to the list of her brave defenders, for whose memory the country
will drop a tear when the records of this war are made up. Lieut. T. P. Gere, acting assistant
adjutant-general, received a painful wound while in the very front of the line when the conflict
was fiercest. Capts. J. G. McGrew and William W. Cleland, acting aides, each distinguished
himself for efficiency, and were conspicuous for acts of personal daring. Lieut. J. P. Owens,
acting assistant quartermaster, discharged all the duties pertaining to his department with
promptness and ability.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. F. HUBBARD,
Colonel Fifth Minnesota Veteran Infantry, Comdg. Brigade.
Capt. W. H. F. RANDALL,
Assistant Adjutant-General, First Division.
NASHVILLE, TENN., December 18, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to submit for the information of the colonel commanding
the brigade the following report of the part taken by the Fifth Regiment Minnesota Veteran
Volunteer Infantry in the battles before Nashville on the 15th and 16th instant:
At 6 o'clock on the morning of the 15th instant, in obedience to orders received the evening
previous, my command was in line, supplied with three days' rations in their haversacks and fifty
rounds of cartridges per man. Soon after I was directed to move out to the Charlotte pike and
await further orders. At about 8.30 or 9 o'clock the brigade marched out on the Charlotte pike
nearly a mile, the Fifth following the Ninth Minnesota, when the column struck off into an open
field to the left of the pike, where the order of march was reversed, and I was directed by the
colonel commanding to move by the left flank in rear of the Second Iowa Battery, with a line of
skirmishers deployed on my right to protect my flank. The regiment then moved forward in the
place assigned it in the column, passing in range of a masked battery of the enemy on our right,
from which several shells were thrown, bursting near our ranks, but doing no damage, my
flankers occasionally coming in contact with and firing upon the enemy's skirmishers on my
right. After moving by the flank something more than a mile I received orders from the colonel
commanding to form my regiment in line on the right and forty paces in rear of the Eleventh
Missouri (the formation of the brigade being in echelon by regiments) and to deploy a strong line
of skirmishers in my front, all of which was promptly obeyed. Soon the order to move forward
was given, and my regiment marched steadily forward in the place assigned it in the line. We had
proceeded but a short distance when we encountered the enemy's skirmishers, and driving them
back, advanced nearly two miles, when the enemy opened upon our line with a battery posted
upon a hill and behind earth-works about a half or three-quarters of a mile in our front/ During a
heavy cannonading between our own and the enemy's artillery, in obedience to orders, I moved
my regiment forward on a line with the regiment on my left, and the entire line was advanced
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across a hollow and creek to the crest of the hill and to within about 100 rods of the enemy's
battery and works, where they were found in strong line of battle. I was here directed by the
colonel commanding the brigade to form my regiment on the left of the Ninth Minnesota, in the
front line (the brigade here being formed in two lines), and prepare to assault the enemy's works.
My regiment threw off their knapsacks, blankets, and overcoats, and fixed bayonets ready for the
charge. The order to forward was soon given, and our line moved steadily on through the brush
and fallen timber in our front under a heavy fire from the enemy, closely followed by the second
line; and as we drew near the rebel line of battle volley after volley was poured into their
wavering ranks, which soon gave way, and as they fled our forces pursued them, killing and
wounding many, and capturing large numbers of prisoners. The pursuit was continued until we
crossed the Hillsborough pike, when our line was halted. The enemy was soon discovered to be
moving on our left flank, and I was directed to change my front to the left, which I did under a
sharp fire, and moved my regiment, in obedience to orders, by the left flank across the pike, my
right resting on or near the same. Our skirmishers soon became hotly engaged, and we were
again ordered to advance. The enemy soon opened upon us with musketry from the crest of a hill
in our front, where they were formed in strong line, and with artillery on our right; but our
troops, flushed with victory, rushed forward, with bayonets fixed, at a double-quick, breaking the
enemy's lines, killing and wounding large numbers, and capturing hundreds of prisoners and
small-arms. In this charge the loss in my regiment was quite severe, as we were exposed to an
enfilading fire of musketry and artillery on our right flank, as well as the direct fire in front. First
Lieut. Henry G. Bailly, commanding Company K, was severely and probably mortally wounded,
and several non-commissioned officers and privates were killed and wounded. We pursued the
enemy nearly or quite a mile, when our line was again halted, and, in obedience to orders, I
bivouacked my regiment in rear of the Second Iowa Battery, it being then quite dark. During the
night I constructed rifle-pits in front of my regiment and the battery, all being quiet in our front
except occasional firing by the pickets.
At 8 o'clock on the morning of the 16th I was directed to form my regiment on the left-of the
Ninth Minnesota, outside the works constructed the night previous, and to deploy a line of
skirmishers in my front. As soon as the line was formed the order to move forward was given,
and our line was advanced, under a heavy fire, nearly a mile, and to within about 100 rods of a
strong line of intrenchments, occupied by the enemy in large force. Here the line was halted and
the brigade was formed in two lines, the Fifth Minnesota on the left and in the front line, the
Third Brigade being on my left. Intrenching tools were sent to the regiment, and I caused
temporary breast-works to be constructed to protect the men from the enemy's sharpshooters.
About 3 o'clock in the afternoon I received orders from the colonel commanding to be in
readiness to charge the enemy's works in our front at a moment's notice; and at 4.15 p.m. the
order to forward was given, which being repeated along the line, the Fifth Minnesota, with
bayonets fixed, moved over the breast-works in their front into the open field which lay between
them and the enemy's works, and at a double-quick rushed forward under the most terrific and
withering fire of musketry and artillery it has ever been my fortune to behold or encounter. Yet,
forward our line pressed, and soon the colors of the Fifth Minnesota were planted, the first in the
brigade, upon the rebel intrenchments, and the enemy were driven from their fortified position.
The regiment pursued, capturing hundreds of prisoners, among whom was Brigadier-General
Jackson and many other officers. I think I can safely say that the Fifth Minnesota captured more
prisoners in this charge than the regiment numbered. The pursuit was continued about one mile,
to the foot of the Granny White Hills, where the regiment bivouacked for the night.
The glorious victory we had won had not, however, been a bloodless one. The loss in my
regiment in this charge had been nearly 100 killed and wounded, which was about one-fourth my
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entire command. Capt. Henry Stasson, commanding Company E, a brave and faithful officer,
was killed while leading his company in the charge. Capt. A. P. French, commanding Company
I, was severely wounded at the head of his company. A list of the killed and wounded in the two
days' engagement is herewith respectfully transmitted.
The officers, without exception, behaved with conspicuous gallantry and performed their
duty with coolness and good judgment; and the soldiers fought with that bravery and
determination which knows not defeat, and are entitled to the warmest gratitude of their country.
Captains Morehouse and French, and Lieutenants Bishop and Hatch, while in command of the
skirmish lines in front of the regiment at intervals during the two days' engagement, performed
their duty most satisfactorily. Capt. T. J. Sheehan, commanding Company C, the color company,
gallantly stood by the colors, and in the last charge on the 16th instant, two color-bearers having
been shot, he placed the colors in the hands of a non-commissioned officer of his company, who
planted them on the rebel intrenchments. My especial thanks are due to Maj. John C. Becht, who
rendered me efficient aid on the field during the two days' engagement. First Lieut. Roscoe
Hilton, acting regimental adjutant, a brave and gallant young officer, was always in the right
place at the right time, and discharged his duties to my entire satisfaction and with credit to
himself. Surgeons Kennedy and Leonard were untiring in their efforts in the care of the
wounded, both upon the field and at the hospitals.
On the morning of the 17th instant the regiment was ordered to join in the pursuit of the
defeated enemy, and being unable to remain in the field on account of physical disability and
injuries received the day previous, I turned over the command to Major Becht, to whom I would
respectfully refer the colonel commanding for any information pertaining to the regiment since
that time.
Respectfully submitted.
WM. B. GERE,
Lit. Col., Comdg. Fifth Regt. Minnesota Vet. Vol. Infantry.
Lieut. T. P. GERE,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. ELEVENTH MISSOURI VETERAN INFANTRY,
In the Field, December 21, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by the Eleventh Missouri
Veteran Infantry in the late battles near Nashville, Tenn.:
On the morning of December 15 the regiment, with the brigade, left camp near Nashville,
and made a reconnaissance to the right and front, skirmishing with the enemy on the Charlotte
pike, then passed to the left, taking position in line of battle in front of our former position. From
here we advanced in support of Captain Reed's (Second Iowa) battery until the order was
received to charge the rebel fort. The charge was made in handsome style. Company E,
commanded by Captain Notestine, being in the advance, in line of skirmishers, were the first to
enter the fort. (Captain Notestine was afterward badly wounded and had a leg amputated.) The
regiment continued to advance until the second fort was taken by the cavalry and other troops on
the right. Here we were allowed to rest a few moments, when we again moved forward. After
advancing a short distance we came upon the enemy in line of battle on a hill; here another
charge was made, in which the rebels were completely routed, and driven in perfect confusion a
distance of three-quarters of a mile, officers and men behaving most gallantly, capturing many
prisoners. Night coming on we were ordered to halt and remained in line of battle during the
night, throwing up temporary earth-works.
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The order to advance was given at an early hour on the morning of the 16th, and the
regiment, together with the brigade to which it belongs, advanced in line of battle across an open
field, but soon discovered that the enemy were strongly posted on the opposite side of the field
behind formidable breast-works. After advancing about a half a mile under a heavy fire from the
rebel skirmishers and sharpshooters, we came within range of the enemy's fire from their line of
works and were ordered to halt and remain in line of battle. After remaining here a short time the
regiment was ordered to change its position and form in rear of the Fifth Minnesota. In making
this move the regiment lost several men killed and wounded, being exposed to a severe fire from
the entire rebel front. It was in making this move that our gallant leader, Lieutenant-Colonel
Bowyer, received a severe wound in the arm while directing the movements of the regiment. We
remained in this position until about 3 p.m., when the order was given to charge the rebel works.
The order was no sooner given than the regiment started at a double-quick, charging through the
open field for a distance of about 600 yards, under a most galling fire from the enemy. On
reaching the works many prisoners were captured in the trenches, and many others either shot or
captured while attempting to escape. A rebel battery of four guns was also captured here by the
brigade, for which the Eleventh Missouri would respectfully claim, with the gallant brigade
commander, its share of the honor. Two rebel flags were also captured by the regiment, one by
Lieutenant Simmons and the other by Corporal Parks, color guard. In making the charge the
colors of the regiment were three times shot down, having one color-bearer killed and two
wounded. The flag-staff was shot into three pieces by a rebel shell. After the enemy were driven
from their works we continued in pursuit for a distance of about one mile, driving them in the
wildest confusion and capturing many prisoners, when we were ordered by the brigade
commander to halt and join the brigade, which was forming a short distance in the rear. Here we
remained until the morning of the 17th, when it was ascertained that the enemy were retreating,
and we were ordered, with other troops, to follow in the pursuit.
The losses in the regiment in the two days' fighting are 4 men killed and 83 wounded,
including 10 commissioned officers.
During the fight every officer and man behaved with commendable coolness and bravery. No
especial mention can be made of individual acts of courage or bravery, as every officer and man
behaved in the most praiseworthy manner.
M. J. GREEN,
Major, Commanding Regiment.
Lieut. T. P. GERE,
Acting Assistant Adjutant General.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND IOWA BATTERY,
In the Field, December 21, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to transmit the following report of the part taken by this battery in the
recent engagement in the vicinity of Nashville:
On the morning of the 15th instant the battery moved from its position at 8 a.m. and marched
in the brigade, following all its movements in column and line until the enemy was discovered in
a strongly intrenched position on our front. Here, by direction of General McArthur, I placed my
rifle section in position 200 yards in rear and a little to the right of the brigade line. From this
position I fired ten rounds from each gun, when I moved it forward and placed it in position on a
slight eminence in front of the brigade, and also brought forward my 12-pounders as fast as I
could find positions where they could be used to advantage. I occupied this position until the
brigade was moved forward, when I replenished my limber-chests and followed it, and, under
direction of Colonel Hubbard, occupied a position on the left of the battery of McMillen's
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brigade, within 600 [yards] of the enemy's works, on which I opened a vigorous fire, which I
continued until the work was carried. I immediately moved forward and placed the battery in
position on the left of this work and opened fire on the summit of the next hill, up the sides of
which our skirmishers were then advancing. As soon as this position was carried I moved to the
front of the work and opened on the enemy's line in the woods and pike 1,000 yards to our front,
paying particular attention to a hill to the right of the line, on which the enemy had placed a
battery. When this hill was carried and the enemy's line broken by the charge of the brigade, a
confused mass of the enemy broke from the stone wall at the pike and started to the rear across
an open field. On this ground I opened all my guns with shot and shell, plowing through and
exploding amongst them; a larger number of them ran back to the wall and, as I afterward
learned, surrendered. I then moved to the front and reported to Colonel Hubbard, who directed
me to open on a battery of the enemy which was firing on the left of our line. As our position
was immediately on the enemy's flank and our fire enfiladed him, the battery was limbered up
and the whole line moved to the rear after a very few moments. I continued firing until he passed
beyond my range, and it being then quite dark I encamped for the night.
During the night I had thrown up a slight work on the front of my guns, and at 5 a.m. was
harnessed and hitched up, and at 7 a.m. moved out of our works with the brigade. Changed front
to the right and opened fire on the enemy's train, which was in sight, moving to the right and
rear. The brigade moving to the front, was soon hotly engaged. By direction of General
McArthur I moved one section to the front and placed it in position on a crest to the right and
rear of the brigade and in front of the line of the Twenty-third Corps, immediately following it
with the other four guns, which I put in position still farther to the right. From this position I kept
up a vigorous fire on the enemy's line until the final charge at near 3 p.m. As soon as the line was
carried I moved three guns (all for which I had any ammunition) to the front, following the
brigade and opening on the enemy from every favorable position. At dark I encamped with the
brigade, bringing forward during the night the balance of the battery.
During the two days I expended 1,500 rounds of ammunition. I had but a single casualty
during the whole engagement, and that resulted from the accidental, premature discharge of one
of the pieces.
To my lieutenants, Coons and Burk, I am indebted for prompt and efficient assistance. My
non-commissioned officers and men uniformly behaved with coolness and gallantry.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. R. REED,
Captain, Commanding Second Iowa Battery.
Lieut. T. P. GERE,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION,
DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
Near Pulaski, Tenn., December 28, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the Third
Brigade, First Division, Detachment Army of the Tennessee, in the battles before Nashville,
December 15 and 16, 1864:
The Third Brigade comprised the Twelfth Iowa Veteran Infantry Volunteers, commanded by
Lieut. Col. J. H. Stibbs; Thirty-fifth Iowa Infantry Volunteers, Maj. William Dill commanding;
Thirty-third Missouri Infantry Volunteers, Lieut. Col. William H. Heath commanding; Seventh
Minnesota Infantry Volunteers, Lieut. Col. George Bradley commanding; and Battery I, Second
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Missouri Light Artillery, Capt. S. H. Julian; the brigade commanded on the 15th, at the opening
of the battle, by Col. S. G. Hill, Thirty-fifth Iowa Volunteers.
In obedience to orders from the brigadier-general commanding the division, the brigade
moved from its position behind intrenchments for defense of Nashville at 7 a.m. 15th instant, and
formed in line of battle, with its left resting on the Hardin pike, connecting with Second
Division, the right connecting with Second Brigade of First Division, Colonel Hubbard's. Two
companies were deployed forward as skirmishers, covering front of brigade. At 10 a.m. the line
advanced, crossing the Hardin pike obliquely to the left, conforming to the movements of troops
on our right and left. Our skirmishers, pushing rapidly toward the enemy, were soon briskly
engaged, driving the enemy's skirmishers before them. About 11 a.m. we arrived in front of
enemy's works, consisting on his extreme left, which was nearly in our front, of a formidable fort
defended by a four-gun battery. Captain Julian's battery wheeled into position and opened on the
enemy's works at from 1,200 to 1,500 yards distance. A rapid and effective fire from the battery
was kept up for more than an hour. The enemy's guns poured a heavy fire into our battery, which
was completely exposed in an open field, but without disabling our guns or for a moment
interrupting Captain Julian's fire. Later in the day the battery was advanced to cover the charge
we made. The infantry of the brigade were kept lying down during this first artillery fire, not
being within musket-range of enemy. Our skirmishers got close up to enemy's works, and
contributed not a little to the success which crowned the day's operations. The forts on the
enemy's left being carried about 4 p.m. by the right of our division, the Third Brigade advanced,
under a fierce artillery and musketry fire, and charged a formidable work on the right of the
Hillsborough pike, carrying the work at the point of the bayonet most gallantly. It was at the
parapet of this work that the gallant and lamented Col. S. G. Hill, commanding the brigade, lost
his life. He was shot through the head, and died in a few minutes, without speaking. The service
lost in Colonel Hill's death one of its bravest and best officers. The enemy's battery that was in
the fort on right of Hillsborough pike was being removed, but we succeeded in capturing two
guns and a battle-flag. When we had gained the first fort a terrible fire was poured into us from a
second work, 200 yards to the left of Hillsborough pike. I ordered a charge on this second work,
and carried it, capturing one piece of artillery, caisson, battery wagon. horses, &c. In the two
works we captured about 200 prisoners. When we had gained the second work we pressed on to
the left, and got in rear of the enemy, where General Garrard's division and the right of the
Fourth Army Corps were pressing them in front. We opened a deadly fire on the enemy's rear, as
he broke from his works when charged by General Garrard and Fourth Corps, and could have
taken a great number of prisoners, but left them to the troops that came over the works in their
front. Night now closed our work, and we were ordered into line a little way east of and parallel
to the Hillsborough pike.
The casualties of the brigade on the 15th were, 1 officer killed and 1 wounded, 1 enlisted
man killed and 35 wounded.
The battery fired about 1,000 rounds; the infantry expended very little ammunition except on
the skirmish line, the heavy work having been done with the bayonet.
On the morning of the 16th the Third Brigade, on the left of Colonel Hubbard's--the left of
the Third Division--was advanced, covered by skirmishers, from its position during time night
toward the Granny White pike, and conforming to the movement of brigades on our right,
obliqued and wheeled to the right until it confronted the enemy's strong works across the Granny
White pike, at the foot of the Overton (or Brentwood) Hills. My right rested on the pike,
connecting with left of Colonel Hubbard's brigade. We pushed forward, under a severe fire of the
enemy's artillery and musketry, until partly covered by a fence and stone wall running from the
Bradford mansion to the pike. Here we halted until the grand charge in the afternoon. Captain
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Julian's battery was posted about 400 yards in rear of the infantry, and opened and kept up a
heavy fire on the enemy's works. In our immediate front was a four-gun battery. Between 3 and 4
p.m. I observed the right of the division--the First Brigade--advancing to charge the enemy's left,
and quickly Colonel Hubbard's brigade, immediately on my right, started on the charge. Seeing
that Colonel Hubbard ought to be supported, I ordered the brigade to follow and charge the
works in our front. Most bravely did the lines rise, and with cheers, breasting the storm of shot
and shell from the four guns in our front, and the fierce musketry fire of the infantry supports of
the battery, charge and carry the very strong works on the left of the [Granny] White pike. The
splendid Pointe Coupée Battery of four Napoleon 12-pounders, a great number of small arms,
and 300 to 400 prisoners were taken. The gallant Colonel Hubbard, who had gained the enemy's
works on the right of the pike before I reached those on the left, was sweeping down toward my
front, and claimed part of the guns as his capture. Although there can be no doubt that my
brigade first entered the works by the front, I thought it but fair to the ever-gallant Second
Brigade, which got the start of us in the general charge and pierced the enemy's line in advance
of us, to divide the guns; accordingly, Colonel Hubbard took two and the Third Brigade two. We
made a short halt upon gaining the enemy's works, and pressed on up the hills about one mile,
pursuing the fugitives, capturing many, until, by command of the general, halted at the base of
the steep part of the mountain, and put into position for the night.
In the charge, which was made across an open field about 400 yards wide, that noble and
brave young officer, Adjt. S. E. Day, of the Thirty-third Missouri Infantry Volunteers, was
mortally wounded; he died in hospital on the 19th instant; Lieutenant Rutledge, of Thirty-third
Missouri, was seriously wounded; Captain McKelvy and Lieutenant Potter, of Seventh
Minnesota, slightly wounded; 11 men were killed and 89 wounded.
I cannot too highly commend the gallant conduct of all the officers and men of the brigade;
no troops ever behaved more gallantly. The Twelfth Iowa had not a single line officer, owing to
the recent muster-out of non-veterans, yet their conduct was none the less soldierly and brave.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. R. MARSHALL,
Colonel Seventh Minnesota,
Comdg. Third Brig., First Div., Detach. Army of the Tennessee.
Capt. W. H. F. RANDALL,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
There were captured by my command in the two days' engagement, 5 12-pounder guns--
brass, 1 steel--(exclusive of the 2 Napoleon's conceded to Colonel Hubbard, which would have
made the number 7), 5 caissons, 1 battery wagon, about 500 prisoners, and 2 battle-flags.
There was expended, by Captain Julian's battery, 2,000 rounds of 3-inch shell and solid shot;
by the infantry, mostly by the skirmishers, about 7,000 rounds of rifle-musket ammunition.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. R. MARSHALL,
Colonel Seventh Minnesota,
Comdg. Third Brig., First Div., Detach. Army of the Tennessee.
HDQRS. TWELFTH IOWA VETERAN VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,
Near Pulaski, Tenn., December 28, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by the
Twelfth Iowa Veteran Volunteer Infantry during the actions of 15th and 16th of December, 1864,
near Nashville, Tenn.:
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In accordance with instructions from your headquarters, I had my men under arms at 6
o'clock on the morning of the 15th, and at a few minutes after 8 moved outside our line of works
and formed line to the right of the Hardin pike; my regiment formed the right of our brigade line;
afterward being ordered to the left, I moved my regiment to the left of the pike and formed as the
left center of the brigade line. We then threw forward a heavy line of skirmishers, and awaited
the forming of the general line. At about 10 o'clock, the order to advance being given, our
skirmishers pushed rapidly forward, and found a considerable force of the enemy, who were
easily driven back. Our main line advanced steadily and without opposition, constantly changing
our point of direction toward the left, until we had advanced two miles, when, coming on to the
crest of a hill, we were opened on by one of the enemy's batteries, posted directly in our front
and distant about 1,000 yards. Our men were then ordered to lie down, and our brigade battery
brought forward and opened fire on the enemy. We were held in this position for about an hour
and a half, the enemy keeping up a constant fire on our line, doing us but little damage. The First
and Second Brigades of our division, to our right, having advanced their lines, swung around to
the left, charged and captured the enemy's redoubts in our front. We were then moved forward,
swinging our line to the left, and conforming to the line on our right. After advancing about half
a mile we came upon a strong redoubt of the enemy, situated to the right of the Hillsborough
pike and just five miles from Nashville. Our line was pushed well forward, and shortly before 4
p.m., everything being ready, we were ordered to charge. Our men moved rapidly up the hill, but
before gaining the crest the enemy moved their guns and most of their support to a fort about 300
yards in the rear, and to the right, from which they gave us a heavy raking fire as we moved onto
and over the first works. On gaining the first work our brigade commander, Col. S. G. Hill,
Thirty-fifth Iowa Infantry, was shot through the head and instantly killed. Our brigade line being
in considerable disorder, I ordered the command halted and lines reformed, which order was
promptly complied with, our men in the meantime keeping up a heavy fire on the enemy in our
front. On gaining the crest of the first hill Colonel Marshall, of the Seventh Minnesota, and
Lieutenant Reed, acting adjutant Twelfth Iowa, with about 200 men of the two regiments, being
in advance, pushed rapidly forward, obliquing to the left, and captured the second work, with a
large number of prisoners, three or four guns, several ammunition wagons, and a large number of
small-arms. The balance of the brigade, as soon as formed, moved forward, but night coming on,
we were compelled to halt. Colonel Marshall, Seventh Minnesota, being senior officer, assumed
command of the brigade, and having properly reformed our lines, ordered us to bivouac for the
night.
It is impossible to give an exact estimate of prisoners and property captured in this charge, as
all were so anxious to pursue the enemy that prisoners and captured property were given over or
taken to possession of by other commands that came up in our rear. The loss of my regiment in
this day's fight was seven men wounded.
On the morning of the 16th we were called up before daylight and moved by the flank half a
mile to the right, taking position on and joining the left of the Second Brigade of our division,
my regiment forming the right of our brigade line. About 8 o'clock, our skirmishers having
driven the enemy in front back to their works, we were ordered to move forward, and advanced
on the double-quick for about half a mile, rapidly swinging our lines and changing our direction
to the right until we had arrived within short musket-range of the enemy's works, when we were
ordered to halt. During the advance the enemy opened on us heavily with artillery, but owing to
our rapid movement and their inaccurate aim we suffered but little. After a ten minutes' rest we
were ordered to close to the right and double our lines. The brigade on our right having doubled,
and left an interval in the line, I moved by the flank and closed on them, forming line with the
right resting on the Granny White pike. The Seventh Minnesota formed on my left, and the other
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regiments of the brigade, Thirty-third Missouri and Thirty-fifth Iowa, formed a second line in our
rear. Our front was covered by a stone wall and a heavy rail fence, which we threw down, and
formed into a slight breast-work. We were kept in this position during the greater part of the day.
The enemy in the meantime kept up a troublesome musketry fire on our line, but by keeping
close to our work we suffered but little damage. Company C of my regiment, detailed as
sharpshooters, kept up a vigorous fire on the enemy, and during the day rendered excellent
service. About 3 p.m. I was ordered to throw up an earth-work in my front, and procured tools
and had my work half completed, when, at about 4 o'clock, a charge was commenced by the
right of our division. I at once ordered my men to cease work and prepare for a charge, and a
moment after ward, being told that we were ordered to advance, I gave the command forward.
The ground in our front was such that we passed one-third the distance before we were fairly
under fire, and after that our movement was so rapid that the enemy could give us but two or
three volleys before we were at their works. The work was a heavy stone wall, with a ditch on
the inner side, and the outer face strengthened with earth and rails, so that it was almost
impossible to scale it. Had the enemy made a determined stand they might have inflicted very
serious injury on us before losing their works, but their line having been broken on the left, and
our advance being so rapid and determined, they were thrown into a panic and fled from their
works in confusion, leaving their colors, guns, caissons, and hundreds of prisoners in our hands.
After the work had been taken I moved my regiment rapidly forward for about half a mile, when,
the charge being finished, I was ordered to the rear to pick up prisoners and captured property. In
this charge, as on the previous day's, it was impossible to get a list of what we had captured.
Large numbers of prisoners were taken charge of by officers of other commands. I collected
about 200 prisoners and sent them under charge of my own men to Nashville. On going to the
rear I found on the line of works charged by our brigade, 4 12-pounder Napoleon guns, with
caissons complete, one army wagon, and about 400 or 500 stand of small-arms, all of which I
collected and turned over to a proper officer, after which I moved my regiment to the front and
bivouacked for the night. My loss in this day's fight was 1 man killed and 11 wounded. During
the charge on this day there were four flags captured by men of my regiment, but two of them,
captured by Privates Samuel H. Flint, D Company, and Michael Wivinis, I Company, were
afterward thrown down by them, in order that they might continue the pursuit of the enemy. I
still have in my possession two flags, one a large regimental flag, captured by Corpl. Luther
Kaltenbach, F Company, and a battery flag, captured by Private A. J. Sloan, H Company.
I take great pleasure in mentioning Capt. S. G. Knee, H Company, acting major; Lieut. D. W.
Reed, C Company, acting adjutant; and Lieut. H. C. Morehead, D Company, acting
quartermaster, for their valuable services rendered on the field. Assistant Surgeon Underwood
stood faithfully to his post and dressed the wounds of our men where the fire was hottest.
Chaplain Humphrey rendered invaluable service in caring for our wounded on the field and in
the hospital. Sergeant-Major Burch and Color-Sergeants Grannis and Clark displayed skill and
courage in the performance of their duties.
I desire to call your especial attention to the fact that during the two days' fight my regiment
was almost entirely unofficered, all the line officers of my regiment except four having been
mustered out of service on the 1st instant, and all my companies being commanded by sergeants;
during the fight all did their duty nobly, and are deserving of an especial mention; but to mention
particularly deserving ones, I would have to name all, as every man of the regiment did his
whole duty.
I transmit herewith a list of the casualties in my regiment during the two days' fight.
I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. H. STIBBS,
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Lieut. Col., Comdg. Twelfth Iowa Veteran Volunteer Infantry.
Lieut. HENRY HOOVER,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
ADDENDA.
HEADQUARTERS TWELFTH IOWA INFANTRY,
Pulaski, Tenn., December 29, 1864.
Maj. J. HOUGH,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Detach. Army of the Tennessee:
MAJOR: I have the honor-to make the following statement concerning two flags captured
from the enemy on the 16th instant, in action near Nashville, Tenn., and which I now forward to
your headquarters:
The flags were captured during the grand charge made on the enemy's line on the afternoon
of the 16th instant. The large one be longed to a Mississippi regiment, I think the Forty-fourth,
and was captured by Corpl. Luther Kaltenbach, F Company, Twelfth Iowa Infantry. The colorbearer
had been shot down, and as my regiment advanced Corporal Kaltenbach ran forward and
picked up the flag. The small flag belonged to a battery, the name of which I have been unable to
learn, and was captured by Private Andrew J. Slosh, H Company, Twelfth Iowa Infantry. This
flag had been taken from the staff by one of the enemy, who was afterward captured by Private
Sloan, who took the flag from him.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. H. STIBBS,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Twelfth Iowa Infantry.
HDQRS. THIRTY-FIFTH IOWA INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS,
Columbia, Tenn., December 23, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of operations of the Thirty-fifth Iowa on
December 15 and 16, before Nashville:
Early upon the morning of December 15, in obedience to orders from Col. S. G. Hill,
commanding Third Brigade, the regiment moved from camp in advance of the brigade, and
formed line of battle on left of Hardin pike, moving forward with Company E deployed as
skirmishers. At 11 o'clock the regiment was ordered to support the battery attached to the
brigade, and formed on the left and to the rear of it, remaining in that position until near 2 p.m.,
when we were again ordered forward, and our line swinging around from the right at nearly a
right angle with our former position, brought us directly in front of the enemy's fort, and between
the battery attached to the brigade and the enemy's fire. Continued skirmishing was carried on
until about 3.30 p.m., when we were ordered to take the fort, with instructions to hold our fire
until all were in the works. With fixed bayonets the men moved forward, never halting until we
had taken and passed through the first work and reached the stone wall east of it. Major Dill
being unable to proceed farther, upon being notified by the adjutant, I immediately assumed
command of and reformed the regiment, the command remaining in its new position until
ordered to move to the right and front, where we encamped for the night in line of battle. Before
daybreak (16th) the command was ordered to move to the right and follow the Thirty-third
Missouri, keeping well closed up. Company H was deployed as skirmishers. Some few moments
later the command was moved still farther to the right and formed line of battle, moving across
an open field in rear and to the left of the Bradford mansion, under a heavy artillery fire, until
they reached the ravine, when they were again moved to the right and facing the enemy's works.
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At 4 p.m. the line moved forward; crossing the open field and passing through the enemy's work,
formed on the left of the Thirty-third Missouri.
Of both officers and men I cannot speak too highly, as all were prompt and efficient at all
times and under all circumstances. Captain McKelvey, Company K, and Captain Dixson,
Company G, being first in the enemy's work on the 15th, deserve great credit for their courage
and bearing during the charge. Lieutenant Washburn, Company A, commanded Company E as
skirmishers on the 15th, until recalled before the charge, and was slightly wounded by a shell
while skirmishing with the enemy. Lieut. Whiting M. Wetherill, commanding Company H, being
deployed with his company to skirmish, on the 16th, and becoming detached from our front by
the continued movement to the right, seeing the lines formed and charging, gallantly led his men
forward and was first to enter the fort of four guns upon the right front of the Fourth Corps,
pushing forward and pressing the enemy until dark, when he rejoined the regiment.
I inclose herewith list of casualties of the command.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. N. SNYDER,
Captain Company F, Commanding.
Lieut. HENRY HOOVER,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. SEVENTH MINNESOTA VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,
In the Field, December 20, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the
Seventh Regiment Minnesota Infantry in the engagements of the 15th and 16th instant:
On the morning of the 15th instant the regiment, commanded by Col. William R. Marshall,
moved out from camp near Nashville, with the brigade to which it belongs, at 6 a.m. They
moved out on the Hardin pike about a mile, when they formed line of battle and halted. During
this halt the extreme right of the army appeared to be quite heavily engaged. Company B of my
regiment, commanded by Capt. A. H. Stevens, was ordered to advance and deploy as skirmishers
in front of the regiment. Soon after the whole line moved forward, crossing the Hardin pike
obliquely to the left, until they arrived in front of the enemy's works, about three miles from the
camp we had left. Here our line was moved somewhat to the left, which brought my regiment
into an open field, where they were ordered to lie down, while the artillery in our line opened
upon the enemy. The enemy were posted upon a range of high hills, upon which they had erected
strong fortifications, from which it was our business to dislodge them. The regiment lay in the
field before referred to until the first of the fortifications on the enemy's left were charged and
taken by the brigades of our division upon our right, when our brigade was moved forward to a
hill opposite a fortification still occupied by the enemy, conforming our movements to those of
the troops upon our right. We were shortly moved forward again to the foot of the hill upon
which the fortification last named was situated, from which point we charged the enemy in his
works, driving him in confusion. The regiment moved rapidly along the enemy's line to a second
fortification, a little distance off, again driving the enemy, and forcing him to abandon three of
his guns and caissons. From this point we poured a most galling fire upon the retreating enemy.
By the death of the gallant officer commanding our brigade, Colonel Hill, of the Thirty-fifth
Iowa Infantry, who was killed just as he reached the top of the hill upon which the fortification
was situated, Colonel Marshall was called to the command of the brigade, and the command of
the regiment devolved upon me. It was now dark, and the regiment bivouacked in its place in
brigade for the night.
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In this action the regiment lost seventeen men wounded, whose names appear in my report of
casualties herewith furnished. Lieut. A. A. Rice, of Company B, was severely wounded while in
the skirmish line. He is a gallant officer, and performed his duties up to the time he was wounded
with courage and ability.
In this day's action the regiment captured over fifty prisoners, who were turned over to the
provost-marshal-general, and shared with the other regiments of the brigade the capture of three
guns.
On the morning of the 16th instant we again moved upon the enemy and took a position on
the left of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry, in the front line of the brigade, behind a fence directly in
front of a strongly fortified position held by the enemy. The right of the Twelfth Iowa rested on
the Granny White pike. The enemy was protected by a high and thick wall of stone, which was
strengthened by earth thrown up against its front along a portion of the wall and by large rails
planted firmly and slanting from the top of the wall to the ground along the remainder of it.
Inside the wall cannon were planted, and deep pits dug for the protection of the men against our
guns. Outside the walls, and somewhat advanced, were barricades made of rails piled closely
together, with rifle.pits behind them, from which the enemy's sharpshooters continually fired
upon our line. Here my regiment remained the greater part of the day, the left of the line keeping
up a fire upon the enemy the most of the time. We had some men wounded while occupying this
line, and two killed in advancing to it. A heavy cannonading upon the enemy was kept up the
whole day by the batteries upon our right and in our rear. Toward the close of the day a charge
was made upon the enemy's works, commencing upon our right, the brigades of the First
Division moving rapidly, one after the other, until the whole line was in motion. My regiment
moved forward with the line, in the face of a heavy fire of grape and musketry, passed over the
works of the enemy, who were completely routed, capturing their guns and many prisoners. The
ground over which the regiment passed was soft; a portion of the way was a corn-field, rendering
the rapid movement of the line exceedingly difficult and greatly adding to the hazard of the
movement. We advanced as far as a high hill beyond the line of works where we charged the
enemy, and bivouacked for the night.
In the charge the regiment captured 4 of the enemy's guns and more than 200 prisoners,
making with those taken the day before 250 prisoners taken by them. Major Butt, of my
regiment, had charge of the brigade skirmish line during the day, and discharged his duties with
his usual skill and fidelity. Our losses in this day's fight were 43, 7 killed and 36 wounded,
whose names have been furnished in a previous report. The most of the losses occurred in the
charge. Captain McKelvy, of Company I, and Lieutenant Potter, of Company E, were both
wounded in this charge, the first slightly, the latter somewhat severely.
In conclusion, I ought not to omit to mention Corporals Sylvester, of Company I, and
Dowling, of Company B, who bore the colors of the Regiment in both days' fights. Cool and
intrepid, they pushed steadily on through the terrific charges made upon the enemy, unswerved
by the "leaden rain and iron hail" which fell thickly around them, mindful only of the honorable
duty of bearing the colors erect in the van of the fight. Assistant Surgeon Mattock was constantly
with us in the field, fearlessly exposing himself wherever his presence could benefit the
wounded, and faithful and untiring in the discharge of all his duties. Doctor Ames was on duty at
the hospital during the fight, by order of the division surgeon. Chaplain Edwards was active and
zealous in his ministrations to the wounded, constantly and efficiently exerting himself in their
behalf. Of the officers of the field, staff, and line of the regiment I can only say that the conduct
of all was such that any distinction would be invidious. It is enough to say that all were earnest,
zealous, and efficient in the discharge of every duty. Lieutenant Potter, though wounded by a
shot through the arm, still pressed on with his company, and did not fall back till the works had
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been carried. The conduct of the men present in the two days' engagement was unexceptional;
they were fearless amid the dangers of the battle, and cheerful and uncomplaining in enduring
the hardships and exposures of the bivouac and the march.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. BRADLEY,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Regiment.
Lieut. HENRY HOOVER,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General
HEADQUARTERS THIRTY-THIRD MISSOURI VOLUNTEERS,
Near Pulaski, Tenn., December 28, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Thirty-third
Missouri Volunteers in the battles of 15th and 16th of December, 1864, at Nashville, Tenn.:
On the morning of the 15th instant, at about 7 o'clock, the regiment moved out, pursuant to
orders from Colonel Hill, commanding Third Brigade, and was formed in line-north of Hardin
pike and on the right of Third Brigade, connecting on the right with the Second Brigade, Colonel
Hubbard commanding. At 9 o'clock the line of battle advanced diagonally across the pike, and a
break occurring in the skirmish line in my front, Captain Rose was sent forward with Company
H to fill up the gap. This company became engaged immediately with a line of the enemy
concealed behind a rail fence south of the Hardin pike. A general advance of the entire line drove
the enemy from this position and back toward his main works. With but feeble resistance, the
enemy's skirmishers were pushed rapidly back, until at about 1 p.m. our main line of battle had
been brought to within about 1,500 yards of the left of the enemy's works, when I received orders
to take position on the right of Battery I, Second Missouri Artillery, and support it upon that
flank. Sharp artillery firing ensued between this battery and a four-gun battery posted on the
enemy's extreme left, during which Captain Rose with his skirmishers drove the rebel
sharpshooters promptly in and took position so near their battery as to seriously annoy the
gunners and impede the handling of the artillery. At 1.30 I received orders to move to the left of
Battery I and close a gap between it and the Thirty-fifth Iowa. This change made it necessary to
send out Lieutenant Knowlton with Company B as skirmishers in front of the new position.
Lieutenant Knowlton handled his line with good effect, driving in the rebel skirmishers and
pressing them closely. At about 2.30 o'clock, the main work on the enemy's left being captured,
with all its artillery, by troops on my right, I received orders from Major-General Smith to
advance the regiment, making a half wheel to the left, so as to confront the next work toward the
rebel right, and on the completion of this movement, received orders from Colonel Hill to halt
and have the men lie down. (During this halt Captain Rose returned his company to its place in
line of battle.) At about 4 o'clock I received orders to advance to the charge, keeping closed up
on the Thirty-fifth Iowa and conforming to the movements of that regiment. The order of battle
brought the regiment directly in a dense thicket, through which it was impossible to advance with
regularity. The line of defenses of the enemy was such that when the Thirty-fifth Iowa entered
his works on my left and 100 yards north of Hillsborough pike, I discovered a body of the enemy
directly in front of my line strongly posted behind a stone wall on the pike, this wall being
covered by a work south of the pike and still farther toward the rebel right. Without waiting to
restore my line, I ordered a charge upon this wall pell mell, and had little difficulty in driving the
enemy, who appeared panic stricken and fired badly. The loss of the regiment in this charge was
but two wounded. It being now dark, orders were issued to bivouac in line for the night parallel
with Hillsborough pike and south of it.
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December 16, shortly after daylight, orders were received to move forward in line of battle,
keeping in line with the Seventh Minnesota, on our right, and conforming to the movement of
that regiment. In this order the regiment passed across the Granny White pike and then wheeled
to the right, in order to confront a line of rebel works at right angles with the pike. Orders were
now received to form line fifteen paces in rear of the Twelfth Iowa, which was at the right of the
brigade, and take shelter behind a stone wall. All these movements were executed under a galling
fire from two rebel batteries, aided by musketry, our own batteries in our rear also firing over us,
and occasionally bursting their shells immediately over or amongst us. We remained in this
position until about 3.30 p.m., when we received orders to intrench for the night. While this
order was being executed there was a general movement of the lines to our right, and a charge
was made upon the rebel works. This regiment, with the Twelfth Iowa and Seventh Minnesota,
was ordered to move forward and carry the enemy's position in front of us. Passing over the
stone wall and through a plowed field, we received a terrible direct musketry fire from a brigade
of the enemy posted behind a stone wall in our front, and a very galling cross-fire of canister
from a strong and well-handled battery to our left. Seeing the left flank of the enemy's infantry
already turned by the First and Second Brigades, I ordered my regiment to wheel to the left and
storm his works and battery in that direction. This was done in the most gallant and successful
manner, the men pressing eagerly forward through the first line, and being the first regiment to
display their colors inside that portion of the enemy's works. Expecting a counter movement
from the enemy's reserves, I here halted the regiment momentarily to reform the line, and
immediately thereafter advanced about one mile through the rebel encampment to the foot of a
chain of bluffs, being joined by numbers of men, who, in their impetuosity, had entered the
works in advance of their regiments. No resistance was offered by the enemy to our farther
advance until we arrived at the foot of the bluffs. Here we were met by a hot but inaccurate fire
from rebel stragglers on the crest of these bluffs, but succeeded in silencing them by sending out
a few skirmishers. It being again near dark, farther pursuit was refused, and we received orders
to bivouac in line for the night.
During this day the skirmishing was done by Company G, under command of Lieutenant
Rutledge, and subsequently by Company C, Captain Campbell, who relieved Rutledge about
noon. Both companies did excellent work in annoying the rebel gunners, and both joined in the
final charge.
Too much cannot be said in praise of the gallant men and officers who thus carried strong
defenses manned by the flower of Hood's army of veterans. The coolness and determination of
their advance were beyond all praise. They fired but little, pushing ahead at the double-quick and
saving their ammunition till they should come to close quarters.
Among the losses I regret to number Adjt. S. Edward Day, of Saint Joseph, Mo., an officer of
the first ability and conspicuous gallantry. He received a mortal wound during the heat of the
charge, while bravely cheering on the men to victory. Also, Lieut. Thomas Rut-ledge, of Saint
Louis, at the head of his noble company, received a wound which it is feared will prove fatal.
Beloved by all for their manly patriotism and social qualities, they were mourned sincerely by
every brave comrade.
The regiment went into this day's battle with 280 men, and lost 43 killed and wounded.
Appended is a full list of casualties in the two days' battles.
Very respectfully,
WM. H. HEATH,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Regiment.
Lieut. HENRY HOOVER,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
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HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
Camp near Columbia, December 24, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by this division in the
late battles before Nashville:
On the morning of the 15th instant, at an early hour, the division was moved outside of the
works, and formed in line of battle in the following order: On the right, near the Hardin pike,
Colonel Wolfe's brigade, composed of the Fifty-second Indiana, Forty-ninth Illinois, One
hundred and seventeenth Illinois, One hundred and seventy-eighth New York, and Battery G,
Second Illinois; in the center, Col. D. Moore's brigade, composed of the Twenty-first Missouri,
Eighty-ninth Indiana, One hundred and nineteenth Illinois, One hundred and twenty-second
Illinois, and the Ninth Indiana Battery; and on the left, Colonel Gilbert's brigade, composed of
the Twenty-seventh Iowa, Thirty-second Iowa, Tenth Kansas, Fifty-eighth Illinois, and Third
Indiana Battery. My instructions required me to keep closed on the Fourth Corps, on my left, and
regulate my advance by the right. A strong line of skirmishers was thrown from the division, as
follows: In front of Wolfe, a portion of the One hundred and seventeenth Illinois, Lieutenant-
Colonel Merriam commanding; in front of Moore, a portion of the One hundred and twentysecond
Illinois, Major Chapman commanding; and in front of Gilbert, the Tenth Kansas and
Company B, Twenty-seventh Iowa, Capt. W. C. Jones, Tenth Kansas, commanding. The general
movement of the day was a grand wheel to the left, and as the division was in the center of the
line it was necessary to use the utmost exertion to preserve its proper relation to the two grand
wings. After advancing some distance, the skirmish line clearing away all opposition, the line
halted in easy cannon-range of the rebel forts. The skirmish line was well advanced, and the
Second Illinois and Ninth Indiana Batteries immediately brought into action, under the direction
of Captain Lowell, chief of division artillery. These batteries were much exposed to the enemy's
guns from the forts, but they maintained their fire, were used with much skill, and by silencing in
a great degree the enemy's guns, contributed largely toward the final capture of the forts. The
movement of the division being controlled by that of the line on its right, it was not until
McArthur's left brigade, under Hill, advanced, that I ordered the charge which was promptly
made on the double-quick. In the front of my center there was an angle in the enemy's works, so
that when the Fourth Corps charged the works in their front, and I the forts in my front, our lines
crossed. To prevent confusion I directed Moore and Gilbert in reserve, and after the fort in front
of Wolfe was carried by him, brought them up in line on Wolfe's right. In the general movement
of the day the skirmish line was thrown out of position and to the right. At the time of the charge
the skirmish line, which originally was in front of my two right brigades, was in front of
McArthur's left.
With a view to a clear understanding of the position at the time of the assault, it would be
well to state that the rebels had a continuous line of works facing toward Nashville, and
extending from toward the Franklin pike over to the Granny White pike. Near the Granny White
pike and east of it there was a small redoubt forming an angle with the continuous line, then
there was a series of detached works, extending back toward the hills and in the direction of the
Hardin pike. The first of these forts was just west of the Granny White pike, and some 600 to
1,000 yards from the small redoubt at the angle. The Fourth Corps passed over the line of works,
its right near the angle; Wolfe passed over the redoubt at the angle; and Hill's brigade,
McArthur's division, passed over the fort west of Granny White pike. The skirmishers of the One
hundred and twenty-second Illinois and One hundred and seventeenth Illinois were in front of
Hill, and the One hundred and twenty-second captured the battery flag, but the three guns
captured in that fort rightfully belong to Hill's brigade. Wolfe's brigade captured in the redoubt
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two guns, one disabled, and a third gun some distance in the rear of the redoubt, which the
enemy had attempted to carry off.
On the morning of the 16th, at 8 a.m., the division was advanced in line in the direction of
the Franklin pike--Gilbert on the right, Moore in the center, and Wolfe on the left. It was soon
found necessary to change front forward on the right brigade, in order to face the enemy's line.
This was done under heavy artillery fire; and to form connection with McArthur's line, Wolfe
was brought up in line in my center and Gilbert moved to the right. A fortified hill in front of my
left was carried by the skirmish line and the artillery brought into action. An effective and
continuous artillery fire was kept up, and the skirmish line advanced close up to the enemy's
works. The Fourth Corps was formed on my left. Noticing, about 4 p.m., a heavy musketry fire
on the right of the corps, and believing that the critical point in the battle had arrived, I gave the
order for the whole division to charge. This order was most promptly and gallantly obeyed.
Gilbert's and Wolfe's brigades moved forward as a unit, and Moore a little retired. The division
charged in the face of heavy artillery and musketry fire from the enemy's works, but its advance
was so determined and rapid that the enemy was completely routed and driven in confusion from
his intrenchments. His works consisted of a strong stone wall capped with earth, having a ditch
and abatis in front. The enemy abandoned his artillery. Gilbert passed over and captured 5 guns,
with the battery flag; Wolfe, 5; and Moore a battery of 4 guns a little to the left of that portion of
the enemy's works carried by his brigade. This battery was captured by the One hundred and
twenty-second Illinois, by moving off by the left flank after passing over the enemy's works. In
addition to the above-enumerated guns, six more were captured by Moore's brigade. They were
on a road just behind the first hills and were taken from the enemy as he was endeavoring to run
them off. In the hills quite a number of wagons, limbers, and caissons were captured. During the
assault all the artillery of the division, under the direction of the chief of artillery, was massed on
the hill where my line had been formed, and was served with great rapidity and effect.
I inclose the report of the chief of artillery, that the major-general commanding the corps may
be informed more in detail of the valuable service rendered by that arm in the late battle.
On this day 20 guns and about 850 prisoners were captured, including Maj. Gen. Edward
Johnson and other officers. On both days the first thought of myself and officers was to defeat
and pursue the enemy, and I have to regret that proper care was not taken to secure receipt for the
three guns on the 15th nor the twenty on the 16th, nor even for the prisoners which were
captured; many of these were even taken to the provost-marshal in Nashville and left there
without stating to what command they belonged. With the exception of the four guns on the
extreme left on the 16th, I was an eye-witness to the fact of the different brigades passing over
the batteries reported as captured by them; I also saw the battery on the left during the charge,
but passed forward and out of sight of it before the One hundred and twenty-second Illinois
captured it. The Fourth Corps, on my left, did not advance until I had carried the enemy's works,
and I was, on this account, compelled to hold the Twenty-first Missouri in reserve, in rear of my
left brigade, to provide against any attack on my flank; this flank, from the course of the enemy's
works, was exposed to and in the charge suffered from a cross-fire.
It is with a feeling of just pride and pleasure that I refer to the good conduct and gallant
bearing of the division throughout the two days' engagement. Under the many trying
circumstances which surround a battlefield, both officers and men yielded a prompt and cheerful
obedience to all orders, and in the assaults they displayed a determination and zeal which gained
for them a complete and great victory. Among the many who did nobly I would ask the especial
notice of the major-general commanding the corps to Col. James I. Gilbert, commanding Second
Brigade, and Col. Edward H. Wolfe, commanding Third Brigade. These officers, for their
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efficiency as brigade commanders, and their soldierly bearing on the battle-field, I would
respectfully recommend for promotion to the rank of brigadier-general.
To the officers on the division staff' I feel under many obligations for their useful assistance
to me. Lieut. James B. Comstock. Twenty-first Missouri, acting assistant adjutant-general; Capt.
William B. Dugger, One hundred and twenty-second Illinois, provost.marshal; Lieut. Richard
Rees, Twenty-first Missouri, acting inspector-general, and Lieut. Sargeant McKnight, One
hundred and twenty-second Illinois, acting aide-de-camp, were with me during both days, and by
the intelligent and soldierly manner in which they discharged their duties, contributed materially
toward the success of the division.
For the detailed action of brigades and regiments and special mention of regimental officers I
have the honor to refer you to the reports of the brigade commanders herewith inclosed.
My loss, I am pleased to report, is small, only 4 officers and 160 enlisted men killed and
wounded.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
K. GARRARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Division.
ASST. ADJT. GEN., DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION,
DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
In the Field, Tenn., December 20, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: In relation to the part taken by my brigade in the late battles with the enemy
near Nashville, Tenn., on the 15th and 16th of December, 1864, I have the honor to make the
following report:
My command was comprised as follows: The Twenty-seventh Iowa Volunteer Infantry, 477
effective force, Lieut. Col. Jed Lake commanding; the Thirty-second Iowa Volunteer Infantry,
362 effective force, Lieut. Col. G. A. Eberhart commanding; the Fifty-eighth Illinois Volunteer
Infantry, 331 effective force, Maj. R. W. Healy commanding; the Tenth Kansas Veteran
Volunteer Infantry, 187 effective force, Capt. W. C. Jones commanding; the Third Indiana
Battery, six guns, 114 effective force, First Lieut. Thomas J. Ginn commanding.
In compliance with orders from General Garrard, commanding Second Division, Detachment
Army of the Tennessee, I had my command in readiness to move at daylight on the morning of
the 15th instant. About 7 a.m. I moved the brigade outside the line of intrenchments encircling
the city and formed the regiments of infantry in column by division, sending out the Tenth
Kansas with one company of the Twenty-seventh Iowa, Company B, as skirmishers, to cover the
entire front of the brigade. Soon afterward I received orders to form in line of battle and advance,
governing my movement by that of the troops upon my right, guiding, however, to the left. I
immediately deployed into line in the following order: The Thirty-second Iowa on the right, the
Fifty-eighth Illinois in the center, the Twenty-seventh Iowa on the left, the battery following
closely in the rear, my left resting near the right of the Fourth Army Corps We had advanced but
a short distance when brisk skirmishing commenced. Our skirmishers were checked only a few
minutes, however, and soon drove the enemy from his sheltered skirmish line back upon his
reserves, and yet steadily back to within 400 yards of a strongly intrenched position. Here they
were checked, but, being' re-enforced, again advanced to within 200 yards of the rebel works,
driving the enemy inside, and, finding good shelter behind trees and stumps, held this position
until the main line was ready to charge, all the while doing excellent service in sharp-shooting
the gunners of a rebel battery in their immediate front. The approach of my command toward the
rebel works was necessarily very slow, as it was nearest the pivot upon which the whole right
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wing of the army swung around upon the enemy's left flank. Heavy cannonading from the enemy
occurred at times during the advance, but owing to the thick timber in front he tailed to get range
so as to do me material damage. About 4 p.m., the main line having arrived close upon the left of
the enemy's works, my skirmishers were relieved and reported to the command, when I received
orders to move by the right flank to the rear of the First and in support of the Third Brigade, now
ready to charge the works. I immediately executed the order in quick time, but had little more
than reached the position assigned me when I heard the shouts of victory and saw several
hundred prisoners passed to the rear. I was soon afterward ordered to move half a mile to the
right and form my command upon the right of the First Brigade, when, as it was now dark, I was
ordered to rest for the night.
My casualties on this day did not exceed twenty, nearly all of which were in the Tenth
Kansas Veteran Volunteer Infantry, and I cannot close the report of the day without justly
complimenting this regiment and Company B, Twenty-seventh Iowa Volunteer Infantry, for
excellent performance of skirmish duty.
On the morning of the 16th, just after daylight, I received orders to form my command in line
of battle, my right resting near the left of the First Division, my brigade constituting the right of
the Second Division. I at once formed as directed, in the following order, sending out five
companies of the Fifty-eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, under command of Captain Kittel, as
skirmishers: The Thirty-second Iowa on the right, the Twenty-seventh Iowa the right center, the
Fifty-eighth Illinois left center, and the Tenth Kansas on the left, which last-named regiment was
soon afterward posted as a reserve, and so held throughout the day; the Third Indiana Battery
again followed the movements of the command. About 7.30 o'clock, conforming to the
movement of the line upon my right, I moved the brigade forward nearly the distance of half a
mile through an open corn-field, partially wheeling to the right. Having reached the Granny
White pike I moved some 500 or 600 yards by the right flank upon the pike, when I again moved
forward, still advancing my left faster than my right, over another open corn-field, where the
enemy opened upon us a severe fire from a battery within their line of works, some 1,000 yards
distant. The command moved in quick time, but with much coolness, until I had passed a little
ravine, crossed a brook, and reached the brow of a hill in front, sheltered by trees, where I
ordered the command to halt. I had occupied this position but a few minutes when I heard heavy
musketry and saw a sudden changing of troops upon my right. Fearing that it might possibly be
the line giving way I immediately ordered my command to recross the brook and then halt,
whilst I rode up on an adjacent hill in order to discern the precise nature of the movements upon
the right. Perceiving that the First Division was contracting in order to double its lines, I hastened
back, and, under brisk artillery fire, moved the command by the right flank, breaking
considerably to the rear, following a little ravine which, fortunately, ran nearly parallel to the
enemy's line of works, until my right again rested near the First Division. I now ordered the
command to lie down, where it remained for several hours, almost entirely safe from the missiles
of the enemy, although the firing was severe and we lay within 400 or 500 [yards] of his line of
works. At some distance to our right the enemy's fortified line ascended a hill. From this point
his sharpshooters, having full view of my line, made frequent attempts to reach it. One of their
bullets passed very close to two of my staff officers, and killed a horse belonging to Major
Hutchison, Thirty-second Iowa Infantry. In the meantime my battery, which had failed on the
previous day to get into action on account of the impossibility of procuring a suitable position,
had followed the movements of the brigade until the infantry advanced from the Granny White
pike. It was at this time that the enemy opened a heavy fire from a covered position. I
immediately ordered Lieutenant Ginn into position at double-quick, on a rise of ground in the
open corn-field, from which position he opened a rapid fire upon the enemy, which was
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continued until his ammunition (canister excepted) was wholly exhausted. About 1 p.m., having
received a fresh supply of ammunition, Lieutenant Ginn was ordered some 400 yards to the left,
where he expended some sixty rounds of ammunition. He was then ordered by Captain Lowell,
chief of artillery Second Division, some 100 yards to the right, where he expended sixty
additional rounds upon a rebel battery immediately in his front. Thence Lieutenant Ginn was
ordered by Major-General Smith to the left of my brigade. From this position he continued fire
with three guns upon the battery in my front, and the other three upon a battery in front of the
Third Brigade, until the final charge was made. Throughout the day the battery did good service,
and, although most of the time in an exposed position, its firing was rapid, accurate, and
effective, expending 923 rounds of ammunition during the action.
A few minutes before 4 p.m., everything being in readiness, General Garrard's order was
received to charge the enemy's works. The order was instantly given to my command and as
instantly obeyed. From right to left my entire infantry command sprang to their feet, raised the
crest of the little hill in front, gave a wild hurrah, and pressed directly forward. Notwithstanding
a severe fire of musketry, grape, and canister, which, but for the fact that it was delivered too
high, must have terribly torn my ranks, the whole line pressed eagerly on. As we passed the
skirmish line, Captain Kittel, Fifty-eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with admirable skill,
collected his skirmishers on the run and joined in the charge. The rebels were seen to leave their
rifle-pits and rush back over the works, and when within fifty paces of their line, a last volley of
musketry, grape, and canister was poured upon my line, but it also passed almost harmless
through the air over our heads. In a few minutes more the whole command had reached and
passed the enemy's intrenchments, killing and capturing some of the artillerists at the guns,
whilst the main line of the rebels ran in every direction. Five cannon were passed by my brigade,
but, by my directions, were left without a guard, and the whole command ordered forward in
pursuit of the enemy. Prisoners were taken singly and in squads numbering as high as thirty,
most of whom were simply disarmed and ordered to the rear, which seemed very much in
accordance with their desire. The command pressed on to the foot of and some distance up the
base of the mountain, where I was ordered to halt. From the heights above, Captain Harris,
Thirty-sixth Mississippi, hung out the white flag, and, with a few men yet with him, came down
and were passed to the rear. Regimental commanders report not less than 150 prisoners taken in
the pursuit. William May, a private of Captain Benson's company (H), Thirty-second Iowa
Infantry, as we approached the works, dashed forward and captured the battery guidon, which is
now in my hands. Several of the official papers of the battery were also captured, showing it to
have been A. Bouanchaud's. I am thus explicit in relation to the capture of the five guns, as I
have been informed that they were claimed by some other command, which drew off the guns
long after my brave men had captured and passed them in pursuit of the enemy.
The Tenth Kansas occupied the crest of the mountain as picket, and my command
bivouacked for the night at its base, whence on the morning of the 17th it set out with the
division in pursuit of the whipped, demoralized, and routed enemy.
Regimental commanders report excellent conduct on the part of both officers and men of
their respective commands, which, as far as my observation extended, I do most heartily indorse
and confirm.
Lieutenant-Colonel Eberhart, commanding Thirty-second Iowa, in his official report,
compliments Theodore De Tar, captain Company D, severely wounded, and Lieut. W. L.
Carpenter, acting regimental adjutant, for brave conduct; also, Color-Sergt. A. J. Ellis and
Corporal Bell, both of Company G, for bravery in action.
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The greatest gallantry was displayed on the part of my staff officers--Lieutenants Donnan,
McLean, and Eisenhart. Fearless of danger, they were in the thickest of the fight, from beginning
to end, rendering great assistance throughout the entire two days.
My casualties throughout the battles are comparatively very light, numbering sixty-three,
many of which are but slight wounds, as will be seen by a list of the same herewith inclosed.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
JAMES I. GILBERT,
Colonel Twenty-seventh Iowa, Commanding Brigade.
Lieut. JAMES B. COMSTOCK,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION,
DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
Eastport, Miss., January 9, 1865.
LIEUTENANT: In relation to the reconnaissance made to-day by my command toward Iuka,
I have the honor to report:
In compliance with orders from General Garrard, commanding Second Division, I moved the
infantry and one section of the battery of my command at 7 a.m. January 9, 1865, out on the Iuka
road. I proceeded some four miles without molestation, when my advance was fired upon by the
pickets or scouts of the enemy. After exchanging a few shots they fled, turning off on the Bear
Creek road, some mile and a half this side of Iuka. I advanced without further trouble, entering
the village about 10 a.m., capturing one prisoner, who claimed to be a commissary sergeant of
Roddey's command; that he was on duty at Corinth and came to Iuka on a visit. Some of the
citizens report Forrest's command in camp a few miles west from Iuka, and Hood at Corinth, but
the greater number claim that Hood has gone south from Corinth. Stewart's infantry was the last
to pass through Iuka on last Thursday. The opinion seems to prevail that a part, at least, of
Forrest's command is on the opposite or south side of Bear Creek. I think there is no doubt that
Hood's command is moving south from Corinth as speedily as possible. After allowing the men
time to make coffee, I returned, without the slightest interference, to camp, arriving about 3 p.m.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES I. GILBERT,
Colonel Twenty-seventh Iowa, Commanding Brigade.
Lieut. JAMES B. COMSTOCK,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
ADDENDA.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION,
DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
In the Field, Tenn., December 28, 1864.
Statement of William May, private Company H, Thirty-second Regiment Iowa Volunteer
Infantry, to James I. Gilbert, colonel Twenty-seventh Iowa, commanding Second Brigade, in
relation to trophies captured in the battle near Nashville, Tenn.:
On the 16th of December, when the Second Brigade, Second Division, Detachment Army of
the Tennessee, was ordered to charge the enemy's works, as my regiment, Thirty-second Iowa
Volunteer Infantry, which was on the right of the brigade, approached the earth-works, I saw this
rebel battery flag with the guns, and ran ahead of the regiment, over the works, and took it out of
a rebel's hands. In a valise close by I found some brass buttons, manufactured at Montgomery,
Ala., with letter B, German text; also a captain's artillery shoulder-strap, and some papers,
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invoices of ordnance stores, &c., showing the battery to have been A. Bouanchaud's. The flag is
about four feet square, of crimson bunting, with yellow fringe, with a diagonal cross, blue, upon
which are thirteen silken white stars.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES I. GILBERT,
Colonel Twenty-seventh Iowa, Commanding Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTY-EIGHTH ILLINOIS INFANTRY,
Near Spring Hill, Tenn., December 21, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to submit the following report in relation to the part taken
by my regiment in the late battle before Nashville, viz:
At 7 o'clock on the morning of the 15th instant, every preparation being made for battle, I
moved the regiment out of our works, in pursuance of an order of the colonel commanding
brigade, and formed line of battle with our brigade immediately in front of Fort Gilbert, facing
the enemy, the Thirty-second Iowa being on my right and the Twenty-seventh Iowa on my left.
Our line thus formed laid still in its position till about 11 a.m., when we moved forward, guided
by the line on our right, and kept advancing very slowly, being near the pivot around which all
the line to our right wheeled, toward the left till about 2 p.m., when, the First Division becoming
heavily engaged, we halted immediately in front of and about 300 yards distant from the enemy's
first line of works. In this position we laid during the artillery duel which ensued, till about 4
p.m., when the whole line simultaneously advanced, capturing the enemy's first line of
fortifications. Darkness ensuing, we camped on the ground lately held by the enemy.
In this day's operations the regiment suffered no casualties, though occasionally exposed to
the enemy's shell.
On the following morning, December 16, about 8 a.m., we again pushed forward in line of
battle, five companies of my regiment being deployed as skirmishers to cover our brigade, and,
after marching probably a mile and a half, approached within 400 yards of the enemy's second
and most formidable line of works, and under a severe artillery fire reformed our line of battle,
the men lying down behind a ridge on the ground, which protected them from shot and shell. At
this time my skirmishers hotly pressed those of the enemy and captured their rifle-pits in front of
ours and the Third Brigade on our left, and with the assistance of one company, with which I reenforced
them, by order of Colonel Gilbert, held them all day and gave material aid in silencing
the enemy's guns in our front. A fierce cannonading took place all along the line, during which
the men lay close, till 3.15 p.m., when the First Division of our corps having carried by assault
the fortified hill which covered the enemy's left flank, the order to charge was passed along the
line. The men immediately pressed forward at a double-quick on the charge, and,
notwithstanding a deadly fire of grape, canister, and musketry, carried the works, driving the
enemy in confusion beyond the hills in the rear. This charge was final and decisive, closing the
battle along the whole line and yielding to our arms another great victory.
In this day's engagement my regiment lost but two men wounded. Behind that portion of the
works over which the regiment passed there stood three pieces of artillery, for the capture of
which, I believe, credit is due the Second Brigade, and my officers and men particularly. Many
prisoners were captured for the Second Brigade by my men and sent to the rear, probably to be
claimed by less fortunate brigades. It may not be out of place to remark here that prisoners and at
least one battle-flag of the enemy, which properly belonged to the Second Brigade, were carried
away by the Third, which came up after we had halted and uncourteously formed in our front.
In behalf of the officers of the regiment, I must say that each one did his duty bravely and
nobly.
108
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT W. HEALY,
Major, Commanding
Lieut. W. G. DONNAN,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-SEVENTH IOWA INFANTRY,
Spring Hill, Tenn., December 20, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Twenty-seventh Iowa
Infantry in the battle near Nashville, Tenn., on the 15th instant, and the charge on mountain
heights, south of Nashville, on the 16th instant, and the list of casualties.
On the 15th instant, at 7 a.m., I received orders from Colonel Gilbert, commanding Second
Brigade, Second Division, Detachment Army of the Tennessee, to send out one company to
report to the commanding officer of the Tenth Kansas as skirmishers. I ordered Capt. S. W.
Hemenway, commanding Company B, to comply with the order. At 8 a.m. I received orders to
move the regiment outside of the intrenchments and form in column by division on the First
Division, right in front. About 9 a.m. I was ordered to deploy column and move forward. My
regiment was on the left of the brigade, our left resting on the right of the Fourth Army Corps.
The skirmishing commenced in our front and was pretty sharp for about two hours, our men
gradually driving the enemy's skirmishers and the regiment following them in line of battle.
From 2 to 4 p.m. the cannonading was very severe on our right and left, but my regiment was
shielded by the woods and hills so that the enemy's artillery was not directed at it. At about 4
p.m. Company B joined us, having been relieved as skirmishers. I received orders from Colonel
Gilbert, commanding brigade, to wheel my regiment to the right and in the rear of the right of the
Fourth Corps. At the same time the charge commenced on the enemy's works. We followed close
in the rear of the Fourth Corps till the works were carried, then moved by the flank to the right
and encamped for the night. No casualties.
On the 16th instant, at daylight, we formed in line of battle. My position was the left center
of the brigade. About sunrise, by orders from Colonel Gilbert, we made a half wheel to the right
and moved forward across an open field into the Granny White pike, and thence across another
field, under fire of the enemy's guns, in all about a mile. We were then moved by the right flank
about half a mile into a ravine, in a corn-field, where we were ordered to lie down. Here the fire
of the artillery was very heavy, the missiles from the enemy's battery and our own passing
directly over my regiment. One man of Company I was hit on the hip by a spent musket-ball
while in this position. About 4 p.m. I received orders from Colonel Gilbert to prepare for the
charge. At the command "Forward, double-quick, march!" every man went forward with a will.
In passing between a house in our front and the outbuildings, both flanks were thrown back and
crowded on the center, but, on reaching the open field about 200 yards in front of the enemy's
works, immediately deployed and went over the parapet in good style. The enemy were doing
their best to escape, and we followed them through the woods and across an open field and to the
foot and up the side of the mountain, until men from the top hung out the white flag in token of
surrender.
Every man and officer behaved with great gallantry, and it would be unjust to the others to
particularize.
List of casualties.
JED LAKE,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.
Lieut. W. G. DONNAN,
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Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS THIRTY-SECOND IOWA INFANTRY,
In the Field, December 21, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: Of the part taken by the Thirty-second Iowa Infantry in the battle of the 15th
and 16th instant, I have the honor to report as follows:
At 6 a.m. on the 15th, in obedience to orders from brigade headquarters, I formed the
regiment on the right of the brigade, with my left resting on the Fifty-eighth Illinois Infantry. The
regiment advanced in line of battle for more than a mile, slowly wheeling to the left, conforming
to the movement of the line on our right. From 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. we lay under artillery fire
from a battery 1,000 yards in our front. When the works were carried by the forces in front we
moved forward about one mile and a half, when we were ordered to go into camp for the night.
The regiment was not brought into close action, and suffered no loss.
On the morning of the 16th we were again on the right of the brigade, our right resting on the
left of the First Division. The advance was ordered about 7 a.m., the line wheeling to the right to
confront the enemy's works. When within about 1,200 yards we came in full view of the enemy,
drawing upon us a brisk fire from their battery, under which the men moved forward with
commendable coolness. The First Division contracting in order to form two lines we were
thrown by the flank to the right about half a mile. At this point we lay under fire of the enemy's
artillery for about five hours. At 3.30 p.m. the right of the First Division carried the left of the
enemy's works; we then moved forward at a double-quick over an open field, under a severe fire
from artillery and musketry, and in a few minutes gained the intrenchments, capturing about 50
prisoners and 5 pieces of artillery. Some of the artillerists were killed as they were leaving the
guns. Private William May, of Company H, dashed forward and captured the battery guidon. The
regiment moved forward in pursuit, gathering a few prisoners, until we reached the base of the
mountain, when we received orders to halt. At dark, the battle being over, we were ordered into
camp near the mountain.
Too much cannot be said in praise of the conduct of the officers and men under the heavy fire
during the charge; every one moved forward with a determination to carry the works.
Where all behaved so creditably it is a delicate matter to make particular mention of persons,
but I presume no exceptions will be taken when I speak of Lieut. W. L. Carpenter, acting
regimental adjutant, who was, as usual, conspicuous for his brave and gallant conduct in the
action, and was among the first over the rebel works. Also, Capt. Theodore De Tar, commanding
Company D, who, after pursuing the enemy to the mountain, was wounded in the right ankle,
making an amputation necessary. This will cause the loss to the regiment of an officer who has
always been esteemed for his excellent qualities as an officer and a gentleman. First Sergt.
Daniel W. Albaugh, Company C, who was killed almost instantly by a minie-ball, was one of our
best non-commissioned officers, and was much loved by his company as an officer and comrade.
They mourn his loss deeply. My thanks are due Maj. Jonathan Hutchison for his assistance
during the action.
I cannot refrain from mentioning Color-Sergt. A. J. Ellis, of Company G, who carried the
standard. Although once thrown to the ground by a glancing shot he refused to give the standard
to any one else, but made his way forward and was one of the first over the works. Corporal Bell,
of Company G, who bore the regimental colors, was noticed for his bravery in action.
I send herewith a list of casualties in the regiment, which is light, only because the artillery
was aimed too high, and the infantry intimidated by our rapid firing as we advanced.
Very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant,
G. A. EBERHART,
110
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Regiment.
Lieut. W. G. DONNAN,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Near Columbia, Tenn., December 21, 1864.
GENERAL: In compliance with your request of to-day, I have the honor to submit for the
information of the major-general commanding the following summary of the operations of the
Cavalry Corps during the recent campaign:
On the retreat of our army from Pulaski the cavalry was concentrated at Columbia,
November the 24th, comprising Hatch's division, about 2,000 men, Croxton's brigade, of the
First Division, 1,300, and Capron's brigade, of the Sixth Division, of 1,500 men. The corps was
immediately stationed on the north side of Duck River, between Columbia and the Lewisburg
pike, for the purpose of watching the movements of the enemy. On the 28th of November, about
noon, the pickets gave notice of the enemy's advance at various fords and in such force as to
leave no doubt of his intention. Major-General Schofield was at once notified and orders issued
for the concentration of the cavalry at Hurt's Cross-Roads, on the Lewisburg pike. Capron's
brigade, stationed on that road at the crossing of the river, was surrounded and attacked on all
sides, but, owing to the good management, bravery, and coolness of Major Young, commanding
the Fifth Iowa Cavalry, it was extricated with but slight loss. On the 29th, closely pressed by the
rebel cavalry, my command fell back slowly to Mount Carmel, when the rear was assigned to
Coon's brigade, of Hatch's division. The enemy attacked boldly, but were handsomely repulsed;
as was afterward learned, he turned thence toward Spring Hill, molesting us no more that day. At
night, joined by Hammond's brigade, of the Seventh Division, the Cavalry Corps occupied a
position on the north bank of Big Harpeth River, connecting with the infantry at Franklin and
watching the river as far as Triune. On the morning of the 30th, Hammond's brigade was at
Triune, Hatch's division at Matthews' house, and Croxton's brigade on the Lewisburg pike, at
Douglass Church; Harrison's brigade (formerly Capron's), of the Sixth Division, was held in
reserve. About 2 p.m. the rebel cavalry were reported crossing directly in our front, having
pressed Croxton back to within two miles and a half of Franklin. He was ordered to withdraw his
force entirely to the north side of the stream, and to attack the enemy in flank; Hatch was
directed to attack in front; the orders were promptly executed, and by night the rebels were
driven across the river at every point. The conduct of the troops, and particularly of Generals
Hatch and Croxton, was most admirable. The force of the enemy consisted of Jackson's and
Buford's divisions of cavalry. On the 30th the Cavalry Corps withdrew from its position, by the
various country roads between the Franklin and Nolensville pikes, to Thompson's Chapel, near
Nashville. When near Brentwood, General Hammond's brigade, in the rear, had a sharp skirmish
with the enemy's advance, but succeeded in reaching its position in the line at the chapel without
material difficulty.
Early in the morning of December the 1st [2d] the cavalry withdrew from its exposed
position on the Nolensville pike and marched through Nashville to camp, at Edgefield, on the
north bank of the Cumberland River. During the ensuing ten days every effort was made to put it
in an efficient condition for active service. Horses were seized, arms, clothing, and equipments
were issued, and the dismounted men organized into brigades. In obedience to orders from the
major-general commanding, on the 12th of December, the corps marched to the south side of the
river, crossing on the railroad and pontoon bridges, and massed between the Hardin and
Charlotte pikes. The effective force was 12,500 men, 9,000 horses, 2,000 of which were scarcely
fit for service. At 6 a.m. of the 15th of December, as had been previously ordered by Major-
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General Thomas, the corps was ready to move, but owing to the foggy weather and the delay of
Smith's corps could not advance until about 10 a.m. The Sixth Division, Brig. Gen. R. W.
Johnson commanding, formed and moved on the Charlotte pike, clearing it of the enemy as far as
Davidson's house, driving a battery of artillery and a part of Chalmers' division of cavalry from
their position on Richland Creek. It is reported that the navy got possession of a battery which
this movement caused the enemy to abandon. Brig. Gen. E. M. McCook having been sent with
two brigades of his division against the rebels under Lyon in Kentucky, the balance of the
division, Brigadier-General Croxton's brigade, debouched from the fortifications near the
Northwestern Railroad, and, forming on the left of the Sixth Division, between the Hardin and
Charlotte pikes, advanced, as soon as its front was uncovered by McArthur's division of infantry,
and crossing Richland Creek turned the enemy's position in front of Johnson's division, on the
Charlotte pike. As soon as the enemy had withdrawn General Croxton moved to the left, crossed
the Hardin pike, where, after night-fall, he came in contact again with the rebels, moving in a
parallel direction, and, after some sharp skirmishing, drove them off. He encamped that night on
the Hillsborough pike, five miles and a half from Nashville. The Fifth Division, Brig. Gen.
Edward Hatch commanding, formed on the Hardin pike, its left connecting with the infantry, its
right with General Croxton, advanced simultaneously with the infantry, encountered a strong
force of the enemy's cavalry--Chalmers' division--well intrenched on both sides of Richland
Creek. After a sharp fight the enemy was driven from his works and pushed rapidly beyond
Hardin's house, near which place a part of Hatch's command, the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry,
Colonel Spalding commanding, captured the headquarters train of General Chalmers, consisting
of fourteen wagons with records, clothing, forage, and safe. In accordance with his instructions
General Hatch then crossed the country from Williams' house toward the Hillsborough pike, reestablished
his connection with the infantry, and advancing his right flank struck the enemy's line
on the flank and rear, completely enveloping it, drove it rapidly back upon the fortifications
constructed upon the Brentwood Hills for its protection. Hastily forming his Second Brigade,
dismounted, Col. D. E. Coon commanding, he pushed boldly forward and carried the enemy's
works, capturing in the first redoubt 4 guns and 65 prisoners, and in the second, a closed work, 6
guns and 175 prisoners. The First Brigade, Col. R. R. Stewart, was thrown well round to the left
and rear of the enemy, and handsomely supported the movement of the Second Brigade. This
operation is one of the handsomest of the war, and although participated in by the infantry of
McArthur's division, they yield the credit to the cavalry. As soon as his command could be
formed General Hatch was ordered to push forward. His First Brigade and part of the Second on
the right of the infantry, crossed the Hillsborough pike, and, in conjunction with a part of the
Twenty-third Corps, carried the hills beyond. They claim, also, to have captured the three guns
which fell into our hands at that point. Darkness having intervened by this time, he was ordered
into camp near the Hillsborough pike, on the extreme right of the infantry. The Seventh Division,
Brig. Gen. Joseph F. Knipe commanding, formed on the Hardin pike inside of the works, and, as
soon as the general movement had developed itself, moved out in the pike and held itself in
readiness to support the infantry or Hatch's division. When the pikes in my front were cleared of
the enemy, Knipe's division moved by the rear to the right of Hatch's division, reaching the
Hillsborough pike just after the works on it were carried, near the six-mile post, crossed and
turned short to the left, and pushed by a country road to the Granny White pike. Hammond's
brigade, mounted, was in advance, followed by the dismounted brigade. The latter proceeded no
farther than the Hillsborough pike, occupied a strong position on it, and covered the other troops
from a movement of the enemy in that direction. General Hammond's pickets were all night on
or near the Granny White pike, and early on the morning of the 16th began skirmishing with the
enemy. The country was very unfavorable for cavalry operations. General Hammond was
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ordered to support his pickets by the balance of his brigade. General Hatch was ordered to move
also, take position on the right of the infantry, connect with Hammond, and, in conjunction with
Hammond's brigade, drive the enemy from the hills and push them as vigorously as possible in
flank and rear. This order was given about 9.30 a.m. The movement began at once, and was
sustained with great steadiness throughout the balance of the day. Hatch's division and
Hammond's brigade, of Knipe's division, soon succeeded in establishing themselves firmly in the
enemy's rear, on a line perpendicular to the Granny White pike and extending from the right of
the Twenty-third Corps, a few hundred yards from the Hillsborough pike, across the Granny
White pike toward the Franklin pike. The enemy was driven steadily back from hill to hill all
along the line, but particularly in front of General Hatch's left. The positions occupied were
heavily wooded and very difficult of ascent, but Hatch, with great labor, carried his battery into a
position enfilading and taking in reverse the enemy's line. Coon's brigade charged a large hill in
the enemy's rear as McArthur's division assaulted it in front. About 4.30 p.m. the enemy, pressed
in front, flank, and rear, broke in disorder. Croxton's brigade, which had been held in reserve on
the Hillsborough pike, as soon as the success of these dispositions had become apparent, was
ordered to march rapidly across the country to the Granny White pike and beyond the right flank
of Hammond's brigade, but owing to the lateness of the hour and heaviness of the road over
which he was compelled to move he secured but few prisoners. Hatch was ordered to mount his
division and press rapidly down the Granny White pike for the purpose of striking the enemy
again at or beyond Brentwood. He had not proceeded far before he encountered Chalmers'
division of cavalry, and, although it was then almost dark, attacked it with the greatest
promptitude and vigor, driving it from a strong position behind rail breast-works. Brigadier-
General Rucker, commanding a brigade, a number of prisoners, and the division battle-flag were
captured. The night was so dark and wet, and the men and horses so jaded, that it was not
deemed practicable to push the pursuit farther.
On the 17th, at 5 a.m., General Knipe, with Hammond's brigade, followed by General
Croxton's brigade, moved by a county road up Richland Creek to the Franklin Pike, Croxton
taking the Wilson pike at Brentwood. Hammond, pushing on in vigorous pursuit, came up with
the enemy just beyond Brentwood, drove him back to Hollow Tree Gap, four miles north of
Franklin, where he made a stand. General Knipe attacked With the main part of the brigade,
while General Hammond, with the balance, turned the position and attacked the rebels in flank.
About 250 prisoners and 5 battle-flags were taken, and the enemy driven rapidly beyond the
Harpeth River, at Franklin. General Knipe's command captured one gun near the river. He
crossed the Harpeth near the railroad bridge. Johnson's division, with Harrison's brigade, having
pushed out at 4 a.m. on the Hillsborough road and crossed, came up the south bank of the
Harpeth and entered Franklin about the same time. Hatch, having struck the Franklin pike two
miles south of Brentwood, pushed to the left and crossed at the ford on the Murfreesborough
road. Croxton crossed at his old crossing two miles above the town. The rebels, finding Johnson
on their flank, fell back to a strong position on the Columbia pike two miles south of Franklin,
leaving his hospitals, about 2,000 wounded, and 10,000 rations in our hands. Hatch moved out
between the Lewisburg and Columbia pikes; Knipe on the Columbia pike; and Johnson on the
Carter's Creek pike. General Knipe attacked by the front, while Hatch and Johnson moved upon
the enemy's flanks, and, although the rebel rear guard was composed of Stevenson's division of
infantry [and] Buford's division of cavalry, it was pressed rapidly back, with heavy skirmishing,
to a position just north of the West Harpeth River. At this place it had become so dark, and our
troops so close upon the enemy, that it was with difficulty our troops could be distinguished from
the rebels. Hammond's brigade was deployed on the extreme right, Hatch's division across the
pike and through the fields to the left. The Fourth U.S. Cavalry, my escort, Lieutenant Hedges
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commanding, formed in column of fours on the pike. Generals Hatch and Hammond advanced
rapidly and the Fourth Cavalry at the charge. The enemy's line, broken and driven back, fled in
great confusion; the flanks of our lines pressed on rapidly. General Hammond's brigade, crossing
West Harpeth, struck the enemy on the pike again in flank, while Coon's brigade, on the right of
the road, the Fourth Cavalry on the pike, pressed close upon their rear. The enemy abandoned
three 12 pounders and the carriage of a fourth. These guns can scarcely be called the capture of
any particular division or regiment, though they were actually withdrawn from the field by the
Fourth Cavalry, my staff, and General Hatch in person. One of them has been credited to the
Fourth Cavalry and the other two to Hatch's division, though the charge of General Hammond,
with the Tenth Indiana, upon the enemy's flank, a quarter of a mile beyond, had probably a
greater influence in causing their abandonment than the operations of General Hatch's command.
The conduct of the troops in this affair was most admirable, particularly that of the Fourth
U.S. Cavalry, the Second Iowa, and Tenth Indiana. Brigadier-General Hammond, Lieutenant-
Colonel Gresham, Tenth Indiana, and Lieutenant Hedges, Fourth U.S. Cavalry, were particularly
conspicuous. The good management and bravery of General Hatch, the skill, untiring energy
with which he commanded his division, are worthy of the highest commendation. Night saved
the enemy's rear guard from complete destruction.
The 18th the pursuit was renewed at dawn, in the same order, Johnson on the Carter's Creek
pike, Hatch and Knipe on the Columbia pike, and Croxton on the Lewisburg pike. The enemy's
rear guard was soon encountered by the advanced skirmishers, but, in spite of the most strenuous
efforts on the part of our troops, could not be again brought to a stand, though they had prepared
for it at Spring Hill. The pursuit was pushed to within three miles of Rutherford's Creek, but the
rain, need of rations and ammunition, compelled a halt for the trains to come forward. 19th, the
pursuit was pushed to Rutherford's Creek, but it was found too high to ford--the enemy between
that and Duck River; Hatch got two regiments across on the ruins of the railroad bridge, and after
some skirmishing night came on, he withdrew to north side. Weather very inclement. 20th,
Hammond, Croxton, and Harrison remained in camp drawing supplies; Johnson and Knipe went
back with dismounted brigades to refit; Hatch crossed on lower railroad bridge; enemy gone.
Hammond, Harrison, and Croxton moved to camp on Rutherford's Creek.
Summary: Captured by Hatch's division--2 redoubts, 17 guns, 2 battle-flags, 2 droves of
beef-cattle, 35 wagons (including the headquarters train of Chalmers' division), I brigadiergeneral,
701 prisoners; Knipe's division---5 battle-flags, 350 prisoners, 1 piece artillery, 2
caissons; Johnson's division---56 prisoners; Croxton's brigade--184 prisoners; Fourth U.S.
Cavalry--1 gun, 25 prisoners. In addition to this Johnson's and Knipe's divisions should be
credited with the wounded taken in hospitals at Franklin.
In concluding this report permit me to say that, if the operations just described have been of
any avail in the recent campaign, it is due entirely to the concentration of the cavalry and its
reorganization as a separate corps. I have, therefore, to request that the credit awarded it may be
used to secure from the War Department the recognition of its separate existence as a corps, and
an official approval of the measures already inaugurated for its efficiency. With an opportunity
to complete its organization, a full supply of Spencer carbines for the entire command, and we
can take the field next spring with a force of cavalry fully competent to perform any work that
may be assigned it.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General, Commanding.
[Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE,
Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland.]
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HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Gravelly Springs, Ala., February 1, 1865.
I have the honor to submit the following report of operations of the Cavalry Corps, Military
Division of the Mississippi, from the date of its organization, October 24, 1864, to the present
time:
Having been relieved from the command of the Third Division, Cavalry Corps, Army of the
Potomac, on the 1st day of October, 1864, for the purpose of taking command of the cavalry
forces in the armies operating under the command of Major-General Sherman, I proceeded,
without delay, to join him in the field. I arrived at Gaylesville, Ala., where the army was resting
after its pursuit of General Hood, on the 23d of October. On the 24th of October I was assigned,
by order of General Sherman, to duty as chief of cavalry and commanding officer of all the
cavalry in the Military Division of the Mississippi. By the same order the mounted forces of the
Armies of the Ohio, the Cumberland, and the Tennessee were detached from these armies,
constituted one command, and designated the Cavalry Corps, Military Division of the
Mississippi. Upon investigation I found that the cavalry serving with the Army of the Ohio
consisted of one organized division, Stone-man's, nearly all dismounted, one brigade under
Colonel Capron, sent to Louisville, Ky., for remount, the other under Col. Israel Garrard, at
Atlanta, Ga. Besides this division there were five or six regiments of good cavalry and one
division of one-year mounted infantry serving in Kentucky and East Tennessee. This force being
for local defense, however, was not detached, and therefore forms no part of the Cavalry Corps. I
found the cavalry of the Army of the Cumberland organized into four divisions, three of which
were composed of fine regiments from the northwestern States, well organized, and efficiently
commanded by Brigadier-Generals McCook, Garrard, and Kilpatrick, and having done very hard
service during the Atlanta campaign. The Fourth Division consisted entirely of Tennessee
regiments serving in Tennessee. The cavalry of the Army of the Tennessee had been organized
into two divisions, by order of Major-General Howard, commanded, respectively, by Brigadier-
General Hatch, U.S. Volunteers, and Colonel Wins-low, Fourth Iowa Cavalry. Both were at that
time serving in West Tennessee. The divisions contained from six to ten regiments, organized
into three brigades each. In the new organization the four divisions of the Army of the
Cumberland were numbered, respectively, First, Second, Third, and Seventh, the two divisions
of the Army of the Tennessee were designated, respectively, Fifth and Fourth, and the division of
the Army of the Ohio the Sixth Division. The Tennessee troops were divided among the other
divisions, so as to intermix them with troops from other States. From the lack of general and staff
officers to simplify organization and to counteract a tendency to use the third brigades as
reserves, each division was organized into two brigades, except the Sixth, which, for special
reasons, was allowed three. The chiefs of cavalry of the different departments were relieved from
duty and directed to report to their commanding generals for other assignment. In pursuance of
General Sherman's instructions measures were at once taken to collect, reorganize, remount, and
bring into the field the largest possible force of cavalry, in order that he might have such a
preponderance in that arm as would enable him to throw the enemy on the defensive, while with
his infantry he could march to the seacoast unmolested. It was thought that if Hood followed
him, instead of crossing the Tennessee River into Tennessee, that in a short time my entire
cavalry force could be put upon a footing to harass and annoy him beyond endurance. With this
in view General Hatch was ordered to march with the Fifth Division from Clifton, Tenn., by the
most direct route, to Rome, Ga.; General Grierson was designated as the commander of the
Fourth Division, and directed to assemble as much of it as possible, put it in a thorough
condition, and be ready to march, when orders should be sent him, through Mississippi,
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Alabama, and Georgia, and join the army under General Sheridan. It soon, however, became
apparent that Hood would march north instead of following General Sherman, and that
operations would be forced upon us before the cavalry forces could be organized.
A reconnaissance by General Garrard, with the Second Division, toward Gadsden, on the
Coosa River, on the 25th of October, and on the 27th and 28th to the south of the Coosa toward
Jacksonville, revealed the fact that the rebel army under Hood had left Gadsden on the 22d of
October, marching in the direction of Warrenton, on the Tennessee River. As soon as General
Sherman became thoroughly convinced of this he issued orders for the concentration of his army
at Atlanta, and hurried his preparations for the campaign. Finding that he could wait no longer all
the serviceable horses of McCook's and Garrard's divisions, and Colonel Garrard's brigade, were
turned over to the Third Division, and every effort was made to put it upon a thoroughly efficient
footing, while the dismounted men of the First and Second Divisions were ordered, by rail, to
Louisville, Ky., for remount and re-equipment. Having made these dispositions I was ordered by
General Sherman to Nashville for the purpose of completing the cavalry reorganization and
assisting in the operations of General Thomas against the rebels under Hood. I arrived at
Nashville on the 6th day of November and reported to Major-General Thomas, commanding
Department of the Cumberland and the Military Division of the Mississippi.
General Croxton's brigade, of the First Division, having been recently remounted at
Louisville, Colonel Capron's (now Harrison's) brigade, of the Sixth Division, and the Fifth
Division, while on the march to join General Sherman, were halted by General Thomas and
directed to act in conjunction with the infantry forces assembling at Pulaski, under General
Stanley, to resist the march of Hood. On the 24th of October Croxton's brigade, about 1,000
strong, was stationed on the Huntsville and Florence road, at Center Star, with outposts and
pickets, watching the Tennessee River from the mouth of Elk River to Florence, and a
detachment of the Tenth and Twelfth Tennessee, of General Hatch's division, were stationed on
Cypress Creek, at Martin's Mills, three miles from Florence, watching Pride's, Garner's, and
Cheatham's Ferries, on the Tennessee River. On the 29th of October General Croxton sent a
dispatch to General Thomas informing him of General Hood's proximity to the river and of his
intention to cross it at Bainbridge that night. About 3 p.m. on the 30th two brigades of Lee's
corps landed on the north side about three miles below Bainbridge. General Croxton
concentrated his command and attempted to repel them, but was driven back. He retired to the
east bank of Shoal Creek and took position near Shoal Creek bridge, where he remained
reconnoitering until November 5, when he was forced to retire by the advance of Johnson's
division, of Lee's corps. He reported to General Hatch at Lexington on November 6.
On the 4th of November General Hatch, in compliance with the instructions of General
Stanley, moved from Pulaski toward Florence, with orders to assume command of all the cavalry
in that neighborhood and watch closely the enemy's movements. In executing these orders
General Hatch, the next day, opened communication with General Croxton, and, in conjunction
with him, drove the enemy's cavalry pickets across Shoal Creek, and established pickets of
observation along the line of that creek and the Tennessee from the mouth of Elk River. While
engaged in observing the movements of the enemy frequent skirmishes were had with his
cavalry. On the 9th of November a general attack was made by the small force under General
Hatch. The rebel cavalry was driven back upon the infantry at Florence, a part of the unfinished
works at that place captured by Colonel Coon's brigade of the Fifth Division, and the information
in regard to Hood's position previously obtained verified. By great activity, watchfulness, and
good judgment on the part of General Hatch, every movement of the enemy and indication of his
intention were promptly reported to Generals Stanley, Schofield, and Thomas. On the 13th and
14th of November General Hatch, having become convinced that General Hood would march
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north at an early day, used his command in cutting trees into the roads crossing Shoal Creek, for
the purpose of retarding the rebels in their movement. On the morning of November 19 the
enemy was reported marching north on the west side of the creek. Colonel Coon's brigade made
a forced reconnaissance in that direction, captured the headquarters trains of Buford's and
Chalmers' divisions, met the enemy's cavalry in force, and, after a severe engagement,
discovering the march of the rebel infantry, was compelled to rejoin the main force, on the east
side of the creek. General Hatch concentrated his forces, without delay, at Lexington, and on the
21st retired to Lawrenceburg, where he was attacked early the next morning by the enemy's
cavalry. A severe fight ensued, in which the enemy, with twelve pieces of artillery and a large
force of cavalry, fighting dismounted, made several efforts to drive the forces of General Hatch
from their position, but the latter held on with great tenacity till night and then withdrew one
mile toward Pulaski.
On the 23d General Hatch withdrew by that road, turning toward Campbellsville. When
within nine miles of Pulaski Croxton's brigade had the rear and were attacked by the rebel
cavalry at the junction of the roads leading to the two places just mentioned. It, however, resisted
every attack till after dark, holding its position and retreating at leisure by night to the
neighborhood of Campbellsville. On the 24th the cavalry again resumed its march, and at the
latter place was again attacked by the entire rebel cavalry, supported by infantry. At first the
enemy were severely repulsed by the First Brigade, Colonel Wells, Twelfth Missouri Cavalry,
commanding, but in turn the enemy drove back Colonel Wells and compelled General Hatch to
retire by the road to Lynnville. This road leading through a very hilly country, a small rear guard
was sufficient to hold the enemy in check. The Ninth Illinois Cavalry, Captain Harper
commanding, was directed to occupy a strong gorge near the turnpike and to delay the rebels as
long as possible. He performed the duty assigned him with great gallantry, giving the main body
of the command an opportunity to take position at Lynnville. Sharp fighting was continued at
that place until after dark, when, in accordance with my order, General Hatch withdrew to
Columbia. Colonel Capron's brigade, of the Sixth Division, had been sent by General Schofield
toward Waynesborough to observe the movements of the enemy in that direction, while Hatch
and Croxton were on Shoal Creek. Upon the advance of the rebel cavalry, Colonel Capron
retired, skirmishing with the enemy, directing his march toward Mount Pleasant and Columbia.
On the morning of November 25 the entire force, including the infantry, was concentrated at
Columbia.
Having made all possible arrangements at Nashville for expediting the reorganization of the
cavalry, in pursuance of General Thomas' instructions, I started to the front to take command of
the force in the field, and on the 23d of November met General Schofield between Lynnville and
Pulaski. The Fifth Division contained at this time but 2,500 men, Croxton's brigade, about 1,000,
and Capron's, 800, in all about 4,300 men, to contend with three divisions estimated at not less
than 10,000 men, and commanded by General Forrest, hitherto the most successful of rebel
cavalry leaders. After the concentration of the forces at Columbia, and while General Schofield
was making arrangements to withdraw from that place to the north side of Duck River, the
cavalry crossed and was disposed of so as to watch every movement of the enemy, either to the
right or left. Hatch's division and Croxton's brigade were stationed about six miles east of
Columbia on the road to Shelbyville; Capron's brigade, to which had been added the Fifth Iowa
Cavalry, Col. J. M. Young commanding, took position at Rally Hill, on the Lewisburg turnpike;
it was further strengthened after taking position by the arrival of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry, from
Louisville. This brigade and Croxton's were temporarily formed into a division, under the
command of Brig. Gen. R. W. Johnson. Three regiments of the First Brigade of Hatch's division,
Col. R. R. Stewart, Eleventh Indiana Cavalry, commanding, were ordered to take post to the west
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of Columbia, for the purpose of watching the fords and crossings of the river between that place
and Williamsport. General Hatch sent the Sixth Illinois Cavalry, via Chapel Hill, to Shelbyville,
with directions to feel well out from that place toward Lewisburg and Cornersville, if possible,
returning by the south side of the river to the crossing of the Lewisburg pike.
At noon of November 27 [28] the pickets of Croxton's and Capron's brigades gave notice of
the appearance of the rebel cavalry at the various fords between Columbia and the Lewisburg
pike, particularly at Huey's Mill, eight miles above Columbia, in such force as to leave no doubt
as to their intentions. The pickets in the vicinity of Huey's Mill were soon driven in and the
rebels immediately began crossing. At 2 p.m. I sent a dispatch to Major-General Schofield,
notifying him of the enemy's movement, informing him that I should endeavor to concentrate my
force at Hurt's Cross-Roads, on the Lewisburg pike, and requesting him to send Stewart's brigade
to me by the way of Spring Hill. Col. T. J. Harrison, Eighth Indiana Cavalry, had already been
sent by General Johnson to the brigade at the Lewisburg crossing, with orders to hold the enemy
as long as possible at the river. By 7 p.m. the entire force was concentrated at Hurt's Cross-
Roads. Colonel Harrison, however, had not reached his brigade, but having been posted by
Colonel Capron, it held on as long as possible. Colonel Capron himself, with a small portion of
his command fell back in disorder toward Franklin. The detachments at the various fords held on
bravely until night, when they were collected by Maj. J. Morris Young, Fifth Iowa Cavalry, and
withdrew by the pike. The enemy, having crossed lower down, marched by the Murfreesborough
road and arrived at Rally Hill before the detachments under Major Young. The latter, finding his
retreat cut off, formed his own regiment with sabers drawn, dismounted others to cover the
flanks, boldly charged, broke through the rebels, and brought off his command with only trifling
loss. By this' time it had become evident that the entire rebel cavalry force, three divisions, had
crossed and were directing their march toward the Lewisburg pike, an excellent macadamized
road leading to Franklin, and at 8 p.m. I sent a dispatch by courier to General Schofield,
informing him of this fact and that no part of Forrest's force up to dark had moved toward the
Franklin pike. During the night several prisoners were brought in, from whom I received
valuable information. At 1 a.m. [29th] I sent a dispatch to General Schofield informing him that
the force which had crossed at Huey's Mill was Forrest's corps of cavalry, consisting of
Chalmers', Jackson's, and Buford's divisions, and Biffle's regiment; that the rebel infantry were to
have begun crossing two hours before by three pontoon bridges under construction at the same
place. Believing this information to be perfectly correct, I therefore suggested that our infantry
should reach Spring Hill by 10 a.m. of that day [29th]. I regarded my force too small, with
Hammond's and Stewart's brigades absent, to cover the Lewisburg pike and at the same time the
dirt roads leading to Spring Hill, and believing that General Schofield, with the infantry, would
have plenty of time, marching by the Franklin pike, to reach Franklin or any intermediate point
before the enemy, marching by bad dirt roads, made worse by the heavy rains which had recently
fallen, I determined to keep my entire force on the Lewisburg pike and hold the enemy as long as
possible, hoping by good management to get no farther back that day than to the Ridge Meeting.
House. I had previously sent orders for Colonel Stewart to join me on the Lewisburg pike,
marching by the way of Spring Hill, and all night, if necessary. Similar orders were sent at the
same time to Bvt. Brig. Gen. J. H. Hammond, then momentarily expected with two regiments of
the Seventh Division freshly remounted. On the presumption that no general engagement would
be risked till our forces were strengthened, and that the enemy's movement had become
sufficiently developed, I directed General Hatch to retire slowly by the pike, following Capron's
brigade, and General Croxton to cover the rear, fighting the enemy, and to fall back only when
compelled to do so by movements upon his flanks. Soon after daylight [29th] the enemy attacked
Croxton's pickets, but finding them strongly posted moved off the road and struck well around
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his flanks, causing him to withdraw. Heavy skirmishing ensued, the enemy pressing forward
with the greatest celerity endeavoring to push around and strike our column in flank, as was
anticipated.
At Mount Carmel Meeting-House, five miles from Hurt's Cross-Roads, a strong barricade
erected by Capron's brigade was occupied by Coon's brigade, of Hatch's division, Croxton's
brigade passing through it. The enemy made two determined charges upon it, but were repulsed
with severe loss. From this point the enemy ceased to press upon the rear of the column. No
news having come from Hammond or Stewart, it was hoped that they had arrived at Spring Hill
in time enough to form a junction with the infantry and to resist any movement of the rebels in
that direction. I continued to march slowly, and by the middle of the afternoon arrived at
Douglass Church, four miles from Franklin. Near this place I found General Hammond, and was
joined by a detachment of Stewart's brigade, from whom I learned that the latter and some of our
infantry had been skirmishing with the rebel cavalry during the day near Spring Hill. I remained
with Hammond's brigade to hold the road near Douglass Church and cover Franklin, while
Hatch's division and Johnson's crossed to the north side of the Harpeth, at Hughes' Ford, and
went into camp on the road from Franklin to Triune, at Matthews' farm, two miles and a half east
of Franklin. After it was dark, a reconnaissance out the Lewisburg pike to the meeting-house
revealing no enemy on that road, I withdrew General Hammond's brigade to the north side of the
Harpeth, and directed him to march, via Petersburg, to the Nolensville pike at Triune, and from
the latter place to watch the movements of the enemy in that direction.
Early on the morning of the 30th, by my direction, Brigadier-General Johnson sent Croxton's
brigade to the south side of the river, with orders to take position at Douglass Church, cover
Franklin as long as possible, and if compelled to fall back to recross the Harpeth at a ford a mile
and a half above the town. General Hammond, having reported by daylight no enemy in the
direction of Triune, was ordered to retire by Petersburg to Wilson's Mill, on the Wilson or
Brentwood pike. At 10 a.m. the enemy's advance attacked General Croxton's position, but was
handsomely repulsed. At 2 p.m. he was again attacked by infantry, but, after repulsing the
enemy, the rebel cavalry moved to his left as if to cross at Hughes' Ford. This movement caused
him to retire to the north side of the river by McGavock's Ford. He had scarcely reached the
north bank when the pickets higher up the river reported the enemy's cavalry crossing at various
places. The command was immediately got under arms and dispositions made to attack and drive
them back. General Croxton's brigade on the right, General Hatch's division in the center, moved
promptly out and engaged the enemy, charging him with a strong line of dismounted skirmishers,
while Capron's brigade, under Colonel Harrison, looked well out to the left and rear. The Fifth
Iowa Cavalry was sent to the Hillsborough pike. The action had already begun when General
Croxton was informed that the rebel infantry were crossing the river between his right and the
town of Franklin. Leaving two regiments, the First Tennessee and Second Michigan, to assist in
the attack against the rebel cavalry, he proceeded at once with the balance of his brigade to drive
back the force reported to be crossing below. He soon discovered, however, that the report was
false, and moved promptly against the rebel cavalry. Hatch had already attacked with vigor and
begun driving them rapidly back. The men seemed inspired with the greatest courage and
determination, and in a very short time had repulsed the enemy at every point. By night the
whole force was driven beyond the Harpeth. The accompanying sketch will show the importance
of this success on the part of the cavalry over Forrest's forces, while the hard-pressed infantry
were nobly repelling Hood's furious assaults against the defenses of Franklin.
General Schofield, having withdrawn the infantry to the north bank of the river during the
night and determined to continue his march toward Nashville, directed me to remain with the
Cavalry Corps in the position it then held till daylight on the morning of December 1, and then to
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retire, covering the rear and flanks of the infantry. This order was complied with, the enemy
having been so severely handled the day previous as to be unable to follow until he found the
road clear. Hammond's brigade, followed by Hatch, moved by a country road to the Wilson pike,
near Edmonson's house; Croxton marched parallel to the Franklin pike. At Wilson's Mill
Hammond was found encamped and left to bring up the rear. Stewart's brigade, of the Fifth
Division, having halted to feed, Hammond was delayed longer than was intended and in
withdrawing was attacked by the rebel cavalry, but succeeded, with slight loss, in repelling the
enemy. From the neighborhood of Brentwood, after the infantry had halted, the whole command
marched by various country roads to Thompson's Chapel, on the Nolensville pike, where it took
up a strong defensive position for the night. Before daylight the next morning it marched to
Nashville, and late in the evening crossed to the north side of the Cumberland River and
encamped in Edgefield.
During the ensuing ten days every effort was made to put the corps in an efficient condition.
Clothes were drawn for the men; the horses were shod; extra shoes were fitted; and every horse
that could be drawn from the corrals of broken-down stock, or reached in Tennessee or Southern
Kentucky, was taken. By these means the Cavalry Corps, exclusive of La Grange's and Watkins'
brigades, of the First Division, was increased by nearly 9,000 mounted men. Besides this, two
brigades of 1,500 men each were organized out of the dismounted men previously assembled at
the cavalry depot near Nashville. While in camp the river was carefully watched by the Seventh
Ohio Cavalry, from Nashville to the vicinity of Clarksville.
On the 2d of December Brevet Brigadier-General Hammond was ordered with his brigade to
Gallatin for the purpose of watching the river as far up as Carthage. Having heard from his
scouts that a rebel force had taken post at Lebanon, by the assistance of gun-boats sent for that
purpose, on the night of the -- he crossed the river with a strong force, well mounted, and made a
reconnaissance to and beyond that place, but found no enemy.
On the 11th of December, in pursuance of instructions from Major-General Thomas, I
ordered Brig. Gen. E. M. McCook to take his battery and Watkins' brigade toward Bowling
Green, till he met La Grange's brigade, and with the united force go in pursuit of General Lyon,
who crossed the Cumberland River below Clarksville on the 9th of December, and was supposed
to be marching via Hopkinsville to destroy Green River bridge, on the Louisville and Nashville
Railroad. General McCook came up with the rebels on the morning of the 16th at Hopkinsville,
and after a sharp fight captured two pieces of artillery and drove them from the place. They
retreated rapidly toward Green River, pursued by La Grange's brigade. So closely was Lyon
followed by La Grange's brigade that he was compelled to disband his conscripts and leave many
of his men. With the balance he pushed on through Madisonville, Ashbysburg, and
Elizabethtown, crossing Tradewater, Green River, and the Louisville and Nashville Railroad in
his route. La Grange was greatly delayed by the muddy roads, swollen streams, and the
destruction of the bridges and boats. The pursuit was relinquished at Hodgensville, Lyon's
command having become reduced[to] 400 or 500 men, more bent on escaping from Kentucky
than to inflict injury upon the forces sent against him. For a detailed account of the operations of
General McCook's command I respectfully refer you to his report submitted herewith.
On the 9th of November [December] I received orders from Major-General Thomas to move
my command to the south side of the Cumberland, to take position between the Hillsborough and
Hardin pikes, and to be in readiness to join in the attack against General Hood the next day. But
a heavy rain setting in General Thomas delayed his operations. Snow, sleet, and intense cold
followed, covering the ground so thickly with ice as to render it impossible to move cavalry not
specially shod for such an occasion. In fact, neither infantry nor cavalry could have marched
over a country so undulating and broken as that separating our lines from those of the enemy. On
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the evening of the 11th the weather changed and the ice began to melt. The Cavalry Corps, all
detachments having been drawn in in the morning, began crossing, and by night was in the
position assigned it, ready to move against the enemy as soon as the condition of the ground
would allow it. By the night of the 14th everything seemed favorable; officers and men confident
of the result that would follow a well directed attack. In the order of battle made by General
Thomas the cavalry was directed to attack upon the right of the infantry, conform to its
movements, drive the enemy's forces from the Charlotte and Hardin turnpikes and the banks of
the Cumberland at Bell's Landing, turn and envelop the enemy's left flank and, if possible, strike
them in the rear. In making arrangements to comply with these instructions 1 conferred the night
before the battle with General A. J. Smith, commanding the Detachment of the Army of the
Tennessee. His troops having been engaged in holding that part of the defenses from the
Hillsborough pike westward to the river, it was necessary for them to assemble in such a way as
not to encumber the ground upon which the cavalry was to operate. To accomplish this the
general assured me he would march the division on my right to the left by roads to the rear of my
command, inside of the intrenchments. The commanding officers of brigades and divisions,
having personally examined the ground upon which they were to operate, were assembled at my
headquarters and received their instructions verbally. To prevent any misunderstanding they
were furnished with written orders to the following effect, on the night of the 14th of November
[December]: The Fifth Division, Brigadier-General Hatch commanding, was directed to debouch
from the fortifications at or near the Hardin pike, and move with its right flank on or near the
pike, its left flank connected with the infantry of Maj. Gen. A. J. Smith to clear its own front, and
as soon as Smith should carry the rebel advanced position to swing to the left, envelop and take
in reverse the enemy's left flank. Croxton's brigade, of the First Division, was ordered to debouch
near the Hardin pike by a dirt road between that and the Charlotte pike, to move with its left
flank connecting with Hatch's division and its right following the line of the ridge between the
Charlotte and Hardin pikes; after clearing Hardin pike of the enemy and crossing Richland
Creek, General Croxton was directed to conform to the movements on his left. The Sixth
Division, one brigade mounted, the other having no horses, Brig. Gen. R. W. Johnson
commanding, was ordered to move by the Charlotte pike, clear that road of the enemy, keeping
connection with Croxton by skirmishers or patrols, and to push as far as Davidson's house, eight
miles from the city, so as to cover the movement of the balance of the corps from the enemy's
cavalry; General Johnson was specially charged with looking out for the guns at Bell's landing
and the force with them. Brig. Gen. Joseph F. Knipe, commanding the Seventh Division, one
brigade mounted, the other dismounted, was directed to debouch on the Hardin pike after the
movement had begun and hold himself in readiness to move in any direction. Brigade and
division commanders were informed that the operations of the Cavalry Corps were designed to
clear the enemy from its immediate front, cover the right of the infantry, envelop the enemy's left
flank, attack him in the rear, and, if possible, force its way to the Franklin pike at or near
Brentwood. The country being plowed fields or heavily timbered hills, very abrupt and difficult,
they were directed to leave all wheels except those of the artillery behind.
The whole command was under arms ready to move by 6 a.m. December 15, but owing to a
dense fog the attack was delayed. By 8.30 a.m. it had cleared away: but McArthur's division, not
having been directed to march, as General Smith had promised, moved across the front of my
command, thereby delaying the general advance till about 10 a.m. Had the enemy been specially
alert this delay might have been very detrimental to the plan of attack. As soon, however, as the
infantry on Hatch's left began moving he advanced, with his left touching the Hardin pike and his
right extending toward the Charlotte pike. The position which the infantry held being farther to
the right than was originally intended compelled a corresponding change on the part of the
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cavalry. Simultaneously with the advance of the infantry the cavalry forces moved as directed.
Hatch's division was still further delayed after beginning in advance by McArthur's infantry, but
finally, having a clear road, advanced rapidly with a strong line of skirmishers. The enemy,
Ector's brigade of infantry, were found posted beyond Richland Creek, on commanding ground,
well intrenched, but by a gallant charge by Stewart's brigade were driven rapidly beyond
Hardin's house, with the loss of some prisoners and intrenching tools. When near the latter place
the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, Colonel Spalding commanding, charged the enemy, captured 43
prisoners, the headquarters train of General Chalmers, 14 wagons, containing baggage, papers,
and records. Having cleared his front General Hatch marched rapidly by the left flank with his
First Brigade to join the Second Brigade, which, wheeling with the infantry, found itself on the
flank of a four-gun battery posted in a redoubt covering the enemy's left. Having posted his
battery (I, First Illinois Light Artillery) so as to enfilade the enemy, General Hatch pushed
forward Colonel Coon's brigade, dismounted, charged the rebel infantry supports, broke them,
and captured the redoubt, with its guns. Lieutenant Budd, of the Second Iowa Cavalry, was the
first man in the redoubt, closely followed by Lieutenant Colvin, acting assistant adjutant-general
of the division. In this attack a portion of the infantry skirmish line gave assistance. The captured
guns were turned upon the enemy, occupying a higher hill, strongly intrenched, still farther on.
Hastily forming, the Second Brigade pushed boldly forward, the First Brigade following the
movement still farther to the right. The enemy's new position was very strong. The left of their
line occupied a hill still higher than the one already carried, and with steep sides. On the top of it
they had constructed an irregular inclosed work of rails and earth, in which a four-gun field
battery was placed. To men less brave and determined than the dismounted horsemen of Hatch's
division it would have seemed like madness to attack such a position. I have seen columns of
infantry hesitate to attack positions not half so strong, but Coon's brigade, armed with the
Spencer carbine and in a strong line of skirmishers, at the command of General Hatch, advanced
at the charge. In spite of the steep acclivity and withering fire of artillery and musketry from the
rebel parapet, the redoubt was carried, with the battery of 4 guns and 250 prisoners. While the
Second Brigade was collecting and forming its scattered ranks General Hatch, with the First
Brigade, crossed the Hillsborough pike and again attacked the enemy on another range of hills,
drove them from it, and took possession of a battery of four guns in the valley beyond. It was
now almost dark; the cavalrymen having been fighting all day on foot, owing to the roughness of
the country, were very much fatigued. General Hatch was ordered to bring up his horses, collect
his men, and bivouac on the Hillsborough pike. The Twenty-third Corps, Major-General
Schofield commanding, had moved to the right of Smith's corps and carried the hills in its front
just before dark. General Hatch was directed to connect with Schofield's right and cover it from
the enemy. As soon as Hatch had broken through the enemy on the Hardin pike Knipe was
directed to move out and pass to Hatch's right, conform to his movements and push in upon the
enemy's rear. The First Brigade, Brevet Brigadier-General Hammond commanding, advanced to
the Hillsborough pike, striking it near the six-mile post, and three-quarters of a mile farther on
turned up a branch of Richland Creek, and reached the Granny White pike just at dark. The
dismounted brigade took position on the Hillsborough pike, covering Hatch and Hammond from
an advance of the rebel cavalry on that road. Croxton's brigade and Johnson's division, having
been delayed, like Hatch, by McArthur's infantry, moved promptly forward at the word and
found the enemy posted beyond Richland Creek. The rebel cavalry, with four guns well posted,
seemed determined to hold their ground, but strongly attacked by Harrison's brigade, of
Johnson's division, in front, while Croxton pressed on their right, they were forced to give way.
Croxton, after following for several miles, turned to the left and crossed the Hardin pike, and
marched through the country, skirmishing with Chalmers, moving in the same direction, and
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finally, after dark, bivouacked near the six-mile post, on the Hillsborough pike. Johnson
continued his advance along the Charlotte pike, and came up with the rebels, strongly posted,
beyond a small creek emptying into the Cumberland near Bell's Landing; after some sharp
skirmishing General Johnson made dispositions to attack the rebel right in conjunction with
Croxton, hoping thereby to drive them from the road and separate them from the main rebel
army. The gun-boats dropped down and opened on their flank, while Lieutenant Smith, with
Battery I, Fourth U.S. Artillery, opened upon them in front. General Croxton having, by my
order, turned toward the left, General Johnson did not think himself strong enough to risk an
attack upon the rebel position. Night coming on he bivouacked in their front, intending to attack
before daylight the next morning. This plan was frustrated by the withdrawal of the rebels after
night. The first day's operations having resulted in driving back the enemy's entire left wing four
miles, with our cavalry on the left flank and rear of the enemy, orders were issued for the
continuance of operations the next day.
Early on the morning of the 16th Hammond's pickets on the Granny White pike were
attacked and driven in, but ordering him to strengthen them with his entire brigade, if necessary,
he in turn drove the enemy back. At the same time I directed General Hatch to move on the
enemy's rear, passing to Hammond's left. The country, very hilly and densely covered with
timber, was entirely impracticable for mounted men; the whole force was therefore dismounted
and pushed forward. Croxton moved to the front, ready to support either Hammond or Hatch,
and orders were sent to Johnson to march across the country to the Hillsborough pike. By noon
the skirmishers of Hatch and Hammond had formed a continuous line, stretching from the right
of Schofield's corps across the Granny White pike. This line was parallel to that of the enemy
and facing in the direction of Nashville. The men of the Fifth and Seventh Divisions, urged
forward by their gallant officers, steadily pressed the enemy back at every point, skirmishing
heavily. Having informed Generals Thomas and Schofield of the position occupied by my
command and what it was doing, the infantry was ordered forward on the right, and, as they
charged the front of the rebel works, Coon's brigade, of Hatch's division, attacked them in the
rear. Pressed in front, flank, and, rear, about 4 p.m. the enemy broke and fled in confusion from
the field. Croxton was hurried from the Hillsborough pike toward Brentwood, but could not
reach the flying army before dark. Hatch and Knipe were ordered to mount their commands and
pursue with all possible rapidity. As on the day before, from the difficult character of the ground
and the distance traveled dismounted, considerable time was unavoidably lost before the horses
could be led to the men. Hatch was directed to push down the Granny White pike, and, if
possible, reach the Franklin pike that night. He had not, however, gone more than a mile when
his advance encountered the enemy's cavalry, Chalmers' division, strongly posted across the road
behind a barricade of rails. A portion of the command were hastily dismounted and deployed on
both sides of the road. While the skirmishers were advancing the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, led
by Colonel Spalding, charged the enemy, broke his lines, scattered them in all directions, and
captured Brigadier-General Rucker, then in command of the division. Night having closed in the
enemy was enabled to make his escape. The pursuit was necessarily discontinued, men and
horses being worn out and hungry. The corps bivouacked for the night--Knipe, Croxton, and
Hatch on the Granny White pike, and Johnson on the Hillsborough pike near the Harpeth River.
Before daylight they were in motion again--Knipe, in the advance, marched through the country
to the Franklin pike; Croxton crossed and marched through the fields to its left; Hatch marched
by the Granny White pike and a country road to the Franklin pike, and then followed Knipe;
while Johnson pushed to the Harpeth River, forded it, and moved rapidly toward Franklin.
General Knipe, with Hammond's brigade, came up with the enemy at Hollow Tree Gap, four or
five miles north of Franklin. After a sharp fight, in which General Hammond with a part of his
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command passed around the enemy's right and struck them in flank, the position was
handsomely carried. Three colors and 413 prisoners, including 2 colonels and 2 lieutenantcolonels,
were captured. The rebel rear guard then fell back rapidly to Franklin, crossed the
Harpeth, and prepared to defend its crossing but General Johnson, with Harrison's brigade,
having marched at 4 o'clock and crossed the river on the Hillsborough pike, moved rapidly to
Franklin, struck them in flank, and compelled them to retreat to a new position, south of the
town. Knipe crossed by the ford and entered the town almost simultaneously with Harrison's
advance; Hatch and Croxton crossed soon after at the fords above the town. At Franklin the
enemy's hospital with about 2,000 wounded fell into our hands; 200 of our own wounded, left
there on the retreat to Nashville, were also recovered, together with 17,000 rations. The pursuit
was immediately continued, Knipe and Hatch moving in parallel columns along the Columbia
pike, Johnson down the Carter's Creek pike, and Croxton on the Lewisburg pike. The flanking
columns were directed to push rapidly forward and endeavor to pass round the flanks of the
enemy's rear guard, composed almost entirely of infantry, while a strong force of skirmishers
across the pike should press it continually and compel it to form line as frequently as possible.
By these means I hoped to break up their last organized force and disperse the disorganized and
flying mass they were covering. My orders were obeyed with great alacrity, but the enemy,
finding his flanks so much endangered, retired as rapidly, but skirmishing heavily with Hatch
and Knipe. Late in the evening, apparently exhausted with rapid marching, the rebels took a
strong position in open fields about a mile north of the West Harpeth. It was then almost dark
from fog and approaching night.
The men of General Hatch's advance, by their rapid movements, had become so intermingled
with the sullen and disheartened enemy, he began to doubt that the force in his front were really
those of the rebel rear guard. The momentary hesitation caused by this uncertainty gave the
rebels an opportunity to put their battery in position and reform their line. I immediately gave
orders for Hatch and Knipe to collect their men and charge both flanks of the enemy, and
directed my escort, the Fourth U.S. Cavalry, about 200 strong, Lieut. Joseph Hedges
commanding, to charge their center, on the pike. These orders had scarcely been given before the
enemy opened a rapid fire from their battery, not over 300 yards from us. Hatch's battery
promptly replied. Lieutenant Hedges, thinking that I simply wished him to ascertain the character
of the force in our front, hastily moved his regiment about and to the side of the road and out of
the range of the rebel guns, but, at my orders as promptly resumed his original formation, in
column of fours," in the road, and dashed forward at a gallop with sabers drawn, broke through
the enemy's battery; Hatch's division and Hammond's brigade, dismounted, rushed forward at the
same moment. The enemy, broken in the center and pressed back on both flanks, fled rapidly
from the field, withdrawing his guns at a gallop. Lieutenant Hedges, outstripping his men, was
captured three different times, but throwing his hat away and raising the cry "The Yankees are
coming, run for your lives," succeeded in getting away. The rout was complete, and although it
was then very dark everybody pressed rapidly forward, the Fourth U.S. Cavalry and General
Hatch, with a handful of men, in advance on the pike, and the Fifth Division on right and left.
General Hammond, with the Tenth Indiana Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Gresham commanding,
fording the West Harpeth a few hundred yards to the right, again struck the rebels in the flank.
Pressed in all directions the artillerymen left their guns and saved themselves as best they could;
the infantry scattered in all directions; darkness alone enabled the entire command to escape. The
rebel force was found to be Stevenson's division, of Lee's corps, under command of General
Forrest, who had just returned from Murfreesborough.
Early the next morning the Cavalry Corps, although out of rations, again renewed the pursuit-
-Croxton and Johnson endeavoring to strike the enemy at Spring Hill; Hatch and Knipe moving
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as the day before. The enemy, having encamped at Spring Hill, marched rapidly toward
Columbia, but could not be again brought to a stand. The densely wooded country, muddy roads,
and plowed fields, rendered almost impassable by the constant rain, made it very difficult for
troops traveling on the right and left of the pike to get forward fast enough to overtake the enemy
marching on the pike. Late in the afternoon the command halted seven miles north of Columbia
for rations, having had nothing to eat since the day before and nothing in the country for them to
take. Supplies arrived during the night, and early in the morning the pursuit was resumed,
notwithstanding a heavy storm of rain and snow then prevailing. General Hatch arrived at
Rutherford's Creek at an early hour, followed closely by the Fourth Corps. Owing to the
inclemency of the weather, by order of General Thomas, the balance of the Cavalry Corps
remained in bivouac. Rutherford's Creek, swollen by the rains and having steep and abrupt
banks, could not be forded. The pontoon train was behind, and did not arrive till the next day.
The enemy occupied a strong position commanding the site of the old bridge. General Hatch
succeeded in crossing a few skirmishers on the ruins of the upper railroad bridge, about a mile
from the pike, but, after some skirmishing, withdrew them to the north bank after dark.
The morning of the 20th General Hatch constructed a floating bridge out of the debris of the
lower railroad bridge and crossed his entire command, but the enemy had succeeded in getting
everything across Duck River the night before. This stream, being also much swollen, could not
be crossed until the pontoon bridge was laid. Brigadier-Generals Johnson and Knipe were sent to
Nashville to remount their dismounted brigades on the 20th.
On the 24th of December the whole corps, having crossed Duck River, resumed the pursuit,
but General Hood had improved his opportunity and reformed his rear guard by selecting all of
the well-armed infantry in his command; they were organized into eight brigades, of about 500
men each; the available cavalry that could be controlled were also used; all under command of
Lieutenant-General Forrest. The trains and body of the army were hurried toward the Tennessee
River, marching to Pulaski, and thence by the dirt roads to Bainbridge. The rear guard had thus a
clear road and when pressed could fall back rapidly. The country on the right and left of the pike,
very broken and densely timbered, was almost impassable; the pike itself, passing through the
gorges of the hills, was advantageous for the enemy; with a few men he could compel the
pursuing force to develop a front almost anywhere. In the vicinity of Lynnville, the country
being open, the enemy was driven rapidly back, and at Buford Station, near Richland Creek,
while Hatch was-pressing them on the pike Croxton struck them in flank and drove them in
confusion beyond Richland Creek. In this affair one flag and a number of prisoners were
captured and the rebel General Buford wounded through the leg. The rebels retreated that night
to the vicinity of Pulaski, but the next day were driven through that place, closely pressed by
Harrison's brigade. The bridges across Richland Creek were saved by the celerity and good
management with which Colonel Harrison handled his command, so that, without delaying, he
continued the pursuit, and by 2 p.m. came up with the enemy strongly intrenched at the head of a
heavily wooded and deep ravine, through which ran the road. The country was so difficult and
broken that the men of Harrison's brigade were necessarily in weak order, but nothing daunted,
they pursued the enemy's skirmishers back to their fortified position. Here they were compelled
to halt, and while the troops of Hatch's, Croxton's, and Hammond's commands were marching
through the woods to their support, a few hundred of the enemy's infantry, for the first time since
the battles about Nashville, sallied from their breast-works and drove back Harrison's attenuated
skirmish line and captured one gun of Smith's battery (I, Fourth U.S. Artillery). They were
promptly driven back, but had succeeded in getting the captured gun off. Hammond, Croxton,
and Hatch moving on the flanks of their position they abandoned it hastily just before night,
leaving about fifty prisoners in our hands.
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On the 26th the pursuit was continued to the Sugar Creek, the enemy falling back and
making but slight resistance. At the latter place they took up a strong position and held it until
General Hammond had developed his forces and got ready to attack. Hastily withdrawing, they
continued their march throughout the night. It had now become evident that no effort on the part
of my command could bring again Forrest to risk another engagement. Having neither rations
nor forage, and learning that the main body of the rebels had already reached the south side of
the Tennessee, I directed the corps to halt, and the next morning I sent Colonel Spalding, of the
Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, with 500 picked men, after the enemy, with directions to continue
the pursuit until he had reached the Tennessee River. He reached the river, at Bainbridge, early
on the morning of the 28th, the last of the enemy having crossed and taken up the bridge during
the night.
The road from Pulaski to Bainbridge was as bad as it could possibly be the country through
which it runs almost entirely denuded of forage and army supplies. Both men and horses suffered
greatly. Hood having effected his escape, the corps was ordered to Eastport for the purpose of
refitting and resting. Before this order was received, however, Hatch, Hammond, and Harrison
had marched to Athens, on the road to Huntsville, in pursuance of previous instructions from
General Thomas.
The reports of the provost-marshal show that during these operations the cavalry captured
from enemy 32 guns, 11 caissons, 12 colors, 3,232 prisoners (including 1 general officer), and
compelled them to abandon or destroy over 100 wagons, 8 ambulances, and 1,348 mules.
Detachments of the Sixth and Seventh Divisions accompanied the movements of Major-
General Steedman south of the Tennessee, and burned the rebel pontoon and a large supply train;
in all, 80 pontoons, 125 wagons.
Our losses were: I gun; 122 officers and men killed, 521 wounded, and 259 missing.
For the details of these operations and acts of special gallantry I respectfully refer to the
reports of Generals McCook, Hatch, Hammond, Johnson, and Croxton, which I submit herewith.
Reports of other commanders will be sent forward as soon as obtained. The operations of the
Third Division, extending from Atlanta to Savannah, are fully detailed in the reports of General
Kilpatrick and his subordinate officers, transmitted herewith.
General Kilpatrick and his gallant command are specially worthy of praise for the admirable
manner in which they co-operated with the movements of the infantry in their long and tiresome
march, as well as for the confidence and bravery with which they attacked and defeated at
various times the superior numbers of the rebel cavalry under General Wheeler.
The officers of my staff have performed their duties most efficiently throughout the entire
campaign, but I am particularly indebted to Lieut. Col. A. J. Alexander, assistant adjutantgeneral,
Seventeenth Corps, chief of staff; Maj. E. B. Beaumont, assistant adjutant-general; Capt.
E. B. Carling, chief quartermaster; and Capt. J. C. Read, chief commissary. These officers have
fully earned the promotion for which they have already been recommended to the War
Department.
It is with great pleasure I mention the services of Maj. William P. Chambliss and Capt. John
Green, U.S. Army, special inspectors of cavalry. In furnishing remounts, arms, and preparing
troops for the field, they have done more than all other persons toward promoting the efficiency
of the cavalry service in this military division.
Before closing this report it may not be improper to say that throughout the entire campaign
the bravery and steadiness of the cavalry troops, new and old, were most conspicuous. Nothing
could have been more admirable than their conduct on the Harpeth, in the two days' battle at
Nashville, in the affair on the West Harpeth, or in the pursuit which followed. -I know of no
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battles in the war where the influence of cavalry was more potent, nor of any pursuit sustained so
long and well.
The results of campaign, added to those following the same policy in the Army of the
Potomac, clearly demonstrate the wisdom of massing the cavalry of an army, and it is to be
hoped will obtain from the War Department a recognition of the corps already organized.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen. and Chief of Staff, Hdqrs. Dept. of the Cumberland.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 18.
HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Gravelly Springs, February 24, 1865.
The brevet major-general commanding takes great pleasure in commending the gallant and
meritorious conduct of the following-named officers and enlisted men of the Cavalry Corps,
Military Division of the Mississippi, during the recent campaign: Col. George Spalding, Twelfth
Tennessee Cavalry, for gallantry in charging the enemy's works in front of Nashville on the 15th
and 16th of December, 1864; Col. Thomas J. Harrison, commanding brigade, Sixth Division, for
gallantry and energetic discharge of his duties; Lieutenant-Colonel Gresham, Tenth Indiana
Cavalry, for gallantry in the night fight on the West Harpeth; Capt. Joseph C. Boyer, Twelfth
Tennessee Cavalry, for gallantry in hand-to-hand fight on the night of the 16th of December,
1864, resulting in the capture of his opponent, Brigadier-General Rucker, of the Confederate
army; Captain Davis, Tenth Tennessee Cavalry, for behaving with great gallantry; Capt. Norman
M. Smith, Nineteenth Pennsylvania, for attention to duty at all times, bravery at Hollow-Tree
Gap (December 17), Anthony's Hill (December 25), Sugar Creek (December 26, 1864); Capt.
George R. Mitchell, Company K, Tenth Indiana Cavalry, for gallantry in leading a charge against
the enemy at Indian Creek, December 22, 1864; Capt. William Mead and Lieut. George S.
Snook, Tenth Indiana Cavalry, with eighty men of Companies D and K, of the same regiment,
charged through the rebels, 300 strong, killing and wounding many and capturing twenty-five
prisoners; First Lieut. Thomas Claiborn, Tenth Indiana Cavalry, for attention to duty at all times
and bravery at Hollow-Tree Gap, December 17, 1864; Lieut. Hervey A. Colvin, Twelfth
Tennessee Cavalry, and Lieutenant Budd, Second Iowa Cavalry, for gallantry during the charge
on first redoubt, stormed by the Second Brigade, Fifth Division, in front of Nashville; First Lieut.
Joseph Hedges, Fourth U.S. Cavalry, for gallantry in fight on the Little Harpeth River, December
18 [17], 1864, charging a strong line of rebel infantry with his regiment mounted, charge
resulting in the capture of three guns from the enemy; Sergt. George G. Chism, Company A,
Ninth Indiana Cavalry, for charging with fifteen men and capturing twenty rebels at Franklin
December 17,1864; Sergt. Martin G. Rossmalier, Company H Fourth U.S. Cavalry for bravery
during the action at Little Harpeth River; Corpl. Harrison Collins, Company A, First Tennessee
Cavalry, for capturing a rebel battle-flag from Chalmers' division December 24, 1864; Private
Simpson B. Gaston, for gallantry in leading the charge on Reynolds' Hill, December 25, 1864.
The gallantry of the troops of the Cavalry Corps has receives the commendation of the
major-general commanding the department. It is regretted that the brevet major-general
commanding cannot mention more from the host of meritorious soldiers who were distinguished
for their gallantry. The division and brigade commanders having been mentioned in the report of
operations, on that account are not mentioned in general orders.
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By command of Brevet Major-General Wilson:
E. B. BEAUMONT,
Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.
MAJOR: I have the honor to report that on the 24th of October, 1864, this brigade was on the
Tennessee River, in compliance with the following order, viz:
NASHVILLE, October 13, 1864.
Brig. Gen. JOHN T. CROXTON:
I have just ordered that the Ninth and Tenth Regiments Indiana Cavalry and the Tenth and
Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry be mounted from the horses used by General Steedman, and they
will be ordered to report to you to assist in guarding the river Send Colonel Roper's brigade to
this place, as it is made up of detachments, and I desire to reorganize it and send it to the front as
soon as possible. Get into position by the 14th or 15th at farthest, if possible, and report to me the
point selected for your camp, and establish a line of couriers between it and Pulaski or Athens,
whichever may be the nearest point of telegraphic communication.
GEO. H. THOMAS,
Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.
The effective strength of the brigade was about 1,000 men, two-thirds of whom were
scattered from Lamb's Ferry to Florence, a distance of twenty-four miles, guarding the fords and
ferries, and the remaining third in reserve, encamped near Center Star. General Thomas had
promised to send the Tenth and Twelfth Tennessee and also the Ninth and Tenth Indiana to assist
in guarding the river, but General Granger retained the latter-named regiments, and of the former
only about 450 men reported, and these were so badly mounted and so carelessly managed that
before the date mentioned they reported less than 200 effective men. These were stationed at
Martin's Mills, three miles west of Florence, on the Waterloo road, and charged with watching
Pride's, Garner's, and Cheatham's Ferries. On the evening of the 29th of October I obtained
reliable information that Hood's entire army was at Town Creek, and would probably attempt to
lay a pontoon bridge at Bainbridge during that night. I at once dispatched this information to
General Thomas, and sent the Second Michigan Cavalry to re-enforce the guard at Bainbridge, a
battalion to Raccoon Branch, two miles above Florence, and ordered the Tenth and Twelfth
Tennessee from Martin's Mills to watch the ferry at Florence. No demonstration was made that
night, but about 3 p.m. of the day following two brigades of Johnson's division, of Lee's corps,
were suddenly thrown across the river in flat-boats, landing about three miles below Bainbridge,
at a point never known or used as a ferry. The troops had been during the night previous crossed
to an island near the northern bank, where they lay secreted during the day, and were rapidly
crossed. As soon as it was discovered the troops above and below moved promptly to meet them,
and fought until night-fall, but were unable to hold their ground. By that time the enemy had
succeeded in driving them back until they held possession of the Huntsville and Florence road at
Judge Posey's. During the night I gathered up all my available force at Shoal Creek bridge, at
which point I remained, reconnoitering daily and driving in the rebel pickets in sight of Florence,
until on the 5th of November my reconnoitering party was met and driven back by a column of
rebel infantry, which proved to be Johnson's division. They attacked us at-10 a.m. at Shoal
Creek, and, failing to drive us away, sent two brigades to a ford near the mouth of the stream,
where they crossed and forced us to retire. The brigades recrossed during the night, and my
outposts reoccupied the line of the creek.
On the 6th General Hatch arrived at Lexington with his division, and I reported to him. We
remained in statu quo until the 20th, when the rebels began to move, and we accordingly by way
of Lexington and Lawrenceburg until we joined the army at Columbia, on the 25th, where, by
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order of the general commanding the corps, I reported to Brigadier-General Johnson, under
whose command I remained until we reached Edgefield.
On the morning of the 30th of November, when at Matthews' house, on the Franklin and
Murfreesborough road, I was ordered to cross Harpeth and move to Douglass Church, on the
Lewisburg pike, and if pressed by the enemy to recross the river at McGavock's Ford, one mile
and a half from Franklin. About 10 o'clock the rebel advance attacked us, and skirmishing
continued until about 2 o'clock, when their cavalry made a dash, and, being repulsed, moved up
the river toward Hughes' Ford, while their infantry took their place I at once crossed my
command, except the Second Michigan Cavalry, which was left to contest the advance of the
rebel infantry, which it did very effectually, holding their position until nearly sundown, when,
being forced to retire by overwhelming numbers, they recrossed the river just as the rebel cavalry
that had crossed at Hughes' Mills made their appearance. I had just formed to meet them when
Colonel Dorr reported the rebel infantry crossing between my position and Franklin, and,
knowing the danger to the army from such a move, if successful, I left the First Tennessee and
Second Michigan in position to resist the advance of the cavalry, and hurried with the Eighth
Iowa and Fourth Kentucky Mounted Infantry to meet the infantry, and if possible drive them
back. I discovered, however, the report to be unfounded, and at once moved' forward the Second
Michigan and First Tennessee, while General Hatch moved on my left, and the whole of the
rebel cavalry were driven back across the Harpeth.
On the morning of the 16th [15th] of December my command as ordered was in line of battle
outside the intrenchments at Nashville and on the right of General Hatch, ready to move. When
General Hatch moved, however, two brigades of infantry, said to belong to McArthur's division,
were moving by the left flank across my front, and as soon as they were out of the way I moved
forward, but found a rebel battery on the Charlotte pike which I could not pass, and as the troops
on my right did not move up I wheeled the Second Michigan Cavalry to the right, and,
supporting it with the Eighth Iowa, moved directly for the hills on which the rebels were posted,
and from which they were driven at the first dash. I intended at once to mount and join General
Hatch, but Colonel Alexander arriving directed me to remain, supporting General Johnson,
which I did until sundown, when I proceeded, by order of the general commanding, to rejoin the
corps on the Hillsborough pike. The rebels had already left General Johnson's front, and moving
in the same direction as my brigade we encountered them on the Hardin pike, and I accordingly
left the Fourth Kentucky Mounted Infantry at Williams' house to cover that road.
On the 17th [16th] my brigade was in reserve until nearly dark, when it was thrown across
the Granny White pike, on the right of Knipe's division, but too late to accomplish its object. On
the 18th [17th] we crossed the pike, passed around Brentwood, down the Wilson pike to
Matthews' house, swimming the Harpeth at McGavock's Ford, encamping at Douglass Church,
encountering only small parties of the enemy, and capturing near 130 prisoners.
Nothing of interest occurred until the 24th, when my brigade had the advance from Columbia
on the Pulaski pike. We skirmished most of the day, and late in the evening drove the enemy
across Richland Creek, capturing a few prisoners and a battle-flag. The Eighth Iowa Cavalry,
Colonel Dorr commanding, had been sent by me to cover my right flank, and was directed to
keep up communication with the First Tennessee, which formed the right of my line. Although 1
sent several times for it I was not able to get sight of it during the day, and at night in encamped
several miles in rear of the brigade. Had it been up (and I know no good reason why it was not,
as the firing indicated clearly the position of the brigade), we would, without doubt, have
captured the enemy's artillery and many prisoners. After that day the brigade was not engaged.
On the 29th we were ordered from Bull's Mills to this place, with instructions to destroy Bear
Creek bridge if practicable. As the transports had been lying in the river for four days (pointing
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clearly to the expectation of troops), and, as Hood's army reached Cherokee Station the night we
reached Waterloo, I decided it was not possible to burn the bridge, and afterward, when it
became possible, I determined it was not advisable. I sent Captain Johnston, Second Michigan
Cavalry, and acting assistant inspector-general of my staff, with fifty men, over, on the night of
the 6th instant, who captured and brought over an officer and 16 men of the Fourth Alabama
Cavalry.
I send herewith a list of casualties in my command since September 1. A report of prisoners
captured has already been made the provost-marshal.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN T. CROXTON,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers.
Major BEAUMONT,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Cavalry Corps.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS,
Athens, Ala., January 6, 1865.
In compliance with orders from Maj. Gen. O. O. Howard, my command, then known as the
First Division, Cavalry Corps, West Tennessee, left Clifton, Tenn., on the morning of the 29th of
October to join his command in the field at Rome, Ga. Reached Pulaski on the morning of
November 1, 1864, when I was ordered by Major-General Thomas to halt and report to Major-
General Stanley, at Pulaski. Reported to Major-General Stanley on the morning of November 2.
Was ordered by him to proceed toward Florence, and then take command of all the cavalry in
that neighborhood and obtain information of the enemy's movements; to move from Pulaski on
the 4th of November. Marched by the way of Lexington, opening communication with
Brigadier-General Croxton, and on the 5th of November, 3 p.m., struck the enemy's cavalry
thirteen miles from Florence, on the military road. After considerable skirmishing drove the
enemy across Shoal Creek to a point nine miles from Florence. On the 6th of November
established my lines in front of Florence, making Shoal Creek the line, Brigadier-General
Croxton holding the left and fifteen miles of the Tennessee River.
On the 9th of November attacked enemy at all points, driving in his pickets, and in Colonel
Coon's front, who commanded the Second Brigade Cavalry, drove the enemy's infantry out of
rifle-pits, capturing the heights on the south of Shoal Creek, developing the fact the enemy had
one corps on the north side of the river, with one division of cavalry. Until the 13th daily
attacking the enemy's pickets, developing the fact that his force was increasing on the north side
of the Tennessee River, and that Hood was undoubtedly advancing his entire army to the north
side.
On the 13th and 14th, having ascertained undoubtedly Hood would move with his army
north, chopped in all the gorges leading to the crossing of Shoal Creek with timber, and
otherwise obstructing the roads. Skirmishing daily until the 19th of November, when I learned
Forrest was moving up the west side of Shoal Creek. Moved nearly my entire command by the
right flank. Colonel Coon, commanding the Second Brigade of Cavalry, met Forrest's command
after crossing the creek to the west side, and after a severe fight was obliged that night to recross
the creek, the day's fight resulting in the capture of a few prisoners from the enemy and the
headquarters trains of Chalmers' and Buford's divisions. This also developed the fact that Hood's
entire army was moving north, the heads of his infantry corps making their appearance before
Colonel Coon's brigade was withdrawn. On the morning of the 20th of November concentrated
my forces on Lexington, and on the 21st marched to Lawrenceburg. At daylight of the 22d the
enemy attacked my pickets. We held the town all day, repulsing all charges of the enemy's
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dismounted cavalry, and from 3 p.m. until dark under a fire of twelve pieces of artillery. The
enemy, gradually turning my right flank, fell back that night one mile on the Pulaski road. On the
morning of the 23d fell back on the Pulaski pike nine miles, where Croxton's brigade, which had
been in reserve the day before, became engaged with the enemy in force and gallantly held them
until 8 o'clock that night, and then joined the command on the Campbellsville road.
On the morning of the 24th of November marched five miles to Campbellsville, where we
became engaged with Jackson's, Buford's, and Chalmers' divisions of cavalry. After much severe
fighting the enemy's infantry making its appearance forced me to move by the left flank toward
Lynnville. In the first part of the engagement the First Brigade, composed of the Third Illinois,
Twelfth Missouri, and Seventh Illinois Cavalry, whipped Buford's division, turning his left and
driving the division two miles in confusion onto infantry supports. In falling back on Lynnville
the Ninth Illinois Cavalry was left to hold the gorge in the hills. The regiment was commanded
by Captain Harper, of same regiment, who repeatedly repulsed the enemy. The last charge was
met--when the regiment was out of ammunition--with the butts of his carbines, and the enemy
repulsed, though the company in the center, of twenty-five men, had 14 men killed while fighting
in line. This gave me time to throw my command in position at Lynnville, at 4 p.m., where the
enemy's attacks were in every instance repulsed, and he ceased to attack at 8 o'clock in the
evening, when I moved up, in compliance with orders from Major-General Wilson, to Columbia.
In reorganizing the cavalry command I received the addition of three regiments, and was
known as the Fifth Division, Cavalry Corps, Military Division of the Mississippi.
On the 28th the enemy attacked my camp near Columbia, were repulsed, when I was ordered
by Major-General Wilson to move to the Lewisburg pike. On the 29th, when falling back toward
Franklin, was ordered to relieve Croxton's brigade, then fighting in the rear; was thrown into
position at Mount Carmel, where the enemy made two charges and were repulsed with a heavy
loss and gave up the attack, when I was ordered by Major-General Wilson to fall back toward
Franklin, which was done under considerable light skirmishing in the rear. Crossed Harpeth
River that night.
At 3 p.m. on the 30th of November, Jackson's and Buford's divisions appearing in my front, I
was ordered by Major-General Wilson to carry the hills in my front and push the enemy back.
My command at this time consisted of Colonel Coon's brigade, the Third Illinois Cavalry, and
three companies of the Eleventh Indiana Cavalry. The hills were very abrupt, and the enemy had
possession of all but one, and were then well round on my left flank. The men of my command
dismounted, the line moved forward to the foot of the hills, when the order was given to charge,
the men going over them in great spirit. Giving the command a moment to breathe, we again
charged, when the enemy broke in confusion, and at 7 o'clock in the evening we had driven them
over Harpeth River, from two to three miles distant from our first line of battle. On the same day
the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, of my command, had a severe skirmish near Spring Hill. They
joined the command that night in time to participate in the battle at Franklin.
December 1, marched toward Nashville, Colonel Stewart's brigade having severe fighting in
the rear, near Brentwood. On the 2d of December reached Nashville; camped on the north side of
the river.
On 12th of December crossed the Cumberland and moved out on the Charlotte pike. On the
15th was ordered by Major-General Wilson to move out to the attack dismounted, with the
exception of one regiment in each brigade mounted, my left to rest on the right of Maj. Gen. A. J.
Smith's corps and to conform to the movements of the infantry. As the line moved forward I
discovered a line of rifle-pits and barricades, when the First Brigade, Colonel Stewart, was
ordered to charge, which he did gallantly, carrying the rifle-pits and driving the enemy down the
Hardin road, when Colonel Spalding, Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, was ordered to charge
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mounted, driving the enemy in confusion, capturing a wagon train and forty-three prisoners. The
Second Brigade had then changed its front, wheeling as the infantry swung to the left, while I
was obliged to advance Stewart's brigade, with same front I moved out with, to push the enemy
back from my right flank; when he had accomplished this, to move his brigade by the left flank,
on the right and rear of the Second Brigade, which had continued to move forward, conforming
to the wheeling of the infantry to the left, and thus found my Second Brigade on the flank of the
first redoubt of four guns. Putting Battery I, First Illinois Light Artillery, attached to my division,
in position, I opened with the guns and ordered Colonel Coon, the Second Brigade, to advance,
retaining the fire of the men until within 300 yards of the redoubt. Charged the infantry supports,
firing; the supports broke, and the redoubt was carried. Lieutenant Budd, of the Second Iowa
Cavalry, was the first man in the fort, the second was my adjutant, Lieutenant Colvin, of the
Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry. On obtaining possession of the redoubt, while my men were
forming, turned the captured guns upon the hill commanding it. As soon as the line was formed
the Second Brigade moved forward rapidly and gained the foot of the earth-works, where the
men were rallied to carry it. The charge was again sounded; the color-bearer of the Second Iowa
Cavalry sprang over the parapets, and was killed inside of the works; he was quickly followed by
men enough to carry the fort. We captured in the two works 8 guns and about 250 prisoners. In
the charge on the first fort two companies of the Eleventh Missouri Infantry, who had been
thrown out as skirmishers, fell in with the line of the Second Iowa Cavalry and entered the fort
with this regiment. My command then moved forward. The First Brigade, Colonel Stewart, had
then come up, and was deployed on the right of the Second Brigade; moved forward on the flank
of the enemy, when the enemy was found in force upon another range of high hills. Stewart's
brigade being comparatively fresh I ordered it to charge, knowing a portion of the Twenty-third
Corps was in its rear and could support the charge. The men went forward finely, carried the hill,
and sweeping over it rapidly, captured four pieces of artillery in the valley on the other side.
These guns were turned on the enemy with good effect. They were taken by the Eleventh
Indiana, Twelfth Missouri, and Third Illinois Cavalry, and were worked upon the retreating
columns of the enemy by Major Hubbard, Twelfth Missouri Cavalry. It was dark before the
fighting ceased and my command went into camp at this place.
On the morning of the 16th of December moved out on the Hillsborough pike. The Second
Brigade of my division was thrown Out to the right, supported by the First Brigade. The Second
Brigade was soon engaged in a sharp skirmish, driving the enemy's skirmishers across the
Granny White pike. Found the enemy in force on the hills on the left of that pike. At 12 m. was
ordered by Major-General Wilson to take these hills. On reaching the hills held by the Second
Brigade found the enemy, having repulsed the infantry in their front, had turned his attention to
driving my men from the hills on the right of the Granny White pike. The enemy made four
charges, all of which were repulsed. During this time I succeeded in drawing a section of artillery
to the top of a hill, held by my command, commanding the hill which our infantry were making
efforts to carry. After firing some fifty rounds from the guns ordered my line to advance and
charge the hill., which was done in the finest manner. The hill was carried, 150 prisoners
captured, and 3 battle, flags; Colonel Spalding, with his regiment, the Twelfth Tennessee, being
first on the hill. The prisoners were afterward taken away from Colonel Spalding's guards by
some infantry command, I think belonging to Colonel McMillen's brigade; of the command,
however, I am not able to state with accuracy. I was then ordered by Major-General Wilson to
move out rapidly on the Granny White pike. About eight miles from Nashville we struck
Chalmers' division. It was then nearly dark. Throwing some dismounted men upon the flanks of
the road, Colonel Spalding, of the Twelfth Tennessee, charged the center, capturing the division
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colors and Brigadier-General Rucker. The enemy were thrown into confusion, and only the
darkness saved him from a thorough rout. Camped there that night.
On the morning of the 17th, by Major-General Wilson's orders, moved out to the left to the
Franklin pike. Did not become engaged until reaching Franklin. Met the enemy a short distance
below town. A series of charges then ensued until dark, with other cavalry of the corps, resulting
in the captured of three pieces of artillery. In the charge during the day the Second Iowa Cavalry
captured a stand of colors, and had their standard bearer killed, the second one in the last two
days. On the 18th at daylight moved through Spring Hill, skirmishing continually, and at 2 p.m.
went into camp. On the morning of the 19th marched at daylight. On reaching Rutherford's
Creek found the infantry engaged. Moved by the right flank, deployed in front of Curtis' Creek;
supposing it to be Rutherford's pushed across the creek, driving the enemy, who crossed upon the
railroad bridge, which had been burned and fallen across the creek. Not being able to ford my
horses, crossed the men dismounted and pushed the enemy about two miles, when night came on
and I withdrew my men to the north side of the creek. On the morning of the 20th, before
daylight, threw dismounted men on the road to Columbia and built a bridge to cross the creek,
taking over my Parrott guns. The enemy, under the impression that we were close upon him, the
night before took up his pontoons and left his rear guard of about 300 men and a battery, threw
two of the guns into the river, and attempted to escape with the other two to the east, when the
Second Iowa were sent in pursuit, capturing the guns, six ambulances, a few wagons and cattle,
and scattering the rear guard of Texas cavalry.
On the morning of the 24th of December marched in rear of the Cavalry Corps toward
Pulaski. Was not brought into action until an hour before dark, at Richland Creek, when my
division attacked the enemy's right, turning his flank. Night prevented farther pursuit. Went into
camp. On the morning of the 25th marched in rear of Hammond's and Harrison's command.
About 3 o'clock the enemy charged Hammond's and Harrison's commands, driving them back in
confusion. I was ordered by General Wilson to put my division in position, throwing the First
Brigade against the enemy on the left. Colonel Stewart checked and drove back the attempt of
the enemy to turn our right. Ordered Colonel Coon to move the Second Brigade to the right, and
moved forward. At this time the enemy were driving the center, and captured a gun from the
Fourth Regular Battery. At this moment, to check the onset of the enemy, I ordered the Ninth
Illinois Cavalry to dismount and charge, as the ground was bad. Too much cannot be said in
favor of this regiment. Undismayed by the rapid retreat of the commands going to the rear,
Captain -------, commanding the regiment, threw his regiment to one side to let the flying mass
pass, and then with a cheer charged the enemy, driving the enemy back, and forcing him to take
shelter under his guns and in the barricades thrown up by the enemy. As soon as my right was
well up on the enemy's left flank I ordered the whole division to charge. Carried the works by
storm, though held by picked men from eight brigades of the enemy's infantry and Forrest's
cavalry, Forrest commanding in person. It was then night, and the pursuit ended. On the morning
of the 26th marched in the rear of Hammond's division. Were not ordered up for action until 4 in
afternoon, when the enemy left his position and retreated rapidly south.
During the fight on the 25th the Third Illinois attacked the enemy on the railroad and saved
two locomotives the enemy were about burning, and captured prisoners. On the 27th marched
south through Lexington, sending forward a detachment of 500 picked men the previous night,
under Colonel Spalding, who harassed the enemy's rear at Bainbridge, obliging him to abandon
wagons, ambulances, caissons, and gun carriages, and capturing prisoners.
This ended the pursuit of Hood's army by my division. It has captured 20 guns, 1,000
prisoners, a large number of wagons, ambulances, caissons, and gun carriages, 2 battle-flags
(division colors), and 4 battle-flags taken with prisoners by Colonel Spalding on the second day,
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and afterward taken from his provost guard by an infantry command when on the way off the
field.
I would state the men of this command accompanying me from Memphis have been nearly
100 days in the saddle, more than half the time without rations. Both men and officers have been
conspicuous for gallantry. No instance of cowardice has been reported by the brigade
commanders, and none have come under my notice; all have been brave.
For conspicuous gallantry I can mention my staff especially. Lieut. Hervey A. Colvin,
Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, my adjutant, with Lieutenant Budd, Second Iowa Cavalry, were the
first officers in the first redoubt stormed by the Second Brigade. Lieutenant Colvin severely
wounded. Lieutenant Kendall, Twelfth Missouri Cavalry, my quartermaster, when storming the
second redoubt, received slight wound, had five balls in his horse and eight through his clothes.
Captain Davis, Tenth Tennessee Cavalry, behaved with great gallantry.
Colonel Coon, commanding the Second Brigade, Colonel Stewart, commanding the First
Brigade, Colonel Spalding, Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, wounded in charge on Chalmers'
division. Captain Harper, Ninth Illinois Cavalry, wounded in attack on the second day. Major
Graham, Seventh Illinois Cavalry, wounded storming the second redoubt. Captain Gassling [?],
Seventh Illinois Cavalry, wounded storming the second redoubt. Major Horton, Second Iowa
Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Lynch, Sixth Illinois Cavalry, Major Forbes, Seventh Illinois
Cavalry, Captain Phillips, Sixth Illinois Cavalry, wounded; Major Hubbard and Major Pritchard,
Twelfth Missouri Cavalry, and Major Story, Tenth Tennessee Cavalry, wounded in last charge
first day. Lieutenant-Colonel Carnahan, Third Illinois Cavalry, Lieutenant Roberts and
Lieutenant Avery, of Colonel Coon's staff.
Though the official report of casualties has not reached me yet from the various regiments in
resisting Hood's advance to Nashville, my loss, killed and wounded, were about 250. In the two
days' battles at Nashville and pursuit, about 400.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
EDWARD HATCH,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Per RUSS B. DAVIS,
Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
(In the absence of General Hatch.)
Maj. E. B. BEAUMONT,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Cavalry Corps, Mil. Div. of the Mississippi.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIFTH DIV., CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Gravelly Springs, Ala., January 20, 1865.
MAJOR: In compliance with circular from division headquarters, I have the honor to submit
the following report of the operations of my command from the 30th day of September, 1864, to
the 15th day of January, 1865:
September 30, my brigade (Second Brigade, First Division, Cavalry Corps, District of West
Tennessee), consisting of the Sixth Illinois Cavalry, Maj. Charles W. Whitsit, the Ninth Illinois
Cavalry, Capt. William C. Blackburn, the Second Iowa Cavalry, Maj. Charles C. Horton
commanding, and Company K, First Illinois Light Artillery, Capt. I. W. Curtis commanding, was
engaged during the morning in making preparations for a ten days' scout. At 12 m. the column
was in motion on the Germantown road. The rain fell in torrents for two hours. When within one
mile of Germantown turned north and crossed the Wolf River at Patten's plantation; the crossing
was upon a poorly constructed bridge, which delayed my wagons and artillery until after dark,
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and caused much trouble in passing through the heavily timbered bottom on the opposite side.
The command was in bivouac by 11.30 p.m., seven miles north of Germantown. October 1, left
camp at daylight, marching in rear of First Brigade; passed Macon at 12 m., and took Somerville
road; camped three miles from the former place. October 2, moved at 4 a.m.; reached Somerville
at 7 a.m., and took Bolivar road; arrived at that place at 4 p.m. I immediately made a heavy detail
from Second Iowa Cavalry to finish a bridge across the Hatchie, which the Seventh Illinois
Cavalry had been sent in advance to construct. At 8 p.m. the bridge was completed and the whole
command over and in camp. October 3, moved out of Hatchie Bottom at daylight, taking Mount
Pinson road; crossed the Forked Deer River at sunset, and camped one mile north of the river at
8 p.m. and near the above-named town; heavy rain all night. October 4, left bivouac at 3 a.m.,
and reached Mifflin, Henderson County, and fed horses while the men made coffee. At 10 a.m.
moved on, taking the road leading down the valley of Beech River, leaving Lexington to our left
and north some eight miles. Camped at Jones' plantation, three miles from Scott's hill Rained
very hard all day. October 5, moved at daylight, passing Scott's Hill and taking Decaturville
road, at which place we arrived at 2 p.m.; halted an hour to feed; at sunset reached the Tennessee
River, opposite Clifton, where we found the fleet, under command of Maj. Gen. C. C. Washburn.
October 6, steps were taken early for crossing by means of transports. At 2 p.m. all were across;
and in accordance with orders from your headquarters moved out on the Nashville pike ten
miles, and camped for the night. October 7, marched all day on Nashville pike; passed
Waynesborough, county seat of Wayne County, and at 10 p.m. camped for the night on the
Nashville pike, within seven miles of Lawrenceburg. October 8, resumed the march at 3 a.m. and
owing to the extreme darkness of the morning were misled and marched some five miles out of
our way; halted at 9 a.m. for breakfast and to feed; reached Lawrenceburg, the county seat of
Lawrence County, at 1.30 p.m. After a short halt moved out on military road leading to Florence,
Ala.; when three miles out took the road leading down the valley of Shoal Creek and camped ten
miles from Lawrenceburg. October 9, left this encampment at daylight, returning to the military
road, and moved in the direction of Florence until we reached Bough's Mills, where I received
orders to encamp for the night. At this point we learned that Forrest had crossed the Tennessee
River and escaped unharmed. October 10, at 4 a.m., were again in motion toward Florence; on
arriving at Wilson's Cross-Roads received orders to move toward Waterloo; passing to the north
of Florence some six miles reached Waterloo at 4 p.m., and camped for the night. October 11,
remained in bivouac until 4 o'clock, when we moved down the river some ten miles, with the
hope of finding the gun-boats and fleet and of procuring rations for the men. To make this more
certain Maj. C. C. Horton, Second Iowa Cavalry, had been sent in advance, with his regiment, to
the fleet with dispatches; unfortunately, however, the fleet had dropped down the river a few
hours previous to their arrival, opposite Eastport, Miss. October 12, reveille at 4.30 a.m. My
brigade was on the road for Savannah at daylight. The brigade was snugly encamped one mile
below Savannah at 2 p.m. October 13, still in bivouac. There being no visible means of procuring
rations for my men, who had now been subsisting on the country at a poor rate some three days, I
made application for and obtained permission to gather up corn and wheat and take it to a mill
five miles distant, where I supplied my command scantily for the next four days. October 14, 15,
and 16, during this time each day was industriously spent at the mill by parties grinding meal
into flour, while others rode the country to procure salt, bacon, &c., to make it palatable. In great
anxiety we waited for the boats till the evening of the 16th, when orders came to move in the
morning. October 17, at 7 a.m. moved on the Waynesborough road a distance of some ten miles,
when we turned toward Clifton, at which place we arrived at sunset, having marched some thirty
miles over an extremely rough road. October 18, on arriving at Clifton found no boat, went the
grand rounds on a large scale (some 150 miles), and returned to the starting point very hungry,
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ragged, and tired. During the afternoon, while unwelcome feelings were causing us to cast about
for some means of subsistence, the steamer Duke hove in sight to the great satisfaction of the
whole command. Our fine hopes were soon blasted, for we learned that it had only short rations
of hard bread and meat; these were equally distributed among the different regiments, the
balance to be gathered from the country during the absence of the steamer to Johnson's Landing.
From the 18th to the 27th of the month the officers and men were industriously employed in
shoeing horses and making necessary preparations for an active campaign. Owing to the scarcity
of blacksmiths and blacksmith tools, I sent to the country and pressed sufficient to supply the
deficiency in part only. Many of the horses were shod by the use of the common pocket-knife
and hatchet; the horses, however, improved, as the forage obtained from the country was
abundant. October 28, received orders to be ready to move to-morrow. October 29, left Clifton at
3 p.m., taking the Nashville pike, and camped three miles out. October 30, at 9 a.m. the general
commanding came up with the First Brigade, which passed through my camp in the advance,
when all moved along to Lincoln Creek, twenty-four miles, and camped for the night. October
31, resumed the march at 7 a.m., reached Lawrence-burg at 3.15 p.m., and camped one mile
beyond.
November 1, left bivouac at 6 a.m. and reached Pulaski, eighteen miles distant, at 3 p.m., and
camped for the night. November 2, 3, and 4, during these three days the time was occupied in
procuring clothing and rations for the men, while shoes were being fitted on the horses, and
preparations made for a heavy campaign. November 5, at 8 a.m. were again in motion on the
Lamb's Ferry road, which leads to a ferry by that name on the Tennessee River. Camped for the
night on Sugar Creek. Heavy cannonading was heard in the direction of the Tennessee River
during the afternoon, which gave undoubted evidence of Hood's advance into Tennessee.
November 6, leaving bivouac before daylight enabled us to reach Lexington, Ala., before 11
a.m., where we halted for an hour to learn the whereabouts and movements of the enemy.
Getting no satisfactory information, moved on to Bough's Ford, on Shoal Creek, the Second
Iowa Cavalry in advance. On arriving within two miles of the ford the advance met the enemy's
pickets, driving them across the creek rapidly, when the whole command came in full view of a
heavy line extending along the bluffs on the opposite side. By direction of the general
commanding I detached a portion of the Second Iowa to burn the flouring mill above the factory.
Lieut. George W. Budd, commanding Company G, was sent for that purpose. After a lively
skirmish of nearly an hour it was ascertained that the mill was on the opposite side of the stream,
and that the water was too high to admit of crossing, mounted or dismounted, besides the enemy
was some 300 strong, and a large number posted in and about the mill, rendering the position
almost impregnable, to say nothing of the difficulty of crossing the stream. These facts being
reported to me I conveyed the same to the general commanding, who directed that I withdraw all
my brigade except the Second Iowa Cavalry, which should hold its position until further orders.
At 9 p.m. all were in camp in a most unpleasant rainstorm. November 7, at daylight found
ourselves with mud and water under foot and a drenching rain still falling. By direction from
division headquarters, I took my command back five miles for feed. At I p.m. I made a
demonstration on the enemy's pickets with my whole brigade, Ninth Illinois Cavalry, Capt.
William C. Blackburn commanding, in advance. A persistent and heavy skirmish took place,
when the enemy was driven from the bluff on the opposite side. The regiment reached the ford,
but the stream was too much swollen to admit of crossing, the water carrying horse and rider
down the stream. During an hour spent in skirmishing and an unfruitful effort to cross and
destroy the mill, it was ascertained beyond doubt that the enemy had reenfored the picket
heavily, and that Shoal Creek was much higher than on any day previous. I withdrew, fell back
to Stutt's Cross-Roads, and camped for the night.
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November 8, remained in bivouac during the forenoon, giving opportunity to the Second
Iowa Cavalry to vote for Lincoln, which was done almost unanimously. At 2 p.m. moved to
Bough's Ford, where I arrived at 5 p.m. in a heavy rain-storm. Detachments were immediately
sent to reconnoiter the ford on the main road, also the one below, while a company was sent to
the mill above. All reported, as on the three days previous, that the stream could not be forded.
An effort was then made to construct a raft to cross at the mill, which failed for the want of
material. During a skirmish of an hour the rain fell in torrents, and soon night came on, closing
all operations for the day, when I withdrew to a point near the bivouac of the previous night. Sent
Maj. C. P. Moore, Second Iowa Cavalry, with detachment of 100 men, to the rear of the enemy
on the Tennessee River, with instructions to strike the river ten miles below Florence. Rained
steadily all day.
November 9, during the night received orders from General Hatch to make another
demonstration on the enemy at Bough's Ford. Moved out promptly at 7.30 a.m.; reached the ford
at 9 a.m.; roads nearly impassable from mud and water; found, as usual, the enemy's pickets
heavy and well posted on the opposite side. The stream still too high to admit of fording from
either side, withdrew at 12 m., and camped at Watkins' house. Rained during the afternoon, but
cleared away at sunset. Major Moore, Second Iowa, returned with his command safe, having
passed around in rear of the enemy's lines, a distance of forty miles, and striking the Tennessee
River ten miles distant below Florence, making a distance in going and returning of eighty miles'
travel in twenty-four hours. The object of the expedition was to bring in seven men of General
Croxton's command, who had been three day's previously sent down the river from Bainbridge to
destroy the enemy's pontoons at Florence. If the object of the expedition had not been
accomplished, they were to complete the work of destruction and meet this party below, but after
diligent search and careful inquiry the major returned. November 10, remained in camp all day,
the first pleasant day since leaving Pulaski. Owing to the extremely inclement weather, bad
roads, &c., my command was again entirely destitute of rations. Two mills were taken
possession of, and a regular system of foraging off the country was adopted, which, with the
most careful management, could but poorly supply the men. Received orders during the
afternoon to be ready at 9 a.m. of the 11th to make another demonstration on the enemy's picket,
in conjunction with the entire command. November 11, reached the ford and opened upon the
enemy's picket at the precise moment designated. The Sixth Illinois Cavalry, Maj. Charles W.
Whitsit commanding, having the advance, were deployed as skirmishers, dismounted, forming a
line from the main road up the stream to the mill, while a section of artillery was put in position
on the military road. The skirmishers soon drove back the advance picket, while the artillery
caused their reserve, at first in plain view, to scatter to their rear. A company of mounted men
were in the meantime to try the ford on the main road and ascertain its condition for crossing.
After a thorough trial it was found to be too deep even for mounted men. The Second Iowa
Cavalry, Maj. C. C. Horton commanding, succeeded in finding a ford near a quarter of a mile
below the main crossing, where I ordered him to commence crossing as rapidly as possible. This
order was obeyed in a most gallant manner by Company G of that regiment, with Lieut. George
W. Budd commanding the advance. The First Battalion, Maj. Gustavus Schnitzer commanding,
was soon over and engaging the enemy in a lively skirmish, when Major Horton reported the
ford impracticable for the passage of more troops, from the quicksand and miry soil on the
opposite shore, and that it was impossible to cross the artillery in any event. I ordered him to
dismount the remainder of his regiment, place them in line along the shores, and recall Major
Schnitzer. While the First Battalion was crossing and recrossing the stream the enemy kept up a
heavy fire from a barricade some 300 yards distant, on a high bluff. Another effort had been
made in the meantime to cross at the mill, which had been unsuccessful on account of high
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water. The Ninth Illinois Cavalry, Captain Blackburn commanding, which had been sent, on
leaving camp, to make a flank movement to the right of this position, by crossing Shoal Creek
above the pond and mill and moving down on the opposite and west side of the stream, now
appeared in sight, frightening the enemy's pickets to such an extent that they fell back so far as to
allow this regiment to cross the stream in safety by swimming their horses, with the exception of
Company A, Lieut. David Hilier commanding, who, by a misunderstanding of orders, took the
back track until severely pressed by a brigade of the enemy's cavalry, when he coolly took to the
timber and hills, evading their main force, and after much difficulty succeeded in recrossing
Shoal Creek, reporting with all his men in camp at dark. The cool, undisturbed manner of this
officer in relieving himself from the snare of the enemy is at least highly creditable. At 1 p.m.
withdrew my command and went into camp again at Watkins' house.
November 12, remained in camp all day. Issued a very light ration of meal ground at the mill.
November 13, remained in camp during the day; received orders during the evening to proceed
immediately to blockade all roads leading into the military road. November 14, the detail to fell
trees reported all roads effectually blockaded in compliance with orders. November 15, at 4 a.m.,
moved out on military road toward Lawrenceburg, and camped at Wilcoxson's plantation, five
miles distant. November 16, left the military road at 8 a.m., passed down the valley of Wolf
Creek, and crossed Shoal Creek at Wolf Ford; moved from the opposite side to Aberdeen, thence
to Big Butler, and down to Little Butler, from which place moved directly south toward Wilson's
Cross-Roads. After passing a mile, the advance, the Second Iowa Cavalry, found the enemy's
pickets and dashed at them furiously, and ran them into their reserve pell-mell which created a
stampede of the whole command, composed of General Roddey's brigade, which, in turn, ran
back to their infantry camps in great confusion. Through the gallant conduct of Lieutenant
Griffith, of Company D of the above-named regiment, we captured several prisoners, who
informed us of many important facts touching the movements of the enemy. After having forced
Roddey within the infantry lines, I became satisfied that the enemy were continually receiving
re-enforcements, and that Forrest had recently joined Hood (on the 14th), and that the location
about the two Butler Creeks was not the most safe for the camp of a cavalry command I therefore
took the responsibility of recrossing Shoal Creek at the Savannah Ford, and went into camp at
Hains' plantation, three miles from Cowpen Mills. November 17, moved camp to Cowpen Mills
and sent patrols three miles across Shoal Creek. Found the enemy in force. November 18, made
reconnaissance across Shoal Creek with the entire brigade three miles to Butler Creek and
Florence road, and sent the Second Iowa Cavalry as patrols to the Florence and Waynesborough
road four miles distant, returned to Cowpen Mills and camped.
November 19, in compliance with orders from division commander, moved my brigade
across Shoal Creek at Cowpen Ford, for the purpose of camping on Butler Creek. On reaching
the Butler Creek road, three miles west, drove in the enemy's picket, and sent Capt. A. E. Mock,
of Ninth Illinois Cavalry, commanding battalion, to patrol the Waynesborough road. The main
column turned north to Butlers Creek, while Capt. J. W. Harper, with the remainder of his
regiment (the Ninth Illinois Cavalry), stood picket on the road running south toward Florence. I
remained with my escort at the cross-roads to see the train safely closed up for three-quarters of
an hour, when I was informed by an orderly that the Second Iowa had met the enemy in heavy
force, and that Buford's division was in their front, on Big Butler Creek. At about this moment
Captain Harper reported the enemy pressing his picket from the south, and that they had the
appearance of being infantry. Leaving an orderly to close the column I sent another to inform
Captain Harper that he must hold his position at all hazards until the pack train and artillery had
passed, as it was impossible, from the bad condition of the road, to halt or return by the same
route. I then rode rapidly to the Second Iowa, and found them engaged with superior force. I
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immediately sent the train and artillery down the valley of the Little Butler, accompanied by the
Sixth Illinois as escort, Major Whitsit commanding, who was instructed to take all axes and
spades and make's crossing on Shoal Creek at all hazards, as this was the only place of escape
from a well devised trap of the enemy. The next thirty minutes were passed in great anxiety, as
Buford, on the north, was pressing the Second Iowa hard in front and flanking on their right and
left with vastly superior numbers, while the Ninth Illinois was heavily pressed in the rear by a
force from the south. During this time a messenger was sent to Captain Mock, informing him of
his situation, and that unless he returned soon I would be compelled to abandon the last place left
for his escape. As the Ninth Illinois came up they passed to the right and rear of the Second
Iowa, down the Little Butler, and forming a line dismounted at the junction of the Big and Little
Butler, where the high and abrupt bluffs on either side made the valley quite narrow. This made a
good support for the Second Iowa when compelled to fall back. By this time the situation of the
Second Iowa became truly critical, in consequence of the rapid movements of the rebel flanking
column, which reached nearly to their rear on the right and left. Seeing it was impossible to hold
the gap until Captain Mock could be heard from I ordered Major Horton to fail back and form
again in rear of the Ninth Illinois. Each regiment then fell back alternately and formed lines for
two miles, when we reached Shoal Creek, and I found, to my great surprise, the Sixth Illinois
pack train, artillery, and ambulances all safe on the opposite side, and the regiment dismounted
to cover the crossing. A lively skirmish was kept up by the rear guard while the command passed
down the steep miry bank by file obliquely 150 feet. The mortification and apparent chagrin of
the rebels when they found their prey had unexpectedly escaped was made known by those
hideous yells, such as only rebels can make. 1 carefully placed my pickets on all practicable
roads and encamped at dark at the same place I had left in the morning, with the firm conclusion,
as previously reported, that Butler's Creek was by no means a desirable location to encamp. The
day had been one of incessant rain.
November 20, moved from Cowpen Mills at 3 a m., going toward the military road. On
arriving at that place halted for an hour, when I received orders to move to Bluewater Creek and
camp, leaving pickets on military road. Captain Mock, of Ninth Illinois Cavalry, reported on
military road, having traveled all night to reach the command. He succeeded in reaching the
Waynesborough road, but in returning found himself and command completely surrounded by
the enemy, and took to the hills by meandering neighborhood roads. By accident he came upon
General Chalmers' division wagon train and made a charge on the guard, capturing several
wagons and prisoners and fifty mules, besides much plunder which he could not bring away.
While in the act of destroying the train he was attacked by a superior force and compelled to
leave all and take to the woods again. By the assistance of Union men and negroes he was guided
by circuitous routes until he reached the column. His loss was thirty men, most of whom were
taken prisoners. Papers conveying important information were captured with the train,
information which must have been of infinite importance to General Thomas, as they detailed the
movements about to be made, giving timely notice to all of what was to take place. Captain
Mock is entitled to much credit for the skill displayed in bringing out his command with so little
loss. At sunset the pickets on the military road were attacked and compelled to fall back. Patrols
sent to the military road and the front on all roads during the fore part of the night found the
enemy advancing in force November 21, ordered to take the rear on the Lexington road at
daylight. Reached Lexington at 10.15 a.m., when the division joined Croxton's brigade and was
ordered to take the Lawrenceburg road in rear of command and train. Reached Lawrenceburg at
5 p.m. and camped for the night. The day was cold and much snow fell during the afternoon and
night following.
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November 22, morning cold and the ground frozen hard. About 12 m. the enemy commenced
skirmishing with our pickets, when Capt. Jacob F. Bandy, Second Iowa Cavalry, with one
battalion was sent to ascertain their force. At three miles distant from town the enemy was found
in force and strongly posted on bluffs and behind well-arranged rail barricades. After an hour's
skirmish he fell back to the picket. At 2 p.m. the enemy moved up in heavy force, infantry,
cavalry, and artillery, and encamped in line in plain view of town and of our bivouac. In
compliance with orders I immediately put my command in line of battle on north side of town.
The enemy soon opened with one section of artillery when my battery replied. An hour was
spent in firing by the artillery on both sides with no result, when we were ordered to fall back on
Pulaski road, Second Brigade to take the rear. My pickets and command withdrew in good order,
though heavily pressed by superior force. Halted and camped seven miles east of Lawrenceburg,
leaving General Croxton's command in our front.
November 23, left camp at 4 a.m.; halted at Richland Mills to feed and issue rations to the
men. General Croxton's command, in the rear, was heard skirmishing heavily. At 3 p.m. moved
three miles toward Pulaski and took to the left up the valley of Dry Creek, camping five miles
south of Campbellsville.
November 24, moved at 6 a.m., taking the rear. Arrived at Campbellsville at 9 a.m. Received
orders to follow the First Brigade and camp one mile above and north of the town on the creek.
Sent patrols west one mile, who soon returned, reporting the enemy moving on our left, with
vedettes standing on every high bluff in sight. This information was promptly conveyed to
General Hatch, who ordered patrols strengthened and sent back to watch the enemy. Had not
proceeded half a mile when I was informed that the First Brigade, a short distance ahead, had
met a heavy column, supposed to be Buford's division. I immediately ordered the regiments
along the column to throw down the fences, and two regiments, the Sixth and Ninth Illinois, to
form a line dismounted. This was not, fully accomplished, however, when I was ordered to fall
back to the east side of town, and hold the Lynnville road until the First Brigade, reported in a
critical situation, could be recalled. My line of battle was soon formed, the left, the Ninth Illinois,
resting near the church, the Second Iowa in the center, and the Sixth Illinois on the right,
extending north, the entire line facing to the west. The regiments had barely time to dismount.
The battery was soon put in position near the center of the line, when the enemy's infantry made
its appearance in heavy force on the south and west side of the town. By direction of General
Hatch the battery commenced firing at a range of one mile and a half. The effect of the
cannonading was excellent, causing the whole rebel column to halt for at least one hour and
deploy in heavy force. During this time a flanking column of the enemy was discovered moving
to our left, threatening the Lynnville road, when I ordered the Second Iowa, Maj. C. C. Horton
commanding, to guard and check that movement, who soon reported the force engaging him
vastly superior to his. I immediately sent the Ninth Illinois as support. These regiments were
both immediately in a heavy skirmish, their position soon became intolerable, as the enemy was
undoubtedly moving their main column by the right flank, to get possession of the road in their
rear. These facts I communicated to the general commanding, who ordered me to fall back and
hold the road regardless of the First Brigade. When three-fourths of a mile from town I found the
enemy in strong force on the left, with a battery playing at 1,000 yards distance upon my column.
The men were deployed on foot on the left while the led horses and artillery passed by the road.
The fire from the flank of musketry or artillery was quite lively, but no casualties occurred, save
the killing of two horses. Two miles from Campbellsville my flanking column and patrols from
the left were suddenly driven in as the road turned to the left through a narrow gorge, and just at
the time General Hatch was passing. Capt. E. T. Phillips, Company M, Sixth Illinois Cavalry,
commanding his escort, discovering the rebels, charged in an instant with his company and saved
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the gallant commander from capture. This gallant act of Captain Phillips is worthy of special
compliment here, as well for his daring as for the good result. Unfortunately, the captain,
received a wound in the left hand, which disabled him for the campaign. The Ninth Illinois
Cavalry, Capt. J. W. Harper commanding, following immediately in rear of the general's escort,
was ordered by him to dismount and hold the gap at all hazards. Captain Harper had scarcely
dismounted his men, when they received a heavy fire from a brigade of the enemy. Not a particle
daunted the captain ordered his men forward until it became a hand to hand fight. In the
meantime I was notified of the perilous condition of the regiments, being then one-fourth of a
mile in advance. Not knowing the nature of their orders I directed Captain Harper to fall back
slowly, but was soon informed that their ammunition (sixty rounds) was nearly exhausted. I then
formed the Second Iowa across the gorge to protect them while they withdrew. The loss of this
regiment was thirty killed and wounded in less than that number of minutes; among the number
were four orderly sergeants killed. It is with pride that I mention the fact that Captain Harper
brought his men back in good order, although the loss was heavy. No sooner had the Ninth
Illinois passed through the line of the Second Iowa than the rebel brigade came at double-quick
up the hollow, colors in front, and in another instant was in line of battle. Three hundred
Spencers from the Second Iowa drove them back in confusion; but a moment, however,
intervened when the rebels rallied. Major Horton in the meantime retired and mounted by
battalions, under fire, leaving one officer and five men wounded on the field. I then sent Captain
Bandy, Second Iowa, with two companies as rear guard, to Lynnville, three miles distant. The
whole brigade was here thrown out in line of battle, and held the enemy in check until after dark,
when I was ordered to withdraw and march in rear to Columbia. Put my command in bivouac
within the infantry pickets at 11.30 p.m.
November 25, crossed Duck River, and encamped three miles above the city. November 26,
at 10 a.m. moved out on the Murfreesborough road, and encamped eight miles east of Columbia.
Rained continually during the day and that night. November 27, remained in bivouac all day; still
raining very hard. The Seventh Illinois Cavalry having been assigned to this brigade, Maj. John
M. Graham, commanding regiment, reported for duty. I sent Captain Glass, of Sixth Illinois
Cavalry, and 400 men, to Shelbyville, to ascertain the enemy's movements in that direction.
November 28, rained until 12 m. At 2 p.m. received orders to move immediately. While
"boot and saddle" was being sounded the enemy opened with a volley upon the picket on the
Shelbyville road. By aid of a glass the enemy could be seen in heavy force through the thin fog,
about two miles distant. I ordered a battalion of the Second Iowa, Captain Foster commanding, to
support the pickets, while the command made preparations to move. By direction of the general
commanding I sent the artillery and train on the Spring Hill road. This order, however, was soon
countermanded, and the train sent to Huey's Cross-Roads, on the Lewisburg pike, where the
brigade erected a slight barricade of rails, and slept on their arms during the night.
November 29, took up line of march at 4 a.m., passing Croxton's and Harrison's commands
and moving toward Franklin, my brigade marching in rear of division to Mount Carmel, where it
halted and fed in line of battle to the left of the pike. At 9 a.m. General Croxton's command
passed my brigade, heavily pressed by the enemy. The light rail barricades previously prepared
served as temporary breastworks and enabled my brigade, then dismounted, to check the enemy's
movements. But a few moments passed until the whole line was engaged in a heavy skirmish,
which continued for an hour, when I received orders to withdraw slowly, which was done by
alternate numbers in line, dismounted, for two miles, when I ordered the brigade mounted. I then
withdrew by brigade in line of regiments, each regiment in line of squadrons in column of fours.
The enemy, discovering this formation, charged down the pike, in column of fours, on a small
company of the Ninth Illinois Cavalry, which was acting as rear guard. In accordance with
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previous instructions from me the company did not halt, but continued to fall back, leading the
enemy between the flanking columns right and left, who opened upon them a raking fire,
throwing them into confusion, and ending the pursuit for the day. The command arrived at
Nolen's plantation at 12 m., and halted in line of battle until 4 p.m., when it moved toward
Franklin two miles, and, turning to the right, crossed Little Harpeth River and moved north to the
Nolensville and Franklin road, where the brigade was encamped for the night.
November 30, the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, Col. George Spalding commanding, having
been assigned to this brigade, reported for duty. Remained in bivouac till 12 m., when the enemy
were reported to have driven our pickets in at the ford on the Little Harpeth. I received orders to
put my brigade in line of battle dismounted, and I sent the Sixth Illinois to support the pickets in
front, and the Second Iowa to guard the left on the Nolensville road. After some thirty minutes I
received orders to move my line forward, which was done promptly. At the distance of half a
mile the enemy made his appearance in force on a high bluff in front, when, by order of the
general commanding, I ordered the brigade to charge the hill and drive the enemy back, which
was performed in a most gallant style, until he was driven back across the Little Harpeth River.
The enemy's force making the attack was supposed to be Buford's division of cavalry and
mounted infantry, estimated to be from 5,000 to 6,000 strong. My entire command acquitted
itself in a most creditable manner, and camped for the night on the ground occupied the night
previous.
December 1, at 5.30 a.m. marched with the division to Brentwood Station, where I was
ordered to form in line of battle on the Franklin pike. I remained here until 2 p.m., when I moved
on the Nashville pike in rear of the command, crossed over to Murfreesborough pike, and
camped for the night. December 2, marched with the division at 5 a.m., on the right flank, to
Nashville, and crossed the Cumberland River during the afternoon, and encamped at Edgefield.
During the time from December 3 to December 11 the brigade was encamped at Edge-field,
making preparations for active duty again. December 12, moved camp across the river, and
camped two miles south of the river between the Hardin and Charlotte pikes. December 13 and
14, in camp.
December 15, by the direction of the general commanding the division the brigade moved
out at daylight from camp across the field, on the right of the Hardin pike, two miles, forming
dismounted on the right of the infantry under Maj. Gen. A. J. Smith. The led horses were placed
in the rear of their respective regiments, with the exception of the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry,
Col. George Spalding commanding, which regiment I kept mounted for a charge, should an
opportunity present. An hour was spent in regulating the line of infantry and cavalry, when the
advance was ordered, and all moved forward, presenting a most magnificent spectacle. We had
not proceeded far when we crossed the Hardin pike, where a wagon train was discovered still in
sight moving south, and Col. George Spalding was sent in pursuit. After traveling eight miles he
came upon the rear guard and charged on it, capturing some twenty wagons, with teams, &c.,
complete, some forty prisoners, and a large amount of plunder, belonging to the rebel General
Chalmers' headquarters. My brigade formed on the extreme right of the infantry, with directions
to conform to their movements, which were in a large circle and caused lively marching for the
men, as the distance traveled by them was much farther than that of the infantry. After marching
for three miles, much of the time at a double-quick, I formed my brigade on the left flank of the
enemy, one mile and a quarter to the left of the Hardin pike. Passing my battery to my right
flank, where a favorable opportunity offered to enfilade the enemy's lines, the Seventh Illinois
and Second Iowa were directed to support the battery. My artillery had discharged but a few
shots at the redoubt when it was rapidly replied to. A lively fire was kept up on both sides for an
hour with but few casualties. The command moved forward until within 500 yards of the
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enemy's works, when General Hatch directed me to charge and take the nearest redoubt. The
regiments engaged in this charge were as follows: Seventh Illinois Cavalry, Maj. John M.
Graham commanding, on the right; the Second Iowa Cavalry, Maj. C. C. Horton, and Ninth
Illinois Cavalry, Capt. Joseph W. Harper commanding, in order, on the left of the Seventh
Illinois; and the Sixth Illinois Cavalry, Lieut. Col. John Lynch commanding, on the left of the
brigade and closed up to the right of the infantry. In making the charge the right wing of the
brigade had an open field, with nothing to impede their progress save two stone fences, while the
left wing had a heavy thicket to pass through. At the word "Forward!" stone [fences and] thickets
were very slight impediments in the way of this veteran brigade. The enemy, discovering the
movement, changed their little messengers of shell to grape and canister, accompanied by heavy
musketry from the infantry support behind their works. As I rode along the line I found each
regiment competing with the others to reach the redoubt. So near the same time did each
regiment reach the redoubt that it was difficult for some time to ascertain who was the first to
reach the prize. All acted nobly, and are entitled to the highest praise, under the circumstances,
for their efforts to be the first. The evidence, carefully examined, awards to Second Lieut.
George W. Budd, of Company G, Second Iowa Cavalry, and his company, the honor of being the
first to scale the rebel works and take possession of the rebel cannon, which were four in
number--Napoleons. On reaching the inside of the works he drew his saber upon the cannoneers
and forced them to discharge the last load intended for the Federals on their own friends, then in
plain view on the east side of the fort, not 500 yards distant. As the command took possession of
this point a rebel battery opened from another redoubt, 600 yards distant, situated upon the top of
a bluff some 200 feet high and protected by strong earth-works. General Hatch ordered me to
charge the hill without delay. This order was promptly obeyed by all my command, officers and
men. The "charge" was sounded, and in twenty minutes the colors of the Second Iowa Cavalry
were planted on the works by the color-bearer, Sergt. John F. Hartman, of Company F, who was
mortally wounded by a musket-ball passing through the abdomen. During the charge the enemy
kept up a brisk cannonading, accompanied by heavy musketry firing from the infantry within the
redoubt. The long march previous, the charge in taking the first redoubt, and the short time given
until the charge of the second, rendered it almost impossible for a cavalryman to move faster
than a walk. So eager were the officers and men to reach the second redoubt that many fell to the
ground exhausted. Lieut. Col. John Lynch, Sixth Illinois Cavalry, while at the head of his
regiment gallantly leading his men, fell exhausted and was carried from the field. Many soldiers,
when too tired to walk, crawled upon their hands and knees up the steep bluff' to the foot of the
redoubt. While my men were in the act of charging this last fort the infantry had reached within
supporting distance, when I ordered my officers to pass the words, "Second Brigade, take those
guns before the infantry get up!" and in less than ten minutes the work was done. Lieut. John H.
Carpenter, Company L, Ninth Illinois Cavalry, was the first man who entered the redoubt, killing
the officer in command of the fort, while at the same moment Sergeant Hartman planted the
colors of his regiment inside the works. In honor to the brave who have fallen I should say that
on arriving within some twenty yards of the redoubt I found this brave color-bearer completely
exhausted and halted in advance of the line. I asked him, "Sergeant, can you put those colors
upon the works?" He replied, "I can, if supported." When I called for the Second Iowa to support
their colors it was done with an iron will, but the sergeant fell and was soon borne from the field.
In this fort were two pieces of artillery (12-pounders), a large quantity of ammunition, and 150
prisoners. In ten minutes these guns were turned upon the enemy with such effect as to cause
great confusion in their retreating columns. The prisoners and plunder had not been collected
when I was ordered to continue the pursuit, leaving them in charge of the infantry. On quitting
the fort, having previously instructed my regimental commanders where to form and collect their
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men, I mistook two regiments of the First Brigade for those of my own, and had the
distinguished honor of leading them to the summit of a third hill, and shall ever remember with
pleasure the gallant conduct of these men in holding that place, under a most galling fire from the
enemy in front and on both right and left flanks, until the infantry came up, when they moved
forward and took three pieces of artillery, from which they had driven the enemy a few moments
before. These regiments, I am informed, were the Twelfth Missouri and Eleventh Indiana
Cavalry. At dark I bivouacked my command near the redoubts on the Lewisburg pike.
December 16, at 10 a.m. was ordered to move my brigade out on the Lewisburg pike and
support General Knipe. After advancing a mile I halted one hour, when I was ordered to move
my command to the east of the pike, form in line dismounted, and move forward, in conformity
with the infantry, toward the Granny White pike. The steep hills, rising abruptly from 100 to 200
feet high, and covered with thick undergrowth, rendered it almost impossible for the movement
of troops even dismounted. By putting the brigade by regiments (Sixth and Ninth Illinois,
Second Iowa, Seventh Illinois, and Twelfth Tennessee) in line, successively, in order from left to
right, and each upon a hill, I was at last able to move forward nearly one mile, when the whole
line became engaged. The brigade was skirmishing heavily when I received orders to halt and
hold my position. The line was upon a high, narrow ridge, thinly wooded, but affording an
excellent point to defend. During the first hour here the Seventh Illinois charged a rebel work,
driving the enemy away, capturing seventy-five prisoners and a large number of small-arms,
bringing the prisoners safely sway and destroying the arms. About 3 p.m. I ordered the Sixth and
Ninth Illinois and Second Iowa, on my left, to commence firing at will on a fort some 500 yards
distant, while two pieces of my artillery played upon it from the valley below. This, I am
satisfied, had the desired effect, for the enemy commenced evacuating in a very few minutes.
The whole line was then moved forward, and the Twelfth Tennessee captured some 150
prisoners. Three stand of colors were left in the hands of the infantry. On reaching the Granny
White pike I was ordered to follow the enemy south, and, if possible, charge them before dark, as
they were retreating in great haste. Colonel Spalding, of the Twelfth Tennessee, took the
advance, and had not proceeded more than one mile when he made a charge, which threw them
into confusion, and, by the assistance of the Ninth Illinois, who were brought up dismounted, I
soon drove them from a strong position protected by a barricade of rails. The Twelfth Tennessee
and Sixth and Ninth Illinois followed them to another strong position, half a mile distant, when a
hand-to-hand fight took place, and lasted an hour after dark. At this place Brigadier-General
Rucker was captured by Capt. Joseph C. Boyer, Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, who received a
severe blow on the forehead from the hand of the rebel general. In this personal contest Captain
Boyer wrenched the rebel general's saber from his hand, who in turn seized and took his, when a
Federal soldier, name unknown, shot the general in the arm, causing him to surrender. It was in
this melee, amidst intense darkness, that the two regiments of Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry,
Federal and Confederate, met and mixed in mad confusion, neither knowing the other save by
the usual challenge, "Halt, who comes there?" Colonel Spalding, who was foremost in the
charge, was halted by two Confederate soldiers, who, on hearing his answer to the challenge,
grasped his horse by the reins on either side and demanded his surrender, when the colonel put
spurs to his horse, and with one bound the noble animal took himself and rider beyond danger.
Private Berry Watson, Company G, Twelfth Tennessee, captured and brought away General
Rucker's division flag, and was promoted to sergeant by Colonel Spalding, the same night, for
gallant conduct. Majors Kirwan and Bradshaw, of the Twelfth Tennessee, charged entirely
through the rebel lines with their battalions, and afterward returned by passing themselves as
belonging to the Twelfth Tennessee Confederate Cavalry, and in great anxiety to meet the
Yankees. Camped for the night on Granny White pike, eight miles south of Nashville.
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December 17, moved at daylight and continued the pursuit, following in rear of the cavalry
command to Franklin, where I was ordered to move to the left on the Lewisburg pike three miles
and cross over to the Columbia pike. When three miles south of Franklin we met the enemy, and
I immediately formed the whole brigade and charged mounted. On reaching and driving in the
rebels left the Second Iowa pressed its way around to their rear, when a hand-to-hand fight
ensued, resulting in the capture of one stand of colors and several prisoners. In this engagement
Sergt. John Coulter, Corpl. A. R. Heck, and Private Black, of Company K, captured and brought
off a stand of division colors, after which Private Black and Corpl. A. R. Heck were killed and
Sergt. John Coulter was severely wounded. The sergeant, however, succeeded in bringing away
the rebel standard. Sergeant Margaretz, of Company F, same regiment, the second colorsergeant,
was killed at the same place, but not until he had killed the rebel who demanded his
colors. On burying the dead three Federal and five Confederate soldiers were found dead within
three paces of each other. The firing in the rear, in conjunction with the brisk engagement in
front, caused the enemy to fall back, and with detached portions of the brigade I continued to
press his flank until dark, when I dismounted the Ninth Illinois, formed in range, and fired upon
him by volleys, driving him from another position, and, in co-operation with other troops,
capturing three more pieces of artillery. One of these pieces was brought off the field by the
Ninth Illinois. The darkness prevented further movements, and we camped for the night seven
miles below Franklin.
December 18, moved at daylight, continuing the pursuit to Spring Hill, where we found a
considerable force of the enemy, and fired but a few shots, when they fell back in confusion.
Camped for the night three miles south of Spring Hill. December 19, resumed the march at 7
a.m., and continued to Rutherford's Creek, where we dismounted, marched by the right flank one
mile, and succeeded in crossing the Sixth Illinois on the wreck of the burnt railroad bridge, when
the fragments floated away and the balance of my command were compelled to ford the stream
some distance above. Moved two miles below on the enemy's flank, the Sixth Illinois
skirmishing until dark; then the command encamped for the night. December 20, at daylight
were again in motion down Rutherford's Creek. Marched nearly two miles, when I was ordered
to dismount my command and construct a crossing from the fragment of a railroad bridge which
the rebels had destroyed the day previous. This work was completed, and my command across at
12 m., and the pursuit again resumed. The Seventh and Ninth Illinois were dismounted and
deployed on foot, while the remainder of the brigade followed mounted to Duck River, opposite
Columbia. On arriving here found the enemy had crossed his rear guard in comparative safety at
4 a.m., leaving a small party, with a piece of artillery, as rear guard in the town upon the opposite
side. A light skirmish between the above-named regiments and the enemy, accompanied by light
cannonading from both sides, closed the operations of the day, when the command encamped to
await the arrival of the pontoons. During the skirmish the Seventh Illinois discovered where the
enemy had abandoned four pieces of artillery by tumbling it into Duck River over the abutment
of the old bridge. It was afterward taken out by the infantry.
December 21 and 22, the main part of my command remained in camp two miles northeast of
Columbia. One battalion of the Second Iowa, Capt. Samuel Foster, Company M, commanding,
was sent on the Shelbyville pike in pursuit of a party of rebels, who were reported escaping with
two pieces of artillery. The captain succeeded in capturing them without resistance, after a day's
march, and also found six ambulances and three wagons in poor condition. December 23,
crossed the Duck River, and encamped five miles south of Columbia on the Pulaski pike.
December 24, marched with the division, in rear of General Croxton's command, as far as
Lynnville, when my brigade was ordered to march by the left flank, to gain the rear of the
enemy's lines, and drive him from a strong position on Richland Creek, but was prevented by the
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unfordable condition of Richland Creek, when I dismounted my command and engaged the
enemy at long range for half an hour. During this skirmish the rebel General Buford was
wounded by the Seventh Illinois. Camped for the night. December 25, marched with the division,
in rear of Colonel Harrison's and General Hammond's commands, reaching Pulaski at 11 a.m.,
and passing beyond some six miles, when the enemy was found in force. A light skirmish ensued
when the advance was repulsed. My brigade was immediately dismounted, and after a heavy
skirmish of an hour drove the enemy from a strong position protected by a barricade of rails, and
encamped for the night. December 26, marched in rear of General Hammond's command to
Sugar Creek, and encamped for the night. December 27, sent Colonel Spalding, of the Twelfth
Tennessee Cavalry; with a detachment of the best mounted men of each regiment (500 men in
all), in the direction of Bainbridge, to ascertain the movements of the enemy. December 28,
moved with the command to Blue Water, via Livingston, where we encamped for the night.
Remained in camp during the 29th and 30th, having learned that the enemy had effected a
crossing of the Tennessee River at Bainbridge. December 31, marched to Elk River on the
Huntsville road; camped on opposite and east side, after much difficulty in crossing. The stream
high for fording.
January 1, reached Athens, Ala., at 2 p.m., and camped five miles beyond. January 2, left
bivouac at 4 a.m. for Huntsville, but were halted by a staff officer five miles on the road, who
informed me that our destination had been changed from Huntsville, Ala., to Waterloo, opposite
Eastport, Miss. I countermarched my command and camped Perran's plantation, five miles
southeast of Athens. January 3, moved camp from Perran's plantation to Widow West's, where I
was ordered to rest my horses and shoe as many as possible. January 4, 5, and 6 were spent in
shoeing horses and resting them from the fatigues of the last campaign. January 7, marched for
Waterloo, where we arrived on Wednesday, the 11th, at sunset, having traveled a distance of
some eighty-five miles, in a most disagreeable state of weather as well as of roads; the weather
cold and the mud frozen and in places very deep. After remaining in bivouac opposite Eastport
some three days, by order of the brevet major-general commanding the corps I moved to this
camp on the 14th day of the month.
In conclusion I must say that the campaign and labors of the brigade have been endured by
the officers and soldiers with unparalleled fortitude. They have been subject to all the privations
that soldiers are heir to, and without eliciting the least complaint. An army made of such
material, veterans of nearly three years' standing, can accomplish what the world never before
witnessed.
I am happy to mention the names of my staff--First Lieut. John H. Avery, Ninth Illinois
Cavalry, acting assistant adjutant-general; First Lieut. Sidney O. Roberts, Ninth Illinois Cavalry,
provost-marshal; First Lieut. Thomas J. Cox, Tenth Tennessee Cavalry, acting assistant
inspector-general; First Lieut. Samuel J. Dangler, Second Iowa Cavalry, ambulance officer; First
Lieut. Henry B. Ludlow, Second Iowa Cavalry, acting assistant quartermaster First Lieut. E. A.
Davenport, Ninth Illinois Cavalry, acting commissary of subsistence--for the worthy and
efficient manner in which they discharged their duties.
The conduct of the officers and men hi every regiment and company was of the most
soldierly character, and were I allowed the space I would gladly mention many officers and
hundreds of soldiers whose bravery is worthy of personal compliment in this respect.
I should do injustice were I to omit to mention the important service rendered my brigade by
Company I, First Illinois Light Artillery, from the time it reported to me at Nashville up to the
present, and especially in the battle of Nashville, on the 15th and 16th of December, and at
Franklin, on the 17th, in shelling the enemy from the fort on the north side of town, and also at
the fight that night at the Little Harpeth, also at Spring Hill, Rutherford's Creek, and Columbia.
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The officers and men conducted themselves in the most gallant style, always delivering their
messages to the enemy with astonishing accuracy.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DATUS E. COON,
Colonel Second Iowa Cav., Comdg. 2d Brig., 5th Div., Cav. Corps.
Maj. HENRY C. FORBES,
Chief of Staff to Brig. Gen. Edward Hatch, Comdg. 5th Div.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIFTH DIV., CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Gravelly Springs, Ala., January 20, 1865.
MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report in regard to captures, &c., by this
brigade:
The redoubts taken by this brigade in a charge December 15, 1864, confirmed four James
rifled guns. With these guns, about sixty prisoners were taken. Lieut. George W. Budd, Second
Iowa Cavalry, with a portion of his company, was the first to enter the fort. At this time the
enemy on the right of our line was on an eminence of 300 feet, about 600 yards distant, protected
by earth-works and two field howitzers. Col. D. E. Coon, commanding Second Brigade, ordered
his command to charge the position. When coming up to the earth-works a hand-to-hand fight
ensued, in which Capt. J. W. Harper, commanding Ninth Illinois Cavalry, was severely wounded
in the arm. Lieut. J. H. Carpenter, Ninth Illinois Cavalry, was the first man to enter the works,
and killed a captain of a rebel battery standing at his guns. The color-bearer of the Second Iowa
Cavalry, Sergt. John F. Hartman, was mortally wounded after planting the colors of the brigade
on the fort. In this redoubt the brigade captured two field howitzers, 130 prisoners, 130 smallarms,
and 1 wagon loaded with spades, picks, &c. The command again formed and moved
forward. Colonel Coon seeing that the enemy had brought artillery to bear on the infantry in
position on the left of his brigade, and, at the same time seeing the two regiments of the First
Brigade, Fifth Division, were in an advantageous position to move, advanced with these two
regiments and drove the enemy from his position on a hill, capturing four pieces of artillery on
the left of the Hillsborough pike.
December 16, in a charge the Seventh Illinois Cavalry took seventy-three prisoners. Nearly
an equal number were made to surrender, when the enemy received re-enforcements and
partially drove the regiment from the position it had taken, and retook the prisoners that had
surrendered. In this conflict Maj. John M. Graham, commanding the Seventh Illinois Cavalry,
was severely wounded in the arm. The following named officers were also wounded during this
engagement: Capt. William McCausland, mortally, Lieut. Uriah Brant, and Lieut. John J.
Shriner, all of the Seventh Illinois Cavalry, wounded; and 11 enlisted men wounded, and 1 killed
in the same engagement. Late in the afternoon, while pursuing the enemy on the Granny White
pike, the enemy made a stand. We attacked and drove him from the position. The Twelfth
Tennessee Cavalry, in a charge on the right of the pike, rode down the enemy. Capt. J. C. Boyer,
Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, had a hand-to-hand fight with General Rucker, of Forrest's
command. The general struck the captain a severe blow with his saber; the captain forced the
saber from his hand, and the general, at the same time, acquired possession of the captain's, who
drew his pistol and shot the general in the left arm, causing him to surrender.
The division colors borne on the report as captured by the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry were
taken by Private B. Watson, Company G, Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, who killed the rebel
standard-bearer. At this, a rebel officer rode up to him and said, "Stick to your colors, boys!" "I'll
do it," said Watson; and he did. The standard was given into the possession of General Hatch,
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and is now at Nashville, Tenn. One hundred and fifty prisoners and three stand of colors captured
by the Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry were forced from the sergeant in charge of them by an
infantry command. The facts were reported to General Thomas, and [he] assured the
commanding officer that he should have credit for them. Many prisoners were sent to the rear
and turned over, and no receipt given. The colors of Ross' rebel brigade were captured by the
Second Iowa Cavalry. First Sergeant Coulter, Company K, Second Iowa Cavalry, brought off the
colors after a desperate fight, in which he was wounded in the shoulder. Around the flag and
within a few feet of where it was captured seven rebels lay dead, as well as two Federal soldiers
of the Second Iowa Cavalry, to attest the desperate nature of the conflict. The Ninth Illinois
Cavalry, on the right of the brigade, closed in on the pike, and caused the enemy to abandon
three pieces of artillery, which were brought off by the regiment with the assistance of
Lieutenant McCastlin [McCartney], Company I, First Illinois Artillery.
While advancing on Columbia the brigade caused the enemy to abandon 6 pieces of artillery,
3 caissons, and a number of wagons, ambulances, &c.; 4 pieces of artillery were taken out of the
river by the infantry.
All the property mentioned in the report has been turned over to the division and corps
provost-marshals. The receipts are held by different parties. Many of the trophies are at the
headquarters of this division at Nashville, Tenn. The saber taken from General Rucker is now in
possession of Captain Boyer, Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry, who will forward it at the earliest
opportunity.
It is proper to state that the Sixth Illinois Cavalry participated in all the engagements where
the entire brigade was engaged. Officers and men conducted themselves with becoming gallantry
on all occasions.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. O. ROBERTS,
Lieut. and Provost-Marshal, Second Brig., Fifth Div., Cav. Corps.
Maj. J. M. YOUNG,
Provost-Marshal, Cavalry Corps.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND IOWA VETERAN CAVALRY,
Nashville, Tenn., December 5, 1864.
GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report of skirmishes and engagements in
which the Second Iowa Cavalry have participated, with list of casualties attending, since the 30th
of September, 1864:
In compliance with orders from brigade headquarters I moved with the effective force of my
command, with our division, commanded by Brigadier-General Hatch, from White's Station,
Tenn., on the 30th of September, 1864. Crossed the Tennessee River at Clifton, and joined in the
pursuit of the rebel General Forrest. Returned to Clifton, and remained at that point until General
Hood crossed the Tennessee at Florence, when we marched to Shoal Creek, nine miles from
Florence, where we found the enemy strongly posted. Since that time we have been watching his
movements and disputing his advance. Reached Nashville, Tenn., on the 2d of December, 1864,
after a campaign of sixty-four days; number of miles marched, 1,000.
Where the conduct of officers and men has been so highly commendable, gallant in time of
action, enduring hardships and privations without a murmur, it is hard to discriminate. Yet I
cannot refrain from making special mention of the gallantry and coolness of Captains Foster and
Bandy, Lieutenants Rumple, Budd, and Griffith. List of engagements: Shoal Creek, Ala.,
November 9, 1864; Aberdeen, Ala., November 17; Battle Creek, Ala., November 19; Lawrence-
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burg, Tenn., November 22; Campbellsville, Tenn., November 24; Lynnville, Tenn., November
24; Mount Carmel, November 29; near Franklin, Tenn., November 30.
CHAS. C. HORTON,
Major, Second Iowa Cavalry.
HEADQUARTERS SIXTH DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS,
Edgefield, Tenn., December 24, 1864.
MAJOR: In accordance with military usage, I have the honor to submit the following report
of the operations of the cavalry under my command during the recent and still pending campaign
against the enemy in Middle Tennessee:
It may be proper for me to premise that when I assumed command of this division, on the
24th day of November, near Columbia, I found present only Capron's old brigade of the Cavalry
Division, Army of the Ohio, composed of the Fourteenth and Sixteenth Illinois Regiments and
Eighth Michigan Cavalry, numbering in the aggregate about 800 mounted me,,, poorly armed
and equipped, and I regret to say considerably demoralized by an unsuccessful campaign of
some duration against an enemy superior to them in numbers, mount, and equipment. On this
same day the Fifth Iowa Cavalry, Maj. J. Morris Young commanding, about 500 strong, reported
to me, and on the day following Brigadier-General Croxton, with his fine brigade of the First
Cavalry Division, was also placed under my command. Of the operations of General Croxton's
brigade during the short time he was under my command I shall not attempt particularly to
speak, though I desire to observe that upon all occasions both General Croxton and the officers
and soldiers of his command conducted themselves in a manner becoming the high reputation
which both he and they deservedly enjoy.
Early in the afternoon of the 24th, the infantry having arrived at Columbia, my troops were,
by order of Brevet Major-General Wilson, withdrawn to the north side of Duck River and
encamped directly opposite Columbia. I lay at this place until the evening of the 25th, picketing
the river below Columbia as far down as Williamsport, and sending scouts across the river
above, in the direction of Lewisburg. On the 25th I removed Croxton's brigade to Caldwel's
house, six miles above Columbia, on the road to Raleigh [Rally] Hill. Capron's brigade, to which
the Fifth Iowa had been temporarily assigned, was sent to take post on the Lewisburg pike at the
crossing of Duck River, with instructions to scout toward Shelbyville and Lewisburg, and to
picket the fords as far down as Huey's Mill. Croxton established a strong picket at Huey's Mill,
which lay directly south of his camp, and also relieved the pickets from Capron's brigade at the
fords below Columbia. In this position I lay until the 27th [28th]. On the morning of that day it
became apparent, from the reports of my pickets, that the enemy were making preparations to
force the passage of the river at Huey's Mill, at the Lewisburg pike, and at many intermediate
fords. At 1 o'clock of this day, under orders from Brevet Major-General Wilson, I moved with
Croxton's brigade for Hurt's house, on the Lewisburg pike, at the same time sending orders to
Colonel Harrison, whom I then supposed to be in command of my First Brigade (Capron's), to
fall back to that point. The head of my column reached the Lewisburg turnpike just after nightfall
in time to find the Seventh Ohio Cavalry and detachments of the other regiments of Capron's
brigade retiring in the direction of Franklin. Understanding the enemy to be in pursuit I directed
Colonel Garrard, Seventh Ohio Cavalry, to send out one company to hold them in check, formed
Croxton's brigade across the pike and sent orders to Colonel Capron to halt, reorganize, and form
his troops. The enemy, however, did not come on, and later in the evening the Fifth Iowa
Cavalry and the greater part of the Fourteenth and Sixteenth Illinois Cavalry, from whom
Colonel Capron had been cut off by the enemy, came into camp, having gallantly charged
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through the superior force of the enemy, which had interposed itself between them and the rest of
the command.
On the 28th [29th] we fell back, contesting the ground with the enemy's cavalry, across
Harpeth River to the road from Franklin to Triune, where we camped for the night near
Matthews' house, picketing the river at Davis', Henderson's, and Hughes' Fords. On the morning
of the 29th [30th] the Fifth Iowa Cavalry was detached pursuant to orders of Major-General
Schofield, and sent to picket the right of the army; they did not rejoin me until we reached
Nashville. Croxton's brigade was posted on the immediate left of the infantry, covering the
Lewisburg turnpike. General Hatch's division was interposed between him and my First Brigade,
of which on this day Col. Thomas J. Harrison, Eighth Indiana Cavalry, under orders from Brevet
Major-General Wilson, assumed command. Late in the afternoon of this day occurred the battle
of Franklin. For the gallant part taken by General Croxton's brigade I respectfully refer to his
report. Colonel Harrison's brigade held the extreme left and was not engaged. On the 30th
[December 1] we retired by the dirt road north to Mayfield's house, near Brentwood, thence
across the country to the Nolensville pike, and camped for the night on Mill Creek near the
Widow Harris'.
On the morning of the 1st [2d] of December we retired to Nashville, and later in the day
crossed the river and encamped in Edgefield. The week of rest allowed us here was assiduously
devoted to recuperating and shoeing the horses of the command, pressing new ones from the
surrounding country, refitting the command in respect to clothing, camp and garrison equipage,
of which they stood in great need, and exchanging the infantry arms, with which the regiments of
Capron's old brigade had been encumbered, for carbines. In these labors I was efficiently assisted
by Colonel Harrison, commanding First Brigade, and by his regimental commanders. In spite of
the proverbial inefficiency of the ordnance department, Colonel Harrison, by untiring efforts,
succeeded in procuring sabers sufficient to arm all his regiments; Burnside carbines for the
Fourteenth and Sixteenth Illinois Regiments, and revolvers for the Eighth Michigan. In the
matter of horses we were not quite so fortunate-the Fifth Iowa Cavalry, which was sent to
Hopkinsville, Ky., procured a full remount for themselves; the Seventh Ohio Cavalry, which
during our stay in Edgefield was stationed at Hyde's Ferry to watch the river in that direction,
procured eighteen horses from the country in their rear; the other regiments perhaps twenty
horses altogether. By dismounting the Eighth Michigan and Fourteenth Illinois Cavalry,
however, pursuant to orders from Brevet Major-General Wilson, I was able to efficiently mount
the Sixteenth Illinois Cavalry and Seventh Ohio Cavalry. My mounted troops I placed under
command of Colonel Harrison and my dismounted regiments under command of Col. James
Biddle, Sixth Indiana Cavalry, who, on the 7th of December, joined me with his regiment
dismounted, so that when offensive operations began I moved with one brigade mounted,
composed of the Fifth Iowa, Seventh Ohio, and Sixteenth Illinois Regiments, commanded by
Colonel Harrison, with an aggregate strength of 1,340, and a dismounted brigade, composed of
the Sixth Indiana and Fourteenth Illinois Regiments, commanded by Col. James Biddle, of an
aggregate strength of 759. The Eighth Michigan Cavalry, being armed with only pistols and
sabers, and the Third Tennessee Cavalry, which reported to me on the 13th of December, for the
most part without arms (their arms having been taken away from them by order of Brigadier-
General Hammond, upon their return to my division from his brigade, with which they had been
serving), I left in camp at Nashville.
On the morning of the 12th of December, in accordance with orders from the brevet majorgeneral
commanding corps, we broke camp, classed the river, and moved to the vicinity of
Heiferman's house, near the Charlotte pike; there we remained in bivouac during the two
following days.
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At 4 o'clock on the morning of the 15th of December, in accordance with Special Orders, No.
3, from corps headquarters, I broke camp and moved on the Charlotte pike to the exterior line of
fortifications, which I found occupied by McArthur's division of General A. J. Smith's corps. My
orders required me to advance upon the enemy at 6 a.m., but as General McArthur's troops did
not get in motion until long past this hour, and when their movement began advanced at first on
the precise line by which I was directed to move, and as the orders contemplated a simultaneous
attack, both by the infantry and cavalry, all along the line, my division covering the right and rear
of the movement, I was delayed for several hours beyond the time designated. It was about 11
o'clock, as nearly as I can remember, that I received a message from Major-General Wilson,
through a staff officer, notifying me that everything was in readiness for the attack, and directing
me to advance. In order to answer the fire of a battery, which the movements of General
McArthur's troops had previously developed on the commanding heights beyond Richland
Creek, I had previously posted two pieces of Lieutenant Smith's battery in position near
Douglass' house in the low ground on this side of the creek. I at first ordered Colonel Biddle to
advance with his regiments deployed across the pike, and with a strong skirmish line covering
his front to cress the creek, drive in the enemy's skirmishers, and assault the enemy's barricades
on the crest of the ridge beyond, Harrison to hold himself in readiness to follow up Biddle's
attack with his mounted brigade. But the movements of the dismounted cavalry were so slow,
owing, I suppose, partly to their being unused to maneuver as infantry, partly to the difficulty in
crossing the creek, and partly to their sabers, which the commanding officer of the Fourteenth
Illinois Cavalry had, with a singular shortsightedness, permitted his men to bring with them, that
I finally ordered Harrison to pass the dismounted brigade and attack the enemy with all possible
energy. My order was executed with commendable celerity. The Fifth Iowa dismounted and
engaged the skirmishers sharply in the neighborhood of the pike, finally crossing the creek and
driving them from their covert, while the Sixteenth Illinois Cavalry, passing to their left, crossed
the creek and charged mounted up the long slope to the ridge upon which the enemy's battery
and dismounted men in barricades were posted. The object of this charge was to capture this
battery, or, at least, to disperse the supports and shoot down the horses before the guns could be
moved, in which case I confidently anticipated the guns would fall into our hands, even though
the charge should be repelled by a counter-charge. I never saw a charge more gallantly made or
more persistently pressed than this. It failed only by a few moments. Major Beeres, commanding,
came upon a stone wall, over which he could not leap his horses. The delay necessary to pull it
down sufficed for the enemy to limber up and move the guns, which they incontinently did, the
cavalry which had been supporting them also mounting and riding away in haste. A few
prisoners, however, fell into our hands. The enemy, retiring by the pike, made a second stand
near Cochran's house, from which, however, Harrison hustled them with amusing celerity, and
drove him rapidly to Davidson's house. Here, along the ridge beyond a little creek which empties
into the Cumberland this side of Davidson's and opposite Bell's Mill, the enemy took up a strong
position, his left resting upon the river and his line stretching some distance across the pike; his
artillery posted near the house swept the bridge and the pike beyond it, and his dismounted men,
strongly posted in barricades, which I suppose he had previously constructed with a view to such
an emergency, commanded at close range all the crossings of the creek. Harrison's men, in the
energy of his pursuit not observing, or at least not appreciating, the advantages of the enemy's
position, attempted to follow the enemy's rear directly into his works, and in this too gallant
effort one company of the Seventh Ohio was roughly handled, losing one man seriously
wounded, and several captured, including Lieutenant Little, the commanding officer. Our
advance being stayed by this repulse, the enemy opened a sharp fire from his battery, doing us,
however, no damage. This continued until I brought up Lieutenant Smith with his battery, who,
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taking position near the pike, soon closed out his rebel adversary. I had now accomplished the
limit of the day's work assigned me, but there being still some hour or two of daylight left, I was
determined not to give the enemy rest if it could be avoided. Colonel Harrison reported, and my
own observation justified his opinion, that the enemy's position was too strong to be carried by
my small command, prisoners reporting Chalmers' whole division to be in our front. I had strong
hopes, however, that if I could obtain the co-operation of General Croxton's brigade I might
capture the enemy's guns, and, if he should make too determined a stand, perhaps a good part of
his force. I was encouraged to think by an officer who came to me from General Croxton that the
condition of things in his front might permit this, and I accordingly maneuvered my troops so as
to attract the attention of the enemy to me, while Croxton, who was now a long distance to my
left and rear, should comply with a request which I sent him to close up on my left and swing
around so as to envelop the enemy's right and cut him off from the Charlotte pike, which here
bears considerably to the south--that is, toward the enemy's right. In this way I hoped we might
double him back upon the river, when I felt sure we should make short work of him. In the
meantime I sent an officer to notify the commander of one of the gun-boats which lay in the river
above my right that by dropping down to near Bell's Mills he might enfilade the rebel line; this
information he speedily took advantage of and the tremendous discharges of his heavy guns
contributed largely, I doubt not, to the already serious demoralization of the enemy. I was
disappointed, however, in my anticipations of General Croxton's aid. I was informed late in the
evening that orders from Brevet Major-General Wilson prevented his complying with my
request. I learned this when it was too late to make other dispositions in time to follow up my
advantage in case my attack should succeed, and accordingly, after throwing my mounted men to
my left, I went into bivouac, ordering everything to be in readiness for movement by 4 o'clock on
the following morning, and instructing Colonel Harrison, with the first break of day, to execute
the movement which I had requested General Croxton to make. I must not neglect to mention
that in this day's operations we captured near fifty horses, so rapidly were our lines advanced.
At break of day on the following morning Harrison advanced, as I had instructed him, only to
find the enemy's works abandoned. I pushed Harrison forward on the road by which he had
retreated, moving with Harrison and the battery myself, and ordering Colonel Biddle to follow
with his dismounted brigade and my ammunition train of four wagons, We marched down the
Charlotte pike near a mile; there following the enemy's trail we diverged by a dirt road to the left,
crossing the Hardin pike at the brick church, nine miles from Nashville. From there, following
the valley of the Little Harpeth, I reached the Hillsborough pike about 2 p.m., where, posted on
the ridges north of Murray's house, we found the enemy in some force and with artillery, which
they opened upon us. The first round from Lieutenant Smith's guns, however, silenced their
battery, and at our first advance they retired, after exchanging a few shots with our skirmishers,
their main force by the road east toward the Franklin pike, and a few down the Hillsborough pike
toward Harpeth River. On reaching the pike I found a brigade of General Knipe's division upon it
in my rear, and, having had no communication with the brevet major-general commanding the
corps during the day, I halted and dispatched a messenger to notify him of my whereabouts and
to request instructions. At nightfall the messenger not having returned, and General Knipe's
troops being still in the position in which I found them, I went into bivouac, covering the pike
and the cross-road by which the enemy had retreated. In our haste to overtake the enemy, on
discovering their evacuation of the position they had taken at Davidson's, we left behind us a
battery of six guns abandoned by the enemy. They were afterward discovered, as I am informed,
by the forces of the gun-boat flotilla and sent into Nashville. I submit that I am entitled to claim
these as the capture of my division.
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On the morning of the 17th I moved at 4 o'clock in the morning down the Hillsborough pike,
driving the enemy's pickets, whom we found in barricades on the ridges beyond Brown's Creek;
forded the Harpeth River, and moved by the dirt road past Moore's and Davis' into Franklin,
where I struck the flank of the rebel rear guard of cavalry, who were there posted to prevent the
passage of the river by General Knipe's division, which had advanced down the Franklin
turnpike. On discovering my approach they immediately withdrew their artillery, and as my
skirmishers advanced they retired precipitately down the Columbia pike to the high ridges south
of the town. Here there fell into our hands all of the rebel and our own wounded of the late battle
of Franklin, besides some 17,000 rations. The Seventh Ohio Cavalry, charging through the town,
captured some fifty of the enemy's rear guard, and would have pressed the pursuit farther had I
not sent them word to stop. Passing from my right over to the Columbia pike, I found Brigadier-
General Knipe with his advance, which had followed my charge through the town. On conferring
with him it was agreed that he should continue his advance by the Columbia pike, while I took
the Carter's Creek pike to the right of this. Accordingly, I moved down the latter pike, three
miles and a half, to Reams' house, and from there sent Harrison with the Fifth Iowa by a crossroad
to strike the right of the enemy's rear guard, which I judged from the sound to be heavily
engaged with General Knipe. The enemy retired so rapidly, however, that this attempt failed,
and, Harrison returning, we bivouacked two regiments and artillery at Reams', the Fifth Iowa
three miles farther from the pike. On the following morning, starting at 5 a.m., I moved down the
Carter's Creek pike to --- house, and from there by the dirt road east into Spring Hill, coming up
here, as at Franklin, just in time to turn the enemy's flank and compel him to retire precipitately
before the forces advancing down the main pike. Here, together with the Fifth and Seventh
Divisions of the corps, I halted by order of Brevet Major-General Wilson to await rations, and on
the day following I returned with my dismounted regiments to this place to remount them.
For the subsequent operations of Colonel Harrison's brigade I most respectfully refer to the
report of that officer.
I will forward at an early day a list of casualties, which cannot be furnished at this time for
the want of the subreports.
I cannot close my report without expressing my deep regret that the corps commander should
have ordered my two best regiments transferred to another divisions, while I received in their
place one dismounted regiment, not distinguished for its efficiency.
The campaign, though short, called for great endurance on the part of officers and men; long,
tedious marches in cold and constant rains were endured without a murmur, and it is a pleasure,
as well as a duty, for me to report that both officers and men did their duty nobly.
To the energy and gallantry of Col. Thomas J. Harrison much of our success is due. No
colonel in the army has a more brilliant record, and I hope he may receive his well-earned
promotion at an early day. Col. Israel Garrard, Lieutenant-Colonel Baird, and Major Beeres
deserve especial mention for their good conduct and able management of their regiments.
To the officers of my staff' my thanks are due. Capt. E. T. Wells, assistant adjutant-general;
Capt. T. F. Allen, inspector; Capt. J. J. Kessler, provost-marshal; Lieuts. L. T. Morris and W. R.
Lowe, aide-de-camp, and Lieutenant McKee, ordnance officer, were distinguished here, as on
many other fields, for their devotion to duty and gallantry in the discharge of the same. Chief
Surgeon Train was always on hand, and through his energy and zeal our wounded were well and
promptly attended to.
Respectfully submitted.
R. W. JOHNSON,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers, Commanding Division.
Maj. E. B. BEAUMONT,
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Assistant Adjutant-General, Cavalry Corps.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SIXTH DIV., CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Near Sugar Creek, Tenn., December 27, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that on the 25th instant this brigade had the advance in
pursuit of the enemy, moving out of camp ten miles north of Pulaski at 5 a.m. The enemy's rear
guard was struck about two miles from the camp, when active skirmishing commenced. The
Fifth Iowa Cavalry was in advance, drove the enemy from every position, and when near Pulaski
charged gallantly through the town, saving the covered bridge across Richland Creek, which the
enemy had fired, and which he was attempting to hold with a heavy force until destroyed. I
immediately ordered two guns in position and deployed a force along the creek, obliging the
enemy to withdraw. Crossing the bridge I followed up the pursuit rapidly, dislodging the enemy
from strong positions, until reaching the head of a narrow gorge, some seven miles from Pulaski,
where the enemy had taken position on a high hill behind strong barricades. His position was
admirably selected, being hidden from view by heavy timber until within a few feet of it.
Supposing that the enemy would retire from this position, as he had from others on a flank
movement from us, I deployed the Seventh Ohio Cavalry on the right and the Sixteenth Illinois
Cavalry on the left of the Fifth Iowa Cavalry, all dismounted. These regiments moved upon the
enemy most gallantly, when suddenly he opened from a masked battery of three guns and
charged over his works, in two lines of infantry with a column of cavalry, down the main road.
Before this overpowering force my men were obliged to fall back about half a mile, when we
checked the enemy, and, receiving support, drove him back.
I regret to state that Company I, Fourth U.S. Artillery, were obliged to abandon one gun and
limber at this time. The battery had been placed in position by General Wilson's order. The stand
made by the enemy at this point was to save his train, as we had driven his rear guard sharp upon
it. From prisoners I learn that this rear guard consisted of seven brigades of infantry and one
division--Jackson's---of cavalry, all under General Forrest. In the hasty evacuation of Pulaski the
enemy threw two cannon into the creek, burned a locomotive and train of five cars loaded with
arms and ammunition, and it is reported he left near town two locomotives in good order. For six
miles below Pulaski the road was strewn with abandoned artillery ammunition, and burning and
abandoned wagons. I think he saved some twenty wagons entire.
We captured during the day 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, and some 50 or 60 men, also some 150
wounded at Pulaski.
Our casualties, mostly from the Fifth Iowa Cavalry, consisted of 3 killed, 18 wounded, and 5
missing. In charging the bridge at Pulaski the Fifth Iowa Cavalry lost 3 killed and 3 wounded.
Brevet Major-General Wilson expressed himself much pleased with the operations of the
brigade during the day. The officers and men of the brigade behaved admirably; they are men
who can be relied upon.
T. J. HARRISON,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade.
Capt. E. T. WELLS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH IOWA CAVALRY,
Near Nashville, Tenn., December 3, 1864.
I have the honor to report the following action of my regiment and others temporarily under
my command during the evening and night of November 28, 1864:
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The Fifth Iowa Cavalry, under my command, was disposed, by order of Colonel Capron,
commanding the First Brigade of the Sixth Division, Cavalry Command, in different positions on
the north side of Duck River, above and below the crossing of the turnpike running from
Franklin to Lewisburg, to guard the fords and prevent the enemy from crossing to this side,
which was successfully performed in my command and front. At 5 p.m. my patrols and pickets
reported the enemy in force in my rear and Colonel Capron, commanding the brigade, gone.
Hastily withdrawing my regiment, except Company A, which was posted four miles above, with
the enemy between us, I formed the Fifth Iowa in charging column on the pike, and was in the
act of giving the command "forward," when the other regiments of the brigade, consisting of the
Eighth Michigan, Fourteenth and Sixteenth Illinois, came in successively, much to my surprise,
for I had supposed them gone out with Colonel Capron, and reported the enemy closing in in all
directions.
I made the following disposition of my new forces as hastily as possible (see also plat
attached): The Eighth Michigan in line dismounted, to the left of and perpendicular to the head
of the Fifth Iowa column; the Sixteenth Illinois disposed in like manner on the right; the led
horses of both regiments to follow up at a safe distance in their respective rears; the Fourteenth
Illinois was placed in column of fours, to the left and rear of the Eighth Michigan and parallel to
the Fifth Iowa, which was in column on the turnpike. The left was the most exposed to a counter
charge by the enemy, who were known to be in heavy force on that flank. As soon as the enemy's
fire was drawn the dismounted men were to immediately fall back, mount, and follow out the
Fifth Iowa Cavalry, which was to go through with sabers. In fifteen minutes, these dispositions
being completed, the command was given, "forward." In fifteen minutes more we struck the
enemy in line, barricaded and posted in the outhouses and buildings just evacuated by Colonel
Capron. We received their fire and instantly sounded the "charge," riding them down and
scattering them in all directions. At 10 p.m. I reported the brigade entire to Major-General
Wilson.
In this charge, which was most gallantly executed, reflecting great credit on all the troops
engaged, I do not think our entire loss, out of over 1,500 brought through safe, was more than
thirty killed, wounded, and missing. Having been superseded in command immediately by
Colonel Capron, who had preceded me some two hours, I have no means of ascertaining
definitely our loss. The injury inflicted upon the enemy must have been considerable. The groans
and cries of their wounded, as we rode, cut, or shot them down, could be heard distinctly above
the noise and din of the charge.
Permit me to add in closing the fact of the growing confidence amongst our troops that good
cavalry never can be captured.
J. MORRIS YOUNG,
Major, Commanding Fifth Iowa Cavalry.
Capt. E. T. WELLS,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Sixth Cavalry Division.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD IOWA CAVALRY,
Memphis, Tenn., December 5, 1864.
COLONEL: Pursuant to orders from brigade headquarters I left camp yesterday morning at 7
a.m. with thirty men to patrol the Germantown road as far as White's Station. About two miles
and a half or three miles this side of the station my advance guard and flankers started the
enemy's pickets and immediately gave pursuit at a rapid rate. I followed at a charge for about a
mile, when the enemy leading my advance off the road I moved at a slower gait, sending four
more men ahead, who like the first soon started some rebels, and like the first gave chase. I
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followed at a trot to the station and arrived there to learn that both of my advanced guards had
been captured, and to find from 100 to 150 of enemy under Captain Fort waiting for me. As soon
as I was observed by the enemy they commenced flanking me on either flank and advancing in
my front. Determined to show a bold front I advanced in line and met them half way, delivering
a well-directed volley into their ranks. Their flanks beginning to close in upon me, I was now
compelled to fall back, which I did in good order. As the enemy would come upon me I faced to
the rear and gave them a volley. After doing this three times I saw I would be cut off entirely if I
did not move faster. I fell back until I was again free from their flanks at a gallop. My bugler
now sounding the halt, my men obeyed the command, as also did the enemy. I now sent one man
to camp to inform you what had transpired, and returned at a walk with the balance. Thirteen of
the men captured were on the advance, and had it not been for their doing more than their duty
they would have returned with me.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
GLENN LOWE,
Adjutant.
Col. JOHN W. NOBLE,
Commanding Third Iowa Cavalry.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE,
December 14, 1864.
Captain Huff, Fourth Iowa Cavalry, and fifty men were suddenly charged, on the
Germantown road, this day about 12 m., by a party, and dispersed, five miles out. Loss yet
unknown, though I judge several were killed, wounded, and perhaps quite a number captured.
Yours, truly,
WINSLOW,
Colonel, Commanding.
Captain WOODWARD,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, DEPT. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Memphis, Tenn., January 14, 1865.
COLONEL: In obedience to instructions from the major-general commanding, I ordered Col.
Joseph Kargé, commanding First Brigade, Cavalry Division, to proceed on the 19th of December
northeast from this point, cross Wolf River at Raleigh, demonstrate strongly toward the crossings
of the Hatchie at Bolivar and Estenaula, thence swinging south, destroy the telegraph between
Grand Junction and Corinth, and join the main column, which was to move the following day, at
or near Ripley. Owing to heavy rains for several days the roads were almost impassable, and as a
crossing of Wolf River could not be effected, Colonel Kargé returned to Memphis. On the
morning of December 21 I moved with the effective force of my command--consisting of
detachments of the Second New Jersey, Seventh Indiana, First Mississippi Rifles, Fourth and
Tenth Missouri, Third and Fourth Iowa, Second Wisconsin, Fourth and Eleventh Illinois, and
Third U.S. Colored Cavalry, in all about 3,500 men, organized into three brigades, and
commanded respectively by Colonels Kargé, Winslow, and Osband; also, Company E, Second
Iowa Cavalry, numbering forty men, Lieut. A. Scherer commanding, as provost guard and escort,
and a pioneer corps of fifty negroes, commanded by Lieutenant Lewis, of the Seventh Indiana
Cavalry--without artillery or wagons, and with twenty days' light rations, carried on pack-mules.
The whole command moved east along the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, threatening
Corinth, to a point three miles west of Moscow, from thence southeast through Early Grove,
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Lamar, and Salem to Ripley. From Early Grove the Tenth Missouri Cavalry, under Capt. F. R.
Neet, was sent to La Grange and Grand Junction, and destroyed the telegraph and stations at
those points, rejoining the column near Salem. From Ripley a detachment of 150 men of the
Second New Jersey, under Major Van Rensselaer, was sent to destroy the Mobile and Ohio
Railroad and the telegraph at or near Booneville. At the same time the Fourth Illinois, under
Capt. A. T. Search, was sent to destroy the same road near Guntown. These detachments rejoined
the main column, one at Ellistown, and the other at Shannon's Station, having destroyed 4
bridges, 8 or 10 culverts, several miles of the track and telegraph, and a large quantity of army
supplies. With the main column I moved on Tupelo. Upon arriving at Old Town Creek, five
miles north of Tupelo, learning of the existence of a rebel camp and large quantity of army stores
at Verona, I ordered Colonel Kargé to leave his pack train and proceed rapidly toward that point,
and if his information would justify it to make a night attack upon the place. Our movements
thus far had been rapid, and the indications were that the enemy had no knowledge of our
presence, as our appearance was a complete surprise to the citizens on our line of march. When
within two miles of Verona Colonel Kargé struck the enemy's pickets. Notwithstanding the
darkness of the night his advance regiment, the Seventh Indiana, charged into the camp,
dispersing the garrison and destroying 2 trains, 32 cars, and 8 warehouses filled with ordnance,
commissary, and quartermaster's stores; also 200 army wagons, most of which were marked "U.
S.," having been captured from General Sturgis in June last, and which were about being sent,
loaded with supplies, to the army of General Hood. The bursting of shells which were contained
in this immense depot continued until the afternoon of the next day. Colonel Kargé fell back five
miles to Harrisburg and encamped. With the balance of my command, on the same night, I
encamped between Old Town Creek and Tupelo. From this point I sent the Eleventh Illinois,
Lieut. Col. Otto Funke commanding, with the pioneer corps, to destroy the extensive railroad
bridge over Old Town Creek and the track between that point and Tupelo. The night was very
dark and rainy, notwithstanding which Lieuten-ant-Colonel Funke and his command responded
to my orders with alacrity, and before morning had rendered the railroad from Old Town Creek
to Tupelo a complete wreck. From this point I moved my entire command south along the
railroad, destroying it thoroughly to a point between Egypt and Prairie Station, fifty-six miles
from Booneville, where it was first struck. The enemy had concentrated a considerable force at
Okolona, which, upon our approach, fell back to Egypt. Having tapped the wire at Okolona and
intercepted dispatches from Lieutenant-General Taylor and others, indicating that reenforcements
would be sent from Mobile and other points, and learning from deserters who
came in on the night of the 27th that the re-enforcements would not be likely to arrive before 11
a.m. the next day, I accordingly, on the morning of the 28th, attacked the enemy--variously
estimated at from 1,200 to 2,000 strong, consisting of cavalry, infantry, and one battery of four
guns on platform cars--at Egypt. While the fight was in progress two trains with re-enforcements,
said to be under command of General Gardner, came in sight, but I threw a force between them
and Egypt, which succeeded in capturing a train of cars, tearing up the track two miles and a half
south of that point, and engaged the trains with re-enforcements, preventing them from joining
the garrison at Egypt. After an engagement of two hours we killed, captured, and dispersed the
enemy. Among the rebel killed were Brigadier-General Gholson and several other officers.
Having secured about 500 prisoners, cared for the dead and wounded, and destroyed all
Government property, I moved due west to Houston, crossing the Sookatanuchie and Houlka
Rivers, to both of which streams I sent detachments in advance to secure the bridges. Here the
Second Wisconsin, Major Woods commanding, was detailed to take charge of the prisoners, and
the officers and men of this regiment deserve much praise for the cheerfulness with which they
performed this arduous duty during the balance of march. From Houston demonstrations were
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made to the north toward Pontotoc, and southeast toward West Point, while the column moved
southwest, via Bellefontaine, to the Mississippi Central Railroad, striking it at Winona. From
Bellefontaine a demonstration was made southeast toward Starkville, threatening again the
Mobile and Ohio Railroad. At the same time a detachment of 120 men of the Fourth Iowa, under
Captain Beckwith, was sent south, via Greensborough, to Bankston, to destroy large cloth and
shoe factories at that point, which employed 500 hands for the manufacture of those articles of
prime necessity to the army.
From Winona, Colonel Noble, with a detachment of 300 men of Colonel Winslow's brigade,
was sent north to destroy the railroad and all Government property between that point and
Grenada. Colonel Osband's brigade was sent south along the line of the railroad to destroy it as
far as practicable. With the main column I moved southwest, via Lexington and Benton, to
Vicksburg. At Benton, Colonels Osband and Noble rejoined us, having been highly successful.
Colonel Osband met and engaged a detachment of Wirt Adams' command, about 500 strong,
under Colonel Wood, in which the enemy were defeated, with a reported loss of 50 killed and
wounded.
I reached Vicksburg with my entire command in good condition with about 600 prisoners,
800 head of captured stock, and 1,000 negroes, who joined the column during the march. For
particulars I refer you to the reports of the brigade commanders herewith inclosed.
The average distance marched was 450 miles. The entire loss in the command during the
expedition was 4 officers and 23 enlisted men killed, 4 officers and 89 enlisted men wounded,
and 7 enlisted men missing. The destruction of property may be summed up as follows: 20,000
feet of bridges and trestle-work (cut down and burned); 10 miles of track (rails bent and ties
burned); 20 miles of telegraph (poles cut down and wire destroyed); 4 serviceable locomotives
and tenders and 10 in process of repair; 95 railroad cars; over 300 army wagons and 2 caissons;
30 warehouses filled with quartermaster, commissary, and ordnance stores; large cloth and shoe
factories (employing 500 hands); several tanneries and machine shops; a steam pile-driver; 12
new forges; 7 depot buildings; 5,000 stand of new arms; 700 head of fat hogs; 500 bales of
cotton (marked "C. S. A."); immense amount of grain, leather, wool, and other Government
property, the value and quantity of which cannot be estimated.
Over 100 of the prisoners captured at Egypt formerly belonged to our army and were
recruited from Southern prisons into the rebel service, and most of whom I believe were induced
to join their ranks from a desire to escape a loathsome confinement. I commend them to the
leniency of the Government.
I take pleasure in bearing testimony to the uniform good conduct of the officers and men of
my command, and desire to express my thanks to Colonels Kargé, Winslow, and Osband for
their cheerful support. I also take occasion to make honorable mention of Maj. M. H. Williams
and Capt. S. L. Woodward, of my staff, for their untiring energy and gallantry in the discharge of
their duties.
This, one of the most successful expeditions of the war, undertaken, as it was, at a period
when roads and streams were considered almost impassable, could not have met with such
extraordinary success without the patient endurance and hearty co-operation which were evinced
by my entire command, and all those who participated richly deserve the lasting gratitude of the
Government and remembrance of their countrymen.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. H. GRIERSON,
Brigadier-General.
Lieut. Col. T. H. HARRIS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of the Mississippi.
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HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, CAVALRY DIVISION,
Vicksburg, Miss., January 5, 1865.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of operations of my command
since leaving Memphis, Tenn.:
I moved on the morning of the 21st of December with 825 officers and men, this being the
effective strength of Third and Fourth Iowa and Tenth Missouri Cavalry Regiments then present
in Memphis. Marched with the division, in position assigned by the general commanding, via
Salem, Ripley, Tupelo, Okolona, Houston, Middleton, Lexington, and Benton, to this point,
arriving this evening; distance marched direct being 384 miles. Met no enemy in force and did
no fighting, having the rear of the column at Egypt, the engagement at that place being ended
before the brigades in my front were fully deployed. Detachments from the brigade were sent, in
obedience to instructions from the general commanding, as follows:
First. The Tenth Missouri Cavalry, Capt. F. R. Neet commanding, to La Grange and Grand
Junction, destroying telegraph and station.
Second. One hundred and twenty men Fourth Iowa Cavalry, Capt. Warren Beckwith
commanding, went to Greensborough and Bankston, destroying large quantities of
quartermaster's and subsistence stores, together with a large cloth mill, tannery, shoemaking
establishment, and their contents. Five hundred men were thus thrown out of employment. This
detachment was in the saddle two days and one night without rest.
Third. Captain Curkendall, with 150 men of his regiment, Third Iowa, made a demonstration
toward Starkville, marching sixty hours, destroying a collection of arms and accouterments.
Fourth. Col. John W. Noble, with 100 men of his regiment and 175 men Fourth Iowa, Maj.
William W. Woods commanding, visited Grenade, leaving the column at Winona and rejoining it
at Benton, having marched two days and nights continually. This detachment destroyed several
complete trains of cars, a large quantity of quartermaster's, commissary, ordnance, and other
property, and a railroad machine-shop. About 100 of the enemy, including 10 commissioned
officers, were captured and turned over to the provost-marshal. About 50 animals were
transferred to other commands to enable them to mount their men. None of my men have been
dismounted, and our animals have been well fed and groomed.
Notwithstanding the severe marching, the inclemency of the weather, and the terrible
condition of the roads much of the time, we have abandoned very few of the animals originally
taken out, and the entire command has always been in an effective condition.
The labor of destroying railroads is always quite severe. We have done fully our part toward
crippling the enemy in this direction, and the manner in which our brave men have endured
numberless hardships, continued marching, and great privations can not be too fully appreciated
or they too highly rewarded. The cheerfulness with which they have obeyed orders, performed
labors, encountered difficulties, and braved dangers deserves from their officers and countrymen
the highest commendation. Nearly 200 animals were transferred to the provost-marshal for use of
the prisoners.
Casualties: Third Iowa Cavalry--Privates James Barr, Company B, mortally wounded;
[Nelson] Pringle, Company K, wounded; 3 men, names unknown, missing. Fourth Iowa Cavalry-
-Privates Joseph L. Baker, Company H, and John Jennings, Company E, missing. Tenth Missouri
Cavalry--Private David Evans, Company H, killed (accidentally); Privates George W. Brown,
Company K, and James Preston, Company G, deserted. Total casualties, 10.
Each regiment marched 450 miles.
I respectfully call the attention of the general commanding to the uniform good conduct of
my troops and to the valuable service of Lieutenant Hodge, my acting assistant adjutant-general.
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Herewith please find attached the tabular statement of damages done the enemy by the men
of this brigade.
Respectfully submitted.
E. F. WINSLOW,
Colonel Fourth Iowa Cavalry, Commanding.
Capt. S. L. WOODWARD,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Cavalry Division, Dept. of the Mississippi.
2,400 yards of railroad track; 1,085 yards of railroad bridging; 37 railroad cars; 4
locomotives and tenders; 10 miles telegraph; 113 prisoners, 267 horses, and 334 mules captured;
309 animals turned over; 13 animals abandoned; 450 stand of arms captured; 15,000 rounds
ammunition destroyed; 1 machine-shop; 6,000 bushels wheat and 7,000 bushels corn destroyed;
10,000 pounds flour; 5,000 yards cloth; 10,000 pounds wool; 125 bales cotton; 500 sides leather;
3 steam engines; 2 depot buildings; besides a large amount of clothing, camp and garrison
equipage, commissary and quartermaster's stores, the exact quantities of which could not be
estimated.
HDQRS. THIRD IOWA CAVALRY VETERAN VOLUNTEERS,
On Board Steamboat E. H. Fairchild,
En route for Louisville, Ky. [January--, 1865].
SIR: I have the honor to report the following operations of a portion of my regiment on the
expedition under General Grierson, now just terminated, and its movements since:
This regiment set out from Memphis, Tenn, on the morning of December 21, 1864,
numbering 11 commissioned officers, 309 enlisted men, and having 316 horses and 42 mules.
All the men were well mounted, armed, and equipped, and supplied with ten days' rations of pilot
bread, three days' meat, and twenty days' coffee, sugar, and salt. The provisions were mostly
transported on a mule pack train of ten horses and forty-two mules, which was under charge of a
lieutenant and eighteen men. We were engaged in no more than the ordinary duties of the march,
until the afternoon of the 26th of December, when we reached the depot Shannon, on the Mobile
and Ohio Railroad. I was here ordered to take my force and destroy the bridges above that station
for the distance of three miles, and dismounting my men, I proceeded to the work 4 at p.m. My
officers and men labored with uncommon zeal, and by fire and force destroyed five bridges, one
of them 100 yards long, another fifty, another forty, another thirty, and a small culvert bridge.
This road is remarkably well constructed, and nothing but great power and invincible energy can
affect it. We loosened the ties, and after displaying the rails on the bridges, piled over the
different spans of the bridges rails (mostly carried from the nearest fence, half a mile distant),
with such dry timber as could be gathered near at hand. After the bridges were fired and in full
blaze, we proceeded nearer Shannon Station (where we yet had the blazing bridges in full view)
and burned two large section houses. By their light, we also turned bottom up about one mile of
the railroad track, and then piling fence upon it, liberally set fire to the whole at short intervals.
Four hours were spent on this work, and I think the destruction was very thorough. Our way to
camp was lighted for several miles by the fires we had made, but soon after they faded, we
passed through a long and dismal swamp, from which we emerged and camped at 11 o'clock at
night.
On the 27th of December we entered Okolona after some slight skirmishing with a part of
General Gholson's brigade. While halting at this station, Captain Stidger with his squadron
destroyed the following-described property: 1 water-tank, with steam-engine and fixtures
attached; 1 turn-table; 4 switches; 1 depot filled with meat and meal; 1 building filled with 3,000
barrels of corn; 1 large lot of rebel uniform clothing, socks, shirts, drawers, &c.; 4 buildings
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filled with rations; and a lot of drugs and medicines. On the 28th we came to Egypt Station just
after the engagement by the First Brigade with the enemy and received the news of the surrender
of the rebels as our column was advancing upon the field. We remained at this station three
hours, engaged in destroying arms and the railroad. Three-quarters of a mile of the track was
turned over and burned, the depot buildings and five cars destroyed, with about 500 barrels of
corn and 200 muskets.
On the 30th of December, when we reached Berryhill, or Bellefontaine, two of my
squadrons, under Captain Curkendall and Captain Stidger, were ordered to make a demonstration
toward Starkville for the purpose of deceiving the enemy. It was understood that there was
nothing for the troops engaged in this exploit but very hard night marching. The duty was,
however, performed thoroughly and cheerfully. The squadrons rejoined the main column on the
31st of December, having marched fifty miles extra in twenty-four hours. Much of the night
march was through the swamp, and one man was lost, his horse bringing in his arms and
equipments without the rider. At the time these squadrons were absent a foraging party of about
twenty men, under Sergeant Parr, mistaking their road to camp, fell in with and joined a
company of the Fourth Iowa Cavalry and assisted them in the destruction of public property at
Bankston. These rejoined my command at Winona.
On the morning of the 1st of January, 1865, with a detachment numbering 300 and composed
of companies of the Third and Fourth Iowa Cavalry, I left the camp of our main force at Winona
at 3 a.m., with instructions from General Grierson to proceed to Grenada, Miss., and after
destroying all public property found, to rejoin the column as expeditiously as possible. The
weather was cold and the roads rough, but we were able to reach Duck Hill Station by 7 a.m. The
railroad was here broken by the command to prevent the escape of any engines from above, and
the depot, all rolling-stock, and a very considerable amount of quartermaster's stores burned (all
of which is included in the summary hereinafter made).
Advancing toward Grenada I found two serviceable locomotives on the track, with a number
of cars, one of which was loaded with a pile-driver, tackle, and engine, also a number of boxcars,
flat-cars, and quartermaster's stores at a small intermediate station between Duck Hill and
Grenada, all of which were thoroughly destroyed by breaking and burning. About five miles
south of Grenada my advance ran upon a picket of the enemy, and while driving them, one of my
men, Pringle, Company K, Third Iowa Cavalry, was wounded and had to be left at Mr. Payne's
plantation. The enemy showed a small line at Grenada, but fled before my advance guard.
Immediately upon entering the town of Grenada I detailed Captain Clark, of the Fourth Iowa
Cavalry, with his squadron, to seek out and destroy all public property in the place, while I
conducted the main column to the railroad depot and put them at work upon the destruction of
the locomotives, cars, and shops. After two hours' hard labor, finding no more public property to
destroy, I withdrew by the Carrollton road. The following is a list of the property destroyed by
me at Duck Hill, Grenada, and intermediate points: 4 locomotives and tenders; 19 box-cars; 11
flat-cars, 1 pile-driver and tackle, and 1 small steam engine to work same; 1 machine-shop, with
iron turning and planing lathe for repairing locomotives; 2 large depots, one containing
quartermaster's stores; 1 boxcar seasoned lumber; 1 box-car cotton; 6,000 barrels of wheat; 4,000
barrels of corn; 200 muskets; 1 store box cedar canteens; 1 store box hair saddle-blankets; 10
boxes ammunition; 100 bales of cotton. For the thorough destruction of all this it became
necessary to fire some public buildings, which were consumed with their contents. I also
destroyed the press of a rebel sheet called the Grenada Picket.
The railroad bridge across the Yalabusha River has not been repaired, but two locomotives
across the stream ran to Panola and Oxford. Leaving Grenada at 2 p.m., I marched eleven miles
to Mr. O'Neal's plantation, where I halted two hours to feed my horses and allow the men to
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make coffee, after which I marched through Carrollton, and camped, at 12 o'clock at night, five
miles south, unsaddling and feeding. Resuming the march at 5 a.m. of the 2d instant, I passed
through Black Hawk at 9 o'clock, feeding and taking breakfast near that place. In Black Hawk I
burned a store-house of grain in sacks, public property, about 200 bushels. Approaching
Lexington three hours after the rear guard of the main column had passed, I drove out a small
party of rebels after a slight skirmish, in which one of the enemy fell mortally wounded. At 8
o'clock at night I reached the camp of the Third Brigade near Ebenezer; at 9 o'clock started with
them for Benton, where I reported to Colonel Winslow, commanding, at 2.30 o'clock, just fortyeight
hours after I left Winona, during which the above-mentioned labors had been performed
and the command marched 110 miles.
Major Woods commanded the companies of the Fourth Iowa Cavalry under me, and Captain
Crail and Lieutenant Arnim, the squadrons of Third Iowa Cavalry. To these officers and all the
others, and to the men, I feel it due to tender my thanks for their prompt and faithful discharge of
every duty assigned them.
On the morning of the 3d of January we moved out, in the advance, at 7 a.m., and had some
skirmishing to Mechanicsburg. After camping at Mechanicsburg on the morning of the 4th of
January, this command had the rear of the main column, and was soon again engaged in
skirmishing with the enemy near the Ponds. I lost one man, mortally wounded, James Barr,
private, Company B. On the 5th of January we entered Vicksburg and embarked at once on the
steamer E. H. Fairchild, of quartermaster's department, Captain Duncan. Five hundred and more
rebel prisoners of war on board were placed in my charge, and twenty-five men of the Tenth
Missouri Cavalry and one squadron of the Second New Jersey Cavalry were also embarked.
Awaiting the shipment and provisions of these extra troops, our boat did not leave port until 4
p.m. of the 6th instant. On the evening of the 8th instant we reached the mouth of White River,
where we renewed our rations and remained until 9 o'clock of the 9th instant. Arriving at
Memphis on the 11th instant I received orders to report with my detachment to Brevet Major-
General Upton at Louisville, Ky. The remainder of the regiment is already at that post, and the
whole command will be united once more upon my arrival there.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN W. NOBLE,
Colonel, Commanding.
General N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General [State of Iowa].
COLONEL NOBLE'S HEADQUARTERS,
December 25, 1864.
My patrol of thirty men went out about White's Station this morning. There, to the number of
about 100, the advance guard drove in the picket, and were captured. A party of our flankers
were also taken in. After skirmishing some time with the rebel three, the officer and the balance
of the patrol came to camp. Loss, 17 men, 1 wounded, and horses, &c. Rebel loss unknown, if
any. Have 150 men out to redeem the officer, if possible. I don't think [he is] to blame. The result
is that of being outnumbered and outwitted, without being surprised. The rebels were seen, but
not supposed to number as many as they proved.
NOBLE,
Colonel.
Major MORGAN.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
162
Nashville, December 1, 1864.
[Brevet Major-General WILSON:]
GENERAL: I send the morning report called for, and have ordered the officers out. It is
impossible to let Carling go, as his presence is of the utmost importance here to take charge of
the large number of wagons now here. All the men in Camp Webster have been armed and
equipped, and are in position stretching from the river to the Murfreesborough pike. General
Watkins is in command, by direction of General Thomas. We have two batteries, Eighteenth
Indiana and First Illinois Artillery, eight guns in all. Watkins' brigade is expected to-night. I have
ordered the Fourth, what there is mounted, to march, escort the ammunition train, and take out
stragglers. You did not specify how many rounds of ammunition you wanted, and I had to guess-
-100,000 Sharps, 100,000 Burnside, and 60,000 Spencer; if you need more it can be sent. The
Fifth Iowa will march out to report to you to-night, and 300 men of the Thirteenth Indiana.. I
have ordered Major Carland, Ninth Indiana, to take command of all the detachments that came in
as guard to the train, to collect all stragglers, and send them to you as rapidly as possible. We
have no mounted men except the detachment that General Thomas ordered to be mounted for
courier duty. These are now on picket and patrolling the Lebanon, Murfreesborough, and other
pikes. Our cavalry line stretches from in front of Camp Webster obliquely toward the city, and is
expected to fall back across the bridge on the Lebanon pike to the rising ground just this side the
creek and join General Miller's line. All the dismounted men we could get hold of have been
armed with infantry musket, and the force you see on paper has been organized into companies
of fifties and battalions of 300 and 400 men. I have been, of course, unable to communicate with
you, for General Thomas could not tell where you would be.
I am, general, &c.,
E. B. BEAUMONT,
Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH IOWA CAVALRY,
Nashville, December 1, 1864--5 p.m.
Captain ANDREWS,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General:
I have the honor to report that, by direction of Major-General Schofield, I covered the west
flank of the army into Nashville by way of the Granny White pike, and find myself separated
from the general commanding. By direction of Major Beaumont, I am drawing ammunition,
horseshoes, &c., and expect to start my command to rejoin you by 8 p.m. Having completed the
duty assigned me by Major-General Schofield, I trust upon your relieving me without having
first to report to him to be relieved, as he is upon another road, and I might lose much time
thereby. The duty assigned my regiment by General Schofield last evening I believe was
performed satisfactorily, having patrolled as far down as the Hillsborough pike and retired from
the front the last of all the troops.
I am, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
J. MORRIS YOUNG,
Major, Commanding Regiment.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 2.
HDQRS. SIXTH DIVISION, CAV. CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Franklin, Tenn., December 2, 1864.
163
The Fifth Iowa Cavalry, Maj. J. Morris Young commanding, and the Seventh Ohio Cavalry,
Colonel Garrard commanding, are hereby temporarily assigned to the First Brigade, and until
further orders will report and do duty accordingly.
By command of Brigadier-General Johnson:
E. T. WELLS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
[December 5, 1864.]
Maj. E. B. BEAUMONT,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Cavalry Corps:
MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the result of my journey to Saint
Louis and Memphis, made in accordance with orders, instructions, &c., from General Thomas'
headquarters and from headquarters Cavalry Corps:
I left here on the morning of the 20th ultimo and arrived in Saint Louis on the 23d. The
unusual length of time en route to Saint Louis was caused by an accident to the train, and by
another circumstance, which I make the object of a special report. At General Rosecrans'
headquarters I learned that Colonel Winslow's command would probably arrive in Saint Louis by
the 1st of December. I met Colonel Winslow, and after making the necessary and most speedy
arrangements for the transfer of that portion of his command to this place, we left November 24
for Memphis. Lieutenant-Colonel Benteen, Tenth Missouri Cavalry, was left in Saint Louis to
superintend the transfer. General Rosecrans assured me that he should have every facility for
remounting, re-equipping, &c., as quickly as possible. We arrived in Memphis Monday morning,
November 28. I saw General Washburn, district commander; at first he did not seem inclined to
part with Colonel Winslow's command. The next morning Colonel Winslow and I had another
interview with him, when he concluded to let Colonel Winslow's old brigade (Third and Fourth
Iowa and Tenth Missouri) go, retaining the following regiments: First Mississippi Mounted
Rifles, Second New Jersey Cavalry, Fourth Missouri Cavalry, Seventh Indiana Cavalry. These he
claimed as ordered to be left there by the brevet major-general commanding the Cavalry Corps.
As far as I have been able to learn the First Mississippi Mounted Rifles amounts to but little. The
Second New Jersey Cavalry is a very large regiment, but nearly half the men are one-year
recruits; the regiment is very poorly disciplined. The two remaining regiments (Fourth Missouri
and Seventh Indiana) constitute the real strength of what is to be left, and of these I should think
the Fourth Missouri the better regiment. Colonel Winslow's letter to me, written after I had left
him, will give you a good idea of the matter, and from what I saw of him I judge him to be a very
efficient officer, although now unfit for field duty, having been recently wounded. He was
perfectly informed on the most minute points, even concerning the condition, wants, &c., of his
command, and seemed to take great pride in it. I think his opinion worthy of more than ordinary
consideration. The organization of the portion of the command to be left in Memphis shows an
aggregate of about 3,000; of this number not more than 1,000 or 1,200 are effective, and it
appeared difficult to keep even these effective. That portion which is to leave Memphis will
number about 1,400 effective; add to these the detachment from Saint Louis, say 1,300, it gives
an aggregate of about 2,700. This calculation includes only the following regiments: Third and
Fourth Iowa and Tenth Missouri (Winslow's old brigade). Before leaving Memphis General
Washburn assured me that he would render Colonel Winslow the necessary facilities for a
speedy departure; but as a portion of the command was about starting on a scout, thought they
would be unable to leave before today (5th). The Saint Louis detachment will probably leave to-
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day also. In Memphis I learned that General Grierson was at his home in Jacksonville, Ill. He had
been absent several weeks.
I inclose the letter of Colonel Winslow referred to on the preceding page.
I left Memphis November 29 and arrived here this morning (December 5). Was delayed a
day or two in Louisville, as the regular trains were not running.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY E. NOYES,
Lieutenant and Aide-de-Camp
HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Nashville, December 6, 1864.
I. Capt. J. D. Moxley, First Ohio Cavalry, is hereby detailed as acting assistant inspectorgeneral,
and will report to Lieut. Col. G. G. Miner, commanding dismounted cavalry, at Camp
Webster, for duty.
III. Maj. J. M. Young, Fifth Iowa Cavalry, is hereby detailed as provost-marshal, Cavalry
Corps, Military Division of the Mississippi, and will report to these headquarters when relieved
from duty on general court-martial.
By command of Brevet Major-General Wilson:
E. B. BEAUMONT,
Major and Assistant Adjutant-General
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Edgefield, Tenn., December 6, 1864--9.45 p.m.
Col. T. J. HARRISON,
Commanding Brigade:
I am just in receipt of a circular from corps headquarters requiring the whole of the cavalry
force to be concentrated here by Friday night, the 9th instant. I am not inclined, in the absence of
General Johnson, to give orders in the premises, but respectfully suggest to you the propriety of
dispatching a messenger, with such escort as you may think necessary, to Lieutenant-Colonel
Baird, commanding Fifth Iowa Cavalry, requiring him to return at once, by the best route,
bringing with him what horses he may have collected, or may be able to collect on his return
march. Every exertion consistent with the concentration of the command at the day named must
in the meantime be used. Please notify Colonel Garrard in the morning that he must be here by
Friday night.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. T. WELLS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION,
ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
Nashville, Tenn., December 8, 1864--6.30 a.m.
Capt. W. H. F. RANDALL,
Assistant Adjutant-General, First Division:
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report as follows regarding the situation in my front during
the past twenty-four hours:
There has been no body of the enemy seen except the detachment of cavalry, which seems to
be upon picket duty about three miles out on the Charlottesville pike. I made an effort to throw
165
shell among them during the forenoon yesterday, from the position occupied by the Second Iowa
Battery, but was unable to effect anything. A larger number of the enemy's picket-fires were
observable last night than at any time previous, owing, perhaps, to the increased severity of the
weather. An unusual degree of quiet prevailed all night. My pickets report that no shots were
heard after 8 o'clock yesterday evening.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. F. HUBBARD,
Colonel, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Memphis, Tenn., December 8, 1864.
Col. E. F. WINSLOW,
Fourth Iowa Cavalry, Memphis, Tenn.:
SIR: You will proceed, on City of Cairo, this evening, to Cairo, Ill., and from thence forward,
by telegraph, the dispatch handed you for Major-General Halleck, Chief of Staff of the Army,
Washington, and will await an answer, proceeding, however, to Saint Louis, Louisville, or
elsewhere, if found necessary, to accomplish the objects of your mission. Should the
detachments of Fourth Missouri and Seventh Indiana Cavalry, now in Missouri, arrive at Cairo,
you will cause them to be immediately embarked for Memphis. If the portions of the Fourth
Iowa, Third Iowa, and Tenth Missouri Cavalry, now supposed to be en route from Saint Louis,
should arrive at Cairo, you will cause their detention at Cairo until orders are received from
Washington in regard to them; should they have already passed Cairo for Louisville, you will
telegraph the fact to Major-General Halleck. The commanding officer at Cairo will afford all
necessary assistance and give necessary orders for securing transportation, &c. You will report
proceedings by letter from day to day, and in person when this duty is accomplished, to these
headquarters.
By order of Major-General Dana:
T. H. HARRIS,
Lieutenant-Colonel and Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS SIXTH DIVISION. CAVALRY CORPS,
Edgefield, Tenn., December 8, 1864.
Lieut. Col. A. J. ALEXANDER,
Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps:
COLONEL: I have just received a dispatch from Lieutenant-Colonel Baird, commanding
Fifth Iowa Cavalry, dated Hopkinsville, Ky., yesterday, as follows:
I have just arrived here. I have three companies yet out, but am expecting them in to-night. I
cannot reach Nashville earlier than Saturday evening.
I have telegraphed him to use all possible expedition to be here by to-morrow noon.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. W. JOHNSON,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION,
DETACHMENT ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
Near Nashville, Tenn., December 9, 1864.
II. In obedience to Special Orders, No. 152, extract 7, headquarters Detachment Army of the
Tennessee, dated Nashville, Tenn., December 9, 1864, the Eighth Regiment Iowa Infantry
166
Volunteers will be dropped from the returns and rosters of the First Division. All men in this
command belonging to that regiment will immediately be sent to it at Memphis, Tenn.
By command of Brig. Gen. J. McArthur:
W. H. F. RANDALL,
Assistant Adjutant-General
HEADQUARTERS SIXTH DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Edgefield, Tenn., December 9, 1864.
Lieut. Col. A. J. ALEXANDER,
Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps:
COLONEL: In reply to your note of to-day I have the honor to say that the pressing details
from my regiments have not all of them as yet reported. So far as heard from they have met with
but indifferent success. The regiments here have not received twenty horses so far, all told. The
Seventh Ohio, which was stationed at Hyde's Ferry, eight miles below, scouted all the country in
their rear, but I am informed by an officer (the colonel commanding has not yet reported) they
procured only about one dozen horses. The Fifth Iowa not yet heard from.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. W. JOHNSON,
Brigadier-General.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FOURTH DIV., CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Cairo, Ill., December 10, 1864.
Lieutenant-Colonel BEAUMONT,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Cavalry Corps, Nashville, Tenn.:
COLONEL: I came here on business connected with my command. The detachments of the
Third and Fourth Iowa and Tenth Missouri Regiments Cavalry are en route from Saint Louis to
Clarksville, Tenn. Portions of above regiments will reach here to-night and to-morrow. I shall go
to Memphis to-night, to make every effort to have the detachments there ordered and forwarded
to Nashville. I had got orders once for this from Major-General Washburn, but Major-General
Dana has thus far delayed movements, thinking it not unlikely that the portions in Missouri
might join him at Memphis. Major-General Halleck has, however, definitely settled that matter. I
have left Colonel Benteen full instructions to push for Nashville from Clarksville.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. F. WINSLOW,
Colonel Fourth Iowa Cavalry, Commanding Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS SIXTH DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Edgefield, Tenn., December 10, 1864.
Maj. E. B. BEAUMONT,
Assistant Adjutant-General:
MAJOR: Lieutenant-Colonel Baird, commanding Fifth Iowa Cavalry, has just reported. His
command will reach here in about one hour. He reports as follows: Left camp on the evening of
the 3d instant; reached Hopkinsville on the night of Wednesday last, the 7th instant, having made
a detour to the right to Russellville on his march thither, in order to pick up sixty horses at that
place, of which he had information. The Eighth Iowa Cavalry, however, had preceded him and
167
picked up all these horses. At Elkton, on his march up, he obtained fifteen horses (about). From
Hopkinsville he detached parties over all the surrounding country. He obtained in all, he states,
about 300 horses, very poorly shod; they will nearly all need reshoeing. A full report, with the
record of receipts given, will speedily be forwarded. Of these horses Colonel Baird reports that
he will need near 250 in his regiment, and, supposing that this would meet the approval of
Major-General Wilson, I have instructed him to retain sufficient to mount all of his men.
Lieutenant-Colonel Baird thinks that horses enough can still be procured in that country to mount
a brigade.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. W. JOHNSON,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers.
HEADQUARTERS SIXTH DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Edgefield, December 11, 1864.
Maj. E. B. BEAUMONT:
I have the honor to report that, in obedience to your orders, I have had the Eighth Michigan
and Fourteenth Illinois dismounted, and with their horses fully mounted the Sixteenth Illinois
and Seventh Ohio. By this arrangement I will have about forty horses surplus, but our men are
returning from hospitals, &c., every day, and I think it advisable to retain them. This
arrangement will leave about 750 well mounted men in the First (Harrison's) Brigade. In the
Second (Biddie's) Brigade the Fifth Iowa only is mounted, about 590 men. First Brigade, 750
men: Second Brigade, 590 men; total, 1,340 men. Their battery is fitted out with eight horses to
each carriage, ten cannoneers, all mounted, and is in good condition for service. I have the
following regiments dismounted: Eighth Michigan, at Edgefield; Fourteenth Illinois, at
Edgefield; Fifth Indiana, at Louisville; Sixth Indiana, at Edgefield.
R. W. JOHNSON,
Brigadier-General of Volunteers.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FOURTH DIVISION
Memphis, Tenn., December 15, 1864.
Lieutenant NOYES,
Second U. S. Cavalry, Nashville, Tenn.:
LIEUTENANT: I had expected to see you before this, but circumstances over which I had no
control have detained here this detachment of my command. The day on which Major-General
Dana arrived here I procured, after much solicitation, an order from Major-General Washburn
for the embarkation of my troops. General Dana, arriving in the evening (7th), countermanded
the order. Upon my representing the condition of the command, he said we might embark;
meantime one regiment would have been in Cairo. On the 8th Major-General Dana said he
would telegraph General Halleck, Chief of Staff, that he could not execute orders just received
from him, unless the detachments of my command in Missouri were sent here. As he then had
his dispatch ready I asked to be allowed to go to Cairo and there see the other portion of my
troops, while I would thus be able to learn early what the final disposition would be. General
Halleck directed troops in Missouri to proceed to Nashville. I then came here to urge the
immediate shipment of these parts of regiments. Major-General Dana will not allow them to
leave until after the return of an expedition to the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, in which we are to
take part. I do not know by what authority we are kept, but do know that my whole command is
suffering very much by this long-continued separation. I sincerely hope Major-General Wilson
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will cause this portion to be brought to Nashville at once. I am powerless here, or anywhere, in
this matter; but had my efforts here been properly seconded by Brigadier-General Grierson, I am
perfectly confident that we should now be in Nashville. I am not complaining of General
Grierson, or of any one, but I do not hesitate to say that if the affairs and condition of my
command could be seen by others as by myself, there would have been a different result.
Lieutenant-Colonel Benteen has met with a very serious accident on the Maria, and I'm afraid
some of his command will be delayed by the ice in Mississippi River. I do not know the cause of
his delay, not having had any communication from him since the 3d instant. I write this
communication as a private one, but hold myself ready to be called upon for sustaining every
sentence. Will you please have this delay of my command properly understood? Of course I am
debarred from any communication direct with Major-General Wilson.
Very truly, yours,
E. F. WINSLOW,
Colonel Fourth Iowa Cavalry, Commanding.
P. S.--I take about 1,000 men on the contemplated expedition.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH IOWA CAVALRY,
December 16, 1864.
Lieutenant-Colonel BAIRD:
SIR: I have the honor to report that, in accordance with your orders, I advanced on the
Hillsborough pike, in the direction of the Big Harpeth River, about two miles and a half. About
two miles beyond where we are now camped I discovered a road coming in from the right that
appeared to have been traveled to-day by a large column of cavalry and a number of wagons.
About a quarter of a mile farther on I found two other roads coming in from the left. These were
newly made and well beaten. I would think, from appearances, that artillery had been brought in
on one or both of them. A short distance beyond this I came upon a strong picket, so posted that I
could not drive it back. After firing several shots, and becoming satisfied that I could not
advance any farther without too much risk, I returned.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. C. McBEATH,
Captain, Fifth Iowa Cavalry.
HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, DETACH. ARMY OF THE TENN.,
In the Field, near Nashville, Tenn., December 17, 1864.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
President of the United States :
"Smith's guerrillas" again did a noble work yesterday, not the least portion of which is due to
the First Division. I respectfully ask, as an act of justice and honor fairly won, that Col. W. L.
McMillen, Ninety-fifth Regiment Ohio Infantry Volunteers, Col. L. F. Hubbard, Fifth Regiment
Minnesota Infantry Volunteers, commanding the First and Second Brigades, respectively, be
appointed brigadier-generals; also Col. S. G. Hill, Thirty-fifth Regiment Iowa Infantry
Volunteers, who commanded the Third Brigade, and was killed while gallantly charging the
enemy's work, I would recommend to be gazetted a brigadier-general.
J. McARTHUR,
Brigadier-General, U.S. Volunteers.
[First indorsement.]
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I heartily concur in the recommendation of General McArthur, and respectfully request the
appointments may be made.
A. J. SMITH,
Major-General, Volunteers.
[Second indorsement.]
I witnessed the assault on the enemy's works conducted by the above named officers, and
unhesitatingly commend them for their gallant bearing.
GEO. H. THOMAS,
Major-General, U.S. Vols., Comdg. Dept. of the Cumberland.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Near Columbia, December 21, 1864--9.30 p.m.
Brigadier-General WHIPPLE,
Chief of Staff:
General Hatch has just reported that the Second Iowa Cavalry, sent out this morning toward
the Lewisburg pike, has captured 2 cannon, 6 ambulances, 2 wagons. I have sent to inquire from
what force they were taken and to direct a thorough scouring of the country in that direction tomorrow.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH DIVISION CAVALRY,
Left of Columbia Pike, December 21, 1864--9 p.m.
Major-General WILSON,
Commanding Cavalry Corps:
The Second Iowa drove the enemy's cavalry off the Lewisburg pike this evening. Captured 2
guns, 6 ambulances, 2 wagons, a drove of hogs and cattle. The enemy got off in the darkness.
Very truly, your obedient servant,
EDWARD HATCH,
Brigadier-General.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH DIVISION CAVALRY,
Left of Columbia Pike, December 21, 1864--10.30 p.m.
Major-General WILSON,
Commanding Cavalry Corps:
The Second Iowa is at the junction of the Lewisburg pike and Columbia and
Murfreesborough road. The force encountered was the rear guard of French, mostly Texan
cavalry, from 200 to 300 strong. This force was cut off from crossing at the pontoon here, and
attempted to escape toward the left, and is now scattered, and probably swimming Duck River in
small squads. The Second Iowa is about fourteen miles from here, and is force enough to whip
anything out there north of Duck River. The entire road is strewn with small-arms.
Very truly, your obedient servant,
E. HATCH,
Brigadier-General.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Columbia, December 22, 1864.
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Brigadier-General UPTON,
Comdg. Fourth Division, Cavalry Corps, Memphis, Tenn.:
Take with you to Louisville the Third and Fourth Iowa, Tenth and Twelfth Missouri, the
Sixth Tennessee, and Nineteenth Pennsylvania.
By command of Brevet Major-General Wilson:
E. B. BEAUMONT,
Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, SEVENTH DIVISION,
December 24, 1864.
Maj. E. B. BEAUMONT,
Assistant Adjutant-General:
MAJOR: I have found a splendid camp; lots of shelter and forage. Am close against General
Croxton's right; his men, the Eighth Iowa being his right flank regiment, had gone into camp and
was feeding when my staff officer arrived from General Wilson. Striking a due south course, I
am two miles and a half from Richland Creek and one mile and a half from the pike. The bearer
will bring orders. The people think that Richland Creek is fordable in my front.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. H. HAMMOND,
Brevet Brigadier-General.
A good many rebel fugitives have gone toward Campbellsville, four miles from here.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Richland Creek, Six Miles from Pulaski,
December 25, 1864--10 p.m.
(Received 3 a.m. 26th.)
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
Washington, D. C.:
I forward the following dispatch, received from General Wilson, for your information:
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Pulaski, December 25, 1864--9.10 a.m.
My advance, Colonel Harrison commanding, drove the rebels through this place half past 8
on the keen jump. Forrest, with Jackson's and Buford's divisions, is scarcely out of sight.
Everything has gone on the road to Lamb's Ferry, the original intention of going to Decatur
having been abandoned for fear they would be intercepted. They are trying to reach Florence. I
will crowd them ahead as fast as possible. They are literally running away, making no defense
whatever. I will open communication with the column in the direction of Huntsville. The rebels
have destroyed a large quantity of ammunition, but the bridge across Richland Creek has been
saved, thanks to the gallantry of Colonel Baird, commanding Fifth Iowa.
Very respectfully,
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General.
I learn from the chief engineer that he will soon have the road open as far as Columbia; from
thence to Pulaski will be but a small matter. Colonel Lyon telegraphs me from Huntsville, under
date of 23d instant, that Colonel Prosser, with 200 men, fought and dispersed 600 men of
Roddey's command that morning at Indian Creek, killing several and capturing 60 prisoners and
50 horses. He routed the enemy utterly, and pursued them several miles. Our loss, 1 killed and 3
wounded. Indian Creek heads in Huntsville and empties into Hurricane Creek just above its
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mouth. Have not yet heard from Admiral Lee, but feel convinced that the water in the Tennessee
enables him to get above Eastport, and that he is performing good service. I have my troops well
in hand and well provided with provisions and ammunition, and close upon the heels of the
enemy, and shall continue to press him as long as there is a chance of doing anything.
GEO. H. THOMAS,
Major-General, U.S. Volunteers, Commanding.
NASHVILLE, December 28, 1864.
Major-General WILSON,
Commanding Cavalry:
GENERAL: The Eighth Michigan, 430 strong, fully mounted, will be here to-night or tomorrow.
Had impressed a sufficient number of horses before I received your last instructions on
this subject. I suppose he will require a day or so to shoe up. Shall I then send him forward? I
sent H[arrison] three days ago 125 men of Fifth Iowa, and will send fifty of Seventh Ohio by day
after to-morrow. The Eighth Michigan is armed with pistols and sabers only; no carbines here.
R. W. JOHNSON,
Brigadier-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 1.
HDQRS. SIXTH DIV., CAVALRY CORPS,
MILITARY DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Edgefield, Tenn., January 1, 1865.
Col. W. W. Lowe, Fifth Iowa Cavalry, having reported for duty, is hereby assigned to the
permanent command of the Second Brigade of this division, and, for the time being, will
command all of the dismounted troops of this division heretofore in command of Major
Davidson, Fourteenth Illinois Cavalry. Major Davidson, on being relieved, will resume
command of his regiment.
By command of Brigadier-General Johnson:
E. T. WELLS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Athens, Ala., January 4, 1865.
Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE,
Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland:
Detachments of Fifth Division, in West Tennessee and Kentucky, have not yet been returned
to duty with their division, notwithstanding the repeated requests of General Hatch. Men from
every regiment are away; one whole company of the Second Iowa Cavalry is kept by General
Grierson; clerks in all the departments are retained by General Dana; a large detachment of the
Third Illinois is kept by General Meredith at Paducah. Please have General Thomas request a
peremptory order from General Grant for the immediate return of these men.
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General.
HDQRS, CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Athens, Ala., January 5, 1865.
Maj. E. B. BEAUMONT,
24 High Street, Nashville :
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Telegram received. Say to General Thomas that I will make arrangements for leaving
Johnson in Tennessee with a sufficient force of cavalry for the purpose indicated. Ask him also
to stir up the horse department. Hurry Upton's arrangements and Knipe's. Johnson will have to
be mounted last. I shall leave here on the morning of the 7th. Send out all the detachments,
mounted or dismounted, that belong to Hatch's and Hammond's commands; also the men of the
Seventh Ohio and Fifth Iowa, as I shall probably transfer these regiments out of the Sixth
Division, and the Fifth Tennessee to it. Let me know how the stables are progressing, and what
measures are being taken to collect the broken-down horses in pasture in Tennessee and
Kentucky. See that no horses are sold by Captain Irvin that can be recuperated. I have written
and telegraphed to everybody for the horses that are needed to remount us. They can be more
easily delivered at Eastport than elsewhere. Tell Carling to exert himself to secure good mules,
good transportation, and a supply of ambulances.
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Near Elk River, on Florence Road, January 8, 1865--12.15 p.m.
Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE,
Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland, Nashville :
General Wood telegraphed from Huntsville that Lyon had crossed the railroad near
Larkinsville, on the way to the Tennessee River. General Cruft had been directed to debark a
portion of his force at that place and go after him. As it is seventy miles from here to
Larkinsville, it will be more than useless for me to send any portion of my command in that
direction, as Lyon must be safely across the river or disposed of by General Cruft before I can
possibly reach him. Your telegram in regard to Johnson's division has been received. I have
transferred the Fifth Iowa and Seventh Ohio Cavalry to the Fourth Division, and the Sixth
Tennessee to Johnson, leaving him nine regiments, the same number that are in the other
divisions, and ample for the defense of the country lying north of the Tennessee River. These
transfers are made for the purpose of preparing, as soon as possible, an effective cavalry force for
operations north of the main army. No men of Johnson's division, except those belonging to the
two regiments just mentioned, have been ordered to Eastport. Colonel Harrison, with the balance
of his brigade and battery, have been ordered to Pulaski. When he arrives here he ought to have,
with the Eighth Michigan and the other detachments, 1,000 mounted men--enough for any
immediate use. Please say to General Thomas that, anticipating the probabilities of an early
move, I have directed that the remounts be provided first to the divisions which are intended for
the field, and last to Johnson, believing this would meet his approbation. Johnson ought now to
have the Fifth Tennessee, Fifteenth Pennsylvania, Sixteenth Illinois, and Eighth Michigan all
mounted Unless I have something this evening that renders it more probable than now appears
we could pursue Lyon with success, I shall continue the march toward Eastport.
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General.
EDGEFIELD, TENN., January 8, 1865.
Maj. E. B. BEAUMONT,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Cavalry Corps:
In reply to your communication I have the honor to designate the following regiments of my
division as the ones I desire filled up to their maximum strength: First Wisconsin Cavalry,
Second Indiana Cavalry, Second Michigan Cavalry, Fourth Kentucky Mounted Infantry, Eighth
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Iowa Cavalry. General Watkins has already made application, which has gone forward, to have
the veterans of two Kentucky infantry regiments assigned to the Kentucky regiments of his
brigade. I refrain from making any recommendation concerning these regiments until I ascertain
what action has been taken upon this application. All the regiments I indicate are veteran
organizations, and in every way effective except in point of numbers.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. M. McCOOK,
Brigadier-General, Commanding Division.
HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISS.,
Near Elk River Crossing, on Florence Road,
January 8, 1865--12.30 p.m.
Col. T. J. HARRISON,
Commanding First Brigade, Sixth Division:
Several dispatches having been sent you lately, and none having reached, as far as I can hear,
I am anxious to get this to you. A dispatch from General Wood says Lyon crossed at Larkinsville
day before yesterday, moving toward the Tennessee River. You need not, therefore, send any
reconnaissance, but send the Fifth Iowa and Seventh Ohio, under Colonel Garrard, to Eastport,
and go with your battery and the balance of the brigade to Pulaski, whence you will report to
General Johnson in person, or if he is not there, by telegraph.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. H. WILSON,
Brevet Major-General.