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Official Army Records
Miscellaneous-2 1861-1865
HEADQUARTERS ROCK ISLAND BARRACKS,
Rock Island, III., May 9, 1864.
Col. WILLIAM HOFFMAN, U.S. Army,
Commissary. General of Prisoners:
COLONEL: I have the honor to make the following report on that portion of your letter of
instructions dated April 16, 1864, that refers to occupying the prison barracks for other than the
purpose for which they were originally intended. Inclosed I hand you plan of west half of prison
inclosure. Though very rough, it will answer the present purpose. There is one error in or a
misunderstanding of Surgeon Clark's report in regard to the use of three barracks within the
prison inclosure for distributing quartermaster's and commissary stores. One barrack is used for
issuing commissary stores to the prisoners. The stores are hauled from the commissary building
outside of the west front on days of issue to the issuing barrack to the right on entering the inner
gate. In a conversation with Surgeon Clark subsequent to the receipt of your letter of the 16th
ultimo he told me that he considered this a good arrangement. This plan was adopted both for
safety and convenience. It obviates the necessity of a long double line of guards, extending from
the inner gate to the commissary building on the west front. Under the old mode for issuing not
only a heavy detail for guard was required, but the passage-way from the inner to the outer gate
was blocked to a great extent for two out of every ten days, interfering with the teams passing in
for fuel, police purposes, and with passing out and in of the various details of prisoners for work
outside of the prison. Generally the issues of clothing are made to small squads under guard at
the provost-marshal's office. Occasionally, when there is a large number to receive clothing, it is
taken inside and issued from an empty barrack. I had designed using the first barrack to the right
on entering the outer gate for issuing commissary stores after the hospital and temporary fences
are removed. With the above explanations I trust it will meet with your approval. Every effort
has been and is now being made with a view to the removal of the troops and the hospital outside
of the prison inclosure. The difficulty of obtaining lumber has been a serious one, and it may still
delay the removal of the hospitals. The barracks for the Thirty-seventh Iowa Volunteers are just
now ready, and they are moving in them. Surgeon Clark suggested that the seven barracks they
had been occupying remain fenced off, and that they be used to quarantine, not allowing
communication between the newly arrived prisoners and the others until we are satisfied that
they are free from contagious diseases. It met my hearty approval and I hope it will meet with
your approbation. There is a fair prospect that the new prisoners' hospital will be completed
within two weeks from this date. That will clear the thirteen barracks in the prison inclosure that
are now used for hospital wards. The cases of variola are decreasing rapidly and the prospects
are good for a comparatively healthy camp in a short time.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. J. JOHNSON,
Colonel Fourth Regt., Veteran Reserve Corps, Comdg. Post.
HEADQUARTERS ROCK ISLAND BARRACKS,
Rock Island, Ill., May 31, 1864.
Respectfully forwarded to Col. William Hoffman, Commissary-General of Prisoners, with
the remark that I have just returned from a careful inspection of the prison. I find the police and
everything in excellent condition. The grounds outside the
prison inclosure are being improved
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as fast as practicable. Received Friday morning 179 prisoners from Little Rock, per steamer, via
Saint Louis; Saturday, 331 from Louisville per rail: all very dirty and badly clothed. Health of
the Louisville squint, good; of the Little Rock squad, bad. A few cases of measles among the
sick. The Thirty-seventh Iowa Regiment is ordered away; a 100-days' Illinois regiment is to take
their place. This change will occur in a day or two. When it takes place this depot will be better
garrisoned than at present.
A. J. JOHNSON,
Colonel -Fourth Regiment Veteran Reserve Corps, Comdg. Post.
CAMP FORD, June 7, 1864.
General E. KIRBY SMITH, C. S. Army:
GENERAL: We respectfully inclose to you two communications addressed to the U. S.
officer commanding the Department of the Gulf and to Rear-Admiral Farragut, U.S. Navy, and at
the same time request that the supplies therein asked for be allowed to come through your lines,
and that the communications be forwarded with that assurance. In view of the urgent necessity
existing for these supplies, of the protracted confinement of these prisoners, of the official delay
always attendant on such applications, of the great distance which the supplies must be
transported, if permitted, we would suggest the propriety of allowing some one of the officers
confined here to accompany the application to New Orleans, on parole, and return with the
supplies here.
Such a permission would be the highest assurance of your desire to provide for the prisoners
within your department, and could not but be universally appreciated as honorable liberality on
your part.
We remain, general, very respectfully, &c.,
CHARLES C. NOTT,
Colonel 176th New York Volunteers.
J. B. LEAKE,
Lieutenant-Colonel Twentieth Iowa Infantry.
JOHN COWAN,
Lieutenant-Colonel Nineteenth Kentucky Infantry.
E. B. HALL,
Capt. and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Department of the Gulf
CAMP FORD, TEX., June 7, 1864.
GENERAL COMDG. U. S. FORCES, DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF:
SIR: By permission of the Confederate authorities' we transmit to you the following
statement, viz: There are now here 831 U.S. prisoners, captured at various times, ranging from
January 1, 1863, to September 29, 1863. These men, who have been prisoners from eight to
seventeen months, are in the greatest destitution. Many have been without a change of
underclothing upward of half a year, a large part are without shoes, numbers are naked from the
waist, and some have nothing but their ragged blankets girt about them in the place of trousers.
No great city presents scenes of more squalid destitution than they afford. At the same time we
find that while these prisoners have been apparently neglected and overlooked supplies have
been sent by their Government, both of subsistence and clothing, to the prisoners at Richmond,
and exchanges are daily made from men much more recently captured. The Confederate
authorities inform us that they are unable to fill requisitions for clothing at this time or to afford
these wretched men relief. We have consequently to seek it through them of our own
Government. There are also here 3,696 prisoners captured
during the past spring. Most of these
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were taken on the battle-field and a considerable number have lost knapsacks, blankets, &c. For
the first-class (old prisoners) an entire suit of clothing is needed to each man, for the second
(those captured in the spring) a supply of underclothing and shoes. In the course of a few months
these last will require also an entire suit per man. You can best determine what to send them.
There has also been much sickness among the old prisoners and it is now rapidly increasing
among all. A supply of medicine is needed immediately, which cannot be procured here and
without which great mortality during the summer months is almost certain to occur. We annex a
schedule of the supplies asked for and most earnestly and strenuously beg that, without
postponement or delay, they be forwarded to us.
We remain, sir, very respectfully, &c.,
CHARLES C. NOTT,
Colonel 176th New York Volunteers.
J. B. LEAKE,
Lieutenant-Colonel Twentieth Iowa Infantry.
A. D. ROSE,
Lieutenant-Colonel Twenty-sixth Indiana Volunteers.
JOHN COWAN,
Lieutenant-Colonel Nineteenth Kentucky Volunteer -Infantry.
E. B. HALL,
Capt. and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. Department of the Gulf.
CINCINNATI, OHIO, June 2, 1864.
Col. J. P. SANDERSON:
SIR: I have the honor to communicate to you the following as the result of my day's
investigation: I have formed the acquaintance of a Mr. Wiehl, of Lexington, Ky. I met him
yesterday, having previously seen him in company with Shepherd. He promises from
appearances to be of much use to me here, and I shall therefore offer a synopsis of his
antecedents. He was raised in Butler County, Iowa, and went to Kentucky, abolition in
sentiments, but soon found slavery a blessing, and in the outset of the rebellion arrayed himself
against his Government. He was taken prisoner, and says he has twice taken the oath of
allegiance. He is still an uncompromising black-hearted traitor, says the Government has ruined
him in property, but she can never rob him of his principles. With all this seeming confidence in
me I think he has yet misgivings, and until I eradicate it thoroughly I shall not gain his profound
secrets. A rebel trusts you by degrees. The longer you are with him the more suspicious or
confidential he grows. He says the Kentucky rebels must know a man before they will confide in
him; that detectives have been all through Kentucky and have ruined many of its best citizens.
He says he has heard hints in Lexington of this secret organization, but thinks it does not exist
there; that he is not a member; says it exists in Illinois, Indiana, and in this city; says the
Democratic party of Illinois are well armed; intimated to me that there is trouble brewing in
Kentucky; that there will be fighting there, and he wishes to remain near in order to participate in
it. He pointed out to me Colonel Grigsby, who formerly commanded in the Federal service a
Kentucky regiment; says that Colonel Wolford, commanding a Kentucky regiment of Federal
troops, told the rebels that his regiment should shed every drop of its blood in defense of slavery
in Kentucky. This was some time ago, but he thinks the colonel has modified his conversation.
This man Wiehl says there is a negro man at the Burnet House who ran away from a gentleman
in Lexington, Ky., and who will take $100 for the black man; says the negro told him for to buy
him of his master and he would refund him the money. W. having told the negro that his master
would take nothing less than $300, he expects to swindle
the negro out of $200, you see; told me
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of an old lady in Missouri in whom the Federals have the utmost confidence, but who cooks for
and secretes Quantrill's men. She was in Kentucky this spring, and told her rebel friends she
must go back to Missouri, as she loved the bushwhackers better than any other class of men. She
gives Quantrill most of his information, and brags that she has enabled him to kill many Federal
officers and men. She resides probably in Buchanan or Platte County. I will get her name.
Respectfully,
E. F. H.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,
Hilton Head, S. C., August 17 [19], 1864.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
Chief of Staff U.S. Armies, Washington, D.C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose the original and the transcribed copy of a document
received this day from some of our officers in Charleston. It is addressed to the President of the
United States, and signed by Major-General Stoneman, Col. T. J. Harrison, Eighth Indiana
Cavalry, and Col. J. B. Dorr, Eighth Iowa Cavalry. It gives a heartrending account of the
condition of our private soldiers now prisoners of war at Andersonville, Ga. This document was
received by the hands of Private Prescott Tracy, Eighty-second New York Volunteers. Private
Tracy was exchanged yesterday at Port Royal Ferry, to make up a small deficiency due at the last
exchange at Charleston Harbor. Upon the proposed subject of exchange I have written fully in
another letter.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Major-General, Commanding.
C. S. PRISON, Charleston, S. C., August 14, 1864.
The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
The condition of the enlisted men belonging to the Federal armies now prisoners to the
Confederate rebel forces is such that it be, comes our duty, and the duty of every commissioned
officer, to make known the facts in the case to the Government of the United States and to use
every honorable effort to secure a general exchange of prisoners, thereby relieving thousands of
our comrades from the horrors now surrounding them. For some time past there has been a
concentration of prisoners from all parts of the rebel territory to the State of Georgia, the
commissioned officers being confined at Macon and the enlisted men at Andersonville. Recent
movements of the Federal armies by General Sherman have compelled the removal of the
prisoners to other points, and it is now understood they will be removed to Savannah, Ga., and
Columbia and Charleston, S. C., but no change of this kind holds out any prospect of relief to our
poor men. Indeed, as the localities selected are far more unhealthy, there must be an increase
rather than a diminution of suffering.
Colonel Hill, provost-marshal-general, C. S. Army, at Atlanta, stated to one of the
undersigned that there were 35,000 prisoners at Andersonville, and by all accounts from the U.S.
soldiers who have been confined there the number is not overstated by him. These 35,000 are
confined in a field of some thirty acres inclosed by a board fence, heavily guarded; about onethird
have various kinds of indifferent shelter, but upward of 20,000 are wholly without shelter
or shade of any kind and are exposed to the storms and rains which are of almost daily
occurrence. The cold dews of night and the more terrible effects of the sun striking with almost
tropical fierceness upon their unprotected heads, this mass of men jostle and crowd each other up
and down the limits of their inclosure in storm or sun,
and then lie down on the pitiless earth at
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night with no other covering than the clothing upon their backs, few of them having even a
blanket.
Upon entering the prison, every man is deliberately stripped of money and other property,
and as no clothing or blankets are ever supplied to their prisoners by the C. S. A. authorities, the
condition of the apparel of soldiers just from an active campaign can be easily imagined.
Thousands are without pants or coats, and hundreds without even a pair of drawers to cover their
nakedness. To these men, as indeed to all prisoners, there is issued three-fourths of a pound of
bread or meal, and one eighth of a pound of meat per day; this is the entire ration, and upon it the
prisoner must live or die. The meal is often unsifted and sour, and the meat such as in the North
is consigned to the soap-maker. Such are the rations upon which Union soldiers are fed by the
rebel authorities and by which they are barely holding on to life. But to starvation and exposure,
to sun and storm, add the sickness which prevails to a most alarming and terrible extent, on an
average 100 die daily. It is impossible that any Union soldier should know all the facts pertaining
to this terrible mortality, as they are not paraded by the rebel authorities.
Such statements as the following made by Sergeant Hindman, Ninety-eighth Ohio Infantry,
speak eloquent testimony. Said the sergeant: "Of twelve of us who were captured, six died, four
are in the hospital--I never expect to see them again--there are but two of us left."
In 1862 at Montgomery, Ala., under far more favorable circumstances, the prisoners being
protected by sheds, from 150 to 200 were sick from diarrhea and chills out of 700; the same
percentage would give 7,000 sick at Andersonville. It needs no comment, no efforts at wordpainting
to make such a picture stand out boldly in most horrible colors, nor is this all. Among
the ill-fated of the many who have suffered amputation in consequence of injuries received
before capture, sent from rebel hospitals before their wounds were healed; they are eloquent
witnesses against the barbarities of which they are victims. If to these facts is added this, that
nothing more demoralizes soldiers and develops the evil passions of man than starvation, the
terrible condition of Union prisoners at Andersonville can be readily imagined. They are fast
losing hope and becoming utterly reckless of life. Numbers crazed by their sufferings wander
about in a state of idiocy; others deliberately cross the "dead-line" and are remorselessly shot
down. In behalf of these men we most earnestly appeal to the President of the United States.
Few of them have been captured except in the front of battle in the deadly encounter, and
only when overpowered by numbers; they constitute as gallant a portion of our armies as carry
our banner anywhere. If released they would soon return to again do vigorous battle for our
cause. We are told that the only obstacle in the way of exchange is the status of enlisted negroes
captured from our armies; the United States claiming that the cartel covers all who serve under
its flag and the Confederate States refusing to consider the negro soldiers, heretofore slaves, as
prisoners of war. We beg leave to suggest some facts bearing upon the question of exchange
which we would urge upon this consideration.
Is it not consistent with the national honor, without waiving the claim that the negro soldiers
shall be treated as prisoners of war, yet to effect an exchange of the white soldiers? The two
classes are treated differently by the enemy, the white is confined in such prisons as Libby and
Andersonville, starved and treated with barbarism unknown to civilized nations, the black, on the
contrary, is seldom imprisoned; they are distributed among the citizens or employed upon
Government works. Under these circumstances they receive enough to eat and are worked no
harder than accustomed to; they are neither starved nor killed off by the pestilence in the
dungeons of Richmond and Charleston. It is true they are again made slaves, but their slavery is
freedom and happiness compared with the cruel existence imposed upon our gallant men. They
are not bereft of hope, as are the Union soldiers dying by inches. Their chances of escape are
tenfold greater than those of the white soldiers, and
their condition, viewed in all its lights, is
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tolerable in comparison with that of the prisoners of war now languishing in the dens and pens of
"Secession."
While, therefore, believing the claims of our Government in matters of exchange to be just,
we yet are profoundly impressed with the conviction that the circumstances of the classes of
soldiers are so widely different that the Government can honorably consent to an exchange,
waiting for a time to establish the principle justly claimed to be applicable in the case.
Let 35,000 suffering, starving, and dying enlisted men aid this appeal to the Chief Magistrate
of the Republic for prompt and decisive action in their behalf; 35,000 heroes will be made happy.
For the 1,800 commissioned officers, now prisoners, we urge nothing. Although desirous of
returning to our duty, we can bear imprisonment with more fortitude if the enlisted men, whose
sufferings we know to be intolerable, were restored to liberty and life.
J. B. DORR,
Colonel Eighth Iowa Cavalry.
T. J. HARRISON,
Colonel Eighth Indiana Cavalry.
GEORGE STONEMAN,
Major-General, U. S. Volunteers.
HEADQUARTERS ROCK ISLAND BARRACKS, ILL.,
September 11, 1861.
Respectfully forwarded to Col. William Hoffman, U.S. Army, Commissary-General of
Prisoners.
The condition of the prison is as herein stated. The One hundred and thirty-third Illinois (100.
days' men) left on the 12th instant. We have now here the One hundred and ninety-seventh
Pennsylvania, four companies of the Forty-eighth Iowa (both 100-days' men), and the three
companies Second Battalion. Circular 65, current series, Adjutant-General's Office, will cause a
further depletion of the garrison--though General Paine, district commander, has promised us
more troops, and they are expected daily.
A. J. JOHNSON,
Colonel Fourth Regiment Veteran Reserve Corps, Comdg. Post.
MANSFIELD, OHIO, September 26, 1864.
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
DEAR SIR: Allow me again to urge your aid to get a special exchange for Maj. W. Stanhope
Marshall, of the Fifth (I think) Iowa Volunteers. He is now at Charleston, S. C. Aside from his
merits as an officer, and his long imprisonment, there is this additional reason for an exchange:
His father, John S. Marshall, of this county, is very feeble, and will probably not live two
months, and will leave a large property, the care of which and of his mother and family will
devolve on Colonel Marshall. The family is in deep distress, and I sincerely trust you will send
this note with such a request to General Foster as will secure the exchange of Colonel Marshall. I
shall feel personally grateful for this favor.
Very truly, yours,
JOHN SHERMAN.
NEW YORK, October 26, 1864.
General THOMAS:
GENERAL: I am a paroled prisoner of war just arrived from Rich-mend, Va., and previous
to that from Charleston, S. C. We were confined in the
jail yard of the latter place several weeks.
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While there I learned that two of your scouts were in solitary confinement in jail, kept on one
meal of mush and a little meat per day. I found means to communicate with them through a
negro boy that took their food to them. They gave their names as James Pike, Fourth Ohio
Volunteer Cavalry, Company A; Charles R. Gray, Fifth Iowa Cavalry, Company D, and say they
were taken on the 5th of June near Augusta, Ga., in uniform and under arms, and narrowly
escaped being hanged. They are suffering very much, not being allowed to wash themselves or
clothes but seldom, and, in spite of all, are true as steel and breathe vengeance against the rebels
when they get out. They were much disappointed that they did not go with those who were
exchanged last month according to arrangements made between Generals Hood and Sherman.
Trusting you will be able to do something for their release,
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOS. B. STOKES,
Ensign, U. S. Navy.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Nashville, Tenn., November 1, 1864.
Respectfully referred to the Commissary-General of Prisoners, with request that two rebel
prisoners of war be selected as hostages for the within-named men, viz, Corpl. James Pike,
Company A, Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and Private Charles R. Gray, Company D, Fifth
Iowa Cavalry, two scouts sent by me into the country occupied by the rebel army in May last. I
would also request that the rebel authorities be informed that hostages have been selected and
will be subjected to the same treatment as they inflict upon the two soldiers named.
By command of Major-General Thomas:
WM. D. WHIPPLE,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
WASHINGTON, D.C., December 1, 1864.
Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER,
Commissioner for Exchange of Prisoners, Fort Monroe, Va.:
GENERAL: By authority of the Secretary of War and in the absence of General Wessells,
Inspector and Commissary. General of Prisoners, I have the honor to inform you that Corpl. R.
H. Curry, Company F, and Private W. J. Neeley, Company H, Twelfth South Carolina Regiment,
prisoners of war confined at Fort Delaware, have been selected as hostages for Corpl. James
Pike, Company A, Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and Private Charles R. Gray, Company D,
Fifth Iowa Cavalry, two scouts sent into the country occupied by the rebel army in May last by
William D. Whipple, brigadier-general and assistant adjutant-general, headquarters Army of the
Cumberland.
It is respectfully requested that the rebel authorities may be informed that said hostages have
been selected, and that they will be subjected to the same treatment as they inflict upon the two
soldiers named.
Inclosed please find copy of the order from this office authorizing the selection of the
hostages, and of communication from General Schoepf, commanding Fort Delaware, reporting
the execution of the order.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. T. HARTZ,
Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.
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HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA,
OFFICE OF COMMISSIONER FOR EXCHANGE,
Port Monroe, Va. December 9, 1864.
Hon. ROBERT OULD,
Confederate Commissioner for Exchange:
I have the honor to forward you copies of communications regarding the confinement as
hostages of Corpl. R. H. Curry, Company F, and Private W. J. Neeley, Company H, Twelfth
South Carolina Regiment, prisoners of war, at Fort Delaware, for Corpl. James Pike, Company
A, Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and Private Charles R. Gray, Company D, Fifth Iowa
Cavalry, two scouts sent into the country occupied by the rebel army in May last, by William D.
Whipple, brigadier-general and assistant adjutant-general, Army of the Cumberland.
I have the honor to inform you that these hostages will be subjected to the same treatment as
your authorities may inflict upon Corpl. James Pike and Private Charles R. Gray.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
BENJ. F. BUTLER,
Major-General and Commissioner for Exchange.
Evidence elicited at the headquarters of the post concerning the mutiny in Federal prison,
Cahaba, Ala., January 20, between the hours [of] 3 and 4 a.m.
Arrest--George Schellar, alias Captain Hanchett, called. Was told by commandant that he
would not be required to give evidence against himself, but that if he had any voluntary
statement to make to proceed. Said he is captain of Company M, Sixteenth Illinois Cavalry. At
time captured was acting assistant adjutant-general Colonel Capron's staff, commanding brigade.
The inducement for him to pass himself as a citizen was that Colonel Kofer said that the citizens
would be passed through the lines immediately. Was not the instigator of the mutiny, but took
part in it.
Arrest-Private Robert Cox, Company G, One hundred and fifteenth Ohio, called. Does not
know anything about the mutiny. Heard a noise and got up and walked toward the front entrance,
and Captain Hanchett grabbed him by the arm, handed him a musket, and told him to take it,
which he did, and set it down about two paces from the place where he received it. Captain
Hanchett continued to run to and fro from the entrance of the prison, calling for 100 men, and
when he failed to get them ordered everybody to their bunks. Does not know how many were
engaged in the mutiny. Heard the men speaking of the attempt to break out one week before, but
does not remember any names. He recognized Captain Hanchett as the man who placed the
musket in his hands.
Witness--Francis M. Prim, M, Nineteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, called. Recognizes Robert
Cox, One hundred and fifteenth Ohio, as one of three men who charged up to the entrance with a
musket in his hand. When they charged the guard they ran. Recognizes Captain Hanchett as the
man who ran over him in returning from the main entrance to the middle of the prison, as also he
who called for 100 men.
Arrest--Private John W. Lightbody, Company D, Eighteenth Ohio Infantry, called. Knew
nothing about the mutiny until the alarm was given. When he got up saw three muskets lying
between the bunks at the entrance. Knew nothing about the plan to capture the guards. Knows
nothing about Captain Hanchett. Heard men crying out "the guard has been captured," and "get
up." Captain Hanchett had on citizens' clothes and wore a heavy beard.
Witness--Private George [W] Salter, D, Third Iowa Cavalry, called. Recognizes Captain
Hanchett and Private Cox as being the two men who charged the guard at the entrance with
muskets. Mentions that John W. Lightbody, Eighteenth Ohio,
told him the evening before the
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mutiny that it was the purpose of the prisoners to break out that night. Recognizes Lightbody as
the man who was busily engaged in the middle of the prison when 100 men were called for.
Heard him say, "Come on, boys," and when they did not respond Captain Hanchett said, "Let
them go; they are a damned set of cowards."
Witness--Citizen Jacob E. Lachler, passenger on steamer Prairie State, citizen of
Pennsylvania, called. Belongs to same mess as Captain Hanchett. Knew nothing of mutiny until
he heard a guard halloo. Captain Hanchett represented himself as a citizen. Did not tell his mess
of the intended mutiny.
Citizen E. McCullough, pilot steamer Prairie State, plying between Nashville and Saint
Louis, stated substantially the same as Lachler.
Witness--Citizen E. Baker, New York, captured on the turnpike, five miles from Nashville,
called. In Government employ. First he knew of the disturbance was that he heard some one
hallooing. Captain Hanchett messes with him, but did not inform the mess of the mutiny. It was
the prevalent opinion among the prisoners that Captain H. was the instigator of the plot.
Recognizes Hanchett as the man who went into the prison under the name of George Schellar.
Recognizes Hanchett and Schellar as identical.
Arrest--George W. Riley, corporal, Twenty-seventh Illinois Infantry, called. Knows nothing
at all about the mutiny.
Arrest--Private G. Hammarberg, H, Ninth Minnesota Infantry, called. Told George Salter, D,
Third Iowa Cavalry, that George Riley told him that a certain whistle would blow, and if he
heard another whistle he must get up and give help. Then asked him if they thought they could
get out of prison. Replied, "did not think they could;" "have seen so many trials made at it."
Recognizes G. W. Riley, corporal, Twenty-seventh Illinois, as the man who told him about the
whistle. Says he did not hear the second whistle. Did not see Riley during the disturbance. First
he knew of the riot was when the Confederate officer came in the prison and demanded the
muskets of the prisoners. Heard that there was a captain of the U.S. Army who was "playing off
citizen" in prison. Heard some one call for 100 men a short time before the Confederate officer
came into the prison, and as he entered he heard some one say "Lay down."
Witness--Private George Sherman, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, called. Says a man by the name
of Becker he saw running through the prison calling for 100 men. Saw James Morrison running
through prison with a gun. George Heft, one of the instigators -
Arrest--Private Thompson Hanson, E, Ninth Ohio Cavalry, called. Knew nothing about the
plot of the prisoners to get out.
Arrest--Martin A. Becker, Company D, Thirteenth Wisconsin Infantry, cook for sick in
prison, called. Said:
Didn't get out of my bunk night of riot but once, and that to go to spring. About half-past 4
a.m. was aroused by a noise in the middle of prison, when I raised up in my bunk and saw four or
five men holding a man, whom they said had been stealing blankets. I immediately afterward
heard a man call for 100 men, and say, "The guards are captured." Soon after I heard a man say.
"Lay down." I deny that I am one of those who called for 100 men. It was the prevailing opinion
in the prison that Captain Hanchett was one of the leaders in the disturbance.
Arrest--James Morrison, Company G, Nineteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, cook for sick in
prison, called. First he knew of the disturbance was when the men were ordered back by a
Confederate officer. Then said:
The first I heard of the disturbance was some one calling out, "He will never steal another
blanket." Shortly afterward I saw several men running through the prison with guns, and heard
one of them crying out for 100 men.
Arrest---Osmond F. Foster, I, Seventh Pennsylvania
Cavalry, called, said:
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Did not get off my bunk the night of the disturbance. First I knew of it heard Borne one say
something about stealing a blanket. Captain Hanchett, under his assumed name of George
Schellar, was introduced to me on his arrival at prison, and was represented to be a steward on a
steam-boat; shortly after heard he was a captain in the U.S. Army. Never told any person that
Becker was the leader of a previous plan in which 200 men were enlisted, but which was not
executed, nor that he was one of the participants in this mutiny. Recognize Becker as the man
who is now under arrest. Knew nothing about the mutiny beforehand. It was the prevailing
opinion of the prisoners that Captain Hanchett was the leader of the mutiny Recognize him as
one of the men now under arrest. Heard since the riot that about twenty or twenty-five were
engaged in it. Do not know the intention of the reel in case they succeeded. Was not a
participant, and knew nothing of it before it occurred.
Arrest--George H. Heft, F, One hundred and fourteenth Illinois Infantry:
Knew nothing of the riot until I saw a piece of artillery in the door of the prison and bearing
upon my bunk, when I got down and went inside the main bunk room. The first I knew of the riot
was I heard some one cry, "Steal another blanket, will you?" Also one calling out for 100 men. I
raised up from my bunk and saw a Confederate officer standing in the door with a piece of
artillery, in demanding the muskets taken from the guards. I then got down from my bunk and
went to another part of the prison on which the cannon was not bearing. I thought the plot to get
out a very foolish one. I could not myself have escaped, as I was wounded.
Doctor Whitfield, surgeon of the prison, was here called in to examine the prisoner, to see if
he was physically disabled to make a march, and testified that he is capable of making a march
any distance, and "not at all incapacitated from his wound."
Prisoner recalled:
I did not know a single man engaged in the plot, but said that I would remain in prison 122
days before I would inform on the mutineers, if I knew.
Arrest--Patrick Ponsonby, G, Thirteenth Illinois Infantry:
About 8 o'clock the night of the riot I was sitting on my bunk when one of the men came to
me and asked if I knew anything about the break they intended to make that night. I told him that
I did not, and that it would be very foolish as I once broke out of prison at Meridian and
afterward gave myself up, knowing I could not make our lines. Miller was the name of the man
who asked me if I knew anything about the plot. The next morning I was awakened by men
crying out "He will not steal another blanket." Shortly after I heard some one calling for 100
men. So far as I could see there was no response to the call, but many of the prisoners cried out,
"Lay down. Lay down." About ten minutes afterward a Confederate officer came to the door of
the prison with a cannon and demanded of the prisoners the guns. Was told that Captain
Hanchett came into the prison as a citizen, but heard that after the riot he changed his citizens'
clothes and said that he was a captain in the U.S. Army. It was the prevailing opinion of the
prisoners that Captain Hanchett was a captain in the U.S. Army and that he was the instigator of
the mutiny.
Witness--George Sherman, recalled:
I know Martin A. Becker; saw him running about the prison and calling for 100 men;
attention drawn to him by his cries for men. This was after it had been announced that the guards
had been captured. Becker said, "The guards have all been mugged--and my God, boys, ain't you
going to stand by me?" (Identified Becker under arrest as the man.) Prisoner said, "Lay down;
did you never see a crazy man?" and did not manifest a disposition to join him. Becker went to
the back part of the prison and I saw no more of him. Thompson Hanson told me that Becker was
one of the instigators of the mutiny. I was informed that only twenty men attacked the guards and
that they depended on others joining them. I know James
Morrison; I saw him before the men
11
were ordered back by Confederate officers, running from the front entrance with a gun. This was
before 100 men were called for. Shortly after leaving the entrance two men turned off to the right
and went down the dead-line, and Morrison moved in the direction of the privy. This the last I
saw of him. I know Osmond F. Foster; did not see him the night of the disturbance; I saw him
after and he told me that "we got up a plan before in which a large number were engaged, and
before the time occurred some one turned traitor and the scheme was abandoned. This time we
thought it best to have only twenty." Foster admitted to me that he was a participator. I know
George H. Heft. Did not see him on the night of the riot; he told me the next morning that there
was a major-general in there who got up the mutiny. Said he knew who the mutineers were, but
that he would stay in prison 122 days and fast before he would give any information. Did not say
that he had anything to do with it. I know Patrick Ponsonby; was sitting on a bunk with
Thompson Hanson and Ponsonby passed; Hanson pointed to him and remarked, "There is a man
who was engaged in the mutiny?"
H. A. M. HENDERSON,
Captain, Commanding Prison.
HEADQUARTERS MILITARY STATION,
Alton, Ill., January 24, 1865.
Brig. Gen. H. W. WESSELLS,
Commissary-General of Prisoners, Washington, D.C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit herewith a special roll of prisoners belonging to
various regiments in the service of the United States who enlisted in the Tenth Tennessee (rebel)
Regiment while held by the rebel authorities as prisoners of war at Andersonville, Ga.. and were
captured by the U.S. forces at Egypt Station, Miss., in General Grierson's late expedition. These
men were received here with other prisoners of war on January 17, 1865, and were duly reported
as such, but special rolls corresponding with the accompanying were received at the same time
from the authorities sending the prisoners The remarks on the rolls and the accompanying letter
of Colonel Noble Third Iowa Cavalry, will explain the status and history of these men as far as
known at these headquarters.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROY STONE,
Brevet Brigadier-General, Comdg. Military Prison and Post.
STEAMER E. H. FAIRCHILD,
En Route for Cairo, Ill., January 13, 1865.
Lieut. JOHN S. LYTLE,
Eighth Iowa Infantry Volunteers,
In Charge of Rebel Prisoners of War on Board:
SIR: At the request of Capt. Samuel Wilson, provost-marshal, post Memphis, Tenn.,
communicated to me by yourself, I have to make the following statement touching the prisoners
of war now in your custody and whose names are set forth on the roll to which this paper is
attached: These men were captured by the First Brigade of Brigadier-General Grierson's troops,
under command of Colonel Kargé, Second New Jersey Cavalry, at Egypt Station (Mobile and
Ohio Railroad), on the morning of the 28th of December, 1864, with several hundred more
prisoners belonging to the rebel army, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Burke, of the
rebel service, and have, as they claim, been formerly in the service of the United States in the
various regiments designated opposite their names on the roll. On the evening previous to the
engagement at Egypt several of these men designated on the
rolls deserted the rebels and,
12
coming into our lines, gave information of the force opposed to us and reported that many of
these men would not resist us in battle. In the engagement which ensued in the morning this
proved true in many instances, although the fight was a severe one and required great valor on
the part of Colonel Kargé's cavalry to gain the victory. The general report of these men to me
during the time they were under my charge from Vicksburg to Memphis agrees in the following
particulars: That they were prisoners of war at Andersonville, Ga., when they enlisted in the
Confederate service; that at the time they were in great want of food, fuel, and clothing, which,
with exposure to weather, rendered disease and death imminent to them all, and that many dead
were carried from among the prisoners daily; that they were told there would be no exchange of
prisoners, and if they would enlist in the Confederate service they would be received, taken from
prison and treated like other Confederate troops; that these (on the rolls) were enlisted by
Lieutenant-Colonel Burke, now a prisoner on board, and have been under his command since;
that they were enlisted under an oath they do not now remember and many of them claim with
the design and determination on their part to rejoin our ranks at the first opportunity, and that
they did avail themselves of the only opportunity that had presented itself; that they were never
fully trusted by the Confederates, being deprived of many privileges extended to other troops,
kept under strict camp guard and unarmed; that they were given muskets on the day before the
affair in which they were captured, and ammunition; but on the night before that foreigners were
first solicited, but many others finally taken, and that they now wish to be sent to their old
regiments to fight for the Union. These statements will not apply universally but generally to this
class of prisoners.
My regiment was not in the engagement when these men were captured, nor do I know of my
own knowledge their acts before and in the fight, but state that in this particular--which was
communicated to me by officers on the march, this communication being given on the request
before mentioned and to form the foundation for further inquiry by the authorities of the
Government if' deemed important---from my intercourse with these men, I believe that most of
them are worthy of clemency, a few of special favor, but many at the same time are not to be
trusted. As to the more general effect of the treatment of these men upon other prisoners in the
rebel prisons, and again upon the rebel Government, I am not called upon to express, and
Brigadier-General Grierson (now under orders to report to Louisville, Ky.), Colonel Kargé,
Second New Jersey Cavalry, at Memphis, Tenn., and Capt. S. L. Woodward, assistant adjutantgeneral
on General Grierson's staff, can give more definite information in reference to the
peculiar status of these men and the acts of particular individuals than is within my knowledge.
Very respectfully, yours,
JOHN W. NOBLE,
Colonel Third Iowa Cavalry.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Eastport, February 1, 1865.
General J. B. HOOD, O. S. Army,
Commanding Confederate Forces :
GENERAL: On the evening of the 1st of November, 1864, while the U.S. forces under the
command of Major-General Howard, known as the Army and Department of the Tennessee,
were near Powder Springs, Ga., three enlisted men belonging to that command were captured by
a band of guerrillas commanded by a captain, and two of them brutally murdered in cold blood
by those guerrillas, and the other one shot at twice and was wounded each time, but succeeded in
making his escape, and has made sworn statements as to the manner of death of his comrades,
with the additional statement that the rebel captain
informed him that he would kill all Federal
13
prisoners captured by his command. The names of the men who were captured are as follows:
Corpl. Charles E. Ellis, Privates George Ford and Joseph Phillips. The corporal was killed
instantly; the other two were taken ten miles in the country and then were shot at by a party of
these guerrillas. At the first volley Private Ford was murdered, and while Phillips was wounded
another volley was fired which again wounded Private Phillips, who then ran and jumped down a
bank into a stream of water, where he concealed himself until the guerrillas left and then came
into our lines. This statement is forwarded by Brigadier-General Woods, commanding a division
in Major-General Howard's army, with the recommendation that Private Milton Dotson, of
Ferguson's command (Perrin's regiment), be either shot or hung in retaliation for one of the
murdered Union soldiers, which recommendation met the approval of Major-General Howard in
these words:
Private Dotson has been sent as a prisoner of war to Chattanooga. I would respectfully
recommend that he be shot in retaliation for the cold-blooded murder of Private George Ford,
Company G, Sixth Iowa Cavalry, herein described, and that action be published so as to come to
the notice of parties interested.
I have the honor to inform you that the prisoner Dotson is now under guard at Louisville, Ky.
The papers in this case have been returned to General Howard with the information that the
prisoner is held subject to his disposal, and will be sent to him on his application.
This letter was originally intended for General Hood, but as there was at the date of this letter
no other business requiring a flag of truce to be sent up, it has been retained until the present
time, and is now sent (February 18, 1865, the letter being entered according to date) to Major-
General Forrest, as the successor in command to General Hood. This by direction of Major-
General Thomas.
WM. D. WHIPPLE,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff
CAMP OF NATIONAL PRISONERS,
Near Tyler, Tex., February 11, 1865.
Maj. Gen. E. R. S. CANBY,
Commanding Military Division of West Mississippi:
GENERAL: The undersigned, officers of the U.S. Army, held as prisoners of war at this
camp, take the liberty of addressing you, desiring to call your attention to the fact that there are
officers of our army now held at this place and at the guard-house in Shreveport who we are
assured are held by the Confederate authorities as punishment for attempting to escape to our
own lines. We have always supposed that it was the right and duty of a prisoner of war to make
his own escape when possible, and that it was contrary to all rules and usages of civilized
warfare to punish him for so doing. Major Bering and Lieutenant Srofe, of the Forty-eighth Ohio
Infantry, are among the oldest prisoners in camp. They were in Shreveport when their regiment
passed through Shreveport for exchange in October last. Major McCauley, of the First Indiana
[Cavalry], and Lieutenants Flemming and Fulton, of the Seventy-seventh Ohio Infantry, are now
and have been for some time in the guardhouse at Shreveport for attempting to escape. Their
regiments are now going forward for exchange, but the agent of exchange refuses to send them
forward. Being the oldest prisoners here we expected to have gone on this exchange, as we
supposed it was the rule of our Government to exchange the oldest captures first, but, as it seems
not to be, we would endeavor to exchange ourselves, cheerfully undergoing all the hardships and
dangers of an attempt to travel some 400 miles through the enemy's country were we assured that
we would be protected in so doing by our authorities. It is poor encouragement if we know that
when recaptured and our regiments are exchanged we are
retained in prison. We are sure it is
14
only necessary to call your attention to the matter to have it corrected. We shall look anxiously
for the action of our Government in the cases referred to.
Respectfully,
J. A. Bering, major Forty-eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; William Prescott,
captain, One hundred and thirtieth Illinois Volunteers; John W. Watts, captain, One hundred and
thirtieth Illinois Volunteers; P. H. White, captain Mercantile Battery; J. H. Stevison, captain,
Seventy-seventh Illinois Infantry; Elias Fraunfelter, captain, One hundred and twentieth Ohio
Infantry; Thomas Hughes, first lieutenant and regimental quartermaster, Twenty-eighth Iowa
Infantry; William B. Milliken, first lieutenant, One hundred and twentieth Ohio Infantry; Harvey
Applegate, first lieutenant, One hundred and twentieth Ohio Infantry; Samuel P. Dill, captain,
One hundred and seventy-third Regiment New York Volunteers; Henry J. Wyman, first
lieutenant, Seventy-seventh Illinois; Charles Nolton, first lieutenant, One hundred and seventythird
New York Volunteers; A. H. Hazlett, first lieutenant, Fourteenth Iowa Infantry; J. M.
McCulloch, captain, Seventy-seventh Illinois Infantry; Thomas Sheridan, captain Company K,
Eighty-seventh Illinois; David Mefford, captain, Sixth Kansas Volunteer Cavalry; John M.
Defriese, second lieutenant, Sixth Kansas Volunteer Cavalry; T. S. O'Conner, first lieutenant,
Second Indian Regiment; Gaza Haraszthy, Company B, Eighteenth New York Cavalry; G. S.
Goodwin, first lieutenant, Seventh Missouri Cavalry; B. Hitchcock, first lieutenant, First Kansas
Colored Volunteer Infantry; S.S. Edwards, first lieutenant, Seventy-seventh Illinois Volunteers;
C. W. Johnson, first lieutenant, One hundred and thirtieth Illinois Volunteers; George W.
Huston, first lieutenant and regimental quartermaster, Fourteenth Kansas Cavalry; R. S. Taylor,
first lieutenant, One hundred and thirtieth Illinois Volunteers; J. W. Paulen, first lieutenant, One
hundred and thirtieth Illinois Volunteers; W. C. Harned, first lieutenant, One hundred and
thirtieth Illinois Volunteers; W. C. Pool, first lieutenant, One hundred and thirtieth Illinois
Volunteers; C. A. Payne, first lieutenant, Eighteenth New York Cavalry; P. S. Cone, lieutenant,
Chicago Mercantile Battery; C. F. McCulloch, second lieutenant, Seventy-seventh Illinois; W. J.
Srofe, first lieutenant, Forty-eighth Ohio Volunteers.
HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY EAST TENNESSEE,
Bristol, February 11, 1865.
Brig. Gen. ALVAN C. GILLEM, U.S. Army:
GENERAL: There are several officers of your command confined in the different military
prisons in the South. I am willing to give any captain that belongs to your command that the
Confederate authorities hold for Captain Reynolds, who is confined at Knoxville in irons.
Your early reply is earnestly solicited.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN C. VAUGHN,
Brigadier-General, C. S. Army
FLAG-OF-TRUCE BOAT LIBERTY,
Mouth of Red River, May 27, 1865.
For the purpose of exchanging such Confederate prisoners of war as belong to the Trans-
Mississippi Department and who may be for exchange in the Military Division of West
Mississippi, it is agreed between the undersigned, in consequence of the uncertainty of obtaining
transportation from the Confederate Government for such men to their homes, that a meeting
take place at the city of New Orleans, and that Maj. I. Szymanski, agent of exchange of C. S.
Army, be furnished free transportation and safe conduct for that purpose to and from New
Orleans at such time as he may find it convenient and
proper to effect the exchange.
15
IG. SZYMANSKI,
Assistant Adjutant-General and Assistant Agent of Exchange.
WM. McE. DYE,
Col. Twentieth Iowa Vols. and Agent of Exchange, U.S. Army.
OFFICE AGENT OF EXCHANGE,
MILITARY DIVISION OF WEST MISSISSIPPI,
New Orleans, La., June 6, 1865.
Brig. Gen. W. HOFFMAN,
Commissary-General of Prisoners, Washington, D.C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose herewith the original rolls of about 1,800 prisoners of
war (2,204 in equivalents) delivered over to me by the rebel agent of exchange (Major
Szymanski) at the month of Red River on the 27th day of May, 1865. Of this number equivalents
have already been delivered to and are acknowledged by the rebel authorities of 1,093; the
remainder of that number (1,800) have been ordered (as paroled prisoners) to Benton Barracks,
Mo. The men paroled, as the rolls indicate by red-ink notes, belong to the following
organizations, viz: Seventy-seventh and One hundred and thirtieth Illinois; One hundred and
twentieth Ohio; One hundred and sixty-second, One hundred and sixty-fifth, and One hundred
and seventy-third New York; Twenty-third Wisconsin:' Eighteenth, Twenty-eighth, Twentyninth,
Thirty-second, Thirty-third, and Thirty-sixth Iowa Infantry. And (with the exception of
Captains Fraunfelter and Miller, of the One hundred and twentieth Ohio, and Captain Prescott, of
the One hundred and thirtieth Illinois, who are to be included amongst the exchanged) all of the
men of these regiments are paroled. The men of all other organizations on the rolls constitute the
equivalent of 1,093 to be declared exchanged. I would also respectfully state that the rolls of the
(882 men, equal to 1,036 equivalents) rebel prisoners who were delivered to the rebel agent of
exchange at the same time and place were forwarded, I am informed, by the commissary of
prisoners (Captain Sterling) for this military division.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. McE. DYE,
Colonel and Agent of Exchange, Mil. Div. of West Miss.
KEOKUK, IOWA, June 8, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D.C.:
MY DEAR SIR: John W. Rankin, a citizen of Iowa and a member of the Senate, leaves for
Washington on Monday. The Legislature at its late special session directed me to tender to the
Government of the United States a regiment of cavalry. The regiment is organized, with Col. Fitz
Henry Warren as colonel. Iowa, through Mr. Rankin, tenders you the regiment, and earnestly
urges on you the acceptance. It is composed of bold, brave, able-bodied men.
The three regiments of infantry placed at the disposal of the President are at the rendezvous
in this place, anxiously awaiting arms. May I ask you to confer freely with Mr. Rankin, as he will
fully represent my views and wishes. I hope that his known partiality for the Secretary of War
and his untiring exertions for the success of Mr. Lincoln, as well as his devotion to the
Government in the hour of its peril, will give him an easy access to you. Iowa is now ready to do
its entire duty. I am overrun with applications of companies for admission into the national
service. Our people are loyal, patriotic, and devoted. Their hearts are with you in the national
struggle. Their prayers daily ascend for the President,
the members of the Cabinet, and for
16
glorious General Scott. Their desire is that the war be speedily terminated, and that 200,000 men
in addition to what you have be called, if necessary, to extinguish the unnatural rebellion.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
KEOKUK, IOWA, June 8, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
MY DEAR SIR: The Iowa Legislature has directed me to urge upon the President of the
United States the constitution of a brigade out of the Iowa regiments, or the Iowa and Nebraska
combined, and the appointment of a general. I heartily concur with the Legislature, and through
you urge a compliance. Such an officer is very much needed. If deemed better our State will
promptly furnish a fourth regiment. The Hon. Samuel R. Curtis, colonel of the Second Regiment,
is very generally named in connection with the chief officer of the brigade, and I heartily
recommend him. In all your engagements I hope you will not overlook the young but loyal and
gallant State which by the votes of the people I have the honor to represent.
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
J. W. Rankin will fully represent me in this matter.
I join in the foregoing recommendation of Governor Kirkwood, and respectfully but urgently
commend the matter to your favorable consideration. Colonel Curtis enjoys in an eminent degree
the confidence of all our citizens, and his selection for the position of a brigadier-general would
gratify us in the highest degree.
Very respectfully,
WM. VANDEVER,
Second Congressional District of Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, June 19, 1861.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa:
SIR: This Department, with your approval, will accept, in addition to the two regiments
already mustered, four regiments to serve during the war, to wit: One regiment of cavalry,
commanded by Colonel Warren, and three regiments of infantry, commanded respectively by
Colonels Dodge, Worthington, and McDowell; the cavalry regiment and the infantry regiments
commanded by Colonels Worthington and McDowell to be mustered into service at Burlington,
and that commanded by Colonel Dodge at Council Bluffs.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
June 25, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
DEAR SIR: A complication exists here growing out of the acceptance of three additional
infantry regiments from this State. When I received from G. M. Dodge information that these
additional infantry regiments had been accepted, I had not any knowledge of the independent
regiment ordered by Major Lauman except from rumor, and
immediately proceeded to make up
17
the three regiments from companies pressing me for service. To-day Major Lauman calls on me,
expecting his independent regiment to be one of the three; but the three are already made up, and
the companies so far notified that it is impossible for me to do anything else than receive them as
made up. This throws Major Lauman's independent regiment out, which is to me a matter of
great regret, as the companies will make a splendid regiment. If the public service will require a
still additional regiment from this State, and you will request or accept it, I will recognize Major
Lauman's regiment, and place it in quarters and in uniform as soon as the means at my command
will permit.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
July 2, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington City, D. C.:
DEAR SIR: I would much prefer that in the future all troops needed from this State for the
service of the United States be called for by regular requisition upon the Executive of the State,
unless such troops shall be uniformed and equipped by the United States or by themselves. I will
endeavor to furnish promptly all troops that may be regularly required from this State, and I am
satisfied it will save much complication and unpleasant feeling here to have all further troops
furnished upon formal requisition.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
Iowa City, July 8, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
DEAR SIR: Inclosed find statement of nine captains of the First Regiment Iowa Volunteers,
on behalf of themselves and companies, expressing their readiness to continue in service under a
different regimental organization after the expiration of their present term. Now, therefore, I,
Samuel J. Kirkwood, Governor of the State of Iowa, hereby tender to the War Department these
nine companies (with such other as will make an entire regiment) for three years or during the
war from date of the day following the expiration of their present term of service.
Respectfully, yours,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
P. S.--Please answer at once.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
July 9, 1861.
Governor SAMUEL J, KIRKWOOD,
Des Moines, Iowa:
SIR: You will consider this letter an official order to equip and have mustered into service of
the United States the regiment of cavalry already accepted from your State, commanded by Col.
Fitz Henry Warren.
Respectfully,
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
18
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, July 10, 1861.
Hon. SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa:
SIR: Your suggestion that "all troops received into service be called for by requisition on the
State Executives, unless such troops shall be uniformed and equipped by the United States or by
themselves," meets my decided approval. Any deviations hitherto from this policy have been
assented to with reluctance.
Respectfully,
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, July 13, 1861.
His Excellency Governor SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Iowa City, Iowa:
SIR: Your letter of the 8th instant is received. This Department is entirely willing to accept
for three years or for the war the nine companies of the First Regiment of Iowa Volunteers
tendered in your letter, the remaining company to be recruited in order that the regiment may be
composed of ten companies, as required by General Orders, No. 15. The regiment to be thus
formed will be mustered into service as soon as its organization shall have been perfected. By the
General Orders referred to, a copy of which is herewith inclosed, "the field officers of the
regiment will be appointed by the Governor of the State which furnishes the regiment."
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
July 23, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Iowa City, Iowa:
SIR: This Department will accept four more regiments if ready for marching orders in
twenty-one days. In selecting officers let competency be the first requisite. Telegraph
immediately.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
July 23, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Iowa City, Iowa:
SIR: The battery of Captain Fletcher, Burlington, Iowa, is accepted with the understanding
that it cannot be attached to any particular regiment.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
19
July 23, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Iowa City, Iowa:
SIR: The battery of artillery with Colonel Dodge's regiment at Council Bluffs is accepted,
with the understanding that it cannot be attached to any particular regiment.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D.C., July 24, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Iowa City, Iowa:
Accept Colonel Bennett's independent regiment as one of the four regiments authorized by
order of yesterday. Report by telegraph to Adjutant-General Thomas, Washington, when ready,
who will detail mustering officer.
By order of Secretary of War:
JAMES LESLEY, JR.,
Chief Clerk.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
July 24, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
An additional regiment of cavalry will be accepted from Iowa, the colonel to be appointed
here. Let the above regiment and Bennett's regiment rendezvous at Davenport. The other two
regiments accepted July 23 to rendezvous at Dubuque. Send names of the colonels of these two
last.
By order of--
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
July 24, 1861.
Governor S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
Accept Col. H. B. Hoffman's regiment as one of the four accepted yesterday, subject to
general orders of this Department. All companies of regiments to be maximum standard.
By order of Secretary of War:
J. LESLEY, JR.,
Chief Clerk.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, July 25, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
Your dispatch of the 24th instant says: "Accept Col. H. B. Hoffman's regiment in one of the
four accepted yesterday," &c. Does accepting these regiments mean a requisition on Iowa for
four more regiments? The Governor will raise no more regiments tendered by individuals, but
will comply with all demands by the Government Answer at
Burlington, Iowa.
20
J. BOWEN,
Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
July 25, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
Please accept Colonel Vandever's regiment as one of the five accepted July 23 on
recommendation of Fitz Henry Warren.
By order of the Secretary of War:
JAMES LESLEY, JR.,
Chief Clerk.
BURLINGTON, IOWA, July 26, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
Ant I to understand your dispatches as requiring three or four additional infantry regiments?
The horses for the Second Cavalry Regiment must be furnished by you, and should be brought
here. Mr. Vandever and Mr. Hoffman have no regiments. Is [it] your request that I accept their
regiments? That I appoint them to colonelcies? Will furnish the regiments as required, but may
need a little more time. Will furnish the men for the two batteries at this place and Council
Bluffs. Can I raise a company of mounted men for defense against Indians? It is needed. Answer
to Davenport.
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, July 27, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
I do not expect you to raise more than the four regiments of infantry and one of cavalry.
Have written full particulars by mail explaining fully.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, July 28, 1861--4.30 p.m.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
I have accepted from you four regiments of infantry and one of cavalry. I have also accepted
two independent batteries. I write to-day in full.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
Per J. LESLEY, JR.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, July 29, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
21
Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: The overwhelming pressure of business has alone prevented all earlier reply by mail to
your telegrams. I have accepted through you, as Governor of Iowa, four regiments of infantry
and one of cavalry. I have also accepted the battery of Captain Fletcher, and also the battery
which is, I understand, now with Dodge's regiment. In addition to these I have accepted one
regiment of infantry, to be commanded by Col. William Vandever, M. C. Assistant Postmaster-
General Kasson has expressed the desire that you should accept as one of your four a regiment to
be commanded by Colonel Bennett. A similar wish has been expressed by your district attorney,
Gurley, in reference to a regiment to be commanded by Colonel Hoffman. In regard to granting
these requests I leave the whole matter with yourself, as I have no wish to throw any
embarrassments in the way of your prompt action. You will confer a favor by keeping Adjutant-
General Thomas promptly advised of your movements. The feeling of encouragement grows
stronger here every day, and nothing has done more to produce the result than the prompt and
generous co-operation which you and other patriotic State Executives have so freely extended.
By order of the Secretary of War:
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
JAS. LESLEY, JR.,
Chief Clerk War Department.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 2, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON, Secretary of War:
Capt. Adel Schirmer, of Iowa City, offers through me a company of fifty Germans, nearly all
of whom have seen service, to form battery of two guns to be attached to one of the Iowa
regiments. Will you accept them? Of the new requisitions two regiments rendezvous at
Davenport and two at Dubuque. Can the fifth rendezvous at Iowa City?
S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, August 3, 1861--10.03 a.m.
Governor KIRKWOOD.
Davenport, Iowa:
The Department accepts the battery of light artillery commanded by Capt. Adel Schirmer.
Your arrangement of rendezvous is satisfactory.
By order of the Secretary of War:
JAMES LESLEY, JR.,
Chief Clerk.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 13, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
Where are the arms promised to our regiments? Do send us arms for our infantry and cavalry.
Send arms to Davenport.
N. B. BAKER.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
August 14, 1861.
Governor S. J. KIRKWOOD,
22
Governor of Iowa, Washington, D.C.:
SIR: You are hereby authorized to raise and organize a company of cavalry for the defense of
the northwestern frontier of Iowa against the Indians, to serve for three years unless sooner
discharged. You will please cause the Adjutant-General at Washington to be advised of the date
at which the men will be ready for mustering and he will detail an officer for that purpose.
By order of the Secretary of War:
JAMES LESLEY, JR.,
Chief Clerk War Department.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 20, 1861.
Hon. S. CAMERON:
Governor Kirkwood is in New York City. In Iowa there are no uniformed militia or home
guards sufficient for the consideration of Government in this exigency. They are mere
fragmentary and scattering companies. We are now making up new regiments and need all our
home material. Your home-guard requisition had better not be made until these regiments are
formed.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 20, 1861.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General State of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
Go on and complete promptly a regular volunteer organization. I will not call on the home
guards for service here.
SIMON CAMERON.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 30, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
Your dispatch of the 19th came in my absence; hence the delay. A requisition for the home
guards of the southern part of the State would not interfere with the formation of regiments now
called for. Something must be done to quiet Northern Missouri. In ray judgment the Union men
there should be armed and organized, and backed by a strong armed and organized force in Iowa.
Can furnish men for the purpose, but cannot clothe, arm, or equip them; but few of them are
uniformed. If called out, they will need at once tents and blankets and arms, which should be sent
at once. Whether they will need clothes depends on the length of their service. Northern Missouri
is in as bad a condition as Mexico, and the Union men are daily subject to outrages.
General Frémont must protect it. The operation will weaken him and embarrass his
movements South, if such movements be intended. If the Union men of Missouri were armed
and organized, and also a strong force in Iowa temporarily stationed at points on our southern
boundary, I am satisfied that quiet would be restored, and the men who cause the mischief driven
out or arrested. They ought to be hung. I will cheerfully co-operate in any plan you may
determine upon. Please advise me fully.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 30, 1861.
23
Hon. S. CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
Men are being mustered in in Illinois in squads. Cannot the same be done in Iowa? It will
expedite the formation of regiments.
S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, September 11, 1861.
Hon. S. CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
In Eighth Regiment (Hoffman's), three companies mustered in; five more nearly full. In
Ninth (Vandever's), six companies mustered in; will probably be full this week. In Tenth
(Perczel's), eight companies mustered in; Second Cavalry, nine companies mustered in.
Strenuous efforts are making to fill all up. It would much hasten matters if clothing and
equipments could be sent to deliver as companies are mustered in. The delay in furnishing these
to other regiments discourages enlistments. How soon can they be sent for these regiments?
Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Regiments are not yet clothed.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, September 11, 1861.
Hon. S. CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
Can I have Capt. William McE. Dye, of the Regular Army, to command one of our regiments
of infantry now organizing? Answer immediately. It will hasten the raising of the regiment. Can
I raise a cavalry regiment instead of one of the infantry? The class of men enlisting prefer the
cavalry service.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
OFFICE OF ATTORNEY-GENERAL,
Des Moines, Iowa, September 16, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D.C.:
DEAR SIR: At the request of Governor Kirkwood I write you upon the subject of raising the
four additional regiments of soldiers required from this State. It is more than possible that we
shall resort to drafting in order to comply promptly with the requirements of the Government.
Our own State militia laws are very meager, and provide no machinery for raising troops in this
manner. I am not advised as to what laws may have been passed at the recent session of
Congress, or of any laws or regulations of the General Government under which we should
proceed. We write to you for information and direction, as also for the necessary authority in
case we should act under the warrant of the General Government. Please advise us at an early
day. It may be that we can raise the troops without a resort to compulsion, but we wish to be
prepared to raise them promptly by any lawful means to which we may deem it necessary to
resort.
Very respectfully, yours,
C. C. NOURSE,
Attorney. General of Iowa.
BURLINGTON, IOWA, September 16, 1861.
24
SECRETARY OF WAR:
SIR: Iowa has now twelve regiments in the field, a larger number than any other State in
proportion to her population. There is no better material for soldiers in the world. A call is now
made on her through her Governor for four more regiments, making sixteen. We can raise them
if the men can make provision for the support of their families whilst they may be absent. Adopt
the allotment ticket system as in the Navy, and as authorized by the recent act of Congress, and
you can have 4,000 better men, if it be possible, than any yet enlisted. It should be done at once
and notice given of it.
Your obedient servant,
JAMES W. GRIMES.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
September 21, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Iowa City, Iowa:
You will fill the requisitions as made from this Department for regiments without reference
to calls from other sources.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
September 25, 1861--10.30 a.m.
Governor SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Des Moines, Iowa:
It will be unwise to draft the militia at this time. We prefer to rely upon patriotism of people
for volunteer force required.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, September 27, 1861.
C. C. NOURSE, Esq.,
Attorney-General of Iowa:
SIR: In reply to your letter of the 16th instant, I am directed to say that copies of the
necessary laws and general orders referred to have already been forwarded, addressed to the
Governor of Iowa. I am further directed to say that drafting should not as yet be resorted to in
your State.
I am, sir, &c.,
A. BAIRD,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
IOWA, September 30, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
SIR: Immediately after requesting the change of two of the infantry regiments required from
this State to cavalry I left for the southwestern part of our State, where serious trouble was
anticipated from the rebels, then in possession of Saint
Joseph and the northwestern part of
25
Missouri. Upon my return, and before I saw the adjutant general of this State, Major Porter, of
the Iowa First, met me, informing me you had authorized the changing of one infantry into a
cavalry regiment; and I thereupon authorized him to raise a regiment of cavalry, which he is now
doing.
Upon seeing the adjutant I learned from him that all the infantry regiments required from this
State were in process of organization and rapidly filling up. This will render necessary either the
acceptance of Porter's regiment of cavalry as an addition to the infantry regiments, or the
disbandment of several companies already raised for it. I am very desirous you should accept the
regiment for the reasons that I wish Major Porter to be gratified, and that by the purchase of the
horses for cavalry our people can receive some of the money now so largely expended by the
United States, and in that way only; and I assure you no portion of our people need it more. We
are furnishing men freely, and our people are anxious to have the chance of selling horses--the
only thing they have for sale for which there is any demand by the Government. The temperance
men of our State desire to form a regiment of "cold-water" men. I have no doubt they can do so
of first-rate material. They desire it to be of cavalry. Will it be accepted? This is to be in addition
to Porter's regiment. If it cannot be accepted as cavalry, can it as infantry? It can be much easier
raised as cavalry, and if possible accept it. If Porter's cavalry or the temperance cavalry are
accepted, authorize me to purchase the horses at once--you fixing terms--as it will require some
time to get the necessary number. An early answer is important, as Porter's regiment is partly
raised.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
October 2, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
DEAR SIR: As I informed you some time since, I have been requested by General Frémont
to raise two regiments of infantry in this State for U.S. service, to be placed for the present in
Forts Randall and Leavenworth, that General Frémont may have for active duty the regular
troops now garrisoning them. I have these regiments now partly raised, and they will be full in a
short time; but a report has been put in circulation that your Department has denied General
Frémont's authority to call for these regiments, and that they will not be accepted. I hope this
may be incorrect. The Eleventh and Twelfth Regiments of Infantry will soon be full. These will
fill the requisition from your Department. The raising of the Thirteenth and Fourteenth Infantry,
being those called for by Frémont, will be subsequent to filling the Eleventh and Twelfth, and
will not interfere with filling them.
I hope you will give me immediate information, so that, if it be true these regiments will not
be received, I may cease further efforts to fill them. In the mean time I shall continue my efforts
for their completion.
It may be proper for me to say in this connection that under authority of General Frémont I
have already organized a full regiment of cavalry (Third Iowa Cavalry), under Colonel Bussey,
which has been mustered into the U.S. service, and part of which is now on duty in Missouri.
At General Frémont's request I have also authorized Col. H. T. Reid to raise another (the
Fifteenth) regiment of infantry. He is now engaged in so doing, and will fill it speedily. If this
does not meet the views of the Department, please let me know speedily. Reid's regiment stands
on the same ground as those for present garrison duty.
26
Permit me to suggest that it seems to me very desirable at a time when our forces in the field
seem to be met at every point by superior numbers, that all the troops be received that can be
raised. We need troops in this region, and the recent withdrawal of some of our Western
regiments to Washington increases our need.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
October 3, 1861--9.30 a.m.
Governor KIRKWOOD, Davenport, Iowa:
Organize Porter's cavalry, and consider it accepted by the Government.
SIMON CAMERON.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
October 4, 1861.
His Excellency the PRESIDENT:
The condition of affairs in Missouri at this time causes much excitement and alarm in our
State. Our people have at different times gone into Missouri, at the earnest request of the Union
men there, to afford them protection and prevent them from being driven from the State. When
the emergencies have passed by our people have returned and resumed their usual avocations. At
the time of the capture of Saint Joe by the rebels recently, 1,200 of our men thus went to the
assistance of the Union men, part of whom have not yet returned, so far as I am informed. This
has excited against our people and State a bitter dislike on the part of the rebel forces and their
leaders, and their threats of vengeance have been violent and frequent. A battle lost at this time
by General Frémont would lay all our southern border open to devastation and plunder by the
victors, and while we have strong trust that success and not defeat awaits us, the probability of a
different result naturally excites alarm.
Under these circumstances I have issued an order, a copy of which I inclose. We are turning
out our men freely for U.S. service, but can turn out many more for our own protection, but we
are substantially unarmed. When the war broke out we had in the State some 1,500 old muskets,
about 200 rifles and rifled muskets, and four 6-pounder pieces of artillery. We have received
from the Department 5,000 muskets during this summer, of which about 2,000 have gone in the
hands of regiments from the State into U. S. service. We placed in the hands of Colonel Moore,
in the U.S. service in Missouri, one piece of artillery needed by him. This is our state of
preparation as to arms to meet the consequences of a defeat of the Federal forces in Missouri,
and the prospect is gloomy enough. Can you help us in the way of arms? If you can help us, I can
promise our men will use the arms for their defense bravely and well. If you cannot help us, we
must do the best we can to help ourselves, although it is difficult to see how we can save the
southern frontier of our State from invasion and plunder. We need arms of all kinds for infantry,
artillery, and cavalry.
Please let me hear from you at as early a period as possible.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
P. S.--I forgot to say that by reason of our failure to sell our State bonds I have been and am
wholly unable to buy arms for the State.
CIRCULAR LETTER.] EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
October 3, 1861.
27
SIR: The present condition of affairs in Missouri is such as to render it prudent for us in Iowa
to be prepared for possible reverses there. Should the rebels gain the battle soon to be fought
there, it is not improbable they may endeavor to enter our State. We should be prepared to meet
this emergency. To this end two things are necessary--organization and arms.
In order to effect an organization in your county, you are hereby appointed to organize into
companies and regiments all able-bodied men in your county liable to perform military duty
under chapter 17 of the acts of the extra session of 1861. These companies and regiments, as thus
organized, are only for the defense of the State, and cannot be transferred as such to the service
of the United States. If, however, companies are organizing in your county for U.S. service, you
will not interfere with such organizations, but afford them all proper facilities. Report to the
adjutant-general at Davenport each regiment as soon as organized and commissions will be
forwarded. You will perceive by the law that companies may consist of not less than 40 nor more
than 100 men. Endeavor to have each company filled to the highest number.
As you are aware, the State is not properly armed, nor can arms be had at present by the
State. Under these circumstances you will require every man in your county having private arms
to report the number and kind of arms he has. Double-barreled shotguns and hunting rifles,
although not the best, are good arms in the hands of brave men. If arms of this kind are in the
hands of persons in whose families there are not men liable to military duty, you will have such
appraised and receipted for in the name of the State, to be paid for if lost or injured or not
returned; and when you deliver the same to any company, take bond from the captain for the
same at the appraised value, keeping a correct list to show the owner of each arm and the captain
to whom delivered. The captain will take from the privates to whom arms are thus delivered
bonds for the same.
Of each regiment thus organized two companies may be mounted men, or two companies of
mounted men may be attached to each regiment.
The force thus organized is strictly for the defense of the State; for the defense of the
property and homes of its members. Every man must furnish his own clothing, horse, and
equipments, and all will hold themselves in readiness to march at a moment's notice. As soon as
a regiment is organized you may call it together for one day's drill, and then dismiss the men,
after having perfected arrangements for calling them together again with the least possible delay
in case of emergency.
Understand for yourself and have all others understand that the work hereby enjoined is
specially for your and their own protection, and let your action be prompt, decided, and earnest.
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, October 7, 1861.
His Excellency Governor SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: This Department is in receipt of your communication of the 2d instant. I am willing to
receive all the troops that Iowa can furnish for active duty, and cordially give my sanction to the
three regiments of infantry which you are now raising, and to the regiment of cavalry which you
have already organized, in compliance with the request of Major-General Frémont.
I am, with great respect, your obedient servant,
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
28
Washington, October 12, 1861.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor, &c., Iowa City, Iowa:
SIR: Your favor of the 30th ultimo has been received. You are hereby authorized by the War
Department to organize, in addition to the quota of troops already furnished by the State of Iowa,
two additional regiments, one of cavalry and one of infantry, in accordance with the regulations
and general orders issued from the Adjutant-General's Office. The Department will be pleased to
have you assign the command of the cavalry regiment to Major Porter, in accordance with your
request. You will please to organize the temperance men as an infantry regiment. In regard to the
purchase of horses, it will be necessary that you should address yourself to the Quartermaster-
General, with whom rests the entire direction of such matters.
I have the honor to be, very, &c.,
THOMAS A. SCOTT,
Acting Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, October 12, 1861.
Hon. SAMUEL Z. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa:
SIR: Yours of the 4th instant, inclosing a printed copy of an order made by you on the 3d
instant, in relation to the organization and equipment of the citizens of your State for home
defense, has been duly received. In the opinion of this Department the measures proposed by you
are eminently proper for State purposes. This Department fully appreciates the anxiety that must
exist among an unarmed people when threatened with hostile incursion. We trust, however, that
the dangers you apprehend are more distant than you fear. This Department is willing to aid, by
all means in its power, to protect your people and repel any invasion that may be attempted. At
present, however, we can give you little more than good wishes. Of artillery and small arms there
is but a meager supply on hand to meet the requirements of the service, and none can now be
spared from points where there are imperative demands for them. In a short time, however, we
hope to have a more abundant supply, when, if necessity demands and the law will permit it,
measures will no doubt be taken to supply the wants of your State and people.
Respectfully,
THOMAS A. SCOTT,
Acting Secretary of War.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Davenport, Iowa, October 27, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D.C.:
SIR: Your telegram to Governor Kirkwood, under date of the 26th instant, has been answered
by telegram to-day. For details in relation to the answer I have to state that Iowa furnished one
three-months' regiment of 990 men. We have nine regiments of infantry and two (First and
Third) regiments of cavalry now in the field. The Eleventh and Twelfth Regiments of Infantry
are now ready. The Second Regiment of Cavalry is organized and ready, but lacks about 600
horses. The Thirteenth and Fourteenth Regiments of Infantry, for Forts Randall and
Leavenworth, are nearly full. Three hundred men from the Fourteenth Infantry leave to-day for
Fort Randall.
29
Including the three-months' regiment and the regiments now in the field, Iowa will have
ready by December 1 sixteen regiments of infantry and four regiments of cavalry. Iowa has also,
by authority of the War Department, a battery of artillery attached, each, to the Fourth Regiment
of Infantry (Colonel Dodge) and the Ninth Infantry (Colonel Vandever). Fletcher's battery of
artillery is ready at Burlington. A regiment of lancers, by authority of the War Department, is
organizing in Iowa and rendezvous at Burlington.
The aggregate number of men Iowa will have furnished for the war by December 1 will be at
least 20,000.
Your obedient servant,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
November 3, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
SIR: I wrote you some days since in regard to raising more troops in this State. Our Fifteenth
Infantry and all preceding it are substantially filled, as are our four cavalry regiments. A German
regiment is organizing, to be the Sixteenth Infantry, and will be filled. As I wrote you Hon. S. A.
Rice and General Van Antwerp desire to raise new regiments. Aside from these there are now
raised some companies that cannot find places in the regiments now in rendezvous (the
Fourteenth and Fifteenth). Under these circumstances I am led to ask the privilege of raising
another regiment aside from all organizing and asked for, and to ask that Capt. Alexander
Chambers, U.S. Army, the mustering officer at this point (Davenport), be detached to command
it. Captain Chambers has made a very good impression here, has, I think, done his duty well, and
would be very acceptable as the colonel of one of our regiments. An early reply will oblige,
Yours, very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Davenport, Iowa, November 5, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
DEAR SIR: The First Iowa were three-months' men. We have in the service the Third,
Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Infantry, and the First and Third Cavalry,
besides two batteries of artillery. We have the Eleventh, Thirteenth, and Fourteenth Infantry full
here, the Twelfth Infantry full at Dubuque, and all the companies supplied for the Fifteenth
Infantry at Keokuk. We have the Second Cavalry full here and the Fourth Cavalry nearly full at
Mount Pleasant. The lancers are nearly ready at Burlington. The Sixteenth and Seventeenth, Irish
and German, are organizing, but we want to raise another infantry regiment. We have so many
offers that we know not what to do with the men unless you authorize another regiment. Will you
not authorize it? The Governor informs me that he has requested it, and I have made this brief
statement, hoping that you will be enabled to gratify the wishes of our people.
Truly, yours,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
30
Davenport, Iowa, November 5, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington City, D.C.:
SIR: I am directed by His Excellency Hon. S. J. Kirkwood to apply to you for the acceptance
of a company of artillery from Iowa City, Iowa. Your immediate response will oblige,
Yours, &c.,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
November 10, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
DEAR SIR: Beside the Fifteenth Infantry now nearly full (all preceding ones being filled),
there are now organizing in this State the following regiments: A German regiment, which I
think will be filled up; an Irish regiment, the success of which is doubtful; a regiment of lancers
(about which please see Senator Grimes). There are some companies now here (Davenport),
overfilling the Fifteenth, and I ask leave to add to them enough to make another regiment. Our
late attorney-general, Hon. S. A. Rice, desires to raise a regiment. He is an active, talented,
energetic, and loyal man, and can raise the regiment. General V. Van Antwerp also desires to
raise a regiment. He is active, talented, energetic, and brave, a graduate of West Point. I think he
can succeed. Capt. John W. Rankin, of Keokuk, also desires to raise a regiment. You know him.
He is now a captain by your appointment in the Quartermaster's Department. Will you be kind
enough to inform me at your earliest convenience in regard to all these matters?
Very respectfully, yours,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, November 12, 1861.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
Organize a regiment to absorb your detached companies.
THOMAS A. SCOTT.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
November 13, 1861.
His Excellency S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: Your communication of 6th [5th] instant asking for the acceptance of a company of
artillery from your State has been received. This Department does not deem it advisable to
authorize any increase in the artillery force until that now organizing shall be fully armed and
equipped.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
THOMAS A. SCOTT,
Assistant Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
November 18, 1861.
31
Hon. S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa:
SIR: Judge Rankin proposes to organize a regiment of infantry to serve for three years or
during the war, subject to general regulations. The matter is respectfully referred to you for
consideration and approval. The Government will accept this as a regiment additional to those
heretofore accepted, if approved by you.
Very respectfully,
THOMAS A. SCOTT,
Assistant Secretary of War.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, November 19, 1861.
THOMAS A. SCOTT,
Assistant Secretary of War:
I approve the proposition of Judge Rankin to raise a regiment as soon as two regiments now
organizing are out of the way, which will be soon. I will expect the U.S. disbursing officer at the
place of rendezvous to meet necessary expenses. Will fix place of rendezvous as soon as I see
Judge Rankin.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
January 24, 1861.
Hon. JOSEPH HOLT,
Secretary of War, Washington City, D.C.:
SIR: I have the honor to inclose a letter tendering to the President the services of the
Governor's Greys, a military company at Dubuque in this State. The services of other military
companies have been tendered directly to me.
Whilst I deeply regret that the perils to which the union of the States is exposed arise from
domestic and not from foreign foes, I feel a great and I think an honest pride in the knowledge
that the people of Iowa are possessed of an unyielding devotion to the Union and of a fixed
determination that so far as depends on them it shall be preserved.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
DUBUQUE, IOWA, January 15, 1861.
Hon. JOSEPH HOLT,
Secretary of War:
DEAR SIR: At a meeting of the Governor's Greys, a regularly organized and fully equipped
volunteer company of this city, a resolution was unanimously passed "that the services of the
corps be tendered to the President of the United States for any service he may deem proper
during the present insurrection at the South." As the captain of the corps, I have the honor
herewith to make known to you the sentiments of my command. This will be forwarded you by
the Governor of the State of Iowa.
I am, respectfully, yours,
F. J. HERRON,
Captain Governor's Greys.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
January 25, 1861.
32
Hon. JOSEPH HOLT.
Secretary of War, Washington:
DEAR SIR: I wrote on yesterday to Col. H. K. Craig, asking to anticipate now the quota of
arms that will be due this State for 1862. Since mailing that letter I have thought the application
should have been made to you, and now make it. I have been informed that during last year the
same privilege was granted to other States, and hope it may be granted to Iowa. Will the quota of
arms for 1862 be still under the apportionment and census for 1850?
I learn that the present unfortunate condition of public affairs has rendered necessary the
transfer of the U.S. troops from Fort Kearny and other points in the West to the sea-board. It is
now rumored here that large bands of Indians are gathering near Fort Kearny with hostile
intentions. The northwestern border of this State has for several years last past been subject to
Indian depredations, the evidence of which is on file in your Department. Should an outbreak
occur among the Indians near Fort Kearny it will probably stimulate the Indians in Dakota and
Minnesota again to make inroads in the northwestern part of this State. Owing to the small
number of arms distributed to this State under the census of 1850 we are almost without arms
and all sent to this State prior to 1860 were the old regulation muskets, altered from the flint to
the percussion lock.
Can an extra number of arms be in any way sent to this State, to provide against the
contingencies of an Indian outbreak? They might be stored at Fort Des Moines or Fort Dodge, in
the care of a person to be selected by you, and used only in case of necessity. If a single U.S.
officer were at either of these places, and had a supply of arms, he could at any moment have as
many men as would be necessary for the protection of our frontier. I shall be pleased to hear
from you touching these matters at your earliest convenience. And have the honor to be,
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
January 30, 1861.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Iowa City :
SIR: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 24th instant, communicating the
tender of their services by the Governor's Greys of Dubuque. In reply I beg leave to request that
you will convey to the company the thanks of this Department for their patriotic offer, which the
Government has, however, no present occasion to accept.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. HOLT,
Secretary of War.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
April 16, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, United States, Washington City:
DEAR SIR: Much excitement exists at this time in this State in regard to state of hostilities
between our Government and the so-called Southern Confederacy. Our people are willing and
anxious to stand by and aid the Administration. Will you be kind enough to inform me
immediately whether it is probable that Iowa will be called on by the President for troops, and
how many and on what terms and in what way volunteers are usually mustered into the U.S.
service? Some fifteen to twenty volunteer companies have
already tendered me their services and
33
I am almost daily receiving inquiries touching these matters. Be kind enough to give me as much
and as early information as possible. One of my purposes in seeking this information is this: Our
General Assembly meets biennially. Our last session commenced January, 1860. It may be that
an extra session of our General Assembly may be necessary. If so, I will call it promptly; if not, I
wish to avoid the unnecessary expense.
Accept for yourself and the Administration my hearty thanks for the stand you have taken.
Nine-tenths of the people here are with you, and will be so long as a similar policy is followed,
and they will be with you in person as well as in sympathy whenever their services are required.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Des Moines, Iowa, January 10, 1862.
Adjt. Gen. L. THOMAS, U.S. Army,
Washington:
SIR: Since my last regular communication no Iowa regiment has moved from the State for
active service in the field. The Fourth Regiment Iowa Cavalry is now under marching orders for
Fort Leavenworth, but they have no tents, arms, or ammunition, and have not quite their full
quota of horses. The Fifteenth Regiment Iowa Infantry needs about 100 men of being full. The
Sixteenth Regiment Iowa Infantry have between 300 and 400 men in quarters at Camp
McClellan and several squads in different parts of the State. The German regiment has 189 men
in quarters and is filling up very slowly. This regiment will probably be consolidated with the
Sixteenth Infantry. In regard to the recruiting service for regiments in the field, I have nothing to
report, as by General Orders, No. 105, from your department, the General Government has
assumed that service. I have nothing to report as to the progress of the infantry regiment which
was recently authorized by the War Department to be raised by Col. J. W. Rankin, inasmuch as
so little time has elapsed since recruiting for that regiment commenced.
Truly, yours,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Des Moines, Iowa, January 13, 1862.
Brigadier-General THOMAS,
Adjutant-General U.S. Army, Washington:
GENERAL: Your letter of the 4th instant to His Excellency the Governor has been by him
referred to me with direction to answer. In reply I have to state that Iowa has now in the field for
three years, or during the war, thirteen regiments of infantry, as follows:
Second Regiment Infantry, raised under second call of the President, as per telegram of War
Department to Governor Kirkwood May 15 and letter May 16, 1861, 992 men. Third Regiment
Infantry, raised under second call of the President, as per letter of War Department to Governor
Kirkwood May 15 and letter May 16, 1861, 960 men. Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Regiments
Infantry, raised under authority Secretary of War by letter to Governor Kirkwood June 19, 1861;
Fourth Regiment Infantry, 903 men; Fifth Regiment Infantry, 903 men; Sixth Regiment Infantry,
855 men. Seventh Regiment Infantry, raised under authority of War Department about June 29,
1861, 884 men. Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Regiments Infantry, raised under authority of War
Department, as per letter to Governor Kirkwood July 29, 1861; Eighth Regiment Infantry, 922
men; Ninth Regiment Infantry, 937 men; Tenth Regiment
Infantry, 868 men. Eleventh Regiment
34
Infantry, sanctioned by Secretary of War, as per letter to Governor Kirkwood October 7, 1861,
905 men. Twelfth Regiment Infantry, raised under authority of War Department by letter to
Governor Kirkwood October 12, 1861, 914 men, Thirteenth Regiment Infantry, raised under
authority of General Frémont, ratified by War Department as per letter to Governor Kirkwood
October 7, 1861, 920 men. Fourteenth Regiment Infantry, raised under authority of General
Frémont and ratified by War Department, as per letter to Governor Kirkwood October 7, 1861,
878 men. Three companies of this regiment are at Fort Randall.
In addition to the above regiments the Fifteenth Regiment Infantry, now forming at Keokuk,
is nearly full, lacking about seventy-five men; raised under same order as Thirteenth. The
Sixteenth Regiment Infantry, now forming at Davenport, has about 350 men and is gradually
filling up; raised under authority of War Department by telegram November 12, 1861. The
German regiment infantry has about 200 men. This regiment will probably be consolidated with
the Sixteenth. Iowa has now in the field for three years, or during the war, three regiments
cavalry, as follows: First Regiment Cavalry, raised under proclamation of the President May 3,
1861, and letters from War Department to the Governor under date June 19 and July 9, 1861,
1,043 men. Second Regiment Cavalry, raised under authority of War Department by letter to
Governor Kirkwood July 29, 1861, 1,035 men. Third Regiment Cavalry, raised by authority of
General Frémont and ratified by War Department, as per letter to Governor Kirkwood October 7,
1861, 1,088 men. Fourth Regiment Cavalry, raised by authority of War Department, by letters to
Governor Kirkwood September 7 and October 12, 1861, 1,010 men. This regiment is full and
mustered in, but have neither uniforms, arms, nor equipments. Iowa has also a cavalry company
in the U.S. service called the Sioux City Cavalry, for frontier service, raised by authority of War
Department, as per letter to Governor Kirkwood August 14, 1861, 91 men. This State has also
three batteries of light artillery--one attached to Fourth Regiment Iowa Infantry, one attached to
Ninth Regiment Iowa Infantry, and Fletcher's battery, now in Saint Louis.
The numbers of each regiment, as hereinbefore stated, are based upon the original musterrolls
of companies filed in this office at date of muster into U.S. service. These numbers
doubtless differ from the actual force now in the field. I am now taking measures to obtain
information in regard to the actual number in each regiment now in the field, of which when
completed I will inform you. Measures are being taken to organize another infantry regiment
under authority of the War Department, to be commanded by Capt. J. W. Rankin.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Des Moines, Iowa, March 21, 1862.
Adjutant-General THOMAS,
Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Your telegram to the Governor of this State has been received, and I am directed
to answer that portion which requires a detailed statement in writing in relation to regiments now
mustered into, or ready to be mustered into, the U.S. service. All our regiments of infantry, from
the Second to the Sixteenth, inclusive, are mustered in and out of the State. The Fifteenth arrived
at Saint Louis to-day at noon, and it is presumed that the Sixteenth will be there in less than
twenty-four hours, if not already there. Four regiments of cavalry are in the field, and we [are]
not organizing any other regiment of that arm of the service. Four batteries of artillery are in the
field, and we are organizing no other. The only regiment which we are now organizing is the
Seventeenth Infantry, which is rapidly filling up.
35
The Governor desires me to say that whenever your Department gives authority to any
person to raise a regiment in this State that it will be done with the full understanding that said
regiment is needed. The Governor can make no inquiry into the necessity of the case, but the
authority being given by your Department will at once be acted on and the regiment filled up.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, truly, yours,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Des Moines, Iowa, March 29, 1862.
General L. THOMAS,
Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the Fifteenth Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry,
1,000 strong, left Keokuk, in this State, for U.S. service at Saint Louis, March 19, instant. The
Sixteenth Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry left Davenport, in this State, for U.S. service at
Saint Louis, March 20, instant. The Seventeenth Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry is now
rapidly filling up at Keokuk.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
April 18, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
DEAR SIR: Your dispatch of the 16th instant names Keokuk as the place of rendezvous for
the regiment of this State. I had supposed this place (Davenport) a more suitable point. It is
central on the Mississippi, connects directly with the East by railroad, and has a telegraph.
Keokuk is in the extreme southeastern part of the State, has no direct railroad communication
East, nor has any telegraph. If these considerations should make you think it advisable to change
the place of rendezvous, please inform me. I have been and will be here for some days to have
the benefit of the telegraph for organizing the regiment called for from this State.
Some uneasiness prevails in the western part of this State lest the withdrawal of troops from
the frontier and the disturbed condition of our national affairs may induce the Indians on our
northwestern frontier to attack the exposed settlements. The files of your Department will show
that we have been annoyed by them for the last three or four years. If you could place 500 longrange
rifles at Council Bluffs and the same number at Sioux City, in store, to be used by me in
case of necessity, I will furnish the men, if the necessity shall arise. I should also be glad if you
could place at each point a single U.S. Army officer, to command any troops that might be
needed to use the arms for the above purpose. I shall await your answer to these suggestions with
some concern.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
April 18, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
36
DEAR SIR: Your telegraphic dispatches of the 16th and 18th instant, via Burlington,
notifying me of a requisition for one regiment of troops, have been received. Dispatches will
reach me sooner if sent to Davenport, and mail matter to Iowa City. The requisition by mail has
not yet reached me. Your dispatches of the 16th were received on that day, and I immediately
commenced measures for organizing a regiment. I have not convened the General Assembly of
this State, for the reason that the banks of the State have placed at my disposal all the money I
may need. I hope to be able to notify you that one regiment will be ready before May 20. As
soon an the requisite number of companies are offered me I will notify you. Present indications
are that more than enough companies for one regiment will be offered. If so, will more be
received? I am acting on the presumption that the State will pay all expenses until the troops are
mustered into the service of the United States; that the United States will furnish arms and
accouterments; that the companies will elect their own officers. Am I right? Will the regiment
elect its own officers? Will the United States furnish clothing? Please instruct me on these points.
Please assure the President that the people and the Executive of Iowa will stand by him
unflinchingly. Ten days ago we had two parties in this State; to-day we have but one, and that
one is for the Constitution and Union unconditionally.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
April 19, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
DEAR SIR: Inclosed find a letter from Hon. C. Baldwin, one of the justices of the supreme
court of this State, resident at Council Bluffs, touching the uneasiness felt on the western and
northwestern frontier on account of the Indians. I wish you to consider it in connection with my
request of the 18th, asking for a deposit of arms at Council Bluffs and Sioux City. Hon. John A.
Kasson, First Assistant Post-master-General, can give you reliable information on this subject.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
DAVENPORT, Iowa, April 19, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
DEAR SIR: I have this day received letters from Council Bluffs advising me that since the
withdrawal of the U.S. troops from Forts Randall and Kearny the people along the border of our
State are alarmed somewhat, fearing that they may be annoyed by incursions from certain tribes
of Indians, which of late years take every opportunity to commit outrages upon the frontier
settlements. In our present national troubles we cannot expect much aid from the Federal
Government, unless it would be to furnish us arms to defend ourselves with. I therefore beg leave
to urge upon you the propriety of an early compliance with the request of the Governor of our
State, and hope to hear from you favorably upon this subject.
Very respectfully,
CALEB BALDWIN.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, April 26, 1861.
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
37
Governor of Iowa, Iowa City :
DEAR SIR: Your letter of the 16th and two of the 18th instant are received. Thanking you
for the speedy and prompt action you have taken in response to the call of the President for
troops, I have to say in answer that it is not contemplated to remove the troops from the State of
Iowa that may be raised there, and should that contingency arise, steps have already been taken
to see that sufficient arms for the protection of your people shall be furnished.
If it suits your convenience and that of the troops better, the place of rendezvous may be
changed from Keokuk to Davenport. Until mustered into the service of the United States the
troops will be at the expense of the State. The Federal Government will furnish arms and
equipments for the troops. An officer of the U.S. Army will be detailed to inspect the troops at
their place of rendezvous and muster them into service. The surgeons, as all other officers for the
State militia of the respective States, are appointed or elected under the State authority, according
to the laws of each particular State.
At present no more troops than those called for can be accepted, but the Department does not
doubt that the loyal and patriotic people of Iowa are prepared to meet promptly any call the
necessities of the Government may hereafter require.
Very truly, yours,
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, April 29, 1861.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Iowa City:
DEAR SIR: Yours of the 19th instant, inclosing Judge Baldwin's letter in relation to the
furnishing of arms at Council Bluffs, has been received. The matters embraced in it have been
the subject of consideration by this Department. It is not intended to order the State troops from
the West at present, and they will therefore be on hand to meet any want occasioned by the
removal of the U.S. forces. Should they be ordered to other points, provision will be made to
meet any of the emergencies Judge Baldwin apprehends.
I am, dear sir, very respectfully,
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
April 29, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
DEAR SIR: I am without any communication from you since your requisition for one
regiment of troops. I have not heard from Senator Grimes, who went to Washington at my
special request. I have one regiment ready to be mustered in on any day. I am ordering a second
regiment this day into the service of the State. It can be turned over to the United States at any
time, and a third regiment is anxiously waiting to be ordered into service. I can raise 10,000 in
this State in twenty days, but the State has not any arms. Receiving arms only upon the
Congressional apportionment of 1850, the number received is so small as to amount to nothing,
and being all the old-fashioned muskets, our boys don't feel willing to carry them to the field to
meet men armed with better weapons. I am daily receiving letters from our northwestern frontier
expressing alarm on account of the Indians. Our people
there are very uneasy, and have in my
38
judgment good cause for fear. I don't ask for anything but arms, accouterments, and ammunition.
We have plenty of men willing to use them in their own defense and that of the Government. If
no arrangement has yet been made for arms for this State, do, for God's sake, send us some. We
should have at least 5,000 beyond those required to arm the troops the United States may
require--- say, one-half rifles.
Your earliest possible attention will confer a great favor on your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
UNION DEFENSE COMMITTEE,
New York, May 3, 1861.
Synopsis of replies from Governors of States, received by telegraph this day.
1. Governor Curtin, of Pennsylvania: 25 regiments, all full and armed; 15 of these uniformed.
2. Governor Olden, of New Jersey: 4 regiments start to-morrow, well prepared. We want
ammunition to protect them to Washington. If General Wool fails to help us, can the Union
Committee do so?
3. Governor Andrew, of Massachusetts: 4 regiments (about) ready in the field; as many more
at brief notice. Probably 10,000 drilling, hoping for call.
4. Governor Fairbanks, of Vermont: 1 regiment waiting for orders. 5. Governor Buckingham,
Connecticut: 1 regiment in service.
6. Governor of Rhode Island, by Adjutant-General Mauran: 1 regiment in field; 1 battery
light artillery, 150 men.
7. Governor of Michigan, by Adjutant-General Robertson: 1 regiment ready; 1 field battery,
4 guns, ready in four days; 2 regiments armed and nearly equipped; 3 regiments ready to be
called--enrolled, waiting arms.
8. Governor Washburn, of Maine: 1 regiment ready, 3 nearly so; enough enlisted for 10
regiments. We wish to send a regiment of lumbermen and drivers, over 6 feet.
9. Governor Ramsey, of Minnesota: 1 regiment mustered; another in two weeks.
10. Governor Randall, of Wisconsin: 1 regiment called and ready, another in camp; 2 more
ready at day's warning; 3 more registered.
11. Governor Dennison, of Ohio: 22 regiments in camp, under drill, of which 13 under
President's call. Legislature has appropriated $3,000,000.
12. Governor Kirkwood, of Iowa: 1 regiment, 1,000 strong, a week under drill, and I
regiment now full and drilling; 3d ready.
13. Governor of New Hampshire, by Adjutant-General Abbott: 1 regiment mustered; 2
others, perhaps 4, will be tendered by the State.
By order of committee:
P.M. WETMORE,
Secretary.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Des Moines, Iowa, May 4, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
DEAR SIR: Yours of the 29th of April is just at hand. A glance at the map of Iowa will show
you that the troops raised in this State will at Keokuk be at least 300 miles from the nearest point
(Council Bluffs), and 400 miles from the point (Sioux City) most exposed to Indian
depredations. This will not afford any protection to the northwestern frontier. All I ask is arms
and ammunition; not any men. I hope you will give this
matter further consideration. If you have
39
time to consult the files of your Department you will find there evidence of the massacre of some
fifty men, women, and children some three or four years ago in that region. If you cannot spare
arms let me know the fact and I will try to purchase them.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, May 6, 1861.
Governor SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD, Iowa City:
DEAR SIR: I am in receipt of your letter of the 29th ultimo, and have the honor to inform
you, in reply, that you will be afforded the opportunity, under the second call for troops just
issued by the President, to muster into service the troops from your State which could not be
received under the first call of the President. The number called into service from Iowa under the
first proclamation is 780. Arms for that number were retained at the Saint Louis Arsenal when
the shipment was made thence to Springfield. These arms were intended to be forwarded to
Keokuk or Davenport, or the place where the troops would be mustered into service, the officers
mustering the troops into service being designated to receive them. I may add that it is essential,
to avoid confusion and difficulty, that supplies should be furnished in order. First the troops
called into immediate service of the United States must be provided for, and further issues must
be postponed until such troops are supplied. It would in no way expedite matters to hurry off
arms before troops are mustered.
In regard to furnishing arms to the militia of your State at this time, in view of the
apprehensions of being troubled by the Indians, I can now only say that the Chief of Ordnance
advises that 1,000 stand of arms ought to be forwarded to Keokuk, to be there taken in charge by
Colonel Curtis or some other responsible person, to be used in case of an emergency. If this
arrangement should answer the purpose, you will please inform this Department.
I am, sir, very respectfully,
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, May 6, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
How many more regiments will be required from Iowa and for how long? I am overwhelmed
with applications.
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
May 6, 1861.
General JOHN E. WOOL,
New York City:
DEAR SIR: Some time since certain gentlemen of Chicago, composing a military committee
at that place, had made an arrangement with you, as I understand, by which 5,000 rifle muskets,
or long-range rifles, were ordered from Springfield Arsenal to Chicago, and were started on the
way. They were subsequently stopped in transit, upon information being received from the
Governor of Illinois that that State had been supplied
with arms from Saint Louis.
40
This State is destitute of arms. The quota furnished us yearly, based on the census of 1850,
has been so small and so utterly disproportioned to our actual population, and the arms sent
having been, until last year, the old flint-lock musket altered to a percussion lock, that I may say
the State is without arms. Besides, what few we have we distributed in the hands of volunteer
companies in different parts of this large State, and could only be got together by long and
expensive land carriage, we having as yet but few railroads.
I had applied to the military committee at Chicago, to whom you were sending the 5,000
arms from Springfield, for a loan of 1,000 stands, in view of the want of this State in that regard,
and they had very generously promised, if possible, to let me have them.
As soon as I learned that Governor Yates had received from Saint Louis a supply largely in
excess of the requisition in his favor I sent a special messenger to him asking him for a portion of
them, but he declined letting me have any. His refusal to give me any portion of the Saint Louis
arms, and his information to you that his State was supplied--by means of which the 5,000 on the
way to Chicago were stopped, and I, of course, prevented from getting any portion of them--have
left me, as yet, wholly unprovided for. We need arms and must have them in some way. I can't
get them in any reasonable time from private manufacturers. We have filled, and will promptly
fill, all requisitions made on us by the United States for men, but our southern border is exposed
to incursions of reckless men from Missouri for plunder and our western border to Indian
depredations. The U.S. troops have been withdrawn from Forts Randall and Kearny; large bodies
of Indians are on our northwestern border, excited by the news that our country is engaged in
civil war, and I am daily in receipt of letters from that portion of our State that the danger of an
attack by the Indians is imminent. They are already in the State in small bands, as I am informed,
stealing horses.
Under these circumstances the General Government must furnish us arms and ammunition,
unless it is wholly unable to do so. If you have the power to do so, I hope you will at once send
me, to this point, 5,000 long-range rifles or rifle muskets and accouterments, with proper
ammunition, or as near that amount as you can.
If you have not the power, please forward this letter to the War Department, with such
indorsement by you as your judgment dictates. A prompt reply will confer a great favor on
Your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, May 7, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War:
I have received requisition for only one regiment; that regiment is for three months, and has
gone forward. I will muster the rest for three years, or during the war; but how many shall I
muster in? How many more do you want from this State? Shall I uniform the men you yet want?
Answer.
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
May 7, 1861.
Governor S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
The Adjutant-General will in a day or two give you full information as to the quota, &c.,
under the second call of the President.
41
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
IOWA, May 10, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington :
DEAR SIR: I have just received yours of the 6th instant. The First Iowa Regiment is in
rendezvous at Keokuk, and I hope will soon be supplied with arms. It will, under the authority of
the telegram from you of the 6th instant, have 970 men.
In regard to furnishing men for the militia, you propose to place 1,000 stand of arms "at
Keokuk, in charge of Colonel Curtis, or some other responsible person, to be used in case of
emergency." In reply I can only say that if by this it is intended that the arms shall remain in
Keokuk until an attack is actually made by Indians, and then be used to repel such attack, such
arrangement will not be of practical benefit. Keokuk is at least 300 miles from Council Bluffs,
and nearly or quite 400 miles from Sioux City, in which region the Indians will be troublesome,
if at all. Between Keokuk and either of these points there are only about 80 miles of railroad, and
the balance of the way arms, &c., must be carried by wagon. The Indians might invade our State,
do incalculable injury, and be gone beyond our reach long before an express could reach Keokuk
and the arms taken to the point of attack. The arms to be available to us must be near the points
exposed.
Please consult Colonel Curtis on these matters. He is familiar with the geography of our
State, and can give you important and reliable information.
Permit me to repeat that much alarm and uneasiness exist along our southern border. I am
daily in receipt of letters from that part of this State, informing me that our people fear a border
war with Missouri. We have no arms. I cannot, after diligent inquiry, learn where any can be
bought. The quota heretofore sent to this State was based on the census of 1850, and has been
very small. So far as arms are concerned, we are defenseless, and must remain so unless supplied
by you. Arms in the hands of our people along the Missouri border would not only be a
protection to us, but would be of great moral support to the true men in Missouri. I must be
allowed to urge again the absolute necessity of sending a liberal supply to this State beyond the
quota to arm the troops raised here for the service of the United States. Illinois has received
21,000 stand of arms. She has but a small border exposed and it well settled. She had before a
good supply of arms, based upon her population. We were unprovided for, and are so yet.
I know well that at this time you are overwhelmed with business, but must entreat that this
matter have careful consideration.
Colonel Curtis, with whom you are acquainted, and Hon. John A. Kasson, First Assistant
Postmaster-General, can give you full information, and I trust you will consult them.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
(Same to Governors of other States, May 16, 1861, for their several quotas, as follows:
Connecticut.--One regiment for three years, or the war, in addition to the two regiments of
three-months' militia already called for.
Illinois.--Six regiments in addition to six three-months' regiments.
Indiana.--Four regiments in addition to six three-months'
regiments.
42
Iowa.--Two regiments in addition to one three-months' regiment.
Maine.--One regiment in addition to one three-months' regiment.
Michigan.--Three regiments in addition to one three-months' regiment.
New Hampshire.--One regiment in addition to one three-months' regiment.
New Jersey.--Three regiments in addition to four three-months' regiments.
Ohio.--Nine regiments in addition to thirteen three-months' regiments.
Vermont.--One regiment in addition to one three-months' regiment.
Wisconsin.--Two regiments in addition to one three-months' regiment.)
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, May 21, 1861.
Hon. SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD, Iowa:
DEAR SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of two letters from you dated on the
10th instant, in regard to furnishing arms, and suggesting that there is a large quantity of arms
and ammunition at Fort Kearny. This Department is not advised of any surplus arms and
ammunition at Fort Kearny. If there are any such, the commanding officer's duty would be to
send them to an arsenal. Government arms and ammunition can be supplied only to troops
mustered into service.
Very respectfully, yours,
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Des Moines, Iowa, May 21, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington:
DEAR SIR: Your telegraphic dispatch of May 15, informing me that two more regiments of
volunteers were required of this State, reached me on the 17th instant. I immediately ordered the
ten companies selected as the Second Regiment to rendezvous at Keokuk by the 25th instant,
there to be mustered into the service of the United States. I have also selected the companies to
form the Third Regiment, and have sent orders to them to rendezvous at the same place by the 3d
of June proximo at furthest. I hope both regiments will be promptly at Keokuk by the time
named.
The want of telegraphs and railroads in the interior of our State causes delay in the
transmission of orders and the movement of troops, or these regiments would be at the place of
rendezvous much sooner. I received May 18 Orders, No. 15, giving plan of organizing these
regiments, but have not yet received the official requisition for them. I have taken measures to
furnish these regiments with tents and uniforms as speedily as possible. I regret that I could not
learn from your office whether it would be desirable for me to furnish these things. Had such
information been given me in reply to my dispatch of May 6, I could have had tents and
uniforms ready for the Second Regiment on its arrival at Keokuk. As it is, they will be there as
soon as they can possibly be procured.
Should it be desirable to designate outside the Regular Army an officer of rank higher than
colonel to command the Iowa regiments, I respectfully suggest that the appointment of Hon. S.
R. Curtis, of this State, to that position would in my judgment be a good one, and very
satisfactory to the troops and the people of this State.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
43
IOWA CITY, May 20, 1862.
(Received 9.30 p.m. 21st.)
Adjutant-General THOMAS:
I can raise one infantry regiment, I think, within sixty days from receipt of authority. I am
requested by General Halleck to recruit Iowa regiments now in the field. Raising new regiments
will prevent recruiting for the old ones. Can raise two or three, I think, if sufficient time be given.
Please answer immediately.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, May 23, 1862.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa:
Raise one regiment of infantry as soon as possible, the others afterward.
L. THOMAS,
Adjutant-General.
LEAVENWORTH, KANS., May 29, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
SIR: If the War Department desires it, I can, if authorized, raise two companies of Dakota
volunteers to garrison Fort Randall, in Dakota Territory, and thus relieve the three companies of
the Fourteenth Regiment of Iowa Volunteers now garrisoning Fort Randall.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. JAYNE,
Governor of Dakota Territory.
P. S.--My address is Yankton, Dak. Ter.
W. J.
CLINTON, IOWA, June 23, 1862.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
One new regiment will be ready within forty days. It is raised by squads and companies all
over the State and tents are indispensable, which I have not received. All other supplies received.
Let me have the tents immediately. Are they on the way?
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D. C., July 1, 1862.
Hon. WILLIAM S. SEWARD,
Parker House, Boston:
Do not the Governors of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Iowa respond favorably, and
should not their names be subscribed to the letter?
EDWIN M. STANTON.
44
PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL.]
WASHINGTON, D.C., July 3, 1862--10.30 a.m.
Governor WASHBURN,
Augusta, Me.:
MY DEAR SIR: I should not want the half of 300,000 new troops if I could have them now.
If I had 50,000 additional troops here now I believe I could substantially close the war in two
weeks. But time is everything, and if I get 50,000 new men in a month I shall have lost 90,000
old ones during the same mouth, having gained only 30,000, with the difference between old and
new troops still against me. The quicker you send the fewer you will have to send. Time is
everything. Please act in view of this. The enemy having given up Corinth, it is not wonderful
that he is thereby enabled to check us for a time at Richmond.
Yours, truly,
A. LINCOLN.
(Same to Governors Berry, Concord, N. H.; Holbrook, Brattleborough, Vt.; Buckingham,
Hartford, Conn.; Andrew, Boston, Mass.; Sprague, Providence, R. I.; Morgan, Albany, N. Y.;
Curtin, Harrisburg, Pa.; Olden, Trenton, N. J.; Tod, Columbus, Ohio; Morton, Indianapolis, Ind.;
Yates, Springfield, Ill.; Ramsey, Saint Paul, Minn.; Blair, Lansing, Mich.; Salomon, Madison,
Wis., and Kirkwood, Davenport, Iowa.)
DAVENPORT, IOWA, July 5, 1862.
(Received 10 p.m. 6th.)
ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
President of the United States:
The Eighteenth Iowa Infantry is rapidly organizing. Shall have it ready in about thirty days.
Our harvesting prevents rapid recruiting just now. Iowa will do her duty. She has furnished
already seventeen regiments of infantry, five regiments of cavalry, and three batteries of artillery.
If you want a regiment of three-months' men they could easily be raised.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., July 7, 1862.
Hon. E. D. MORGAN,
Governor of New York, Albany:
You are requested to raise as soon as practicable for the U. S. service, for three years or
during the war, twenty-eight regiments of volunteer infantry, being a part of your quota under the
call of the President.
By order of the Secretary of War:
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Similar dispatch to Hon. Charles S. Olden, Governor of New Jersey, Trenton, N. J., calling
for five regiments; to Hon. Andrew G. Curtin, Governor of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg, Pa., calling
for twenty-one regiments; to Hon. William Burton, Governor of Delaware, Dover, Del., calling
for one regiment; to Hon. A. W. Bradford, Governor of Maryland, Annapolis, Md., calling for
four regiments; to Hon. F. H. Peirpoint, Governor of Virginia, Wheeling, Va., calling for two
regiments; to Hon. David Tod, Governor of Ohio, Columbus, Ohio, calling for seventeen
regiments; to Hon. O. P. Morton, Governor of Indiana, Indianapolis, Ind., calling for nine
regiments; to Hon. Israel Washburn, Governor of Maine,
Augusta, Me., calling for five
45
regiments; to Hon. Nathaniel S. Berry, Governor of New Hampshire, Concord, N.H., calling for
two regiments; to Hon. Frederick Holbrook, Governor of Vermont, Brattleborough, Vt., calling
for two regiments; to Hon. John A. Andrew, Governor of Massachusetts, Boston, Mass., calling
for twelve regiments; to Hon. William Sprague, Governor of Rhode Island, Providence, R. I.,
calling for one regiment; to Hon. William A. Buckingham, Governor of Connecticut, New
Haven, Conn., calling for five regiments; to Hon. Richard Yates, Governor of Illinois,
Springfield, Ill., calling for nine regiments; to Hon. Austin Blair, Governor of Michigan, Detroit,
Mich., calling for six regiments; to Hon. Edward Salomon, Governor of Wisconsin, Madison,
Wis., calling for five regiments; to General J. W. Finnell, adjutant-general of Kentucky,
Frankfort, Ky., calling for four regiments; to Hon. Samuel J. Kirkwood, Governor of Iowa,
calling for five regiments; to Hon. Alexander Ramsey, Governor of Minnesota, Saint Paul,
Minn., calling for one regiment; to Hon. H. R. Gamble, Governor of Missouri, Saint Louis, Mo.,
calling for four regiments; to Hon. Andrew Johnson, Governor of Tennessee, Nashville, Tenn.,
calling for two regiments.)
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., July 26, 1862.
Hon. SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD, Governor of Iowa:
SIR: By order of the President of the United States you are authorized and directed to make a
draft of militia of the State of Iowa to fill up the quota of volunteers called for by the President,
or as much thereof as by reason of the deficiency of the volunteers or other cause you may deem
proper.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
FAIRFIELD, IOWA, July 28, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D.C.:
I arrived at home on Saturday last from Washington and found a lamentable state of affairs in
this section of Iowa.
Our loyal people are doing everything in their power to raise the number of troops required
of this State, but very serious obstacles are thrown in their way. I will give you one instance, and
ask you to take some action in regard to it as well as in all similar cases.
On last Saturday a recruiting officer visited Rome, a small town in Henry County, for the
purpose of raising recruits. He was a wounded soldier and not able to defend himself. As soon as
his business became known he was at once set upon by four miscreants and ordered to leave the
town. He at first declined. The assailants threatened to hang him if he did not go, declaring that
he should not stay there. He was compelled to leave. To-day a squad of soldiers went to Rome to
arrest the men. I hear that they have arrested a part of them. But I do not know that any officer in
this State has authority to hold them as prisoners.
Now, I suggest that some officer, say Capt. G. W. Newman (who, I understand, is stationed
at Burlington), or some other U.S. officer, be authorized by the Department to arrest such
persons. Something of this kind must be done. The work of enlistment must not thus be
interfered with. An end must be put to all such work and that at once.
Men in this and surrounding counties are daily in the habit of denouncing the Government,
the war, and all engaged in it, and are doing all they can to prevent enlistments. This should be
stopped, so far as relates to enlistments, in some way.
The Government needs men, and that as
46
soon as possible. But with an organized determination on the part of a very considerable number
of men in each county, the work of enlistment must go on slowly.
I hope something in relation to this matter may be done at once.
Yours, truly,
JAMES F. WILSON.
CLINTON, IOWA, July 30, 1862--10.30 a.m.
(Received 1.20 p.m.)
SECRETARY OF WAR:
The Eighteenth Iowa Infantry, in camp here, has, by consolidated morning reports, over 900.
This morning I shall consolidate some companies and organize the regiment next week. Shall I
send the regiment to Annapolis or Washington? I hope Annapolis, as that has been my
representation, and any change of destination will injure recruiting for new regiments. I wish to
send via Chicago, Michigan Southern and Elmira. Shall I do so?
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
CLINTON, IOWA, July 31, 1862--2.50 p.m.
(Received 8.30 p.m.)
SECRETARY OF WAR:
I have no answer to my telegrams of yesterday in relation to transportation of the Eighteenth
Iowa Infantry, in relation to payment of bounties and advance pay, or in relation to tents.
Answers are important to me, and the service, and to the recruiting for new regiments.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
WASHINGTON, D.C.,
July 31, 1862--4.50 p.m.
Adjt. Gen. N. B. BAKER,
Clinton, Iowa:
The Eighteenth Iowa will be sent to Saint Louis to be armed and equipped, and will then be
ordered here or elsewhere, as circumstances may require. Recent rebel movements render it
uncertain where additional forces will first be needed.
H. W. HALLECK,
Major-General.
CLINTON, IOWA, July 31, 1862.
(Received 8.40 p.m.)
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON:
Your telegram received. As the Eighteenth Infantry was raised with express understanding to
go to Annapolis you would do great injury to the recruiting service by not carrying out the
representations made to me and by me made to them. The men of the Eighteenth should be paid
their one-fourth bounty and advance pay before moving. If not, great injury will be done to the
service for our five new regiments.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
CLINTON, IOWA, [July 31,] 1862.
47
(Received 11 p.m.)
Major-General HALLECK:
Yours of date received. The Eighteenth was recruited for Annapolis. Promises are good when
kept, bad otherwise. The Eighteenth is fully armed, equipped, and clothed. Don't let my
promises, founded on dispatch from War Department, be violated. It will injure recruiting for
new regiments, which are organizing fast. The Eighteenth is not one of the five newly called for.
The one-quarter bounty and advance pay should be made without fail.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
WASHINGTON, D.C., August 1, 1862--9.35 p.m.
General N. B. BAKER,
Clinton, Iowa:
I am authorized by the Secretary of War to say that he never authorized the raising of the
Eighteenth Regiment for Annapolis; that was only spoken of at the time as the probable place of
rendezvous. Things have changed since then, and the regiment is wanted elsewhere. It was raised
to fight the rebels. They are not at Annapolis. It is wanted at Chattanooga, and if armed and
equipped will proceed to Nashville, Tenn., and report to General Buell.
H. W. HALLECK,
Major-General, Commanding.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 2, 1862.
(Received 6 p.m.)
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
The Eighteenth Regiment can be sent off as soon as the men receive their bounty and
advance pay. It will not do to move them without it. About 150 of the men were enlisted before
July 5, but if possible they should all be paid. Answer to Clinton.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 2, 1862.
(Received 10 p.m.)
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
In the absence of State law, is there any law of Congress regulating drafting? If so, send
instructions. We have no sufficient law for drafting in this State. Am satisfied a draft must be
made to fill up the old regiments.
S. J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, August 3, 1862--12.25 p.m.
Adjt. Gen. N. B. BAKER,
Clinton, Iowa:
The Eighteenth Iowa will immediately move to Saint Louis and report to Brigadier-General
Schofield. Make requisition on the chief quartermaster at Saint Louis for transportation.
H. W. HALLECK,
Major-General, Commanding.
48
CLINTON, IOWA, August 7, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
Will State authorities in drafting be allowed to discriminate in favor of townships and
counties that have furnished their full quotas? This is important, as in some localities
volunteering goes on rapidly and in others not at all.
S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
CLINTON, IOWA, August 8, 1862.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
Have accepted Temperance Regiment tendered by E. C. Byam, to rendezvous by September
15. Will find requisition for arms and clothing by mail.
S. J. KIRKWOOD.
CLINTON, IOWA, August 9, 1862--1.10 p.m.
(Received 7.30 p.m.)
SECRETARY OF WAR:
Will the new call for 300,000 men have the same bounty and advance pay as the other
300,000 if they enlist in specified time? State the time at which enlistments in this State shall
stop. Send off the Eighteenth Infantry on Monday. Will have another regiment in ten days.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 9, 1862.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Davenport:
Your quota of 300,000 militia is 10,570. Regulations for draft will be forwarded to-day.
By order of the Secretary of War:
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
CLINTON, Iowa, August 9, 1862--1.30 p.m.
(Received 7.30 p.m.)
SECRETARY OF WAR:
Eighteenth full and goes to Hannibal, Mo., on Monday. The Twentieth will be full in ten days
thereafter. Recruiting is going on in this State magnificently. I like a draft.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D. C., August 11, 1862.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa:
49
SIR: In reply to yours of the 4th instant, proposing to raise a regiment of men of forty-five
years of age, but "active and vigorous," for garrison duty, I am directed to say that such a
regiment will be accepted.
By order of the Secretary of War:
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 12, 1862.
SECRETARY OF WAR:
There are 300 men in Scott County already enlisted above quota under first call of 300,000
men. Can they be received as volunteers, and will they be allowed bounty by Government, and
will the rule operate generally? Answer to be sent to Davenport and Clinton.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 12, 1862.
Adjt. Gen. N. B. BAKER,
Davenport, also Clinton, Iowa:
Your Scott County men and all who may volunteer will be received, provided they go into
the old regiments, and they will be allowed bounty, and thus save a special draft that will
otherwise have to [be] made to fill up the old regiments. But they will not be received after the
15th for new regiments.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D. C., August 12, 1862.
General GEORGE B. WRIGHT,
Quartermaster- General of Ohio, Columbus:
The correspondence of the War Department shows that the Governors of nearly every State
appear to be suspicious that the War Department will be partial in the distribution of arms, and
not give his State his fair distributive share of the best. The whole number of arms of each kind is
taken and apportioned to the several States according to the number of regiments which they are
respectively called upon to furnish. They are charged with all the arms they have respectively
received since the 1st of May. The Springfield and Enfield muskets are considered by the States
generally, and by the troops, of equivalent value. But we divide each kind, and assign the proper
share of each, except in the case of Ohio and Iowa, both of which received an undue share of
Enfield rifles in May. Ohio has probably lost some of hers, and therefore 6,300 Springfield arms
have been sent to arm seven regiments. Colonel Burbank will return the 5,000 Enfields sent to
him this week, and instead of them, he is authorized to draw as many Prussian smooth-bores
from the Louisville Arsenal, which are efficient weapons, and for militia home guards are as
good as anything else. There have been but 22,000 Springfield rifles in the Washington Arsenal,
I regret to say, notwithstanding you count 80,000. I wish you could count the Springfields sent to
Ohio by the same multiplying rule. We have in Washington Arsenal a large number of
Springfield smooth-bore muskets, an excellent arm, that we could supply. The maximum number
of men to carry muskets in a regiment is 950, but in the States generally 900 muskets are rather
more than they have men to carry, excluding the necessary
details to attend to camp equipage
50
and duty. If any more than that number should be required, they can be supplied by the ordnance
officer at the headquarters at which the troops rendezvous preparatory to going into the field.
P. H. WATSON,
Assistant Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 13, 1862.
Governor ISRAEL WASHBURN,
Augusta, Me.:
SIR: You are requested to notify this Department as soon as possible how many volunteers
are enlisted at 12 o'clock to-day under the call of July 2 for 300,000. If you cannot give the exact
figures, give as close an approximation as possible. The information is wanted for making some
estimates.
By order of the Secretary of War:
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Same to Governors Nathaniel S. Berry, Concord, N.H.; Frederick Holbrook, Brattleborough,
Vt.; William A. Buckingham, Hartford, Conn.; John A. Andrew, Boston, Mass.;William
Sprague, Providence, R. I.; E. D. Morgan, Albany, N. Y.; Andrew G. Curtin, Harrisburg, Pa.;
Charles S. Olden, Trenton, N. J.; William Burton, Dover, Del.; David Tod, Columbus, Ohio; O.
P. Morton, Indianapolis, Ind.; Richard Yates, Springfield, Ill. ;Alexander Ramsey, Saint Paul,
Minn.; Austin Blair, Detroit, Mich.; Edward Salomon, Madison, Wis.; Samuel J. Kirkwood,
Davenport, Iowa; A. W. Bradford, Annapolis, Md.; F. H. Peirpoint, Wheeling, Va.; Hon. J. B.
Temple, president Military Board, Frankfort, Ky.)
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 14, 1862.
Governor FREDERICK HOLBROOK,
Brattleborough, Vt.:
SIR: If you have not reported the number of volunteers in reply to my telegram of yesterday,
please do so to-day, as reports are wanted immediately to determine important questions.
By order of the Secretary of War:
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Same to Governors William Sprague, Providence, R. I.; E. D. Morgan, Albany, N. Y.;
Charles S. Olden, Trenton, N. J.; Alexander Ramsey, Saint Paul, Minn.; Samuel J. Kirkwood,
Davenport, Iowa; F. H. Peirpoint, Wheeling, Va.)
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 16, 1862.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Iowa:
Your regiments will be accepted if filled up this week as volunteers, but the proceedings for
draft should be vigorously pushed forward to fill up the old regiments, even if not otherwise
required.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
51
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D. C., August 15, 1862.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
Advanced pay and bounty will not be paid after this day except to fill up the old regiments
and those not yet complete. A new temperance regiment of volunteers will not be paid bounty
and advance pay.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 15, 1862--12.20 p.m.
(Received 2.15 p.m.)
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
Will all the volunteers be credited on the draft after filling the call for the first 300,000 men,
or will the credit be given on the draft only after filling the first call, and also the old regiments?
Answer definitely.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 15, 1862--4.25 p.m.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
The old regiments must be filled before any volunteers can be credited on the draft.
By order of the Secretary of War:
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 16, 1862.
SECRETARY OF WAR:
So many troops have offered that we have not blankets to enable us to put them in quarters. I
request that you send me immediately 10,000 blankets. I cannot put men in rendezvous without
them. We have 10,000 volunteers above the five regiments. The expenses of local camps for
companies above general rendezvous of regiments are large. If Government cannot furnish, can
you authorize any one here to furnish blankets and the Government pay therefor?
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 16, 1862--10.10 p.m.
(Received 11.30 a.m. 17th.)
SECRETARY OF WAR:
I am directed to report to you the number of volunteers offered under last calls. There are
from 12,000 to 15,000.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
OTTUMWA, IOWA, August 18, 1862.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
52
Governor of Iowa:
SIR: I deem it my duty to call your attention to the condition of things near the southern
border of Iowa. Secret societies are being organized to defy the draft and collection of taxes. The
traitors are armed. Our soldiers are defenseless. We want arms. Can we not have them? You
know that I am the war candidate for Congress from this district, and speak from personal
knowledge.
Your friend and obedient servant,
J. B. GRINNELL.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 18, 1862.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Davenport:
Required to fill up your regiments in the field August 13, 1862, 8,005 men.
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 19, 1862.
(Received 11 p.m.)
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
I have acted on the understanding that all companies organized on the 15th and completed on
the 23d would be organized into new regiments. Our people have volunteered rapidly, and I
think there are to-day enough companies for fifteen regiments. If they are not accepted great
confusion and dissatisfaction will follow. I am already terribly embarrassed, and cannot get
along unless you accept them all. Answer at once.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
CLINTON, IOWA, August 20, 1862--9.15 a.m.
(Received 12 m.)
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
Will all the companies of volunteers raised by the 23d instant be organized into new
regiments? If not, what will be done with the excess? Answer.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 20, 1862.
Adjutant-General BAKER,
Davenport, Iowa:
By reading the order of the Department you will perceive that new regiments are not to be
commenced after the 15th of this month; that volunteers for regiments organizing will be
received until the 23d, and that volunteers for the old regiments will be received until the 1st of
September. Your volunteers probably belong to one of these three classes, and the order
expresses what is to be done with them as plainly as can be expressed.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
53
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 20, 1862.
(Received 3 p.m.)
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
Tell me what I shall do with over 100 companies of volunteers above the 50 under the
300,000 call for volunteers.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 20, 1862.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
First. There are companies now full and that will be filled by the 23d to fill eighteen to
twenty regiments. Our whole State appears to be volunteering. Second. The companies are now
coming into rendezvous as rapidly as I can furnish blankets for them. Could have them all in next
week if I had blankets and could build quarters fast enough. Have blankets for only five
regiments. Third. I. don't want any further time than the 23d. All I want is to put into regiments
all the companies full on that day. If I don't get this permission I will have to volunteer myself
and leave the State.
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 21, 1862.
Adjutant-General BAKER,
Davenport, Iowa:
Organize your 100 companies, or whatever number you have or may offer, within the time
specified by the orders of the Department into regiments and report them to the Department.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
IOWA CITY, IOWA, August 22, 1862--8 p.m.
(Received 2.35 a.m. 23d.)
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON:
How many men shall I draft on September 3? You count here eighteen regiments, including
the five under requisition of July 8.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 23, 1862--10.30 p.m.
(Received 2.15 a.m. 24th.)
General C. P. BUCKINGHAM:
Commissions to commissioners, surgeons, and enrolling officers were sent to each county on
the 18th by mail. Enrollments are going on in many counties, but by reason of the infrequency of
the mails many counties will not be ready for draft on the 3d of September. I have directed all
commissioners to be present at the place of drafting on the 3d, and if not ready to continue from
day to day until ready. Recognize if proper and, if you
can, extend the time in this State for
54
filling old regiments to September 10, and from commencement of drafting to September 15.
This will suit much better. We have few railroads and telegraphs.
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D. C., August 26, 1862.
His Excellency Governor KIRKWOOD,
Iowa City:
Can we count on 18,000 volunteers for new regiments toward your entire quota of 21,140
volunteers and militia?
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 26, 1862.
His Excellency-Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
Your quota of 300,000 drafted men is 10,570. The number of volunteers called for July 2
being the same, if your volunteers for old and new regiments mustered in from July 2 to
September I exceed this number, the excess may be deducted from the number drafted. If you
cannot make the draft on the 3d day of September, make it as soon thereafter as possible,
yourself taking the responsibility of extending the time.
By order of the Secretary of War:
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 27, 1862.
Governor ISRAEL WASHBURN, Jr.,
Augusta, Me.:
In answer to applications for a postponement of the time for drafting militia, the Secretary of
War directs me to say that in the present exigency of the country the Department cannot
postpone the time fixed by the order heretofore issued, but must leave the responsibility of any
delay with those who make it; that if in any State the draft be not made at the time specified in
the order of August 14, it should be made as speedily thereafter as practicable.
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Same to Governors Nathaniel S. Berry, Concord, N. H.; Frederick Holbrook,
Brattleborough, Vt.; William A. Buckingham, Hartford, Conn.; John A. Andrew, Boston, Mass.;
William Sprague, Providence, R. I.; E. D. Morgan, Albany, N. Y.; Andrew G. Curtin,
Harrisburg, Pa.; Charles S. Olden, Trenton, N. J.; William Burton, Dover, Del.; David Tod,
Columbus, Ohio; O. P. Morton, Indianapolis, Ind.; Richard Yates, Springfield, Ill.; Alexander
Ramsey, Saint Paul, Minn.; Austin Blair, Detroit, Mich.; Edward Salomon, Madison, Wis.; S. J.
Kirkwood, Davenport, Iowa; A. W. Bradford, Annapolis, Md.)
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 27, 1862--4 p.m.
(Received 9.15 p.m.)
General C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
55
Assistant Adjutant-General:
You can, I think, safely count on the 18,000.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 29, 1862--8.15 a.m.
(Received 10.40 a.m.)
General C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Assistant Adjutant-General:
I will be compelled to postpone the draft beyond September 3 because I have not yet full
returns of volunteers enlisted before the 23d instant. All our new regiments will not be mustered
in by September 1, owing to distance, slowness of transportation, and want of barracks and
blankets, but will be as soon as they can be got together. If our quotas of both calls for 300,000
men are filled by volunteers on the 23d will the drafted men go into the old regiments? Are we
not entitled to a credit for excess of volunteers now in service in the old regiments?
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., August 30, 1862.
His Excellency Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
If your quota of 600,000 men, viz, 21,140, is filled by volunteers, enlisted between July 2 and
September 1, there will be no draft unless ordered hereafter. The order for a draft to fill old
regiments has not yet been issued, but only a notice of such draft.
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., September 4, 1862.
Governor ISRAEL WASHBURN, Jr.,
Augusta, Me.:
SIR: Recruiting for old regiments will continue, and advance pay and bounty will be paid
until further orders.
By order of the Secretary of War:
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Same to Governors Nathaniel S. Berry, Concord, N.H.; Frederick Holbrook, Brattleborough,
Vt.; William A. Buckingham, Hartford, Conn.; John A. Andrew, Boston, Mass.; William
Sprague, Providence, R. I.; E. D. Morgan, Albany, N. Y.; Andrew G. Curtin, Harrisburg, Pa.;
Charles S. Olden, Trenton, N. J.; William Burton, Dover, Del.; David Tod, Columbus, Ohio; O.
P. Morton, Indianapolis, Ind.; Alexander Ramsey, Saint Paul, Minn.; Austin Blair, Detroit,
Mich.; Samuel J. Kirkwood, Davenport, Iowa; A. W. Bradford, Annapolis, Md.; F. H. Peirpoint,
Wheeling, Va.; H. R. Gamble, Saint Louis, Mo.; James F. Robinson, Louisville, Ky.)
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., September 4, 1862.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Des Moines, Iowa:
56
You are authorized to commission any officers that you deem qualified for the service, being
yourself responsible to your own people if you place them under command of unfit officers.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, September 4, 1862--3.35 p.m.
(Received 8.17 p.m.)
General C. P. BUCKINGHAM:
Upward of 21,000 volunteers have enlisted in Iowa under last calls for new regiments, and
probably 1,500 for old regiments.
N. B. BAKER.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., September 5, 1862.
Adjt. Gen. N. B. BAKER,
Davenport, Iowa:
See my telegram of August 26. If you place in the field 22,000 under last calls for volunteers
and militia you need not draft.
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
DES MOINES, IOWA, September 12, 1862--10 a.m.
(Received 4.40 p.m.)
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON:
We have now twenty-two regiments of infantry. I ask as a special favor of the Department
permission to furnish a battery of artillery.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., September 13, 1862.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Des Moines, Iowa:
This Department will accept a battery of artillery from your State if organized in twenty days
from this date. The ordnance will be supplied by the Department when the company is ready.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, September 20, 1862---10 a.m.
(Received 12.30 p.m.)
SECRETARY OF WAR:
Have sent five regiments to Saint Louis; have six more nearly clothed. Am making up the
cloth sent for ten more regiments, but where are the arms?
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D. C., September 21, 1862.
N. B. BAKER,
57
Adjutant-General of Iowa, Davenport:
To what place shall the arms for Iowa troops be sent? They are ready.
P. H. WATSON,
Assistant Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D.C., October 8, 1862.
The GOVERNOR OF ILLINOIS,
Springfield:
How many regiments of infantry and cavalry can you furnish and have ready in two weeks
for an expedition against Vicksburg and to clear the Mississippi?
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
(Same to the Governors of Indiana, Indianapolis; Iowa, Dubuque; Minnesota, Saint Paul;
Ohio, Columbus; Wisconsin, Madison.)
DAVENPORT, IOWA, October 10, 1862--12 m.
(Received 2.30 p.m.)
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
I can give you fifteen infantry regiments in two weeks if I can get pay, bounty, clothing, and
arms. I have arms for ten regiments, and coats and pants making for all, but must have shirts,
drawers, shoes, socks, overcoats, knapsacks, canteens, haversacks, and blankets. The weather
grows cold, and our men suffer for want of clothing and blankets. Money is needed to pay
advance pay and bounties. We must have clothing and money soon or some of our regiments will
disband. Answer dispatch in regard to Wilson's cavalry.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., October 23, 1862.
LELAND STANFORD,
Governor of California:
SIR: A large part of the arms and ordnance supplies for the troops mustered into the service
of the United States since the 4th day of March, 1861, from your State having been issued by the
State authorities, it is necessary, to secure proper accountability on the part of the regimental
officers, that you should furnish as soon as possible to this Department a return showing--
First. The number or other designation of each regiment and company of infantry, cavalry,
and artillery from your State that has been mustered into service of the United States and the date
of such muster.
Second. The number and description of arms and accouterments and other ordnance stores
issued, and the names of the several officers to whom the same were issued, or who are
accountable for any portion of them.
Third. The caliber of the small arms should be stated, and whether they are rifled or smooth,
whether they are of American or European manufacture, and the name by which each kind of
arm is commonly designated by ordnance officers.
The return should be addressed to Brig. Gen. James W. Ripley, Chief of Ordnance,
Washington, D.C.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
58
P. H. WATSON,
Assistant Secretary of War.
(Same to Governors William A. Buckingham, Connecticut; William Burton, Delaware;
Richard Yates, Illinois; Oliver P. Morton, Indiana; S. J. Kirkwood, Iowa; C. Robinson, Kansas;
J. F. Robinson, Kentucky; William Gilpin, Colorado Territory; William Jayne, Dakota
Territory.)
DAVENPORT, IOWA, October 24, 1862--10.10 p.m.
(Received 2.35 a.m. 25th.)
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
All our new regiments thus far have gone into Missouri. Our people are interested in opening
the Mississippi River. Can't the balance of our regiments go with our old regiments to the Army
of the Mississippi? Please answer.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, November 10, 1862.
A. LINCOLN,
President:
I most earnestly protest against General Orders, Nos. 154 and 162, War Department. They
are disorganizing in results, of no benefit to any service, but great injury. In behalf of Iowa
regiments I ask revocation.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, STATE OF IOWA,
Iowa City, November 19, 1862.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington City, D.C.:
SIR: I have distributed among the respective counties of the State their several quotas
necessary to fill up the old regiments, and have given them until the 1st of January, 1863, to
supply the same by voluntary enlistment. If this be not done by that time I shall confidently
expect positive and immediate instruction from the General Government in regard to my course
of action, either an immediate draft or an entire reliance on voluntary enlistment. Our old
regiments need the men at once, and to prevent disorganization supply of men must be speedily
furnished, and shall, if not forthcoming by the 1st of January, 1863, be raised by draft, if you so
order.
Your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
November 22, 1862.
Capt. H. B. HENDERSHOTT,
Davenport, Iowa:
All recruiting from volunteer regiments for regulars in Iowa will cease.
By direction of the Secretary of War:
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General
59
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., November 24, 1862.
His Excellency Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
You are authorized to raise a battery of artillery, to be attached to the Thirty-eighth Iowa
Volunteers, Colonel Hughes.
By order of the Secretary of War:
C. P. BUCKINGHAM,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
December 1, 1862.
The PRESIDENT:
SIR: That portion of the United States which is now, or has been during the last year, the
scene of military operations is comprised within ten military departments. The armies operating
in these departments, according to recent official returns, constitute a force of 775,336 officers
and privates, fully armed and equipped. Since the date of the returns this number has been
increased to over 800,000 men. When the quotas are filled up the force will number 1,000,000
men, and the estimates for next year are based upon that number.
The Middle Department, comprising the States of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and
Delaware, and the Department of Virginia, have been the scene of important military operations,
concerning which detailed reports have not been made by the commanding generals to this
Department. Your knowledge of the character and result of these operations dispenses with the
necessity for any review until the final reports are made. The preliminary reports of Major-
General McClellan of the battles before Richmond and of the battles of Antietam and South
Mountain, and the report of the General-in-Chief are submitted. The communications between
this Department and the respective commanders were prepared under a resolution of the Senate
at the last session, and will be transmitted to Congress whenever you shall be pleased to give
your sanction.
The report of General Halleck, the General-in-Chief, exhibits the operations in these
departments since the 23d of July, the date at which, under your order, he assumed command of
all the armies of the United States. If the campaigns of the armies in these departments have not
equaled in their results the expectations of the Government and the public hope, still they have
not been unproductive of good result. The valor of our troops has been displayed upon many
occasions, and the skill and gallantry of their officers have been distinguished at Yorktown,
Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, Gaines' Mill, Malvern Hill, Cross Keys, Cedar Mountain, Chantilly,
and other places enumerated in the reports herewith submitted. The invading army which
recently threatened the capital and the borders of Maryland and Pennsylvania has been driven
back beyond the Rappahannock; Norfolk, captured by Major-General Wool, is in our possession;
Suffolk and Yorktown are held; a strong army corps, under its vigilant and efficient commander,
Major-General Dix, at Fortress Monroe, threatens and harasses the enemy; and, what is
especially gratifying, it has been proved that the loyalty of the State of Maryland cannot be
shaken even by the presence of a rebel army.
The official reports received at this Department show that the military operations in the West
during the past year have been both active and successful. The beginning of last winter found the
rebel armies of Price and McCulloch in possession of all the northwestern portion of Missouri,
while many of the counties north of the Missouri River
were in a state of insurrection. Our forces
60
were concentrated at Rolla and Sedalia. As soon as the rebels could be driven from the northern
counties and our armies reorganized active operations were commenced, notwithstanding the
inclemency of the season and the bad condition of the roads. On the 18th of December a
considerable number of the enemy were cut off and captured at Milford while on their way to
join Price on the Osage River. The forces at Rolla under General Curtis moved toward
Springfield, which compelled Price to fall back into Arkansas, where he was joined by Van
Dorn. A severe battle was fought at Pea Ridge, Ark., on the 6th, 7th, and 8th of March between
the combined armies of the enemy and General Curtis' force, in which the latter gained a
complete and decisive victory.
The gun-boats, under Flag Officer Foote, and the troops at Cairo, under General Grant,
moved up the Tennessee River for the reduction of Forts Henry and Donelson. While Grant's
troops were marching to surround the former place it was attacked by the gun-boats and reduced
on the 6th of February, after a short but severe engagement. General Grant then marched across
the peninsula and attacked Fort Donelson. After several days' hard fighting that place also
capitulated on the 16th with its armament and garrison, except the small force which crossed the
Cumberland in the night and effected their escape. This victory caused the immediate evacuation
of Bowling Green and Nashville, and, soon after, of Columbus and the greater part of Middle
Tennessee.
While Grant and Buell were concentrating their armies on the Tennessee River, near the head
of navigation and great lines of railroad communication, General Pope moved down the west
bank of the Mississippi, captured New Madrid, and crossing the river below the enemy's
batteries on and near Island No. 10, compelled the garrison to capitulate on the 7th and 8th of
April.
General Grant had crossed the Tennessee and taken position at Pittsburg Landing in
anticipation of the arrival of Buell. The enemy advanced from Corinth and attacked Grant on the
morning of the 6th of April. A severe battle ensued, which continued till dark, the left of our line
being driven back nearly to the river. A portion of Buell's forces arrived in the afternoon and
during the night, and the battle was renewed at daylight on the morning of the 7th. The enemy
was driven back at every point, and in the afternoon fled from the field, leaving their dead and
many of their wounded in our hands.
Finding that the armies of Price and Van Dorn had been withdrawn from Arkansas to
Corinth, and all the available troops of the Southwest concentrated at that place, orders were sent
for General Pope and a part of General Curtis' troops to re-enforce our army on the Tennessee.
The latter had long and difficult marches to make, and did not reach their destination till the
latter part of May. As the enemy's position at Corinth was strongly fortified and very difficult of
attack at that season of the year, on account of the deep marshes by which it was surrounded,
General Halleck, while awaiting the arrival of re-enforcements from Missouri, approached the
front by means of trenches, and movable forces were sent out to cut the railroads on the flanks.
By the 29th of May three of the four railroads running from Corinth had been destroyed and
heavy batteries established within breaching distance of the enemy's works, ready to open their
fire next morning. The enemy evacuated the place in the night, destroying the bridges and
breaking up the roads in his rear. As all the streams were bordered by deep and impassable
marshes, the enemy could not be pursued without rebuilding the bridges and reopening the roads.
The corps of Buell and Pope followed the enemy about fifty miles into the swamps of
Mississippi, capturing a considerable number of stragglers and deserters, when the want of
supplies compelled them to discontinue the pursuit. The reduction of Corinth caused the
immediate evacuation of Forts Pillow and Randolph and the
city of Memphis. The flotilla and
61
ram fleet attacked and destroyed the enemy's gun-boats, opening the Mississippi River to
Vicksburg.
Meanwhile General Curtis with the remainder of his army marched through the northeast part
of Arkansas, and after several successful engagements reached Helena, where he established a
depot of supplies for future operations.
General Buell had during the autumn of 1861 collected a large force at Louisville and in
other parts of Kentucky. While his main army advanced toward Bowling Green, General
Thomas' command was pushed forward to the Upper Cumberland. On the 19th of January he
encountered the forces of Zollicoffer, and after a severe battle at Mill Springs defeated and
utterly routed them. On the evacuation of Bowling Green and Nashville, General Buell's army
pursued the enemy to Murfreesborough and Columbia, and from the latter place the main body
was marched to Savannah and Pittsburg Landing.
The great mass of the enemy's forces in the Southwest being at this time concentrated in the
vicinity of Corinth, the division of General Mitchel advanced to Decatur, in Alabama, and
afterward occupied most of the country in the direction of Chattanooga. The column of General
G. W. Morgan, after several engagements with the enemy in the vicinity of Cumberland Gap,
took possession of that important place. The later operations in the West are described in the
report of the General-in-Chief.
Four military departments are now organized in the territory where these operations were
carried on, viz, the Departments of the Ohio, of the Missouri, of the Tennessee, and of the
Cumberland, and their present military condition will hereafter be noticed.
In the Department of North Carolina the successful expedition of Major-General Burnside,
by the occupation of Roanoke Island, New Berne, and the reduction of Fort Macon, struck a
heavy blow; and under a military governor, the Hon. Edward Stanly, the protection of the laws
has been extended to the loyal inhabitants of that State, and facility afforded for organizing a
civil government and casting off the rebel yoke.
In the Department of the South active operations have been for a time suspended by the
presence of yellow fever and by the death of Major-General Mitchel, the late gallant commander
of that department. A premature attack upon Charleston against the orders of the then
commanding general resulted in the failure that was apprehended by him. The capture of Fort
Pulaski by Major-General Hunter has effectually closed the port of Savannah, and the
Government securely holds Hilton Head and Beaufort. The enemy was forced to abandon the
siege of Fort Pickens, and other portions of Florida are in our occupation. A recent expedition
along the coast was attended with success, detailed in the report of the General-in-Chief.
In the Department of the Gulf the operations of Major-General Butler have been
distinguished by great energy and ability. The occupation of New Orleans and the control of the
mouth of the Mississippi have been among the most brilliant and important results of the war.
The period is believed to be not far distant when all the rebel forces will be driven from the
banks of the Mississippi and the navigation of that river rendered secure.
The recent operations in the Department of the Missouri are detailed in the report of the
General-in-Chief. The State of Missouri is believed to be secure against any aggression by the
enemy, and in the State of Arkansas the dispersion of the rebel forces will enable the military
governor of that State to take proper measures for the restoration of the civil authority of the
United States within its borders.
The Department of the Northwest, embracing the States of Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and
the Territory of Dakota, was organized for the emergency occasioned by an Indian outbreak and
placed under command of Major-General John Pope. The Indian hostilities have been
suppressed and further trouble from that source is not
apprehended. Such force as may be
62
deemed requisite by the military authorities will be held in readiness for any sudden necessity.
The Indian hostilities in Minnesota, by whomsoever instigated, seem to have been accompanied
with more than usual cruelty and outrage. Heavy losses in property are said to have been endured
by the inhabitants, and application has been made to this Department for compensation. As it has
no funds applicable to that purpose, nor authority to assess the damages, the subject will require
Congressional action. Three hundred captured Indians have been tried by court-martial, and their
sentence of death is now under your consideration.
The rebels under Sibley were driven from the Department of New Mexico by General Canby,
and the force in that department, now under command of General Carleton, will be able to
protect the inhabitants of that remote Territory.
The Department of the Pacific has been free from any of the calamities occasioned by the
rebellion; but an earnest and deep sympathy has been manifested by the loyal citizens of the
Pacific States in support of the Union cause. Volunteers have come forward to fill the ranks of
the Army, and, with unparalleled liberality, large sums of money have been transmitted by
humane and loyal citizens of California for the relief of our sick and wounded soldiers. The
patriotic loyalty of our brethren on the Pacific, thus humanely exhibited, evinces their estimate of
the value of the Union and their willingness to share the burden of maintaining it from sea to sea.
In the Department of the Ohio the invasion of Kentucky by General Bragg, the terrible battle
of Perryville, and the escape of Bragg's army were events that pressed heavily upon the
Government, and moved deeply the hearts of the people, especially in the Western States. These
events are about to undergo investigation, and when the causes to which they are attributable are
judicially ascertained they will be laid before you for your action. Recent events prove that
whatever hold the spirit of rebellion may once have had in Kentucky, it is now to be reckoned as
a State loyal and steadfast to the Union.
The Department of the Tennessee is now under command of Major-General Grant. The
principal operations in that department have already been alluded to and are detailed in the report
of the General-in-Chief. Their importance cannot be overestimated. The occupation of Memphis-
-next to New Orleans the principal mart on the Mississippi--and the wise and vigorous measures
of Major-General Sherman, commanding there, have opened a market for cotton and other
Southern products the beneficial effects of which are already felt in the reviving commerce of the
country.
The Department of the Cumberland, embracing that portion of the State of Tennessee east of
the Tennessee River and the Cumberland Gap, was placed, upon the removal of General Buell, in
command of Major-General Rosecrans. Having a well-disciplined and gallant army under his
command, a proper degree of diligence and activity cannot fail to exercise an important influence
upon the speedy termination of the war.
From a survey of the whole field of operations, it is apparent that whatever disasters our arms
may have suffered at particular points, a great advance has nevertheless been made since the
commencement of the war. When it began the enemy were in possession of Norfolk and every
port of the Southern coast. They held the Mississippi from Cairo to New Orleans. Now the
blockaded ports of Charleston and Mobile only remain to them on the sea-board, and New
Orleans and Memphis have been wrested from them. Their possession of Vicksburg obstructs the
Mississippi, but it is to them of no commercial use. Their strongholds on the Tennessee and
Cumberland Rivers have been captured. General Andrew Johnson, as military governor of
Tennessee, holds Nashville. The enemy have been driven from Kentucky, West Tennessee,
Missouri, part of Arkansas; are fleeing before Grant in Mississippi, and all their hopes of
Maryland are cut off. In commercial, political, and
strategical points of view, more success has
63
attended the Union cause than was ever witnessed upon so large a theater in the same brief
period against so formidable an enemy.
The Union forces are now in the field under able commanders, stronger than ever, resolute,
and eager to be led against the enemy, and to crush the rebellion by a vigorous winter campaign.
The armies of the Potomac and of the West stand ready to vie with each other in quickest and
heaviest blows against the enemy. Taught by experience the ruin of inaction and the hazard of
delay, a spirit of earnest activity seems to pervade the forces of the United States beyond what
has hitherto been exhibited. In the numerous battles and engagements that have occurred our
armies in general displayed the courage and determination that should inspire officers and
soldiers fighting in defense of their Government. Many gallant lives have been lost, and many
brave and distinguished officers have fallen. For the dead deep sorrow is felt by the Government
and people of the United States. A detailed report of those who have fallen in battle or have
distinguished themselves in the field will be presented to you as soon as all the necessary official
reports can be obtained. Some promotions in reward of gallant service have already been made
from the ranks and to high command; others have been delayed for want of the reports of
subordinate commanders, in order that promotion may be governed, not by partiality or
prejudice, but upon due consideration of relative merit. By a resolution of Congress passed at the
last session the President was authorized to distribute 2,000 medals to private soldiers of
distinguished merit. From different specimens a selection has been made, and the medals are to
be ready in January for distribution.
The reports of the Adjutant-General, Quartermaster-General, Commissary-General, Chief of
Ordnance, Chief of Engineers, Chief of Topographical Engineers, Paymaster-General, and
Surgeon-General, herewith submitted, show the operations of the respective bureaus of this
Department during the past year. Some of them contain details and information which, for
obvious reasons, ought not to be placed, by publication at present, within the reach of the enemy.
Whatever details relating to the public security, contained in these reports and not herein stated,
which may be required for the information of Congress or Congressional committees, will be
furnished under your direction.
The Adjutant-General's Office is charged, among other important duties, with the business
relating to enlistments, recruiting, and drafting militia. Under your calls of July and August there
are already in the field over 420,000 new troops, of which 399,000 are volunteers, 332,000 of
whom have volunteered for three years or during the war. It will be remembered that the call was
made at one of those periods of despondency which occur in every national struggle. A chief
hope of those who set the rebellion on foot was for aid and comfort from disloyal sympathizers
in the Northern States, whose efforts were relied upon to divide and distract the people of the
North, and prevent them from putting forth their whole strength to preserve the national
existence. The call for volunteers and a draft of the militia afforded an occasion for disloyal
persons to accomplish their evil purpose by discouraging enlistments and encouraging opposition
to the war and the draft of soldiers to carry it on.
Anxiety was felt in some States at the probable success of these disloyal practices, and the
Government was urged to adopt measures of protection by temporary restraint of those engaged
in these hostile acts. To that end provost-marshals were appointed in some of the States, upon the
nomination of their Governors, to act under the direction of the State Executive, and the writ of
habeas corpus was suspended by your order. By the order of the Department arrests were
forbidden unless authorized by the State Executive or by the judge-advocate. Some instances of
unauthorized arrests have occurred, but when brought to the notice of the Department the parties
have been immediately discharged. By a recent order all persons arrested for discouraging
enlistments or for disloyal practices, in States where the
quotas of volunteers and militia are
64
filled up, have been released. Other persons, arrested by military commanders and sent from
departments where their presence was deemed dangerous to the public safety, have been
discharged upon parole to be of good behavior and do no act of hostility against the Government
of the United States. While military arrests of disloyal persons form the subject of complaint in
some States, the discharge of such persons is complained of in other States. It has been the aim
of the Department to avoid any encroachment upon individual rights, as far as might be
consistent with public safety and the preservation of the Government. But reflecting minds will
perceive that no greater encouragement can be given to the enemy, no more dangerous act of
hostility can be perpetrated in this war, than efforts to prevent recruiting and enlistments for the
armies, upon whose strength national existence depends. The expectations of the rebel leaders
and their sympathizers in loyal States that the call for volunteers would not be answered, and that
the draft could not be enforced, have failed, and nothing is left but to clamor at the means by
which their hopes were frustrated, and to strive to disarm the Government in future, if, in the
chances of war, another occasion for increasing the military force should arise.
Beside aiding State authorities respecting the draft and enlistments, another important duty is
assigned to the provost-marshals. The army returns and the report of the General-in-Chief show
that a large number of officers and enlisted soldiers, who are drawing pay and rations, are
improperly absent from their posts. The pursuit of such persons and their compulsory return to
duty is a necessary function of a provost-marshal, and such number only as may be required for
that purpose will be retained in the service. The pay and bounty allowed by act of Congress to
recruits have afforded strong temptation to practice fraud upon the Government by false returns
on muster-rolls and false charges for subsistence. Diligent efforts are being made for the
detection of all such practices, and to bring the guilty parties---some of whom have held
respectable stations in society--before a proper civil or military tribunal as soon as the necessary
preliminary investigations by the judge-advocate can be completed. The same course is being
pursued in respect to fraudulent contractors and disbursing officers.
The expenditure for enlistments, recruiting, drilling, and subsistence of volunteers, regulars,
and militia, amounts to the sum of $20,692,282.99.
In some States the whole quota of volunteers and militia called for was entirely filled up by
volunteers without draft. In some the whole number of volunteers was raised and a part of the
militia. Other States are deficient in volunteers and have not yet made their draft, but have taken
measures for that purpose. Illinois and Iowa have furnished more volunteers than their quota
under both calls. The general acquiescence of all the loyal States in the measures deemed
necessary to strengthen the armies and prosecute the war, at every hazard, to final success,
proves the fidelity of the people to their Government, and their determination to maintain its
unity and uphold its authority over the whole territory of the United States. Wherever any
forcible opposition to the draft has appeared it was confined to narrow limits, and was
suppressed by the action of the State authorities, through the provost-marshal, without the
intervention of any armed force of the General Government.
The advantage of filling up the old regiments is shown by many considerations. Various
expedients have been adopted to accomplish that object. The official returns show that since the
call for volunteers 49,990 recruits have been added to the old regiments. By the aid of some
legislation it is hoped that this important object may be effectually attained.
The Adjutant-General's Office has also had charge of the exchange of prisoners. In the month
of July a cartel of exchange was arranged by General John A. Dix, on the part of the United
States, and General Hill, of the rebel army, under which large numbers of prisoners of war have
been exchanged. There still remain some paroled prisoners belonging to the U.S. Army, whose
exchange will be effected at the earliest opportunity.
65
Experience has shown that serious defects exist in the militia law, which should be promptly
remedied, and that the laws in relation to volunteers also need amendment. The views of the
Department on these subjects will be communicated to the appropriate committees of Congress.
The patriotic zeal and efficient aid cordially rendered by the respective Governors of the loyal
States in the laborious and complicated duties pertaining to raising the volunteers and making the
draft are thankfully acknowledged by this Department.
One of the principal bureaus of this Department, in respect to the amount of expenditure and
the magnitude of operations, as well as their influence upon military movements, is that of the
Quartermaster-General. His able and elaborate report will be found worthy of your special
observation. It presents a general statement of the operations of the department under his charge
during the fiscal year. The clothing and equipage of the Army; all that relates to its shelter in
camp, in barracks, or on the march; the organization, equipment, and care of the baggage and
supply trains; the purchase and charter of transports; the transportation of troops and supplies of
all kinds; the repair and reconstruction of bridges, railroads, and common roads; the supply of
forage for the Army, of horses for the cavalry and artillery, of harness, except for the cavalry and
artillery, of wagons, ambulances, hospital transport carts, and all the vehicles of the trains, except
artillery carriages and caissons; the supply of labor other than that of troops; the payment of
soldiers on extra duty; the erection of barracks, hospitals, and stables; the supply of tents; the
care of refugees and prisoners; and generally all the expenses attending the operations and
movements of an army not specifically assigned to some other department, fall within the duties
of the Quartermaster's Department. The extent of the issues of some of the most important
materials of war are set forth in tables attached to the report. A full statement of the expenditures
of the fiscal year is given, and it will be seen that, while the Army is reported to have been
successfully and promptly furnished with all the supplies which it is the duty of the
Quartermaster's Department to provide, the department has not had at its command facilities for
completing, as promptly as the interest of the Government and of the officer requires, the
examination of the voluminous accounts of its disbursing agents.
The magnitude of the operations for the supply of the Army are set forth in the report, with
remarks upon the means of reducing expenditures, and providing for a more speedy settlement of
accounts, and a more strict accountability for public money and property.
It will be seen that the Quartermaster's Department, upon which, under the law of 17th of
July, providing for the employment of colored persons, the charge of such persons is chiefly
imposed, has not found itself burdened with their care, but that it has, on the contrary, derived
valuable aid from their labor, and, in a considerable portion of its field of operations, has thus far
suffered from a scant rather than from too great a supply of such labor. In Louisiana, where at
one time there were apprehensions of embarrassment from the number of refugees, the reserve of
a tract of rich land along the railroad to Berwick Bay opens up a territory in which many
thousands can be profitably employed, if placed under proper regulation and control. At Port
Royal such persons have been extensively employed in the work of the Quartermaster's
Department, and in cultivating some thousands of acres of the sea islands of the coast, the
products of which are used in the support of themselves and families. In the operations of the
army on the James River and upon the Potomac, in the fortifications of Washington, and as
laborers, teamsters, hostlers, in landing and shipping stores, they have been of great service, and
the demand for their labor has exceeded the supply available.
The successful movement of the various expeditions by sea, the transportation of such large
bodies of troops, and their regular supply at distant points of the coast, afford striking proofs of
the greatness of the military resources of the nation. These movements have been upon a scale of
great magnitude. The collection of the vast armies which
have been raised, and their transport to
66
the field of operations in so brief a period, would not have been possible but for the extent of our
system of steam transport by railroad, river, and sea.
It has not been found necessary to exercise within the loyal States the power conferred upon
the President by law, to take actual military possession of the railroads of the country. The
various companies met in convention in this city, united in proposing a uniform tariff for
Government transportation, which appears to be just and equitable, and they have performed all
the services required of them by the Department with a promptness, efficiency, and cheerfulness
which do honor to the patriotism of their managers.
Upon the railroads within the sphere of active hostilities the war has borne with crushing
severity. Some--as the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, and
the Missouri railroads--have with great energy repaired their bridges, restored their tracks, and
replaced their rolling-stock at their own expense. Others, abandoned by their disloyal owners and
managers, have been taken possession of, and repaired, stocked, and managed by the
Quartermaster's Department. These works have involved great expenditures; but they were
indispensable to the supply of the Army, and less costly than the preparation, if that had been
possible, of any other sufficient means of transportation.
The Quartermaster's Department constructed during the fiscal year a fleet of iron-clad gunboats
and of steam rams, which was officered and manned by the Navy Department and the War
Department conjointly, and which has proved most efficient as an aid in the military operations
which restored to the Government the control over the greater part of the Western rivers. Under
the law of 16th of July last the gun-boat fleet has been entirely transferred to the Navy
Department. The fleet of steam rams still remains in charge of this Department.
Your attention is invited to the increase of the force in the Engineer, Ordnance, and
Quartermaster's Departments, proposed by a bill which passed the House of Representatives on
the 9th of July last, and which is among the unfinished business of the last session. It is believed
that if it becomes a law the efficiency and usefulness of these several important departments of
the Army will be increased. The necessity of providing more room for the records and examining
officers of the Quartermaster's Bureau, by the extension of Winder's Building, is also respectfully
suggested to your attention.
The Commissary of Subsistence reports that the armies throughout our extensive territory
have been supplied with good and wholesome subsistence--generally by advertisement for bids
in the cities of Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Cincinnati, Louisville, Baltimore, Saint Louis,
and San Francisco. Fresh beef has generally been supplied to our armies in the field on the hoof,
and in larger proportion of the ration to marching columns, to lessen, as far as possible, the
quantity of transportation required. The troops on the coast of the Carolinas and at the Gulf posts,
including New Orleans, have received their fresh beef by shipment from New York. It is hoped
that during the coming year it may be procured from Texas.
In addition to the troops, subsistence has been furnished to all political prisoners and
prisoners of war, to a large number of contrabands, and to the suffering Union inhabitants found
in the march of our armies in the Confederate States. In a late report of the. General-in-Chief to
this Department it is said that no armies of the world are so well supplied as the armies of the
United States.
The Ordnance Bureau, as appears from the report of its chief, has displayed a vigor and
activity unsurpassed by any other Department. Notwithstanding the extraordinary demand
occasioned by the new levies and enormous loss of arms by the casualties of war, and in some
instances by the misconduct of officers and men, this Bureau has supplied every call, and has
been able to arm over 400,000 new troops suddenly called into the field. The first class of arms
has been apportioned among the troops of the respective
States, and just equality of distribution
67
has been the rule of the Department. A great diversity of opinion prevails in respect to arms, and
often with little reason. The Department has aimed, as far as possible, to gratify the choice of
every one, and where that could not be done the troops have in general readily acquiesced in the
necessity of the case, relying on the Department for exchange when it should be able to make
one. You will perceive, by the report as to the production of our armories, that the time is not far
distant when the Government will be able to place, from its own manufactories, the best arm in
the hands of every soldier. The report also shows what provision has been made for supplies of
gunpowder, saltpeter, materials, and munitions of war of every description.
Every means the country affords has been put forth to complete the armaments of our forts
and fortifications for the defense of harbors and coasts, as is shown by the report of this Bureau.
These details are, for obvious reasons, not now stated, and the legislation required by this branch
of the service will, by your direction, be communicated to the appropriate committees.
In general terms, it may be stated that the issues by the Ordnance Department include 1,926
field and siege and 1,206 fortification cannon; 7,294 gun carriages, caissons, mortar beds,
traveling forges, and battery wagons; 1,276,686 small-arms; 987,291 sets of equipments and
accouterments, and 213,991,127 rounds of ammunition for artillery and small-arms--still leaving
large supplies of ordnance stores at the arsenals and depots. The breaking out of the rebellion
found us with insufficient supplies for the forces thereby rendered necessary, and without the
means of their immediate procurement from our public arsenals and the private manufactories
fitted and ready for such work. The policy of the Department to procure all such supplies of
home manufacture could not be rigidly followed, and recourse was had to purchases and
importations from abroad in order to meet pressing requirements. The vast demand suddenly
springing up, without any immediate increase of the supply, led to speculations and exorbitant
prices. On a report from the Ordnance Bureau in respect to outstanding contracts for arms, I
appointed a commission to investigate these matters, and their report is herewith submitted. The
measures which have been adopted to procure such supplies, by increasing the capacity of our
public arsenals and developing the private sources of home manufacture, will soon enable this
Department to obtain supplies of this description independently of importations from abroad and
at fair and reasonable rates.
The subject of arming the fortifications, particularly those defending the harbors of our
principal Atlantic ports, has received special attention, and all the means at the disposal of the
Department have been applied to that end, so far as was possible and consistent with meeting
other imperative requirements. In consequence of the introduction into naval warfare of iron-clad
vessels, comparatively safe from the effects of such batteries as had hitherto been sufficient to
guard effectually against the passage of hostile vessels, it became necessary to provide heavier
and more powerful ordnance. The whole system of such armament was carefully revised and
amended by a board of the most experienced and competent officers, and measures have been
taken to carry their recommendations into effect.
I desire to call special attention to the necessity of providing additional means for the storage
and preservation of ordnance supplies, as recommended in the report of the Chief of Ordnance.
When it is considered that we have now no more facilities for this purpose than when our
military organization included an army of not over 18,000 men, the absolute necessity of a far
more ample provision of such facilities will be manifest. The plan for this purpose, as stated in
the report from the Ordnance Bureau, is believed to be the best that can be devised, and by no
means too extensive in its provisions to meet our absolute wants, now and for the future; and I
commend it for favorable consideration, and for such legislation as may be necessary. I concur
also with the Chief of Ordnance in his remarks relative to the onerous duties, considering its
present limited number of officers, which have devolved
upon that branch of the service, and to
68
the industry, zeal, and fidelity with which those duties have been discharged. They are deserving
of the measures suggested for their recognition and reward.
An act of the last session of Congress provided for the establishment of armories at
Columbus, Indianapolis, and Rock Island. By order of this Department, the selection of proper
sites was intrusted to Brigadier-General Buckingham, whose report, approved by the Chief of
Ordnance, is herewith submitted. Measures to procure the needed State legislation and the
approval of title will be promptly taken.
During the recess of Congress the necessities of the service required the old penitentiary of
this District for the use of the arsenal, and, by your order, the convicts were removed to the State
of New York, and the penitentiary buildings devoted to the purposes of the arsenal.
The attention of the Department has been earnestly directed to the forts and fortifications for
coast and harbor defense. A personal inspection of these important works has-been made by
General Totten, the distinguished Chief of Engineers. The grants made by Congress for
fortifications at its last session amounted to $5,535,000 for permanent works and $750,000 for
temporary works. The Chief of Engineers reports that these sums admitted of very material
progress being made at most of the important forts now in process of construction. This has been
realized in a number of instances, and in all decided advancement has been effected. Great
difficulties have been experienced in obtaining supplies of materials from the quarries, stone
yards, &c., owing to the demands made by the war upon the classes usually employed in this
kind of work. Similar trouble has been encountered in procuring transportation for materials.
Much has been done in advancing the state of readiness of our fortifications, in the principal
commercial harbors, for service, in preparing for additional guns, in providing for the reception
of armament of very large calibers in the existing batteries, and in placing all in effective
condition for defense. Like measures have been observed with reference to naval stations and our
frontiers generally.
A report by the Board of Visitors in respect to the condition of the Military Academy at West
Point is submitted with the report of the Chief of Engineers.
The officers of the Corps of Topographical Engineers, as appears by the report of its chief,
have been almost exclusively on duty with armies in the field, engaged in surveys and
reconnaissances connected with their movements; in the collection of topographical and
statistical information, and in the construction of field-works, batteries, intrenchments, blockhouses,
bridges, and other like duties.
The survey of the northern and northwestern lakes has been continued during the year,
principally in the vicinity of Green Bay and the Fox Islands. The estimate for continuing the
survey is $106,879.48, differing but little in amount from the last estimate.
The lake-harbor works are thirty-four in number. For want of appropriations by Congress no
work has been done at any of them during the present year, with the exception of the Saint Clair
lighthouse and beacon, and at Oswego Harbor, N. Y.
The general estimate for the completion of each harbor work, founded upon previous
inspections, will be found in Appendix No. 2 of the report of this Bureau.
Claims for arrearages for harbors, rivers, roads, &c., amounting to $15,000, are found on the
records of the Bureau. The recommendation of the previous annual reports for an appropriation
for their payment, on the approval of the War Department and adjustment by the Treasury, is
renewed.
The bridging and repairs of the military and emigrant wagon road from Fort Walla Walla, on
the Columbia River, to Fort Benton, on the Missouri, have been completed. The length of the
road is 624 miles. The officer in charge of the work recommends that the sum of $70,000 be
appropriated by Congress for the further improvement of
the route.
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It appears from the report of the Acting Paymaster-General that during the fiscal year ending
the 30th of June, 1862, the sum of $5,550,039.54 was paid to the regular troops; that
$91,116,610.61 were paid to volunteers, and that $38,597,819.07 have been paid since the 30th
of June, 1862. The report states that nearly all the regiments were paid to the 30th of June, many
to the 31st of August; that some delay in payment has been occasioned by want of funds, but it is
believed that all will soon be paid.
By the death of Colonel Larned a vacancy was occasioned in the office of chief of this
Bureau, which, under the existing law, can only be filled by regular promotion from the corps. In
my opinion, the good of the service requires a wider range of selection for this most important
office. The vacancy has not yet been filled, in order that, by a change of the law, the volunteer
and regular services may be open to selection of such person as you may deem most competent
for the duty.
The Surgeon-General's report affords information in respect to the sanitary condition of the
Army. It also shows an expenditure of the whole appropriations of that department, amounting to
$2,445,894.89. The number of general hospitals is 151; the number of patients in them, 58,175.
The whole number under medical treatment is stated to be not short of 90,000.
The Surgeon-General represents that during the past year there have been no epidemics in the
Army of any severity; that the diseases which affect men in camps have been kept at a low
minimum; that scurvy has been almost entirely prevented, and that there have been but few
victims of yellow fever.
This Bureau required enlargement and reorganization in many particulars, and some
improvements have been made. Others are suggested which merit careful consideration.
The operations of the surgical department have been aided by humane and benevolent
associations. The horrors of battle have been assuaged by ministers of mercy, and it is worthy to
be recorded of the medical profession that their services have been voluntarily and gratuitously
offered on every occasion. Relief associations in every State have done much to comfort and
assist the sick and wounded in camps and hospitals, and their vigilant superintendence has
perhaps operated to check the negligence, abuse, and fraud that too often prevail, even in such
institutions. Religious congregations and societies have also tendered to the Government their
church buildings for hospitals, while their pastors have ministered to the patients. These matters
are proper to be brought to your notice, because, while war stimulates every evil passion, the
virtues developed in this great struggle to maintain our national existence should not pass
unnoticed.
The report of Major Myer, of the Signal Corps, deserves your attention. The services of this
corps to armies in the field, and for many military and naval purposes, is highly estimated. At
present it is without distinct organization, and is made up of officers detailed from other branches
of service. A separate organization is recommended.
The acknowledgment of this Department is due to Colonel Stager, Major Eckert, and their
assistants of the Telegraph Corps. In diligence, fidelity, and important aid they have been
unsurpassed by any branch of the service.
With this presentation of the past operations and present condition of the War Department,
the duty required of me by the act of Congress to make an annual report is, in a great measure,
fulfilled. It is seen that a force has been placed, by the people of the United States, at the
command of the Government, to maintain its authority, more mighty in all the elements of
warlike power than was ever before arrayed under one banner. How shall that force be
employed? To smite the enemy on every hand, to attack his armies and strongholds, to occupy
his ports, clear the great rivers of the West from his obstructions, and pause not until he is
subdued, is our plain duty. Above all, it is our duty to
disdain no legitimate aid that may save the
70
lives of our gallant soldiers, diminish their labors, provide for their wants, and lessen the burdens
of our people. No aphorism is more universally received than that "the sole object of a just war is
to make the enemy feel the evils of his injustice, and, by his sufferings, amend his ways; he must
therefore be attacked in the most accessible quarter." The power of the rebels rests upon their
peculiar system of labor, which keeps laborers on their plantations to support owners who are
devoting their time and strength to destroy our armies and destroy our Government. Whenever
that system is in hostility to the Government, it is, in my opinion, the duty of those conducting
the war to strike down the system and turn against the rebels the productive power that upholds
the insurrection. Rightly organized in the recovered territory, the laborers of the rebel States will
not only aid in holding fortified positions, but their labor will, as in India, free the white soldier
from the most unwholesome exposure of the South. They will cultivate the corn and forage
which will feed our cavalry and artillery horses, and save the country a portion of the enormous
burden now attending their purchase and transport from the North. This cultivation would have
been of greater advantage to us on the southeastern coast than even that of the great staple of the
sea islands. Probably the people who remained upon these islands, within protection of our
armies, could, under wise control, have supplied all the forage needed this year by the forces in
the Department of the South. The full ration for a horse weighs twenty-six pounds; that of a
soldier three pounds. An army well organized and equipped for active operations, with a due
proportion of cavalry, artillery, and baggage trains, will have not less than one horse or mule to
every four soldiers; so that the weight of food for the animals is more than double that of the
rations of the men. How important an aid, how great an economy, in a long contest, therefore,
would there be in raising, by this cheap labor, the greater part of the forage alone for the
Southern department--thus, for a great portion of our wants, transferring the base of supplies,
now at New York, to Hilton Head or New Orleans.
The Department has found it difficult to transfer this labor from one part of the seat of war to
another. Local and family ties seem to be very strong with these people, and, with all their faith
in the power and good will of our military commanders, it was found difficult to get volunteer
laborers to leave Port Royal for other depots.
A population of 4,000,000, true to the interests of the Union, with slight assistance from the
Army, will, under proper regulation and government, be of the greatest assistance in holding the
territory, once recovered. The principal staples of the South are the product exclusively of their
labor. If protected upon the lands they have heretofore cultivated, with some organization, and
with support from small detachments of loyal troops, they would not only produce much of what
is needed to feed our armies and their trains, but they would forever cut off from the rebellion the
resources of a country thus occupied.
The rebel armies move with ease through portions of the border States, living upon the
country in which our commanders find no supplies. The people bring forth their hoards and offer
them to the rebels for sale or gift. Protect the laboring population, who are the majority in the
greater part of the South, in the possession of the land and its products, and this great advantage
will, for whatever portion of the country we occupy, be transferred to us. As soon as the coast is
thoroughly occupied and the people organized trade will revive. Cotton, rice, sugar, and other
products will be exchanged by the producer for what he needs. Their wants will be supplied
direct from the Northern factories, and the cultivation of the great staples will enable them to pay
for what they use. A perfectly free trade may thus again grow up between the North and the
South, and, with greater or less rapidity, it will spread over the whole country as our forces
succeed in meeting and dispersing the rebel armies.
The greater part of the whole country which formerly produced the sea-island cotton is now
thoroughly restored to the Union. The laborers are
there--the soil and climate. It needs only
71
assurance of protection to revive the cultivation of the staple, as well as to produce vast
quantities of corn and forage for our troops. Since this war must be conducted by marches and
battles and sieges, why neglect the best means to make them successful and their results
permanent? It is worthy of notice that thus far the portions of territory which, once recovered, we
have most firmly held, are precisely those in which the greatest proportion of colored men are
found. By their assistance our armies will be able permanently to operate in and occupy the
country; and in labor for the Army, in raising its and their own supplies, full occupation can be
given them, and with this there will be neither occasion nor temptation to them to emigrate to a
northern and less congenial climate. Judging by experience, no colored man will leave his home
in the South if protected in that home. All possibility of competition from negro labor in the
North is avoided in giving colored men protection and employment upon the soil which they
have thus far cultivated, and the right to which has been vacated by the original proprietors
deeply involved in the crimes of treason and rebellion. No great territory has been permanently
reduced without depriving the leaders of its people of their lands and property. It is these that
give power and influence. Few men have the commanding genius and talent to exercise
dangerous influence over their fellow-men without the adventitious aid of money and of
property. By striking down this system of compulsory labor, which enables the leaders of the
rebellion to control the resources of the people, the rebellion would die of itself.
Under no circumstances has any disposition to servile insurrection been exhibited by the
colored population in any Southern State, while a strong loyalty to the Federal Government has
been displayed on every occasion and against every discouragement. By the means suggested the
rebellion may be disarmed and subdued swiftly and effectually, and the lives of our own people
saved from slaughter on the battle-field. By the occupation of all their ports on the Mississippi
and the sea-coast, a market will be opened in every rebel State for the industry of our people to
supply the wants of the Army, and also of a loyal population, in exchange for the valuable
products of their labor. Another point of attack is by armed settlements upon the vacant
Government lands in Florida and Texas. Thousands in the Northern and Western States are
impatiently waiting the signal of military movement to plant their homes in the best territory of
this continent and bring it back to the Union as loyal States. So far from the Southern States
being invincible, no enemy was ever so vulnerable if the means at hand are employed against
them. If your proposition for compensated emancipation and a voluntary return to loyalty be
blindly rejected, still the proper application of the means at command of the Government cannot
fail to accomplish the suppression of the rebellion and a restoration of those peaceful relations
which were designed to be established forever on this continent by the Union of the States.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Iowa City, Iowa, March 10, 1863.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington City, D.C.:
SIR: The condition of affairs in this State is such as to render it, in my judgment, absolutely
necessary that I have arms and fixed ammunition for distribution among the loyal men of this
State. It is a fact that unscrupulous men are organizing and arming for the purpose of resisting a
draft under the conscription law, and those under their control will be pushed into acts of
hostility to the Government unless there is such a state of preparation as to make it hopeless. I
think such preparation as I indicate would have the effect to prevent an outbreak. Can you send
me 5,000 stand of arms, accouterments, and ammunition?
72
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Iowa City, Iowa, March 11, 1863.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington City, D.C.:
SIR: I wrote you on yesterday asking you to send me some arms to place in the hands of
loyal men as a precaution and preventive of an outbreak among the disloyal of this State.
I would further suggest the propriety of your authorizing me to raise two or three regiments
as a State guard for the same purpose. If a draft shall be ordered in this State it will be necessary.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Iowa City, Iowa, March 13, 1863.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington City, D.C.:
SIR: I have to-day received from you the inclosed package of papers from Mr. Hoxie, U.S.
marshal of this State. There is no doubt there is a very unfortunate condition of affairs at this
time in this State. A secret organization, known popularly as the Knights of the Golden Circle, is
widely spread through the State, the object of which, as I am informed and believe, is to
embarrass the Government in the prosecution of the war, mainly by encouraging desertions from
the Army, protecting deserters from arrest, discouraging enlistments, preparing the public mind
for armed resistance to a conscription, if ordered and, if possible, to place the State government
at the next election in the hands of men who will control it to thwart the policy of the
Administration in the conduct of the war. Indeed, with the exception of advising desertions, the
purposes above mentioned are openly avowed and advocated by many persons in the State.
Lieutenant Henry came to see me in regard to the matter mentioned in his letter to Marshal
Hoxie, and at my instance Captain Hendershott furnished him a detail of ten armed men to go
with him to his place of rendezvous in Madison County and remain with him. I also sent by him
forty or fifty muskets and some ammunition to place in the hands of loyal men. I have not heard
from him since his return. There is undoubtedly a feverish and excited state of the public mind,
and matters must be managed here prudently and firmly, or a collision may ensue. I wrote you a
few days since, asking that you send me some arms, and also that you allow me to raise two or
three regiments as a State Guard, not to leave the State. I regard these measures both as measures
of precaution and prevention. Much that is said in regard to resistance of the laws is no doubt
mere bluster, and by self-important men of small caliber and small ambition, to give themselves
local importance and to secure for themselves petty offices, and who, if an outbreak were to
occur, would not be in the way of danger.
But I also believe there are engaged in this work men of desperate fortunes, political and
otherwise, who would have the courage to lead an outbreak, and who would rejoice in the
opportunity. I think it extremely probable there are in this and other Northern States paid agents
of the rebels who are organizing the machinery and using the means to effect the purposes herein
attributed to the Knights of the Golden Circle, and there is real danger that the efforts of these
men may so far operate on the minds of these honest but deluded followers in some locality as to
cause a collision among our people. If we had arms in the hands of our loyal people, and a State
Guard, as I suggest, it might and I think would prevent
this. The condition of things is such in my
73
judgment that the Government can only make itself properly respected by convincing those
disposed to be troublesome of its determination and ability to preserve the peace and enforce the
laws. The dismissal of those "arbitrarily arrested," as the phrase goes, has had a bad effect in this,
that it has led many to suppose the Government has not the power to punish. Let me impress
upon you my conviction that in case of any armed resistance to the laws the punishment be
prompt, certain, and sharp, and the action of those who may be resisted of the same character.
Anything looking like indecision or timidity would be disastrous.
I scarcely know what to advise in regard to these men who are talking treason, huzzaing for
Jeff. Davis, organizing the Knights of the Golden Circle, &c. It would be worse than useless to
arrest them unless they can be tried, and if found guilty, punished. If arrests could be made, trials
and convictions had, and punishment sharply administered, the effect would be excellent. Has
the U.S. district attorney of this State had his attention called specially to this matter? It seems to
me if it has not it should be done, and he or the marshal furnished with the necessary money to
detect and punish some of these active scoundrels who are producing so much mischief.
I have already organized and armed a company in each one of the southern tier of counties in
this State. These have been placed under the order of Provost-Marshal Heath, at Keokuk, and
will be placed under the orders of the new provost-marshal in the Congressional districts as soon
as I am advised of their appointment and names. I hope good selections have been made. I am
now organizing a company in each of the second tier of counties from the south line, and when
organized and armed I will place them all at the disposal of the provost-marshals. If I had arms I
would organize companies in all the counties of the State where I think they may be needed.
None of these companies would draw any pay or cause any expense only when called on by the
proper authorities, except those in the southern tier--a squad of ten men of each of which is on
duty. I regard it as a matter of the first and most pressing importance to get a supply of arms and
ammunition.
I would be glad to know what arrangements will be made in and for this State in case a draft
shall be ordered here. In that case I am satisfied the Government must make such show of
preparation and strength as will show the hopelessness of resistance. Not to do so would in the
present temper of a portion of our people invite, and, in my judgment, produce collision. I would
be glad also to understand clearly what part, if any, you will expect the State authorities to take
in enforcing the draft. In my judgment, in view of possible future contingencies, it would be well
for the General Government to do the entire work. Hoping to hear from you soon and fully,
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
OFFICE OF U.S. MARSHAL, DISTRICT OF IOWA,
Des Moines, Iowa, February 21, 1863.
Maj. L. C. TURNER,
Judge-Advocate, War Department:
MAJOR: A Mr. M. M. Gay, a U.S. detective, employed by Lieutenant-Colonel Dick,
provost-marshal-general of Missouri, called upon me to-day. He says that he has been traveling
in Southern Iowa for the past ten days. That a large amount of cattle, homes, and mules have
been run off into this State by rebels in Missouri to keep the same from being seized by U.S.
officers for confiscation, &c. My own detectives make the same report. They also all unite in
saying that the copperheads are arming themselves and preparing to resist any order that may be
made by the Government, either to arrest deserters or persons charged with disloyal practices. I
know of my own knowledge that they are arming themselves in this locality, and that their
leaders intend, if possible, to bring on a collision with
the Government authorities. In my
74
opinion, some steps should be taken by the Government to stop the sale of powder and other
munitions of war and to disarm the copperheads should there be any demonstration on their part.
The sale of arms and ammunition should be restricted at once all over the State.
I am, major, respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. M. HOXIE,
U.S. Marshal.
OFFICE OF U.S. MARSHAL, DISTRICT OF IOWA,
Des Moines, Iowa, February 24, 1863.
[Maj. L. C. TURNER:]
MAJOR: I have received a letter from a prominent citizen of Clarke County, Iowa, from
which I make the following extracts:
The order of the Knights of the Golden Circle, now entitled the Union Relief Society, is
thoroughly organized in every township of this Congressional district, and I am informed the
entire State. Every four townships forms a sub-district. The secretaries of each of these
townships meet monthly to compare notes, and they select one of their number to represent them
at the county lodge, which meets in this county at the county seat. At that time they receive
instructions for the ensuing month. Each county lodge selects a man to represent them in the
district and State lodges. The State lodge is to be held at Des Moines (this place) between the 1st
and 10th of April next, unless an emergency should demand a meeting earlier, or policy appoint
one later. I will advise you of any change of time. The oath administered is in substance as
follows:
"I solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States as it is; that I will
resist draft either by State or Federal authorities; that I will resist all orders issued by the present
Administration, and that I will do all in my power to unite the States of the Northwest with the
Southern Confederacy," &c.
The same person says:
Their passwords and signs are the same throughout the States North and South. They have a
large amount of arms and ammunition at the residence of a Mr. Warner, in Leon, Decatur
County, Iowa; also some at the store of Mr. Hurst, in the same place. These arms are procured in
Missouri, and a Mr. McClelland, of Decatur County, is now in Missouri after more.
I give you the main features of his letter. He has the signs and passwords, and all the
particulars from a loyal man whom he persuaded to join the Union Relief Society. I shall have
the new passwords, signs, &c., in a few days. Shall I take any steps in relation to the arms said to
be secreted?
I am, major, your obedient servant,
H. M. HOXIE,
U. S. Marshal.
OFFICE OF U.S. MARSHAL, DISTRICT OF IOWA,
Des Moines, Iowa, February 25, 1863.
Maj. L. C. TURNER,
Judge-Advocate:
MAJOR: I have this day mailed to the Secretary of War a letter with the statements of
Lieutenant Henry and a Mr. Williams. I beg you to have immediate action taken on this matter.
Danger is imminent, and I may have trouble long before this reaches Washington. I have also
written to Hon. John A. Kasson, member elect from this district, and asked him to call on you.
Mr. K. is well acquainted in Madison and Clarke counties.
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I am, major, your obedient servant,
H. M. HOXIE,
U.S. Marshal.
OFFICE OF U.S. MARSHAL, DISTRICT OF IOWA,
Des Moines, Iowa, February 25, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
SIR: I inclose herewith a statement made by Lieutenant Henry, of the Fourth Iowa Infantry, a
recruiting officer stationed at Winterset, in Madison County, in this State, touching certain
demonstrations made by the sympathizers with rebellion in that county. I have seen a statement
forwarded to the Governor of this State by about thirty of the most reliable citizens of Winterset,
which discloses a much worse state of affairs than is shown by the communication of Lieutenant
Henry. A meeting was held in Winterset on Saturday last, composed of notorious rebel
sympathizers, about 100 of whom, it is said, were heavily armed. The principal speech was
made by the Mr. Brannon referred to by Lieutenant Henry, and consisted of seditious and
treasonable denunciations. Brannon was once captured in Missouri in arms; was paroled, was
recaptured near Corinth while General Halleck was moving upon that place, under circumstances
indicating that he was acting as a spy, and was again arrested by my deputy at Muscatine, in this
State, last summer, for disloyal practices. He and the other leaders in this demonstration were
held as prisoners at Camp McClellan, in this State, until their discharge, some two months since,
on your order. I am credibly informed that at this meeting the speakers indulged freely in
intimations of a Northern revolution; that many in attendance openly hurrahed for Jeff. Davis,
and declared in favor of annexing Iowa to the Southern Confederacy by force; that open threats
were made to tear down the national flag if Lieutenant Henry should suspend it from his
recruiting-office window; that a purpose to drive him from the county was openly avowed; that
on the Monday following a company, consisting of about forty persons, came to Winterset,
headed by the same lately imprisoned leaders; that they beset Lieutenant Henry in the streets,
with the purpose of commencing a disturbance; that they followed him to his office, and were
deterred from the commission of personal violence only by his threat to shoot the first man who
touched or injured his person. I am fully satisfied that the men engaged in these lawless
proceedings are thoroughly organized and number several hundred in the county; that a
considerable number of them have been drilled by a man who but a few months since was a
captain in the rebel army, and that they are tolerably well supplied with arms and ammunition.
On the other hand, the Union men of the county are now in the ranks of the Army of the United
States, and those that remain at home are unorganized and without arms, and are unprovided
with ammunition. When I arrested the officers of the order known as Knights of the Golden
Circle in that county last summer I was followed by an armed force, while removing the
prisoners several miles, of 150 or 200 men, and had they overtaken me a bloody collision would
have resulted. A determination to resist the conscription law, the collection of the Federal tax,
and the arrest of deserters is declared daily in every part of the county. Clarke County, which
adjoins it on the south, is in but little better condition. A collision is anticipated when my
deputies make a descent on the deserters harbored there.
In view of these facts I respectfully recommend, if the conscription law now pending in
Congress shall go into immediate operation, that a man of prudence, but with nerve and
resolution, be appointed provost-marshal in this Congressional district; that he be furnished with
a provost guard of at least 100 cavalry, and with arms sufficient to equip 50 to 100 men in each
county. I shall not be surprised at any time to hear of an
outbreak in some of the southern
76
counties of Iowa. The border guards on the southern border, or that portion of it in this
Congressional district, should be under orders of the provost-marshal. This, I suppose, can be
effected only by an arrangement between your department and the Governor of this State. If any
action is to be taken before the appointment of this provost-marshal (and I know not how soon
decisive action may be necessary), I desire to respectfully represent that I have no arms and no
force of any kind. If matters go much further in Madison and Clarke Counties, the parties should
be disarmed; but it will be folly for me to attempt the disarming of several hundred men without
an adequate force. I might be able to do it with the border guards.
I submit these facts and suggestions for your consideration, and respectfully ask for
instructions. The public mind is in a feverish state, and a slight disturbance might lead to
important consequences. I also submit a statement received from Clarke County.
I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. M. HOXIE,
U.S. Marshal and Special Provost-Marshal.
FEBRUARY 24, 1863.
His Excellency S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa:
As a servant in my country's cause, and as a close observer, I have the honor to represent that
for the past three weeks I have been daily publicly insulted by the citizens of Madison County,
both by threats and abusive language; that a majority of the citizens of Madison County are
known to be members of what is termed the Knights of the Golden Circle. I have been reliably
informed that for the past eight weeks they have been holding secret meetings in different places
in the county, commencing generally at midnight; that ammunition and materials by which to
make ammunition out of has been secretly expressed to this order; that they have secreted in
some portion of the county a large supply of arms, sufficient, it is said, to arm at least 200 or 300
persons, and that letters have been received and taken out of the post-office at Winterset by men
who are known to be of this character, merely addressed S or B, or some other letter of the
alphabet, evidently agreed upon by orders of the same species in other portions of the State.
On last Saturday these persons held a public meeting in the town of Winterset, and in a most
bold manner adopted all manner of resolutions disclaiming the laws of our Government. They
also, in a most daring manner, upon the public streets make bold to utter and applaud the actions
c: Jeff. Davis and the Southern Confederacy, and then, to show their dislike to the Union, dared
me to hang out my flag, stating at the same time that if I did they would tear it down. I did so,
and with the aid of my arms protected and sustained its purity against this mob of traitors.
On last Monday, while peacefully attending to my duties, I was maliciously assailed by a
portion of this same crowd and threatened in every manner. I was alone, and of course acted
upon the defensive, while they, as the attacking party, had not the manliness to carry into effect
their threats. Another point (and to use their own language in reference to what has been done,
and what the citizens of Winterset might expect)--I heard, and it was evidently spoken for my
own ears, a man say in company with others of the same sort, who goes by the name of Colonel
Brandon, or Brannon, and who is considered their leader, that "we have made a d--d good start,
and in four or five days we will be through with Madison County."
Feeling a deep interest in the safety of the loyal citizens of Madison County, and believing
that immediate action is the only remedy, I submit the above statement to your better judgment.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. A. HENRY,
Second Lieut., Company A, Fourth Iowa Vol. Infantry.
77
Mr. H. M. HOXIE,
U.S. Marshal, Des Moines, Iowa:
DEAR SIR: You may have an imperfect knowledge of the existence and workings of the
Knights of the Golden Circle, now entitled Union Relief Society, but a statement of facts that can
be proven, if necessary, will but strengthen your present knowledge, and may aid in
accomplishing great good: A man that has gained membership of the above-named order, but
that has the good of the country at heart and in view, in becoming a member has given me an
insight into their organization, which I will give to you. They are formed, in the usual manner of
secret societies, in every township throughout the State. Every four townships makes a subdistrict.
The secretaries of these four townships meet monthly to compare works and select one
of their number to represent them at the county seat and report to the head man of the county,
and receive instructions for the ensuing month. Each county is represented at a district meeting
held at a selected point in this old Congressional district to report and transact business for a
State meeting to be held at Des Moines between the 1st and 10th of April next, unless an
emergency should demand a meeting sooner, or policy appoint one later. I will advise you of any
change of time. The oath required to become a member is, to support the Constitution of the
United States and of this State; to resist draft and all acts of the present Administration; to unite
the Northwest with the South; to divulge none of the secrets or workings of the order, under
penalty of death. Their passwords and signs are the same throughout the United States, Southern
States included. They now claim 42,000 members in this State. They have a large quantity of
arms at the residence of Mr. Warner, in Leon, Decatur County; also a large amount of
ammunition at the same place at the store of a Mr. Hurst. Their ammunition and arms are got in
Missouri, and there is at this time a Mr. McClelland, of Decatur County, after ammunition in
Missouri. At one of their late meetings there was an order issued for the removal of a colored
man in the lower part of Clarke County to Missouri. If not sent away, they would take him by
force. There was a load of arms sent from Decatur County to Madison County last week. There
is an ample guard at each of their meetings. They have no regular night of meeting. They meet at
such times and places as the surrounding circumstances demand. If any member thinks that by
volunteering in the Federal Army he can promote the interests of the order he is at liberty to do
so. And if at any time they wish to send a member into the army for the benefit of the order, they
select such a one as they think best, and if agreeable to him he is sent. They advocate a defensive
position at all times, but claim the right to utter their sentiments at all times and in all places. I
will give you future movements as I become in possession of them.
Yours, truly,
PITTSBURG, March 13, 1863.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
Can the colored men here raise a regiment and have their own company officers?
WM. A. ADAIR
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Iowa City, Iowa, March 23, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D.C.:
SIR: I have the honor to inclose and ask your attention to a copy of a proclamation this day
issued by me and to a copy of a letter just received from Mr. Everett, collector of the Federal
revenue in the Fifth Congressional District of this State.
I am almost daily in receipt of letters
78
from persons on the southern border of Iowa giving me information similar to that contained in
the letter of Mr. Everett.
I do not think it advisable at present to suspend the writ of habeas corpus in this State, or to
remove any officials, but I ask that clear and explicit instructions be sent to the U.S. district
attorney and U.S. marshal for the State, and to provost-marshals appointed or to be appointed
under the conscription law, to be diligent to hunt up all men in this State who have been in the
rebel service or otherwise been violating the laws of the United States in Missouri and have fled
to this State and are here engaged in a course of conduct dangerous to the peace and good order
of the State.
I also call your attention to my letters asking arms for the State and authority to organize two
or three regiments as a State guard.
If these things be done, in my judgment things can be kept quiet here and the conscription
enforced if ordered. If not, there is real danger of difficulty, and if a conscription be ordered it
must be necessary, to insure its execution and quiet in the State, to have one or more of our
regiments in the field sent home.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, IOWA,
March 23, 1863.
To THE PEOPLE OF IOWA:
There is good reason to believe that a very considerable number of men, some of whom have
been in the rebel army, and others of whom have, as guerrillas, been engaged in plundering and
murdering Union men in the State of Missouri, have taken refuge in this State to escape the
punishment due to their crimes, and that instead of seeking to merit a pardon for past offenses by
living peaceably and quietly among us as becomes good citizens, many of them are endeavoring
to array a portion of our people in armed resistance to the laws, and I very deeply regret to say
there is reason to believe that some of our people have been found weak enough or wicked
enough to aid them in their mischievous designs.
These men, by bold and fierce denunciations of certain acts of the President and of the
Congress of the United States as unconstitutional, and by industriously teaching that the citizen
may lawfully resist with force what he deems an unconstitutional act or law, and in other ways,
are seeking to array such as may be duped and deceived by their artful and wicked machinations
into armed resistance to the authority of the General Government and to inaugurate civil war
within our limits, thus exposing their dupes to the punishment due to traitors, and our State to the
storm of war which has swept as with fire the State of Missouri. These men are endeavoring to
induce our soldiers in the field to desert their colors, thus exposing them to the penalty of
desertion, which is death; and are endeavoring to induce our citizens to violate the law by
resisting the arrest of deserters and a conscription in this State, if ordered, thereby exposing
themselves to the punishment due such criminal acts.
It is my duty to, and I therefore do, warn these men that their courses are fraught with peril to
themselves and to the peace and good order of the State, and if persisted in to the extremity they
intend will certainly bring punishment; and I also warn all the good people of the State, as they
value peace and good order and would avoid the horrors of civil war, not to be misled by these
wicked and designing men who, having nothing to lose, hope for plunder and profit in the license
of civil war. The laws of the General Government will be
enforced among us at any cost and at
79
all hazards, and the men who array themselves in armed resistance to the laws will certainly be
overpowered and punished.
As long as those who have sought shelter in Iowa from other States behaved as quiet and
peaceable citizens, I have had no disposition to interfere with or molest them, but it cannot be
tolerated that these men, who have been compelled to flee from their own State for fear of the
punishment of crimes committed against the laws of their State or of the United States, should,
while enjoying the protection of our laws, be permitted to bring among our peaceful homes and
upon our peaceful people all the horrors they have brought upon the State from which they fled.
We owe it not only to ourselves and our families, but much more to the families of those who
have left us to defend on the battlefield the life of our country, that we preserve peace and good
order at home. It must be a bitter reflection to our gallant soldiers that while they are enduring
the hardships and dangers of a soldier's life in defense of their country bad men at home are
plotting to bring upon their unprotected families the dangers of civil war. Moved by these
considerations, I have this day notified the proper authorities of the United States and of the State
of Missouri that many criminals against their laws are in Iowa engaged, as I believe, in inciting
rebellion, and that I shall insist upon their arrest and removal where necessary, and their trial for
their crimes, if their conduct shall continue to be such as is dangerous to the peace and safety of
the State; and I enjoin upon all good citizens who know that such men are among them that they
especially notice their demeanor and conduct, and if it be seditious and dangerous that they
furnish the U.S. district attorney or the U.S. marshal, or either of the Congressional district
provost-marshals to be appointed, or myself, with their names and affidavits showing their
criminality before coming to this State and their conduct since, to the end that our State may be
relieved of the danger of their presence.
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
CORYDON, IOWA, March 13, 1863.
Hon. S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor, &c.:
DEAR SIR: My official duties having taken me through Warren, Lucas, and Corydon, I am
led to communicate such information as may be useful to you and the State. I conversed with all
the prominent Union men and the impression is universal that the secessionists are actively
preparing and organizing resistance to the Government. In these counties they are holding secret
meetings, becoming more defiant and bold in their denunciations of the North, and in some
localities actually cowing the Union men.
The universal desire is for the proclamation of martial law over the whole State, the removal
by the Provost-Marshal-General of every disloyal sheriff, judge, and public officer, and the
disarming of all known sympathizers. Unless these measures are adopted, it is my belief,
founded upon what I have ascertained in the last two weeks, that Southern Iowa soon will be in
as bad condition as ever Missouri was.
A large number of bad men, driven out of Missouri by the Unionists, have taken refuge in the
border and second tier of counties, and are most active in creating discontent. It is a shame that
the Government should permit these men to come into the State. They are doing great mischief;
are the leaders and organizers of most of the secret meetings.
They should at once be arrested and made to go south into Missouri. They can do us
infinitely less mischief in the rebel army than here.
My information comes in this county from Mr. Thomas, Mr. Hartshorn, and Captain Esteb--
all true, faithful men.
Very respectfully,
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HORACE EVERETT,
Collector, &c.
GENERAL ORDERS No. 72.
WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, March 24, 1863.
Commanders of regiments, battalions not included in regiments, independent companies or
batteries, and detachments, surgeons in charge of hospitals or detachments, and all persons in the
military service commanding or controlling commissioned officers or enlisted men on special or
detached service, will report upon the last day of each month to Col. James B. Fry, Provost-
Marshal-General of the United States, at Washington, D.C., the names of all deserters from their
respective commands who have deserted since their last report, or who have not previously been
reported. These reports will be made in the form of descriptive lists, setting forth, in case of each
deserter, his name, rank, regiment or company, description, place of birth, residence,
occupation, place of enlistment, date of last payment, amount of bounty due, date and place of
desertion, and the place where he can probably be found, with such other remarks as may be
pertinent in the matter or ]nay aid in the arrest and punishment of the offender. Where no
desertions have taken place during the month, the regular form of descriptive list will be
forwarded, and the fact will be noted upon it. The lists will in all cases be made in duplicate; one
copy will be forwarded direct to the Provost-Marshal-General, and the other, through the
ordinary military channels, to the Adjutant-General, at Washington, who will refer the same to
the Provost-Marshal-General. When lists are rendered by surgeons, one copy will be sent direct
to the Provost-Marshal-General, and the duplicate, through the regular channel, to the Surgeon-
General, who will refer the same to the Provost-Marshal-General.
By order of the Secretary of War:
L. THOMAS,
Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, D.C., April 2, 1863.
Governor S. J. KIRKWOOD,
Iowa City, Iowa:
SIR: The Secretary of War directs me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 19th
ultimo, with inclosures, requesting authority to consolidate certain fragments of regiments and to
raise and organize new recruits sufficient to constitute one regiment of cavalry for service against
the Indians on the northwestern frontier of your State, and in reply to inform you that your
suggestion having been referred to the General-in-Chief, he concurs in the views you have
expressed, and that the Secretary of War, also concurring, has directed that the requisite orders
be issued from the office of the Adjutant-General to enable you to effect your object, which
orders will be promptly transmitted to you as soon as they are prepared.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
P. H. WATSON,
Assistant Secretary of War.
BURLINGTON, IOWA, April 20, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
81
DEAR SIR: A little more than a week ago I wrote a private letter to Mr. Watson with a
request to show it to you and General Halleck, in which I stated my conviction that there was a
secret armed organization in this State intended to resist the execution of the laws, and at the
proper time, in their estimation, to effect a rising, and making some suggestions in relation
thereto. The testimony to establish the truth of my statements then made has been accumulating
ever since I wrote. I have the facts from so many and diverging sources tending to prove
precisely the same facts that I cannot longer doubt their accuracy.
There is an order called the "Sons of 76," of which Sterling Price is chief. The principal oaths
are to resist the so-called Union party, to support the Constitution of the United States, to prevent
enlistments, &c., to prevent the arrest of a brother member, to rise and take the field at a given
signal, to buy all the arms and ammunition possible, and especially to secure them from Union
men. I am satisfied that I know their oaths, passwords, grips, &c., and that they intend mischief
in a very few weeks, They are bold and defiant and declare that deserters shall not be arrested.
There are three parties in this county who deserted from one of our regiments, who, when in
town on their way to return, were advised by a lawyer to go back to their farms and go to work.
You may rely upon it that this is not an ordinary or an extraordinary political secret
organization. It means mischief. It is organized for insurrection and nothing else. I have felt it to
be my duty to call your attention to the subject, and subscribe myself,
Very truly, your obedient servant,
J. W. GRIMES.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Iowa City, Iowa, May 5, 1863.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General, Washington City, D. C.:
SIR: Yours of the 27th ultimo, advising me of the appointment of Maj. Thomas Duncan to
superintend the operations of the provost-marshal of this State, &c., has reached me. I am much
pleased with the arrangement and will render the major all the aid in my power.
N. B. Baker, adjutant-general of this State, has sent me a copy of your letter of the 25th
ultimo in regard to the quota of men called for from this State, and of his reply, dated May 1. I
concur with him in opinion that Iowa has furnished more than her quota of all calls made by the
President, and respectfully trust that you will make further examination of this point. Should
your further examination not change your opinion, please send me a statement of the calculation
by which you arrive at the result.
It should be remembered that all the troops furnished by this State under the President's call
for 600,000 in 1862 were three-years' men. We have sent no troops from this State for less than
three years, except the First Iowa Infantry, which, like all the men first called for, were threemonths'
men. This fact should be considered, and I think by the terms of the conscript law must
be considered, in estimating the number of men furnished by a State.
Many of the States in 1862 furnished nine-months' men, perhaps some for a shorter term, and
it is unfair that Iowa's three-years' men should stand man for man for nine months more than any
other State. I wish to be properly understood. This State will furnish all the men the Government
calls for, but it is right and much more satisfactory to have this matter made equal and properly
understood.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
P. S.--If possible, I desire in case a draft must be made in this State that it be so arranged as
to equalize the matter among less districts than
Congressional districts. In some Congressional
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districts some counties are nearly drained of their fighting material, while other counties are to a
great extent strong in that material, and the same is true as to some townships in some counties.
When preparations were made by the State authorities for a draft last year, arrangements
were made to equalize the matter not only among counties, but among townships, and this
arrangement gave very general satisfaction.
S. J. K.
CIRCULAR No. 13.
WAR DEPT., PROV. MAR. GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., May 25, 1863.
The acting assistant provost-marshal-general of each State will at once open a recruiting
rendezvous for the Invalid Corps at or in the immediate vicinity of his headquarters. He will
select suitable officers from those under his immediate orders, to perform, under his directions,
the duties of recruiting officers. Suitable enlisted men to serve as recruiting sergeants under these
officers will be selected from among those enlisted for the Invalid Corps.
The acting assistant provost-marshal-general in each State will at once take steps to establish,
under command of competent officers, a camp of rendezvous for the Invalid Corps in his State.
Provision shall be made at this camp for the reception and accommodation of such soldiers as
may be transferred to the Invalid Corps from hospitals, convalescent camps, or active regiments,
as well as of such men as may be sent to it for enlistment in the corps from the various districts
of the State. Men sent for enlistment from districts will report to the commanding officer at the
camp immediately upon their arrival thereat, and will present to him at the same time their
certificates from the Board of Enrollment by which they were sent. They shall be examined as
soon as practicable thereafter by the recruiting officer, and if deemed by him suitable for soldiers
in the Invalid Corps they shall be at once enlisted; if not, they shall be rejected, and furnished
with a transportation ticket to the headquarters of the district whence they came. Quarters and
subsistence shall be provided for them till enlisted or returned to district headquarters, as herein
provided for.
In cases where neither camps nor barracks, already hired by or belonging to the Government,
can be secured for camps of rendezvous, contracts for the hire of suitable grounds for such
purposes for a period not to exceed three months shall at once be made by the respective acting
assistant provost-marshals-general, subject to the approval of the Provost-Marshal-General.
The acting assistant provost-marshal-general in each State shall make requisitions on the
proper departments for such clothing, camp and garrison equipage, subsistence stores, and other
public property as may be required for use at the camps of rendezvous for their respective States.
They shall also recommend to the Provost-Marshal-General suitable officers to be detailed for
duty at such camps.
Estimates for the camps of rendezvous in the respective States shall be made for companies,
as follows, viz:
Maine, 4 companies; New Hampshire, 4 companies; Vermont, 4 companies; Massachusetts,
10 companies; Rhode Island, 3 companies; Connecticut, 5 companies; New York (each assistant
provost-marshal-general), 10 companies; New Jersey, 8 companies; Pennsylvania, 15 companies;
Delaware, 2 companies; Maryland, 8 companies; Kentucky, 6 companies; Ohio, 15 companies;
Michigan, 6 companies; Indiana, 10 companies; Illinois, 10 companies; Missouri, 8 companies;
Iowa, 8 companies; Wisconsin, 8 companies; Minnesota, 5 companies; Kansas, 2 companies;
District of Columbia, 10 companies.
Companies shall be uniformed, armed, and equipped at the camp of rendezvous as soon as
organized, and be sent to such stations as may be
designated by the Provost-Marshal-General.
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The rent of the camps and recruiting rendezvous herein provided for, expenses of stationery,
office furniture, and of other expenses properly belonging to the recruiting service, will be paid
upon the prescribed vouchers by the disbursing officer of the Provost-Marshal-General's
Department in this city.
Further instructions in detail will be issued by the time the preparations therein required are
completed.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
' MILLIKEN'S BEND, June 10, 1863.
' DEAR AUNT: We were attacked here on June 7, about 3 o'clock in the morning; by a
brigade of Texas troops, about 2,500 in number. We had about 600 men to withstand them. 500
of them negroes. I commanded Company I, Ninth Louisiana. We went into the fight with 33
men. I had 16 killed and 11 badly wounded, 4 slightly. I was wounded slightly on the head, near
the right eye, with a bayonet, and had a bayonet run through my right band near the forefinger;
that will account for this miserable style of penmanship.
' Our regiment had about 300 men in the fight. We had 1 colonel wounded, 4 captains
wounded, 2 first and 2 second lieutenants killed, 5 lieutenants wounded, and 3 white orderlies
killed and 1 wounded in the hand and two fingers taken off. The list of killed and wounded
officers comprises nearly all the officers present with the regiment, a majority of the rest being
absent recruiting.
' We had about 50 men killed in the regiment and 80 wounded, so you can judge of what part
of the fight my company sustained. I never felt more grieved and sick at heart than when I saw
how my brave soldiers had been slaughtered, one with six wounds, all the rest with two or three,
none less than two wounds. Two of my colored sergeants were killed, both brave, noble men;
always prompt, vigilant, and ready for the fray. I never more wish to hear the expression. "The
niggers wont fight." Come with me 100 yards from where I sit and I can show you the wounds
that cover the bodies of 16 as brave, loyal, and patriotic soldiers as ever drew bead on a rebel.
' The enemy charged us so close that we fought with our bayonets hand to hand. I have six
broken bayonets to show how bravely my men fought. The Twenty-third Iowa joined my
company on the right, and I declare truthfully that they had all fled before our regiment fell back,
as we were all compelled to do.
' Under command of Colonel Page I led the Ninth and Eleventh Louisiana when the rifle-pits
were retaken and held by our troops, our two regiments doing the work.
' I narrowly escaped death once. A rebel took deliberate [aim] at me with both barrels of his
gun, and the bullets passed so close to me that the powder that remained on them burned my
cheek. Three of my men who saw him aim and fire thought that he wounded me each fire. One
of them was killed by my side, and he fell on me, covering my clothes with his blood, and before
the rebel could fire again I blew his brains out with my gun.
' It was a horrible fight, the worst I was ever engaged in, not even excepting Shiloh. The
enemy cried, "No quarters," but some of them were very glad to take it when made prisoners.
' Colonel Allen, of the Seventeenth Texas, was killed in front of our regiment, and Brigadier-
General Walker was wounded. We killed about 180 of the enemy. The gun-boat Choctaw did
good service shelling them. I stood on the breast-works after we took them, and gave the
elevations and direction for the gun-boat by pointing my sword, and they sent a shell right into
their midst, which sent them in all directions. Three shells fell there, and 62 rebels lay there when
the fight was over.
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' My wound is not serious, but troublesome. What few men I have left seem to think much of
me because I stood up with them in the fight. I can say for them that I never saw a braver
company of men in my life.
' Not one of them offered to leave his place until ordered to fall back; in fact, very few ever
did fall back. I went down to the hospital three miles to-day to see the wounded. Nine of them
were there, two having died of their wounds. A boy I had cooking for me came and begged a gun
when the rebels were advancing, and took his place with the company, and when we retook the
breast-works I found him badly wounded with one gunshot and two bayonet wounds. A new
recruit I had issued a gun to the day before the fight was found dead, with a firm grasp on his
gun, the bayonet of which was broken in three pieces. So they fought and died defending the
cause that we revere. They met death coolly, bravely; not rashly did they expose themselves, but
all were steady and obedient to orders.
' So God has spared me again through many dangers. I cannot tell how it was I escaped.
' Your affectionate nephew,
' M. M. MILLER.'"
IOWA CITY, July 15, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
The enforcement of the draft throughout the country depends upon its enforcement in New
York City. If it can be successfully resisted there, it cannot be enforced elsewhere. For God's
sake let there be no compromising or half-way measures.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
DES MOINES, IOWA, July 15, 1863.
His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
President of the United States:
Suspension of draft in New York as suggested by Governor Seymour will result disastrously
in Iowa.
W. H. F. Gurley, U.S. attorney; H. M. Hoxie, U.S. marshal; S. Sibley, U.S. commissioner;
W. G. Woodward, clerk of U.S. circuit court; S. C. Brownell, J. N. Cornish, John P. Fenley,
Board of Enrollment, Fifth District of Iowa; F. W. Palmer, State printer; Thos. F. Withrow,
chairman Republican State Central Committee.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., July 16, 1863.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
General-in- Chief, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I transmit herewith copies of letters from the Governor and assistant provostmarshal-
general of this State, setting forth in urgent terms the danger of riot in making the draft
and the necessity of the presence of a considerable military force in several localities before the
drawing of the names is made. The statements in these letters I know to be true, and I am
satisfied that the apprehensions expressed are well founded. By careful management the
enrollment was made in the several townships without resistance, though in several localities
troops are now being used to accomplish the work. I have only four companies of troops in this
State, and they belong to a regiment that has never been in the field. The same state of facts
obtains in Iowa. Whist there are troops enough in Minnesota to provide against any such
difficulties in that State, I cannot withdraw any portion of them for some time to come without
exciting great alarm about Indians.
85
All the Minnesota regiments also are new regiments that have never been out of the State,
and, like the Seventh Iowa Cavalry (as stated to me by the Governor and adjutant-general of that
State), cannot be relied upon for services against mobs of the people. Under the circumstances I
have the honor to request that at least two of the old regiments from this State and also two from
the State of Iowa be sent to this department to recruit, so that they can be present when the draft
is made, and, by their presence alone, prevent riot and save bloodshed. A skeleton company of
artillery should also be sent with each two regiments. Not more than 700 such troops would be
required for each State, and probably a couple or three months would be sufficient to effect the
object. They can be filled up by these very drafted men and could be sent to the field in
September with full ranks; so also with the skeleton artillery companies. The force thus asked I
consider absolutely essential, both to suppress disturbances in enforcing the conscription act and
to guard the conscripts until they join the regiments in the field.
The withdrawal from the field of two reduced regiments from each, two from this State and
two from Iowa, cannot in any degree embarrass the military operations in the South, whilst they
may prevent serious riot and much loss of life and destruction of property in these States.
The character and extent of the ignorant Irish and German population of Milwaukee and of
the companies of Washington, Dodge, and Ozaukee Counties are plainly set forth in the
communication of the provost-marshal, herewith inclosed.
He does not overstate the danger to be apprehended from them, as several very serious riots
which they have made in this city and these counties last year and several years since have never
been punished, although put down, and a mob here begins with a boldness and confidence not
felt elsewhere.
I respectfully submit this statement and application and invite your immediate attention to
them.
I am, general, respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Major-General, Commanding.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D. C., July 17, 1863.
His Excellency Governor KIRKWOOD,
Iowa City (via Davenport):
The draft will be enforced in New York City. You need entertain no apprehensions of
compromising or half-way measures.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Iowa City, Iowa, July 24, 1863.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington City, D. C.:
SIR: I have been applied to frequently by persons who desire to raise colored troops in this
State for U.S. service. It is thought by them that a full regiment may be raised in this State. I do
not think so, but the number of black persons in this State may be now much larger than I
suppose. I have felt some backwardness, too, about engaging in raising colored troops in this
State lest men from Missouri calling themselves loyal might prowl about the camps and claim
the men who had enlisted as their fugitive slaves, and
thus cause much excitement and trouble.
86
But the Government wants troops, and I am anxious they shall be furnished, and, if you
desire, I shall raise what troops of this kind I can in this State. Please let me know and I will
commence the work.
If I cannot raise a full regiment, will a number of companies less than a regiment be
accepted?
Will I appoint the company officers and the field officers if a regiment be completed?
Will the troops raised be credited to the State against any future draft?
What is the pay of officers and men of colored troops?
An early answer will oblige.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., July 27, 1863.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa:
SIR: I am instructed by the Secretary of War to inform you that you are hereby authorized to
raise one regiment of infantry to be composed of colored men, to be mustered into the U.S.
service for three years or during the war.
To these troops no bounties will be paid. They will receive $10 per month and one ration per
day, $3 of which monthly pay may be in clothing.
The organization of the regiment must conform in all respects with the requirements of
General Orders, No. 110, War Department, 1863, a copy of which is herewith.
The prescribed number of commissioned officers will be appointed in accordance with the
provisions of General Orders, Nos. 143 and 144, War Department, current series, copies of
which please find inclosed. The officers thus appointed will be mustered into service on the
presentation to the mustering officer of their appointments signed by the Secretary of War. The
appointments will be made to keep pace with the muster into service of the several companies.
Thus, on information being received from you that the first company has been mustered into
service, the necessary appointments for that company will be made. When four companies are
mustered in the lieutenant-colonel of the regiment will be appointed, and so on in accordance
with the Revised Mustering Regulations.
To facilitate the appointment of the officers, it is respectfully suggested that it would be well
to forward to the Adjutant-General of the Army, as early as practicable, the names of such
persons as you wish to have examined for appointment, and permission will be immediately
given them to appear before the examining board now in session in Cincinnati, or the board in
session in Washington if more convenient for the parties.
The necessary supplies will be furnished by the respective departments upon requisitions
approved by you.
I have the honor, &c.,
C. W. FOSTER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
NOTE.--If you should find it impracticable to raise a full regiment, any number of companies
less than that required for a regimental organization will be accepted.
IOWA CITY, July 27, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
87
I would much prefer the Seventh Iowa Cavalry should not leave until the draft is over. I fear
some trouble, and would rather prevent than put it down. Please answer.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., July 30, 1868.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa:
SIR: I am directed by the Secretary of War to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the
24th instant, making certain inquiries in relation to recruiting and organizing colored volunteers.
In reply thereto I beg leave to invite your attention to Department letter of July 27 addressed
to Your Excellency, which letter was written at the request of Hon. J. B. Grinnell, M. C.
The letter above referred to will supply nearly all the information called for in your letter of
the 24th, and it only remains to reply to such questions as are not provided for there.
Any number of companies less than a regiment that you can raise will be accepted.
The troops raised under the authority given you in Department letter of the 27th instant will
be credited to the State against any future draft.
The pay of the commissioned officers will be the same as that of other officers in the
volunteer service.
I have the honor, &c.,
C. W. FOSTER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 6, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
A large mob of armed men is now organized in Keokuk County, in this State. Its prompt
suppression will prevent future occurrences of the same kind. I have ordered out the militia
forces near the scene of disturbance, and hope to have sufficient force, but much depends upon
having a sufficient force promptly on hand. I have applied to General Roberts to detain the six
companies of the Seventh Cavalry now near the scene of disturbance and send them there. It will
cause a delay of but a few days. I ask your approval. Please answer.
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, August 7, 1863.
Brig. Gen. B. S. ROBERTS,
Davenport, Iowa:
GENERAL: Your letter of the 4th instant with its inclosures is received. Your actions in
referring applicants for military force to interfere in civil broils at political meetings to the
Governor of the State meets my views and purposes entirely. The U.S. laws specify clearly the
circumstances under which U.S. troops are to be employed in putting down insurrections in the
State, and the exact method to be pursued to secure their services. When U.S. laws are resisted
and U.S. officers endangered in the execution of their duty the manner of employing troops is
specifically set forth. The cases arising out of the conscription law are provided for in the law
itself. It is desirable of all things, as I have fully
explained to you, to avoid complications with
88
the civil authorities and the people, and for this purpose to decline using the military forces of the
United States except in accordance with the laws and in the manner prescribed thereby.
In relation to affairs at Dubuque and that vicinity I have only to say that you will be notified
at least a week in advance of the order, so that in case of any probable resistance military force
can be so disposed beforehand as to make resistance impossible. Meantime no draft has yet been
ordered, and it will be sufficient for you to inform Major Duncan that the military commanders
are not unmindful of the condition of affairs, and that troops will be found ready when the draft
is made at the points where they will be required. In such a state of public sentiment as now
exists on the subject any act or display that may tend to exasperate should be carefully avoided.
In the heat of passion and under the influence of threats, either by words or by an
unnecessary display of military force, men will commit acts of violence and resistance to which
under ordinary circumstances and with discreet conduct they would not think of resorting.
The United States are abundantly able to execute the laws, and neither need nor approve of
blustering or threatening by their officers in advance of any necessity for the use of force. People
in this country have the habit of exercising great latitude in their talk, sometimes no doubt to an
extent prejudicial to the public good and to the peace of the country, but after all talk of resisting
the laws without committing the act is generally harmless. An attempt to repress this sort of
reckless, thoughtless freedom of speech, even when carried to the excess of threatening to resist
the laws, might, and probably would, lead to violent outbreaks which otherwise would not have
occurred. Federal officers should learn to hold their tongues and do their duty without making
counter threats or blustering about the use of military force, which would probably not be
required if they did their duty quietly and discreetly. It is not necessary to inform the people of
Iowa that troops will be used to enforce the draft nor to hold out to them any such threat in
advance of execution of laws, which it is only apprehended they may resist. Such a course would
lead naturally to the very resistance it is intended to prevent. It is supposed that the people of this
country who are the makers of law will also obey it when they have made it, and although I
desire you at points where resistance to the draft is apprehended to make proper disposition of
your forces to protect the U.S. officers and secure the execution of the laws, I wish you to do so
quietly and unostentatiously, simply that they may be on hand to assure quiet, which probably
will not be disturbed unless rash and ill-advised counsel prevail. I have written to General Ripley
in relation to the matter of arms for the Eighth Cavalry.
I am, general, respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Major-General, Commanding.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, August 8, 1863.
Governor SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
Your call upon General Roberts to detain six companies of the Seventh Cavalry temporarily,
for the purpose of preserving the peace within your State, is approved, and directions have been
given to General Roberts to comply with your request.
An order has been made affording necessary facilities for the election of commissioners of
your State, and will be transmitted to you by mail.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 24, 1863.
89
(Received 11 p.m.)
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
The Eighth Cavalry is over full. I think I can raise speedily another cavalry regiment. Shall I
do so?
SAML. J. KIRKWOOD.
PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
August 25, 1863,
His Excellency the GOVERNOR OF IOWA,
Davenport:
Your telegram requesting authority to raise another cavalry regiment received. Department
will give you an answer at an early date.
J. B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., August 27, 1863.
Maj. O. A. MACK,
Actg. Asst. Provost-Marshal-General, Concord, N.H.:
You will in every case notify the Governor of your State in advance, both by telegraph and
mail, of the precise day upon which the draft will commence in each of the districts under your
charge. Direct your provost-marshals to do the same.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal General.
(Same to Colonels Alexander, Missouri; Conrad Baker, Indiana; Lieutenant-Colonel
Bornford, Pennsylvania; R. C. Buchanan, New Jersey; Captain Clarke, Kansas; Lieutenant-
Colonel Darr, West Virginia; Major Diven, New York; Thomas Duncan, Iowa; Lieutenant-
Colonel Hill, Michigan; Major Jeffries, Maryland; Lieutenant-Colonel Lovell, Wisconsin;
Colonel Nugent, New York City; Lieutenant-Colonel Oakes, Illinois; Colonel Parrott, Ohio;
Captain Saunders, Minnesota; Major Sidell, Kentucky; Major Townsend, New York.)
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 28, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
I shall have an overplus of Eighth Cavalry. I want credit for them, and leave for another
regiment. We should have credit for the Northern Border Brigade, which has cost the State
$90,000, and which has done as much service as other troops who have had a U.S. muster.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., August 28, 1863.
GOVERNOR OF IOWA,
Davenport, Iowa:
So soon as the Eighth Regiment is mustered in your request to raise the Ninth Cavalry will
receive prompt consideration.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
90
PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., August 29, 1863.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa, Davenport:
Telegram yesterday received, and one same date to Secretary of War referred to me.
Experience has indicated that it is better to have a complete regiment mustered in before
another is commenced, else recruiting is retarded.
Colonel Grier reports Eighth Cavalry not ready for muster. He has been instructed to muster
it promptly when ready.
Credits will be given for all troops so soon as mustered into U.S. service and fact reported by
U.S. mustering officer.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, September 11, 1863.
GOVERNOR OF IOWA,
Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 4th instant in reference
to the value given nine-months' men in determining the excess of troops furnished by your State.
In reply I am directed to inform you that one three-years' volunteer is considered equivalent to
four nine-months'; 10,570 nine-months' men would therefore, be considered equivalent to 2,642
three-years'. This number deducted from 16,539, the excess of three-years', would leave 13,897
men of that class in excess of all calls.
I am, sir, &c.,
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, September 29, 1863.
Col. E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Washington, D.C.:
COLONEL: I inclose herewith a copy of a letter received on the 26th instant from Brigadier-
General Thomas, Adjutant-General, asking me to afford facilities for raising another colored
regiment in Missouri, and my reply. I have thought it advisable to transmit these to the
Honorable Secretary of War with a few additional remarks for his consideration and such
instructions as he may be pleased to give.
In July last General Thomas, at my request, gave Colonel Pile authority to raise colored
troops in Missouri subject to the approval of the Governor of the State. The Governor gave his
consent with the condition that the laws of Missouri should not be violated--a very difficult
condition to comply with.
It was, however, observed as far as practicable, and a regiment was soon raised, mustered in,
and sent to Helena. Colonel Pile then obtained permission to raise another regiment to
rendezvous at Keokuk, Iowa. Recruiting officers were appointed, by whom I know not, and sent
into Missouri, bearing copies of the authority I had given to those engaged in raising the
regiment in Saint Louis, together with a similar one from General Thomas. These recruiting
officers went through the northern part of Missouri with armed parties of negroes, enlisting all
who would go with them without regard to the loyalty of
their masters, and in some instances, I
91
am informed, forcing them away. Of course this could not fail to produce intense excitement, and
I was compelled to put a stop to it.
General Ewing has authority, given by the Secretary of War at my request, to raise one
regiment in his district. He has been able to make but little progress so far, but I have no doubt
will raise the regiment in time.
The first regiment raised absorbed all the negroes fit for military duty who had been collected
at the various posts in Missouri, and which included nearly all those at that time remaining in the
State who were unquestionably entitled to their freedom under the confiscation set.
Nearly all those now remaining in the State belong either to loyal men or to men who cannot
be proven to have committed any act of disloyalty since the 17th of July, 1862. If it be admitted
that a man who was to any extent disloyal before that time may be a loyal man now, it is
impossible to decide without judicial proceedings whether the set of July 17 applies or not in a
large majority of cases that arise. Moreover, under the confused notions as to what constitutes
loyalty which now exist, the officers engaged in recruiting are about as likely to decide one man
to be disloyal as another.
I believe the able-bodied negroes in Missouri will be worth more to the Government as
soldiers than they are to their masters as laborers, and that this is the general opinion among
slave owners in the State. Moreover, I believe it would be a great benefit to the State as well as to
the negro to have him transformed from a slave into a soldier.
I respectfully suggest that it might be wise policy to enlist all able-bodied negroes in
Missouri who may be willing to enter the service, giving to their masters receipts upon which
those who established their loyalty may base a claim upon the Government for the value of the
services lost. Those masters whose loyalty is undoubted might perhaps be paid immediately out
of the substitute fund, and the doubtful cases left for future settlement.
If the Government decides to adopt such policy, I shall be glad to carry it out.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. M. SCHOFIELD,
Major-General.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D. C., October 6, 1863.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of the State of Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to inform you that the State of Iowa stands credited on the books of the
Adjutant-General of the Army with an excess of 13,897 over all calls for troops in 1861 and
1862 and in 1863 up to the 11th day of June.
The quota of the State for the present draft is 12,616. The excess of troops heretofore
furnished by it over this quota is 1,281; there will therefore be no draft in Iowa under the present
call for troops, and the number of 1,281 will stand to its credit in the future demands of the
Government.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAS. B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
KEOKUK, IOWA, October 9, 1863.
SECRETARY OF WAR:
I came here to-day to make requisition for clothing for colored regiment organizing under
orders of this State founded on General Thomas' order. The
officers seem to think that because
92
somebody was authorized to raise the regiment by General Thomas, therefore the State has
nothing to do, and that the officers are to be commissioned by the United States, and that they are
to be selected by the person authorized to raise the regiment. I do not understand it so. I have
succeeded in furnishing the regiment the same as with any regiment, under Order 75. I suppose I
shall continue to proceed so under orders of the Governor, and that the commissions will come
from him. I wish you would answer by telegraph immediately so that I may know how to
proceed.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, October 9, 1863.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa:
The colored troops are organized as U.S. volunteers and received into military service under
the act of Congress of 17th July, 1862, and not as State volunteers. The officers are
commissioned by the President and not by the Governor, but the State receives credit for the
troops on any draft as in case of other troops. No officer is commissioned until after examination
and approval by the board of examiners. The Governor's nomination to this Department secures
the appointment, if the person can pass examination.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., October 21, 1863.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to inform you that Iowa's quota of the 300,000 volunteers called for by
the President's proclamation of the 17th instant is as follows: First District, 1,591; Second
District, 1,704; Third District, 1,754; Fourth District, 1,703; Fifth District, 1,350; Sixth District,
808; total, 8,910.
Inasmuch, however, as there remains to the credit of Iowa 1,281 men, the surplus of her
excess over all former calls as compared to the quota due from her on the current draft, the quota
named above (8,910), in case a draft is rendered necessary by a failure to raise volunteers, will be
reduced by that number (1,281)--that is to say, to 7,629, which number, in reference to such
draft, will be subject to a further reduction to the extent of all volunteers not hitherto credited,
and such as may be raised in pursuance of the proclamation aforesaid.
If Your Excellency thinks best to subdivide the quotas herein assigned to Congressional
districts, and allot proportional parts to smaller subdivisions of your State, I would suggest that
for harmonizing the subject of credits in drafts hereafter you regard the enrollment of the first
class made by this Bureau as the basis of assignment.
The provost-marshal-general of your State and the boards of enrollment in the several
districts will give you all the aid in their power in this and all matters connected with raising
troops.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAS. B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General.
93
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Saint Louis, November 4, 1863.
His Excellency SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD,
Governor of Iowa, Iowa City:
GOVERNOR: I am in receipt of your letter of October 31 asking that authority be granted to
recruit in Missouri enough colored men to complete the regiment now organizing at Keokuk. I
intend to commence in a very short time a system of recruiting colored troops in Missouri, and
will fill up the Keokuk regiment from the first regiment obtained. I cannot permit officers to go
through the State recruiting in the usual manner, because of the abuses which necessarily result
and the consequent disturbance in the country.
Permit me to suggest that the men you now have be organized into full companies and I will
have the remaining companies of the regiment organized in Saint Louis, so that the whole
regiment may be sent South with as little delay as practicable.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. M. SCHOFIELD,
Major-general.
By O. D. GREENE,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., November 12, 1863.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
MY DEAR SIR: I transmit, inclosed, a letter to General Halleck, with inclosures, and address
you this letter direct, in order that some immediate action be had in a matter more immediately
under the charge of officers on duty in the War Department.
I understand a decision has been made (by whom I know not, but presume with your
authority) that mustering and disbursing officers in the States are not in any respect under the
control of the department commander. The manner in which such an arrangement works, and the
inexhaustible sources of difficulty to which it gives rise, are doubtless not known to you.
The order assigning me to the command of this department placed under my command "all
troops raising, or to be raised, within its limits." At the time I assumed command the Indian war
was in progress, and I think there was not a single regiment in the State whose organization had
been completed. I accordingly sent out parts of regiments and companies to the front and
completed the organization as fast as possible. So, too, at present in the State of Iowa there is not
now a single organized regiment, and in this State only eight companies of an organized
regiment.
There are several regiments, batteries, &c., in each State now in process of organization, and
upon these partly organized forces I must depend for guards for public property, prisoners, and
deserters, and for furnishing the necessary force to provost-marshals for the execution of the
draft and the retention and safe-keeping of drafted men. Yet, by decisions made and implied in
the Adjutant-General's Office, in the War Department, mustering officers in the States in this
department are in no sense under my control.
These same mustering officers, however, claim to have exclusive charge of all recruits, both
for old and new regiments, to command all troops in process of organization, and all camps
where these forces are assembled.
Such an "imperium in imperio" is subversive of all proper military control or discipline, and,
if enforced, absolutely deprives me of any military force
to use for any of the purposes named
94
above, unless old regiments are ordered back from the field, a thing neither necessary nor
desirable.
The difficulty in which the inclosed charges originated resulted from the fact that Lieutenant-
Colonel Grier, mustering officer in Iowa, attempted to supersede the commanding officer at
Camp McClellan, Davenport, by ordering another officer to command, claiming that it was a
recruiting station and therefore under his control.
When I tell you that this camp is the military post in this department at which 300
condemned Sioux prisoners are confined, you will readily understand the extraordinary nature of
Lieutenant-Colonel Grier's conduct. The good sense and discretion of the mustering officers in
Wisconsin and Minnesota have saved us from difficulties in either of those States.
This is not the first occasion on which difficulty has been made by Colonel Grier and
disrespect shown to the department authority. I have the honor to request that he be relieved from
duty in Iowa, and that Lieut. Col. William Chapman, Third U.S. Infantry, now at Green Bay, in
this State, be sent to replace him.
Lieutenant-Colonel Chapman has lately been retired from active service, but is an excellent
officer and well qualified for such duty. I have several times asked the action of the General-in-
Chief on this subject, but the matter seems to be more directly in charge of officers in the War
Department.
In view of the facts existing in this department and herein stated, I have the honor
respectfully to suggest to you for the benefit of the public service, and to enable the commander
of this department to use troops in process of organization for duties heretofore stated in this
letter, without recalling troops from the field, or keeping organized regiments out of the field,
that general authority be given the department commander over mustering and disbursing
officers within his department, which, without authorizing him to interfere with the special duties
of those officers, will yet enable him so far to control them as to prevent the occurrence of
transactions not creditable to military discipline or subordination.
I ask particularly the replacement of Lieutenant-Colonel Grier by some other officer, as I
think there can be no sufficient reason why an officer whose relations with the commander of the
department are so unpleasant should be retained here.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. POPE,
Major-General, Commanding.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., November 18, 1863.
Maj. J. W. T. GARDINER, U.S. Army,
Actg. Asst. Prov. Mar. Gen. for Maine, Augusta; Me.:
MAJOR: It is not unlikely that recruits may in some cases offer to enlist in regiments already
filled by drafted men or consolidation, or into some which have ceased to exist by muster-out or
consolidation. To prevent this the Provost-Marshal-General directs that you ascertain from the
adjutant-general of the State in which you are stationed the condition of each regiment, and how
many recruits are required for each, in order to guard against improper enlistments.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY STONE,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Similar letter sent to Brigadier-General Hinks, New Hampshire; Major Clarke,
Massachusetts; Brigadier-General Hays and Major Diven, New York; Lieutenant-Colonel
Buchanan, New Jersey; Major Gilbert and Lieutenant-Colonel
Bornford, Pennsylvania; Major
95
Jeffries, Maryland; Lieutenant-Colonel Darr, West Virginia; Colonel Baker, Indiana; Lieutenant-
Colonel Hill, Michigan; Lieutenant-Colonel Lovell, Wisconsin; Major Duncan, Iowa; Colonel
Alexander, Missouri.)
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D. C., December 15, 1863.
Maj. J. W. T. GARDINER, U.S. Army,
Actg. Asst. Prov. Mar. Gen. for Maine, Augusta, Me.:
MAJOR: The Provost-Marshal-General directs me to inform you that, in accordance with
orders from the War Department, persons who establish the fact before boards of enrollment that
they are conscientiously opposed to bearing arms and to paying the commutation money for
exemption from draft, and that they belong to a religious society whose creed prohibits them to
serve in the Army or to pay commutation money, shall when drafted be put on parole by the
provost-marshal of the district in which they were drafted, to report when called for.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. D. RUGGLES,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Similar letter sent to Brigadier-General Hinks, New Hampshire; Major Clarke,
Massachusetts; Brigadier-General Hays and Major Diven, New York; Lieutenant-Colonel
Buchanan, New Jersey; Major Gilbert and Lieutenant-Colonel Bornford, Pennsylvania; Major
Jeffries, Maryland; Lieutenant-Colonel Darr, West Virginia; Colonel Baker, Indiana; Lieutenant-
Colonel Hill, Michigan; Lieutenant-Colonel Lovell, Wisconsin; Major Duncan, Iowa; Colonel
Alexander, Missouri; Captain Clarke,
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D. C., January 5, 1864.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL OF IOWA,
Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to inclose herewith a memoranda in reference to the quotas of 1861, in
answer to a portion of your letter of October 17, 1863, in which you ask information concerning
those for the State of Iowa. The answer is the same as given to the other States where like
information was asked for by them. Your letter of October 17 was received here during my
absence from the Department; in consequence it was not until a day or two since that my
attention was directed to your particular inquiry about the quotas. Therefore the delay in
answering.
I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
MEMORANDA.--In organizing troops in 1861, after the call of May 2, no formal
assignments of quotas to States were made, and there was no fixed system in calling out troops.
As circumstances demanded, requisitions were made upon the Governors. In many cases troops
were tendered by the Governors, and accepted by the United States, without calls being made.
Authorizations to individuals and independent acceptances were given, and many troops
were brought into service in this way without said authorization passing through the State
authorities.
This system of independent organizations terminated by General Orders, No. 18, of 1862,
from this office.
96
As a result of this want of a general system in the calling out of troops during the first year of
the war, it was found necessary, before fixing the quotas under the calls of 1862, to determine the
quotas of the respective States for 1861.
This was done by considering the number of men the States had in the field. This number,
from the States that were to have additional quotas assigned, was 548,184, the quota of which for
Iowa was 19,316.
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
STATE OF IOWA, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Des Moines, January 11, 1864.
Maj. THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of yours of the 5th instant, with
memorandum of what the War Department has done in relation to assigning the quotas under the
500,000 call.
As I understand the decision of the War Department, it is: As certain States in the aggregate
raised 548,184, therefore the quota of Iowa under a call for 500,000 men shall be 19,316; or,
because Iowa raised a portion of the excess above 500,000, therefore she is charged an excess of
1,699 above her true quota. If all the States had filled their quotas and sent their men to the field,
or if all the States had furnished their shares of the excess above 500,000 men, the case would
stand somewhat differently. It may be replied that you have attempted to equalize the matter on
subsequent calls, but it has not been equalized, so far as men are concerned. And, with all due
deference to the War Department, I have yet to learn by what authority the call of 500,000 men
was increased to 548,184.
With great respect, I have the honor to be, truly yours,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., January 21, 1864.
His Excellency the GOVERNOR OF IOWA,
Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to inform you that from June I to December 31, 1863, 4,800
volunteers, for three years' service, have been credited to the State of Iowa. This number is
exclusive of re-enlistments of veterans in the field.
The foregoing, from an examination of our records, is found to be in accordance with the
claims of the State, as per the quarterly statements of your adjutant-general for September 30 and
December 31, after making a deduction of 382 men from the strength (903) as claimed for the
First African Regiment of Infantry. The total 903 for the said regiment cannot be credited to
Iowa, as the 382 men thereof are mustered in as from the State of Missouri.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
DES MOINES, IOWA, February 2, 1864.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President:
97
I have just received a copy of your order for a draft of 500,000 troops after the 10th of
March. There will be no draft in Iowa. You shall have our quota without it. We are coming,
Father Abraham, with 500,000 more.
By order of Governor Kirkwood:
N. B. BAKER.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., February 6, 1864.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Davenport, Iowa:
You are authorized to raise ten companies of infantry to be combined by you into a regiment.
Please state whether you can accomplish it; and if so, whether you will enter upon it at once.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., February 10, 1864.
Governor KIRKWOOD,
Des Moines, Iowa:
I mean ten detached companies to be formed into a new regiment or battalion or attached to
old regiments if you have any requiring additional companies.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, March 14, 1864.
ADJUTANT-GENERAL OF IOWA,
Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 1st instant in reference
to the credits to the State of Iowa. In reply I am directed to inform you that the State has been
credited with 992 men additional in Missouri regiments. Under the rulings of the Department the
change of credit of the eighty-three men of Company A, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, cannot
be made in favor of Iowa without the claim being first adjusted between the Governor of Iowa
and the Governor of Pennsylvania, the men having already been credited to the latter State. The
credits made the State for musters therein during the months of January and February have
already been communicated to His Excellency the Governor. No credits of re-enlisted veterans
have yet been made to the State, as it is desirable before acting to get complete reports from
mustering officers in the field. So soon as the credits of said troops are made due notification will
be given you.
I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
March 26, 1864.
General N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
98
GENERAL: In my letter of the 14th instant I inadvertently omitted to refer to the 209 recruits
mustered into service in the field, and for which you claim credit. Concerning these men, we
have no reports from mustering officers showing the musters, nor can the muster-in rolls be
traced. In claims of this kind the circumstances under which men were mustered into service in
the field should be stated, as the regulations look to all musters for field regiments being made in
the States and by the U.S. mustering officers thereof. Musters made otherwise are in violation of
regulations and cause delays in making credits. Under the rules, therefore, the said men cannot
now be credited, but they will be credited promptly so soon as the proper rolls and reports shall
have been received.
The foregoing is in reply to your letter of the 18th instant.
I have the honor, &c.,
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, April 21, 1864.
To the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
I. The Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin offer to the President
infantry troops for the approaching campaign, as follows:
Ohio 30,000
Indiana 20,000
Illinois 20,000
Iowa 10,000
Wisconsin 5,000
II. The term of service to be 100 days, reckoning from the date of muster into the service of
the United States, unless sooner discharged.
III. The troops to be mustered into the service of the United States by regiments, when the
regiments are filled up, according to regulations, to the minimum strength--the regiments to be
organized according to the regulations of the War Department. The whole number to be
furnished within twenty days from date of notice of the acceptance of this proposition.
IV. The troops to be clothed, armed, equipped, subsisted, transported, and paid as other U.S.
infantry volunteers, and to serve in fortifications, or wherever their services may be required,
within or without their respective States.
V. No bounty to be paid the troops, nor the service charged or credited on any draft.
VI. The draft for three years' service to go on in any State or district where the quota is not
filled up; but if any officer or soldier in this special service should be drafted he shall be credited
for the service rendered.
JNO. BROUGH,
Governor of Ohio.
O. P. MORTON,
Governor of Indiana.
RICHD. YATES,
Governor of Illinois.
W. M. STONE,
Governor of Iowa.
JAMES T. LEWIS,
99
Governor of Wisconsin.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, April 21, 1864.
Lieutenant-General GRANT,
Culpeper:
The Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa are here, and propose to offer to the
Government 100,000 men, to be ready for the field, clothed, armed, and fully equipped, within
twenty days from date of notice, and to serve for the period of three months in fortifications, or
wherever else their services may be required, and in any State. The Department would be glad to
have your opinion as to whether this offer should be accepted or refused.
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
ULPEPER, VA., April 21, 1864.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
As a rule I would oppose receiving men for a short term, but if 100,000 men can be raised in
the time proposed by the Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa they might come at such
a crisis as to be of vast importance. I would not recommend accepting them in lieu of quotas now
due on any previous calls for three-years' troops. Otherwise I would.
U.S. GRANT,
Lieutenant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., April 21, 1864.
His Excellency the GOVERNOR OF IOWA,
Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to inform you that the State of Iowa has been credited with re-enlisted
veterans as follows:
Volunteers, 6,529. The number (6,529) is the same as that claimed by the State, per the
exhibit of your adjutant-general embracing returns made to him to include the 15th instant. The
Provost-Marshal-General of the United States has been requested to credit localities with the
number set forth in said exhibit.
The number credited is supported by the records of this office, but thus far returns here
received will permit me to assign only 4,535 to localities.
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, April 25, 1864.
Hon. HENRY WILSON,
Chairman Military Committee of the Senate:
SIR: The Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin have tendered to the
President on the 23d instant a large number of volunteers from their respective States for service
during the present campaign. They are expected to number from 80,000 to 100,000 men, their
term of service 100 days from muster in. It is believed
they can render useful service. They are to
100
be paid no bounty, and are not to diminish or delay the draft for three-years' men in States where
the quota of pending draft is not filled up. The quota is filled up in Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and
Wisconsin, and less than 10,000 are due from Ohio. The expense of these troops is not provided
for in the war estimates heretofore submitted. It is estimated that $25,000,000 will meet the costs
of 100,000 of these extra volunteers. I respectfully recommend a special appropriation for that
purpose, and submit a joint resolution for that purpose. The impending operations render it
expedient that there should be early action by Congress upon the proposition, so that if
sanctioned all needful provisions may be made in due season.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
(Same to Hon. Robert C. Schenck, chairman of Military Committee, House of
Representatives.)
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, April 27, 1864.
Hon. WILLIAM P. FESSENDEN,
Chairman of Committee on Finance, U.S. Senate:
SIR: Referring to my letter of the 25th instant, addressed to the chairman of the Committee
on Military Affairs of the Senate, and now pending before your committee, I have the honor to
transmit herewith for your information a copy of the communication made to the President by
the Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin, and of the President's acceptance
of the troops therein tendered, together with a copy of the estimated cost of 100,000 volunteers
for three months, prepared at the office of the Quartermaster-General. To this estimate should be
added 33 l/3 per cent. for all contingencies, including injury to arms, ammunition, medical
attendance, &c., which will make the aggregate expense about $25,000,000, as stated in my letter
of April 25. No call has been made by the President for the troops thus offered and accepted, as it
is understood that this duty is to be performed by the respective Governors of States named who
have made their calls.
Your obedient servant,
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
P. S.--For obvious reasons the proposition of the Governors and President's acceptance
should not be published, but is transmitted for the information of yourself and your committee.
E. M. S.
DAVENPORT, May 3, 1864.
(Received 5 a.m. 4th.)
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
Iowa is all right. The 10,000 are coming rapidly. We intend to beat Illinois and Indiana.
Hurry up arms and clothing.
W. M. STONE.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., May 4, 1864.
His Excellency Governor O. P. MORTON,
Indianapolis, Ind.:
101
Do you think it advisable to proceed to draft in the deficient sub-districts of your State, so
that all of them shall thus be made to fill the quotas heretofore assigned? Please answer by
telegraph.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
Operator send similar dispatch to Governor Kirkwood, Des Moines, Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, May 4, 1864.
His Excellency W. M. STONE,
Governor of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
Please report by telegraph places of rendezvous of the 10,000 troops, in order that arms and
clothing may be sent to them at once.
By order of the Secretary of War:
ED. R. S. CANBY,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, May 4, 1864.
Brigadier-General CANBY,
Assistant Adjutant-General:
One regiment will organize at Keokuk and the others at Davenport. Send arms and
equipments accordingly.
W. M. STONE.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington City, May 4, 1864.
His Excellency W. M. STONE,
Governor of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
Your telegram is received. Arms and clothing are already ordered to Davenport. Supplies for
one regiment will be sent to Keokuk.
By order of the Secretary of War:
ED. R. S. CANBY,
Brigadier-General and Assistant Adjutant-General.
CONFIDENTIAL.] WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, D.C., May 4, 1864.
Governor BROUGH,
Columbus:
General Grant crossed the Rapidan this morning and is moving on Lee. Sherman moved today
on Johnston from Chattanooga. Another army will move to-morrow. Your force cannot be
ready for the field too soon. Let me know whatever is wanted and it will be supplied.
EDWIN M. STANTON.
(Same to Governor Morton, Indianapolis; Governor Yates, Chicago; Governor Stone, Iowa;
Governor Lewis, Wisconsin.)
DAVENPORT, May 5, 1864.
Col. J. B. FRY:
102
Iowa requires no draft. We have furnished all quotas and will send you volunteers in
addition.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General.
DAVENPORT, May [5], 1864.
Colonel FRY:
The Governor directs [me] to say that he wants no draft in Iowa, we being 10,000 men in
excess of all calls.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
CALL FOR 100-DAY'S MEN.
General ORDERS No. 11.
HDQRS. ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Madison, Wis., May 2, 1864.
I. The General Government will accept volunteers from this State for service of 100 days as
U.S. troops, provided they are offered within fifteen days from date. The limited time remaining
in which to complete the organization of these troops will require immediate and energetic
action. This service is voluntary. Opportunity is herein given to those citizens of the State whose
duties have heretofore prevented their enlistment for the longer terms of active service to unite
their energies with those of our regiments already in the field, and, by relieving our veteran
troops from posts and fortifications, to share in the glory of an endeavor to render the immediate
campaign both successful and decisive.
II. The present State militia organization will be the basis of four regiments, should they
tender their services, in which case the present regimental and company commanders are
requested to take immediate steps to recruit the companies to the minimum prescribed by
existing regulations of the War Department, to wit:
One captain, 1 first lieutenant, 1 second lieutenant, 1 first sergeant, 4 sergeants, 8 corporals, 2
musicians, 1 wagoner, and not less than 64 privates.
When complete to a minimum the commanding officer of each company will immediately
report the fact to this office and to the colonel commanding the regiment.
III. Companies and recruits for the First and Second Regiments will rendezvous at Camp
Washburn, Milwaukee, and for the Third and Fourth at Camp Randall, in Madison. Persons not
connected with either of the regiments desiring to enter this service can report at either of the
above-named camps, at which mustering officers will be stationed for the receipt, subsistence,
and muster of recruits for this service.
IV. These troops are to be organized, clothed, armed, equipped, subsisted, transported, and
paid as other U.S. infantry volunteers. They will be mustered into the service of the United States
by regiments when the regiments are filled to the minimum strength, and are to serve in
fortifications, or wherever their services may be required, within or without this State. No bounty
will be paid these troops, nor the service charged or credited on any draft; and soldiers in this
service will be subject to draft for three-years' service, should such draft be ordered; but should
any officer or soldier be drafted while in this special service he will be credited for the service
already rendered.
V. Contracts for subsistence of recruits while at company rendezvous must be made, subject
to the approval of the superintendent of recruiting service, Col. J. D. Greene, Eighth [Sixth] U.S.
Infantry, Madison, Wis., and conform to provisions of
General Orders, No. 131, War
103
Department. Transportation for companies or squads will be furnished upon application to this
office.
VI. All communications pertaining to the organization of these forces should be addressed to
the adjutant-general as the proper medium of communication with the commander-in-chief. The
proposition on the part of the Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa to
furnish extra men for service of 100 days originated in an ardent desire on their part to put the
success of the approaching campaign beyond question, and thus speedily crush the rebellion
which has so long cursed our land; and although no one will be compelled to go upon this extra
service, yet, believing that this will be the last great struggle; that the rebels are about to make a
last desperate effort; that a heavy and well-directed blow at this time may and probably will close
the war and save us much sacrifice in the future; that a few thousand men at this time will be of
great service to the Union cause, the Governor hopes and desires to see Wisconsin add new glory
to the fame she has already acquired in this war by promptly furnishing at least 5,000 of her sons
to take part in what he trusts will prove the decisive and closing campaign of the war.
By order of the Governor:
AUG. GAYLORD,
Adjutant-General.
QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., May 6, 1864.
Brig. Gen. EDWARD R. S. CANBY,
War Department; Washington, D.C.:
GENERAL: In reply to your communication of May 5 with reference to the steps taken by
this office toward hurrying forward the supplies for the 100-days' men in the West, I have the
honor to submit the following statement:
The supplies for Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin were ordered from New York,
Philadelphia, and Cincinnati the first of this week by telegraph, the details of the requisitions
being sent the same day by mail. The contingent of Iowa was received afterward and the orders
given in the same way on the 4th instant. The necessity of the greatest dispatch in forwarding the
supplies was duly impressed, and instructions to forward the first installment at once were sent to
Colonels Vinton, Crosman, and Swords at their respective depots. A portion of these supplies
were on hand at the subordinate State depots, from whence they can be issued at once.
Everything, it is confidently expected, will go forward this week toward its destination.
Telegraphic dispatches were sent to Philadelphia and New York this morning to ascertain the
progress made. They have not as yet been answered. Details of the steps taken were forwarded to
you from the Clothing Bureau on the 4th instant. The supplies for Ohio were ordered as follows:
For three regiments, to Zanesville and Bellaire, via Wheeling, Va.; for fourteen regiments, to
Cincinnati; for ten regiments, to Columbus; for six regiments, to Cleveland; and for two
regiments, to Johnson's Island. Those for Illinois were sent for 12,000 men to Springfield, and
for 8,000 to Chicago. Those for Indiana all to Indianapolis. Those for Wisconsin were sent for
3,000 men to Milwaukee and for 2,000 men to Madison. Those for Iowa were sent for one
regiment to Keokuk, the remainder to Davenport.
Officers at these several points were ordered to distribute the supplies with all dispatch, and
the Governors of the respective States notified by telegraph to-day of the destinations of the
supplies. In fact, every available means has been taken to hasten the distribution of these
supplies. The Adjutant-General was this day notified that the Quartermaster's Department was
prepared to equip 10,000 six-months' men at once in Kentucky, and suggestion made that the
supplies be collected at Louisville.
104
QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
May 7, 1864.
The above was prepared yesterday and handed to me this morning for signature. I add that on
returning last evening, learning that all the material had not yet gone, I telegraphed the officers at
Philadelphia and New York to send trusty agents to accompany each shipment to its place of
destination.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
M. C. MEIGS,
Quartermaster-General.
DES MOINES, IOWA, May 11, 1864.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
My 10,000 shall be raised. Several counties and townships are behind on all former calls
because they are copperheads. This embarrasses me. I am anxious and determined they shall
come to time. I earnestly ask for and must have a draft, so that these unfriendly sub-districts may
be compelled to furnish an amount of 100-days' men in proportion to their delinquencies under
three-year calls. This is but justice, and the real sentiment of the State demands it. Assure me that
I may have it and I will succeed. Instruct provost-marshals accordingly, and charge responsibility
to me.
W. M. STONE.
DES MOINES, IOWA, May 11, 1864.
Hon. E. M. STANTON:
The thanks of a grateful people are due to General Grant and his heroic army for their gallant
conduct and splendid achievements, and to the War Department for the able and cordial support
he has received at all times in his plans and movements against the enemy.
W. M. STONE.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., May 12, 1864.
Governor W. M. STONE,
Des Moines, Iowa:
Your dispatch to Secretary and one to me in relation to draft for 100-days' men have been
received and considered.
We cannot draft for 100-days' men, but will immediately order the draft in all sub-districts
deficient on the quotas heretofore assigned them, for three-years' men, unless you make known
some objections to this course. Will not this answer your purpose?
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
DES MOINES, IOWA, May 13, 1864.
General J. B. FRY,
Washington:
Until other States furnish their quotas I could not favor draft here for three-years' men, unless
we fail to promptly furnish the 10,000 100-days' men; then I should. I think, with your dispatch, I
can succeed.
W. M. STONE.
105
Provost-Marshal- General
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., May 18, 1864.
Maj. J. W. T. GARDINER,
Actg. Asst. Provost-Marshal-General, Augusta, Me.:
Let the revision of the enrollment be pushed to completion at the earliest possible day, and
make known to the people that it is plainly for the interest of each town, ward, &c., to have
stricken from the lists all names improperly enrolled, because an excess of names increases the
quota called for from such town, ward, &c. It is equally for the interest of each person enrolled in
a given town or ward to place upon the list all persons in his town or ward liable to do military
duty, because the greater the number to be drawn from the less chance that any particular
individual will be drawn.
As it is the personal interest of every enrolled man that the quota in which he is concerned
shall not be made too large, and that his own chances for draft shall not be unjustly increased,
and as both these objects will be obtained by striking out the wrong names and putting in the
right ones, there can be no serious difficulty in securing the co-operation of citizens for the
purpose of making a correct enrollment.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General.
Operator will send similar dispatch to following:
Capt. William Silvey, Concord, N.H.; Brig. Gen. T. G. Pitcher, Brattleborough, Vt.; Maj.
Francis N. Clarke, Boston, Mass.; Capt. Wesley Owens, Providence, R. I.; Maj. D. D. Perkins,
Hartford, Conn.; Brig. Gen. W. Hays, New York City; Maj. Frederick Townsend, Albany, N. Y.;
Maj. A. S. Diven, Elmira, N. Y.; Lieut. Col. R. C. Buchanan, Trenton, N. J.; Maj. C. C. Gilbert,
Philadelphia, Pa.; Lieut. Col. J. V. Bomford, Harrisburg, Pa.; Col. N. L. Jeffries, Baltimore, Md.;
Lieut. Col. Joseph Darr, jr., Wheeling, W. Va.; Maj. W. H. Sidell, Louisville, Ky.; Col. E. B.
Alexander, Saint Louis, Mo.; Col. J. H. Potter, Columbus, Ohio; Col. Conrad Baker,
Indianapolis, Ind.; Lieut. Col. James Oakes, Springfield, Ill.; Lieut. Col. Bennett H. Hill, Detroit,
Mich.; Maj. Thomas Duncan, Davenport, Iowa; Col. James D. Greene, Madison, Wis.; Lieut.
Col. J. T. Averill, Saint Paul, Minn.; Capt. Sidney Clarke, Leavenworth, Kans.
SPECIAL ORDERS No. --.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE NORTHWEST,
Milwaukee, Wis., --, 1864.
The British subjects of the Selkirk settlements having for the past year harbored, fed, and
supplied with ammunition the outlawed Sioux Indians who committed the horrible massacres in
1862, and recently, upon defenseless men, women, and children of Minnesota, and who are still
lying in wait under the protection of the British flag to renew their atrocious outrages upon
American citizens when opportunity offers, and the authorities of the Selkirk settlements having
refused to cease furnishing supplies to these outlawed miscreants, to deliver them up to the
military authorities of the United States, to expel them from the British Possessions, or to permit
U.S. troops to follow them into British territory; and the English home Government having, in
spite of repeated remonstrance and protest, failed to prevent such unwarrantable conduct on the
part of its subjects, and having positively refused to permit the U.S. troops to pass into British
territory to chastise and capture the British outlaws, it is hereby ordered that no goods of any
description for English subjects or their agents in or near the Selkirk settlements be permitted to
pass north of Saint Paul, or by any other route through
this military department to their
106
destination. Any goods now in transit for the Lower Red River, consigned to English subjects or
their agents, will be turned back to Saint Paul, or held in custody by the military authorities in the
District of Minnesota, until further orders from these headquarters. No trade will be permitted
between citizens of the United States and British subjects in the territory north of Minnesota and
Dakota, and no goods, furs, nor articles of any kind for traffic or transmission will be permitted
to pass in or out of the British settlements north of this department through the territory of the
United States. The commanding officers of the Military Districts of Minnesota, Iowa, and
Dakota are charged with the execution of this order, and will see that it is strictly enforced within
the limits of their respective commands.
By command of Major-General Pope:
Assistant Adjutant-General. STATE OF IOWA, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Davenport, June 30, 1864.
Col. J. B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General, Washington, D.C.:
COLONEL: I am directed by the Governor to acknowledge the receipt of yours of the 24th
instant, with inclosure, giving account of debits and credits of the State of Iowa with General
Government on calls made upon this State for troops.
You ask us to accept it as correct. I presume it is very near correct. We do not propose to
quibble on the number, as we are willing to furnish all the men that the General Government
demands to put down this accursed rebellion. I wish, however, to state that I have always and
still do object to the quota of Iowa, under calls of 1861, as 19,316, Mr. Solicitor Whiting's
opinion to the contrary notwithstanding. The President's call was for 500,000 men, and no one,
except the President, had the right to increase the call, by any solicitor's opinion, or,
consequently, the quota of Iowa.
With great respect,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
May 30, 1864.
GOVERNOR OF MAINE:
SIR: Under the orders of the Secretary of War the department has made complete
arrangements for the prompt muster-out and discharge of all regiments, detachments, and
individuals of the volunteer forces whose terms of service may hereafter expire. With the
arrangements as made there can be no delay, and consequently no inconvenience or hardship to
the enlisted men, if the regimental officers will perform their duty by looking after the records
and rolls of their respective commands, and thus secure and furnish the necessary data upon
which a muster-out and discharge can be based. After the arrival of volunteers in the State, as
well as during their transit thereto, it is the duty of the commissioned officers to look closely
after the comfort and interests of the enlisted men in all respects, and to remain constantly with
them, so as to control them. With the view of holding neglectful officers to a strict
accountability, I am directed to respectfully request that you will cause all such as may come
under your notice to be reported to the superintendent of recruiting service and chief mustering
officer for the State, who will make report thereof to this office. Prompt measures will then be
taken to summarily punish the guilty parties.
I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
107
(Same to Governors of New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, West Virginia, Ohio,
Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan. Copy to Major-
General Dix, commanding Department of the East; Maj. Gen. Lew. Wallace, commanding
Middle Department; Major-General Heintzelman, commanding Northern Department; Major-
General Couch, commanding Department of the Susquehanna; Major-General Rosecrans,
commanding Department of the Missouri; Major-General Meade, commanding Army of the
Potomac; Major-General Banks, commanding Department of the Gulf; Major-General Steele,
commanding Department of Arkansas; Major-General Butler, commanding Department of
Virginia and North Carolina; Brigadier-General Hatch, commanding Department of the South;
Major-General Pope, commanding Department of the Northwest; Major-General Sherman,
commanding Military Division of the Mississippi; Major-General Canby, commanding Military
Division of West Mississippi. Same to Capt. William Silvey, Maj. D. D. Perkins, Brig. Gen. T.
G. Pitcher, Maj. Frederick Townsend, Maj. F. N. Clarke, Lieut. Col. J. V. Born-ford, Capt. W.
Owens, Maj. Charles C. Gilbert, Maj. H. B. Judd, Lieut. Col. William N. Grier, Maj. H. W.
Wharton, Lieut. Col. John T. Averill, Col. J. H. Potter, Col. James D. Greene, Capt. John H.
Farquhar, Lieut. Col. B. H. Hill, Maj. W. H. Sidell, Lieut. J. R. Kemble, superintendents
volunteer recruiting service.)
STATE OF IOWA, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Davenport, June 30, 1864.
Col. J. B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General, Washington, D.C.:
COLONEL: I am directed by the Governor to acknowledge the receipt of yours of the 24th
instant, with inclosure, giving account of debits and credits of the State of Iowa with General
Government on calls made upon this State for troops.
You ask us to accept it as correct. I presume it is very near correct. We do not propose to
quibble on the number, as we are willing to furnish all the men that the General Government
demands to put down this accursed rebellion. I wish, however, to state that I have always and
still do object to the quota of Iowa, under calls of 1861, as 19,316, Mr. Solicitor Whiting's
opinion to the contrary notwithstanding. The President's call was for 500,000 men, and no one,
except the President, had the right to increase the call, by any solicitor's opinion, or,
consequently, the quota of Iowa.
With great respect,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., July 23, 1866.
GOVERNOR OF IOWA,
Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: You are hereby authorized to raise two new regiments of volunteer infantry under the
call of the 18th instant for 500,000 men. The term of service will be for either one, two, or three
years, as recruits may elect. The said regiments must be mustered in before September 5, 1864,
in order that they may be credited on the quota of the State under the aforesaid call. Incomplete
regiments and companies which fail to organize within a reasonable time will be consolidated, so
as to form and be mustered in with complete regimental organization before that date. The
recruitment, organization, and musters into service will
be in conformity with the requirements
108
of the existing regulations of the War Department. Bounties will be paid in accordance with the
provisions of Circular No. 27, current series, from this office.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAS. B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
July 28, 1864.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO,
Columbus:
By circular promulgated this day, 100-days' men who may have at date of re-enlistment less
than sixty days to serve will be permitted to re-enlist for one, two, or three years, as they may
elect. The new term will commence from date of re-enlistment. Under the same, men re-enlisting
will receive the $100, $200, or $300 bounty, according to period of re-enlistment. The circular
which will be sent you contains full instructions.
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Copy to Governors of Indiana, Indianapolis; Illinois, Springfield; Wisconsin, Madison;
Iowa, Davenport.)
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., August 2, 1864.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of July 27, 1864, in which
you say:
What I want to know, and distinctly, is this: We have an excess of about 11,000 men, and all
three-years' men. I demand that until other States fill their quotas every Iowa three-years' man
count as three men.
Your right to make demands upon the War Department is denied, and your communications
as adjutant-general of Iowa are entitled to consideration only when made in the name of the
Governor of the State, as your commander-in-chief. There is nothing in your letter of the 27th
ultimo to show that it was written by the Governor's direction or with his approval, but
notwithstanding this fact it is proper for me to inform you that, even if this "demand" had been
made in a proper and pertinent manner, it could not have been complied with. The course of
action in relation to crediting the three-years' men was briefly but explicitly defined in my
telegram to Major Duncan. A full statement of the grounds for the course adopted will be
forwarded very soon to His Excellency Governor Stone. I do not know what you mean by your
remark that I have adopted the Illinois schedule by counties. Why not adopt ours? There has
been no privilege granted to Illinois from this office that will not, under the same state of facts,
be granted to Iowa or any other State.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
STATE OF IOWA, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Davenport, August 9, 1864.
109
The adjutant-general of the State of Iowa claims that he has the same right to demand as the
Provost-Marshal-General at Washington has to grant.
The letter of Provost-Marshal-General Fry of the 2d instant takes exception to the word
demand. The adjutant-general of Iowa will demand what he believes to be right at any time and
of any man. The letter of the Provost-Marshal-General is supercilious and arrogant, but will not
deter the adjutant-general of this State from his duty. If the Provost-Marshal-General wrote the
letter of the 2d instant I have been much mistaken in the officer.
Iowa has done her duty, and she asks no special favors of the Provost-Marshal-General's
Department, and, least of all, does the adjutant-general ask for insulting letters during the
absence of the Governor on a mission of mercy to our troops in the field. The adjutant-general
takes no exception to the point which the Provost-Marshal-General makes that the adjutantgeneral's
letter was not signed by order of commander-in-chief or Governor; but the adjutantgeneral
was not aware that it was necessary to notify the Provost-Marshal-General or any other
officer or individual that the Governor was absent at Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville, Louisville,
or anywhere else, to aid our wounded and sick soldiers. If you want a new "demand" signed "by
order of Governor," you shall have it, unless the undersigned is removed from office.
It is freely granted that your Department has paid due attention to requests of this department,
and has, as a general rule, accorded to Iowa her just rights.
As to Illinois' "point," I inclose copy of an extract from Adjutant-General Fuller's circular, of
that State, and from which this department has every reason to conclude that the point has been
conceded to Illinois.
I have the honor to be,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D. C., August 12, 1864.
Maj. J. W. T. GARDNER,
Actg. Asst. Provost-Marshal-General, Augusta, Me.:
The Secretary of War has forbidden the recruiting of men in one State to be credited to
another, except as provided by the act of July 4, 1864, for recruiting in States in rebellion-. He
directs that you see to the execution of this order in your State, and, if necessary, arrest recruiting
officers and agents who may be found violating it.
Make this known to the Governor.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General.
(Operator will send similar dispatch to following acting assistant provost-marshals-general:
Capt. William Silvey, Concord, N.H.; Brig. Gen. T. G. Pitcher, Brattleborough, Vt.; Maj. Francis
N. Clarke, Boston, Mass.; Capt. Wesley Owens, Providence, R. I.; Col. F. D. Sewall, Hartford,
Conn.; Brig. Gen. William Hays, New York City; Lieut. Col. Frederick Townsend, Albany, N.
Y.; Maj. A. S. Diven, Elmira, N. Y.; Col. R. C. Buchanan, Trenton, N. J.; Maj. C. C. Gilbert,
Philadelphia, Pa.; Capt. R. I. Dodge, Harrisburg, Pa.; Col. N. L. Jeffries, Baltimore, Md.; Col.
John Ely, Wheeling, W. Va.; Maj. W. H. Sidell, Louisville, Ky.; Col. E. B. Alexander, Saint
Louis, Mo.; Col. J. H. Potter, Columbus, Ohio; Col. Conrad Baker, Indianapolis, Ind.; Lieut. Col.
James Oakes, Springfield, Ill.; Lieut. Col. B. H. Hill, Detroit, Mich.; Maj. Thomas Duncan,
Davenport, Iowa; Lieut. Col. Charles S. Lovell, Madison,
Wis.; Lieut. Col. John T. Averill, Saint
110
Paul, Minn.; Capt. Sidney Clarke, Leavenworth, Kans.; Col. Thomas C. English, Portland, Oreg.;
Brig. Gen. J. S. Mason, San Francisco, Cal.)
STATE OF IOWA,
Davenport, August 24, 1864.
Brig. Gen. JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General, Washington, D.C.:
SIR: Under the late call for 500,000 troops the quota assigned to Iowa is 15,784, and after
deducting therefrom 11,719, being the amount of excesses over former calls, leaves only 4,065
men now due from this State upon said quota. By the method adopted for assigning this quota to
the several districts, after giving credits for excesses and charging deficiencies under former
calls, the number now claimed from them amounts in the aggregate to about 8,000. This number
being so largely in excess of the amount known to be due from the State under the last call has
created a very general impression that errors have occurred in making the computations for the
sub-districts, and that there is great injustice in assessing double the number upon the districts
that is claimed to be due from the State at large.
I am aware that the apparent error arises from the fact that delinquent counties are charged
with their deficiencies under former calls, which have been added to their portion of the quota
assigned to the State under the late one, thus making the number they are now required to
furnish. While I am willing to concede the justice and propriety of the rule adopted, whereby
counties, townships, and wards which are in excess of former calls are credited therewith, and
those in arrears are charged with their deficiencies, thus making the burdens of the entire war fall
equally upon all in proportion to their military strength, yet we cannot keep from view the fact
that prior to July, 1862, the Government kept no account with the counties, and therefore has no
data for ascertaining the number of men they had furnished up to that time, unless the schedule
furnished by the State is adopted and consulted. And even this mode of dealing would fall short
of accomplishing entire justice, for the reason that the State schedule does not show an account
with townships and wards, and the further reason that large local bounties were offered in the
cities and large towns of the State which enabled them to obtain and receive credit for many
hundreds from the agricultural districts and communities. In this way it is notorious that many
townships and wards, now receiving credits for excesses under former calls and escaping with
but a light assessment under the present one, obtained large numbers of the men with which they
stand credited; and in consequence of this mode of recruiting districts from which men were thus
obtained are put down as delinquent and assessed accordingly. The rural districts of Iowa being
new, their sparse population consisting of farmers of very moderate means, deprived of the
advantages of markets for their products, were not able to compete with the cities and wealthier
communities, which command the money of the State, in offering local bounties to volunteers.
Hence, as might have been expected, a large number of the men which from time to time they
have furnished for the war have been unjustly credited to other districts whose money attracted
them; and although they now appear to be in arrears, yet, as a matter of fact, nearly all of them
have furnished their full number and should not now be charged with deficiencies.
In addition to this, the 100-days' troops now in the field were nearly all obtained from the
agricultural communities, and as the terms of enlistment of these regiments will not expire until
some days after the time fixed for the draft, and from which great assistance could have been
derived in the way of voluntary enlistments, the burden now imposed upon these thinly
populated districts must fall with peculiar hardship.
From the foregoing facts I respectfully suggest that it is obviously impossible to properly
adjust credits and deficiencies with either counties
townships, or wards upon any data accessible
111
to the Government, and an attempt to do so will result in manifest inequality and great injustice
to communities whose patriotism and devotion to the common cause are proverbial.
For these reasons, to my mind unanswerable, I feel constrained to ask of the Government a
modification of the rule adopted, and that we be required to furnish only the number of men due
from us as a State under the late call, and that under the circumstances it be not attempted to
charge deficiencies to districts apparently delinquent under former calls. I would not ask that
Iowa be excused from furnishing a single man for this great work really due from her in just
proportion to her military strength; and in this I but utter what I believe is the united sentiment of
her people, who now, as heretofore, are resolved that this Government shall be sustained. But we
cannot, without just grounds of complaint, be required to furnish from our already depleted and
laboring population so large an excess over the quota just assigned to the State at large.
I need scarcely remind you, general, that this State has not played the laggard or failed in any
respect to perform her whole duty throughout the entire period of the war; that she has been
prompt in responding to the demands upon her, and that instead of doing less she has uniformly
done more than was required. We raised, and until recently kept ready for service, two brigades
of troops, one for defense against the Indians upon our northern border, and the other for the
defense of both Southern Iowa and Northern Missouri against guerrilla depredations, for which
we have not only received no reimbursement, but no credit upon our quota for the men so
employed.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. M. STONE.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, August 30, 1864.
Brig. Gen. J. B. FRY:
I understood that our schedule of counties should be adopted. An examination since my
return satisfies me that justice cannot be done us without, as you kept no account with counties
prior to October, 1863, and most of our excesses are before that time.
Please instruct Major Duncan to adopt it and give us time to arrange it. With this and a little
extension I will hope to raise our number of volunteers.
WM. M. STONE.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., August 31, 1864.
His Excellency Governor STONE,
Davenport, Iowa:
I have ordered Major Duncan to adopt your schedule by counties and assign quotas
accordingly, and to work day and night so as to complete it before the 5th of September. Please
see that he receives full assistance and support from the State authorities.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
CHICAGO, September 1, 1864.
Brigadier-General FRY, &c.:
DEAR GENERAL AND FRIEND: After traveling from Massachusetts to Iowa and back
here, and learning public sentiment, I find a report emanating from Washington that efforts are to
be made to postpone the draft. I beg you to cast your entire influence against such postponement.
I urge the Secretary of War to allow this question of draft to be no more played with. Let the
names be drawn, the liability established, and then if
recruits come in fast enough by furloughing
112
the drafted men or other lawful postponement of service, give the delay which may be thought
necessary or expedient to fill up by local volunteering or substitutes. I believe the law gives you
the latitude.
The convention here refused to pronounce against the draft. The people are prepared for it.
The young Irishmen have already fled. The machinery will never be in better working order.
If these views may have some weight with the Secretary as an expression of Western
opinion, I pray they may be communicated to him. The country now wants rigid, straightforward,
prudent, but decisive leadership.
Believe me, general, faithfully, your friend,
JOHN A. KASSON.
ACTG. ASST. PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Davenport, Iowa, September 1, 1864.
General JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General, Washington, D.C.:
Your dispatch of yesterday received. I have conferred with the Governor and adjutantgeneral
and find it utterly impossible for them to have the schedules prepared for me by the 5th,
probably not for some days thereafter. My work would only then commence.
The plan ordered in your dispatch is a good and just one; but I respectfully suggest that the
best thing we can now do is this: After all credits, the delinquent sub-districts in this State are
behind about 6,000, but other sub-districts have a surplus over all calls, including that of July,
1864, of about 2,000, leaving only about 4,000 due from the State at large. This the people are
willing to furnish. Let me assign, pro rata, to the delinquent sub-districts the number actually due
from the State, leaving the balance to be adjusted thereafter. Meantime I can be carrying out your
instructions regarding schedule of State authorities, so as, to do justice to all localities hereafter.
This will obviate necessity for postponing draft. The Governor is present and approves the
foregoing.
THOMAS DUNCAN,
Acting Assistant Provost-Marshal-General.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., September 1, 1864.
Maj. THOMAS DUNCAN,
Actg. Asst. Provost-Marshal-General, Davenport, Iowa:
Your telegram of to-day is received. You are authorized to adjust the credits and deficiencies
as proposed in your dispatch.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
STATE OF IOWA, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Davenport, September 9, 1864.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D.C.:
SIR: I inclose papers marked A, B, and C, and I would most respectfully ask of you to state
on what points of justice the United States Government takes 271 men from our credit in the
Fifth Iowa Cavalry and refuses us credit for Company A, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry.
In the opinion of a subordinate officer of the State of Iowa, Brigadier-General Fry has no
right to make decisions for the benefit of Minnesota and
Pennsylvania alone.
113
If the War Department decided on the Minnesota case, either through General Fry or any
other officer, it had no right to ignore the rights of Iowa to Company A, Eleventh Pennsylvania
Cavalry, and I ask that General Fry's order by telegraph, August 27, 1864, to Governor Curtin, of
Pennsylvania, be annulled and revoked.
With great respect, I have the honor to be, truly yours,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa
AUGUST 12, 1864.
Maj. THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Washington, D.C.:
SIR: I am informed that pursuant to your request of the 26th ultimo, addressed to the
Provost-Marshal-General United States, Maj. Thomas Duncan, acting assistant provost-marshalgeneral
of this State, has been instructed by General Fry to deduct a credit of 271 men (three
companies Fifth Iowa Cavalry alleged to have been raised in Minnesota) from the districts of
Iowa in a pro rata proportion.
I respectfully urge that the United States having, [by] a letter of June 24, 1864, to the
Governors, made their showing and forwarded a statement which canceled this credit, which had
been awarded long since to Iowa, and inasmuch as this credit, with all others in the past, has
been apportioned among the districts of Iowa, the change contemplated would cause perplexity
and confirm and cause dissatisfaction in our State. If, however, the State must lose their credit, I
respectfully ask that the State of Iowa be credited with Company A, Eleventh Pennsylvania
Cavalry, as per Exhibit B attached to my return to General Thomas of March 1, 1864-- eightythree
men.
Your letter of March 14, 1864, declined to allow this credit, and reads as follows:
Under the rulings of the Department the change of credit of the eighty-three men of
Company A, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, cannot be made in favor of Iowa without the claim
being first adjusted between the Governor of Iowa and the Governor of Pennsylvania, the men
having already been credited to the latter State.
The muster-roll (Exhibit B, to March 1, 1864, return) shows that this was an Iowa company,
and all the members thereof residents of and enlisted in Iowa. We acquiesced in this decision,
and have never applied to Governor Curtin for the change of credit.
We have never consented to, nor has the State of Iowa ever been consulted about granting,
this credit to Minnesota. By parity of reasoning, if this credit is conceded to Minnesota, Iowa
should have credit for Company A, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, and without reference to
Governor Curtin's approval or dissent.
I respectfully ask, therefore, that you withdraw your request to General Fry to have this credit
conceded to Minnesota, or at least that it be not deducted from Iowa, and that Major Duncan be
advised to that effect. Failing in this, I respectfully ask that Company A, Eleventh Pennsylvania
Cavalry, be placed to the credit of the State of Iowa.
With highest respect, I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
B.
WASHINGTON, D.C., August 18, 1864.
Adjutant-General BAKER:
Your letter of 12th received. Company A, Eleventh Pennsylvania, has been credited to Iowa.
Credit of the three companies Fifth Cavalry to Minnesota
must stand.
114
T. M. VINCENT.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., September 16, 1864.
Brig. Gen. N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
SIR: Your communication to the Secretary of War of the 9th instant, asking why the
Government takes 271 men from the credit of the State, and refuses credit for Company A,
Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, has been received, and I am instructed by the Provost-Marshal-
General to inform you that the credit of 271 men was restored to the State of Iowa before receipt
of your letter, and the acting assistant provost-marshal-general has been notified thereof this day.
Company A, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, has not been deducted from the credit of Iowa.
Your cause of complaint is thereby removed.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. A. DODGE,
Major, Veteran Reserve Corps, in Charge of Enrollment Bureau.
WASHINGTON, D. C., September 16, 1864.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
SIR: In obedience to instructions from His Excellency the Governor of Missouri, I came to
this city (arriving here the day before yesterday) for the purpose of procuring credits upon the
quota of Missouri under the late call for men who have enlisted into regiments from other States
prior to said call, and which have not heretofore been credited.
The claims which I presented were as follows:
First. Men enlisted in Iowa regiments from the State of Missouri prior to April 1, 1864,
ascertified to by the adjutant-general of Iowa 583
NOTE.--Upon a similar certificate given by me to the adjutant-general of Iowa a claim for
1,142 men who had enlisted from Iowa into Missouri regiments was allowed and credited to that
State. (See letter from the Adjutant-General's Office, dated August 19, 1864, and one from the
Provost-Marshal-General's Office, same date, the former signed by Maj. Thomas M. Vincent,
assistant adjutant-general, and the latter by Capt. T. A. Dodge, Veteran Reserve Corps, in charge
of Enrollment Bureau.)
Second. Men enlisted from Missouri in the following Kansas regiments prior to December
30, 1863, viz, the First, Eighth, Ninth, Tenth, and Eleventh, as certified to by the adjutant-general
of Kansas.
Third. Men enlisted from Missouri in the following Kansas regiments prior to December
30,1863, viz, the Second, Fifth, Sixth, Thirteenth, and Fifteenth, as certified to by Maj. O. D.
Greene, assistant adjutant-general, from the records of the Department of the Missouri 309
NOTE.--These regiments are not included in the certificate of the adjutant-general of Kansas,
from the fact that no muster or descriptive rolls of them were at the time of its issue on file in his
office 321
Fourth. Men enlisted from Missouri in Arkansas regiments prior to January 1, 1864, as
certified to by Maj. O. D. Greene, assistant adjutant-general, Department of the Missouri, from
muster-in rolls on file in his office 444
NOTE.--These men were enlisted in the State of Missouri while the regiments were being
formed, and rendezvoused at points in Missouri under the
direction of the general commanding
115
the Department of the Missouri in 1862 and 1863, and were composed principally of refugees
from Arkansas.
In all 1,727
In addition to the above I presented claim for ninety men enlisted in the First Nebraska
Infantry (now cavalry) from Missouri, as certified to from its original muster-in rolls by the
colonel of that regiment in compliance with an agreement made between him and the late
Governor of Missouri, which permitted him to enlist in Missouri for his regiment; thus making
an aggregate of 1,817 claimed, which were thought to be justly due and properly vouched for.
Upon making known to you my business, I was referred by you to General James B. Fry, the
Provost-Marshal-General, who in turn referred me to Maj. Thomas M. Vincent, of the Adjutant-
General's Office.
For reasons which I cannot comprehend to be justly offered, these officers have decided that
the claims which I present cannot be allowed.
Major Vincent informs me that it is a rule of the Department that credits of this sort can only
be given upon the presentation of an agreement in due form between the authorities of the
respective States, and not upon certificates from either showing that the men therein named were
actual residents of the other at date of enlistment.
If so, why was the State of Iowa credited with 1,142 men in Missouri regiments upon the
19th day of last month, such credit being made simply upon my certificate as adjutant-general of
Missouri, and without any showing on the other side of the account?
General Fry informs me that he cannot permit the quota assigned to the State, under this call,
to be frittered away by the allowance of old claims like these; that the men are needed
immediately, and that it is too late now to make such settlements.
Now, upon behalf of the loyal men of Missouri, and upon behalf of the State authorities,
which I represent, I respectfully ask for a revocation of these decisions, that the claims which I
present may be allowed, and that the draft, which is ordered (as I understand) to be made in
Missouri on Monday, the 19th instant, may be temporarily suspended for the following reasons:
First. The above statements can all be substantiated by official evidence which I have now
here with me; and it is just and proper that a State like Missouri, which, since the beginning of
the war, in consequence of its locality, has been the recruiting ground of every regiment of
volunteers that has been on duty within its limits (a small number only of whose recruits thus
obtained can ever be credited to it), should of all others be entitled to consideration, and should
at least have the same rights as other neighboring States who have been more favored in this
respect.
Second. As I have stated to you verbally, and also to General Fry, there are eleven new
regiments of volunteers for six and twelve months now organizing and the most of them
completed at different points in the State (mostly twelve-months' men), seven of which I know to
be full, and the remaining four had not less than 600 men each when I left the State (the 11th
instant), and I doubt not are before this completed.
These regiments have been raised so expeditiously principally in consequence of the offering
of bounties by a large number of the counties in order to fill their respective quotas, but owing to
the delay usually attending the muster in of organizations so hastily formed, proper reports and
credits have as yet not been made.
It may be said that these credits can be settled as well subsequent to the draft as prior thereto,
but I am expressly charged by the Governor to say that while he is using every exertion to fill the
quota of the State by volunteering, with so good success,
he desires that the form of draft may be
116
temporarily withheld until the number of men that have actually enlisted (but not yet in many
instances formally mustered into service) may be definitely ascertained, reported, and credited.
This request is not made with any spirit of avoiding the draft for such number of men as the
State may at the present time owe or be deficient under the call above referred to, but simply for
facilitating rather than delaying the operations of a just and equitable conscription.
I should be pleased to receive your answer to this communication to-day, inasmuch as I
desire to return at the earliest possible moment to hasten the completion of the new regiments
above named. But should it not be convenient, will you please send it to the Governor, at Saint
Louis, as soon as practicable?
I have the honor to remain, with much respect, your obedient servant,
JOHN B. GRAY,
Adjutant-General of Missouri.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., September 17, 1864.
Col. E. B. ALEXANDER,
Actg. Asst. Provost-Marshal-General, Saint Louis, Mo.:
COLONEL: I am directed by the Provost-Marshal-General to advise you that the Secretary
of War, upon the request of the State authorities, has allowed a credit to Missouri of 1,727 men
who enlisted in the regiments of Iowa and other States. This number, on consultation with the
adjutant-general of the State, you will distribute to such districts as may be entitled thereto and
advise this office of your action.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. A. DODGE,
Major, Veteran Reserve Corps, in Charge of Enrollment Bureau.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
East Point, Ga., September 23, 1864.
His Excellency WILLIAM M. STONE,
Governor of the State of Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to herewith transmit a copy of the requisition for drafted men for Iowa
regiments in the Army of the Tennessee in the field. Their record throughout the entire war, the
laurels they have helped to place upon the victorious banners of the Army of the Tennessee, and
their praiseworthy desire to continue their efficiency demand attention from the patriotic men of
Iowa.
With the hope that their appeal may meet with success through your exertions,
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
O. O. HOWARD,
Major-General, Commanding.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., September 28, 1864.
Maj. J. W. T. GARDINER,
Acting Assistant Provost-Marshal- General, Augusta, Me.:
Have every possible effort made to arrest promptly drafted men who fail to report as
required.
117
Are my orders to have such numbers of drafted men notified as will secure an examination
by each board of 120 men a day being carried out in all your districts? Answer.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
(Operator will send similar dispatch to the following acting assistant provost-marshalsgeneral:
Capt. William Silvey, Concord, N.H.; Brig. Gen. T. G. Pitcher, Brattleborough, Vt.;
Maj. F. N. Clarke, Boston, Mass.; Col. F. D. Sewall, Hartford, Conn.; Brig. Gen. William Hays,
New York City; Lieut. Col. Frederick Townsend, Albany, N. Y.; Brig. Gen. A. S. Diven, Elmira,
N. Y.; Col. R. C. Buchanan, Trenton, N. J.; Maj. C. C. Gilbert, Philadelphia, Pa.; Capt. R. I.
Dodge, Harrisburg, Pa.; Col. W. H. Browne, Baltimore, Md.; Col. John Ely, Wheeling, W. Va.;
Maj. W. H. Sidell, Louisville, Ky.; Col. E. B. Alexander, Saint Louis, Mo.; Col. J. A. Wilcox,
Columbus, Ohio; Col. James G. Jones, Indianapolis, Ind.; Lieut. Col. James Oakes, Springfield,
Ill.; Lieut. Col. B. H. Hill, Detroit, Mich.; Maj. Thomas Duncan, Davenport, Iowa; Lieut. Col.
Charles S. Lovell, Madison, Wis.; Lieut. Col. John T. Averill, Saint Paul, Minn.)
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., October 3, 1864.
His Excellency WILLIAM M. STONE,
Governor of Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a memorial of the Board of Supervisors
of Monona County, Iowa, requesting that the citizens of that county be exempted from the
present draft, with Your Excellency's indorsement thereon of the 22d instant.
In reply I beg leave to say that under the law the case made by the memorialists does not
entitle the citizens of Monona County to exemption. The persons who are exempt from liability
to draft are specifically named in the enrollment act and its amendments, and "none others are
exempt."
The question as to what organization or particular duty these persons will be assigned after
they have entered the military service is one for the consideration of the commander-in-chief.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAS. B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General
EXECUTIVE MANSION,
Washington, October 1, 1864.
The term of 100 days, for which volunteers from the States of Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and
Wisconsin volunteered, under the call of their respective Governors, in the months of May and
June, to aid in the recent campaign of General Sherman, having expired, the President directs an
official acknowledgment to be made of their patriotic service. It was their good fortune to render
efficient service in the brilliant operations in the Southwest, and to contribute to the victories of
the national arms over the rebel forces in Georgia under command of Johnston and Hood. On all
occasions, and in every service to which they were assigned, their duty as patriotic volunteers
was performed with alacrity and courage, for which they are entitled to and are hereby tendered
the national thanks through the Governors of their respective States.
The Secretary of War is directed to transmit a copy of this order to the Governors of Indiana,
Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin, and to cause a certificate of their honorable service to be delivered
to the officers and soldiers of the States above named, who recently served in the military force
of the United States as volunteers for 100 days.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
118
STATE OF IOWA, EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Des Moines, October 8, 1864.
Maj. Gen. O. O. HOWARD,
Commanding Army of the Tennessee, East Point, Ga.:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your requisition for drafted men for Iowa
regiments in the Army of the Tennessee, and the accompanying letter of September 23.
You are doubtless aware that the distribution of drafted men and volunteer recruits is taken
entirely out of the hands of State Executives and made under the sole direction of the War
Department. I have, therefore, no control whatever over the subject, and can only unite with you
in requesting that the regiments designated be filled up as far as the number of men furnished by
the State will go.
The actual number of men due from this State under the late call, after deducting the excesses
furnished over former calls, is less than 4,000. You will perceive, therefore, that if the regiments
serving under your command should receive the entire number obtained, it will fall considerably
short of filling your requisition. In my opinion, it is the policy of the Government to send the
new levies into the department where they are most needed for immediate and active service, and
distribute them to those regiments which have done the most work and sustained the heaviest
losses.
No one can appreciate more fully than I do the great services performed by the gallant Army
of the Tennessee and its high claims to the grateful consideration of the country. My admiration
of this army is essentially increased by the fact that many Iowa regiments, to whose heroic
achievements the State is vastly indebted for the high place it occupies in the history of this war,
have been associated with it from its earliest organization, and have borne a conspicuous part in
all the memorable campaigns which have crowned the soldiers of the Northwest with such
imperishable honor.
Entertaining these feelings myself, and knowing it to be universally shared in by the loyal
people of our State, and having a soldier's warmest affection for the noble men who have
survived those perilous campaigns, I should fail in doing justice to my convictions of duty did I
not join with you in earnestly recommending that their now thinned ranks be speedily filled.
Thanking you, general, for this evidence of your kind feelings toward these brave regiments,
and the deep interest I am assured you constantly manifest in their welfare and good name,
I remain, very truly, yours,
W. M. STONE.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
October 10, 1864
GOVERNOR OF IOWA,
Davenport, Iowa:
Your letter of 6th instant received. You are authorized by the Department to raise a regiment
of volunteer infantry from the discharged 100-days' men on following conditions:
First. The men may enlist for one, two, or three years, as they may elect.
Second. Bounties will be paid as prescribed in Circular No. 27, from the Provost-Marshal-
General's Office.
Third. Recruitment must be conducted by successive companies; that is, one company must
be completed and ready for field before another is commenced.
Fourth. Organizations and musters must be governed by existing regulations.
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
119
Assistant Adjutant-General.
DAVENPORT, November 11, 1864.
Brig. Gen. J. B. FRY:
Governor Yates refuses to ratify the agreement as to credits made by Colonel Loomis, his
aide-de-camp. I therefore withdraw all agreements for credits of Illinois men in Iowa regiments.
N. B. BAKER.
DAVENPORT, IOWA, January 2, 1865.
SECRETARY OF WAR:
Will you authorize the State of Iowa to raise a regiment of infantry or cavalry, or both?
N. B. BAKER.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
January 3, 1865.
Adjutant-General BAKER,
Davenport, Iowa:
Your telegram of 2d received. Authority to raise cavalry cannot be granted, but you are
authorized by the Secretary of War to raise one new regiment of volunteer infantry under the call
of the 21st ultimo for 300,000 men. Period of service will be for one, two, or three years, as
recruits may elect. The said regiments must be mustered into service by February 7 next, in order
that they may be credited on the quota of the State under the call. Incomplete regiments and
companies which fail to organize within a reasonable time will be consolidated, so as to form
and be mustered in with complete regimental organizations before the aforesaid date.
Recruitment, organization, and musters must conform to existing regulations. In organizing the
regiments General Orders, No. 243, series 1864, Adjutant-General's Office, will not be
applicable, the said order having been revoked.
JAS. B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General.
DAVENPORT, January 12, 1865.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
General Fry on 31st August, 1864, ordered Maj. Thomas Duncan, acting assistant provostmarshal-
general of this State, to adopt schedule of the counties which furnished men for our
early regiments as presented by the State and distribute quota accordingly. Major Duncan
suggested in reply that the adoption of same be postponed until after draft then pending, and then
promised to carry out the schedule. Nothing is being done. The draft is imminent, and
dissatisfaction is widespread and threatening. This was conceded to Illinois before last draft. My
schedule is accurate and embraces men not before distributed, and has been in the hands of Maj.
Thomas Duncan for months. I respectfully ask that Major Duncan be per-emptorily ordered to at
once adopt the schedule, to employ all necessary clerical force to carry it out forthwith, and to
distribute the county credits to the townships and according to enrollment, if no better plan can
be suggested. It is feasible and proper.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
DAVENPORT, January 12, 1865.
120
SECRETARY OF WAR:
We have authority to raise a regiment of infantry, but the restriction from the Provost-
Marshal-General will prevent. I think we can raise a good regiment, but let us do it with
allowance of all proper bills by the disbursing officer for transportation and subsistence. We can
raise the regiment by March 1. I must have recruiting agents, but I do not want second
lieutenants. Let me go ahead, and you instruct Colonel Grier to pay all proper bills.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
Washington City, January 13, 1865.
General N. B. BAKER,
Davenport, Iowa:
No change can be made in the existing orders of this Department respecting the raising of
new regiments.
C. A. DANA,
Acting Secretary of War.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., January 13, 1865.
General N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
I have seen your General Orders, No. 2. You misunderstand my Circular No. 1. In assigning
the quotas under call of December 19, I give credit not only for all the men composing the excess
of any place on call of July 18, but consider the periods of service of these men, and the quotas
are reduced accordingly. This being done, the quotas must be reduced only by proper enlistments
subsequent to December 19. You will find that you are fairly dealt by. The tone and language of
your order indicate misunderstanding. I suggest that you recall it.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., January 14, 1865.
General N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa, Davenport, Iowa:
As the order stands before the country it certainly does me injustice which I presume you did
not intend. I hope you will be able to raise the regiment. Your dispatch of 12th to Secretary is
referred to me. I supposed that you were entirely satisfied with the assignment of quotas to Iowa
made last summer. Major Dodge of my office starts to Davenport to-morrow to examine into and
rectify the whole subject.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General
COLUMBUS, OHIO, January 18, 1865.
Hon. E. M. STANTON,
Secretary of War:
SIR: The undersigned adjutants-general of loyal States having conferred together, and being
desirous that the best and most effective means be adopted for raising troops for the service of
the United States during the present war, and such means
as shall secure for the service good
121
men in the place of the class of substitutes now to a great extent furnished, respectfully request
that the following modifications of existing orders be made by general orders and by legislation
so far as required:
First. That during the time intervening between any call for troops and the draft ordered to
fill the call, the raising of men by voluntary enlistment to fill such call shall be under the
direction of the Governors of the States, allowing them to designate recruiting officers who shall
be authorized to enlist recruits and forward them to the district provost-marshals or such other
mustering officers as shall be designated by the War Department for muster; that such recruiting
officers shall have full authority to certify the enlistment contracts of the men enlisted by them
according to established forms; that the recruits, if accepted, shall be mustered into the service of
the United States by the several provost-marshals or other mustering officer upon such
enlistment contracts as of the date of enlistment; and that the United States pay the expense of
the transportation and subsistence of such recruits when mustered into the service of the United
States from the time of such enlistment to the time when the recruit shall be delivered to and
accepted and mustered by the provost-marshal or other mustering officer.
Second. That whenever a soldier hereafter enlisted as a volunteer or as a substitute for an
enrolled man shall desert, his unexpired term of service shall be charged to the sub-district to
which he was credited upon his enlistment and muster, and the exemption of the principal shall
thereupon cease, and if the soldier be returned to duty then such unexpired term of service shall
be credited back to such sub-district and the exemption of the principal shall be renewed, and
that whenever a substitute for a drafted man hereafter enlisted and mustered as such shall desert,
the principal shall be held to service for the unexpired term of service of such substitute, unless
such principal shall furnish another accepted substitute for such unexpired term of service or the
substitute deserting shall be returned to service.
The undersigned respectfully represent that if these rules should be adopted they believe that
a better class of men would be obtained, and with more rapidity and more satisfactory to the
people of the loyal States, than under existing regulations as embodied in General Orders, No.
131, of the War Department, series of 1864; that sub-districts would at once perceive that it was
for their interest to furnish recruits who intended in good faith to serve the Government rather
than the present class of bounty jumpers who only serve to fill quotas instead of regiments; and
that for the promotion of this end local bounties, when not otherwise controlled by legislation,
would be paid in installments instead of being paid in hand at time of muster as they are now
generally paid; and that in the contract made by principals with substitutes the consideration
would also be agreed to be paid in the same manner, and greater care would be thereby insured
on the part of principals in procuring reliable men as substitutes.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
N. B. Baker, adjutant-general of Iowa; A. L. Russell, adjutant-general of Pennsylvania; Peter
T. Washburn, adjutant and inspector general of Vermont; D. W. Lindsey, inspector and adjutant
general of Kentucky; Aug. Gaylord, adjutant-general of Wisconsin; William Schouler, adjutantgeneral
of Massachusetts; Edward C. Mauran, adjutant-general of Rhode Island; B. R. Cowen,
adjutant-general of Ohio; H. J. Morse, adjutant-general of Connecticut; Natt Head, adjutantgeneral
of New Hampshire.
STATE OF IOWA, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Davenport, January 21, 1865.
General J. B. FRY,
Washington, D.C.:
122
Settlement with Major Dodge goes on satisfactorily. After counting all credits allowed by
your department of three years' excesses and recent enlistments, this State will be over 16,000 in
advance of July and December calls, leaving but few if any delinquent sub-districts. Under the
circumstances there ought to be no draft in this State, and I respectfully ask that you say to me
now that there will be none. Please reply immediately.
W. M. STONE.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., January 21, 1865.
Governor WILLIAM M. STONE,
Davenport, Iowa:
The excess of credit due to Iowa from former calls will relieve her from obligation to furnish
men under the call of December 19. It is hoped, however, that she will complete the new
regiment of infantry authorized. Major Dodge's telegram was answered to-day.
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal- General.
WAR DEPT., PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, D.C., January 21, 1865.
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington City, D.C.:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a resolution by the House of
Representatives, dated January 20, 1865, "calling upon the Secretary of War to state on what
terms and with what understanding men were accepted from Ohio and other States in 1864, and
received into the Army for 100 days, and whether there exists any reason why credit should not
be given to States and districts in proportion to the term of service."
The troops referred to were offered by the Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and
Wisconsin. A copy of the terms and conditions proposed by them and accepted by the President
is herewith inclosed. Section 5 of these terms and conditions is in the following words, to wit:
No bounty to be paid the troops, nor the service to be charged or credited on any draft.
As this was an express compact between the President and the Governors, it is regarded as a
reason why the troops should not be credited. There are additional reasons. It has frequently been
found necessary during the war to call out men for short terms of service to meet emergencies,
and troops thus called out have served for various periods ranging from one or two weeks to
three or four months. The confusion attending the muster in and discharge of men thus called
hastily into service has generally prevented the careful preparation of the rolls and returns
necessary to allot credits, and credits for such troops, if determined and allotted "in proportion to
the term of service," would be of inappreciable value to the States when compared with the
amount of time and labor their calculation would impose upon the War Department. As it was
necessary to establish a limit to the periods of service which should be estimated in giving
credits, it was early in the war adopted as a rule of the department in making up quotas not to
take account of anything less than six months' service, and that rule still prevails. If it should be
abandoned, and an effort made to award credits for all men who have served since the war began
for shorter periods than six months, the business of raising soldiers to meet the present wants of
the Army would be seriously embarrassed.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
JAMES B. FRY,
Provost-Marshal-General.
123
PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR:
NO DRAFTING IN IOWA.
STATE OF IOWA, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Davenport, January 23, 1865.
To THE PEOPLE OF IOWA:
After a careful settlement with the War Department, and adjustment of credits due us under
previous calls, together with recent enlistments, we are gratified in being able to announce that
all demands by the Government upon this State for troops have been filled, and that we are
placed beyond the liabilities of a draft under the impending call for 300,000 one-year's men. We
have also effected a distribution of the men for which credits have so far been given to the State,
by which each county will be credited with their due proportion of these men, and the several
wards and townships will have approximate justice done them. This settlement, however, only
relieves us from the present demand, and we must bear in mind that until the war terminates we
are not exempt. Should another call be required, we shall assure the General Government that the
people of Iowa, as heretofore, will meet it promptly.
And in view of the probabilities of a further call we urge that recruiting be continued with all
possible energy, and advise our able-bodied men who can now assist the Government to avail
themselves of this opportunity to assist in giving the finishing blows to the rebellion.
The efficiency of our veteran regiments demands that they should be speedily filled up, and
this is due as a matter of justice to them as well as to the country.
We congratulate you upon a result alike creditable to you and gratifying to the State
authorities, who have co-operated in your efforts and exerted their utmost ability in the discharge
of their duties.
It is a proud reflection that so far during this protracted war you have performed the highest
obligations due from a people to their Government and country.
Promptly meeting every demand made upon you for men and money, patiently submitting to
all the embarrassments attending a crisis like the present, you have sustained the Government in
disaster and success with unfaltering devotion and fearlessly vindicated its policy against all
enemies and traducers. Prouder still is the record of your military deeds. Among the first to rally
in vindication of our insulted flag, your soldiers have been constantly in the front, performing the
longest marches, participating in the severest battles, and bearing themselves on all occasions
with the most conspicuous gallantry. Secure in the admiration of a grateful country, our State has
won a high place in the pages of history. With this wicked rebellion rapidly tottering to its end
and the glorious work of universal emancipation so near its final accomplishment, we may begin
to anticipate the blessings of an honorable peace, the glory of a country reunited, prosperous, and
happy, and of a Government which guarantees liberty and justice to all.
Remembering the many thousands of brave men who in distant States are still bearing our
banner toward the enemy, let us invoke Him who is guarding our armies through the struggle to
continue His merciful and providential care over them. Let us, with all the means in our power,
render our best efforts to sustain the old flag of the Union. Let us give our best efforts to sustain
the Government in men and means. Let us never forget the families of the brave men in the field.
Let us do our duty at all times and in all seasons, under all calls, and under all demands of the
General Government, and we shall show the world that although treason and rebellion may
flourish for a season, that its ultimate doom is defeat, disaster, disgrace, and humiliation.
Per order of William M. Stone, Governor of Iowa:
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
124
DAVENPORT, IOWA, January 25, 1865.
SECRETARY OF WAR:
I ask that proper orders anew be issued to prevent recruiting officers, agents, substitute
brokers, or anything of the kind enlisting Iowa men for other States. The order should be general
for all States.
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
REASONS SHOWING INJUSTICE OF QUOTA.
Up to December 21, 1864, our total calls for men was 197,360; up to December 31 our total
credits for men was 198,711; leaving of men to be deducted from the quota assigned under call
of December 21, 1864, 1,345.
In February, 1865, the quota is assigned after all credits are deducted of 32,887. This is
required out of a State population of 1,700,000; yet Ohio, with a population of 2,400,000, is
required to furnish only 26,000 men under this call. So that, with 700,000 less population than
Ohio, Illinois is required to furnish nearly 7,000 more men.
Under the call of July 18, 1864, we all know the draft was enforced against Iowa. She was
then behind in her quotas. Except in a few sub-districts the draft was not enforced in Illinois, for
she, including all calls upon her, was only behind as a State then in men 13,440, with a surplus of
35,875 three-years' men to answer a call for 52,057 one-year's men. Yet now under this call for
troops Iowa is exempt from draft, has no quota upon her enrollment and population, whilst
Illinois has 32,887 required from her.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
May 18, 1865.
Col. J. A. WILCOX,
Chief Mustering Officer, Columbus, Ohio:
All volunteer organizations of white troops in General Sherman's army and the Army of the
Potomac whose terms of service expire prior to October I next, have been ordered mustered out.
The musters out are to be made in the vicinity of this city, and thereafter regiments and
companies sent to State for payment. (See regulations promulgated in General Orders, No. 94, of
15th instant.) The troops for muster out will be:
First. The three-years' regiments mustered into service under call of July 2, 1862, and prior to
October I of that year.
Second. Three-years' recruits mustered into service for old regiments between the same
dates.
Third. One-year's men for new and old organizations who entered the service prior to
October 1, 1864.
Your records, or those of the State adjutant-general, will furnish the number of troops and
particular regiments to be discharged, as herein indicated. You should arrange a list accordingly,
so that you will be prepared to receive and care for the troops on their arrival in State.
Furnish Governor with copy of this and acknowledge receipt.
By order of Secretary of War:
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
125
(Copy for the following chief mustering officers: Brigadier-General Pitcher, Indiana;
Brigadier-General Oakes, Illinois; Lieutenant-Colonel Grier, Iowa; Colonel Alexander, Missouri;
Lieutenant-Colonel Lovell, Wisconsin; Lieutenant-Colonel Hill, Michigan; Colonel Ely, New
Jersey; Major Austine, Vermont; Major Silvey, New Hampshire; Lieutenant-Colonel Neide,
Rhode Island; Lieutenant-Colonel Gilbert, Connecticut; Major Clarke, Massachusetts;
Lieutenant-Colonel Littler, Maine.)
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
May 20, 1865.
GOVERNOR OF MAINE:
Under the regulations established by the Secretary of War and the orders from this office
based thereon, troops about to be discharged should go out of service promptly, be properly
cared for, and their interests fully protected in every respect. Should delinquencies on the part of
officers charged with execution of details come to your notice, I will thank you to advise me of
the same at once, giving name of neglectful parties, so that a remedy may be applied.
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Same to Governors of New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio,
Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Kansas, Missouri, and Kentucky.)
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
May 29, 1865.
GOVERNOR OF MAINE:
Referring to my telegram of May 18, I have the honor to inform you that the order for muster
out of volunteer white troops (except Veteran Reserve Corps) whose terms expire prior to
October 1 next has been extended to include all armies and departments.
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Same to Governors of New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio,
Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, and Kentucky.)
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
June 13, 1865.
GOVERNOR OF MAINE:
Under instructions of the Secretary of War, chief mustering officers have been ordered to
turn over to Your Excellency the colors in their charge, under paragraph V of General Orders,
No. 94, current series, at such time as you may designate.
Please to communicate your wishes to the said officers.
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
(Same to Governors of New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio,
Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Kansas.)
HDQRS. STATE OF ARKANSAS, ADJT. GEN.'S OFFICE,
Little Rock, June 15, 1865.
126
Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War, Washington, D.C.:
SIR: I am requested by His Excellency the Governor of the State to ask that the citizens of
Arkansas now serving in the regiments of other States be mustered out of the service. There is a
large class of this class of soldiers on duty in the Department of Arkansas and elsewhere in
regiments from Missouri and Kansas, and somewhat from Iowa and Illinois. Many of their
families are in the State in the most destitute condition, while others are refugees and equally
requiring their assistance. It is also a matter of very great importance in the maintenance of law
and order, and the restoration of peace and quiet throughout the State, that they should be
permitted to return to their homes at the earliest possible moment to secure that preponderance of
tried loyal sentiment so necessary in the present emergency.
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. W. BISHOP,
Adjutant-General
STATE OF IOWA, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Clinton, August 9, 1865.
Col. T. M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Washington,. D.C.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to transmit you exhibit of men furnished by Iowa for threemonths'
term of service (4,816), for which as yet the State has not been allowed credit. All the
men raised for the term of one and two years, except drafted and substitutes, have been
heretofore reported on the regular monthly exhibits forwarded from this office.
In addition to the 4,816 three-months' men now reported, the State has furnished men for
which no credit has been given, as follows:
Not allowed on report of July 30, 1865 779
Not allowed reported from this office from October 1, 1864, to May 20, 1865 172
Not allowed men in Wisconsin regiments 100
Not allowed men in Dakota regiments 16
Not yet reported to your office:
Men in Illinois regiments 465
Men in Kansas regiments 186
Men in Nebraska regiments 177
Total three-years' men 1,895
Total two-years' men embraced in reports of January, February, and March, 1864 5
One-year's men reported from October 1, 1864, to May 20, 1865, not yet acknowledged
7,495
Equal to 2,397 three-years' men not yet allowed.
This statement is based on the assumption that all the men acknowledged by your
Department were counted as for three-years' term, and is exclusive of drafted men and
substitutes, which class has not yet been reported to this office by the acting assistant provostmarshal-
general of the State. I have the honor to request that the necessary instructions may be
issued directing such a report furnished with a view to completion of the records of this office
and a final adjustment of quotas and credits.
With great respect, I have the honor to be, truly, yours,
127
N. B. BAKER,
Adjutant-General of Iowa.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Washington, October 20, 1865.
Adjt. Gen. N. B. BAKER,
Clinton, Iowa:
GENERAL: Referring to your letter of August 9, inclosing exhibit of three-months' men, and
referring to certain other troops as not credited, I have the honor to state that all men duly and
legally reported to this office "on report of July 30, 1864," and from "October 1, 1864, to May
20, 1865," have been reported to the Provost-Marshal-General of the United States.
In regard to Iowa men in regiments from other States, I would refer to the correspondence
heretofore had with your headquarters on the subject, and in which the principle was enunciated
that no such credits could be allowed, except on an adjustment between the Governors of the
States concerned. All troops regularly reported from October 1, 1864, to May 20, 1865, have
been duly credited, and the records of the acting assistant provost-marshal-general of the State
should bear evidence of the fact. Your letter of August 9, with a copy of this, has been referred to
the Provost-Marshal-General of the United States for his action.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
Twenty-third Regiment.--Duty in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Kentucky, and Iowa.
Company A has escorted over 500 men for the Army, losing so far as known but 5. Company B
has escorted 500 rebel prisoners and over 3,000 recruits, deserters, &c., with no escapes to
report. The train from Louisville to Lebanon repeatedly attacked by guerrillas; was successfully
defeated by a detachment of this company. The company defeated one band of bushwhackers,
killing its leader, Captain Mitchell, wounding several of his followers, and capturing 10 horses,
with a loss to the company of 2 men wounded. Twenty-three men of the company routed a band
of 48 guerrillas, killing and wounding 23 men and capturing 26 horses. The Indian prisoners at
Davenport, Iowa, 500 in number, were guarded by Company G. The other companies have
performed their full share of labor in the ordinary duties of the corps.
Twenty-fourth Regiment.--In Washington as a part of the garrison of Washington,
performing its full share of duties. No statistical report.
From the foregoing incomplete report of the services of the First Battalion during a single
year an inference may be drawn as to the services of the entire corps during the entire period of
its existence. It should be considered that the latter six months of the year in question have been
a period of peace, no troops being forwarded to the front and few prisoners remaining on hand to
be guarded, while the numerical strength of the organization has diminished from 28,738 to less
than 8,000. It is believed that an equal number of able-bodied volunteers could not have
performed the garrison, provost, and hospital duties of the Army more thoroughly than they have
been performed by this body of invalids. In economy, both of men and money, the advantage of
the Veteran Reserve Corps to the country has been enormous and obvious. To employ an invalid
at $13 a month, with rations and clothing, obtaining from him the service of a healthy man, is
certainly better than to pension him at $8 a month, receiving no return whatever, and hiring an
able-bodied man to fill his place at the cost of pay, rations, clothing, and enormous bounties. It
must be remembered that the veterans who were enlisted or re-enlisted into the corps received no
Government bounties whatever.
128
Hundred-days' troops called for in 1864.
During the winter of 1863-'64 the army in the field was strengthened by new recruits, and
was reorganized, as just shown under the head of "Veteran Volunteer Force," over 136,000 of the
men in service having re-enlisted for a new period of three years.
As the season for active operations approached, further re-enforcements were deemed
necessary, mainly to relieve from garrison and defensive duty experienced troops, in order that
they might take active part in the great campaign which opened in the East with the battle of the
Wilderness and in the West with the advance on Atlanta.
An offer(a) was therefore accepted by the President on the 23d of April, 1864, from the
Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin to furnish an aggregate of 85,000
infantry to serve for one hundred days, the whole to be furnished within twenty days from the
date of notice of their being required. The results of this recruitment in the different States are
given in table in Appendix.(b) The State of Ohio was particularly successful in this effort.
Between the 1st and 24th of May, 1864 (inclusive), a period of twenty-four days, forty-two
regiments raised under this call left the State, fully armed and equipped.
In the month of July, 1864, special calls, not embraced in that just named, were made upon
the States of New York and Pennsylvania for 4,000 men for the term of one hundred days.
In addition to the above, the States of New Hampshire, New Jersey, Maryland, and Kansas
offered to furnish stated numbers of one-hundred-days' troops, and authority was given by the
War Department to raise them.
Casualties of colored troops.
In the casualties among the colored troops the most striking circumstance is the enormous
proportion of deaths by disease. The ratio is no less than 141.39 per thousand, while the highest
ratio on the volunteer list is 114.02 (Iowa), and the general volunteer ratio is 59.22. This
disparity is the more remarkable because the colored troops were not so severely exposed during
the war to the hardships of field service proper, as is evident from the fact that their battle
mortality is but 16.11 per thousand, while that of the volunteers is 35.10. The ratio of deaths by
disease among the colored troops compares still more unfavorably with that of the regulars,
which is but 42.27 per thousand. It seems to indicate that the negro, in the condition in which the
war found him, was less able than the white to endure the exposures and annoyances of military
service. It may be assumed that where one man dies of disease at least five others are seriously
sick, so that a large proportion of the colored troops must, have been constantly upon the sicklist.
The cause of this difference of stamina in the two races is worthy of more space than can
here be given to it. It is merely suggested that it is moral rather than physical; that the greater
susceptibility of the colored man to disease arose from lack of heart, hope, and mental activity,
and that a higher moral and intellectual culture would diminish the defect. This view is supported
by the opinions of surgeons of boards of enrollment on the abstract question of the physical
fitness of the colored men examined by them. (Sec Appendix, Doe. No. 8.)
It is singular at first sight that in discharges for disability the ratio of the colored troops is less
than half that of the volunteers, the former being 37.92 per thousand and the latter 75.99. A
smaller proportion of the negroes than of the whites were wounded; but this fact alone will not, it
is believed, explain the whole difference. It will prove, probably, that the colored soldiers rarely
applied for discharge on the ground of disability, and, secondly, that their diseases were usually
of an acute and mortal rather than of a chronic and merely enfeebling nature.
In desertion the loss is 67.00 per thousand, which is slightly above the general volunteer ratio
of 02.51.