See June 4, 1863 - Art Circle Public Library

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June 1, 1863
JUNE 1863
June 1, 1863 - Scouts from Forrest's cavalry in the Nashville, Murfreesborough and Franklin environs and release of civilian prisoners in Franklin by Federal
authorities
SPRING HILL, June 1, 1863—10 p. m.
Gen. BRAGG:
My scouts have just returned from Franklin, and report the enemy have
released all the citizen prisoners and are under marching orders. I will move up
in the morning as near Franklin as possible, and remain as near the enemy as
prudent, and would like the balance of the cavalry to move up, if you think it
advisable.
N. B. FORREST, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 856.
June 1, 1863 - Fremantle's observations on the Army of Tennessee
1st June, Monday.-We all went to a review of General Liddell's brigade at Bellbuckle, a distance of six miles. There were three carriages full of ladies, and I
rode an excellent horse, the gift of General John Morgan to General Hardee.
The weather and the scenery were delightful. General Hardee asked me particularly whether Mr. Mason had been kindly received in England. I replied that I
thought he had, by private individuals. I have often found the Southerners
rather touchy on this point.
General Liddell's brigade was composed of Arkansas troops—five very weak
regiments which had suffered severely in the different battles, and they cannot
be easily recruited on account of the blockade of the Mississippi. The men
were good-sized, healthy, and well clothed, but without any attempt at uniformity in color or cut; but nearly all were dressed either in gray or brown coats
and felt hats. I was told that even if a regiment was clothed in proper uniform
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
June 1863 — Page 1
June 1, 1863
by the Government, it would become parti-colored again in a week, as the soldiers preferred wearing the coarse homespun jackets and trousers made by
their mothers and sisters at home. The Generals very wisely allow them to
please themselves in this respect, and insist only upon their arms and accoutrements being kept in order. Most of the officers were dressed in uniform which
is neat and serviceable, viz.,: a bluish gray frock coat of a color similar to Austrian yagers.NOTE 1 The infantry wear blue facings, the artillery red, the doctors
black, the staff white, and the cavalry yellow; so it is impossible to mistake the
branch of the service to which an officer belongs—nor is it possible to mistake
his rank. A second lieutenant, first, lieutenant, and captain, wear respectively
one, two, and three bars on the collar. A major, lieutenant colonel, and colonel,
wear one, two and three stars on the collar.
Before the marching past of the brigade, many of the soldiers had taken off
their coats and marched past the general in their shirt sleeves, on account of the
warmth. Most of them were armed with Enfield rifles captured from the
enemy. Many, however, had lost or thrown away their bayonets, which they
don't appear to value properly, as they assert that they have never met any Yankees who would wait for that weapon. I expressed a desire to see them form
square, but it appeared they were "not drilled to such a manoeuvre" (except
square two deep.) They said the country did not admit of cavalry charges, even
if the Yankee cavalry had stomach to attempt it.
Each regiment carried a "battle-flag," blue, with a white border, on which were
inscribed the names "Belmont," "Shiloh," "Perryville," "Richmond, Ky.," and
"Murfreesboro'." They drilled tolerably well, and an advance in line was
remarkably good; but Gen. Liddell had invented several dodges of his own, for
which he was reproved by General Hardee. The review being over, the troops
were harangued by Bishop Elliott in an excellent address, partly religious,
partly patriotic. He was followed by a Congressman of vulgar appearance,
named Hanley, from Arkansas, who delivered himself of a long and uninteresting political oration, and ended by announcing himself as a candidate for reelection. This speech seemed to me (and to others) particularly ill-timed, out of
place, and ridiculous, addressed as it was to soldiers in front of the enemy. But
this was one of the results of universal suffrage.
The soldiers afterwards wanted General Hardee to say something, but he
declined. I imagine that the discipline in this army is the strictest in the Confederacy, and that the men are much better marchers, than those I saw in Mississippi.
A soldier was shot in Wartrace this afternoon. We heard the volley just as we
left in the cars for Shelbyville. His crime was desertion to the enemy; and as
the prisoner's brigade was at Tullahoma (twenty miles off,) he was executed
without ceremony by the Provost Guard. Spies are hung every now and then;
but General Bragg told me it was almost impossible for either side to stop the
practice.
Page 2 — June 1863
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
June 1, 1863
Bishop Elliott, Dr. Quintard, and myself got back to General Polk's quarters at
5 P. M., where I was introduced to a Colonel Styles, who was formerly United
States Minister at Vienna. In the evening I made the acquaintance of General
Wheeler, Van Dorn's successor in the command of the caval[r]y of this army,
which is over 24,000 strong. He is a very little man, only twenty-six years of
age, and was dressed in a coat much too big for him. He made his reputation by
protecting the retreat of the army through Kentucky last year. He was a graduate of West Point, and seems a remarkable zealous' officer, besides being very
modest and unassuming in his manners. General Polk told me that, notwithstanding the departure of Breckinridge, this army is now much stronger than it
was at the time of the battle of Murfreesboro'. I think that probably 45,000
infantry and artillery could be brought together immediately for a battle.
Fremantle, Three Months, pp. 79-81.
NOTE 1: In the German army of the day, one belonging to a body of light infantry
armed with rifles, resembling the chasseur of the French army. Also spelled
"jager."
June 1, 1863 - Lincoln county voters choose delegates to the Tennessee state Confederate
nominating convention
"Public Meeting."
At a meeting of the voters of Lincoln county assembled at the courthouse in
Fayetteville, on Monday, June 1st, 1863, James D. Grizzard, Esq., was
appointed Chairman, and S. H. McCord, Secretary. Whereupon a motion of
Col. James B. Lamb, it was resolved,
1st. That we approve of the Convention called to assemble at Winchester on
the 17th inst, for the purpose of designating a candidate for Governor and
members of Congress.
2nd. That all citizens of this county who can conveniently attend at Winchester
on that day, be, and they are hereby appointed delegates to represent this
county in the Convention.
J. D. Grizzard, Ch'n.
S. H. McCord, Sec.
Fayetteville Observer, June 4, 1863.
June 1, 1863 - Artillery practice at Fort Negley and the State House
. . . target shooting was pracktised today from 1 to 2 by the sedge guns in the
fort and from the large guns at the State house the distance nearly 2 miles
John Hill Fergusson Diary, Book 3.
June 2, 1863
June 2, 1863 - Skirmish at Thompson's Station
Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee.
June 2, 1863 - General Braxton Bragg joins the Protestant Episcopal Church
Gen. Braxton Bragg has joined the Protestant Episcopal Church. He was confirmed a few days since at his quarters in Shelbyville, The Rt. Rev. Bishop
Elliott, of the diocese of Georgia, officiating.
The above item, which appeared in the Mercury of the 15th, is not exactly correct. Gen. Bragg was not 'confirmed at his quarters.' On Tuesday evening, June
2, after evening prayer, in the church of the Holy Redeemer, Shelbyville,
Tenn., Gen. Bragg received the Apostolic rite of confirmation at the hand of
Bishop Elliott.
The service was not private, as has been stated in some newspapers. Gen. Polk
and staff and a respectable congregation were present on the occasion.
Yours truly, C. T. Quintard, Chaplain 1st Tennessee Regiment.
Shelbyville, Tenn., June 18, 1863.
Chattanooga Daily Rebel, July 2, 1863.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited from the Charleston Mercury, June 15, 1863.
June 2, 1863 - Bragg issues General Orders No. 18, relative to refugee policy
GENERAL ORDERS, No. 18. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT No. 2, Tullahoma,
Tenn., June 2, 1863.
The enemy has seen fit to expel from his lines and send to our midst not only
those supposed to be guilty of crimes, but non-combatants found at their homes
in the peaceful pursuits of life. In the perpetration of these outrages on humanity, and these violations of civilized warfare, he has prostituted the flat of truce
to the base purpose of protecting the guards who drive forth these exiles. Hereafter that flag will not protect those guards, but they will be seized and sent forward to be treated as spies or prisoners of war, as the circumstances in each
case may require.
By command of Gen. Bragg
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, pp. 858-859.
June 2, 1863 - "Military Hospitals—Chap. XXI.
Number 9.-The hospital is situated at 62 North Market street, the buildings formerly occupied by W. H. Townsend, as a carriage manufactory. The neighborhood is not a very pleasant one, being in close proximity to the ordnance
June 2, 1863
department, the saddle and harness ship, the blacksmith ship and shoeing
establishment and the street being traversed by more army wagons than perhaps any other in town, except Broad street, which is much wider and consequently less noisy. Yet notwithstanding these drawbacks the external and
internal appearance of the hospital will bear favorable comparison with any in
the city, so far as constant care and attention, industry [and physical?] verance
can accomplish the object. The street in front, and the outside of the building,
are well watered and kept clean, as well as the wards, offices, and store rooms
inside, even to the remote and comparatively dark corners.
Officers and Attendants.
Surgeon in Charge-E. G. White, Acting Asst. Surg.
Assistant-A. Achenback, Acting Asst. Surg.
Steward and Druggist-Harry Dobbs, U. S. Volunteers
Ward Masters-Phineas Runyan and John O'Brien
Matron-Mrs. Norton
Chaplain-None
There are ten nurses, one white cook, three colored cooks, five colored females
for washing and ironing, and three colored males for other duties.
For patients there are 150 iron cots, 65 of which were occupied on Friday last,
leaving 85 vacant.
The Christian Commission occasionally send a Chaplain to this hospital on
Sundays and week-days, and when any visit there they have religious services
at 10 a. m. Sunday, and sometimes prayers during other days.
There are only two wards in the hospital, each 108 feet long by 411/2 feet
wide, and 121/2 high. They are very comfortable, well ventilated, sufficiently
light, and remarkably clean. Very few patients are unable to leave their beds.
The Dispensary is a remarkably neat little room on the second floor front, and
the Ward Master's room is opposite. On each floor is a knapsack room, a wash
and bath room, and water closer, all in good order. The storeroom occupies
about twenty feet square of the front of the lower floor, and contains, in additions to a good supply of commissary stores, etc., the unclaimed effects of
deceased soldiers.
The kitchen and dining room is in the rear of the lower ward, in a separate
building. It is rather larger than is needed for a kitchen, but would make a
splendid dining room. We would respectfully suggest the erection of a temporary building in the rear of this room for a kitchen, and the conversion of the
old building into a dining room, at least during the summer season. The washhouse, or laundry, is a comfortable temporary building, with every convenience necessary, and ample for any emergency.
June 2, 1863
The yard is well fenced in by the remnants of some old Confederate wooden
cots, the slats making a substantial picket fence.
The linen room is well stocked and well kept, and accounts are kept in a book
between the room and the patients of all clothing received and returned by the
inmates of the hospital. The offices of the Surgeon in Charge and the Steward,
and the private rooms, of these gentlemen, the assistant Surgeons, clerk,
matron, etc., are in the range of brick buildings on Front street, in the rear of
the hospitals.
The hospital authorities have contracted a sewer from the hospital to the river,
through which flows all the waste water from every part of the hospital, saving
much time and adding to the cleanliness and health of the establishment.
The rooms are all sufficiently light, and very clean, frequent applications of
time being made in all the apartments, and outside also.
Most of the patients were amusing themselves reading and writing. The Silent
MonitorsNOTE 1 hang upon the walls of the wards.
There are a few leaks in the roof, which need attending to, and which; measures have already been taken to have repaired.
We need scarcely say that the same courtesy which we have received at all the
hospitals was extended to us in No. 9, for which the officers will receive our
thanks.
Nashville Dispatch, June 2, 1863.
NOTE 1: Not identified.
June 2, 1863 - ". . . the only way in which an officer could acquire influence over the Confederate soldiers was by his personal conduct under fire." Fremantle's
observations on the Army of Tennessee
2d June, Tuesday.-Colonel Grenfell and I rode to the outposts, starting on the
road to Murfreeshoro' at 6 A. M. It rained hard nearly all day. He explained to
me the method of fighting adopted by the Western cavalry, which he said was
admirably adapted for this country; but he denied that they could, under any
circumstances, stand a fair charge of regular cavalry in the open. Their system
is to dismount and leave their horses in some secure place. One man is placed
in charge of his own and three other horses, whilst the remainder act as infantry
skirmishers in the dense woods and broken country, making a tremendous row,
and deceiving the enemy as to their numbers, and as to their character as infantry or cavalry. In this manner Morgan, assisted by two small guns, called bulldogs, attacked the Yankees with success in towns, forts, stockades, and steamboats; and by the same system, Wheeler and Wharton kept a large pursuing
army in check for twenty-seven days, retreating and fighting every day, and
deluding the enemy with the idea that they were being resisted by a strong
force composed of all three branches of the service.
June 2, 1863
Colonel Grenfell told me that the only way in which an officer could acquire
influence over the Confederate soldiers was by his personal conduct under fire.
They hold a man in great esteem who in action sets them an example of contempt for danger; but they think nothing of an officer who is not in the habit of
leading them; in fact such a man could not possibly retain his position. Colonel
Grenfell's expression was, "every atom of authority has to be purchased by a
drop of your blood." He told me he was in desperate hot water with the civil
authorities of the State, who accuse him of illegally impressing and appropriating horses, and also of conniving at the escape of a negro from his lawful
owner, and he said that the military authorities were afraid or unable to give
him proper protection.
For the first nine miles our road was quite straight and hilly, with a thick wood
on either side. We then reached a pass in the hills called Guy's Gap, which,
from the position of the hills, is very strong, and could be held by a small force.
The range of hills extends as far as Wartrace, but I understand the position
could be turned on the left. About two miles beyond Guy's Gap were the headquarters of General Martin, the officer who commands the brigade of cavalry
stationed in the neighborhood. General Martin showed me the letter sent by the
Yankees a few days ago by flag of truce with Mr. Vallandigham. This letter was
curiously worded, and ended, as far as I can remember, with this expression:
"Mr. Vallandigham is therefore handed over to the respectful attention of the
Confederate authorities." General Martin told me that skirmishing and bushwhacking went on nearly every day, and that ten days ago the enemy's cavalry,
by a bold dash, had captured a field piece close to his own quarters. It was,
however retaken, and its captors were killed.
One of General Martin's staff officers conducted us to the bivouac of Colonel
Webb, (three miles further along the road,) who commanded the regiment on
outpost duty there—51st Alabama Cavalry. This Colonel Webb was a lawyer
by profession, and seemed a capital fellow; and he insisted on riding with us to
the videttes in spite of the rain, and he also desired his regiment to turn out for
us by the time we returned. The extreme outposts were about two miles beyond
Colonel Webb's post, and about sixteen miles from Shelbyville. The neutral
ground extended for about three miles. We rode along it as far as it was safe to
do so; and just came within sight of the Yankee videttes. The Confederate
videttes were at an interval of from 300 to 400 yards of each other. Colonel
Webb's regiment was in charge of two miles of the front; and, in a similar manner, the chain of videttes was extended by other corps right and left for more
than eighty miles. Scouts are continually sent forward by both sides to collect
information. Rival scouts and pickets invariably fire on one another whenever
they meet; and Colonel Webb good-naturedly offered, if I was particularly anxious to see their customs and habits, to send forward a few men and have a little fight. I thanked him much for his kind offer, but begged he wouldn't trouble
himself so far on my account. He showed me the house where Vallandigham
had been "dumped down" between the outposts when they refused to receive
him by flag of truce.
June 3, 1863
The woods on both sides of the road showed many signs of the conflicts which
are of daily occurrence. Most of the houses by the roadside had been
destroyed; but one plucky old lady had steadfastly refused to turn out, although
her house was constantly an object of contention, and showed many marks of
bullets and shell. Ninety-seven men were employed every day in Colonel
Webb's regiment to patrol the front. The remainder of the 51st Alabama were
mounted and drawn up to receive Colonel Grenfell on our return from the outposts. They were uniformly armed with long rifles and revolvers, but without
sabres, and they were a fine body of young men. Their horses were in much
better condition than might have been expected, considering the scanty food
and hard duty they had had to put up with for the last five months, without
shelter of any kind, except the trees. Colonel Grenfell told me they were a very
fair specimen of the immense number of cavalry with Bragg's army. I got back
to Shelbyville at 4.30 P. M., just in time to be present at an interesting ceremony peculiar to America. This was a baptism at the Episcopal Church. The
ceremony was performed in an impressive manner by Bishop Elliott, and the
person baptized was no less than the commander-in-chief of the army. The
Bishop took the General's hand in his own (the latter kneeling in front of the
font,) and said, "Braxton, if thou hast not already been baptized, I baptize
thee," &c. Immediately afterwards he confirmed General Bragg, who then
shook hands with General Polk, the officers of their respective staffs and
myself, who were the only spectators.
The soldiers on sentry at General Polk's quarters this afternoon were deficient
both of shoes and stockings. These were the first barefooted soldiers I had yet
seen in the Confederacy.
I had intended to have left Shelbyville to-morrow with Bishop Elliott; but as I
was informed that a reconnoissance in force was arranged for to-morrow, I
accepted General Polk's kind offer of further hospitality for a couple of days
more. Four of Polk's brigades with artillery move to the front to-morrow, and
General Hardee is also to push forward from Wartrace. The object of this
movement is to ascertain the enemy's strength at Murfreesboro', as rumor
asserts that Rosecrans is strengthening Grant in Mississippi, which General
Bragg is not disposed to allow with impunity. The weather is now almost
chilly.
Fremantle, Three Years, pp. 81-83.
June 3, 1863 - Federal scouts about Carthage
HDQRS. FOURTH TENNESSEE CAVALRY REGT., Trousdale Ferry, June 3,
1863—Sundown.
Gen. WHARTON:
A courier has just arrived from my picket stand. He reports the Yankees leaving Carthage. One of Capt. [J. W. ] Nichols' men, who is in the advanced picket
post, was in the vicinity of Carthage, and says their wagons were going toward
June 3, 1863
Gallatin, guarded by their cavalry. The infantry were this side of the Cumberland, on the Rome road, and reliable citizens report six pieces of artillery with
them. The scout did not see the artillery. Another scout, coming in late this
evening, reports the Yankee infantry near Rome on the march. I have two other
scouts out, and when they return I will, perhaps, have more definite information.
Very respectfully,
P. F. ANDERSON.
P. S. -Maj. [W. S. ] Bledsoe went off this evening with three companies, for the
purpose of burning a steamboat which was grounded about 4 miles above
Rome. I am fearful he will not be successful, as the enemy are moving on the
Rome road. Their destination appears to be Murfreesborough.
[Indorsement.]
GEN.: This force of the enemy is being watched, and, when its destination is
definitely ascertained, it will be promptly reported to you. When it reaches
Lebanon, will report to you whether it takes the Nashville or Lebanon road.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. A. WHARTON, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. Cavalry Division.
June 3, 1863 - Skirmish near Murfreesborough
Report of Maj. Frank W. Mix, Fourth Michigan Cavalry.
HDQRS. FOURTH MICHIGAN CAVALRY, Murfreesborough, Tenn., June 4,
1863.
SIR: On the 3d instant, about 1.30 p. m., I received orders from the colonel
commanding to take 100 men and go immediately to our pickets on the Wartrace road, as our pickets had been attacked and driven back.
I arrived on the ground about 2 o'clock. I found the cavalry reserve of the
Fourth Michigan Cavalry, under Lieut. Vanantwerp, on the ground occupied by
the reserve, but that we had been driven back two or three times, and were then
skirmishing with 200 or 300 of the rebel cavalry. After taking a look at them, I
sent an orderly back to brigade headquarters, and immediately sent forward
two companies, under Capt. Leach, mounted, as skirmishers. He drove them a
short distance, when they dismounted, and, getting behind a fence, they had the
advantage of us. I recalled my men and sent forward two other companies, dismounted, under Capt.'s Pritchard and Hathaway, who drove them about threefourths of a mile and across the river. The enemy now opened on us with two
pieces of artillery at short range.
Their firing was so accurate that I was obliged to move the rest of my command under cover of a hill. I called the most of my skirmishers, leaving only
June 3, 1863
enough to watch their movements. In the mean time I had sent Capt. Robbins
to the Manchester pike to ascertain the cause of the firing in that direction. He
soon returned with the information that about 500 of the rebel cavalry were
drawn up in line a field lately occupied by our vedettes.
I was now joined by Lieut.-Col. Pike with the balance of the regiment. We sent
out scouts in different directions, but before they returned Col. Minty came up,
bringing the Seventh Pennsylvania, Third Indiana, and Lieut. Newell's section
of artillery. The artillery soon drove them from the old buildings on the opposite side of the river where they had taken shelter. I was sent across the river to
burn the buildings and scour the country. I found the enemy had all fallen back,
so I burned the buildings and rejoined the command, arriving in camp about 9
o'clock.
We wounded 3 of the rebels; no casualties on our side. As near as I could
judge, they had about 300 men on the Wartrace road; but from information I
obtained on the opposite side of the river, they had more than that, with six
pieces of artillery.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FRANK W. MIX, Maj. Fourth Michigan Cavalry.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 358.
June 3, 1863 - Mule drive captured on Gallatin Pike
NASHVILLE, June 3, 1863.
G. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.:
Drove of 175 mules on Gallatin pike captured. Guerrillas crossed the Cumberland at 12.30 p. m. to-day. Stated they would be at Lebanon before dark, where
Wheeler would be met with his cavalry division. Cavalry sent from here on
both sides of river in pursuit, but have not overtaken them.
R. S. GRANGER, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 384.
June 3, 1863 - ". . . I experienced a disagreeable sensation, like screwing up my back. . . "
Fremantle's observations on the Army of Tennessee
3d June, Wednesday.-Bishop Elliott left for Savannah at 6 A. M., in a down
pour of rain, which continued nearly all day. Grenfell came to see me this
morning in a towering rage. He had been arrested in his bed by the civil power
on a charge of horse-stealing, and conniving at the escape of a negro from his
master. General Bragg himself had stood bail for him, but Grenfell was naturally furious at the indignity. But, even according to his own account, he seems
to have acted indiscreetly in the affair of the negro, and he will have to appear
before the civil court next October. General Polk and his officers were all much
June 3, 1863
vexed at the occurrence, which, however, is an extraordinary and convincing
proof that the military had not superceded the civil power in the Southern
States; for here was an important officer arrested, in spite of the commanderin-chief, when in the execution of his office before the enemy. By standing
bail, General Bragg gave a most positive proof that he exonerated Grenfell
from any malpractices.
In the evening, after dark, General Polk drew my attention to the manner in
which the signal beacons were worked. One light was stationary on the ground,
whilst another was moved backwards and forwards over it. They gave us intelligence that General Hardee had pushed the enemy to within five miles of Murfreesboro', after heavy skirmishing all day.
I got out of General Polk the story of his celebrated adventure with the—Indiana (Northern) regiment, which resulted in the almost total destruction of that
corps. I had often during my travels heard officers and soldiers talking of this
extraordinary feat of the "Bishop's." The modest yet graphic manner in which
Gen. Polk related this wonderful instance of coolness and bravery was
extremely interesting, and I now repeat it, as nearly as I can, in his own words.
"Well, sir, it was at the battle of Perryville, late in the evening—in fact, it was
almost dark when Liddell's brigade came into action. Shortly after its arrival I
observed a body of men, whom I believed to be Confederates, standing at an
angle to this brigade. and firing obliquely at the newly arrived troops. I said.
'Dear me, this is very sad, and must be stopped; so I turned round, but could
find none of my young men, who were absent on different messages; so I
determined to ride myself and settle the matter. Having cantered up to the colonel of the regiment which was firing, I asked him in angry tones what he meant
by shooting his own friends, and I desired him to cease doing so at once. He
answered with surprise, 'I don't think there can be any mistake about it; I am
sure they are the enemy.' 'Enemy!' I said; 'why, I have only just left them
myself. Cease firing, sir; what is your name, sir?" "My name is Colonel—, of
the—Indiana; and pray, sir, who are you?"
"Then for the first time I saw, to my astonishment, that he was a Yankee, and
that I was in rear of a regiment of Yankees.-Well, I saw that there was no hope
but to brazen it out; my dark blouse and the increasing obscurity befriended
me, so I approached quite close to him and shook my fist in his face, saying,
'I'll soon show you who I am, sir; cease firing, sir, at once.' I then turned my
horse and cantered slowly down the line, shouting in an authoritative manner
to the Yankees to cease firing; at the same time I experienced a disagreeable
sensation, like screwing up my back, and calculating how many bullets would
be between my shoulders every moment. I was afraid to increase my pace until
I got to a small copse, when I put the spurs in and galloped back to my men. I
immediately went up to the nearest colonel, and said to him, 'Colonel, I have
reconnoitered those fellows pretty closely—and I find there is no mistake who
they are; you may get up and go at them.' And I assure you, sir, that the slaughter of that Indiana regiment was the greatest I have ever seen in the war."
June 3, 1863
It is evident to me that a certain degree of jealous feeling exists between the
Tennesseean and Virginian armies. This one claims to have had harder fighting
than the Virginian army, and to have been opposed to the best troops and best
generals of the North.
The Southerners generally appear to estimate highest the northwestern Federal
troops, which compose in a great degree the armies of Grant and Rosecrans;
they come from the States of Ohio, Iowa, Indiana, &c. The Irish Federals are
also respected for their fighting qualities; whilst the genuine Yankees and Germans (Dutch) are not much esteemed.
I have been agreeably disappointed in the climate of Tennessee, which appears
quite temperate to what I had expected.
June 3, 1863 - Federal instructions relative to guarding the Charleston to Memphis railroad
from Collierville to Pocahontas, Tennessee
MEMPHIS, TENN., June 3, 1863.
Maj. Gen. RICHARD J. OGLESBY, Jackson, Tenn.:
GEN.: It is of very great importance that your troops should be moved rapidly
upon the new line.
Pocahontas, LaGrange, Moscow, and Collierville are the prominent points to
be held by garrison; the lesser stations will be outposts from these. You can
patrol the road from LaGrange to Jackson with your battery car so as to keep
up the telegraph.
A wire will be placed from here to Corinth on the main road. Gen. Smith will
leave at LaGrange equipments and mules for mounting two regiments of infantry. The whole cavalry force will be left as now stationed, at LaGrange, Collierville, and Germantown. You will bring the Third Michigan, and locate them
at Pocahontas. I should think you will require artillery at the points named,
and, if you choose, I will send one regiment of infantry to Germantown. The
negro regiments will be armed and put on duty. Smith will leave his, now 60
strong.
The cavalry must be kept moving far in front, so as to cover our line by distant
patrols.
Send everything to Corinth and LaGrange that needs transferring by railroad,
and march all troops that are not too distant to the new line.
Get a force down, and relieve Smith at the earliest practicable moment. Use all
the railroad stock you want and can use. Grant is pressing, and must be supplied.
Your obedient servant,
S. A. HURLBUT.
June 3, 1863
Maj. Gen. RICHARD J. OGLESBY, Jackson, Tenn:
You will as speedily as possible throw your force over to the Charleston and
Memphis Railroad, relieving Gen. Smith, and occupying the entire line from
Corinth to Germantown.
The cavalry at LaGrange, Germantown, and Collierville will remain. This
movement will be executed with the greatest promptness, as it is vitally important that Smith's division go below at once.
S. A. HURLBUT.
CORINTH, MISS., June 3, 1863.
Col. MERSY:
You will proceed, with your brigade, to Pocahontas, and then distribute your
troops from the east, so as to protect the brigades on the Memphis and Charleston Railroad to Grand Junction. It will be best to keep your mounted force
together at Pocahontas, as within 2 miles of it are the most important bridges
on the railroad, which, when finished, you will also have to guard. Two of
them are in sight of the town. They are the Tuscumbia, Hatchie, and Muddy.
Whenever you post detachments, you will immediately have them intrench
themselves, by earthworks or stockades, in commanding positions, and so that
they will cover the works they are to defend. You will also have to scout and
closely watch the country south of you, and be very vigilant in watching the
approach of any enemy. You will employ two or three reliable scouts and
closely watch the country south of you, and be very vigilant in watching the
approach of any enemy. You will employ two or three reliable scouts or detail
men for that purpose. As soon as the railroad is running it must be patrolled at
least once in night and day, and strict orders must be given to all officers commanding detachments in relation to holding their men in camp, and not letting
them straggle out.
The engineer regiment is now encamped and intrenched at Pocahontas, building the bridge, and the commanding officer of it can give you much valuable
information in relation to the road, bridges, &c. The road from here to Tuscumbia River will be protected by troops at Chewalla at present. The guard at Tuscumbia and Hatchie are sufficient.
You will make your headquarters at Pocahontas.
By order of Brig. Gen. G. M. Dodge
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 31, pt. III, pp. 381-383.
June 3, 1863 - Confederate scout repulsed in Readyville environs
HDQRS. BRECKINRIDGE'S REGT., June 5, 1863—2.15 a. m.
Maj. E. S. BURFORD, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.:
June 3, 1863
SIR: Col. [W. C. P. ] Breckinridge directs me to say he has just received your
dispatch, with a copy of dispatch from Gen. Bragg, and will say in reply that a
heavy scout sent out by him to drive the enemy's pickets in was, on day before
yesterday (3d instant), driven back from Readyville by a force of the enemy's
cavalry. This was just at dusk, on the 3d instant (Wednesday). A scout has just
returned from the neighborhood of Readyville and reports the enemy still
there, but that Gen. Wilder's brigade was moved on yesterday (Thursday)
morning to Triune. Furthermore, that the enemy have not left Readyville at any
time since this regiment has been on duty here in the front, unless they were
driven from there on Wednesday about 1 p. m.; and, if such be the case, they
certainly returned and occupied the place by 4 o'clock the same day, for the
scout spoken of above drove his pickets immediately into their camp, and was
then fired upon by the sentinels around camp, and chased by 150 cavalry from
that point through Woodbury, 7 miles. The colonel directs me to say he will
send a heavy scout out immediately, and advise you immediately upon the
receipt of word from it.
I am, major, respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOS. M. JONES, Adjutant.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 863.
June 3, 1863 - Guard duty and dogs in Memphis: excerpts from Corporal George Hovey
Cadman's letter home
My Dear Wife,
I once more take my seat to write to you hoping these few lines will find you
quite well. I am happy to inform you that my health is very good, never better,
except that I am getting too fleshy. . . One of our boys in Co. F after coming off
guard yesterday morning, got a pass from the Colonel to go to town, and drinking too much, got in a fuss with the provost guard, he was being taken to the
Guard house, when he broke from the Guard, and ran off. He would not Halt,
when ordered, and the Guard Fired. The ball passed through his left shoulder
and out at his left breast, killing him almost instantly, as well as wounding a
man in front of him. . . It is a most foolish thing to trifle with guards in the
army, Only on Sunday night I was with one second of cutting a Niggers Wind.
I had Halted him twice and was in the very act of springing the trigger when
the fool stopped, one more second and it would have been too late. . .
We have plenty of guarding, it takes us half our time. Our Regiment guards
about half a mile containing two of the Main Roads and several blind paths.
We have a reserve on each road, and a chain of posts, at every two or three
Hundred yards. A rat could not get through without being seen day or night.
The Citizens do not like us at all. Last Friday a memorial was presented to
Genl Hurlburt signed by 500 citizens, praying for our removal, not on account
of bad behaviour, but because we were too strict in the performance of our
duty. They did not make much by it for the General told them, we were the sort
June 3, 1863
of men he had been looking for for some time, and he was glad that he had men
who knew how to do their duty. We recd marching orders for Vicksburg on Saturday, but from this or some other cause the Order was Countermanded. There
is very little real Union feeling in Memphis nothing but the Bayonet in my
opinion keeps it loyal. No person can go out through our lines without a pass
and before they can obtain one, they have to take the oath of allegiance, if they
refuse to take it they are put beyond our lines with orders never to return. Every
day some pass through on their way South. . .
It would amuse you to see the manner of people we have to deal with on the
Roads, some, afraid almost to speak to us, others turn up their noses, as if they
very air the Yankees Breathed was poisonous. Some of the Ladies, when asked
to stand up in their Buggies, or get out, that we may see if the have any thing
underneath the seat, fling themselves round as if the Devil was after them.
There is plenty of fun on such occasions, after they are gone mimicking their
airs. One Woman was so Drunk and Abusive the other day, the Officer of the
Guard had to tie her to a tree till she got sober. God forbid, my Dear, that ever
you should live in a country subject to Military rule. However kindly the rules
issued by the authorities are carried out, there must of necessity be great hardships to bear. On Monday night I was acting as sergeant on picket, when I was
ordered to take two Men, and search a house near for a man who had broke
from the Guard house of the 5th O. V. C. It was after midnight and we had to
search every room in the house, no odds who occupied them. I saw Phil Trounstine on Monday, at the 5th Ohio Camp. Coming back from there I saw a squad
of the 5th searching the houses for whisky. Nearly every house keeps whisky
for sale, although it is illegal and such stuff I never tasted in my life. It makes
those who drink it perfectly crazy.
Our Boys are cooling down considerable, and behave pretty well now. We only
had two men sent to the Guardhouse last Sunday, and three fights (that is in our
Company). . . When I woke this morning I looked like a Drowned dog. This is
the greatest place for dogs that ever I saw. Every White man has two dogs and
a slut, and every nigger double the number. At night when they commence
barking, sleep is impossible. The noise they make joined to the noise of the
Mocking Birds and Whip-po-wills, the Braying of Mules and Croaking of
Frogs, cannot be described. When we are out on picket at night the row is
sometimes horrible. But you must excuse me leaving off now as I have to go
and cook supper and Clean up ready for Guard in the morning. . .
Your affectionate Husband
G. H. Cadman
Co B, 39th O. V. I., Memphis, Tenn.
Please send me some stamps.
George Hovey Cadman Correspondence
June 3, 1863
June 3, 1863 - June 5, 1863 - Confederate scout activity in Readyville environs
HDQRS. BRECKINRIDGE'S REGT., June 5, 1863—2.15 a. m.
Maj. E. S. BURFORD, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.:
SIR: Col. [W. C. P. ] Breckinridge directs me to say he has just received your
dispatch, with a copy of dispatch from Gen. Bragg, and will say in reply that a
heavy scout sent out by him to drive the enemy's pickets in was, on day before
yesterday (3d instant), driven back from Readyville by a force of the enemy's
cavalry. This was just at dusk, on the 3d instant (Wednesday). A scout has just
returned from the neighborhood of Readyville and reports the enemy still
there, but that Gen. Wilder's brigade was moved on yesterday (Thursday, June
4) morning to Triune. Furthermore, that the enemy have not left Readyville at
any time since this regiment has been on duty here in the front, unless they
were driven from there on Wednesday about 1 p. m.; and, if such be the case,
they certainly returned and occupied the place by 4 o'clock the same day, for
the scout spoken of above drove his pickets immediately into their camp, and
was then fired upon by the sentinels around camp, and chased by 150 cavalry
from that point through Woodbury, 7 miles. The colonel directs me to say he
will send a heavy scout out immediately, and advise you immediately upon the
receipt of word from it.
I am, major, respectfully, your obedient servant,
HDQRS. BRECKINRIDGE'S REGT., June 5, 1863.
Maj. E. S. BURFORD, Assistant Adjutant-Gen., McMinnville:
I am directed by Col. Breckinridge to inform you the scout sent out on this
morning at 2.15 a. m. has returned. The enemy's pickets were driven in. The
information gained is that the force at Readyville is the same that has been stationed there during the whole spring and part of last winter, one brigade, commanded by Gen. Hazen, consisting of four regiments of infantry and one
battalion of cavalry, numbering in all about 1,600 men.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
June 3, 1863 - June 25, 1863 - Efforts by Provost Marshal for the Army of Tennessee to publish misleading information in the Chattanooga Daily Rebel
Tullahoma, Tenn., June 3, 1863, Francis M. Paul Editor Daily Rebel Chattanooga, Tenn.:
Please publish an article conveying this idea in your first issue: "We are at a
loss to comprehend why General Johnston should have sent Breckinridge's
June 4, 1863
corps back to Middle Tennessee. He must be in a secure condition, either from
his position or from an abundance of troops.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 860.
SHELBYVILLE, TENN., June 24, 1863.
FRANCIS M. PAUL, Editor Rebel, Chattanooga, Tenn.:
Publish an article to this effect: "We are happy to see that re-enforcements continue to arrive for Bragg's army. Our trains to-day are loaded with troops," &c.
Don't mention the names of the commanders.
ALEX. McKINSTRY, Col. and Provost-Marshal-Gen.
SHELBYVILLE, TENN., June 25, 1863.
FRANCIS M. PAUL, Esq., Chattanooga, Tenn.:
DEAR SIR: I telegraphed to you last evening, requesting you to publish an
article to the effect that we were receiving re-enforcements, &c. You will have
seen by the Northern press the dilemma they have been in concerning Breckinridge, on account of your notice of his return, and you will see by this, too, how
much the press can assist us, and how much they look to it for information.
They now (he knowing ones) know that he is with Johnston. To save your
credit with them, let me ask you to put in something to the effect that Gen.
Johnston recalled him, or could not spare him-whatever may suggest itself to
you-to account for his being there now. They get all of our papers. Yours being
the nearest, and, of course, the latest, appears to be looked upon by them as the
best information. I am frequently in the receipt of Northern papers, and will
take great pleasure in sending them to you.
Yours, truly,
ALEX. McKINSTRY, Col., &c.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 885.
June 4, 1863 - Federal scout, Carthage environs to Trousdale Ferry on the Caney Fork
River
CARTHAGE, TENN., June 4, [1863]
Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland,
Murfreesborough, Tenn.:
A scouting party, composed of the Thirty-sixth Ohio Regt., sent to Trousdale
Ferry, on Caney Fork, succeeded in capturing 16 prisoners and 32 horses of
Smith's command. We are now crossing the river. Have been ferrying all day
yesterday and all last night. Will be at Liberty to-morrow.
Respectfully,
June 4, 1863
GEORGE CROOK, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 386.
June 4, 1863 - Skirmish at Snow Hill, near Liberty
JUNE 4, 1863.-Skirmish at Snow Hill, Tenn.
Report of Col. J. R. Butler, Third Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate).
HDQRS. HARRISON'S CAVALRY BRIGADE, Smithville, June 5, 1863.
GEN.: Your dispatch of yesterday is at hand, written, I presume, before mine
advising of the attack made on me at Liberty at 4 p. m. yesterday was received,
as no mention is made of its receipt. The enemy have made no further demonstration since the attack yesterday; but finding them in heavy force, with artillery, and trying to flank my position, I deemed it advisable to fall back to this
place last night, and await orders. My scout, 130 strong, under Capt. [R. W. ]
Hooks, attacked the enemy at Black's Shop yesterday at daylight, and drove
their pickets into their breastworks at that place, and found two infantry brigades in line to receive them. They also had artillery. After a brisk skirmish my
scout retired. We found no pickets at Bone's Ford. The pickets whom I feared
were captured yesterday have come in; also my forage and commissary details,
with the exception of about 55 men. Four wagons are also still out, two of
which, I regret to say, were captured at Alexandria.
The enemy advanced upon Liberty and Alexandria simultaneously yesterday,
coming on the Murfreesborough and Auburn pike. My scout on that road had
returned to camp but a short time before the attack was made. Another small
scout saw the enemy as they passed a few miles from the forks of the pike, and
reports them in heavy force, marching by fours at a rapid trot. They were
mostly mounted infantry, and had a large wagon train loaded; also twelve
pieces of artillery in the rear. My scouts report the enemy having no pickets
this side of Stone's River, and learned from citizens that they had drawn their
pickets much closer in toward Murfreesborough. I have sent out three scouts
this morning toward Liberty and Alexandria, to ascertain the movements of the
enemy.
Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant,
J. R. BUTLER, Col., Cmdg. Harrison's Cavalry Brigade.
Maj.-Gen. WHEELER, Cmdg. Army Corps, McMinnville.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 358.
June 4, 1863 - Skirmish at Stones River Ford
June 4, 1863
June 4, 1863 - Engagement (artillery) at Franklin; Forrest repulsed
ReportNOTE 1 of Col. John P. Baird, Eighty-fifth Indiana Infantry.
FRANKLIN, June 6, 1863. (Received 6 p. m.)
GEN.: Dispatch just received. The attack commenced at 3 p. m., 4th. From
information derived from prisoners, I think Forrest's whole force advancedthree brigades and two regiments. Forrest was with them. They sent Armstrong's brigade to my left and Starnes' to the right, working toward Brentwood. I know Forrest was personally in command, and we took prisoners from
all the regiments in Armstrong's brigade. Below you will find a full report of
amount of ammunition expended and on hand. They would not come in range
of howitzers, but drove in my pickets and little force of cavalry; had two batteries; only opened with one, but soon got range, and I had to fire on them to force
them to change position; also to support my pickets. I did not fire on Thursday
at a range more than average of a mile; they came to town and I shelled them
out. Col. Campbell came in on my left with a brigade of cavalry, sent from Triune by Gen. Granger, and drove Armstrong back, taking 10 prisoners. Friday
morning, Col. Van Derveer arrived with brigade of infantry and battery from
Triune, and assumed command of forces here at noon. Early in the morning
yesterday quite a large force appeared on Columbia pike, and I fired a few
shots to dislodge them; they finally fell back. Our loss is remarkably small, but
am sorry to report Col. Faulkner, Seventh Kentucky Cavalry, was wounded
mortally. Col. Van Derveer left at noon to-day, taking with him all the force
Gen. Granger sent here, although Granger ordered him to send the cavalry. I
am satisfied they will attack within twenty-four hours, as they are hovering
around. They evidently expected to take the place, and made it hot fort two or
three hours; and, but for the timely aid from Granger, would have renewed the
attack in force yesterday. It is impossible to prevent them from ascertaining our
movements, with the force I have to picket the various roads, and I would like
permission to burn up the town, so I can see the front. Reports of our loss were
made while Col. Van Derveer was in command, but it will not exceed 10 killed
and wounded. We took 28 prisoners, and the enemy must have lost fully as
many more killed and wounded. If attacked, I will fight as long as we can fire a
shot.
Report of ammunition.-Number of rounds on hand: 30-pounder Parrott, 132
rounds shell; 24-pounder rifled gun, 149 rounds shell; 24-pounder rifled gun,
140 rounds solid shot; 24-pounder rifled gun, 60 rounds canister; 8-inch howitzer, 298 rounds spherical case shell; 8-inch howitzer, 220 fixed shall, and 8inch howitzer, 70 rounds canister. Number expended: 30-pounder Parrott, 58
rounds shell; 24-pounder rifled 51 rounds shell. There was no light ammunition used except in picket firing. I sent through report of ammunition early this
morning to Granger, by signal. A mistake occurred on spherical case shell-592
reported, and we only have 298. Signal Corps has been very efficient.
Respectfully,
June 4, 1863
J. P. BAIRD, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 361.
NOTE 1: There were three official reports issued concerning this engagement.
Report of Col. Archibald P. Campbell, Second Michigan Cavalry.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION CAVALRY, Triune, Tenn.,
June 7, 1863.
CAPT.: I have the honor to submit the following report of the engagement of
the First Brigade, First Division Cavalry, near Franklin, Tenn., on the evening
of the 4th of June, 1863:
I was reported to proceed to Franklin with this brigade on the afternoon of the
4th of June. I meet the enemy's pickets of Gen. Armstrong's command about 1
1/2 miles east of Franklin, between the river and the Murfreesborough road.
The enemy made an attack on the flank of the Second Michigan. The Sixth
Kentucky made a charge on the enemy's pickets, driving them across the Harpeth River and across the Lewisburg pike. The Second Michigan dismounted
and deployed as skirmishers on the enemy's center; the Fourth Kentucky on the
left of the Second Michigan, supported on the flanks by the Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry. The Fourth Kentucky Cavalry made a charge on the enemy's right;
the Second Michigan advanced and attacked the center, pressing them hard.
The enemy then fell back in great disorder, not being able to rally to form
another line. Could I have had another hour of daylight, I could have taken the
whole command of Gen. Armstrong, but the night was so very dark that it was
impossible to follow me.
I captured 18 prisoners, killed and wounded 15, and killed a large number of
horses, and burned one ammunition wagon. Among the prisoners taken were 4
of Gen. Armstrong's escort, with the colors of his escort.
Our casualties are as follows: Col. J. K. Faulkner, Seventh Kentucky Cavalry,
severely wounded in the thigh; Col. Wickliffe Cooper, Fourth Kentucky Cavalry, was thrown from his horse while riding beside the 2 men killed and 2 men
wounded of the Second Michigan Cavalry, and 1 man killed of the Fourth Kentucky Cavalry. Our loss in horses is not positively known. Think our number
good.
The officers and men of my command fought bravely. On the morning of the
5th the enemy had all crossed the Harpeth River, and had fallen back south of
Franklin.
A. P. CAMPBELL, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 361-362.
June 4, 1863
Excerpt from the Report of Maj. Gen. Henry W. Halleck, Gen.-in-Chief, U. S.
Army, of operations in the Departments of the Ohio and of the Cumberland,
February 3-July 26, 1863, relative to a raid upon Franklin, June 4, 1863.
~~~
On the 4th of June, the rebel Gen. Forrest made a raid upon Franklin, and on
the 11th attacked Triune. His losses in these unsuccessful skirmishes were estimated at over 100, while ours were only 17 killed and wounded.
~~~
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 8.
June 4, 1863 - Confederates rob stores in Franklin
•See July 14, 1863--Merchants in Franklin seek recompense for losses sustained during Confederate raid on Franklin
June 4, 1863 - Operations on the Shelbyville Pike near Murfreesborough
JUNE 4, 1863.-Operations on the Shelbyville PikeNOTE 1, near Murfreesborough Tenn.
REPORTS.
No. 1.-Maj. Gen. Alexander McD. McCook, U. S. Army.
No. 2.-Col. William B. Sipes, Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry.
No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. Alexander McD. McCook, U. S. Army.
No. 1 JUNE 4, 1863.
GEN.: The enemy have attacked Gen. Cartlin's pickets in front of Marshall
Knob with artillery and cavalry. I have ordered him to hold on, and have
advanced another brigade to the Shelbyville pike bridge.
A. McD. McCOOK, Maj.-Gen.
No. 2.
Report of Lieut. Col. William B. Sipes, Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry.
HDQRS. SEVENTH PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEER CAVALRY, June 5,
1863.
SIR: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to orders, I yesterday
marched with the Seventh Regt. Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, numbering
227 men, exclusive of officers, and one piece of artillery, under command of
Lieut. Newell. I proceeded out the Shelbyville turnpike about 3 miles, and was
there stopped by Brig. Gen. Jeff. C. Davis, commanding a division. The Thirtyninth Indiana Mounted Infantry, with which I had been ordered to co-operate,
was there with Gen. Davis' force, and finding that regiment employed by him, I
June 4, 1863
did not deliver the order to its commanding officer with which I had been
intrusted.
Gen. Davis desired me to hold my regiment in column in rear of his infantry,
on the Shelbyville road, until such time as his skirmishers, operating to the
right and left, should engage the enemy, posted with artillery about 3 miles to
our front. I remained as directed for a short time, during which Maj.-Gen.
McCook came forward, but did not apparently assume command. The enemy
having moved from the road before our skirmishers reached them, I was
ordered to advance. Proceeding about 2 miles down the road, and passing the
deployed infantry, my advance, consisting of Capt. Davis' and Capt. Newcomer's squadrons, came within musket range of the enemy, and was briskly
fired upon. I immediately ordered the command of halt, deploying portions of
it to the right and left, under cover, leaving two by a small elevation in their
front. At this time Gen. Davis came forward, and I informed him that I could
not advance upon the enemy unsupported; that I had three times requested the
commanding officer of the infantry skirmishers to advance and take possession
of a wood which covered our left flank, but they had failed to do so, and at that
time were falling still farther back. He directed me to continue engaged with
the enemy in front, and, if possible, draw them on, as he had forces operating
on both their flanks. I failed during the evening to see or hear of these forces,
but I obeyed my instructions. The enemy having opened fire upon us from two
pieces, I suggested the Lieut. Newell's one piece of artillery be brought into
action. The general assented, and Lieut. Newell at once opened fire. His second shell caused the enemy's artillery to fall back and cease firing. The gun
was then advanced to a more commanding position, and made ready for action,
but the enemy had retired to the right, and could not be seen in any considerable force. Dismounted skirmishers from my regiment were then thrown
through the woods to the left already refereed to, and Lieut. Dixon's squadron
was deployed to the extreme right. In this position was remained until the
Thirty-ninth Indiana came up, when I concentrated my command on the right
of the road, the thirty-ninth Indiana taking the left, and the artillery the road,
and in this order, covered by a line of skirmishers, we advanced to the house of
a Mr. Lytle, where the enemy had been posted. Here we learned that the forces
in our front consisted of Gen. Cheatham's division of Bragg's army, numbering
9,000; that the force with which we were engaged consisted of about 1,000
cavalry and mounted infantry, with four pieces of artillery.
Orders were here issued for the entire command to return to Murfreesborough,
and at dusk we moved backward, my regiment being in the rear. We arrived in
camp at 9.30 p. m.
Sergeant [James A. ] Crinnian, of Company I, was shot in the shoulder, inflicting a painful but not dangerous wound. I have no other casualties to report.
My entire command behaved gallantly and coolly, executing their maneuvers
under fire as steadily as on parade.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
June 4, 1863
WM. B. SIPES, Lieut. Col., Cmdg. Seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 362-364.
NOTE 1: Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee identifies this as operations on the "Edgefield Pike, near Murfreesborough."
June 4, 1863 - Skirmish at Liberty
•See June 4, 1863-June 5, 1863-Scout to Smithville
June 4, 1863 - Skirmish at Snow Hill
JUNE 4, 1863.-Skirmish at Snow Hill, Tenn.
Report of Col. J. R. Butler, Third Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate).
HDQRS. HARRISON'S CAVALRY BRIGADE, Smithville, June 5, 1863.
GEN.: Your dispatch of yesterday is at hand, written, I presume, before mine
advising of the attack made on me at Liberty at 4 p. m. yesterday was received,
as no mention is made of its receipt. The enemy have made no further demonstration since the attack yesterday; but finding them in heavy force, with artillery, and trying to flank my position, I deemed it advisable to fall back to this
place last night, and await orders. My scout, 130 strong, under Capt. [R. W. ]
Hooks, attacked the enemy at Black's Shop yesterday at daylight, and drove
their pickets into their breastworks at that place, and found two infantry brigades in line to receive them. They also had artillery. After a brisk skirmish my
scout retired. We found no pickets at Bone's Ford. The pickets whom I feared
were captured yesterday have come in; also my forage and commissary details,
with the exception of about 55 men. Four wagons are also still out, two of
which, I regret to say, were captured at Alexandria.
The enemy advanced upon Liberty and Alexandria simultaneously yesterday,
coming on the Murfreesborough and Auburn pike. My scout on that road had
returned to camp but a short time before the attack was made. Another small
scout saw the enemy as they passed a few miles from the forks of the pike, and
reports them in heavy force, marching by fours at a rapid trot. They were
mostly mounted infantry, and had a large wagon train loaded; also twelve
pieces of artillery in the rear. My scouts report the enemy having no pickets
this side of Stone's River, and learned from citizens that they had drawn their
pickets much closer in toward Murfreesborough. I have sent out three scouts
this morning toward Liberty and Alexandria, to ascertain the movements of the
enemy.
Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant,
June 4, 1863
J. R. BUTLER, Col., Cmdg. Harrison's Cavalry Brigade.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 359.
June 4, 1863 - Skirmish, Marshall Knob
•See June 4, 1863--Operations on the Shelbyville Pike near Murfreesborough
June 4, 1863 - Bragg issues General Orders, No. 19, relative to refugees from Union lines
GENERAL ORDERS, No. 19. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT No. 2, Tullahoma,
I. All helpless people expelled from the lines of the enemy will report to the
general commanding the army, department, or district nearest the place first
reached by them. Upon their request, the inspector-general of such army,
department, or district nearest the place first reached by them. Upon their
request, the inspector-general of such army, department, or district will furnish,
at Government expense, to those who come with certificates of expulsion,
transportation to some convenient point in the rear near the line of a leading
railroad, and subsistence in kind until they reach their destination. Such inspectors-general will make out and send to these headquarters a list of the persons
so sent, the points to which they are sent, and such other information as they
may deem important.
~~~
By command of Gen. Bragg
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 861.
June 4, 1863 - Civilian anxieties expressed about Nashville as an army ammunition depot
Whether justly entertained or not, there is no little uneasiness among the citizens of Nashville in regard to the large quantity of powder and ammunition of
various kinds believed to be stored in the city for the military authorities. Only
those who are entrusted with its custody know the real danger, and doubt they
correctly estimate the danger connected with it, and exercise all proper and
possible care to prevent the terrible consequences which would ensure from its
ignition. But is it possible to prevent its combustion by lightning? and is due
precaution taken against such an event? do those in authority feels secure on
this point? It is understood that the material referred to is contained in one or
two tall buildings prominently situated-most eligible marks for the artillery of
the heavens. No one can contemplate such an occurrence, with the horrible
destruction of life and property which would ensue, without a shudder. If all
human means have not been adopted to escape it, should not steps looking to
that object be taken immediately?
June 4, 1863
The alarm felt by our citizens on this score may be groundless, but if it is not
known to be so by those competent to judge, we think that, in case of an accident, a fearful responsibility will rest somewhere. In advertising to this subjectwhich we do for the purpose of calling the attention of the authorities to the
matter, in order that they may quiet the apprehensions of the community, or
take steps to guard against the possibility of combustion, if such has not
already been done. We would suggest the building of a subterranean magazine
beyond the suburbs, as the base of some adjacent hill, as affording greater protection from electricity than the present ordnance depot in the heart of the city.
The fact that our city suffered terribly from the explosion of a powder magazine ignited by electricity a few years ago, will sufficiently explain the uneasiness that exists on this subject at present.
June 4, 1863 - Gingerbread cakes and young ladies: letter from Major General S. B. Buckner to E. C. & Lizzie Lillard, Lizzie & Emma King and Sallie McClain Vs
Mrs. Buster & Others
Knoxville, Tenn.
June 4, 1863
My Dear Young Ladies,
It pains me very much to learn from our brave Soldiers at Vicksburg, Who are
now bravely defending the beautiful valley of the Miss from the Ruthless
invader of our soil, to be informed by them that you had deprived them of their
rations Such as sweet bread, more commonly called Ginger Cakes, which was
prepared for them by their wives, mothers and sisters. It is with regret that I
shall and do order you one and all to appear before me at these head quarters to
answer the charge made against you viz.,: Sweet bread thereby trying to make
yourselves Sweet at the expence of the Poor Soldiers.
Specifications
1st for eating said ginger bread without butter
2" Taking to large mouth fulls
3" Eating as much as 2 rations each without water
4" Consumg the whole 10 sacks and asking for more
Maj. Gen. S. B. Buckner, Commander Dpt. East Ten
W. P. A. Civil War Records, Vol. 2, p. 174.
June 4, 1863 - "A Rebel Mortally Bayoneted."
If it hadn't been for the sensation kicked up by an audacious rebel on the wharf
yesterday, we should have left that part in the city in disgust. By some hook or
June 4, 1863
crook, a young and vicious rebel (in search of butter of some other kind of
nuts) ran the gauntlet and got into the city unobserved. How long he had been
ratting and prying around is not known; but he was bold enough yesterday
morning to come out of his hole, and made his appearance in the midst of a
squad of convalescents on the wharf. The armed guard was not in sight, and the
ablest of the convalescents determined to capture him (the rebel.) Rebel fled at
first attempt to gobble up. Convalescent pursued, and after a double-quick run
of several hundred yards, grabbed at Rebel's rear file just as he (Rebel) made
himself scarce under a big pile of lumber. Convalescent tore away abbatis, and
gave a thrust with his naked bayonet, which brought forth a piteous token of
surrender. Another charge by the exasperated bayonet, and Rebel dried up. The
lumber was removed more effectually, on oh, horror! the bleeding, lifeless
form of a prodigious rat was dragged forth, and left to bleach upon the wharfside, a warning to all future generations of mealtub depredators. It was ascertained, by flag of truce, that the exterminated enemy was a Brigadier-General
in the regular service, commanding the underground forces in the Department
where he fell, and that the Rat Brigade will be terrier-ably revenged, on
account of his most sacrilegious murder.
Nashville Daily Press, June 5, 1863.
June 4, 1863 - "Sent South."
Captain John Conover, of the 8th Kansas, yesterday, accompanied the following names persons beyond the lines of this department: Mr. Nicholas C.
Branch, his wife, Mrs. Bethenia Branch, and six daughters, Misses Mary A.,
Bethenia, Susan W., Martha A., Sallie J., and Virginia T.
June 4, 1863 - "A SHARP ANSWER."
A conversation between two interesting little juveniles, one a lad, the other a
missie, was overheard yesterday. They had congregated about their playground, in the suburbs, it seems, to discuss the state of the nation, and war matters generally:
Polly-"What side are you for?"
Billy-"I'm for-the same side that Tennie over yonder is."
Polly-"Which side is that?"
Billy (still evading)-"Oh, you know which side I'm for. What side are you for,
I'd like to know, very well?"
Polly-"Well, I am for the Union! Now what are you."
Billy (bravely)-"Me? Why, I am for the side that whips-that's what I'm for!"
June 4, 1863
Exit, all satisfied.
June 4, 1863 - A description of La Vergne, Tennessee; an excerpt from George F. Cram's letter to his mother
Lavergne, June 4, 1863
Dear Mother,
~~~
Early in the morning we arose and after performing our ablutions at a neighboring spring, took a view of the scenery. First, we are 15 miles in the rear of
the grand army, just half way from Nashville to Murfreesboro. The town of
Lavergne has suffered the extreme rigors of war. It is burned to the ground, but
three houses remain which are used as hospitals. It was there that the great battle of Stones River began. All around us lay the remnants of wagon trains
which the rebels burned and the decayed remains of mules and horses while little piles of bricks and crumbled masonry are significant of the terrible fate and
swift destruction that overtook a rebellious city. It's a terrible sight to contemplate and though it was just a retribution, I cannot help feeling sad at the fate of
the misled inhabitants once as happy and joyous as those of our Northern villages, now exiles, with no home on earth.
~~~
Letters of George F. Cram
June 4, 1863 - "It was very curious to see three hundred horses suddenly emerge from the
wood just in front of us. . . " Fremantle's observations of the Army of Tennessee.
4th June, Thursday.-Colonel Richmond rode with me to the outposts, in order
to be present at the reconnoissance which was being conducted under the command of General Cheatham. We reached the field of operations at 2 P. M., and
found that Martin's cavalry (dismounted) had advanced upon the enemy about
three miles, and, after some brisk skirmishing, had driven in his outposts. The
enemy showed about 2000 infantry, strongly posted, his guns commanding the
turnpike road. The Confederate infantry was concealed in the woods, about a
mile in rear of the dismounted cavalry.
This being the position of affairs, Colonel Richmond and I rode along the road
so far as it was safe to do so. We then dismounted, and sneaked on in the
woods alongside the road until we got to within 800 yards of the Yankees,
whom we then reconnoitered leisurely with our glasses. We could only count
about seventy infantry soldiers, with one field piece in the wood at an angle of
the road, and we saw several staff officers galloping about with orders. Whilst
we were thus engaged, some heavy firing and loud cheering suddenly commenced in the woods on our left; so, fearing to be outflanked, we remounted
June 4, 1863
and rode back to an open space, about 600 yards to the rear, where we found
General Martin giving orders for the withdrawal of the cavalry horses in the
front, and the retreat of the skirmishers.
It was very curious to see three hundred horses suddenly emerge from the
wood just in front of us, where they had been hidden—one man to every four
horses, riding one and leading the other three, which were tied together by the
heads. In this order I saw them cross a cotton-field at a smart trot, and take up a
more secure position; two or three men cantered about in the rear flanking up
the led horses. They were shortly afterwards followed by the men of the regiment, retreating in skirmishing order under Colonel Webb, and they lined a
fence parallel to us. The same thing went on on our right.
As the firing on our left still continued, my friends were in great hopes that the
Yankees might be inveigled on to follow the retreating skirmishers until they
fell in with the two infantry brigades, which were lying in ambush for them;
and it was arranged, in that case, that some mounted Confederates should then
get in their rear, and so capture a good number; but this simple and ingenious
device was frustrated by the sulkiness of the enemy, who now stubbornly
refused to advance any further.
The way in which the horses were managed was very pretty, and seemed to
answer admirably for this sort of skirmishing. They were never far from the
men, who could mount and be off to another part of the field with rapidity, or
retire to take up another position, or act as cavalry as the case might require.
Both the superior officers and the men behaved with the most complete coolness; and, whilst we were waiting in hopes of a Yankee advance, I heard the
soldiers remarking that they "didn't like being done out of their good boots"—
one of the principal objects in killing a Yankee being apparently to get hold of
his valuable boots.
A tremendous row went on in the woods during this bushwhacking, and the
trees got knocked about in all directions by shell; but I imagine that the actual
slaughter in these skirmishes is very small, unless they get fairly at one another
in the open cultivated spaces between the woods. I did not see or hear of anybody being killed to-day, although there were a few wounded and some horses
killed. Colonel Richmond and Colonel Webb were much disappointed that the
inactivity of the enemy prevented my seeing the skirmish assume larger proportions, and General Cheatham said to me, "We should be very happy to see
you, Colonel, when we are in our regular way of doing business."
After waiting in vain until 5 P. M., and seeing no signs of any thing more taking place, Colonel Richmond and I cantered back to Shelbyville. We were
accompanied by a detachment of General Polk's body guard, which was composed of young men of good position in New Orleans. Most of them spoke in
the French language, and nearly all had slaves in the field with them, although
they ranked only as private soldiers, and had to perform the onerous duties of
orderlies, (or couriers, as they are called.) On our way back we heard heavy fir-
June 4, 1863
ing on our left, from the direction in which General Withers was conducting
his share of the reconnoissance with two other infantry brigades.
After dark, General Polk got a message from Cheatham, to say that the enemy
had after all advanced in heavy force about 6.15 P. M., and obliged him to
retire to Guy's Gap. We also heard that General Cleburne, who had advanced
from Wartrace, had had his horse shot under him. The object of the reconnoissance seemed, therefore, to have been attained, for apparently the enemy was
still in strong force at Murfreesboro', and manifested no intention of yielding it
without a struggle.
I took leave of General Polk before I turned in. His kindness and hospitality
have exceeded anything I could have expected. I shall always feel grateful to
him on this account, and I shall never think of him without admiration for his
character as a sincere patriot, a gallant soldier, and a perfect gentleman. His
aids-de-camp, Cols. Richmond and Yeatman, are also excellent types of the
higher class of Southerners. Highly educated, wealthy and prosperous before
the war, they have abandoned all for their country. They, and all other Southern
gentlemen of the same rank, are proud of their descent from Englishmen. They
glory in speaking English as we do, and that their manners and feelings resemble those of the upper classes in the old country. No staff officers could perform their duties with more zeal and efficiency than these gentlemen, although
they were not educated as soldiers.
June 4, 1863 - Truesdail reassigned
Good.—Capt. John Conover, of co. F, 8th Kansas, the modern "Putnam," was
yesterday installed into office as Chief of Army Police, vice Col. Wm. Truesdail, Capt. Conover goes into his new position with a proud reputation for the
efficient discharge of every duty assigned him, and he will prove a most worth
auxiliary to the Police system of this District, and show himself an able and
dignified co-laborer with the handsome and talented Col. John A. Martin.
June 4, 1863 - "REBEL MARAUDERS."
It was rumored yesterday that a gang of rebel cavalrymen made their appearance in Neely's Bend, about ten miles up the Cumberland river, and captured
two hundred and seventy four government mules that were on their way to this
Department, and made off with them. We heard no particulars.NOTE 1 Col.
Cahill with one hundred mounted men of the 16th Illinois, started in pursuit of
the marauders immediately after hearing of their exploit. It is rather likely that
the Colonel will make them drop their game.
June 4, 1863
NOTE 1: There is no evidence in either the OR or Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee
to corroborate this story. The number of mules allegedly taken seems rather
an exact count. The event may have been true or a rumor of war.
June 4, 1863 - Editorial urging voter participation in the Confederate State elections
To the People of Tennessee.
The time is rapidly approaching when by the constitution and laws of Tennessee, we are to be called upon to elect a Governor, Congressmen, and Members
to the Legislature.
It is more important that this duty should be performed now than at any other
previous period in our history. We must exhibit to the enemy our unalterable
firmness of purpose and determination to preserve and perpetuate our free
institutions.
It is confidently believed the people everywhere are ready to sacrifice personal
preferences, and personal claims, so far as may be necessary to produce perfect
harmony and unity of action.
In the present condition of the country, this can only be done by securing a
meeting of the largest number of citizens possible, from every part of the State,
for the purpose of consulting and determining who shall be our candidates.
For this purpose we request the voters of the State, but public meeting, or such
other mode as they may deem best, to appoint delegates to meet at Winchester,
Tenn., on Wednesday, the 17th of June, 1863, to nominate a candidate for Governor, and a general ticket for members of Congress.
Regiments are requested to hold primary meetings, and to appoint delegates.
Exiles and refugees from counties within the enemy's lines, are requested to
attend as delegates from their respective counties.
June 4, 1863 - On Van Dorn's demise
The Late Gen. Van Dorn.
The staff of the late General Van Dorn have published a card, which the
Atlanta Confederacy pronounces "a very lame effort to relieve him of some of
the odium which attaches to his name in connection with his death." That paper
adds: "Van Dorn has been recognized for years as a rake, a most wicked libertine—and more especially of late. If he had led a virtuous life, he would not
have died the death of a dog—'unwept, unhonored, and unsung.'
"Think of the universal respect paid to the lamented Jackson. The whole country is filled with mourning and tears at his death, while no man expresses even
a regret at the fate of Van Dorn. Here is a striking illustration of the difference
between sin and righteousness—between the devotion of a man's life to the
June 4, 1863
most infamous and debasing of all human vices and the most commendable
and elevating Christian virtues. The country has sustained no loss in the death
of Van Dorn. It is a happy riddance. He was unfit to live, let alone having
charge of such important trusts as he had.
June 4, 1863 - Sermonizing in Lincoln county
Preaching.
Elder John M. Watson will preach, Providence permitting, as the following
times and places:
Kelly's Creek, 1st Sunday in June—McCulloch's Creek, Monday—Camargo,
Tuesday—Church near Elder Towery's, Wednesday—Stewart's Creek, Thursday—Fayetteville, 4 o'clock P. M., Thursday—Rocky Point, Friday—Shilo,
Saturday and Sunday—Lynchburg, Saturday and Sunday, embracing the 3d
Sunday—Flat Creek, Monday—Concord, Tuesday—Mt. Olivet, Wednesday—
Mt. Carmel, Thursday—New Hope, Friday—Sulphur Spring, Saturday—
Buckeye, Sunday.
June 4, 1863 - Petersburg Sharpshooters give thanks
A Card.
The officers and privates of Co. C., 8th Reg. Tenn. Vols., desire to express to
the ladies of Petersburg, and Mrs. John Edminson, of the vicinity, their full
appreciation of their kind efforts for the comfort and entertainment of the soldiers on the evening of the 20th. Thank God, we have some friends at home
who desire to render the way; of the soldier less rugged and cheerless!
Peterburg Sharpshooters.
June 4, 1863 - Death of a Confederate prisoner of war, prognostication about Vicksburg and
fearless discourse
Camps [of the] 26th Regt. Tenn. Browns Brigade, Beechgrove
June the 4th, 1863
Mr. Joseph Offield
Holston Valley
Sullivan County E. Tenn.
Dear Sir—Having just learned of the fate of your son Ja's [James], I decern it a
duty I owe to his relatives to inform them concerning him, & therefore
June 4, 1863
embrace this opportunity & devote it to that purpose. We received by flag of
truce this morning a report of all the members of our Regiment who died in the
Yankee Hospital at Murfreesboro while prisoners & I am sorry to say that your
son James' name appears on that list, he died on the 9th day of February
1863. . . Both armies have been maneuvering for some time. Yesterday we
made a reconisance in force, went within four miles of Murfreesboro when we
encountered the enemies pickets when a sharp skirmish ensued[;] no loss on
our side save some three or four horses. All is again quiet & I think both Bragg
& Rosencrans are willing to wait the Result of "Vicksburg" which all admit is
the turning scale of the war & should the southron arms be crowned with a signal victory at that point, while their army is in a demoralized condition troops
can be massed here and hurled upon Rosencrans, in such overwhelming numbers that he will be forced to give away, but his army is not considerably weakened by Reinforcing Grant in Mississippi & it is to be hoped that before long
the Stars and bars can be carried triumphantly & transplanted upon the banks
of the turbid wartrers of the Ohio that should ever be as a gulf of fire between
us. Should we be victorious at Vicksburg the Reconstruction Candidates (& I
understand there is not a few of them in East Tennessee) had better try to ride
into office upon some other hobby for it would be just as impossible to get gallant hearted Mariners into a dispute about Sea water or fellow soldiers into an
envious Quarrel about plumes & collors while storming side by side some
Sebastipol or breasting shoulder to shoulder the fierce tieds of battle as to get
them to agree to a Reconstruction of the Union after having stood side by side
with friends & relatives & seen them fall fighting for their homes their fire
sides for liberty & to avenge the wrongs & insults heaped upon innocent
women in every City town or Parish that has fallen into their hands as did New
Orleans when it fell into the hands of the beast "Butler" that odious wretch &
black hearted villain whose name should ever be a curse upon the lips of every
Southron freeman The health of the Boys is generally good and all anxious to
heare the news from upper East Tennessee. You will still direct your letters to
Wartrace as it is the nearest point to the Rail Road though we are stationed at
Beach Grove some ten miles of more distant, let us hear who are the Candidates for Representative & the platform upon which they ask for the sufferage
of the people, nor more at present,
Respectively Yours,
H R Jobe.
Offield Correspondence.
June 4, 1863 - June 5, 1863 - Scout to Smithville
JUNE 4-5, 1863.-Scout to Smithville, Tenn.
No circumstantial reports filed.
Abstract from "Record of Events," Second Brigade, Second Cavalry Division,
Department of the Cumberland, commanded by Col. Eli Long.
June 4, 1863
June 4, Col. Paramore, with the Third, Fourth, and Tenth Ohio Regt. 's, went on
a scout, accompanying Col. Wilder's brigade of mounted infantry. Skirmished
with rebel cavalry at Snow Hill, 25 miles from Murfreesborough. Drove them
from their position and encamped near Liberty.
June 5, Col. Paramore moved with his brigade and two regiments of mounted
infantry toward Smithville, 12 miles from Liberty. Just below Liberty, encountered rebel skirmishers. Met no heavy resistance until reaching Smithville,
where [Thomas] Harrison's brigade of rebel cavalry was encountered and
fought for some hours. Drove them back a mile, when they again formed in the
woods and resisted stoutly, but were again defeated and fell back in confusion.
Col. Paramore lost 2 men of the Third Ohio, wounded. Rebel loss unknown,
they carrying off their wounded.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 364.
NEWS FROM ALL POINTS.
~~~
Skirmish Near Murfreesboro.
~~~
Murfreesboro, June 7. The force went out a few days since under Colonel
Wilder, of mounted infantry notoriety, for the purpose of pressing up the
remaining small command of cavalry under Colonel Harrison, at Liberty,
returned to camp to-day. Colonel Wilder's force consisted of his brigade of
mounted infantry, Colonel Paramon's cavalry brigade, and ten pieces of artillery.
Near Liberty our forces came unexpectedly on the camp of the enemy, who
fled precipitately at their approach, leaving a large number of horses, wagons,
guns, pistols, swords and other articles usually found about a camp.
The supper cooked and prepared by the enemy, was eagerly dispatched by the
captives, who found eggs and ham in sufficient quantity to feed the whole
crowd. Parties were immediately sent out in every direction after the fleeing
rebels, who brought in a large number, with four officers. The Fifteenth Indiana mounted infantry, was sent down to Alexandria, to cut off the retreat of the
party who captured the mules in the vicinity of Nashville, a few days since. By
arrangement, Gen. Cook, with his command camped up from Carthage and
joined the Seventeenth at Alexandria. The rebel detachment in charge of the
captured mules, 105 in number, were intercepted, and the whole party and
booty was taken in charge, when the whole force rejoined the main body at
Liberty.
Colonel Wilder then moved up to Smithville, where a brisk fight, in which the
artillery was called into action, ensued, the rebels retreated, leaving on the field
eight killed and quite a number of prisoners on our hands. The result of the
expedition is fifty prisoners, four of whom are commissioned officers, one
June 4, 1863
hundred and thirty mules, over one hundred horses, about fifty stand of arms,
and eight serviceable wagons.
Captain Arnold, in charge of the guard accompanying the train between this
place and Nashville, was yesterday [6th] accidentally killed while the train was
passing over the bridge across Stewart's creek.
Captain Hazlet, of the Second Ohio, formerly residing at Zanesville, who was
dangerously wounded at the battle of Stones River, died very suddenly last
night from the effects of his wound.
~~~
Memphis Bulletin, June 12, 1863.
June 4, 1863 - ca. June 12, 1863 - Federal scout to Liberty environs
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, June 4, 1863—1 a. m.
Gen. TURCHIN, Cmdg. Second Cavalry Division:
GEN.: Direct Col. Paramore to march at 6 o'clock this morning, with the
mounted men of the Third, Fourth, and Tenth Ohio, to Liberty, on the direct
road. He will take eight day's rations-three in haversacks and five in wagonswith 60 rounds of ammunition per man. Col. Wilder marches his command on
the same road at the same hour, and Col. Paramore will report to him. The
quartermaster of each regiment will be left behind, and the dismounted men,
for the purpose of getting their horses to-morrow. Orders to direct these detachments will be issued hereafter. At Liberty the command will be reported to
Gen. Crook. The tents will not be taken, but an officer will be detailed to take
charge of the baggage in case the camps are broken up. The pickets now on
from these regiments will join the detachments in camp as soon as they can be
relieved to-morrow by the First Brigade.
Respectfully,
D. S. STANLEY, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 386.
June 5, 1863 - Skirmish at Smithville
•See June 4, 1863-June 5, 1863-Scout to Smithville
June 5, 1863 - Confederate foraging expedition seeks corn after Federal cavalry pursuit
FORKS OF McMINNVILLE AND FRANK'S FERRY ROADS, June 5,
1863—5 p. m.
Maj.-Gen. WHEELER, Cmdg. Army Corps, McMinnville:
June 5, 1863
GEN.: The enemy ceased to press me shortly after my dispatch at 3 p. m.; but,
having no corn, and there being no possibility of getting any between Smithville and McMinnville, I deemed it advisable to move on to the vicinity of the
latter place to-night. My command has had no corn since last night, and I
respectfully request you to telegraph to Tullahoma for 300 bushels to be sent
up on the cars. Please advise me if it can be obtained, and at what hour.
J. R. BUTLER, Col., Cmdg. Harrison's Brigade.
[Indorsement.]
Maj. [Col.] Butler's command should have corn to-morrow. You will please
direct him (Gen. Wheeler agreeing) to move here to-morrow for corn, sending
a force to watch the enemy. This is in case the enemy do not advance; if they
do, he must hold his own. He should stay where he is until scouts report in the
morning the movements of the enemy. Please ask Maj. [O. P. ] Chaffie to procure corn.
(Not signed.)
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 863.
June 5, 1863 - The cost of living in occupied-Nashville; ". . . the laboring classes have been
ground to the earth, almost, beneath the oppression."
"Marketing."
The people of Nashville, for fifteen months past, have been the helpless dupes
of every countryman that could obtain access to the city with a wagon-load of
market stuff. During all this time, prices have been fabulous in the extreme,
and the laboring classes have been ground to the earth, almost beneath the
oppression. Never before were our men of small means so harassed by alldevouring prices for articles necessary to sustain life. In the hands of merciless
harpies, they have been forced to abandon every luxury, and live on the scantiest rations, with no preparations for "a rainy day." This state of deprivation is
traceable to many minor causes, but all dependent upon the prime one which
has made Tennessee the theatre of war. At last, our stinted people are experiencing relief. Marketing is coming down to a point of reason, as a sequence of
the augmented facilities offered countrymen and hucksters, for bringing in supplies. The leading articles for table use have undergone a reduction; for
instance, butter is sold at 30 cents, eggs at 20 cents per dozen, spring chickens
from 30 to 50 cents each, while vegetables of every variety are as cheap as
could be expected. Beef is yet scarce, and rules high, from 12 1/2 to 25 cents
per lb; no improvement in this article can be anticipated, as the immense consumption by the armies place marketable beef out of the reach of butchers,
except in small purchases. The country around us is teeming with vegetables
June 5, 1863
and poultry, better, eggs, etc., and it is to be hoped that nothing may occur to
place us on the verge of famine as we have lately escaped.
June 5, 1863 - "New Building."
We are glad to note that our fellow-citizen, John Johnston, Esq., has resumed
the erection of his new building on Cedar street, nearly opposite his present
place of business. He designs it as a wholesale and retail liquor store of the first
class, and we trust it may reach completion at an early day, as it is to be of
splendid architecture. Contrary to all precedent in the history of Nashville, this,
we believe, is the only business house in course of construction in the city. We
present a very unenterprising appearance, as a populous city, compared with
some of our neighbors.
June 5, 1863 - The execution of three murderers in Murfreesboro as witnessed by a Wisconsin soldier
Murfreesboro Tenn.
June 5th 1863
Dear friend,
I just witnessed the hanging of three citizens of this County, for a murder that
occurred about the first of March last. It seems that four scoundrels, in their
attempt to compel an old man to tell them where he kept his money, used every
means of torture conceivable, and upon failure to secure the desired information, finally killed their victim. The murderers fled within the confederate
lines, were there arrested tries for the crime and one was hung. The three others
escaped to our lines and were arrested as spies, and being recognized by the
son of the murdered man, was tried by a military court and hung today. One of
the men was over seventy years of age. All of them protested their innocence.
A son and daughter of the man murdered as well as ten or fifteen thousand soldiers witnessed the execution. I believe these men justly deserved their fate,
but I have no desire to witness another like execution.
J. M. Randall
The James M. Randall DiaryNOTE 1
NOTE 1: http://www.ehistory.com/uscw/library/letters/randall/09.cfm.
June 5, 1863 - ". . . a few of us had a little fun a few days ago, in the shape of a little scout
after the Rebs . . . " Frank M. Guernsey's letter to Fannie
Camp in the field near Memphis, Tennessee
June 5, 1863
June 5th, 1863
My Dear Fannie
The drums have sounded Tatoo but I am not yet sleepy enough to go to bed so
I will just set here and talk with you a little while although you are hundreds of
miles from here I can just imagine you set at my desk and are answering questions as I write them down though as I look up I miss your sweet face though I
am well aware that your thoughts are now with me. Fannie do you believe that
one mind can influence another though miles apart or in other words do you
believe in the communion of thought? I know this is part of the spiritualists
theory yet I believe it. I am perfectly well satisfied that at certain times the
thoughts of my absent loved ones are dwelling on me as, much so as of my
existence. You need not think from this that I am inclined towards spiritualism,
I am willing with that as with any other ism to accept the good it teaches and
reject the bad.
We have had a very stormy afternoon and the wind has been very high it played
sad havoc with some of our tents, blowing them down and into all kind of
shapes one of the largest trees of our grove which had defied a thousand storms
was blown down and came very near killing one of our boys he was laying
down in his bunk when the wind was blowing the hardest and for some reason
got up and steped out of his tent just as the tree fell. A large limb struck his
bunk which would probably have killed him, had he been a few seconds later
there. This evening is so cool and quiet that one would hardly think that a few
hours ago there was such a comotion here. There has nothing of importance
hapened since I wrote you before, we are a very peaceable and orderly lot of
men and are contented to "Let the wild world wag as it will", though there was
a few of us had a little fun a few days ago, in the shape of a little scout after the
Rebs. which came neare costing me pretty dear. We got word one afternoon
that there was a force of about one hundred Rebs about three miles out. The
Lieut. Co. (Smedley) ordered me to have two companies fall in and we would
go out and give them chase or fight. We started from camp about two oclock in
the afternoon and marched out about five miles before we found any track of
the enemy. The first sign we saw was their trail as they had crossed the road in
the woods. The Col. ordered a halt and sent me forward with only one man to
reconoiter and to find out if possible in which direction the Rebs were to be
found. I rode on perhaps a mile in advance of the troops and found a citizen
who informed me that the Rebs had passed about an hour before on their way
to Rolla. They were all well mounted and as our boys were on foot the Colonel
(when I reported to him) ordered an about face and we took up our line of
march for camp again, having had a brisk march without a fight. I was
mounted on a very high spirited horse, and on our way back the Col. sent me
on ahead to find if possible some scouts who had been sent out with orders to
report at a certain point. I was riding along on a good round gallop when my
horse became frightened at something, and jumped to one side of the road. It
was a very foolish move in him I thought, for as he struck he sliped and down
he went, with my leg under him. We were going at such speed that the horse,
June 5, 1863
Frank and all slid about ten feet in the mud. My appearance when I got up was
not perhaps what a young lady would have admired in a gentleman but I assure
you I was very well satisfied when I found that my leg was not broken nor my
horse injured notwithstanding my appearance. I remounted my gallant steed
and was soon as good as new. The Col. wanted to know "where in the world I
had been to get so muddy". I told him "in the mud". It was almost a miracle
that my leg was not broken, or otherwise injured, but I escaped almost unhurt. I
was lame for a little while but am now entirely over it. I guess that I will now
bid you good night Fannie dear, and finish this to-morrow.
Saturday evening: Well Fanny this letter is not finished yet. We have had a
greate time in town to day. The anniversary of taking of Memphis was celebrated with becoming style. I will send you a paper containing the particulars if
I am lucky enough to get one in the morning. I have the evening edition but it
does not contain a complete description of the affair.
I received a good long letter from Mrs. Richmond, my mother and Mrs. King
this morning. Mother and Kate were visiting Mrs. R. in Guilford so they all put
their heads together and wrote me a joint letter on a sheet of fools cap which
was filled full. Kate is enjoying herself hugely among her old friends. She
thinks that there is no place on earth quite as good or as lively as our old home.
Teen says, "Give my love to that little Fannie and tell her how happy I am that
she has chosen Christ for her portion for now I shall some day meet her if we
are faithful to our vows, if not here in a fairer clime where friends need never
be seperated more." She is a good sister if there ever was one and I am proud of
her.
Fannie, it appears that victory is about to perch again on our dear old Flag. God
grant that it may be so. We think here that Grant has got a sure thing on Vicksburg, it is only a question of time with him now. Port Hudson is also closely
besieged and I am strongly of the faith that before this reaches you, those two
Rebel strongholds will be among the things that were, but how many of our
brave boys have been sacrifised, and how many sorrowful homes but these
things must need be in was. I am confident that when we get Vicksburg and
Port Hudson our campaign in the west will be virtually at an end, then we can
send a lot of our western troops east, and take Richmond, for I guess the western army has got to take it if taken at all. There is to much fancy soldiering
done on the Potomac, they are not satisfied to take to business as we have to do
here fancy soldiering does well enough in times of peace, but has been played
out in time of war.
Well Fannie I don't believe you will want to hear from me again in a month
after reading this letter, for I presume it will tax your patience as much as you
can stand at once. I didn't know but you would scold because I had not written
before, and I took this as the best method to make up for my fault, and now
good by. Please give my love to all your people and keep a good lot for yourself. I remain as ever-Yours affectionately—Frank M. G. —
June 5, 1863
P. S. Fannie what are the initials of your Father's name. I would like to send
him papers occasionally.
Guernsey Collection
June 5, 1863 - June 6, 1863 - Execution and a railroad fatality in Murfreesboro
OUR CORRESPONDENCE FROM MURFREESBORO
Special Correspondence of the Daily Press
Murfreesboro, Tenn.
June 6th, 1863
Yesterday, Wm. A. Selkirk forfeited his life on the scaffold, for the murder of
Adam Weaver, of Wilson co., Tenn., in the presence of a large concourse of
soldiers and citizens. The unfortunate man was taken from the jail at 1 o'clock
P. M., and placed in a wagon, drawn by six horses, the 37th Ind. acting as
guard. As the convict walked out from the jail, with hands manacled, and
viewed the vast concourse by which he was surrounded, his lips quivered and
his whole frame shuddered. He was placed on his coffin and probably then for
the first time he realized that before the setting sun he would be summoned
before the august throne of Him who gave him life. The solemn procession
marched slowly through Lytle street to the place of execution, in the following
order: Colonel Stoughton and Captain Cosper, Provost Marshals, on horseback, accompanied by Surgeon J. C. Dorr, Medical Purveyor of this Department, and several surgeons, officers and correspondents, also on horseback;
next the 37th Ind., with Col. Hull in command. Then followed the wagon containing the prisoner and his spiritual advisers. As the solemn procession
reached the scaffold, there must have been at least 10,000 persons present, in
fact, nothing could be seen for yards but a perfect sea of heads, and as the prisoner gazed upon the vast multitude, his whole appearance changed from an
almost rose color to an ashy paleness. The recollections of the dreams of happiness he had once found all seemed to vanish when he gazed intently on the
assemblage and the rope which hung carelessly over his head. He gave but one
solemn, melancholy, dejected look of acute anguish at the rope and scaffold,
and then turned and looked abstractedly towards the guard which escorted him.
His philosophy soon restored him to self command, and he looked rather
cheerful. It seemed to occur to him that if it would be the last time he would be
privileged on earth to behold the faces which now surrounded him, and that he
had better prepare himself with fortitude to meet the coming hour. As the
wagon entered the square formed by the 27th Indiana around his scaffold it
halted just under the structure. His hands were loosed and he turned round to
father Cooney of the 35th Indiana, who sat in the wagon with him, and whispered a few words which I afterwards ascertained to be that he wished to be
baptized before his death. Father Cooney went immediately and procured some
water and baptized him. After the baptism was over, Rev. Mr. Patterson of the
11th Michigan made a most fervent and eloquent prayer, the prisoner on his
June 5, 1863
knees with eyes uplifted to heaven and seemingly praying with all the fervor of
his whole soul. After Mr. Patterson had finished praying the Adjutant of the
11th Michigan stood up in the wagon and read the "General order" . . . and
then told the prisoner that he had five minutes to live and make any remarks he
wished. He then stepped out slowly and dejected-looking on the scaffold, and
with faltering voice made the following remarks: "Gentlemen, I am here about
to meet my saviour. I am here to give up my life for a crime I am not guilty of,
and when you and I meet again before the bar of Justice you will know that I
am not guilty of the crime.
"It is true I was there when the murder was committed, but I did not do it; good
bye; may the Lord have mercy; Jesus take me into Thy hands and keeping."
He then knelt down and joined in prayer with a gentleman, whose name I could
not ascertain. After prayer was over, he stood up and stepped on the scaffold
again, to have the fatal rope placed around his neck. While the rope was being
adjusted, he prayed audibly, and his last words on earth were: "Sweet Jesus,
take me to Thyself. O, Lord, forgive me for all my sins; " and again, as the person who escorted him was tightening the rope, he said, "For God's sake don't
choke me before I am hung." Then, when the black cap was drawn over his
eyes, he then seemed to know that in a few seconds he would be consigned to
"that bourne from whence no traveller returns;" and said, "Lord have mercy on
my soul." The words were scarcely uttered, when that which was a few
moments before a stout, healthy man was nothing but a cold, inanimate form. I
forgot mentioning that as the "black cap" was about being put on him, Sarah
Ann Weaver, the youngest daughter of the murdered man, Adam Weaver, made
her appearance inside the square, and quite close to the scaffold. She asked
Capt. Goodwin and Maj. Wiles the privilege of adjusting the rope around his
neck, but they would not grant it. She is a young lady of about seventeen years,
rather prepossessing and intelligent looking; she stood there unmoved while
the body lay dangling between heaven and earth. She seemed to realize that the
murderer of her father had now paid the penalty with his life. Your correspondent asked her what she thought of the affair, and she curtly remarked, "He will
never murder another man, I think." After the body had remained alone for fifteen minutes swinging in the air, and surgeon Dorr pronounced life extinct, it
was cut down and put in a coffin. The assemblage departed, some laughing,
some crying, and some thinking of the fate of the deceased. Mr. Bettis constructed the scaffold and had everything arranged in proper style.
Capt. Carlton of co. E, 22d Michigan, was instantly killed this morning on the
train from Nashville to this place at the bridge across Stewart's creek. He was
standing on top of a car and got knocked down under the cars. His left arm was
entirely severed from his body.
ERIN
June 6, 1863
June 6, 1863 - Skirmish (artillery) on the Shelbyville Pike
JUNE 6, 1863.-Skirmish on the Shelbyville Pike, Tenn.
Report of Brig. Gen. Jefferson C. Davis, U S. Army.
JUNE 6, 1863.
COL.: I advanced as far as Col. Lytle's house, and ran upon a rebel battery; got
up artillery and drove it away, after a brisk skirmish. Col. Lytle says Gen.
Cheatham's division, with Gen. Martin's cavalry, was on our front to-day. He
saw both generals, and understood from them that there was a move of the
whole army, the direction being toward Triune. This is confirmed by many citizens, as well as negroes. Gen. Stanley joined me at Col. Lytle's; he had pushed
the enemy to within 10 miles of Middleton; had 3 men wounded.
He confirms the report of rebels moving westward. I have left Cartlin's brigade
here, the other two at Stone's River Bridge. My loss is 1 killed and several
wounded. Will be at my headquarters in an hour.
JEF. C. DAVIS, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. Division.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 365.
June 6, 1863 - Skirmish at Waitsborough
Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee. NOTE 1
NOTE 1: While Dyer's places this place in Tennessee, the OR situates Waitsborough
in Kentucky. OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 364.
June 6, 1863 - SPECIAL ORDERS, NO. 90 and refusal to obey orders
SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 90. HDQRS. ARMY OF KENTUCKY, Triune,
First Lieut. H. C. Wharton, U. S. Army, chief engineer, will proceed to Franklin, Tenn., and superintend the reorganization of the garrison at that place. He
will see that the Seventy-eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry is posted in and
around the large fort, and that 150 men from the remainder of the command be
stationed on Roper's Knob. He will personally superintend the posting of the
guards and pickets, and the instruction of the artillerists. All orders given by
him will be by authority and in the name of the general commanding.
By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger:
The Seventy-eighth in on Roper's Knob, and the balance in the fort. This order
changes my whole disposition of the forces, and I don't feel satisfied at all, and
ask you to entirely relieve me. I will command my own brigade, but will not
obey this order. If I have not done my duty, say so. My brigade consists of the
uncaptured force of the Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third Indiana, Nineteenth
June 6, 1863
Michigan, and Twenty-second Wisconsin, amounting to about 400. There are
242 convalescents, and this force is in the main fort. The Seventy-eight Illinois
numbers about 400, and only 332 for duty. Granger knew before he left here
how I had disposed the forces, and approved it.
Respectfully,
J. P. BAIRD, Col., Cmdg. Post.
FRANKLIN, June 7, 1863. (Received 3.25 p. m.)
Gen. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff:
No enemy seen to-day. No firing, but the bridge at Brentwood was burned by
the rebels.
This morning a company of cavalry came through from Nashville; just arrived.
They report a party of 12 rebels who cut the telegraph this morning and burned
the bridge. Maj.-Gen. Granger has sent me two regiments of cavalry, and I feel
entirely safe for the present.
Gen. Granger's orders have been complied with.
I was moving camps when your dispatch came. I will send you a full explanation of my last night's dispatch, and you will see I neither intended to disobey
orders or treat Gen. Granger with disrespect, for there is no officer in the service for whom I have a higher regard that Gen. Gordon Granger.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 390.
FRANKLIN, June 7, 1863.
My dispatch should read that I could not obey that order. My only objection
was to that portion respecting the change of position, and while an attack was
impending I could not change camps. I was carrying out the order when your
dispatch came. Col. Van Derveer came here and reported to me, and when I
sent him an order, he took command, as he said, by Gen. Granger's order, when
he left. I got nothing from the general until the staff officer came. The other
reasons, connected with my difficulty with some officers at Thompson's Station, led me to think Gen. Granger was not satisfied with my manner of conducting the defense, and I asked you to relieve me for [these] reasons, and I
because I could not get an answer by signal from Gen. Granger.
I have no desire to shirk duty or responsibility, and never disobeyed an order in
my life. So far as meaning disrespect to Gen. Granger, there is no officer in the
service for whom I entertain a higher regard both as an officer and a gentlemen, and shall obey his main order to the letter, viz.,: to hold the post at all hazards.
June 6, 1863
Hoping this may prove satisfactory,
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 391.
June 6, 1863 - "The Cyprians in Trouble;" concern expressed for the plight of Nashville
prostitutes
On Thursday evening [4th] lower College street was thrown into a state of
unusual excitement in consequence of an official notification received by some
of the Cyprians to vacate their premises. The order required Captain H. C.
Hodges, A. Q. M., to take possession of the houses occupied by Mary Combs,
Mary Stratton, Lou Hulse, Maggie Seats, Jennie Rogers and two or three others, and directed the said occupants to vacate their several buildings before 12
M. on Monday, the 8th of June, 1863, and hand over the keys to Captain H. C.
Hodges.
On Friday morning [5th], nearly all the hacks in town were brought in requisition, and Post Headquarters, the Capitol, and other places, were besieged, with
the hope of having the order countermanded. At length it was whispered
around that the house could be retained if the proprietors would dismiss all
their girls, and not allow soldiers to visit the places. This made matters worse
for when all expected to be turned out of doors, there was a consolation in all
going together; but for each girl to look out for a home for herself, to be cast
among strangers, perhaps be compelled to wander all night in the streets, was
more than they could bear, and the wailings and lamentations of the unfortunate creatures were pitiable in the extreme. Like other human beings, these
poor girls have their loves and ties of kindred, of home, and of friends; many
of them are as helpless as children, and totally unfit to take care of themselves;
and there are none to give them a helping hand to reform, none to give them a
helping hand to reform, none to give then shelter in time of need, none to say
"daughter, you are forgiven; sin no more."
These facts were represented to the proper authorities during yesterday, and we
learn that the order has been suspended for the present, but requiring all of
them to hold themselves in readiness to vacate when called upon, and holding
the proprietors responsible for any disorderly conduct in their homes, until further orders.
While upon this subject, we may as well allude to the indelicate practice of soldiers riding in open carriages with these girls through the street in broad day;
and would suggest that the Provost Marshal make an endeavor to put a stop to
it. The girls are not to blame. The neither pay for the carriages nor induce men
to ride in them. The fault lies with the men, and to them alone the military and
civil authorities ought to direct their attention in suppressing this practice.
June 6, 1863
June 6, 1863 - "The Anniversary Celebration."
Grand Procession of Loyal Men.
~~~
Yesterday morning, June 6th, the anniversary of the battle of Memphis, the era
when the Federal Government overthrew usurped authority, and once more
assumed its just sway over the city, was welcomed by every loyal heart. The
morning was cloudy, but as the crowds wended along the streets in the direction of the gathering place of the masses, the veil that hid the blue sky parted,
and the vaulted heavens and beaming sun looked down auspicious on the hundred[s] of flags and streamers that moved in graceful folds from as many windows. The rain of the previous day or two had laid the dust, and the streets
were in favorable condition for the ceremonies of the day.
At the appointed hour, Second street, in the neighborhood of Court Square, was
thronged with a large multitude, which watched with intense interest while the
marshals of the day ranked the proceedings into order. At length the moment of
starting arrived. Then, music in stirring strains broke on the morning air;
national airs, breathing joy to every loyal bosom, resounded in the echoing
streets. The vast train set off on its appointed way, and a glorious display it
was, of "beauteous ladies and of gallant men." On foot and on horseback, in
cars and carriages, with flags and banners displayed, and with hurrahs of joy,
on it went.
The procession was a beautiful one. The number of persons on horseback and
carriage was unusually large. The flags and banners were numerous, and on an
immense and beautifully ornamental car stood thirty-four young ladies in
white, showing the Union colors. They represented thirty-four States of the
Union. Several ladies also appeared in the procession on horseback. Three cars
bore immense paintings, illustrative of the battle of Memphis and the events of
taking possession of the city. A very large number of banners, bearing appropriate mottoes, were carried among the long train of footmen in the procession.
The streets named in the programme were passed through, and all along the
route the Stripes and Stars waving from numerous windows, showed how
many of the citizens sympathized with the pleasing ceremonies of the day.
THE PROCESSION.
The procession was arranged in the following order:
Grand Marshal of the Day, G. P. Ware, Esq., and Assistant Marshals on horseback.
Carriage containing the President of the Memphis Union Club, the Chairman
of the Committee on Invitations, and the Orator of the Day. The carriage was
decked with a beautiful flag.
Officers of the United States Army, on horseback.
June 6, 1863
Splendid Temple of Liberty, with interior dome; a magnificent structure of the
National red, white and blue, drawn by twelve horses. Within the temple were
thirty-four young ladies arrayed in white and wearing circlets of flours upon
their heads. Beneath the dome a tall young lady, (Miss LELIA BURBANK,)
appeared as the Goddess of Liberty. Her robe was the stripes of the national
flag; on her forehead was a golden circlet and she bore on her head a staff surmounted with the cap of liberty. Her supporters, right and left, were Miss LIZZIE JOHNSON and Miss LOUISA MILLER.
Large silk flag, presented to the Washington Club by the ladies of Memphis.
Band of the Hundred and Nineteenth Illinois regiment.
Members of the Memphis Union Club, wearing their badges and carrying banners with mottoes.
Three cars with emblematic paintings of large size, in colors. The following are
the subjects of the pictures:
EMBLEMATIC PAINTINGS.
"The fight on the river in front of Memphis on the morning of June 6th, 1862.
The landing of the U. S. gunboats at the foot of the bluffs after the battle, with
officers on board to take possession of the city.
The scene of chopping down the staff on the bluff on the summit of which was
hoisted the Confederate colors.
The scene of hoisting the United States flag on the Postoffice Building.
A locomotive and cars dashing along a railroad. One of the cars bears the
inscription, "Appeal, for Dixie."
Emblematic painting of the Union. The Union typified by a beautiful woman
with sword in hand, and bearing a shield on which is displayed the Stripes and
Stars, and word "Union." She is attacking a couple of hideous copperhead
snakes, one of which proclaims himself in favor of "A vigorous prosecution of
peace." To which she replies; "not in your way." On the same painting, to the
right, appears an earnest radical Unionist, who is slinging an axe with which he
is cutting down a dead tree. On the remaining braches of the tree a few withered leaves still linger. The trunk of the tree bears the word "slavery." Among
the branches a shrinking, terrified slaveholder is clinging with the death grip.
Radical Unionist is exclaiming: "Now, if you don't' come down, I'll cut the tree
from under you."
PROCESSION.
Band of music—Citizens carrying flags and banners.
Citizens on horseback. This part of the procession presented an imposing
appearance, which was hightened by the graceful addition of some ladies
appearing in the cavalcade.
June 6, 1863
The procession closed with a large number of carriages, ornamented with flags.
Many ladies were among the citizens in the carriages.
MOTTOES
Among the mottoes displayed on the banners were the following:
"The old flag, with not a single star erased."
"Andrew Johnson, Tennessee's noblest son."
"The legacy of our fathers shall be transmitted to our children."
"The 6th of June, a bright day in the history of our navy."
"The last ditch. Let it be the Gulf of Mexico."
"The reign of terror of the Safety Committee has passed away for ever."
"The United States has one Constitution, one history—let her have one destiny."
"The preservation of the Federal Government, in its whole constitutional vigor
as the sheet anchor of our peace at home and safety abroad."
"Washington Union Club (a splendid portrait of Washington on the reverse
side.")
"[illegible] (Liberty, and with a brotherly love.")
"Ussers aremee and flotte, (One army and navy.")
"Be true to our country, and fear not."
"The Federal Union must be preserved."
"Omnipotence is with us, who shall be against us?"
"Our voice is for peace, but with the Union."
"Give us still the Government of our fathers."
"Our Government as it is, uniting republican freedom with National strength."
"The Mississippi can never secede from the Ohio."
"The thirty-four States, their number may be increased, but never diminished."
"The President of the United States, he must be sustained."
"This unholy rebellion, may it speedily be put down."
"The Star Spangled Banner! Oh, long may it wave!"
"England encourages disunion from base motives."
"Union is prosperity and happiness, Secession is ruin."
"Tennessee's star shall never be blotted from the old flag."
"Liberty and Union, one and inseparable."
"Tennessee was forced out; she will return willingly."
June 6, 1863
"If Kentucky—and who will doubt my love for her—unfurls the banner of
resistance, I will not fight under it." (Clay)
"A house divided against itself cannot stand."
"Emerson Etheridge, Tennessee's faithful champion."
"The army and the navy, they have covered themselves with glory."
ESCORT.
The temple containing the young ladies was escorted by the National Union
Memphis Guard. They were fully armed and equipped, and made a good
appearance in their neat uniform. Of this company M. T. Ryder is captain, D. S.
Ouden First Lieutenant, Joseph Tagg, Second Lieutenant.
COMMANDANT'S HOUSE.
When the procession reached the northern portion of the city, it was welcomed
with the loud booming of cannon, fired at the navy yard by direction of the
Commandant, whose residence on the promenade was beautifully ornamented
with flags. Suspended from a cord extended across the promenade, was a
splendid full-length portrait of Washington. The route on the programme was
so far departed from as to pass down the promenade for the purpose of resting
opposite the Commandant's house, where the band performed some beautiful
music, and the order of route was resumed and continued until Court Square
was reached.
EXERCISES AT COURT SQUARE.
Within Court Square, immediately north of the enclosure containing JACKSON'S monument, was the stand for the speakers.
The speakers and officers of the day mounted the stand, also the young ladies
personating the States. The President of the Union Club, W. H. Fitch, Jr., took
the chair and announced the order of the exercises, after which he proposed the
following resolutions"
We, the loyal citizens of Memphis and vicinity in mass-meeting assembled, to
commemorate the anniversary of the overthrow of Confederate misrule and
despotism in our midst, do unanimously declare:
1. That we believe the existing rebellion is causeless, unjustifiable and infamous; that its suppression is a sacred duty, imposed through the Providence of
Almighty God upon our generation, and that the whole moral and physical
force of the Nations should be concentrated in the hand of the Government to
accomplish that duty.'
2. We cordially and emphatically endorse the action of Congress and the President in each and all the measures to crush the insurrection and cripple its supporters.
June 6, 1863
3. While in theory we recognize a distinction between the Government and the
men constitutionally appointed to administer it, yet, practically, every denunciation hurled at the Administration now, is a stab in the Nation's life.
4. Men who profess loyalty to the Union, but unceasingly denounce the
Administration and its war policy, are dangerous hypocrites, at heart false to
the country, unworthy to be called Americans, and should be rigorously death
with by the arm they seek to paralyze.
5. We are unequivocally and irrevocably, now and forever, opposed to all compromises and concessions to rebels in arms, and we believe that no permanent,
honorable peace is attainable except upon the basis of full and complete submission throughout every seceded State to the authority and laws of the United
States.
6. We heartily approve of General Hurlbut's Order No. 65, and earnestly hope
that it will be rigidly enforced. People should not seek ease, comfort and protection away from their starving friends under a flag they openly ignore and
inwardly detest.
When the resolutions approving the order of Gen. Hurlbut, which requires all
citizens to enroll themselves, and the loyal ones to take the oath, were read,
there were cries of "Good! Good!!" and loud applause.
The Chairman put the resolutions to the meeting when they were adopted with
vociferous applause. On calling for the nays, a voice exclaimed: "They're not
here!" a remark received with applause and laughter.
~~~
June 6, 1863 - "TO-DAY AND TO-DAY TWELVE MONTHS."
It is with peculiar feelings we refer to the celebration of this day. We recall the
incidents of one year ago. Frantic meetings were held in the Mayor's office and
in Court Square at which it was loudly declared that if citizens would only
meet and organize, carry with them pokers from the kitchen, and carving
knives from the dining table, and "pitch in" with a genuine "Southern yell,"
they could drive the Yankees from the "sacred soil of the Confederacy" by the
force of irrepressible valor and unconquerable will. Then came the last night of
Confederate sway in Memphis. Crowds collected on the bluff to gaze at the
light of a boat burning in the river above the city. The murmur of anxious
expectation was heard among the multitude, and many who never uttered their
thoughts, and had not been allowed to do so for many months, felt their hearts
throb high with the expectation that with to-morrow's sun they should once
more behold the flag of their country; the never-forgotten, always-loved
Stripes and Stars.
The night was one of thrilling expectancy. Few eyelids were visited with sleep.
On one side there was hope and joy, on the other despair and hate. The morn-
June 6, 1863
ing came. Booming canon, shrieking shells, and the inspiring rattle of quick
musketry told that the final struggle for Memphis had come—that the hours of
deliverance—so watched for, prayed for—had arrived.
The battle of Memphis was fought on the bosom of the Mississippi, her citizens gazing on. The false idol of the Confederacy was vanquished—the faith
of the revolutionary sires was triumphant—the "Stars and Bars" had fled in terror down the river, or were floating, torn and polluted, down the turbid streams.
The days of safety committees, forced contributions, traitor speeches, and head
shavings were gone by.NOTE 1 The victorious Stars and Stripes were borne into
the city; and the old strains of our country once more sounded with thrilling
effect through our streets. How that music made the blood riot in the veins with
strange emotion! Strains so loved, yet so long so strange to loyal and waiting
ears!
Then came the crowning scene—the hoisting of the National flag over the post
office. How that scene recalled mind another time—the last on which that honored emblem had been carried through the streets of Memphis before the time
when the abomination of desolation stood in the hold place! Many who read
these lines will, on this glad day, call to mind the last Union procession that
was made before our noble State fell a prey to intrigue and treason. They will
call to mind the wailing in the streets that night—the time when weeping men,
"with tears in their voice," called out: "Look at the old flag." - "God Bless the
old flag." That is a time never to be forgotten, an occasion ever to be held
sacred.
We have recalled these remembrances this morning as the best of all ways of
awakening a right spirit for the celebration of the day. The harp no longer
hangs on the willow, no longer do strange songs strike our ear. We are again in
the Union. Again the broad aegis of her protection lies spread over us. Again
we can recall the memory of WASHINGTON without a blush. Again we can
utter the sayings of the martyrs of American liberty, without awakening the
compunctions of an approving conscience. We are in the Union. The Stripes
and Stars wave on our flag; the Star-spangled Banner is music to our hearts.
We will celebrate this anniversary of our deliverance with rejoicing, and we
will rejoice the more because treason is at its last gasp, and the moment is at
hand when the entire Mississippi river will be restored to loyalty and the glorious Union.
Let every loyal man and woman honor the day. Let them encourage their little
ones to gather loyal and true sentiments on the occasion. Let the enemies of the
Union see how you prize your privileges, and honor the glorious institutions of
your country. Let festivity and joy, waving banners and glad strains of music
welcome the day, and let the Union procession be swelled by the presence of
exulting thousands, shouting for joy that their rights, their liberties, their glorious privileges of American citizenship, are restored to them.
June 6, 1863
NOTE 1: Emphasis added. This kind of activity in Memphis (and probably in Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro and Knoxville,) is one that is only hinted at,
such as in this editorial. Even so, it does shed light on a vindictive gang mentality in Confederate Memphis that validated the harassment, extortion and
humiliation of those not of the Confederate point of view. It is unlikely there
are many references to this kind of behavior during the time of Confederate
rule in Memphis.
June 6, 1863 - Juvenile Thieves in Memphis
Young in Years, Old in Vice.
In our perambulations around town yesterday, we dropped into the station
house, where we saw three boys who were confined for robbing the broker's
office which we referred to at the time it was done. We were very forcibly
struck with their bold demeanor. Although not over ten or twelve years of age,
the seemed to bear their confinement with all the fortitude of veteran lawbreakers. 'Tis a sad thought to remember that these boys have mothers, who,
doubtless, have lavished upon them all the untold affections of a mother's
heart. Yet, we see them, tender as is their years, confined as felons. We are
informed that the mother of at least one of theses young Claude
Duval[s]NOTE 1, is a quieter and industrious woman. Here we see a plain and
direct appeal to parents to be careful of their children's associations. Let them
be with the virtuous and good. It may save many a regretful sigh.
NOTE 1: DUVAL, CLAUDE (1643-1670), a famous highwayman, was born at Domfront, Normandy, in 1643. Having entered domestic service in Paris, he
came to England at the time of the Restoration in attendance on the duke of
Richmond, and soon became a highwayman notorious for the daring of his
robberies no less than for his gallantry to ladies.
June 6, 1863 - Night Life in Occupied Nashville
The editor of the Nashville Press indulges in a few speculations about Nashville by gaslight:
Nashville by gaslight, and Nashville by day light, are as widely different as
secesh and Union; in the latter attire, our goodly city looks very much like a
disappointed politician, for whom nobody has a kind word or look, and who is
to himself a comfortable bore. But when the garment of night is thrown about
her, and the rays of gaslight fall brilliantly upon her features (!) the City of
Rocks has a pleasant way, which is productive of anything else than
growlery.NOTE 1 With evening comes activity and crowded streets—music and
jollity; and sometimes as we contemplate the surging masses, from one point to
another, we forget that we are in ancient Nashville, and unconsciously inquire,
June 7, 1863
with our optics, for Fifth avenue, City hall park, Broadway, Thompson's,
Niblo's, Laura Keene's etc. The charm might be lasting, if it were not that the
female figure is so unfrequently to be seen in the midst of the human ocean of
which we speak.
Memphis Appeal [Atlanta, Georgia], June 6, 1863.NOTE 2
NOTE 1: A saloon or barrel of beer.
NOTE 2: As cited in htp://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
June 6, 1863 - Resolution of the Public School Predicament in Memphis
The School Question, about which there has been some discussion, has been
decided, so far as the Board of Aldermen is concerned. The Mayor, who is so
much opposed to common schools, has been instructed, by formal resolution,
to issue scripNOTE 1 for the support of the teachers of the schools, as heretofore.
Today there is to be an election of School Visitors, on whom it will devolve to
conduct the public schools for the nest twelve months. Let every voter see to it,
that in the excitement of the day, this important matter is not neglected.
NOTE 1: It is curious that the Board of Aldermen would insist upon issuing scrip
when it outlawed "shinplasters" in January 1863. See above, January 6,
1863, "Memphis' 'shinplaster' ordinance declared null and void."
June 7, 1863 - Sergeant Charles Alley, 5th Iowa Cavalry attends religious services for slaves
in Clarksville [Montgomery County]
Today we reached Clarksville [from camp near Fort Donelson] after a rather
dusty march of about 25 miles. The country improved a good deal as we
advanced and was better settled and cultivated. Passed through a couple of villages, one named Indian Mound, I suppose it was built in a very deep hollow;
but the mount was not in the village. There was a very large one just back of it,
I would not venture to say it was raised by the Indians though. This was about
10 miles from Fort Donelson. Another was called Oak Woods, for a very good
reason—oak woods all around it.
Providence was the name of a flourishing town about two miles from Clarksville.
Clarksville, a town of about 8000 inhabitants is a fine looking place. The site is
high rolling but not bluffy. It has 10 or more churches. P. E.; M. E.; Presbyterian; Baptist; etc. I got leave from the captain to go up in town to go to church
if there was any. Found on inquiry there was no service for "white folks" in the
afternoon. But there was for "Niggers". I concluded to go to the M. E. church
June 7, 1863
as it was then (3 o'clock) open. The sermon by a white minister was from Isaiah 1-19-20."If ye be willing and obedient ye shall eat of the good of the land.
But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured by the sword for the mouth of
the lord hath spoken of it." And there followed a thing—the speaker would
probably call a sermon—that was enough to disgust any man. He told the congregation that the land meant Heaven. That they must not look to eat of the
good things of the earth; they were not for them. That God required them to be
obedient to their masters and if they were treated all their days even with the
oppression and violence they must not think to resist but must be patient looking to God to reward them. What Angels the fellow would have the slaves to
be, he a rebel against the just laws of his country. After I left the church I found
patrols were being placed in every street and that orders had been given to
arrest every man of the 5th Iowa found in the town with a pass but the guards
would not arrest us.
~~~
Alley Diary
June 7, 1863 - Nashville, according to the New York Tribune.
A Picture of Nashville.
The army correspondent of the New York Tribune seems to have visited Nashville recently, and the picture he draws of the place would set off the pages of
Vanity Faire admirably. We make the following extract, that our city readers
may see how Nashville looks through the columns of the New York Tribune:
Fully one third of the old inhabitants—mostly representatives of the wealthier
class—are in voluntary or compulsory exile in the loyal or rebellious States.
The high costs and scarcity of every requisite of physical life renders the existence of the remaining population precarious. . . A more profound humiliation
of the disloyal citizens than that imposed by the order referred to could not
well be devised. All of them, rich and poor, old and young, male and female,
were mercilessly required to report and be sworn before the Provost marshal in
person. The sensations of the purse and blood-proud Southrons of both sexes,
particularly of the venomously hostile women, while whiling sometimes for
hours in the promiscuous crowds gathered during the day at the Provost headquarters and while going through the form of swearing, may well be
imagined. . . Many of the families whose male heads and supports are identified with the rebellion, have been reduced to want, owing to the prohibition of
all intercourse with the South. Even those who were but last year in affluent
circumstances are now upon the verge of complete destitution, and dependent
upon the charity of neighbors.
Nashville Dispatch, June 7, 1863.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
June __, 1863
June 7, 1863 - "Amanda let me assure you that this place bears the marks of battle." Letter
of Jacob W. Bartmess,NOTE 1 Co. C., 39th Indiana, in Murfreesboro, to his
wife
7,
Camp Drake.
Near Murfreesboro Ten.
Sunday-June 7th. 1863
My kind affectionate Wife—-.
Amanda let me assure you that this place bears the marks of battle. Where once
stood the nice dwelling of the rich planter and the negro huts, and the good
fencing which enclosed the large rich farm and separated it into fields. Now is
a vast ruin. there are no houses, no negro huts, no fencing. One vast desolation
exists for many miles around. The trees are wonderfly marked with minieballs. Some of them from the thickness of my body down are entirely cut down
with canon balls. But what is more: the many little boards which stick in the
ground in regular rotation, marking the spot where lies the boddies of hundreds
of our brave men. who fell a sacrifice on their countries, altar on stoneriver's
bloody field. My thoughts ask me where are the many little orphans calling and
crying for pappy, while his body is mouldering in this vast grave yard. And
where is that widowed, and heartbroken wife, who when the question is forced
on her mind where is my husband? and the answer come that he fell and was
burried by careless hands on stonerivers battle field. Writhes in desperate and
indescribable anguish. O, who will answer for the sin of this most dreadful and
calamitous war. But why should I continue this. God bless the right.
From your son,
Bob
MSCC/CWRCNOTE 2
NOTE 1: Letters from Jacob W. Bartmess, who was captured at Murfreesboro in 1862
and exchanged and returned during the Tullahoma Campaign of 1863. After
being captured at Murfreesboro in 1862, Bartmess was exchanged and returned to this area during the Tullahoma Campaign of 1863. These letters
were made available by Ms. Beth Bryant of Tullahoma, a Bartmess descendent. These letters appeared in The Indiana Magazine of History in 1956.
They are reproduced here by permission of the current (1998) editor.
NOTE 2: http://www.cwrc.org/Index.html
June __, 1863 - June 7, 1863 NOTE 1 - Expedition from Jackson across Tennessee River
JUNE __ to 7, 1863.-Expedition from Jackson, Tenn., across Tennessee River.
June 8, 1863
Report of Maj. Gen. Richard J. Oglesby, U. S. Army.
COL.: Lieutenant-Col. Breckenridge, First West Tennessee Cavalry, just
returned to Jackson from expedition across Tennessee River. Destroyed a large
amount of property; secured and put on gunboats three thousand sides of
leather, and recrossed without any loss, except stragglers.
Scout in to-day reports Chalmers at Panola week ago, with 1,800 infantry and
one battery. Enemy all withdrawn from Mississippi swamps and encamped 14
miles below Yazoo City. On the 26th of May, Johnston had around Jackson
25,000. Re-enforcements constantly arriving.
Three deserters confirm reports that but one brigade is at Fort Hudson.
R. J. OGLESBY, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 24, pt. II, p. 446.
NOTE 1: Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee indicates the dates for the expedition were
2-7.
June 8, 1863 - SkirmishNOTE 1 at Triune
No circumstantial reports filed
NOTE 1: Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee calls this an action.
June 8, 1863 - Care of the Insane in Memphis
"An Object of Pity."
There is a poor unfortunate crazy woman, who for the last month has frequented South Court street, that should be taken care of in some way—either
by the Board of Aldermen of the city, or some other public authority. She is
truly an object of pity, and it is a crying shame to the community at large that
she should have been neglected this long. It is a wonder she has not died before
this on the street. She is entirely destitute—without shoes and mostly bare of
clothing, and has been known to go two and three days without eating. As for a
place to sleep she has none, and has been exposed to the rain two weeks past,
night and day, in consequence thereof. Apparently for protection she sits day
and night on the steps near Mr. Henghol's eating house. Added to this she
appears to be modest, retiring and virtuous, making it more necessary that she
should be placed in a situation of protection from heartless scoundrels who
have been seen frequently to annoy her. We were told the attention of some of
the city aldermen have been called to this women, but they have been either
callous to her suffering, or failed to report her case to the Board of Aldermen,
who, if their attention were called to the matter, would be trifling, and there is
not a business man in the city who would not give five dollars for such an
object, if his attention was called to it—and the application was made by a
responsible agent of the city, for the purpose of putting this person where she
June 8, 1863
would be taken care of. For the truth of the above statement in regard to this
poor crazy woman, we refer to Dr. Taylor, Dr. Wilcox, Mr. Henghold, and others on South Court Square.
June 8, 1863 - June 9, 1863 - Expedition from Pocahontas, Tennessee to Ripley, Mississippi
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 24, pt. II, p. 472.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: All action took place in Mississippi, but the expedition originated and terminated in Tennessee
June 8, 1863 - June 9, 1863 - Capture, trial and execution of Confederate spies at Franklin
Brig.-Gen. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff:
Is there any such inspector-general as Lawrence Orton, colonel U. S. Army,
and assistant, Maj. Dunlop? If so, please describe their personal appearance,
and answer immediately.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, June 8, [1863]-10.15 p.
m.
Col. J. P. BAIRD, Franklin:
There are no such men as Insp. Gen. Lawrence Orton, colonel U. S. Army, and
assistant, Maj. Dunlop, in this army, nor in any army, so far as we know. Why
do you ask?
J. A. GARFIELD, Brig.-Gen. and Chief of Staff.
FRANKLIN, June 8, 1863—11.30 p. m.
[Brig.-Gen. GARFIELD:]
Two men came in camp about dark, dressed in our uniform, with horses and
equipments to correspond, saying that they were Col. Orton, Inspector-general,
and Maj. Dunlap, assistant, having an order from Adjutant-Gen. Townsend and
your order to inspect all posts, but their conduct was so singular that we have
arrested them, and they insisted that it was important to go to Nashville tonight. The one representing himself as Col. Orton [W. Orton Williams] is probably a regular officer of old army, but Col. Watkins, commanding cavalry here,
in whom I have the utmost confidence, is of opinion that they are spies, who
have either forged or captured their orders. They can give no consistent
account of their conduct.
I want you to answer immediately my last dispatch. I take so long to get an
answer immediately my last dispatch. It takes so long to get and answer from
June 8, 1863
Gen. [Gordon] Granger, at Triune, by signal, that I telegraphed Gen. [R. S. ]
Granger, at Nashville, for information. I also signaled Gen. Gordon Granger. If
these men are spies, it seems to me that it is important that I should know it,
because Forrest must be awaiting their progress.
I am, general, your obedient servant,
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, June
8, [1863]-12 p. m.
The two men are no doubt spies. Call a drum-head court-martial to-night, and
if they are found to be spies, hang them before morning, without fail. No such
men have been accredited from these headquarters.
I had just sent you an explanation of my first dispatch when I received your
dispatch. When your dispatch came, they owned up as being a rebel colonel
and lieutenant in rebel army. Col. Orton, by name, but in fact Williams, first on
Gen. Scott's staff, of Second Cavalry, Regular Army. Their ruse was nearly
successful on me, as I did not know the handwriting of my commanding
officer, and am much indebted to Col. Watkins, sixth Kentucky Cavalry, for
their detention, and Lieut. Wharton, of Granger's staff, for the detection of
forgery of papers. As these men don't deny their guilt, what shall I do with
them? My bile is stirred, and some hanging would do me good.
I communicate with you, because I can get an answer so much sooner than by
signal, but I will keep Gen. Granger posted. I will telegraph you again in short
time, as we are trying to find out, and believe there is an attack contemplated in
the morning. If Watkins gets anything out of Orton, I will let you know.
I am, general, your obedient servant,
Col. Watkins says Col. Williams is a first cousin of Gen. Robert E. Lee, and he
says so. He has been chief of artillery on Bragg's staff.
We are consulting. Must I hang him? If you can direct me to send him to hand
somewhere else, I would like it; but, if not, or I do not hear from you, they will
be executed. This dispatch is written at the request of Col. Watkins, who
detained the prisoners. We are prepared for a fight.
June 8, 1863
Will you not have any clemency for the son of Capt. Williams, who fell at
Monterey, Mexico? As my dying speech, I protest our innocence as spies. Save
also my friend.
LAWRENCE W. ORTON,
(Formerly W. Orton Williams.)
I send this as a dying request. The men are condemned, and we are preparing
for execution. They also prefer to be shot. If you can answer before I get ready,
do.
J. P. BAIRD.
9, 1863—4.40 a. m.
The general commanding directs that the two spies, if found guilty, be hung at
once, thus placing it beyond the possibility of Forrest's profiting by the information they have gained.
FRANK S. BOND, Maj. and Aide-de-Camp.
The men have been tried, found guilty, and executed, in compliance with your
order. There is no appearance of the enemy yet.
I am, ever yours, &c.,
Brig.-Gen. GARFIELD:
Dispatch received of rebel account of fight. No truth in it. The officers I executed this morning, in my opinion, were not ordinary spies, and had some mission more important than finding out my situation. They came near dark, asked
no questions about forces, and did not attempt to inspect works, and, after they
confessed, insisted they were not spies in the ordinary sense, and that they
wanted no information about this place. Said they were going to Canada and
something about Europe; not clear. We found on them memorandum of commanding officers and their assistant adjutant-generals in Northern States.
Though they admitted the justice of the sentence and died like soldiers, they
would not disclose their true object. Their conduct was very singular, indeed; I
can make nothing of it.
June 8, 1863
I am, general, &c.,
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 415-417.
12, 1863.
Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-Gen. U. S. Army:
GEN.: I have the honor to forward herewith the record of the proceedings held
at Franklin, Tenn., in the cases of the two Confederate officers taken as spies at
that place on the 9th instant; also the forged orders and other papers found
upon their persons. I transmit also copies of the telegraphic correspondence
between Col. Baird and myself in reference to the matter.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. S. ROSECRANS, Maj.-Gen. Cmdg.
[Inclosure.]
RECORD OF THE MILITARY COMMISSION.
HDQRS. POST,
Franklin, June 9, 1863.
Before a Court of Commission assembled by virtue of the following order:
HDQRS. POST OF FRANKLIN, June 9-3 a. m.
A Course of Commission is hereby called, in pursuance of order from Maj.Gen. Rosecrans, to try Col. Williams and Lieut. Peter of rebel forces, on charge
of being spies, the court to sit immediately, at headquarters of the post.
Detail for Court.- Col. Jordan, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, president; Lieut.Col. Van Vleck, Seventy-eighth Illinois Infantry; Lieut.-Col. Hoblitzel, Fifth
Kentucky Cavalry; Capt. Crawford, Eighty-fifth Indiana Infantry, and Lieut.
Wharton, judge-advocate.
By order of J. P. Baird, colonel, commanding post.
The court and judge-advocate having been duly sworn according to military
law, the prisoners were arraigned upon the following charges:
Charges and Specifications against Col. Lawrence Auton, alias Williams, and
Lieut. Walter G. Peter, officers in rebel forces.
CHARGES. - Being spies.
Specifications.- In this, that said Col. Lawrence Auton, alias Williams, and
Lieut. Walter G. Peter, officer in the so-called Confederate States of America,
did, on the 8th day of June, 1863, come inside the lines of the Army of the
United States, at Franklin, Tenn., wearing the uniform of Federal officers, with
a pass purporting to be signed by Maj.-Gen. Rosecrans, commanding Depart-
June 8, 1863
ment of the Cumberland, and represented to Col. J. P. Baird, commanding post
of Franklin, that they were in the service of the United States; all this for the
purpose of getting information of the strength of the United States forces and
convening it to the enemies of the United States now in arms against the
United States Government.
E. C. DAVIS, Capt. Company G, Eighth-fifth Indiana infantry.
Some evidence having been heard in support of the charge and specifications,
the prisoners made the following statement:
That they came inside of the lines of the United States Army, at Franklin,
Tenn., about dark on the June, 1863, wearing the uniform they then had on
their persons, which was that of Federal officers; that they went to the headquarters of Col. J. P. Baird, commanding forces at Franklin, and represented to
him that they were Col. Auton, inspector, just sent from Washington City to
overlook the inspection of the several departments of the West, and Maj. Dunlop, his assistant, and exhibited to him an order from Adjutant-Gen. Townsend
assigning him to that duty, an order from Maj.-Gen. Rosecrans, countersigned
by Brig.-Gen. Garfield, chief of staff, asking him to inspect his outposts, and a
pass through all lines from Gen. Rosecrans; that he hold Col. Baird he had
missed the road from Murfreesborough to this point, got too near Eagleville,
and run into rebel pickets, had his orderly shot, and lost his coat containing his
money; that he wanted some money and a pass to Nashville; that, when
arrested by Col. Watkins, Sixth Kentucky Cavalry, after examination they
admitted that they were in the rebel army, and that his (the colonel's) true name
was Lawrence Orton Williams; that he had been in the Second Regular Cavalry, Army of the United States, once on Gen. Scott's staff in Mexico, and was
now a colonel in the rebel army, and Lieut. Peter was his adjutant; that he came
in our lines knowing his fate, if taken, but asking mercy for his adjutant.
The court having maturely considered the case, after hearing all the evidence,
together with the statements of the prisoners, do find them, viz.,: Col.
Lawrence Auton Williams and Lieut. [Walter G. ] Peter, officers of the Confederate Army, guilty of the charge of being spies found within the lines of the
United States Army at Franklin, Tenn., on the 8th day of June, 1863.
THOS. J. JORDAN, Col. Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, President of the Commission.
HENRY C. WHARTON, Lieut. of Engineers, Judge Advocate.
[Indorsement No. 1.]
The finding is approved, and, by order of Maj.-Gen. Rosecrans, the prisoners
will be executed immediately by hanging by the neck till they are dead.
Capt. Alexander, provost-marshal, will carry the sentence into execution.
June 9, 1863
HDQRS. POST, Franklin, Tenn., June 9, 1863.
Capt. J. H. Alexander, Seventh Kentucky Regt. Cavalry, provost-marshal of
Franklin, Tenn., by virtue of above proceedings and order, carried the sentence
into execution by hanging prisoners by the neck until they were dead.
J. H. ALEXANDER, Capt. and Provost-Marshal.
His name in the United States service was William Orton Williams;
The above report was made out by the provost-marshal, and returned to me as
the report of his proceedings in executing the sentence of the court, and I order
the same to be attached to the record of said court.
MURFREESBOROUGH, June 9, 1863.
Brig. Gen. L. THOMAS:
Last evening a dispatch from Col. J. P. Baird, commanding post at Franklin,
Tenn., was received as follows:
Two men came in camp about dark dressed in our uniforms, with horse equipments to correspond, saying that they were Col. Auton, inspector-general, and
Maj. Dunlap, assistant, having an order from Adjutant-Gen. Townsend and
your order to inspect outposts, but their conduct was so singular that we
arrested them, and they insisted that it was very important to go to Nashville
to-night.
Col. Baird asked if there were any such persons in the army and if so their
description. I replied at once that they were probably spies and directed him to
order a court, and if they proved to be spies to execute them immediately,
which was done, and they were tried, condemned to be hung and the sentence
was carried into execution before 10 o'clock this morning. On being discovered
they confessed that they were officers in the Confederate Army, one a colonel
named Lawrence W. Orton, formerly W. Orton Williams. One claims [to be]
first cousin to Robert E. Lee [and] to have been chief of artillery on Gen.
Bragg's staff, and formerly to have been on Gen. Scott's staff, of Second Regular Cavalry. A full history of the case will be forwarded you by mail.
W. S. ROSECRANS, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. II, Vol. 5, p. 763.
June 9, 1863 - Skirmish near Triune
June 9, 1863
June 9, 1863 - Assault and battery on a Memphis Housewife
Wretched.—Yesterday morning a man by the name of Cordes went to the
house of Mr. W. H. Davis, during his absence, and abused his wife in a
wretched manner by striking her with an umbrella over the head several times.
It seems the difficulty occurred by Cordes leaving a note with Mrs. Davis for
her husband. Mrs. Davis told him he had better wait until he could see Mr.
Davis. He became incensed at this, and a difficulty ensued, by his grasping
Mrs. Davis by the throat and striking her three times with an umbrella. A man
who would forget himself, so far as to assault a woman deserves to be kicked
out of the society of all decent men. It matters not what the offense may be, a
gentleman would never so far debase his manliness as to strike a woman. We
say pass him around.
June 9, 1863 - Complaints Relative to Order No. 65 in Memphis
Memphis, June 9, 1863.
Major-General Hurlbut:
Sir—Unless a better opportunity is offered to the Union citizens of Memphis to
comply with your order No. 65, by the opening of two or more offices for that
purpose, one-thirds of the people in this city cannot get through within the time
prescribed. Many have attempted, for days in succession, and failed.
Yours respectfully,
A UNION MAN
June 9, 1863 - July 5, 1863 - Activities of the Second Tennessee Cavalry, prior to and during
the Tullahoma Campaign
On the 9th of June our Brigade of cavalry [2nd Tennessee (U. S. )] was sent to
Triune, where we remained until the 23d, when the entire Army of the Cumberland, under General Rosecranz made a general movement South. Our Brigade went out on the Shelbyville road. We encountered the enemy in a short
time. On the 20th of June we drove the Confederate before us by way of Salem
and Middleton, where we met considerable opposition; but a few shots from
our battery caused them to scatter and retreat, and we occupied the town without further opposition. On entering, we found that a cannon ball from our battery had passed through a private dwell house, just below the upper joist,
through two partitions and out a window on the other side of the hose. A lady
and a group of children were in the house at the time, but fortunately escaped
unhurt.
June 10, 1863
For a few days were in the saddle, first one place and then another, scouting,
skirmishing and guarding supply trains. On the 27th of June we took Shelbyville with but little resistance and small loss. We charged the enemy, when
he stampeded and fled. We went from there to Manchester by way of Fairfield,
arriving there on the 30th of June. During several days previous to this time,
rain had fallen almost constantly. It was harvest time, and our progress was
marked by wheat fields laid waste, especially where the Confederates resisted
our progress, which was nearly all the way. Fences were thrown down, and the
cavalry rode through fields in line of battle, leaving standing crops as flat as if
a log had rolled over them. The rain had so moistened the earth that our horses
often sunk knee deep in the mud. On the second of July we crossed Elk River
and went to Decherd. Here we remained and celebrated the Fourth of July. Salvos of artillery could be heard in every direction, as the batteries fired a
National salute. On the fifth we went over to Winchester, where we remained
until the eight, when news reached us of Gen. Palmerton's surrender to Grant at
Vicksburg, which was received with shouts everywhere, intermingled with
artillery salutes. On the ninth the Second Cavalry was ordered across the Cumberland Mountain in Alabama.
~~~
Knoxville Daily Chronicle, February 18 1879.
June 10, 1863 - ScoutNOTE 1 on Middleton Pike
JUNE 10, 1863.-Scout on Middleton and Eagleville Pikes, Tenn.
REPORTS.
No. 1.-Brig. Gen. John B. Turchin, U. S. Army.
No. 2.-Col. Robert H. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding brigade.
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. John B. Turchin, U. S. Army.
MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., June 10, 1863.
SIR: I respectfully report that, in accordance with written instructions from
Maj.-Gen. Stanely, received at these headquarters at 2 a. m. this day, the First
Brigade, Col. R. H. G. Minty commanding, moved to Salem, arriving there
soon after daylight. Col. Minty detached the Third Indiana and Fourth Michigan Cavalry, under command of Lieut.-Col. Klein, to scout the Middleton road,
and proceeded with the remainder of the brigade on the Versailles road. Col.
Klein move to within 3 1/2 miles of Middleton, driving in the enemy's pickets,
and learning that there was no considerable rebel force on or near that road.
Col. Minty moved 2 1/2 miles beyond Versailles, driving in the enemy's pickets, about 200 strong. He ascertained that there were two rebel cavalry regiments at Rover, and no other force in the vicinity of Eagleville. Lieut.-Col.
Sipes, commanding the advance guard, reports 2 rebels severely wounded.
June 10, 1863
Col. Minty returned with his entire command to camp at 12.30 p. m. this day,
bringing 1 prisoner, a Mr. Frank Jackson, enrolling and conscription officer,
from near Versailles.
J. B. TURCHIN, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg.
No. 2.
Report of Col. Robert H. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding brigade.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, SECTION CAVALRY DIVISION, Camp near
Murfreesborough, June 10, 1863—1 p. m.
SIR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the general commanding, that, in obedience to verbal orders received from him at 3 o'clock this a.
m., I had reveille sounded, and notified the regiments of this command to hold
themselves in readiness for an immediate move.
At 3.30 a. m., I received orders to proceed to Salem, and from there to scout the
country toward Middleton and Eagleville, and, if possible, to be at the bridge
on the Salem pike by 5 a. m. A few moments later I received an order to report,
by courier, from the bridge on Salem pike, from Salem, and again when I
should commence my return march to Murfreesborough.
I reported from the bridge at 4.45 a. m., and from Salem at 5.30 a. m., and from
here I detached Lieut.-Col. Klein, Third Indiana, with his own battalion and the
Fourth Michigan, to scout the Middleton road, and directed him to push forward until he could ascertain if there was a body of troops moving on that road.
With the Seventh Pennsylvania and Fourth Cavalry I pushed forward to within
half a mile of Versailles, where my advance (Seventh Pennsylvania) encountered the enemy's pickets, and drove them for about 2 miles, when, learning
that there was no force at Eagleville and but two regiments of cavalry at Rover,
I directed Lieut.-Col. Sipes, Seventh Pennsylvania, to take three squadrons of
his regiment and drive the enemy, who now numbered about 200, 1 mile farther, and there rejoin the column, which he did, reporting to me that he had
severely wounded 2 rebels.
I marched for Murfreesborough at 9 a. m., reporting the same to you and
Lieut.-Col. Goddard. At Salem I found Lieut.-Col. Klain, with his command,
waiting for me. He went within 31/2 miles of Middleton, driving in the
enemy's pickets, and learned that there was no force moving in that direction.
I arrived in camp at 12.30 p. m. I brought in, as prisoner, Mr. Frank Jackson,
enrolling and conscript officer, from near Versailles.
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBT. H. G. MINTY, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 373-374.
June 10, 1863
NOTE 1: Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee calls this an action.
June 10, 1863 - Scout on Eagleville Pike
•See June 10, 1863--ScoutNOTE 1 on Middleton Pike
June 10, 1863 - Letters to Lieutenant A. J. Lacy, Eighth Tennessee Cavalry, from his wife
and parents in Jackson County
State of Tennessee Jackson Co
Jun the 10th 1863
Mi Der and Most afectiona husban
It is no small degree of sadfaction that I tak mi pen in hand to let you know that
I am well at this time and I hoop when theses few lines come to hand that it
will find you well.
I want to now how you makeout for clous What dou you do for shirts and
drawers and sox. If you want any thing right to me. If I must make you any
pants I would be glad to see you but I fear that I never will you again. I wish
that you was here to go to pap's with me to eat [illegible] Father is well but
mother ant well. I have ben worken out sprouting and planting corn father cant
hier no body to help him. The baby can crawl all over the house[.] I wish you
cood get to see him and see how purty he is and how smart your little sun is.
Suzy Maryic was here to day and [illegible] went and got us a good [illegible]
of [illegible] and I wish that you had som too[.] Today is the 7th of June [?]
We hant got a letter from you sence the 21 of Aprile. I want you to wright evry
cance you get. It dos me so mush good to get a letter from you as anything
[illegible] I get your letters and likeness evry, Sunda and read them and cry for
I think that is all the sadfaction that I evry have for I feare that I nevr see you
again in life. I just heard from you and hard that you was sick and has got about
and [illegible] I was so sary to her from you and here that you had been sick.
We nevr heard that you was sick, tell Mr More got home. None of the boyes
roat that you was sick. Right how long you was sick and what did ald you sei
tru lov I must clse for the present. I still your best frend now and fo evry
M E. Lacy to Mr. A J Lacy
State of Ten Jackson Cty, June the 10th 1863
My dear Son,
It is with pleasure that I seate myself this morning to wright to you a fiew lines
to let you know that we are all well but your mother she is in bad health and
has been for some time but she can set up a part of the time. She craves to see
you mitley but we all do that I assure you. I went las Sunday to Mr. Mores to
see him to try to hear from you as we have not had a letter from you since the
June 10, 1863
21st of April and Mr More said he di not see you for you was left at Florence
Ala but just as he was starting him and Dr Pindergrass you came up with you
command do try to get your officers to let you come home to recruite up you
health. My paper is full. Fairwell for the present
To A. J. Lacy Wm & Kezia Lacy
Lacy Correspondence.
June 10, 1863 - A Wisconsin soldier's opinion of the Emancipation Proclamation and copperheads
Murfreesboro Tenn.
June 10, 1863
Dear friend,
You ask if I think the Emancipation Proclamation will serve to bring the war to
a more speedy close. I answer candidly that I don't believe it will yet I am
heartily in favor of the measure, because I am convinced that its tendency will
be to give us a more permanent peace in the end. I have no sympathy with
those people of the north, that would favor peace upon dishonorable terms.
Every soldier in the field knows that there can be no peace until our armed foes
are conquered. I think that the opposition given by so many in the north to
every war measure, has tendency to encourage our foe and prolong the war.
And this leads me to say that the most despicable man in our land today is the
northern copperhead. The man in arms against us is wrong, decidedly wrong,
but he is honest, and he has the courage to fight for his convictions. The people
of the south are building their hopes upon a divided north, and you can be
assured that anything which seems to strengthen this hope is looked upon with
dread by our soldiers in the field.
J. M. Randall
The James M. Randall Diary
June 10, 1863 - A Federal cavalryman's impressions of Nashville
. . . About noon it cleared up and there were some gleams of sunshine as we
passed through Nashville. Nashville is a very pleasantly situated town in the
midst of a beautiful country adorned with a large number of fine residences
surrounded by pleasant lawns, in which are a number of noble old forest trees.
It was truly a fine sight for soldiers to see that had been so long used to the barren hills around Fort Donelson and who had begun to wonder where the pleasant part of Tennessee was.
From the last ridge north of the Cumberland the road runs sloping gently for
about a mile to the river, perfectly straight and here the city burst at once upon
our view. The Capitol building standing on a hill nearly one hundred feet
higher than the ground about it. It is the Ionic order of Architecture —rectan-
June 10, 1863
gular—about twice as long as it is wide, of whitish stone, or marble, with four
fine porticos and presents an imposing appearance. All of the finest buildings
in the city are used for military hospitals, streets are barricaded and the hills
around are crowned with fortifications and more building. I would have like to
have had time and liberty to see the city but there was none. Marched today 12
miles.
Alley Diary
June 10, 1863 - The Charleston Mercury anticipates the Middle Tennessee campaign
REBEL SPECULATIONS ON THE SITUATION IN TENNESSEE
Correspondence of the Charleston Mercury, June 10.
A courier came into Wartrace on the morning of the 3d [of June], and reports
that twenty-two regiments of Rosecrans' army have left for Vicksburg. The
impression prevails that the Federals are retreating toward Nashville. At all
events, we have positive information that our troops are advancing from Wartrace to Shelbyville. From the signs of active preparation, a forward movement
in earnest is about commencing. On the other hand, rumors are currently circulated that Rosecrans is advancing himself, instead of falling back upon his
earthworks around Nashville. Besides the strongly fortified gaps of the Normandy Hills, we have a line of rifle-pits from Shelbyville to Wartrace, nearly
nine miles in length. We also have an army in good health and spirits, and burning to emulate the glorious actions of Chancellorsville, Charleston, Vicksburgh
and Port Hudson. Once more Tennessee is likely to be shaken by the tread of
advancing hosts.
A correspondent of the Huntsville Confederate, writing from Wartrace, Tenn.,
says the organization of a new division of the army will be the probably result
of some recent changes in the Army of Tennessee, and arrival of troops there.
Gens. Pillow and Stuart are spoken of as likely to command it.
New York Times, June 22, 1863.
June 10, 1863 - Concern in Bolivar and Jackson regarding the withdrawal of Federal forces
LAGRANGE, TENN., June 10, 1863.
Maj.-Gen. HURLBUT, Cmdg. Tenth Army Corps, Memphis:
GEN.:
~~~
. . . The people of Jackson and Bolivar appear to be distressed at our leaving
them to the mercy of guerrillas and conscription. . .
~~~
R. J. OGLESBY, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 24, pt. III, p. 400.
June 11, 1863
June 10, 1863 - "Complying With the Order."
•See May 26, 1863--General Orders No. 65 issued in Memphis: expulsion of
Confederate sympathizers
The reading public are already familiar with the provisions and requirements
of Order No. 65, from the headquarters of the Sixteenth Army Corps, commanded by General S. A. Hurlbut. In obedience to that order no less than three
thousand three hundred and ten persons had complied with the order up to ten
o'clock yesterday morning. All these had registered themselves as loyal citizens of the United States. Besides these there were some hundred who had registered themselves as subjects of "foreign friendly powers." Very few persons
have the courage to register themselves as enemies; although many of the citizens openly avow sympathy with the rebellion, yet they have not the manly
courage to make their sympathy a matter of public record. Perhaps we might
say in this connection that the arrangement for the administration of the oath is
altogether inadequate to accommodate the multitudes who throng the office.
The average number per day is about five hundred.
June 11, 1863 - Action at TriuneNOTE 1
Report of Brig. Gen. Robert B. Mitchell
No. 2
HDQRS. FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, Camp near Triune, Tenn., June 12,
1863.
MAJ.: I have the honor to make report as follows of the part taken by my command in the affair of yesterday:
Maj. Gwynne had immediately, subsequent to the attack of the enemy, driven
them into the timber on the west of the Chapel Hill pike in our front and on
their left, from which they had advanced with an attempt at a charge. The
enemy falling back, the First Brigade, Col. Campbell, moved to the right of the
pike, and the Second Brigade, Col. McCook, moved to the left, both advancing
and concentrating near the pike, about three-quarters of a mile from the Harpeth River.
The enemy retreated rapidly over the open country, but made short stands in
the intervening wooded positions. They succeeded in crossing the ford, and
made a final stand on the opposite bank of the river, behind a stone wall, from
which they were driven by the Second Michigan, First East Tennessee, and part
of the Second Indiana, who crossed the river, and the enemy left in disorderly
retreat.
Being without artillery, and the enemy having obtained such an advance, I did
not deem it advisable to follow them farther, and returned to this encampment.
June 11, 1863
I have previously reported, by signal dispatch, the probable loss of the enemy,
from information gathered from citizens, prisoners, and other sources.
~~~
The prisoners taken were all on picket here.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brig.-Gen.
P. S. -The command behaved admirably. It has been ascertained since my signature that two more of the wounded enemy have died, making a loss to them
in killed of 23.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 375.
No. 5.
Report of Lieut. Col. John A. Platter, Fourth Indiana Cavalry.
HDQRS. FOURTH INDIANA CAVALRY, June 12, 1863.
COL.: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my
command in the action of yesterday (June 11):
My skirmishers, under command of Capt.'s Pepper and Purdy, successfully
engaged the enemy on our left, dislodging him from behind stone walls and
cedar groves, and finally compelled him to fall back across the river, with a
loss of several wounded.
My loss is as follows: 8.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
I have the honor to be, colonel, your obedient servant,
JOHN A. PLATTER, Lieut.-Col., Cmdg. Fourth Indiana Cavalry.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 377.
NOTE 1: A total of six reports were filed on this combat action.
June 11, 1863 - Skirmish at Strawberry Plains
June 11, 1863 - Members of the 115th Ohio Volunteer Infantry skirmish with Confederates
near the Shelbyville Pike-an account of a small-scale military action.
. . . [Sgt.] Van Hayne gave quite an interesting account of their picket skirmish
[of yesterday]. He with 9 men & a corporal were the advance front-& were first
attacked. It being in the timber they deployed as skirmishers. He "bushwhacked," they gradually fell back to the reserve where there was a Lieut. with
15 men from the 40th Ohio. When they got there they had all skedaddle except
the Lieut. and one man. The pickets on the right and left had also fallen back
June 11, 1863
some distance in their rear of their position and when looking round they saw
that the Rebs were on both their flanks and had them nearly surrounded. This
state of things convinced them to retreat on the double-quick, but in good
order. The cavalry pickets had long ere this gone far in their rear. They finally
reached a large brick house having run the gauntlet of a shower of bullets and
shells from the Rebel battery; none of the shells bursted. They were reinforced
at the brick house and held their position until the cavalry made the Rebs
"skedaddle." We conclude that those of the 115th who have been tried will
fight at any rate.
Patten Diary, June 12, 1863.
June 11, 1863 - "To the Citizens of Nashville;" a public health notice
The health of the city demands that it should be thoroughly cleansed. All filth
or nuisances on the premises of citizens must be removed to the streets or alley
and placed in heaps so the same may be hauled away by Government wagons
furnished by Gen. Granger, Commander of the Post.
Premises will be inspected, and the city nuisance law enforced. If the enforcement of civil law fails to effect the object, a more expeditious remedy may be
applied.
John Hugh Smith, Mayor
Nashville Daily Press, June 11, 1863.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: See also Nashville Dispatch, June 12, 1863.
June 11, 1863 - Company C, 5th Iowa Cavalry, reaches Murfreesboro
Last night was wet and uncomfortable for soldiers sleeping on the ground in
the open air, but the boys were cheerful and ready to march early. Reached
Murfreesboro and camped on the front just behind the first line of pickets and
about three miles south of M. Everywhere the soldiers and officers said we
were decidedly one of the finest looking regiments in the service. The day was
a lovely one, and the country through which we passed in general was fine; but
the farms were almost wholly waste, houses burned, fences burned and the
road for miles strewed with fragments of burned wagons, caissons etc., some
of ours and some of the rebels. We marched across the battlefield to Stone
River. There were a great many enclosures in which sleep the fallen soldiers of
that bloody and obstinately contested fight. Murfreesboro is a small town
pleasantly situated on the south bank of Stone River—more of stone than water
in it; fully deserves its name—and as may be supposed, it is surrounded at
present by strong fortifications and filled with soldiers. Our day's march was
35 miles.
Alley Diary
June 11, 1863
June 11, 1863 - June 16, 1863 - Incidents relating to Federal scout, Alexandria to Lebanon
to Baird's Mill to Murfreesboro; skirmish on Alexandria Pike and skirmish outside Lebanon, the account of Lt. Albert Potter, Fourth Michigan
Volunteer Cavalry
HeadQuarters 4th M. V. C.
Camp Park, [Murfreesboro] June 17/63
Dear Father
We just got in from our 6 days scout [11th-16th] and it has been a hard one—I
tell you. We did not start until about 3 pm and went to Lebanon 28 miles distant that night. We traveled out six miles from town where we halted and fed.
We had heard from our scouts in that direction that there was about 1000 or the
rebels at Lebanon and we intended to clean them out. [12th] On dismounting,
when we halted, one of the 5th Iowa boys was almost instantly killed by his
comrade next to him. His Carbine caught in some manner on the saddle or stirrups and went off. The ball passing thro' his left lung and out on right side cutting one of the large arteries. Poor Fellow! He never spoke. One cannot be too
cautious. I would hate to be killed by my friend or by myself.
After feeding at about ten o'clock we started again. We had about 1500 all told.
We had a passable road and went along pretty good jog. Got into Lebanon just
daylight. [13th] No rebels there. All went away last night [12th] was what the
citizens told us. Went off on the Alexandria Pike. It is a mystery to me how
they get their information for they heard of our coming even before we knew
where we were going ourselves, for we never know where we are going until
we move. But they did. We followed after them on the Alexandria Pike—came
upon their near guards about 11am had a little skirmish in which one to the 4th
regulars was killed [13th]. Then went back a short distance and fed our horses,
gave them wheat in bundle about noon we started again.
It was a very hot day and our poor horses were tired in the forenoon our Reg't
was on the left as skirmishers and the ground was very rough, stony and hilly.
We moved cautiously skirmishing all the way about six miles into a nice valley
with good feed and the Col concluded to stay there all night. [13th]
We had orders to move only to Lebanon and our coming any farther was at our
own risk. Well, we posted our pickets in front [14th] and in the right and left
strongly and were settling down to rest when Bang! Bang! Came their artillery
from a hill. Our pickets rushed in letting us know there was quite a force in
front with 5 pieces of artillery. They were mountain howitzers I tho't by the
sound. We immediately formed and went out to see what was there, but they
had run back again and it was growing dark. The Col had also learned that they
were about 4000 strong with artillery at Alexandria and so of course it would
not be prudent to move after them and their demonstration in front was only to
divert our attention while they were trying to FLANK US on BOTH SIDES.
So we moved back after calling in our pickets by a cross road and an ugly one
June 12, 1863
too. Baird's Mill on the Lebanon Pike 21 miles from Murfreesboro. Got there 3
1/2 am this morning [17th] as tired a lot as you ever saw—not a wink of sleep
had we. I never was so sleepy in my life and when we got to the Mill I just
lopped down on the ground and slept about two hours as sound as a log.
~~~
Potter Correspondence.
June 12, 1863 - Scout on Salem Pike
JUNE 12, 1863.-Scouts on Salem Pike, Tenn.
REPORTS.
No. 1.-Brig. Gen. John B. Turchin, U. S. Army, commanding Second Cavalry
Division, Department of the Cumberland.
No. 2.-Maj. Frank W. Mix, Fourth Michigan Cavalry.
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. John B. Turchin, U. S. Army, commanding Second Cavalry Division, Department of the Cumberland.
SIR: I respectfully report that yesterday, June 12, Lieut.-Col. Haynes, with 200
men of his regiment, the Tenth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, moved at 10 a. m. on
the Middleton road. He drove in the rebel vedettes near the intersection of the
new Middleton road with the old stage road, and about a mile farther came
upon the rebel picket reserve, about 40 strong. He returned about 3 miles on
the same road, and then crossed to the Shelbyville road, striking it about 5
miles from Murfreesborough. He was informed by a black woman that there
were three rebel cavalry regiments about 3 miles in rear of their picket reserve.
By the various persons he questioned, their force was estimated at from 600 to
800. At the same hour, Maj. Frank Mix, with 240 of his regiment, the Fourth
Michigan Cavalry, moved on the Versailles road. He found the rebel vedettes 1
1/2 miles this side of Versailles, drove them into and through the town, and
found that their force was about 200 of Russell's cavalry. He sent a scout on the
Eagleville road 3 miles out, who found no signs of the enemy. He was
informed by citizens that there had been no force of any kind there since the
First Cavalry Brigade, four days ago, and, from personal examination of the
road, he believes this statement.
To-day, at 7 a. m., Lieut.-Col. Sipes, with the Seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer
Cavalry, Third Indiana Volunteer Cavalry, and a section of Stokes' battery,
moved on the Manchester pike, and at the same hour Col. Nicholas, with the
Second Kentucky, on the Wartrace road.
J. B. TURCHIN, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. Second Cavalry Division.
June 12, 1863
No. 2.
Report of Maj. Frank W. Mix, Fourth Michigan Cavalry.
HDQRS. FOURTH MICHIGAN CAVALRY, Murfreesborough, Tenn., June
12, 1863.
SIR: I left my camp at 10 a. m. with 240 men, and moved out on the Salem
pike. As soon as I was outside of our cavalry vedettes, I sent out scouts on both
of my flanks, also strong advance guards, with flankers. I found no trace of the
enemy until I got within 1 1/2 miles of Versailles. I drove their pickets into and
through Versailles, and found that their force consisted of 200 of [A. A. ] Russell's cavalry. I also sent a scout 3 miles out on the Eagleville road, but without
finding any of the enemy. I examined the road closely, and I do not think anything has been over it since the First Cavalry Brigade was there.
The citizens informed me that no scout of any kind had been there since that
time. I scoured the country thoroughly, and returned to my camp, arriving here
at 6 a. m.
FRANK W. MIX, Maj., Cmdg. Fourth Michigan.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 379-380.
June 12, 1863 - Scout on the Eagleville Road
•See June 12, 1863--Scout on Salem Pike
June 12, 1863 - "Juvenile Thieves."
We always imagined that tenderness of years was a guarantee of purity of
hearts. We never dreamed that there could be a thief until long years of dissipation had scared the conscience, by frequent participation in the vicious amusements of already fallen characters. Much less did we suppose that a confirmed
thief could be found in the bright age of childhood. Yet such is the case. For on
last Friday two little brothers, the eldest not more than eight years old, came
upon a soldier who had fallen asleep under the shade of a tree and robed him of
thirty dollars in money. Their names are Dunn. The eldest these young scamps
was among the gang of young rascals who robbed the broker's office mentioned by us some time ago. The young gentleman of the road was arrested but
on account of their tender years were discharged. Just think of it, about three
years old to start out to be a regular thief. If they are already thieves, what will
they be when they grow up to manhood.
ca. June 12, 1863
June 12, 1863 - "A Female Warrior."
In ancient times, we are told that there was a nation of women who waged the
most bitter and relentless warfare against the surrounding nations. Yet the
myth-like story of the Amazons has passed into an "almost dream," and for
ages [we know?] of but few women warriors. 'Tis true that Miss. Jane [illegible, page torn] in her fascinating Scottish Ohio [?] mad infatuation of Lady
[illegible, page torn] [W]illiam Wallace; and for the purpose of wining his
love, and esteem, she dressed up in the habiliments of the knightly warrior, and
in the disguise of the Knight of the Green Plume, followed him to battle and
heroically fought by his side. But this too has passed away to the dim history of
bygone years, and is now principally thought of as the creation of a wild and
romantic nature, rather than a sober reality. Yet we have a tangible reality of a
feminine warrior in our mind's eye. The patrol guards were the first to develop
the fact. As they were on their rounds yesterday morning, they came upon a
youthful looking soldier, having on the stripes of a sergeant. The accosted him
and demanded his pass, which of course he could not produce. No being
exactly satisfied with the peculiar gait of the young gentleman, and expecting
that after all it might after all be a real solider, they arrested him and brought
him to the Irving Block where it was ascertained by the confession of the delinquent sergeant that he was not a real sergeant, but a female in sergeant's attire.
She said that her friends had dared her to put on the soldier's clothes, which she
could not take. That she put them on and started across the street to the house
of a friend, when the guards came along and arrested her. She seemed very
much embarrassed by the awkward position in which she was placed by her
untimely arrest. We did not learn the name of this modern night of the Amazon
tribe, and even if we had, we would not publish it. She is now in confinement,
whether as a prisoner of war, or a political prisoner, we cannot say—it does not
make much difference.
ca. June 12, 1863 - Confederates capture Union spy Pauline Cushman near Franklin
Shelbyville, June 18th
. . . Forrest's forces on Friday last [12th] went in pursuit of a woman to whom
suspicion had been attached. She had reached the Yankee pickets in front of
Franklin when they came in sight, but on they dashed, driving in the Yankees
and capturing their "booty." She proved to be a Miss Cushman, a theatre
actress, claiming relationship with the celebrated Charlotte, and had upon her
person plans and drawings of our fortifications, and the disposition made of the
latter. It is said that she was a crinoline scout for McClellan in Virginia, and
performed valuable services. Her fine talents are, doubtless, occupied at
present time in planning an escape from Columbia, where she is under guard.
N.
ca. June 12, 1863
Savannah [Georgia] Republican, June 22, 1863.
Forrest's forces on Friday last went in pursuit of a woman to whom suspicion
had been attached. She had reached the Yankee pickets in front of Franklin
when they came in sight, but on they dashed, driving in the Yankees and capturing their "booty." She proved to be a Miss Cushman, a theatre actress,
claiming relationship with the celebrated Charlotte, and had upon her person
plans and drawings of our fortifications, and the disposition made of the latter.
It is said that she was a crinoline scout for McClellan in Virginia, and performed valuable services. Her fine talents are doubtless occupied at the present
time in planning an escape from Columbia, where she is under guard.—Chatta.
Rebel.
Weekly Columbus (Georgia) Enquirer, June 30, 1863
A THRILLING NARRATIVE
Miss Major Pauline Cushman the Federal Scout and Spy
Among the women of America who have made themselves famous since the
opening of the rebellion, few have suffered more, or rendered more service to
the Federal cause than Miss Major Pauline Cushman, the female scout and spy.
At the commencement of hostilities she resided in Cleveland, Ohio, and was
quite well known as a clever actress.
From Cleveland she went to Louisville, where she had an engagement in
Wood's Theatre. Here, by her intimacy with certain rebel officers, she incurred
the suspicion of being a rebel, and was arrested by the Federal authorities. She
indignantly denied that she was a rebel, although born at the South, and having
a brother in a rebel Mississippi regiment.
In order to test her love for the old flag, she was asked if she would enter the
secret service of the Government. She readily consented, and was at once
employed to carry letters between Louisville and Nashville. She was subsequently employed by General Rosecrans, and was for many months with the
Army of the Cumberland. She visited the rebel lines time after time, and was
thoroughly acquainted with all the country and roads in Tennessee, North
Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi, in which section she rendered our armies
invaluable service. She was twice suspected of being a spy, and taken prisoner,
but managed to escape.
At last, however, she was not so fortunate. After our forces had captured Nashville, Major Cushman made a scout towards Shelbyville to obtain information
of the strength and position of the enemy, and while returning to Nashville,
was captured on the Hardin pike, eleven miles from the latter city. She was
placed on a horse, and, in charge of two scouts, was being taken to Spring Hill,
the headquarters of Forrest.
While on the way to this place, she feigned sickness and said she could not
travel any further without falling from her horse. Her captors stopped at a
house on the roadside, when it was ascertained that a Federal scouting party
ca. June 12, 1863
had passed the place an hour before. Knowing that her guards had important
papers for Gen. Bragg, the quick-witted spy seized the fact and schemed to use
it to her advantage.
Seeing an old negro, who appeared to commiserate her unfortunate plight, she
watched her opportunity and placed ten dollars in Tennessee money in his
hand, saying: "run up the road, 'Uncle,' and come back in a few minutes, telling
us that four hundred Federals are coming down the street." The faithful negro
obeyed the order literally, and soon came back in the greatest excitement, telling the story. The two "rebs " told him he lied. The old colored man got down
on his knees, saying: "Massa, dey's cumin, sure nuff; de Lord help us, dey is
cumin."
The scouts at this believed his story, mounted their horses, and "skedaddled"
for the woods. Miss Cushman, seizing a pistol belonging to a wounded soldier
in the house, also mounted her horse and fled toward Franklin. She travelled
through the rain, and, after nightfall, lost her way. Soon came the challenge of
a picket "Who comes there?" Thinking she had reached the rebel line she said:
"A friend of Jeff Davis." "All right," was the reply, "advance and give the
countersign."
She presented the countersign in the shape of a canteen of whisky. She passed
five pickets in this way, but the sixth and last was obdurate. She pleaded that
she was going to see a sick uncle at Franklin, but the sentry couldn't see it. Sick
and disheartened she turned back. Seeing a light at a farm house she sought
shelter. An old man received her kindly, showed her to a room, and said he
would awake her at an early hour in the morning, and show her the road to
Franklin.
A loud knock awoke her in the morning from her lethean slumbers, and upon
arousing, she found her horse saddled, and the two guards from whom she had
escaped the previous afternoon. She was taken to the headquarters of Forrest,
and he sent her, after a critical examination, to Gen. Bragg. Nothing could be
found against her, until a secesh woman stole her gaiters, under the inner sole
of which were found important documents which clearly proved her to be a
spy.
She was tried and condemned to be executed as a spy, but being sick, her execution was postponed. She finally, after lying in prison three months, sent for
Gen. Bragg, and asked him if he had no mercy. She received from him the
comforting assurance, that he should make an example of her as soon as she
got well enough to be hung decently.
While in this state of suspense the grand army of Rosecrans commenced its
forward movement, and one day the rebel town where she was imprisoned,
was surprised and captured, and the heroine of this tale was to her great joy
released. She is now in this city visiting friends, having arrived at the Biddle
House one day last week. -Detroit Tribune.
The Pacific Commercial Advertiser, September 3, 1864.NOTE 1
June 12, 1863
NOTE 1: Published in Honolulu, Hawaii. As cited in: http://www.jimlyons.com.
June 12, 1863 - June 14, 1863 - Expedition from PocahontasNOTE 1 to New Albany & Ripley,
Mississippi
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 24, pt. II, p. 473.
NOTE 1: There are two locations with the name Pocahontas in Tennessee, one in Coffee County, a small unincorporated community, and the other in West Tennessee, in Hardeman County. Here the reference is to West Tennessee. All
action took place in Mississippi, but the mission originated in Tennessee.
June 13, 1863 - Scout on Manchester Pike
JUNE 13, 1863.-Scout on the Manchester Pike, Tenn.
REPORTS.
No. 1.-Brig. Gen. John B. Turchin, U. S. Army.
No. 2.-Lieut. Col. William B. Sipes, Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry.
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. John B. Turchin, U. S. Army.
SIR: I respectfully report that at 7 a. m. this day, Lieut.-Col. Sipes, with 260
men of the Seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, 105 men of the Third
Indiana Cavalry, and one section of Stokes' battery, moved out on the
Manchester pike. When 10 miles out, he met the enemy's pickets and drove
them in, pursuing them 2 miles. The country being unfavorable for cavalry
movements, he then withdrew and returned to camp. The pickets were reported
by a citizen to belong to the Texas Rangers, of Hardee's corps. At the same
hour, Col. Nicholas moved with his regiment (the Second Kentucky Volunteer
Cavalry) on the Wartrace road. At 12 miles out he met two squads of rebel cavalry, each about 30 strong, and dispersed them, after firing a few shots. He
moved about half a mile farther forward, and then returned to camp. He could
not learn that any force of the rebels had encamped or appeared in any way on
the Wartrace road for a week past. Two brigades of infantry are reported to be
at Liberty Gap.
In accordance with instructions received from you this p. m., no patrols will be
sent to-morrow.
J. B. TURCHIN, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. Second Cavalry Division.
No. 2.
Report of Lieut. Col. William B. Sipes, Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry.
June 13, 1863
HDQRS. SEVENTH PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEER CAVALRY, Camp
Stanley, June 13, 1863.
SIR: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to orders, I this morning
moved out the Manchester turnpike a distance of about 12 miles, with a force
consisting of 260 men of the Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, 105 men of the
Third Indiana Cavalry, and one section of Stokes' battery.
When 10 miles out, the advance guard came upon the enemy's pickets and
drove them back. Col. Long, with a detachment of the Third Indiana, pursued
them about 2 miles, when I deemed it prudent to order a halt, the country being
ill adapted to cavalry movements and the strength of the enemy entirely
unknown. The object of the expedition being accomplished by ascertaining the
exact position of the enemy on this road, and not wishing to sacrifice any of my
men in a profitless pursuit of a retreating foe, we returned to camp, arriving
there a little after 2 p. m.
The pickets we encountered were reported by citizens to belong to Texas Rangers, attached to Hardee's corps of the rebel army. I have no casualties to report.
WM. B. SIPES, Lieut. Col. Seventh Pennsylvania Vol. Cavalry, Cmdg. Expedition.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 380-381.
June 13, 1863 - Scout on the Wartrace Road
June 13, 1863 - "PROPOSITION TO HANG THE DUTCH SOLDIERS."
From the Knoxville Register, June 13 [1863]
Of late, in all battles and in all recent incursions made by Federal cavalry, we
have found the great mass of Northern soldiers to consist of Dutchmen. The
plundering thieves captured by Forrest, who stole half the jewelry and watches
in a dozen counties of Alabama, were immaculate Dutchmen. The national
odor of Dutchmen, as distinctive of the race as that which, constantly assenting
to heaven, has distended the nostrils of the negro, is as unmistakable as that
peculiar to a pole-cat, an old pipe, or a lager-pier saloon. Crimes, thefts, and
insults to the women of the South, invariably mark the course of these stinking
bodies of animated sour-krout. Rosecrans himself is an unmixed Dutchman, an
accursed race which has overrun the vast districts of the county of the Northwest.* * * It happens that we entertain a greater degree of respect for an Ethiopian in the ranks of the Northern armies than for an odoriferous Dutchman,
who can have no possible interest in this revolutions* * * Why not hang every
Dutchman captured? We will hereafter hang, or shoot or imprison for life all
white men taken in command of negroes, and enslave the negroes themselves.
June 13, 1863
This is not too harsh. No human being will assert the contrary. Why, then,
should we not hand a Dutchman, who deserves infinitely less of our sympathy
than Sambo. The live masses of beer, krout, tobacco and rotten cheese, which
on two legs and four, on foot and mounted, go prowling through the South,
should be used to manure the sandy plains and barren hillsides of Alabama,
Tennessee and Georgia.* * * Whenever a Dutch regiment adorns the limbs of a
southern forest, daring cavalry raids into the South shall cease.* * * President
Davis need not be specially consulted, and if an accident of this sort should
occur to a plundering band like that captured by Forrest, we are not inclined to
believe that our President would be greatly disgruntled.
New York Times, June 22, 1863.
June 13, 1863 - Taking the Oath of Allegiance at Memphis City Hall
Scenes at the City Hall.
We made a call, yesterday morning, at the grand levee of the ever polite Captain A. J. Enlow, who holds forth at the City Hall. We found his levee well
attended. The street in front of the office was thronged with eager visitors, anxious to get a glimpse of the genial captain. The hall itself was thronged with
eager expectants of the especial honor of loyal citizenship being extended to
them. The ladies, too, were in attendance—the young, the old, the matron and
maid, were all in waiting. On inquiry we fond that seven thousand persons had
taken the oath of fealty to the old Government of our fathers. Three hundred
and one persons had taken the foreign neutral oath, and only about six had registered themselves as enemies to the Federal Government.
June 13, 1863 - A Report on the Memphis City Prison.
The City Prison.—We do not like the name prison; taken in the abstract, we
shudder at the very name; but if prison life can be made tolerable, it is certainly
so in the municipal prison of this city. Yesterday we made a call on the estimable Major N. S. Trice, who at present is acting as jailor. The major politely
showed us through the different wards of the prison, and we confess, to our
astonishment, at the neat appearance which all the cells wore—everything
looked pleasant, for a prison—there was nothing of the filthy appearance
which usually attaches to such places. We have been informed by reliable parties, and those who ought to know, too, that all this order and cleanliness is due
to the untiring energy and perseverance of Major Trice. We learn, that before
the major assumed the position he now occupies, that the prison was an
expense to the city, and now, in stead of being a burden, it has become a source
of profit, paying not only the expense of keeping it, but a revenues of something like thirty dollars per week into the city treasury. If all or municipal offic-
June 14, 1863
ers were like Major Trice, there would be little occasion for grumbling with
their official acts.
June 13, 1863 - "AMUSING."
While on our usual daily call at the Irving Block prison, yesterday evening, a
soldier belonging to the 46th New York volunteers was brought in for the
crime of taking too much "tanglefoot" whiskey, and while in that condition
resisting the guards who came up with him and demanded his pass. The soldier
insisted that he was not drunk, and had never been drunk. But it was evident to
the senses of all present that had forgotten the old maxim of "know thyself," as
he could not stand erect very long at a time. The soldier then began to petition
Captain Wright, who happened to be present, to only permit him to go to his
company; he insisted very earnestly on his point, so much so, that the tears
began to roll down his veteran cheeks, as he recounted who he was and how
many hand fought battles he had went through with McClellan, Burnside, and
others on the far off banks of the Chickahominy, and Rappahannock. Suddenly,
a bright idea seemed to strike him in the middle [of his plea], and, suddenly
raising himself nearly straight, he exclaimed, "If you only knowed me, captain,
as well as I know you, you would let me go to my company, for see, I am not
drunk, for I can walk this area in the floor," and he proceeded to make the
effort; he at first succeeded, for at least three steps, the boys encouraging him
to try again, but he failed, exclaiming, "If I didn't walk it, who could, on such a
floor."
June 14, 1863 - Skirmish near Green Hill
June 14, 1863 - "I want to tell you about our milk scare. . . " letter of W. C. Tripp, Co. B,
44th Tennessee (C. S. A. ), to his wife
Bedford Co Tenn June the 14 1863
Camp near Fairfield
Dear Wife I take my pen in hand to inform you that I am well at this time hopin
that these few lines will find you all well and doing well I have nothing of
importance to rite to you every thing is still in ferment there is no talk as yet a
leaving here as I no of I dont know what to rite for I hant heard from you Since
you got home from up here I request to here from you all one time more is you
please this is the porest letter I have rote to you I looked for some of you up
hear last night but I missed seeing any one of you I request you to come up as
soon as you get your wheat cut.
June 14, 1863
I want to tell you about our milk scare when we was on picket they was seventeen of us drink 96 canteens full of milk in too days and sum of the boys wish
they had some more milk but I gest hit done mee more harm than good at the
present time they was six of our mess our expense was twelve dollars in too
days but I tell you we didnt have much meat with us to eat but we have seen little meat to eat since we came back Martha com up next Saturday we are going
to have a big meeting hear I would bee glad to go with you to meeting one time
more in this life tell Harris and Francis they come up and see me.
Martha you must have my shoes made as soon as you can will need them in a
short time have them made number 8 and don't have them made too heavy. The
boys is all well as common the helth of the regiment is as good as common
Thar was a order red out at dress parade last night to discharge any wounded
men from the heavy artillery I was glad of that Ask Jones to send me my knife
by the first that come up if Carnes has got hit yet I must bring my few lines to a
close excuse my bad riting and spelling I want you to rite every chance you
have so I must quit for a while I remain your husband until death.
W. C. Tripp to Martha A. Tripp
MSCC/CWRC
June 14, 1863 - "THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE."
The meeting of the Chamber of Commerce was adjourned yesterday until
tomorrow morning at 11 o'clock, when members will please attend in accordance with the published call. At the meeting several important reasons were
urged why no time should be lost in organizing the Chamber. It is highly necessary that the merchants should have an organization, by means of which they
can take such steps as shall secure to Memphis those just commercial privileges to which her important position entitles her. If the business men of Memphis are to flourish, they must unite and act vigorously.
June 14, 1863 - Engagement at Saltillo, U. S. N. disperses Rebels
•See June 14, 1863-June 25, 1863-Counter insurgency expedition on the Tennessee RiverNOTE 1 by U. S. N.
June 14, 1863 - A trip on the Memphis to Charleston Railroad
Dangers of the Charleston Railroad.-The following from a lady correspondent
of the Cincinnati Commercial, dated May 29, give a lively idea of the delights
of traveling nowadays:
June 14, 1863
We left Memphis about eight o'clock yesterday morning and traveled rather
slowly for some distance. We had not gone more that twenty miles before a
report reached us that the track had been torn up just ahead, and a large rebel
force [was] in waiting. This news was received about six miles from Germantown, from which place scouts had been sent out. More of our men were at
Collierville, four miles ahead, and at this distance from the last named place,
we found the track torn up truly enough. Our guard was instantly put under
arms, and send forward to examine into the damage, while all on board were
momentarily expecting an attack on the train. Captain S., who went forward,
said he saw for our five of the guerrillas, but no more, and it was deemed
advisable to repair the damage as quickly as possible and proceed on our journey.
Meanwhile the panic on board increase every moment. Several ladies were
frightened half to death-trembling, excited and in tears-expecting to be shot or
taken prisoners, and this within four miles of their husbands, who, they said,
were stationed at Collierville. I endeavored to reason and calm them by saying
alarm was useless, as we should retire at once to Germantown, in case the
guerrillas should make their appearance; but they were too thoroughly frightened to listen to any thing; and shortly afterward a colonel who was on board,
came up and advised them to go over to a house a little distance from the road,
where, if we be attacked, they might be comparatively safe. Of course, this
confirmed the idea at once of the impending danger, and they hastened rapidly
away. I alone remained much to the surprise of all. My husband was on ahead
with, the other officers and I reasoned at once that were an attack to be made
and our men to week to repulse it, our first movement would be to back the
cars to Germantown for more troops, which movement would leave all who
had taken refuse in the house of the mercy of the rebels. In answer to their
urgent requests to have me accompany them, I stated the fact, and stated that I
was not alarmed in any way. I did not believe any attack would be made. From
all information that we could glean from the residents of this place, there had
been but thirteen rebels there, and their numbers had been greatly exaggerated
in the report we received below. Indeed, after this, I felt perfectly confident
there was nothing to apprehend but the delay, and indulged in in a little quiet
amusement over the fright of my more nervous neighbors. They regarded me
as daring and reckless; indeed, I think some of them imagined I was slightly
insane, to think of running through alone, and braving, as they termed it, the
"dangers of our awful situation."
An hour or less served to repair the road, and the whistle sounded to recall men
and passengers for going forward. The came in from all directions, some running, some leisurely walking back, at perfect ease. Our party from the house
ran for dear life, and reached us in as great a fright almost as when they left us.
A careful run of two miles brought us within our picket lines, stationed outside
of Collierville, and then they were at rest. At Collierville they got off delighted,
and we proceeded, fearing nor caring for anything but the dust.
June 14, 1863
We arrived here on time (forty minutes past six) and found everything going on
as usual. There were scouting parties out, and others preparing every day for
like, expeditions, in which they, in which they were generally very successful.
June 14, 1863 - "PADDY GO AISY'S PARTIALITY." Memphis political satire
Editor Bulletin:
One of the wise men of Egypt, that is, an alderman of Memphis, has declared
that, "wards, like republics, are often ungrateful." Had he had any experience
he might have added that alderman were as ungrateful as wards. I fancied,
foolishly it seems, that my attentions were bestowed on the members of the
august body with an impartiality that subsided envy and defiled complaint. I
labored hard as deliverer in-chief, in assisting them all to bring forth resolutions suited to their calling, character and capacity. Did I wish to excite your
sympathy, and play upon your risible faculties, I could, like a hog with a curly
narrative, a tale unfold, that would make you laugh till you'd cry; but as that
might be too much for the plaintiff's fortitude, I forbear for the present.
Well, then I am accused of being partial. It appears that I have "puffed" every
alderman in the board but one, and he very naturally feels insulted at the slight
offered to his official dignity; and my and my neglecting to deliver him of a
resolution, reduced him to the necessity of borrowing from his colleague, in
order that his name should appear in print, because he seriously believes that
the public must know his face by seeing his name in the newspaper. Fearing
that the grumbling of Alderman Dusderman might injure my official reputation, I persuaded him to take a private lesson or two, in company with a few
friends, and am happy to say that the system adopted was most successful—
with which statement you will agree when the process is explained. Operations
were commenced by explaining the parts of speech, which, as he had been an
editor for twelve years, was somewhat difficult. However, he gradually came
to understand that the principal parts of speech were the lips, tongue and palate
all of which he assured me he possessed, upon which assurance he had but to
use them freely to make as great a noise in the world as if he had been born a
drummer; and in order to do that effectually, he had only to commit to memory
two or three dozen adjectives, which could be thrown in on all occasions and in
all themes. He is a penetrating genius; for his next question was, "How came I,
to know an adjective?" This was going into the philosophy of the subject; and
it was only after repeated efforts he began to comprehend; but did he fully
understand, until placed before him in the most familiar simile of drunk man,
because like him an adjective cannot stand alone. His anxiety made him try his
powers too soon, which resulted in his stuttering and stammering, compelling a
friend to call out "sing it, sing it," which he did, in good style, and in the following words, that are not in print and can speak for themselves:
June 14, 1863
Here's to our aldermen, jolly and fat;
With stomach as tight as a drum, sir'
Here's his honor, so found of the "herrin n' sallat."*
Washed down with a beaker of rum, sir.
Let their toast pass,
We're all of a class,
And with our teeth uppermost, going to graze.
Here's to the rather who spouts for a prize,
Here's to the genius that is dumb sir;
Here's to the one who keeps falling for "ayes
And nays" just as they'd come, sir
Let the toast pass, etc.
Here's the good soul who his meat can't retain
So hot are the coppers; and manger,
A dignified manner and gold-headed cane
Begs a "squirt" after each glass of lager.
Here's to the two who are at glyster and pill,
Are acknowledged confoundedly clever;
Here's to the few who are sensible still,
And not the remainder who're never.
This effort was applauded by all present save a brother alderman, who fancied
he was reflected on by the singer; and mustered something about being unable
to make a speech, sing a song, or tell a story, but would like to ask a question,
which was, "Why is an Alderman like a dose of chloroform? This was
answered by the nigger in waiting exclaiming "Because he is a nuisance," (new
sense). When the party agreed that the alderman who perpetrated such a farfetched pun should be suitably punished, which was immediately done in a
manner perfectly agreeable to PADDY GO AISY. NOTE 1
* An improved aldermanic mode of spelling herring salad.
Memphis Bulletin, June 14, 1863
NOTE 1: There are other such columns by "Paddy Go Aisy," but the print is largely
illegible.
June 14, 1863 - "The Oath of Allegiance."
The clerks appointed to enroll and swear in those citizens who were ready and
desirous to take the oath of allegiance to the Government of the United States
have day to day been kept busy, from morning to night, registering those who
have applied, yet the work is not nearly concluded. To afford all who wish to
stand fair on the record, as good and loyal citizens, as true children of revolutionary fathers, and worth disciples of Washington and the patriots heroes of
June 14, 1863
our history, the places of enrollment has been moved to the Council Chamber;
a large body of clerks are employed, and this morning we publish an order
which has been earnestly asked for by persons who had not had opportunity to
take the oath—extending the time of enrollment to the evening of Thursday
next. As so large a number of clerks are employed, the ceremony can be performed with but a trifling loss of time. Ladies can register in a separate room,
opening from the Council Chamber.
Memphis Bulletin, June 14, 1863,
June 14, 1863 - "There are to be one man and two women hung next Friday at Murfreesboro." Excerpts from the letter of Jacob W. Bartmess to his wife in Indiana
Camp Drake.
Near Murfreesboro Ten
June 14th/63
Dearest one——
I am seated in my tent beside the table which Adam and I put up to serve us
both as a writing desk and an eating table. It gives me pleasure to write to you
and let you know that I still enjoy good health.
I have just drawn my horses this forenoon. I have just come from preaching.
We have had preaching in the regiment both Sundays that I have been here. . .
Monday morning 15th.
There were a couple spies hung at Franklin about 30 miles north west of this
place. They were going around with a forged pass from Gen. Rosecrans and in
officers uniforms. But they were caught in their deception. And strung up.
There are to be one man and two women hung next Friday at Murfreesboro.
The women are spies. And the man a murderer he cut a man's tongue out and
ears off. And killed him because he would not tell where his money was. . .
J. W. Bartmess
MSCC/CWRC
June 14, 1863 - June 15, 1863 - Robbery and a reprieve from execution in Nashville: an
entry from the diary of John Hill Fergusson, 10th Illinois Volunteer Infantry
Nashville Tennessee}Robery
Ruffis Neal & James Anderson went up town yesterday and said [they] took
one small drink of whisky. They soon felt as if they wanted to go to sleep they
walked out and lay down beneath a tree and were soon both fast a sleep this
was about 9 A. M. they did not awake until 6 in the evening they were sur-
June 14, 1863
prised to see where the Sun was and began to feel for there Money but sure
enough it was gon Ruffis Neal had $80.00 taken out of his . . . pocket book.
. . . James Anderson had his watch and what money he had taken they could
not form any idea who had taken it they returned to camp in something of a
stew Ruffis could not be satisfied he started up town after dark not much
expecting to find anything of it but thought he might discover some suspecious
person around some grocery he at last droped into a house where there seemed
to be several soldiers a drinking they would give the money to the woman of
the house and she would go out and bring in the whiskey and other articles they
might call for there was an Irish grocery opisit the house where they readly got
anything they wanted the grocery keeper took an active part in the frolic Ruffis
Neal disguised himself the best way he could and walked in unnoticed and sat
down in one corner he got his eye on one fellow he was a recrute in co. B of
our Regt he had been drinking pritty freely and told his compenions to drink all
they wanted, when that was dun they could get more and if they had not got the
money he had plenty of it, and wanted to know if they did not want some
Sardeans he said he had plenty of money and would pay for them so saying he
Stuck his hand into his brest pocket to pull out some money in doing so he
puled out the watch chain which Ruffis felt sure was the very watch he felt then
satisfied he had found the object of his sarch he went up to the fellow and
inquired what time he had the fellow said his watch was not runing Ruffis then
wanted to see it saying he wanted to bie the watch but the fellow refused to
show it and said he did not want to sell Ruffis went to the door and called a
Sergeant of company K of our Regt to assist him in serching the fellow but the
Sergt refused haveing anything to do with it. One Michal Kelly of co K was
informed of the suspesun he sore he would help serch him and if found guilty
would help to kill the damned rascle Ruffis & Kelley returned to the house and
demanded an exemnation of the watch the fellow at first refused but Kelley
caut him by the neck an damned him if he did not pull out the watch in a minut
he would shake him out of his boots the fellow seeing nothing would do pulled
out the watch and tried to prove he had the watch some 3 weeks by a fellow in
his company Ruffis new the watch two well and ordered the fellow to get up
and come along with him Kelley took one side and Ruffis the other each holding an arm it seems the fellow had the greatest bulk of the money in the watch
fob and as they traveled along he tryed to finger it out ruffis kept watching him
and wanted to know what he was feeling for and put his hand on the outside of
the fob and felt a bunch of something in there that made him feel satisified his
money was there. They brought him into our camp and called the 2 Lieuts
Blanchard and Wilson they came and had him examined they even took of[f]
his britches but could find no money but one dollar the bunch in his fob pocket
gad gome and cold not be accounted for at last Ruffis thought of the fellows
pants comeing unbuttoned, and he stoped to fix them up the watch was sufficient evidence by every one in Co. G to prove him to be the thief Ruffis and
Allen took a light and examined the man closely they found 42 dollars where
he fixed up his pants that was all they could find the fellow then confessed that
he took the money and watch and said he had spent the balance of it all to what
June 14, 1863
he throwed out of his pocket at that place Ruffis was satisfied that it had been
spent in that house where he found him and in the grocery tother and was
determined to have it the fellow was kept under guard until morning then sent
to geal
Burris Neal and James Anderson took there revolvers and started up to the
hosue and grocery where the fellow spent his money and demanded what
money he had left with them the women of the house at first denied having
received any but at last owned up that she had that she had 6 dollars in paper &
50 cts in silver it was delivered up Ruffis knew the half dollar as he had carried
it a long time he tried to scare the grocery keeper to pay up the balance but did
not succeed as he expected he then came back to camp and informed Lieut
Wilson of the particulars the Lieut then went to try his luck but how he made it
I do not pretend to know only he has not got the balance of the money yet I
expect they will have the grocery keeper arested & tried by a court martial.
Our company is on guard today Sergt Harvey in charge at 3 P. M. the drums
beat for the troops to fall in as a Soldier in a Ohio regt was to be shot I went
down to the place about 3/4 of a mile from our camp on the same place where a
Soldier belonging to the 10th Michigan was shot some 3 or 4 weeks ago there
was a great many Stragglers accumulated at the place both soldiers and citizens
the 85th Ills regt marched down and formed in line all the other drums had quit
beating and no other troops seemed to be comeing the 85th Ills stacked arms
and brock ranks the grave was dug ready to receive the coffin close by the side
of the grave where the other soldier was shot in a short time word came to the
colonel of the 85th to march his regt back to camp as the fellow had been
reprieved just as they were preparing to send him to the amblance his coffin
had already been placed in it I was very glad to hear of his life being spaired
June 14, 1863 - June 24, 1863 - Sanders' RaidNOTE 1 in East Tennessee
JUNE 14-24, 1863.-Sanders' raid in East Tennessee.
SUMMARY OF THE PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN TENNESSEE.
June 14, 1863.-Sanders' command sets out from Mount Vernon, Ky.
17, 1863.-Affair at Wartburg, near Montgomery, Tenn.
19, 1863.-Affair at Lenoir's Station, Tenn.
19-20, 1863.-Skirmishes at Knoxville, Tenn.
20, 1863.-Skirmish at Strawberry Plains, Tenn.
20, 1863.-Skirmish at Rogers' Gap, Tenn.
21, 1863.-Skirmish at Powder Springs Gap, Tenn.
22, 1863.-Skirmish at Powell Valley, Tenn.
June 14, 1863
24. 1863.-Sanders' command arrives at Boston, Ky.
Report of W. P. SANDERS, Col. Fifth Kentucky Cavalry, Cmdg. Expedition
into East Tennessee,
LEXINGTON, KY., July 26, 1863.
COL.: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to special instructions from
the general commanding the department, I left Mount Vernon, Ky., June 14,
1863, with a force of 1,500 mounted men composed of detachments of different regiments-as follows: Seven hundred of the First East Tennessee Mounted
Infantry, under Col. R. K. Byrd; 200 of the Forty-fourth Ohio Mounted Infantry, under Maj. Moore; 200 of the One hundred and twelfth Illinois Mounted
Infantry, under Maj. Dow; 150 of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry Volunteers, under
Capt. Rankin; 150 of the Second Ohio Cavalry Volunteers, under Capt. Welch;
100 of the First Kentucky Cavalry Volunteers, under Capt. Drye; and a section
of Capt. Konkle's battery, First Regt. Ohio Artillery Volunteers, under Lieut.
Lloyd-for the East Tennessee and Virginia Railroad. From Mount Vernon to
Williamsburg, on the Cumberland River, a distance of 60 miles, a train of wagons, containing forage and subsistence stores, accompanied the expedition.
From this point I followed a route known as the Marsh Creek road to near
Huntsville, Tenn., leaving that place a few miles to my left. We reached the
vicinity of Montgomery, Tenn., on the evening of the 17th [June], and learning
that a small party of rebels were stationed at Wartburg, 1 mile from Montgomery, I sent 400 men from the First East Tennessee to surprise and capture them,
following one hour afterward myself with the remainder of the command. The
surprise was complete. We captured 102 enlisted men and 2 officers (one of
them an aide to Gen. Pegram), together with a large number of horses, 60
boxes artillery ammunition, several thousand pounds of bacon, salt, flour, and
meal, some corn, 500 spades, 100 picks, besides a large quantity of other public stores, and 6 wagons with mule teams. The prisoners were paroled and the
property destroyed.
A small portion of this command, who were out some distance from the camp,
with their horses, escaped and gave the first notice of our approach at Knoxville, Kingston, Loudon, and other places. From this point I marched toward
Kingston. When within 8 miles of there, I learned positively that Scott's brigade and one battery were at that place, guarding the ford of Clinch River. For
this reason, leaving Kingston to my right, I crossed the river 8 miles above, at
Waller's Ford, on the direct road to Loudon. At daylight on the 19th [June], I
was within 3 miles of Loudon, and about the same distance from Lenoir's. I
here learned that a force of three regiments was at the Loudon Bridge, with
eight pieces of artillery, and that they had been for two weeks strengthening the
works at that place, digging rifle-pits, ditches, &c.; and having captured a courier from the commanding officer, with dispatches ordering the forces from
Kingston to follow in my rear, and stating that the troops from Lenoir's had
been ordered to join them, I determined to avoid Loudon, and started immediately for Lenoir's Station, which place I reached about 8 a. m., arriving there
June 14, 1863
about thirty minutes after the departure of the rebel troops. At this station I captured a detachment of artillerymen, with three 6-pounder iron guns, 8 officers,
and 57 enlisted men. Burned the depot, a large brick building, containing five
pieces of artillery, with harness and saddles, two thousand five hundred stand
of small-arms, a very large amount of artillery and musket ammunition, and
artillery and cavalry equipments. The depot was entirely occupied with military stores, and one car filled with saddles and artillery harness. We also captured some 75 Confederate States mules and horses. There was a large cotton
factory and a large amount of cotton at this place, and I ordered that It should
not be burned, as It furnished the Union citizens of the country with their only
material for making cloth, but have since learned that it was burned by mistake
or accidentally. I had the telegraph wire and railroad destroyed from here on to
Knoxville, at points about 1 mile apart. We met the enemy's pickets at Knoxville about 7 p. m. on the 19th [June], and drove them to within a mile of the
City. Leaving a portion of the First Kentucky Cavalry on this side of the town,
I moved the rest of the command as soon as it was dark by another road
entirely around to the other side, driving in the pickets at several places, and
cut the railroad, so that no troops could be sent to the bridges above. At daylight I moved up to the City, on the Tazewell road. I found the enemy well
posted on the heights and in the adjacent buildings, with eight or nine pieces of
artillery. The streets were barricaded with cotton bales, and the batteries protected by the same material. Their force was estimated at 3,000, including citizens who were impressed into service. After about one hour's skirmishing, I
withdrew, capturing near the City two pieces of artillery-6-pounders-the tents,
and all the camp equipage of a regiment of conscripts, about 80 Confederate
States horses, and 31 prisoners.
I then started for Strawberry Plains, following the railroad, and destroyed all
the small bridges and depots to within 4 miles of the latter place, at Flat Creek,
where I burned a finely built covered bridge, and also a county bridge. The
guard had retreated. I left the railroad 3 miles below the town, and crossed the
Holston River, so as to attack the bridge on the same side the enemy were. As
soon as we came in sight they opened on the advance with four pieces of artillery. I dismounted the infantry and sent the Forty-fourth Ohio, under Maj.
Moore, up the river, and the rest, under Col. Byrd and Maj. Dow, to get in their
rear. After about an hour's skirmishing, the enemy were driven off, and having
a train and locomotive, with steam up, in waiting, a portion of them escaped,
leaving all their guns (five in number), 137 enlisted men and 2 officers as prisoners, a vast amount of stores, ammunition, and provisions, including 600
sacks of salt, about 70 tents, and great quantity of camp equipage, in our possession. I remained at this place all night, and destroyed the splendid bridge
over the Holston River, over 1,600 feet long, built on eleven piers. The trestlework included, this bridge was 2,100 feet in length.
At daylight on the 21st [June] I started up the railroad for the Mossy Creek
Bridge, destroying the road at all-convenient points. At Mossy Creek, New
Market, and vicinity I captured 120 prisoners and destroyed several cars, a
June 14, 1863
large quantity of stores, several hundred barrels of saltpeter, 200 barrels of
sugar, and a large amount of other stores. The bridge burned at Mossy Creek
was a fine one, over 300 feet in length. Near this place I also destroyed the
machinery of a gun factory and a saltpeter factory.
I determined to leave the railroad here and endeavor to cross the mountains at
Rogers' Gap, as I knew every exertion was being made on the part of the
enemy to capture my command. I forded the Holston, at Hayworth's Bend, and
started for the Powder Springs Gap, of Clinch Mountain. Here a large force
was found directly in my front, and another strong force overtook and commenced skirmishing with my rear guard. By taking county roads, I got into the
gap without trouble or loss, and had all this force in my rear. On arriving within
a mile and a half of Roger's Gap, I found that it was blockaded by fallen timber,
and strongly guarded by artillery and infantry, and that all the gaps practicable
were obstructed and guarded by artillery and infantry, and that all the gaps
practicable were obstructed and guarded in a similar manner. I then determined
to abandon my artillery, and move by a wood path to Smith's Gap, 3 miles from
Roger's Gap. The guns, Carriages, harness, and ammunition were completely
destroyed, and left. I had now a large force both in front and rear, and could
only avoid capture by getting into the mountains, and thus place all of them in
my rear, which I succeeded in doing, after driving a regiment of cavalry from
Smith's Gap. The road through this pass is only a bridle-path, and very rough. I
did not get up the mountain until after night. About 170 of men and officers got
on the wrong road, and did not rejoin the command until we reached Kentucky.
Owing to the continual march, many horses gave out and were left, and,
although several hundred were captured on the march, they were not enough to
supply all the men. We reached Boston, Ky., on the 24th. Our loss was 2 killed,
4 wounded, and 13 missing. . .
I am much indebted for the success of the expedition to Col. R. K. Byrd, for his
valuable assistance and advice; also to Maj.'s Moore and Dow, and to Capt.'s
Welch, Rankin, and Drye, of the cavalry, for the able manner in which they
conducted the rear guard. Lieut. Lloyd managed his section of artillery with
great ability and judgment, and rendered great assistance to the expedition.
Lieut. G. H. Forsyth, acting assistant adjutant-general and aide-de-camp, rendered valuable service. To Sergeant Reynold, First East Tennessee Volunteers,
and his guides, I am chiefly indebted for the main success. His knowledge of
the country is through and reliable, and was invaluable. All the officers and
men deserve great credit and praise for the cheerfulness with which they submitted to great hardships and fatigue, and their energy and readiness at all
times either to fight or march.
I inclose the parole of 461 prisoners.
W. P. SANDERS. Col. Fifth Kentucky Cavalry, Cmdg. Expedition.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 386-389.
June 14, 1863
Report of Maj. Gen. Amborse E. Burnside, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Ohio.
CINCINNATI, OHIO, June 25, 1863—12 m.
Col. Sanders, in returning from East Tennessee, found the gap through which
he intended to pass so well fortified that he was obliged to go through another,
which was impassable for artillery. He therefore destroyed the two pieces of
artillery which he took with him, and three captured pieces, and left them
behind.
A. E. BURNSIDE, Maj.-Gen.
CINCINNATI, OHIO, June 27, 1863.
Col. Sanders' command has arrived inside of our lines. He left on the expedition but 1 killed, 2 wounded, and a few stragglers taken prisoners. He captured
ten pieces of artillery instead of three, as I before reported, which he destroyed.
The report of the destruction of the bridges and public stores, and capture of
prisoners and small-arms, was correctly given in his first dispatch. He and his
command deserve great credit for their patience, endurance, and gallantry. The
Strawberry Plains Bridge is the most important on the East Tennessee and Virginia Railroad. Intelligent men from that neighborhood assert that it will take
months to rebuild it. A written report will be sent in a day or two.
A. E. BURNSIDE, Maj.-Gen.
Report of Col. William P. Sanders, Fifth Kentucky Cavalry, commanding expedition.
BOSTON, June 23, 1863.
I arrived here with my command at 11 o'clock this morning. I struck the railroad at Lenoir's; destroyed the road up to Knoxville; made demonstrations
against Knoxville so as to have their troops drawn from above; destroyed the
track, and started for Strawberry Plains; burned Slate Creek Bridge (312 feet
long), the Strawberry Plains Bridge (1,600 feet long), and also Mossy Creek
Bridge (325 feet long). I captured pieces of artillery, some 200 boxes of artillery ammunition, over 500 prisoners, 1,000 stand of arms, and destroyed a
large amount of salt, sugar, flour, and saltpeter, and one saltpeter works and
other stores. My command is much fatigued; we have had but two nights' sleep
since leaving Williamsburg. The force in East Tennessee was larger than I had
supposed. I did not attack Loudon Bridge for reasons that I will explain. At
Mossy Creek I determined to return in the mountains. I had very great difficulty that was unexpected. I found the gap strongly guarded with artillery and
infantry, and blockaded with fallen timber, through which I expected to return.
A force was also forming in our rear. I determined to cross at Smith's Gap. I
will report more fully as soon as possible.
June 14, 1863
W. P. SANDERS, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 385-386.
Report of Maj. Gen. Simon B. Buckner, C. S. Army.
KNOXVILLE, June 24, 1863.
GEN.: The enemy's cavalry escaped through Chalder's Gap, with loss of a few
prisoners and horses, and their artillery and baggage. They are beyond the
mountains. The railroad and small trestles will be in order to the Holston in
four days. The cars can cross the Holston, on a trestle-bridge I am building,
within two weeks. After that time there will be no delay or transfer of freight.
After four days hence the only transfer will be in crossing the Holston, where,
if necessary, I will send a small steamer.
S. B. BUCKNER, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 390.
MORRISTOWN, June 21, 1863.
Maj.-Gen. JONES, Dublin:
The enemy burned the bridge over the Holston, 16 miles east of Knoxville, last
evening. They advanced to within 14 miles of this place this morning and
burned a bridge and depot. No troops here except my regiment, Brig.-Gen.
Jackson in command.
G. C. WHARTON, Col.
Gen. BRAXTON BRAGG, Shelbyville:
The enemy appeared near Knoxville on the 19th, and attacked on 20th. Were
repulsed. They burned the railroad bridges at Flat Creek and Strawberry Plains.
Please grant permission to [A. L. ] Maxwell, bridge-builder, to rebuild them at
once.
S. B. BUCKNER, Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 882.
NOTE 1: There are a total of five reports for Sanders' raid. Dyer's Battle Index for
Tennessee spells it "Saunders."
ESCAPE OF THE YANKEE RAIDERS.
It has already been announced that this marauding party made their escape
through Childer’s Gap late Monday evening [22nd].
We learn that McKenzie’s Regiment, Lieut. Col. Montgomery commanding,
and a portion of Col. Hart’s 6th Georgia Cavalry, under command of Maj. Fain,
had reached a position in the valley fronting this gap on Monday at 5 o’clock P.
M., and before the raiders. While Col. Montgomery’s command, however, was
June 14, 1863
in this position, a courier reported the enemy on our right, endeavoring to turn
our flank in that direction. Col. Montgomery receiving this intelligence,
ordered his command including the portion of Col. Hart’s regiment to move
back down the valley about two miles and await the enemy’s approach. While
Col. Montgomery was in this last position the raiders made their way across
the valley to Childer’s gap and escaped. Some prisoners captured by our forces
stated that they expected all to be captured, as their officers had told them that
three brigades of our forces were in front of them and Scott and Pegram close
on their rear.
We make these statements on authority, not for the purpose of casting censure
upon any one; but simply as part of the history of this whole marauding expedition.
Knoxville Daily Southern Chronicle, June 28, 1863.
June 14, 1863 - June 25, 1863 - Counter insurgency expedition on the Tennessee
RiverNOTE 1 by U. S. N.
Report of Lieutenant-Commander Phelps, U. S. Navy, regarding operations in
the Tennessee River, referring to engagements at Saltillo, Beech Island, and
Cerro Gordo, June 14-June 25, 1863.
Office Mississippi Squadron
Cairo, Ill., June 25, 1863
Sir: I have the honor to report that the vessels in the Tennessee have been
active during the past two weeks (ca. 14-25 June, 1863) and yet have been
unable to prevent the enemy crossing the river. The removal of the land forces
from points north of the line of Corinth has opened that section of country to
the operations of predatory bands.
The gunboats have destroyed skiffs, canoes, and rafts, with material that might
serve to construct them without end, but the rebels build as fast as we destroy.
Rafts made of drift [wood] serve every purpose of crossing. The rebels, almost
without hindrance, are plundering Tennessee lying west of the river and are
enforcing their conscript act. Refugees in large numbers reach the river and are
brought away by the gunboats upon flats used for coal, etc. These unite in the
report that General Biffle is erecting stockades at Waynesborough. Some state
that General Bragg's left wing is retiring to that place. It is probable that Biffle
is only establishing himself for the purpose of securing the grain and cattle
being collected by his forces.
On the 14th instant Acting Lieutenant Commanding Hurd dispersed a force of
rebels at Saltillo and again another force of 200 at Beech [Creek] Island on the
17th instant. At Cerro Gordo General Dodge has kept a kind of home guard to
protect the crossing at that point. On the opposite side rebels 200 and 300
strong have been for some time in the habit of firing across at our people, disappearing on the approach of the gunboats, to come out again soon after they
June 15, 1863
passed. Captain Hurd had two of the Robb's howitzers landed and concealed,
expecting to catch the rebels on the other side as soon as the gunboats were out
of sight. Three hundred of the enemy had crossed the river for the purpose of
capturing the home guard and found our howitzers in position. A mutual surprise ensued, both parties meeting with an unexpected party. Our pieces had an
open field to work in and were effective, the rebels being repulsed. The gunboats arrived very soon and opened upon the enemy. The men at the howitzers
belonged to the Robb; 1 was killed and 2 wounded, 1 severely. Owing to the
number of the enemy driven to the woods Captain Hard did not think it prudent
to send men to examine the field, but he states that he has been reliably
informed that the enemy lost from 25 to 30 killed and wounded.
The rebels crossing the Tennessee are reported to be ordered to rendezvous at
Bolivar.
The Queen City and Silver Cloud are here and will relieve the Tawah, in accordance with the arrangement already detailed to you. One of these vessels will
give special attention to the neighborhood of Island [No.] 40.
I expect to leave to-morrow with the Eastport to arrange more care after the
stations of vessels have between here and Helena. . .
The Robb makes the chain of boats complete now between Helena and the
head of navigation on the Tennessee.
~~~
S. L. Phelps, Lieutenant Commander
Navy OR, Ser. I, Vol. 25, pp. 204-205.
NOTE 1: Not listed in Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee or OR.
June 15, 1863 - Affair near Trenton
June 15, 1863 - C. S. A. occupation of Camden, Lexington, Jackson, Humboldt and Trenton
reported
COLUMBUS, KY., June 15, 1863.
Maj.-Gen. SCHOFIELD, Saint Louis, Mo.:
By sending six regiments of infantry and seven companies of cavalry to Vicksburg, my command was very much weakened. There are no United States
troops between here and the Memphis and Charleston Railroad. The rebels
have crossed the Tennessee River in several places, occupying Camden, Lexington, Jackson, Humboldt, and Trenton, threatening my district. I am com-
June 15, 1863
pelled to request you to assist me at once, if possible, with two regiments of
infantry, until re-enforced by orders from Washington.
ASBOTH.
June 15, 1863 - Letter from Major John S. Bransford [C. S. A. ] to Miss Josephine Hooke, a
plea for fresh vegetables (Hamilton County)
Chattanooga, Tenn.
June 15/63
Miss Hooke:
My friend and fellow Quartermaster, Capt. Wickham, who has been confined
to his room for several weeks with a broken ankle, and who has had nothing
good to eat during all this time, has excited my sympathy.
Will you not therefore, be so kind as to place a few vegitables on a plate and
sent them today, to the Captain by my servant boy Allen?
I would not ask such a favor scarcely, of any one else-but knowing how generous the impulses of your nature are, induces me to call those divine attributes
into exercise.
Besides, I have a pride in desiring to show Capt. W. how well I am living-and
how truly fortunate I am in being permitted to live in your agreeable and elegant Family.
Capt. W., being unwell, has little or no appetite and I wish you to send only
what a sick man could eat. I mean in quantity. Everything from Mrs. Hooke's
table is excellent in quality. The reception of a few vegitables will prove, I am
sure an agreeable surprise to my afflicted fellow officer.
I do not have to eat well as some men-but it really affords me genuine pleasure
to boat abroad of what we daily have at "My House." To hear me speak you
would imagine I owned the establishment-and I never pretend to say that I am
boarding here. In fact, I am living at Home - and about turning me off, as your
good mother talks about, I wonder if she seriously contemplates turning a poor
fellow out into the starving world. I am not surprised that a lady of Mrs. Whitesides['] good taste and good sense should quit her own home for a happy
sojourn in the Household that is a home for us all. But I have said more that I
intended-but nothing more than I feel is true.
Yesterday while I was at Mr. Warner's I could not let the opportunity to pass,
when Mr. McIver's name was mentioned, to tell the young ladies how very fortunate Van had made in securing a seat at your pleasant table. Feeling sure that
no one could surpass in times like these, the well deserved dinner of yesterday,
I was compelled to give them a list of what we had had for diner, or an every
day meal.
June 15, 1863
But it is not what I get that attracts me so strongly to the family. Like it is the
agreeable society with which you surround us that delights me most.
Capt. W. dines at 3 o'clock-and Allen can start after one o'clock, and reach him
in time.
With much esteem, I remain
Your friend,
John S. Bransford.
W. P. A. Civil War Records, Vol. 2, pp. 43-44.
June 15, 1863 - Writer's block at Beersheba Springs; an excerpt from the journal of Lucy
Virginia French
. . . I sat down in the morning to do my writing—about 9 o'clock [I] began to
feel sick and at 10 was obliged to undress and go to bed. Took laudanum and
brandy-lay in bed all day. . .
War Journal of Lucy Virginia French, June 15, 1863.
June 15, 1863 - A soldier's prayer, and entry in the diary of Charles Alley
Ordered out this morning with three days rations and 110 rounds of ammunition to the man. This looks as though it was meant we should pay or respect to
the enemy while we are out. Lord make us to be successful and enable us to go
forth trusting in Thee, and giving Thee the Glory of every success, and for
me—be my shield and buckler in the day of battle, and if I too should lie on the
bloody field—may my spirit be caught up to thy throne in heaven and then all
with me shall forever be well. May thy love and blessing go with my adopted
country still—with my dear old mother countryNOTE 1 and with all that I have
ever been kind or even unkind in both quiet a thunder shower last night.
Alley Diary
NOTE 1: Ireland.
June 15, 1863 - General Orders, No. 67, crackdown on illegal searches of Memphis citizens'
houses
General Orders, No. 67
Headquarters District of Memphis, Memphis, June 15, 1863.
Complaints having reached these Headquarters that persons claiming to be
Military Detectives have entered and searched the houses of citizens without
authority. It is therefore ordered, that no Officer, Soldier or Detective will be
allowed to search the residence of any citizen within the lines of this command
June 15, 1863
without authority, in writing, from the District Provost Marshal, the commander of a brigade, or from these Headquarters.
Citizens will promptly report any violations of this order.
By order of Brig. Gen. James C. Veatch
June 15, 1863 - Brigadier General James C. Veatch Appointments Shelby County Sheriff
and Coroner
SPECIAL ORDERS, NO. 300
Headquarters, District of Memphis, Memphis Tennessee, June 15, 1863.
The office of Sheriff and Coroner of the county of Shelby, State of Tennessee,
being vacant, J. B. SCUDDER is hereby appointed to discharge the duties of
Sheriff, in holding the General Election, for City Officers in the city of Memphis on the last Thursday of June 1863.
By order of Brig. Gen. James C. Veatch.
June 15, 1863 - The Confederate Nitre and Mining Bureau's Plea to Tennessee Women
To the Ladies of Tennessee.
You can very materially assist the Government of your choice in its struggle
against the Northern despotism.
Every house, cowshed or other building, that has stood for ten or more years,
has under it large quantities of saltpeter, which is contained in the earth that has
been kept dry.
The Government urgently calls upon you for a further exercise of your patriotism. You have done much already, but all must keep their energies strained to
the utmost, until the enemy ceases his endeavors to subjugate us, and we are
blessed with peace, under our own victorious flag.
You have it in your power to hasten the much desired result, by reducing the
saltpeter that is under your houses and bringing it into market. The fixtures
required amount to but very little, the process is easy and the labor light. Your
boys under eighteen can thus be made as useful as their older brothers who are
bearing their breasts to the storm of war.
All necessary information will be furnished upon application to the offices of
the Nitre and Mining Bureau, at Athens, McMinnville, Shellmound, or in this
city.
The bureau officers in charge at the above points, will also purchase from you
all the saltpeter you can bring, at seventy-five cents per pound.
June 15, 1863
F. H. Smith, Capt. Assistant Superintendent N. & M. Bureau.
Memphis Appeal [Greenwood, Mississippi], June 15, 1863.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts. See also: Fayetteville [Tenn.] Observer, June 18, 1863.
June 15, 1863 - Lieutenant A. J. Lacy's letter to his parents and wife
Maury Co Tenn June the 15th 63
Dear Father, Mother and also my verry affectionate companion
It is with smawl decree of pleasure and happiness that I take the present opportunity of writing a few lines to you.
I have nothing very interesting to write a present. My health is not verry good.
I am not able to set up to do myself justice but I have not yet reported unable
for duty. We have been scouting tollerably hard. We have had 4 fights with the
Yankees this month. We had one the 12th, 4th, 9th, and llth. The 11th Fell
Spivy of our co was killed. He was shot through the heart. I was in 3 or 4 steps
of him. I don't think he ever drew a breath after he fell off his horse. He was a
good soldier and a special friend of mine. He was a true friend by a dangerous
enemy. His home was 10 mi above Gainesboro. We have been to Miss since I
wrote to you last. As we come back I was taken sick and left 13 mi from Florence Ala. I was sick 14 days at a citizens house. They treated me very kindly
and with much respects. I would be very glad that I was under Hambleton in
place of being here if I had a company under Hambleton for the purpose of
scouting I would be much better pleased.
I have received you letter that you wrote to me when A F Byers wrote. I got the
letter made May 8th and this May 24th that you sent by Mr. Williams.
June 15, 1863 - Capture of guerrilla leaders and break up of guerrilla bands and an insurgent attack upon a locomotive in West Tennessee; excerpt from the report
of Brigadier-General Alexander Asboth
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Gen.-in-Chief:
~~~
My troops have been always fully occupied, and have cleaned my district of
guerrillas. I succeeded in capturing several prominent guerrilla leaders, with
many of their officers and men, a week ago. We broke up two powerful organizations-that of Col. Dawson, on the Tennessee, and that of Col. Harrison, who
took Richardson's place on the Obion. Any re-enforcements granted will be
June 15, 1863
well placed, and will assist me in operating energetically; and I feel confident
of success at this most critical period in our western command.
I have just received a telegram from Union City that my locomotive, with
working party repairing telegraph line, was fired upon by the rebels near Trenton, but escaped. . .
~~~
ASBOTH.
June 15, 1863 - Kidnapping slaves
Nashville June 15th 1863
To Hon: Andrew Johnson
Military Governor of Tennessee
Dear Sir:
Mr[.] Silas Norris,NOTE 1 a Citizen of this County, was arrested a few months
Since, on a Charge of "Kidnapping negroes,"tried and Condemned to the Military Prison at Alton Ill: there to remain during the present War. At the request
of his family and Some of his friends, your attention is respectfully Called to
the Consideration of his Case, knowing, that if Consistent with justice and the
interests of the Government, you would Cheerfully lend your aid to relieve him
from his present unhappy condition—
To learn the charges against Mr[.] Norris I made application to the Police
department, for a Copy of the proceedings, and received a reply from Col[.]
Truesdail, which I herewith enclose NOTE 2—
Mr. Norris admits that he was employed with some other person, by one Mr.
McFerrinNOTE 3 to assist in removing his Slaves to the State of Alabama or
Georgia.
It has been a matter of Common occurrence, for owners of Slaves to remove
them from here to some Southern state, and was not in violation of any law of
Ten. How it would be regarded by the Military author[it]ies, I am not prepared
to Say. It Certainly, in no Sense, Could be regarded a Crime of So high a grade
as "kidnapping". I am assured by Mr[.] Ns friend that if he had known it was
against any Civil or Military rule he would not have Consented to act as
employee of Mr[.] McFerrin—
As to the allegation of having Sold the negroes or any of them he wholly
denies and says the Chare is without any foundation; and not being the owner
of any Slave himself he had none to sell. Many of our best Citizens will Cheerfully testify that Mr[.] Norris has always been a quiet, good industrious man,
and especially in his domestic relations, as a husband and Father his deportment has been unexceptionable—
June 15, 1863
His friends feel it their duty, further to say that the family have limited means,
and were entirely dependant on his exertions for Support and maintenance.
They confedently Commend his Case to you high Sense of justice and humanity.
With Sentiments of respect,
I have the honor to be Yr Obdt Servt
Tho. T. Smiley.
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, pp. 252-253.
NOTE 1: An Edgefield carpenter. He was sent to Alton in January, 1863, and endured
there for at least nine months afterwards.
NOTE 2: According to Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, p. 253, n. 3, the copy of
the proceedings denounced Norris' crime as "vile, dirty & unholy." The document is not reproduced.
NOTE 3: John B. McFerrin was an ardent secessionist and a Confederate chaplain. He
fled Nashville during the great panic of February 1862 and stayed behind
Confederate lines eventually ending up in Alabama. Although he apparently
wanted his slave property returned to him he insisted he had not tried to have
his slaves brought to him or sold. His estate was ruined when he returned to
Nashville in May, 1865. See: Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, p. 253, n. 5
June 15, 1863 - Skirmish at Shop Springs
•See June 15, 1863-June 17, 1863-Expedition to and skirmish near Lebanon
June 15, 1863 - June 17, 1863 - Expedition to and skirmish near Lebanon
JUNE 15-17, 1863.-Expedition to and skirmish near, Lebanon, Tenn.
Report of Col. Robert H. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding brigade.
HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, Camp near
Murfreesborough, Tenn., June 18, 1863.
SIR: In accordance with orders received from Maj.-Gen. Stanley, I marched
with the First Brigade at 5 p. m. on the 15th instant, taking the Lebanon pike. I
arrived at Stone's River at 7 p. m., fed horses, and halted until 10 p. m., so as to
strike Lebanon by daybreak. At Baird's Mills the enemy's picket fires were
found burning, but evidently the posts had not been occupied for some hours.
I arrived at Lebanon at 4 a. m., and had some difficulty in learning anything
definite about the enemy. I at [last] learned from some negroes and a Union
family that the rebels, about 600 strong, under Col. Duke, had left Lebanon at
June 15, 1863
about 5 p. m., the 15th, by the Sparta (or Alexandria) road. I immediately followed them to Spring Creek, 5 miles out, watered the horses, and dismounted
to feed, when the rebels attacked my pickets from toward Alexandria, driving
them in, and following them sharply with about 300 men, mounted and dismounted. I sent Lieut.-Col. Sipes, with the Seventh Pennsylvania, to the right,
and Maj. Mix, with the Fourth Michigan, to the left (directing them to keep a
little in advance of the head of the column on the pike), the Fourth Regulars on
the pike, the Fifth Iowa in reserve, and the battalion Third Indiana guarding the
ambulances. My advance was necessarily slow, in consequence of the rough
nature of the ground over which the flanking columns had to pass. The rebels
retired slowly, fighting stubbornly, until near Shop Spring, where the advance
of the Fourth Regulars, under Lieut. O'Connell, charged and drove them from
the fences, from behind which they had been fighting. Our horses were tired,
and those of the enemy apparently fresh, so that the only result was to drive
them. Having now arrived at the junction of the cross-road leading to Baird's
Mills, which gave me a good line of retreat, I took a position on the right side
of the road, to allow the men to get their breakfasts. Unfortunately, there was
no feed to be had for the horses.
At 11.30, I again moved forward, the Seventh Pennsylvania in advance, followed by the Fourth Michigan, Third Indiana, and Fourth Regulars, the Fifth
Iowa on the flanks. We drove the enemy as before. At about 2 o'clock I arrived
at Waters' Mill, halted the column, and sent Col. Sipes, with the Seventh Pennsylvania and two companies of the Fifth Iowa, 2 miles to the front; threw out
strong pickets 1 1/2 miles in every direction, and fed horses.
At Lebanon, and at all points along the road, I received information that Morgan was at Alexandria with 4,000 men and from six to twelve pieces of artillery. When Col. Sipes returned he brought confirmation of these reports.
Skirmishing was kept up with my pickets on the Alexandria road it intervals all
the afternoon. At 7 p. m. a courier came in from the front, reporting that the
enemy was advancing in force, and immediately after they opened fire with
their artillery. I sent the parties from both the right and left reported that a
heavy column was moving down each flank. I immediately doubled my pickets, and remained in position until 9 o'clock, when I fell back, taking the crossroad from Shop Spring to Baird's Mills, at which place I arrived at 2.30 a. m.
without molestation.
Up to this time we had marched 56 miles. Some of the men had had one hour's
sleep, and the others no sleep whatever. At 6.30 I resumed the march for Murfreesborough, arriving at Stone's River at 10 o'clock. I halted for a couple of
hours to rest the horses, and then returned to camp. Capt. Davis, Seventh Pennsylvania, who commanded the rear guard from Baird's Mills, reports that a
strong force of the enemy came into that place from toward Lebanon as he was
leaving it, but attempted nothing further than an exchange of shots.
If I had a couple of pieces of artillery, John [H. ] Morgan should either have
given me battle or Alexandria; but without them, I felt that I would be fighting
June 16, 1863
at too great a disadvantage and uselessly sacrificing the lives of my men. I
therefore considered it my duty to retire.
ROBT. H. G. MINTY, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 393-395NOTE 1.
NOTE 1: Not listed in Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee.
ca. June 15, 1863 - June 18, 1863 - Confederate anti-guerrilla expedition in Sevier County
•See June 20, 1863--Skirmish at Knoxville
June 16, 1863 - Scout from Memphis to the Hatchie River
JUNE 16, 1863.-Scout from Memphis to the Hatchie River, Tenn.
Report of Maj. John J. Joslyn, First Missouri Cavalry.
HDQRS. FIRST MISSOURI CAVALRY, Camp near Memphis, Tenn., June 17,
1863.
CAPT.: I have the honor to report, for the information of the general commanding, that in accordance with others from division headquarters I took command
of a scouting party composed of detachment 50 men First Missouri Cavalry
and 150 men Fifth Ohio Cavalry. I left camp on the 16th instant at 4 a. m., and
proceeded north on the Randolph plank road, five miles; then east to Raleigh;
from thence half a mile east to the Covington road, and north three miles,
where I obtained information from an intelligent negro that there was no
enemy nearer than Covington, distant thirty-three miles. My time being too
limited to proceed to that place, I returned to the Raleigh road and east to the
Hatchie River, passing through the village of Union, better known as Union
Station, on the Memphis and Ohio Railroad. From the Hatchie I returned to
camp by a circuitous route, taking by-roads and secluded paths to the Randolph
and Memphis road. I arrived in camp at this place about 7 p. m. the same day. I
did not meet with any enemy, but obtained intelligence from several negroes
that about 300 guerrillas were stationed at Covington.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO J. JOSLYN,
Maj., Cmdg. Regt. First Missouri Cavalry, pro tempore.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 52, pt. I, p. 66.
June 16, 1863 - Skirmish in Powell Valley, 15 miles from Jacksboro, Tennessee
SOMERSET, June 19, 1863.
June 16, 1863
Gen. STURGIS:
Col. Reily, of the One hundred and fourth Ohio, telegraphed from Mount Vernon that some of the men who were with Col. Gilbert say that he and Col.
Sanders passed through Big Creek Gap at 2 p. m. on Tuesday [16th], and went
into Powell's Valley. They had a slight skirmish 15 miles this side of Jacksborough. I am sending orders.
S. P. Carter, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 439.
June 16, 1863 - Execution of a Federal soldier for desertion near Murfreesboro
The. . . day which afforded me the opportunity of witnessing one of the most
solemn scenes known to mortals was the hottest one that had yet occurred in
the season.
Early in the day our Division was marched out to a large field and placed in the
form of a hollow square with one of the lines of the square left vacant.
Hundreds of spectators were on the ground to witness the execution, and but
for the nature of the scenes that were about to take place I could have relished
much better the imposing appearance of the Brigades as they respectively
moved on en masse into their respective positions. After waiting a considerable
time the ambulance supposed to be conveying the prisoner hove in sight
accompanied by the Provost Guard: but judge of our surprise when as they
approached nearer we saw the prisoner, entirely unsupported, walking with a
firm and steady step between two of the guards, and seeming entirely unaffected by thought of the trying ordeal through he must directly pass, and the
bare thought of which had already made me almost sick. Oh awful thought-to
see a man who was soon to pass the broad gulf that separates Time from Eternity, and who will soon enter the dread uncertainties of the awful Hereafter,
and there to live by the past and not the future: and yet he appears so little concerned. Before leaving Headquarters and when the officer of the guard proposed to place him in an ambulance; he remarks "O no, I think a walk will
make me feel better."
The guard entered the square and commenced to make the circuit of the whole
of the inner columns. The prisoner closely attended by guards and supported
by Lieutenant. Pipkin (Co. A) and Chaplain Smith proceeded immediately by
his coffin, and accompanied by the solemn tones of the band playing the "Dead
March" and with his head slightly bowed but with a firm step followed around
the whole square without the least faltering in his step. I took one glance at him
and turned heartsick from the scene, anxiously contemplating the awful scene
that must follow, and which I would be almost compelled to witness.
The Circuit completed and the prisoner placed about the center of the open side
of the square, a short prayer was uttered by the Chaplain and thus the prisoner
June 16, 1863
was secured to his coffin in a sitting position and the twelve were marched up a
short distance in front of him and brought to a front.
I involuntarily turned my eyes away from the scene and waited several seconds
which seemed like hours, of the most tormenting suspense when the almost
death-like silence was broke by one of the poorest and most irregular volleys I
ever heard, and a glance toward the prisoner told me he was no more. As I
stood a moment as if in breathless suspense and then a long breath apparently
from each one broke the spell of suspense and immediately we were deployed
and formed into columns of companies and marched in this order over by the
spot where the victim lay and then filed off toward the camp.
A great many executions of this kind occurred during our stay in
Murfreesboro. . .
Boy in Blue, pp. 166-167.
June 16, 1863 - U. S. Treasury Agent William P. Mellan to Military Governor Andrew
Johnson, relative to the sale of cotton from Middle Tennessee
Cincinnati June 16, 1863
Hon. Andrew Johnson
Nashville
Dr Sir: I have received your telegram[.]
At present no licenses can be granted for the shipment of cotton or other merchandize from Tenn. raised south of the Cumberland & East of the Tenn. I am
just starting for Washington and think some arrangement will be made under
which our friends who have raised the cotton &c may be permitted to ship it
North from all places within our lines.
I shall be in Washington only a day or two and hope to find your recommendation as to assessor &collector here on my return[.]
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, p. 256.
June 16, 1863 - "I saw no use in it, and so I fired none at all." Federal cavalryman's account
of a lazy skirmishing on the Alexandria Road
•See June 15, 1863-June 17, 1863-Expedition to and skirmish near Lebanon
We left camp [near Murfreesboro] about five o'clock and marched all night
reaching Lebanon at day light this morning. A rebel force had been here last
night to attack which were sent out. But they had left in the night retreating
down the Alexandria Road. We followed them about eight miles, coming up
with their rear guard, skirmishing followed for about three miles, the Rebels
retreating. Here we stopped and fed our horses in a meadow; and had some
dinner (i.e. crackers and raw bacon) for ourselves. After awhile a party of
rebels came up and attacked our pickets—who at once advanced to receive
June 16, 1863
them. The rebels held off at a good distance but for some time the two parties
were in plain view, from where we were bivouacked. It was the first skirmish
of the kind I have seen where the two parties stood off quietly exchanging
shots. After some time spent in this way another party of rebels commenced
firing from a piece of timber. Cos. A. and C. of our Regt. were [sent] forward
and the rebels fell back[.] [A]fter following them a couple miles we returned.
The most we did was to waste ammunition firing at men seven or eight hundred yards off and the sun shining in our faces. I saw no use in it, and so I fired
none at all.
In the evening the rebels again came on and attacked the pickets. There were
four thousand (some said ten) of them four miles from us at Alexandria with a
battery or two of artillery. But it was said our officers did not believe it and
would advance on A. at daylight in the morning. About sundown the rebels
opened on our pickets with shot and shell, thus showing they had cannon. This
was enough, we had only about 1700 men composed of the 4 U. S. 3 Indiana,
4th Michigan and 5th Iowa—cavalry Regts.—also the 7th Pennsylvania
Cav.—Orders were given at once to fall in and we soon were in full retreat.
The pickets did not fall back—but advanced on the enemy pouring volly after
volly into him in quick succession. They said they could see several gunners
fall. After we were under way the pickets were called in and we had another all
night march of it, stopping for a couple of hours to rest at Baird's Mills. After I
lay down it did not require rocking to get me to sleep.
Alley Diary
June 16, 1863 - "The Work-House."
We "dropped in" at this institution on Saturday last [13th] and were courteously shown through its various apartments by Mr. Fount. Dodd, the able secretary and son of the keeper. At no time since the establishment of this house of
correction, has it presented a neater or more systematic appearance. The
repairs to some parts of the building made necessary by the misuse to which it
has been subjected, are in a forward state of completion, and soon the entire
premises will be ready for occupation as heretofore. Everything about the institution looks tidy as a new bonnet, chiefly through the artistic labors of that
lynx-eyed genius of the white-wash brush, Doctor Smith. The Doctor is
redoubtable-a very connoisseur in his peculiar way; and it is in simple justice
to his worth that we commend him to the applause of his hemisphere; from the
expanding, transparent lakes of the North to the everglades of naughty little
Florida! May the doctor live until Gabriel warns him to lay down the whitewash brush! The prominent features of the work-house, and those which beget
ideas of inner comfort and outward cleanliness are the coking and washing
departments. The apparatus in both are capacious and well superintended; the
natural consequence is, that the unfortunates in duress are fortunate in stomach
and apparel. While on this point we may repeat what our friendly usher to us:
One day last week, a fishing party,NOTE 1 under the lead of Mayor Smith (don't
June 16, 1863
confound his name with the illustrious doctor above spoken of—albeit the
spelling a little similar,) spend the day in baiting and jerking on the river bank
opposite the work-house, and their patient labor was repaired with a large
"mess" of "good uns." At night, they betook themselves too the work house
with their delicious "String," which mine host Dodd had served up in the best
fashion of the culinary art. The gathering round the board was eager, and jokes,
municipal, personal and general, and the disappearance of the savory repast,
ensured—the last regretfully, the former to the intellectual pleasure of "all
hands." The work-house is under a good administration, and glad are we to
have a personal knowledge of the good order and decorum which prevail
through its confines.
NOTE 1: See August 13, 1864, "Fishing at White's Creek" below.
June 16, 1863 - Corn, Rye, Wheat and Shoes; an excerpt from the letter of Corporal W. C.
Tripp, Company B, 44th Tennessee Infantry, in camp near Fairfield, to
Martha A. Tripp
Bedford Co Tenn June 16 1863
Camp near Fairfield
Dear wife I set myself down this morning to let you know that I am well and
hardy I hope when these few lines come to hand they will find you are doing
the same like wise. I welcome your kind letter there is nothing which give me
more pleasure than to hear from you and to know that all is well and harty the
last new I had was that mother was not well For the first time since you got
home from up here there is talk of us getting to come home to cut our wheat
but I dont know whether we will get to come or not I hope we will if I dont get
to come you must do the best you can to get the wheat and the rye cut the best
you can. I was glad to learn that you had plenty corn growing you rote to me
you had got me too pair of shoos made take care of them for I will have much
need of them in a short time I dont need nothing warm but you might send food
to me by the first that come up. Martha, I dont want you to think I am going
starving for aint as long as I get as much rations but it is hard living. Of course
Martha you must come up as soon as you can for I want to see you and the children the boys is all against the busting up of the regiment as worse as ever. You
wrote that hit had been several weeks since you heard from me I wrote you a
letter the fourteenth of June you will get hit I haint got time to write this time
Capt Sipes is agoing to inspect us I will write more next time I must bring my
business to a close rite soon as you get the chance I must quit for this time so
remain your husband until death. If I get to come home will come in a few
days.
MSCC/CWRC
ca. June 16, 1863
ca. June 16, 1863 - June 18, 1863 - Bridge burning by Federals in Henderson, Madison, and
McNairy counties
•See ca. June 20, 1863-June 23, 1863-Scout from Jackson to Paris to Fort
Heiman, Ky
June 16, 1863 - June 24, 1863 - Expedition from LaGrange, to Panola, Mississippi
June 17, 1863 - Engagement at Beech Island [a.k.a. Beech Creek Island], Tennessee River,
U. S. N. disperses Rebel force
June 17, 1863 - Affair at Wartburg
•See June 14, 1863-June 24, 1863-Sanders' RaidNOTE 1 in East Tennessee
June 17, 1863 - Affair at Montgomery
June 17, 1863 - Skirmish on Obion River
•See June 17, 1863-June 18, 1863-Attack on transports, near MemphisNOTE 1
June 17, 1863 - Confederate State Convention, Winchester
The Dispatch of yesterday contains a report on the proceedings of this body,
which met at Winchester on the 17th inst. The report, we suppose, is taken
from the Chattanooga Rebel. It was the original purpose of the leaders of the
Convention to meet in the Capitol, but owing to some disagreement with Gen.
Rosecrans, about room, rent, board, etc., this place was abandoned.
The committee to report a basis of representation consisted of Messr. F. C.
Dunnington, James M. Quarles, M. C. Galloway, A. S. Colyar, Lieut. M. C.
Lowe, Robert McNelly, John M. Faris, J. C. Warner, E. S. Cheatham, Colonel
S. S. Stanton, Sterling R. Cockrill, and Col. Daniel F. Cocke.
June 17, 1863
The committee on credentials consisted of Messrs. D. N. Kennedy, Dr.
Gillespie, Maj. J. D. Porter, J. O. Griffith, and Dr. Edmonson.
"All loyal citizens of the State" present were invited to act as delegates from
their respective counties. Some of the counties around Nashville were represented by the parties named below:
Sumner-Capt. Thompson, L. G. Stewart, Capt. Saunders, L. Charlton, W.
Trousdale, Geo. W. Winchester, Dr. J. M. Head, Dr. Brown, M. Calgy, W. T.
Harris, S. C. Bowers.
Robertson-E. S. Cheatham, W. R. Huchenson, J. A. Long, Captain from the
army:
Montgomery-Jas. M. Quarles, D. N. Kennedy.
Cheatham-D. C. Parque
Davidson-Frank Battle, John A McCampbell, R. A. Cartwright, C. D. Elliot,
Joel A. Battle, J. T. Dunlap, John A. Fisher, Jno. Overton, B. F. Smithy, G. P.
Henry, Geo. B. R. Johnson, Jas. E. Patterson, Dr. W. B. Maney, E. H. James, W.
E. Yeatman, Cat. W. S. Ewing, Col W. S. Hawkins, S. R. Cockrill, J. B. Clements, Jno. S. Johnson, G. P. Smith, Wm. P. Martin, Isaac Litton, Leon Trousdale, Mr. D. A. Nolen, Jno. Griffith, Geo. S. Bolling, E. G. Rowe, W. J.
Turbeville, Warren Jackson, Jno. Shane, Richard McCann, Geo. S. Litton, A.
P., Skipwith, W. O. Hundley, Stephen Bowers, Thos. Sharpe.
Williamson-L. S. Woolridge, W. H. S. Hill, Jno. ML Jordan, E H. Peebles,
Colonel F. C. Cooke, Lieut. R. T. Edward
Rutherford-Lieutenant. J. W. Peyton, Reese K. Hanson, J. T. Wells, T. D.
White, Lt. R. L. Rowland, Wm. A. Ott.
Wilson-W. A. Randy, R. L. Caruthers, E. Pugh, proxy, T. H. Bostick, Major
Lowe, L. G. Mars hall, proxy.
The Convention proceeded to ballot for a candidate for Governor.
The following gentlemen were put in nomination:
General Samuel R. Anderson, Hon. Robert J. Caruthers, Colonel John H. Savage, Colonel James E. Bailey, Gen. W. C. Whitthorne, Colonel Wm. H.
Stephens, Gen. Wm. B. Bate, and Hon. Andrew Ewing, Gen Barrow was not
nominated!
The first ballot stood as follows: Bailey 17 1/2, Caruthers 16 1/2, Stephens 13,
Whitthorne 12 1/2 Bate 7, Savage 6, and Anderson 1 1/2.
Anderson, Stephens, Savage and Bates were then withdrawn.
The second ballot resulted as follows: Bailey, 27 1/2, Caruthers, 24, 12-43
Whitthorne 15 1/2 and Bate 5.
June 17, 1863
Gen. Whitthorne was withdrawn, and the third ballot resulted for Caruthers 32,
23-60 and Bailey 33, 37-00. On motion of Mr. E. S. Cheatham, the nomination
of Judge Caruthers was made unanimous.
Colonel A. W. Campbell offered the following resolution which was unanimously adopted:
Resolved, That this convention most cordially endorses the wise and patriotic
administration of our present Executive, the Hon. I. G. Harris, and tender to
him our heartfelt thanks for his untiring devotion to the interests and honor of
the State, and the fidelity with which he has discharged the important trust the
people have confided to him.
Governor Harris was present and responded "thanking the delegates for the
expression of appreciation of his services." The convention then nominated the
following gentlemen as candidates represent the several districts in the Rebel
Congress: 1st, Joseph B. Heiskell; 2d, Wm. G. Swan; 3d, A. S. Colyar, of Franklin; 4th, Col. John P. Murray, of Warren; 5th, H. S. Foote; 6th, E. A. Keeble;
7th, James McCullom, of Giles; 8th, Dr. Thomas Menees; 9th, J. D. C. Atkins;
10th, John V. Wright; 11th, D. M. Currin.
We must brand the cool ignoring of General Barrow's claims by the convention
as the vilest of ingratitude. It was a flat insult, and if we were Barrow, as thank
Heaven we are not, we would not be chiselled out of a circuitous office and a
fugitive salary, and a perambulatory capitol, in that style. We would bolt,
secede, rebel, and fight for "our rights." Not nominated! And this after the General's pathetically eloquent address to the public from Winchester, published in
our columns some weeks ago. Is he not General Barrow? Is he not General
Washington Barrow. Is he not one of the illustrious triad who sold Tennessee to
Parson Hilliard and Jeff. Davis? And then to be slighted in this style!
~~~
Oh the way that they've treated you General Barrow,
It makes us indignant clear down to our marrow!
But be still, o muse! and let us contemplate the eulogy passed upon that great
and good man Isham G. Harris, commonly known as King Isham Garbroth
Harris. The truth of the resolution would have been more fully appreciated had
it been a little more specific."Untiring devotion to the interest and honor of the
State," means his selling the State to the Confederacy after it had refused to
join the concern by a vote of 65,000, and then running off when danger
appeared, and leaving the people to weather the storm alone; and "fidelity to
important trusts," refers to the scientific manner in which he robbed the children of Tennessee of their $2,000,000 school fund.
Nashville Daily Union, June 28, 1863.
June 17, 1863
June 17, 1863 - Orders to sweep western Shelby County and capture guerrillas in Raleigh
environs
MEMPHIS, June 17, 1863.
Lieut. [HENRY] SACHS, Comdg. Detachment 3d U. S. Cavalry:
You will proceed, with 50 men, detailed by Col. Morgan, on the Raleigh road
to the house of Fletcher Taylor, about 2 miles this side of Raleigh. The negro
guide will point out the road and the house of Taylor. You will, if possible, surprise and capture a squad of guerrillas, who, it is reported, will be at Taylor's
to-night. From that point you will sweep the country to the west of Raleigh,
and capture, if possible, citizens named Hurd and Dr. Forrest, who will be
pointed out by Mr. Tripp. You will attack and break up any gang of rebels or
guerrillas that you may hear of within convenient range of your route, and
return and report to these headquarters.
Respectfully,
JAMES C. VEATCH.
June 17, 1863 - June 18, 1863 - Attack on transports, near MemphisNOTE 1
JUNE 17-18, 1863.-Operations on Mississippi River, near Memphis, Tenn.,
and attack on transports.
REPORTS.
No. 1.-Brig. Gen. Alexander Asboth, U. S. Army.
No. 2.-Col. Colton Greene, Third Missouri Cavalry (Confederate).
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Alexander Asboth, U. S. Army.
COLUMBUS, KY. June 18, 1863.
The steamer Platte Valley was fired into yesterday 15 miles this side of Memphis by artillery, 5 balls passing through the boat, killing 3 men and wounding
several. About 300 rifle shots also struck the boat. The steamer Golden Era
attempted to pass the battery at the same time, but was compelled to return to
Memphis.
No boat can proceed at this juncture unless under convoy of a gunboat. I
applied yesterday for a gunboat, but have received none. Ellet's Marine Brigade would be well employed between here and Memphis. Dr. Smith, from
Dresden, Tenn., reported to the commander at Clinton, Ky., 3,000 rebels
approaching Feliciana, Ky.
Our scouts crossing the Obion engaged the enemy, but had to fall back. No
direct report received from the two captains engaged and in command of the
June 18, 1863
scouting parties. I have 300 rebel prisoners; some officers of rank, and dangerous characters. A number have been tried by military commission and sentenced to be executed. I desire to send those who are under sentence to Saint
Louis or Alton, pending the orders of the general commanding on proceedings
already forwarded, and request your approval. The 800 men promised me by
Maj.-Gen. Burnside are by no means sufficient, considering my large river
line, much reduced force, and the reported near approach of heavy rebel forces.
Please refer to my telegrams of 15th instant.
ASBOTH, Brig.-Gen.
No. 2.
Report of Col. Colton Greene, Third Missouri Cavalry (Confederate).
HDQRS. GREENE'S BRIG., MARMADUKE'S DIV., June 19, 1863.
MAJ.: On the 17th instant, Col. [Leonidas C. ] Campbell moved down to the
river and fired into Memphis several times without reply from the enemy. He
then moved above, and attacked a large transport during the night, crippling
her badly and doing much damage. The boat was forced to the other bank,
where she moored, being too much crippled to proceed. During the day he
attacked the large steamer Ruth. She replied with a 12-pounder rifled piece,
and then withdrew to the east bank and shelled our force for three hours. Soon
after a gunboat came along and shelled the woods for several miles. Nobody
was hurt on our side. Col. Campbell reports that our guns are entirely too light
to do much damage. The boats were out of range on the east bank of the river.
It is his opinion that with 12-pounder pieces the enemy could be seriously
damaged. He reports forage and subsistence in abundance in Crittenden
County for a brigade for a month. If the enemy's communications are to be
embarrassed, we must have heavy guns.
~~~
COLTON GREENE, Col., Commanding, &c.
NOTE 1: Referenced as an affair in Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee.
June 18, 1863 - Major-General S. B. Buckner's Report on Confederate troops and defenses
from Clinton to Cumberland Gap
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, Knoxville, June 18, 1863.
Gen. S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector Gen., Richmond, Va.:
GEN.: I returned yesterday from an inspection of the troops of the department
and of the Mountain Gap, from Clinton to Cumberland Gap. The troops I
inspected were in a bad condition, with the exception of Gracie's brigade at
Cumberland Gap. The defenses of the gaps are very imperfect; scarcely any
June 18, 1863
work has been bestowed on them during the past twelve months. I set the
troops at work to strengthen the defenses at Cumberland Gap at once. In connection with the chief engineer and my chief of staff, I have devised a system
of small, strong defenses at the gaps, which will be commenced at once if the
enemy's movements justify it, and which, when completed, will enable a small
force to check for a considerable time a very large one. With the present
resources at my control, it is very difficult to prevent a surprise of some of the
more important gaps.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 878.
June 18, 1863 - Heavy skirmishing at Big Creek Gap
•See June 18, 1863--Occupation of Wartburg by Federal forces
June 18, 1863 - Occupation of Wartburg by Federal forces
KNOXVILLE, [TENN. ] June 18, 1863.
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL JONES,
Dublin, Va.:
The difficulty about Preston's command is that they are mostly cavalry. I have
ordered one of his infantry regiments to re-enforce Cumberland Gap. The rest
of his command I leave to cover Abingdon and Saltville. The enemy have
retired from Big Creek Gap after heavy skirmishing, but now occupy Wartburg, threatening Kingston. The proportions of his movement are not yet
developed. Pegram is beyond Wartburg. I think I will need your regiment for a
few days. I will return it on your demand, whenever you require it, whatever
the circumstances. It can re-enforce me in less time than Preston can.
S. B. BUCKNER, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 880.
June 18, 1863 - Report on travel on the Nashville & Chattanooga Railroad between Wartrace, Shelbyville and Chattanooga one week prior to the initiation of the
Tullahoma Campaign
Huntsville, June 18.
Railroad travel between Shelbyville and Wartrace is quite an annoying curiosity. The distance eight miles, and railroad time taken to travel it, an hour and a
June 18, 1863
half and two hours. A friend wishing to go south at the same time with ourselves, left Shelbyville on horseback, twenty minutes after the train had left,
and made the best time to Wartrace, where the southern connection is made.
The rails are so worn, and the bed of the road is in such bad condition, that it is
not considered proper to run the cars faster than five miles an hour! As the
locomotive approaches within a mile of the Shelbyville depot, a down grade is
encountered, the locomotive disconnects itself from the cars, trusting their
advance to the declivity of the grade, and runs ahead to the engine house,
where it is switched off the main track in time to let the cars following pass on
to the depot. . .
From Wartrace south the Nashville and Chattanooga run is in fine order, a
reserve car is kept for ladies, water is regularly supplied and the Conductors
are courteous and attentive. Messrs. Cole and Whaling, who expend their
energy in the management of the roads, deserve credit for their efforts. From
Wartrace to Stevenson one fortification after another is passed in rapid succession. The fine works, forts and abatis, and especially Fort Rains, at Tullahoma,
are objects of intense interest. Every bridge and trestle along the route is well
guarded night and day, and a small fort and stockades are to be observed at
every bridge of any importance. The latter were introduced and built by the
Yankees in large numbers and still remain to mark the presence of the defeated
invaders. They are formed of heavy oak posts placed upright from the ground,
extending fifteen feet high, with musket loops pierced through about breast
high, for the purpose of firing through. On the outside a trench is dug and the
earth thrown at the base of the stockade. These are, indeed, most formidable
defenses for a small force, and it were as well for the cavalry to dash against
the mountain side as charge one of these stockades. But they afford no resistance to artillery, are only intended to shelter guarding forces from surprises of
cavalry and bushwhacking attacks. At Estelle Springs a large fort, erected by
Yankee hands, still remains, and strong Confederate works lend an interest to
the point. The houses which once adorned the place were laid in ruins by the
vandal torch, and the brick chimneys still standing, and the walls of what was
once an extensive mill or factory, only remain attesting to the former village.
The next object of interest is the famous tunnel cut through the mountain. It
forms an arch half a mile long, through which the train passes, enveloped in
utter darkness for the few minutes of its passage. It presents an excellent
opportunity for a lover to kiss his sweet heart without being seen. A very
strange incident occurred in its dark confines a short time since, which will
scarcely bear publication. Two seats in the car facing each other were occupied
respectively by an Irish lady returning from a visit to a relative in the army, and
opposite to her a young man of twenty, with neatly curled moustache and head
ornamented by long luxuriant tresses, with a mild and refined expression of
features. As the cars approached the tunnel, one of the railroad hands told the
guard he was going to have some fun, and to be on the alert when the tunnel
was reached. As soon as darkness covered every object in the cars, this coarse
fellow entered and took improper familiarities with the Irish lady, who imagining that it was the person opposite, seized the poor fellow by the hair, which
June 18, 1863
was removed in handsful, scratched his face, and screamed energetically for
assistance. When the cars emerged to the open air, the real scoundrel had disappeared, and the innocent young gentleman of mild appearance disclosed to
view, a very sorry physiognomy from the effects of the outraged Celt whose
fingers still clung to his raven locks. An outraged community was "on the rampage," as Joe hath it in Great Expectations, and the poor devil was placed under
guard and sent back to the army to await his trial. After having been subjected
to this worse than martyrdom, the unfortunate youth was sent on his way
rejoicing, but determined probably in all futurity to avoid railroad tunnels.
Large numbers of ladies continue to travel to and from the army, and at the
present time I doubt not that a larger number are in its vicinity visiting relatives
than ever before. It is a source of extreme disgust to persons of good taste to
observe the public use of snuff in "dipping." At last art has been called into
requisition to provide ornamental "sticks," upon which the delicious substance
is dipped and rubbed against the gums, for the gratification of the lady like dippers, with this handle in their mouths. The ornamentation of the stick usually
consists of a curl at the end, like the narrative of a young porker, and various
figures cut on the body of it. I saw these sticking out of the mouths of many
ladies on the cars, at first producing the impression that they were smoking. O
tempora! O mores!
The train leaving Shelbyville at 6 a. m. reaches Chattanooga in twelve hours,
and makes connection at Stevenson with the Memphis and Charleston road,
which carries passengers to Huntsville, reaching that point at 6 p. m. This road
is now in operation to Tuscumbia, a large bridge over the Tennessee having
been rebuilt by the government. The Central Southern Railroad has been put in
operation by the government, from Decatur to Pulaski, and will soon be completed to Columbia. Through its aid large supplies are brought from the interior
of Middle Tennessee, Maury and other rich counties.
N.
Savannah [Georgia] Republican, June 25, 1863.NOTE 1
June 18, 1863 - ". . . an odious distinction between classes of the human family has at last
been partially removed." One Tennessee Confederate soldier's reaction to
the termination of the substitute system
No More Substitutes.
A correspondent in Shelbyville, writing under date of the 27th ult., has the following. According to his showing the substitute business is at an end. This is a
reformation long needed; and now, if the Government will conscript the speculators and extortioners, and place them in front, as the Yankees did the "American citizens of African decent" at Port Hudson, soldiers' families can live, and
the country will be better off for the change:
June 18, 1863
["]Yesterday evening, at dress parade, an order was read from the Secretary of
War, directing that no more substitutes will be received into the army, only by
the consent of the Generals commanding the various departments. I must confess that I never in all my life witnessed such beaming faces when the order
was announced. Approbation of the order was general, and I have yet to find
the first man in our brigade who disapproves of it.
["]Those that know nothing of the practical workings of the substitute system
can form no conception of the magnitude of the evils resulting to the army by
its operations.—Thanks to powers that be, the terrible incubus that has
depressed the hearts of our brace soldiers has at length been removed, and the
soldier at his country's call, who left his penniless wife and children to the cold
charities of the world, or to eke out an existence the best way they could—he
who has endured privations, sufferings, hunger, thirst, physical and mental
agony, for his country's good and welfare—will be rejoiced to know that that
which was an odious distinction between classes of the human family has at
last been partially removed.
June 18, 1863 - Advertisement for a Slave Auction in Lincoln County
EIGHT LIKELY SLAVES FOR SALE!
Pursuant to a decree of the County Court of Lincoln county, Tennessee, pronounced at its June term, 1863, in the case of Pleasant Halbert, Admr, and others—Bill of sale of Slaves—I will on Saturday, the 1st day of August
nextNOTE 1 sell to the highest bidder, in the town of Fayetteville, Lincoln
county, Tennessee, the following SLAVES, viz: Amanda, aged about 35 years;
Martha, about 6 years; and Gordy, about one year, (these will be sold in one
lot,) Ann, about 19 years; Tom, about 16 years; Andrew, about 14 years; Josephine, about 10 years; Nancy, about 8 years. The above slaves will be sold on a
credit of twelve months, except the sum of 5 per cent on the amount of sale,
which will be required in cash. Notes with two or more approved securities
will be required of the purchaser, and a lien retained upon said Slaves until the
purchase money is paid.
DANIEL J. WHITTINGTON
Clerk and Special Commissioner
NOTE 1: It is not known if the Tullahoma Campaign interfered with the sale of these
slaves.
June 19, 1863 - Skirmish at Triune
June 19, 1863
June 19, 1863 - Affair at Lenoir's StationNOTE 1
NOTE 1: Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee does not mention the station.
June 19, 1863 - Amphibious engagement at Cerro Gordo, U. S. N.
Report of Acting Ensign Hanford, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S. Robb,
regarding an engagement at Cerro Gordo, Tenn., June 19, 1863.
U. S. GUNBOAT ROBB, Fort Hindman, Ky., June 24, 1863.
SIR: I send you a report of the action that took place on the morning of the 19th
instant at Cerro Gordo, resulting in the loss of 1 of my men and 2 severely
wounded:
On the afternoon of the 18th I suggested to Captain Hurd the possibility of
catching some of [Colonel] Biffle's men if I placed a couple of pieces of artillery at Cerro Gordo, opposite to where they came, and fired across the river
during the departure of gunboats from that place. It met Captain Hurd's
approval. In the evening I got a horse and rode down to Cerro Gordo, in order
to pick out a good situation for the battery. Having found one to suit me, I
returned and got my guns mounted on field carriages, and at 10 p. m. started
down, and had everything fixed ready, taking particular care to double-picket
all the roads to guard against surprise. I sent to man the battery 16 of my best
men. It was my instruction in the morning to run down to Saltillo, 5 miles, in
order to give the rebs a good chance to come in.
On the morning of the 19th, about 4:30, I heard my guns firing. The Silver
Cloud and myself started down, where we found that Biffle had made a charge
on the battery with 400 men, but my men were prepared for them and opened
their ranks well. I have learned since, but it is only a picked-up report, that Biffle lost 50 killed and wounded. I believe that their loss was about that, as they
charged four abreast (dismounted) and came to within 20 yards of the cannon's
mouth, while canister was being fired into them like rain. 1 lost, killed, Cranford I. Hill (fireman), and buried him at Craven's landing: Madison M. Hill
(second gunner), and John N. Matthews (quartermaster), severely wounded.
These I have sent to Smith's and to their homes.
Too much credit can not be awarded to the men who manned the battery. They
did their duty faithfully.
June 19, 1863
W. C. HANFORD, Commanding Robb.
June 19, 1863 - Lieutenant A. J. Lacy's letter to his wife, Margaret E. Lacy in Jackson
County
Springhill Tenn June the 19th 1863
Dear and Affectionate Companion
Again this beautiful Friday morning [I] seat my self to drop you a few lines to
let you know that I am still able to go about. Hopeing when these few lines
come to hand they will find you enjoying good health.
I have nothing to write that would interest you a present. Wee are drawing 2
days rashens not. I don't know what it is for. There is five companies of our
regt on picket. My co is one of them. It is the first time that I ever failed going
when the co went. I expect that our co will draw 4 months wages today. I have
had to by me another horse or rather a pony. I give 225 dollars for him. This is
5 different horses that I have owned since I left home. I have 2 horses now and
I wouldent take less than 600 dollars and I have 540 dollars due me for my service that I have not been paid for and I have 159 dollars oweing me here in
camps.
I sent these lines by my friend Joseph Bullington of Capt Swearengans Co, Co
F 8th Tenn. cav commanded at present by F F Daughity Lt Col. Tell Paralee
Byers that I would write to her if I [had] paper and time. She said that she
would like to hear me tell a few of my big yarns. When I come home I will tell
a few of the most choise ones for you all, for I am well posted. I haveing been
going to school 11 months learning new more or less evry day. It is a dear
school to a man tho the 11 of this month in our fight at Triune I got a hole shot
in my coattail. The news came here the other day that Col Hambleton had a
fight with the Yankees and was cut to pieces very badly.
Give my best respects to Father and Mother also to Margaret and Worth and
also give my respect to evry boddy and tell them to write to me quickly for I
am in a hurry to hear from them.
Wheat is verry promising here. I never saw such wheat crops in my, life before
I came here [it] is up to shoulder high and was black as a cloud. I must close for
the present so no more but still remain you most affectionate and obedient husband and friend.
June 19, 1863 - The value of digging holes, according to Sergeant Major Widney
We have been drilling so assiduously since we stopped working on the fortification that we are not sure the change has been much to our advantage except
that it is more in keeping with our idea of military duty much as we dislike
June 20, 1863
anything like drudgery it may become necessary for us to dig many a hole in
the ground for self protection before we get through with this war. No doubt
such work would be greatly stimulated by the "zip" of bullets about our ears.
Now often have we regretted our neglect to dig rifle pits during the night
before the battle of Stone[s] River. When we laid flat in the open field the nest
morning with a hail of bullets about us we realized to late how desirable it is to
have holed in the ground when you need them.
Diary of Lyman S. Widney
June 19, 1863 - June 20, 1863 - Federal forces repulsed from Knoxville and burn railroad
bridges over Flat Creek and at Strawberry Plains
Gen. BRAXTON BRAGG, Shelbyville:
The enemy appeared near Knoxville on the 19th, and attacked on 20th. Were
repulsed. They burned the railroad bridges at Flat Creek and Strawberry Plains.
Please grant permission to [A. L. ] Maxwell, bridge-builder, to rebuild them at
once.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 882.
June 19, 1863 - June 25, 1863 - Engagement at Beech Island
June 20, 1863 - Skirmish at Knoxville
KNOXVILLE, June 20, 1863. The enemy attacked us with five regiments
mounted infantry and two pieces of rifle artillery last night. This morning we
drove him back, and he will try to escape via Rogersville through Big Creek,
Moccasin or Mulberry Gap, attempting to destroy bridges at Strawberry Plains
before leaving. Your Fifty-first [Fifty-fourth] Virginia has been ordered to that
point. Gen. Buckner left for Clinton yesterday.
V. SHELIHA, Chief of Staff.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 391.
Report of Lieut. Col. Milton A. Haynes, C. S. Artillery.
DEPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, Knoxville, June 21, 1863.
June 20, 1863
SIR: At the request of Col. [R. C. ] Trigg, temporarily in command of the
troops at Knoxville in the absence of Maj.-Gen. Buckner, I have the honor to
report the following particulars in regard to the battle of yesterday:
On the 18th instant I returned to this City from Sevier [County], where I had
been in command of an expedition against a party of bushwhackers. On my
arrival, I learned that Maj.-Gen. Buckner had marched toward Big Creek Gap
with all the artillery and all the other disposable force at this post, except Col.
Trigg's Fifty-first [Fifty-fourth] Virginia Regt. and Col. [J. J. ] Finley's Seventh
[Sixth] Florida Regt.; effective force about 1,000 men.
On the morning of the 19th, I was informed by Maj. Van Sheliha, acting chief
of staff, that the enemy in large force had passed by Loudon, and were at
Lenoir Station, 24 miles from Knoxville, and he requested me to take charge of
the artillery defense of the City, and to organize my force from the convalescents in the hospitals and from citizens to man my guns then in the City. At the
same time he gave the following order:
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, June 19, 1863.
Maj. [S. H. ] Reynolds, chief of ordnance, will issue to Lieut.-Col. Haynes'
corps artillery, C. S. Army, as many field pieces as can possibly but in condition with a few hours. He will also furnish Lieut.-Col. Haynes with all the necessary equipments, and with 100 rounds of ammunition.
By order of Maj.-Gen. Buckner:
VON SHELIHA, Chief of Staff.
In obedience to this order (given to me in absence of Gen. Buckner), I went to
the ordnance department and found eight pieces of field artillery there, but no
harness. Maj. Reynolds promptly said that in one hour he would have the
ammunition-chests filled, and that they would then be subject to my orders. I
then went to Maj. [J. ] Glover, chief quartermaster of East Tennessee, and
requested him to send to the ordnance department 70 horses or mules, with harness and drivers for every two.
In the mean time the citizens of Knoxville had been ordered to report to me or
to Col. [E. D. ] Blake for duty the defense of the City Finding myself too much
engaged to obey this order in person, I appointed Maj. H. Baker (formerly of
the artillery of Tennessee) to receive and assign them to duty as they reported.
At 3 [o'clock] in the afternoon of that day [19th] it was known that the enemy
was within 5 miles of the City, and their advance were skirmishing with 37 of
our cavalrymen (all we had at Knoxville) at Mrs. Lomis' house. At this hour
Maj. Glover had already sent the requisite number of horses, mules, and drivers for the eight pieces of artillery at the ordnance department. I immediately
posted them in sections at College Hill, under Maj. Baker (the exposed point);
second, on McGee's Hill, under Capt. Hugh L. W. McClung, and, third, under
Lieut. Patterson and Lieut. J. J. Burroughs, at Summit Hill, in front of the ordnance department. This last battery had been fortified during the afternoon,
under the superintendence of Capt. [W. F. ] Foster, of the Engineers (by my
June 20, 1863
order), with a cotton-bale revetment, the cotton bales having been promptly
sent from all quarters by Maj. Glover, chief quartermaster. During that
evening, the enemy failing to advance, Col. Trigg (temporarily in command at
Knoxville), without consulting, me removed Maj. Baker's battery from College
Hill to a point near the asylum hospital. In the evening, upon hearing the
reports of my officers, I ascertained that about 200 persons, citizens, and convalescent soldiers from hospitals, had reported for duty, and that each of my
batteries was fully manned, although in the morning of the same day there was
no artillery force whatever in the City.
During the night [19th] I made a reconnaissance, passing the enemy's lines as a
farmer, giving all the information they desired in regard to the state of the
defenses, telling them that they could march into Knoxville without the loss of
a man. I told them that I saw Col. Haynes about sunset, moving some cannon
toward the depot-I thought about four in all-drawn by mules. Having passed to
a point at which it was necessary for me to turn off, and having all the information I could obtain, I returned to Knoxville at midnight. [19th] I visited all my
batteries, and advised them that early in the morning the enemy would attack,
and directed Capt. McClung and Maj. Baker to consider themselves as
reserves, to be moved wherever needed.
During the night [19th-20th] the pickets of the enemy advanced upon the City,
but our pickets, thrown out by Col. Trigg, after an hour's skirmish, drove them
back at about 2 o'clock in the morning. [20th]
At 7 o'clock on the 20th four pieces of artillery, detached by Gen. Buckner
from his command, reached the ordnance depot (where I then was), and I
immediately conducted them to the rear as a reserve. I then went to Summit
Hill battery, where I found Col. Trigg and his chief of staff (Maj. Sheliha) near
the hospital. While in consultation with them, we saw the enemy marching at
double-quick time on our right beyond the work-shops, where we had neither
battery nor soldiers to oppose them. Col. Trigg soon afterward ordered Col.
Finley's Seventh [Sixth] Regt. Florida Volunteers and two pieces of [B. F. ]
Wyly's battery to take possession of Temperance Hill; but before this order was
given I had taken a section of Wyly's battery and moved them at a gallop to a
point immediately in front of the advancing column, and opened fire upon
them with spherical case. The enemy took shelter behind houses and fences,
and threw forward sharpshooters within 200 yards of our battery, we being
entirely unsupported by infantry and 400 yards from any support. At the same
time a battery of 3-inch rifled guns belonging to the enemy opened upon us at
800 yards, and during the first two or three shots killed and wounded some of
our men and several horses. I then advanced the battery, and ordered them not
to fire at the artillery, but at the infantry. The enemy at this moment forming
column, advanced rapidly, and for a moment I supposed the day was lost. At
this moment the chief of the 12th howitzer said to me, "Col., I can't hit them
fellows; please get down and try it yourself." I dismounted, took my post as a
gunner of the left, ordered canister, and sighted the piece myself, and after two
rounds the enemy was in full retreat and the day was won. During the same
June 20, 1863
time the battery under Lieut. J. J. Burroughs and Lieut. Patterson, on Summit
Hill, were also engaged and kept up a continual fire during which Capt.
McClung and Lieut. Fellows were killed. The section under Lieut. Whelon
having reached Temperance Hill, opened fire upon the retreating enemy,
which, with the fire from Wyly's battery, Burroughs' battery, and Maj. Baker's,
completed the victory.
During this fight, although sharpshooters were sent out against us, none were
sent out to sustain us, although 1,000 men were immediately behind us.
The enemy had one battery of artillery and about 2,600 men opposed to about
1,000 men, part of whom were citizens and convalescent soldiers. That they
were fully beaten may appear from the fact that the commanding officer of the
army sent to me a message by Lieut. Lutrell, of the C. S. Army, a prisoner,
paroled by him, to the effect:
I send you my compliments, and say that but for the admirable manner with
which you managed your artillery I would have taken Knoxville to-day.
It is not out of place for me to say that Col. E. D. Blake, chief of conscripts and
for the day commander of all volunteer infantry, contributed by his zeal and
well-known courage to the honorable result.
Among many citizens who reported to me that day for duty, I must not forget to
mention Hon. Landon C. Haynes, Hon William H. Sneed, Hon. John H. Crozier, Rev. James H. Martin, and Rev. Mr. Woolfolk, and many others who do
not desire me to mention their names. With such compatriots and such fellowsoldiers a man might willingly at any time meet the foe.
Our loss was 2 officers and 2 enlisted men killed, and 4 enlisted men wounded.
Loss of enemy, 45.
I have the honor to be, your most obedient servant,
MILTON A. HAYNES, Lieut. Col., Provisional Army Confederate States,
Cmdg. Arty.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 391-392.
June 20, 1863 - Skirmish at Strawberry Plains
June 20, 1863 - Skirmish at Rogers' Gap
June 20, 1863
June 20, 1863 - Skirmish at Dixon Springs
June 20, 1863 - Skirmish at Jack's Creek
June 20, 1863 - Federal forces burn bridge over Holston River
MORRISTOWN, June 21, 1863.
Maj.-Gen. JONES:
The enemy burned the bridge over the Holston, 16 miles east of Knoxville, last
evening. They advanced to within 14 miles of this place this morning and
burned a bridge and depot. No troops here except my regiment, Brig.-Gen.
Jackson in command.
G. C. WHARTON, Col.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 882.
June 20, 1863 - "City Morals."
For the week ending yesterday the number of cases tried before Recorder
Shane in Police Court, was one hundred and twenty-six (126) ; consigned to
the workhouse, twenty (20) ; and sixteen (16) discharged. The chief misdemeanors were tippling without a license, using hydrant water without authority,
and disorderly conduct. The revenue netted was over $627.50. Amount to be
paid in labor to the corporation, about $225.
June 20, 1863 - A wealthy planter's son eschews being drafted in the Confederate army
My son Thomas L. Porter (a conscript) procured a substitute (Near $5,000) &
got a certificate of discharge from the army.
Diary of Nimrod Porter, June 20, 1863.
June 20, 1863 - "Schools and Scholars;" some results of the 1862-1863 public school year in
Civil War Memphis
During the past week there were several schools examined by the superintendent of the city public schools. These examinations fully attest the efficiency of
the present system of public education. The schools situated on the corner of
June 20, 1863
Main and Overton streets, taught by Miss Brown and Miss Hampton, proved
very interesting and fully confirmed our previously formed opinion with
regard to public schools. The honors of these schools were conferred upon the
following named young gentlemen: Of school No. 3, Peter Tighe, Willie
Byland, Frank Humphrey, Matt Carter, Walter F. Prescott and James Dennison.
The following are the names of the aspiring youths who bore off the honors at
school No. 9: Willie Morning, Mike Ducahart, Willie Littering, Pat Fox, Mike
Grady, and Tommy Conway. The school No. 11, taught by Miss Mattie Prewitt,
showed the most flattering results. The honors of the school were conferred
upon the following young ladies for punctuality, scholarship, and deportment:
Miss Emma Mallory, Miss Pennie Sannoner, Miss Lizzie Gibbs, Miss Mattie
Sannoner, and Miss Cynthia Hill. Miss Yancey's school, No. 1 was examined
with the most gratifying results. The following named pupils were the recipients of the honors of the school for their punctuality, scholarship, and deportment: Charles Burdic, Joseph McIlvaine, Charles Rochell, Ross Duncan,
James Burk, and Frank Coppel. We have received reports from to other
schools, but by some means they have been mislaid. We will publish them,
however, as soon as we can have time to look them up.
June 20, 1863 - "I think it was too bad to shoot the poor fellow. The mistake was made in
enlisting him in the first place." A Wisconsin soldier witnesses an execution in Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro Tenn.
June 20th
Dear friend,
Our Division was called upon today to participate in the execution, by shooting, of a soldier for desertion. He belonging to the 4th Ind. battery of our brigade and deserted to the enemy while we were out on a scout a few weeks ago.
He was recaptured within twenty-four hours, dressed in a confederate uniform,
claiming to belong to John Morgan's command. He was tried by Court-Martial
and sentenced to be shot today. The entire division was formed into two lines,
each facing the other about ten paces apart. The prisoner, under a strong guard,
was made to walk the length of these lines. Four men marched behind him carrying his coffin. Upon arriving at the prepared grave the coffin was set down,
he was made to kneel beside it, his sentence was read to him, a cap was drawn
over his face, the order was given to "Fire" and the full penalty for desertion
had been paid in his case. I knew this boy-only about seventeen years of age-he
was physically weak, and regarded as a rather weak-minded, and this was evident by the fact that he enlisted with the enemy so near to our lines. He
appeared to be incapable of realizing that he had done anything wrong. I think
it was too bad to shoot the poor fellow. The mistake was made in enlisting him
in the first place.
June 20, 1863
J. M. Randall
James M. Randall Diary
June 20, 1863 - Camp routine in the 5th Iowa Cavalry near Murfreesboro
Today we commenced doing the regular rounds of duty in camp. Reveille
blows at daylight. Then stable call, sick call at 1/2 past 5. Breakfast 6. Boots
and saddles for drill, 6:45. To horse 7. Fatigue 7:15. Recall from drill 9. Water
call 9:45 and then pasture horses until 11. Dinner roll call 12:30. Guard mounting 1:30. Water and stable call 4. Retreat roll call and dress parade 6. Tattoo
Roll call 8. Taps 8:30. . .
Alley Diary
June 20, 1863 - Rev. Reuben Burrow's escape from the Irving Block prison in Memphis
Escaped.
We learn that Captain R. Burrow, who has been confined in the Irving Block
for the last three or four months, made his escape last night. Captain Reuben
Burrow, was formally well known as a minister of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church; more recently, however, he was connected with Richardson's
band, where he commanded a company.
June 20, 1863 - Call for a Union State convention in occupied Nashville
Convention.
As the time approaches for our Biennial State election, it is proper that the
friends of the Government should confer together in relation to it. We therefore
respectfully suggest to those of our fellow citizens who desire to maintain the
State Government in connection with the Federal Union as it stood prior to the
rebellion and the war to meet in convention by their delegates at the Capitol in
Nashville, on Wednesday, the 1st day of July next. We trust that a full representation will be present from every county in the State, as the business to be considered is of vital importance to the future welfare.
HORACE MAYNARD.
W. G. BROWNLOW.
GEO. P. STUBBLEFIELD.
MANSON M. BRIEN.
HORACE H. HARRISON.
ED. H. EAST.
E. R. GLASCOCK.
June 20, 1863
GEO. W. BRIDGES.
JOHN S. BRIEN.
W. SPENCE.
WM. H. WISENER.
FUSSELL HOUSTON.
WILLIMA M. LEWIS.
JOHN HUGH SMITH.
Nashville, June 20, 1863
June 20, 1863 - Federal cavalry surpirsed and taken prisoner near Memphis
•See June 21, 1863--"To day a man drove up to the Picket with an old horse
and wagon with two quite pretty women in, and wanted to go through. . . "
Frank M. Guernsey's letter to Fannie
ca. June 20, 1863 - June 23, 1863 - Scout from Jackson to Paris to Fort Heiman, Ky
H. W. HALLECK, Gen.-in-Chief:
Lieut.-Col. Henry telegraphs from Fort Heiman: Scouts just in from Paris,
Tenn. No rebels there, but reported between there and Jackson [Tenn.]. Also,
that gunboats had arrived from Hamburg [just south of Pittsburg Landing]
reporting large rebel force crossing the west side of Tennessee between Saltillo
and Duck River, mostly cavalry, but some artillery. Fired at gunboat Robb, killing 1 man and wounding 2. One rebel captain killed and 7 soldiers wounded.
One hundred and fifty refugees came down on gunboat. The cavalry scouts. . .
returning from Jackson, report that an hour before their arrival at Jackson a
cavalry force from Gen. Dodge passed through that place from Tennessee
River southward on Purdy road, destroying bridges up to Thursday morning
[18th]. The rebel Col. [J. F. ] Newsom was there with 42 men, and other officers from the rebel army with small commands were moving through Henderson, Madison, and McNairy Counties, recruiting, conscripting, and organizing,
but disappeared on the approach of our troops.
ASBOTH.
June 21, 1863
June 21, 1863 - Skirmish at Powder Springs Gap
June 21, 1863 - Scout from Nashville to Silver Springs
NASHVILLE, June 21, 1863—10.30 p. m. (Received 11 p. m.)
Lieut.-Col. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.;
Scout returned this afternoon from few miles beyond Silver Spring. No enemy
at Silver Spring; 100 reported there day before yesterday. From best information, Capt. [B. T. ] Hayden, Seventh Kentucky, commanding party, was satisfied Morgan was not at Lebanon. Main force at Alexandria, or near, 3,000 or
4,000 strong. Scouts of 200 or 300 came down to Lebanon on this side.
Brought in 1 prisoner (James Faulkner, first sergeant in Dick [R. C. ] Morgan's
regiment), whose statement nearly conforms to the above.
R. S. GRAGNER, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg.
June 21, 1863 - "I do say I never imagined people could live so." An aristocrat visits mountain folk near Beersheba Springs
~~~
Yesterday we rode out to see some of the "mountain people." I do say I never
imagined people could live so. One house was clean—but everything seemed
to be dropped just where they were done using it, and left there until they
wanted to use it again. Somehow I never conceived of anything so wholly
untidy and uncomfortable. . . Mrs. Armfield said these people were the "aristocracy" of the mountain and she took me to see them as a curiosity. The
strangest thing to me was that they showed not the slightest embarrassment,
but appeared to think themselves all right, and just a good as anybody living.
At Walker's we found a young soldier home on furlough and it was astonishing
to see how the service had improved him, and how much better he appeared
than his surroundings.
War Journal of Lucy Virginia French, June 22, 1863.
June 21, 1863 - Scout from Nashville to Lebanon
•See June 21, 1863--Scout from Nashville to Silver Springs
June 21, 1863 - An Altercation at Madame Miller's Bagnio in Memphis
A Vile Den Broken Up.
June 21, 1863
Last Sunday evening [21st] a difficulty occurred near the bayou, on Auction
street, at a vile den of prostitution kept by a woman named Miller. Several soldiers had congregated there, where they were furnished whisky, and all went
on merrily for awhile; but a dispute arising between one of the soldiers and a
girl, who was an inmate of the house, the controversy grew hot, and the soldier
drew a pistol and fired at the girl, the ball taking effect in the side of her head
and passing out behind the ear. The skull was not fractured, and consequently
the wound is not dangerous. Either the girl, or another one of the soldiers, fired
at the fellow who had fired at the girl without effecting anything. The police
were on hand, and, with the assistance of the patrol guards, succeeded in arresting the whole crew, and emptying the contents of the doggery into the bayou.
June 21, 1863 - "Refugees Departed."
The General Anderson left the wharf yesterday evening, having on board about
one hundred refugees from Glendale, on the Memphis and Charleston railroad.
They were principally women and children, very few men among them. These
helpless families have been driven from their homes by the terrible consequences following Jeff. Davis rebellion.
June 21, 1863 - "The Salary."
At the election on Thursday it will be for the voters to decide whether the
Alderman shall be paid $250 each for their year's services. There are two questions the voter may very properly ask himself in deciding how he will vote on
this subject: 1st, Will five dollars a week pay a man of ability for his services?
2d. If a man has no ability, is he worth five dollars a week?
June 21, 1863 - Ellet's Marine Brigade destroy mills and commissary supplies near Savannah
Excerpt from the Itinerary of the Mississippi Marine Brigade for April, 1863.
~~~
On the 21st, was forced to leave Eastport, in consequence of the water falling
rapidly. Landed at Savannah, and sent scouting parties out to burn mills used
by the enemy. Destroyed the mills, with large amount of commissary supplies.
Captured 3 of the enemy's pickets, and returned without loss.
~~~
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 279.
June 21, 1863
June 21, 1863 - "To day a man drove up to the Picket with an old horse and wagon with two
quite pretty women in, and wanted to go through. . . " Frank M. Guernsey's letter to Fannie
Memphis, Tenn
June 21st, 1863
Well, Fannie dear, how do you do.
I have been sitting here in my tent this pleasant evening thinking of home and
Thee, and listening to the varied sounds of the camp, as they are borne to my
ear by the gentle evening breeze; in one part of the camp is heard the shout and
laugh of the boys engaged in some frolic, in an other part and directly in front
of my tent is a club engaged in singing glees and sacred music, it sounds very
good, and brings to my memory the evening I spent with two of my dear
friends on the short of our lake, do you remember the time Fannie.
There has nothing hapened to disturbe the even tenor of our ways since I wrote
you before. Yesterday the Rebs come a grab game on some of our Cavalry and
took quite a number prisoners. They were the fifth Ohio I believe. I understood
they were feeding their horses, when they were surprised and taken. There was
quite a laughable affair happened on our Picket line to day. There has been
strict orders issued to search every one passing out through our lines to see that
no smuggled goods pass. To day a man drove up to the Picket with an old horse
and wagon with two quite pretty women in, and wanted to go through, they of
course had to undergo a search there was nothing found on the man, but from
under the crinoline of the fair ones were taken four large revolvers; they were
arrested and sent to Camp where a more thorough examination took place by
the Hospital matron. She also found four large revolvers, making eight in all,
which these pinks of perfection were trying to smuggle through to the Rebs.
They were all loaded and ready for use. I tell you what Fannie, if all women are
walking magazines as these were I shall look out, and keep clear of them, for
there is no telling when they will explode.
I commenced this letter Saturday evening and it is now Monday and it is not
finished yet. I got my mouth all made up for a letter from you this morning, but
somehow or other it did not come. I guess I shall get it to-morrow morning.
Our Col. is sick and gone home again to Wis. the adjutant has not yet returned
although his leave of absence expired a week ago, consequently it is folly for
me to think of getting home yet awhile, so Fannie you need not hope to see me
until the war is closed, which will probably be in about five years. Is not that
encouraging? There is some talk of mounting this Regiment. I hope it will be
done as I am getting tired of this kind of soldiering. If I have got to fight I want
to be at it. I suppose I am rather impatient but I am of such a mercurial temperament that this inactivity is nearly as hard for me as an acting campaign in the
field. No news from Vicksburg yet. I guess they are going to make an all summer job of it. The Rebs are making a desperate effort to throw off the folds
which are tightening slowly but surely around them. But my sheet is nearly
June 21, 1863
filled and I have written all I can think of so I will close. Please give my love to
all your people, write soon and believe me affectionately yours.
Frank M. G.
Guernsey Collection
June 21, 1863 - Alleged Confederate spy killed by Union pickets south of Nashville
SUPPOSED REBEL SPY KILLED. —The corporal of the outer picket guard,
on the Franklin pike, yesterday shot and killed a man for attempting to escape
through the lines. The man was dressed in Federal uniform, and succeeded in
deceiving the inner pickets with a bogus pass representing himself as a private
of the 14th Indiana cavalry. When he came to the exterior line, he was ordered
to halt, three or four times, and not complying, the guard arrested him, and
questioned him very closely, but received no reply whatever. His demeanor
justifying very strong suspicion the corporal of the guard started with him to
the reserve guard for delivery to the Provost Marshal. When they had gone a
short distance, the prisoner, seeing a gate open on the right of the road, broke
loose and ran; the corporal halted him, and the prisoner not heeding, he fired
and killed him almost instantly, the ball passing entirely through the body and
ranging near his heart. His body was brought to the city, and is now at Hospital
No. 8. The deceased is about forty years of age, five feet six or seven inches in
height, large and symmetrical form, weighed probably one hundred and fifty or
sixty pounds—dark hair (short) and sandy whiskers of near a year's growth.
His features are exceedingly handsome, regular and intellectual, and there is
nothing in his appearance showing him to have been a private soldier. There
was nothing found on his person that might lead to his identity although the
suspicion that he was a Confederate officer in disguise or a professional spy is
perhaps correct. Further examination of the clothing he wore may elicit the
truth.
June 21, 1863 - "Knocking" in Murfreesboro: an entry from the diary of John Hill Fergusson, 10th Illinois Volunteer Infantry
Murfreesboro 21st after we got dinner and our little tents struck a great many
of our boys went up in town and got pritty high on bear the provost guard had
orders to arrest every man in town or send him to his regt they came on a squad
of our regt and told them if they did not go right way to ther regt they would
arest the last one of them our boys after exchanging a few words went to
knocking they first nocked down the Lieutenant in charge and ran the provost
guards all over town they abused several of the guards, rather rough. N.
Fancher and MySelf went up town in the evening went all around, and the
guards they adviseding in a very friendly way to leve town as there orders were
June 22, 1863
to arest all they could find in town we took there advice and started off as the
day was very warm I drink great dale of watter and was very sick in the night
June 22, 1863 - Skirmish at Powell Valley
June 22, 1863 - Skirmish at William's Gap
June 22, 1863 - Action in Powell's Valley
June 22, 1863 - Capture of U. S. Mail by Morgan's forces near Dixon's Springs, between
Gallatin and Carthage
LEXINGTON, June 22, 1863—10.55 a. m.
Gen. BURNSIDE:
Information from [Brig. Gen. Henry M. ] Judah, from Gallatin, and from Rosecrans all concur that rebels under Morgan, about 3,000 or 4,00 strong, crossed
the river near Rome. They captured part of the mail guard from Gallatin to
Carthage. At Dixon's Springs private mail captured; public mail escaped.
A party is reported crossing at Celina also. Judah has two scouts of 250 men
each, which will receive information that is definite. Shackelford is notified,
and Judah will move one of the brigades to Scottsville, the other to Tomkinsville, keeping up communication between them; he will thus be able to turn in
any direction. The Eleventh Kentucky has arrived at Carthage. My principal
fear is for that place. Rosecrans may send assistance. Will keep you promptly
informed of movements there.
GEO. L. HARTSUFF, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 442.
June 22, 1863
June 22, 1863 - Scouts, Gallatin to Kentucky
•See June 22, 1863--Capture of U. S. Mail by Morgan's forces near Dixon's
Springs, between Gallatin and Carthage
June 22, 1863 - Confederate Governor Isham G. Harris' call to arms at the meeting of the
Confederate Nominating Convention held in Winchester
•See March 18, 1862--Tennessee's Confederate Draft Law or "An act to provide for local defense and special service"
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, Chattanooga, Tenn., July 24, 1863.NOTE 1
Hon. JAMES A. SEDDON, War Department:
SIR: Immediately upon the receipt of your requisition of [June 6] for 6,000
men for local defense and special service I issued the inclosed proclamation,
under which a large number of companies were being organized when the
Army of Tennessee, fell back from Shelbyville to the line of the Tennessee
River, leaving all of Middle and West Tennessee within the enemy's lines, and
cutting off the companies which were being formed in these division of the
State. At present we have access only to the people of East Tennessee, about
half of whom sympathize with our enemy. The recent order of the President
calling out all men capable of bearing arms up to forty-five years of age, for the
regular service, leaves us only such as are over that age. With our territory so
much diminished and the call confined to that class over forty-five years of age
(for, since the order of the President, I have excluded all parties under fortyfive from this service, except such as are exempt from conscription), I have no
hope of raising the 6,000 troops called for as volunteers within the time specified. Nor, indeed, can I raise that number of volunteers within the limits of East
Tennessee at all; and under the laws of Tennessee I have no power to draft men
over forty-five years of age for Confederate service.
Previous to the act of the Legislature of 1861—'62 men over forty-five years of
age were not subject to military duty of any character. The act of that session (a
copy of which I herewith inclose) authorizes the organization of all men
between the ages of forty-five and fifty-five years into a military corps for
State service.
I submit the facts and the law to your consideration for such suggestion as you
may see proper to make in the premises, having every disposition to carry out
the policy of the Government, whatever it may be, to raise all the troops possible for the defense of our territory and the maintenance of our cause. I shall
proceed immediately to organize all within our lines between these ages who
do not volunteer for local defense, and if you can suggest any legal means by
which they can be drafted for Confederate service, I will promptly enforce the
order for such number as you may require.
June 22, 1863
I shall have reported for duty by the 1st of August between, 1,000 and 2,000
men raised under this proclamation. Where will they be armed and who will
take command of this special service corps? I respectfully suggest the appointment of an officer with the rank of brigadier-general or colonel to take command and general supervision of this special-service corps of each State, and if
this policy shall be adopted I respectfully suggest and recommend W. C. Whitthorne, the present adjutant-general of Tennessee, for the appointment in this
State. He will make an efficient officer in organizing and commanding the
force.
I shall be pleased to have your suggestions at your earliest convenience, so that
I may carry them out to the fullest extent of my ability.
Very respectfully
ISHAM G. HARRIS, Governor, &c., of Tennessee
[Inclosure No. 1.]
PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR OF TENNESSEE.
The President of the Confederate States has made a requisition upon Tennessee
for 6,000 troops for the term of six months from the 1st of August next under
the provisions of an act of Congress entitled "An act to provide for local
defense and special service," a copy of which is hereto appended. These troops
will be mustered into the service of the Confederate States, but held for the
defense of their own homes, and in no event will they be ordered beyond the
limits of this State.
This force must be composed of men over forty years of age, or such as from
other causes are not liable to conscription, and if not raised by volunteering by
or before the 1st day of August next, must be then immediately raised by a
draft upon that part of the militia between the ages of forty and fifty-five years.
As volunteers you will have the right to organize your companies, battalions,
and regiments by the election of such officers, as you may prefer.
You will be permitted to remain at your homes engaged in your ordinary avocations until such emergency shall arise as to make it necessary to order you to
the field.
You will be armed, and while on duty under orders will be paid and subsisted
as other Confederate troops.
When the emergency which called you to the field shall have passed, you will
be relieved from duty and return to your homes and ordinary pursuits your pay
and subsistence being stopped until you are ordered again to the field.
Volunteer companies, battalions, or regiments of infantry or mounted men who
furnish their own horses will be accepted.
June 22, 1863
If drafted from the militia you will be placed in such infantry organizations as
the authorities may deem best, and will most probably be continued on duty
during the entire term of service.
The muster-rolls of volunteer companies must distinctly set forth that the company is raised for local defense and special service within the State of Tennessee for the term of six months.
You will return your muster-rolls to the adjutant-general of the State immediately upon the organization of a company of not less than sixty-four privates,
with such officers as are required by law.
If said companies are organized into battalions or regiments previous to being
mustered into service, they will elect their field officers; but if mustered into
service as companies, the President will appoint battalion or regimental officers.
The enemy has shown that he fears to meet our gallant and invincible armies in
the field unless he outnumbers us two or three to one.
He has therefore resorted to a system of raids upon unarmed neighborhoods for
the purpose of devastating and pillaging the country, destroying our resources,
and laying waste our homes.
Men of Tennessee! if you would resist these raids, predatory bands, and incendiaries of the enemy, organize at once and stand ready to repel or crush them.
If you would protect your private property, defend your wives and children,
your personal liberty, your national independence, and your lives, organize at
once and stand ready to strike for them.
Let the beardless boy and the hoary-headed father organize for the defense of
their altars, their homes, and all that is dear to freemen.
Let the gallant men who have been disabled by the exposure and hardships of
the camp or the casualties of bloody fields give to these new organizations the
benefit of their experience and example.
Let every man who can wield a musket or draw a sword, who is so situated that
he cannot swell the ranks of our Army for constant duty, organize at once for
home defense and special service.
While I may justly claim, without the fear of successful contradiction, that Tennessee has already furnished to the Army of the Confederate States more
troops in proportion to population than any State in the Confederacy, and in
proportion to numbers engaged upon most of our battle-fields Tennessee soldiers have bled even more freely than those of other States-much as she has
already done in this struggle for national independence, I am proud to know
that she is able and willing to do more, and that she will persevere to the end of
the struggle, however long or bloody it may be.
I therefore appeal to you by every consideration of patriotism personal interest,
personal reputation, national independence, and the high character you have
June 22, 1863
hitherto borne as citizens of the "Volunteer State" to rise up as one man, organize, rally to the standard of your Government, and in the majesty of your
power make the invader feel that every hilltop bristles with the bayonets of
freedom and every mountain pass has become a Thermopylae.
Give him a new and stronger proof of the fact that we stand as a unit, deeply
solemnly, and irrevocably resolved on preserving independence at any and at
every cost; that the march of the invader and the rule of despotism will be
resisted at every step now and forever as long as there is a man or a boy in Tennessee who can pull a trigger, wield, a blade, or raise a finger in defiant resistance.
With this spirit prevailing our whole people, under the providence of a just
God, we will at no distant day be blessed with independence, peace, and prosperity.
In testimony thereof I have hereunto signed my name and caused the greater
seal of the State to be affixed, at Winchester on this the 22d day of June, A. D.
1863.
[SEAL]
ISHAM G. HARRIS,
By the Governor:
J. E. R. RAY, Secretary of State.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
AN ACT to amend an act to raise, organize, and equip a provisional force, and
for other purposes.
SECTION 1. Be it enacted by the Gen. Assembly of the State of Tennessee,
That the white male population of the State between the ages of eighteen and
forty-five shall constitute the reserved military corps thereof. Said corps shall
be organized and called into service, and shall be subject to duty upon the call
of the Governor; and this organization of the reserved corps shall continue for
and during the existence of the war now being waged with the United States.
That all the able-bodied white male population of this State between the ages
of forty-five and fifty-five years shall be organized under the provisions of this
act into a military corps for the defense of the State; but said corps, or any portion of it, shall not be called into actual service until after all of the reserved
corps provided by this act shall have been called into actual service; nor shall
this corps be called into actual service for a longer period, at any one time, than
six months, nor be transferred, or detailed or drafted into the service of the
Confederate States. And after this corps shall be organized they may determine
the times and places of their company, battalion, and regimental drills.
~~~
Passed March 18, 1862
June 22, 1863
E. A. KEEBLE, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
EDWARD S. CHEATHAM, Speaker of the Senate.
OR, Ser. IV, Vol. 2, pp. 666-670.NOTE 2
NOTE 1: The date is correct. Harris refers to the document of June 22, 1863, as well
as March 18, 1862. These documents are included here inasmuch as the
most important of them, that of June 22, 1863, falls into the chronology best
at this juncture.
NOTE 2: See also: OR, Ser. III, Vol. I, p. 579 and the Chattanooga Daily Rebel, June
28, 1862.
June 22, 1863 - "Martha I want you to come to see mee the first chance you have for I want
to see you and the children and talk with you come up to the meeting."
The letter of Corporal W. C. Tripp, Company B, 44th Tennessee Infantry,
in camp near Fairfield, to Martha A. Tripp
June the 22 1863
Fairfield Bedford County
Dear Wife I take my pin in hand to drop you a few lines to let you now that I
am well as common I hope when these few lines come to hand they will find
you all well and harty I heard from you last night heard you was well I was
very glad to here that you were well I sed I was well I have got the headache
this morning for the first time since you was up hear Mrs Crutchfield come up
last night I like to killed myself a eating I have gone Sum ses they have agon to
Iron Hill in east Tennessee there is no talk of us a leaving here as I no of turn
over
Martha I want you to come to see mee the first chance you have for I want to
see you and the children and talk with you come up to the meeting A preacher
from nashville is a going to preach his name is Wilson A Caldis I heard a good
sermon yesterday I wish I could come home to stay and live in peace and dy in
peace tell the children howdy for me and tell them I want to see them tell your
pap and mother I send my love and respects to them and tell them to rite to me
the seasons changed today I must come to a close for this time by saying good
by for this time
W. C. Tripp to Martha Tripp
I would rite mere but I have not got the chance this time I will doo better if I
get time to rite more.
Envelope is addressed
To Miss Martha A. E. Tripp
June 22, 1863
By the politeness of Chaney Smith
MSCC/CWRC
June 22, 1863 - Anti-Confederate satire concerning the skirmish in Knoxville, June 19,
1863NOTE 1
Knoxville is, and has been for the last two years. . . infested by a clique of
intolerant secession leaders. . . They have all the while been furious war men"last ditcher," "the Yankees could only enter Knoxville over their dead bodies,
" &c.,-but fortunately, until recently their courage had never been tried. Our
informant gives us an account of this test. . . It seems that when Colonel Saunders [i.e., Sanders] (supposed at the time to be Gen. Carter) approached Knoxville, and turned his artillery toward the town, the courage of the chivalrous
knights began to ooze out at their fingers' ends, and. . . they fled in every direction, (except toward Colonel S. ). . . Crosier. . . is reported to have precipitately
paddled himself across the Holton River, "a straddle" a pine log, while Sperry,
the Uriah Heap of the Register. . . Unwilling to abide the tardy motions of the
ferryboat, which chanced to be on the opposite side, plunged frantically into
the stream with his half emptied bottle in his hand. . . and. . . soon found himself stranded on the friendly rocks of a dam a short distance below the ferry.
The ferryman. . . relieved him from his perilous predicament and landed him,
all dripping on the southern shore. . . [Parson] Sneed. . . finding his line of
retreat cut off, incontinently subsided into a cellar, and, when called for by a
servant, who opened the cellar door some two hours after our troopsNOTE 2 had
left, arose from his hiding-place and with eyes dilated, heroic ally exclaimed:
"Don't fire, General Carter! My name's Sneed, the Hon. Wm. H. Sneed, late of
the United States Congress. In the language of General Buckner, Sir, I
surrender!". . . Captain Kain. . . known about Knoxville as "Claib Kain"-was in
the town at the time of Col. Saunder's approach, and being a Captain of Artillery was ordered into a battery by the Colonel commanding. But the said Claib,
never having enlisted with any idea of going into such a dangerous place as
that, is said to have procured his detail as Judge Advocate, and urged furthermore that his company was at Cumberland Gap, that it would never do for an
officer to expose his life as a private, etc., etc, but all to no avail. He was
peremptorily ordered into the Summit battery. Seeing a Lieutenant pointing a
gun toward our forces, the valiant Captain rushed forward exclaiming:-"For
God's sake, Lieutenant, don't fire that gun-the enemy will find out where we
are!"
But the melo-drama of the whole affair is said to have been witnessed in the
Branch Bank of Tennessee. That institution is presided over by Dr. . . J. G. M.
Ramsey. . . valorous, but at a later hour, it was ascertained they had reached the
Tazewell Road, nervousness got the better part of his courage. . . He turned to
his bank and his first impulse was to secrete himself within the vault; but then
the thought of "plundering vandals" drove all idea of security from his mind
and he sat down in despair. Calling his Cashier, he said: "Sir, I shall probably
ca. June 22, 1863
not survive the conflict. Should I fall, let the simple inscription on my monument be "He died a true son of Mecklenburg." At this instant a shell exploded
in a vacant lot near by. The Doctor was overcome. Seizing a copy of "Ramsey's
Annals"NOTE 3 and clasping it to his bosom he fled back into his chair crying,
"Bury me thus!"
Nashville Union, July 24, 1863.
NOTE 1: This satire was most likely by John M. Fleming, the former editor of the
Knoxville Register. He was a Union man and apparently in exile in Cincinnati, Ohio. He wrote the article, it was said, when Colonel William P. Sanders carried out his raid in June, 1863. See: Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol.
6, pp. 295-296, fn 6.
NOTE 2: Union troops with Sanders.
NOTE 3: James G. M. Ramsey wrote what is held to be the first history of the Volunteer State, often called "Ramsey's Annals." A more extended title is: Annals
of Tennessee to the End of the Eighteenth Century: Comprising Its Settlement, as the Watauga Association, from 1769 to 1777. . . to. . . the State of
Tennessee from 1796-1800, (Charleston, S. C.:Walker & James, 1853.
ca. June 22, 1863 - U. S. S. gunboat Robb with 150 refugees, fired upon by Rebel artillery on
Tennessee River
•See ca. June 20, 1863-June 23, 1863-Scout from Jackson to Paris to Fort
Heiman, Ky
June 22, 1863 - June 24, 1863 - Action, Powell's Valley
Dyers' Battle Index for Tennessee.
ca. June 22, 1863 - ca. September 22, 1863NOTE 1 - Ersatz designation as small pox hospital
renders Nashville soldiers’ saloon incognito
Almost every morning dead men were found lying around in the suburbs of the
city. At one time General Grainger ordered that all the courtesans be transported, and so the were gathered up and taken to Cincinnati, but they were not
allowed to and, and so they were returned. Orders were also very strict against
selling whisky to soldiers and every few days guards passed around breaking
up vessels and pouring out the whisky. An old and somewhat dilapidated house
stood near the camps according to William A. McTeer of the Third (Tennessee
Cavalry, on Jefferson street.). An arrangement was made between some parties
and some of the men in the regiment, so a hospital flag was raised over this
house, and the word given out that it was a small-pox hospital. The officers and
June 23, 1863
guards kept a respectful distance from it and never ventured to make a search
of that house, while those in the secret were constantly supplied with whisky
from it. Which of the two were the more deadly is hard to tell except that the
small-pox produced involuntary death while the latter was more of a voluntary
nature.
Knoxville Daily Chronicle, June 13, 1879.
NOTE 1: Dates are deduced approximates extrapolated from the sense of the source
document.
June 23, 1863 - "The defense of this line consists more especially in a system of continual
attacks upon every head of column that shows itself." Federal reaction to
Confederate demonstrations upon the Charleston and Memphis railroad
LAGRANGE, June 23, 1863—11.30 p. m.
(Received June 24.)
Maj.-Gen. HURLBUT, Memphis:
A heavy force is threatening Grand Junction to-night, 3 miles off; said to be
1,000, from Holly Springs. My whole command is under arms.
Mizner is not here yet.
R. J. OGLESBY.
Maj.-Gen. OGLESBY, LaGrange, Tenn.:
GEN.: If the enemy make a movement in strong force on the line of Memphis
and Charleston Railroad, Corinth and Pocahontas will be the points to be held,
and on which troops can be massed. Works commanding the bridges and
approaches at Pocahontas should be thrown up, and the country between that
point and Corinth should be strongly held.
Moscow is the next point of serious consequence, so far as the road is concerned, and should be the rallying point at this end of your line. The country
from Moscow to Memphis to be heavily patrolled by cavalry, and the place, if
invested, to be relieved from here, or garrison retired to this point.
My opinion is still unsettled as to the intention of this demonstration. All
depends upon the activity of Rosecrans, from which I fear we have little to
hope.
The defense of this line consists more especially in a system of continual
attacks upon every head of column that shows itself.
I wish a train of pack-mules organized for our cavalry. The saddles are here.
Thus they can take provisions, axes, and implements, and make their trips rapidly.
June 23, 1863
If there is any serious threat of attack, your unarmed negroes should be sent
here. I have telegraphed as to hospitals.
S. A. HURLBUT.
June 23, 1863 - A candle-lit Federal cavalry camp near Murfreesboro on the eve of the Tullahoma campaign
This evening we received orders to prepare to move camp. The men to take
three day's rations in their haversacks and all baggage not absolutely needed to
be sent to Murfreesboro. Every man to have also one hundred rounds of ammunition. At night the boys lit up the camp with pieces of candles and even
climbed the trees and put them there. Everybody seemed to desire to have his
light the highest. It was a very beautiful sight. The lights in the trees seemed at
a distance to be very bright stars. There was not a breath of air stirring and all
burned steadily. I do not suppose the old forest ever witnessed just such a scene
before and probably will not for a long time again. The bright moon, the blue
sky, studded with so many twinkling stars, the dark outline of the forest trees,
especially of the cedars. The white shelter tents showing so white in the light of
so many candles and in contrast to the dark color of all around and then the
forms of so many men moving about gave so much animation to the scene.
Alley Diary
June 23, 1863 - Actions, Liberty Gap
June 23, 1863
June 23, 1863 - July 7, 1863 - Tennessee or Tullahoma CampaignNOTE 1
JUNE 23-JULY 7, 1863.-The Middle Tennessee, or Tullahoma, Campaign.
June 23, 1863.
-Advance of the Union forces.
24, 1863.
-Skirmishes at Rover and Unionville.
24, 1863.
-Skirmish at Middleton.
24, 1863.
-Skirmish near Bradyville.
24, 1863.
-Skirmish at Christiana.
24, 1863.
-Skirmish at Big Spring Branch.
24-26, 1863.
-Skirmishes at Hoover's Gap.
24-27, 1863.
-Skirmishes at Liberty Gap.
25, 1863.
-Skirmish at Guy's Gap.
25, 1863.
-Skirmish at Fosterville.
26, 1863.
-Skirmish at Beech Grove.
27, 1863.
-Action at Shelbyville.
27, 1863.
-Skirmishes at Fosterville and Guy's Gap.
27, 1863.
-Skirmish at Fairfield.
27, 1863.
-Occupation of Manchester by the Union forces.
28, 1863.
-Skirmish at Rover.
29, 1863.
-Skirmish near Hillsborough.
29, 1863.
-Skirmish at Decherd.
29-30, 1863.
-Skirmishes near Tullahoma.
30, 1863.
-Confederate forces evacuate Tullahoma.
July 1, 1863.
-Occupation of Tullahoma by the Union forces.
1, 1863.
-Skirmish near Bethpage Bridge, Elk River.
1, 1863.
-Skirmish near Bobo's Cross-Roads.
2, 1863.
-Skirmish at Morris' Ford, Elk River.
June 23, 1863
JUNE 23-JULY 7, 1863.-The Middle Tennessee, or Tullahoma, Campaign.
2, 1863.
-Skirmish at Rock Creek Ford, Elk River.
2, 1863.
-Skirmish at Estill Springs.
2, 1863.
-Skirmishes at Pelham and Elk River Bridge.
3, 1863.
-Skirmish at Boiling Fork, near Winchester.
4, 1863.
-Skirmish at University Depot.
7, 1863.
-Army of Tennessee encamps about Chattanooga.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 399.
NOTE 1: There are 102 reports relating to the Tullahoma Campaign. Many of the
skirmishes were not appended by individual circumstantial reports. A representation of the service medal for the Army of the Cumberland, Union
honoring veterans of this campaign can be found in OR, Ser. I, Vol. 49, pt.
II, p. 1014.
June 23, 1863 - Skirmish at Rover
HDQRS. FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, on road between Rover and Versailles, June 24, 1863.
CAPT.: I have sent two messengers to you, and neither of them have returned,
nor have I received any orders.
We had a very severe skirmish beyond Rover and at the town, beating the
enemy back. There is a strong force at Unionville, to the picket line of which
force we advanced. It is reported that there are three brigades 1 mile beyond
Unionville, entrenched. Our horses have had nothing to eat, except what the
men brought on them, since yesterday morning. I shall await orders with head
of column at Versailles.
In correspondence with Gen. Stanley inform him where I am.
There is nothing in the country for the horses to eat. Everything is cleared out.
I am, &c.,
ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg.
P. S. -I have been very sick ever since I started.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 532.
June 23, 1863
June 23, 1863 - Skirmish at Uniontown
No circumstantial reports filed.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: There seems to be some confusion between Uniontown and Unionville,
Tennessee. For example, the index to Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 954 indicates there
are five references to a skirmish at Uniontown on June 23, 1863. However,
in only one of the five is there reference to "Unionville," and that is found
in Brigadier-General Robert B. Mitchell's report on the Tullahoma Campaign. The same index lists skirmishes associated with "Unionville" (p. 954)
on January 31 and March 4, 1863, but nothing for a skirmish at Unionville
for the 23d of June, 1863. The OR General Index, Vol. 2, p. 983, however,
refers to a skirmish at Uniontown, Tenn. for June 23, 1863 to be found in
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23. Unionville is today found in Bedford County, while Uniontown, Tennessee, is located far to the west in Dyer County. The Atlas recognizes Unionville as being in the area of the Middle Tennessee Campaign,
but does not recognize Uniontown, Tennessee. It is difficult to verify a skirmish at Uniontown for June 23, but it appears as though there may have
been a skirmish at Unionville, according to Mitchell's report.
June 23, 1863 - Federal termination of Confederate conscript sweeps in Henderson, Madison and McNairy counties
•See ca. June 23, 1863--Guerrilla attack on U. S. S. Robb and Confederate
conscript sweeps in Henderson, Madison and McNairy counties
June 23, 1863 - A Wisconsin soldier's thoughts as the Tullahoma Campaign begins
Murfreesboro Tenn.
June 23rd 1863
Dear friend,
I write to inform you that the time has at length arrived when we are to bid
adieu to our present encampment, and move forward to take our chances in
combat. From this you will naturally infer that I anticipate a battle. Really I
shall be surprised if we do not, within three days, meet the Confederates in
force. Still we may not. As near as I can find out, this is to be grand movement
of the "Army of the Cumberland." The troops will all move except those
assigned to garrison duty here. Some divisions move today. Ours will move
tomorrow at 7 o'clock A. M. We have a ruff country to pass through, and our
movements will necessarily be slow. The boys are much pleased with the idea
of a move. They have become tired of the monotony of camp life, and welcome a change. In this I heartily concur, I too prefer a change.
June 23, 1863
J. M. Randall
James M. Randall Diary
June 23, 1863 - Skirmish near Eagleville
ReportNOTE 1 of Col. Archibald P. Campbell, Second Michigan Cavalry, commanding First Brigade.
HDQRS. FIRST CAV. Brig., DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Camp near
Decherd, July 6, 1863.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the
First Brigade, First Division of Cavalry, since its departure from Triune, June
23, 1863, to the present date:
June 23, marched from Triune, by the Shelbyville pike, through Eagleville.
Soon after leaving the latter place, the Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry commenced a brisk skirmish with the enemy, driving 300 rebel cavalry before them
rapidly for a distance of 2 miles, when they were relieved by the Second Michigan Cavalry, dismounted, which regiment drove the enemy from their
encampment at Rover. The latter burned their tents and other camp equipage.
Here they opened upon us with artillery. Our skirmishers advancing, drove the
enemy 2 miles, when at attack was made upon our right flank by artillery and a
charge by cavalry, which was instantly repulsed by the Fourth Kentucky Cavalry and First East Tennessee Cavalry. The enemy leaving, we bivouacked until
3 a. m. next morning, (24th) and marched at daylight toward Middleton, via
Versailles. The Second Michigan Cavalry, dismounted, I ordered to the
advance, and they drove a stubborn enemy from their chosen position in a
ravine and in log buildings of the town, and, with the aid of artillery, completely routed the enemy, with severe loss in killed and wounded. Each regiment of the brigade acted well their part in driving the enemy out of sight. A
battalion of the Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, dismounted, deserves credit for
their bravery on this occasion.
At dark the command was ordered back 5 miles toward Salem, and camped for
the night, and next morning [June 25] crossed over to Murfreesborough and
Shelbyville pike.
June 27, marched toward Shelbyville. Skirmished the enemy from Fosterville
to Guy's Gap, when the Second Cavalry Division took the advance until arriving near Shelbyville, when its brigade was ordered forward and took the left
column of the charge into Shelbyville, taking a large number of prisoners and
driving many of the enemy into Duck River in their confusion.
Next day, returned to Guy's Gap for forage, and on the morning of June 29
marched to Shelbyville, Fairfield, and Beech Grove, and the day following
[June 30] toward Manchester, and encamped near Walker's Mill.
June 23, 1863
July 2, marched at 2 a. m.; passed through Manchester on Hillsborough road to
Elk River.
July 3, marched through Decherd to Cowan Station, where some prisoners
were taken, without fighting. The enemy's pickets fled to the mountains at our
approach. We returned to Decherd same day [July 3].
The casualties are as follows: In the Second Michigan Cavalry-June 23, at
Rover, 1 private slightly wounded; 24th, at Middleton, 1 private slightly
wounded, and, 27th, at Shelbyville, 3 privates missing. In Ninth Pennsylvania
Cavalry-3 privates wounded; Capt. Gilbert Waters killed by falling from his
horse at the charge into Shelbyville. In First East Tennessee Cavalry-June 23,
at Rover, 1 private killed and 1 taken prisoner; June 24, 1 private severely
wounded, and July 3, 1 private killed by falling from his horse. Fourth Kentucky Cavalry-June 23, at Rover, 1 private wounded severely.
The number of prisoners taken at Shelbyville by this brigade cannot be accurately ascertained. Since that engagement we have taken 50 prisoners, including a few that I have paroled.
I remain, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
A. P. CAMPBELL, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 547-548.
NOTE 1: The fight at Eagleville on the 23d, as well as in other venues during the campaign, are recorded in the general reports made during the Tullahoma Campaign.
June 23, 1863 - Newspaper editor's reply to a Confederate soldier in Shelbyville concerned
about the value of Confederate money and bonds
We have heretofore explained and now repeat, that the [Confederate] Treasury
notes dated prior to 1st December, 1862, if not funded on or before the 1st day
of August, will still be receivable for all dues to the Government expect export
dues, though no longer fundable-that a large proportion of them would be converted into bonds, and that the taxes already levied was sufficient to absorb the
rest. Even if they are not thus absorbed, being less desirable than subsequent
issues which are fundable, they will take their place in circulation and still [be
used] in ordinary transactions as formerly. We see no reason why they should
materially depreciate, as the Government is as much bound to redeem them as
any other notes. There is, therefore, no real cause for uneasiness on the subject.
In reply to the question, what provision has been made for the soldier on duty
who is unable to visit a depository in person, we can only state that we know of
none. The [Confederate] notes, however, can be sent, by express, or by some
friend of the person who desires to exchange them for bonds. The depository at
this place will receive money by express, and issue certificates or bonds, (the
bonds not having reached him) and return them according to the directions of
June 23, 1863
the party interested. He receives deposits frequently in this way. The bond,
when they are issued, will date with the date or the certificate which is not
being issued, and draw interest from the date of the depository. The soldiers in
camp may send, either by, express or hand, their [Confederate] Treasury notes
to Jesse Thomas, the depository at Chattanooga, and he will return them a bond
or its equivalent, as they may direct. The name of the person making the
deposit, and of the person to whom it is desired the bond should issue should
accompany every remittance.
Bonds will not be issued for fractional parts of an hundred dollars. Therefore,
remittances should be made in so many round hundreds or thousands. Bonds
may be of any denomination desired, from one hundreds to one thousand dollars, counting by hundreds.
Chattanooga Daily Rebel, June 23, 1863.
June 23, 1863 - "The Negro Question-Hacks and Prostitutes;" the Nashville City Council's
attempts to maintain social order
The following preamble and resolutions offered by president M. M. Brien,
were adopted on Tuesday last [23d], by the Board of Aldermen:
Whereas, In the opinion of the City Council of Nashville, in a crisis like the
present, it is constitutional, lawful and just for the President of the United
States to seize upon and use any and all the means in his power, especially all
found in the hands, possession, claimed or controlled by rebels, or opposers of
the Government of the United States, to aid and assist him in subduing and putting down this infamous rebellion; that it is not right, but unjust and impolitic
for true loyal American citizens, whether in or out of office, in or out of the
army, to grumble, divide, and contend upon or about questions of policy, especially in time of rebellion, but all should strive to harmonize, go heart and hand
in sustaining the President in all ways and means (at least for the present) in his
efforts to put down this rebellion and restore the Union.
And, whereas, it was a war policy of General Jackson in 1814, to recruit and
enlist in the American army negro soldiers; and further, we have the example
of the rebels, who held meetings, called for and did raise and recruit negro soldiers in 1816 in the cities of Memphis and New Orleans, and put them in the
service to fight against the Union and loyal soldiers, and free white citizens of
the United States aforesaid:
Therefore, Resolved by the City Council1st. That we recognize Abraham Lincoln as President of the United States, and
commander-in-chief of the American army, therefore, it is to obey him, not
object, or stop to inquire the cause, or policy, of any rule, order, command,
appointment, or proclamation for the suppression of the rebellion.
2d. That this rebellion is iniquitous and unjust; it can be, and must be put down,
and the Union restored; that we, as true men, cannot and do not wish or recom-
June 23, 1863
mend a peace upon any other terms. To this end, therefore, we hereby most
heartily tender the President our co-operation and approval of his war measures, and stand ready and pledge ourselves to support and sustain him with all
means, men, and money in our power.
3d. That we recognize the right (and believe it the true policy) of the President,
as suggested in the foregoing preamble, (and for any other reasons that could
be stated,) as a war measure, and as a more speedy way to crush out the rebellion, therefore recommend that the President call recruits and enlist negro soldiers especially cause to be taken, receive, recruit, and enlist all negroes
belonging to or once claimed by rebels, and those opposed to the Government
of the United States, at least all those fit for service, wherever and whenever it
can be done; then to be officered and commanded by competent free white
men, as suggested by Gen. Jackson to his colored soldiers in 1814, or upon
such other terms as the President and commanders may think proper.
4th. And whereas, a large, unprecedented collection of runaway slaves, contrabands and free negroes, without profitable occupations, or place of residence,
and without means of subsistence, not infest the city and vicinity in gross violation of the State and Municipal law, a source of great annoyance to the citizens: Therefore, we earnestly suggest and request the military authorities to
take charge of and control said negroes, at least, so far as practicable, put them
in the army, to work on fortifications, in hospitals, on railroads, or some other
public work for the government, or suffer and permit the city and municipal
authorities to enforce the law in reference to said negroes ; but not in such
manner as to aid or assist rebel owners or claimants in re-possessing themselves of said slaves, or their services, or their hire.
The vote by which the foregoing preamble and resolutions were adopted, is as
follows:
Yeas.-Messrs. Brien, Carper, Clairborne, Mayfield, Scovel and Smith.
Nay.-Mr. Cheatham.
Mr. Robb, the Alderman from the 2d Ward, was absent.
The preamble and resolutions will come up for action at the next meeting of
the Common Council, to be held this evening, at 3 o'clock.
The following bill was offered in the Board of Aldermen by Alderman
Cheatham on last Tuesday [23rd] evening, and passed its first reading:
A Bill to prevent lewd women from riding in Hacks, and regulating the rates of
fare in the City of Nashville.
Sec. 1. Be it enacted by the City Council, That hereafter it shall not be lawful
for any hackman to drive, for pleasure or show, any woman of ill-fame through
the streets of the City.
Sec. 2, Be it further enacted, That the following shall be the rates of fare for
riding in hacks: For one, or the first hour, one dollar and fifty cents, and for one
June 23, 1863
hour thereafter, one dollar, and for conveying each passenger to any part of the
city, not more than fifty cents.
Sec. 3. Be it enacted, That each hackman shall have a card hanging up in his
hack showing the above rates of charge for fare;
Sec. 4. Be it enacted, that any person violating the provision of this at shall be
fined not less than five nor more than fifty dollars, and if he be a slave shall be
taken up and struck thirty-nine lashes.
Sec. 5. Be it enacted, That this act shall take effect from and after its passage.
June 23, 1863 - Federal orders to arrest Confederate civilians in Lexington and Huntingdon
as guarantees of safety for Unionist hostages held by Confederates
Lieut.-Col. VON HELMRICH, Cmdg. Expedition:
COL.:. . . In case the reported demonstration of the enemy on Fort Heiman
should prove to be false, you will proceed with the three companies of your
regiment southward, in the general direction of Lexington, Tenn. Arriving at
Lexington you will arrest the following named persons, well known as actively
disloyal and dangerous, on account of their wealth, and influence: William T.
Collins (carries on a shoe factory for the rebels; his negro, Burrell, can give all
necessary information), John F. Clark, Dr. John E. West, and George W. Pool,
all residing in Lexington, and William F. Kiser, Verbin Trico, and William
Barnhill, residing about 4 miles west and northwest of Lexington. These men,
you will inform the citizens of Lexington, will be held as hostages at Columbus, Ky, for the good treatment of the persons and property of Union men.
Isaac C. Hall, William Brooks, and Levi McEwing (the sheriff) can be relied
on for information regarding the enemy, they being reported as consistent
Union men. Either going or returning you will visit Huntingdon, Tenn., and
obtain a secret interview Dr. Seth W. Bell, a trustworthy Union man. Any statement he may make can be relied upon, and you will arrange with him to send
by messenger to these headquarters, from time to time, any authentic information he may gather of importance regarding the enemy, assuring him that men
employed by him for that purpose will be remunerated here. His signature,
when writing letters of information, is D. Snips. Finally, you are informed that
a cavalry force of ours is expected to move from the Mississippi State line to
Jackson, Tenn., and the Obion region. Be careful not to mistake them for
rebels.
ASBOTH.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 24 pt. III, p. 434.
June 23, 1863 - " One of the most remarkable problems connected with our social condition
is presented by the fact that while in every centre of two belligerent
June 23, 1863
armies, liable to all the real dangers and distracting fears consequent upon
such a situation, St. Cecilia's Academy has suffered little, if any, relaxation
from its former high degree of prosperity."
St. Cecilia's Academy Commencement.
The faculty and other managers of St. Cecilia's have many causes of congratulations at the important results of their labors in behalf of female education.
From the opening of this Institute to the present time, its progress in every
branch of learning has been steady, and the Second Annual Exhibition which
closed on Tuesday evening [23rd] was a most happy period to the yearly routine of study. The many evidences of devotion to scholastic duty, the development of clear-minded appreciation to the severest lessons in history, (ancient
and modern,) philosophy, the languages, rhetoric, mathematics, etc., and the
show of a labor of level in music and the fine arts, we accept as gratifying
proofs that notwithstanding the absorbing interest taken by all classes of citizens in the stirring political themes of the day and the excitement growing out
of the war news, the prosperity of some of our literary institutions continues
with but little diminution. One of the most remarkable problems connected
with our social condition is presented by the fact that while in every centre of
two belligerent armies, liable to all the real dangers and distracting fears consequent upon such a situation, St. Cecilia's Academy has suffered little, if any,
relaxation from its former high degree of prosperity.
It is conceded, we believe that the assemblage was larger on this occasion than
ever before. Such a phalanx of beauty, intelligence and gallantry, making all
allowances for the multiplicity of inconveniences and deprivations of war, has
not united in our midst since the peaceful days of yore. We are sure that a more
lovely array of childhood never took place anywhere. The costume of the "little dears," in both junior and senior departments, was of the most elegant and
fashionable prints, and in the "make up": the characteristics of neatness and
simplicity were unmistakable. At the opening of the Concert, never, we
thought, did a scene appear so strikingly beautiful—the Entrance March, executed with great precision and artfulness of order, in which all the pupils took
part: the well-executed piano accompaniment, by Miss Nellie Flowers: the
finely decorated state; the gay and attentive audience in the spacious chapel;
the highly embellished walls and panels—all afforded a panorama truly grant
and imposing. The discipline of the scholars throughout the series of exercises
was admirable—in fact, we never saw so few "outs of order" in any similar
exhibition. As we could not, unfortunately, witness the performances after six
o'clock, we can only speak safely of the First Part, given between the hours of
4 and 6 o'clock P. M.: although we are assured that Part II, in point of excellence, was not inferior in any detail. The musical efforts of the young ladies
were highly satisfactory to all present, eulogistic of Professor Adams' ability as
an instructor, and very creditable to the proficiency of his pupils, each and all.
Of the vocal pieces, The Forest Nymphs, a trio by Misses Lizzie Morrison,
Jennie Maginness and Mollie Lunsden, received the most praise. For splendor
ca. June 23, 1863
of execution, the Malta March, solo and trio on piano, guitar and harp,
deserved the palm. The improvements of the students, since the First Annual
Commencement, was noticeable in every effort, and their parents, who were in
attendance, manifested the utmost delight. We hope to see this already celebrated institution continue to receive the generous support of all who would
bestow on their daughters the blessings of a pure and thorough education. The
noble Sisters who manage its beneficent collegiate government deserve the
plaudits of their every patron, and merit the liberal aid of parents of all denominations. Our citizens know the academy to occupy one of the loveliest and
most healthy and convenient sites in this vicinity, or perhaps in the whole
Southwest. It is only requisite to once walk among and look upon the picturesque campus of the Academy, to fall utterly in love with it, as did all who visited it on last Tuesday. We find that, for want of space, we shall have to close
our imperfect reference to this interesting reunion, by the introduction of the
following list of premiums in departments for which we are indebted to Mr. E.
E. Jones of the Dispatch office.
[There follows a lengthy list of students' names and the awards they were presented.]
~~~
ca. June 23, 1863 - Guerrilla attack on U. S. S. Robb and Confederate conscript sweeps in
Henderson, Madison and McNairy counties
H. W. HALLECK, Gen.-in-Chief:
Lieut.-Col. Henry telegraphs from Fort Heiman: Scouts just in from Paris,
Tenn. No rebels there, but reported between there and Jackson. Also, that gunboats had arrived from Hamburg, reporting large rebel force crossing the west
side of Tennessee between Saltillo and Duck River, mostly cavalry, but some
artillery. Fired at gunboat Robb, killing 1 man and wounding 2. One rebel captain killed and 7 soldiers wounded. One hundred and fifty refugees came down
on gunboat. The cavalry scouts from Clinton, Ky., returning from Jackson,
report that an hour before their arrival at Jackson a cavalry force from Gen.
Dodge passed through that place from Tennessee River southward on Purdy
road, destroying bridges up to Thursday morning. The rebel Col. [J. F. ] Newsom was there with 42 men, and other officers from the rebel army with small
commands were moving through Henderson, Madison, and McNairy Counties,
recruiting, conscripting, and organizing, but disappeared on the approach of
our troops.
ASBOTH.
June 24, 1863
June 23, 1863 - June 26, 1863 - Scouts from Huntingdon to Fort Heiman
FORT HEIMAN, June 29, 1863.
Brig.-Gen. ASBOTH:
GEN.: Scouts in from Huntingdon report that they were there on the 23d
instant. Saw or heard of no rebels. Federal troops occupy Trenton. All quiet in
that vicinity.
A. P. HENRY, Lieut.-Col., Cmdg. Post.
June 24, 1863 - Skirmish at Middleton
HDQRS. RESERVE CORPS, In the Field, near Christiana, Tenn., June 25,
1863—7 a. m.
GEN.: I have just this moment heard from Gen. Mitchell. After a very stubborn
resistance made by the enemy, he drove him out of Middleton yesterday
evening [24th]. He is now returning here to supply his command with forage
for his horses and rations for his men. He found the country about Middleton
devastated, and his horses have had nothing to eat for three days. He is now
within 3 miles of this place, and I have sent out forage and rations to meet him.
I will send to Murfreesborough to-day for additional forage and rations for
him. His command will not be fit for service before to-morrow night, and I will
retain it here awaiting your orders.
G. GRANGER, Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 532-533.
June 24, 1863 - Skirmish near Bradyville
Excerpt from the Report of Maj. Gen. Thomas L. Crittenden, U. S. Army, commanding Twenty-first Army Corps during the Middle Tennessee or Tullahoma
Campaign, June 23, July 7; relative to the skirmish at Bradyville, June 24,
1863.
HDQRS. TWENTY-FIRST ARMY CORPS, ADJT. GEN. 'S OFFICE,
Manchester, Tenn., July 13, 1863.
SIR: In obedience to orders received at Murfreesborough on Wednesday, June
24, 1863, at 2.15 a. m., I marched on the same morning for Lumley's Stand, by
the way of Bradyville, with Maj.-Gen. Palmer's and Brig.-Gen. Wood's divisions. Gen. Van Cleve, with his division, remained at Murfreesborough to garrison the fort. Just beyond Bradyville, in Gillies' Gap, we encountered a small
force of the enemy's cavalry, who were driven so easily as to cause no delay.
June 24, 1863
Gen. Palmer, who was in the advance, lost 1 man killed and 1 wounded at this
place.
~~~
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 525.
June 24, 1863 - Skirmish at ChristianaNOTE 1
HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In Camp, Manchester, Tenn., June 28,
1863.
COL.: In accordance with orders of this date, I have the honor to submit the
following summary of the operations of my division during the past five days:
By direction of Maj. Gen. G. Granger, commanding Reserve Corps, I advanced
from Triune, Tenn., at 9 a. m. on Tuesday, June 23, 1863, by the Nolensville
pike, to within 1 mile of Harpeth River, and thence striking across to the
Manchester pike, by way of Winslow's Camp Ground, I arrived at Salem at 6 p.
m., and encamped for the night.
At 7 a. m. Wednesday, June 24, I advanced of the Twentieth Army Corps. I
remained at Christiana until relieved, in turn, by Gen. Baird's division of the
Reserve Corps, when I advanced 2 miles in the direction of Millersburg, and
encamped for the night on Ross' farm, at Henry's Creek. At Christiana my
pickets encountered those of the rebels, and kept up a brisk skirmish during my
stay at that point, the rebels occasionally bringing a 6-pounder gun to bear
upon us, without, however, doing us any injury.
On Thursday, June 25, I was relived from duty with the Reserve Corps, and
ordered to report to the corps proper of the division. I, however, remained at
the Ross farm, at the request of Gen. McCook, commanding on my immediate
left, until 11 a. m. that day, when I advanced to Hoover's Mill and encamped
for the night.
During the 24th and 25th it rained incessantly, rendering the dirt roads over
which I was frequently obliged to travel exceedingly difficult for the passage
of artillery and wagons. I, however, succeeded in bringing my train through
with comparatively little damage.
On Friday, June 26, I reported, according to orders, to Maj.-Gen. Rousseau,
and, in conjunction with his division, effected the passage of Hoover's Gap (an
Official report of the action attending which I have already forwarded), and
encamped that night on the south side of Scott's Branch of Garrison Creek.
On Saturday, June 27, I advanced to Manchester, via Fairfield, striking the
Manchester pike at Powell's farm, and encamped there, under the direction of
the major-general commanding the corps.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
June 24, 1863
J. M. BRANNAN, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. Division.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 420.
NOTE 1: Oftentimes the existence of a skirmish is chronicled not in a separate report,
but one encompassing several days, such as the Tullahoma Campaign. The
skirmish at Christiana (Rutherford County) is an example. It was mentioned
as part of five days of fighting during the campaign and aside from the fact
that it is documented, was a small fight.
June 24, 1863 - Skirmish at Manchester
June 24, 1863 - Skirmish at Big Spring Branch
Excerpt from the Report of Col. John T. Wilder, Seventeenth Indiana Infantry,
commanding First Brigade, during the Middle Tennessee Campaign, June 23July 7, 1863, relative to the skirmish at Big Spring Branch, June 24, 1863.
HDQRS. 1ST BRIGADE, 4TH DIVISION, 14TH ARMY CORPS, Camp near
Duck River Bridge, July 11, 1863.
MAJ.: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my
command in the late movements, resulting in driving the rebel forces under
Gen. Bragg south across the Tennessee River:
On the morning of June 24, 1863, at 3 o'clock, my command moved from
camp, 6 miles north from Murfreesborough, and taking the advance of the
Fourteenth Army Corps, on the Manchester pike moved forward to Big Spring
Branch, 7 miles from Murfreesborough. Here my scouts gave notice of the
proximity of rebel pickets. The command was halted until the infantry closed
up, when we immediately moved forward, the Seventy-second Indiana, Col.
Miller, being in advance, with five companies, under Lieut.-Col. Kirkpatrick,
thrown out as an advance guard, and a party of 25 scouts, of the Seventeenth
and Seventy-second, as an extreme advance guard. One mile from the creek we
came upon the rebel pickets, who opened fire on the advance, which was
returned by our men, driving the rebels to a hill thickly covered with cedars,
where the rebel reserves were drawn up under cover of the hill, and opened a
rapid fire upon our men, who advanced rapidly to the foot of the hill, when
Col. Kirkpatrick deployed one company on each side of the road, and, without
halting, drove the rebels from their position, capturing 2 prisoners, without loss
on our part. I directed the advance to push speedily forward and take possession of Hoover's Gap, and, if possible, to prevent the enemy from occupying
June 24, 1863
their fortifications, which I learned were situated at a narrow point of the gap,
16 miles from Murfreesborough.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 457.
June 24, 1863 - Report relative to condition of railroads in East Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama, excerpts concerning East Tennessee
[JUNE 24, 1863.]
[Maj. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS. ]
GEN.: I have traveled over the railroads in East Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, and am able to make the following report:
On the railroad leading from Chattanooga to Knoxville there are 19 engines
employed, 12 of which are nearly unfit for service, and the balance considerably worn. There are three stone and two wooden bridges on this road; the latter are over the Tennessee and Hiawassee Rivers; both covered. The Hiawassee
Bridge is guarded by about 50 men, and the Tennessee by 500 men, at Loudon.
On the road from Knoxville to Lynchburg, Va., there are 12 engines, 3 of which
are good and the others scarcely fit for use. On that road there are two important bridges across the Holston and Watauga Rivers. They are new wooden
bridges-uncovered trestle-work-having been rebuilt since destroyed by Gen.
Carter last winter. On the Western and Atlantic road, leading from Atlanta to
Chattanooga, there are 34 engines, two-thirds of which are nearly unfit for use.
On this road are thirteenth wooden bridges-uncovered trestle-work-within 30
miles of Chattanooga. On South Chickamauga River there is also one important wooden bridge, not far from Atlanta. On the Georgia road, leading from
Atlanta to Savannah, there are 53 engineers, three fourths of which are badly
damaged.
~~~
The fortifications at Chattanooga are progressing slowly, as a portion of the
hands have lately been sent to Loudon to fortify that place. There is one pontoon bridge over the Tennessee River at Kelley's Ferry and the other at
Rankin's Ferry; both above Bridgeport. They could be destroyed very easily, as
there are only some 15 or 20 guards at each place.
The strength of Bragg's army has remained about the same for some time. . .
~~~
[Indorsement.]
24, 1863.
Respectfully referred to the Gen.-in-Chief for his information. These facts
were obtained by Dr. McGowan, a Union a man of East Tennessee. . . The doctor traveled over the whole route, and his report is very reliable.
June 24, 1863
W. S. ROSECRANS, Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.
June 24, 1863 - ". . . the sun shown brightly on the moving hosts, the arms glittered gaily in
the bright light and all was life and animation." The initiation of the Tullahoma Campaign, as recorded by Sergeant Charles Alley, 5th Iowa Cavalry
Left early this morning and found the whole army [of the Cumberland] in
motion. Everywhere were to be seen large bodies of men moving southward.
Cavalry, artillery and infantry—the sun shown brightly on the moving hosts,
the arms glittered gaily in the bright light and all was life and animation. We
moved forward on the Woodbury Pike. Soon the fine morning passed away and
the clouds rapidly rose. Thunders uttered their voices and lightnings flashed
and we marched on through a pouring rain for about 8 miles when we were
halted and had the pleasure of sitting an hour or two in the rain, when we were
countermarched and came back to M. and then went out on the Salem Pike
where it was said the Rebels were driving our men. All the way we could hear
the cannonading—but in the afternoon it seemed to be getting farther off—we
marched seven or eight miles on this latter pike then took across the road and
went on a few miles farther to the left and bivouacked. I was rather a dreary
time everything in damp. However, I spread my rubber blanket on the ground,
my saddle blanket on that and lay down. After awhile it began to rain again
when I drew my talmaNOTE 1 over my blanket and defied it.
Alley Diary
NOTE 1: A cape or full cloak popular in the first half of the nineteenth century.
June 24, 1863 - Tactical use of railroads recommended in the Obion region of West Tennessee
COLUMBUS, June 24, 1863.
Maj. Gen. STEPHEN A. HURLBUT, Comdg. Sixteenth Army Corps:
GEN.: * * * *
. . . In order to control more efficiently the guerrilla movements in the Obion
region, and guard railroad and telegraphic communication between Columbus,
Union City, and Hickman, I have established an advanced post of two companies of cavalry at Union City, and here take occasion to allude in connection
with my report of 21st instant, No. 2478, to the importance of connecting, as
early as possible, the Paducah Railroad with the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, to
facilitate the early movements of my very limited command, and enable me to
throw men or supplies promptly from one point to any other, and would beg
that Brig. Gen. J. D. Webster, superintendent United States military railroads,
June 24, 1863
be requested to take the matter in hand, and intrust a competent officer with the
execution of the work and the management of the roads.
I cannot move more cavalry at present, as that returning from the field requires
a few days' rest, but will keep my district, as well as that of Jackson, thoroughly scouted with the available force, and will continually send infantry on
train to Trenton to feel of Obion region.
ASBOTH.
OR, Ser. I, Vol 24, pt. III, pp. 436-437.
June 24, 1863 - Secret Agents
Probable Spies.
Green Belcher, captured by Col. Baird near Franklin, Tenn., as a rebel soldier,
was received by Col. Spaulding, Provost Marshal, yesterday The accused
denies being a rebel soldier; but he has made so many false statements, that he
will be held as a spy or prisoner of war, whichever he may prove himself.
Thos. Finnerly, a citizen of Triune, was also sent in by Major General Granger,
to be retained as a rebel spy until further orders.
June 24, 1863 - June 26, 1863 - Skirmishes at Hoover's Gap
Report of Brig. Gen. William B. Bate, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, Stewart's division.
CAMP NEAR TYNER'S STATION, July 15, 1863.
MAJ.: I have the honor to submit the following report of the battle of Hoover's
Gap, fought on the evening of June 24 last by a part of my brigade:
About 2 o'clock in the afternoon of that day, while encamped 1 mile from Fairfield and 4 from Hoover's Gap, a courier arrived from Maj.-Gen. Stewart,
directing me to send one regiment and a battery up Garrison's Fork toward
Beech Grove. In a few moments a second courier arrived, directing me to send
two regiments. The Twentieth Tennessee and the Thirty-seventh (then known
as the First) Georgia Regt. and the Eufaula Light Artillery were designated for
the expedition, and at once started through a drenching rain in fulfillment of
the order. [T. D. ] Caswell's battalion of sharpshooters (Fourth Georgia Battalion) was directed to follow, and the remainder of my command ordered under
arms, and to hold itself in readiness to move. Though the order was to send the
force, I took the liberty of commanding it in person, believing it would meet
the approbation of the major-general commanding. The command had not
passed the confines of my camp before meeting in scattered remnants a part of
the First [Third] Kentucky Cavalry in hot haste, stating that while on picket
June 24, 1863
they had been scattered and driven from beyond Hoover's Gap by the advancing columns of the enemy. I had proceeded a mile when I met their colonel ([J.
R. ] Butler) with some 8 or 10 of his men. He at once volunteered to return
with me, and did so. I learned from him that three regiments of the enemy's
cavalry had passed down the Manchester turnpike. I also about the same time
heard from a citizen that some scouts of the enemy had already passed from the
Manchester pike down Noah's Fork as far as A. B. Robertson's mill, which was
on the main road leading to my right and rear. I thereupon immediately sent a
staff officer to camps, with instructions to Col. R. C. Tyler to move his command (the Fifteenth and Thirty-seventh Tennessee Regt. 's consolidated) to
some eligible and defensible position on the road up Noah's Fork, and prevent
the enemy turning our right and rear. Through same channel I ordered Col.
Bush Jones to take his command (Ninth Alabama Battalion) 1 mile in front of
our encampment, where the Dismal Hollow road diverges from its main direction and is intersected by road leading to Garrison's Fork, to resist any attempt
made by the enemy to pass in that direction, which was to my left, and to hold
himself ready to re-enforce our advance should occasion require.
These dispositions having been ordered, I hastily communicated them to Maj.Gen. Stewart, at Fairfield, and moved on briskly to original destination. When
about mile from Beech Grove (which is near the entrance to Hoover's Gap), I
threw out a company of skirmishers to my right, and sent forward with a few
scouts, at his own instance, Maj. William Clare, of Gen. Bragg's staff, to ascertain the whereabouts of the enemy. His fire was soon drawn and his position
developed. I immediately prepared to giver him battle, and advanced two companies as skirmishers at a double-quick to gain and occupy a skirt of woods
before the enemy could do so, and to which he was advancing. Maj. Fred.
Claybrooke (of the Twentieth Tennessee) pushed forward the skirmishers and
effected the object, driving the enemy back after a sharp contest, in which Maj.
Claybrooke, while gallantly pressing forward, received his death wound.
Our line of battle, composed of the Twentieth Tennessee and Thirty-seventh
Georgia Regt. 's, extended at right angles across the main road leading from
Fairfield to Hoover's Gap, its left resting on the east bank of Garrison's Fork.
This line, with skirmishers well advanced, was moved forward until the enemy
was driven back near a mile from where we first met him into Hoover's Gap.
One section of the Eufaula Light Artillery, under command of Lieut. [William
Henry] Woods, was in the mean time placed in position on an eminence on my
right just previously occupied by the enemy's advance. This section (3-inch
rifles) opened briskly and with such telling effect as to prevent the enemy's farther advance in that direction. It, in conjunction with our advanced skirmishers,
completely commanded the exit from the gap going east.
Having thus checked his advance on the Manchester pike, and learning that the
mount men who had been near Robertson's mill had returned to the gap before
we arrived in sight of the same, believing my right and rear free from attack, I
ordered, through a staff officer, Col. Tyler to bring his command up Garrison's
Fork to the position we then occupied, and Col. Jones to bring his to my left.
June 24, 1863
Finding the enemy in force, and knowing he could without obstruction turn my
left and gain a series of hills which commanded our then line of battle, and then
relieve the Manchester pike, I at once moved Caswell's battalion of sharpshooters (which had just arrived), the Twentieth Tennessee, and the remaining section of the Eufaula Light Artillery, under command of Lieut. [W. J. ]
McKenzie, to the left and across Garrison's Fork; ordered them to advance and
drive the enemy before he should get a lodgment on the hills. My suspicion as
to his probable movement was correct. He was advancing in force to gain the
hills and turn our left. He was met with such spirit and resolution by these little
commands, each playing its part most handsomely, that he gave way under
their fierce attack until pressed back upon his second line. The engagement
here became general and sanguinary.
Finding no disposition on the part of the foe to press my right to regain the
ground from which he had been driven and relieve the Manchester pike, I
ordered Col. [A. F. ] Rudler, with the Thirty-seventh Georgia Regt., to move
his command across the creek up the steep acclivity of its left bank, form line
parallel to the same, and given an enfilading fire to the force then heavily
engaging my left. The order was obeyed with alacrity and in good style. The
enemy, anticipating the move, met it with a line of battle fronting the woods
which skirted the bank of the creek. A bloody engagement here ensued with
great odds against us, and after a futile but most persistent and gallant effort to
dislodge him, Col. Rudler properly withdrew his command under cover of the
bank. At this juncture every gun and piece in that portion of my command
which had arrived on the field was engaged in a spirited and deadly contest.
In this position we fought for nearly an hour, when, by his excess of numbers,
the enemy turned our already extended left flank, giving an enfilading fire to
the Twentieth Tennessee. It recoiled from the shock, was rallied, and formed in
good time on a fence running a short distance from and perpendicular to our
line of battle. Caswell's battalion of sharpshooters still held the right of the
woods from which the enemy had been driven. Seeing, by his vastly superior
force, that he could again turn my left without resistance, as every gun and
piece of mine present were engaged, and Tyler and Jones not yet possibly
within supporting distance, I removed the artillery then engaged on the left to a
line of hills immediately in our rear and in front of William Johnson's house,
which admirably overlooked the entire battle-ground, as well as a considerable
space to the right and left. The artillery being placed in position on these commanding heights, my entire force present, excepting that guarding the east exit
from the gap and the Manchester pike, was quickly and advantageously placed
in such position as gave protection to both flanks, and ability to successfully
repel any assault from the front. This position being secured, we held the
enemy at bay with little effort and comparative security.
At this juncture, an hour by sun, Lieut. Col. Bush. Jones, with the Ninth Alabama Battalion, arrived upon the field, under a heavy artillery fire, and was
placed in position on the extreme left. Soon there-after Col. Tyler, with the Fifteenth and Thirty-seventh Tennessee consolidated, arrived and occupied the
June 24, 1863
ground from which the enemy had been driven in the early part of the action.
Maj.-Gen. Stewart arrived with re-enforcements about sundown, and assumed
command. My command-having lost in killed and wounded nearly twenty-five
per cent. of the number engaged, being wet from the drenching rain, and
exhausted from the fight-was relieved by the re-enforcements, except the
Twentieth Tennessee and Eufaula Light Artillery, which remained without
intermission in line of battle. Thus closed with the day a most spirited and sanguinary conflict, in which less than 700 men (about one-half of my brigade)
successfully fought and drove back into Hoover's Gap and held at bay until
nightfall the battalions of the advancing foe. It was a bright day for the glory of
our arms, but a sad one when we consider the loss of the many gallant spirits
who sealed with their blood their devotion to our cause.
~~~
The morrow [25th] renewed our association with the line of battle, under the
leadership of Maj.-Gen. Stewart. The Twentieth Tennessee and Maney's
battery. . . were transferred by order of Gen. Stewart, and placed under command of Brig.-Gen. Johnson. The Eufaula Light Artillery was retained on the
heights it has occupied the evening previous, and was under command of
Brig.-Gen. Johnson. The Thirty-seventh Georgia and Caswell's battalion of
sharpshooters were held in reserve during the 25th, except two companies of
the former, commanded by Capt. [D. L. ] Gholston and Lieut. [James A. ]
Sanders, which were ordered to report to Brig.-Gen. Clayton as skirmishers.
Col. Tyler and Lieut.-Col. Jones, with their commands, were held in line on our
center, subject to severe shelling during the entire day. The next day's retreat
was conducted in fine style, free from undue excitement and straggling. My
brigade was handsomely covered by Caswell's sharpshooters and two companies of skirmishers from Col. Tyler's command. At one time they concealed
themselves in a skirt of wood until the enemy's skirmishers had passed their
right; they then opened such a deadly fire upon their flank as to precipitate
them back in great confusion. This incident had much to do with the caution
which afterward characterized our pursuit.
I am, major, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. B. BATENOTE 1, Brig.-Gen.
OR Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 611-614.
Excerpt from the Report of Major-General A. McD. McCook on operations
during the Tullahoma Campaign, specifically on the fighting at Liberty Gap.
Winchester, Tenn., July 10, 1863
~~~
The actions at Liberty Gap, on the 24thNOTE 2 and 25th of June, among the
momentous events occurring on the flanks of the great Army of the Union, can
be classified only as skirmishes, yet I never witnessed more gallantry and heroism in officers and soldiers than was displayed on the 24th and reported to me
June 24, 1863
of the action on the 25th. Col. Watkins, of the Sixth Kentucky, and Lieut.-Col.
Watts, Second Kentucky Cavalry, are favorably spoken of by Gen. Sheridan.
My staff officers all did their duty well. My thanks are due to Capt. B. D. Williams, aide-de-camp, and Capt. A. C. McClurg, Eighty-eighth Illinois, ordnance
officer.
~~~
A. McD. McCook, Major-General
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 468.
NOTE 1: Bate would later serve two terms as Tennessee's twenty-third governor,
(1883-1887).
NOTE 2: Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee indicates the date was June 23
June 24, 1863 - June 27, 1863 - Skirmishes at Liberty Gap
Report of Brig. Gen. Richard W. Johnson, U. S. Army, commanding Second
Division, on the skirmish at Liberty Gap.
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, Tullahoma,
Tenn., July 6, 1863.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the
Second Division, Twentieth Corps, from June 24, the day upon which it
marched from Murfreesborough, up to July 1, 1863, the date of the occupation
of this place:
On the 23d ultimo, I received an order from the major-general commanding the
Twentieth Corps to hold my division in readiness to move on the following day
at 5 a. m., with twelve days' rations, and at least six days' forage, with as much
more short forage as could be conveniently transported in the wagons. These
arrangements were made. I marched with about ten days' forage.
Some delay on the part of the troops which were to precede me delayed my
movements until about 8 a. m., when I marched on the Shelbyville pike, in the
numerical order of my brigade, preceded by five companies of the Thirty-ninth
Indiana Volunteer Mounted Infantry, commanded by Col. T. J. Harrison. After
following the pike about 6 miles, I turned to the left, in the direction of Liberty
Gap, via Old Millersburg, a dilapidated and abandoned town.
No enemy was seen until after the command had passed Millersburg, when
Col. Harrison became warmly engaged with the rebel advance. He at once
communicated with me. The ground being rough and unfavorable for the operations of cavalry, I directed him to halt until the arrival of my First Brigade,
commanded by Brig. Gen. A. Willich. On the arrival of this brigade, Gen. Willich saw at a glance the position, and made the following admirable disposition: The Fifteenth Ohio Volunteers were deployed on the right of the road; the
Forty-ninth Ohio on the left; skirmishers, with support companies, in front, and
June 24, 1863
the Thirty-second Indiana and the Eighty-ninth Illinois, with Godspeed's battery, in reserve. In this order the brigade moved forward, the enemy's skirmishers falling back on their reserves, posted on the crest of the hills forming the
northern entrance to Liberty Gap. This is a very strong position, easily
defended by a small force against a very large one.
Gen. Willich felt the enemy, and found that it was his intention to make a stubborn defense. He directed the Fifteenth and Forty-ninth Ohio to deploy well to
the right and left, and try and ascertain the localities of the flank of the enemy.
Their commander reported that they were still flanked. The Thirty-ninth Indiana was ordered to the right, and the Thirty-second Indiana to the left. The
Forty-ninth Ohio and a part of the Thirty-second Indiana advanced up the side
of a steep hill under a heavy fire, driving the enemy before them, taking possession of one encampment, with tables set. Here I placed at the disposal of
Gen. Willich a portion of the Second Brigade, Col. Miller commanding, who
sent the Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania and Twenty-ninth Indiana to the right
of the Fifteenth Ohio, then to change direction to the left, sweeping the hillside
on which the rebels were posted. This movement was handsomely executed.
As soon as the change to the left had been made, Gen. Willich ordered his
entire line forward. Under his own eye and management, the rebels were
driven at every point their camps and camp equipages falling into our hands,
and Liberty Gap was in our possession. As night was fast approaching, I
ordered Gen. Willich to halt, and ordered up the Third Brigade, under Col. P. P.
Baldwin. It was necessary to clear the hills in our front and establish a picket
line. I gave Col. Baldwin his instructions, leaving the details of its execution to
him. He placed the Louisville Legion (Fifth Kentucky) on the right, the Sixth
Indiana on the left of the road, and the First Ohio and Ninety-third Ohio were
held in reserve. Skirmishers were thrown forward, and soon became engaged,
but the rebels were forced back. It was a pleasing sight to witness the promptness with which these regiments advanced.
This brigade was on picket during the night. Col. Miller was ordered to picket
the flanks with two regiments. I established my headquarters a short distance in
advance of the reserve brigade. All was quiet during the night.
Early on the following morning, Gen. Cartlin reported to me with two brigades
of Gen. Davis' division, the latter officer being confined to a sick bed; but soon
after, the roar of artillery and musketry brought him to the front, when he
assumed the general management of his division. I received orders, frequently
verbal, from the major-general commanding the corps, to keep up the appearance of a heavy advance, but not to go beyond the gap. About 8 a. m., I
directed Gen. Willich to relieve the advance pickets with his brigade, and soon
after the rebel pickets began to appear and shots to be exchanged with our
lines. Col. Harrison, with his mounted regiment, was sent out to ascertain the
movements and intention of the enemy. His expedition was entirely satisfactory. From 8 a. m. until about 5 p. m. the firing was kept up, sometimes quite
heavy. At that hour Gen. Willich sent me word that the enemy was advancing
in force. I immediately ordered up the troops in reserve. Willich's brigade again
June 24, 1863
received the shock, but in splendid style was the enemy driven back over an
open field. The ammunition being nearly exhausted, I ordered Col. Miller to
relieve Gen. Willich. He moved his brigade forward in handsome style, but
was soon seriously wounded while gallantly leading his men forward. Col.
Rose at once took command of the brigade, and, placing himself in the front,
gave the command, "Forward!" The gallant Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania and
Seventy-ninth Illinois, supported by the Thirty-fourth Illinois, charged over an
open field and up a steep hill, driving the rebels before them. These fine regiments lost heavily.
Col. Rose held this hill until relieved by Gen. Cartlin and his fine brigade.
While Col. Rose was engaged with three of his regiments, the other two
(Twenty-ninth and Thirtieth Indiana) were guarding his flank. Gen. Cartlin
drove them over an open field on the opposite side of the hill. The handsome
manner in which this brigade moved to the front, the gallantry and daring of
the officers and men, was certainly a beautiful sight to behold. Gen. Cartlin
was left in charge of the front line, while my forces were assigned a strong
position in readiness for any emergency. Not a shot was fired during the night.
On the 26th, Gen. Cartlin again encountered the enemy's advance. A report of
his operations will be made by him.
On the night of the 27th, I was ordered to fall back to Millersburg with my
division, which was done.
On the 28th, I marched to Beech Grove.
On the 29th, to Manchester, where I remained one day.
On the 1st of July entered this place.
With the courage and endurance of the division I am highly pleased, and hope
that its operations have been satisfactory to the corps and department commanders. By the admirable disposition of our forces, we have gained all the
fruits of a glorious victory with little loss. At every point the enemy has been
surprised, and in his irregular flight he has abandoned guns, camp and garrison
equipage in great quantities. Demoralized and beaten, he has fallen back
beyond the Tennessee River. Middle Tennessee is freed from the marauding
hordes by which it has been overrun, and the Stars and Stripes now wave over
it. All this has been accomplished with little loss. Every officer and soldier in
the division behaved well. Reference is respectfully made to brigade, regiment,
and battery reports.
~~~
No troops ever endured more and complained less. The affair at Liberty Gap
will always be considered a skirmish, but few skirmishes ever equaled it in
severity.
~~~
June 25, 1863
R. W. JOHNSON, Brig.-Gen. of Volunteers.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 483-485.
June 24, 1863 - July 2, 1863 - Naval expedition up the Tennessee River
Report of Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Hurd, U. S. Navy, commanding U. S. S.
Exchange, regarding expedition up the Tennessee River, in company with U. S.
gunboats Key West and Fanny Barker, June 24—July 2, 1863.
U. S. GUNBOAT EXCHANGE, Tennessee River, July 3, 1863.
SIR: I have the honor to report, pursuant to Captain Phelps' order of 20th June
(per telegraph); I proceeded up the Tennessee River, 24th June (upon the
arrival of Captain Goudy at Fort Heiman), accompanied by U. S. gunboats Key
West and Fanny Barker. Arrived at the mouth of Duck River at 8 o'clock p. m.,
anchored, and remained during the night. 25th, 4:30 o'clock A. M., I proceeded
up the river. At Beach Creek I took on board two Federal prisoners, who had
broken jail at Waynesborough and came to the river. At Swallow Bluff I found
the rebels crossing from the west to the east side of the river with bacon,
horses, mules, and cattle, which they had confiscated. About half of the regiment (said to be Biffle's) had crossed. I surprised them, captured some bacon,
destroyed one ferry flat, two canoes, and one bateau. I stopped a short time at
Esquire Craven's, then proceeded up to Savannah and anchored for the night.
~~~
29th. I proceeded up the stream this morning to Hamburg, procured some lumber I was much in need of, and returned to Craven's Landing. At Peters, I took
on board a deserter from Bragg's army and hold him a prisoner of war. At
Savannah I received a verbal message from General Dodge, and shall cooperate accordingly. . . 30th I left Craven's Landing at 4.30 A. M. o'clock with my
own vessel and the Fanny Barker, the Key West following us at 8 o'clock A. M.
I separated the boats somewhat, but kept them within supporting distance. This
day and night was spent at intervals between Craven's Landing and James
Mathews', to prevent crossing and cooperate with Federal cavalry, but they did
not appear. . . July 1st I proceeded down the river to Perryville, and stopped
during the night; find there has been little crossing down below Nichols, which
is 12 miles above Perryville.
2d p. m. I have just arrived at Fort Heiman. . .
~~~
J. S. HURD, Acting Volunteer Lieutenant, Commanding.
June 25, 1863 - U. S. N. begins anti-guerrilla patrol of Mississippi River, Fort Pillow to
Memphis
June 25, 1863
Excerpt from Orders from A. M. Pennock, Fleet Captain and Commandant of
Station at Cairo, Illinois to Acting Master A. F Thompson, U. S. Navy, Commanding U. S. Gunboat Silver Cloud:
~~~
You will cruise between Memphis, Tenn., and Fort Pillow. Guerrillas infest the
banks of the river, with the intention of annoying and capturing steamers on the
way up and down. It is reported that they have with them field pieces. Keep a
sharp lookout upon Island No. 40.NOTE 1 The navigation of the river must be
preserved at all hazards and vigilance and prompt action are required.
Navy OR, Ser. I, Vol. 25, p. 204.NOTE 2
NOTE 1: According to a report by Major-General J. J. Reynolds, Island No. 40 was
"a point for smuggling." See OR, Ser. I, Vol. 48, pt. I, pp. 650-651.
NOTE 2: Neither referenced in Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee nor the OR.
June 25, 1863 - Skirmish at (Old) Fosterville
CHRISTIANA, June 25, 1863—9 p. m.
GEN.: We drove the rebels back through Old Fosterville into Guy's Gap this
afternoon, from which they opened on us with artillery. The gap is very strong
and difficult to turn, except by making a wide detour. From the best information I can get, there are three or four regiments of infantry in Guy's Gap, with
one battery. There are other infantry regiments a short distance back toward
Shelbyville. Gen. Wharton's division of cavalry is also at and about the gap.
[W. T. ] Martin's brigade of cavalry left Tuesday morning for Chapel Hill, and
probably Wiggins' battery ditto. One regiment of cavalry, supposed to be the
Eighth Texas, left in the direction of Manchester this morning. Mitchell
whipped them handsomely at Middleton yesterday. Killed some 10 or 15 men
and 50 horses, besides the wounded. How are Thomas and McCook progressing?
Respectfully,
G. GRANGER, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 533.
HDQRS. CHIEF OF CAVALRY, Camp near Winchester, July 8, 1863.
GEN.:
~~~
June 25, marched the command, by the cross-roads at Jamison's farm, to Christiana, where I joined the force under Gen. Gordon Granger. Our pickets near
Fosterville having been driven in during the afternoon by the enemy's cavalry,
Col. Patrick was sent, which his own regiment, the Fifth Iowa, and the Fourth
June 25, 1863
Michigan, to ascertain his force. After a spirited skirmish, the enemy was
driven back upon his infantry force at Guy's Gap, where a battery of artillery
opened upon Col. Patrick's command. He retired at dark, with no loss, to his
camp.
June 26, rained nearly all day.NOTE 1 Time spent in getting up forage and
rations and posting detachments to watch the movements of the enemy. Next
morning, June 27, orders were received from the general commanding the
army to dislodge the enemy from Guy's Gap. At 9 o'clock we left Christiana
for the gap, Gen. Mitchell's division leading, with orders to take the right-hand
road at Old Fosterville, leading by Middleton, and turn the gap. The division
turned off the road for this purpose, and Minty's brigade was thus put in
advance upon the pike. Skirmishing commenced at Old Fosterville, and an
inspection of the enemy's position convincing me that the enemy was not in
force of all arms at the gap, I asked Gen. Granger to permit a direct attack upon
the pass. He acquiesced in this, and, pushing forward, our forces deployed. The
enemy abandoned their position and fled toward Shelbyville, closely pursued
by the First Middle Tennessee Cavalry, Col. Galbraith commanding, supported
by the Fourth Regular Cavalry, Capt. McIntyre commanding.
Immediately afterward I directed Col. Minty to support this movement with his
whole brigade. The enemy in considerable force, consisting of Martin's division and a part of Wharton's, all under command of Wheeler, made a stand at
the fortifications 4 miles north of Shelbyville, where they commenced shelling
our advance. Col. Minty immediately sent the Fourth Michigan to the right,
dismounted, but, finding the distance they must necessarily travel was very
great, they remounted and advanced through the abatis on horseback, and, after
a severe skirmish, they succeeded in getting in on the enemy's left flank, when
they fled in haste. As the enemy began to mount, the Seventh Pennsylvania
charged up the pike, supported by the Fourth Regulars, and, deploying to the
right and left as they passed through the earthworks, succeeded in capturing
many of the rebels. From this point up to the time that our advance reached the
precincts of Shelbyville the whole brigade pursued them closely, but when they
again opened with their artillery, our men being much scattered in the long
charge, fell back out of range and reformed. Gen. Granger and myself were
still at Guy's Gap when the state of affairs came to us by couriers. I immediately wrote an order to Col. Minty to charge their battery and take it, at the
same time Gen. Mitchell being ordered to support the movement with his
entire division. A section of the Eighteenth Ohio Battery, Capt. Aleshire commanding, preceded Mitchell's division. Shortly afterward Gen. Granger and
myself started to Shelbyville, but before arriving at the place, the energy of
Gen. Mitchell and Col. Minty, nobly seconded by the gallant troops under their
command, had won for us a decided victory over the rebels. The latter had
been dislodged from the stand they made at the line of entrenchments, principally by the gallantry of the Fourth Michigan, Maj. Mix commanding. Their
regiment attacked them with revolving rifles. The rebels fled to the town,
where they attempted another stand on the line of the public square and rail-
June 25, 1863
road depot, but a part of Col. Minty's brigade charging them on the pike, in the
teeth of their battery, and Col. Campbell's brigade cutting off their retreat at the
upper bridge over Duck River, the enemy was overthrown, routed, his cannon
and 591 prisoners captured, including 6 field officers, and a large number, estimated as high as 200, of the enemy killed, wounded, and drowned in Duck
River. The charge upon the enemy's battery was led by the Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, headed by Capt. Davis, and, as the charge was made down a stone
pike, by fours, upon a three-gun battery, supported by mounted infantry (dismounted), the annals of this war will not probably show a more gallant charge.
The enemy threw away their arms in their flight and two of their generalsWheeler and Martin-escaped by swimming the river. Some five or six hundred
stand of arms and a considerable amount of commissary and ordnance stores
fell into our hands. For the details of this gallant affair, I refer you to the reports
of Gen. Mitchell and Col. Minty.
At midnight I learned from one of my scouts that Forrest's command, which
had floundered in the mud all day between Unionville and Middleton, was
crossing Duck River 4 miles below us, in great disorder, and endeavoring to
escape to Tullahoma.
I consulted Gen. Granger as to the propriety of moving our whole force to
attack and intercept him, but the general was of the opinion that the command
was too much wearied to move in the night. As the matter turned out, I think it
was very unfortunate that this attack was not made, as I think we could have
completely routed this part of Forrest's force.
[June] 28, marched the command back to Guy's Gap and supplied ourselves
with rations and ammunition.
[June] 29, having detached four regiments from my command for service at
Murfreesborough, I marched the remainder, starting at 1 a. m., to Shelbyville,
hoping to surprise some of Forrest's stragglers, but finding no rebels in Shelbyville, marched the command to Fairfield, Mitchell's First Brigade going on
to Beech Grove.
[June] 30, moved from Fairfield to Manchester; but owing to scarcity of forage, marched Mitchell's division back, by the Pan-Handle road, to Walker's
Mill.
July 1, Col. Minty's brigade marched back to Walker's Mill. Learning, at 2 p.
m., that Bragg's army had evacuated Tullahoma, orders were given for the
entire cavalry force to march to Pelham, via Hillsborough. Gen. Turchin, with
a part of Col. Long's brigade, not more than 400 men in all, and Capt. Stokes,
with one section of his battery, started for Hillsborough at 11 p. m. Gen. Mitchell's division and Minty's brigade arrived at Manchester the morning of July 2.
It having been ascertained that the enemy had not retreated by the way of Pelham, a courier was sent to Gen. Turchin to change his direction and march to
Decherd. The main column, under my command, marched early in the morning
for the same point, via Morris' Ford. We arrived at this place at 1 p. m., and
June 25, 1863
found that the small force (only twelve companies) under Gen. Turchin's command had been repulsed in their attempt to cross in the forenoon. Gen. Turchin,
having arrived in advance of my column, immediate measures were taken to
force the passage. Gen. Mitchell was directed to cross the upper and Gen.
Turchin the lower ford. This was effected with little opposition-a fortunate circumstance, as the current was swift, and almost swam a horse. Col. Long's
small brigade crossed first, and was soon engaged in a very heavy skirmish
with the enemy's cavalry, driving them in the direction of Decherd.
The remainder of Turchin's and Mitchell's divisions came to the support as
soon as they had crossed, and the enemy was pressed until night closed. This
skirmish was disastrous to the enemy, 1 of his colonels being killed and 1 mortally wounded, who fell into our hands, besides 20 killed and left on the field.
The troops camped during the night near the ford, and the artillery was crossed
over.
July 3, moved to Decherd, sending the Seventh Pennsylvania to Brakefield
Point and Col. Campbell's brigade to Cowan. Found nothing but stragglers and
deserters. Learned that the last of the rebels had crossed the mountains.
Encamped at Decherd. The incessant rain and consequent condition of the
roads rendered the operations of the cavalry difficult and exceedingly trying to
men and horses. The impossibility of bringing up forage in wagons, and the
absence of feed in the "Barrens" of the Cumberland Mountains, the constant
rain depriving our poor beasts of their rest, has reduced the cavalry considerably. They now require some little rest and refitting.
~~~
Sergeant [Henry B. ] Wilson, of my escort, deserves special mention for his
gallantry at Shelbyville, capturing almost unaided 12 or 15 prisoners.
~~~
D. S. STANLEY, Maj.-Gen. and Chief of Cavalry.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 538-541.
NOTE 1: The entire Tullahoma Campaign was studded with skirmishes, sudden
marches, incessant, heavy rain and deep, thick mud.
June 25, 1863 - Skirmish at Guy's Gap
•See June 25, 1863--Skirmish at (Old) Fosterville
HDQRS. UNITED STATES FORCES,
Ransom's Farm, Guy's Gap, Tenn., June 27, 1863—4.20 p. m.
GEN.: We have carried Guy's Gap; met with no resistance to speak of. Our
advance has reached the fortifications at Shelbyville. I have ordered the Fifth
and Sixth Kentucky Cavalry, with three regiments of infantry, from Murfrees-
June 25, 1863
borough to Christiana. I left two regiments, one each of infantry and cavalry,
with nine pieces of artillery, at that place this morning. I have not yet decided
whether or not to push on to Shelbyville with the force I have here. I shall
make my headquarters at Houston's Spring, on Webb's plantation, to-night. I
have not yet decided whether to send Stanley to Fairfield direct by the way of
Bellbuckle or around by Millersburg, but shall decide in a few hours. I did not
receive your order to move until 6 o'clock this morning. We have a few prisoners. There were about 400 Confederates at this place this morning.
Will dispatch you again soon, the moment I hear from Shelbyville.
Very respectfully,
G. GRANGER, Maj.-Gen
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 533-534.
June 25, 1863 - Reconnaissance, Versailles and Middleton
HDQRS. THIRD CAVALRY BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, In the Field, five
miles from Winchester, Tenn., July 8, 1863.
~~~
June 25, marched to Murfreesborough, the Sixth Kentucky making a reconnaissance, via Versailles and Middleton, under command of Lieut. Col. William P. Roper, capturing a sergeant and 3 privates, C. S. Army.
~~~
LOUIS D. WATKINS, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 551.
June 25, 1863 - Bushwhacker attack in Bradley County
The Cleveland Banner of Thursday [June 25], informs us that Mr. Michael
Baugh, residing about eight miles west of that place, was waylaid and shot by
some bushwhacker and killed. He was on his way to town, and only about a
half-mile from his home when the cowardly deed was perpetrated. He was shot
with a Minnie ball, weighing an ounce and a half, from a Belgium gun—the
ball striking him almost squarely in the breast and passing out near his back
bone, killing him, as it is thought, almost instantly. Although he was robbed of
what Confederate money ($700) he had on his person, the Banner does not
believe that money was the object of the scoundrel who murdered him.
Chattanooga Daily Rebel, July 2, 1863.
June 25, 1863 - One East Tennessean's concerns about Federal conscription
Loveland Ohio
June 25th 1863
June 25, 1863
[Andrew Johnson, Military Governor of Tennessee]
[Dear Sir:]
Will your Honour please to inform me whether I am subject to conscription or
draft or not. Here is my case. I am an East Tenn. 14 months ago I left home to
join the Union Army[.] In crossing the Lines I was captured as a citizen, to
remain a prisoner during the war. so having no protiction from the U. S., I took
an oath not to fight, against them. (Rather then to remain a prisoner) gave Bond
$2000. Dollars. Since I crossed the Lines rather than go to the Rebel Army, I
have also got my family here, with me[.] My home was once in Greeneville
Tenn. I was a printer in the Democrat office, in 54 &c &c[.] I hope to have your
opinion soon[.]
Your Friend,
F. M. Farmser
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, pp. 276-277.
June 25, 1863 - Combat near the Shelbyville Pike in Rutherford County
Today I got up damp and comfortless but a cup of coffee hastily prepared and
some Pilot bread and raw meat soon made quite a change in my feelings. We
soon started and marched through deep slush a few miles farther and stopped
awhile then went on again till we came close to the Shelbyville Pike and
halted. The rain is still pouring down. The afternoon was fine and we were
ordered out with the 4th Michigan Cavalry to reconnoiter the enemy's position.
After a march of about 3 mils our advance became engaged with them. We
were at once ordered to form a line of battle the 4th Michigan deployed to the
right of the road and we to the left and we advanced through cedar thickets
over rocks small and large and rocks immense; rocks piled up and rocks lying
down. In fact over the rockiest piece of ground I ever rode a horse over. Then
on through wheat and corn fields, streams, thickets and about every kind of
obstruction. The horses now clattering on a rocky floor, now sinking deep in
the muddy soil—and still the firing kept about the same distance ahead of us so
we went for about a mile and then our skirmishers were brought to a stand still.
Another company (E) was sent forward to support the others (Cos. I and M).
The firing was kept up huskly for an hour or more it rained once in a while by
a temporary lull; or the shouts of defiance of either party. At last a volly of
shouts and yells seemed to show the rebels were getting more numerous and
more determined and soon an orderly came galloping down the road with the
news that the rebels were forming along our entire front and advancing."Stand
firm now men the rebels are coming" was passed along the line and every carbine was advanced and all men looking eagerly for to see our men emerge from
the wood in front followed by the rebels. The firing grew faster and more furious. The shouts died away and it was found the rebels thought prudence the
better part of valor that time. The firing slackened as our forces had seen all
they wanted to [and] the men in front were ordered to fall back slowly. Bang
June 25, 1863
went a big gun in our front and presently the scream of a shot was heard which
soon flew over our heads and shivered a cedar tree a short distance behind us.
For some time the cannonading was kept up but we were soon out of range
though for about a quarter or half a mile the shot and shell flew over our heads
or fell behind us. They were the first rebel shells I heard in the war, and they
did not cause me many pleasurable feelings—though they bring me some. We
soon reached our fires and prepared for another damp bivouac.
Alley Diary
June 25, 1863 - "State Convention."
This body, which met at Winchester on Wednesday of last week, was largely
attended, all the counties in the State being represented. The utmost harmony
prevailed. The nominee for Governor, Hon. Robert L. Caruthers, is one of Tennessee's most gifted sons. Eminently pure, his character is without a single
stain, and possessing the highest order of talents his nomination by the convention speaks well for the public mind. In his whole public life, whether as a
judge, or as a leading member of the old Whig party, he commanded the affections of his friends and the respect of his opponents. By all who know him he is
regarded as a high-toned Christian gentleman. Tennessee is indeed fortunate in
securing the services of a man who possesses such superior qualifications and
great moral worth.
The following are the nominations for Congress:
1st Dis J. B. Heiskell, of Hawkins.
2nd do W. G. Swan, of Knox.
3rd do A. S. Colyar of Franklin
4th do J. P. Murray, of Warren.
5th do H. S. Foote, of Davidson.
6th do E A Keeble, of Rutherford
7th do Jas. McCollum, of Giles.
8th do Thos. Menees, of Robertson.
9th do J. D. C. Atkins, of Henry.
10th do J. V. Wright, of McNairy
11th do D. M. Currin, of Shelby.
June 25, 1863 - "Supplies for the People."
In Savannah, Atlanta, Columbus, and other places, stores for the sale of necessities have been opened up by public spirited individuals, having for their
June 25, 1863
object the furnishing of such articles as are indispensably necessary, at cost;
thus protecting the people against the wicked, crushing burdens being placed
upon them by extortioners. In Winchester, as we learn by the following card
from the Bulletin, a similar plan has been adopted. The purpose aimed at is
commendable in the highest degree, and will receive the plaudits of the patriotic portion of every community. Have we no men of means hereabouts, who
will establish the same kind of house in Fayetteville? An effort in that direction
would place its projectors at the head of the list in point of character in the estimation of the people and army. Who will undertake it? We are willing to print
all the advertising for the enterprise, free of charge. Here is the card above
referred to:
Winchester, Te., June 15, 1863.
EDITOR BULLETIN: - Permit me to state, through your paper, that in a few
days the association formed in this county to relieve the people, as far as possible, from the evils of enormous speculation, will have on hand for sale, at cost,
about 100 sacks of salt. Permit me further to say, for the fact ought to be know
and is worthy of emulation, that the people are indebted to Messrs. B. F.
McGhee, Tilman Arlegde, and A. R. David for the benefits they will thus
obtain. These gentlemen had brought the salt and were immediately offered a
profit on it which would have amounted to $1,500, and, indeed, a sale of the
salt at the present prices, in this town would have made them three thousand
dollars, but upon these gentlemen being assured that a few of our citizens were
making an earnest effort, upon a plan deemed feasible, to get up a store of necessaries (for the benefit of the county) to be sold at cost, they at once turned
this salt over to the agent of this association at cost, and the salt will be sold at
cost.
Such acts ought to be examples for others. They are certainly worthy of imitation.
Very truly,
A. S. ColyarNOTE 1
NOTE 1: Perhaps if Colyar's generosity was prompted by his aspiration to be elected
to the Confederate Congress.
June 25, 1863 - "Wool Wanted."
A lady of this place desires us to say that she wishes to purchase four or five
pounds of Wool, for which ccennessee money will be paid. Apply at this office.
June 25, 1863
June 25, 1863 - Traitors
Four men, whose names are R. M. Hall, S. W. Moore, S. Farrer, and Z. B.
Chowering, were arrested for treason during the battle of Stone's River, in January last, and have since been awaiting trial in the Penitentiary. They were yesterday ordered to report to Governor Johnson, who returned Hall to the
Penitentiary, and released the other triad on parole, to appear before his Excellency again today.
June 25, 1863 - Confederate cavalry attack train near LaVergne
•See June 27, 1863--"Facts and Rumors."
June 26, 1863 - Skirmish Beech Grove
HDQRS. TWENTY-FIRST ARMY CORPS, Hollow Spring, June 26, 1863—
9 a. m.
Brig.-Gen. TURCHIN, Cmdg. Cavalry:
SIR: The general commanding this corps directs that you move at once with
your command of cavalry to Lumley's Stand. From thence you will move with
great caution, reconnoitering all the roads, and endeavor to communicate with
Gen. Thomas, who is marching on the Beech Grove road to Manchester.
Report frequently.
By order of Major-Gen. Crittenden:
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Beech Grove, June 26,
1863—2.15 p. m.
Maj. Gen. THOMAS. CRITENDEN:
The general commanding has arrived at this place. Gen. Thomas has driven the
enemy 2 1/2 miles toward Fairfield. Gen. Granger is advancing toward Matt's
Hollow, and hopes to reach the head of it to-night. Gen. McCook is holding
Liberty Gap with apart of his force; the remainder will join us here. There have
been about 200 casualties thus far. Except the bad weather, all goes well. We
hope you will get within reach of Manchester to-night, if possible. Your difficulties of route are appreciated. Hdqrs. will be here till further orders. News
from the East mixed, as usual.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 460.
June 26, 1863
June 26, 1863 - Governor Isham G. Harris's call to the citizens of Tennessee
Men of Tennessee! If you would resist these raids, predatory bands, and incendiaries of the enemy, organize at once and stand ready to repel or crush them.
If you would protect your private property, defend your wives and children,
your personal liberty, your national independence, and your lives, organize at
once and stand ready to strike for them
Let the beardless boy and the hoary-headed father organize for the defense of
their altars, their homes, and all that is dear to freemen.
Let the gallant men who have been disabled by the exposure and hardships of
the camp or the casualties of bloody fields give to these new organizations the
benefit of their experience and example.
Let every man who can wield a musket or draw a sword, who is so situated that
he cannot swell the ranks of our Army for constant service, organize at once
for home defense and special service.
June 26, 1863 - "Richardson, the Guerrilla."
R. V. Richardson, the noted guerrilla colonel, who it will be remembered was
whipped out of his hiding places sometime since, has again made his appearance out in the region of the corner of the three counties of Tipton, Shelby and
Fayette. Richardson found guerrillaing too profitable to quit, so he has made
his appearance again under the title of a brigadier, to carry on his old trade of
robber, or at least, its equivalent, since it is asserted by persons who ought to
know, that Richardson has extorted from people of the three counties named
upward of one hundred thousand dollars. Richardson has gathered a force of
some four hundred men, who are prowling.
June 26, 1863 - "The Loyal of the Memphis Bar"
The following attorneys, members of the Memphis bar, have been admitted to
practice in the Civil Commission for the District of Memphis upon taking the
prescribed oath which is in the following words: "We, and each of us, do solemnly swear to support the Constitution of the United States, and truly and
honestly demean ourselves in the practice of our profession before the Civil
Commission, to the best of our ability, so help us God." [a list of 44 names follows]
June 26, 1863
June 26, 1863 - "Fire Plug Leaks."
Many complaints have been made to us of late concerning the leaking of fireplugs, some of which may be correct, and doubtless others the reverse. It may
not be known to all persons that in the fire-plugs the water is shut off far under
ground in order to prevent them from freezing in the winter. When the water is
shut off, there is left in the chamber, from the shut-off to the nozzle, a gallon or
two of water, which must escape through the water-pipe, and which runs thus
from five to ten minutes, ever so carefully, the water will be wasting constantly, at the rate, say, ten gallons an hour. Thus many persons suppose firelugs are leaking, when in reality, they re in first-rate order. This much in justice
to Mr. Stewart,NOTE 1 and for the information of the public. We may also say
that a book is always kept in the Recorder's office, in which to register complaints, and that it is the duty of the police to register in said book any information concerning defects, wastes, etc., for the information of the Superintendent.
NOTE 1: Superintendent of the Water Works Department.
June 26, 1863 - "THE MUNICIPAL ELECTION."
We give elsewhere the returns of the municipal election yesterday, as far as
received up to a late hour last night. It will be seen that the returns in the First
and Seventh wards are yet to be made.
There never was a greater farce of an election in Memphis. Notwithstanding
the publication of the regulations by the sheriff there never was such a shameless disregard of all law and precedent. Men who had landed at our wharf
within a few days past, were brought up by the ignorant and unprincipled faction who wish to perpetuate their ruinous sway, and made to vote in favor of
their persecuted friend! Nor were they satisfied with one vote. Some of them,
we learn, offered to vote as many as six times. There were great irregularities
in the voting in all the wards, but the First and Seventh overtopped all in contempt for everything like a pure elective franchise. We shall not trust ourselves
to speak, at the present time, of the corruption, bribery and illegal trafficking in
votes, which formed so prominent and shameless a part of yesterday's transactions. We have reason to know the election will be contested and that hones
and patriotic citizens, who are trying to promote the best interests of the city
and the cause, by the election of sober and competent officials, will never submit to be overcome at the polls by a gang of unprincipled adventurers, who
have nothing to lose in any event, and whose highest aim seems to be to pull
down everything and everybody to their own mean level. If anything like a
scanning of the polls should be had—and we presume there will be, if only to
punish the guilty parties—it will be found that perhaps one-half of the vote
polled in some of the wards was illegal, and that our city has thus again been
most seriously compromised.
June 26, 1863
We regret to learn that but few of the portion of our citizens who had recently
become enfranchised by taking the oath, either failed or refused to participate
in the election, while those that did thought it was a good way to cast odium
upon the election by throwing their votes in favor of [the incumbent mayor
John] Park, who they utterly reprobated, except as a means of perpetrating
what they regard as a joke. It seems to us that those who thus voted could have
had no proper conception of the gravity of the occasion, and are deserving of
the severest censure.
But, in the midst of many adverse circumstances, it is pleasant to reflect that
the real honest, intelligent, reflecting Union men of Memphis have to a man
rallied to the support of good men for office and while their voice has been
drowned in the "sweet Irish brogue" which for the time being rules and ruins
our fair city, we have already the assurance of a "better time coming," when the
laws shall be enforced and obeyed—when those who now seek to govern us by
corrupting the ballot-box—will be as impotent for evil as they are now powerless for good; and when men shall be elected a our Mayor worthy of the respect
and confidence, not of Tennessee only, but of the nations at large. For a consummation so devoutly to be wished, let all true Union men learn to labor and
to wait.
Memphis Bulletin, June 26, 1863.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: It seems the political machine of Memphis was impervious to the Civil War
raging all about it. The corrupt means employed to reelect John Park mayor
of the city, aside from similarities it may have had with the Tammany Hall
machine in New York City, might likewise be seen as an act of local secessionist resistance to the Federal forces occupying Memphis.
June 26, 1863 - General Orders No. 10; Federal army railroad security measures
HEAD-QUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES,
NASHVILLE, TENN., June 26, 1863
General Orders No. 10.
I. Ordinary caution having failed to secure the railroad between this place and
Murfreesboro against the attempts of enemies who regard neither the usages of
war nor the rights of humanity, a greater stringency becomes necessary to protect the lives of the passengers.
Any person, therefore, found in the vicinity of the railroad track, after eight
o'clock in the evening, will beheld as a public enemy, and, if he attempt to
move off on the approach of our troops, will be shot down without hailing.
If he gives himself up he will be sent directly to these Head-Quarters to be disposed of by the authorities of this Post.
June 26, 1863
By order of Brig.—Gen. R. S. Granger, Comd'g.
Nashville Daily Press, July 4, 1863.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: See also: Chattanooga Daily Rebel, July 12, 1863.
June 26, 1863 - "Female Smugglers."
It would not be expected that the gentle sex would become so ungentle as to
endeavor to carry concealed weapons; yet, such is the case with two Minervas
who are now confined within "Dame Irving's embrace," and "lodging to be
free." It seems that these ladies forgot that we were living in a military age, and
attempted to carry concealed pistols through the lines to their rebel friends. A
sharp corporal, however, who happened to be on picket duty, proved too sharp
to be imposed upon; so, finding the weapons and guessing the intent, our traveling ladies were furnished rooms in the Irving Hotel.
June 26, 1863 - Theater in Memphis
The New Memphis Theater was again crowded last night with a very large
audience, who appreciated the efforts of the gentlemanly manager and his
entire dramatic corps, to please the lovers of beauty and art of this city. That
splendid play, the Lakes of Killarney, was produced again for the second time
to a large audience. The beautiful scenery of the Lake was splendid indeed.
The character of Kate Karney, by Miss Kitty Fyffe, was executed in a most true
and impressive style. Not to say anything in the least disparaging of Mr. And
Mrs. Tannehil, whose merit, as actors, the public well know, and Mr. Maginley,
in his true and natural character—the Irishman—with his usual flow of wit and
good humor—Miss Radcliffe as Philadore, with her fairies, made a very pleasant impression on the audience, and the Company almost without exception,
acquitted itself well. The afterpiece, The Denouncer, was performed to the
entire satisfaction of the audience. To-night that splendid play of Wenlock of
Wenlock will be produced again. Afterpiece Toodle will be produced. This is a
genuine feast, and intrinsic as it is genuine, and we hope to see a proper recognition of it by our theater-goers to-night.
June 26, 1863 - The Memphis municipal election
The Municipal Election came off yesterday, and was prosecuted with considerable interest, but without much excitement except in the First and Seventh
wards, where the friends of misrule did most abound. Everybody at the First
ward seemed to feel that he was particularly commissioned to vote "early and
often," and we learn that not a few availed themselves of the privilege so feely
June 27, 1863
accorded, among others, a boy of sixteen years presented himself to vote, but
as he had not learned to swear as loosely as some of his seniors, he was turned
away with the privileged not exercised. A man or beast is reported to have
offered to vote at the same ward six times! How often he voted elsewhere is
unknown. There was evidently a very large turnout of illegal voting throughout
the city. . .
June 27, 1863 - Action at and capture of Shelbyville
HDQRS. DISTRICT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, Tenn.,
July 13, 1863.
COL.: I have the honor to submit to the general commanding the Department
of the Cumberland the following report of the attack made upon the rebel
forces at Guy's Gap and Shelbyville, and of the occupation of those points by
the forces under my command, on the 27th ultimo:
I have not yet received, from officers acting under my direction, reports of the
part taken by their respective commands in the engagements of that day, and,
therefore, I am unable to make this report in detail; to mention the special
action of different and distinct parts of my command, and to name the officers
and men most conspicuous for gallantry and a display of soldier like qualities,
and those (if there are any such) who deserve censure for bad conduct or
neglect of duty; nor am I able to give, in exact numbers, the loss we sustained,
although I can proximate it sufficiently to state it with reasonable certainty.
At 2 o'clock on the morning of June 23, I received orders from the general
commanding the Army of the Cumberland to move at daylight with all of the
forces under my command, then at Triune, for Salem, save the division of cavalry under the immediate command of Gen. Mitchell, which I sent on that
morning to attack the rebels at Rover and Middleton, with directions to drive
them out of those places. In accordance with this order, I marched my command, and arrived at the designated point on the night of the same day (June
23). Under additional instructions there received, I marched the next day to a
point on the Murfreesborough and Shelbyville pike, near Christiana, where I
halted my command, awaiting further orders.
Gen. Mitchell arrived at Rover on the afternoon of the day on which he left Triune, and there met the enemy. After a sharp fight, lasting for over two hours, he
drove them out of, and 2 miles beyond, the town. On the next day he again
attacked the enemy at Middleton, and succeeded in handsomely whipping
them, and in driving them before him.
An Official report of the casualties in these two engagements has not yet been
made to me, but Gen. Mitchell states that his loss will not amount to over 20
men, while the enemy suffered greatly in killed and wounded.
June 27, 1863
On the next day (Thursday, June 25), Gen. Mitchell joined me at my camp near
Christiana. At the same time Gen. Stanley, with part of his cavalry command,
also reported to me at that place. It was on the morning of this day (June 25)
that I sent Lieut.-Col. Patrick, with the Fifth Iowa Cavalry and the Fourth
Michigan Cavalry, to observe the enemy at Fosterville. He found them there in
strong force, but, by a bold dash, he gallantly drove them beyond the town,
where they again made a stand and opened upon him with artillery. In obedience to my instructions, he then withdrew his forces, and returned to Christiana.
At 6 o'clock on the morning of June 27, I received a dispatch from the commanding general, directing me to feel the enemy at Guy's Gap. In accordance
therewith, in one hour from that time I advanced with part of my command
toward that point, moving on the Shelbyville pike. I sent Gen. Stanley, with the
cavalry, in front, and ordered Gen. Baird's division of infantry to follow in
close supporting distance. Upon reaching a point about 2 miles north of the
gap, we met the enemy's skirmishers in the open fields. They exhibited such
strength and resistance as to warrant us in the belief that they held the gap in
force, and that they would there make a stubborn resistance to our advance.
After skirmishing for about two hours, however, the enemy suddenly fell back
to the gap, and there showed signs of a hasty retreat. Feeling confident that we
could successfully attack them there, I then ordered Gen. Stanley to bring up
his cavalry and clear the gap at once. The order was promptly obeyed, and the
enemy sought safety in flight, running in the direction of Shelbyville. Part of
our cavalry followed them in an exciting chase, capturing about 50 prisoners,
killing and wounding a number, and pursuing them 7 miles, to their rifle-pits,
which were about 3 miles north of Shelbyville. Here, at the intersection of the
Shelbyville pike with the rifle-pits, in a small earthwork, the enemy had
planted two guns; by a well-directed fire from these our advance was for a
short time stayed. I was now positively assured by the action of the enemy, and
by such meager and indefinite intelligence as I could gain from citizens in the
neighborhood of the gap, that the rebel forces which had been stationed at
Shelbyville were then evacuating that place; and although the orders I had
received did not contemplate an advance beyond the gap, I determined to push
forward and strike the rear of the retreating rebel forces, which forces, I afterward discovered, composed the corps commanded by Lieut.-Gen. Polk, numbering about 18,000 men. I rapidly pushed the cavalry force of my command
forward. The advance soon charged over the rifle-pits, turning the point where
the enemy had planted their guns, and again causing them to rapidly retreat,
taking their guns with them, following them to within three-quarters of a mile
of Shelbyville, where we were again held at bay by a large force of the enemy,
formed on the north side of and in the town, and by a battery of three guns, that
was planted in the town in such position as to command all of the approaches
thereto from the north. It was now after 6 p. m. At this juncture I closed up our
advancing column, and a cavalry charge was then made. Within thirty minutes
afterward the town of Shelbyville was in our possession. Three superior brass
guns, one of which was rifled, were captured, and the captain commanding the
June 27, 1863
battery, with all of his officers and most of his men present, were our prisoners.
Over 500 additional prisoners were captured in another part of the town. This
charge was so irresistible and daring, and was made so unexpectedly to the
enemy, that they were unable to check it by the fire of their guns and musketry,
and were also unable to save their guns by flight.
One gun, however, was hurried away, and taken as far as the bridge that crosses
Duck River, on the south side of the town, on the road to Tullahoma, but its
wheels broke through the bridge, and the enemy was compelled to abandon it.
This served to partially blockade the bridge, thereby preventing the rapid
retreat of a large body of rebel cavalry which was yet on the north side of the
river, closely pursued by our forces. The retreat now became a perfect rout.
Those who could not cross the bridge endeavored to swim the river, which was
very much swollen by the late rains. But few reached the other side, while
many were drowned. In the midst of their confusion the rebel Gen. Wheeler
called upon some of his troops to form and stop our advance. The First Confederate Cavalry volunteered for this duty, and, in endeavoring to perform it,
saved their general (Wheeler), who escaped by swimming the river, while the
whole regiment, save those of it who were killed, was captured by our forces,
including the colonel, lieutenant-colonel, major, and all of the line officers
present. It was now dark, and we had destroyed all of the rebel forces in the
vicinity of Shelbyville north of Duck River. Our horses being perfectly
exhausted and the men worn out, I ordered a halt until midnight for the purpose
of resting them, then intending to pursue and overtake the enemy's train; but
even by that time, so exhausting had been our march and chase of the day, we
were not in a condition to proceed farther.
In the morning, as there was no possibility of overtaking the enemy, and as our
men were out of rations, in accordance with the instructions of the commanding general, I send the cavalry, under the command of Gen. Stanley, to
Manchester, via Fairfield and Wartrace, while I returned with Gen. Baird's
division-which remained behind the day before to hold Guy's Gap-to my camp
near Christiana.
Our loss in killed and wounded at Guy's Gap and Shelbyville will amount to
about 50. This number can safely be set down as the maximum. We did not
lose a man by capture.
The enemy lost in killed, wounded, and drowned in Duck River, at the least
estimate, from 200 to 225. Our list of prisoners captured accounts for 509.
Many of the enemy when captured were hurried off before their names could
be obtained for the list from which this account is taken; so that, including
them, the total number of prisoners captured by our forces can be placed at
700, including about 40 commissioned officers.
We also captured about 3,000 sacks of corn and corn meal, a few animals, and
a quantity of meat, whisky, ammunition, and small-arms, that the enemy could
not carry off in their precipitous flight. I cannot praise too highly the bold dash
and gallant conduct of our cavalry at Shelbyville. The efficiency of this branch
June 27, 1863
of the service, not only in this, but in all of our late engagements with the
enemy, has been established beyond a doubt. The enemy can no longer boast of
the superiority of their cavalry and of its accomplishments.
We met with an enthusiastic reception from the loyal citizens of Shelbyville;
our soldiers were received with tears of joy, and our flag, that had been secretly
hid for months, floated from many houses.
G. GRANGER, Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 535-537.
Report of Capt. Alfred Abeel, Fourth Michigan Cavalry.
CAMP NEAR SALEM, TENN. July 23, 1863.
SIR: I have the honor to transmit you the following report of the incidents that
came under my observation at the entrance of our forces into Shelbyville,
Tenn. NOTE 1:
After entering he fortifications, our battalion (the Third) formed on the left,
facing toward the Shelbyville pike, and charged the enemy, who were in considerable force in front and to the right of us. We routed and drove them across
an open field, but they formed again in the edge of the woods, our line being
very much broken, in consequence of the nature of the ground which we were
obliged to pass over, so much so that we were compelled to halt and reform our
line, which we did in the rear of some old buildings, the enemy keeping up a
brisk fire during the mean time. As soon as we could form, we charged again,
and drove the enemy toward and across the Shelbyville pike, a portion of them
taking the pike into Shelbyville.
The balance, which I followed, crossed the pike in an easterly direction. After
pursuing them for some distance, I found myself separated from the other companies of the battalion, and with but a portion of my own command, the horses
of the rest having given out. I halted my men, and from the stragglers from the
various regiments of the brigade soon had a sufficient acquisition to give me
about 60 men in all. With these I again started in pursuit, and followed on until
we struck the Fairfield pike, about a half mile from where it terminates and is
crossed by the road which leads to the Shelbyville pike. The rebels, who were
at this time some distance in advance of me, which they had gained when I
halted my men (but in sight), reached and took this road, but before we reached
it a column of the enemy from toward Shelbyville was seen in full flight,
approaching, with the evident intention of escaping by the same road, but had
not as yet discovered us. The head of their column reached and crossed the
pike before we could reach it, but we charged through them, cutting their column in two, and driving that portion of it that we had cut off from the main
body into a high inclosure, from which it was impossible for them to escape,
and capturing the entire force, together with their arms, horses, and equipments, amounting, I should say, to 160 or 170 men.
June 27, 1863
I have the honor to be, &c., very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ALFRED ABEEL, Capt. Company H, Fourth Regt. Michigan Cavalry.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 563
NOTE 1: As a result of the rapid and panicked fall of Shelbyville a Union spy was
spared the death sentence. Pauline Cushman was sent behind Rebel lines to
spy for General Rosecrans to gain information on the location and strength
of the Army of Tennessee. She was caught by Confederate authorities, court
martialed and sentenced to death hanging. She was awaiting execution when
the Federal cavalry smashed through the town and so literally saved her
neck as the Rebel forces hastily retreated, leaving her behind. Cushman was
an actress born in New Orleans and had spied for the Union in Louisville
and later in Nashville. Ms. Cushman was fondly regarded by the soldiers
who gave her the nickname "Major." She was said to have worn "the accouterments of that rank." There appears to be no information about the exploits
of "Major" Pauline Cushman in the OR. See: Francis Trevelyan Miller, ed.
in chief, Robert L. Sanier, managing ed., Semi-Centennial Memorial, The
Photographic History of the Civil War In Ten Volumes; Thousands of
scenes photographed 1861-65, with Text by many Special Authorities, vol.
8, (NY: The Review of Reviews Co., 1911), p. 273. (Photograph on p. 273
also.) See also: Ferdinand L. S. Armiensto, Life of Pauline Cushman, the
Celebrated Union Spy and Scout, (NY: United States Book Co., 186?), pp.
151-155, and; James D. Horan, Desperate Women (NY: G. P. Putnam's
Sons, 1952), pp. 118-119; and, Agatha Young, The Women and the crisis:
Women of the North In the Civil War, (NY: McDowell, Obolensky, 1959),
pp. 234-244.
June 27, 1863 - Skirmish at Fosterville
•See June 27, 1863--Skirmish at Guy's Gap
June 27, 1863 - Skirmish at Guy's Gap
•See June 24, 1863-June 27, 1863-Skirmishes at Liberty Gap
HDQRS. UNITED STATES FORCES, Ransom's Farm, Guy's Gap, Tenn.,
June 27, 1863—4.20 p. m.
GEN.: We have carried Guy's Gap; met with no resistance to speak of. Our
advance has reached the fortifications at Shelbyville. I have ordered the Fifth
and Sixth Kentucky Cavalry, with three regiments of infantry, from Murfreesborough to Christiana. I left two regiments, one each of infantry and cavalry,
with nine pieces of artillery, at that place this morning. I have not yet decided
June 27, 1863
whether or not to push on to Shelbyville with the force I have here. I shall
make my headquarters at Houston's Spring, on Webb's plantation, to-night. I
have not yet decided whether to send Stanley to Fairfield direct by the way of
Bellbuckle or around by Millersburg, but shall decide in a few hours. I did not
receive your order to move until 6 o'clock this morning. We have a few prisoners. There were about 400 Confederates at this place this morning.
Will dispatch you again soon, the moment I hear from Shelbyville.
Very respectfully,
G. GRANGER, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 534.
June 27, 1863 - SkirmishNOTE 1 at Fairfield
commanding First Brigade, during the Middle Tennessee Campaign, June 23July 7, 1863, relative to the skirmish at Fairfield, June 24, 1863.
~~~
The advance pushed on 2 miles farther, and captured 7 wagons belonging to
the rebels. They were soon recalled, and were hardly in position before our
pickets were driven in by a large force of rebel infantry from the direction of
Fairfield. My dispositions were: The Seventy-second Indiana, Col. Miller, stationed to the right side of the gap, and thrown forward to a hillock on which
there was a graveyard; two mountain howitzers at their front, on the point of
the hillock; four pieces of 10-pounder rifled Rodmans, of Capt. Lilly's Eighteenth Indiana Battery, stationed on a secondary hill, facing toward Fairfield,
on the right side of the gap, supported by the One hundred and twenty-third
Illinois. Col. Monroe; the Seventeenth Indiana, Lieut.-Col. Jordan, and the
Ninety-eighth Illinois, Col. Funkhouser, in rear of a high hill in reserve. I
ordered two companies of the Ninety-eighth Illinois to take position on the hill
at the left of the gap, and four companies of the Seventeenth Indiana to take
possession of a high wooded hill about a quarter of a mile to our right, and to
throw skirmishers forward to some cleared hills to their front, both for the purpose of observation and to prevent a sudden attack from that quarter. The
enemy in the mean time advanced rapidly, and opened on our left from two
batteries a rapid cross-fire, which killed 2 gunners and the animals of one of
the mountain howitzers. They were promptly replied to by Capt. Lilly, who
dismounted one of their pieces and compelled both of their batteries to change
position several times. In the mean time I observed a column of the enemy
moving behind some hills toward our right, and immediately ordered the
remainder of the Seventeenth Indiana to take position on the wooded hill
before spoken of, with orders to look well to their right, and send me word if
any attempt was made to flank them. They had hardly reached the hill when a
June 27, 1863
heavy and rapid fire was opened from both sides, the rebels charging boldly up
the hill and cheering loudly. Not hearing from Col. Jordan, but seeing that he
was hard pressed, I sent Col. Funkhouser with the remainder of the Ninetyeighth Illinois to his assistance. He reached the ground just as the rebels had
succeeded in turning Col. Jordan's right flank.
~~~
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 458.
NOTE 1: Referenced as an action by Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee.
June 27, 1863 - Occupation of Manchester by Union forces
HDQRS. ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, Manchester, Tenn., June 28,
1863.
(Via Murfreesborough, Tenn., June 29.)
On the 26th, Gen. McCook moved across from Liberty Gap, and at noon of
27th closed up with Gen. Thomas' rear, at Beech Grove. Gen. Thomas, at the
same time, drove the enemy from Fairfield, while Reynolds pushed to this
place, where he arrived yesterday noon, capturing 20 prisoners.
~~~
W. S. ROSECRANS, Major-General
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 403.
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Tullahoma, Tenn., July
1, 1863
(Via Murfreesborough, Tenn., July 2.)
I telegraphed you [about] Sunday's [June 28th] occupation of Shelbyville and
Manchester. . .
~~~
W. S. ROSECRANS
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I., p. 402.
The enemy fell back before us without firing a shot and beat a rapid retreat for
Tullahoma. We moved on all day and encamped within 4 miles of Manchester
on the night of the 26th; on the morning of the 27th our regiment started in the
advance and went to Manchester on a gallop. We swept by the deserted fortifications of the town on a full run, and while the citizens were at their breakfast
tables we rushed into the public square, scattered out in small parties, and in
five minutes every street and alley was occupied by Yankees, the town was surrendered, and a rebel major and about 50 soldiers. Left as a rear guard, were
captured and marched to the court house.
Three Years in the Army of the Cumberland, pp. 94-95.NOTE 1
June 27, 1863
NOTE 1: Paul M. Angle, ed., Three Years in the Army of the Cumberland. The Letters
and Diary of Major James A. Connelly, (Bloomington: Indiana University
Press, 1959, renewed 1987 by Vesta Angle), pp. 94-95. [Hereinafater: Three
Years.]
June 27, 1863 - "Facts and Rumors."
The city was full of rumors yesterday, concerning fighting in front and accidents and casualties by the way. Of the first we need only say that is generally
conceded that fighting has been or is generally conceded that fighting has been
or is going on between the advance of Gen. Rosecrans' army and the Confederates somewhere between Murfreesboro; and Shelbyville, and some assert the
Federal army now occupy that town. It is also a generally conceded fact that,
sometime during Thursday night, Confederate cavalry made their appearance
in the neighborhood of Lavergne, and secretly taking up one of the ties of the
track they placed a torpedo under it in such manner as to ensure its explosion
by concussion produced by the locomotive; which done, they retired to a safe
distance. Soon therefore a train came along, the locomotive reached the fatal
spot, and in an instant the engine and seven cars were off the track, all more or
less damaged. Some suppose this train to be the one which left here about 6
o'clock Thursday evening [25th], laden with some two or three hundred mules;
but another authority says the mules arrived safely in Murfreesboro, and that
its as on the return of the empty cars that the casualty occurred. We have not
learned that any person was injured. A construction train, sent to repair the
track, was also said to have been damaged by a torpedo; but a person on said
train saying he heard nothing of it until his return to Nashville, we presume this
may be set down as a slight mistake. Telegraphic communications open, we
believe, and the road will probably be put in running order to-day or to-morrow.
June 27, 1863 - Voting early and often in the Memphis municipal election
Illegal Voting.
We referred yesterday to the large amount of illegal voting practiced all over
the city, in the election of Mayor."A Citizen of the Fourth ward, who was
present at the election, sends us the following communication. He thinks that
those who voted in that ward were legally qualified. We are free to say, that
from all we have learned, the election in that ward was conducted in a fairer
and more lawful manner than in some other places, and this is seen in the result
wrought out. And yet, as our correspondent admits, illegal voters made an
attempt to carry the election there as elsewhere. Hundreds of illegal voters—
foreigners just landed here, with nothing but their oath of allegiance—tried to
vote, and if the judges there had been as derelict as some of them were, they
would have exercised the right of suffrage without let or hindrance. These
June 27, 1863
same men, thus refused a vote because they had no right to vote, desired to
compromise by voting only for general officers , magnanimously proffering to
pretermit the electing of Aldermen. But one of the judges of the election succeeded in making these fresh friends of misrule understand that they couldn't
vote at all, and more, that they attempt to do so was illegal, and that if they
attempted it again he would present their names before a grand jury for indictment! This quieted the persistent patriots, and they left, avowing their determination to vote elsewhere, where the officers were not so particular.
We cordially indorse what our correspondent says about the responsibility for
illegal voting resting upon "the city authorities," who make this appointment of
judges of election! The responsibility does not rest with them; but who
believes that the primary object with them, under existing circumstances, was
to prevent the lamentable disregard of the election law, which was everywhere
so patent and shameless?
Editor Bulletin:
In your paper of yesterday, on the subject of illegal voting, you say that fraud
was practices all over the city. Now, so far as the Fourth ward is concerned,
allow me to suggest that you are probably in error, for in that ward only one
hundred and thirteen votes were polled under the provision of this city charter,
which makes it necessary that every voter shall be a citizen of the United
States, a bon fide citizen of Memphis six months—and of the ward in which he
offers to vote thirty days next preceding the election. It is true a good many did
try to vote in the Fourth ward, by showing their oath of allegiance merely,
allowed to vote early and often in the other wards, as was probably the case,
merely upon showing that paper, which did not entitle them to a vote at all, but
faulty was with those who conducted the election, and who were sworn to hold
it according to law; and the fault also lies with the city authorities in not
appointing competent judges and clerks to hold the election according to law,
as the charter requires.
Citizen of Fourth Ward.
June 27, 1863 - July 5, 1863 - Confederate forces retreat from Tullahoma to Chattanooga
TULLAHOMA, June 27, 1863—10 p. m.
Lieut.-Gen. POLK, Near Gen. Cheatham:
GEN.: I inclose you a letter from Gen. Cleburne, and Gen. Bragg firmly and
positively orders you to see that your baggage wagons move on, and that those
that break down be removed instantly, as is the custom, from the road, so that
the troops and trains of Cleburne may pass. His safety is now endangered by
this unjustifiable course of your officers and with it that of the army.
June 27, 1863
W. W. MACKALL, Chief of Staff.
[Inclosure.]
JUNE 27, 1863.
Lieut.-Gen. HARDEE:
The road in my front is taken up with trains and troops of other commands. I
am making but slow progress at this moment-6.45 p. m. My rear is but 11/2
miles south of Schoefner's Bridge. Some of Gen. Polk's officers, Col. [D. M. ]
Donnell, for one, stops his command, and, in consequence, everything in rear
of him, whenever wagons which were broken down out of the road and push
on. He said his orders, from higher authority, were to leave none of the wagons
behind, and he would obey those orders. This policy will risk the safety of this
army. I can hear the enemy's artillery and small arms on my flank and rear.
P. R. CLEBURNE, Maj.-Gen.
HDQRS. HARDEE'S CORPS, ARMY OF TENNESSEE, Wartrace, June 27,
1863—4 a. m.
Maj.-Gen. STEWART, Cmdg. Division:
GEN.: Put your command in motion at daylight this morning for Tullahoma.
Move one brigade, crossing Garrison's Fork at Fairfield, via Bethsalem
Church, near these headquarters, Mr. Buchanan's, and crossing Duck River at
the new bridge, near Roseville, thence to Normandy, and up Gage's Creek to
Tullahoma. The other two brigades will move on the pike from Fairfield to
Wartrace, thence via road over new bridge across Garrison's Fork at railroad, 1
mile below Wartrace, to the new bridge over Duck River, near Roseville,
thence to Tullahoma.
By command of Lieut.-Gen. Hardee
HDQRS. WHARTON'S CAVALRY DIVISION, Wartrace, June 27, 1863—
5.15 p. m.
Maj. Gen. JOSEPH WHEELER, Shelbyville:
GEN.: Your dispatch received, and in reply would say that I dispatched you
this morning, giving full statement of the position of my command, also
through Lieut. [Marcellus] Pointer, who called on me this morning, since
which time there has been no change. I will continue to advise you of my position. I was ordered by Gen. Hardee to cover his rear and left flank, and to hold
this place until 12 o'clock to-day.
JNO. A. WHARTON, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. Cavalry Division.
P. S. -The enemy will not advance on us from Fairfield, and I have sent two
regiments to attack them.
IN THE FIELD, FIVE MILES FROM TULLAHOMA, June 28, 1863—1.45 a.
m.
June 27, 1863
Brig.-Gen. MACKALL:
GEN.: I am receipt of your note of 10 p. m. of the 27th, with its inclosure. The
conduct of Col. Donnell is in the highest degree reprehensible, and entirely at
variance with orders from these headquarters and the practice of this corps.
From whom he has received orders I know not. The impropriety shall be
stopped and the facts investigated.
L. POLK, Lieut.-Gen.
SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 173. HDQRS. ARMY OF TENNESSEE, Tullahoma, June 28, 1863.
~~~
III. Lieut.-Gen. Polk will relieve, with a brigade from his corps, on the morning
of the 29th instant, Brig. Gen. L. E. Polk's brigade, picketing the roads to
Manchester. Brig. Gen. L. E. Polk, when relieved, will report to Maj.-Gen.
Cleburne.
By command of Gen. Bragg:
HDQRS. ENGINEER'S DEPARTMENT, POLK'S CORPS, ARMY OF TENNESSEE, Tullahoma, June 29, 1863.
Maj. THOMAS M. JACK, Assistant Adjutant-Gen., Polk's Corps:
MAJ.: Your order relative to building rifle-pits, &c., along our line received. I
find that, during my absence this morning, Capt. [S. W. ] Pressman, the chief
engineer of Gen. Bragg, ordered nearly all our tools to be taken on Gen.
Hardee's line. I have written to Capt. Pressman to have them returned as soon
as possible, and directly they get here your orders will be carried out.
Capt. [W. J. ] Morris and myself were engaged this morning in examining our
front line of works, and satisfied ourselves that pits should have been built
when the works were laid out; also that the timber should have been cut 300 or
500 yards, north and east, more than is now cut. I am afraid it is too late to do
this work now, but the pits can be rapidly thrown up.
Very respectfully, major, your obedient servant,
EDWARD B. SAYERS, Capt. and Chief Engineer Polk's Corps, Army of Tennessee.
HDQRS., June 29, 1863—4 p. m.
Gen. WHEELER:
It is of the very first importance that we should have positive information of
the movement and extension of the enemy on our right. Gen. Bragg urges you
to ascertain where their left rests to-night, what kind of force, and so to observe
it during the night that it cannot make any movement more to our left that will
not be reported from hour to hour, or, better, the moment it occurs.
June 27, 1863
JUNE 29, 1863—4.15 p. m.
Gen. WHEELER:
The important question to us now is what progress the enemy is making to pass
our right and interrupt our communications. The general does not so much feel
anxiety about the troops marching on Hillsborough road to this place as on the
Hillsborough road to Estill Springs. Try and get it soon and accurate.
W. V. MACKALL, Chief of Staff.
TULLAHOMA, June 30, 1863.
Lieut.-Gen. POLK:
Gen. Bragg orders two of your brigades of the second line into the reserve. Let
them be ready to move at once and the brigadiers report in person here.
Respectfully,
HDQRS. POLK'S CORPS, Tullahoma, June 30, 1863.
Maj.-Gen. CHEATHAM:
GEN.: The lieutenant-general commanding directs you to order Brig.-Gen.
Wright's brigade of the second line into the reserve. Let the brigade be ready to
move at once, and you will instruct Brig.-Gen. Wright to report in person to
Brig.-Gen. Mackall, chief of staff.
Respectfully, general, your obedient servant,
[THOMAS M. JACK,] Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
HDQRS. POLK'S CORPS, ARMY OF TENNESSEE, Tullahoma, June 30,
1863.
Maj.-Gen. WITHERS:
GEN.: The lieutenant general commanding directs you to order Brig.-Gen.
Walthall's brigadier of the second line into the reserve. Let the brigade be ready
to move at once, and you will instruct Brig.-Gen. Walthall to report in person
to Brig.-Gen. Mackall, chief of staff.
HDQRS. HARDEE'S CORPS, Tullahoma, June 30, 1863.
Gen. STEWART:
GEN.: Gen. Hardee directs me to inform you that the enemy is reported to be
pressing Bate on the New Manchester road, and advancing on the Hillsborough
road. He desires you to press forward the work as rapidly as possible.
Respectfully,
June 27, 1863
T. B. ROY, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
P. S. -The note from Gen. Bate forwarded by you is received.
[Indorsement.]
Gen.'s CLAYTON, BROWN, AND JOHNSON:
Read this note, and press forward with your work as rapidly as possible.
[A. P. ] STEWART, Maj.-Gen.
HDQRS., Tullahoma, Tenn., June 30, 1863—1 p. m.
Maj.-Gen. STEWART, Cmdg. Division:
GEN.: You will send Johnson's brigade immediately to a point to which Capt.
[Georgia M. ] Helm will conduct it. It will take two days' provisions; no wagons except ammunition wagons.
W. J. HARDEE, Lieut.-Gen.
Gen. Hardee directs me to say that you will march the brigade above mentioned to the Hillsborough road, near the first fortification to the right of the
road, where Capt. Helm will meet it.
D. H. POOLE, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
[Indorsement.]
HDQRS. STEWART'S DIVISION, On the Field, June 30, 1863.
Brig. Gen. B. R. Johnson will move his command in accordance with within
order.
By command of Maj.-Gen. Stewart:
R. A. HATCHER, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
P. S. -An order has been sent to ordnance wagons to meet brigade on Hillsborough road. Gen. Johnson will turn over all the axes, tools, &c., with his brigade
to Brig. Gen. John C. Brown.
TULLAHOMA, June 30, 1863.
Gen. BRAGG:
I have positive information that the enemy moved to-day on the road from
Manchester to Bethpage, and a portion of the command is within 3 miles of the
bridge. They moved yesterday toward Hillsborough from Manchester. There
are 8,000 or 10,000 troops on the Bethpage road. I started the man who knew
all the facts to you this evening, but he failed to get to you. He left Manchester
to-day, and came all along the road. He is reliable, and had a pass, the enemy
believing he was a friend. I know the man well.
June 27, 1863
A. S. COLYAR.
DECHERD, June [30?], 1863—11 p. m.
Gen. POLK:
Send the dispatch below to Gen. Hardee post-haste, and as soon as Wheeler's
forces cross to this side in obedience thereto, destroy instantly the Allisona
Bridge, and report it done to Gen. Hardee:
Give you following order, from Gen. Bragg, to Gen. Wheeler: "Cross your cavalry at once to this side of the river by the Allisona Bridge."
To you the general says, destroy the Bethpage Bridge at once, and report it
done. When will the Elk be fordable?
DECHERD, July 1, 1863.
Gen. POLK:
The general commanding requests you to send your engineer troops at once to
repair the road leading over the mountain, as far as University Place.
Yours, respectfully,
H. W. WALTER, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
DECHERD, July 1, 1863.
Gen. POLK:
Is the river now fordable? Is it so falling as to be fordable by morning? Is the
railroad bridge destroyed? Are all the troops and trains this side?
W. W. MACKALL.
ALLISONA, July 1, 1863.
Gen. MACKALL:
Gen. Wheeler thinks, from best authority, the river will not be fordable until tomorrow night. Railroad bridge burned. All trains and troops are on this side,
except such cavalry, as Gen. Wheeler thinks will not require a bridge.
L. POLK.
ALLISONA, July 1, 1863.
Gen. MACKALL:
In reply to your question, shall we fight on the Elk or take post on the mountain
near to Cowan, I say take post near the mountain at Cowan. I think as many
trains as possible should be sent over the mountain.
L. POLK.
SPECIAL ORDERS. HDQRS. ARMY OF TENNESSEE, July 1, 1863.
June 27, 1863
I. The quartermaster and commissary depot of this army will be immediately
established at Cowan.
II. Lieut.-Gen. Polk will send a brigade to that place.
III. Lieut.-Gen. Polk's train will be parked at Cowan; Lieut.-Gen. Hardee's at
Decherd.
By command of Gen. Bragg:
H. W. WALTER, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
HDQRS. POLK'S CORPS, Decherd, July 1, 1863.
Maj.-Gen. CHEATHAM:
GEN.: The lieutenant-general commanding directs you order one of your brigades to Cowan Depot.
Respectfully, general,
MOUTH OF BATTLE CREEK, July 3 1863—1.30 p. m.
Lieut.-Gen. POLK, Cmdg. Army of Tennessee:
GEN.: The pontoon bridge broke away this morning, but will be in order by 3
p. m. The road to Jasper where it crosses Battle Creek is not fordable. A pontoon bridge is being built by Capt. [G. B. ] Pickett, and Capt. Morris will be
ready by 5 or 6 p. m. road fair to Bridgeport. Bridge over Tennessee River has
no railing to it, and will be dangerous to trains. All wagon trains being parked
in fields near crossing.
Very respectfully,
EDWARD B. SAYERS, Chief Engineer.
HDQRS. ARMY OF TENNESSEE, July 4, 1863.
Lieut.-Gen. POLK or Maj.-Gen. CHEATHAM, Battle Creek:
Let Gen. Buckner's troops cross the river and move up to the railway. Report
promptly the time they will reach it, that cars may be ready.
Respectfully,
HDQRS. POLK'S CORPS, In the Field, July 4, 1863—9.30 a. m.
Maj.-Gen. WITHERS:
GEN.: The lieutenant-general commanding directs that you allow all the troops
to pass over the river, following the wagons, except one brigade, and, when
over, let them move forward to a suitable camp ground beyond the range of the
enemy's guns on this side, and there encamp, if that be practicable. They
should at least be moved forward beyond the point where the mountain comes
down to the river. The brigade reserved should be so posted as to protect our
June 27, 1863
left flank until the passage is complete. The forward movement should extend
to a point of easy access to the railroad, by which the troops are to be supplied
with provisions. Orders were issued to division commissaries to proceed to
Bridgeport, draw their rations, and place them at a convenient point on the railroad. Let your own brigade commissaries proceed forward to the point on the
railroad at which the depot of supplies shall have been established, draw
rations, and have them cooked in advance of the arrival of the troops.
THOMAS M. JACK, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
HDQRS. POLK'S CORPS, July 4, 1863—2.30 p. m.
Maj.-Gen. WHEELER:
Gen. Polk learns that there is a point 3 miles above the mouth of Battle Creek
where his road and Gen. Hardee's come very near together. This is considered a
pregnable point with Gen. Hardee. He desires you to have this locality reconnoitered, and to cover Gen. Hardee there until he passes, say 5 p. m. This command is moving over it or not, as you prefer; at all events destroy it.
(To be read by Gen.'s Martin and Wharton.)
IN THE FIELD, Mouth of Battle Creek, July 4, 1863—2.30 p. m.
Lieut.-Gen. HARDEE, Cmdg. Corps, &c.:
GEN.: Gen. Polk directs me to say you can have the use of the pontoon bridge
across the Tennessee River at 4 p. m. The general also directs me to say that he
has notified the cavalry commanders in his rear that your road approaches his
within a short distance, 2 1/2 or 3 miles above the month of Battle Creek, and
that it is your wish to be covered by them at that point until your trains pass,
say 5 p. m., as you desired in your note to the commander of the general's rear
guard.
Very truly and respectfully,
W. B. RICHMOND, Aide-de-Camp.
HDQRS. POLK'S CORPS, East Side Tennessee River, July 4, 1863—4.30 p.
m.
Lieut.-Gen. HARDEE:
GEN.: The lieutenant-general commanding directs me to say to you that his
staff officers have just returned and inform him that you expect him to guard
the bridge. His troops are all over the river; he has no further use for the bridge,
and your own troops are as near to it as his; otherwise he would take pleasure
in guarding it. The general has instructed Gen. Wheeler, covering his column,
that he would have no further use for the brigade after 6 o'clock this evening;
also that he has informed Gen. Bragg of that fact, and requested him to give
orders respecting it to the engineer officer in charge. These orders are expected
June 27, 1863
by steamer from Bridgeport in the course of an hour. Should you desire to
interpose, he suggests your making known your wishes you the engineer
officer. The general directed Gen. Wheeler to cover your column at the point at
which the roads come near together till 5 o'clock, the hour at which you stated
in note to commander of rear guard you would pass.
Most respectfully, your obedient servant,
BRIGADEPORT, July 4, 1863—5 p. m.
Lieut.-Gen. POLK:
Cross all your troops, with the exception of one of Cheatham's brigades. Let
those that are sufficiently rested (of those that cross) move out to the railroad
on the road to Chattanooga.
Respectfully,
EN ROUTE, FOUR MILES FROM JASPER, July 4, 1863—7 p. m.
Capt. JACK, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
CAPT.: I have received your note. I did not design, by my remarks to Gen.
Polk's staff officers, to convey the idea that Gen. Polk's troops were to guard
the bridge. I did not think any guard necessary. I asked that the bridge might be
held-not destroyed. I have notified the engineers that I would not require the
bridge.
Very respectfully,
W. J. HARDEE, Lieut.-Gen.
HDQRS. POLK'S CORPS, July 5, 1863—5 a. m. . .
Brig.-Gen. MACKALL:
GEN.: Your order of yesterday (5 p. m.) did not reach me in time to leave a brigade on the other side of the river. My troops are now awaiting orders. Most of
them bivouacked near the railroad. I respectfully request orders, and, as I am
camping with Withers' division, 6 miles in advance of Cheatham, I shall thank
you to send my orders for Cheatham through him, in order to save time. Withers is at Shellmound; Cheatham between Shellmound and Bridgeport. Respectfully, general, your obedient servant,
L. POLK, Lieut.-Gen., Cmdg.
HDQRS. POLK'S CORPS, July 5, 1863—5 a. m.
Maj.-Gen. CHEATHAM:
GEN.: The lieutenant-general commanding directs that you halt your troops
near the railroad, and await further orders.
June 28, 1863
HDQRS. POLK'S CORPS, ARMY OF TENNESSEE, Near Shellmound
Depot, July 5, 1863—7.30 a. m.
Maj.-Gen. WITHERS:
GEN.: The lieutenant-general commanding directs that you move, with you
entire command, to Whiteside Depot. There encamp, and await further orders.
PONTOON BRIGADE, Battle Creek, July 5, 1863—12.15 p. m.
Lieut.-Gen. POLK, Shellmound:
GEN.: I have received you note. I have just seen Gen. Wheeler, who is on his
way to Bridgeport, and by this time is within a mile or two of the place. He
thinks the brigade should not be destroyed without hearing from the commanding general, and he promised to telegraph him on the subject as soon as he
reached Bridgeport, for orders for me, and to send me the answer immediately.
His rear guard left the top of the mountain this morning.
Since I commanded this note, a courier has arrived here from Gen. Mackall,
with a verbal message to inquire if the bridge is burned. As Gen. Wheeler's
courier will be here within two hours, I suppose I will wait until hear definitely
as to the disposition of the bridge before acting, as Gen. Wheeler informed me
that he thought there would be time to hear from Gen. Bragg. Meantime I will
have everything in readiness.
GEO. B. PICKETT, Capt. of Engineers, in Charge of Pontoon Bridges.
June 28, 1863 - "The Situation"
There is no question but that the enemy is approaching to give us battle. Anticipating this approach, every preparation is being made to give him a warm
reception. Baggage and sick are being sent to the rear and reinforcements to the
front. Another brigade from Western Virginia passed up yesterday, chiefly Virginia troops in the[ir] first campaign in Tennessee. A portion of Buckner's
command passed up last evening, and Jackson's will probably follow in the
morning.
June 28, 1863
June 28, 1863 - "CONFEDERATE TAX COLLECTOR"
In response to several inquiries, we state that applicants for appointment as
Collectors of the Tax recently levied by the Congress of the Confederate States
should address D. N. Kennedy, Chief Collector, Chattanooga
June 28, 1863 - Skirmish at Rover
NEAR CHRISTIANA, June 28, 1863. (Received 1.10 p. m.)
GEN.: I left Triune at 8 a. m. June 28. Struck the enemy's picket one-half mile
south of Eagleville. Steady skirmishing until we arrived within one-half mile
of Rover, and there I met the enemy in force; formed a line of battle, and drove
them one-fourth of a mile beyond the town. Here they opened a battery of six
guns. They had a regiment and a battalion of infantry to support them. I drove
them back to their rifle-pits, within a mile of Unionville. We killed 27 horses
that we counted, and, I think, killed and wounded an equal number of men. We
slept on the ground that night, and the next morning moved to Versailles at sunrise; there received orders from Gen. Granger to attack Middleton and attack
that place. We drove the enemy with a loss of from 50 to 60 horses. Many of
them were left on the ground. I was compelled to burn part of the town. I drove
the enemy 3 miles beyond the town, and then fell back in the direction of Gen.
Stanley's camp. We did not lose more than 20 killed and wounded.
ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 543.
June 28, 1863 - "DIXIE'S FAST DAY"
We are thinking of ye brothers,
Of the struggle dark and deep,
Of the last day, sad and weary
That ye often have to keep
Of the toilsome march and ever
The cold and rugged bed.
And our head is bowed in sorrow.
We cannot taste our bread
We are weeping for ye, brothers,
Our injured, Dixie's friendsOr your brave and gallant daring
Their more than life depends,
But our spirit sometimes falters,
With waiting for the day
Or redemption from these horrors,
June 28, 1863
And the tears will force their way
We are praying for ye, brothers,
the closet is our shrineWe dare not lift our voices
Beneath he stranger's vine,
But God is ever nearer,
The poor and broken hearts,
And THIS DAY, with Dixie's daughters
We'll bear our humble part.
Bring PEACE, unto her borders
Oh! stay this bloody tide,
and bid her lift her drooping head
Once more in Freedom's pride,
And as we pass this Jordan
This doubtful, dark eclipseMay we emerge in glory
With THY NAME upon our lips.
Written 1/27/1863 by "Estelle"
June 28, 1863 - "Daring Robberies" in Chattanooga
Night before last, about a dozen men, apparently soldiers, armed with muskets,
went to the house of Mr. Kirklin, and old citizen living a few miles from this
city, and demanded his money, and upon his refusing to deliver it up, they
dragged him into the yard, and beat him with the butts of their guns until some
of the female members of his family procured a sum sufficient to satisfy their
demands; when they released him, after inflicting severe injuries upon him.
The also threatened his life and avowed their intention to rob other families in
the neighborhood in the same way. We have not heard that they attempted to
carry out their threats in other instances.
On yesterday forenoon, in open day, and in the centre of the business part of
town, the store of Mr. Peter Marsh was entered during his temporary absence,
and robbed of two hundred and fifty dollars in money and some goods.
These are not the first robberies that have been committed in and around this
city by men clothed and armed as soldiers, and a stop should be put to such
proceeding. We respectfully call the attention of our local military authorities
to the subject hoping that if these outrages are perpetrated by soldiers that the
guilty ones will be ferreted out and properly dealt with.
June 28, 1863
June 28, 1863 - Enforcement of General Orders No. 104 during the Tullahoma campaign
•See May 8, 1863--GENERAL ORDERS, No. 104, relative to baggage and
clothing allotments for men and officers in the Army of the Cumberland
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Manchester, Tenn., June
28, 1863—2.15 p. m.
Maj. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS:
The general commanding has noticed with great regret the criminal neglect to
obey department orders in reference to the reduction of baggage. If this army
fails in the great object of the present movement, it will be mainly due to the
fact that our wagons have been loaded down with unauthorized baggage.
Officers and soldiers who are ready to die in the field do not hesitate to disgrace themselves and imperil the army by luxuries unworthy of a soldier. Second. The general commanding directs that all baggage trains be reduced to the
minimum. To effect this, all tents, except shelter tents and one wall tent to each
regiment, will be dispensed with. The ammunition now carried in the company
wagons will be turned over to the division ordnance officers, who will be furnished with a sufficient number of additional wagons to transport it. This will
enable the transportation of each regiment to be reduced to 7 wagons, which
reduction will be at once made. All wagons in excess of this allowance will be
turned over to the division quartermaster, who will, under the direction of the
chief quartermaster of each corps, organize them into a supply train for the
division. Surplus baggage will be sent to Murfreesborough by the returning
trains for storage.
The wagons will carry five days' rations of short forage, one tent to a regiment,
and medical supplies. All commissioned officers will hereafter carry one ration
on their person. Third. All knapsacks will be sent to the rear, and nothing will
be carried by the men except shelter tents, blankets, 1 shirt, 1 pair of socks, and
1 pair of drawers. Fourth. Corps and division commanders will be held responsible for the throwing out of every unauthorized article of baggage. Any quartermaster whose train shall be found carrying chairs and such other needless
weight, usually the fruit of thieving, will at once be arrested, and the officer
claiming it be severely punished.
(Copies to Gen.'s McCook and Crittenden.)
June 28, 1863 - Final examination week at the Memphis junior male school
The City Schools are the most useful and creditable of all Memphis institutions. For a week past, the examination exercised preparatory to the summer
vacation, have been in progress. For a short time Friday we were among the
June 28, 1863
delighted and gratified auditors at the examination of the junior male school,
under the charge of Miss Christine Reudelhuber. The scholars were mostly of
tender years, but passed a most searching examination, conducted by Rev. Mr.
Hines, in the primary branches, such as spelling, reading, arithmetic, geography, and with decided credit to themselves and their fair instructress. There
were also interesting exercises in declamation, dialogues and rehearsals, which
would have been creditable to older heads. Six scholars of twelve months'
standing, had the highest honors conferred upon them for diligence in study
and becoming deportment. There were others, not so long connected with the
school, equally deserving, but their names were not read out, evidently to the
chagrin of the fair teacher. Just before the exercises closed, some of the pupils
very unexpectedly presented their teacher with a bible and a portfolio, as a
memento of their love and esteem, and they were gracefully accepted by Miss
Reudelhuber in a few touching and appropriate remarks.
June 28, 1863 - Confederate Civil War Poetry from Knoxville
To My Wife at Parting.
By J. B. L. B, (C. S. A. )
Nay dearest, chase these tears away,
Tho' they enhance thy beauty,
My country's call I must obey—
The stern command of duty.
Unclasp these circling arms that hang
Their snowy links to bind me,
And let me think, without a pang,
Of the wife I leave behind me.
Again, the "written orders" call—
One kiss and then we sever,
And oh! believe whate'er befall,
My heart is thine forever.
I swear it, by this lingering tear,
Unchanging thou shalt find me,
As I believe the love sincere
Of the wife I leave behind me.
And when this farewell hour is past,
And hope comes gently stealing,
Like a morn's fair tints that radiance cast,
The days return revealing;
Thou'lt own how vain it was to mourn
The lot that fate assigned me,
And smiles will meet my glad return
To the wife I leave behind me.
June 28, 1863
Knoxville, Tenn., June 28, 1863.
Savannah [Georgia] Republican, July 2, 1863.NOTE 1
June 28, 1863 - William G. Brownlow justifies the necessity for a state Union convention to
be held on July 1
"The State Convention."
Mr. Editor: I have written to by several Tennessee soldiers in the army, to know
if it is contemplated that the soldiers should be represented in the State Convention, to come off here on Wednesday [July 1]. By citizens, I have been
enquired of to know what the objects of the Convention are? I am only one of
fifteen Tennesseans whose names are attached to that call, and I can only say
that the Convention is called in good faith—that there is no trick in it, and no
intention to entrap any one, as some few persons fear, because of the phraseology of the call.
We desire a Legislature of loyal men to convene, to district the State, without
which, we cannot have representatives in Congress, or Senators. We want to
elect a Governor, to have Judges and Attorneys General chosen, to have Sheriffs, Revenue Collectors, Justices of the Peace, Constables, and all other officers necessary to the working of the civil machinery of the State. In a word, we
are for re-organizing the State, and restoring law and order, and this we hope to
be ale to do this summer and fall, while the armed rebels are driven from our
borders by our Army.
As a Tennessean, anxious for the restoration of order and law, in this State, and
for the overthrow of this most abominable Rebellion, and the defeat, disgrace,
and punishment of the unmitigated villains who led off in the work of forming
a Southern Confederacy, I look with interest to the meeting and action of the
approaching Convention. Let it be well attended, and let its friends be here
from every county, full of Union zeal, of disinterested patriotism, and of the
spirit of harmony, and good and glorious results will follow.
It is desired that every county in the State shall be represented, and that the soldiers in the army appoint delegates to come up and consult with civilians and
others, as to what will best promote the interest of Tennessee and of the Union.
Let all who do come, whether from the ranks of the military or of civil life be
devoted to the Union, pledging to its friends, wherever found when here in
council. Unwavering support, and to it is enemies, in whatever guise they
present themselves, North and South, undying hostility, swearing upon the
altar of Liberty, that, God willing, they will stand by this Government, its Constitution, laws, and those entrusted with its care, both in the Cabinet and Army;
and that, under this sacred shield, they will have Tennessee return to the Union,
her government organized upon Union principles, and her enemies driven into
retirement, and made to demean themselves as quiet, law abiding men, or leave
June 28, 1863
the State, never more to curse her soil with their presence, or distract here
councils with their infamous and treasonable teachings!
As an individual, I will accept of but one position in the State, and that is the
position of EDITOR AND PUBLISHER OF THE KNOXVILLE WHIG. I
long to return to the home I have been driven from, and to the head of the last
loyal paper that circulated in Jeff Davis' ungodly dominions, that I may tell
him, and his villainous associates in crime, treason and infamy, of things past,
present, and to come!
W. G. Brownlow
Late Editor of the Knoxville Whig
June 28, 1863 - Editorial comments on recent Federal raids in and around KnoxvilleNOTE 1
MILITARY RAIDS. -Well, we have had the benefit of a Renegade Yankee
raid. We have, as it were, seen the giraffe-caught a glimpse rather close than
comfortable, of the mongrel monster alive and hideous. We abhor it and all
lathe breed. We remember to have read somewhat of such tings away back in
the dim eras of history, before there was either Christianity or civilization, and
near indeed to the Deluge. But how our eye hath seen it, and we pronounce and
denounce it as neither christen, heathen nor human; but fiendish, satanic and
devilish and upon the whole profitless.
It certainly profits us nothing who suffer it; that's axiomatic. Nor is it worth the
while and toil and peril of our enemy who make it. Such an incursion weighs
nothing and determines nothing as to the great final result of the war. A
marauding party has caused individual suffering; ruined here and there a private citizen; may even have occasioned a momentary inconvenience to the
Government-but this is the sum. The energies of an invaded people and government rising with the emergencies of the occasion, follow close in the path of
the destroyed to rebuild, repair and restore, like the returning waters to
smoothe and obliterate the furrows of the ocean-plowing keel, leaving no trace
behind save the bare hateful memory of the moment.
War at best is inhuman, but such a war is our enemy wages against and forces
upon us is worse than savage or demonic; it is pure, unminced, dephlegmated,
Yankee.
NOTE 1: The editor is referring to Sanders' Raid in East Tennessee, June 14-24, 1863,
part of which involved a raid upon Knoxville and surrounding territory. The
Knoxville attack was repulsed.
June 28, 1863
June 28, 1863 - Newspaper report on harsh Federal rule in Nashville
A REIGN OF TERROR IN NASHVILLE.
The Atlanta Intelligencer contains a lengthy narrative, from the pen of Mr. J.
Tovell, formerly the secular editor of the Tennessee Baptist, of the atrocious
Federal outrages in Nashville. Mr. Tovell is a British subject, but was incarcerated in the penitentiary under the circumstances which he details as follows:
Some seven or eight weeks ago a highly respectable citizen, who, for upwards
of twenty years had been a magistrate of Nashville, and whose name was John
Corbitt, was awakened by the barking of a dog some time after he had retired
to bed, and suspecting that somebody was on the premises, got up and went our
into his stable yard, where he found three federal soldiers trying to drive off his
cow and calf.-He remonstrated against their theft, and one of them immediately with a huge stone struck him on the side of his head, completely smashing his skull. He survived but a few days, and was buried on Sunday, in the
Cherry street Cemetery. He was seventy-three years of age, and had resided in
Nashville, I believe, upwards of fifty years. Having been on terms of intimacy
with the old gentleman almost ever since my residence in the city, I was
requested by the family to deliver the funeral oration at his interment. The circumstances of the old man's death, and the high estimation in which he was
held by his fellow citizens, brought together a large concourse of people to witness the obsequies, among whom were perhaps some fifty Federal soldiers.
As I stated, rapine, murder and theft had been desolating our city for several
weeks previously. Accordingly in the course of my address, I adverted to this
phase of our social existence as being a strange anomaly in a community where
extraordinary measures had been adopted professedly for the more effectual
maintenance of law and order, nor was I careful to repress indignation of the
crime which had been committed nor of the men who had been committed nor
of the men who had perpetrated it.
I had scarcely left the ground when I was arrested by a band of soldiers belonging to the 10th Michigan Volunteers and taken to the headquarters of the General commanding the post (Gen. Negley.) After a detention of three or four
hours in the guard room, I was summoned into the presence of the General who
informed me that he understood I had been abusing him and speaking disrespectfully of the military authorities. I assured him that I had neither done the
one or the other. That I was persuaded that among the numerous Federal soldiers present at the funeral, their was no one in whose veracity he had any confidence, who would state I have made the most distant allusion either to him or
to the military authorities. I owned that I had spoken not merely disrespectfully
but in the strongest terms of detestation of the atrocities perpetrated by those in
who in the garb of federal soldiers, prowl about the streets at night breaking
into hen roosts stealing pigs and cow, and then knocking peaceful citizens on
the head for resenting the lawless proceeding.
June 28, 1863
The result was that he was marched off, without trial or further investigation, to
the Penitentiary. He states that his case has been presented to Lord Lyons, and
he expects confidently the protection and justice which Great Britain proverbially commands for her subjects.
But, as showing the men and malignant spirit that seems to actuate the federal
authorities, I will state an occurrence which took place some three or four
weeks ago, in relation to five of my own associates. Two of them were lawyers,
one a merchant, and the other two were proprietors of large plantations and a
full force of negroes. All of them were men of mark and of high social position
in their respective neighborhoods. Well, the Provost Marshal sent a guard to
bring these men to his office at the capitol. This was about noon. The functionary I have mentioned, after a few interrogatories, told them that he should send
them north, and they might expect to start toward Louisville next morning.
And, on account of it lying directly in the route of their march, he would have
them lodged for the night at the work house, to which they would at once proceed.
Now these five gentlemen, with five others, who were prisoners of war, having
at the work house, were thrust into a low cell, fourteen feet by eight, without a
since article of furniture, or even so muc as a bench to sit on. There were no
windows, but in their stead were three openings in the wall, each about eighteen inches by six in measurement. These were at best but contracted quarters
for ten men but the evil was increased tenfold by the fact that in an open shed
opposite were posted a guard of Federal soldiers, who kept fire continually
burning, the smoke of which soon filled the cell, being driven by the wind
through the opening in the wall. The effects of the smoke became so intolerable that they began to fear suffocation, and besought the Lieutenant to open the
door, and grant them access to the open air. But this he refused them, and kept
it locked. They had then no other alternative but to lie flat on the floor, filthy
and saturated with urine as it was, from four o'clock in the afternoon until five
the next morning.
The Federal authorities, in prosecuting the barbarous enterprises in which they
are engaged, have been very fortunate in securing fitting instruments for executing their purposes. Their soldiers are such adepts at theft, rapine and murder, that they would evidently feel themselves out of their of their natural
element were they pleased in circumstances which tended to obstruct them in
their favorite pursuits. Their brutal excesses almost surpass belief, and are
many of them of a nature that scarcely admit of their being chronicled by the
journalist. I will, however, give as a sample one well authenticated instance.
A few Sundays ago a number of them entered a negro Sunday School, as a set
of pious visitors, who took a benevolent interest in "Sabbath" schools in this
city. After catechising with the pupils for a short time they took upon themselves to dismiss the school, requesting, however, on some pretext, purporting
that the older more advanced scholars might be successfully initiate into the
more recondite mysteries of the faith, that certain "young sisters" whom they
June 28, 1863
pointed out should remain for this purpose a short time longer. There were
from twenty to thirty young women thus indicated, and not one of them was
allowed to escape till these fiends had fully satisfied their brutal lusts upon
their person.
There are no words in our language strong enough to apply to fiends of this
stamp. During the dark ages acts were perpetrated that makes one's blood fairly
run cold to think of.-But the acts of the Lincoln hordes of the nineteenth century far exceed in barbarity those of the uncivilized nations of the past. And
what makes these deed the more infamous, the men who commit them are
lauded for their "zeal in the cause of liberty" from hundreds of Northern pulpits, and are bid "God speed" in their savage and brutal work by the Abolition
occupants of the same. A worse condition of morals could not exist in Satan's
dominions.
June 28, 1863 - A call for home defense in Knoxville; a reaction to Sanders' Raid
ORGANIZE!
We earnestly appeal to the people of Tennessee, and most especially to the citizens of Knoxville and its vicinity, to organize into companies for home
defence."Delays are dangerous,"-such is the case at this particular crisis, and it
is absolutely necessary to form companies and have them well armed and
ready to march to the field of action at a moment's warning incase of another
raid. It is the hight of folly and crime for the people of this State to remain inactive and defenceless-such conduct is nothing more nor less than an invitation to
bring about grief, despair and devastation upon our State. It is the duty of all
persons between the ages of 15 and 50 years of age capable of bearing arms, to
arm themselves and be in readiness to protect their homes and firesides against
the ruthless invader. There are hundreds upon hundreds who are capable of
bearing arms, and who are to liable to regular military duty that could with propriety form themselves into effective companies and be of invaluable service to
their country should another raid occur within the lines of our State. If such
was the case, raids would soon be suppressed and public order secured. There
is no part of the State entirely secure against raids, and it its citizens will organized an select daring and active men for their leaders, raids in Tennessee
would soon terminate and peace reign. In but few instances should exemptions
and substitutes be admitted-let all be enrolled-foreigners not excepted. They
should not remain in our midst and be inactive-if they refuse to stand by the
colors of our flag let them dig its entrenchments or forsake its folds of protection.
June 28, 1863
June 28, 1863 - Drenched in Chattanooga
The Rain.
Well may we exclaim with Clarence Mangan
"Oh! the rain, the weary, dreary rain."
For seldom has the season known a period of such protracted, uninterrupted,
sunless weather. We remember, indeed, the old distich,
"It rained continuously through January,
And as for sunshine-we hadn't nary;"
But this refers to winter. To fall upon four live long days in the heart of Summer, with nothing but one blank sky of deadened clouds, one wide waste of
water, and one burst after another of thunder, varied by no other sight nor
sound, 'nor ray of sun nor song of bird," day by day.
"From morn to noon, from noon to dewey eve,"
presents us certainly a miracle of the thermometer, of bad luck and of mud. As
we look out of our window now upon the swollen current of the Tennessee,
pouring its mighty torrent along as if to welcome a gunboat, or swallow a yankee, the ridges of black mist boil up from behind old hills, and a gust of wind
murmurs, "the rain! the rain!" In truth we do not need the warning voice, for
we see it. It comes not gently like the tears of woman, but noisily like those of
a naughty boy-pitching, splashing against sash and sill. Look Out Peak is quite
obscured by it. The cupola of the Presbyterian church looks like the ace of
hearts through the mist. Why, even the market house is invisible. Alack the
day! If we were not promised no more deluges, we think we should begin to
play Noah and build an ark. We have already had to play the mechanic, for
only the last night three of our window panes were broken out by the pelting
drops, and all the morning we have been endeavoring to patch them up with
paper. This has proven a fruitless labor thus far, for as fast as we put on the
sheets another storm blows them off again. They are like some of our postage
stamps, and won't stick. The failure teaches one good lesson, however, and that
is the inefficacy of a paper blockade. It also invokes the old lesson of, "try, try
again." We shall proceed as a distinguished friend of our often remarks, upon a
familiar occasion with our usual dignity to do so. Meanwhile, beseeching the
prayers of all the well disposed men and women for our ultimate success, we
extend our sympathy to all who like ourself, have been confined to the house
by having no water proof soles, or like some of our neighbors, have wheat in
the field cut, but not gathered, and wishing heartily
____"The rosy cheek
Of a laughing hoyden, sunny day."
June 29, 1863
June 28, 1863 - July 5, 1863 - Repair of railroad and bridges, Murfreesborough to Tullahoma
HDQRS. FIRST MICHIGAN ENGINEERS AND MECHANICS, Elk River
Bridge, Tenn., July 13, 1863.
COL.: In accordance with instructions received from department headquarters
by telegram this morning, I have the honor to make the following report concerning the operations and movements of this regiment since leaving Murfreesborough, Tenn.:
Late in the evening of June 28, orders were received from the general commanding for the regiment to repair and open the railroad from Murfreesborough to Tullahoma, and, in conformity with these directions, the regiment
marched from Murfreesborough June 29, at 10 a. m. Lieut. Col. K. A. Hunton,
with a detachment, proceeded down the line of the railroad, thorough examining the track to note any repairs that were needed. Between Bellbuckle and
Wartrace they found 21/2 miles of iron had been taken up and carried off. Col.
Anderson having been ordered to replace the iron, the regiment proceeded to
Duck River Crossing and commenced immediately to rebuild and repair the
bridge at that point, 350 feet in length, which had been burned and chopped
down by the enemy. A detachment was sent forward to Normandy, and rebuilt
150 feet of trestle which had been destroyed at that point. Having completed
these bridges, the regiment moved toward Tullahoma, and a portion of the regiment chopped out and opened 11/2 miles of new road, leading into Tullahoma,
a greater portion of which was covered with corduroy, rendered necessary to
assist the wagon trains with supplies to proceed.
Lieut. Col. K. A. Hunton, with a detachment, marched near the vicinity of
Concord, on the branch of the McMinnville Railroad, and rebuilt two bridges'
trestle-work; the first 55 feet in length, and the second 120 feet in length.
The regiment went into camp at Tullahoma, Tenn., July 5, 1863.
I have the honor to remain, colonel, with high respect, your obedient servant,
WM. P. INNES, Col., Cmdg. First Michigan Engineers and Mechanics.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 582-583.
June 29, 1863 - Skirmish near Hillsborough
Report of Col. Thomas P. Nicholas, Second Kentucky Cavalry.
HDQRS. SECOND KENTUCKY CAVALRY, Camp, July 8, 1863.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the First Battalion Second Kentucky Cavalry, from the time it was detached at Manchester till the
time of rejoining this brigade:
Having reported to Gen. Thomas, as ordered, it was directed to report to Gen.
Beatty, commanding First Brigade, Second Division, Fourteenth Army Corps,
June 29, 1863
at Hillsborough. Having reconnoitered the country around that place Monday
morning, and heard of two rebel regiments of cavalry on Winchester road,
marched in the evening, acting as advance guard for Gen. Beatty, to camp of
Second Division at Bobo's Cross-Roads, having had a skirmish on the march,
in which it lost 1 officer killed, 1 private slightly wounded, and 1 captured.
Loss of the enemy (supposed to be Col. [James W. ] Starnes and body guard)
unknown.
Next day marched [30th] in same order toward Winchester, and 5 miles out
came upon the Third and Fourth Georgia rebel cavalry, supported by two
pieces of artillery, and had three days' skirmish-fighting, [June 30- July 2]
which culminated on last day in a sharp exchange of volleys, the enemy being
by this [time] supported by a regiment of infantry, which lasted for a quarter of
an hour, and by great good fortune had only 1 private wounded and a bugler
captured or killed. Loss of enemy, if any, unknown. Captured, first and last, 20
or 30 prisoners. This battalion was ably supported the two last days by the First
and Third Ohio.
Respectfully,
T. P. NICHOLAS, Col., Cmdg. Second Kentucky Cavalry.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 569-570.
June 29, 1863 - Skirmish at Decherd and destruction of railroad at Tracy City and Tantalon
commanding First Brigade, during the Middle Tennessee Campaign, June 23July 7, 1863, relative to the skirmish at Decherd and destruction of railroad
lines at Tracy City and Tantalon, June 29, 1863.
HDQRS. 1ST BRIGADE, 4TH DIVISION, 14TH ARMY CORPS, Camp near
Duck River Bridge, July 11, 1863.
When we started again up the Cumberland Mountains, [29th] on the Brake
field Point road, I determined to break the road, if possible, below Cowan.
When partly up the mountain we could plainly see a considerable force of
infantry and cavalry near Decherd. We moved forward to the Southern University, and there destroyed the Tracy [City] Railroad track. From there I sent a
detachment of 450 men, under Col. Funkhouser, of the Ninety-eighth Illinois,
to destroy the railroad at Tantalon, and went forward myself in the direction of
Anderson, intending to strike the railroad at that place. Col. Funkhouser
reported to me that three railroad trains lay at Tantalon, loaded with troops, and
my scouts reported two more trains at Anderson. Both places being approachable only by a bridle-path, I deemed it impossible to accomplish anything further; besides, the picket force left at the railroad, near the university, were
driven in by cavalry, who preceded a railroad train loaded with infantry. They
were now on my track and in our rear. I collected my force, and determined to
June 29, 1863
extricate them. Leaving a rear guard to skirmish with and draw them down the
mountain, I started on the road toward Chattanooga. When about 8 miles from
the university, during a tremendous rain, which obliterated our trail, I moved
the entire command from the road about 2 miles eastward into the woods, leaving the rear guard to draw them forward down the mountain, which they did,
and then escaped through the woods and joined us, some not coming up until
next morning [30th].
~~~
J. T. Wilder, Colonel, Seventeenth Indiana Infantry
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 461.
RAID ON DECHERD.
On the night of the 30th June [29th] about 1,500 cavalry made an attack upon
Decherd, a railroad station on the Nashville and Chattanooga railroad, 13 miles
this side of Tullahoma. We have the particulars from a lady who was there and
witnessed it all. It was intended to be a monster destruction of railroad cars,
engines, and property, but it was a failure. They did not catch the trains. Notice
of their approach had been given and everything was kept out of their way. The
telegraph operator remained at this post until they came into the place.-He then
hurriedly snatched up his apparatus and a gun and a cartridge box that happened to be in the half of the hall of the house. He made his escape by a back
way to a place of concealment. The Yankees, in their rambles about the place,
came near him, when he fired and killed one-thought to have been a captain.
He immediately made his escape and joined a party of soldier-about 29- who
were guarding the water tanks of the railroad. There were attacked by the Yankees and had to give way. They retired to a thick woods near by where, from
their concealment, they fired on the villains for nearly an hour.
The enemy burned up the depot and destroyed one of the tanks, but did not do
other serious damage. They failed to find the government supplies which were
stored there. There were a few ladies in the place, whom they threatened and
tried to bully to make them tell where the Government stores were, and how
many Confederate troops were at several points nearby, but failed. They all left
about midnight.-Confederacy.
Knoxville Daily Southern Chronicle, July 4, 1863.
June 29, 1863 - Skirmish at Elm River
Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: Certainly Dyer meant the Elk River, which is within the territory covered
during the Tullahoma Campaign. While there was military activity around
the Elk River for this date, the OR indicates no skirmish, action, etc. directly
associated with the Elk River. There is no Elm River in Tennessee.
June 29, 1863
June 29, 1863 - Skirmish near Lexington
REPORTS.
No. 1.-Brig. Gen. Alexander Asboth, U. S. Army, commanding District of
Columbus, Ky.
No. 2.-Lieut. M. M. R. William Grebe, Fourth Missouri Cavalry.
No. 3.-Maj. Wiley Waller, Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry.
No. 4.-Col. George E. Waring, jr., commanding First Brigade, Sixth Division,
Sixteenth Army Corps.
No. 1.
Reports of Brig. Gen. Alexander Asboth, U. S.
Army, commanding District of Columbus, Ky.
HDQRS. DIST. OF COLUMBUS, KY., 6TH DIV., 16TH A. C., Columbus,
Ky., July 3, 1863.
COL.: I beg to state that First Lieut. M. M. R. William Grebe,
Fourth Missouri Cavalry, arrived this morning at 4 o'clock from Fort Heiman,
and make the following preliminary report:
On June 29, a. m., a force under command of Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich, Fourth
Missouri Cavalry, consisting of 8 officers and 85 men of the Fourth Missouri
Cavalry, and 8 officers and 160 men of the Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry, under
Lieut.-Col. Henry, left Spring Creek to scout toward Lexington. When within 6
miles of Lexington, information was gained of a large rebel force in that place,
said to be 1,500 strong, and that another force of about 500 men was moving
from Jackson to attack us in the rear. Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich concluded to
fall back to Spring Creek to avid being cut off. On the march back, we were
attacked by a force of about 2,000 rebels at 2 p. m., lying in ambush, who were
not discovered until they fired upon our advance guard. Being closely pressed
and pursued, and not being able to reach Columbus, an attempt was made to
reach Fort Heiman, which was but partially successful.
Lieut. Grebe returned with 5 officers and 57 men of the Fourth Missouri Cavalry, but cannot state the exact loss of the Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry. He left
at Fort Heiman but 2 officers and about 45 men of that regiment. Lieut.-Col.
Von Helmrich and Lieut.-Col. Henry, Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry, are both
missing.
It was reported to Lieut. Grebe that the rebel force engaged is of Forrest's division, under immediate command of Gen. [R. V. ] Richardson, under whom are
Col.'s [Jacob B. ] Bifle [James U. ] Green, and [John F. ] Newsom.
Please refer to my communication of 24th ultimo, inclosing a copy of my
instructions to Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich, dated 23d ultimo. As soon as Lieut.
Grebe can make out his detailed report, a copy will be forwarded.
June 29, 1863
Respectfully, colonel, your obedient servant,
ASBOTH, Brig.-Gen.
HDQRS. SIXTH DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Columbus, Ky.,
August 9, 1863.
COL.: I beg to inclose, in addition to my report of July 3, the official report of
Col. George E. Waring, jr., Fourth Missouri Cavalry, and Maj. Wiley Waller,
Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry, of the action near Lexington, Tenn., on June 29,
1863, with lists of the killed, wounded, and missing.
The loss may be stated as follows: Fourth Missouri Cavalry-commissioned
officers missing, 2; enlisted men missing, 26.
Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry-commissioned officers missing, 5; enlisted men
missing, 17; enlisted men killed, 1; enlisted men paroled and returned, 7;
enlisted men paroled and not returned, 4. Total officers and men, 62.
The men reporting themselves paroled have been ordered to duty.
Respectfully, colonel, your obedient servant,
ASBOTH, Brig.-Gen.
Lieut. Col. HENRY BINMORE, Asst. Adjt. Gen., 16th Army Corps.
No. 2.
Report of Lieut. M. M. R. William Grebe, Fourth Missouri Cavalry.
FORT HEIMAN, July 7, 1863.
I arrived here last night with 2 officers and about 40 men of the Fourth Missouri Cavalry Regt. and 10 men of the Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry Regt.
Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich and Lieut. Garrett are missing, and probably taken
prisoners. All the officers of the Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry Regt. are missing.
On the morning of June 29, we left Spring Creek to go to Lexington. When
within 2 miles of the latter place, we were informed that a large force of rebel
troops was there, probably 15,000 men, and that another force from Jackson,
about 500 strong, was to attack us in our rear. Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich concluded to fall back to Spring Creek to avoid the cut off. When on the march
back there, we were attacked by a force of about 2,000 rebels at 2 p. m., who
were lying in ambush, whom we did not see till they fired upon our advance
guard. Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich has done the best he could do, but we met
with a bad fate. As we were very hardly pursued, and not able to reach Columbus, we concluded to fall back to Fort Heiman. As all our men and horses are
entirely broken down, and many men without arms, and cannot be of any assistance to the fort here, we intend to leave here by the first boat, to go to Columbus.
The whole force of the enemy under command of Gen. [R. V. ] Richardson is
reported to be from 20,000 to 25,000 men, well armed, and all mounted; and
the nearest pickets are reported at Paris, Tenn.
June 29, 1863
I have the honor to remain, your most obedient servant,
M. M. R. WILLIAM GREBE, First Lieut., Cmdg. Detachment Fourth Missouri Cavalry.
No. 3.
Report of Maj. Wiley Waller, Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry.
HDQRS. UNITED STATES FORCES, Fort Heiman, July 4, 1863.
GEN.: I have the honor to report that in the absence of Lieut. Col. A. P. Henry,
I have assumed command of this post.
On the 26th instant Lieut.-Col. Henry, with the entire effective force of the cavalry at this post, numbering 285, rank and file, started on an expedition against
[J. B. ] Biffle. He was joined by the forces under Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich, of
the Fourth Missouri Cavalry, numbering 80, rank and file, at Paris Tenn. The
forces then moved to Lexington, and from there toward Jackson, an encountered a rebel force, estimated at from 1,000 to 1,500 strong. A skirmish ensued
under the direction of Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich, which lasted some hour and a
half, when our forces retreated, and were rapidly pursued by the enemy. The
rear guard made several stands, each time inflicting severe loss on the enemy.
The loss from the Fifteenth Kentucky, as near as can be ascertained, is as follows: One lieutenant-colonel, 1 captain, 3 lieutenant, 35 enlisted men, and a
considerable number of horses, arms, &c.
Several of our men have returned paroled, and I would respectfully ask for
instructions as to what disposition to make of them.
The situation of the cavalry at this time is bad; almost all the horses they had
were engaged in the skirmish, and, after a hasty retreat of 100 miles, those that
have reached camp are utterly exhausted, and will be unfit for service for some
time. The force also is quite small, and unable to withstand an attack of 500
men. The enemy has a force of from 10,000 to 15,000 men within 100 miles of
this post, and some small bodies as close as 30 miles, and but for the gunboats
we might be attacked any hour. Yet we are willing to do everything in our
power, and expect to hold the place as long as possible.
Please let me hear from you at your earliest convenience.
I am, general, very respectfully, yours,
W. WALLER, Maj., Cmdg. Post.
No. 4
Report of Col. George E. Waring, Jr., commanding First Brigade, Sixth Division, Sixteenth Army Corps.
HDQRS. FIRST Brig., SIXTH DIV., SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Union
City, Tenn., August 7, 1863.
June 29, 1863
CAPT.: At the time of the action near Lexington, Tenn., June 29, 1863, I was in
command of the post of Columbus, and since that time to the present I have not
been in command of the Fourth Missouri Cavalry. But learning from your communication of August 5 that no official report has been furnished, and believing from the fact that the regiment is in part here and part of Columbus, further
delay would result unless some action was taken by myself, I submit the following:
Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich was intrusted, by order from headquarters of the district, with an expedition to West Tennessee, of about 97 officers and men of the
Fifteenth Kentucky Cavalry.
On the morning of the 29th of June, 1863, he was made aware of the presence
of the enemy in two detachments, one, numbering about 500, at or near Lexington, and the other, about 1,500, near his flank. He was then near Spring
Creek, and finding it impossible to get aid or information from the hostile
inhabitants, determined to retreat toward Clarksburg, and was so marching
when, near Spring Creek, his advance guard was fired upon. The command
was halted, and was formed to repel the charters over heavy ground by two
companies of the Fourth Missouri Cavalry, which developed the enemy in
large force on foot behind an embankment formed by direst thrown from a
drain, with cavalry in equally large numbers on the flank, the retreat was continued ward Clarksburg. At judiciously selected points in the road, the Fourth
Missouri Cavalry was formed, to repel the pursuit and to protect the rear and
those who were wounded. In one of these encounters, Lieut.-Col. Von Helmrich dismounted to assist a wounded officer, and while so dismounted his horse
broke away and he was taken prisoner, after which the retreat became less systematic, and the inhabitants of Clarksburg, who fired from their houses as the
troops passed through that place, increased the confusion. The retreat was continued to Fort Heiman, when Lieut. Grebe, the senior officer after the engagement, arrived with about 45 men, which number was increased somewhat by
the arrival on the next and succeeding day of those who had become dismounted, but had made their way through the woods to Fort Heiman on foot or
in passing country wagons.
I cannot close this report without adding that all the officers with whom I have
spoken concerning the affair speak in the highest terms of Lieut.-Col. Von
Helmrich's well-formed plans in encountering the enemy, his coolness and
bravery during the action, and his judicious management of the rear during the
short time which elapsed from the skirmish until his unfortunate capture. The
men of the Fourth Missouri Cavalry are also highly praised for their soldierly
conduct during and after the skirmish.
Inclosed is a report of the killed, wounded, and missing, as nearly as can be
ascertained.
June 29, 1863
GEO. E. WARING, JR., Col., Cmdg. Brigade.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 628-632.
June 29, 1863 - Skirmishes near Tullahoma
•See June 23, 1863-July 7, 1863-Tennessee or Tullahoma CampaignNOTE 1
June 29, 1863 - Skirmish at Moscow Station
June 29, 1863 - "Scene D'Afrique."
We yesterday saw what we never before beheld in Nashville-a nigger bridal
party, in carriages, inaugurating the honey-moon by [an] ostentatious drive
through the streets. The pageant was attracted great attention, and especially
did strolling contrabands gleefully show their ivory masticators at the immense
"spread" their newly-spliced African brother and sister were making. Of course
we took a peep at the veiled bride, and we thought she was the Queen of Blackness incarnate. She and her lord sat in the front carriage in all their native modesty and lovely blackness doubtless exchanging many sweet syllables in the
Ethiopian vernacular: "Peace go wid dem niggers."
June 29, 1863 - Return to duty orders for Confederate prisoners of war in East Tennessee
General Orders No. 60
Headquarters, Dep't East Tenn.,
Knoxville, June 29th, 1863
All officers and soldiers captured by the United States forces under Col Saunders is their recent raids, are hereby directed to report for duty immediately to
their representative commands, as the paroles given are not recognized by the
Authorities at Richmond.
By command of
Maj. Gen Buckner
Knoxville Daily Southern Chronicle, July 19, 1863.
June 29, 1863 - Attacks and partial burning of Middleton
•See June 23, 1863--Skirmish at Rover
June 30, 1863
June 30, 1863 - Reconnaissance from Manchester to Tullahoma
Excerpt from the Report of A. McD. McCook on activities during the Tullahoma Campaign.
HDQRS. TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, Winchester, Tenn., July 10, 1863
~~~
On the 30th, Sheridan remained at Crumpton's Creek, making a reconnaissance
toward and within 3 miles of Tullahoma. The enemy was found in force.
Johnson's and Davis' divisions remained in bivouac near Manchester.
~~~
A. McD. McCOOK, Maj.-Gen. U. S. Volunteers, Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 467.
June 30, 1863 - Skirmishes near Tullahoma
•See June 23, 1863-July 7, 1863-Tennessee or Tullahoma CampaignNOTE 1
June 30, 1863 - Skirmish with rebel guerrillas at Butler's Mill, near Buck Lodge
JUNE 30, 1863.-Skirmish at Butler's Mill, near Buck Lodge, Tenn.
Report of Lieut. Col. Gustavus Tafel, One hundred and sixth Ohio Infantry.
Buck Lodge, Tenn., July 1, 1863. I. . . submit. . . the following statement in
regard to the brush had by a party of my men with a force of guerrillas on yesterday, the 30th day of June:
On Monday evening, June 29, about 8 o'clock, information reached me that a
party of guerrillas were robbing the house of Mr. Bresentine, a Union man, not
far from our farthest bridge guard, about two miles from this place. I immediately ordered all the mounted men I had (numbering eleven), under command
of Lieut. Berthold, to repair to the place indicated and to give pursuit if the circumstances should warrant it. After several hours' ride the robbers saw themselves pressed so hard they dropped part of their plunder on the road and they
themselves took to the woods. The guide (young Bresentine) then conducted
our party to a house where the guerrillas were known to congregate, and there
they laid in wait for them. The thieves did approach within sight, but got wind
of the presence of my men, and under cover of darkness made good their
escape. At daylight, June 30, the party started out again, and after a protracted
search for the villains, they were on their way home and within seven miles
from camp, near what is called Butler's Old Mill, when they were fired into by
a force who lay in ambush, and whose numbers were estimated at from 70 to
120 men. Lieut. Berthold fell at the first fire, shot through the heart, and the
rest of the party, after a short resistance, made good their escape, with the
June 30, 1863
exception of one man, Charles Ofenloch, private, of Company E, whose horse
gave out, and who was overtaken and killed. The rest were pursued to within
two miles of camp. Immediately on their arrival I started out with a detachment
of infantry, leaving only a small guard at the fort, and succeeded in recovering
the bodies of the murdered men. No guerrillas were to be seen. Besides the two
men killed, the following were wounded: Jacob Zink, Company H, both hands;
Henry Knapp, Company H, shot in the breast; David Coil, Company F,
wounded in the arm and breast. The guerrillas were armed with shotguns and
revolvers. They had one of their number killed and several supposed to be
wounded. I had eight suspicious characters living in the neighborhood of
where the fight took place arrested, and upon careful examination discharged
three of them and sent the rest on to Gallatin. . .
GUSTAVUS TAFEL, Lieut.-Col., Cmdg. 106th Regt. Ohio Vol. Infantry.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 52, pt. I, p. 68.
Fight at Buck Lodge.
On Tuesday a small party of rebel cavalry entered the home of a Union man
living nine miles from Gallatin, Tenn., robbed him of all his money—a considerable amount—and, taking his horses, started off at full speed. A squad of
Federal soldiers belonging to the One Hundred and Sixth Ohio were mounted
and started in pursuit. The rebels formed an ambush at Buck Lodge, a few
miles from Gallatin, in a well chosen position, and as the Union soldiers
approached, delivered upon them a merciless fire, killing instantly the Lieutenant in command and one other. Three were wounded—to is supposed none of
them fatally. The Federals fled, abandoning their dead and wounded comrades
to the enemy.
Nashville Daily Press, July 4, 1863.
June 30, 1863 - Excerpt from a Federal soldier's letter home relative to his opinion of Elmwood Cemetery in Memphis
It is a magnificent affair. I do not know what the size of it is, but should think it
at least 100 acres. There is some of the best Graveyard Sculpture I ever saw
anywhere, while the different kinds of trees planted, give a grace to the scene
not to be described. . . It is affecting to see the fondness the Southern people
have for their children. Instead of seeing a Stone marked Sacred to the memory
of John B. died so aged 2 years and three months you see instead a beautiful
sculptured stone just bearing some affectionate diminutive, the child has been
called by, such as Little Dick, Sweet Lottie, Dear Lulu, or something equally
endearing. . . It is a custom with some to put a glass case on the children's
graves containing the toys the children have been in the custom of playing with
and their shoes or any other waif. These mementos to me were very affecting.
George H. Cadman, 39th Ohio Volunteer InfantryNOTE 1
June 30, 1863
NOTE 1: Carrol H. Quenzel, "A Billy Yank's Impressions of the South," THQ, Vol.
XII, No. 2 (June, 1953), p. 102.
June 30, 1863 - Correspondence from the field headquarters of the Department of the Cumberland Medical Directors Office relative to the medical aspects of the Tullahoma campaign
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND.
Medical Director's Office, Tullahoma, Tenn., June 30, 1863.
SIR: In compliance with instructions to report the operations of the medical
staff during the skirmishes of the 24th, 25th, and 26th instant, I would respectfully state that suitable preparations had been made to take care of a large number of wounded.
The sick that could be transported without injury were transferred from the
general field hospital in Murfreesborough to Nashville. Such buildings in the
town of Murfreesborough as were suitable were put in order for the reception
of patients.
About two hundred and fifty hospital tents were carried with the command to
accommodate such cases as could not be sent to the rear. Reserve supplies of
medicines, hospital stores, dressings, &c., were carried with each army corps.
In each division the organization of the medical department was complete, the
medical officers being assigned appropriate duties.
As far as ascertained at this office, 261 wounded men were provided for.
The wounded of each day were promptly removed to the rear, and attended to
before night.
As possession of the gaps was acquired without a serious battle, and as it was
supposed that the enemy would make a stand in the vicinity of Tullahoma, it
was deemed advisable to disencumber the command by sending all of the
wounded to Murfreesborough. This was accordingly done.
The wounds were generally of a lighter character than usual; but few important
surgical operations were necessary.
The attention of the medical officers to their duties was unremitting, and worthy of all praise.
The utility of the organization of brigade ambulance trains was very apparent
during the late skirmishes. The ambulances were in good order, the trains were
in the right place, and effectively served.
Accompanying will be found a consolidated list of the wounded, as far as
heard from.
G. PERIN,—Surgeon, etc.
June 30, 1863
Surgeon U. S. Army, Medical Director, Dept. of the Cumberland.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, pp. 418-419.
June 30, 1863 - "A Negro Smuggler."
A negro man, belonging to Mr. Wilson, living about fourteen miles from the
city, on the Wilson turnpike, was arrested a few days ago, for smuggling contraband goods through the lines. It was found that the negro had done quite an
extensive business in this line for a long while, and at the time of his detection,
he was in possession of a quantity of articles most needed in rebeldom. He is to
be kept in prison until the parties implicate in the traffic are ferreted out.
June 30, 1863 - Bad weather and picket guard duty in Memphis: an excerpt from George
Hovey Cadman's letter home
~~~
We are having awful weather out here now nothing but storms and such ones
you never saw in your life. I went on picket Guard last Friday evening and the
way the rain came down was a caution. From six in the evening till 7 in the
morning it came down without any intermission, and such rain! I never was in
a country where the rain fell so easy, it is no trouble at all it just falls as if it had
noting else to do. We had nothing to do but stand and take it for we had not a
bit of shelter. I was never so wet in my life. Next morning a gentleman came
along and was thoughtful enough to bring us a bottle of Whisky I tell you it
went good. I was searcher and an Irishman came along with 2 gallons of
Whisky some time after, and was pretty fast. His permit called for 2 gallons
and he never had the kindness to offer us a drop. I thought I would be even
with him so I had to taste to make sure it was the right sort. Of course I could
not pretend to form a judgment by myself so had to call in assistance and had
all tasted, we allowed it might be right and let it pass. We have some queer customers sometimes. We had an awful accident occur yesterday in our Quarters.
A gun went off by accident, and the ball after passing through two tents a knapsack full of boys clothes passed through the side of one of the boys in our company, and then right through his leg. I don't know whether he will recover.
I cannot write you a long letter today as I have to go on Grand Guard this
evening hoping this will find you quite well I remain your
Affectionate Husband
G. H. Cadman
George Hovey Cadman Correspondence
June 30, 1863
June 30, 1863 - A protest against inflation in Knoxville
GOVERNMENT PRICES.
It has been a source of annoyance and complaint with some honest-minded and
patriotic citizens that the Government prices have been lower than the market
value of produce and other articled purchased or impressed.
At one time, we ourselves were persuaded that the complaint had some foundation in justice and sound policy but the progress of events has taken that conceit out of us. We knew nothing, at the time mentioned of the resources of
speculation and rising prices. Many a man, or all buyers at least, have like ourselves become wiser, though it may be sadder men now. And if our government had adopted the policy, or rather impolicy of paying "market," that is to
say speculator's prices and thus entered into a sort of conspiracy with the said
speculators against the buyers and itself many of us would have been sadder if
not wiser. In fact such a procedure would have the most egregious folly, and
must have proved ruinous both to the government and people. For fixing prices
to-day high as the government might, to-morrow, aye to-night the "market" i.e.
speculators prices, would be as far as ever above those of the government. And
there would be no limit to the rising progression, absolutely none. If JOHN
SMITH enters into competition with me in bidding for a horse or a hundred
pounds of bacon, there must be an end to the auctioneer's roll of prices; for
SMITH'S pocket has a bottom to it as well as mine. But the government makes
it own pocket or promise to pay just as long as it will; and just so long as it as a
buyer can afford to offer prices, just so long as the seller can afford to ask them.
And where is an end to the asking? Why, in times of necessity like these, had
our government yielded to the clamor for "market prices," the speculators as a
class, useful enough in their way, would have been able to buy us all, houses,
land, wives, children, government and all, like Pharaoh did the Egyptians in
time of famine.
The question is not whether the producer should receive a friar and adequate
remuneration of his labor or skill. That is admitted. But whether the government itself, the largest and best bidder, shall co-operate with shylocks and
extortioners in advancing prices and "fixing market values" beyond all endurance, the end being individual and natural bankruptcy.
June 30, 1863 - July 2, 1863 - Three days skirmishing in the Winchester environs
•See June 29, 1863--Skirmish near Hillsborough
June 30, 1863

See June 4, 1863 - Art Circle Public Library

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