Michelle Stone's Online Genealogy - Tom Campbell's Civil War Diaries

Friday July 1st 1864 Awoke about 5. our Corp is lying on the plank road and in the fields about 3 miles from the breastworks we left on Wed nesday. all sorts of rumors are afloat. some say we are to fall back to our old position. others that we go back to the R.R. there is no mistake but that Wilson was was handld pretty roughly. tis the first reverse that our cavalry have met with for a long while. sent my journal home by mail. the paper (29th) states that Wilson had cut the R.R. at Burksville. tis mix'd up somewhat. weather extremely hot. water very scarce and awful poor stu ff. when we get it. I hope we will move soon. in fact, we cannot stay here. the men will all get sick. feel a little better to day. wrote to Mag. near sun down staff officer came in and reported that the John's. were about to pay us a visit. out Div was moved forward to the edge of the woods and the house put in order [p 2, book 6] for their reception, we did not move our quarters, all pass'd of quietly not a gun was fired in that direction. but heavy firing out in the direction of Petersburg.

Saturday 2nd. Did not rest during the night, got up about 12 (I suppose) everything was quiet. still as death. no one from the surroundings would have judg'd that 2 of the largest armies ever gather'd on this continent were wi

thin a few miles of each other. laid down again. The Chap. awoke me about 5, found the troops allalur(?)got breakfast and started about 8. went into our old posish about 10. fixed up a little, the weather is almost beyond endurance. 2 of our Reg were sun struck this morning (new recruits) 39 came last night to the regt; none to our Co. 107 left Ohio for our regt. where the [p 3, book 6] rest are. I do not know where. lying here still (5 P.M.) heavy firing has been heard in front the position of our regt. (that from left has not yet been relieved from picket) although the 2nd Corp had 2 lines out in front after we left. and a Cav Vid ette? (Co I & J? went to the front) had anything occurd. the rebs advanced and our boys compelled to fall back. what would have been the results. they might and would have been trck? down by our own men. who the hell is to blame some one and no mistake. to leave a few men as they did there. granting they did not know twas the duty of their officers to acquaint themselves with the picket [p 4, book 6] detail. went up to the regt. prescribed for our regt and the 110th. did not get thru till after 8 oclock. found 2 of Burn sides. nigs. lying in the fence corner. both had cases of dysentry. gave them some med. and got them some water

Sunday 3rd Dont feel well this mor ning. went up to the regt. and the 110 our boys got in from picket last night. saw the Nigs. they are a little better gave them med. everything very quiet all day. with the exception of one gun in the direction of Petersbg which keeps popping away about every 15 or 20 minutes. fix'd up our quarters in the woods. clean'd out a space for Brig. hospt. if tis necess ary to pitch a tent. still very warm is it never going to rain. the wheatrye(exed over) and rye has been ripe and fit to cut for the last week. none of it is [p 5, book 6] cut. except that cut by our men for feed ing their horses. 100's of acres are trodden uner foot and destroy'd.

Monday July 4th (1864)

I felt as confident as I lived (when we broke camp) that today would ha ve seen us in possession of Richmond but here we are. not even in Petersburg yet. men and officers have done all in the power of men to do, in fact all are worn out and must rest and recruit. the rebs fight with a desperation won (thy a bitter cause) or (by a better cause), this is their last thr ow of the dice. if they lose (which they will) away goes all hopes of a confedracy (sic). Firing has been quieter than usual all day. a sutter brot on a lot of goods and open'd out in the rear of our regt a number of the drafted men and substitutes who had money. found out he had whisky to sell $2.50 a bot. Ale $1.00 Cider 75 cts. and [p 6, book 6] others things in proportion. they inves ted pretty heavily. finally towards eve ing. they became boisterous. so much so that the Col. turn'd out the old hands and put them under guard. 3 of the wor st were send down to the Provo Marrsh. I wish it had been confined to the privates but unfortunately twas not so. Col. Smith com of our Brig. was riding round in a condition unbecoming an officer and a gentleman. Capt. Rop(?) was not far behind. in fact Brig. H.Q. might easily have been mistaken for a tavering. (as Jack Maxfield used to say.) in which a lot of jolly good fellows were keeping up the 4th in good old orthodox style, I am sorry to see it. it weakens the confi dence of the men. I find out in conversing with the men. that if they were order'd to charge by Smith, they would hesitate very [p 7, book 6] much. if they would not refuse. I suppose the usual amount of speechifing was done at home on the anniversary of the glorious 4th it seems to me that the the(sic) people at home, despite the evidences they see to the contrary. do not see the magnitude of the P(C)otake(?). at issue. were, I, a praying man I should say God, avert the evil day. when it leans upon those who have nothing to off er but their prayers. (Our, Chaplin always except'd Archy(?) is a Chrstian)(sic) tis strange I do not hear from home. I dreamt all night of Mag and the children.

Tuesday 5th

Got our quarters fixed up in good style. put up beds & wrote to Mag. the boys some of them [p 8, book 6] feel a little hard. got our clothes wash'd the first chance for 3 weeks twas well we did for at 2 Oclock on the morning of

Wednesday 6th

We got orders to march. got on the way about 7. destination City Point (not on my map) about noon. twas hard marching the heat and dust was almost suffa cating. found out where we are going we go from here to Baltimore then to Harpers Ferry. Ewell is (sic) appears is paying them another visit in the valley. I hope we may be able to turn the tables on him. this time & take some of them prisoners. as they did us last year about this time laid here till 2 Oclock in the morning when about 1/3 of the regt got on board an old tub. the Exchange. City [p 9, book 6] Point. has had some nice private residences. Grants H.Q. has been a very fine house. several sutter shops are in full blast. goods at sutters prices. vessels of all descriptions fill the river the S?an. bono.? or Com.? (probably Sanitary Commision) have several steamers here. bath'd in the Appomattox oppinte (opposite?) Bermuda Hundred.

Thursday 7th

Laid down on the upper deck. without any covering awoke about 5. stiff & sore enough. weather very warm. boat mu ch crowded. a great many horses abo ard. pass'd Jamestown a few chimnys now. only marks the spot. passd the captured rebel ram Altantco. (Atlantic?) she is a formidable affair. she was lying oppo site Fort Powhattan. pass'd Newport News. saw the wreck of the Cumberland looks like her bow spit.(split?) the Congress lays further up. none of her is in sight. got to Fortress Monroe about 3. saw the first Monitor Ranokoe(sic)(Roanoke?) that I ever saw. she has 3 turrets. the Min [p 10, book 6] nasota(sic) is lying here. she is splendid looking war vessel. an English & French man of war are anchor here. the Rip Raps. is (one) of the fortifi cations. it and the works at Fortress Monroe. effectially protects the James I often wonder that the rebs did not try and get possesion(sic) of them, before they commenced this cursed rebellion it would have changd the complex ion of things considerably. the water commenced to taste salty about 12. tis not fit to drink or make coffee of. the Col has (6 in the evening) put a guard over the remaining water. the poor horses will suffer. they will get no ne till we get to Baltimore

Friday 8th

Weather very warm during the night slept in my drawers and shirt on the upper deck. without any covering. a good steady breeze has been blowy nearly all day. about noon pass'd [p 11, book 6] Point LookOut. a great number of vessels of every character are passing and repassing. the scene is quite lively we have not lost sight of land today counted 22 sail in sight at one time the water has gin ouet intirely(sic) [given out entirely?] about 3 in the afternoon. the last ration was issued about 1/3 pint to each man. this is the slowest tub afloat. the cooks have been charging from 10 to 50 cts. for the privilidge(sic) of boiling vessels of coffee on the stove. the Col. put a guard at the shanty door. and put a stop to that game. he talks of making them disgr? ge? he looks after his men. Old Billy does about 7, pass'd Annopolis(sic) on our left. the dome of the State. was just in view. laid down. was awoke by 12. when I found we were anchor'd at Baltimore

Saturday 9th

About 4. was roused up by the old tub blowing off steam. got up soon as it was daylight(good) boats came [p 12, book 6] along side. Dr. Houston haild one. I was just going to wash, went to the Col. got liberty to go ashore. with Houston & Bryant. landed near the fortifications on Fedral(sic) Hill. they were going to the Eutaw House. I had to leave them in Pratt St I think. I was directed to go as far as Light St then to the left. where I would strike Hamburg St. push'd ahead found it as I turn'd the corner of the street I found Frank sitting at the bar I spoke to him before he noticed me, to say he was surprized (sic) would be mild. had a good wash, and sat down to breakfast, Frank went to work. he is painting. gets $225 a day. he will try and get off work during the afternoon, as we will not leave till late in the evening. so I understood got dinner and Parted[?] downtown went to the wharf. the boat had moved then to Pratt St. and another station. could learn nothing about the regt. had to return [p 13, book 6] to the house felt very sick. (I eat cucumbers for dinner) vomited and purg'd severely. could not leave the house. there was great excite ment on the streets. news boys yellig(sic) frantically. total destruction of Hapr[?] return[?] by fire. rebels advancing [2 symbols, probably etc. etc.] the Johnnies are in stronger force than we gave them credit for they are going to bother us consid erably. I feel sorry I miss'd the regt I will have some difficulty in fin ding it. I do hope they have not run foul of the rebs. whilst in the road to Fredrick. tis, reported we have had to evacuate it. I wish I could go down town and learn something definite. but I feel to(sic) unwell. laid down about 5.

Sunday 10th

Pass'd rather an uneasy night. got up about 6. Frank had gone do wn to the river. he return'd about 10. with a lot of fish he had caught he tells me all the saloons were closed at 8. last night and all the spare horses press'd into service [p 14, book 6] for patrol service. he tells me all the policemen are (this morning) arm'd and catrige (sic) boxes on. things look squally. droves of cattle have been driven thro town in the a[?]ine of the fort. about 2. Liza came into the room with the report that a lot of army wagons were passing and that the excitement was intense. Frank & I. went down town to newspaper Offices. could learn little reliable. our forces have fallen back to the Relay House. the bulk of the rebs have gone in the direction of Washington. things are considerably mix'd up. a proclamation (sic) was issu ed to day calling up all citizens to report themselves for duty at the forts. and fortifications. as the danger was immenent(sic) Sigels train, pass'd up towards the fort. spoke to one of the guards. he said they came from Martinsburg. could get no information from him [p 15, book 6] as we were at supper Har. Marshall walks in, from him I learn'd all ab out the movements of our Div. our regt that past we^were^ with. got aboard the cars at Locust Point about an hour after I left. and went down toward Fredrick. they got as far as Manveacy [Monocacy] Junction and there they staid. the fight was nearly over when they got there. the horses were never taken from the cars. or any of the baggage. went up to the Camden St Depot. with Harry there I met a number of out regt. in fact from almost every regt in the Div. each one has his tale to tell. of hair breadth scapes. by flood and fulco[?] they met the enemy in vastly superior force. at least 5 to one. they fought as long. as fighting was of any use. and then skeddadl'd. as if the devil was after. lots of them never stop'd till they got to Baltimore. some I guefs are running yet. the rest rallied at Ellicots Mills. they were a [p 16, book 6] a demoralized set of men and no mistake.

MONDAY 11TH

Went down to the depot after breakfast the doctors were order'd to the front at 11 last night. found Hen Tucker and a few others down there. got on the cars about 9. got to Ellicots Mills about 11. The hottest day of the season went out to the Div. they were about 1 1/2 milles from the Mills. had not been there an hour. when we got or ders to march, where to was the ques tion. the rebs were reported to be with in 2[?] miles. Dont believe a word of it. got down to the cars. here we go fall back to Baltimore is the word. now commenced a scene of confusion the Q.M. stores were divided amongst the boys. they threw them out of the windows. shirts. drawers. blouses. shoes blankets knapsacks canteens etc. etc some of the boys got a dozen pair of drawers, shirts etc. they could all [p 17, book 6] have been put on the cars. in 1/2 an hour twas recklefs. waste. true the boys got them. but the Government loses it all. no wonder it costs so much. and such a fear ful debt's accumulating, I never felt so sorry to leave here. the people treated the boys as tho they had been their own sons the Union sintiment(sic) is strong. quite a number of the citizens left and came along with us. the color'd element was largely represented. each one loaded down with a large bundle on their heads. a few of the heavy 9th were detaild to man a battery at the Relay House. got to Camp Carroll about 10. Harry & I went to the Camden St. station. expecting to meet the Doctors there. they hav ing ridden down on the Pike. met some citizens. who shew'd us the road having miss'd it in the dark. they told us. the citizens were much excit'd and alarm'd when they learnd we were falling back. about 1/2 past 11 went[p 18, book 6] to the Hotel.De. Militare and had coffee bacon & soft bread. a ticket from the Provo entitles you to a meal. laid down about 12 no doctors yet

Tuesday 12th

Got up off a pile of hay. a bully bed. about 5. went up to Franks and had breakfast. got a paper. the rebs appear to be having things pretty much their own way just now. the papers. report them within 3 miles of Washington 15,000 strong. the Phil RR'd torn up. communications out offe[?] tele graph cut. Gov Bradford's private residence burn'd to the ground. with in 8 miles of here. and other things too numerous to mention. as the auction bills say. things seem to be poorly managed in this section just at this time. went up to the regt about 9. the whole of our Div with the exception of the 67Pa & 10 Vt. (who are at the Relay house) [p 19, book 6] are station'd on the hills here. there are 2 or 3 forts here. Fort Carroll & some other name. businefs is entirely suspended. and all the citizens. tur ning soldiers. (Major Peach) that was now a private in the 159. 100 days men paid the regt a visit. the boys were all very glad to see him. Charley Peturin[?] and Dunn of West Zanesville our old sutter. also call to see us. Dunn is Q.M. of the 159. went up to the regt and got a list (for returns) of the kill'd & wounded. they report 15 kill'd & wounded and 60 missing. amongst the wounded mortally I fear. is our orderly. Jef McMillan. I will try and get a correct list in a day or so. everything is very quiet indeed. what a change for more than 2 months we heard firing every day. for the last week I have not heard a cannon. I have just learn'd that Genl Ricketts. has made his report. he reports the lofs of our Div 1,630? all told. about 3 or 400 have been reported in the various hospts. the seri ously wounded were left on the field [p 20, book 6] they could not be took off. the only wonder is that the whole kit. were not captured. a serious responsibility rests somewhere. to pit a handful of men, against such an army.

Wednesday 13th

Was nearly eaten up with moskitoes. got little or no rest. about 6 got orders to move pack'd up. came acrofs Co A 159. Spencers rifles on the way. they were just coming in to breakfast. had a cup of coffee with them. nearly the whole Co knew me. I knew quite a number. they are having nice times. good quaters good grub and easy times. they are sup porting a battery in a road leading into the City. the 11th Md. are all un der arrest. and their flags. in the hands of the Provo. they left^the^ flags on the field and run like blazes. tis reported that Lew Wallace is under arrest. Gen Ora[?] is in command. Col Horn 6th Ma (he is a Baltimoran) is in comd in the City. a good appointment [p 21, book 6] encamped in Druid Hill Park. about 10. about 100 drafted men join'd our regt this afternoon. Capt. Cornyn has return;d got 2 letters from Mag post mark;d 6 & 8th July. she is in the gloomy mood again. she has a ha rd time of it tis true. but this eternal grumbling makes it no better. wrote to her, telling her to be in better heart and chiding her sharply for writing in such a strain. The Johnnies are bound to try and get into Washington. they were pretty near one of the forts. I see the other 2 Divs of our best are here and suceeded(sic) in drawing them back matters are quiet enough round here

Thursday 14

The rebs made a charge on Fort Stevens but were repulsed. and fell back report says acrofs the Potomac a large Cav. force is knocking round somewhere. Our boys cannot find out where they are. some say Point Look Out & Annopolis(sic). 14,000Dols. was paid to the new men of the regt.[p 22, book 6] for bounties. National & Credt. [can't read] some of them had 500 dols coming to them. this plan had I suppose been adaoped. to prevent so much bounty jumping no one gets his bounty until he joins his command. then there is little fear of his getting away. about 1/3 of them came at sick call. a great many of them are unfit for service and ought never to have been sent out. the American gives the 3d Div great credit. for the part they took in the fight on Saturday. they diserve(sic) it. This is a fine park. beautiful walks and drives. several pavillions are scatter'd over the park, for dancing & refresh ment. a lake is in course of construction tis in an unfinish;d condition, when finish'd twill be a credit to Baltimore I thot this was to(sic) nice a place for us to stay long. pack'd up and left about 11. got on the cars at the same place as we got off. we go to Washington to join the other portion of the Corp. then for the front again. I had hoped that we had left the Army of the [p,23, book 6] Potomac. we have just had a touch of civilization and hoped to rest awhile but tis not our luck. I would liked to have stard(sic) round Baltimore. Dr Houston is sick this morning. he had to ride in an ambulance. did not get off till late in the afternoon. got into Washington about 10. got the horses off. and laid down along side the RR. a poor fellow had both his legs crush'd. as we were going into the Depot.

Friday 15th

Awoke about 5. went up to the Soldiers Rest. tried to get something to eat. no go. to(sic) many on hand. got supper then last night by hard pushing. about 9 got marching orders. march'd up Penn Aven. pass'd the White House the boys cheer'd lustily as the pass'd saw the bronze statue of Jackson by the same artist is a little further up the avenue. the streets were crow ded to see us pass. pass'd the Treasury building. I wish they would send some of the material in this direc tion, halted at Tam aley Town [p 24, book 6] in the same woods when our rgt camp'd about this time last year the boys made coffee and noted, the new recruits were arm'd. 4 of them des erted from Co. I. (bounty jumpers) some from other Cos. Mike Keeley & Pat Carter have not been with the regt since we first landed in Baltimore on the 9th they will get into trouble. Segt Vorhies Jas Griffin & Sheppard are missing from our Co. suppose they are priso ners. Charles Church was taken, but escaped. Sergt Lynn of Co K. was kill'd his commision as 2d Lieut came next day. our Orderly is made 2d Lieut. I fear he will not live to wear the straps. Harry De Gannett is 2d Lieut. Capt Cornyn was mustered in as Major. camped near our[looks like 'unit' pencilled in] down in a hay field. the nicest camping place since we broke camp. pick'd mefs of blackberries for supper. march'd about 13 miles the country is pretty rough and stony. crops scant and poor [p 25, book 6]

Saturday 16th

Got a letter from Mag. she got my journal she feels uneasy about my health. in reading the journal she see that I have been pretty well peg'd out. at times. and thinks I am broke down. started out at 5. the country improves a little. corn looks well as a general thing. oats & wheat nearly all cut. hay crop heavy. weather warm. with slight breeze. march'd like blue blazes. till noon, when we halted for an hour. then Rin'd[?] out for the River got to Edwards's Ferry about 5, then the fun commenced. horse foot and dragoons had to ford it. we all strip'd off. the water was about hip deep, rocky botton it hurt my feet considerably. all got over without an accident. march'd about a mile half naked as we were, and crofs'd a bra nch. that emptees(sic) into the River twas a funny sight. men singly. in squads. & Cos. marching along sans culotte. some almost naked. took a bathe when I got acrofs. refresh'd me [p 26, book 6] a good deal. camp'd about 1/2 mile from the River. about 9 got orders to move out again. there was some tall cursing done you'd better believe march'd about 2 miles when we laid down. tired enough. march'd 20 miles

Sunday 17th

Moved out about 7. halted at Leesburg, weather awful hot. lots of the men fell out, unable to keep up. forag ing is again the order of the day. the army was scarcely over last evening before a number of hogs & chickens were kill'd a yoke of oxen shared the same fate the rebs drove a whole squad of horses cattle & hogs. along this route. pass'd thro Leesbury about 2. tis a pretty nice little town. the county seat of Louden(sic)[Loudoun] Co. how chang'd the scene since we cross'd the Potomac. I did not see 20 white people. nothing but Nigs I ask'd a Nig where they all were, he said they were all shut up in their houses. not a flag flying. hanker chief waving or a smile. except the Nigs. they grinn'd broadly. [p 27, book 6] climb'd up to the top of a very high hill. about 1 1/2 in the rear of the town the rebs had a fort here for 6 guns the works were pretty strong. it looks as though it had not been occupied for years. had a fine view of the vally(sic) Sugar Loaf Mountain in the distance talk'd with a citizen who lives on the road the rebs travell'd on their last scallyhoot. their rear guard left here yesterday about 3. as they pass'd his house. our advance guard. was with in 2 miles of the rear guard of the rebs. they had about 300 wagons filld with plunder. horses & cattle by the 1000s they made a good haul. he told me there was great rejoinng(sic) in Leesburg a few days after they cross'd. it being reported that they had taken Washington and des troy'd the public buildings. and had pos ession of Baltimore. they were rather crestfallen when they return'd. they boasted to their friends as they pass'd thro, that [p 28, book 6] Washington would fall this time. they could have taken^it^on Saturday 9th, but they miss'd it on Sunday twas to(sic) late came up with the other two Divs of our Corp. camp'd in advance of them in a nice piece of woods. good clear spring in the rear. had a good wash.

Monday 18th

Awoke at daylight, moved out early our Div in advance. tis reported Genl Wright has assumed com'd of Western Va. Dept. it has been the military grave of every comdr. that has taken hold of it. I hope he will be an ex ception. pass'd thro Hamilton a straggling place. of a few houses. at the gate of one of the houses. stood 2 handsome young women, waving the Union flag. the first and only evidence of Unionism I have seen so far. as I was writing out 3 or 4 passes for the boys. some cufs. stole my gum blanket and all my traps. a colord cotton shirt a light wollen one an officers [p 29, book 6] cap. pair slippers & other little things. halted about 12 for an hour. moved on about a mile, when we halted till about 5. cross'd the Blue Ridge at Snickers Gap a hard road to travel. and no mistake the weather being hazy. I could not get a good view of the Shenanadoh Valley as we advanced to the bank of the river the old familiar sound of musketry saluted our ears. part of Hunters force were over the river skirmishing. the 5th N.Y. artillery was planted on the bank and commenced playing on the rebs. who were about 1 mile on the other side the rebs allow'd them to crofs. without firing a shot. our Div was drawn up on the right of the bank. pick'd a lot of blackberries and made ready for get ting supper. by which time it was gro wing dusk. squads of men came strag gling up. they proved to be part of the for ces. who were over the river who had been driven acrofs the river. now commencd the lively times. they came to the rear in crowds. all having a different tale to tell. suffice it. that the whole of our forces were all coming or being driven acrofs. some of them said 3000. others 8000 were acrofs the river [p 30, book 6] a wounded officer of the 170 Ohio 100 days men who was wounded and at our quarters. says they were order'd to fall back over the river. he says they drove them. and he did not see the propriety of falling back. a great many men were drown'd and shot while crofsing. the rebs threw several shells quite close. to us, to(sic) close for comfort we moved out. but moved back again about 8 all was quiet. the Doctors of our Div all collected together towards 10 Oclock when we all laid down

Tuesday 19th

Got up about 4. went down to the regt with Dr. Houston. the shell that burst nearest us last night about 110 feet from us. kill'd 2. and wound 2. saw them still lying where they were kill'd. they were buried about 9 Oclock. the 116, 123 Ohio & 18 Conn were in the fight last night they were wilth us before in Western Va under Milroy. quite a lot of the men hid along the banks of the river. and came over this morning all our wounded except those who were able to walk were left [p 31,book 6] in the hands of the rebs. squads of them can be seen this morning collecting the wound'd and burying the dead. tis a poor com mencement of our campaign in this section. Bill Coates of Zanesville calld to see us. he is in the [?] Vol. there(sic) time is out next month. he was in the fight last evening. he thinks they look about 500 men. he tells me they were here soon enough to have taken posession(sic) of the Gap. before the rebs, crofs'd but by some unaccountable means, Genl Sullivern(sic) fail'd to do so. he has been relieved I believe. Gen Wright is in command of the Middle Dept not the Dept of West Va. heavy firing has been heard in the direction of Berryville & Harpers Ferry. all quiet in our front. all sorts of rum ors are afloat. tis said they sent a flag of truce into Harpers Ferry, and our men couldnt see it, that they have left our front and are going full tilt for Penn. that Lees whole force is at Culpepper on the way North that we will leave for Washington to night etc etc. to a man up a tree it looks very much as if Grant has been outgeneral'd this hitch. our Cavalry captured 70 of the wagons they were skallyhooting with fill'd with almost everything one could [p 32, book 6] imagine from a needle to an anchor amongst the prisoners. was the one who had the contribution money they lived on the citizens of Fredrick I saw a number of the wagons. and horses & mules mark'd C.S. found part of my traps. in the Drum Corp of th 126 Ohio. they had traded of(sic) the slippers to a woman. one of my shirts one of them was wearing. I got the cap cotton shirt and blanket. the rest of the things. were non est(sic), had I rep orted them to the Col. they would have got into trouble, but I let it slide

Wednesday 20th

Expected last night when we laid down that we would get orders to mar ch about midnight. but did not move till about 1 Oclock today. our Corp cross'd at different points Our Div cross'd at Snickers Ferry tis a little wider than the Licking where I cross'd twas breast deep had a good wash after I got over. just after we got over it commenc ed to rain and rain'd heavily for an hour. tis the first rain we have had for 2 months. halted about 3 miles from Berryville. Col Mulli [p 33, book 6] gan who commanded at New Creek when we laid there pass'd us. the boys recognized him and cheer'd him in good style. he still wears his green blouse. it looks the worse for wear heavy cannonading to our right all afternoon. supposed to be at Winchester or Harpers Ferry. the rebs left here about 2 this morning a citizen told me they reported 600 of a lofs. I scarcely think they could have lost so many. they said they were going to Front Royal. sheep hogs turkeys & chickens are suffering in the flesh. our mefs caught a sheep. had a jolly good blowout. and no mistake. some of the boys broke into a smoke house and took all the bacon and hams. they could lay their hands on. about 2000 Cav have gone to the front. they are re ported to be within 3 or 4 miles of us I expect we will have a heavy fight if they make a stand. part of our for ces. have gone round by another Gap the 19th Corp is here somewhere I have not seen any of them. wrote to Mag. but cannot send it off. our rear not being safe. Moseby [p 34, book 6] & White follow closely in our rear. and pick up all the stragglers. Mark Brown one of our drummers was pi ck'd up. while close enough to see our troops moving along. they parol'd him and let him go. tis a poor time for stragglers. about an hour after we laid down. I had not yet got to sleep got orders to march immediately skim'd[?] right out, bout faced and march'd thro the gap. twas a beautiful moonlight night. the rain made the air cool. and bracing. we were within 13 of Winchester. when we turn'd back. the Cav reported no enemy in front they had left for parts unknown we go back to Washington.

Thursday 21st

About 7 this morning stopd to ma ke coffee. march'd hard all night tis reported that A.P. Hill is coming up the valley. and making for Wash ington full drive. we go to defend it. citizens of Leesburg. which place we pass'd thro about 12 noon, say his forces crofs'd at Manasas Gap. on the other hand Col Granger say Wright has [p 35, book 6] orders to report to Petersburg. with 6th [?] 7 19th Corp. in fact we know nothing what is going on except that we are marching like blazes the firing yesterday evening was at Bunkers[?] Bunkun [?] Hill. our cav drove them into Winchester about 5 in the evening we camp'd, a tireder weary foot sore set of men. I never saw my feet are play'd out. I never walk'd in more pain. no stores were open in Leesburg. no businefs seems to be carried on. there is but 4 Union families in the town. the principal businefs seems to me to be raising of Niggers. they are here all sizes ages and shades of color. since we started last night we have marchd' 30 miles without rest or sleep. I will sleep to night if i get the chance

Friday 22d

Awoke about 3. cold during the night very heavy dew. were to march at day light but did not get on the way till 6. our Div act as wagon guard. our regt is in the rear. the supply^train^ of our Div was fired into as they were com ing up with rations last evening. they were in Leesburg last night prowling round. several men have been shot at some kill'd. others wounded. they ought to be hung up soon as caugt.(sic) no quarter to bushwhackers. pass'd thro [p 36, book] Drainsville(sic). [Dranesville] there is 6 or 8 houses and a one horse tavern. corfs'd Goose Creek last evening. (omitted yesterday) crofs'd Difficult Creek about 5 tis well named. these being a hill ve ry difficult of ascent. roads very rough., with loose stones. it has been up hill and down hill all day. this section beats all creation for black berries dewberries huckleberries and bushwhackers. we gather as many as we can eat. camp'd in the woods bout 6. feel tired and fag'd out my feet hurt me nuch. I shall try and get into a wagon tomorrow a cavalryman enter'd a house occu pied by a woman and her daughter a young woman. he had his pistols with him. he compell'd the daughter to strip and go to bed with him after ravishing the girl. he drest himself, lock'd them in the house I sometimes feel ashamed of the clo thes I wear. such acts of brutality & rascality is committed by some of out men!

Saturday 22d

Got up about 4. feel stiff and sore cannot get on my boots. got a pair of old shoes. with the fronts cut out [p 37, book ] think I can make the r[?]iffle in them A. Williams Co. C died during the night. was buried at 5 this morning. he he(sic) fell out when we crofs'd the Shenan adoah(sic). he laid in a barn. until yesterday when he was put into an ambulance. poor fellow he must have suffer'd. he went to the barn. and did not let his commrades know where he was going. or he would have been attend'd to. pull'd out about 6. pass'd thro Lawinsville(sic) [Lewinsville]. cross'd the Potomac at Chain Bridge. the river is very low the scenery along its banks is very fine enter'd the fortifications. thro Fort Marcy. it is garrison'd by the 147th Ohio. 100 days men. the view from Marcy is fine Forts Ethan Allen, Sumner[?] & Mansfield all in view. on our way to camp. (campd at Tanleytown) pass'd quite a number of batteries amongst them Kimble & Fremont, in fact every available position bristles with cannon. the paymasters came along before we were fairly in camp. a num ber of regts have been paid off. out regt sign'd the payrolls. I do hope. that we will get a little rest. we are worn out I see by the papers. things as(sic) Petersburg are in status quo. Sherman is pushing things in the South West. there appear to have been no truth in the report. that Hill was menacing Washington [p 38, book]

Sunday 24th.

Ed Hilliard has come back. he looks rather slim. we left him at Brandy Station on May 4th. a goodly number of the men wounded and sick. who have been in hos pital, returnd today. amongst them Lieut. Glenn, now Captain. soft bread was issued today. have just been over to a large brick house, near our quarters. where a number of Lay Brothers of the Jesuits are station'd (temporarily) they had ser vice at 7. I did not know or I would have gone. [He was undoubtedly raised a Catholic and married in the church but apparently wasn't actively Catholic. His children were Catholic, Protestant, (Christian Science etc.) according to his granddaughter Ruth Campbell Fisher.] the paper has just come in confirming the capture of Atlanta Amen. I say. I hope I trust tis true twill be another nail in their coffin. Some officers placed a guard at the pump. of the house where the Jesuits are station'd and would not let the boys have water except for their H.Q. they told the guard to leave they wh no difference. all were soldiers alike. they (the officers) must take their chance with the rest (true christianity that). I have just learn'd Jef McMillan our orderly is dead. he had a brother in the 159 100 day men. who took his body home. he was a fine fellow, well liked by all [p 39, book 6] the men Capt Black is dead in trying to save his leg, he lost his life there was nt a better officer in the regt. he was kind and attentive to his men. we will mifs him much 3 of our regt have died in hosp. dur ing the week. so it goes. death stalks round in the field and hosp. and thins our ranks. we were paid off late in the evening. I got 58 Dols. the 19th Corp. stay here. they get the soft job. of maning(sic) the fortifications we go to the front again. tis pret ty tough. I see the President has call'd for 500,000 more men. tis the only way to crush it out, but I have my doubts whether the people will respond. I hope they will. the 9th Heavy N.Y. has been deta ch'd from our Brig. in fact from the Army of the Potomac and placed in the defences of Washington

Monday 25th

It commenced to rain heavily about 10 Oclock last night and still conti nues 12 P.M. we had no tents. the consequence was we all got soak'd thro & thro. gum blankets were no protection. got up and huddled round the fire. till daylight when we got breakfast which warmd us up a little. I have never been so thoroughly [p 40, book 6] soak'd since I have been out. was fortunate enough to get a pair of shoes 5's to fit me. they drew up a pair of 10's for me at the Cos [?] I gave them to Phi[?] at the Col. who had them chargd to him. Wesley got mine for me at the Q.M. I was wet up to the ankles when I get them. sent 50 Dols to Mag. by Lieut Col Granger, who will exprefs it from Washington. late last night we had marching orders. this morn ing tis countermanded. tis rumord the 19th Corp. is on the way to N.C. if so we will stay round here. I hope tis so. went to Georgetown to get my boots fix'd and buy some few things I wanted. met with a number of our boys. could not get my boots fix'd till morning. conclu ded to stay all night. went over to Washington. took a squint round at the theatre etc etc. staid all night at the Mitchell house on Penn Aven. I do believe one half the 6th Corp are in Georgetown and Washington greenbacks are flying round thick as now flakes. hackmen saloon [p 41] keepers & houses of easy virtue are reaping a rich harvest.

Tuesday 26th

Arose about 6. took the cars for George town. met a lot of the boys. who had been in town all night. or just come in. saw Dr. McCandlefs. he told me they had orders to march. got my traps together & started. when I got there they were gone push'd on after them. when about 3 miles on the way. came up with Ike Steele. he was pretty sick he wish'd me to stay with him. I did so.

Wednesday 27th

Got on the way by 1/2 past 4. learn'd that the Corp. was 10 miles a head. pass'd thro Rockville, Urbanna.[I marked Urbanna, VA on map by mistake before I realized it shoud be MD.] and some bits of places. got up about 5. to Hyat stown. tired enough having made about 25 miles over hilly country.

Thursday 28th

Pull'd out about 6. pass'd over the battle ground of Manveacy.[Monocacy] rested here about 3 hours. towards evening pass'd by Fredrick City we left it about 2 miles to our right. tis a nice place much larger than I thought. the Corp moved on to Jefferson. marching till nearly 10 Oclock. Charley Chunk[?] and I stop'd about 4 miles from them [p 42, book 6] had some coffe at a house on the road. 100s of men fell out. the cav Provos. scour'd the woods along the road. for stragglers. we escap'd.

Friday 29th

Started about 5. come up with aback[?] 2 Oclock. made Harpers Ferry about 4 moved out after resting an hour. had a good bathe in the Shenanadoah. camp near Halltown. the 160th [or 16th] Oh. & 80h Cav are here. found Crooks com'd here. the 19th are along. got supper. moved camp to the left into the woods. the scenery is grand majestic in some places along the river. Harpers Ferry is the picture of desolation. everything in ruins. our forces under Hunter shared the fate of the com'd of Milroy last year. near the same place and time. they had to fall back to Williamsport.

Saturday 30th

For a wonder we are not on the move this morning. wash'd my clothes etc. etc tis well I did so. for just as they were dry an orders came to move. well here we'are off again. where to goodnefs knows if we have not done some good tramping since we left Petersburg. its no use trying the men cannot stand it much longer went down to Harpers Ferry to wait for the regt. the whole Corp. laid [p 43, book 6] on Bolivar Heights. till sun down. the 19th & 8th Corp. cross'd before us twas 2 Oclock in the morning before we got over. our Brig in the rear. the wagon train was still on the other side the 1st Brig of our Div. were left as guards. what a scene of confusion Cav Inft. Art. Wagons. Amb. all jam'd in a heap. but everything falls into its pl ace. eventually and all moved on. twas hard marching for me. in the dark. so ma ny loose rocks and boulders strew the road had to stop till daylight. caught up with them at Petersburg about 6.where we stop'd to make coffee. not 1/2 the Brig stack'd arms. they are strung all along the road from here to the Ferry. several men were sun struck yesterday one of th 2' Div. died

Sunday 31st

Rested about 2 hours. then started out we are marching over the same ground back to Frederick. the 8th Corp took the Middletown road at Petersburg the 19th is a head of us. this march has been harder on the men than any since we left the front the weather has been roasting hot all day not a breath of air stirring. all are pla y'd out from the private to Div com'd rested about an hour at noon in the streets of Jefferson a straggling village camp'd om a nice wood 2 miles from[p 44, book] Fredrick about 5. some of the regts came into camp with scarcely a Co. there is no mistake. the Corp is in a measure demor alized. Provo guards have ceased to be a terror to the boys. quite a number of men were sun struck. I felt the heat very much. I put a wet handerchief over my head which protected it some. a few rebs have been seen within 8 miles of town have not seen a paper. what their next move will be. time along can tell. their chief aim is. to collect the crops in the valley raiding parties keep us on the mo ve. whilst the rest are employ'd gath ering up the plunder.

Monday Aug 1st.

We have laid here all day (5 PM) tis a nice place for a camp, but that water is too far off. our Corp is all toga ther. they are still coming in. 2 days rations were issued. Grant has blown up the first line of fortifications at Petersburg. he will be in in a few days more. the rebs got as far as Cham bersburg Pa. but Averill oblidged them to skim out. they set fire to a goodly portion of the town. so it goes. I think by this time the citizens on the [p 45, book 6] border exposed to raids will learn to depend upon themselves more for the future. this part of the army cannot be everywhere. we have been nearly march'd to death hunting them up when [?] they turn up when least expec ted. a surgeon stated in conversation with some of our regt that 90 men had died on the road since we left Washington I have no doubt of it, Sutter wagons are on hand. like the sutters they scent their prey afar off (when he has greenbacks) and stick to him whilst there is a bone to pick. some arrived in camp. as soon as we did. the old saw. A fool and his money are soon parted. ought to be mod ernized thus. A soldier and his money are soon parted. wrote to Mag.

Tuesday 2d

Had a good nights rest. got orders to mo ve about 10 the 1st Div were a mile on the way. when the order was countermanded weather much cooler. Col Mulligan is dead. he was a brave officer. an order was read to the 2d Div. that any men found more than 50 yds from his command would be handed over to the Provo if we march far. they will have their hands full. firing has been heard in the direction of the Penn line got 2 letters from Mag dated June 24 & July 2d. when can they have been [p 46, book 6] have just seen a American Extra Grants forces fail'd to hold the position gain'd by them. the fortifications being defended by an inner line. they fell back in great disorder. things look scaly[?] in that direction. in fact the bright spots are few and far between but my motto is Nil Desperandum

Wednesday 3d

This day 1 year ago. I arrived at home having left Winchester on the 26 July what changes since then. what sights I have seen. what I have gone thro since then, I then thot the rebellion would be crush'd ere this, but I fear the end is not yet. broke camp early. but did not get on the way till 8 weather pleasant. march'd easy halted about 1/2 past 10. for about an hour. pass'd Flegers Mill [Feagaville? west of Frederick] 8 miles from Point Rocks. as we marchd along. about a dozen young girls stood at the roadside. singing My Maryland-My Maryland they sang it with spirit & feeling blefs their souls. may they be happily [p 47, book 6] married and raise large families of good Union children. crofs'd the B&O.R.R. at Lime Kiln Switch. thence thro Buckletown [Buckeystown}. where we waded the Monvecey twas about knee deep. where we cross'd. encamp'd about 1/2 mile on the other side. 1st Div on the left. 2 Div on the right 3d in the centre. tents were pit ch'd in regular order and a camp es tablish'd. the first time since we left Brandy. it looks as though we might rest here a few days. I hope we will we left Fredrick to our right. I did not get a chance to see it. I learn'd from Charley Church who was there. that Sergt Vorhies in hospt there the rebs left him there. being to(sic) to travel Capt Black is not dead. so i was told yesterday. I am rejoiced to hear it. a worthier officer. does not live. then he Wrote to Mag. yesterday the chaplin ^ I went down to the River and wash'd all our clothes . and took a good bathe the river was fill'd with men per forming the same operations. we all stood much in neeed of it. Buckle town. boasts a steam tannery tis a small place. not more than 20 houses. [p 48, book 6]

Thursday 4th

During the night twas cool. look'd as though twould rain. today it has been very warm, put up some med etc.etc. another days rest. so far so good. the boys are enjoying it hugely I see by the papers.that today is a day of Thanksgiving & Prayer. praying for those who believe in it. is all very well in its way, but despite all the praying. fighting is the only way that will settle it. Napoleon once said Providence was generally on the side of the stongest battellion(sic), so I think. praying is play'd out. the South pray as earnestly & fervently as we do. we are lying on the road on which the rebs came up. and flank'd us on the 9th at Manveacy [Monocacy]. they burned the bridge. tis about 1/2 mile from camp Kelley for once has done something the rebs were making for Cumberland on Monday last. he march'd out and flak'd them. bully Grandmother Kelly pies cakes & bread are selling round camp. pies 25. bread 25. towards even ing a wagon came with Lagerbeer Dr. Bryant bought some and treatd us all round. Col Ball is in com'd [p 49, book 6] of the Brig. and has been for the last few days. Ike Steele tells me that 29 of the 41, drafted men & substitutes have deserted. Mike Keeley. Pat Carter & Ben Roberts are also rep orted as deserters

Friday 5th

Got orders last night to ready to move early in the morning, pack'd up about 6. still no orders came. put up tents again. weather very warm. Kelly it appears lost one man wounded. in his great enga gement. he is a man of straw. Mulligan was with 1000 such, yet he was sub ordinate to him. stringent orders were read to the whole corp. in relation to stra ggling etc.etc, we had just laid down when we got orders to move. got off about 10. mar ch'd about 2 1/2 miles. laid down in a wheat field. awoke about 5 O'clock on

Saturday 6th

It rained some during the night. and continued to rain till about 9. we laid all night on the battlefield of Manveacy [Monocacy] just under the brow of the hill. where the rebels planted their batteries. when out boys were compell'd to retreat, the Iron bridge is injure'd(sic) considerably. but[crossed out] the rebs could not destroy it thoroughly. there is a bone mill here. the first I have seen [p50, book 6] in America. got on the cars about 8. arrived at Harpers Ferry about 11 as near as I can guefs. crofs'd the river, here we are in Va. again. disembarked. ab out a mile from our old camp. at Hall Town. Gen Wright & staff. were on hand seeing to the embarking of the troops shortly after we started it ceased to rain sun shone out strong. got a letter from Mag. last evening. answer'd it. I feel uneasy about her. her health is failing very much. wrote her a cheerful letter she is fretting all the time about me-she heard I was wounded, who the devil could spread such a report. a citizen of the Ferry says A.P.Hill is not far from here.with the whole of his Corp. well be it so, we will soon learn whe ther tis so or not. moved about 2 miles where we encamp'd a about 5,

Sunday 7th

Our Div is scatter'd 2 or 3 regts in a place. rations were issued late last night. Genl Grant is here.and no mistake. the man that attends to his horse pass'd our quarters. his H.Q. are near Harpers Ferry. I suppose he thinks tis time things came to a focus [p 51, book 6] in this section. I see by the papers that Lee has left Bau rregard in charge and taken com'd of the army of inva sion (as they term it) there is no doubt but they are here in heavy force. they occupy Harperstown. a heavy force crofs'd at Williamsport.they have another force at Bunker Hill in fact they are going to attempt big things. all sorts of rumors are afl oat as to our next move. transporta tion has been cut down to 1 wagon to the regt. that looks like bis.(sic) there will be a big fight or a big footrace. before many days. I have no fears of the result. we can, and must succeed. another days rations were issued today their Cav are in Charlestown 5 miles from here. Wesley was out hunting a horse that had stray'd. he came acrofs our pickets (Cav) 3 1/2 miles from ca mp. the reb Cav. were in sight about 70 or 80. they pop'd(sic) away at each other occasionally. some one will get hurt before long. the chaplin preach'd to day. and had prayer meeting at night

Monday 8th

I thot we would have march'd this morning.but we are here still 7 PM weather still very warm.went to the Amb Train.got alot of [p 52, book 6] medicines. things very quiet the reb cavl. gobbled up.the guards placed to protect his property ^(for a Union man)^ and some others who were ^there^ not more than a mile from camp. bold work that. Sheridan has taken comd of the force here. how often is our comds to be chang'd. I wonder. they appear to be falling back. having evacuated Harpertown.their movements are not well known

Tuesday 9th

Weather very warm, still lying here Al Hammond & Truman.came back to the regt. Ed Hilliard has been promoted to 2d Lieut dating from Aug 1st. bully for Ed. I have no doubt he will make a good officer. got a letter from Mag, she is a little better the baby does not seem to thrive very fast. all are well. good news from the South Farragut is peppering Mobile. I hope twill not be a second edition of Charleston. the rebs have scuted(sic) up the valley taking all their plunder and every man they could lay their hands on [p 53, book 6] I suppose we will be after them about tomorrow. have just got orders to be ready to march in the morning(8 PM. orders came) with 6 days rations, to Winchester and up the valley. is the prevailing opi nion. the supply train is to be left behind. it looks like a heavy raid not a permanent occupation of the vally(sic). we willsee,what we will see. patience

Wednesday 10th

Moved out about 1/2 past 5, pass'd thro Charlestown. tis a larger place then I thot. I counted 4 churches and a Court House. John Brown has made it his tone[?town]. struck the old Winchester road! encamp'd about 1/2 past 4. about 3 miles from Berryville. the sunshine awful hot! to make matters worse, we were march'd very hard. Dr. Houston call'd the att ention of the officers to it.but it did no good. the results were that men fell out of ranks [p 54, book 6] {medicines. things very quiet the reb cavl. gobbled up.the guards placed to protect his property ^(for a Union man)^ and some others who were ^there^ not more than a mile from camp. bold work that. Sheridan has taken comd of the force here. how often is our comds to be chang'd. I wonder. they appear to be falling back. having evacuated Harpertown.their movements are not well known}[Tom wrote ERROR VERTICALLY ACROSS THE ABOVE.]

10th Cont

notwithstanding the stringent order read on the 5th. men could be seen in every shady spot panting for breath. under one tree 3 men lay dead and another at the point of death. how many died on the march I do not know I fell to the rear.and did not get up till long after they halted. I never suf fer'd so much in my life. a few min utes more exposure and I would have toppled over. got a little ginger & whisky. laid down. could not eat anything. about 5 in(sic) commenced to rain & rain'd heavily for about an hour. the last of the rebs did not leave Charlestown till 3 Oclock on Tuesday afternoon [p 55, book 6]

Thursday 14th

Bugles sounded at 4 got up just at day light. feel weak & stiff, head light. I shall take it easy today, got on the road by 7, our Div is in the rear. weather still very warm. march'd slow and rested often. pass'd Berryville to our left. struck the Pike about 8 miles from Winchester stop'd about l, and cook'd dinner in the woods about 6 miles from Win chester. rested 2 1/2 hours. left the pike and bore to the left thro the fields we have not march'd more than a cou ple of miles on the roads all day. campd about 1/2 past 7. near some corn fie lds. how roasting ears suffer'd twas a caution. 40 acres were cull'd over the usual amount of chicken stea ling.hog & sheep killing. has been done there are some splendid farms. well built houses. & out buildings. crops all thro this section have been good a(sic) suppose the rebs levied contribu tions on them. they (the majority [p 56, book 6] are rebs at heart, between the upper & nether millstone. they will be ground pretty fine this trip. forage is abundant. and freely distri buted. fruit is plenty.but not ripe 24 reb prisoners are along with us captured by our Cav this morning near Winchester. a reb lay dead on a horse we pass'd just before we camp'd feel a good deal better. stood the march better than I thot I would

Friday 12th

Moved out about 8. our regt in the rear of the Div. weather very warm.and water very scarce. at the crofsing of the Front Royal road our Cav had a smart skirmish several graves are scatterd here & there, in the woods where we rested a little while at 12. we found a young boy. he has been shot thro the breast stop'd and buried him. halted about 1 after passing thro Newtown it may and has been new.once.but tis a ramschalkel(sic) old looking place now the houses look as though they have had [p 57, book 6] an attack of smallpox and been badly pitted, rested about an hour. about 6 pass'd thro Middletown. 2d edition of Newtown, both places are rank Such(sic) their gardens and fruit trees were visited by the boys. beets, beans etc. etc one fellow I saw with tomatoes came up with the 8th & 19th. Corp. just as we left the town, we heard skirmishing in our fr ont. advance about 1 1/2 miles. the rebs are on the other side of Cedar Creek. just before dark.there was heavy skirmishing.and cheering what troops are engaged I do not know. after dark everything was quiet citizens say they have a force of 40,000 and that we will come back on the double quick. we cannot see it in that light. they have a splendid position they can see all our moves. from the mountains in their rear. but I don't believe we will find them here in the morning. dont feel very well.

Saturday 13th

All quiet during the night. moved out about 8. cross'd cedar Creek. below where the bridge is destroy'd struck the pike. march'd within about a mile of Strasburg and camp'd in the woods. for a rest we thot, but we are still here. 4 P.M. our Cav have been skirmishing all morning in & around town. they are fortifing at Fishers Hill. a mile [p 58, book 6] beyond. a good many of our boys have been there. they say twill be a tough job to dislodge them, and to flank them will be quite as tough a job. we are just waiting like [word crossed out] Micawber for something to turn up. feel very unwell today. headache & sick at the stomach can eat scarcely anything. the thot of hardtack makes me almost sick. about 10 Oclock got or ders to move. moved to our old camp laid down about 10 Oclock

Sunday 14th

Got a letter from Dave Keeley in relation to Mike. answer'd. wrote to mag. weather pleasant. rations were issued. they were much needed hard tack was at a premium. a spy was caught by Custer Cav. last evening he was hung this afternoon, about 70 prisoners have been sent to the rear Ike Steele tells me that Ex Capt Gary was(sic) been appointed Co of the 199 Ohio great Ceaser(sic) political influence has elev ated him. not his military capacity politics have been and still are the bane of the service. the rebs captur'd [p 59, book 6] part of our supply train between here & Winchester. poor management I think with the force we have.at our com'd the chaplin & me wash'd our clothes and took a good bathe in the creek. skirmishing all day. the rebs advanced ab out1/2 past 5, when they again fell back got orders to pack up and be ready to move forward if necessary. but all was quiet. the men took of(sic) their accoutrames(sic) at roll call. the wagon train went to the rear. the chaplin preach'd. he was cut short in his discourse. by the order to the men.to prepare to move.

Monday 15th

Weather very warm. still lying here. Drs Bryan(sic) 12 Va & Holbrook 18 Conn call'd at our quarters. they were both tak en prisoners at Winchester & were in L [undecipherable] with Dr. Houston. foraging is the order of the day. corn apples peaches. etc etc are brot in by the loads.as much as the boys can carry. Wesley brot in 2 bee hives con taining about 50 lbs of honey. where he got them.the party had honey that could have sold for 1000dols. he says he nev er saw so many hives in his life. this evening I question if she has a pound left a family not far distant.with 7 small children.have been literally strip'd of everything. first came the rebs. then our boys. who took all [60, book 6] left.even the flour & bacon. they had not food enough in the house to give the children their breakfast.2 of them are very sick. what injustice. what wrongs are committed. tis enough to make a man blush.for his kind artillery firing has been heard on our left. at intervals during the afternoon had peaches and honey for supper. the rebs advanced their pickets. there was considerable stir and fufs till late. when all quieted down.

Tuesday 16th

It rain'd about an hour during the night. the air is much cooler. Steward Ripley call'd to see me. (18th Conn) he left Winchester a few days after I did. he looks rough and rugged, all sorts of rumors are afloat as to the movements of the rebs. they are reinforced. we are surrounded, they are going to attack us in force etc etc be things as they may. I think matters cannot remain in Statua(sic) Quo.much longer. our trains are not safe. in fact tis a(sic) difficult to keep the army suppli'd we have no mail. went over to Div hospt. the 19 Corp have moved.where to I cannot learn an officer and squad of one[? men] from the 1st[?] Div were gobbled up whilst out foraging.about 2 miles [p 61, book 6] from camp. tis rumor'd more of our train has been gobbled. can get no pap ers. are groping in the dark. there is some talk of a move. I dont think we will make anything by staying here. we will have to fall back to Winchester or Martinsburg or Harpers Ferry we cannot hold this valley so far from our base of supplies.and our rear so much exposed. got orders to move at 9 Oclock. got fairly on the way by 10. retraced our steps. only going thro New town. instead of turning off and taking the Charlestown road. there were a few good houses in the upper part of the town and a substantial brick church.with a steeple. laid down to rest till the brig would come up. fell asleep. Picketts & staff came riding bye(sic) woke us up. got up with them. pass'd thro Kernstown just at daylight. tis a small place I suppose as many skirmishes & battles have been fought here.as any other part of the country. Middletown & Newtown were both strip'd of everyting eatable. they broke open smoke houses.chicken coops sheep pens they are making a clean sweep as we leave. one or two houses were burn'd in Newtown. encamp'd about a mile from Winchester.just as the sun was rising. distance 15 miles made the march in pretty good tifk(sic) [p 62, book 6]

Wednesday 17th

Rested about a couple of hours.as we were starting out.the Cav read guard came up.driving before them a drove of cows calves heifers sheep & horses about 400 I should judge. clouds of smoke were seen in our rear. I cou nted 10 distinct columns. I expect they were wheat stacks. pass'd thro Winchester.call'd on Mr. Faulknen the shoemaker and several others I knew. tis a desolate woebegone looking place now. not one place of businefs is open. how different to the stirring times.when we occu pied. yet still they are better Such.than are a number of Union fami lies.who hourly pray. that we would return. Drs. Houston & Bryant breakfast at Jacksons, one of the sta unchest Union families in Va. nice weather for marching all forenoon turn'd out warm in the afternoon. halt'd about 3 and camp'd about 1/2 mile on the other side of big Occguan(sic)[Opequan] crossd little Accoguan(sic)[Opequan] shortly after we got into camp.heavy artillery was heard towards evening heavy skirimishing in the direction of Winchester [p 63, book 6]

Thursday 18th

Dr Houston woke us up at daylight. some of the troops were moving out. our Brig was in the rear of the Corp. did not get on the way till about 7. it rain'd heavily from 9 and kept drizzling nearly all day. halted for dinner at the same place as we camp'd one week ago. tis said the 1st Brig of the 1st Viv. has a brush with the rebs last night. cannot learn anything definite. pass'd Berryville on our right. march'd to Charlestown went in to camp about 9. rations were issued. the boys have had nothing but corn & apples to eat all day. march'd about 22 miles Sergts Blondin & Webster have been commission'd 2d Lieuts. they were mus ter'd in Ed Hilliard along with them he was assign'd to Co H. but is still with Co I.

Friday 19th

In conversation with one of the 1st Brig 1st Div. who was in the fight evening before last I learn'd we lost about 400 men chiefly prisoners. a regt of Cav who were in their rear.ran without firing a shot. when they came upon them in force and drove them. the fight ocur'd(sic) at the stone mill where we got breakfast. why they were left [p 64, book 6] so far in the rear without support I cannot imagine. 3 of our boys were out foraging about 1 1/2 miles from camp when come reb cav gave them chase they skin'd out on the double quick 3 officers were pick'd up by Mosbys gang. the 110th Ohio has just gone out to look for them. weather cool with slight rain. got a letter from Mag. she writes in a more cheer ful spirit. her health is improving the children all well. answer'd it. sent the one I wrote on the 15 about an hour before I got hers. resting here all day. the paper agent knowing we were hungry for news.put up the tariff to 10 cts. the result was he had all he had left confiscated 5 cts is all they are allowed to charge in the army.

Saturday 20th

Weather cloudy. drizzling nearly all day. our Brig moved camp put up tents in regular order, sinks were dug etc etc. we did not move our quarters. return'd from Zanesville today. he has been home on sick leave. he brot me a letter and some papers. Bob[ [Robert Pollock Campbell] shows a decided taste for drawing so Mag writes. all are improving [p 65, book 6] in health. Wesley & Lem went down to the Ferry. they report Mosby wounded & in an ambulance. all gammon[?] dont believe a word of it the 110th. saw nothing of his crew. they return'd late last night. thing begin to have a more cheerful aspect. vic tories slow but sure.follow the advance of Shermans Army. Grant too is moving what he gets he holds. they are laying the track from the Ferry. tis extended to Hall Town. it looks as tho we would stay here awhile

Sunday 21st

The Indian.says white man very un[?] cartian(sic) so is movements in the army about 9 this morning as everything was moving on quietly, no thots of an attack, the rebs attack'd our pic ket lines. the 1st & 2d Div of our Corp. they fell back, but again advanced soon the firing became brisk all along the line. pack up and fall in was the word. our Div moved out to the front, 200 of our regt are out on picket to the left of the line, so far, 1P.M. they have not been engag'd artillery firing commenced. they threw a number of shells.which burst in and around our camping ground fortunately no one was hurt. the trains all moved to Harpers Ferry [p 66, book 6] pass'd thro Charlestown. the Court House is in ruins. it is loop holed for musketry on all sides. a number of houses have been burn'd and other wise destroy'd. there are a few fine private residences.in passing thro before I went up the back street & had no opportunity of noticing it Div hospt is establish 'd in the woods a mile in the rear of town. 3 men be longing to the 1st Brig our Div have been brot in wounded our men are form'd in 3 lines of battle and are throwing up breastworks. the reb line is about 1/2 miles distant. there is a lull now near 4 P.M. occasionally a cannon booms. so far it has only been heavy skirmishing. no regular engagements. have just return'd from the hospts of the 1st & 2d Div. 75 wounded in the 1st. 25 in the 2d. our Div is now engaged 7 P.M. wagons are still going to the rear, got orders to move about 10. fell back to Hall Town. the sick & wounded were taken to the Ferry and sent to Sandy Hook hospt.

Monday 22d

Laid down about 2. woke about 6. found the Docs. went into Bolivar found Harry making coffee in an alley. had some tack & coffee. Dr Bryant got some cheese.and what was of more [p 67, book 6]importance 1A smoking Tob. After break fast moved to an orchard.on the banks of the Shenanadoah. Dr Bryant & Houston went to the front. we wait orders here. our forces fell back during the night, to the heights round Hall Town. the rebs have follow'd close. skirmishing has been goi ng on all morning, with occasionaly cannon.to vary the sound. the rebs either have an overwhelming force.or putting on a bold front. about 1500 of our Cav were cut off from the main force.betw een here & Berryville they cut their way thro with the lofs of one piece of cannon and 2 wagons. they lost heavily. twas a hand to hand contest. their wagons were the last of the train. 4000 dismounted Cav. were sent to the front from the vari ous camps. things look awfully mixd up around here. wagon & ambulance trains scatter'd allover(sic) the heights. troops mov ing in every direction. our line extends from the Shenandoah to the Potomac both flanks are protected, if they attack us in our present posish. I have no fear of the result. about 2 Oclock a heavy storm set it(sic) high wind and heavy rain. Maryland Heights were entirely hid from view by the rain cloud. took shelter in a house near where we were encamp'd. Capt Reed 3d Ohio. son of Parson Reed, [p 68. book 6] of Zanesville has excaped from the rebs and is safe in Washington City. poor fellow he has suffer'd much. 4 P.M. the doctors have again gone to the front. all quiet expect occasion al picket firing

Tuesday 23d

This morning I enterd upon my 3d year of soldier life. Looking back it does not appear that long. what changes.what sights in that time if I am lucky enough to see the an niversary of this day. twill soon be home ward bound. after breakfast went out to the regt. they lay in the same place as they did before we stared up the valley. cannon are planted and breastworks thrown up. all ready and waiting for the Johnnies. some slight movement of troops took place from the left to the right. things com paratively quiet. the chaplins horse being very lame. he staid behind at the supply train. the Adjt. Cushing (what an adjt) has been back at the train ever since there was any sign of a fight. Dr Richards came to us this evening. he looks well. he has been on duty at City Point for about 2 months Hen Parker[?] came along. he is all OK again. Hen & Wes captured a cow [p 69, book 6] and swore it into the service. we have mi lk in our coffee. just like civilized peo ple.

Wednesday 24th

Weather warm.with slight breeze I see by the papers.that the fight on Sunday.was more severe than I thot the 2d Div lost between 60 & 70 kill'd and 300 wounded & prisoners. things very quiet till about 1, when artillery firing of heavy.commenced on our left. during the firing our regt was out on inspection. I dont think they will att ack us here. if they do they will get the best in the shop. tis the best posish we have held since we have been out. my opinion is.they will make a dash into Maryland. if they do.we will shut the door behind them. Dr. Richards brot an orphan boy along with him. he belon'g'd to the boot black brigade. he is a sma rt little fellow.

Thursday 25th

All quiet today. till about 4.when heavy artillery was heard on our right which continued for about 2 or 3 hours. rain'd heavily for about an hour in the evening. Grant has got poes sion(sic) of the Weldon RR. he will keep it. tis a vital stab to rebellion. heavy skirmishing till long after sun down. all sorts of rumors are afl oat. [p 70, book 6]

Friday 26th

The firing last night was upon our right(extreme) occupied by Cav. General rumor (he is the best know general in the army) has it that our Cav were flaxd [fox'd?]' & left their wounded in the hands of the rebs. but captured 6 cannon again we have taken 600 prisoners others say 1200 and so it goes. I dont believe a word of it.some few pris(sic) have been brot in tis true.so far our Corp. has not been in paper occasionaly artillery firing & skir mishing on both the right & left but nothing of any importance today. tis strange near as we are to where the fighting has taken place we cannot learn anything definite Lieut Sells[Sills?] return'd today he went home from Georgetown.with out. leave of absence.we will see if the same measure is meted out to him that is to privates under simi lar circumstances. about sun down heavy artillery firing commenced on our left. follow'd shortly by brisk musketry. went up to the fortifica tions. could see shells burst from the batteries on both sides the rebs seem'd to be in force in[to-crossed out] the woods [p 71, book 6] round Charlestown.about 2 miles off. continued about an hour. still get ting further off as though we were dri ving them back. our Brig was under arms ready for any emergency. during the night heavy thunder with slight rain. wrote to Mag

Saturday 27

Whilst up at sick call.saw Col Keifer 110th.he has return'd and ta ken com'd of the Brig. he still wears his arm in a sling. he is good compe tent officer. the men have every confi dence in him. his only fault is.he has Star on the brain. well if he wins it.he will wear it worthily. the chap lin came up.his horse is still very lame. this has been the quietest day we have had since we have been here. not a gun fire'd so far 5 Oclock. to day the Chicago Convention meets. twill be a stormy affair. I trust the peace at any price men.may be defeated.and a war democrat nominated. tis rum ord that part of the force here will be sent West to enforce the draft. I dont think any force can be spared from here. I find by reference to the paper the the(sic) Convention does not meet till Monday. no particulars of yes terday evenings affair I suppose [p 72, book 6] there was more sound & fury.than actual engagement.

Sunday 28th

Had orders to move at daylight but did not get off till about 8. where were we going.was the question Martinsburg, Washington.up the valley.and several other places. it was rumor'd the rebs were crofsing at Wil liamsport. march'd about 2 miles & encamp'd in the woods. had dinner started out about 3. struck the Charlestown pike. pass'd thro Charlestown and encamp'd upon the same ground we left this day week. we pitch'd our tents on the same spot. cannonading was heard at intervals during the time we lay in the woods.and towards evening.in the direction of Winchester our regt went out on picket. they were on picket when we left here

Monday 29th

Cool during the night. fine early in the morning feels comfortable. the Johns have got the start of us.this hitch.by full 24 hours, well if we can but hold Early's forces in this valley.and keep him from reinforcing Lee,without coming to an engagement.we will have perform'd our part.of the program. if he leaves our [p 73, book 6] front.any distance. we will follow him up if he goes to Lee. on we go to Lynchburg, so we hold him tight in the valley. Gen Ricketts has his wife along with him. she is quite a young woman. she has an am bulance to herself. tis no place for a wom man.in the field amongst a lot of soldiers they see and hear.what a woman of feeling & delicacy ought not to see or hear. about 2 oclock artillery firing was heard a considerable distance off. it proved to be Cav. at Smithfield.the rebs were reinforced by infantry.compelling them to fall back to the breastworks thrown up by our men last Sunday but one. at 4 Oclock.our Div was order'd up to the front. they skimd out in lively style.about the time they arri ved there firing ceases.and is again quiet 5 P.M. Div H.Q. are still up. Brig H.Q. are pack'd up. I dont think there will be much fighting. were pack;d up.ready to go.but unsaddled.and laid down to sleep.

Tuesday 30th

Got up at daylight. got breakfast.when Dr. Houston, Richards & Tuck went out to the regt. Div H.Q. are still up it looks as though the troops were com ing back. our Div was the one one that [p 74, book 6] went out. tis rumor'd that Lee attack Grant on the Weldon RR. charging his works 6 times. being repulsed each time,and losing 30,000 men. he(sic) papers have^not^ come yet. they are anxiously lookd for. the Pesot(sic)[?] wagons belonging to our Div Corp. have come up.from the Army of the Potomas. Ambulances, drivers, Wagons etc. I suppose we are now det ach'd from it. I trust so at least. Dr. Bryant & the chaplin are back at Harpers Ferry. the Doc is under the weather a little. chaplins horse cannot travel. just as I thot it would turn out. the rebs attack'd our men at Preams [Reams?] station.were driven back twice. 3d time they drove our men & captured 12 cannon. our men chased again and drove them,and took the position again. in the morning the rebs had left.leaving their dead on the field. twas a draw game. laid here all day. the Docs came from the regt about 3 PM. the Div is about 2 miles from here in advance of all the rest. Fort Morgan is ours. bully for Farragut. weather getting mu ch cooler. admonishes us that Aut um(sic) is fast approaching [p 75, book 6]

Wednesday 31st

Went out to the regt. after breakfast the Div & chaplin came up in the afternoon. the Doc had his gum coat gum and woolen blanket stolen last night. he is unfortunate.when were were at Bolivar before.he lost a gold chain & everything he had in his vest pocket. all very quiet the general opinion is they have gone to Richmond. our Cav were in Winchester last evening and saw no Johnnies. tis rumor'd their force is at Bunkers Hill.waiting our advance up the valley.to fall in our rear & make a dash on Washington. there is some talk of part of this force being sent to Petersburg. I trust twill not be us. last evening 2 of the 67th who were out foraging.about 1 1/2 from camp were pick'd up by the rebs.and strip'd of everything but their drawers.and then released. they came into camp.with a sheep.slung on a rail. they were bound to have something for their lofs. reports from Chicago are not favorable to McClellan.. the peace party.I think will carry the day. a platform has been introduced.but not yet ado pted.favoring an armistice and a [p 76, book 6]Convention of the States. tis an am bigeous(sic) shallow affair.full of abuse of administration & cram'd with his as usual Democracy alone can save the Union Sept. 64.

Thursday Sept 1st

Everything very quiet not heard again fired. the Peace party have carried everything before them.ado pting platform entire. tis a wishy washy meaninglefs string of glit tering generalities.but breaths the spirit of peace at any price. McClellan was nominated.unanemously(sic).with such a platform and such a candidate. I have no fears of the election of Lincoln Tim Ettiburn [Eddeburn] return'd to the Co. the ball is still in his shoulder but does not trouble him. he is fit for duty again. wrote to Mag

Friday 2d

Weather pleasant. Capt Rofs return'd to the Brig. about 4 PM moved back into the woods 1/2 mile in the rear of our old camp regts were placed at proper distances and streets stak'd off.

Saturday 3d

Were arous'd by 3 Oclock by the beating of the drums. got up. found out orders [p 77, book 6] had been received during the night to be ready to march by 4, got break fast by 4, did not get in the march till near 6. started up the valley.al most by the same route we have travell'd twice before. the programe(sic) seems to be. Sheridan with his & Averills Cav. is to attack. Early.going by the way of Martinsburg. whilst we get in his rear. the plan is well laid. will it succeed. halted about 3 miles from Berryville.*for about 2 hours*[crossed out]. waiting orders I suppose. tis reported that off icial information has been received of the fall of Atlanta. I hope & trust tis true, but I will not believe it till I see it publish'd officially in the paper got a letter from Mag. whilst on the march. from Lieut Hilliard. her health is still poor she is in one of her desponding moods again. I must cheer her up. Franks wife is in Z she does not say where Frank is. moved camp about 1/4 of a mile heavy cannonading & musketry till after dark. Dr Foreman was out to the front. twas the 8th Corp. who were engaged. the reb skirmishers. advan ced on part of our^line^ whilest they were getting wood & water and lying round loose. and scatter'd them. the rallied [p 78, book 6] and drove the Johnnies about a mile. all the troops were order'd to lay on their arms.and be ready at a moments warning. did not put up any tents horses were kept saddled. commenced to rain at 8.and rain'd till midnight laid down on the leaves.cover'd up with a gum blanket.and slept sound as a top.

Sunday 4th

Got up about 4 went about a mile for water. men still have their traps on cannonading occasionally this morning our Div is in the rear of the Corp. our regt were returnd from picket last night. they were out a week. wrote to Mag. Col Stanton 67 Pa. has been dishonorably dismiss'd the service he was in charge of the Brig. at the time of the Manocacy(sic) Monocacy] fight. the charges against him were.failing to bring up the troops under his command in time.& neglect of duty. about 5 P.M. skirmishing sli ght.commenced in front of the 2d Div of our Corp. our Div commenced to throw up breastworks at the edge of the woods, which threw us outside the lines. had stew'd pears & peaches for supper. about dusk.moved out quar ters to an orchard in the rear of the regt.

Monday 5th

It rain'd heavily during the night. the boys were busy nearly all night at the fortifications. sometime during the night the 2 Div moved from the left to our right. they are throwing [p 79, book 6] up works. our works extend from here to Berryville 3 miles. the rebs have extended their line on our right. Capt. Rofs. has taken com'd of his Co again. [From here to " . the sick were sent" the writing is in a different color ink and very faint.] There is no doubt but our force s occupy Atlanta. particulars have not come in as yet troops have been taking up.fresh positions all day moving from one point to an[un readable must be another] our Div still occupies the same position. an attack was ex ed[unreadable] this afternoon. a b [unreadable] was selected for Brig Hospt in anticipation up to 6 PM all is quiet.rain'd at intervals all even ing.

Tuesday 6th

Rain'd hevily all night.and contin ued drizzling all day. Dr Pinkerton of the 110th Ohio. has resign'd and gone home. Dr McCandlefs has applied for leave of absence. he is very sick. supply train came up. this morn ing. the whole of the train & stores were moved from Harpers Ferry to Pleasant Valley on the other side of the Potomac. they must have had a big scare in that section. not a fire has been heard so far today 12P.M. what will be the next move I can not imagine. [End of very faint section] the sick went(sic) sent to Hospt at Sandy Hook in the empty supply wagons. Dr. Richards was det ach'd to go with them

Wesnesday 7th

The rain ceased during the night some time. the sun has been shin ing brightly all day. tis a general [p 80, book 6] drying day all round. our blankets and everything were wet thro. Dr. McCandlefs started home this morning he took both his horses. I question much if he will ever come back. everything very quiet. the lofs in [2 works undecipherable] on Satudray amounted to 300 kill'd wound'd 7 prisoners. I did not think twas so serious. Moseby gobbled up 40 ambulances that were turning to the front.without guard 40 of the horses were recaptured and 5 of Mosbys men. a rape was com mitted by some of our men.on the per son of a handsome young lady,living about 1/2 nule from our camp. she reported the outrage to Genl Ricketts. efforts have been made to ferret out the vile rascal.but without sucefs(sic) Oh that he may be arrested & hung. such villians bring dis grace on the best & holiest causes

Thursday 8th

Today has been a dull drizzly rainy day. just the kind of a day to give a fellow the blues. Lieut Sells's(sic) case has been pass'd over. no notice taken of it. while on the other hand Al Hall Co A. has been handed over to the Provo. Mar. found being found(sic) asleep on his post.altho he had been marching for 2 days and had no sleep the night before. I ex pect he will be severely punish'd [p 81, book 6] there is too much partiality shown in our regt. Wesley went to a mill about 3 miles off.and got some corn meal. had mush & milk for supper the 8th Corp moved to our rear. where to I dont know, all quiet.

Friday 9th

Weather clear'd up. sun shining all day. supply train came up. Dr Rich ards return'd about dinner time. 2 Mail boys were gobbled up.midway between here and the Ferry.within a short distance of him. he heard 5 or 6 shots fired. our Cav were after them. there is about 2000 troops betw een here and the Ferry. Inft & Cav. notwithstanding all this. they are bold enough to make occasional dashes between. even the picket posts. all quiet on the Opequan

Saturday 10th

It rain'd heavily for about an hour this morning. artillery was heard to our right for a short time this morning with that exception all has been quiet there was some talk of a move,but I think it was blown over. Averill repor ts the rebs falling back on Winchester he has had a tussle with their Cav cutting off Imboden. and capturing a train. I expect we will move before long. this is the longest stay we have made in anyone place since we left Petersburg [p 82, book 6]

Sunday 11th

It has rain'd at intervals all day the chaplin preach'd a thanksgi ving sermon this morning. service was held at Brig H.Q. in the after noon. the Chaplin of th 110 & 126th assisting. had apple dumplings for dinner. John Morgan has gone on his last raid. he was kill'd a few days ago in Tenn. I could not but admire him. for his dash & pluck.but twas talents misdirected. Geo. Bartister(sic)[Bargesser] of Co A who deserted from us.at New Creek was brot up to the regt and placed under guard. he went to Calafornia(sic) and enlisted in a Cav regt. who were transfer'd.to the 2d Mass Cav. I saw him when we first left Washington but paid nothing about it. he was serving his country. that was enough I think. the Col. might have gone one eye on it,and let him serve his time out in the Cav. in some cases he is to(sic) severe. Adjt Cushing has handed in his resignation. he says Gen Sheridan promised him he would accept it the service will not lose much when he leaves. part of our regt went out on picket all quiet.

Monday 12th

A day of sun shine and showers still no move on hand. the supply train came up towards evening. sev eral sutters have establish'd them [p 83, book 6] selves in the neighborhood. our Brig have orders to drill each day 2 hours from 3 to 5 in the afternoon. for the purp ose of initiating the green hands at the bellows.into the art and mystery of shoulder arms, everything very quiet no news from the front line. McClellan has accepted the nomination. how he can consistenly(sic) endorse the platform after his West Point speech I cannot imagine. I was in hopes he would rep udiate the platform and come out squarely for the crushing out of the rebellion by force of arms. (the only way it will ever be crush'd) his acceptance on(sic) the Chicago platform.almost ensured the sucefs(sic) of Lincoln , got a letter from Mag. she has her trials. the children want winter clothes.and no prospects of mak ing them comfortable. I know not what to do.or say. I have not it in my power to do anything. I feel oppress'd and dis pirited.

Tuesday 13th

Pass'd a miserable night. dreamt of home all night. wrote to Mag in as cheerful a spirit as I could. counseling and advising her all in my power. the 2d Div went out to the front on a reconnaisance at 4 this morning. during the forenoon. artillery firing was heard to the right. towards afternoon it moved to the front of our Brig our regt had battallion drill [p 84, book 6] after they were dismiss'd. a young boy (not a soldier) form'd a ring and perform'd some clever gyno nastic(sic) feats.and ground and lofty tumbling.after which the usual collection was taken up.

Wednesday 14th

It has rain'd nearly all day. the fighting yesterday was con fined to the Cav. principally, the 2d Div took 8 men by shells they captured the 8th S.C. Inft numbers about 260 men & officers. they were sent to the rear today. the 2d Div return'd during the night all quiet today.

Thursday 15th

Weather fine. till towards evening when it commenced to rain. got my clothes wash'd by one of the 67 Pa all quiet along the line. Lieut Armstrongof our Co. is amongst those under fire at Charleston poor fellow he has had a tough time of it. the supply train came up.bringing mail. no letter for me. 200 of our regt are on picket bought a pound of Tobacco. cost a dollar. tis the only thing for which I spend money. tis a solace.I hate to deprive myself of. a pipe is a smas[?] hing companion. Dr Bryant also got a pound.

Friday 16th

Weather fine & warm, all quiet [p 85, book 6] not a gun fired to disturb the mo notony. this is the longest stay we have made since we left Petersburg the harmonious Democracy are in a state of ebellution(sic). VaG [? undecipherable] plies[?] the track a peace convention (out & out) will no doubt be call'd. I hope twill be a pure Killenney(sic) fight. Bill King of Co I re turnd last night. he looks well,but his arm is stiff. he was in Philladelp(sic) all the time he has been away

Saturday 17th

Weather very warm with slight breeze. I am glad to see there will be little or no drafting in some of the States. the people are respond ing nobly.despite the houling(sic) of the copperheads. tis the grandest moral sight of the war. Ora Huston Co A has ret. he was sent to hospt the morn ing we left Brandy. he has escaped the whole of this campaign. he has been promoted, but there is no vacancy at present in any of the Cos.

Sunday 18th

Weather fine. cool breeze. Grant & Butler were at Sheridans H.Q. or rat her at Charlestown. they returnd last evening. of course there are a good many surmises.as to our next move in consequence. the supply train came up and issued 4 days re tions. got a letter from Mag. all well at home. she writes more chee rfully. got my boots repair'd by a slave one of the few remaining in this sectur(sic) he would not stay but that his grand [p 86, book 6] mother & mother are not able to earn a livelihood. North the coun try for miles is strip'd bare of almost everything. fences & barns have dis appear'd for fuel. everything is laid under contribution. at 4 P.M. got or ders to march. pull'd up stakes.when ready to march.twas countermanded the reb Cav attack'd our Cav in front and drove them. the 19th Corp. or a por tion of it came to their assistance and turn'd the scale. so we were not nee ded. tents were put up again Masters Co. F has just retrund from visiting his brother in law. in his Va Cav. they were lying near Smithfield whilst there. orders came for them to move. the report there was that two Divs of Early's Inft were in Martinsburg with pontoon bridges.and they had driven all before them. they (our Cav.) went in the direction of Harpers Ferry. tis rather an improbable story. I dont think they well be fool hardy and recklefs enough to crofs the Potomac.with such a force in their rear.unlefs.they have been very heavily reinforced. there is some thing in the wind.

Monday 19th

The chaplin roused me up.about 1/2 past 1. whats up says I. pack up says he. all right says I. got our break fasts.and were on the march by 3. a beautiful moon light morning for a march. march'd thro the woods & fields. struck the Winchester road [p 87, book 6] just at daybreak, cross'd the Opequan pass'd the ruins of 2 large brick flour mi lls, which were burn'd down a few days ago. heavy canonnading and musket ry.began to peal forth about the time we cross'd the creek. march'd up ab out a mile.when the troops were form'd in line of battle. the 6th in the center 8th to the left 19th to the right. our Corp was the first engaged. they charg'd but had to fall back.to their old posish in consequence of the 19th not forming promptly and joining our line. our regt would have captured a battery could they have held their ground a few minutes longer. the battle continued without intermission till about 5 when our men charged them along the whole line.and drove them pell mell.before them. the artillery.& musketry was almost deafning(sic).reminding us of the wildernefs. the wounded commenced to come in early in the action.from our Div. the hospt was located on a branch of the Opequan.on a level piece of ground shelterd by a high hill. our regt lost between 40 & 50 men kill'd and wounded Col Ball had a narrow escape^.part of a shell^[inserted in pencil] a musket ball parred(sic) away the collar of his coat just under his left ear. a couple of inches and he would have been a goner. Major Cornyn.was struck in the back with a shell tearing the whole back out of it inf licting an ugly flesh wound, but leaving the skin uninjured. he is a brick he came to the hospt had his wound [p 88, book 6] drest.and again went to the front Lieut Gibson was slightly wounded with a shell. 3 of our regt were mortally wounded thro the lungs. the wounds were of a more serious nature than any previous engagement. a great many shells(sic) wounds. the wounded in our div amounted to 300. 200 of them were oper ated upon. there were more legs and arms amputated than I ever saw before I carried out and more than a dozen myself. twas a hard sight, truly. Col Ebright of the 126 O. our Brig was kill'd. a Major on Ricketts had his head blown off. Gen Russell com'd first Div was kill'd his body is lying in an out house near the hospt. it is to be sent home. about 12 tonight all the operations had been perform'd.

Tuesday 20th

Got up about 5. nearly froze. very cold during the night. got orders to follow up the troops. Dr. Bryant was detail'd to stay with the woundd as was also Dr Ebersole the new Surg of the 110th. they attending to our Brig. Harry Marshall, Sam Bell & I. went over the battle field. the Docs and the rest of them going forward with the horses. what sights we saw I shall never forget. rebs & Union soldiers side by side. some with their heards blown off, others cut clear in twain. some lood'd as tho they had just laid down and fell asleep [p 89, book 6] others look'd as tho they had sufferd untold agony before they died. the portion of the field over which we pass'd. there was 3 rebs to one of our men. the prisoners were busy.gathering up the dead and burying them. pass'd thro Winchester, the Taylor Hotel has again been taken for a hospt. our Corp occupy it, fast as they can be moved they will be sent to Martinsburg.and distri buted to genl hospts. the Courthouse and yard are full of prisoners. the Pro Mar. told Dr. Houston he had about 2,500 quite a number of officers of rank amo ngst them. the last time I saw it full of prisoners. twas our men. now the tables are turn'd. in conversation with citizens of Winchester.who have seen a good deal of the sort of thing, I learn, that twas a perfect rush. they did not march thro town, but ran as if the devil was after them. offi cers used their swords and pistols freely.to rally their men, but twas no go. they could not see it. they were the worst whipp'd out of men,they ever saw. our retg charg'd after them.right thro our old camp.and kept after them till darknefs put a stop to the pursuit. they campd for the night about 2 miles the other side of town. the rebs left about 800 of their wounded in town,besides what they left on the field and those that were brot into our hospts. they left[crossed out] 15 surgeons. they had them in nearly [p 90, book 6] all the empty stores in the vicinity of the court. scores of them.had never had their wounds drst. several of them lay dead on the floor. 6 of our men died in the hospt during the night.and 4 on the way to Winchester. follow'd up the troops passing thru Newtown & Middletwon got up just at dusk.tired and foot sore enough.having march'd about 22 miles. I never so much straggly in my life. between Winchester and Strausberg.(sic) [Strasburg] where the army is now lying these must have been near 3000 arm'd and unarm'd men. about 8 Oclock the chaplin came up he & the chaplin^(of the 126 OVI)^ went over the battle field collecting the hard tack out of the haversacks of the dead.for the use of the hospt.there being no supply train along with us. Co I. had one man kill'd Sheppard. he join'd us a short time before we started on this campaign. 3 others were slightly wounded.but are fit for duty.

Wednesday 21st

This forenoon 2 orders were read to the troops one from the President the other from Gen Grant in honor of our victory 100 guns were fired in Wash ington. and goodnefs knows how many at Petersburg. all are in the best of spirits.and cheer'd lustily. skirmis hing has been going on all morning went out a short distance to the front could see our skirmish line.and the tents of the rebs.around Fishers [p 91, book 6] Hill. our troops are beyond Strausberg(sic) [Strasburg] at 12 Oclock the 19th Corp. moved out they planted a battery and shelld the woods in the rear of town at 12 past 1 our Corp moved out to the right of our camping ground. Dr Richards & Hen Tucker.went with the troops. the rest of us went to Div hospt. cannonading has been pretty heavy all afternoon with occasional heavy rounds of musket ry. our Div is in the rear of th Corp. they will not be engaged unlefs we are hard press'd upto this time 5 P.M. no one has been brot in. heavy firing (cannon) on our extreme right & left.sounds as tho twas on the other side of the mou ntain.

Thursday 22nd

Lem Gardner came in from the front early this morning. he is along with Dr Richards and Hen. part of our Brig the 6th Ma & 126 O. made a charge on a position occupied by the rebs. late last evening. the 126th were driven back. they were rallied again.and suceeded(sic) in carrying the posish.which is now occupied by our Artillery. during the night 17 were brot in from the 126.and 1 from the 6th Ma. our regt is out on the skirmish line along with them this mor ning. up to 12 PM. there has only been an occasional cannon fired. every thing is very quiet. the impression is that they have retreated up the valley. the American came to hand this morning our victory is more complete that I thot. we captured 6000 prisoners [p 92, book 6] nearly one half of them wounded. 5 pieces of cannon and 15 battle flags one of the flags had been presentd to the regt 2 days before the fight by the Sesch ladies of Winchester the cavelryman(sic) that captured it.rode thro the town, trailing it behnd him. they lost Gen Rhodes, Gordon, Ramuer & Wharton kill'd. Bradly Johnston, Yorke & Godwin wounded in fact twas a regular flat out and no mistake. our lofs will be about 500 kill'd and 2,500 wounded wrote to Mag. I have just come down from the hospt, Jim Stull was brot in, he lived but a few minutes. he was shot thro the head. I got the ring from his finger and his Sergt straps. I pity his poor wife. she was so much oppo sed to his being in the army. Gerard of Co I. lost a finger and came in a short time before. Jim was as brave a man as there was in our regt. Our Div is on the extreme right.and driving the rebs back. I have just learnd that they have got a good posish. they are ab out 4 miles from here. we cannot hear much of the firing. heavy artillery firing has been going on,since 3 P.M. tis reported our forces are about to advance. buried Jim Stull.about sun down. the Chaplin read the burial service over him. he was wrapt in his shelter tent I mark'd his grave with name [p 93, book 6] regt & Co. he was buried in a strip of woods on the first hill.after we cross'd Cedar Creek.near to a stone blacksmiths shop.on the left hand side of the road. about 9 Oclock.an offi cer came to the hospt with glorious news. our forces had carried every thing before them. our Div captured a fort and 5 pieces of artillery. the 8th Corp. was flanking them when they had to skin out or all be captured. those who saw it.say our Div made one of the bravest chargs(sic) of the war. and strange to say.lost very few men. soon as it was ass ertained.they were on the skally(sic) the flying artillery started out after them. artillery firing was heard till far in the night, .but a long way off. I expect they are skined out for their lives.

Friday 23

Pack'd up and started out about 5. pass'd thro Strausburg(sic). tis a woe begone looking place. pass'd by or ra ther over Fishers Hill. a most splendid position.and well fortified.both by nature and art. they had artillery planted in almost every position comman ding the road, but the flanking procefs spoil'd the calculations saw quite a number of dead & wounded rebs. they were scatterd all along the road. tho nothing but skirmishing had been going on, on [p 94, book 6] on the left. I did not see anything to the right of our line. wagons & ambulances were left on the road burn'd & destroy'd. came up with the Corp about 11 Oclock just on the other side of Woodstock here the rations were drawn of which we stood much in need. in conversation with Col Ball.I learn that we have taken nearly 5000 prisoners.& 19 pieces of artillery. he says our Brig. be haved splendidly. all honor to the 3d. they will be compelld to give us our due. raind about 1/2 and hour after we came up with the Corp. started out at 3 passd thro Edinbro(sic) [Edinburg] camp'd on the other side

Saturday 24th

Got on the way about 6. it raind a little during the day. pass'd thro Mount Jackson here the rebs had several well built frame hospts.in one of which there was about 50 wounded. amongst them 2 of our regt. who were wounded & taken prisoner at Monocacy. they made a slight show of resistance about 2 miles the other side of town. some sharp artillery practice occured[?] when they fell back. follow'd them up pretty closely till we came to New Market the nicest town I have seen on this trip. when they threw some shell [p 95, book 6] pretty close to our advance . blazed away at them and advanced slowly kept up a fire in their rear for 7 [?] miles after leaving New Market. got good positions on a hill.and shell'd the ir train. they skind out like all fury here we camp'd for the night. 2 hours before we got to New Market one half their train had been sent on the Culp epper road. Averill & Ter[?]bett.started out after them full tilt. a shell[?] house and one of the hospts in Mt. Jackson we re set on fire and furn'd down to the ground

Sunday 25th

During the night, it blew up very cold with high wind. moved out about 7. march'd till noon.when we stop'd for about and hour or so and had dinner. moved out again halted several times during the afternoon camp'd early in the evening near Harrisonberg)sic) [burg] not a shot has been fired to day. they must have left here on the double quick. 2 caissons and(sic) lying at the side of the road.broken up. I saw a piece of artillery left on the field.before we came up here. the first one I ever saw abandond on the field. the country thro here is a most splendid farming country. the farm houses large, brick, and zinc roof'd

as a general thing. good and commodious barns and out houses. fences in good repair, but woe betide the fences,where we happen to stop. hogs chickens etc etc. are suffering as usual. I dont think the reb soldiers are allow'd to forage [96, book 6] or there would not be so much left in their rear. got a letter from Mag. I am sorry to hear that Pat is sick. she wishes me to try and get home.for a short while. tis no use to try. I have told her so.time and again

Monday 26th

Weather warm, but cold during the night dont feel well,nor have not done so.for the last 4 days. wrote to Mrs. Stull. still lying here 12 P.M. expect we will stay all day. have not been in town yet. fix'd up Med. knapsack got Med from wagons etc etc. during the afternoon went down to town along with the Docs.Chap & Bill. tis a well built town, the American Hotel is about as large as the Stacey. the Court House and offices connected with it are brick.and in good repair. there has been some large Stores, and a good deal of busi nefs done here. a citizen told me the town was improving fast when the rebellion broke out and contain'd about 1700 inhabitants. there is a large spring at one corner of the Court House. tis cover'd over with a nice dome with a zinc roof. tis at least 10 feet wide & 3 deep. went thro several of the hospts. in one of which we found 8 of our men, the reb surgeons.were very courteous.and paid our surg's every attention. that is as it should be. war is rough businefs and demands all the amities(sic) of life to smooth the rugged edges. there is quite a number of very fine private residences they are nearly all Sesch of the rankest kind. the feminine portion of them [97, book 6] more especially. Dr Houston found the graves of some of his relatives.who have been settled in this valley.for a long time. Adjt Cushing.is a citizen once more his resignation having been accepted, a gladder man.there is not in America to day. he has been with the regt in this last scrape.and stuck it thro. wont he do some tall blowing.when he gets home it will be.what We did.that it will

Tuesday 27th

Tents have been pitch'd in regular or der.and camps laid out. wrote to Mag. sent Jim Stull's things home by Adj Cushing.who goes back with the train which came up this afternoon.and issued 3 days rations. a wagon load of Tob. plug & smoking was confiscated in town and divided amongst the troops each man got about 1/2 a large plug. Lem, Harry & I got about a pound for our share. tolerably good smoking tobacco. they left in such a hurry.that they had not time to take the mail. a number of the letters were^left^ of a very desponding character ackn oowledging.a great defeat. a paper was publishd here 1/2 sheet at 10 Dols a year. the last number was issued on Friday last in which was a call for all those between 16 & 60 to report to the installing officer on the 26th. our coming saved their bacon. another order calling upon all those having exemption^papers^ to report and have them reexamined. they make a clean sweep [98, book 6]

Wednesday 28th

Rous'd up at 4, to march at daylight pack'd up. order contermanded at 7. pit ch'd tents again. slight shower of rain in the morning. clear'd off weather fine. Adjt Cushing started at daylight this morn our Cav have been in Staunton, regt found & I suppose distroy'd(sic) (we have not transportation to haul it away) 3000.barrels of flour. I make no doubt twas the proceeds of Early's contributions on the farmers of this valley whilst he held it. tis reported that 1000 pri soners have been captured at Port Republic. a signal light has beeen seen on the mountain to our left. our Cav. paid it a visit.and captur ed 3 men.2 of them residents of this town,one a justice of the peace.the other had been man ufacturing gun stocks for the reb Government I did not learn any particulars about the third. the rebs shell'd the train of the Cav as they were hauling up rations & ammunition 2 or 3 of the wagons were hit. they have left the direct road to Staunton.and took the road to the left thro the mountains. our Corp is lying along the road they took. stringent orders were read to the troops,forbidding pillaging and foraging. Bill King and Charley Minner (Minner is a prisoner) have been promoted to Sergts. Al. Ham mond.Robertson to corps. Charley Church is first corp.and first in line of promotion,but he did not^get^ it. he feels [99, book 6] very sore on the matter. Charlefs Spot slyvania(sic) record.has kill'd him for promotion. he will never rise.

Thursday 29th

A day of sunshine and showers. moved out about 7. march'd till about 10. camp'd in a field of standing corn. about 11 got orders to cook dinner. just after dinner as we were lounging round smoking our pipes.a Cav. man. shot at a sheep and wounded it in the leg. the bullet went zip past where we were sitting and wound'd one of th 110th in the back part of the thigh making an ugly flesh wound. moved out shortly after into a strip of woods.and went into camp. we had not been in camp an hour before.the boys com menced to bring in geese turkeys chickens hogs sheep, pumpkins grapes apples peaches.flour. anything they could lay their hands on. so much for orderss the fact is,the officers wink at it and take their share of.what ever comes along. tis shameful the way some of the men.pillage & plunder. talk about cultivating a Union sentiment wherever we go.it has the contrary ef fect. the rebs are reported to be at Br owns Gap, wherever that is.about 15 miles from here. tis reporeted Early has been reinforced by 2 Div. of Longsreets(sic) Corp. I know not how true it is. we are camp'd just on right of Mount Crawford [100, book 6] just as we were about to lay down the sky was lurid [livid?], flames shooting up in every direction. the Cav are at work again, not lefs than 20 barns.and wheat stacks were on fire

Friday 30th

The Cav have been driving cattle past our camp all night. Geo Rink called on us. he belongs to the 2d Va Cav tis composed of Ohioans all but one Co. he is a vet. he told me Gen Sheridan had been out to see them 2 days before and issued orders that all the wheat & barns containing it were to be destroy'd he says there is not a stack of wheat or barn.between Staunton & arri sonberg(sic) left standing. they drove in every thing that could go, horses cattle & sheep. about 5 or 6000 head. tis fear ful to think of, but such is war. if left in our rear (for I expect we will fall back) twould be giving aid & comfort to the rebs. the innocent suffer with the guilty. how gladly would I see the war stop'd. they must come back to the Union, then all will be well. Rink told me some of Cav.rode ahead to the farm houses.and prom ised them.on the payment of a cer tain sum of money.(in specie) they would save their property. In a great many instances.they received quite a large sum,directly. soon as they [p101, book 6] were out of sight, came along the squad appointed to do the burning when the torch was applied.and all they possed'd was consumed. the plan was understood.they shared the spoils. could human depravity go further war seems to intensify all the baser passions of human nature. a(sic) I expected about 1 PM we got orders to move were on the way in 1\2 hour. bout(sic) face got to our old camping ground.about 5. pitch'd tents and laid down.sup perlefs,the first time since I have been in the army. by some mismana gment on the part of the Q.M.'s we did not get any rations the last time.

Saturday Oct 1st

To day has been a wet drizzly uncom fortable day. a staff officer from Brig H.Q. was round this evening making a collection for a Union family who have lost every thing and wish to go North. the officers of our regt subscribed 25.00. about 300 dols were collected. the family consists of man wife and 7 children. a number of families left Mount Crawford to go North. they fill's a number of ambulances the officer said 5000 reinforcements were coming up. the paymaster was along.and the supply train.with 10 days rations. looks like a forward move again. rumors are floating round in regard to some late movements of Gen Grants. know nothing definite [102, book 6]

Sunday 2d

Sure enough the P.M. is round. sign'd the payroll,before I had my breakfast. got a letter from Mag. all well at home, with the exception of herself. she sends me a prescription of Dr Bells, wishing to know the eng lish names of it. tis a good Rx and just suited to her case. I am so glad that the P.M. is here. twill provide the children with good comfortable winter clothing Grant has carried 2 lines of works and captured 15 cannon and is within 4 miles of Richmond. I wish something official would arrive. no papers yet 10 A.M. papers came up. no accounts of Grants move, but an official account came to Brig HQ. conformining(sic) it. paid off after dinner to the 1st Sept. sent 30 Dols home by Paxton the sutter of the 110th. he will exprefs it from Martinsburg. I sent an open envelope in which he will send the receipt home. heavy artillery firing has been heard to the right of Mount Crawford all afternoon the signal Corp has been busy orders were issued that the men keep close to camp. Lieut. Kil bun(sic) [Killburn?] has return'd he was wou nded in the wildernefs. Lieut.Nei mier has been honorably dischar ged. he was wounded at Coal Harbor [103, book 6] Averill has been relieved. cause not cooperating with the rest of the forces at Fishers Hill. he was order'd to push to their rear and pick up the stragglers. he took a little too much. Oh be joyful.and order'd his men into camp. twas an unfortunate affair. he might have captured the whole kit in conversation with a rebel officer, he told me Early was so drunk on the 19th.that he could not sit on his horse. he gave his com mands from a buggy. blast the whiskey it works ruin on both sides.

Monday 3rd

Only 4 days rations were issued yesterday got breakfast long before daylight. pack'd up for a move. waited for orders till noon. when we were order'd to go[?] into camp. quarters were policed. new sinks dug.and things put in order.as tho we should stay here awhile. it has been a dull hazy day.with rain towards evening. the chaplin of the 126 Ohio. has res ign'd. and gone home. all the rebel wo unded.that could be haul'd in wagons were sent back in the empty supply train. a number of families.went North at the same time. they started at 4 Oclock this morning

Tuesday 4th

Weather fine to day. sun very warm the camps are all being policed and fix'd. everything very quiet not a gun has been heard to day [104, book 6] another of the 110 was shot thro both legs, accidently,this evening fortunately no bones^(injured)^ were. he was taken to Div hospt

Wednesday 5th

Weather a little cooler to day wrote to John Vorhies. he is in hospt at Fred rick city. late last night large fires could be seen burning. this and the other side of the mountains to our right. tis rumor'd twas a small town call'd Dayton. some of our Cav had been bushwack'd by the people. in revenge they burn'd it to the ground, so the story goes. I know not how true it is, but be that as it may, the sky was illumed for miles. so it goes. will they never see that tis their interst to come back to the Union. gambling is very prevalent, from the lowest to the highest indulge in it. 100's of dols are thus expended that ought to go to the support of poor familes. thank fortune I never have nor never will contract that vice

Thursday 6th

Got up about 5. pull'd up stakes at 7. pass'd by Big Springs.in going up the valley we pass'd it on our right. tis a large spring sufficient to turn a big mill clear & cool. pass'd on thru New Market thot we would stop there, but march'd on. did not halt till 5 Oclock, when we camp'd at the foot of Mount Jackson within about 3 miles of the train on [105, book 6] the same ground that the rebs held when we drove them up the valley. did not halt for more than 15 min at a time during the whole day had nothing to eat from before daylight till long after dark. what the object was in marching us so hard I cannot imagine. made about 22 miles feel tired enough. every barn that we pass'd on the road.had been burn'd to the ground. Dr Houston found 2 cousins residing within 3 miles of Harrisonburg

Friday 7th

Started out about 7. twas nearly 10 before we got thro Mount Jackson. an ammuni tion^(wagon)^ blew up just at the bridge. the shells were lying round thick the wagon still burning no one was hurt as far a I could learn the bridge at Edinbro(sic) was destroyd, a citi zen told me twas burn'd by a band of inde pendant guirallas(sic) on last Sunday night got to Woodstock.about 5. camp'd about 1/2 mile the other side. march'd about 20 miles, expected to get rations here, but by some mishap.none were here. borrowed 1 days rati ons(sic) from the Cav. each man got 6 tack and some sugar & coffee. as we went up the val ley,fruit was plentiful. now you can scarcely get a single one. a good deal of sugar cane is almost ready for cutting. corn as a gene ral thing is pretty good. in some places tis very poor. a good breadth of land is sown in wheat.

Saturday 8th

Moved about 6. got a paper on the way dated 3d. old, but news to us. Grant is pushing thing in the direction of [p 106, book 6] Petersburg. twas rumor'd in camp last night that he had taken it with 17000,prisoners and immense lot of war material. pass'd over Fishers Hill. camp'd in the flat.on the banks of the North branch of the Shenanadoah.(camp'd about noon) about 2000 reb Cav.follow'd up our rear guard.to watch our movements. the wea ther has been cold for the last 2 days high wind nearly all the time; my overcoat pays for carrying it all summer. one year more then farewell army. how anxiously I long for the day.that will restore me to my family rations were issued this evening. wrote to Mag

Sunday 9th

Considerable cannonading has been heard all forenoon. tis rumor'd in camp.that 500 Cav & 5 pieces have been captured, then was considerable cheering after dark. cant trace the report to any reliable source. sent 50 Dols. by Stephen,to ex for Matt Griffin to his father. sent an open envelope,to sent the receipt in. very cool all day. there are several cases of smallpox in our Brig. the ambulance containing them was missing for 3 days,but turn'd up this mor ning. we all thot they were captured as they were in the rear of every thing

Monday 10

Very cold during the night. first frost of the season. Ice formed 1/2 inch thick in shallow vessels. as we were eating [107, book 6] breakfast.got orders to move. did not get off till near 9 Oclock. only our Corp moves. march'd to Middletown turnd to our right. struck the Winchester & Front Royal road. comp'd early, about 2 miles from Front Royal on the banks of a small creek. sun warm all day unofficial information, but I think reliable, sets down the the rebel lofs at 700 Cavy pris, 11 pieces cannon, all of the ambulance train and a num ber of ordanance wagons. they were dri ven thro Woodstock. all sorts of rumors are afloat, we are going to fortify here and hold the valley, going to winter here etc etc. well we will see.

Tuesday 11th

Thot last night we would move this mor ning, but being election day. for the Ohio & Pa troops we did not. the polls open'd at 9 & closed at 5. Col Granger & Major Corn yn were judges. Huston Co A & Sawhill were clerks. it pass'd off very quietly Muskingum Co. gave 17 majority for the Union ticket. I do hope John Roberts will be defeated by John Hoopes. I make no doubt the Union ticket in our Co. will be elected. as a regt I think twill be a tie vote or nearly so. tis doing pretty well for our regt. which is decidedly cop pery. tis a grand moral sight to be wittnefs(sic) in no other part of the world, the soldier with a bullet in his musket and a ballot in his hand, fighting his foes, both in front and rear. a scouting^party^ from our Brig. of 400 men 100 from our regt.went out in the after noon.and return'd a little after dark bringing in with them a number of horses the boys brot in all the chickens, ducks turkies(sic) etc etc.. they came acrofs. [108, book 6]

Wednesday 12th

Our Brig. moved camp,this forenoon to the other side of the creek. we have not moved our quarters as yet. as we were eating dinner it commenced to rain and continued drizzling all afternoon the 110the went strongly for the Union ticket the supply train came up this evening Paxton sent off the money and maild the receipt. he says an ambulance con taining mail was captured yesterday afternoon by guarilla(sic).between Newtown & Middletown 7 of the guard were kill'd and 30 wounded. the scamps got off clean with it. they were about a mile in adv ance of the supply train at the time. tis a strange thing they will not keep. along with the regular train that is as a general thing well guarded, after all the warning they have had.by the fate of previous mails. Dr Ebersole of the 110th has come up. Dr Bryant is still at the Taylor Hotel hospt. the Brig band came up with the train.

Thursday 13th

Had orders to move at 6. got off by 7. the 3d Brig of our Div. was left behind. our des tination is Alexandria by the way of Ashbys Gap & the Aldie turnpike. all sorts of rumors are afloat. the prevailing opinion is Petersburg, some Missouri others Moible(sic) or Wilmington, in fact we know not where we are going. Pass'd thro White Post . halted near Millwood and made coffee. when within a mile of the Gap.we were halted and finally march'd back 1/3 mile and went into camp. why I cant learn.. the most astonishing stories are afloat regarding Grant & Petersburg. I cannot give credance [109, book 6] to them. they come in such a questionable shape. 6 wagon loads of plug tobacco.was seized at a house about 1 mile from camp and issued to the men. there was about 10 000dols worth of it. several houses were pill aged. and almost everything they could not carry or did not need.was wantonly dis troy'd. tis outrageous the conduct of some of our men. they are a disgrace to the army 4 of Co A.who left the ranks and went out foraging,were captured by reb scouts. they took all the money they had.amounting to 148 Dols. their arms etc etc and then parol'd them. artillery firing has been heard all evening in the direction of Strausberg something has broke loose I,ll(sic) bet

Friday 14th

Were rous'd up at 3 this morning and on the way by 1/2 past. pass'd White Post before daylight. got to Newtown by 9.where we cook'd breakfast. halted about an hour got to Middletown about 4. camp'd 2 miles on the other side.and 3 from Strausberg. here we found the 19th Corp. when we left them day before yesterday they and the 8th were ca mp'd 3 miles beyond Strausberg. why did they fall back. tis said the rebs have taken posession(sic) of Fishers Hill again things are considerablbly mix'd. have not had an opportunity of conversing with any of them about the matter. well learn something to morrow. got a letter from Mag. all well at home. she writes more cheerfully. her health is improving slowly since yesterday morning we have march'd 35 miles. I feel pretty tired. Dr Eber sole tells me that Dr Bryant.had both his horses stolen. this make 4 he has lost. they cost him 500 dollars. he is unfortunate in horse flesh. [p 110, book 6]

Saturday 15th

Laid here all day. part of our regt has gone out on a foraging expedition. wea ther fine, not so cool. the scrape the day we left did not amount to much twas a reconnoisance(sic). when they met the Johnnies, there was more noise than fighting. few men were hurt. the 8 Corp moved out to feel for them. so far 6 PM nothing has been heard from them

Sunday 16th

Weather cool & blustery,with sunshine the supply train came up. no mail or papers. the 8 Corp came in this evening between 5 and 6000 troops came up with the train, convalesants etc. Charley Church amonst the number. when we left Ash bys Gap on the way back here, he got with the supply train,in place of the hospt train.(he was on the sick list) and got to Winchester. we all thot he had been gobbled. he tells me Dr. Bryant has a very sore hand, caught in amputating the guirallas attack'd a train on the B&O.RR. kill'd 2 women, robb'd all the passengers, amongst them 2 P.Ms with 200,000 dols. and destroyd the train. what is Kelly about. wrote to Mag.

Monday 17th

Weather warmer, wind not so high was over at the 123d Ohio.in Crooks com'd. they are lying about 2 miles [p 111, book 6] on our left & the 19th Corp are throwing up breastowrks. they hold a pretty good posish. our Corp has not done anything in that line. our line being destitute of timber. Cedar Creek is as good fortifications as we need. Hen & I went down to bathe. the water was too cold. strip'd & spong'd off. no troops co uld charge up its banks,in the face of troops. Hip Hip Hurrah. Bully for the Buck Eye State. 20,000 majority for the Union ticket. Cox is defeated how glad I am McKinney has shar'd the same fate, so may all Copperheads fare. the heart of the nation is sound Penn has wheel'd into the Union line even Indianna has redeem'd herself McClellan is dead. his friends can never ressurect(sic) him. peace to his ashes.

Tuesday 18th

Weather mild. sun shine. got my clothes boil'd and wash'd by a color'd woman the first chance for a long while to get them thoroughly wash'd Dr Houston tells me the 3d Brig. that join'd us lately, has been transfer'd to Crooks Comd. a foraging party from our Brig. went out. they return'd towards evening bringing corn potatoes apples chickens turkeys honey sheep & cattle. they were divided amo ngst the regts.that went out. we got some honey & potatoes. sutters are around they charge exorbidant(sis) prices for every thing thank fortune, I dont patronize them much

Wednesday 19th,

Was awoke this morning.at break of day.by heavy musketry firing on the left in the direction of the 8th Corp. got up and look'd round. the camp was compa ratively quiet. the firing continued and [112, book 6] and increased. presently all was bustle. Sam commenced to get breakfast, but before we could get it, we were orded'd to pack up. during the whole of this time the firing was getting hotter & nearer. thing were pack'd up in a hurry& out we skinn'd, leaving forage & some potatoes etc. we went to the Div hospt or rather in that direction. it had moved, follow'd it up. came up with it, about 3 miles from our camp. met Dr Houston there. the rest of them had taken the other roads, fell back to Newtown. things were considerably mix'd. in the train. a little more and there would have been a panic. the rebs attack'd our extreme right early in the morning, coming round gradually to the left, where they mass'd their troops and pitch'd on the 8th Corp.who had(or at le ast a portion of them) made no preperation(sic) for an attack. the consequence was they were driven like sheep. the 19th who were on their right, caught the infection and fell back in great disorder, up to this time our Corp. had not been brot. up. twas a critical moment.for us. (Sheridan is not here) Wri ght is in com'd of the forces. Ricketts of our Corp Keifer com'd the Div.& Col Ball our Brig. they were just going into line as I left camp. the bullets were flying pre tty thick before I left. all along the route could be seen 100s of men in every direction falling to the rear, helter skelter pell mell. every man on his own hook Officers, Provos. and guards were of no {113, book 6] use. to the rear they would and did go. soon as our Corp got into position they check'd the rebs, but not before they had taken the position occupied by both the 8th & 19th Corp. and taken 20 pieces of cannon, and taken all the prisoners they could lay their hands on. at the par ticular time it look'd very much as if we would haul up at Harpers Ferry or some other sea port. a more demoraliz'd set of men I never saw, our Corp saved the army, hark a cheer, whats up, Sheri dan is coming.sure enough here he comes.riding for dear life. they cheer & cheer. come back boys. he says, we will pay them up for this. they collect in crowds and follow. in the mean time hospts & establish'd, our Corp fell back to secure a good posish.(beyond Middletown) and form the line again. the rebs were on our flank. about this time Sheridan came up. he gave Wright much credit for the way he handled the Corp. now the tables have turn'd. our men advanced again. for ab out 1/2 mile the rebs fought stubbornly, but at last they broke and ran. twas sun down as our Inft. gave up the chase. the Cav in the mean time had been sent to the rear, where they captured more prison ers, that they could guard. they left them & push'd on after the trains & artillery.of which they captured nearly all their wagons & ambulances, recapturing a good many of our prisoners, and the cannon we lost in the morning.and 41 pieces from them to keep them company. night put a stop the pursuit as far as the Inft. were condern'd. Victory has been [114, book 6] snatch'd out of the Jaws of defeat.

Thursday 20th

During the night quite a number of wounded were brot in several from our regt. got some straw and made them as comfortable as possible. early in the fore noon. Ed Hilliard was brot in. he was wound early in the fight yesterday.and fell into hands of the Johnnies. his wound will prove fatal I fear. the ball enter'd the lower por tion of the back.and lodged in the pelvis he bears it well. got him into a house. T Beatty of our Co. was slightly wounded in the leg. Ettiburn [Etteburn] was shot in the bowels. he was taken to some hospts of the other Div I could not find him. he could not live Lieut Kilburn was kill'd on the field. he had only return'd a few weeks ago. 3 of Kei fers staff were wounded 2 mortally and one taken prisoner. Ricketts & Wright were both slightly wounded. took posses ion of a number of houses.for the wounded and amputating. busy until Saturday evening. almost every Doc that could get a chance to handle a knife. there was more amputating done than I have seen at one time since I have been out. about 100 reb wounded were brot in. the ladies of the town paid them all attention. liter ally stuffing them. the Docs had to forbid them giving them so much to eat. after all our men were attended too(sic) we drest the wounded Johnnies.and sent them to Winchester.where all our own men had been previously sent. about 2000 reb prisoners pass'd thro on Friday. they were as a genral thing stout hale hearty look ing fellows and tolerably well drest. I saw very few boys. they seemed good humord and took the matter philosophically [115, book 6] about 5 Oclock on Saturday evening tents were pull'd down all pack'd up and we started for the front, leaving a few of the worst reb wounded with their lady friends in town. nearly all the fences in town disppear'd.and things torn up considerably. got to our old camp about 8. hard work finding it in the dark. the night before we left some cufs stole Chaplin Hustons hofs. our mefs has luck in that line.

Sunday 23d

Got up about daybreak. devilish near froze. could not sleep all night, weather little cool. all our officers are safe. Major Cornyn had another narrow escape. out regt is out on picket all the troops are in their old posish and thing look natural. saw a number of graves scatter'd between our camp & where Div hospt used to be. have not assertain'd the amount of lofs in our regt. Brig. Div. Or Corp. 2 years ago to day we left camp Zanesville.in high spirits, confident the war would not last a year. how sadly we were mistak en, but I think the end is nigh. how few of the old members.are left. how many will there be when our time expires. Yes how many. few, very few, I doubt. Col Ball tells me our lofs in prisoners is about 15 00 late this evening I got a letter from Mag [the first time he hasn't underlined this in book 6] since she last wrote she has been and still continues very sick. something like the flux. she is very weak. she thinks she is at the turn of life. she is rather young for that. I begin to be seriously alarmed on her account. I will write to Dr Bell who is attending her, and learn his opinion [p 116, book 6] of her case. I would like much to go home if but for a few days,but tis uselefs to think of it. she received the money.

Monday 24th

Weather a little cool,slight shower dur ing the day. our regt had 36 wounded 2/3 of[crossed out] slight, the men remaining with the comd our Brig lost 4 officers kill'd 20 wounded 1 missing.(14 privates are missing from our regt. some of them probably kill'd but there is no report of them) Our Div had 52 kill'd, 311 wounded.& 17 missing. pass'd an uneasy night. feel much dispirited, more so than I have been for a long while. I shall be miserable till I hear from home again I hope & pray.that ere this she is better. the 8th & 19th Corps. occupy their old posishes our victory has been a complete affair. we captured nearly everything on wheels,and at one time Custers Cav had 7000 prisoners but could not guard them, and the Inft were too far in the rear, night coming on they nearly all got away. an order from the President was read this evening at 4 Oclock thanking Sheridan & his com'd for the victories in the valley. consider able cheering was done. things are all settled down.as tho nothing had occur'd

Tuesday 25th

Weather mild. camp & parade ground fix'd up. looks as tho we might stay here supply train came up. with it a host of sutters. bottled cider & champagne (sic) bottled empty.are lying round thick wrote to Mag, telling her I should try [p 117, book 6] and get a furlough. saw the Col in the evening. read her letter to him. he told me to make application. he woudl do all he could for me. got Dr Houston to make the application for me. got it approved by Lieut Col Granger. took it down to the Col. he read it.and suggested that I accompany it with that portion of the letter relating to Mags illness. when I got up to quarters Dr Houston had laid down. I will get it done first thing in the morning.

Wednesday 26th

Pass'd an uneasy night. felt nervous could not sleep. got up at 4. it froze dur ing the night. sun warm all day. at daylight saw the Col. when he approved the papers. after sick call the Dr fix'd up the papers according to the suggestions of the Col. took it to Adjt Wheeler who put the finishing touches (red ink under the lines) to it. and forwarded it to Div H.Q. when it will return is the next ques tion. Col Ball started home on 15 days leave of absence. the Lt Col has gone to Washington. Lt Powers has also gone home on leave of absence. I just got it thro in time. the Chaplin found his horse. the man that stole it sold it for 25 dols. to Col McClenahan of the 138 Pa.

Thursday 27th

Just as I got thro sick call. Lieut Wheeler told me.my furlough had come (15 days) went over to H.Q. found out there was a train going [p 118, book 6] down to Winchester. Smith the sutter of the 110th,was going down got a ride in his wagon. got to Winchester about 5. went to the hospt. saw Dr. Bryant. he looks a little thin. went up to our G.M. found Wes,there.staid with them all night.

Friday 28th

It raind heavily all night. about 4 Oclock.the tent in which Wes.[un readable] Waxler & I were sleeping blew down, got up built a fire in the other tent got breakfast and started about 8 Ocl (sic) about 100 families.follow'd in the rear of the train. they came principally from the region about Newtown they intend to settle in Ohio. staid at Mr Boyd's at Bunker Hill and took dinner. he was glad to see me en quired about Jack Drew & Tom McAdam. got in the rear of the train. did not catch up with them. had a devil of a job hunting up our regt wagon wh ere my traps were. found them at last went down to the RR the train did not start till 1/2 past 3. on

Saturday 29th

Altho behind time in starting, the train arrived in Zanesville on time about 1/2 past 10. the first one I saw that I know, was Mrs Riley. she wanted me to take a drink. did so. got a little in my canteen. then went on my way [p 119, book 6] rejoicing. all was still. knock'd at the door, whos there Tom, what Tom. why me, Mag open'd the door she cried soon as she saw me. she is much better than I expected to find her, but still she is far from being well the children were all asleep. had a cup of tea. took a good warm bath and went to bed, true enough

Sunday 30th

In the forenoon went down and saw Dave Keeley. rambled round a little. in the evening call'd at C. Churchs fathers. call'd in at Jake Dappus's.and Merkles. met several whom I knew.amongst them C. Brendel.

Monday 31st

Mag & the children are getting along finely. Mag has been very unwell indeed,but she will improve daily have been round to see a number of my friends. in fact, I have been on active duty.all the time. find that there is more copperheadism.ram pant in town.than I ever gave it credit for. have had several rather animated discussons(sic). tis no use. I cannot tell them what I think the results is I have offended.some of my old chummies. well election day came round.when we whip them bad. things pass'd off very quietly. a host of our regt.who are in hospt.came home the day before election. amongst them, Jim C. Hana.old man Luder, Char ley Miner, John Petty, Q. Kerlen [p 120, book 6] and several others. with the exception of Jim C Hana [Hara], we all voted the clean union(sic) ticket. at the 11th hour.Col Ball voted for Old Abe. glad of it. had a good time all round. as the returns began to come in. Col Ball started to the front on Wednesday mor ning. would like'd to have gone with him, but I could not get transportation saw the Provo. he teld(sic) me I would have to go to Columbus. I will try and see John Kimball. perhaps he can get me up as far as Wheeling on the precept[? or receipt?] paying my own way from the front and buying some little nesessary things has drain'd the purse dry I will be in a hell of a fix if I cannot raise money.or get a lift over the road. saw John.late on Thursday evening. he said he would be down in the morning.and try to arrange it for me. went home early. Mag has been busy all day fixing up little things. well here I have been at home about 12 days. how swiftly they have past.(sic) Mag's he alth has improved every day since I came home. with the ex ception of the baby they are all in good health. Mag & I talk'd [121, book 6] the matter over before we went to bed. she gave me 4,00. all she could, more indeed than she realy could, but she willingly sacrifiecs a little where I am concerned. I will be a good boy. and make up for it all when I get home for good

*Saturday 11*[ crossed out]

Friday 11th

Got up early. had breakfast.and then came the tug of wan(sic) partings from her and the children. at last the ordeal is past, and out I rush I never could go thro it without piping(sic) my eye. the little ones clinging to me,and saying stay at home Da no one at the cars. had to pay my fare Lieut Hilliards body came during the night. twas on the platform as I started. got to Wheeling. met J ack Maxfield. went up to the Q.M.'s Office 3 times could not see the clerk. staid all night at the Soldiers Rest. next day got transportation but not till after the 11AM train had left. rambled round town about 4 in the after noon met Hen Stephens. went up to supper with him. got my traps. went down to the Depot [p 122, book 6] just my luck. no train will leave till to morrow at 11 P.M. went and staid all night with Hen. in the morning the ground was cover'd with snow to the dep th on(sic) 2 or 3 inches. got off about 1/2 past 11. on the summit {of the} [crossed out] the snow.was 6 inches deep. cold travelling. in fact for the last 6 or 8 days.the weather has been cold, rainy foggy & disagreeable. nothing of importance has occur'd.in our part of the army since I left. got to Martinsburg at 3 Oclock on the morning of

Monday 14th

3 days on the way, part the fault of the Q.M. clerk, part the RR. and part my own. my own fault in taking Col Washburns. advice that if I could not see the clerk when I went again all that would be necessary for me to do.would be to show my furlough at the ^office^(sic) ticket. I did so, but could not get it. sat round the fire at the Depot tell 6. the 18 Conn. came in [p 123, book 6] during the night. got up to our Q.M.'s just as they were about to get breakfast. Lieut Col Granger & Adjt {Cushing} [crossed out] Wheeler are here in com'd of the train. my luck fol lows. the train went to the front yesterday. Col Ball did not get off till then. I shall have to stay here till Thursday. wrote to Mag our forces have fallen back to near Kerns Town. Atlanta has been attack'd 3 times they were repulsed every time. something will be heard from Sherman in a few days that will startel(sic) somebody.

Tuesday 15th

About 10 Col Granger got orders to have the men under his command about 1000, to hold themselves in readi nefs as an attack by Moseby.was fear'd camp fires were seen, near the mountains (we have no troops there) orders were issued and everything put in order for their reup(sic) tion but all past off quietly. a citizen told me numbers of them never went to bed. and some few pack'd up their traps 2 officers were buried this afternoon by the Free Masons.and ^with^ military honors. twas quite an impressive [p 124, book 6] sight. the scare last night was caused by some of our Cav. who were on a bender.and firing their car bines for the fun of the thing. the tra in return'd this evening Hen Tucker is sick in the hospt at Winchester. how sorry I am that I cannot get to the regt sooner.

Wednesday 16th

To day has been very fine sun shinning all day. no news of im portance, nothing definite from Sherman. 3 miles if(sic) the road has been torn up between Harpers Ferry & Winchester, rather a poor begin ning. soon as the road is finished Winchester will be our base.

Thursday 17th

I got on the way about 8. put my traps in the wagon it rain'd till about noon. a few Johnnies were seen on the way. the Cav chased them, but twas no go. Buckleton ought to be call'd pie town , the only businefs carried on is the making & selling pies. Leather ones at that. serv'd and pegg'd at the moderate price of 25 cts each the train consisted of 630 wagons besides ambulances and sutter wagons a number of citizens come along got into Winchester at sun down went to the hospt. Hen Tucker was in the Drs room. he is pretty slim went to Jacksons with the Doc and had supper. Wheeler & Johnston [p 125, book 6] calld up. they play'd a game or two of cards and had a little of some thing to wet our whistles

Friday 18th

Had breakfast with the Doc in relation to a subject he has broach'd before he thinks of going into the Drug bui snifs(sic). he wants me to take charge of it. started about 9, the train was along way ahead. it rain'd heavily all day. got to the Div hospt. saw several of the boys. they pointed out where the regt lay. got there about dinner time. got my traps out of the wagon. deliver'd the bundles and letters. was round amongst the boys till evening. our regt are encamp'd in a very nice posish saw the Col. shook hands with him told him.how and why it was.that I was detain'd in Wheeling.

Saturday 19th

Have been busy all day. fixing up the knapsack. was over at the wagon and got a lot of things mix'd up. Charley Church.told me this morn ing.that I was reported absent without leave. 2 days before I got here. what are they going to do about it. the boys are fixing up log huts. Harry & Lem put up a good shanty. I shall bunk with them. till a dispensary is put up. we have not got any definite orders to put up winter quarters twould be a nice place to winter [p 126, book 6]

Sunday 20th

Weather dull & heavy all day. the chaplin could not preach in consequ ence. Wesley started home yesterday morning on 15 days furlough. I gave him a note to Mag. heavy breastworks are thrown up all along our front. Sheridans H.Q. are within sight of our camp. saw the old members of Co I. in relation to the Co fund. 30 Dols was donated to the widow Stull. will dr aw up the papers to morrow. and have them sign'd and send them to Capt Black, who I suppose is home by this time.

Monday 21st

It has rain'd all day. and con tinued till near midnight. our regt was out on battalion drill in the morning. in the after noon there was Corp review. they were a drench'd looking set of coons when they came in. wrote to Mag Custers Cav. started out at 3 Oclock this morning. it appears from what deserters say, that the Johnnies have all left the valley you can hear almost anything Tenn. Moible(sic) Charleston [p 127, book 6] etc etc my opinion is we will not stay here long. if the John's have left, we will leave.

Tuesday 22d

About midnight it ceased to rain and turn'd very cold ice formed 1/4 inch thick. go the boys of the Co to agree in dividing what money was in the fund between Jim Stulls & Wm James widow. we all [un readable] it with the exception of Nelson Wurts Zimmer & Robertson. I sent the papers to Capt Black I make no doubt he will see to the matter soon as possible. wrote to Mrs. Stull, Mr Hall & Capt Black posted the letter to Mag. weather very cold

Wednesday 23d

It blew a perfect hurricane all night.and froze hard. it has been the coldest day of the season. Dr. Richards lost his horse this morning some scamp stole her while she was grazing not far from our Quarters. we have all hunted far and near but tis no go. she is gone. Lem saw some Cav at Army H.Q. who told him that they had a fight up the [p 128, book 6] valley and captured 6 pieces of cannon and several 100 prisoners rather doubtful I think. the boys are still putting up quarters. I wish we only knew what we were going to do.

Thursday 24th

Weather moderated sun shining all day, to day is another thanksgiving day, the chaplin preach'd in the forenoon. Dr McCandlifs has return'd he is at Div hospt. he looks much better than I expected to see him our Brig was out on Brig drill in the afternoon. just as I thot the Cav man, was spinning Lem a yarn. the fact is they went just as far up the vally as they could.when they run against the Johnny Inft 3 lines deep, when they turn'd round in short order. the reb cav follow'd them some distance, there was some shelling done by both parties but not many hurt on our side. each Co in the regt had 2 turkeys or a goose & a turkey for [p 129, book 6] thanksgiving dinner. the whole of this army were supplied by the liberality of the citizens of New York. our mefs did not get any.

Friday 25th

To day the weather has been warm enough to do without fire. most of the day. Atlanta and Rome have been destroy'd. Shermans movements are still clouded in mystery.. we are as much in the dark as the Johnnies, if not more so. battalion drill this afternoon. would like to hear from home. all quiet in the diggins

Saturday 26th

Weather cloudy rain'd at inter vals all day. one of the 9 NY. was gobbled up yesterday evening wh ilst out with the forage train. they brot in 2 Johnnies to ma ke up the lofs. Sherman has been heard from. he was with in a few miles of Macon. he will wake them up. the forage wagons came in just at sun down bringing in a lot of hay & fodder [p 130, book 6] Dennick a drummer boy of Co. and one of the 9th N.Y. were cap tured. they left the command and were pillaging a house. they took their horses and strip'd them of every thing and then released them. serves them right. Dennick is one of the worst young scamps in the army. he will end his days in penitentiary. the Col has placed him under attest.

Sunday 27th

Weather fine. sun shining all day muddy under foot. the report is now that we will move in a day or two to the Opaquan(sic) Lieut De Yannett(sic)[De Gannet?] started home this morning. the drum Corp. of the whole Div play together at guard mount. they make a devil of a racket.

Monday 28th

It rain'd a little during the night it has been a dull hazy day. the cavalry brot in the evening 8 gueralls(sic) part of the gang who have been pick ing up. stragglers from our forag ing parties. there cake is all dough [p 131, book 6]

Tuesday Monday[crossed out] 29th

Weather beautiful. perfect spring day. Sherman has been heard from officially. he has taken Midgeville the capitol of Georgia and destroy'd all the public prop erty. he is making for Macon & Savannah. he has released 2000 of our men. his movements will be a decided sucefs.

Wednesday Tuesday[crossed out] 30th

Weather very fine. part of our regt is out on picket. the GM's have all come up to their res pective regts. it look as tho we might stay here. our base of supplies now is Stevensons(sic)[Stephenson] station a short distance from Winchester. got a letter from Mag. all well at home. she still feels a little nervous etc Hen Tucker came up this evening. he looks very slim [last 3 lines unfilled] [p 132, book 6]

Thursday December 1st

The weather have been beautiful a mild balmy spring day. the rebs attack'd and drove up our forces at New Creek.capturing a numbar of the.and distroy'd(sic) all the government property.they then proceeded to Peirmont(sic).and destr oy'd the machinery & burlorngs[?] of the B.&.O.R.R. they injured the road but lttle. what is old grand mother Kelley about. the mail for our regt was brot at 2 Oclock this morning. that denotes something just after breakfast we learn'd that the 1st Div has started fro the railroad. the air is full of rumors. Newburn, Petersburg, Ten nesse(sic), Kentucky is to be our des tination. we move from here that is certain. all the sick that are not able to march have been sent to Div hospt. and orders rec eived to fill up the field knapsack I went to the wagon and got what we needed.. I hope twill not be Petersburg. I would much rather go to some part of the country that I have not seen. [last line unfilled] [133, book 6]

Friday Dec 200

Weather dull to day. rain'd slig htly towards evening. Dr. Richards the chaplin & Harry were down at Winchester. twas reported there that the 1st Div. were about to re turn. the order to the 2 Div to move has been countermanded. another report says.our Div. will guard the train thro to Washington. if(sic) fact we know nothing about it. we must wait

Saturday Dec 3

About 3 this morning the butcher halloed into the tent come and get your beef. we move at 8. had breakfast before daylight. tis rather tough on the boys after having built good quarters. thrown up heavy breastworks and erected several good forts.to have to skin out. started about 1/2 past 8. march'd to Stevensons (sic)[Stephenson] station 9 miles. the regt started before we did.having to wait and get the horses aboard. pull'd out about 1/2 past 2, Dr. Houston, Richards the chaplin and the rest of us.got on top of the car, there being no empty cars for passengers. (Hen Tucker went back to hospt) when about 12 miles from Harpers [134, book 6]Ferry. we met with a serious accident, the car on which we were(it had 19 horses in it) run of(sic) the track, and was dragg'd nearly 200 yards, when the coupling broke and then the fore axle. I barely excaped by jumping on to the forward ^car^ a few seconds and twould have been too late. as i look'd round I saw the car fall forward.and thr ow the whole of them pell mell to the ground. soon as the train could be stop'd we ran back. what a sight one man with his thigh broke ano ther with his head cut legs and arms sprain'd. Dr Houston was bruised considerably, and had the fore finger of his left hand broke at the first joint. the chaplin was cut about the face head and neck. Harry Marshal bruised about the face and considerably sha ken. Sam & Billy excaped with only a[crossed out] slight bruises. carried the 3 wrost cases into a house opposite,and attend to their cases. got some pine boards and assisted Dr. Richards to set the broken hip. got the chaplin on a bed. found out he is injured internally. he suffers a great deal of pain. Tom Lettle & Jim Robinson are both bruised and shaken con [p135, book 6] siderably. in the mean time the car had been thrown from the track and a gang of men set to work relaying the rails. I made a pot of coffee for the mefs, which was very acceptable. I being the only one (with the exception of Dr Richards who got in to the cars a short time before I did), uninjur'd out of our mefs. got some straw and spread it on the bottom of ano ther car, and laid down the 3 worst cases. got on the way again just at dusk. were detain'd a short while at Harpers Ferry. the boys cheer'd as they left Va. I do hope we have left it for good. got to Washington about 8. after one of the miserable nights, you read about we were pack'd like her ring in a barrel. the 3 worst cas es needed attention.nearly all the time. they all suffer'd much gave them several poweders(sic) of morphia, which releived(sic) them somewhat

Sunday Dec 4th

The cars run(sic) up to 6th St wharf(sic) where transports were waiting to convey us to.I dont know where. after a considerable.amount of trouble an ambu lance and wagon was got [p 136, book 6] in which.the 4 worst cases were convey'd to hospt. the chaplin I fear is seriously inju red. Tom Little went along our regt and the 110th took posession(sic) of the Ma^n^hattan a splinded(sic( boat. several off icers were Oh let us be joyful none of our regt. were in that condition. Dr Richards and I are the only ones of the mefs along the rest took the pike to Harpers Ferry, except Harry who is aboard another boat in charge of the only horse we have along when they will get up, I cannot tell. pass'd several fine forts had a view of Mount Vernon and the tomb of Washington weather mild and pleasant made a bed on the floor of the cabin where the Doc and I slept soundly till 7 Oclock on

Monday Dec 5th

When we got up and wash'd and pack'd up our traps. took breakfast with Dick Hammond tis a devil of a job to get any coffee boild. there being but [p 137, book 6] one stove aboard. pass'd For tress Monroe during the ni ght, so here we go to Peters burg once more. tis pretty tough, but we will have to stand it. pass'd the wreck of the pirate Florida. got to City Point about 2 Dr Richards & I went to the 9th Corp hospt.and staid with Dr Pooley[under a blot] *wrote to Mag*{overwritten in black ink]

Tuesday 6th

Laid here all day.waiting orders got in the cars after dark. landed about 10 Oclock. got orders about 12 to camp. laid down along side the track.

Wesnesday 7th

March'd about 3 miles to our position on the extreme left our Brig all get quarters. they are not as good shanties as we left in the valley. the Doc got 2 large log huts. got boards and fix'd up a floor it raind con siderably during the day. Dr Hou ston and the rest of them joind us about 7 this evening. they got all the horses thro safe. they have all got over their shaking and are doing tolerable well. the Docs finger still [p 138, book 6] troubles him considerably

Thursday Dec 8th

Weather pleasant to day. wind a little cool. we have not got settled down yet. all is confusion. some of the Co. have moved their quarters 3 times already. the 2d Corp is on our left. everything is very quiet in our front scarcely a gun fired. the RR runs close to the quarters of the troops and extends the whole length of the line. Chris Bauers and McCann of Co I. have fail'd to come to time they left the regt at Harpers Ferry leaving all their traps behind them I am sorry Chris has done so he will get into trouble in(sic) he is caught. water is plentiful and handy, but a very good article. each regt has one or 2 wells. towards evening there was heavy firing on our right

Friday Dec 9th

During the night it froze very hard pass'd a miserable night. could not keep warm. to day has been intensly cold. in the forenoon Dr Houston and I took a walk to [p 139, book 6] the left of our line. we went al most to the end of the line.or as far as 2 Corp reach'd. they are on the move further to the left. they or a portion of them.are to join the 5th Corp. who are going to attack the South Side road. part of our Brig are to join the 2d Corp. there is something in the wind. I hope our regt will not be order'd out. I dont think it will. a great num ber of them being on picket. we can see the rebel picket posts from our breastworks.

Saturday 10th

During the ^night^ it snowd hail'd rain'd and froze all night long it blew gre at guns. how the poor fellows must have suffer'd. our regt is still on picket. heavy firing was heard on the left in the direction the tro ops took. nothing definite has been heard from them. Wesley retur ned at noon. he did not bring anything for me. tis strange they did not send me something. went over to the hospt of the 5th Corp. beyond Meades H.Q. [p 140, book 6] and got some salts & pells(sic). the roads are in an awful condition cordoroy(sic) roads intersect one ano ther all over the country. in fact locomotions with teams would be impossiblr(sic) without them. swamp swamps everywhere. what a country. the portion of our corp & 1 Div of the 2d returnd late this evening. they were out about 5 miles on the flanks of the 5th Corp. which was considerably in advance. tis reported that 20 miles of the South side road is cut I dont believe it. you hear all sorts of stories.

Sunday 11th Dec

To day has been a disagreeable day. muddy & sloppy. things have been comparatively quiet.with occasional firing on the right. wrote to Mag. have had no mail since we came here.

Monday Dec 12th

During the night it froze and blew a perfect gale. it blew off the end of our tent and 2 pei ces(sic) of the roof. I got up and went into one of the other tents and sat up nearly all night. to day the sun shines brightly.with a keen cutting wind. the(sic) rep [p 141, book 6] orted the 5th Corp is returning if that is the case, I suppose we will have to move. as I antici pated. the South side road was not reach'd, twas the Weldon road that was torn up. the infantry were not engaged, the Cav had a slight skirmish

Tuesday Dec 13th

Weather cool and freezing the 5th Corp. is camp'd in our rear. the 2d Div of our Corp. came up this afternoon they moved to our left. it looks as though we might stay here. I hope so. nothing from Sherman. of a very definite character. Thomas seems to be rather hard press'd in Tenn. Keifer has been breveted Brig. Genl. many not so worthy have had the star confer'd on them. Genl Seymour who comd's our Div. in the absence of Ricketts ask'd for and got leave from Genl Meade to charge the reb works. in from of our Div. Keifer opposed it might and main and suceeded(sic) it(sic) getting the order revoked. it would have been deliberate murder, nothing short, he is hated be(sic) almost every officer and man in the [p 142, book 6] Div. they will never charge at his orders, if in fact if(sic) he continues in com'd. he will ruin the Div the first chance.some of them get at him in an engagement he will become a landholder in Virginia

Wednesday Dec 14th

Weather a little milder. orders were read last night on drefs parade from Genl Meade.assigning our Corp. under Wright.to this por tion of the line, so I suppose tis settled we shall stay here this winter. heavy firing to our right and a few shots to our left. went over to the San Com. and got several articles for the shebang. the Div hospt has been moved again some where near Brig.H.Q. got a letter from Mag. the family all well but she is still.suffering from a ner vous attack. she writes very feel ingly. she is a good wife, as ever any man was bless'd with.

Thursday Dec 15th

Weather mild. things very quiet all day. Col Grangers.resigna tion was return'd accepted. it [p 143, book 6] had been so long since he had sent it in,that he had concluded to stay tell(sic) our time was out. he ten derd it once before but twas not accepted. the Brig was out on par ade,when they came in.he told the men.*he said*[crossed out] he would have to bid them farewell as a regt. he then formd them in a line.for the purpose of addrefsing them, but he fill'd up and could not pro ceed. parade dismiss'd.was his last order. tears coursed down his cheeks as he went to his quar ters. a braver and better officer is not in the service. our regt loses its right arm when he leaves

Friday 16th Dec

Weather beautiful, like spring 5 men were hung to day. 3 in the 3 Corp 2 in the 9th, for desertion. some of them were caught whilst making the attempt. Lieut De Gannett retur ned this evening. he has.a parcel for me he left it in the regt wagon, which will be up on a few days. Dr. Richards recei ved his appointment as Major Surg of the 126th Ohio from Gov Brough.this eve ning. I am glad he has been promoted he has earn'd it, yet I am sorry his is leaving us. twas nip and tuck [p 144, book 6] between him and Dr Bryant. they both had influencial friends in Columbus. log rolling. Richards won the heat and get(sic) the prize the Chaplin wrote.he is in the Armory Square hospt.and improving slowly. Tom Little is not able to be about yet. the young man whose leg was fractured is improving. got a let ter from Harry Gamble. he is doing guard duty on Johnstons Island

Saturday Dec 17th

To day has been quite a sumer(sic) day, no fires being needed. A written despatch was receiv'd by Grant reporting a decisive victory by Thomas over Hood. it was read to the troops. Sherman was within 5 miles of Savannah, and ere this is in posession(sic) of the city by St Paul. the war goes bravely on the clouds are displling(sic) and the future look bright Dr Richards was muster'd into the 126 to day.

Sunday Dec 18th

Was awoke this morning by heavy canonading.(sic) twas a salute of 100 guns (blank cat(sic) riges) in honor of Thomas's victory. we will learn all the particulars in a few days weather mild & pleasant Col Granger addrefs'd the regt [p 145, book 6] after drefs parade. in a few appr opriate remarks exprefsing his regrets at leaving the regt. Prai sed them for their bravery and solderly(sic) conduct whilst under his com'd. he should ever feel proud of this connection with the regt. Col Ball, said a few words commending Col Granger very highly.

Monday Dec 19th

Last night was the quietest night since we came here. I did not hear a shot fired. it rain'd slightly. Col Granger started for home early this mor ning, follow'd by the good wishes of every man in the regt. Gen Keifer has gone home on leave of absence. his arm still being.very sore. Col Ball com'd in his absence

Tuesday Dec 20th

Weather a little cooler. the Corp hospt is nearly fix'd up. tis in a pretty nice posish. Dr Houston is a little under the weather. Charley Minner came to the regt. he is still a little lame. no letter yet the last one I got was dated the 3d.

Wednesday Dec 12st

It rain'd heavily all night and continued at intervals all day. our regt went out on [p 146, book 6] picket this morning, slight firing at intervals on the right nearly all day

Thursday dec 22d

During the night it blew great guns.and froze hard. intensely cold all day. one Div of the 8th.on Crook's com'd from the valley have joind this army. Butler & Foster have started out on an expedition somewhere. we will hear from them soon.

Friday Dec 23d

Weather still cold, sun shining bright. Thomas has captured 61 out of 65 cannon that Hood had, and 9000 prisoners. Burbridge[?] has flax'd[?] Brechinridge(sic), and Forrest has been thrash'd like the very devil. the game will soon be up at that rate. a call for 300,000 has been made good for uncle Abe, trot em out

Saturday 24th Dec

About roll call last night loud cheering was heard all along the line, caused by the news that Savannah had fallen, and 17000 prisoners captured, so noted it be weather fine. no letter yet that(sic) up I wonder. Christmas Eve how much I should like to be [p 147, book 6] home and drop something into their stockings, blefs their little hearts. I hope Mag, may have the means to gladden their hearts, with little presents. Col Balls resignation was return'd disapproved, but granting him 15 days leave of absence. I opine if he goes home, he will not come back. a reb telegraph operator came intO(sic) our lines.late last night.direct from Richmond. he says they are getting short of rations. he brot the news of the fall of Savannah, and the capture of Fort Caswell,at Wilmington. he represents the spirits of the mapes[?] as very despondent. Jeff Davis is very ill,and confined to his bed Lee is wounded and not fit for duty. the latter I scarcely credit

Sunday Dec 25th

Christmas day, and still before Richmond. patience twill soon fall. I hope the little shavers at home.had a pleasant surprize from Chris Kingle. I should like to have seen their happy faces.as they pull'd their stores out of their stockings. if I have luck I will be home next Christmas heavy firing was kept up all [p 148, book 6] night along the line occupied by our Corp there was consid erable. hitherto the pickets have been on the best of terms, trading coffee & sugar for tob. and exch anging papers. our boys have been forbidden to exchange any more. the result is the Johnnies are mad as blazes.and pop away at them occasionally the weather has been beauti ful, almost like spring our dinner consisted of cod fish and potatoes top'd(sic) of(sic) with cheese and gunger(sic) cake. turkies(sic) were selling at some of the sutters (and a favor to get them at that) at the modest price of 40 & 50 cts a pound. shades of Shylock they will have their pound of flesh. from some cause or other the boys are and have been short of rations. they were on short rations to day. after dark they raised a devil of a row, holloaring(sic) hard tack, sow belly. at one time I was afraid they would make a raid on the commisary dept. [p 149, book 6] Just as I had laid down Bill King brot me 2 letters. all well at home and in good spirits she has written 6 letters. i have get(sic) but 2 of them. posted a letter about 2 hours before I got them

Monday 26 Dec

It rain'd heavily during the night, but ceased towards daylight. heavy cannonading has been heard to our right for about 2 hours this mor ning. all sorts of rumors are afloat in regard to Sherman I know not what to think tell he makes an official commu nmcations(sic), if not all we could have wish'd,tis a great succefs. Capt Reid of Zanesville, who left Columbus as Major of the 178 was kill'd in one of the battles under Thomas. Jim Sears, was kill'd at or near the same place. I pity poor Sarah. she is now left with out a protector. Jim did wrong to reinlist he being the only male member of the family left. poor Jim was a good fellow [I believe that Sarah Sears was Tom's second wife.] [p 150, book 6]

Tuesday Dec 27th

Weather mild, muddy under foot. broke 2 of my teeth. sent them to Mag. to be repair'd I feel bad without them. things very quiet all along the line

Wednesday Dec 28th

Weather dull and cloudy Dr Childs has gone home on lea ve of absence. Dr Houston acts as Div Surg in his absence the 67 Pa and 126 Ohio, moved on to the line with the rest of the Brig. they have been scatt ered all over the country. things are beginning to assume the shape of winter quarters *and*[corssed out] the Chap wrote to Dr Richards he does not improve he is going home. Foster (Steward 126) came up to day from Winchester Dr Bryant has been relieved and was trying for leave of absence before he rejoins us Hen Tucker is on the way but has got froze up somewhere Sherman has been heard from offically. he captur'd 8000, prisoners 150 cannon and 32000 bales of cotton. Hardee ewscaped with the balance [p 151, book 6] of the troops under his com'd

64 Thurs Dec 29th

Rain'd nearly all night. 22 deserters came into our lines. they pass'd by.going to the H.Q. heavy can nonading was heard.tell far in the night.about a mile on our right Hen came up just after supper our traps have come up at last he looks stout and hearty

Friday Dec 30th

It froze hard during the night all quiet in our front. got the parcel Mag sent me.by Lieut DeGannett a good comfort. razor & brush spectacles and some tob and a note dated Dec 10th ano ther desterer(sic) was hung this forenoon in the 2 Corp.

Saturday Dec 31st

Was awoke about 6 this morning by heavy musketry firing.in our front, several volleys were fired when cheering was heard. we all jump'd up.fearing an attack on our lines. the troops were all in line.at.the breastworks,til day light it did not last long. it ap pears about 100 of the Johnnies captured the videttes[vedettes] in front [p 152, book 6] of the 1st Div and then got in the rear of the line picketed by the 9the NY. our Brig of which 2 were kill'd and 19 wounded and taken prisoners there was upwards of 40 missing the rest belonged to the 1st Div a deserter whom I saw.came in just at daylight, says he knew they were going to attack that part of the line, but he could not get in in time it being too dark the dash was made for the pur pose of getting blankets and over coats.of which he says they stand much in need. the 2 men kill'd were strip'd naked,when fo und by our boys. rather a dan gerous way of making requisiti ons for clothes. the weather to day has been sleety sloppy snowy and everything that is disag reeable. the old year goes out stormy and gusty, as I sit by the fire,alone,smoking my pipe.what thots and fancies flit thro my brain. next year this time I hope & trust to be at home. to leave it no more [last line blank] [p 153, book 6]

Thomas Campbell's Civil War Diaries, 1862-1865

Part 5 of 6