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Official Army Records
Miscellaneous-1 1861-1865
GENERAL ORDERS No. 43.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD ARMY CORPS,
October 3, 1863.
Upon the call of General Rosecrans for the services of Brigadier-General Elliott,
commanding the Third Division of this corps, which takes him from the Army of the Potomac
and from the division which he has so ably commanded, the general commanding the corps
deems it a duty to state his regret at losing so valuable an officer. General Elliott was with
General Lyon at the battle of Springfield; he commanded a cavalry brigade of Iowa and
Michigan troops on the first and successful raid of this war upon the Ohio and Mobile Railroad
at Boonville, Miss., and was engaged and wounded at the second battle of Bull Run, 1862, at the
head of his command. In connection with the services of this gallant officer, the occasion
presents itself to mention other officers of the Third Division of this corps. Colonel Keifer,
commanding Second Brigade, served under Rosecrans and Buell in Kentucky, Tennessee, and at
Corinth. In command of the One hundred and tenth Ohio, with other troops, at Winchester he
gallantly resisted attack, and on the retreat this regiment, now in this corps, assaulted the
pursuing enemy with the bayonet, crossing two walls on either side of Martinsburg pike,
reserving its fire until the regiment had crossed both walls, when the enemy were driven from
their batteries. Colonel Smith, commanding the Third Brigade, Third Division of this Third
Corps, commanded the First Ohio at the battle of Shiloh, and was tendered by the Governor of
Ollie his regiment--the One hundred and twenty-sixth Ohio. The general now commanding the
corps of Hooker, Sickles, Berry, and, as his near friend, dares to raise the shroud of the chivalric
Kearny, needs nothing further to convince the brave and intelligent soldiers of this corps that the
efforts for preference are unjust over the reputation of brother soldiers, no matter what State or
what army may claim them; when they have proved themselves true and faithful to our Union, to
our glorious flag (these troops), ought and must be admitted to the position to which by their
gallantry they are entitled.
By command of Major-General French:
JNO. M. NORVELL,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, February 5, 1862.
COMMANDING OFFICER AT CAIRO:
Send troops forward to General Grant as rapidly as possible. Fort Henry is being largely reenforced
from Bowling Green. The Fourteenth Iowa have left to-day, the Forty-third Illinois will
go to-morrow, and the Second Iowa in a few days.
H. W. HALLECK,
Major-General, Comma
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 150.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, February 18, 1862.
1. The Second Iowa and Second Michigan Cavalry will proceed toward the seat of war in
Tennessee, touching at Cairo and Paducah for orders.
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3. The troops now at or about to arrive at Saint Charles, Mo., consisting of four companies
U.S. Infantry, three companies Fourth U.S. Cavalry, five companies Thirty-ninth Ohio
Volunteers, Forty-second Regiment Illinois Volunteers, Forty-seventh Regiment Illinois
Volunteers, Fifth Regiment Iowa Volunteers, Twenty-seventh Regiment Ohio Volunteers, two
batteries First Missouri Artillery, Engineer [Bissell's] Regiment of the West, Company F, Second
Artillery, Eleventh Ohio Battery, will proceed without delay to the seat of war in Tennessee,
stopping long enough at Saint Louis to obtain a full supply of ordnance stores and touching at
Cairo and Paducah for orders.
By order of Major-General Halleck:
J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 208.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, March 7, 1862.
7. The Sixth Iowa Infantry will immediately proceed to Tennessee, touching at Cairo and
Paducah for orders.
8. The Minnesota battery, Captain Munch, now at the Saint Louis Arsenal, will proceed
without delay and report to Maj. Gen. U.S. Grant, commanding District of West Tennessee.
By order of Major-General Halleck:
J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 213.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, March 8, 1862.
5. The Fifth Ohio Battery and the Eighth, Eleventh, and Thirteenth Iowa Volunteers, about to
arrive in this city, will proceed to report to Maj. Gen. U.S. Grant, touching at Cairo and Paducah
orders.
By order of Major-General Halleck:
J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
ORDERS No. 7.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION,
March 16, 1862.
I. Col. J. A. McDowell, Sixth Iowa Volunteers, pursuant to orders from Maj. Gen. C. F.
Smith, having reported for duty, is assigned to the First Brigade, and being the senior officer,
will at once assume command of the brigade.
II. The cavalry and artillery will land as soon as practicable.
By order of Brig. Gen. W. T. Sherman:
J. H. HAMMOND,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 4.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION,
March 18, 1862.
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The Eighth Iowa Volunteers, Colonel Geddes, is hereby attached to the First Brigade,
Colonel McDowell commanding. Colonel Geddes will report with his regiment to Colonel
McDowell on the lines.
By order of Brig. Gen. W. T. Sherman:
J. H. HAMMOND,
Assistant Adjutant-Genera
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 8.
HEADQUARTERS,
Pittsburg, March 19, 1862.
I. The unattached troops at this point are hereby brigaded as follows: Eighth Regiment Iowa
Volunteers is attached to Colonel Lauman's (First) brigade, General Smith's division.
II. Third Iowa Volunteers to Colonel McArthur's (Second) brigade, General Smith's division.
III. Eighty-first Ohio Volunteers to Col. John Cook's (Third) brigade, General Smith's
division.
IV. Fifth Ohio Cavalry to Colonel Hildebrand's (Third) brigade, General Sherman's division.
V. Minnesota battery, Captain Munch, to Colonel Buckland's (Fourth) brigade, General
Sherman's division. The commanding officers of the regiments and companies so attached will at
once report to their brigade commanders.
VI. Fifty-second Illinois Volunteers, Colonel McArthur's (Second) brigade, General Smith's
division.
By order of Brig. Gen. W. T. Sherman:
J. H. HAMMOND,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 147.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Saint Louis, May 2, 1862.
6. The Seventeenth Iowa and Fourth Minnesota Volunteers will proceed to Hamburg, Tenn.,
and report to Major-General Pope, without delay.
By order of Major-General Halleck:
S. M. PRESTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 50.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH DIVISION
Army of the Tennessee, May 3, 1862.
The division will move at 7 o'clock to-morrow morning. The men will carry four days'
rations and eighty rounds of cartridges. Each regiment will also take one wagon load of
ammunition in the immediate rear. The baggage and tents will follow in a separate division train.
The order of march will be the same as in coming to this camp but the ambulances and
ammunition wagons will follow their regiments. Colonel McDowell will march at 7 a.m. by the
new road on the right of Williams', left of Moore's, to Monterey, and the right-hand road toward
Corinth. Behr's battery will take place in column behind the Sixth Iowa, and Major Taylor will
indicate another battery to follow the First Brigade; other batteries as before.
By order of Brig. Gen. W. T. Sherman:
J. H. HAMMOND,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
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SPECIAL ORDERS No. 106.
HDQRS. ARMY OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Corinth Road, May 6, 1862.
The Third Division of this army will consist of--
First Brigade, Brig. Gen. N. B. Buford commanding: Fifth Iowa Volunteers, Colonel
Worthington; Fifty-ninth Indiana Volunteers, Colonel Alexander; Forty-eighth Indiana
Volunteers, ---- ----; Twenty-sixth Missouri Volunteers, Colonel Boomer.
Second Brigade, Col. N. Perczel commanding: Tenth Missouri Volunteers, Tenth Iowa
Volunteers, Thirtieth Ohio Volunteers, Fifty-sixth Illinois Volunteers.
By order of Major-General Pope:
SPEED BUTLER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 63.
HDQRS. ARMY OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Near Danville, June 12, 1862.
The appointment of Col. W. L. Elliott, Second Iowa Cavalry, and Col. J. D. Morgan, Tenth
Illinois, as brigadier-generals, having been communicated by the major-general commanding this
department, they are announced as such to this army, and will be obeyed and respected
accordingly. Brig. Gen. J. D. Morgan will retain the command of his division. Brig. Gen. W. L.
Elliott is assigned to duty as chief of staff to the major-general commanding the Army of the
Mississippi, and all communications to these headquarters will be addressed to him.
By order of Major-General Pope:
SPEED BUTLER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 1.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Covington, Ky., October 7, 1862.
I. The undersigned, pursuant to Special Orders, No. 51, headquarters Department of the
Ohio, October 7, 1862, hereby assumes command of the Army of Kentucky.
II. Brig. Gen. A. J. Smith is assigned to the command of the advance forces, and will
organize it into brigades as the necessities of service may require.
III. The depot of supplies, of subsistence, forage, ordnance and ordnance stores, camp and
garrison equipage, quartermaster's property, and medical supplies will for the present be at
Covington and Cincinnati, and requisitions for the same will be made through these headquarters
upon the chiefs of the respective departments.
IV. Semi-weekly reports, on Mondays and Tuesdays, of the strength, whereabouts, and
condition of the command will be made through regimental, brigade, and division commanders
to these headquarters.
V. On all marches, scouts, reconnaissances, patrols, &c., the officer commanding the same
will be required to observe carefully the country, its roads, streams, bridges, hills, residences of
important persons, towns, cities, the direction and distances between important points, and roads
running parallel or nearly so--in fact, every topographical feature of the country that could
possibly be of benefit in a military point of view. All this must be set forth in a sketch and report
and submitted to the division commander.
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VI. Capt. F. E. Walbridge, assistant quartermaster, is temporarily assigned to duty with Brig.
Gen. A. J. Smith, and will report to him accordingly.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 3.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Covington, Ky., October 11, 1862.
Brig. Gen. A. Baird, U.S. Volunteers, having reported for duty at these headquarters, is
hereby assigned to the command of all the troops now in and around Covington, Ky. General
Baird will, with the least possible delay, organize and get his command ready for the field.
By order of Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 6.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Covington, Ky., October 17, 1862.
First Lieut. Thomas G. Beaham is announced as aide-de-camp and acting assistant adjutantgeneral;
Capt. J. G. Taylor and First Lieut. J. S. Fullerton, as aides-de-camp on the staff of the
general commanding the Army of Kentucky. They will be obeyed and respected accordingly.
By order of Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
Maj. Gen. HENRY W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief U.S. Army:
GENERAL: I respectfully recommend promotion for the following officers for meritorious
services and qualifications for their advancement: Brig. Gen. C. S. Hamilton; Col. C. C. Marsh,
Twentieth Illinois; Col. M. M. Crocker, Thirteenth Iowa; Col. J. A. Mower, Eleventh Missouri;
Col. M. D. Leggett, Seventy-eighth Ohio; Col. John D. Stevenson, Seventh Missouri, and Col.
John E. Smith, Forty-fifth Illinois.
U. S. GRANT,
Major-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 8.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Covington, Ky., October 22, 1862.
Brig. Gen. H. M. Judah, having reported at these headquarters for duty, is announced as
inspector general of the Army of Kentucky.
By order of Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 14.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., November 3, 1862.
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Capt. F. E. Walbridge, assistant quartermaster, U.S. Volunteers, is announced as chief
quartermaster; Capt. G. W. Burton, commissary of subsistence, U.S. Volunteers, as chief
commissary; and Capt. W. L. Avery, Seventy-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as aide-de-camp on
the staff of the general commanding the Army of Kentucky. They will be obeyed and respected
accordingly.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 15.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., November 4, 1862.
I. Passes will not be required from and after this date for citizens to pass and repass within a
circuit of ten miles from the city of Lexington.
II. Persons desirous of leaving the State, or going beyond the limits prescribed above, must
obtain passes for that purpose from the provost-marshall in this city, or from the commanders in
the immediate vicinity of their homes.
III. No citizen nor non-combatant will be permitted within the camps or lines of this army,
without special authority to that effect. This prohibition does not apply to residents already
domiciled within the lines.
IV. No officer nor soldier will be permitted to visit the city of Lexington between retreat and
reveille, except upon urgent public business--those on duty within the city excepted.
V. All officers in or about the city of Lexington, not on duty with the Army of Kentucky, will
report at these headquarters, in person, without delay.
VI. Only one commissioned officer from each regiment, and one enlisted man from each
company in this command, will be allowed to be absent from his regiment or company at anyone
time; nor will such officer or enlisted man be allowed to be so absent at any time that will in any
way interfere with regimental or company duties.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 18.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., November 7, 1862.
Capt. H. C. Ransom, assistant quartermaster, U.S. Army, having reported for duty at these
headquarters, pursuant to Special Orders, No. 95, headquarters Department of the Ohio, is
assigned to duty with this army as chief of the quartermaster's department. He will relieve Capt.
F. E. Walbridge, as chief quartermaster, and assign him to duty as depot and post quartermaster
in this city.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 23.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., November 17, 1862.
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Surg. William Varian, U.S. Volunteers, having reported at these headquarters for duty, is
announced as medical director of the Army of Kentucky, and will be obeyed and respected
accordingly.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
GENERAL ORDERS NO. 30.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., November 28, 1862.
Lieut. and Bvt. Capt. William E. Merrill, Corps of Engineers, is hereby announced as chief
engineer of the Army of Kentucky, to date from October 12, 1862. He will be obeyed and
respected accordingly.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 31.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., December 1, 1862.
Capt. L. D. Watkins, Fifth U.S. Cavalry, is hereby announced as chief of cavalry of the Army
of Kentucky. All returns, reports, requisitions, &c., from the cavalry will be submitted to him.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 11.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION,
Camp on Hurricane Creek, December 11, 1862.
I. The Twelfth Indiana Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Kempton, and the Twenty-seventh
Iowa Regiment, Colonel Gilbert, will, as soon as practicable, move their respective commands to
the town of Waterford, and there remaining, will report to Colonel Du Bois at Holly Springs.
II. The Thirty-third Wisconsin Regiment and Rogers' battery will, under the command of
Colonel Moore, of the Thirty-third Wisconsin Regiment, move to-morrow, the 12th instant, to
the town of Oxford, Miss., starting at the hour of 9 a.m. Arriving there, will report to Brigadier-
General Lauman, commanding Fourth Division.
By order of Brigadier-General Lauman:
H. SCOFIELD,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
GENERAL ORDERS NO. 36.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., December 19, 1862.
Deserters from the rebel service, and persons who are returning to their homes in this State--
having been followers of the rebel army, but not in the service--will, upon coming within the
limits of the Military District of Central Kentucky, report in person at these headquarters to the
major-general commanding the Army of Kentucky, and submit their respective cases to be
properly adjudged upon and disposed of. Persons included
within the terms of this order who
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shall fail to observe the same will be arrested and treated as spies or as prisoners of war,
according to the circumstances of each particular case. Civil officers and loyal citizens are
requested to aid in the enforcement of this order.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 40.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., December 30, 1862.
Capt. William C. Russell, assistant adjutant-general, U.S. Volunteers, having, in obedience to
Special Orders, No. 173, headquarters Department of the Ohio, reported for duty at these
headquarters, is announced as assistant adjutant-general of this army. He will be recognized and
obeyed accordingly.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
T. G. BEAHAM,
First Lieut., Second Iowa Cav., and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen.
SPECIAL ORDERS NO. 151.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE TENNESSEE,
Near Vicksburg, Miss., June 5, 1863.
6. The Sixty-third Regiment Illinois Infantry Volunteers, Colonel McCown commanding,
now in Major-General Logan's division, Seventeenth Army Corps, will proceed immediately and
without delay to Young's Point, La., and report for duty to Brig. Gen. E. S. Dennis, commanding.
Land transportation, camp and garrison equipage, will be taken. Immediately upon the arrival of
the Sixty-third Illinois Volunteers, the Twenty-third Iowa Volunteers will proceed to join their
proper brigade in the Thirteenth Army Corps. The quartermaster's department will furnish
necessary transportation by river.
By order of Maj. Gen. U.S. Grant:
JNO. A. RAWLINS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS,
Milldale, Miss., June 22, 1863.
Major-General GRANT:
One of the cavalrymen sent out this morning on patrol has returned and reported that a
detachment of the Fourth Iowa Cavalry out beyond Bear Creek, blockading roads, were attacked
by a force of 1,000 cavalry and driven back to this side of the creek. Two hundred of our men are
reported missing. The rebels have not yet crossed. Re-enforcements have been sent out.
J. G. PARKE,
Major-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 191.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE TENNESSEE,
Vicksburg, Miss., July 15, 1863.
4. Brig. Gen. J. G. Lauman, U.S. Volunteers, will proceed to the State of Iowa and there
await orders. He will take with him his personal staff.
By order of Maj. Gen. U.S. Grant:
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JNO. A. RAWLINS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TENNESSEE,
Vicksburg, July 27, 1863.
General L. THOMAS,
Washington, D.C.:
I would very respectfully recommend for gallant and meritorious services and for extreme
fitness for command corresponding to the increased rank the following promotions, to wit: Brig.
Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, Brig. Gen. Alvin P. Hovey, Brig. Gen. John E. Smith, and Brig. Gen.
W. S. Smith, to be major-generals of volunteers; and Col. Charles R. Woods, Seventy-sixth
Ohio; Col. Alexander Chambers, Sixteenth Iowa; Lieut. Col. John A. Rawlins, assistant adjutantgeneral;
Col. Giles A. Smith, Eighth Missouri; Col. John M. Corse, Sixth Iowa; Col. John B.
Sanborn, Fourth Minnesota; Col. W. Q. Gresham, Fifty-third Indiana; Col. M. F. Force,
Twentieth Ohio; Col. T. Kilby Smith, Fifty-fourth Ohio, to be brigadier-generals of volunteers.
These officers have all rendered valuable services in the field and will fill the places for which
they are recommended well. Lieut. Col. John A. Rawlins has been my assistant adjutant-general
from the beginning of the rebellion. No officer has won a more honorable reputation than he has,
and I think I can safely say that he would make a good corps commander. This promotion I
would particularly ask as a reward of merit.
U.S. GRANT,
Major-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 209.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE TENNESSEE,
Vicksburg, Miss., August 2, 1863.
4. The Second Regiment Wisconsin Cavalry Volunteers is hereby temporarily assigned to the
Seventeenth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson commanding, and will report
accordingly.
5. The Third and Fourth Regiments Iowa Cavalry and the Fifth Illinois Cavalry are hereby
temporarily assigned to the Fifteenth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman commanding, and
will report accordingly.
By order of Maj. Gen. U.S. Grant:
T. S. BOWERS,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 13.
HDQRS. SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE,
Vicksburg, Miss., April 4, 1864.
(Excerpts)
Private Aaron P. Gilbert, A Company, Fifth Iowa Infantry, medal of gold, inscribed, "New
Madrid, Island No. 10, Siege of Corinth, Iuka, Corinth, Vicksburg."
Capt. J. Henry Smith, A Company, Sixteenth Iowa Infantry, medal of silver, inscribed,
"Shiloh, Iuka, Corinth, Vicksburg."
Second Lieut. Samuel Duffin, K Company, Sixteenth Iowa Infantry, medal of gold,
inscribed, "Iuka, Corinth, Vicksburg."
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The general commanding is requested by the board to state that a large number of medals
intended for the several divisions of this corps yet remain to be distributed, upon the
recommendation of commanding officers, who are hereby directed to forward to the board the
names of officers and men whom they deem entitled to wear this badge of distinction for
"gallantry in action and other soldierly qualities."
By order of Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson:
W. T. CLARK,
Assistant Adjutant-General
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG, THIRD DIV., FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Savannah, Ga., January 6, 1865.
Maj. Gen. WILLIAM T. SHERMAN,
Comdg. the Mil. Div. of the Mississippi, Savannah, Ga.:
GENERAL: You no doubt remember our conversation at Cartersville, Ga., in September last,
in reference to your report of the battle of Mission Ridge, and the part my command took in that
battle. Acting upon your suggestion, I address you this note for the purpose of putting upon paper
the statements I then made to you. I was ordered to support General Matthies, whose brigade was
closely engaged with the enemy near the crest of the hill to the left of the tunnel. I went forward
at the double-quick, in two lines, under a sharp artillery fire. I formed the Seventeenth Iowa and
Eightieth Ohio Volunteers behind the fence, on the upper side of the field, and the Fifty-sixth
Illinois and Tenth Missouri Volunteers in the road at the foot of the hill. A short time after these
dispositions were made I received information that General Matthies' brigade was running short
of ammunition. I at once ordered the Seventeenth Iowa and Eightieth Ohio forward, intending to
relieve the troops in front. At this juncture the enemy, massing a considerable force upon the
right flank of Matthies' brigade, made a furious attack upon him. I was with my advance troops,
and therefore could not see what was going on around the point of the hill. My men had not
advanced more than forty yards beyond the fence when I discovered that Matthies' right had been
forced back, carrying mine with it, and that the enemy had actually passed to our rear on the
right, while they were making a vigorous attack in front. The disorder on the right communicated
rapidly, and in a few moments the entire line gave way, and was reformed again as indicated in
your report. The enemy pursued and formed an irregular line below the upper fence. My second
line, composed of the Fifty-sixth Illinois and Tenth Missouri Volunteers, stood firm, engaged the
enemy with spirit, and forced him to retire to his works upon the hill. It was whilst directing the
fire of these two regiments that I was wounded. I did not leave the field, however, until the
engagement was over, so that what I have stated is from my personal knowledge. When I read
your report I supposed that from your position on the hill you were unable to see my reserve
line, and seeing the enemy retire, that it naturally occurred to you that the troops on the left had
driven them back. In making the foregoing statements I do not detract from the just meed of
praise to General Lightburn's command, for at Mission Ridge there was glory enough for all. I
have observed that the Army and Navy Journal, in commenting upon that battle, has followed
your report, thus carrying an error into history. With these statements I leave the matter with you
to make such addenda as will do justice to the living and the dead.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your friend and obedient servant,
GREEN B. RAUM,
Brevet Brigadier-General.
the Seventh Iowa Infantry to the front to support a battery of Major Cavender's rifled 20-
pounder Parrott guns, which were placed in a position to
command a portion of the rebel works. I
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obtained permission from you to associate the regiment of Birge's Sharpshooters in the
movement, and placed the two regiments in position, where they remained during the night.
In accordance with your orders on the morning of Thursday, the 13th instant, I moved the left
wing of my brigade, consisting of the Fourteenth Iowa (Colonel Shaw) and Twenty-fifth Indiana
(Colonel Veatch), from their encampment toward the enemy, who were intrenched about a mile
distant therefrom. The advance was made steadily and in as good order as the nature of the
ground would admit of until we reached the ravine at the base of the hill on which were the
enemy's fortifications. Here we halted until the line could be formed, when the Twenty-fifth
Indiana, under Colonel Veatch, moved steadily up the hill and toward the intrenchments under a
most galling fire of musketry and grape, until their onward progress was obstructed by the fallen
timber and brushwood. Having, however, succeeded in gaining an advantageous position, they
held it unflinchingly for more than two hours, and until ordered to fall back out of range of the
enemy's fire. The loss of this regiment in killed and wounded was very severe. The Fourteenth
Iowa advanced at the same time and took position on the right and across a ravine, and did good
execution. Whilst these two regiments were taking the above positions, the Seventh Iowa
Infantry, under Lieutenant-Colonel Parrott, came up in fine style and took a position in the
center, between the Twenty-fifth Indiana and the Fourteenth Iowa. The First Regiment
Sharpshooters, Western Division, Lieut. Col. B. S. Compton, were posted on the hill to the
extreme right, except a detachment of about sixty who were deployed as skirmishers, and
rendered most effective service in that capacity, and proving by their deadly aim that they are a
most valuable arm of the service. We held this position until night, when we fell back to the
position occupied in the morning. On the following day we remained in camp skirmishing with
the rebels during the day and night. On Saturday, the 15th instant, at about 2 o'clock, I received
your order to advance with my whole brigade and assault the heights on the left of the position
attacked by us on the previous Thursday. The brigade was promptly in motion in the following
order: The Second Iowa. Colonel Tuttle, led the advance, followed by the Fifty-second Indiana
(temporarily attached to my brigade), who were ordered to support them. This regiment was
followed closely by the Twenty fifth Indiana, the Seventh Iowa, and the Fourteenth Iowa. The
Sharpshooters were previously deployed as skirmishers on our extreme right and left. Colonel
Tuttle led the left wing of his regiment in line of battle up the hill, supported by the right wing,
advancing at a distance of about 150 yards in the rear. So soon as he came within range of the
enemy's fire he led his men forward, without firing a gun, up to and charged into the rebels'
works, driving the enemy before him and planting his colors on their fortifications. He was
closely followed by the other regiments in the order of advance before named. The enemy was
closely pursued and driven behind their inner works. Night coming on, we held the position we
had gained, and remained under arms until morning, intending at dawn of day to recommence
the attack. In this engagement the Second Iowa suffered terribly. Captains Slaymaker and
Cloutman fell just as they entered the fortification. Cloutman was instantly killed; Slaymaker
died gallantly, shouting to his men to go forward and consummate the work.
In the morning, as day dawned, we were attracted to the inner fortifications by the sound of a
bugle, and saw the rebels displaying a white flag. I instantly dispatched Lieutenant-Colonel
Parrott to ascertain the intent of it, who reported that an officer wished to see me. I repaired to
the spot and received from him offers of capitulation, which I at once forwarded to you. The
result is well known. It would afford me much pleasure to particularize the various instances of
personal bravery displayed on the occasion by officers under my command, but when all
behaved so well it would be invidious to particularize; but I cannot refrain from mentioning in
this connection the bravery of Colonel Tuttle, Lieutenant-Colonel Baker, and Major Chipman
(who received a severe wound in the thigh), of the Second
Iowa; Colonel Veatch and
12
Lieutenant-Colonel Morgan, of the Twenty-fifth Indiana, and Colonel Shaw, of the Fourteenth
Iowa; also Lieutenant-Colonel Parrott and Major Rice, who led the Seventh Iowa, and to whom I
return my warmest acknowledgments for the gallant manner in which they led their regiment into
the engagement on the 13th and 15th. They did all that men could do, and well sustained the
reputation of the Seventh Iowa. For the kindness, attention, and skill manifested by the surgeons
and assistant surgeons for so many consecutive hours toward the unfortunate wounded I return
my most sincere thanks.
The total loss in killed and wounded is as follows: Second Regiment Iowa Infantry
Volunteers--Killed, 41; wounded, 157; total, 198. Twenty-fifth Regiment Indiana Volunteers--
Killed, 14; wounded, 101; total, 115. Seventh Regiment Iowa Infantry--Killed, 2; wounded, 37;
total, 39. Fourteenth Regiment Iowa Infantry--Killed, 3; wounded, 23; total, 26. First Regiment
Sharpshooters--Killed, l; wounded, 3; missing, 1; total, 5. Recapitulation--Whole number killed,
61; whole number wounded, 321; whole number missing, 1; total, 383.
I herewith append the reports of the colonels of regiments attached to my brigade, to which I
invite your particular attention.
With sentiments of high regard, I remain, respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. LAUMAN,
Colonel, Commanding Fourth Brigade, Second Division.
Brig. Gen. C. F. SMITH,
Commanding Second Division.
HDQRS. SECOND DIV., DIST. OF WEST TENNESSEE,
Pittsburg, Tenn., March 29, 1862.
SIR: I present to the major-general commanding the district the following as the report of the
operations of my division during the attack on Fort Donelson:
The First Brigade, commanded by Colonel McArthur, Ninth [Twelfth] Illinois, consisting of
the Ninth, Twelfth, and Forty-first Illinois Infantry, was detached during almost the entire period
of our three days' operations, and hence its service did not come under my personal notice, save
to a very limited extent. It is well known to me, however, they did gallant service; and as no
official notice has been taken of this, so far as I am aware, I take pleasure in transmitting
herewith the reports of the regimental commanders, with a list of the casualties in the brigade,
amounting to 70 killed and 340 wounded. The Second Brigade, commanded by Col. Morgan L.
Smith, of the Eighth Missouri, consisting of his own regiment and the Eleventh Indiana, was in
like manner detached, and, as the report of General Wallace indicates, performed most
distinguished service. Company C of the Second (Captain F[arrand]) and I of the Fourth Regular
Cavalry (Lieutenant Powell)--the squadron commanded by the former--belonging to the division,
were detached from it from before the fall of Fort Henry until after the fall of Fort Donelson. It is
within my knowledge they did gallant and effective service, for which they have thus far
received no credit. I take pleasure, therefore, in transmitting with this the report of Lieutenant
Powell (Captain F[arrand] being absent on account of ill health), and commending both officers
to the favorable notice of the Government.
That part of the division under my immediate orders was organized as follows: The Third
Brigade, commanded by Col. John Cook, Seventh Illinois, consisted of his own regiment,
commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Babcock; Fiftieth Illinois, Colonel Bane; Twelfth Iowa,
Colonel Woods; Fifty-second Indiana, Colonel Smith, and Thirteenth Missouri, Colonel Wright.
The Fourth Brigade, commanded by Colonel Lauman, Seventh Iowa, consisting of his own
regiment, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Parrott; Second Iowa, Colonel Tuttle; Fourteenth
Iowa, Colonel Shaw; Twenty-fifth Indiana, Colonel Veatch,
and Sixteenth [Fourteenth] Missouri
13
(commonly called Western Sharpshooters), Lieutenant-Colonel Compton. The Second Battalion,
First Missouri Light Artillery, commanded by Major Cavender, consisting of three batteries of
four Parrott guns each--10 and 20 pounders--commanded, respectively, by Captains Welker,
Richardson, and Stone. Arriving on the evening of February 12 at short distance from the outwork
of the enemy on his right, the investment of the place was partially commenced by
throwing the Fourth Brigade on our left and the Third Brigade on its right, joining the First
Division on the right with the First (McArthur's) Brigade in reserve, with a battery in advance on
the road leading to Dover and Fort Donelson. Early on the following morning (13th) the
regiments were posted in order of investment in easy cannon-range of the enemy's line of
defense from the west--his extreme right--to the south, a somewhat central position with
reference to that line, going as far as possible to the left of the First Division. The ground
covered by the division was thickly wooded and exceedingly hilly and broken. The enemy's
works were on the highest ground in the vicinity. He had an infantry breast-work in front of his
main line (vaguely called rifle-pits), crested with logs, from under which they fired, the whole
strengthened by a wide abatis from felled timber of large size. Ignorant of the ground, we had to
feel our way cautiously. As soon as the regiments were measurably in position, orders were
given to brigade commanders to cover our front of attack with as many skirmishers as possible,
well supported by their regiments, keeping a strong reserve; to press forward as steadily and
rapidly as the ground would admit, and, if the opportunity offered, to assault with the bayonet.
During this time Major Cavender's batteries, by sections or pieces, were posted to the best
apparent advantage, well supported, with orders to open on the enemy. This was handsomely
done and quick response made. Our pieces were shifted from time to time, and served with good
effect, better, as we afterward knew from the enemy, than was suspected; their long ranges
sending shells into the fort and causing sharp loss and great moral effect. Our casualties were
numerous on this day. The reports of the different commanders, partially confirmed by my
personal observations, satisfied me that an assault on almost any part of the entire front covered
by us was not practicable without enormous sacrifice of life. At nightfall the skirmishers were
recalled and the troops ordered to remain in position, but from necessity without fires, as the
night was very inclement--rainy, snow, sleet, and cold--and the discomfort of the men was very
great. On the next day (14th) the same system of annoyance was kept up, but, under the orders of
the commanding general, to a more limited extent. At nightfall the advance parties were recalled
as before. Our casualties on this day were not so numerous as on the day before. The night
inclement as before, with the same discomfort. During the course of this day I made a personal
reconnaissance of the ground on our extreme left and satisfied myself that the only apparent
practicable point of assault was in that quarter, the enemy's extreme right being protected by an
impassable slough, which fact was communicated to the commanding general. Under the orders
of the commanding general the division remained quiet on the next day (15th), except to keep up
the annoyance by skirmishers and slow artillery fire, until toward 3 o'clock p.m., when I received
the general's personal order to assault the enemy's right, a half mile or more from my habitual
position. On the receipt of the order the artillery was ordered to open heavily and the brigade
commanders to press forward with large numbers of skirmishers, and make a dash at any
available opening, whilst the Second Iowa, supported by the Fifty-second Indiana (belonging to
the Third Brigade, but which had been posted to guard the left), Twenty-fifth Indiana, Twelfth
Iowa, &c., was ordered to lead the assault. The regiment was ordered to rely on the bayonet and
not to are a shot until the enemy's ranks were broken. Right gallantly was the duty performed.
The left wing of the regiment, under its colonel (Tuttle), moved steadily over the open space,
down the ravine, and up the rough ground, covered with heavy timber, in unbroken line,
regardless of the fire poured into it, and paused not
until the enemy broke and fled. It was
14
quickly followed by the other wing, under Lieutenant-Colonel Baker, in the same manner, the
united body pursuing the enemy through their encampment and toward the enemy's works just
above, where they skirmished for a considerable time. The movement of this regiment was a
very handsome exhibition of soldierly conduct.
The Fifty-second Indiana, ordered to follow and support the Second Iowa, from the nature of
the ground and want of tactical knowledge, instead of going to the left, as I had intended, came
up [in] confusion, and instead of moving forward, remained behind the earth-work just taken,
from where, and from some unexplained cause, fired a number of fatal shots into their friends in
front. They remained in this position until ordered to reform in the rear. The Twenty-fifth
Indiana, following in order, moved in advance to the support of the Second Iowa, and covered it
when that regiment, for want of cartridges, retired behind the intrenchments just taken from reenforcements
of the enemy. As soon as the out-work was taken I sent for a section of Stone's
battery, which soon arrived and opened upon the enemy with happy effect, silencing a heavy gun
(24-pounder). Meantime the regiments of the Third (Cook's) Brigade arrived, but as it was
getting late I deemed it better to dispose of the troops for the night and be in readiness for a
renewed assault on the morrow, the crest of the enemy's works being only some 400 yards
distant and the ground more or less favorable. Increasing the artillery on the ground just taken by
a couple of 20-pounder Parrott guns, the Fourth Brigade was disposed to guard the position, with
the Third Brigade in reserve several hundred yards in rear. The Ninth and Twelfth Illinois (First
Brigade)having reported at this time, the latter was thrown forward around the base of the hill
toward the enemy's main work, the Ninth remaining in reserve. The night very cold, but without
the cruel storm.
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL,
Hdqrs. District of West Tennessee, Savannah, Tenn.
[The foregoing is a true copy of the original pencil draft of General C. F. Smith's report,
unfinished and unsigned. General Smith died April 25, 1862.]
g there, under charge of First Lieut. W. G. McElrea, Company A, Fifth Iowa Infantry:
The train left the landing early on the morning of the 6th with a guard of one corporal and
twelve men from the several regiments of the brigade. Soon after leaving Lieutenant McElrea
learned of the capture of a picket at the landing the night previous, and on arriving near the
church, three miles out, lie discovered a cavalry picket in the roads when he deployed his men
and advanced. He soon discovered a force of about sixty men with two mountain howitzers,
when he halted and sent back for re-enforcements to the hospital. When they arrived, twentyseven
in number, he deployed and advanced. The right of the line fired and dismounted one man,
and the force retreated rapidly. He then advanced with his own guard and train about three
miles, when he met the Sixth Missouri Cavalry, who proceeded after the enemy in the direction
they retreated. He also learned that this was the same force that captured several ambulances the
day previous. He remained last night at Port Gibson and met with no further difficulty. I consider
Lieutenant McElrea entitled to great credit for bringing his train through safely with so small a
force.
Very respectfully,
GEO. B. BOOMER,
Colonel, Commanding.
Capt. M. ROCHESTER,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Seventh Division.
HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH IOWA VETERAN INFANTRY,
15
In the Field, near Kingston, Ga., May 20, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Seventh Iowa
Veteran Infantry in the engagement on Oostenaula River May 15, 1864:
Our gallant lieutenant-colonel, J. C. Parrott, having been quite unwell for several days, and
feeling worse on the morning of the 15th of May--I regret very much that his health would not
permit him to be with us--turned the command of the regiment over to me. Orders were received
from Col. E. W. Rice, commanding First Brigade, about 7 a.m., to move toward the Oostenaula
River, distant some three miles. When within half a mile of the river I was ordered by Col. E. W.
Rice, through you, to move by the flank into the field on the right of the road in rear of Company
H, First Missouri Light Artillery, to deploy the right wing of the regiment as skirmishers, leaving
the left wing, commanded by Captain Hedges, acting field officer, to support the battery, and
move forward across the field to the river and open a brisk fire on the enemy in case he
attempted to interfere with the pioneers who were laying a pontoon bridge across the river. The
right wing moved in good order on the double-quick, deploying as they advanced. When they
arrived at the river no enemy was in sight. Shortly after I received orders to bring up the left
wing and be in readiness to cross over as soon as the Sixty-sixth Indiana Infantry should all be
across. While the regiment above mentioned was crossing in boats the pontoon bridge was
constructed, and I marched across upon this and formed in line on the right of the road. Orders
were soon received to move the Seventh Iowa forward through the timber in the direction of
Frick's house, about one-fourth of a mile distant, to feel for and engage the enemy, if not in too
strong force. Companies B and F were deployed as skirmishers, under command of Captain
Mahon, to cover the regiment, and moved forward, the regiment conforming to their movements.
When within a short distance of the house the skirmishers' line encountered a large force of the
enemy, and receiving a heavy fire fell back gradually and in good order to the regiment for
support, the regiment moving forward cautiously the while, till they, too, came upon a brigade of
the enemy, and opened a brisk fire and received one in return. Here the enthusiasm was intense,
the men rushing forward, cheering as they charged. About this time I received orders to fall back
gradually, but found much difficulty in communicating this order amidst the heavy firing and
loud cheering. Accordingly the line pushed forward until the enemy was routed and the firing in
a measure ceased. The whole line now fell back a little, where it remained till ordered to fall
back to the river.
It affords me great pleasure to say that the conduct of officers and men, with a very few
exceptions, was unexceptionable, the recruits exhibiting the coolness and courage of veterans.
The following are the names of commissioned officers of the regiment present and absent: Col.
Elliott W. Rice, commanding First Brigade, Second Division, Sixteenth Army Corps; Lieut. Col.
James C. Parrott, sick in field hospital; Maj. J. W. McMullin, commanding the regiment;
Quartermaster C. H. Trott, present; D. T. Bowler, acting assistant adjutant-general, First Brigade,
Second Division, on the field; Surg. J. Everingham, on operating board; Asst. Surg. John Ashton,
on the field; Capt. W. W. De Heus, detached on General Dodge's staff; Capt. R. G. Reineger,
commanding detachment, left at Prospect, Tenn.; Capt. G. J. Bennett, present; Capt. Ben. B.
Gale, present; Capt. T. L. Montgomery, present; Capt. C. F. Conn, present; Capt. Benj. S.
Barbour, present; Capt. Samuel Mahon, present; Capt. J. F. Warner, absent on leave of absence
in Iowa; Capt. C. Hedges, present; First Lieut. A. W. Springer, present; First Lieut. S. P. Folsom,
present; First Lieut. W. H. Berkey, present, commanding Company G; First Lieut. J. B.
Morrison, present, aide-de-camp, First Brigade, Second Division, Sixteenth Army Corps; First
Lieut. J. L. Bess, detailed in pioneer corps; First Lieut. C. D. Dillin, prisoner of war at
Richmond; First Lieut. T. N. Barnes, aide-de-camp to General Lauman; First Lieut. R. N.
Graham, present; First Lieut. F. A. Irwin, detailed in
signal corps; First Lieut. M. Wightman,
16
present; Second Lieut. Thomas W. Eichelberger, absent, commanding detachment at Tunnel
Trestle; Second Lieut. H. I. Smith, present; Second Lieut. S. Helmick, present; Second Lieut.
John McCormick, present; Second Lieut. Charles J. Sergent, present; Second Lieut. W. Camp,
absent, complained of being sick; Second Lieut. T. Spence, present. Exceptions: Thomas
Tredick, Company C, fell back demoralized during the fight. Corpl. Nicholas Gross, Company
D, color guard, cowardly deserted his post. Private William H. Wortman, Company F, behaved
well till ordered back, then deserted his post and was not seen till evening. Private David Yates,
Company K, deserted his post and has not since returned. With these few exceptions officers and
men are entitled to great credit. Number engaged: Commissioned officers, 21; enlisted men,
431. Casualties: Killed--enlisted men, 3; wounded--1 commissioned officer and 49 enlisted men-
-4 mortally, since died. Prisoners captured during the engagement, 23, nine of whom were
wounded.
JAMES W. McMULLIN,
Major, Commanding Seventh Iowa Veteran Infantry.
D. T. BOWLER,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 1st Brig., 2d Div., 16th Army Corps.
HDQRS. 100TH REGT. INDIANA VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,
Savannah, Ga., January 3, 1865.
SIR: I have the honor to respectfully report the following as the part performed by the One
hundredth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Second Brigade, First Division, Fifteenth Army
Corps, Department and Army of the Tennessee, in the great campaign of the Federal forces
commanded by Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman, from Atlanta to Savannah, Ga.:
In obedience to orders from headquarters Second Brigade, First Division, Fifteenth Army
Corps, the One hundredth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry broke camp at Atlanta, Ga., at 6
a.m. November 15, 1864, and in conjunction with the remaining forces of the command moved
toward McDonough, the county seat of Henry County, Ga., marching the distance of twenty
miles. From thence forward our operations run as follows: November 16, marched at 7 a.m.;
passed through McDonough at 4 p.m., and encamped at 6 p.m., having marched sixteen miles.
November 17, marched at 1 p.m., and encamped on Indian Springs road at 11 p.m., having
marched fourteen miles. November 18, marched at 7 a.m. and encamped at Indian Springs,
having marched five miles. My regiment was placed upon provost duty in the town. November
19, marched at 10 a.m., crossing the Ocmulgee River on pontoon bridge near the Ocmulgee
Mills, and bivouacked at 2 a.m. 20th November on the Hillsborough road, having marched
fifteen miles through the rain and over the worst of roads. November 20, marched at 7 a.m.,
passing to the right of Hillsborough, in Jasper County, and Tranquilla, of Jones County;
encamped near Clinton, county seat of Jones County, having marched fourteen miles. November
21, marched at 6.30 a.m., passing through Clinton, county seat of Jones County, and reaching the
Macon and Savannah Railroad, crossed the same and encamped between Griswoldville and
Gordon on the railroad, having marched eighteen miles. November 22, the Second Brigade, First
Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, to which my regiment is attached, having been ordered to make
a reconnaissance for the purpose of showing to the enemy a column of infantry moving toward
Macon, Ga., I moved the One hundredth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry from their place
of bivouac at 6 a.m. and joined the column of the brigade on the Griswoldville and Macon road,
occupying my assigned place in the column. The column moved forward on the above-named
road some two miles, when we encountered the enemy's cavalry in strong force posted upon
Duncan's farm on the left of the railroad, proceeding toward Macon. We soon drove them from
this position, and as they retreated the column moved
forward, driving the enemy before us some
17
two miles and a half, when, upon being informed by the major-general commanding the
Fifteenth Army Corps that the object of our reconnaissance was obtained, the command was
ordered to fall back and take up a position on Duncan's farm and remain there until the remaining
troops of the column and trains passed by, and then act as rear-guard to the entire column.
Having arrived at the point designated upon Duncan's farm, we formed line of battle covering the
Macon road, with our flanks resting in the timber while our front and center was in the open
field. The regiments composing the command were assigned positions on the line as follows: On
the right of the road were placed the Sixth Iowa Infantry, One hundred and third Illinois Infantry,
and Ninety-seventh Indiana Infantry; on the left of the road were posted the Fortieth Illinois
Infantry, One hundredth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and Forty-sixth Ohio Infantry,
while in the center and on the road the section of artillery which had accompanied the brigade
took up a position. Having formed line and taken up the position assigned me, I immediately
directed my men to build slight barricades of rails to guard as a precaution against any
contingency that might arise, and then to get dinner, previously, however, covering my front with
skirmishers to give warning of the approach of the enemy in time to be ready to meet him.
In less than an hour after getting into position, as above stated, our skirmishers became
engaged with the advance of the enemy, who was moving upon us, and it soon became apparent
that a heavy battle must ensue, as it was evident the enemy intended to endeavor to drive us from
our position, and with that view had formed in heavy force upon our front and opened upon our
barricades with four pieces of artillery. Brig. Gen. Charles C. Walcutt, commanding Second
Brigade, First Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, perceiving this, ordered me to take the three right
companies of my regiment and support the section of the First Michigan Battery, occupying the
center of the line, which order I immediately obeyed. I had no sooner done this than from the
maneuvering of the enemy it became apparent that he would endeavor to turn our extreme right
flank, and to checkmate him there, General Walcutt ordered me to withdraw three more
companies of my regiment from the left flank, and putting them in position on the extreme right
flank, take charge of that end of the line, and at all hazards hold the enemy at bay at that point. I
accordingly moved Companies A, B, and C of my regiment to the extreme right of the brigade
line, and placing Companies A and C on the line, deployed Company B as skirmishers to extend
the line to the right, instructing the men to shelter themselves behind trees and to hold their
positions at all hazards. Companies I, K, and H, having been placed in the center of the brigade
line, and the Forty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry having, by order of General Walcutt,
previously moved to the right, I had only Companies D, E, F, and G of my regiment with which
to hold what had been the line occupied by the One hundredth Regiment Indiana Volunteer
Infantry and the Forty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. These companies I deployed along the
works so as to cover the two regimental fronts, and placed them in command of Edwin
Goldsmith, lieutenant and adjutant, who managed them admirably during the remainder of the
day. The three companies in the center I placed under the immediate command of Capt. John W.
Headington, and he continued to manage them during the remainder of the fight with skill and
sound discretion. On the right flank my men were much exposed, having no works to shelter
themselves; but the ground being rather favorable, I succeeded in checking the enemy so
suddenly in his effort to turn our line that he did not afterward attempt seriously to get around
our flank, nor did he even have time to discover the strength of our line or number of our forces
at that point. In this engagement, which lasted from 1 o'clock until dark, the enemy made some
seven distinct assaults upon our lines, and was handsomely repulsed with heavy loss on his part
each time. Toward evening I received an order from Col. R. F. Catterson, Ninety-seventh Indiana
Infantry, who in the meantime had assumed command of the brigade, owing to Brigadier-
General Walcutt's having been wounded, to be ready with a
heavy skirmish line in my front to
18
charge the enemy at the sound of the bugle, and to bring in such of the enemy as had remained
behind in the last repulse and taken shelter under the cover of a ravine which ran along our front.
This movement was accordingly executed, and resulted in the capture of several prisoners, most
of whom were wounded. We found a considerable number of small-arms, which I had brought in
and turned over to the brigade commander, and the wounded prisoners were sent back to the
hospital for care and treatment. After the close of the fight and the gathering up of all the
prisoners obtainable, and property left by the enemy on the field, in Obedience to orders received
we withdrew from the works and rejoined the column some three miles in our rear, and
encamped for the night. In this engagement I lost 2 men killed and 18 wounded, a list of which is
attached hereto. Prisoners captured represent that the enemy attacked us with fifteen regiments of
infantry and seven regiments of cavalry, and yet the gallantry of our men was such that we
successfully held him at bay and drove him from the field. In justice to my men I should state
that at one time the ammunition being scarce, they voluntarily fixed bayonets and expressed their
determination to hold their line as long as there was a man of them left. My officers all behaved
with conspicuous gallantry, and at all times during the engagement kept cheering their men and
telling them to hold their ground and beat back the enemy. My regiment occupying and holding
the left flank, center, and right flank of the brigade line, I could not well be present at each point
but a part of the time, but I am assured that every man and officer did his full duty and behaved
gallantly. The strength of my regiment in this engagement was 330 effective men, armed as
follows:
Springfield rifled muskets, caliber .58 305
Spencer rifles, caliber .52 25
Total 330
November 23, continued our march at 7 a.m., and encamped on the Irwinton road near
Gordon, Wilkinson County, Ga., having traveled the distance of four miles. November 24,
marched at 7 a.m.; distance traveled twelve miles, and encamped at Irwinton, county seat of
Wilkinson County, Ga. November 25, marched at 7 a.m., and encamped on the Oconee River
near Emmett, having marched twelve miles. November 26, marched at 4 p.m.; crossed the
Oconee River at 8 p.m. on pontoon bridge, and encamped at Irwin's CrossRoads, in Washington
County, at 11 p.m., having marched thirteen miles. November 27, broke camp at 1 p.m., and
marched to Riddleville, a distance of thirteen miles. November 28, broke camp at 8 a.m., and
marching eighteen miles encamped on the Savannah road twelve miles from Summerville,
Emanuel County, Ga. November 29, broke camp at 8 a.m., passing through Summerville,
encamping on the Ogeechee River, having marched fifteen miles. November 30, continued our
march at 8 a.m., and encamped on Savannah road; distance traveled, twelve miles.
December 1, broke camp at 6 a.m., and marching ten miles on Savannah road, encamped for
the night. December 2, broke camp at 7 a.m., and marching seven miles, crossed Scull's Creek
and encamped in the edge of Bulloch County, Ga. December 3, remained in camp. December 4,
broke camp at 6 a.m., and marching sixteen miles encamped at 3 p.m. on Savannah road.
December 5, continued to march at 7 a.m., and encamped at 5 p.m., having marched eighteen
miles. December G, broke camp at 3 p.m., and marching in rear of division train as rear-guard,
encamped at 6 p.m. on the Ogeechee River, having traveled nine miles. December 7, the Third
Brigade, First Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, Colonel Williamson commanding, having
obtained possession of Wright's Bridge across the Ogeechee River, crossed that stream and built
works on the east side. In obedience to orders received I moved the One hundredth Regiment
Indiana Volunteer Infantry and the Forty-sixth Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, Major Upton
19
commanding, across the river and occupied the works held by Colonel Williamson's command,
while he moved down the river on the east side to co-operate with General Corse, commanding
Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, at Eden, on the Macon and Savannah Railroad. With
these two regiments I held position on the east side of the Ogeechee River until 12 midnight,
when I received orders to join my brigade, on the west bank of the Ogeechee, and burn all the
culverts across the swamp and the bridge across the river in my rear, all of which I accomplished
as directed, and joined the brigade with my command at 3.30 a.m., December 8, 1864. December
8, broke camp at 7 a.m., and marching twenty miles, encamped at Eden, county seat of Bryan
County, Ga. December 9, remained in camp. December 10, broke camp at 10 a.m., and crossing
the Ogeechee River above the mouth of the Cannouchee River, marched eighteen miles, and
encamped at 9 p.m. before the city of Savannah, Ga. December 11 to 19, moved two miles to the
right and encamped with the brigade on the Ogeechee road eight miles from Savannah. Here we
remained until the 17th of December, when I was ordered to proceed with my regiment down the
Ogeechee road and support the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery, stationed on that road; was relieved
from that position on the night of the 18th and returned to our former camp. December 20,
received orders to proceed with my regiment as escort to forage train across the Ogeechee River
toward Altamaha River, and to command the escort, consisting of 200 mounted infantry; Twenty
sixth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Major Lubbers commanding; Ninth Iowa Volunteer Infantry,
Captain McSweeney commanding, and One hundredth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry,
Capt. John W. Headington commanding.
Returned to Savannah December 24, having loaded our train, composed of 160 wagons, with
corn and sweet potatoes, and made the whole trip, traveling 100 miles, in four days, and
obtaining supplies without any loss of men or wagons. I also drove into camp 100 head of beefcattle,
which I turned over to the commissary department for the use of the troops. During the
entire campaign from Atlanta to Savannah, Ga., between the dates of November 15 and
December 24. 1864, my officers and men behaved as became good soldiers. The health of the
command during the entire march was unexceptionably good. We foraged largely upon the
country, and yet did it without having it attended with any of the demoralizing influences which
usually steal over a command obliged so to subsist. On starting from Atlanta November 15 my
regiment numbered:
Enlisted men present for duty 361
Officers present for duty 17
Aggregate present for duty 378
At the battle of Duncan's farm, November 22, I lost twenty killed and wounded. On
December 6 one of my men who was detailed as scout at the headquarters of Maj. Gen. O. O.
Howard, commanding Army of the Tennessee, was killed, leaving the strength of my command
on reaching Savannah at---
Enlisted men present for duty 340
Commissioned officers present for duty 17
Aggregate strength present for duty 357
During the entire campaign I have used the following amount of ammunition:
Elongated ball cartridges, caliber .58 22,000
Spencer rifle cartridges, caliber .52 1,610
Henry rifle cartridges, caliber .44 200
20
Total 23,810
I regret to state, however, in connection with this report, that Levi Kennedy, a private of
Company K, One hundredth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, having been detailed away
from the command to guard ordnance train, by order of General Walcutt, commanding Second
Brigade, and thus being out from under the healthful moral influences of his company
commander, was led into the committing of the grievous crime of pillaging, for which, however,
he has been tried and properly punished. Save this, there is no exception to the uniform good
conduct and soldierly bearing among any of the men or officers of this command during the
entire campaign, and I am satisfied had Private Kennedy been with his company and regiment no
such misfortune would have befallen him.
Tendering my thanks to the brigade commander and his entire staff for their uniform
kindness and ready assistance during the entire campaign, I have the honor to be, captain, very
respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. M. JOHSTON,
Major, Comdg. One hundredth Regt. Indiana Volunteer Infantry.
Capt. ORLA. J. FAST,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General to Robert F. Catterson, Colonel Ninety-seventh Indiana
Volunteer Infantry, Commanding Second Brigade, First Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, Army
of the Tennessee.
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Saint Louis, Mo., July 22, 1865.
GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the
quartermaster's department of Major-General Sherman's army from December 10, 1864, the date
of its arrival before Savannah, Ga., to May 11, 1865, when it commenced the march from
Richmond, Va., to the North:
After the capture of Fort McAllister, December 13, supplies in very limited quantities were
brought from Hilton Head to Ossabaw Sound, and thence up the Ogeechee River to King's
Bridge, and a detail of 2,500 men from the army was immediately set to work to construct a dock
upon which to unload supplies. The channel of the Ogeechee was practicable only for boats
drawing seven feet or less at high tide. We had very few of that class, and all the boatmen were
ignorant of the unused channel and it was very difficult to supply the army by this river. On the
21st of December Savannah was occupied by our army. The north channel of the river, the main
and direct one, had been very thoroughly obstructed by the rebels by sinking in it heavy cribs
filled with stones and brick. Admiral Dahlgren, after an examination of them, assured me that it
was impracticable to remove them at that time, but learning from Maj. C. W. Thomas,
quartermaster at Hilton Head, of a Mr. Orlando Bennett who was employed by the Government
as a wrecker and who was provided with facilities for such work, I requested him to send for
Bennett, who was then down on the Florida coast. He arrived and went to work, and was
eventually entirely successful, but the process of removing the obstructions was necessarily so
slow that it was not completed until about the 20th of February, though a practicable passage was
made by the 3d of February. Until that time we had to use the south channel, which was much
smaller and shallower than the other and very circuitous.
In this the rebels had left unobstructed a narrow passage for their own use, and through it
light draft vessels came up to the wharves at Savannah immediately after our occupation of the
place. It was necessary to unload all the large vessels by lighters at a distance below the city of
from eight to twenty miles. I organized matters by
assigning Capt. George B. Cadwalader,
21
assistant quartermaster, as chief of the depot and in charge of water transportation; Lieut. L. R.
Young, Thirty-fifth New Jersey Infantry, in charge of forage; Capt. F. C. Butze, assistant
quartermaster, in charge of quartermaster's stores; Capt. F. A. Seely, assistant quartermaster, in
charge of clothing and equipage; Lieut. A. B. Howard, One hundred and seventh New York
Infantry, in charge of corrals and surplus animals turned in from the army, and assignment of
buildings; Lieut. Fred. Hope, Sixteenth Iowa Infantry, in charge of wagon transportation and
repair shops; Lieut. C. F. Matteson, One hundred and third Illinois Infantry, in charge of shops
for repair of vessels, and Lieut. T. J. Lambert, Sixty-eighth Ohio Infantry, in charge of railroads
and all captured railroad property. Under these officers the work of the depot proceeded
successfully. All the supplies that arrived were landed and distributed; all repairs needed by
vessels were promptly made by the shops under Lieutenant Matteson. All the unserviceable and
surplus animals of the army, numbering about 5,000, were turned into the corrals of Lieutenant
Howard, and from them were made up the depot teams. We captured in the city 213 cars and 8
locomotives. These were placed in charge of Lieutenant Lambert, who repaired and operated the
Gulf railroad for 5 distance of ten miles from the city, and brought in over the road all the wood
used by that portion of the army within the city and what was necessary for the citizens. The
effective strength of the army was now about 66,000, with 35,000 animals, 2,690 wagons, and
503 ambulances. The object to be accomplished by the quartermaster's department was to
thoroughly refit the men, the animals, and the wagons, and to accumulate enough to lead the
trains with the more essential articles necessary to the long march into North Carolina, which
was the plan determined on by the commanding general. Time was very valuable, for he desired
to approach Southern Virginia in time to cooperate in the spring campaign. As soon as I learned
that a quantity of supplies had been sent by you to Pensacola, Fla., to meet the contingency of
General Sherman's army coming to the coast at that place instead of at Savannah, I dispatched a
steamer with orders to the vessels containing them to come immediately to Savannah, but only
two arrived in time to be of service in supplying the army before it left Sister's Ferry and
Pocotaligo on the march northward. There was some delay in the arrival of supplies from the
North, and the amount that could be spared from the depot at Hilton Head was very small.
Forage was especially slow in arriving, not being received in sufficient quantities to supply the
daily consumption until about the 10th of January, and for a week the animals suffered a great
deal for want of food. In the meantime they subsisted mainly on rice straw, which was found in
the vicinity, but did not do well on that alone.
My officers worked with ability and almost unceasingly to hasten the resupply of the army,
and notwithstanding the unavoidable delay occasioned by the slow arrival of forage, shoes,
stockings, stationery, wagon grease, and other articles of less importance, the army was
sufficiently supplied by the 15th of January to begin the new campaign. The want of wagon
grease I partially remedied by directing Captain Butze to take possession of and issue a quantity
of tar owned by the Savannah Gas Company, which, mixed with a little flour, made a tolerable
substitute The overflowing of the low country occasioned by the heavy rains delayed the Left
Wing, the command of General Slocum, from crossing the Savannah River at Sister's Ferry until
February 1, and the Right Wing, General Howard, was detained at Pocotaligo until January 29.
Supplies were forwarded to both these points in light-draft steamers up to the last moment before
the troops left, so that before starting they were nearly equipped. The principal deficiency was in
stockings. A partial supply of that article arrived and was immediately forwarded to the two
wings a few days before they left. The commanding general left Savannah for the army January
22, 1865, and ordered me to remain on the coast and be prepared to supply his army wherever it
might be compelled to come to the coast. Georgetown, Wilmington, and Morehead City, and
possibly Charleston, were mentioned as points to turn my
attention to. The uncertainty of the
22
point was very perplexing and embarrassing, and I determined to make a trip to Morehead City,
looking into the harbors designated, in order to get all the information I could in regard to the
facilities, &c., for supplying an army. After making this inspection I returned to Savannah on
20th of February, 1865, and gave orders that all vessels laden with supplies for our army then at
Hilton Head or in Savannah River, or which should arrive, be sent to Morehead City, except that
some vessels containing forage and subsistence should be left at Hilton Head and some should
go into Cape Fear River so as to be prepared for the possibility of the army's coming to the coast
at Charleston, Georgetown, or Wilmington. Such of our supplies at Savannah as had not been
taken by the army were reladen and sent to Morehead City, leaving sufficient at Savannah for the
troops at that place.
Having a good deal of faith in General Sherman's ability to reach Goldsborough, I
determined to commence at once preparations at Morehead City for a depot. On the 21st of
February I sent my chief depot officer, Captain Cadwalader, and his assistants, to Morehead City
with instructions to commence work at once. Having given instructions to Maj. C. W. Thomas,
quartermaster at Hilton Head, that in case General Sherman should come to the coast, either at
Charleston or Georgetown, to immediately force supplies to him (the means having been left at
Hilton Head for that purpose), I started from Savannah March 4. I touched at Wilmington, placed
an officer in charge of the laden vessels arriving there, and reached Morehead City March 8. At
this place there were no storehouses whatever, and a very small wharf for landing stores. I
immediately applied to Major-General Schofield for 1,500 men for guards and working parties,
who were promptly furnished. I had brought some lumber from Savannah, and immediately
started a saw-mill in the vicinity, getting out more, and bought all the lumber then in the harbor,
which consisted of but a few thousand feet. I sent to New York for some carpenters and laborers,
and to General Rucker, at Washington, for additional mechanics and a supply of felt roofing, in
order to put up some temporary store-houses of the most economical kind. The work of enlarging
our small wharf and of building our store-houses was pressed forward as rapidly as possible, and
the repair of the railroad beyond New Berne was making good progress under Col. W. W.
Wright. For depot teams I had to take some which were being landed for the Twenty-third Corps.
The railroad being entirely occupied in forwarding rails and other material used by the
construction corps, I shipped large quantities of stores to New Berne in light-draft steamers
through Hatteras Inlet and Pamlico Sound (there being eight feet of water by that route), and
thence up the Neuse River to the bridge opposite Kinston. The Twenty-third Corps, which was
being brought from Wilmington to Kinston to cover the working parties on the railroad, was
supplied in this manner.
On the 23d of March General Sherman arrived at Goldsborough, where the commands of
Generals Schofield and Terry joined his former army, making a force of 95,000 men, with
23,000 mules and 10,500 horses to be supplied; the number of men and animals rapidly
increasing by re-enforcements from the North. General Sherman wrote me on the same day
describing the destitution of his command, whose clothing was entirely worn out by their long
and arduous march, and who were out of flour, bread, sugar, and coffee. His letter closed by
saying that he "must be off again in twenty days, with wagons full, men reclad, &c." Two days
later, the 25th, the railroad was completed to Goldsborough, and I commenced sending up
subsistence and clothing, and later quartermaster's stores. There were about sixty cars and four
engines, which were used to the best advantage. Trains were loaded and unloaded at either end of
the road with the greatest dispatch, and no one was allowed to travel on the cars toward the army
except couriers and staff officers under orders. The numerous detachments arriving marched,
officers and all, to the army. I still continued to ship via Hatteras Inlet, sending sail vessels
containing grain to that place, whence their cargoes were
taken by steamers to New Berne,
23
loaded there into river steamers and a few barges (which had been used by the troops of the
Department of North Carolina in their former operations) and carried to Kinston, or Neuse River
bridge, to which point General Sherman's wagons had been coming for supplies since the 20th
instant. From March 29 to April 2 I was at New Berne, Kinston, and Goldsborough, and while at
the latter place, by order of General Sherman, made an equitable reapportionment of the
transportation of the Fourteenth, Twentieth, Fifteenth, Seventeenth, Tenth, and Twenty-third
Army Corps, and the cavalry command, in view of the campaign which it was soon intended to
begin. The transportation then consisted of 3,140 wagons and 570 ambulances. The railroad from
Wilmington to Goldsborough was completed April 4. The rolling-stock on this road consisted of
a very few captured cars. Some forage and subsistence were brought to Goldsborough by this
line. By the 10th of April, sixteen days from the time the road was finished, and sooner than the
earliest moment anticipated by General Sherman, the army was completely resupplied and the
wagons filled, and they moved from Goldsborough that day. The following is what General
Sherman says in his report dated May 9:
Owing to a mistake in the railroad department in sending locomotives and cars of the 5-foot
gauge we were limited to the use of the few locomotives and cars of the 4-foot 8 1/2-inch gauge
already in North Carolina, with such of the old stock as was captured by Major-General Terry at
Wilmington and on his way up to Goldsborough. Yet such judicious use was made of these, and
such industry displayed is the railroad management by Generals Easton and Beckwith and
Colonel Wright and Mr. Van Dyne, that by the 10th of April our men were all reclad, the wagons
reloaded, and a fair amount of forage accumulated ahead.
The army occupied Raleigh April 13, and the railroad was finished to that place by the
construction corps on the 18th. Additional cars were captured there, giving us 120 cars in all,
with enough engines to move them. The army had been re-enforced so that it now numbered
103,000 effective men, and the number of animals hail also been much increased. All were
supplied satisfactorily and stores accumulated by the railroad until April 30, when the march of
the armies of Georgia and the Tennessee to Washington, via Richmond, commenced, the Tenth
and Twenty-third Corps and the cavalry being left in North Carolina. I relieved such of my depot
officers as I thought would be needed in supplying General Sherman's army at Richmond and
Alexandria, assigning other officers in their places, and turned over the general depots in North
Carolina to Col. J. F. Boyd, chief quartermaster of Schofield's command. May 3 I started from
Morehead City for City Point, Va., taking with me such clothing and other supplies as were not
required for the troops remaining in North Carolina, and as I thought General Sherman's army
would need, not knowing whether they could be spared from the depots of the Potomac army.
The army arrived at Manchester, Va., and refilled its wagons on the 8th, 9th, and 10th of May,
and then recommenced the march to Alexandria. My assistants at the depots in North Carolina
were as follows: At More-head City, Capt. G. B. Cadwalader, chief depot quartermaster; Lieut.
E. R. Haight, One hundred and seventh New York Infantry, assistant; Capt. J. D. Tredway, in
charge of quartermaster's stores; Capt. A. Austin, in charge of railroad and water transportation;
Lieut. C. F. Matteson, One hundred and third Illinois Infantry, and Lieut. T. J. Lambert,
assistants; Capt. A. S. Gear, in charge of wagon transportation and corrals; Lieut. L. R. Young,
Thirty fifth New Jersey Infantry, in charge of forage; Lieut. A. B. Howard, One hundred and
seventh New York Infantry, in charge of coal; Capt. T. F. Orner, Fifty-ninth Indiana Infantry,
inspector, &c. At New Berne, Col. J. T. Conklin had general charge; Capt. A. S. Kimball and
Capt. S. W. Hoskins received and forwarded supplies; Capt. F. A. Seely received at New Berne
and Morehead City all the clothing and equipage for the army; Capt. R. W. Clarke was in charge
of forage at Neuse River bridge; Capt. Justin Hodge received and distributed all stores at
Goldsborough, and Capts. A. S. Flagg and H. B. Whetsel
received and distributed all stores at
24
Raleigh during the short time the army was there. I consider all these officers entitled to high
praise for the zeal, energy, and success with which the duties intrusted to them were performed,
and commend especially to your favorable notice Captains Cadwalader, Tredway, and Austin for
ability, energy, and industry. Lists of all property issued by the depot officers at Savannah and
Morehead City are annexed hereto. I append the journal of Capt. H. M. Whittelsey, chief
quartermaster Twentieth Corps, from January 27 to March 25, which will give you a good idea
of the difficulties the army had to contend with during the march from Savannah to
Goldsborough. Annexed also is a statement showing the number of animals and amount of
forage captured by the army, with the exception of those taken by the Fifteenth Corps, whose
quartermaster, Lieut. Col. G. L. Fort, has made no report, although directed to do so. In
conclusion I desire to express my appreciation of how greatly our success has been owing to you.
The campaign was such that it was difficult for the army quartermasters to estimate correctly for
any considerable time ahead. The changes of the points of supply were frequent, and the location
of the next base very uncertain. This made it necessary at times to call on you for supplies to be
furnished with the greatest dispatch. Our best thanks are due for the uniformly prompt attention
which all our wants received from you. I also feel greatly indebted to you for valuable
suggestions and advice given me in your visits to Savannah, Morehead City, Goldsborough, and
Raleigh.
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. C. EASTON,
Brevet Brigadier-General and Chief Quartermaster.
P. S.--I have also attached to this report a list of vessels used in transporting supplies from
Savannah and Hilton Head to Cape Fear River and Morehead City. I regret that I am unable to
give the cargoes of these vessels. A statement is also attached showing the quantity of
subsistence transported from the Northern cities to Morehead City and points south of that for
the use of General Sherman's army.
L. C. EASTON,
Brevet Brigadier-General and Chief Quartermaster.
Maj. Gen. M. C. MEIGS,
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Washington, D.C.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF INDIAN TERRITORY,
Fort Towson, Choctaw Nation, February 7, 1864.
Col. S.S. ANDERSON,
Assistant Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I yesterday returned from the grand council of the Indian tribes, in session at
Armstrong Academy, about fifty-five miles northwest from here. The session was well attended
and will be harmonious, and I think its action will be patriotic. I gave them a talk by special
invitation day before yesterday. Colonel Watie has returned from his raid through the Creek and
Cherokee Nations. Although he was unable to effect as much as he expected on account of the
inclement weather, in all of which he was, still his move has done good. I wish I had as much
energy in some of my white commanders as he displays. He is now gathering his command at
Carriage Point, in vicinity of Fort Washita. I inclose a note handed me by Colonel Adair, of the
Second Cherokee Regiment, who had been requested by Colonel Watie to see me on the subject
therein referred to. The move strikes me favorably. Made a little before a move of the rest of the
command north toward the Divide (toward Holston's, a point heretofore described as convenient
to Fort Smith, Waldron, and the forks of the road from Forts Gibson and Smith to Preston, Tex.),
it would be a good diversion in favor of any move that
might present itself as profitable from that
25
point. As to the general move I thought it necessary to make, I refer you to former letters. I
inclose letters received from Col. S. A. Roberts, of Bonham, Tex., disclosing the plan of a young
man in whom he has confidence. This move, of course, would be to the left of Watie, and on the
extreme left of the line. It is an enterprise that might be productive of good, and undoubtedly
would be if he can destroy the Pike's Peak nest and bring out 300 or 400 good men. I regard all
moves of that kind as side issues, and will do well enough when they are conducted by men that
can very well be spared, but are not profitable to bank good men on. I know of but one command
in the Confederate service eminently qualified for this work. Quantrill and his men would
exactly do, and if you have nothing else for them to do better they might very well be put to
work at this. I inclose a note from Maj. I. G. Vore, quartermaster, Cooper's division, and Creek
agent, which explains itself. The real design of this move is not far from Watie's.
Believing it my duty to do everything in my power to encourage these people, who, from the
present signs, will have to depend on themselves, I shall give them as much beef as is necessary.
So much for the Indian part of my command. I have made the best disposition for the indigent
Indians the circumstances will admit. What little white force I have, which is scarcely worth
talking about, is, so far as Gano's brigade is concerned, in a deplorable condition. They seem
(most of them) to be utterly demoralized. Desertions are by wholesale, and, judging from my
letters from there, the concern seems panic-stricken or worse. The elegant example of twentyfive
desertions from Hardeman's regiment was magnificently eclipsed by about 200 from De
Morse's regiment a very few days after. Excelsior. The only regiment of the three in the brigade
which has stood good to its colors is Gurley's, now and for a considerable time past commanded
by Lieutenant-Colonel Battle, who has sacrificed his personal popularity for the sake of his
country. I inclose his letter asking to be relieved from duty with the regiment. I know nothing of
Colonel Gurley, only so far as the records disclose the difficulty between himself and Colonel
Bankhead. I can say of Lieutenant-Colonel Battle that the reports of my inspector general and
chief of ordnance speak in the highest terms of this regiment and its management. If Colonel
Gurley returns I see nothing to prevent a re-enactment of the Bankhead and Gurley difficulty (in
the case of Gano and Gurley); and if so, away goes that regiment. The chief of ordnance reports a
great lack of guns in that brigade. I think those who yet remain would use them, and I would like
to give them a chance. I never fully appreciated General Scott's remark on being ordered to
Mexico till now. The best regiment I have is in rear on conscript duty, and in addition I have
recently sent two companies after deserters, one as far down as Caldwell County, the other out to
Denton, where it may take up its abode in the brush. Martin is a good officer--too good to be in
that business. I have frequently asked for him, because I know the necessity of it. I get no reply.
It seems to me that the militia might do this work. Gano's brigade is so greatly reduced (always
small) that it could not stand against a serious attack, and if it gives way the Line road is open.
These things are of too serious moment to admit of delay. Walker's brigade of Indians cannot be
moved from here without exposing this route and all the supplies collected. For the same reason
Watie's cannot be moved. The commissary has succeeded in collecting a valuable quantity of
supplies, including a large amount of pork, at Boggy Depot. The force there (Bass' remnant of a
regiment) is altogether too small to guard it, and yet I have no force to send. De Morse asks to
cross his brigade to the south bank of Red River, representing it as wholly inadequate to hold its
position if attacked; the camp miserable, &c. I have declined, and told him if his ground is not
good to move forward and get better. A retrograde move for any cause across the river would be
attended with disastrous consequences too plain to argue to a military man. Abandon this
country, and the Indians abandon the service. They are under no obligations by their treaty to
leave their Territory. Once they leave us and they are against us. Brigade after brigade may be
piled up elsewhere. The best place to enter is as good as
they (the Yankees) want. A Greek
26
warrior of the times of mythology was said to have had but a single vulnerable part. That was
found and finished his case.
The gathering up of conscripts in Texas is certainly very important; keeping Yankees out of
Texas more so. Hence I again ask, whilst there is time, that Martin's regiment be sent here. I am
satisfied if I could possess the lieutenant-general commanding of the real state of affairs and the
importance of aid here, he would at once send that and others if he can spare. I shall kick hard
against the fate of my predecessors, but stare decisis is a hard old rule; the precedents are against
me. I intend to point out my wants in the hope that something may turn up. Give me even a
decent-sized white force, and I will hold my position as long as a man will stand. I know the
Indian character. Despondency with them is followed by despair. I was informed by the
lieutenant-general commanding that this had proved the pons asinorum of generals. He has sent
me to the blackboard, and hasn't so much as allowed me a piece of chalk to work with; only keel.
Do not understand me as complaining. I see my inevitable fate if I fail to hold this country, and I
most sincerely trust that some means will be allowed. I have pictured out my campaign, the
outlines of which I have now and heretofore furnished. I hope to have means to make it. I know
perfectly well that he is straining every nerve for the good of the country. I think I have a fair
knowledge of the resources of the various parts of the Trans-Mississippi Department. Unless I
am greatly deceived, the possession of this country and Northern Texas would be the most
serious blow the enemy has ever struck this department. I hope, therefore, he will understand that
I am thus urgent from the intense anxiety I have to sustain my position. I send you the following
latest news from Fort Smith, Van Buren, Fort Gibson, and Waldron, which I deem reliable:
About three weeks ago Blunt and McNeil both left Fort Smith for Washington. Colonel
Cloud now commands at Fort Smith. Six regiments there, viz, two Kansas--one cavalry
(Fourteenth), one infantry--one Iowa cavalry (Eighteenth [sic.]), one negro regiment (not full),
two others (not known where from); sixteen pieces artillery, viz, six mountain howitzers, four
siege guns (32 or 42 pounders, from description); the remaining six 4, 6, and 12 pounders, brass.
Have been issuing quarter rations for two months; poor beef, hard bread, and no salt. They get
rations from Little Rock now; heretofore from Fort Scott till Watie's last raid through the
Cherokee country. One regiment infantry and one of Kansas cavalry left for Little Rock during
the snow. Took no train but baggage train. Was said they were sent to escort trains up. One
company Choctaws, Capt. Jere Ward, does principal scouting. River very low and falling; not
more than knee-deep where my informants crossed last Friday night; was a week ago below Van
Buren, at Major Rector's place. Are fortifying at Nigger Hill, half a mile southwest from Old
Fort, on Sulphur Springs road. Have just commenced work; plan on a large scale; were throwing
up breastworks on the road to Van Buren, half a mile from town (Fort Smith), in the edge of the
prairie. Works about a mile long (ditch on both sides), curving with prairie. East side, next Major
Rector's (or race track), not fortified; only fortified above and below. Worked negro battalion
and all other negro men. Great many negro men there. As soon as grass gets up say they are
going to strike out toward Boggy Depot. Eavesdropped some of the officers (captains and
majors) and heard them talk. Telegraph wires up to Saint Louis and Little Rock. Yanks are
frequently deceived by our men (bushwhackers), who come in and join and get guns, &c., and
leave. One Arkansas regiment raised there since Yanks got there. No pickets out at Fort Smith;
bushwhackers scared them in. None but infantry pickets at Van Buren, one-quarter of a mile out.
Some political troubles amongst themselves, and some Copperheads sympathize with us. Men
don't like McNeil; say he is a tyrant. Cavalry only go out foraging. Forage very scarce. Have to
go out toward Fayetteville and down toward Clarksville for forage. Regiments not full, ranging
from 200 to 500. Time of many nearly out. One regiment, new (Fourteenth Kansas), is larger;
numbers near 800. A good deal of sickness--chills and
fever, pneumonia, some frostbitten; one
27
whole regiment vaccinated one day with bad vaccine matter; a good many died; they are not well
yet. Some had to have arms amputated. Fort Smith and Van Buren full of sutlers' goods. Not
many Indians trade with them. Sutlers' trains from Springfield via Fayetteville without escorts.
Mail to Fayetteville and Little Rock goes out Wednesdays and Fridays without guard. Indians,
since snow, have been from Fort Gibson to Ray's Mills and Cane Hill, Washington County, Ark.
Are about 1,200 strong, mounted. A good many Pins died during cold weather. I have their
camp-grounds. McNeil has offered condemned horses to farmers to make crops; don't take stock.
But little preparation to raise crops; very little wheat sown. Phillips commands the Indians. Two
regiments at Van Buren, Third Wisconsin Cavalry (Major Schroeling), Thirteenth Kansas
Infantry (Colonel Bowen); one battery, six pieces (from description Napoleons), two mountain
howitzers. The 12-pounders have been condemned and are to be taken to Saint Louis and
exchanged. One regiment Arkansas infantry at Clarksville, and one company cavalry; a negro
regiment at McLean's Bottom, eight or ten miles below Clarksville. At Waldron their force in
December was believed 500 and two pieces artillery. Have some negro troops at Dardanelle
making salt. Infantry armed with Enfield rifles, negroes well as white; cavalry, Sharps carbine,
six-shooter, and saber; horses are very poor. As this, when it touches other sources, agrees, and
as, from a thorough personal examination under the rule of the two, I found their reports to agree,
and as I believe my informants are first-rate Southern men and had the best means of knowing
that of which they speak, I give it as reliable.
Respectfully: your obedient servant,
S. B. MAXEY,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
If our Arkansas cavalry can't profit by this it is no use sending. This is fresh from first hands,
who left last Friday night was a week ago, one of them using for convenience the provostmarshal's
horse.
S. B. M.
By an order dated 21st ultimo, Maj. James Burnet's battalion of sharpshooters is ordered to
report to me. A portion of that command is without guns. It has not yet been officially reported. I
desire to send it at once to Boggy Depot, the point, you will observe, where my bacon is being
made, and the point, as you will see by information now sent, is spoken of as the one the
Yankees will make for when grass rises. It should be prepared for action.
S. B. M.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 25.
HEADQUARTERS WESTERN DEPARTMENT,
Saint Louis, Mo., August 5, 1861.
The following movements of troops will take place immediately: Colonel Worthington's
Fifth Iowa Regiment from Keokuk to Boonville; Colonel McDowell's Sixth Iowa Regiment from
Keokuk to Saint Louis; Colonel Lauman's Iowa regiment from Burlington to Saint Louis; Col.
Fitz-Henry Warren's mounted riflemen from Burlington to Saint Louis.
By order of Major-General Frémont:
JNO. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant-Genera
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 42.
HEADQUARTERS WESTERN DEPARTMENT,
Saint Louis, Mo., August 9, 1861.
28
General Curtis, Iowa Volunteers, is hereby assigned to command a camp of instruction for
volunteers at Jefferson Barracks. General Curtis will use the utmost expedition in drilling and
disciplining the regiments, which will be directed to report to him. The school of the company
and battalion will be commenced at once. Colonel Burbank, commanding officer at Jefferson
Barracks, will furnish every facility to General Curtis to carry out his instructions by detailing
such of the officers under his command as General Curtis may find useful in tendering efficient
the new regiments which will compose his camp.
By order of Major-General Frémont:
J.C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 284.
HEADQUARTERS WESTERN DEPARTMENT,
Near Jefferson City, October 4, 1861.
I. Col. Frederick Steele, Eighth Regiment Iowa Volunteers, having reported for orders, is
assigned as acting brigadier-general to the division of General McKinstry. He will proceed to
organize a new brigade with the battalion of regular infantry composed of three companies of the
First and two of the Second Infantry, under Captain Huston, First Infantry, and the three
companies of Fourth Cavalry under Captain Stanley. To these will be added, as soon as
practicable, his own regiment (Eighth Iowa Volunteers) and such other troops as may be
hereafter assigned to his command.
By order of Major-General Frémont:
J. H. EATON,
Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 49.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Saint Louis, March 28, 1862.
1. Brig. Gen. J. W. Denver having reported to the major-general commanding the
department, he will, in compliance with General Orders, No. 7, current series, from these
headquarters, proceed to Fort Leavenworth and assume command of the District of Kansas.
2. The Twenty-third Missouri and the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Iowa Volunteers, now at
Benton Barracks will immediately proceed up the Tennessee River and report to Maj. Gen. U.S.
Grant, commanding District of West Tennessee.
By order of Major-General Halleck:
J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 128.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, Mo., May 13, 1863.
4. Col. W. McE. Dye, with the brigade under his command (Twentieth Iowa, Twenty-sixth
Indiana, Thirty-seventh Illinois Infantry, and Battery E, First Missouri Artillery), heretofore
attached to the Army of the Frontier, will repair forthwith to Pilot Knob, Mo., and report to
Brigadier-General Vandever.
By command of Major-General Schofield:
A. V. COLBURN,
Assistant Adjutant-Genera
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SPECIAL ORDERS NO. 69.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., May 21, 1863.
I. In accordance with instructions from the Headquarters of the Army, Brigadier-General
Sully will proceed without the least delay to Sioux City, Iowa, and assume command of the
expedition against the Indians.
II. Brig. Gen. John Cook, on being relieved by General Sully, will report in person to the
headquarters of this department.
By command of Major-General Pope:
R. O. SELFRIDGE,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, Mo., June 5, 1863.
12. The First Cavalry Division of this department will be organized as follows, viz: First
Brigade, Col. Lewis Merrill commanding--Merrill's Horse, First Missouri Cavalry (First and
Second Battalions), Seventh Missouri Cavalry, Eighth Missouri Cavalry. Second Brigade, Col. J.
M. Glover commanding--Third Missouri Cavalry, First Iowa Cavalry, Third Iowa Cavalry (six
companies), Tenth Illinois Cavalry (Second and Third Battalions). Brig. Gen. J. W. Davidson is
assigned to the command of the division. Regiment and brigade commanders will report for
orders by telegraph where practicable, otherwise by letter.
13. Hauck's and Stange's batteries of the Second Missouri Artillery are hereby assigned to the
First Cavalry Division, and the commanding officers of those batteries will report to Brig. Gen.
J. W. Davidson.
15. The Army of the Frontier having been broken up by the transfer of troops from this
department, all public records belonging to the headquarters of that army will be sent to
department headquarters. Commanding officers of regiments, battalions, and batteries of the
Army of the Frontier still remaining in this department and not assigned to the First Cavalry
Division will report for duty to the commanding officer of the district in which they are now
serving.
By command of Major-General Schofield:
A. V. COLBURN,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 78.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., June 8, 1863.
I. Brig. Gen. B. S. Roberts, having been assigned to the command of the District of Iowa,
will proceed to his headquarters at Davenport and assume his duties.
By command of Major-General Pope:
M. J. ASCH,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
WASHINGTON CITY, D.C., October 1, 1863.
His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
President of the United States:
30
DEAR SIR: I have the honor, by request of the members of the Missouri delegation, to
submit for your consideration the following facts: First. That, let the cause be what it may, the
state of insecurity as to person and property is as great as and, in parts of the Fifth Congressional
District that I have the honor to represent, greater than at any time during 1862. The entire
delegation from Fifth Congressional District will so testify. In all parts of the district outrages
have recently been committed; but to specify some cases: Second. In Cedar County on or about
10th of August a Union man was shot down in his own yard. Witnesses, T. S. Morgan and Alex.
McWilliams, delegates. Third. On 4th of September a band of bushwhackers made raid into
Quincy, Hickory County, and killed four Union men and wounded another. Two of the killed
were officers of the Eighteenth Iowa Regiment; store and post-office were robbed and four stage
horses taken. Witnesses as last. Fourth. Recently, about 15th of August, three or four
bushwhackers visited and were harbored by a man named Kounts, professing to be a Union man.
Lieutenant Ware and seven or eight privates sought them out and were shot at and Lieutenant
Ware wounded severely. The bushwhackers escaped. Kounts' property was taken possession of,
but General Schofield ordered its restoration. Witness, J. L. Consalus, of Morgan County. The
occurrence took place near Sedalia or Tipton. Fifth. Recently, say latter days of August, on
Missouri River, in La Fayette County, a steam-boat was boarded by guerrillas and robbed and
three furloughed Union soldiers shot. Sixth. About 10th of September a store, eleven miles and a
half southwest of Jefferson City on a public road, was plundered by eighteen guerrillas and four
shots were fired into the residence of the owner of store. Witness, A. Peabody, of Jefferson City.
Seventh. About 15th of September near Iberia, Miller County, say fifty miles southwest from
Jefferson City, a storehouse was robbed and a Union man named Jackson was killed in his own
house. Witness, T. J. Babcock, of Miller County. Eighth. Thomas J. Babcock, of Miller County,
will testify that "in the vicinity of Cole and Miller Counties the guerrillas remain robbing," &c.;
that "in Morgan County, recently, Union men's houses have been burned and Union men have to
band together to protect themselves;" that "in Miller County bands of five to fifteen are passing
about almost daily." Ninth. Hon. L. C. Marvin, of Clinton, Henry County, will testify that "thefts,
murders, and robbery are as common as the ordinary incidents of life in former years ;" that
"men are robbed and shot within two or three miles of military posts, and officers seem to be
more ambitious in catching runaway negroes and returning them." Tenth. Mr. B. Hornsby, of
Johnson County, will testify that "robbery and murder were going on in his neighborhood to a
fearful extent and hundreds of families made destitute;" that "the officers in command are in
sympathy with the rebels." Eleventh. Dr. A. Peabody will testify that "while General Curtis was
in command negroes belonging to disloyal owners could and did come into Jefferson City and
that they were registered as contraband. Now such slaves are captured and returned to most
disloyal owners." That "in organizing the provisional regiments officers of equivocal loyalty
have been selected, while the most loyal and efficient have been avoided;" that "much
dissatisfaction exists, and that now General Schofield could do nothing to reinstate himself in the
estimation of loyal men ;" that "he has identified himself with the Conservative party, composed
of the disloyal, headed by a few professedly loyal but pro-slavery, like Governor Gamble; that
now all confidence in him is destroyed;" that "under loyal men, recruiting for both white and
colored regiments might be rapidly going on;" that "loyalty now encouraged will bring strength
to the Government and Administration; that neglected, the result cannot be imagined." Twelfth.
We would respectfully remind you that the contest is between loyalty and disloyalty. Loyalty and
freedom should not receive a blow from their friend.
I have, Mr. President, the honor to be, for members of Missouri delegation from Fifth
Congressional District, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. W. McCLURG.
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SAINT LOUIS, January 25, 1862.
General N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa, Des Moines.
GENERAL: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 17th in relation to the
exchange of prisoners of war. I have frequently urged upon the Government at Washington the
policy of exchanging prisoners but have received no authority to do so except in two particular
cases. I have urgently asked for a general authority and hope soon to receive it.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. HALLECK,
Major-General.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Camp, Pittsburg Landing, Tenn., April 24, 1862.
I. At the military commission which convened at Warrenton, Mo., pursuant to Special
Orders, No. 118, of February 6, 1862, from the headquarters Department of the Missouri, and of
which Capt. E. H. Henry, Tenth Missouri Volunteers, is president, were arraigned and tried:
Francis Skinner.
CHARGE 1: Violation of the laws of war.
Specification.--In this, that he, Francis Skinner, a citizen of Montgomery County, Mo., did in
said county on or about the 10th day of June, 1861, counsel, invite and request Robert Skinner,
John Skinner, Elmer Stowe and other persons unknown to burn and destroy the North Missouri
Railroad to prevent the passage of U.S. troops thereon.
Specification 2.--In this, that the said Francis Skinner did in said county on or about the last
day of July, 1861, make and cause to be made a certain arrangement, viz, a ditch or hole in the
ground with pieces of timber prepared to be placed upright in said hole or ditch in such manner
as to extend above the ties and railing on the North Missouri Railroad in said county in order to
throw from said railroad the train bearing U.S. troops, and did then and there have and procure a
number of men, about forty, with guns to fire upon said troops so thrown from the railroad.
CHARGE 2: Aiding and abetting rebellion against the Government and laws of the United
States.
Specification 1.--In this, that he, Francis Skinner, a citizen of Montgomery County, Mo., did
in said county on or about the 10th day of May, 1861, counsel, invite, request and procure Robert
Skinner, Carelton Tennehill, William Nunly, Thomas Nunly, James Woody, Thomas Miller,
Joseph Custer and other persons unknown to wave and unfurl publicly a secession flag in High
Hill in said county.
Specification 2.--In this, that he, the said Francis Skinner, a citizen of said county, did in said
county on or about the 27th day of October, 1861, counsel, advise and urge that all Union men
should be compelled to leave that part of the country.
Specification 3.--In this, that he, the said Francis Skinner, being a citizen of said county did
in said county on or about the 5th day of December, 1861, offer to furnish one mule ready shod
to any man who wanted to join and aid Price's army.
Specification 4.--In this, that he, the said Francis Skinner, a citizen of said county, did in said
county on or about the 16th day of September, 1861, give two guns, two mules and a certain
quantity of money, amount unknown, to two men unknown to use in aid of Price's army.
To which charges and specifications the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner as follows:
Of the first specification, first charge, not guilty.
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Of the second specification, first charge, not guilty.
Of the first charge, not guilty.
Of the first specification, second charge, not guilty.
Of the second, third and fourth specifications, second charge, guilty.
And does therefore sentence him, Francis Skinner, to pay a fine of $2,000 for the use and
benefit of the United States at such time and place as the commanding general may direct.
Finding approved; the sentence disapproved. The commission had no authority to confiscate
private property not contraband of war. Francis Skinner will be retained in custody until he take
and subscribe the oath of allegiance and give bond in $5,000 for future good conduct and loyalty
to the Government.
II. At the military commission which convened at Columbia, Mo., pursuant to Special
Orders, No. 160, of February 20, 1862, from the headquarters Department of the Missouri, and
of which Lieut. Co]. William F. Shaffer, Regiment Merrill's Horse, is president, were arraigned
and tried:
Calvin Sartain.
CHARGE: Violation of the laws of war by attacking a vessel transporting U.S. troops.
Specification 1.--In this, that the said Calvin Sartain, a citizen of Howard County, Mo., did
shoot and discharge a loaded gun at and into the steamer White Cloud, which said steamer was
being used for the transportation of troops of the United States on the Missouri River; and the
said Sartain did thereby with malice afore-thought kill and murder a certain person whose name
is unknown, the pilot of said boat. This near the Missouri River in Howard County, Mo., on or
about the 25th day of August, 1861.
Specification 2.--In this, that the said Calvin Sartain, a citizen of Howard County, Mo., did
aid and abet certain persons whose names are unknown in an armed attack upon the steamer
White Cloud, which said steamer was engaged in the transportation of U.S. troops on the
Missouri River. This near the Missouri River in Howard County, Mo., on or about the 25th day
of August, 1861.
To which charge and specifications the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner as follows:
On the first specification, guilty, except as to the murder and killing of a certain person
whose name is unknown, the pilot of the boat.
Of the second specification, guilty.
Of the charge, guilty.
And does therefore sentence him, Calvin Sartain, to be shot to death at such time and place as
the commanding general of this department may direct.
Finding and sentence approved. Sentence will be carried into effect at a time and place to be
hereafter designated by the general commanding this department. In the meantime the prisoner
will be confined in the military prison at Alton.
James W. Barnes.
CHARGE: Violation of the laws of war by attacking the dwelling of a citizen of the State of
Missouri with the intent to murder the occupants of said house.
Specification 1.--In this, that the said James W. Barnes on the 13th day of December, 1861,
with certain other persons unknown attacked the dwelling-house of one Thomas H. Keene in
Boone County, Mo., and with guns and pistols attempted to murder the occupants of said house.
All this at Boone County, Mo.
Specification 2.--In this, that on the 13th day of December, 1861, the said James W. Barnes,
a citizen of Boone County, Mo., did make an assault upon
one Luther B. Caldwell, a citizen of
33
Missouri, with intent to kill and murder the said Caldwell. All this at the county of Boone, State
of Missouri.
Specification 3.--In this, that on the 13th day of December, 1861, the said James W. Barnes
did incite certain persons unknown to make an armed attack upon the dwelling-house of one
Thomas H. Keene, a citizen of Missouri, with the intent to murder occupants of said house. All
this at Boone County, Mo.
To which charge and specifications the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The Commission finds the prisoner guilty as charged, and does therefore sentence him,
James W. Barnes, to be shot to death at such time and place as the commanding general of this
department may direct.
Finding and sentence approved. Sentence will be carried into effect at a time and place to be
hereafter designated by the general commanding this department. In the meantime the prisoner
will be confined in the military prison at Alton.
Matthew Thompson.
CHARGE 1: Aiding and abetting in the destruction of property of the North Missouri
Railroad Company.
Specification 1.--In this, that Matthew Thompson, a citizen of Boone County, Mo., did aid
and abet by his presence among and joined with a band of armed men who were then and there
engaged in the destruction by fire or otherwise of certain rails, ties, bridges and timbers
belonging to and necessary to the use of the North Missouri Railroad Company in the transaction
of their ordinary and legitimate business. All this at or near the town of Mexico, Mo., on or about
the 21st day of December, 1861.
CHARGE 2: Violation of the laws of war by joining, aiding and assisting a band of robbers
and bandits.
Specification 1.--In this, that Matthew Thompson did in company with one Cobb and other
persons join a band of desperadoes whose object was plunder and robbery, and that the said
Thompson for a long space of time, viz, from about the 1st day of November, 1861, taking
advantage of the unsettled condition of the country has been joining with, aiding and assisting
said band in the commission of acts of plunder, robbery and abuse of the citizens of the State of
Missouri.
Specification 2.--In this, that the said Matthew Thompson did on the 21st day of December,
1861, attempt to steal and take away from one Conrad Pewlis, a citizen of Missouri, one horse to
be appropriated to the use of said band of robbers and bandits. This at the house of said Conrad
Pewlis in Audrain County, Mo.
To which charges and specifications the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner, Matthew Thompson, guilty as charged, and does
therefore sentence him to be hanged to death at such time and place as the commanding general
of this department may direct.
Finding and sentence approved. Sentence will be carried into effect at such time and place as
may be hereafter designated by the general commanding this department. In the meantime the
prisoner will be confined in the military prison at Alton.
III. At the same military commission, Col. Lewis Merrill, Regiment Merrill's Horse,
president, were arraigned and tried:
John E. Waller.
CHARGE: Violation of the laws of war by aiding and assisting in the arrest and
imprisonment of a citizen of the United States within the lines of the U.S. forces.
Specification.--In this, that John E. Waller on or about the 23d day of December, 1861, in
Boone County, Mo, and within the lines of the U.S. forces
did with certain other persons
34
wrongfully and violently arrest, search and imprison one Perry C. Jeffrey, a citizen of the United
States and of the State of Missouri, the said Waller then and there not being a member of any
regular military organization. To which charge and specification the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner, John E. Waller, as follows:
Of the specification finds the facts as set forth except the words "wrongfully and violently,"
and the words "the said Waller then and there not being a member of any regular military
organization."
Of the charge, not guilty.
And does therefore acquit him.
Finding and acquittal approved. John E. Waller will be released from arrest upon his taking
and subscribing the oath of allegiance and giving bond for his future good conduct and loyalty to
the Government.
Owen C. Hickam.
CHARGE: Violation of the laws of war.
Specification 1.--In this, that the said Owen C. Hickam did assault one John Quinn, a citizen
of the United States and of the State of Missouri, with intent feloniously to kill and murder said
John Quinn. This within the lines of the U.S. forces at Boone County, Mo., on or about the 1st of
January, 1862.
Specification 2.--In this, that the said Owen C. Hickam did threaten to kill and murder one
James Smallwood; a citizen of the United States and of the State of Missouri, the said
Smallwood being engaged in recruiting men to serve in the armies of the United States. This at
Boone County, Mo., on or about the 1st day of December, 1861.
Specification 3.--In this, that the said Owen C. Hickam did give clothing and goods to certain
persons to be by them appropriated to the use of persons in rebellion against the lawfully
constituted government of the United States. This within the lines of the U.S. forces, at Boone
County, Mo., about December 9, 1861.
Specification 4.--In this, that he, Owen C. Hickam, for a long time past, viz, for four months,
has been threatening the lives of citizens of the United States with intent to further and assist the
existing rebellion against the Government of the United States. This within the U.S. lines at
Boone County, Mo.
To which charge and specifications the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner, Owen C. Hickam, guilty as charged and does therefore
sentence him to be shot to death at such time and place as the general commanding this
department may direct.
Finding and sentence approved. The sentence will be carried into effect at such time and
place as may be hereafter designated by the general commanding this department. In the
meantime the prisoner will be confined in the military prison at Alton.
Aroswell D. Severance.
CHARGE: Violation of the laws of war.
Specification.--In this, that Aroswell D. Severance did on or about the 23d day of January,
1862, steal and carry away from the possession of one Thomas Throckmorton, a citizen of the
United States, one gray stallion being the property of said Throckmorton. This at or near
Monticello, Lewis County, Mo.
To which charge and specification the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner guilty as charges and does therefore sentence him,
Aroswell D. Severance, to be shot to death at such time and place as the commanding general of
this department may direct.
35
Finding and sentence approved. The sentence will be mitigated to imprisonment during the
war in the military prison at Alton.
IV. At the military commission which convened at Fulton, Mo., pursuant to Special Orders,
No. 62, of January 20, 1862, from the headquarters Department of the Missouri, and of which
Capt. E. Mayne is president, were arraigned and tried:
Austin Brewner.
CHARGE: Administering intoxicating liquors to soldiers.
Specification.--In this, that Austin Brewner on the 7th day of March, 1862, and on divers
days before that time at the county of Callaway, Mo., at a military camp in said county did sell
and administer to Rawley Shaw, Black, George F. Greenough, Murray and Kino and divers other
persons unknown, being soldiers in the volunteer service of the United States, intoxicating
liquors, to wit, whisky and brandy, contrary to martial law then prevailing in the State of
Missouri and in violation of the laws of war.
To which charge and specification the prisoner pleaded guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner guilty as charged, and does therefore sentence him,
Austin Brewner, to pay a fine of $25 and in default of payment to be imprisoned thirty days.
Finding and sentence approved
Henry Willing.
CHARGE 1: Aiding in the destruction of the North Missouri Railroad.
Specification.--In this, that the said Henry Willing on the night of the 20th of December,
1861, with other parties unknown did unlawfully within the Military District of North Missouri
destroy and burn a portion of the ties and rails forming the North Missouri Railroad. This in
violation of martial law prevailing in the State of Missouri.
CHARGE 2: Giving aid and comfort to railroad and bridge-burners.
Specification.--In this, that the said Henry Willing did on the night of the 20th of December,
1861, by his presence and advice give aid, comfort and assistance to a party of armed men who
on the night of the 20th of December, 1861, did destroy a portion of the North Missouri Railroad.
This in violation of martial law then prevailing in the State of Missouri.
CHARGE 3: Accessory before the fact to the destruction of the track and bridges of the
North Missouri Railroad.
Specification.--In this, that said Henry Willing at the county of Callaway, State of Missouri,
on the 18th day of December, 1861, and at divers days before and after that date did solicit,
persuade and induce divers persons whose names are unknown to go to the track of the North
Missouri Railroad in Audrain County, Mo., on the 20th day of December, 1861, and then and
there to destroy, aid and assist in burning and otherwise destroying the track of said road and the
bridges thereon. This in violation of martial law prevailing in the State of Missouri.
CHARGE 4: In giving aid and comfort to the rebellion.
Specification.--In this, that the said Henry Willing in Callaway County, Mo., did on divers
days from the 1st of September, 1861, until the 1st of January, 1862, solicit H. W. Riley,
Company E, Third Iowa Cavalry, and divers other persons unknown to enlist in the rebel service
under General Sterling Price, and did on divers days between the times aforesaid use his
influence to get persons unknown to engage in the rebel service by making false representations
to them in violation of the laws of war.
CHARGE 5: Being a bad and dangerous man.
Specification.--In this, that the said Willing has been a notorious rebel and during the times
aforesaid and still is and was engaged in tearing up railroad tracks and burning bridges and
making war upon private and peaceable citizens and soliciting men to rebel against their country
in violation of the laws of war.
36
To which charges and specifications the accused pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner as follows:
Of the specification to first charge, not guilty.
Of the first charge, guilty.
Of the specification to second charge, guilty.
Of the second charge, guilty.
Of the specification to third charge, guilty.
Of the third charge, guilty.
Of the specification to fourth charge, guilty.
Of the fourth charge, guilty.
Of the specification to fifth charge, guilty, except the words "and was engaged in tearing up
railroad tracks and burning bridges and making war upon private and peaceable citizens."
Of the fifth charge, guilty.
And does therefore sentence him, Henry Willing, to be shot to death at such time and place
as the major-general of this department may direct.
The commission having acquitted the prisoner of the only specification to the first charge
should also have acquitted him of the charge. Sentence confirmed and will be carried into effect
at such time and place as may be hereafter designated by the general commanding this
department. In the meantime the prisoner will be confined in Alton prison.
James Sisrico.
CHARGE 1: Aiding in the destruction of the North Missouri Railroad.
Specification.--In this, that James Sisrico did on the night of Friday, December 20, 1861.
with other parties unknown destroy a portion of the rails and ties of the North Missouri Railroad.
This in opposition to martial law then prevailing in the Military District of North Missouri.
CHARGE 2: Aiding and abetting in the destruction of the North Missouri Railroad.
Specification.--In this, that James Sisrico on the evening and night of the 20th of December,
1861, did by his presence aid and encourage a body of armed men who on the night aforesaid did
destroy a portion of the North Missouri Railroad. This in opposition to martial law then
prevailing in the Military District of North Missouri.
To which charges and specifications the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The Commission finds the prisoner as follows:
Of the specification to first charge, not proven.
Of the first charge, guilty.
Of the specification to second charge, guilty.
To the second charge, guilty.
And does therefore sentence him, James Sisrico, to be shot to death at such time and place as
the commanding general of the department may direct.
Finding approved. The commission having recommended the prisoner to the mercy of the
commanding general the sentence will be mitigated to imprisonment during the war in the
military prison at Alton.
James P. Snedicor.
CHARGE 1: Aiding in the destruction of the North Missouri Railroad.
Specification.--In this, that on the night of the 20th day of December, 1861, James P.
Snedicor with other persons unknown did unlawfully within the Military District of North
Missouri burn and destroy certain railroad ties and with crowbars, picks, sledges and axes
remove certain rails, which ties and rails formed a part of the common traveled way known as
the North Missouri Railroad. This in violation of martial law then prevailing in the Military
District of North Missouri.
37
CHARGE 2: Giving aid and comfort to railroad and railroad bridge-burners and destroyers.
Specification.--In this, that the said James P. Snedicor did on the evening or night of the 20th
of December, 1861, meet with other parties unknown and plan the destruction and by his
presence aid, assist and afford comfort and assistance to said parties unknown who did burn and
destroy certain ties, rails, track and bridges being part of and appertaining to the North Missouri
Railroad. This in violation of martial law then prevailing in the said Military District of North
Missouri.
CHARGE 3: Accessory before the fact to the destruction of the North Missouri Railroad.
Specification.--In this, that James P. Snedicor at the county of Callaway, State of Missouri,
on the 19th day of December, 1861, and after that date did solicit divers persons to go to the
track of the North Missouri Railroad in Audrain County, Mo., within the Military District of
North Missouri on the 20th of December, 1861, to then and there aid and assist in the destruction
of the North Missouri Railroad. This in violation of martial law then prevailing in the said
Military District of North Missouri.
To which charges and specifications the prisoner pleaded as follows:
To the first charge and its specification, guilty.
To the second charge and its specification, guilty.
To the third charge and its specification, not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner as follows:
Of the first charge and its specification, guilty.
Of the second charge and its specification, guilty.
Of the third charge and its specification, not guilty.
And does therefore sentence him, James P. Snedicor, to be shot to death at such time and
place as the commanding general of this department may direct.
Finding and sentence approved. The sentence will be carried into effect at such time and
place as may be hereafter designated by the general commanding the department. In the
meantime the prisoner will be confined in the military prison at Alton.
Samuel Jamerson.
CHARGE: Furnishing supplies to the enemies of the Federal Government and giving them
aid and comfort.
Specification 1.--In this, that said Samuel Jamerson at the county of Callaway, State of
Missouri, during the months of September, October, November and December, 1861, did make,
aid, cause and permit to be made at his house a large quantity of clothing, to wit coats, pants,
vests and drawers, made for and given to Pyne, Harris, Jamerson and divers others whose names
are unknown who were and are rebels and enemies of the Federal Government and who have
been in arms against said Government and who were and are in open rebellion against said
Government; and the clothing so made by and at the house of said Jamerson and with his
knowledge, advice and consent was intended to be given and was given to said rebels to aid and
comfort them in their rebellion against the Government, and the said Jamerson furnished all or
part of the cloth and other materials to make said clothing.
Specification 2.--In this, that said Jamerson did aid and assist in taking from the Lunatic
Asylum at Fulton, Mo., a large quantity of blankets, to wit 1,000, the property of the State of
Missouri, which said blankets after they were so taken from said asylum by the assistance,
knowledge and consent of said Samuel Jamerson were by the assistance, advice, knowledge and
consent of said Jamerson given to persons unknown and in arms against the Federal Government
to aid and assist said rebels in arms against the Government. All this at Callaway County, Mo.,
during the months of September, October, November and
December, 1861.
38
Specification 3.--In this, that said Samuel Jamerson at the county of Callaway, State of
Missouri, during the months of November and December, 1861, did procure, aid and assist in
procuring a large quantity of lead, to wit 500 pounds, which said lead was procured and kept by
the said Jamerson on his premises for the use of the rebels and persons in open rebellion and in
arms against the Federal Government, and the said lead so procured and kept by said Jamerson
was by him concealed to keep the Federal authorities from seizing the same and was by the said
Jamerson and with his knowledge, advice and consent given to the rebels then in arms against
the Federal Government.
Specification 4.--In this, that said Samuel Jamerson at the county of Callaway in the State of
Missouri on the --- day of January, 1862, did permit James P. Snedicor and Joseph Watkins to
stop at his house and did keep the horses of said Snedicor and Watkins and did furnish food,
beds and shelter to the said Snedicor and Watkins, they being at the time rebels in arms against
the Federal Government and having aided and assisted in the destruction of the North Missouri
Railroad on the 20th of December, 1861, all of which was known to the said Jamerson; and the
said Snedicor and Watkins were at the time they were so fed and sheltered by said Jamerson
fleeing from the U.S. authorities to avoid being arrested which fact was well known by the said
Jamerson; and while said Jamerson was so sheltering said rebels and outlaws a detachment of the
Second Battalion, Third Iowa Cavalry, commanded by Major Caldwell, proceeded to the house
of said Jamerson for the purpose of arresting said criminals whereupon the said Jamerson did
declare to the said troops that the said criminals were not at his house; whereupon the house of
said Jamerson was searched by said troops and the said Snedicor and Watkins were found
concealed in the garret of said house, and the arms of said rebels, to wit one carbine, one doublebarrelled
shotgun and two pistols were found in the house of said Jamerson. All of which was
fully known to said Jamerson; and the representations as aforesaid made by said Jamerson were
false and were made to mislead the authorities of the Government and to conceal said criminals
and aid them in their efforts to avoid an arrest and punishment by the U.S. military authorities.
To which charges and specifications the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner, Samuel Jamerson, as follows:
Of the first specification, not guilty.
Of the second specification, not guilty.
Of the third specification, not guilty.
Of the fourth specification, guilty.
Of the charge, guilty, except the words "furnishing supplies to the enemies of the Federal
Government," and does therefore sentence him to pay a fine of $500 and costs of prosecution and
that he be imprisoned until said fine and costs are paid and he takes and subscribes the usual oath
of allegiance.
Finding approved; sentence disapproved. The prisoner will be retained in custody until such
time as he will take and subscribe the oath of allegiance and give bond in the sum of $2,000 for
future good conduct and loyalty to the Government.
Lewis L. Chaney.
CHARGE 1: Aiding in the destruction of the North Missouri Railroad.
Specification.--In this, that the said Lewis L. Chaney on the night of the 20th of December,
1861, did with other parties unknown unlawfully destroy and burn a portion of the North
Missouri Railroad. This in violation of martial law prevailing in the State of Missouri.
CHARGE 2: Giving aid and comfort to railroad and bridge burners.
Specification.--In this, that the said Lewis L. Chaney on the evening of Friday, the 20th of
December, 1861, did by his presence and advice aid, assist and afford aid and assistance to a
party of armed men who on the night of the 20th of
December, 1861, burned and destroyed a
39
portion of the ties and rails forming a part of the North Missouri Railroad. This in violation of
martial law then prevailing in the State of Missouri
CHARGE 3: Accessory before the fact to the destruction of the North Missouri Railroad.
Specification 1.--In this, that Lewis L. Chaney at Callaway County, Mo., on the night of the
18th of December, 1861, and on divers days before and after that date did solicit, persuade and
induce divers persons whose names are unknown to go to the track of the North Missouri
Railroad in Audrain County, Mo., on the 20th day of December, 1861, and then and there to
destroy and aid and assist in burning and otherwise destroying the track of said road and the
bridges thereon. This in violation of martial law then prevailing in the State of Missouri.
Specification 2.--In this, that the said Lewis L. Chaney at the county of Callaway, Mo., did
procure crowbars and other implements to be used in destroying the track of the North Missouri
Railroad; and the said crowbars and implements so procured by said Chaney were by him given
and delivered to persons whose names are unknown for the purpose and with the view and
intention of having said persons use said crowbars and other implements in the destruction of the
track of said road and said crowbars and implements were used by said persons to aid in the
destruction of said road. This in violation of martial law then prevailing in the State of Missouri.
To which charges and specifications the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner, Lewis L. Chaney, not guilty of the charges and
specifications and does therefore acquit him.
Finding and acquittal approved. Lewis L. Chaney will be released from arrest upon his taking
the oath of allegiance and giving bond in $2,000 for future good conduct and loyalty to the
Government.
By command of Major-General Halleck:
N.H. McLEAN,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, February 17, 1862.
III. At the military commission which convened at Pacific, Mo., pursuant to Special Orders,
No. 35, of January 12, 1862, from these headquarters, and of which Capt. A. W. Drips, Ninth
Regiment Iowa Volunteers, is president, was arraigned and tried--
Isaac H. Breckinridge, a citizen of Franklin County, Mo.
CHARGE: Violation of the laws of war.
Specification l.--In this, that Isaac H. Breckinridge did send clothing to his son, then a soldier
in the army of the so-called Confederate States in rebellion against the lawful authority of the
Government of the United States. This in Franklin County, Mo., in the summer or fall of the year
1861.
Specification 2.--In this, that the said Isaac H. Breckinridge did keep ammunition on his
premises for the purpose of furnishing the same to men in rebellion against the lawful authority
of the United States and did harbor and maintain persons in rebellion against the lawful
authorities of the United States. This in the summer or fall of the year 1861 in Franklin County,
Mo., in violation of the laws of war.
Specification 3.--In this, that the said Isaac H. Breckinridge did assist in an attempt to stop
railroad trains and destroy the track of the southwestern branch of the Pacific Railroad. This on
or about the 1st of July, 1861, in Franklin County, Mo., in violation of the laws of war.
To which charges and specifications the prisoner pleaded not guilty.
The commission finds the prisoner guilty as charged and does therefore sentence him, Isaac
H. Breckinridge, to have all his property except his
houses and lands confiscated to the use of the
40
Government of the United States and that he be detained as a prisoner at hard labor until the end
of the war.
Finding approved. The sentence is mitigated on condition that Isaac H. Breckinridge give
bond in $5,000 to keep the peace against the Government of the United States and that he take
the oath of allegiance. If mitigated sentence should not be complied with the original sentence
will be enforced.
By command of Major-General Halleck:
N.H. McLEAN,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL MISSOURI,
Otterville, December 23, 1861.
Capt. J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that having replaced by troops from La Mine the
garrison of Sedalia I marched from that place on Sunday, the 15th instant, with a column of
infantry, cavalry and artillery numbering about 4,000 men.
On the morning of the 18th Lieutenant-Colonel Brown's forces rejoined the command.
Knowing that there must still be a large force of the enemy north of us I moved slowly on the
18th toward Warrensburg, and when near that town the spies and scouts I had sent before
marching from Sedalia in the direction of Lexington, Waverly and Arrow Rock reported to me
that a large force was marching from the two latter places and would encamp that night at the
mouth of Clear Creek, just south of Milford. I posted the main body of my command near
Warrensburg and Knobnoster to close all outlet to the south between those two points and
dispatched seven companies of cavalry, five of the First Iowa and two of the Fourth Regular
Cavalry, afterward re-enforced by another company of regular cavalry and a section of artillery,
all under command of Col. J. C. Davis, Indiana volunteers, to march on the town of Milford so as
to turn the enemy's left and rear and intercept his retreat to the southeast, at the same time
directing Major Marshall, with Merrill's regiment of horse, to march from Warrensburg on the
same point turning the enemy's right and rear and forming a junction with Colonel Davis. The
main body of my command occupied a point four miles south and ready to advance at a
moment's notice or to intercept the enemy's retreat south.
Colonel Davis marched promptly and vigorously with the forces under his command, and at
a late hour in the afternoon came upon the enemy encamped in the wooded bottom-land on the
west side of Blackwater opposite the mouth of Clear Creek. His pickets were immediately driven
in across the stream--which was deep, miry and impassable except by a long narrow bridge
which the enemy occupied in force as is believed under Colonel Magoffin. Colonel Davis
brought forward his force and directed that the bridge be carried by assault. The two companies
of the Fourth Regular Cavalry being in advance, under the command respectively of Lieutenant
Gordon and Lieutenant Amory, were designated for that service and were supported by the five
companies of the First Iowa. Lieutenant Gordon, of the Fourth Cavalry, led the charge in person
with the utmost gallantry and vigor, carried the bridge in fine style and immediately formed his
company on the opposite side. He was promptly followed by the other companies. The force of
the enemy posted at the bridge retreated precipitately over a narrow open space into the woods
where his whole force was posted. The two companies of the Fourth Cavalry formed in line at
once, advanced upon the enemy and were received with a heavy volley of small-arms, muskets,
rifle and shotguns. One man was killed and eight wounded by this discharge, with one exception
all belonging to Company D, Fourth Cavalry, Lieutenant
Gordon. Lieutenant Gordon himself
41
received several balls through his cap. Our forces still continuing to press forward and the enemy
finding his retreat south and west cut off and that he was in presence of a large force and at best
could only prolong the contest a short time surrendered at discretion. His force reported by the
colonel commanding consisted of parts of two regiments of infantry and three companies of
cavalry, numbering in all 1,300 men, among whom there were three colonels (Robertson,
Alexander and Magoffin), one lieutenants-colonel (Robertson) and one major (Harris) and fiftyone
commissioned company officers.
I am, captain, your obedient servant,
JOHN POPE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
F.
The accused objects to the paper read by the judge-advocate purporting to be an attested copy
of an extract from the official report of General Pope to the [assistant] adjutant-general, Kelton
first, because it purports only to bean extract; second, because it is not evidence of the facts
therein stated; third, because it is ex parte and can not be evidence against the accused; fourth,
because it is only competent testimony to prove the fact that General Pope made a report.
E. MAGOFFIN.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 81.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, December 21, 1861.
IV. A military commission is hereby appointed to meet in this city on Monday, the 23d
instant, at 10 a.m., or as soon thereafter as practicable, for the trial of such persons as may be
brought before it.
Detail for the commission: Bldg. Gen. S. D. Sturgis, U.S. Army; Col. R. D. Cutts, of the
staff; Lieut. Col. John Scott. Third Iowa Volunteers; Maj. E. W. Chamberlain, First Iowa
Cavalry; Capt. T. W. Sweeny, Second Infantry, U.S. Army. Col. R. D. Cutts will act as judgeadvocate
and recorder.
By order of Major-General Halleck:
J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, January 9, 1862.
Colonel CARLIN, Commanding, Ironton.
COLONEL: Governor Gamble has referred to me a letter from you to Colonel Murphy,
Eighth Iowa [Wisconsin] Infantry, in relation to the delivery of a fugitive slave to his master
which order was evaded by Colonel Murphy's command. I think you mistook your duty as a
military officer in this matter. I do not consider it any part of the duty of the military to decide
upon the rights of master and slave. It is our duty to leave that question for the action of the loyal
civil authorities of the State. This is accomplished by keeping all such fugitives out of our camps.
This is the object of Orders, No. 3. Those orders should in all cases be enforced and we shall
then be freed from these vexatious questions.
I inclose a copy of a letter to General Asboth in which this view is more fully set forth. I
hope you will not permit difficulties of this kind to occur again in your command, for the action
of the military in regard to fugitives if once admitted into camp is so liable to be misrepresented
and misunderstood.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
42
H. W. HALLECK,
Major-General
HEADQUARTERS,
Memphis, Tenn., December 14, 1861.
Col. W. W. MACKALL, Assistant Adjutant-General.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report the departure on this day December 14 for Columbus,
Ky., of ten Belmont prisoners selected by lot from the privates, to wit: H.T. Stein, Company A,
W. W. Sapp, Company A, and W. E. Gregg, Company H, Seventh Iowa Volunteers; George W.
Black, Company H, and B. Faunin, Company A, Thirty-first Illinois Volunteers; Henry
Harrington, Twelfth Illinois Volunteers, Company B; Israel G. Heaps, Company B, A. Anderson,
Company E, and Marcus Tenkesled, Company B, Twenty-seventh Iowa [Illinois] Volunteers; the
whole under command of Captain Begbie, of the Memphis Legion. These prisoners were sent in
obedience to instructions from General Polk, commanding First Division, Western Department,
with the purpose of exchange.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN ADAMS,
Captain, C. S. Army, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 196.
HEADQUARTERS,
Memphis, December 14, 1861.
In compliance with instructions dated headquarters First Division, Western Department,
December 11, 1861, Captain Begbie and ten noncommissioned officers and privates of Memphis
Legion will proceed to Columbus, Ky., in charge of the ten Belmont prisoners selected by lot
from the privates, to wit: II. T. Stein and W. W. Sapp, Company A, W. :E. Gregg, Company H,
Seventh Iowa; George W. Black, Company H, and B. Faunin, Company A, Thirty-first Illinois
Volunteers; James Shaw, Company H, Thirtieth Illinois Volunteers; Henry Harrington, Company
B, Twelfth Illinois Volunteers; Israel G. Heaps, Company B, A. Anderson, Company E, and
Marcus Tankesley, Company B, Twenty-seventh Iowa [Illinois] Volunteers. Turn them over
there subject to the orders of the general commanding. Having performed this duty Captain
Begbie will report with his detachment at this place.
JOHN ADAMS,
Captain, C. S. Army, Commanding.
HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, NORTHWESTERN DEPARTMENT,
Columbus, Ky., December 19, 1861.
Brig. Gen. U.S. GRANT, U.S. Army,
Commanding, Cairo, Ill.
GENERAL: In pursuance of my agreement I have at my earliest convenience had ten
privates of the prisoners held by me selected to send up to you, that being the difference between
the number released by you, 124, and the number released by me, 114, agreed upon by yourself
and General McCown. This does not include Lieutenant Smith, the attendant of Colonel
Dougherty, who was released by me on parole and of whom no account is taken.
These men were chosen by lot and sent up from Memphis. Since their arrival I find one of
them declines to return; I must therefore send you another in his place at a future day.
I send you also your hostler. The terms on which he was to be returned you have already
discussed with Colonel Tappan.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient
servant,
43
L. POLK,
Major-General, Commanding.
List of prisoners sent to General Grant December 19, 1861.
Thirty-first Regiment Illinois Volunteers: Company A, H. T. Stein, B. Fannin (not sent), W.
W. Sapp; Company H, G. W. Black.
Seventh Regiment Iowa Volunteers: Company H, W. E. Gregg.
Twenty-seventh Regiment Iowa [Illinois] Volunteers: Company B, Israel G. Heaps, M.
Tankesley; Company E, A. Anderson.
Thirtieth Regiment Illinois Volunteers: Company H, James Shaw. Twelfth Regiment Illinois
Volunteers: Company B, H. Harrington. Francis M. Smith, hostler of General Grant, sent in
accordance with agreement between Generals Grant and Cheatham to the effect that Colonel
Tappan's colored servant, George, should be returned to him.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI,
Cairo, December 19, 1861.
OFFICER IN COMMAND OF MILITARY PRISON,
Columbus, Ohio:
Inclosed you will find copy of an order this day received from headquarters Department of
the Missouri. By forwarding the said prisoner John Groves at once a speedy exchange could be
effected.
U.S. GRANT,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 4.
BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS,
Hudson City, July 19, 1861.
For the purpose of more orderly and satisfactory control of the Hannibal and Saint Joseph
Railroad and the maintenance of the various important points that road will be divided into two
divisions and four sections. The first division will extend from Saint Joseph to Brookfield; the
second division from Brookfield to the Mississippi River at Hannibal and Quincy.
The first section of the road will extend from Saint Joseph to Hamilton, and will be held by
the Second Iowa Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Tuttle, headquarters at Saint Joseph. The second
section from Hamilton to Brookfield will be held by the Third Iowa Regiment, headquarters at
Chillicothe. The third section from Brookfield to Salt River will be held by the Sixteenth Illinois,
Col. R. F. Smith, headquarters at Hudson City. The fourth section from Salt River to Hannibal
and Quincy will be held by the Fourteenth Illinois Regiment, headquarters at Palmyra.
Each regiment will gradually draw in within its own lines as fast as relieved by the
appropriate force and keep communication at least daily from each post to headquarters of
regiment. Reasonable force will always be held at headquarters to assist any post in case of
attack or for scouting duty. One company of Third Iowa will occupy Brook-field and will be
joined by one company from Sixteenth Illinois, after which that point will be held jointly by the
two companies. Detail of movements to make necessary changes will be ordered by Colonel
Williams within the first division and Colonel Thomas in the second under directions from the
brigadier-general.
S. A. HURLBUT,
Brigadier-General, U.S. Army,
Commanding Line of Hannibal and Saint Joseph Railroad.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH MISSOURI,
44
Saint Charles, July 23, 1861.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD, Governor of Iowa.
SIR: Your letter to General Hurlbut with a communication from Colonel Bussey has been
transmitted to me. In reply to it I have to say that I most cordially accept the proffered aid in
maintaining peace and quiet in those portions of North Missouri bordering on the Iowa line. In
sending your State or other forces into Missouri be pleased to intrust their command to discreet
and prudent officers, who should be directed to keep me advised of all their operations and who
should inform me frequently of all matters of interest or importance connected with the condition
of that region. It is not my purpose to make arrests for opinion's sake but rather to force the
people throughout this section to keep the peace among themselves and to keep open their own
lines of public communication. It is impossible that the Federal Government can employ for any
length of time so large a force merely to protect public works against destruction by those for
whose benefit they were built, and it is my purpose to offer such inducements to the citizens of
this State as will be sufficient to secure their own active agency in protecting their lines of
railroad and other works of public convenience or necessity. I have published a notice to the
people along the line of the North Missouri Railroad which I intend also to apply to the Hannibal
and Saint Joe road based on these views, a copy of which I herewith transmit. As I shall enforce
the penalty to the letter I hope to see good results follow before many days.
Your active interference in North Missouri will I fear be very shortly necessary and in a
stronger force than you suggest. The unfortunate repulse of our forces at Manassas has aroused
the whole secession element in this State to renewed activity, and intelligence received this
morning from Saint Louis has compelled me to suspend for the present further movements of the
troops from this place in the direction of the Hannibal and Saint Joe road.
It is by no means improbable that I may be obliged within a few days to move the whole
force in North Missouri into Saint Louis to protect that city from civil tumult and bloodshed, and
in that case I shall call upon yourself and Governor Yates to replace them by State forces. I will
communicate further with you in a day or two when affairs have assumed somewhat more
definite shape.
I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN POPE,
Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding in North Missouri.
BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS,
Quincy, July 27, 1861.
Maj. Gen. JOHN C. FREMONT, U. S. Army.
SIR: By orders from Brigadier-General Pope, commanding in North Missouri, I assumed
charge of the line of the Hannibal and Saint Joseph Railroad. Four regiments occupied this line--
Nineteenth Illinois, at Palmyra; Sixteenth Illinois, at Hudson City; Third Iowa, at Chillicothe;
Second Iowa, at Saint Joseph. Orders this day issued by General Pope have been obeyed to
forward the Nineteenth Illinois and Second Iowa to Saint Louis. They are on their way.
But it becomes my duty to report to you that the present force is wholly inadequate for the
duty assigned; that the two regiments removed covered the termini of the road and protected its
connections; that the country north of the road is inflamed and excited, and the region
immediately southwest of Hannibal, in Rails County, is infested by strong bands of rebels
threatening Hannibal in considerable numbers and with at least two pieces of iron artillery. To
oppose this I hold Hannibal with one company of Palmer's Fourteenth Illinois and three illdisciplined
companies of home guards; one company of the Fourteenth at South Bridge, between
Hannibal and Palmyra. There is a vacancy from these points
to Salt Creek where the outposts of
45
the Sixteenth Illinois begin. Thence to Hannibal the road is well guarded; from Hannibal to Saint
Joseph no troops; at Saint Joseph about 350 raw home guards. I go to-morrow the length of the
road. I desire to state expressly and officially that the feeling along the line is hostile to this road.
It is owned in Boston by wealthy men and the people believe it will be repaired if injured. They
call it an abolition road. There is no such feeling as to the North Missouri; that is called a State
road. I will defend it to the best of my ability; but with cavalry and artillery withdrawn from me
and stationary scattered guards of infantry, with an entire regiment (the Third Iowa) without
cartridge-boxes, belts or scabbards, justice to myself and the men under my command compels
me to notify you in advance that my means are wholly insufficient and that if the road is broken
up as I think it will be in forty-eight hours I and my command are not responsible. I have
extended and obeyed of course promptly all orders on this subject; but desire to say that unless as
I presume is the case public necessity requires this movement it exposes our connections and
leaves us with both wings cut off in the heart of an unreconciled and hostile country.
Your obedient servant,
S. A. HURLBUT,
Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 10.
HEADQUARTERS WESTERN DEPARTMENT,
Saint Louis, Mo., July 29, 1861.
Brig. Gen. John Pope is assigned to the command of all the troops in the State of Missouri
north of the city of Saint Louis.
By order of Major-General Frémont:
J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH MISSOURI,
Mexico, August 2, 1861.
COMMANDING OFFICER IOWA FORCES, Keokuk, Iowa.
SIR: Inclosed are instructions for your movement with your command upon Memphis,
Waterloo, Monticello and Edina. In selecting members for the committee of public safety you are
directed to appoint be sure to put upon it at least two or better still three of the most worthy and
prominent secessionists. It is the service of the secessionists I specially require and I desire that
you will give them plainly to understand that unless peace is preserved their property will be
immediately levied upon and their contribution collected at once in any kind of property at hand.
When once the secessionists are made to understand that upon peace in their midst depends
the safety of their families and property we shall soon have quiet again in North Missouri. Take
care that your men are orderly and commit no excesses.
Respectfully, sir, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH MISSOURI,
Mexico, August 2, 1861.
Colonel WORTHINGTON, Commanding Iowa Troops, Keokuk.
SIR: Immediately upon receipt of this order you will direct Colonel Bussey with his cavalry
to march forthwith to Memphis, in Scotland County, and having discharged the duty hereafter
specified in this order to effect a junction at Edina with the remainder of the forces under your
command. You will please put one of your infantry
regiments on march for Edina by the way of
46
Waterloo and with the other regiment under your immediate command you will take boat for
Canton and proceed to Edina by way of Monticello. When you have effected a junction there
with your other forces report to me your operations and all matters of interest. Buy provisions for
your troops whenever you need them and give orders for payment on the chief commissary at
these headquarters.
You will disperse all bands of armed secessionists and if any are captured in arms send them
direct to this place for trial. I send you a printed notice to be distributed along the routes pursued
by your respective columns and direct the commanding officer to appoint committees specified
in the printed order, selecting for that purpose the most wealthy and prominent men in the county
preferring mostly the secessionists. The printed orders and accompanying letter will inform you
fully of the system I intend to adopt in Northeast Missouri. I wish to give the secessionists such
inducements as loss of property and danger to families to aid Union men in keeping the peace.
Notify all the population that the forces stand prepared to enforce this printed notice fully and
vigorously and commence it with your forces as soon as you think it desirable. Act promptly and
vigorously and I think peace will result to all parts of North Missouri.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding North Missouri.
NOTE.--The same instructions given to the commanding officer of the Iowa forces were
furnished Col. T. A. Marshall for his movement upon Paris; Captain Peck, Twenty-first Illinois
Volunteers, for move-meat with his company upon Troy and Warrenton; Captain McNulta for
movement with one company of cavalry upon Bowling Green and Danville, and to the
commanding officer of Fourteenth Regiment Illinois Volunteers for movement with four
companies upon Huntsville and Fayette.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH MISSOURI,
Mexico, August 2, 1861.
COMMANDING OFFICER IOWA FORCES, Keokuk, Iowa.
SIR: Inclosed are instructions for your movement with your command upon Memphis,
Waterloo, Monticello and Edina. In selecting members for the committee of public safety you are
directed to appoint be sure to put upon it at least two or better still three of the most worthy and
prominent secessionists. It is the service of the secessionists I specially require and I desire that
you will give them plainly to understand that unless peace is preserved their property will be
immediately levied upon and their contribution collected at once in any kind of property at hand.
When once the secessionists are made to understand that upon peace in their midst depends
the safety of their families and property we shall soon have quiet again in North Missouri. Take
care that your men are orderly and commit no excesses.
Respectfully, sir, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH MISSOURI,
Mexico, August 2, 1861.
Colonel WORTHINGTON, Commanding Iowa Troops, Keokuk.
SIR: Immediately upon receipt of this order you will direct Colonel Bussey with his cavalry
to march forthwith to Memphis, in Scotland County, and having discharged the duty hereafter
specified in this order to effect a junction at Edina with the remainder of the forces under your
command. You will please put one of your infantry
regiments on march for Edina by the way of
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Waterloo and with the other regiment under your immediate command you will take boat for
Canton and proceed to Edina by way of Monticello. When you have effected a junction there
with your other forces report to me your operations and all matters of interest. Buy provisions for
your troops whenever you need them and give orders for payment on the chief commissary at
these headquarters.
You will disperse all bands of armed secessionists and if any are captured in arms send them
direct to this place for trial. I send you a printed notice to be distributed along the routes pursued
by your respective columns and direct the commanding officer to appoint committees specified
in the printed order, selecting for that purpose the most wealthy and prominent men in the county
preferring mostly the secessionists. The printed orders and accompanying letter will inform you
fully of the system I intend to adopt in Northeast Missouri. I wish to give the secessionists such
inducements as loss of property and danger to families to aid Union men in keeping the peace.
Notify all the population that the forces stand prepared to enforce this printed notice fully and
vigorously and commence it with your forces as soon as you think it desirable. Act promptly and
vigorously and I think peace will result to all parts of North Missouri.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding North Missouri.
NOTE.--The same instructions given to the commanding officer of the Iowa forces were
furnished Col. T. A. Marshall for his movement upon Paris; Captain Peck, Twenty-first Illinois
Volunteers, for move-meat with his company upon Troy and Warrenton; Captain McNulta for
movement with one company of cavalry upon Bowling Green and Danville, and to the
commanding officer of Fourteenth Regiment Illinois Volunteers for movement with four
companies upon Huntsville and Fayette.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH MISSOURI,
Mexico, August 4, 1861.
Capt. J. C. KELTON.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report for the information of the general commanding the
department that by a simultaneous movement I shall to-night or to-morrow morning occupy in
force the county seats of the nineteen counties lying east of the North Missouri Railroad and its
proposed continuation north to the Iowa line. The three Iowa regiments have been instructed to
move as follows: The cavalry regiment to Memphis, the county seat of Scotland County, and
thence to Edina, the county seat of Knox, near which it is reported that a camp of 2,500
secessionists has been established; one infantry regiment to march upon Edina direct from
Keokuk, the other to come down to Canton and thence to march upon Edina by way of
Monticello. These three regiments will effect a junction to-night or to-morrow morning at that
point. Brigadier-General Hurlbut is instructed to occupy Palmyra, Shelbyville and Bloomington,
the county seats of Marion, Shelby and Macon. He has probably done so to-day. Colonel
Marshall with 500 infantry, 100 cavalry and 2 pieces of horse artillery moved from this place
day before yesterday with the design of occupying Paris, the county seat of Monroe, and thence
upon New London and Hannibal; Captain McNulta with 100 cavalry upon Bowling Green, the
county seat of Pike County, from Montgomery City, on the line of North Missouri road. Captain
Peck, Twenty-first Illinois Volunteers, with 300 infantry from Warrenton on this road marched
yesterday and occupies to-day Troy, the county seat of Lincoln. Five companies of infantry
under Major Goddard occupy Fulton, the county seat of Callaway County. Lieutenant-Colonel
Johnson with 400 men occupies Huntsville, seat of Randolph
County, to-day. Macon City, the
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junction of Hannibal and Saint Joe road, is held by five companies of Sixteenth Illinois
Volunteers, and Sturgeon on line of North Missouri road by four companies of the Fourteenth.
If these movements have been made promptly and vigorously by to-morrow morning the
forces will occupy all those points, and as no place of retreat for armed parties of secessionists
will be left in all that region without the certainty of encountering some portion of the U. S.
forces it is expected that they will either be taken or dispersed. The object of these movements
was as much to put in operation the policy marked out in Special [General] Orders, No. 3, from
these headquarters, copies of which are inclosed, as with an expectation of finding any
considerable force in arms against the United States. I inclose also copy of instructions issued to
officers in command of these various columns as also copy of a letter addressed to J. H.
Sturgeon, Esq. These various papers will explain fully the policy I am pursuing and the reasons
therefor. In addition to the reasons thus assigned I have to say their by pursuing the system of
hunting out these guerrilla par-tics the whole force under my command will be as much
demoralized and as little fitted for active service in campaign as the marauding parties
themselves. I am compelled to pursue some policy however harsh which will enable me to
assemble my forces in a camp of instruction that I may establish that discipline and habit of
service essential to any efficiency in the field hereafter. Raw troops such as these grow worse
every day by this system of small detachments scattered over the country on police duty, and if it
be pursued for two months I shall have a mob and not an army to command.
I have selected a point near Brookfield, on the Hannibal and Saint Joe Railroad, for a camp
for all the forces under my command. Water is abundant and good and the ground fine rolling
prairie with timber at hand on both sides. I shall move to that point as soon as the quartermaster
in Saint Louis can send forward transportation. It is my design in moving to that point to occupy
in succession Columbia, Fayette, Glasgow and Keytesville.
I am, captain, respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Brigadier- Commanding in North Missouri.
SAINT LOUIS, August 8, 1861.
General S. A. HURLBUT:
If the train was fired into investigate it immediately. Find what section [the] party which fired
came from and immediately occupy it with Illinois or Iowa regiments, quartering the men in
houses and demanding subsistence, &c., for them in compliance with Special [General]
Orders,No. 3. It is to enforce this order promptly and rigorously that I wish to keep your force
concentrated. As soon as you can ascertain from what county those who fired came from march
instantly with a whole regiment to occupy it. Shoot any who were concerned in the firing. My
headquarters will be here. Keep me advised by telegraph every day.
JNO. POPE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS U.S. FORCES,
Jefferson City, Mo. August 26, 1861.
Col. WILLIAM H. WORTHINGTON, Fifth Iowa Volunteers:
See E. B. McPherson, a true Union man, who will show you a copy of the Boonville Patriot.
Bring all the printing material, type, &c., with you. Arrest J. L. Stevens and bring him with you
and some copies of the paper he edits. Bailey is a particularly obnoxious person and should be
arrested. B. S. Wilson & Co. have been furnishing the rebels with groceries. You may therefore
pay him a visit and if you require it draw two or three
days' supplies for your command, keeping
49
an account of the amount taken, its value, &c. Give secessionists to understand what to expect if
it becomes necessary to visit them again. Take all canteens you may find from a tin-shop which
is reported to have been working for the rebels. It is reported that the proprietor of the ferry-boat
has observed his part of the engagement entered into as far as practicable but there is no doubt
that he is deceived daily as to the character of the parties he is crossing, and now so many will
want to cross that his boat will be taken possession of if not given freely.
U.S. GRANT,
Brigadier-General.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, August 31, 1861.
Colonel WILLIAMS, [Third] Iowa Regiment, Brookfield.
COLONEL: Immediately upon receipt of this letter you will proceed to Palmyra with all the
effective men of your command, leaving the Missouri regiment(Morgan's) to occupy Brookfield
and guard the public stores there. The object of your movement is to open the road which is
reported to be obstructed near Palmyra and occupy Palmyra so as to insure the safety of travel.
You will at once dispatch a messenger to General Hurlbut with the inclosed order and make sure
that he gets it. You can send for your regimental baggage as soon as the road is clear as your
station for some time to come will be Palmyra or Hannibal.
I am, colonel, your obedient servant,
[JNO. POPE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.]
SAINT JOE, September 15, 1861.
Major-General FREMONT:
Road to Hannibal open except Platte River bridge (finished to-morrow) and all quiet.
Secessionists numbering some 2,500 in detached bands retreating southward to cross river below
Independence. I have sent column of 1,000 men and three pieces of artillery under Colonel Smith
to march rapidly from this place in pursuit, and the Iowa regiment with one piece of artillery and
fifty irregular horse to move rapidly from Cameron upon Liberty and there effect junction with
Smith. There is no doubt in my judgment that the large train of plunder will be captured, though
as usual I presume the forces will disperse, and being cavalry will mostly escape unless Smith
can surprise them. I have put all irregular forces--home guards and others--in motion scouting
the country on all sides. Colonels Cranor and Edwards-the first commanding irregular forces of
Missouri Volunteers, the second about 600 Iowa State troops--will be here to-day having swept
whole region north of this place clean. I put them immediately in motion along both sides of
railroad to clean out the small squads remaining in the woods from Saint Joseph to Chillicothe.
In five days North Missouri will be again quiet and the regiments of Tindall, Moore, Foster,
Morgan and Glover will return. So you will please send Tindall's regiment as soon as possible to
Chillicothe.
I go east to-day to urge into the field the regiments named. There are some disturbances of
minor importance in the extreme northeast and I must get to Canton and Keokuk without
awaiting the return of Smith's command. Can Glover and Bussey get their cavalry armed at
once?
JNO. POPE,
Brigadier-General.
HUDSON, MO., September 16, 1861.
50
General FREMONT:
Just arrived here on my way to Keokuk. Find Ohio regiments on their way to Utica. If you
can send Tindall's regiment to Chillicothe immediately the Sixteenth Illinois and Third Iowa can
also be forwarded to Lexington. There will be no more considerable trouble in North Missouri.
JNO. POPE,
Brigadier-General.
HEADQUARTERS WESTERN DEPARTMENT,
Saint Louis, October 26, 1861.
Col. G. M. DODGE,
Fourth Iowa Volunteers, Commanding, Rolla, Mo.
SIR: Your letter of the 24th instant in relation to prisoners taken belonging to Harris's and
Wood's gang of rebels has been received. In reply I beg leave to state that I do not know what
disposition can be made with these men as there is no military commission in session here. I
think, however, the best course to have pursued would have been to have shot them when they
were captured.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHAUNCEY McKEEVER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL MISSOURI,
Otterville, December 29, 1861.
To the officers commanding detachments of Eighth Iowa, Seventh Missouri, light artillery,
and cavalry belonging to forces in this department:
Immediately upon receipt of this order you will concentrate your forces at Kansas City where
the senior officer present will assume the command. He will then proceed to Sedalia by way of
Pleasant Hill and Warrensburg breaking up and dispersing all camps of rebels and armed squads,
disarming every person who cannot give undoubted proof of loyalty and arresting and bringing
to Sedalia all persons concerned in any way in having given aid, assistance or countenance to
Price's army.
JNO. POPE,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. 28.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, January 10, 1862.
1. The order for the military commission to meet at Wellsville by Special Orders, No. 17, on
January 8, 1862, current series, from these headquarters, is hereby revoked and the following
detail substituted to meet on Monday, the 13th instant at 10 a.m., or as soon thereafter as
practicable for the trial of such persons as may be brought before it.
Detail for the commission: 1, Lieut. Col. Samuel A. Holmes, Tenth Missouri Volunteers; 2,
Capt. Richard Y. Lanius, Eighty-first Ohio Volunteers; 3, Capt. A. C. Todd, Tenth Missouri
Volunteers; 4, Surg. John O. Edwards, Third Iowa; 5, Capt. Martin Armstrong, Eighty-first Ohio,
who will act as judge-advocate and recorder.
The commission will sit without regard to hours.
By order of Major-General Halleck:
J. C. KELTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
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HEADQUARTERS NORTH MISSOURI RAILROAD,
Saint Louis, January 27, 1862.
Maj. W. M. STONE,
Third Iowa Volunteers, Comdg. Post, Mexico, Mo.
MAJOR: The commanding general desires me to advise you in regard to Col. Jeff Jones, now
held as a prisoner by you, that you will release him from confinement upon the following
conditions, viz: He must give his bond in the sum of $10,000 that he will not leave the county of
Callaway, Mo., without the written permission of Brigadier-General Schofield and that he will
report in person at any military post in his command immediately after a notice to do so shall
have been left at his residence. Upon the execution of his bond as above you will give him a
certificate of release and a safeguard forbidding any United States or State troops from molesting
him or his family in person or property until the charges against him shall have been examined
and disposed of.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. W. MARSH.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT NORTH MISSOURI RAILROAD,
Saint Louis, Mo., February 26, 1862.
Captain HERRON,
Third Iowa Volunteers, Commanding Huntsville, Mo.
CAPTAIN: You will be guided in your treatment of prisoners by the inclosed circular. In all
eases of bad and dangerous men they will be kept and evidence sought. Soldiers from Price's
army may be put under bonds if judged advisable and they have not been engaged in violations
of the laws of war. Negroes will not as a general thing be regarded as property subject to seizure,
and when taken for urgent reasons the same must be immediately reported to this office.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHARLES S. SHELDON,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS SAINT LOUIS DISTRICT,
Saint Louis, Mo., March 13, 1862.
Major CALDWELL,
Third Iowa Cavalry, Mexico, Mo.
MAJOR: You were correct in deciding that no terms but unconditional surrender of
themselves and their arms could be granted to the rebels.
It may be well, however, to let them know that those who come in voluntarily are likely to be
treated much more leniently than others. Thus General Halleck's circular provides that those who
give themselves up may be released on bonds and oath and receive back all property taken from
them except that of a military character while those captured are to be held as prisoners of war.
It must of course rest with the military authorities to decide after a full knowledge of the case
whether a prisoner who has surrendered himself voluntarily can be released on any terms, and no
promise of release can be given before arrest or surrender unless the character and conduct of the
party is known.
Those who commit acts of rebellion and insurrection within the territory occupied by our
troops are not entitled to be treated even as prisoners of war and probably will not be much
longer. If the influential secessionists want to preserve peace and save their deluded friends from
severe punishment they may as well take the fact above
mentioned as the basis of their actions.
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Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. M. SCHOFIELD,
Brigadier- General.
George W. Jones, of Iowa, former Delegate in Congress from Michigan and Wisconsin, U.S.
surveyor-general, U.S. Senator from Iowa, and late minister resident from the United States at
Bogota, New Granada, was arrested in New York by an order of the Secretary of State on the
20th day of December, 1861. His arrest was a precautionary measure to prevent his carrying into
effect a purpose he had repeatedly professed that he entertained--of going South to join his
fortunes and his efforts with those of the rebels. In a letter dated Bogota, New Granada, May 17,
1861, addressed by Jones to Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, President, &c., as his "noble and
very dear friend," Jones dwells at length upon his sympathy with Davis and his cause; his
admiration of the system of slavery; his hatred of all friends of freedom, and his own wrongs in
being compelled by public opinion to emancipate nine slaves during his residence in the
Territory of Iowa. He says:
You may well say as you do in your letter to me that you "know you (I) will sympathize with
us (you)." How can I feel other, dear old friend college mate and colleague, than sympathy for
you and the people whom you represent on such an occasion? Born in what they tauntingly call a
free State (Indiana), brought up in Missouri, and educated them and in Kentucky, and having
resided for the last thirty-four years in Michigan, Wisconsin and Iowa, l cannot but be well
acquainted with the principles, feelings and actions of the parties to the contest which is now
going on in my beloved country.
When I went to Wisconsin, then Michigan, I took with me my servants whom at their request
I purchased, they having been born in Illinois and made slaves under the ordinance of 1787.
Abolitionists who like Doty, Bronson, Burnett, et al., came to my house to share my hospitality
told my slaves that they were free, and actually made the ignorant but happy Paul to believe he
was free and to bring suit for himself and his sister Charlotte, both of whom you may recollect as
they waited on you when you visited us. I had a vexations and long law suit with Paul but
triumphed over him and his abolution advisers. I served in Congress as Delegate from Michigan
and Wisconsin two years each, and was then beaten for the third term by Doty because I served
as a second in the Cilley and Graves duel and was a slave-owner. In 1841 I was removed from
the office of surveyor-general of Wisconsin and Iowa by General Harrison's administration
through Doty's influence as the then Delegate simply because I was a Democrat and sympathized
with the South; no single objection having been made against me of any other character. Mr.
Polk, God bless him, restored me in 1845, and put out the long-legged black Republican Jim
Wilson, of New Hampshire, who had superseded me. I was transferred from the surveyor
General's office in December, 1848, to the U.S. Senate, and driven therefrom by the Abolitionists
in 1859, no other objection having been made to me save that I was a followed of the South and
a "dough-face" for such men as yourself, Clay and other Southerners. If therefore I had no other
reason for sympathizing with the South the bad treatment which I have received at the hands of
Northern Abolitionists would have made me do so.
Further on in the same letter he says:
My prayers are all regularly offered up for the reunion of the States and for the peace,
concord and happiness of my country. But let what may come to pass you may rely upon it as
you say that neither I nor mine will be found in the ranks of our (your) enemies. May God
Almighty avert civil war, but if unhappily it shall come you may--I think would without doubt--
count upon me and mine and hosts of other friends standing shoulder to shoulder in the ranks
with you and our other Southern friends and relatives
whose rights like my own have been
53
disregarded by the abolitionists. I love Wisconsin and Iowa for the honors conferred by them on
me and because I served them always faithfully; but I will not make war with them against the
South whose rights they shamefully neglected.
He concludes this long letter by saying: "The dissolution of the Union will probably be the
cause of my own ruin as well as that of my country, and may cause me and mine to go South."
Jones states in this letter that his latest advices from the United States were of the date of
February 22, 1861, so that he had barely heard of the installation of his correspondent as
President of the insurgent Confederacy. Fearing, however, that his letter might not reach its
destination he sent a copy by a subsequent mail accompanied by a letter dated Bogota, May 23,
1861, in which he says:
It will not be many months, I guess, before my successor shall present himself here. I shall
then return home immediately to try and so arrange my financial matters as to be enabled to save
my delightful residence as a home for my noble and beloved wife and our children. Should I fail
in that I know not what I shall do or whither to look for another, for I shall not be willing to
continue at Dubuque or in. Iowa or the North.
I wish I had taken John M. Bass' advice a few years ago and had sold off the most of my then
valuable property and gone down to Louisiana, Mississippi or Texas and had purchased a cotton
plantation as he did on credit, paying for it in a few years thereafter. Now my property is
unsalable and I apprehend it will grow worse if the reunion of the States be not speedily effected.
To cap the climax the dissolution of the Union will absolutely blast all my hopes. If Breckinridge
or Lane had been elected business and prosperity would have soon revived, and besides I would
doubtless have been retained here. I want you to write me and to give at length your views and
opinions of the present and prospective condition of the country and advise me what to do. Your
letter shall be confidential entirely if you wish it. I have, dear Jeffie, as your wife calls you, more
confidence in your opinion than in that of any living man. The secession of the States leaves us
National Demo