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Post by mdenney on Sept 2, 2007 14:18:14 GMT -5
During the whole of the two days fighting my brigade kept well together, at all times obeying orders promptly and moving with almost as much regularity and precision as if upon drill. They were subjected to a very severe test on the 19th, when, being actively engaged with the enemy, another brigade (not of this division) ran panic-stricken through and over us, some of the officers of which shouted to our men to retreat or they certainly would be overwhelmed, but not a man left the ranks, and the approaching enemy found before him a wall of steel. Private Savage, of Smith s battery, struck one of the retreating officers with his sponge and d**ned him for running against his gun.
Our loss in the engagements of both days amounts to 13 officers and 132 men killed, and 25 officers and 581 men wounded, and 51 missing, the total loss being 802 men and officers.
BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA. 393
Doubtless many of those enumerated among the missing will be found either wounded or killed. There was no straggling, and I have little doubt those not wounded or killed will be found prisoners in the hands of the enemy.
It is a noticeable fact that the Second Minnesota had not a single man among the missing or a straggler during the two days 7 engagement.
I cannot speak too highly of the conduct of my officers and men. Without exception they performed all that was required, much more than should have been expected. Where all did so well it seems almost unjust to make distinctions. More gallantry and indomitable courage was never displayed upon the field of battle.
The attention of the general commanding the division is particularly called to the conduct of Col. James George, Second Minnesota; Col. Gustave Kammerling, Ninth Ohio; Col. "N. Gleason, Eighty-seventh Indiana; Lieut. Col. H. V. N". Boynton, commanding Thirty-fifth Ohio; and First Lieut. Frank Guest Smith, commanding Battery I, Fourth Artillery. These officers performed every duty required of them with coolness and great promptness, and by their energy and gallantry contributed much to the favorable result which attended every collision with the enemy. Such officers are a credit to the service and our country.
Smith s battery rendered great help in the action of the 19th, and was ably and gallantly served, Lieutenant Rodney being conspicuous in the management of his section.
Captain Church, of the First Brigade, with one section of his battery, fought well and is entitled to credit for the assistance he rendered me on the 19th. I cannot refrain from alluding to the reckless courage and dash of Adjutant Har ries, Mnth Ohio. My staff upon the field consisted of Capt. J. E. Beatty, of Sec ond Minnesota, acting assistant adjutant general; Capt. Oliver H. Parshall, of the Thirty-fifth Ohio, and Capt. E. B. Thoenssen, Mnth Ohio, acting aides; Capt. C. A. Cilley, Second Minnesota, brigade topographical engineer; and First Lieut. A. E. Alden, brigade inspector. For efficiency, personal courage, and energy their conduct deserves more than praise. They exposed themselves upon all oc casions, watching the movements of the enemy, carrying orders, rallying the men, and by every means in their power contributing to the success of the bri gade. Captain Parshall was killed early in the action of the first day. He was a brave, noble soldier, an upright gentleman, and carries with him to the grave the love and regret of many friends. Captain Thoenssen was missing the evening of the second day, and I believe was captured. Captains Beatty and Cilley had each two horses shot under them. There are many names particularly com mended for courage and good behavior, for which I respectfully refer to reports of regiments and the battery.
We have lost many gallant officers and men, a list of whom is herewith fur nished you. In the charge made by the Ninth Ohio on the 19th, when they re captured the battery of the regular brigade, their loss in killed and wounded was over fifty.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FERDINAND VAN DERVEER, Colonel, Commanding Third Brigade. Capt. Louis J. LAMBERT,
Assistant Adjutant General, Third Division.
394 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
Report of Capt. William A. Hotchkiss, Second Minnesota Battery, Chief of Artillery.
HEADQUARTERS CHIEF OF ARTILLERY, FIRST DIVISION, TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, CHATTANOOGA, Sept. 26, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the part taken by the batteries of First Division, Twentieth Army Corps, in the marches and expeditions prior to and during the late battle of the 19th and 20th instant.
The Fifth Wisconsin Battery, Captain Gardner commanding, was detached from the division with the First Brigade, on duty at Valley Head, near Mr. Win ston s. Ala., and did not arrive in the vicinity of the battle-field until the after noon of the 20th instant, too late to take part in the action. Following a road near the base of Lookout Mountain, it reached Chattanooga, with Colonel Post s brigade, on the morning of the 22d instant without loss.
The Second Minnesota and Eighth Wisconsin batteries accompanied the division on all its movements after crossing the Tennessee river, and arrived with it at Widow Glenn s house, near the right of our line of battle, a little after meridian the 19th instant, when, by order of General Davis, I put the Eighth Wisconsin Battery, Lieutenant McLean commanding, in position a little to the right of Mrs. Glenn s house, and followed the division into the field with Second Minnesota Battery, Lieutenant Woodbury commanding. General Davis led his troops by the right flank through a dense woods, under a heavy fire, and, regarding the movement and use of artillery at any point where the line of the division was being established impracticable, I reported to the general for further orders, when he directed me to move the battery, with as much speed as possible, to the right and establish it on the first eligible ground that could be found. At the extreme right of the line of the division a small field in front of the enemy s left was found. The battery was promptly brought into position, under a brisk fire from the enemy s skirmishers, and soon drove in not only his skirmishers but his main line. The service the Second Minnesota Battery did at this point was of great importance. Three successive times it prevented the enemy from form ing and extending his left with the evident purpose of flanking General Davis right. Between 4 and 5 P. M., after holding its ground for nearly three hours against a superior force, the division began to fall back, according to my obser vation, in very good order. I immediately determined to retire the Second Min nesota Battery and a section of an Indiana battery, then on the left of the Minnesota battery, slowly and in line with the troops, about 250 yards across the only open ground in our rear. An unforeseen and very unnecessary circumstance prevented the accomplishment of my purpose. The drivers and men of the section of the Indiana battery above alluded to became panic-stricken, and stam peded with their caissons and gun limbers through the Second Minnesota Battery, endangering the safety of its guns, very nearly causing the loss of the left section. I am. indebted to the courage and coolness of Lieutenant Harder for its safety.
After a brief consultation with the lamented Colonel Heg, commanding Third Brigade, I ordered Lieutenant Woodbury to put his guns in position on the right of the new line and again engage the enemy, which was promptly done. A few minutes later Colonel Heg was mortally wounded and Lieutenant Woodbury was
BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA. 395
disabled by a severe wound in the left arm. About this time General Davis 7 di vision was relieved by General Wood, when, in accordance with instructions, I retired the Second Minnesota Battery out of range.
I have heard of a report that an occasional shell from the Second Minnesota Battery wounded men in General Carlin s brigade. Of my own knowledge the statement is unfounded; in fact, in the course of the engagement General Carlin rode up to me, a little to the left and in front of the battery, and stated that he had extended his lines partially across the front of the battery; that his men were occupying an undulation in the ground about 100 yards distant, and remarked, "If your fire is well directed it can do no harm to my troops." I immediately pointed out General Carlin s line to Lieutenant Woodbury, and to each lieuten ant commanding sections, and ordered that all firing over them should be at a range not less than 700 or 800 yards; also, I rode up to the commanding officer of a battery that had just gone into position on my right, and pointed out to him General Carlin 7 s line, and cautioned him against firing into his men. At this juncture the section of the Indiana battery heretofore alluded to commenced firing. I rode up to the lieutenant commanding it, told him our own troops were immediately in front of him, and as, from his position, he could not see the enemy, I ordered him to cease firing. From this time up to the moment the di vision was retired I remained near the guns of the Second Minnesota Battery, watched closely the movements of the troops in front, and directed the fire of the battery. I repeat, of my own knowledge, not one man of our own was injured by shot or shell from my guns. I did think an occasional shot from other guns lodged in or near our lines, and so reported to a lieutenant of the battery on my right.
Early in the morning of the 20th General Davis was ordered to occupy a posi tion as a reserve, and the Second Minnesota and Eighth Wisconsin batteries were assigned positions covering the Chattanooga road and did not fire over half a dozen shots during the day. After the divisions of General Davis and General Sheridan had been repulsed, and it had become evident to General Davis that the infantry could not be rallied for the support of his batteries, he ordered them re tired out of range of the enemy s guns, himself remaining on the field with the hope that something might still be done to retrieve the fortunes of the right wing. When I drew off my batteries I found the gap on the road leading through the hills to Chattanooga so thoroughly blockaded with batteries and ammunition trains as to (in the confusion) prevent their farther progress. I turned my atten tion to extricating the artillery from the jam by drawing them out in columns, piece by piece, on either side of the road, until I had the satisfaction of seeing every carriage of all kinds in motion. While this was being done one of the enemy s guns was throwing solid shot into the gap. About 300 or 400 yards to the rear 800 or 1,000 men had been collected, for whose support I put one section of the Second Minnesota Battery in position so as to cover the road from the far ther advance of the enemy, and remained there myself until General Davis came up and announced his intention to overtake the advance of the scattered troops- going to the rear, where he would rally them for the purpose of marching them to the support of General Thomas, who was then holding the enemy in check. In less than two hours General Davis had collected about 1,500 men, with whom and the Eighth Wisconsin Battery he marched toward the front, but night closing
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Post by mdenney on Sept 2, 2007 14:18:34 GMT -5
396 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
in before he could reach the field, in obedience to orders, he countermarched and bivouacked his troops near Eossville about 11 P. M. The Second Minnesota Battery was the only battery of the division that was under fire on the 19th and 20th instant.
The number of casualties were: Wounded, First Lieut. A. Woodbury, severely; Private Fordis Averill, slightly.
The men of the battery without exception behaved well. Lieutenant Wood- bury s conduct was particularly commendable.
Eespectfully submitted,
WM. AUGUSTUS HOTCHKISS,
Capt. and Chief of Arty., First Div., Twentieth Army Corps. Capt. T. W. MORRISON,
Assistant Adjutant General, First Division.
EXTRACTS FROM EEPORT OF BRIG. GEN. JEFFERSON C. DAVIS, COMMANDING
FIRST DIVISION.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS,
CHATTANOOGA, TENN., Sept. 28, 1868.
* * * Carlin s right rested in a small open field, which presented an ad mirable position fora light battery, and the Second Minnesota was rapidly brought into position a little in rear of our line of infantry, which was soon drawn back so as to give as free range as possible to the guns. The enemy soon showed him self in heavy force on our front, and was evidently making an effort to turn our flank with a view to getting possession of the road leading to Gordon s Mills, over which a part of the troops of General Crittenden s command had yet to pass in reaching the battle-field.
My lines of infantry as now formed ran through a thick oak forest, a few hun dred yards in advance of and parallel to the road leading to Gordon s Mills, iny right a little refused. The action commenced about half-past 12 p. M., and was sustained with great stubornness on both sides for a half to three-quarters of an hour, when Heg reported his left as being very hard-pressed and asked for re-en forcements, informing me at the same time that he had ordered his reserve regi ment into the front line and was still unable to hold his position much longer. I immediately ordered Carlin s reserve regiment, which proved to be the Twenty- first Illinois, to his support.
This distinguished regiment moved promptly into position under its indomi table leader, Colonel Alexander, and engaged with great spirit in the contest then pending and of doubtful issue. My lines thus arranged, with the admirable position taken, and efficient working of the Second Minnesota Battery on my right, I was enabled to repel the repeated assaults of the enemy, and to prevent him from flanking our position, until about 4 p. M., when re-enforcements ar rived. Colonel Harker s brigade, of General Wood s division, first arrived and was quickly formed in line, and moved forward in support of my troops. * * *
Throughout the entire campaign the efficiency and gallantry of my staff, con sisting of Capt. T. W. Morrison, assistant adjutant general; Capt. T. H. Daily,
BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA. 397
aide-de-camp; Lieut. F. E. Beynolds, aide-de-camp; Surg. L. D. Waterman, medical director; Capt. W. A. Hotchkiss, chief of artillery; Capt. H. N". Snyder, assistant commissary of musters; Capt. H. W. Hall, inspector; Capt. J. P. Pope, commissary of subsistence; Lieut. J. E. Bemington, acting assistant quartermas ter; Lieut. J. P. Kuntze, topographical engineer, and Lieut. J. M. Butler, ord nance officer, were well tested, and to them I desire to express my many obliga tions. * * *
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
CHATTANOOGA, Oct. 17, 1863. Major General THOMAS:
The major general commanding directs you to detail from the Second Minne sota, of your command, fifty picked men, under a competent commissioned offi cer, to report at 7 A. M. to-morrow to Brigadier General Smith, chief engineer, at these headquarters. The detail to be increased as the occasion may require.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. McMlCHAEL,
Major and Assistant Adjutant General.
Report of Brigadier General James B. Steedman.
CONCORD CHURCH, Feb. 15, 1868.
COLONEL: A forage train of ten wagons from my command, with escort of two companies of infantry; and while four of the wagons guarded by 13 privates under the command of a sergeant [all of Company H, Second Minnesota In fantry], were being loaded one and a half miles from Nolinsville, were attacked by 150 rebel cavalry. The sergeant immediately formed his men, took shelter in a cabin near the wagons and repulsed them, wounding 5, 3 of whom I have pris oners, killing 4 horses, capturing 3 horses, 7 saddles and 3 guns. Two of our men were slightly wounded. * * *
Very respectfully,
JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Brigadier General, Third Division.
Col. C. GODDARD,
Asst. Adjt. Gen l and Chief of Staff .
HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, NOLINSVILLE, TENN., February, 1863.
The colonel commanding the brigade takes pleasure in commending the con duct and sturdy valor of Lovilo 3S". Holmes and fourteen non-commissioned officers and privates of Company H, Second Begiment Minnesota Volunteers, for
398 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
the heroic defense made by them near Nolinsville on the 15th inst. , against the attack of two companies of rebel cavalry numbering 125 men, and repulsing them with loss.
This little affair is one of the most creditable of the campaign and deserves to be remembered and cited as worthy the emulation of all.
The colonel desires that the names of these worthy men and brave soldiers may be preserved.
First Sergt. Lovilo N. Holmes.
Corporals Samuel Wright and William A. Clark.
Privates Nelson Crandall, James Flannigan, Samuel Leslie, Louis Londrash, Charles Liscomb, Joseph Burger, Byron E. Pay, Charles Krause, John Yale, Samuel Loudon, Milton Hanna and Homer Barnard, have his thanks.
F. VAN DERVEER, Colonel, Commanding Third Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., Feb. 7, 1868.
SIR: The general commanding desires me to state that he is extremely grati fied to learn, that your regiment is among the number, who may be held up as an example worthy of imitation. Men who submit to discipline cheerfully, and take soldier s pride in their personnel, he feels confident can be relied upon in an emergency.
The general desires you to read this letter on parade.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES CURTIS,
Capt. Fifteenth U. 8. Infantry and A. A. Inspecting General. To Colonel GEORGE,
Commanding Second Minnesota Volunteers.
BATTLE OF BRISTOE STATION.-Oct. 14, 1863.
Report of Maj. Mark W. Downie, First Minnesota Infantry.
CAMP, NEAR BLACKBURN S FORD, YA., Oct. 16, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of my command during the battle of Bristoe Station, Oct. 14, 1863:
In* obedience to directions from the general commanding division, I deployed my regiment as skirmishers on the front, perpendicular to, and its right resting on, the railroad. The line was then moved forward with orders to pass through a piece of woods on our front. The extreme left had entered the woods several rods, when, on discovering the enemy in superior force and fairly upon them, they delivered their fire and fell back slowly toward the right. The position and force of the enemy was such that it was deemed impracticable to extend the left, and it was drawn back to a position more secure, but sufficiently near for pur poses of observation.
BATTLE OF BRISTOE STATION. 399
The line was then wheeled to the left, which movement brought it into the open field and within half- musket range of the enemy s skirmishers, and in full view of his column, which was advancing directly on our front. The firing be came very brisk along the whole line, and had continued some moments when the enemy s line of battle was discovered advancing rapidly some few rods in rear of their skirmishers. Their object was evidently to obtain possession of the railroad a position not yet occupied by our troops and I immediately gave the order to fall back behind the railroad. The movement was not commenced until their line was fairly upon us, and was executed under a very heavy fire from their front, but with very small loss. By this time the road had been secured by a brigade of the Third Division and our men found themselves extended along a front equal to their skirmish lines. The two lines had become engaged and it was found impracticable to re-form the regiment, and the men fought in that posi tion during the whole battle.
When the enemy s line was repulsed some of our skirmishers from the centre were again sent to the front for purposes of observation. On passing a ridge of ground some 300 yards from our line they discovered a battery which had been abandoned by the enemy and one of its pieces dismounted. They were enabled to bring in two pieces only, but sent word back to the line for more men. Our men were then engaged in bringing in prisoners, and Captain Maginnis, not being able to collect a sufficient number, reported the fact to a colonel of the Third Di vision (General Hays ), who immediately gave an order for a detail of ten men from each regiment, stating at the same time that "our (his) brigade would get the credit of it." Three of the pieces were in consequence brought off from the field by men of the Third Division, although first discovered and taken by men of this regiment.
The entire number of prisoners brought in by men of this regiment was 322, among which were two field and five line officers.
With regard to the conduct of the officers and enlisted men, the result of their effort is a sufficient answer. They were never more firm and steady under fire, and to their valor and perseverance is due that meed of praise which is extended to the gallant and victorious soldier.
All of which I have the honor to submit.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
MARK W. DOWNIE,
Major, Commanding First Regiment Minnesota Volunteers. Capt. W. B. C. DURYEE,
Assistant Adjutant General.
EXTRACT FROM EEPORT OF COL. FRANCIS E. HEATH, NINETEENTH MAINE IN FANTRY, COMMANDING FIRST BRIGADE.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION,
Oct. 16, 1863.
When the enemy was first discovered I formed my command, under the direction of the general commanding, on the line of the railroad to the south
400 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
of Broad Bun. When the enemy advanced we repulsed them with heavy loss, capturing two flags (one by the Nineteenth Maine Volunteers and the other by the Eighty-second New York Volunteers) and a large number of prisoners. The Eighty-second New York Volunteers was then sent, by the order of the com manding general, to support Brown s Ehode Island battery on the north side of Broad Eun. The First Minnesota Volunteers were, however, deployed as skirmishers in our front, and during the engagement captured and brought off two guns. * * *
BATTLE OP MISSION RIDGE- Nov. 25, 1863.
Eeporis of JAeut. Col. Judson W. Bishop, Second Minnesota Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND EEGIMENT MINNESOTA VOLUNTEERS,
CHATTANOOGA, TENN., Nov. SO, 1868.
CAPTAIN: In response to circular instructions of this date from brigade head quarters, I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Second Eegiment of Minnesota Volunteers in the operations against the enemy during the week commencing Nov. 23, 1863:
On Monday, the 23d instant, at 3 p. M., the regiment marched from its encamp ment in Chattanooga with the other regiments composing the Second Brigade, with two days rations and 100 rounds of ammunition per man, and was placed in line of battle about half a mile distant from and in front or south of Fort Negley.
The regiment remained in position here until noon of Wednesday, the 25th, when with the brigade it marched to the left, taking a position to the east of and about a mile distant from Fort Wood, and facing the enemy s position at the foot of and on the crest of Mission Eidge.
Here the regiment was advanced, with two companies deployed, for the pur pose of covering the brigade in its formation and movement toward the enemy s works.
The brigade being formed, a general advance was commenced at 3 p. M., and continued without opposition for a distance of about three-fourths of a mile, when the deployed companies reached the eastern or farther edge of a strip of woods, and came in full view of the enemy s works; the remaining companies being about 150 yards in rear of the deployed line, and the remaining six regiments of the brigade about 300 yards still farther back, and partially concealed from the enemy s view by the woods in front of them. Immediately in front of the de ployed line lay an open field, the ground descending for a short distance to a small creek, and beyond it rising gradually for a distance of about a quarter of a mile to the crest of a secondary ridge, running parallel to, and about a quarter of a mile distant from, the foot of Mission Eidge. Along the crest of this secondary ridge was a breastwork of logs, occupied as the front line of the enemy s defenses by two regiments or battalions of infantry.
BATTLE OF MISSION RIDGE. 401
Beyond it the ground descended with an easy slope for a distance of 300 or 400 yards to the foot of the main or Mission Ridge, which rises thence, with a slope gradual at first, but increasing in abruptness toward the top, to a height of 500 or 600 feet. Along the crest of Mission Eidge were the main defenses of the enemy, consisting of a breastwork of logs, fully manned with infantry, with ar tillery posted on the more commanding points, in sections of two guns each, at intervals of from 100 to 200 yards. The artillery, thus placed, swept with direct and cross fire the whole space between the ridges mentioned, and also the open field across which we had to advance upon the first breastwork.
In the valley between the main and the secondary ridges were the enemy s encampments, the huts mostly hidden from our view by the smaller ridge and breastwork in front of them. The space between the two ridges had been covered with woods, but, except the highest and steepest part of the slope of the main ridge where the smaller trees had been felled and entangled as an obstacle, the timber had recently been cut away and used in the construction of huts and breastworks. After remaining in front of this part of the enemy s line for some twenty minutes, I received an order from Colonel Van Derveer, commanding the brigade, to deploy my entire command and advance upon the first line of breast works, to seize and occupy it if possible; if repulsed to fall back on the brigade..
The men were briefly informed of the desperate service required of them, and instructed to withhold their fire and to move steadily forward until the work was gained; then to defend it to the utmost. The reserve companies were then de ployed, and, with bayonets fixed, the whole line commenced the advance. The enemy opened fire with musketry from the breastwork, and with artillery from the main ridge, as soon as our line emerged from the woods, but in the face of both the men moved silently and steadily on, across the creek and up the slope until within about 100 paces of the breastwork, when, as the pace was quickened, the enemy broke from behind the work, and ran in some confusion down the slope into and beyond their camps, where, taking cover behind the stumps and among the huts, they opened a brisk fire on us again as soon as we gained and occupied the breastwork. Our line, now partially sheltered by the work, re turned the fire with such effect as soon to drive the enemy out of the valley and up the slope of the main ridge beyond the range of our rifles. Fourteen prison ers were here captured and sent to the rear.
Our loss in this attack was severe, though probably much less than would have been suffered by troops advancing upon the work in regular order of battle. About twenty minutes after the capture of the first work, the brigade advanced from the woods, and on arriving at the work halted for a few minutes, when the order was given for a general assault upon the enemy s main defenses on Mission Eidge.
My regiment moved forward with the others of the brigade, assembling on the colors as far as it was possible to do on the way, until, in ascending the steepest part of the slope, where every man had to find or clear his own way through the entanglement, and in the face of a terrible fire of musketry and artil lery, the men of the different regiments of the brigade became generally inter mingled; and when the brigade finally crowned the enemy s work on the crest of the ridge, the regimental and even the company organizations had become com pletely merged in a crowd of gallant and enthusiastic men, who swarmed over
402 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
the breastwork and charged the defenders with such promptness and vigor that the enemy broke and fled, leaving their artillery in battery, and barely getting away a portion of the caissons and limbers. Six 12-pounder Napoleon guns were thus captured by our brigade, two of them by the men of my regiment. Hardly had a lodgment in the works been gained when the enemy s reserves made a furious counter-attack upon our men, yet in confusion. This attack was promptly met by a charge en masse by the crowd, which, after a few minutes of desperate hand-to-hand fighting, cleared the ridge, leaving the place in our undisputed possession, with some 200 or 300 prisoners. The captured artillery was turned upon the retreating enemy and manned by volunteers from the different regi ments, but darkness soon closed over the field and the firing ceased. The regi ments were assembled, and, after collecting and caring for the dead and wounded, we bivouacked on the ridge for the night.
During the operations here recounted about 150 men of my regiment, includ ing two entire companies (F and G), were on detached service, leaving but 15 of ficers and 170 men, 185 in all, present for duty; of these 1 commissioned officer was killed, 3 were wounded, and 4 enlisted men were killed and 31 wounded ; total of casualties, 39, or a fraction more than 21 per cent of the number engaged. Three of the wounded have since died. The ammunition expended averaged 52 rounds per man.
Of seven non-commissioned officers, in the color guard, all but one were killed or wounded; the color lance was cut off by a fragment of shell, and the field torn out of the colors by another.
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Post by mdenney on Sept 2, 2007 14:29:31 GMT -5
List of the Killed and Wounded, Second Regiment, Minnesota Volunteers.
COMPANY A Wounded: First Lieut. Levi Ober, slightly; Corp. A. J. Bolsinger, slightly; Privates Chas. B. Rouse, severely; Richard Rice, slightly; Adam Mann, slightly.
COMPANY B Killed: Sergt. John Westerman.
Wounded : Sergt. Benjamin P. Talbot, mortally, since died.
COMPANY C Wounded: Privates Rincis De Grave, mortally, since died; Samuel S. Kline, severely; Riley Barnhaus, slightly.
COMPANY D Killed: First Lieut. Samuel G. Trimble.
Wounded: Corp. John S. Mullen, severely; Privates Joseph E. Le Blond, severely; Jesse M. Williams, slightly; Alexander Landrie, slightly.
COMPANY E Wounded: Second Lieut. Thos. G. Scott, slightly; Sergeants Holder Jacobus, slightly; Thomas Harney, slightly; Corporals N. C. Rukkee, severely; Thomas Fowble, slightly; O. P. Renne, slightly; Privates J. L. Henningson, slightly; Ole Hendrickson, slightly.
COMPANY H Killed: Private Samuel London.
Wounded: Second Lieut. Thos. G. Quayle; Privates James Pelkey, mortally, since died; William Gleaeon, severely; Isaac Sherman, slightly.
COMPANY I Wounded: Corp. J. Ira Tillotson, severely; Privates Stephen W. Miller, slightly; Henry White, slightly; Ethan A. Hitchthingy, slightly.
COMPANY K Killed: Corp. Henry F. Koch, Private George F. Lamphear.
Wounded: First. Sergt. A. H. Reed, severely; Sergt. T. H. Pendergast, slightly; Privates Philetus S. Barnett, severely; Wm. B. C. Evans, severely; Christian Kasmier, severely.
EECAPITULATION.
Officers killed 1
Enlisted men killed.... 4
Total killed.
Officers wounded 3
Enlisted men wounded 31
Total wounded 34
Total killed and wounded 39
Total number of officers and men engaged 185
Paul Caviezel, sergeant Company F, wounded Oct. 5, died Oct. 22, 1863. Peter Peterson, private Company E, wounded Oct. 12, died Oct. 13, 1863.
J. W. BISHOP, Lieutenant Colonel, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND EEGIMENT MINNESOTA VOLUNTEERS,
CHATTANOOGA, TENN., Dec. 10, 1863. Capt. JOHN E. BEATTY,
A. A. A. G. Second Brigade, Third Div., Fourteenth A. C., CAPTAIN: For the purpose of placing on record the names of the officers and men of my command, who by gallant and meritorious conduct under fire, during the assault on Mission Eidge on the 25th ultimo, have entitled themselves to special mention, I respectfully submit the following report as supplementary to the general report already on file in your office.
There were present and engaged on that occasion 170 enlisted men of the regi ment and the following named officers, every one of whom is entitled to creditable
404 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
mention: Adjt. James W. Wood; Asst. Surg. Wm. Brown; Captains C. S. Uline, J. C. Donahower, John Moulton, Levi Ober; First Lieutenants Tenbroeck Stout, H. K. Couse, commanding his ! company; S. G. Trimble, W. W. Wilson, com manding his company; L. A. Holmes, commanding his company; Second Lieu tenants T. G. Scott, John C. Jones, Edw. L. Kenny, Thos. G. Quayle.
To Capt. C. S. Uline, the senior of his grade in the regiment, was assigned the command of the two companies deployed to cover the formation and advance of the brigade in taking position for the assault; this duty was skillfully discharged, and in the furious assault, and in the melee on the ridge, he especially distin guished himself by his gallant example, and by his coolness and promptitude in directing the enthusiasm of those who followed him.
First Lieut. Samuel G. Trimble, a gallant and faithful officer, was shot dead in the extreme front of the fight on the ridge. Beloved and respected by his comrades in life, his death in the very moment of victory cast a cloud over our thanksgiving for the triumph for which he gave his life.
Second Lieut. Thomas G. Quayle fell at the head of his men in the melee on the ridge, severely wounded in the right knee.
Color Sergeant Holder Jacobus, of Company E, crossed lances with a rebel color sergeant over a Napoleon gun on the ridge, and for a moment the two dis puted its possession. Only for a moment, however, and the gun with its mate was ours. Sergt. Jacobus was soon afterward wounded, and all of his guard save one were either killed or wounded.
First Sergt. Alex. H. Reed commanded his company (K) during the engage ment, behaving with marked coolness and courage. He was severely wounded near the close of the fight on the ridge.
First Sergt. George W. Shuman, of Company I, distinguished himself by gal lant conduct during the engagement, especially by taking the colors of the regi ment from Corp. Mullen, who had fallen wounded, and keeping them aloft and in front through the hottest of the fight.
Sergt. Lafayette Hadley, of Company B, Thomas Harney, of Company E, and A. B. White, of Company K, are all entitled to special notice for gallantry, as are also Privates Cox, Marsh and McNeal, and many others, whose gallant deeds, though telling in the fight, were not especially observed and reported.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
J. W. BISHOP, Lieut. Col., Commanding Second Minnesota Vols.
Report of Col. Ferdinand Van Derveer, Thirty-fifth Ohio Infantry, Commanding
Second Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, THIRD DIVISION,
FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, CHATTANOOGA, TENN., Dec. 5, 1863.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Second Brigade in the late engagements in front of Chattanooga.
My command consisted of the Ninth Ohio Volunteers, Col. G. Kammerling; the Seventy-fifth Indiana, Col. M. S. Robinson; the Eighty-seventh Indiana, Col.
BATTLE OF MISSION RIDGE. 405
Newell Gleason; One Hundred and Fifth Ohio, Lieut. Col. W. E. Tolles; One Hundred and First Indiana, Lieut. Col. Thomas Doan; Second Minnesota, Lieut. Col. J. W. Bishop, and the Thirty-fifth Ohio, Lieutenant Colonel Boynton, num bering in all 102 commissioned officers and 1,577 enlisted men.
Having been supplied with 100 rounds of ammunition to the man, on the afternoon of the 23d of November, I moved to a position three-quarters of a mile in front of Fort Phelps, with my brigade formed in two lines, the left resting upon the Moore road and the right near General Turchin s brigade. Here we remained in line, with a strong picket in front, until 8 A. M. on the 25th, when, in pursuance of orders from the general commanding the division, I deployed one regiment (Thirty-fifth Ohio) along my front and advanced it near a mile without opposition, the enemy s pickets having been withdrawn about daybreak that morning, and several small parties left for observation retiring in haste on our approach. Afterward this regiment was ordered to rejoin the brigade, when the division was moved to the left, to and beyond Citico creek, crossing it near its mouth. Passing but a short distance from this creek an order came to counter march, and we returned and took position about half a mile north of Bald Hill, facing and 1,200 yards distant from Missionary Eidge. At this point I formed my brigade in two lines, the first composed of the Eighty-seventh Indiana on the right, the One Hundred and First Indiana on the left, and the Thirty-fifth Ohio in the centre. The second line was formed by Seventy-fifth Indiana and One Hundred and Fifth an.d Ninth Ohio regiments. The Second Minnesota was placed in front of the brigade, with two companies, under command of Captain Uline, deployed as skirmishers, and the residue of the regiment behind them as a reserve.
I ordered my skirmishers to advance to the far side of the woods, examine the position of the enemy, and report their apparent force in and about the rifle- pits at the foot of the ridge. After remaining in this place for an hour I was ordered to move forward and take the rifle-pits. This was about 4 p. M. I sent word to Lieutenant Colonel Bishop to move at once with his skirmishers and reserve, and pushed up the brigade to keep within supporting distance. The rifle-pits in our front appeared to be occupied by two battalions of the enemy, two stand of colors being visible upon their works. The skirmishers advanced gallantly into the open field, and, under a heavy fire from the enemy s artillery on the ridge and musketry from the lower works, dashed forward at a double- quick without firing a shot. As they approached within 150 yards of the enemy great uneasiness was apparent among the men in the rifle-pits, and by the time our skirmishers were at a distance of 100 yards they were retreating precipitately up the ridge to their rear.
Lieutenant Colonel Bishop immediately got his command under cover of the enemy s works, and within five minutes of this time, my first line having passed the open space under a very heavy direct and enfilading fire from the enemy s batteries on the ridge, were also partially under cover of the same works. In the meantime, my second line was brought forward into the open ground and the men ordered to lie down. Fifteen minutes after the rifle-pits were taken, the general commanding the division ordered a charge upon the crest of the ridge. My bri gade moved at once with cheers and a hearty good- will, the Second Minnesota occupying a position in the first line. The precipitous ascent, the enemy s sharp-
406 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
shooters in front, and the terrific enfilading artillery fire upon each flank were forgotten in their eager haste to storin the heights. My second line came forward at a run, and after a few moments rest at the foot of the ridge followed closely the advance. In fifteen minutes more our colors were upon the summit, and in twenty the rebels had been driven out of their works on the crest, and we occu pied the ground in front of the brigade. As my men sprang over the works the enemy s cannoneers were caught in the act of loading and were bayoneted or driven off before they could fire their pieces. Five guns were found here in posi tion and captured by the brigade, two by the Second Minnesota and three by the Thirty-fifth Ohio. The larger part of the enemy retired along the ridge toward the left, vigorously pursued, and driven near half a mile. For thirty minutes a very determined resistance was made by the enemy. Many of the troops of my command, having in the charge up the ridge lost their regimental organizations, were in some disorder for a short time, but all pressed toward the enemy. The Ninth Ohio and Seventy-fifth Indiana came up in good order, and were placed in line perpendicular to the ridge and fronting the rebels.
Darkness coming on firing ceased upon both sides, and my brigade bivouacked on the crest of Missionary Eidge. After the action one other piece of artillery, abandoned by the enemy, was found by the Seventy-fifth Indiana and taken charge of. The guns that were captured by my command were left where found, while our men pursued the enemy along the ridge toward Tunnel Hill. While they were thus absent the pieces were hauled off to our rear by men said to be long to Brigadier General Wood s division, which was upon the right. I saw these guns being taken toward the ground occupied by that division, and upon inquiry I was informed that they were being taken to a position where they could be used against the enemy. My brigade at the same time captured one caisson with six horses attached, and a limber with one pair of horses. These, too, were taken to the rear with the guns. No other troops were near this battery when taken. The enemy were driven from it by my own men, and we thus lost posses sion while gallantly engaging the retreating rebel force. The next day I moved with the rest of the division to McAfee s Church, and the succeeding day to Einggold. We were not, however, actively engaged, and on the 29th marched back to our camp at Chattanooga.
My loss upon the 25th was 2 officers killed and 13 wounded, 20 enlisted men killed and 126 wounded.
In this action my brigade fully sustained the reputation it had won at Chicka- mauga. None flinched from their duty. I particularly commend the conduct of Colonel Kammerling, Ninth Ohio; Colonel Eobinson, Seventy-fifth Indiana; Col onel Gleason, Eighty -seventh Indiana; Lieutenant Colonel Tolles, One Hundred and Fifth Ohio; Lieutenant Colonel Doan, One Hundred and First Indiana; Lieu tenant Colonel Bishop, Second Minnesota, and Lieutenant Colonel Boynton r Thirty-fifth Ohio. These officers discharged their duties coolly and ably.
Lieutenant Colonel Boynton was severely wounded early in the engagement, when the command of his regiment devolved upon Major Budd, who is entitled to much praise for the energy and skill he exhibited in leading his men up the ridge.
Especial credit is due Lieutenant Colonel Bishop for the management of his regi ment when skirmishing in front of the brigade, and the gallant manner in which
BATTLE OF MISSION RIDGE. 407
his command carried the rifle-pits at the foot of the ridge. There are many line officers and enlisted men who deserve commendation for their gallantry. For their names I respectfully refer you to the reports of regimental commanders.
The members of my staff present with me on the field were Capt. J. E. Beatty [of the Second Minnesota], acting assistant adjutant general; Capt. C. A. Cilley [of the Second Minnesota], brigade inspector; Capt. W. E. Tuttle, brigade engi neer; First Lieut. S. Fortner, provost marshal; First Lieut. S. D. Parsons, acting assistant quartermaster, and First Lieut. C. B. Williams, aide-de-camp. They rendered me great service, and are entitled to praise for their gallant conduct. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FERDINAND VAN DERVEER,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Capt. A. C. McCLURG,
Acting Assistant Adjutant General.
EXTRACT FROM EEPORT OF COL. GUSTAVE KAMMERLING, NINTH OHIO
INFANTRY.
HEADQUARTERS NINTH EEGIMENT OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,
CHATTANOOGA, TENN., Dec. 1, 1863.
* # # On the top of the ridge, which I found already in possession of the troops of the first line of our brigade, I formed my regiment and marched a short distance to the left, where I saw among others the Second Minnesota Volunteers engaged in a desperate fight with the rebels, who were gradually retreating north ward toward the next knoll of the ridge. From this moment until dark my regi ment participated in the struggle for the possession of the said ridge. For over half an hour a heavy and incessant musketry firing was kept up by both sides, which finally ended with the retreat of the enemy. * * *
Report of Lieut. Col. John E. Tourtellotte, Fourth Minnesota Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH MINNESOTA VOLUNTEERS, CAMP, NEAR CHATTANOOGA, TENN., Nov. 29, 1863.
SIR: At midnight on the night of the 23d instant, the Fourth Minnesota Eegiment, together with other troops of the Fifteenth Army Corps, crossed the Tennessee river in boats several miles above Chattanooga, preparatory to an ad vance upon Missionary Eidge. The enemy did not dispute our crossing, and our troops immediately commenced throwing up earthworks and fortifications. My regiment was thrown forward to protect and cover the front and flank of the di vision. By 10 A. M., of Nov. 24, long and strong lines of rifle-pits had been thrown up, a pontoon bridge had been completed across the river, and a large part of our artillery brought over. About 1 P. M. of that day the advance com menced.
408 OFFICIAL EEPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
My regiment, deployed as skirmishers, advanced, covering the front of our division. We reached the hill and moved straightway up, the enemy falling back from their position on its crest. We pushed on, changing direction some what to the right, skirmishing with the enemy and driving them before us to the base of Tunnel Hill, where we were ordered to halt and to await orders, as night was approaching and the enemy appeared to be in considerable force. Here we remained, still skirmishing with the enemy, until after dark, when my regiment was relieved. The regiment lost but one man, seriously wounded, Private Ed ward Euble, of Company I. The next day my regiment was held in reserve and was not engaged.
At daylight on the morning of November 26, we started in pursuit of the ene my, who had abandoned their position along the whole line of Missionary Eidgeon the night preceding. We followed to Graysville, Ga., whence our division was ordered back to our first camp on the Tennessee river near Chattanooga.
Your respectful and obedient servant,
J. E. TOURTELLOTTE,
Lieutenant Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Hon. OSCAR MALMROS,
Adjutant General State of Minnesota.
WHITESBURG, ALA., Feb. 2, 1864.
CAPTAIN: In obedience to instructions from General Smith, I have the honor to state that all is quiet at this point of the Tennessee river. There has been some skirmishing, which only operated to stop working on our boats for about an hour. No damage has been done to our men, and I presume none has been done to the rebels. We have constructed two boats, which, if properly pitched or tarred, would carry easily twelve to fifteen men each. We have succeeded in securing and destroying a fine large dug-out belonging to the rebels. There is a ferry-boat on the river below. It crosses at no particular point, but whenever opportunity offers. I have had men concealed on the bank to secure the boat two nights. It did not cross the first night, and I have not yet had a report from the parties I sent out last night. The boat is some five miles below here. We have thrown up little rifle-pits on this side, which are of no consequence except the appearance of covering our crossing at this place. I send by the bearer to day for two days more rations. The guards report to me that they have reason to believe that re-enforcements came to the rebels opposite night before last. I mention this to show that perhaps our expedition has in such degree proved successful.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. E. TOURTELLOTTE,
Lieut. Col., Fourth Minnesota, Commanding Expedition. Capt. M. BOCHESTER,
Assistant Adjutant General.
Meheway reported captured on the other side of the river, and Arnold, if they should get him, should be safely guarded.
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Post by mdenney on Sept 2, 2007 14:31:00 GMT -5
MINE BUN CAMPAIGN. 409
HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
HUNTSVILLE, ALA., Feb. 24, 1864. Col. GREEN B. EAUM,
Commanding Second Brigade,
COLONEL: You will order the Fifty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry with camp and garrison equipage forward at once to this place. Immediately upon their arrival here you will send one regiment of your command to Whitesburg and relieve the Fourth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, now there. The command ing officer of the regiment sent to Whitesburg will receive his instructions and information from Lieutenant Colonel Tourtellotte, commanding Fourth Min nesota Volunteers.
By order of Brig. Gen. John E. Smith.
M. EOCHESTER, Assistant Adjutant General.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
HUNTSVILLE, ALA., Feb. 28, 1864. Lieut. Col. J. E. TOURTELLOTTE,
Commanding Fourth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry,
COLONEL: If you are satisfied that there is no crossing or attack meditated by the rebels at Whitesburg, Ala., or vicinity, you may return with your regi ment to camp at this place, first giving the commanding officer of Fifty-sixth Illinois such instructions and information as may be necessary. By order of Col. Gabriel Bouck, commanding division.
M. EOCHESTER, Assistant Adjutant General.
MINE RUN CAMPAIGN.- Nov. 26-Dec. 2, 1863.
EXTRACT FROM EEPORT OF COL. DE WITT C. BAXTER, SEVENTY-SECOND PENNSYLVANIA INFANTRY, COMMANDING FIRST BRIGADE.
NEAR BRANDY STATION, VA., Dec. 3, 1863.
* * * In compliance with orders received at 9:30 p. M. on the evening of the 24th, my command reported in front of division headquarters a little before dawn the next morning, November 25, ready for orders. This brigade, having the right of the division column, was by direction of the general commanding, marched to a point within the lines of the Third Division, Second Corps, beyond Mountain Eun. As the head of the column arrived at the place designated, re ceived orders to countermarch and return to camp and await orders. At 10 p. M., November 25, received the following order, which was strictly complied with:
The troops of this division will march at 6 :30 A. M. to-morrow, the 26th instant, by division time. The First Brigade will leave camp in time for the head of the column to reach the bridge near division headquarters, at the time above indicated.
410 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
The division column, with this brigade on the right, joined the corps and pro ceeded to Germanna Ford, on the Eapidan river. Pending the construction of a pontoon bridge, in anticipation of opposition from the enemy, the brigade was formed in two lines of battle in a wood to the left of the road. The bridge com pleted, the column crossed without opposition and bivouacked for the night on Flat Bun, to the right of the plank road.
At 8 A. M., November 27, the division took up the march, with this brigade in the rear, and proceeded to Bobertson s farm, on the Fredericksburg and Orange turnpike, where, within a mile of that point, our skirmishers met the enemy and drove them back to a wood north of the tavern. Here the Third and Second divisions of the corps were drawn up in line of battle, with skirmishers deployed to the front and right. This brigade being in the reserve was formed in two lines, deployed, and held in reserve. One regiment, the Fifteenth Massachusetts, Lieu tenant Colonel Joslin commanding, was ordered to deploy as skirmishers, and form the extreme right of the division line. The skirmishing, which had been principally upon the left centre, now suddenly commenced upon the right, and continued from 2 P. M. until after dark. At 3 P. M. the First Minnesota, Major Downie commanding, and the Eighty-second New York, Colonel Hudson com manding, were deployed in the above order upon the Fifteenth Massachusetts, who at this time were being pressed by the enemy. The One Hundred and Fifty- second New York, Major O Brien commanding, was detached from the First and sent to the Second Brigade. The Nineteenth Maine, Lieutenant Colonel Cunning ham commanding, was held in reserve to the First Brigade. The skirmishers of the First Division of the Second Corps joined upon the right of the Second Divi sion of the same corps and completed the extreme right of the line.
At 5 P. M. received orders to change the direction of the skirmish line of this brigade to the left by throwing forward the right. This movement had scarcely begun when the extreme right came suddenly upon the enemy, who delivered a heavy volley and fell back. Immediately in front of the line lay a swamp, in width about five rods. It was from the opposite side of this swamp the enemy delivered their fire. The miry condition of this swamp, and darkness coming on fast, with the uncertainty of the enemy s force upon the other side, rendered the movement difficult, if not hazardous.
At this juncture orders were received to abandon the movement until daylight next morning, in accordance with which the line was re-established upon the original line.
At 9 p. M. the Nineteenth Maine relieved the First Minnesota, Eighty-second New York, and Fifteenth Massachusetts as pickets, with the last-named regi ments as a reserve. This ended the operations of the day, with the following re sults:
Fifteenth Massachusetts Volunteers: Wounded, 2 commissioned officers and 8 enlisted men; missing, 1 field officer and 4 enlisted men.
One Hundred and Fifty-second New York Volunteers: Wounded, 2 enlisted men.
Eighty-second New York Volunteers: Wounded, 2 enlisted men.
Nineteenth Maine Volunteers: Wounded, 2 enlisted men.
At 4. A. M. Saturday, the 28th, received orders to be prepared to advance upon the enemy without a moment s delay upon the receipt of orders. At 5 A. M. re-
MINE RUN CAMPAIGN. 411
ceived orders to withdraw the three regiments from their then position as sup ports to the picket line which, in compliance with previous orders, were recon verted into skirmishers and form in one line of battle upon the right of the divi sion line. In a few minutes the necessary disposition was made, and orders were received for a general advance of the entire line. The line advanced in a direc tion perpendicular to the pike, a distance of a mile or more from Eobertson s tavern, near Mine Eun, where the enemy was found in force upon a range of hills on the west side. The Sixth Corps coming up to a position on our right, their skirmishers relieved the Nineteenth Maine, who rejoined the brigade. The First Minnesota was placed upon picket at 4 p. M., which ended the proceedings for this day.
At 2 A. M. of the 29th, received orders to march at early dawn. At daybreak this brigade took up the march with the division second in column, the Eighty- second New York deployed as flankers on the right of the column. Marched to a point on the old plank road leading to Orange Court-House, two or more miles beyond Old Yerdierville, where this brigade was halted and bivouacked for the night. No casualties to report for this day.
At 2 A. M. of the 30th, received orders to march at short notice. Marched at 3 A. M., left in front, this brigade in rear right. Took position in front of the enemy s works between the plank road and an unfinished railroad, in two lines, the Fifteenth Massachusetts and Nineteenth Maine in the first line, the One Hundred and Fifty-second and Eighty-second New York in the second line, the First Minnesota deployed to the front as skirmishers. Lay in this position until 8 P. M., when we fell back to a position in the rear, and bivouacked for the night, the First Minnesota relieved by the Nineteenth Maine. No casualties to report.
At 12:30 P. M. on the 1st instant, by order, took a position on the south of rail road, in prolongation of the division line. At 8 P. M. received orders to march, to the rear. At 8:30 took up the march, left in front, in the centre of the division column. Eecrossed the Eapidan at Culpeper Ford, and reached our old camp at 8:30 P. M. on the 2d instant, having been seven days absent. * * *
EXTRACT FROM EEPORT OF MAJ. GEN. GOUVERNEUR K. WARREN, COMMANDING^
SECOND ARMY CORPS.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Dec. 3, 1863.
* * * General French had deemed an assault in his front impracticable. General Wright had deemed he could force the line and make a lodgment in our right, and when I saw him he reported the troops already in position. My personal report, as already indicated, made out the weakness of the enemy on our left. The general commanding, with the generous concurrence of my seniors, in creased my command by two divisions of the Third Corps. I was to begin the assault at 8 A. M., and to be followed, an hour after, by an assault from our right. I spent all night in disposing my force to assault the enemy as he appeared be fore dark, and by daybreak I had finished. The array was as follows: The front line was about one mile, and the troops were arranged in two and three lines,
412 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
with strong supports in proper places. General Terry s division, 6,000 strong, in support and reserve, held our left flank along the Catharpin road. General Hays division, in two lines, extended to the right, as far as the unfinished rail road. General Webb, with his division [in which was the First Minnesota], in two lines, was placed next, then General Prince s division, of the Third Corps, in two lines. Then came General Carr, in two lines, with heavy reserves reaching to the plank road; and then General Caldwell s division of the Second Corps, to support and cover my right flank.
I was thus prepared for strong and repeated assaults, with my flanks well guarded. Lieutenant Colonel Morgan, chief of staff, and myself, superintended this arrangement, and no part escaped our observation.
At daylight all was prepared, and as the sun shone upon the enemy s line, I examined the whole front. I found that the line had been re-enforced with all the troops and artillery that could be put in position; the breastworks, epaule- ments, and abatis perfected, and that a run for eight minutes was the least time our line could have to close the space between us, during which we would be ex posed to every species of fire. I at once decided not to attack, and so informed General Meade. The operations of the day were thus suspended.
General Meade visited me about 10 A. M., and, after full consideration, I ad vised against any further operations on the enemy s immediate front. Any fur ther attempt to outflank the enemy in his immediate presence, with the force I then had, separated, as I was, four miles from the right wing, exposed my com mand to the chances of an overwhelming attack from him, and was not justifi able on any principle, nor was it proposed to me. But either this or an attack where I was, or rejoining the right wing, was all that could be done that day.
The plan of bringing our whole army to the enemy s right, where I was, and thus turn his position, required a complete abandonment of our base. This, I think, was much less hazardous than an assault in front. The commanding gen eral, however, did not approve of it, and after remaining quiet during the rest of the day, and the 1st of December, during which time the enemy still further strengthened and extended his intrenchments, we, on the night of the 1st, retired from our position, and recrossed the Eapidan, on the morning of the 2d instant, in obedience to orders. * * *
HEADQUARTERS BECRUITING SERVICE, SECOND CORPS, HARRISBURG, PA., Jan. 16, 1864.
His Excellency, HON. STEPHEN MILLER,
Governor of Minnesota,
SIR: I have the honor to inclose herewith copies of an order and instruc tions authorizing me to fill up the Second Corps to 50,000 men, and directing me to confer with their Excellencies the Governors of the several states to which the regiments in my command belong.
The First Eegiment from your state is in the Second Corps.
I am anxious to do all I can to fill it up, and ask your advice and co-operation, knowing that without your advice and assistance I can effect but little.
OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE. 413
Under the tenor of my instructions I have authorized the provost marshals of districts to recruit for any regiment from the state and the recruiting officers from regiments in my command to enlist not only for their own organizations but for any other from the same state in the corps.
It will be observed that after the old organizations are filled to the legal maxi mum, the number of men then required may be obtained by new organizations, the consent of the War Department being first obtained. It is not my purpose, however, to say anything concerning the new organizations publicly as yet, and I speak of them only because they are embraced in my instructions.
Time will not admit of my calling on you personally, but I should be glad to have your views on the subject of my letter as early as convenient. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WINF D S. HANthingy,
Major General Volunteers.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
ST. PAUL, Jan. 23, 1864. Maj. Gen. WINFIELD S. HANthingy,
Commanding Second Corps 17. S. Army, Harrisburg, Pa.,
SIR: I respectfully acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the 16th instant, inclosing orders and instructions with reference to filling up the old regiments of your corps, and asking my co-operation in regard to the First Minnesota Volun teers, which pertains to that command.
Your enviable reputation, my pride in that regiment, of which I was so long a member, and above all, my devotion to the Union, will prompt me to the exer cise of every possible effort for the attainment of the desired result. But the great difficulty in the way, as I am unofficially informed, is that the regiment will not re-enlist unless they be permitted to return to the state as a body, and are fuiioughed for sixty or ninety days, instead of the period now established by the department. Without the early presence and cheerful co-operation of these vet erans, I should have but little hope of my ability to fill up the organization with volunteers; indeed, I deem it impracticable, as three other of our infantry regi ments have re-enlisted and are coming home to recruit. With such presence and support, I believe that it could be filled to the maximum within a few weeks.
I therefore respectfully ask that you will, if practicable, secure such an ar rangement between the War Department and the regiment as will send these gal lant men to the state for a brief period as a recruiting " committee of the whole," in which event I anticipate such a state of enthusiasm as will fill the regiment and subserve the best interests of the cause. Eegretting that my very recent assumption of the executive duties of the state, and consequent inability to cor respond officially with the officers of the regiment, prevents a more intelligent and satisfactory reply.
I am, general, very truly, your obedient servant,
S. MILLER, Governor of Minnesota.
414 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
HEADQUARTERS BECRUITING SERVICE SECOND CORPS,
HARRISBURG, Feb. 2, 1864.
To His Excellency, HON. STEPHEN MILLER,
Governor of Minnesota :
SIR: Your letter of the 23d is at hand. In reply thereto I have to say, that I have tried hard to get the First Minnesota home, believing it to be the only way of insuring the filling up of this distinguished regiment. The time of the regi ment is so near out that it is now too late to expect the sixty or ninety days leave to be granted. I trust, however, that a hearty effort of the friends of the regi ment may be made to fill up the regiment to its minimum and to save its organi zation and prevent the regiment from losing its identity and the government from losing the valuable officers of the regiment.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WINFIELD S. HANthingy, Major General of Volunteers.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
ST. PAUL, Feb. 10, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER FIRST EEGIMENT MINNESOTA VOLUNTEERS.
MY DEAR SIR: Up to this evening I have no word from the regiment other than a dispatch from Donnelly saying that you have started home.
It is the universal desire that the entire command should, if possible, come through to St. Paul to receive the attention of the legislature, the city authorities, and the citizens generally, all of whom are anxious to manifest their high appre ciation of your gallant regiment.
I have solicited Messrs. Burbank & Co. to transport the command as nearly together as possible, so that we may have the gratification of receiving you collectively, and Major Downie suggests some arrangement by which those first arrived at Hastings may be delayed until all can proceed from that point in a body.
Please telegraph me from La Crosse and such other points as you may deem expedient, informing me of the number who will come through to this point, and the probabilities of your arrival.
With sincere regard to all the officers and men, I am,
Truly your friend,
S." MILLER.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Feb. 11, 1864. GENTLEMEN OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF EEPRESENTATIVES:
The remnant of the First Minnesota Volunteers started from Baltimore for Minnesota on last Monday morning and will probably arrive at La Crosse within one or two days.
OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE. 415
No regiment in the army of the Union has participated in a greater number of battles, achieved a more honorable distinction, or reflected a brighter reputation upon the state which it represented; and I respectfully suggest the adoption of such measures by your honorable bodies as will give to these returning veterans such a reception as is due to their deeds of daring and renown upon a score of bloody fields.
I shall have frequent communications with the commandant of the regiment and will be gratified to furnish copies of the correspondence to such committee as may be appointed by your honorable bodies.
STEPHEN MILLER.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
ST. PAUL, Feb. 24, 1864. GENTLEMEN OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
Scathed and diminished by battle and disease, the Second Minnesota Eegiment returned a few weeks since to the state upon which it has shed imperishable lus ter and renown.
It returned to visit once more the home so dear to patriot hearts to publish to the bereaved the heroism which marked the exit of their beloved and slain and to infuse into the dwellers in the village and upon the prairies of Minnesota its own unswerving and patriotic purpose.
It returned, but not to remain. Inspired by principles as dear to humanity as those for which "Washington fought and Warren bled, the gallant men of this or ganization are about for the second time to leave their homes and kindred, and to imperil life itself. The first regiment to re-enlist on behalf of the state, I earnestly suggest on your part such an hospitable recognition of their example as is eminently due to these veteran representatives of Minnesota in the great army of the Union. Eespectfully yours,
S. MILLER.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
ST. PAUL, Feb. 17, 1864. Hons. M. S. WILKINSON and ALEX. RAMSEY,
United States Senators, and Hons. WILLIAM WINDOM and IGNATIUS DONNELLY,
Representatives in Congress from Minnesota, Washington, D. (7., GENTLEMEN: The officers of the First Minnesota Eegiment inform, me that authority has been granted by the War Department, allowing the respective states to fill their quota in the army from the citizens or veteran regiments of any of the other states of this Union, and that the agents of New York and some of the New England states actually offered the men of the First a bounty of $800 to $1,100 each to enlist in Eastern regiments,, while they were awaiting trans portation in Washington. They further inform me that a number of the Second Minnesota Sharpshooters have, under these influences, already enlisted in Eastern regiments.
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Post by mdenney on Sept 2, 2007 14:32:02 GMT -5
416 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
This rule operates so harshly upon states that are not able to pay large boun ties, and must result so disastrously to Minnesota that I beg your joint influence with the department for proper redress. Otherwise, citizens wishing to escape the draft, and veterans disposed to re-enlist, will join Eastern regiments and pass- to the credit of other states, while the remaining able-bodied men of Minnesota must make up the entire quota of the state, and will thus be deprived of so many men as to leave our home interests almost entirely neglected.
I am, gentlemen, very respectfully yours,
S. MILLER.
[Indorsement 1.]
We would ask the respectful attention of the Secretary of War to the sug gestions of the within letter.
If the wealthy states of the East can recruit their regiments from among the men of our newer and poorer states, by the offer of larger bounties than we can afford to give, an irritation of feeling will be occasioned that must be deplored.
M. S. WILKINSON, ALEX. EAMSEY, WILLIAM WINDOM, IGNATIUS DONNELLY.
[Indorsement 2.]
WAR DEPARTMENT,
ADJUTANT GENERAL S OFFICE, March 2, 1864.
Eespectfully referred to Maj. Gen. George G. Meade, for prompt investigation and report. This to be returned.
By order of Secretary of War. THOMAS M. VINCENT,
Assistant Adjutant General.
[Indorsement 3.]
HEADQUARTERS ARMY POTOMAC, March 5, 1864.
Eespectfully referred to the commanding officer Third Corps, for the prompt investigation and report called for, as far as relates to the Second Minnesota Sharpshooters.
By command of Major General Meade.
S. F. BARSTOW, Assistant Adjutant General.
[Indorsement 4.]
HEADQUARTERS THIRD ARMY CORPS, March 5, 1864.
Eespectfully referred to commanding officer First Division, for investigation and report.
These papers to be returned with report this evening. By command of Major General French.
JOHN M. NORVELL, Assistant Adjutant General.
OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE. 417
[Indorsement 5.]
HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, THIRD CORPS, March 5, 1864..
Respectfully referred to commanding officer Second Brigade, who will send staff officer with this paper to commanding officer Second U. S. S. S., for his report in this matter.
The staff officer will bring the paper direct to these headquarters this evening. By command of Brigadier General Ward.
F. BIRNEY, Assistant Adjutant GeneraL
[Indorsement 6.]
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, March 5, 1864.
Eespectfully referred to commanding officer of Second U. S. Sharpshooters for immediate report.
By command of Colonel Walker.
GEO. A. AICKMAY, Lieutenant and Acting Asst. Adjutant GeneraL
[Indorsement 7.]
HEADQUARTERS SECOND REGIMENT U. S. SHARPSHOOTERS,
March 5, 1864.
Respectfully returned. The Second Company Minnesota Sharpshooters are attached to the First Minnesota Regiment Volunteer Infantry, Second Corps (the first company belongs to my regiment and is home on furlough), consequently I am unable to give any information in relation to this matter.
HOMER R. STOUGHTON, Lieut. Col., Comdg. Second Regiment U. S. Sharpshooters.
[Indorsement 8.]
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, March 5, 1864. Respectfully forwarded.
ELIJAH WALKER, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.
[Indorsement 9.]
HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, THIRD CORPS,
March 5, 1864.
Respectfully forwarded and attention called to letter of commanding officer First U. S. Sharpshooters.
J. H. HOBART WARD, 27 Brigadier General.
418 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
[Indorsement 10.]
HEADQUARTERS FIRST U. S. SHARPSHOOTERS,
March 5, 1864. Maj. F. BIRNEY,
Assistant Adjutant General, First Division,
MAJOR: In answer to your note, just received, I have the honor to state that the Second Company Minnesota Sharpshooters is not in my regiment, neither are there any men in this regiment from that state. The Second Company formerly belonged to this regiment, but was transferred to the First Eegiment Minnesota Volunteers in the summer of 18G2.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. E. MARBLE, Captain, Commanding Regiment.
[Indorsement 11.]
HEADQUARTERS THIRD ARMY CORPS.
March 6, 1864. Eespectfully transmitted with a report.
WILLIAM H. FRENCH,
Major General.
[Indorsement 12.]
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
March 8, 1864.
Eespectfully returned to the adjutant general of the army. The Second Min nesota Sharpshooters is attached to the First Minnesota Volunteers, and this regiment is absent as a veteran organization, so that no more satisfactory report can at present be obtained. The facts as stated within occurred after the regi ment had left this army. GEO. G. MEADE,
Major General, Commanding.
[Indorsement 13.]
WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT GENERAL S OFFICE,
March 11, 1864.
Eespectfully referred to Colonel Averill, St. Paul, Minn., who will please in form the Governor of the action taken, and for further investigation and report.
THOMAS M. VINCENT, Assistant Adjutant General.
[Indorsement 14.]
HEADQUARTERS SUPERVISOR VOLUNTEER EECRUITING SERVICE,
ST. PAUL, March 24, 1864.
Eespectfully returned to Governor Miller. I am unable to give any informa tion concerning this matter. I would refer the Governor to Major Nelson, who has the present control of the First Minnesota Volunteers.
JOHN T. AVERILL, Lieut. Col., Supervisor Volunteer Eecruiting Service.
OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE. 419
HEADQUARTERS BECRUITING- SERVICE, SECOND CORPS,
HARRISBURG, March IS, 1864. His Excellency, STEPHEN MILLER,
Governor of Minnesota,
MY DEAR SIR: I have read your late proclamation with much pleasure. Although I do not like to lose the First Minnesota, yet, under the circum stances, I think your ideas good. I should like to have the Sixth, if the First is filled up under the idea of home service.
If you should think proper to create any new organizations I should like to have a company or a battalion of sharpshooters from your state, and if it meets with your view, I would telegraph if you made such a request of the War De partment. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WINFIELD S. HANthingy,
Major General.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
ST. PAUL, April 5, 1864. J. H. MURPHY, M. D.,
St. Paul, Minn.,
MY DEAR SIR: You have been appointed a commissioner to visit and pro vide for the soldiers of Minnesota, in compliance with an act of the Legislature, approved March 3, 1864, a copy of which is herewith furnished you from this department.
I have selected you for this important mission, because of your undoubted integrity and capacity, and with reference to your experience in the army, and your sympathy with the soldier.
The detail of your responsible duties is with great confidence submitted to your sound discretion under the law, and with the following suggestions:
First The great object of the act appears to be to relieve the sick and dis abled soldiers of Minnesota in the hospitals, and when necessary to secure per mission and transportation for the temporary return to their homes of such as in your judgment would be benefited thereby.
Second If it can be accomplished you will have such chronic or tedious cases as require a change of climate ordered to their homes Fort Snelling or if both be denied, to the general hospital at Madison, Wis.
Third "Where Minnesota soldiers who have been transferred to the Invalid Corps so desire it, try to have them assigned to the company of invalids now on duty at Fort Suelling.
Fourth Admonish and report all Minnesota officers and surgeons, who may be found negligent of the health or cleanliness of their men, and to this end care fully examine their camps and hospitals.
Fifth Where you find it positively necessary to the relief and comfort of Minnesota soldiers, you will appoint a local hospital agent or visitor. We have but one such at present, that I am aware of. W. P. Bennett, Esq., of St. Louis. I hand you his bill, which you will pay, and you will continue, change or dismiss him and all such other agents at your discretion, reporting such action as prompt ly as practicable to this department.
420 OFFICIAL REPOETS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
Sixth I need not say to you that when you may find that any of our soldiers are being improperly used, it is all important that the remedy be very promptly applied, and that as a general rule the military authorities will act upon your representation. Should they decline doing so, you will report the circumstance to this department.
Seventh It is desirable that you should, so far as practicable, visit all the hospitals in Iowa, Missouri and the Southwestern States, containing Minnesota troops; but in case of any of our regiments becoming involved in a great battle or epidemic, you will suspend your regular duties and fly with all speed to those whose great suffering will most demand your aid, and will promptly advise me of any such change in your plan of operations.
Eighth I herewith provide you with an order for the funds deemed necessary for the object of your mission. The law prescribes the method of its expenditure, and the manner in which the account of all such expenses should be kept and reported.
I am, doctor, very respectfully yours,
STEPHEN MILLER,
Governor of Minnesota.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS,
ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, April 16, 1864.
His Excellency, S. MILLER,
Governor of Minnesota, St. Paul,
MY DEAR SIR: When I telegraphed you concerning the companies of sharp shooters, I did not know that the company of that arm, hitherto attached to the First Minnesota, did not go home with the regiment. ( I supposed their terms of service accorded.)
Your views as to new organizations are sound. Still, should you raise any new companies after your regiments are filled up, you will oblige me by recollect ing that the Secretary of War authorized me to telegraph you to the effect that you had authority to raise a company for my command.
When I received your proclamation I submitted it to the War Department, ask ing for the Sixth. I did not wish to lose the First, but I understood that by getting the Sixth the First was to remain at home. You would favor me by sending the Sixth as soon as practicable, as I do not wish to commence the campaign without it.
I should also like to have the Second Company Minnesota Sharpshooters filled up, if possible. It is now at the headquarters of the Second Division, General Gibbon, and is one of the finest and most soldierly body of men I ever saw. I in spected them yesterday, with General Meade and General Sedgwick.
I shall be glad to see you at any time you may find it convenient to come to the army.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WINFIELD S. HANthingy,
Major General.
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Post by mdenney on Sept 2, 2007 14:32:52 GMT -5
DEMONSTRATION ON DALTON. 421
HEADQUARTERS FIRST MINNESOTA VOLUNTEERS,
FORT SNELLING, MINN., May 5, 1864. His Excellency, STEPHEN MILLER,
Governor State of Minnesota,
GOVERNOR: Accompanied herewith I send you the battle-scarred flags of the "Old First." Let them be securely deposited and safely guarded in grateful remembrance of the gallant officers and men who have fallen beneath their tattered folds. The "Bull Eun Flag" should also be added to these banners, and appropriately labeled.
I also send you the drum major s staff, and the drum of the "Chief Musician," together with a box containing the regimental records.
I have the honor, Governor, to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. P. ADAMS, Lieutenant Colonel, Commanding Eegiment.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
ST. PAUL, June 8, 1864. Lieut. Col. J. T. AVERILL,
Acting Assistant Provost Marshal General, St. Paul, Minn.,
SIR: I sometime since requested the provost marshal general to inform me whether the Governor would be consulted as to the distribution and destination of the drafted men from this state, and suggested the propriety of assigning them to our elder and depleted regiments, so as to fill as many of them as possi ble to the minimum. He replied that he would answer the above questions through you. I therefore beg leave to repeat the said interrogatories and sugges tions and to strongly recommend that the drafted men now reporting be assigned to the old Minnesota regiments, beginning with the Second Eegiment Minnesota Infantry. I am, colonel, very respectfully,
S. MILLER.
DEMONSTRATION ON DALTON.- Feb. 22-27, 1864.
EXTRACT FROM EEPORT or BRIG. GEN. JEFFERSON C. DAVIS, COMMANDING
SECOND DIVISION.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
MCAFEE S CHURCH, GA., March 22, 1864-
# * * On the morning of the 23d of February, in compliance with orders received during the night from department headquarters, I concentrated the First and Third brigades at Einggold, and reported to Major General Palmer, com manding, during the afternoon. Later in the evening, in compliance with in structions from department headquarters, the Second Brigade was ordered to join the division, which it promptly did during the night.
422 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
On the morning of the 24th, in compliance with instructions from the general commanding, I ordered the Second Brigade to hold the gap and approaches to Binggold, and moved forward with Morgan and McCook in support of General Johnson s division, in the advance upon Tunnel Hill. On reaching Tunnel Hill, General Johnson found the enemy occupying the ridge in rear of the town. A field battery, which they had posted in a strong position on the road leading to Dalton through Tunnel Hill, opened fire with considerable effect upon the head of the column, and gave indications that our advance would be strongly disputed at this point. After making a reconnaissance of the position, I asked and obtained permission from General Johnson to move with Morgan s brigade and take pos session of the hill, some one-half to three-fourths of a mile north of the tunnel. While executing this movement, the commanding general appeared upon the ground and gave it his approval.
Morgan s skirmishers soon took possession of the hill, and, wheeling upon their right flank, drove the enemy s skirmishers down the ridge in the direction of Buzzard Boost. This movement, by turning the enemy s position, together with the assistance of a section of the Second Minnesota Battery, placed in position by Captain Hotchkiss, chief of artillery, for that purpose, caused the enemy to retire in considerable haste. In this movement General King was ordered by General Johnson to support me with his brigade should an emergency arise requiring it. The execution of this movement threw Morgan in the advance, with his skirmish ers closely pressing the retiring enemy.
The general features of the pass through which the road at this point runs in dicated strong defensive positions for the enemy in advance of us, and I ordered General Morgan to push his skirmishers well to the front, and to move forward his main lines in this manner in pursuit. McCook, in compliance with orders, came promptly to the front and closed up well on Morgan, just in time to receive a share of the enemy s artillery fire, which had by this time checked the advance. The enemy s fire was exceedingly well directed, his shells bursting with great accuracy near our lines while moving forward to the different positions assigned them. * * *
About 3 p. M. of the 25th, the increase of firing seemed to indicate what might be a general engagement, and in order to be sure that my troops were not being held at bay by the enemy s skirmishers only, while his main forces had concentrated on Baird and Cruft, I determined to throw forward strong lines of skirmishers and feel of his position.
Giving the necessary order to the brigade commanders, I took a commanding position which enabled me to see the general movements of the troops as well as the supposed position of the enemy. A battery, commanded by Captain Harris, of General Baird s division, had opened fire for some half an hour previous from an excellent position in front of the enemy s rifle-pits, but had, after several at tempts, failed to elicit a reply. The heavy line of skirmishers thrown forward by Morgan on the left and McCook on the right soon became warmly engaged, the enemy resisting their strong points with great vigor. Under the immediate di rection of the brigade commanders the lines were pressed forward with great spirit until the enemy s rifle-pits and batteries were being brought within range of our musketry. The continued advance and well-directed fire of the skirmish ers, and the persistent manner in which a section from each of Hotchkiss and
THE RED RIVER CAMPAIGN. 423
Harris batteries kept up their fire upon the enemy s rifle-pits, at length brought a response both from his artillery and infantry, disclosing his position completely. Three batteries opened fire from different well-selected points and operated for several rounds with great fierceness upon our artillery and skirmish lines with out, however, doing much execution except upon that part of the line composed of the Tenth Michigan and Sixtieth Illinois regiments. These regiments formed the attacking party on the left, and became considerably exposed to an enfilading fire of artillery, as well as a direct fire of infantry in front. They lost heavily, but their fire told with charming effect upon the enemy, and caused him a loss fully equal to their own. The gallant attack and excellent manner in which they fell back under fire proved them worthy of the title of " Veteran Volunteers, " which they had just assumed by re-enlisting. * * *
Captain Harris, commanding one of General Baird s batteries, a section of which was hotly engaged during the whole afternoon, was severely wounded and carried from the field. He proved himself a gallant officer and worthy com mander. His officers and men, as did those of the Second Minnesota Battery, manned their guns with great coolness and promptness. I regret to report that some of their ammunition was not of the best quality. * * *
THE RED RIVER CAMPAIGN. March 10 - May 22, 1864.
Report of Maj. John C. Becht, Fifth Minnesota Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH MINNESOTA YET. VOL. INFANTRY,
VICKSBURG-, Miss., May 25, 1864.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report, as briefly as possible, the part taken by the Fifth Minnesota Veterans in the recent Bed Biver expedition. This ex pedition has been the most severe one in which the regiment has ever been en gaged. The fact that it failed in the accomplishment of its professed object and, in fact, suffered unaccountable disaster, made our exodus from the State of Louisiana, consuming forty days, all the more irksome. On the 10th of March we left Yicksburg on board of transports and landed at Simsport, on the Atcha- falaya Bayou, on the 12th. Our brigade immediately initiated operations on the Bed river by putting to rout General Scurry s command, which was encamped near our landing. The enemy withdrew to Fort Scurry, three miles distant, and not fancying the aspect of affairs as we approached in line of battle with fixed bayonets, he forsook his works and beat a hasty retreat. We pursued him for four miles and succeeded in capturing his rearguard and four loaded wagons, and were then recalled to our boats. At 9 o clock the same evening General Smith s whole command took up the line of march for Fort De Bussy, arriving there at 4 P. M. the next day, and by dusk had the fort and garrison in our possession* This fort was built with the best of engineering skill, and was well calculated for a small force to successfully resist a much superior besieging one. Our brigade during the day was the rearguard of the Sixteenth Army Corps, and came up only in time to form in the second line of battle and witness the glorious sight of our boys scaling the parapets, which were fully twenty feet high from the bottom of the ditch.
424 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
On the 15th, we re-embarked on the transports, which had followed us up the river, and took peaceable possession of Alexandria on the 16th. On the 21st, our division, accompanied by a small force of General Banks cavalry, which had just arrived, made a reconnaissance to Henderson s Hill, twenty- two miles from Alexandria, on the Shreveport road. We made a forced march and found the enemy in a strong position. After a short demonstration in front we commenced a flank movement, crossed a bayou, and entered a pine forest. Amid the dark ness and in a drenching rainstorm, we waded through mud and water, over ridges and across low bottoms, till we reached the enemy s rear. We relieved his pickets, substituted our own, and took the camp by surprise. The enemy were looking for their own re-enforcements, which they were hourly expecting. We captured one 4-gun battery with caissons and horses, including eighty prison ers, the darkness covering the escape of the others.
On the 26th and 27th, we marched to Cotile Landing, which is above the Bed river rapids, and twenty-eight miles from Alexandria, and on the 2d of April again embarked and arrived at Grand Ecore on the 3d. In the meantime, General Banks had arrived at Alexandria and moved on in advance of us to Natchitoches. We remained in Grand Ecore four or five days, during which time we made several reconnaissances on the east side of the river, and encountered the enemy in several skirmishes. On the 4th, the regiment, with the Thirty-fifth Iowa, Colonel Hubbard commanding, was sent out on the double-quick to Campti, five miles distant, to the relief of our cavalry, which was being roughly handled. We found the enemy across a small bayou, sheltered in the large timber, and suc cessfully resisting the persistent efforts of the cavalry to dislodge him. I imme diately deployed my regiment on the right and left of the road, and moved rapidly forward toward and across the bayou. The boys advanced with cheers and well-directed fire, which the rebels were not able or disposed to withstand. They withdrew, leaving behind their killed and wounded, who fell into our hands. On the 7th, with cheerful spirits, we took up the line of march for Shreveport, never once considering the possibility of a failure to accomplish our purpose. General Banks, with the cavalry under General Lee, the Nineteenth, and detach ment of Thirteenth Army Corps, preceded us one day. On the 8th, late in the evening, we reached Pleasant Hill, and from stragglers first heard of that day s disaster and rout to our advance, which reports were afterward too fully con firmed. On the 9th, the enemy advanced to the attack, flushed with victory and strengthened with re- enforcements, and fought with reckless desperation. On that day it devolved upon the detachments of the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Army Corps, forming General Smith s command of .veteran troops, to arrest and turn back the tide of battle and disaster. The position of the Fifth during the engagement was on the extreme right of the Sixteenth Army Corps. During the night a new line of battle was formed, one and a half miles in advance of our first position, the Fifth being placed near the centre and in the first line. As we rested on our arms, listening to the cries and groans of the wounded, who were lying thickly around and among us, each one felt that morning would witness the opening of, if possible, a still fiercer struggle than that of the previous day. To our great surprise, at 3 o clock in the morning, we were quietly withdrawn from the battle-field and marched back to Grand Ecore without molestation.
On the 20th, the retrograde movement was resumed, General Smith being assigned to the rear, and to the general protection of General Banks twelve miles
THE EED RIVER CAMPAIGN. 425
of wagons. We were warmly attacked on leaving there, and on each of the three days consumed in reaching Alexandria, the regiment participating on the 22d and 23d. On the 2d of May the Sixteenth Army Corps, under command of General Mower, was sent out eight miles toward Cloutierville to hold the enemy back, and to get and retain possession of the large amount of forage in that section. Here we remained eight days, engaged in a continual skirmish, culminating at times in a general engagement. During the eight days, as well as during the whole expedi tion, the Fifth was frequently selected "by Colonel Hubbard, at the request of the commanding general of the division, and sent forward to act as skirmishers and sharpshooters. General Mower formerly commanded our brigade, and he accredits to the Fifth Minnesota great efficiency in this kind of duty. On the 14th we again fell in rear of General Banks and his wagon train, followed the windings of the Red river, and camped near Fort De Eussy on the night of the 15th. On the 16th occurred the battle of Marksville, or Belle Prairie. The field was a splendid one for a fair and equal contest, a smooth, clear prairie, slightly descending to the south, three or four miles in extent, and surrounded by heavy timber. "We were turned out before daybreak and taken into the fight without our usual coffee and hard tack. As we marched through Marksville about sunrise we discovered the Nine teenth Army Corps already initiating operations, which it afterward devolved upon us to finish. The Sixteenth and Seventeenth Army Corps were formed in column of regiments, and moved across the prairie to the right, and some distance from the Nineteenth Army Corps, the Fifth Minnesota in advance. It was a splendid sight; our whole force and every movement could be clearly and dis tinctly seen. On the left was the Nineteenth Army Corps, advancing in line of battle with a line of skirmishers in front, engaging and slowly forcing back those of the enemy. To the rear of the Nineteenth was the Thirteenth, also advancing in line of battle. In the rear of and following us was a long column of regiments, the numerous banners glistening in the clear morning sunlight, and seeming to wave defiance to the foe. Our movements were soon changed from that in column to that en Echelon and then into line of battle, all the regiments forming on the right of brigade. The enemy in front of us held a position in the edge of the timber, and only a portion of his line could at first be seen. He very soon dis closed the positions of four excellent batteries of heavy guns, which were particu larly devoted to us. In the meantime the Nineteenth Army Corps had halted, and the remainder of the work was left for General Smith s command. The fight lasted about four hours, and during the closing scene it required the extra exer tions of the enemy to save his batteries from our grasp. The long wagon train heretofore referred to, and especial instructions on this occasion as on many others, prevented pursuit.
The enemy followed us closely the next day, and on the 18th, on Bayou De Glaize, ensued the last battle of the series conducted by General Mower, and par ticipated in by the troops of the Sixteenth Army Corps alone. The Fifth Minne sota was here used as skirmishers. The fight commenced about 10 A. M., and continued for six hours. We drove the enemy back on this as on every other occasion, with a loss to him of upward of 500 men, and we would gladly have pursued and punished him for his insolence.
On the 20th we once more looked upon the waters of the noble Mississippi. We hailed the sight with cheers. The waters of the Mississippi appeared as clear as
426 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
crystal and [were] relished like the fountain waters of Minnesota, so great was the contrast with the muddy waters of the dried-up Eed river and its bayous. We arrived at Yicksburg on transports on the 24th.
Great credit is due to Surgeon Kennedy, one of the leading operating surgeons of the command, and his assistant, Dr. Leonard, for their exertions in behalf of the wounded. I can also heartily commend the action of every officer and private of the regiment in the several battles and. skirmishes of this expedition. I think I am safe in assuring you that the Fifth lost none of its prestige and none of its reputation as a fighting regiment. Colonel Hubbard has been in command of the brigade since leaving Yicksburg. I cheerfully acknowledge that any credit which the regiment or the brigade has gained in the expedition is in a great measure due to the coolness, the courage, the watchful attention to duty, and the personal example of daring of himself and staff. Colonel Hubbard possesses the entire confidence of his command. Every officer and soldier knows and feels that his inspiration in battle is not due to whisky, and they follow him without fear or mistrust.
I am happy to be able to inform you that the regiment has been providentially spared from serious loss; fifteen men wounded, and most of them not seriously, and three men prisoners, embraces the entire list of casualties.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN C. BECHT, Major j Commanding Regiment. Col. OSCAR MALMROS,
Adjutant General of Minnesota, St. Paul.
Report of Col. Lucius F. Hubbard, Fifth Minnesota Infantry, Commanding Second Brigade, First Division, of Engagement at Pleasant Hill, with Itinerary of the Bri gade, March IMay 24.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION,
SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, GRAND ECORE, LA., April IS, 1864.
CAPTAIN: In compliance with circular instructions of this date, from head quarters First Division, Sixteenth Army Corps, I have the honor to make the fol lowing report of the part borne by my command in the battle at Pleasant Hill, La., on the 9th instant: But one regiment of the Second Brigade (the Forty- seventh Illinois Infantry) was brought into action during the progress of the fight. That regiment was moved toward the front by order of General Mower, at about 3 P. M., and placed in position as a support to and upon the right of the Third Indiana Battery, where it remained until the attack of the enemy was finally repulsed, and where it was afforded an opportunity to deliver several effec tive volleys into the ranks of the assaulting columns. As the enemy was driven from the field the Forty-seventh Illinois moved a few hundred yards to the front, and remained in position until after dark, when ordered by me to rejoin the bri gade. The Fifth Minnesota Veteran Infantry was posted early in the afternoon as a support to a picket on a road communicating with the right of our line of
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Post by mdenney on Sept 2, 2007 14:33:42 GMT -5
THE RED RIVER CAMPAIGN. 427
battle, where it remained until after dark, not having been engaged. The Eighth Wisconsin Veteran Infantry was held in reserve, except four companies, which latter were posted as a picket to the rear, on the Grand Ecore road. Shortly after dark I was ordered by General Mower to move the Second Brigade to the front, where it was placed in position, and remained until the movement to the rear commenced. The casualties of my command are seven wounded and three missing, a list of which has already been forwarded.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. F. HUBBARD,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Capt. J. B. SAMPLE,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Division, Sixteenth Army Corps.
Itinerary of the Second Brigade, First Division, Sixteenth Army Corps, March 1
May 24.
March 1. The brigade left Canton, Miss., and marched via Black river bridge to Yicksburg.
March 5. Arrived at Yicksburg. Here the Eleventh Missouri Infantry re ceived orders to report at St. Louis, having re-enlisted as veterans, and the Second Iowa Battery was ordered to Memphis, Tenn.
March 9. The remaining three regiments of the brigade embarked for an expedition to Eed river.
March 10. Left Yicksburg, passing down the Mississippi and up Eed river into the Atchafalaya.
March 13. Landed at Simsport, La., and marched to Fort De Eussy; em barked and moved to Alexandria.
March 21. Marched to Henderson s Hill.
March 23. Eeturned to Alexandria.
March 26. Marched via Bayou Eapids to Cotile Landing, La.
March 27. Arrived and went into bivouac. Total distance marched, 356 miles.
April 1. The brigade embarked on transports at Cotile Landing, La., and moved to Grand Ecore.
April 3. Arrived at Grand Ecore and disembarked.
April 4. Drove the enemy from the town of Campti.
April 7. Left Grand Ecore; marched, 7th and 8th, to Pleasant Hill, La.
April 9. Engaged in the battle of Pleasant Hill.
April 10 and 11. Marched to Grand Ecore.
April 20. Left Grand Ecore and marched via Natchitoches to Alexandria.
April 22 and 23. Engaged the enemy on Cane river. Total distance, 250 miles.
May 2. The brigade marched from Alexandria, La., along Bayou Eapids, five miles; thence to Governor Moore s plantation, on Bayou Eoberts; arrived on the 3d.
May 4, 6 and 7. Engaged the enemy in skirmishes.
428 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
May 14. Marched along Bed river via Marks ville and Simsport, arriving at the mouth of Bed river on the 21st, having engaged the enemy on the 14th on Bed river, on the 16th at Marksville, or Belle Prairie, and on the 18th near Yellow Bayou.
May 22. Embarked and moved up the Mississippi.
May 24. Arrived at Yicksburg. Total distance traveled, 275 miles.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION,
FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, YICKSBURG, Miss., March 8, 1864. Col. OSCAR MALMROS,
Adjutant General Minnesota,
COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that the Fifth Minnesota Infan try has become a veteran regiment. Nine-tenths of the men who are eligible have re-enlisted, and if the time is extended to the 1st of April, as it is (unoffi cially) reported is the case, nearly the whole regiment will do so. Major Becht will probably furnish you the names and such other data as you require. The regiment is assigned to an expedition about moving up the Bed river, and will probably receive its furlough upon its return. General Sherman s expedition has returned to Yicksburg.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. F. HUBBARD,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade.
BATTLE OF LAKE CHICOT.- June 6, 1864.
Report of Maj. John C. Becht, Fifth Minnesota Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS FIFTH BEGIMENT MINNESOTA YET. YOLS.,
MEMPHIS, TENN., June 10, 1864.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the Fifth Minnesota was engaged in the battle with General Marmaduke s forces near Lakeville, Ark., on the 6th instant. General Smith s detachment of the Sixteenth Army Corps landed near the foot of Lake Yillage on the evening of the 5th, and marched early the next morning, Colonel Hubbard s brigade in the advance. On the first appearance of the enemy our brigade was formed in line of battle, and a company from each regiment deployed forward as skirmishers. The enemy gave us a running fight for five or six miles, using two pieces of artillery against us as often as oppor tunities were favorable and retaining their position as long as a due regard for their safety would allow. The rebels having gained the rear of our line and taken up the bridge, which afforded themselves a protection, commenced to inaugurate a warm and spirited engagement. Our line then advanced over a low, level bottom land, against a galling fire of musketry and of grape and canister from
BATTLE OF LAKE CHICOT. 429
two full batteries, until we reached the bank of the bayou, which was but a few yards wide, and had no opening, levee or embankment on either side. An open timber, however, afforded the rebels a great deal of protection which was denied to us.
Once in fair sight and shot of the enemy s battery, we soon silenced it, and after a severe and prolonged musketry firing drove him from his position, rebuilt the bridge, crossed the bayou, and thus ended the fight. The loss in our division, consisting of five regiments and 1,500 or 1,600 men, was not less than 100 killed and wounded, the Fifth Minnesota providentially suffering less than any other regiment killed, 1; severely wounded, 1; slightly wounded, 9; total, 11. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. C. BECHT, Major, Commanding Regiment. Col. OSCAR MALMROS,
Adjutant General of Minnesota.
Report of Col. Lucius F. Subbard, Fifth Minnesota Infantry, Commanding Second
Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION,
SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, MEMPHIS, TENN., June 11, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit for the information of the general com manding, the following details of the part borne by the Second Brigade, First Division, Sixteenth Army Corps, in the encounter with the enemy on Old Eiver lake or (Lake Chicot), Ark., on the 6th of June, 1864: At 6 o clock in the morn ing of the day mentioned, the brigade left its bivouac on the bank of the Missis sippi, and took up the line of march on the Lakeville road. The Second Brigade held the advance of the column, and when some two miles out encountered a line of the enemy s skirmishers which our cavalry advance guard was vainly en deavoring to press back. At this point, by order of General Mower, I deployed five companies of the Forty-seventh Illinois Infantry as skirmishers and directed them to move forward as rapidly as possible. The balance of the brigade was formed in line of battle and moved up in support of the skirmishers. The ene my, somewhat stubborn at first, soon began to give way and sullenly retire before my advance, and for a distance of several miles continual skirmishing was kept up, with an occasional stand, but of short duration upon the part of the enemy. As we approached a bayou, which ran from the lake at right angles across the road, the enemy showed stronger evidences of fight and developed an intention to make a stand. When within perhaps a half a mile of this bayou a fire was opened upon my line of battle from a battery of four guns in position along the edge of the timber skirting the opposite bank, and as I moved forward the fire became sharp and quite effective. I halted the line of battle when within about 100 yards of the bayou, where the men could obtain shelter, but pushed the skir mishers forward, strengthened to a regiment, to the bank of the stream. As the skirmishers here were within point-blank range of the enemy s muskets and wholly without cover, they suffered much, but not without inflicting serious in-
430 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
jury in return. The battery of the enemy soon ceased to work and limbered to the rear. Many of the gunners had been shot down, and at one piece opposite the right of my line but a single man was left, who attached a rope to the gun, with which it was dragged away. As the bayou was wide and the water ap parently deep, and the bridge where the road crosses it having been torn up, I deemed it prudent before attempting to effect a passage to endeavor to drive the enemy s sharpshooters from the opposite bank, where they were thickly posted under cover of the timber and protected by the undulations of the ground. I therefore strengthened my line of skirmishers still further, and by means of a well- directed fire the enemy was dislodged and forced back. The bayou was now crossed and the retreating enemy pursued without further encounter to the vil lage of Lakeville. During the advance and the progress of the fight a hard rain storm prevailed, which greatly added to the labor of the men and caused much exhaustion and fatigue. No part of the command, however, evinced a disposi tion to lag, but bore itself throughout with its usual gallantry, and sustained its established reputation for good conduct on the field.
The brigade suffered much in this action, sustaining the loss of many valuable officers and men. Major Miles, Forty-seventh Illinois Eegiment, was very seri ously wounded while at his post coolly and gallantly discharging his duty. Captain Biser, of the same regiment, received a mortal wound while advancing his company, deployed as skirmishers. Though the command will mourn for these gallant officers and the service feel it has sustained a loss, yet there is relief in the assurance that they fell while bravely fighting, and to the last presented their front to the foe. To Colonel McClure, Forty-seventh Illinois; Major Becht, Fifth Minnesota, and Major Britton, Eighth Wisconsin, regimental commanders, are due my acknowledgments for efficient co-operation during the action. Sub joined is a summary of casualties the command sustained:
Forty-seventh Illinois Infantry, killed, 1 officer and 6 enlisted men; wounded, 1 officer and 19 enlisted men. Fifth Minnesota Veteran Infantry, killed, 1 enlisted man; wounded, 10 enlisted men. Eighth Wisconsin Veteran Infantry, killed, 3 enlisted men; wounded, 16 enlisted men. Total, 57,
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. F. HUBBARD, Colonel, Commanding. Capt. J. B. SAMPLE,
Assistant Adjutant General.
Report of Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Mower, Commanding First Division, Sixteenth Army
Corps.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
MEMPHIS, TENN., June 15, 186 Jf.
CAFIAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my command in the engagement near Lake Village, Ark., on the 6th instant: In obedience to the orders of the general commanding detachment Sixteenth Army Corps, I debarked with the Second and Third brigades of this division, com-
BATTLE OF LAKE CHICOT. 431
manded, respectively, by Col. L. F. Hubbard, Fifth Minnesota Infantry, and Maj. George W. Van Beek, Thirty-third Missouri Infantry, near Sunnyside Landing, Ark., on the evening of the 5th instant, bivouacking on the bank of the river, and on the morning of the 6th instant, at 6 o clock, took up my line of march toward Lake Village, which was some eight miles distant. After proceeding about four miles I came up to our cavalry, which were in advance and were skirmishing with the enemy. I threw out a line of skirmishers, and, in obedience to the order of General Smith, who had then arrived, the cavalry were with drawn. I then pushed the enemy about two miles and found them in position on the opposite side of a bayou, beyond which their skirmishers had retreated. Having no artillery in my command, General Smith ordered Captain thingyefair with his battery to report to me. Colonel Hubbard s brigade formed the right of my line and Maj or Van Beek s the left. Captain thingyefair s battery was posted in the road on the right and on the bank of the lake. I ordered him to open upon the enemy with his guns; he did so, and they replied vigorously. I then told the captain I would advance the infantry in order to relieve him somewhat from the fire of the enemy s artillery. I then proceeded myself toward the left, and advanced the infantry, supposing he would continue the fire with his battery, which he unfortunately did not do. The line moved up to within short musket- range of the enemy on the opposite side of the bayou, when they were met by a most galling fire from their artillery and musketry. The position occupied by the enemy being in heavy timber their line was to a great extent concealed from our own troops, who were in an open field and greatly exposed to their fire. After engaging them, however, for about an hour the fire of their artillery was silenced and that of the infantry ceased, with the exception of a few scattering shots. At this time Colonel Gilbert, commanding Second Brigade, Third Division, who had been sent up by the general commanding to relieve the Third Brigade, First Division (whose ammunition was exhausted), arrived on the field, and was put in position. I immediately rode to the right and ordered Colonel Hubbard to cross the bayou, and Colonel Gilbert to follow. We were detained some time in repairing the bridge, which the enemy had partially destroyed; this enabled them to escape, their force consisting entirely of cavalry and artillery. We then proceeded to Lake Village, where we bivouacked for the night. Both officers and men behaved with gallantry, although fighting at a great disadvan tage. I have already forwarded a list of casualties. I herewith inclose the re ports of brigade commanders.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Jos. A. MOWER, Brigadier General, Commanding. Capt. J. HOUGH,
Asst. Adjt. Gen., Eight Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps.
432 OFFICIAL EEPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
BATTLE OF FITZHUGH S WOODS, NEAR AUGUSTA, ARK.-April 1, 1864.
Report of Col. Christopher C. Andrews, Third Minnesota Infantry, Commanding
Expedition.
HEADQUARTERS POST OF LITTLE BOCK,
SATURDAY EVENING, April 2, 1864.
GENERAL: In compliance with General Orders, No. 169, War Department, Oct. 27, 1862, I have the honor to report the result of an engagement at Fitz- hugh s woods, six miles above Augusta, on White river, with the forces under Brigadier General McEae. On Wednesday afternoon last, March 30th, at 4:30 p. M., I received orders from Brigadier General Kimball to proceed on an expedi tion up White river. At 7 o clock that evening I left Little Bock with a detach ment of the Third Kegirnent Minnesota Volunteer Infantry (veterans), Maj. E. W. Foster commanding, consisting of Companies B, C, E, G, H, and I, number ing 186, and proceeded to Devall s Bluff by railroad. We reached there at 4:20 the next morning, and found the steamer Dove, Captain Erwin, in readiness to move. A detachment from the Eighth Missouri Cavalry at that post, numbering forty-five men, under command of Capt. L. I. Matthews, reported to me on the boat at 6:20, and we immediately put off up the river. The gunboat Covington proceeded with us, by the mutual wish of the captain of the transport and of Lieut. G. P. Lord, commanding the gunboat. After getting some distance up the river we took the precaution to bring on board and detain any persons lurk ing about the shore whom we suspected would carry intelligence into the country of our approach; and in this way I gained more or less valuable information, and also the services of a good guide.
We arrived at Gregory s Landing, Jackson county, at dusk, and having learned that one of the camps of McEae s men was four miles back of that land ing, on Straight lake, I ventured to move out there to surprise it. The evening was rainy and extremely dark, but my guides knew the road perfectly, and my patrols moved forward so carefully there could be no possibility of an ambush. Three miles from the river was a bayou (Cache), difficult even for cavalry to ford, but the detachment of cavalry crossed it without accident, and suddenly sur rounded the farm-house near by and as quickly threw out pickets. The informa tion received, however, was that the camp had been abandoned early that morn ing. The cavalry then recrossed the bayou, and we returned to the transport, arriving on board at 10 o clock. I gave orders for my command to have break fast by 5 o clock next morning, and the transport moved on up to Augusta. At 5 o clock, therefore, yesterday morning (April 1), we landed at Augusta, a small but pleasantly situated village, and immediately had it surrounded by pickets, and had citizens and colored men brought on board that I might ascertain the number and whereabouts of McEae s forces. I learned that for a few days past his forces had been concentrating, that two or three days previously they had moved toward Jacksonport, that they had returned, and that the principal camp was at Antony s, said to be seven miles distant on the Jacksonport road. I then ordered my small command to land, leaving a guard on board the transport, and proceeded up the Jacksonport road. It was about 6 o clock when we moved from Augusta. We had scarcely got a mile and a half out of town when our ad-
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BATTLE OF FITZHUGH S WOODS. 433
vance guard encountered a small party of the enemy, and pursued and charged them two miles, and captured two prisoners. Coming then to the forks of two roads the cavalry waited for the infantry to come up. It was at this point that we met Eutherford s company, and drove it into the woods on a road leading to the right. We then continued the march on the Jacksonport road, keeping out for some distance flankers and patrols.
At the bayou, some six miles from Augusta, our advanced guard came upon a small party of mounted men, who, after one shot being fired at them, turned and fled. At the next farm-house we reached, we learned that General McEae was one of the party. This fact I discovered very soon, and immediately or dered the cavalry detachment to pursue at their utmost speed, which was done. It appeared that he turned off the Jacksonport road toward McCoy s, one of his places of resort, to which place Captain Matthews pursued him. He, however, escaped.
Beyond Fitzhugh s we came upon one of their camps, which appeared to have been suddenly abandoned, and where, also, we found and appropriated, as far as we needed, a wagon load of hams. We also gained some information at almost every farm-house concerning the movements and locality of McEae s forces. I had heard his forces estimated variously at from 500 to 1,500, many of them, how ever, being poorly armed; and I had learned at Augusta that he had from 400 to 600 men near Antony s. The farther, however, I advanced, the more his force in any one body appeared to diminish, and the less appeared to be the chance for a fair fight with them. After, therefore, reaching a point twelve miles above Au gusta, and meeting no force, I determined to return to the transport.
After a rest, it being 12:30 o clock, we started back. At 1:30 o clock, as we passed the road leading to McCoy s, a party of men showed themselves in the road, and being, as I had reason to believe, a decoy to draw us into an ambus cade, I ordered that they should not be pursued. We arrived at Fitzhugh s, less than a mile from that road, and were resting when the enemy made his appear ance from the direction of McCoy s, advancing in line in a field on our left, and commenced charging on us. I had a part of our infantry quickly moved against them, which checked them, and by a volley fire killed and dismounted a number of them. The same infantry force then charged on them, and, amid the loud shouts and cheers of our men, drove them back into the woods out of sight. I then increased our rearguard, resumed the march, and proceeded about two miles, when the enemy came upon us in much larger force, our first notice being his attack on our rearguard. The place can perhaps be best designated as Fitz- hugh s woods, and was almost 500 yards north of a well-known bayou or swamp. On the east side of the road was a field of cultivated land, on which there was a thin body of dead timber. West of the road was heavy timber with more or less dead logs lying about, but not much underbrush.
It was immediately apparent that the enemy had collected all his forces and meditated our destruction. His lines having previously been deployed, moved up around us in good order, but shouting loudly, and seemed almost to encircle us. I plainly saw, and everyone in my command could see, that we were greatly outnumbered, but I had the most unfaltering confidence in the unflinching valor and superior soldiership of every officer and man of my small party, and I be lieved from the start we would come out victorious. Our line was immediately
28
434 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
deployed as skirmishers, the men cautioned to take advantage of every shelter and a strong company was held in reserve. The cavalry formed on the left and fought dismounted. The fighting commenced sharply, the enemy being within 200 yards of us, and the men on both sides uttering defiant shouts. Above all the clamor we could hear the loud exhortations of their chiefs urging on their men to a charge. They made an attempt, but were repulsed and charged on by us. The firing was the sharpest during the first half hour, and during this time my horse was shot under me. We could see, however, that every movement of the enemy was thwarted by the unerring fire of our sharpshooters. Still, we were aware that we were fighting experienced and daring men, Eutherford s men especially being well known as cool fighters and good marksmen. They fought dismounted.
The fight had lasted an hour when it was discovered that a part of the enemy s forces were moving around to our right at difficult range for us, with the evident purpose of intercepting our passage across the bayou. In order to defeat that purpose and to get a somewhat better position, and also to have the benefit of a well of water, which we were beginning to need, I determined to withdraw our line about 150 paces, where we could hold the bayou and also have the protection of a cluster of log buildings and some fences. The greater part of my force had withdrawn to this new position unperceived by the enemy. When he discovered that we had abandoned our first line, which we had stubbornly held during the hardest of the contest, he conjectured we were retreating, and rose up and came on with the utmost shouting and clamor. But our men, who were already in position calmly waiting their approach, poured forth a fire more damaging and deadly than they had yet suffered. From this moment they seemed to give up the fight. Yet leaders advanced, and, with language plainly heard by us, vainly endeavored to stimulate their men to a desperate attack. Two or three of their leaders were picked off by our men while making such brave endeavors. We held that position an hour and a half, during which time our men maintained a cool and effective skirmish fire.
The combat had now lasted two hours and a half, and the enemy was beaten. To guard, however, against any surprise at the bayou, the crossing being difficult and it appearing also that it had been the purpose of the enemy to do us an in jury there, I caused a line of sharpshooters to be deployed, concealed on both flanks of the crossing of the bayou in the woods, to protect our crossing when ever we might choose to move. This was promptly attended to by Major Foster. Although the ford of the bayou is about 125 yards wide, and extremely difficult to cross in the vicinity of an enemy, we made the passage without any interference or obstacle.
We then moved on in our march to the transport, a distance of six miles, the road passing through woods, by cross-roads and open fields, where, if the enemy had dared, he might have chosen his position, knowing, as he well did, the country. But lie did not venture near us again; and we proceeded into Augusta in perfect order, our colors flying, and the men singing, " Down with the Traitor;" and arriving in front of the town we halted and gave three cheers for the stars and stripes. We then moved aboard the transport and started on our return, our object having in the main been accomplished. My loss was, in the infantry, 8 killed, 19 wounded (1 mortally); in the cavalry, 1 killed and 1 (a recent recruit)
BATTLE OF FITZHUGH S WOODS. 435
missing. All of the wounded except three will be fit for duty in a few days. I can not accurately judge of the enemy s loss, but ani confident it exceeds 100 in killed and wounded, including the loss he sustained in his first ineffectual charge. I also captured from him thirteen prisoners, including one commissioned officer and one sergeant. We also took a number of good horses and brought away several freedmen.
A few men were left as a guard on the transport, and some were used in guard ing prisoners; so that the whole number of men I had engaged was only 180. The moral effect of this combat is greatly on our side, showing, as it does, that with a very small force we are able to defy the combined numbers of the enemy which has been left to hold sway in that fine region of country, and that he is liable to be struck from unexpected sources. The conduct of the officers and men of my command was eminently heroic and prudent. Their efficiency and skill were what I had reason to expect from accomplished and well-disciplined soldiers. Their emulous valor equaled the Spartan standard. The result of their hard-fought contest shows what a resource there is in courage and what power there is in discipline.
The place to which we marched is 168 miles from Little Eock, and we made the expedition and returned to this place and had resumed our ordinary duties here inside of three days.
I am obliged to the Quartermaster s Department for promptitude in furnishing transportation; also to the commanders of the gunboat and transport for their promptitude and assistance.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. C. ANDREWS,
Colonel, Third Minnesota Vol. Infy., Comdg. Expedition. Brig. Gen. L. THOMAS,
Adjutant General, U. S. Army.
List of the Killed and Wounded in the Detachment of 160 Officers and Enlisted Men of the Third Minnesota Actually Engaged in the Battle of Fitzhugli>s Woods, near Augusta, Arlt., April 1, 186 J^:
FIELD AND STAFF Wounded: Quartermaster Sergt. H. D. Pettibone.
COMPANY B Killed: Privates Ole Hauson, Benjamin Sanderson and William Shearier.
Wounded: First Sergt. Henry W. Durand, Sergt. Albert G. Hunt, Corp. Edward Freygang; Privates William F. Ingham and George Breuer.
COMPANY C Killed: Private Henry W. Farnsworth.
Wounded: Corp. Lewis Kimball; Privates Orrin Case, James P. Chapin and Henry H. Wallace.
COMPANY E Killed: First Sergt. Cory don D. Bevans (who had been appointed second lieu tenant) and Private Clark D. Harding.
Wounded : Corp. Isaac Lauver and Private Albert G. Leach.
COMPANY G Wounded: Private Albert R. Pierce.
Mortally Wounded: Andrew Bigham.
COMPANY H Kitted: Corp. George H. Peasley.
Wounded: Privates Rollin O. Crawford and John Eaton.
COMPANY I Killed : Private Washington I. Smith.
Wounded : Privates Frank J. Markliug, Andrew J. Clark and John Pope.
Killed 8
Wounded 18
Mortally wounded 1
Total... .. 27
436 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
Report of Maj. Everett W. Foster, Third Minnesota Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MINNESOTA VOLUNTEER INFANTRY,
LITTLE BOCK, ARK., April 3, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the part which the detachment of the Third Minnesota Volunteers, under my command, took in the recent expedition and action up the White river, under command of Col. C. C. Andrews, Third Minnesota Volunteers. I received orders from Colonel Andrews at 4:30 P. M., March 30, to be in readiness to march with four days rations at 6 o clock that evening, and at 7 o clock I marched my command, six companies, Company B, commanded by Lieutenant Pierce; Company C, by Lieutenant Grummons; Com pany E, by Lieutenant Knight; Company G, by Captain Devereux; Company H, Lieutenant Misener; Company I, Captain Swan, 186 strong, to the ferry and immediately proceeded to railroad depot, where, by direction of the colonel, we embarked on cars, and at 9 p. M. left for Devall s Bluff. "We reached the bluff at 4 o clock next morning, and forthwith embarked on steamer Dove, and at 7 o clock, together with a small force of the Eighth Missouri Cavalry, proceeded up White river, reaching Gregory s Landing (which is ten miles above Little Eed and 100 above Devall s Bluff) about 8 p. M., when we disembarked and marched to the support of the cavalry toward Cache river, crossing where it was supposed McEae was camped. After marching three miles in the darkness and rain it was ascertained that McEae had left that country and gone toward Jacksonport. Upon getting this information we immediately returned to the boat and proceeded up the river to Augusta, where we arrived at 5:30 A. M., April 1, disembarked, and pushed without delay with 160 men all told into the country on the Jackson- port road, the cavalry in advance. My orders were to keep within supporting distance, which I did. At the crossing of the Cache river road, four miles from Augusta, I came up with the cavalry, which had been skirmishing with the enemy for the last two miles, and here found them in force. The colonel ordered me to take three companies into the woods and engage them. I took Companies E, H, and I, and drove them before me about one mile and across a large cypress swamp. I afterward learned from a prisoner that the force I drove was the notorious Eutherford with about 150 men. At this time we joined the rest of the force, which came another route. The cavalry advanced and I followed, crossing the swamp and proceeding toward Jacksonport, the cavalry doing the skirmishing. We marched on to the Methodist church near Dr. Westmoreland s house, twelve miles from Augusta, where, by the colonel s orders, I halted my command while the cavalry scouted in advance. Finding no force of the enemy, they returned, and after a short rest started back to the boat. We had moved back about two and a half miles and halted to rest at Fitzhugh s farm-house, when we discovered a large force of mounted men charging down upon us on our right and rear. I immediately formed, and by Colonel Andrews orders sent two companies to engage the enemy Captain Swan, Company I, those in the road, and Lieutenant Misener, Company H, those on the right. They charged down through the open field with loud yells. I let them approach within 150 yards, then sent a volley of minie-balls into them, which caused them to cease their yelling and break to the rear for the woods with headlong speed. I followed a
BATTLE OF FITZHUGH S WOODS. 437
short distance and discovered we had inflicted a severe loss on them, and returned. Our cavalry having pushed on in advance, we did not follow up. Finding the enemy not disposed to come out of the woods, we marched on about two and a half miles to Fitzhugh s woods, when the enemy was again heard shooting and yelling and seen coming down through an old cornfield on the same flank as before. I immediately fixed bayonets and charged on at double-quick to meet him, coming up in line at about 200 yards from his force, which was, I should judge, at least 300 strong, and gave him a volley before he opened. He immedi ately broke to the rear for the thick timber. At this instant, when we gave ti shout to see the enemy broken, we were attacked by another and still larger force from the road we had just come up. The troops were immediately faced about and charged down into the woods in the face of a deadly fire from the enemy. While leading this charge the colonel s horse was killed under him. After gain ing the heavy timber, we engaged the enemy as skirmishers in a combat which lasted two and a half hours, when I discovered that we were getting short of ammunition. I reported the fact to Colonel Andrews, who ordered me to with draw gradually from the timber and occupy some farm buildings up the road to ward Augusta and protect the crossing of the cypress, about two and a half miles forther on, which was successfully accomplished. The cavalry passed through the swamp, the infantry following. We then formed on the opposite side and marched to Augusta, six miles, without further annoyance, bringing some thirty prisoners and a large number of contrabands which had been picked up during the day.
The following embraces a full list of casualties in the regiment at the combat of Fitzhugh s Woods: The loss of the enemy, as near as could be ascertained, was upward of 100, four times our own. Of these, several were known to be officers.
I am very proud to say that every man was perfectly cool during the entire engagement, and many instances of great daring and bravery occurred which are worthy of being particularly mentioned. Hardly a man escaped without some bullet mark through his clothing. I am especially obliged to Lieutenant Cham- pliii, acting adjutant, and Sergeant Major Ackers, Quartermaster Sergt. H. D. Pettibone, and First Sergt. C. D. Bevans(who, I lament to say, was killed); also, First Sergt. James M. Moran, Company H, and, in short, to all the officers and men of the regiment, for their promptitude in obeying orders.
Very respectfully, your obedient,
E. W. FOSTER,
Major, Commanding Third Minnesota Volunteers. Capt. JOHN PEETZ,
Acting Assistant Adjutant General, Little Hock.
HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
DEPARTMENT OF ARKANSAS, LITTLE BOCK, ARK., March SO, 1864. Col. C. C. ANDREWS,
Commanding Expedition,
COLONEL: The general commanding directs that you take such troops as were agreed upon between him and you, and proceed upon the expedition of which you
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438 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
have received particular instructions from him. Col. W. F. Geiger, commanding Eighth Missouri Cavalry and post at Devall s Bluff, is directed to furnish you with a force of cavalry, say fifty to 100, upon your application to him for them. I ana, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. D. MASON, Assistant Adjutant General.
HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
DEPARTMENT OF ARKANSAS, LITTLE BOCK, ARK., March 30, 1864. Maj. Gen. F. STEELE,
Commanding Department,
GENERAL: Since writing yesterday I find that the messenger has returned. A squad will go with Lieutenant Faber, the bearer of this. From information received I learn that McEae is collecting a force with the intention of attempting a raid on our railroad. To check him I have organized a force under Col. C. C. Andrews, consisting of Third Minnesota Volunteer Infantry and about 100 caval ry of Eighth Missouri. The colonel, with this force, will leave here to-night and go to DevalFs Bluff by rail, thence to Augusta by steamer, and endeavor to cap ture McEae and his force or disperse them. * * *
NATHAN KIMBALL, Brigadier General, Commanding.
DEVALL S BLUFF, ARK., March 31, 1864. Capt. E. D. MASON,
Assistant Adjutant General. Arrived here at 4 o clock; will soon be off. C. C. ANDREWS,
Colonel.
DEVALL S BLUFF, ARK., March SI, 1864. Capt. E. D. MASON,
Assistant Adjutant General. Left on steamer Dove 6:15 o clock. Had to wait for cavalry.
C. C. ANDREWS,
Colonel.
EXTRACT FROM COMMUNICATION OF COL. E. E. LIVINGSTON, COMMANDING,
BATESVILLE, ARK.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTHEASTERN ARKANSAS,
BATESVILLE, ARK., April 16, 1864. Capt. E. D. MASON,
A. A. G., Seventh A. C. and Dept. of Ark., Little Eock, Ark., SIR: * * * I will send 600 men to Augusta, to be there 25th instant, when, if the lieutenant commanding will co-operate with me by sending a force, we will compel the enemy to remove his headquarters to the interior swamps
EXPEDITION UP WHITE EIVER. 439
west of ridge. I do not believe the reports of 2, 000 of the enemy being with McEae; he has about 1,200 soldiers, 200 of whom he has to keep out scouting for subsistence. He could raise 2,000 armed men by pressing citizens, but that will only make the slaughter worse for him. My men will fight, rest assured of that, and I predict that McEae s glory departs from him as soon as I set foot on the other side of the river.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. E. LIVINGSTON, Colonel, First Regiment Nebraska Cavalry, Commanding.
EXPEDITION UP WHITE RIVER, ARK.-April 19-24, 1864.
HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
LITTLE EOCK, ARK., April 19, 1864. Col. W. F. GEIGER,
Commanding, DevaWs Bluff,
COLONEL: Col. C. C. Andrews, Third Minnesota, goes in command of the expedition up White river. You will please furnish him 100 mounted men, or such number less as you and he may agree upon. You will confer with Colonel Andrews, as he is instructed in every particular as to the plan of operations, and I do hope that you may be successful in breaking up McEae s entire band of rob bers. I desire that your cavalry move by way of Clarendon to Cotton Plant, and thence form a junction with Colonel Andrews. I leave the entire plan to Colonel Andrews and yourself.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
NATHAN KIMBALL, Brigadier General, Commanding.
LITTLE EOCK, ARK., April 19, 1864. Colonel GEIGER,
Commanding, DevaWs Bluff, Ark.:
The infantry force will be over to-night; they leave within one hour, under Colonel Andrews, 900 strong. Be ready. Colonel Andrews will give you all the information required. NATHAN KIMBALL,
Brigadier General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS EXPEDITION UP WHITE EIVER,
AUGUSTA, ARK., THURSDAY NOON, April 21, 1864. Colonel LIVINGSTON,
Commanding Forces at Jacksonport,
COLONEL: I am here with two veteran infantry regiments, Third Minnesota and Sixty-first Illinois, and a part of Eighth Missouri Cavalry. About 300 of Eighth Missouri Cavalry were to be at Cotton Plant this morning. I have sent a part of my force to form a junction with them, and hope for its return here at about 4 this P. M.
440 OFFICIAL REPOETS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
Learning of your presence at Jacksonport and of the enemy being near you, I propose very early in the morning to move toward Jacksonport with my available force. I wish your co-operation, and trust we may be eminently successful. I have learned that there is no bridge over Village creek. I wish you would move down as soon as you can. Cannot we meet to-morrow noon about half way ?
Very truly yours,
C. C. ANDREWS, Colonel, Third Minnesota, Commanding.
Capt. E. D. MASON, AUGUSTA, ASK., April 22, 1864.
Assistant Adjutant General:
"We captured some prisoners yesterday, including one colonel. Shall move out upon McRae s forces this morning. Expect the co-operation of Colonel Liv ingston, and have not met with the slightest accident yet. Eespectfully,
C. C. ANDREWS,
Colonel.
DEVALL S BLUFF, ARK., April 24, 1864 12m.
CAPTAIN: Have just arrived with my command. During the three days after reaching Augusta we marched sixty miles, notwithstanding heavy rains and bad roads. At our approach the rebel forces, numbering 1,000, fled across Cache river, which they swam, scattering and crossing in different directions. We have therefore had no more fighting than light skirmishing. "We have captured eight prisoners, including one colonel (Col. M. W. Ponder, Mnth Missouri In fantry), and a dispatch bearer from General Price, with his papers. Have pro cured 75 able-bodied colored recruits, 60 head of serviceable horses and mules, and $2,000 worth of contraband cotton. Am happy to say that not a man of my command has met with an accident. Please have an ambulance in readiness for a wounded prisoner. Much credit is due to Lieutenant Colonel Ohr, Sixty-first Illinois; Lieutenant Colonel Mattson, Third Minnesota; Captain Garrison, Eighth Missouri Cavalry, and the officers and men of their commands, for efficient services. C. C. ANDREWS,
Colonel, Commanding. Capt. E. D. MASON,
Assistant Adjutant General, Little Rock.
HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
LITTLE BOCK, ARK., April 24, 1864. Maj. "W. D. GREEN,
Assistant Adjutant General, Department of Arkansas,
MAJOR: Col. C. C. Andrews is at DevalPs Bluff with 800 men awaiting trans portation. I respectfully ask that the chief quartermaster furnish the transpor tation, that the force under Colonel Andrews may be brought to this place at once. I have the honor to be, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
NATHAN KIMBALL, Brigadier General, Commanding.
THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION. 441
EXTRACT FROM DISPATCH OF BRIGADIER GENERAL KIMBALL.
LITTLE BOCK, ARK., April 25, 1864. Maj. Gen. F. STEELE,
Commanding Department of Arkansas,
GENERAL: * * * Colonel Andrews returned with his command last night;
he had no battle. The rebels fled across Cache river, and into swamps. Andrews
brought in several prisoners, one colonel, and several other officers, among them
a bearer of dispatches from General Price. I send you the dispatches. * * *
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
NATHAN KIMBALL, Brigadier General.
THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION.- April -May, 1864.
HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT SEYENTH ARMY CORPS,
Little Eock, Ark., April 26, 1864. Brig. Gen. C. C. ANDREWS,
Comdg. Detach. Second Div., Seventh Army Corps:
I have the honor to transmit herewith Special Orders, No. 23, from these head quarters, assigning you to the command of a detachment of the Second Division, Seventh Army Corps. This detachment is charged with the duty of escorting a train of supplies to General Steele, commanding department, at Camden. The following troops, being the major part of the force, marched from here to-day to Pine Bluff: The Sixty-second Illinois and Twelfth Michigan Infantry, aggregating about 1,300 men; the Fifth and Eleventh Ohio batteries, each with six pieces and about 300 men, and a detachment of cavalry, numbering some 250 men.
In addition, the Third Minnesota Infantry and detachment of Third Division, 600 strong, has been ordered to report to you. So without any additional force from Pine Bluff you will have at your disposal 1,900 infantry, two batteries, and the number of cavalry named above. Arrangements are in progress to add to your command 300 infantry and 200 cavalry from the force at Pine Bluff, giving you an aggregate of upward of 3, 000 men, well proportioned from the different arms of the service.
You will proceed to Pine Bluff by steamer, taking with you the Third Minne sota Infantry. Colonel Clayton, commanding at that point, will have instructions to give you all the men he can, and these will probably at least equal the number above mentioned. Please say to Colonel Clayton that it is my wish that he should accompany your command and give you the benefit of his valuable ser vices; but I will not send any order for him to do so, leaving it entirely to his judgment whether he can be of more service with you or in command of his post.
You will please see personally to the prompt loading of the supply train, and if you can possibly augment your transportation at Pine Bluff you will spare no efforts to take every pound of subsistence possible to the front.
By General Steele s orders each regiment of infantry is to have two wagons, each battery one, and as cavalry has been added to the command a proportionate
442 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
ratio of transportation should be furnished for it. In addition, four wagons are furnished for hospital and medical stores, and there is also an ambulance train. Bear in mind that the troops are in no case to have more transportation than has been stipulated by the commanding general. You will move from Pine Bluff with three days rations carried by the men, and after that you are to draw from the train for subsistence. There is also a quantity of ammunition going for ward j the careful management of this should command your attention. Please consult Colonel Clayton about the readiest method of improvising a bridge at the Saline. I judge that he is well informed on the subject by a dispatch received from him to-day.
I feel that it is scarcely necessary to remind you to avail yourself of every opportunity to subsist upon and draw forage from the country through which you travel, nor from personal conversation with yourself I am convinced that I cannot now any more strongly impress upon you the necessity that those supplies must be got to, or at least toward, General Steele at all hazards. Please communicate your progress at Pine Bluff by telegraph, and subsequently by such opportunities as may present themselves.
Wishing you every success, and knowing that whatever betides, you and your command will acquit themselves with honor,
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. B. WEST, Brigadier General, Commanding.
LITTLE BOCK, ARK., April 27, 1864. Col. POWELL CLAYTON,
Commanding, Pine Bluff:
General Andrews left here this morning. Please advise with him and furnish him with the re-enforcements. J. B. WEST,
Brigadier General, Commanding.
PINE BLUFF, April 28, 1864. Lieut. SAMUEL T. BRUSH,
Acting Assistant Adjutant General, Little Rock :
Nothing from Colonel True yet. An escaped prisoner (reliable), Private Weathers, First Indiana Cavalry, came in this morning and states that General f*gan told Lieutenant Colonel Drake he had 6,000 men and 12 pieces of artillery. He captured 5 pieces from us, which gives him 17. Also, that he had 3,500 men and 6 pieces in the engagement. He states that this force was all mounted infantry, and the best mounted he ever saw. The Confederate medical director reported 362 of our men in killed and wounded. Confederate loss about the same. That General f*gan took with him all our ambulances and medical supplies, leaving none for the wounded. That one regiment was sent with the prisoners. The Con federate forces are supposed to be near Princeton, waiting for another train.
C. C. ANDREWS, Brigadier General.
THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION. 443
LITTLE ROCK, April 28, 1864. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN:
A train of 240 wagons, with an escort of about 1,600 infantry, 400 cavalry, and 5 pieces of artillery, was attacked at Marks Mills, 8 miles beyond the Saline river, on the Cainden and Pine Bluff road, at 10 o clock on the 25th instant, and after a desperate fight of three hours the train, with all the artillery and the greater portion of the infantry and cavalry, was captured. About 300 men escaped and have made their way to Pine Bluff and Little Rock. The enemy s force consisted of Shelby s and f*gan s commands of about 5,000 men cavalry and mounted infantry, and two batteries of artillery. * * *
Eespectfully,
W. D. GREEN, Assistant A djutant General.
Brigadier General WEST, PlNE BLUFF > A P ril ^ 18644:30 p. m.
Little Bock:
Information has come in that about 400 of the enemy crossed to the north side of the Arkansas, sixty miles below here, day before yesterday, with the avowed purpose of interfering with the railroad. My command is drawing another day s rations. I think we had better not move to-night. If we are to proceed it will be desirable to start as early as possible in the morning.
C. C. ANDREWS, Brigadier General.
Brig. Gen. C. C. ANDREWS, LITTLE ROCK, April 29, 1864.
Pine Bluff:
It seems morally certain that you will be attacked 1 in the Moro Bottom. Nevertheless, you must go through. Move as soon as you can to-morrow morn ing. Send a courier to General Steele to-morrow morning, if possible, with a verbal message of your movements; tell him when you expect to be in the Moro Bottom, and that you anticipate an attack there. He will probably se^nd out and take the enemy in rear. J. R. WEST,
Brigadier General, Commanding.
Brigadier General WEST, PINE BLUFF, April 29, 1864 8:45 p. m.
Little EocJc:
A scout of sixty men left General Steele s forces at Jenkins Ferry at 1 o clock to-day. His rear was fighting. A rebel force of about 6, 000, with heavy artillery, crossed Pratt s Ferry, on Benton road, to attack Little Rock. It is said they will be there to-morrow. General Steele is out of rations. He left Camden night before last. C. C. ANDREWS,
Brigadier General.
1 Because General Andrews expected to be attacked by a superior force the Third Minnesota was, at his request, taken to Pine Bluff to accompany the expedition. The exigencies of the ser vice caused it to be detained at that sickly place through the summer, during which 30 of its origi nal members and 89 of its recruits (in all 119) died from disease. EDITOR.
444 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
Brig. Gen. C. C. ANDREWS, LITTLE BOOK, April 29, 1864.
Pine Bluff:
Go out as far as you can, with all your command, toward General Steele in the morning, but I may send for Graves regiment. Are there any boats at Pine Bluff sufficient to bring up the Twelfth Michigan to me? If so, send it up. Answer promptly. Let the train stay at Pine Bluff until you know how matters go in front. J. E. WEST,
Brigadier General, Commanding.
Brigadier General ANDREWS, LITTLE ROCK, April 29, 1864.
Pine Bluff:
Go out to ward Jenkins Ferry with your force, except Graves . I will send a boat for him. Tell him to be ready.
J. B. WEST, Brigadier General, Commanding.
Lieut. SAMUEL J. BRUSH, PINE BLUFF > A P ril
Assist (mt Adjutant General:
Colonel Clayton cheerfully concluded to accompany me. He sent out 300 of Twenty-eighth Wisconsin Infantry last night with pontoon train. Colonel Clay ton, with from 200 to 300 cavalry and two light howitzers, has just gone, and will scout the country. He proposes to be at Mount Elba to-night, with Twenty- eighth Wisconsin, so as to prepare the bridge. I expect to be ready in two hours, and told Colonel Clayton I would move out fifteen miles to-day. The am munition arrived, but I had determined to take only enough for the expedition, our transportation is so limited. Some of the wagons that came down from the Eock were out of order, and the mules here were not shod, but the quartermaster thinks they will get along well. Soon let you know what stores we can take. It will require thirteen teams to take all the ammunition that came down for Gen eral Steele. C. C ANDREWS,
Brigadier General.
PINE BLUFF, April 30, 1864 7 a. m- Brigadier General WEST:
I sent a scout to General Steele two hours ago to inform him of our situation. The officer who came in from him last night says General Steele does not need re- enforcements and that he wished the commanding officer at Pine Bluff to send to him for re-enforcements if this place was in danger. It has rained heavily all night, and I feel, under all the circumstances, very doubtful about the propriety of going out, the roads being so bad that we cannot get the train to General Steele so soon as he can get here or to Little Eock. Colonel Clayton with a large part of his force is now at Saline, on his way back.
C. C. ANDREWS, Brigadier General.
THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION. 445
LITTLE BOCK, April 30, 1864 4:30 p. m. Brig. Gen. 0. 0. ANDREWS:
Your dispatch of 7 A. M. is just received. Bemain where you are, subject to General Steele s orders. Send Graves regiment up by the Leonora. Keep me posted.
J. B. WEST, Brigadier General, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF ARKANSAS, LITTLE BOCK, ARK., May 1, 1864.
GENERAL: The following just received:
Brigadier General WEST:
The escort commanded by Captain Toppass, Seventh Missouri Cavalry, which I sent to General Steele yesterday morning, has returned, having marched sixty-five miles in nine and one-half hours. General Steele evacuated Camden on Tueiday, the 26th of April; arrived on the Saline at Jenkins* Ferry Friday, the 29tb, at 1 P. M., and yesterday, Saturday morning, was attacked by the com bined forces of Kirby Smith and Price on the south side of the Saline. After fighting five hoars, he drove them from the field, captured three pieces of artillery and some prisoners. He then crossed the Saline without obstruction. Our loss is estimated at 500 iu killed, wounded, and missing; the enemy s at 1,000. Our wounded were brought across the river. General Rice was severely wounded. It was evident the enemy attacked General Steele with a superior force. Our troops fought most gallantly. Particular praise is given to Kansas colored troops for their stubborn valor. General Steele s army is in excellent spirits.
C. C. ANDREWS, Brigadier General.
General Carr, with 2,200 cavalry, came into Little Bock at 9 o clock this morn ing. He left the Saline at 5 P. M., the 29th ultimo. Thirty thousand rations have been sent from Pine Bluff to General Steele. Troops are being concentrated at Little Bock to meet an attack. Very respectfully,
W. D. GREEN,
Major and Assistant Adjutant General. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN,
Nashville, Tenn.
LITTLE BOCK, May 1, 1864 10 a. m. General ANDREWS,
Pine Bluff:
The following order is communicated to you, supposing that there are no orders from General Steele that conflict with it. If there are, let me know:
With two regiments of infantry, the Eleventh Ohio Battery (Sands ), and 300 of Clayton s cavalry, move out without delay to General Steele with 30,000 rations. Colonel Clayton will remain at Pine Bluff.
The good news of General Steele s successful fight is most welcome.
J. B. WEST, Brigadier General, Commanding.
446 OFFICIAL KEPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
Brig. Gen. C. C. ANDREWS, LITTLE EOCK, ARK., May 1, 1864.
Pine Bluff, Ark.:
General Steele s order for you to remain at Pine Bluff must hold good until we can hear further. J. E. WEST,
Brigadier General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. C. C. ANDREWS, LITTLE KOCK, May 2, 1864.
Pine Bluff:
What force, artillery, infantry, and cavalry, are sufficient, in your opinion, to defend Pine Bluff against 6,000 of the enemy of the same arms?
J. E. WEST, Brigadier General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. C. C. ANDREWS, LITTLE EOCK, ARK., May 2, 1864.
Pine Bluff, Ark.:
General Steele arrived here this afternoon, and is satisfied that his army was safe, the enemy not having crossed the Saline. The firing heard might have been an affair with f*gan s force, which is supposed to be on this side of the Saline. Send me a field return of your command by first opportunity.
J. E. WEST, Brigadier General, Commanding.
PINE BLUFF, May 8, 1864 &P- m. Lieut. SAMUEL T. BRUSH,
Acting Assistant Adjutant General, Little Rock :
The ambulances we sent on Saturday to Marks Mills with supplies for the wounded made a safe trip, returning this afternoon with eighteen of our wounded, including Lieutenant Colonel Drake. They have started upon the Leonora. The Confederate surgeon in charge said it was a settled rule of action of the Confed erates to show no quarter to colored men in our military service. They put this in practice at Marks 7 Mills. A party of Colonel Clayton s scouts to-day re captured and brought in 130 mules which had been sent from Jenkins Ferry.
We have to-day finished an important earthwork for four guns, which com mands the approach on the west side of the town, and yesterday and to-day have cut a great deal of underbrush, so that the enemy in case of attack will need to approach over an extensive surface exposed. The information brought by our scouts tends to show that there is no enemy this side of the Saline. We do not now apprehend an attack. I desire you to bear in mind that my own command here is only about 1,300. I think it due to Colonel Clayton, who in everything has cheerfully and ably co-operated with me, to retain command here. He is able to repel any ordinary force, and unless there is danger to apprehend, more than he and I are aware of, I, of course, with my command, will expect to leave.
C. C. ANDREWS, Brigadier General.
THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION. 447
Brigadier General ANDREWS. LITTLE BOOK, May 4, 1864.
Pine Bluff:
It is undoubtedly due to Colonel Clayton that he should not be superseded. You will, therefore, for the present, retain command of what is left of the force which you took from here. General Steele requires me to retain my old command for a few days, but you will understand the impropriety of my making any movement of troops unless to meet threatened attacks. As your troops, and I believe yourself, still belong to the Second Division, I presume that you will all soon be ordered to rejoin it. J. E. WEST,
Brigadier General, Commanding.
LITTLE BOOK, May 6, 1864. Brig. Gen. C. C. ANDREWS,
Pine Bluff:
The latest information from Kirby Smith and Price locates them on the Saline, near Jenkins Ferry. You will therefore remain with your force at Pine Bluff until their intentions as to an attack on our lines are made known. All veterans in the department will be sent on furlough in a very short time. By order of Maj. Gen. F. Steele.
W. D. GREEN, Major and Assistant Adjutant General.
Col. POWELL CLAYTON, LITTLE BOCK, May 9, 1864.
Commanding, Pine Bluff:
General Andrews is ordered to Little Bock. The troops at Pine Bluff are subject to your orders, and will remain there for the present. It is reported the enemy intend crossing the Arkansas and making a dash on the Memphis & Little Bock railroad. You will please observe their movements, so far as possible, and report any information you may obtain.
By order of Maj. Gen. F. Steele. W. D. GREEN,
Assistant Adjutant General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF ARKANSAS,
LITTLE BOCK, May 29, 1864. Maj. Gen. E. B. S. CANBY,
Commanding Military Division of West Mississippi,
GENERAL: * * * if the line of the Arkansas is to be held, and I am con fident that it can be, it is very essential that Pine Bluff should not be abandoned. I have just returned from there. It is a strong position, well intrenched, and covers a rich country. If the troops should be withdrawn, navigation on the Arkansas would be impossible, and extremely hazardous on White river. * * *
Very respectfully,
F. STEELE,
Major General.
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448 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
LITTLE BOCK, ARK., June 21, 1864. Lieut. Col. "W. D. GREEN,
Assistant Adjutant General,
COLONEL: I have the honor to request that the Third Kegiment Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, the Sixty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry, the Eleventh Ohio Battery, now at Pine Bluff, also the One Hundred and Sixtieth Illinois Vol unteer Infantry, now at DevalFs Bluff, be ordered to this place. I make this re quest with a view of getting as much of the Second Division as practicable brought together. * * *
I earnestly hope that this application may receive favorable attention, and am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. C. ANDREWS, Brigadier General, Commanding.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, LITTLE EOCK, ARK., April 29, 1864. To His Excellency, STEPHEN MILLER,
Governor of Minnesota,
SIR: It is due to General Andrews, and the officers and men of the Third Regiment Minnesota Infantry, that the high reputation which they have acquired for bravery and good discipline in the field should be made known to their friends at home.
While they have been on duty in our capital, good order has prevailed, and they have won the respect and esteem of the citizens. When called to meet the enemy they have proved ready for every undertaking and reliable in every emer gency.
Such men are an honor to the government and to the cause they serve. Their state may justly be proud of them, as they will do her credit wherever duty calls them.
ISAAC MURPHY, Governor of Arkansas.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
ST. PAUL, May 17, 1864. His Excellency, ISAAC MURPHY,
Governor of the State of Arkansas,
SIR: Your letter of the 29th of April, in compliment to the bravery and good discipline evinced by General Andrews, and the officers and men of the Third Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, is received.
While the State of Minnesota is proudly conscious of the valor and manly bearing of her soldiers in the field, yet the expression contained in your letter emanating from a source at once so high and so impartial, and based upon such unquestionable opportunities for a correct judgment, are doubly grateful to our people and will be cherished as among the most valuable of the records pertain-
THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION. 449
ing to the history of the part taken by Minnesota soldiers in the sacred cause of preserving the Union, and extending liberty throughout all its borders. In be half of the people of the state, and more particularly of the gallant regiment which you have done them the honor to commend, I return you our cordial acknowledgments for the flattering terms in which you have seen fit to speak their praise.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
STEPHEN MILLER. By the Governor, D. BLAKELY,
Secretary of State.
PINE BLUFF, ARK., May 81, 1864. Gen L. THOMAS,
Adjutant General, U. S. A.,
GENERAL: The following report of the general history and moral condition of the Third Eegiment Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, is submitted in accordance with section 3 of General Orders, No. 158, dated "War Department, Adjutant General s Office, Washington, April 13, 1864."
I entered upon my duties as chaplain at Little Bock, Ark., Oct. 20, 1863. The regiment had formed a part of the "Arkansas Expedition," and immedi ately on entering the city on the 10th day of September it was selected by General Steele, on account of its "efficiency and good discipline," as one of the regiments to be employed as provost guard, in which service it was continued until leaving for this place.
Colonel Andrews having been selected as commander of the post, the com mand of the regiment devolved upon Lieutenant Colonel Mattson. He, early in December, with three other commissioned officers, six sergeants and four cor porals, visited Minnesota as a recruiting party, and during the winter the regi ment was under the command of Maj. E. W. Foster.
The men were in excellent health, and diligent efforts were made by the officers to perfect them in military discipline and drill. A large proportion of the men having re-enlisted as veterans, four of the companies were furloughed and absent during the latter part of the winter and early part of spring.
On the evening of March 30, the remaining six companies, B, C, E, G, H and I, under the command of Major Foster, took the cars for Devall s Bluff, and on the morning of the 31st they were joined by a company of cavalry, and the entire force, under command of Colonel Andrews, embarked on board the steamer Dove and, accompanied by a gunboat, moved from the bluff up White river to Augusta to reconnoiter the rebel forces in that vicinity. The next day, April 1st, after having marched into the country twelve miles or more, without discovering the enemy in force, it was decided to return to the boats. About five miles from the landing a force of cavalry under General McEae made a fierce attack upon our rear and this was soon followed by another upon our left flank. A most spirited engagement ensued in Fitzhugh s woods, continuing for three hours or more, during which time our men handsomely repelled each attack of the foe and per sistently held the ground against more than twice their number, retiring only
29
450 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
when their failing ammunition and the approaching night made it absolutely necessary to seek the protection of the boats. The fact that we were not molested after leaving the field, although we marched as infantry, while the rebels had good horses, shows that they were severely punished and thoroughly satisfied. The conduct of the regiment is worthy of record. Although pressed by a superior force for nearly three hours, in front and on both flanks, so that it seemed as if the enemy would soon surround and close in upon us, the officers evinced the most intrepid courage, rallying the men and directing their movements, or leading them in person with the utmost fearlessness in the face of imminent peril, and the men fought as if inspired with the valor of true veterans, driving the enemy once and again to the shelter of the heavy timber, and leaving the field with great reluctance when ordered to retire. Colonel Andrews horse was shot under him; the clothing of several of the officers was pierced by the enemy s bullets and among the men were numerous hair-breadth escapes. The loss of the regiment was eight killed and nineteen wounded.
Eeturning to Little Eock we were soon rejoined by Lieutenant Colonel Matt- son and his recruiting party, accompanied by the four furloughed companies and upwards of 200 recruits.
On the 19th of April the regiment was again in motion for Augusta, to co operate in a more extensive movement against the force of General McEae, who, on our arrival there, fled across the Cache river and was out of our reach. But the expedition was not altogether fruitless on our part. We captured several prisoners, took off about eighty contrabands, fifty horses and mules and a con siderable quantity of hams and cotton, besides which the cavalry that accompanied us captured a rebel colonel from General Price s army.
We again returned to Little Eock and had been in camp but a few days when we were ordered to this place to accompany a supply train to Camden. On ar riving here it was reported that General Steele was falling back to Little Eock, and in a day or two we formed our camp in the rear of the town, where we still remain. The men are employed in constructing fortifications and details are also made for grand guard duty each day.
The daily average of sickness for the month of May is eight in hospital and thirty-seven in camp, the recruits furnishing much the greater proportion. It is reported that four of our men have died in hospital at Little Eock since we left, but no death has occurred here.
It is a pleasure to be able to report favorably concerning the moral condition of the regiment. The best of feeling prevails among the officers and their bearing toward each other is gentlemanly and courteous. In this way, adding to a strict military rule the force of a commendable example, they are both respected and esteemed by the men, whose deportment on their part is such as becomes at once the soldier and the man. Brawls are unknown, the best of discipline prevails and the camp is a model of neatness. I could write morality too, but we are not entirely free from the vices that infest all our cities, towns and villages and tempt the young to their ruin. But the camp collects the social vices of whole com munities and the force of evil habits is greatly augmented and intensified, so that the restraints and influences which, at home, almost unconsciously held many a young man to a virtuous life, are but as tow in the focus of a burning lens. To remove these vices, or to counteract their influence, infringing as they do alike
THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION. 451
upon the welfare of the individual and society, must ever be objects of earnest desire, both to the patriot and the Christian. These objects have been kept in view, and by the distribution of good reading, both among the sick and well; by friendly conversation and appropriate counsels; by occasional religious services in the hospital and regular Sabbath services in camp or church, together with social Christian gatherings for prayer and conference during the week, it has been sought to strengthen those convictions that form the basis of a correct moral life, and to develop and cultivate those principles and affections which pertain to a devout Christian character.
An attempt has also been made to interest the men in vocal music, both sacred and secular. "Whenever it has been necessary to call upon the officers for aid in carrying forward these plans it has been promptly given, and, although the results attained are far below my wishes, they are sufficient to afford encouragement to renewed efforts for the future.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SIMON PUTNAM, Chaplain, Third Regiment Minnesota Volunteer Infantry.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
ST. PAUL, June 28, 186 4. Lieut. Col. J. T. AVERILL,
Acting Assistant Provost Marshal General Minnesota, St. Paul, Minn., COLONEL: It is represented to me that the Third Minnesota Volunteers, now- located at or near Little Eock, Ark., has become reduced so as to number some 60 or 70 men below the minimum number required for a regimental organization. As I commissioned, by promotion, the field officers for said regiment at a time when it contained the requisite number, and they were not mustered in owing to the loss of said commissions by mail, I respectfully suggest whether it would not promote the best interests of the service to make up the deficiency by forwarding to said regiment from 70 to 100 drafted men.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. MILLER, Governor of Minnesota.
PINE BLUFF, ARK., July 15, 1864. Gen. L. THOMAS,
Adjutant General, U. S. A.,
GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following as my report of the moral condition and general history of the Third Eegiment Minnesota Volunteer Infantry for the month of June, 1864.
The regiment is still at Pine Bluff, Ark., and Colonel Mattson is in com mand. The men who were left at Little Eock came down early in the month and we are still engaged in the same duties as during the preceding month. We had heavy rains nearly every day until the 20th of June, and each shower was suc ceeded by intense heat. For the latter part of the time a much larger number of
452 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
men have been detailed to work upon the fortifications, and the work has been prosecuted both day and night. The grounds of the camp have been much im proved by thorough draining and two wells have been sunk to furnish a supply of fresh water. The men have raised their sleeping bunks considerably above the ground, and every precaution has been taken to guard their health, and yet the sick list has been somewhat increased both among the veterans and recruits. There have been, however, only two cases of mortality, Private J. B. Phillips of Company A, and a colored cook by the name of Saunders, belonging to Company B.
On the 16th of June the cavalry pickets were driven in by a small force of rebels, who soon appeared in sight of our camp. The regiment was promptly formed in line of battle and one company (H) ordered over the bridge to sustain the pickets. Soon after cavalry re-enforcements came up and the enemy was imme diately repulsed, since which time we have not been molested. Still later in the month the regiment was inspected by the commander of the United States forces at this post, Colonel Powell Clayton, who expressed his satisfaction with its appearance and drill. There is no marked change in the moral condition of the regiment. In distributing reading matter on the Sabbath I have seen and heard less of those things that are incompatible with a proper observance of the day, and there has been a commendable interest in meetings for worship and singing during the month. The men seem impressed with the necessity of cleanliness about the camp and in their dress, and the companies seem to vie with each other with a commendable pride in regard to these things.
To serve such men by seeking to promote their moral and religious welfare affords ground for the highest satisfaction to the Christian patriot. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. PUTNAM, Chaplain, Third Regiment Minnesota Volunteer Infantry.
P. S. An earlier report was impracticable on account of sickness. S. P.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MINNESOTA VET. VOL. INFANTRY, His Excellency, STEPHEN MILLER, ST - PAUL > MINN., Aug. 26, 1864.
Governor State of Minnesota,
SIR: I have the honor to report that in pursuance of Special Order No. 191, Department Arkansas, a copy of which is hereto annexed, I arrived in St. Paul this morning with Companies B, C, E, G, H and F, Third Minnesota Veteran Volunteer Infantry, and that the officers and men are now being sent to their re spective homes, on leaves of absence and furloughs, by Lieutenant Colonel Aver- ill, superintendent Volunteer Eecruiting Service, Minnesota.
Among the number of men were many sick when I started from Pine Bluff, Ark., on the 12th instant, four of whom have died on the way. The others are all gaining in health.
This command comprises the balance of the veterans of the regiment who had not previously had a furlough. I left 200 sick men at Pine Bluff. We have suf fered much from sickness and have had twenty-four deaths this summer. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. MATTSON, Colonel, Commanding Third Minnesota Infantry.
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THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION. 453
BED WING, MINN., Sept. 16, 1864. Governor S. MILLER,
St. Paul, Minn.,
YOUR EXCELLENCY: The unfortunate condition of the regiment which I have the honor to command compels me to appeal to our state government for aid or interference. I therefore take the liberty of addressing you on the subject.
I have had good cause to ask for state aid, ever since last June, but believing that our state authorities were so frequently called upon for their influence in behalf of the regiments from the state, I hesitated to complain, and hoped for a change in favor of the regiment.
Advices from Pine Bluff, Ark., by every mail show that things are getting worse instead of better, and I can therefore keep silent no longer.
The regiment is at Pine Bluff, Ark., and has been there since last April. This place is one of the most unhealthy in that state perhaps in the whole South. During the whole summer, our men have done heavy picket duty and fatigue work in handling commissary supplies, and digging intrenchments. They have worked from 4 o 7 clock in the morning, in the heavy dew, until hot midday, and again in the afternoon, and this nearly every day, and in weather so hot that native citizens hardly ventured beyond the shade.
Out of some few over 600 men present, from 200 to 300 were constantly sick. I left there August 12th, with 220 veterans, more than half of whom were sick, the surgeon, Dr. Wedge, and two-thirds of the officers, including myself, among the number. About that time the regiment received 90 men, recruits (drafted men), leaving still a force there of about 500 men and 8 officers.
According to a letter just received from Captain Hoit, commanding that de tachment, there are now, of those, only three officers and 150 men fit for duty. We lose on an average one a day by death from disease, and the captain writes that they are so pressed with duty that he cannot even furnish the customary escort to bury the dead.
During the last three months, by far the sickliest part of the year, and when the medicine called quinine is almost as essential in that country as bread, we have not been furnished with over twenty ounces of that much needed medicine (I am not positive as to the exact quantity furnished us, but I do know that it has not been one-fiftieth part of what was needed), in fact, it has not been enough to do any good at all, and we have buried many of our young and noble comrades who could have been saved had we had medicine.
The surgeon and assistant surgeon have been skillful and very faithful; they have done all in their power, yet I have often known them to send 200 sick away in one day, with nothing but the hope of medicine, and very poor and vague hope at that; but they had nothing else to give them.
We made every possible exertion to get medicine, both by making regular and special requisitions, by personal application, and by preferring written statements of our condition, but all to no purpose, for the medicine was not to be had, even at Little Eock, at the purveyors stores.
On my way home I saw the medical director, and was promised by him that after that time we should have plenty, for the army had then been supplied, but Captain Hoit writes that up to the 3d instant nothing of any consequence had been received.
454 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
Our chief surgeon, Dr. Wedge, came home with the veterans, sick, as I before mentioned,- our first assistant surgeon, Dr. Greely, has been for eight months, and is yet, on detached service, at Little Eock. I have made strong endeavors to have him returned to the regiment, but in vain. Thus we left the second assistant surgeon, Dr. Bixby, alone in charge of all the sick, and shortly after we left he also was taken sick, and on the 3d instant was very low with fever. This leaves the remnant of the regiment with over 300 sick, with no doctor and no medicine.
The state has agents to look to the sick, I believe, at St. Louis, Memphis, Louisville and other places, but in the Department of Arkansas, the most sickly country in which a Minnesota regiment has been located, I am sorry to say there is none.
I was glad to hear, at my late interviews with your Excellency, that after strenu ous efforts you had obtained permission to have our sick soldiers at Memphis, Helena and Little Eock removed to Northern hospitals, but am afraid this order or permit may not serve those at Pine Bluff, as none have been removed from there. (At Little Eock we have none from this state. )
I see from the circular of your Excellency, published yesterday, that no efforts are being spared on the part of the state government for aiding and assisting the soldiers and their families. In view of this fact, and also from the great necessity in the case, I most urgently ask that the state government will come to the relief of the sick of my regiment at Pine Bluff, by sending at once a competent physician with a good supply of quinine to that place, to look to and take care of such sick until our regimental surgeon shall be able to do so. He should go through as quickly as possible, and not delay to look after those already in hospitals above that place, for they are doubtless supplied both with physicians and medicines.
If this, my request, be granted, I know to a certainty that many valuable lives will be saved, and the men and officers, who are now almost entirely discouraged, will yet see that some one (who has power to help) still cares for them.
Your Excellency, who knows by dear experience so well what soldiers need, and how dark and desponding such life of sickness, without aid or hope, is for them, will, I am sure, come to the rescue of these suffering men and grant my request.
I have written this as a citizen of Minnesota, and in the name of humanity. I may have used language that, as a soldier, I should not have used, but after bearing much, long and patiently, we finally cannot constrain our feelings. I cannot. My motives are surely good, and I trust that my zeal may be pardoned. I do not complain against the general government; it means to do justice to the men in the field, I know. Some individual is to blame for the lack of medicine, but I cannot tell who.
In this connection I also wish to state that, of the number of veterans who came home with me, most are yet sick at their respective homes, a few have died. My own health is poor. I have scarcely been able to leave the house since I came home. We have not ten days before the term of veteran furlough expires, and I trust in that time most of us will be able to join our commands, and share their hardships.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. MATTSON, Colonel, Third Minnesota Veteran Volunteer Infantry.
THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION. 455
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Col. H. MATTSON, ST - PAUL > Sept. 19, 1864.
Commanding Third Minn. Vols., Eed Wing, Minn.,
MY DEAR COLONEL: Yours of the 16th instant just received, and I heartily deplore the privations and suffering of your gallant regiment and will gladly con tribute in any possible way to the relief of your suffering men. A few days since I started Dr. Etheridge of Hastings with fifty dollars worth of quinine to Pine Bluff, and I hope that he may reach there in time to do good service. But if he does he will be able to remain but a short time, and Dr. Wedge should return at once if his health will permit. If you will permit me to use your name in the matter I will at once write to General Steele, the Surgeon General and the Secretary of War in relation to the matter and strive to secure all your wants and a supply of medicines. I am the more anxious that your surgeon should return because General Sherman declines to let our state physicians visit Atlanta and General Steele may adopt a similar rule.
Very truly, your friend,
S. MILLER.
EED WING, Sept. 22, 1864. Gov. S. MILLER,
St. Paul, Minn.,
YOUR EXCELLENCY : Your favor of the 19th instant is just received. I thank you most heartily for sending the aid to the Third Eegiment. %
Dr. Wedge will start down with me next week. You are at perfect liberty to use my name in connection with any statement you may see proper to make to the Secretary of War, General Steele, or other authorities or officers.
Yours very truly,
H. MATTSON.
ASSISTANT SURGEON GENERAL S OFFICE,
LOUISVILLE, KY., Oct. 3, 1864.
GOVERNOR: I deeply regret the circumstances you represent in the Third Minnesota Eegiment Volunteers. Every effort has been made, and I thought successfully, to keep Arkansas supplied with medical officers and stores. I direct to-day five medical officers to proceed there, and will send a copy of your letter to Surg. James E. Smith, IT. S. A., medical director Department of Arkansas, for a report and instructions to remedy the evil complained of. Your confidence in General Steele is well bestowed.
I directed some days since a hospital steward to proceed to DevalPs Bluff, Ark., with a view to bringing the sick and convalescents North. You may rely on my exertions.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. C. WOOD,
Assistant Surgeon General, U. S. A. His Excellency, STEPHEN MILLER,
Governor of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minn.
456 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
HEADQUARTERS THIRD MINN. VET. VOL. INFANTRY,
DEVALL S BLUFF, ARK., Nov. 1, 1864. Col. OSCAR MALMROS,
Adjutant General, Minnesota,
COLONEL: In obedience to your request of September 26th, I transmit here with morning report for this day, of the Third Eegiment Minnesota Veteran Volunteer Infantry. In connection therewith I have the honor to submit the following facts concerning the regiment during the preceding twelve months:
On the 12th of September, 1863, the regiment was stationed at Little Eock, Ark., and acting as provost guard of that city, it continued to discharge those duties until spring, with very great satisfaction to the commanding general and to the civil department of the state and city, and eliciting universal praise and esteem. During the months of December and January three-fourths of the men present re-enlisted for the further period of three years, and we became then a veteran regiment. On the 30th day of March a detachment commanded by Maj. (now Lieut. Col.) E. "W". Foster, together with some cavalry, the whole under command of Col. (now Brig. Gen. ) C. C. Andrews, started on an expedition up White river and there engaged and handsomely whipped the enemy under General McEae, at Fitzhugh woods, near Augusta.
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Post by mdenney on Sept 2, 2007 14:38:04 GMT -5
In the latter part of April the regiment again scoured that country, capturing much valuable property and some prisoners, but that time the enemy avoided an engagement.
On the 26th of April the regiment, together with other troops, in all 3,000 men, under command of Brigadier General Andrews, started for Camden with a supply train for the main army of General Steele. After arriving at Pine Bluff it was found that the army at Camden was falling back toward Little Eock 5 the regiment was then ordered into garrison at Pine Bluff, Ark., where it remained until the beginning of October.
Pine Bluff is one of the most unhealthy places of the South, the water there is miserably poor and the neighboring country traversed by cypress swamps and morasses. The garrison of the place was small and the enemy was constantly in our front and harassing our outposts; it therefore became necessary to strongly fortify the place, and the men were required to perform the hardest kind of manual labor in the trenches during the hot and sickly part of the season, in addition to the very heavy guard and outpost duty. Our sick list and number of deaths increased to an alarming degree, our medical supply was soon exhausted and we could get no more. From early in June until September we had com paratively no medicines at all, and during this period our sick list ranged from 200 to 300 men daily.
On the 12th of August the veterans of six companies, with a number of sick non- veterans, started for Minnesota on furlough; over one-half the officers and men composing the detachment was sick on leaving Pine Bluff, but by great care and skillful treatment by the surgeon in charge (Dr. Wedge), together with the bene ficial change of climate, most of them commenced gaining health after arriving in the state, and I trust that nearly all of them will be able to rejoin the regiment this fall.
Those who remained at Pine Bluff (about 500 in number, mostly recruits) were shortly after the departure of the veterans provided with horses and equipped as mounted infantry and subjected to still harder duty than before.
THE CAMDEN EXPEDITION. 457
Dr. Bixby, the assistant surgeon in charge, all the officers and seven-eighths of the men were, in a short time, prostrated by sickness; they were still without medicines and sanitary supplies, and for the want of vegetable diet many suffered with scurvy, the few who were still able to do duty were kept on picket day after day in succession, the number of deaths increased weekly, and there were finally not well men enough left to decently bury the dead. I then addressed a communication to his Excellency, the Governor of Minnesota, setting forth the deplorable condition of the detachment at Pine Bluff, and asking for aid from the state government. This was promptly furnished. Dr. Etheridge was sent from Minnesota with a supply of quinine, and arrived at Pine Bluff about the 30th of September. His presence and devoted labor among the despairing sick had a very beneficial effect, and it is to be regretted that his stay was so short.
About the middle of October the detachment at Pine Bluff was relieved from duty there by order of General Steele and ordered to this place (Devall s Bluff, on White river) and a portion of them met the six companies returning from fur lough in Minnesota here on the 17th of October; the balance arrived a few days after.
Those who were the most sick were taken into hospitals at Little Bock, a few others were sent North by a hospital steamer, the remainder are encamped here.
Since its arrival here the regiment has been well supplied with vegetable food, partly sent by the ladies of Bed Wing, Minn., partly purchased out of the regimental fund and partly furnished by the Sanitary Commission. The supply of medicines is also sufficient now. We are building large and comfortable log houses for winter quarters, and expect to remain here during the winter. The health of the officers and men is rapidly improving and we will soon be again the proud, efficient regiment of former days. * * *
Total strength at this date, 909; non- veterans to be mustered out Nov. 15, 1864, 145; to remain in service after the 15th instant, 763.
The regiment will then, in two weeks from now, be reduced below the minimum number, and unless filled up again immediately, will not be entitled to a colonel or to any second lieutenants.
The number of sick at last October report was 366.
In connection with this I desire to state that our surgeons have been untiring in their efforts in behalf of the sick; and the officers and men, without exception (to my knowledge), have labored with earnestness and good judgment, in order to counteract the evil of an unhealthy climate.
No camp was ever in better order than ours no men ever observed cleanli ness of person or abstained from excesses of every kind more carefully than our men did.
The food was prepared by experienced and reliable cooks, and under strict inspection of an officer of the regiment. In short, everything within our power was done to keep at bay the awful ravages of the malaria, and had it not been for this our losses would have been far greater. * * *
It is worthy of mention in honor of the enlisted men of the regiment, that dur ing the year sixteen of them have received promotion as commissioned officers into other regiments in this department, and in that of the Tennessee; and eighteen others have been recommended, and will soon be promoted in like manner.
458 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
The regiment belongs to the First Brigade (Col. H. Mattson commanding), Second Division (Brigadier General Andrews commanding), Seventh Army Corps, (Major General Steele commanding).
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HANS MATTSON, Colonel, Third Minnesota, Vet. Vol. Infantry.
DEV ALL S BLUFF, ARK., Nov. 17, 1864. Gov. S. MILLER,
Minnesota,
MY DEAR GOVERNOR: I take the liberty to again address you in regard to my regiment, and ask your influence on our behalf.
On the 14th instant the non-veterans were mustered out. This, with the casualties of the service, has reduced our number to 709 men, besides command ing officers, and the probabilities are that myself, with seven captains and seven second lieutenants will be mustered out of the service, as soon as a decision is had from the War Department, on the ground that our commands are below the regulation number.
Having been with the regiment so long, and the affairs of our country not being yet satisfactorily settled, we are, of course, anxious to remain until the end of the war. Besides, by taking away this large number of the old officers, while yet over 700 men demand their care, skill and attention, will greatly cripple the efficiency of the regiment, in fact, almost break it up, for it would actually leave only half a dozen line officers, the rest being either absent, sick, or on detached service.
This matter can all be remedied if we have about 125 drafted men at once assigned to us, and it is for this that I ask your aid. Please have this done at once, if in your power. I know that, strictly speaking, it is not a matter within your province, yet I am satisfied that upon representation being made by you to the War Department, the matter can be arranged at once.
If we get the men you would confer a very great favor by having me officially notified of their assignment as early as possible.
The men are now greatly improving, and feel thankful to you for the aid received.
I was at Little Eock last week, and saw General Steele. He has made appli cation to the War Department to have me retained anyhow, on the ground that I am commanding a brigade, and my services (as he was kind enough to express it) being very necessary, but I do not rely on this, and even if the application should be granted it would only cover my individual case, and still cut off the line officers. The general spoke of your letter to him, and seemed glad that you took such interest in his pet regiment, as he was pleased to call it, and I am confident that your effort in our behalf was the means of getting the regiment relieved from Pine Bluff, which again was the means of saving it from becoming an utter wreck.
My sincere thanks to you for this.
I am, very truly, your obedient servant,
H. MATTSON.
CAMPAIGN OF THE RAPIDAN TO PETERSBURG. 459
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
ST. PAUL, Nov. 29, 1864. Col. H. MATTSON,
Third Minn. Vols., DevalTs Bluff, ArJc.,
MY DEAR COLONEL: Yonrs of the 17th instant just received asking me to use my best efforts to secure 125 drafted men for your regiment. I am trying to get 100 men now at Fort Snelling for the Second Eegiment, in order to get Colonel Bishop mustered in, and after that I will be glad to use my best efforts for the Third Eegiment.
But are not all of you greatly mistaken as to the rules of the War Depart ment in the premises ? In all the other armies of the Union, where our state has troops, no colonel or captain is mustered out for any such cause, and new captains are mustered in to fill vacancies, in companies that contain less than thirty men. A vacancy occurring in a regiment or company containing less than the minimum, the order requires that the position of colonel and second lieutenant be left un filled, but none of these officers are mustered out for such reasons, and in all the companies we reappoint and have mustered in under existing rules captains and first lieutenants, so long as the company organization is retained. Our Fifth Minnesota Eegiment has not contained 600 men for the past year, and part of the time was reduced to 400, but none of the officers have been mustered out, and it still retains its field officers and ten captains.
With best regards to your officers and men, I am, colonel,
Very truly, your friend,
S. MILLER.
CAMPAIGN OF THE RAPIDAN TO PETERSBURG.- May -June, 1864. Report of Capt. Abraham Wright First Company Minnesota Sharpshooters.
HEADQUARTERS SECOND TJ. S. SHARPSHOOTERS,
NEAR PETERSBURG, VA., Aug. 8, 1864. Hon. S. MILLER,
Governor State of Minnesota,
SIR: I have at different times thought of writing you an account of the part taken by the First Company of Sharpshooters from Minnesota.
We crossed the Eapidan in connection with the army, May 4th, and on the evening of the 5th engaged the enemy at Brock s Cross-Eoads or in the Wilder ness. The company lost 3 men. From thence to Todd s Tavern and Spott- sylvania Court-House, where the fighting was of the most desperate character, our loss was 5 men wounded and 1 missing. From there to Mattapony and North Anna, where I had 1 man killed and 1 captured; thence to Tatamapon- ing, where we charged in line of skirmishers upon the enemy s works and took them with 30 prisoners. Two men were wounded here. From thence to Cold Harbor; 1 man killed at this place. From this point we changed our base to before Petersburg. I have had 3 men wounded at different times at this point. I forgot to mention 2 men missing in the Wilderness. I have been wounded twice, once at North Anna river, May 23d, in the side, slightly the other
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460 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
time before Petersburg by a minie-ball in the right ankle, not very seriously. I am happy to say my men have on all occasions obeyed orders and have done their duty well. Several who were wounded in the early part of the campaign have returned to duty. Three are on detail. Twenty-three are still remaining for duty, let come what will.
I am, Governor, respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. WRIGHT, Captain, Company A, Second 77. S. Sharpshooters.
EXTRACT FROM EEPORT OF MAJ. GEN. JOHN GIBBON, COMMANDING SECOND DIVISION, SECOND CORPS, Nov. 7, 1864.
* * * Capt. M. Black, Second Company Minnesota Sharpshooters, provost marshal, was untiring in the duties of his office on the march and in camp, as well as on the field, where his command lost heavily. * * *
CAMPAIGN OF RICHMOND.- June 13-July 31, 1864.
Report of Capt. James C. Farwell, First Minnesota Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST BATTALION MINNESOTA INFANTRY,
NEAR PETERSBURG, YA. ? Aug. 7, 1864.
CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the part taken by my command during the present campaign, since its assignment to this brigade, at Cold Harbor, on the llth day of June, 1864, by order of Major General Hanthingy, commanding Second Army Corps.
On the evening of the 12th, in accordance with orders from the general com manding, we left our position at Cold Harbor, marched that night, and at 9 o clock on the morning of the 13th reached the Chickahominy river, where we halted and rested until 3 P. M., when we crossed and again halted until sundown. We then proceeded to Charles City Court-House, where we arrived at 1 A. M. of the 14th, and remained until 7 o clock, and then marched to army headquarters, dis tant nearly two miles, where we were formed in line of battle. At 3 P. M. we moved to Wilcox s Landing, on the James river, where we took transports and crossed to the south side. Four miles from said river we were formed in line of battle and remained there until 12 M. of the 15th, when we moved toward Peters burg, and arrived within the outer fortifications at 11 p. M. on that day. The men were immediately put to work, and by the morning of the 16th had succeeded in constructing a strong line of rifle-pits, connecting with those abandoned by the enemy on the day previous. During the day the men were constantly exposed to the artillery fire of the enemy, but suffered no loss until 4 p. M., when a charge was made by our forces. Part of my command, being on picket duty near the enemy s line, was exposed to this fire, and one man was wounded. During the charge the most of my battalion were stationed in the rifle-pits, which they had constructed, and directly in rear of the Sixth Maine Battery, which during the
CAMPAIGN OF RICHMOND. 461
battle was enabled, from the effectiveness of its fire, to advance midway between our works and those of the enemy. We remained in this position until the morn ing of the 18th, when we were moved nearer the enemy s works, and massed by brigade. At a given signal the line moved forward, led by General Pierce, who was slightly wounded during the engagement. Owing to the thick woods through which we were compelled to charge it was necessary to halt the line several times for the purpose of re-forming, when we were again moved forward and succeeded in driving the enemy before us for some distance, when the line was halted, it being impossible to force the enemy from his position by a direct attack on his front. This brigade was then moved to the extreme right of this corps. I then received orders from General Pierce, who still retained command, to deploy my command as skirmishers, and if possible take possession of a certain road running perpendicular to and striking the City Point railroad, about three-quarters of a mile from Petersburg. My men moved forward steadily, although exposed to a heavy fire from the front and an enfilading fire from the enemy in front of the Sixth Corps, who up to this time had not been forced from their position. I at last succeeded, though with severe loss, in gaining the position ordered. I then, by General Pierce s order, moved my command forward and occupied a position beyond the road and near the enemy s works, which were very formidable and still remain in his possession. The presence of my men on the enemy s right and rear compelled him to fall back in front of the Sixth Corps, on a line with those in our immediate front. That corps then moved forward and joined my right, while the troops to the left were advanced on a line with us. My loss during this engagement was as follows: Killed, 2; wounded, 1 commissioned officer and 4 enlisted men. Works were thrown up at this point, and my command occupied the right of the Second Corps, resting on the City Point railroad, and connecting with the Second Division of the Sixth Corps. We remained in this position until the evening of the 20th, when we were relieved by a portion of the Sixth Corps, and moved to the left and halted near the Suffolk railroad, where we re mained until the P. M. of the 21st, when we moved forward as skirmishers and extended our line in the direction of the Weldon railroad. We met with little opposition from the enemy, and by the morning of the 22d were stationed in rifle-pits thrown up during the night. On the P. M. of that day Captain McKnight s battery, the Twelfth New York Artillery, on which the left of my command rested, opened fire upon the enemy s works on our front and right. The enemy replied vigorously and with effect, but the battery still continued its fire until we were flanked on the left, and the enfilading fire of the enemy s forces compelled me to withdraw my command. I did not leave the position, however, until the enemy was fairly upon my left and had taken possession of the battery mentioned. I then withdrew to the cover of the woods and re-formed my line and reported to Adjt. Gen. O. A. Williams, First Brigade. I then received orders from General Pierce to deploy my command as skirmishers, and moved forward toward the works lately occupied by our troops. The right of my line soon be came engaged with the enemy s skirmishers, and forced them back in rear of their line of battle. This was accomplished, however, with severe loss. Our line of battle then advanced and opened fire before my men could withdraw, conse quently some of them were disabled from the fire of our own troops.
On the morning of the 24th we were relieved by a portion of the Fifth Corps, and moved to the left of the Jerusalem plank road, where we dug rifle-pits and
462 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
remained there until the 25th, when we were relieved by a portion of the Fifth Corps, and marched to the rear and left of the Sixth Corps, where we remained until the, 27th, when we were ordered on picket, and relieved a portion of the Sixth Corps. We remained on the left until on or about the 2d of July, when we moved farther to the right and remained until the 12th, when we removed to our present position, and remained here until the 22d. During this time the men were frequently on fatigue, but did not perform other duties of consequence. "We then moved to the rear and left and relieved the colored troops, and remained in that position until the 26th, when I received orders to hold my command in readiness to march. Left camp on the P. M. of that day and marched to and crossed the Appomattox at Point of Eocks and the James at Jones Neck on the morning of the 27th. We were immediately formed in line and occupied the rifle-pits. We were then, with the rest of the brigade, advanced to the woods in our front, when I received orders from Colonel Pierce, commanding brigade, to deploy my battalion as skirmishers, my right resting on the left of the Fifty- ninth New York Volunteers and my left on Four-Mile creek. This I accomplished without loss, although exposed to the fire of their skirmishers, who were concealed behind trees. We were relieved in the evening, and returned to the brigade.
On the 28th moved toward Malvern Hill as a support to General Sheridan, but did not become engaged with the enemy. The next morning returned to or near the point occupied by us on the 27th and threw up earthworks. Marched out of the works that evening and recrossed the James shortly after dark and the Appomattox about midnight, and arrived in front of Petersburg early on the morning of the 30th, where the brigade was massed. Remained here till dark, when we marched to the left and occupied the position which we left on the 26th.
My total loss during the campaign, i. e., since my command was assigned to the brigade, was as follows: Killed, 7 enlisted men; wounded, 25 enlisted men and 1 commissioned officer; missing, 22 enlisted men; making a total loss of 54 enlisted men and 1 commissioned officer, or about one-third of my command.
To my officers I feel deeply indebted for the prompt manner in which all my orders were executed, and to the men too much praise cannot be awarded for their coolness and bravery under fire. Many of these men were new recruits, but they under all circumstances acted like veterans.
I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. FARWELL,
Captain, Commanding First Battalion Minnesota Infantry. Capt. J. E. CURTISS,
Acting Assistant Adjutant General, First Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST BATTALION MINNESOTA INFANTRY,
FIRST BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION, SECOND ARMY CORPS,
PETERSBURG, VA., June 25, 1864. Hon. STEPHEN MILLER,
Governor State of Minnesota,
GOVERNOR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communi cation of the 13th instant, which I received this day. Best assured I feel deeply indebted to you for the interest you manifest in the welfare and prosperity of this command.
CAMPAIGN OF RICHMOND. 463
Perhaps a few remarks in regard to the part taken by this command during the late battle will not prove uninteresting. We reported at corps headquarters on the 10th instant, and were immediately assigned to the First Brigade, Second Division of the Second Corps, Major General Hanthingy commanding. Since that date we have participated in all the battles in which said corps has been engaged. Our total loss up to this date is as follows: Killed, 1; wounded, 25; missing prisoners of war, 21; total loss, 52.
The men have, under the most trying circumstances, displayed the true cour age and pluck for which the soldiers of Minnesota are noted. To the officers I feel indebted for the prompt manner in which all orders and commands were en forced. "We are compelled to mourn the loss of a number of good men veterans in the cause of " Liberty and Union." I will forward official reports at the close of the campaign. The fighting has and will be terrible, consequently the casual ties will be large.
The officer commanding this brigade consisting of ten regiments informs me that the battalion is entitled to a major. If you will be kind enough to for ward my commission, I can be mustered without delay. I will then forward recommendation to fill vacancies.
The health of the battalion is quite good, better than could be expected under existing circumstances, exposed, as we are, to all the hardships incident to an active campaign.
The monthly returns of the command will be forwarded as desired, when convenient. I have nothing more to communicate at present.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C. FARWELL, Captain, Commanding First Battalion Minnesota Infantry.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, ST. PAUL, July 2, 1864. Capt. JAS. C. FARWELL,
Comdg. First Minn. Infty. Bat., First Brig., Second Div., Second Army Corps, Wash ington, D. C.,
CAPTAIN: I regret to learn by the press that your gallant battalion has sus tained a severe loss in the recent engagements in the vicinity of Eichmond. Be pleased to convey my earnest sympathy to the sufferers, and my sincere con gratulations to your entire command, for the noble manner in which they have maintained the reputation of our old First Kegiment.
I addressed you a lengthy communication on the 15th ultimo and hoped to re ceive a reply before the 1st instant. My letter was addressed to the care of Gen eral Abercrombie.
I trust that you will write me frequently, as I will ever take a deep interest in all that pertains to your battalion. Eemember me very kindly to all your of ficers and men. Eequest Captains Wright and Black to write me.
Very truly, your friend,
S. MILLER.
464 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
BATTLE OF GTTNTOWN June 10, 1864.
Reports of Lieut. Col. Josiali F. Marsh, Ninth Minnesota Infantry.
HEADQUARTERS NINTH MINNESOTA VOLUNTEERS,
MEMPHIS, Jane 15, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report that my command, at the time it joined the expedition under Brigadier General Sturgis, on the 1st instant, consisted of 30 commissioned officers and 635 enlisted men. We arrived on the battle-field at Guntown on the 10th instant, and went into action about 2 p. M., and left the field in good order about 7 P. M., bringing up the rear. The following are the casualties as far as known: Enlisted men killed, 7; enlisted men missing, 272. Of the 272 missing, 20 are known to be wounded. Officers missing, 8, many of whom are believed to have been either killed or disabled. I succeeded in bring ing back to this place of my command 22 officers and 356 enlisted men, including
7 enlisted men wounded.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. F. MARSH,
Lieutenant Colonel, Ninth Minnesota Volunteers, Commanding. Lieut. O. H. ABEL,
Acting Assistant Adjutant General.
HEADQUARTERS NINTH MINNESOTA VOLUNTEERS, MEMPHIS, TENN., June 15, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report that the Ninth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry arrived at this city on the evening of the 31st ultimo, under command of Alex. Wilkin, who immediately reported to Brigadier General Buckland, commanding District of Memphis, and received orders to be ready at 6 o clock A. M. of the 1st instant to join the expedition under Brigadier General Sturgis. The command moved out by rail on the morning of the 1st instant, until within about six miles of Lafayette, where we disembarked and marched to Lafayette the same evening, went into camp and remained there until the morning of the 3d. Thursday, the 2d instant, was occupied in organizing, and Col. Alex. Wilkin was then assigned to the command of the First Brigade of the First Division, leaving me in com mand of the regiment, which at that time numbered thirty officers and 635 men present for duty.
Nothing of importance transpired from the time of leaving Lafayette until the 8th instant, when we arrived at Lewellan Church, and camped for the night. Soon after going into camp, scouts reported the enemy near us in force, and General Sturgis ordered all those who were unfit to proceed with the expedition to be sent back to Memphis.
Surg. E. H. Bingham reported thirty-six of my men unfit to proceed, and they were accordingly sent back with those reported from other regiments. Up to this time the weather had been very wet, and the roads heavy, and my regi ment being unaccustomed to long marches, were very much fatigued, yet not a murmur was heard, but all appeared anxious to meet the enemy. On the morn-
BATTLE OF GUNTOWN. 465
ing of the 9th instant, the column moved at 8 o clock, my regiment marching in rear of the train. It was long after dark when we reached our camping ground, which was some distance in the rear of the entire column, rendering it necessary to station a strong picket guard from my own regiment, on the road over which we had passed, and also on a cross-road lying immediately in front of our camp and leading off to our right, there being no cavalry pickets stationed on either of these roads. We broke camp at 7 o clock A. M. of the 10th instant, and upon reaching the First Brigade, fell in rear of the Ninety-third Indiana. When within about four miles of Brice s Cross-Eoads, we received orders from the colonel com manding the First Brigade to hasten forward at double-quick, which we did under a scorching sun, and many of my men fell out of the ranks exhausted and fainting.
We reached the battle ground at Brice s Cross-Eoads, near Guntown, Miss., at 2 o clock P. M. , and found the fight raging furiously. I immediately formed my regiment in line of battle, a short distance in rear and to the left of the bat tery, which was then planted at the forks of the road, and allowed the men to sit down and rest until we were needed. In less than five minutes after our line was formed, Colonel McMillen, commanding First Division, rode up and ordered me to take position on the right of the batteries, along the road which had but a short time before been occupied by the enemy s left, and to hold it at all haz ards. This position was promptly taken, and Captain Skaro, Company D, or dered to deploy his company as skirmishers, to the right along the road leading into the woods, for the purpose of discovering the enemy s position and his move ments on our right. This had scarcely been accomplished, when I was ordered to move my regiment forward in line of battle, and relieve the Ninety-third In diana which had been contending against superior numbers, until nearly annihi lated. As I moved forward into position, the Ninety-third Indiana fell back a short distance in rear of my left flank, where it remained until orders came to fall back and support the battery on our left. The ground occupied by us during this engagement was so densely covered with underbrush, that Major Markham and myself were compelled to dismount and send our horses to the rear until the engagement was over, which continued about an hour and a half.
Notwithstanding the obstructions that met us at every step, my men moved forward steadily, preserving a good line, so that not a moment was lost, and upon reaching the ground previously occupied by the Ninety-third Indiana, I ordered the men to lie down, and immediately sent a messenger to inform Captain Skaro of our position. At this moment, the enemy, who was attempting to flank us on the right, was boldly met by Captain Skaro, and a sharp skirmish ensued, in which he lost several men killed, including one sergeant. The captain, however, main tained his position, and presently another line of the enemy appeared, extending along our whole front, advancing cautiously upon us. We held our fire until he was within short range, when a most terrific volley was sent into his ranks, kill ing and wounding a large number. He soon fell back and again attempted a flank movement. Seeing this, I moved my regiment a short distance by the right flank, and again engaged him. He fought desperately for some time, but finally gave way, and was soon thrown into disorder and confusion by the destructive fire of my brave boys, who pursued him closely for about eighty rods, and would have turned his left completely, but for the grape from our own guns, which, on ac count of our advanced position, were now flying thick through our left flank, and
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466 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
had already wounded three of my men, hence we were compelled to fall back to our former position, which was done rather reluctantly. Immediately after, I was ordered to return to the road, and support the battery on our left. My com mand was soon on the ground designated, but before we were fairly engaged, orders came to fall back, which was done in good order, for about a mile and a half. Here another line was formed, my regiment occupying a position a short distance to the left of the battery.
Up to this time, Major Markham was at his post, and conducted himself with characteristic coolness and bravery; but being in feeble health, and overcome by heat and fatigue, he was now compelled to retire.
The position my regiment now occupied was an important one, and I was in structed by General Sturgis to hold it if possible, until dark. The enemy soon made his appearance, and a most desperate struggle ensued, which continued for more than an hour, when he was driven back with heavy loss. I lost three of my color guard in this engagement, one of whom was mortally wounded, and the other two severely. Firing now ceased, and we were ordered to retire. I fell back about 100 yards, when, discovering that the enemy was again advancing on our right, I halted my regiment, formed in line, and gave him a volley that checked his progress for a moment, but seeing that my command was now alone on the field, and that the rebels were closing up on both my right and left, I again fell back, bringing up the rear of the retreating column.
We retired slowly and in good order, for about three-quarters of a mile, across an open field, and again formed in the edge of the woods. Upon arriving at this point, I found the One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois and a regiment of colored troops forming on the right of the road, and accordingly placed my regiment on the left and near the open field over which the rebels in large num bers were now pursuing us. They came on, however, only to be slaughtered, for my men, although very much fatigued, stood up to the work like veterans, and held them in check until again ordered to retire, when we fell back into the road in good order, fighting every step, and again brought up the rear. The conduct of Capt. H. B. Strait, at this point, was especially commendable, and worthy of notice. It was now night, and the enemy abandoned his pursuit.
We moved on steadily until we reached the Hatchie swamp, where we halted and allowed the command to rest for about two hours. Many of my men gave out during the night, and being unable to march, were doubtless made prisoners by the enemy on the following morning. Soon after daylight the following morning, he was again upon our rear, and continued to annoy us until we reached Eipley, where a sharp engagement took place. In passing through the town of Ripley we found the streets very much crowded with troops, in considerable con fusion, and having to halt frequently to allow the cavalry to pass through our ranks, about seventy of my men were detached from the regiment, but afterwards gathered up by Major Markham and brought through with the column, under the command of Colonel Thomas, of the Ninety-third Indiana.
From the time we left Eipley on the llth instant, until we arrived in Mem phis on the 13th instant, nothing of importance transpired, except that many of my men became exhausted from hunger and long marches, and fell out of the ranks; and upon our arrival at this city, I had only 322 of the 665 brave men and officers who constituted my command at the time the expedition left Lafayette, on the 3d instant.
BATTLE OF GUNTOWN. 467
The patience exhibited by both officers and men on the march out, and retreat back, and their prompt and cheerful obedience of orders on the battle-field, as well as elsewhere, entitle them to great credit, and has won for them the respect and admiration of their fellows in arms, and the lasting esteem of their command ing officers. During the four hours continual fighting on the 10th instant, not an officer or enlisted man left his post without permission, but all fought with the coolness and desperation of veterans, and drove the enemy at every point where we made a stand. Lieut. L. A. Sherwood, acting adjutant, discharged his duties with credit to himself, and rendered me great service. Surg. E. H. Bing- ham and Assistant Surgeon Dixon were very attentive to their duties, and ren dered me material aid in taking care of the wounded. The conduct of Chaplain A. H. Kerr on the field, and during the battle, was particularly commendable. He was very active in looking after the wounded, bringing them water, and doing all that could be done under the circumstances, to relieve their suffering, until he was compelled to leave the field.
The following are the casualties so far as known:
Officers missing 8
Enlisted men killed 7
Enlisted men wounded and brought away 13
Enlisted men wounded and left on the field 20
Total wounded 33
Enlisted men missing 238
Total killed, wounded and missing 276
Officers missing 8
Total officers and men 384
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. F. MAKSH,
Lieutenant Colonel, Ninth Minnesota Volunteers, Commanding. To the ADJUTANT GENERAL OF MINNESOTA.
List of Killed, Wounded and Missing of the Ninth Minnesota Volunteers in the Battles of Guntown and Ripley, Miss. , June 10 and 11, 1864- Corrected up to Evening of June 17, 1864:
Commissioned Officers Missing: Capt. William R. Baxter, Company II [killed]; Capt. E. W. Ford, Company C; First Lieut. J. C. McCain, Company B; First Lieut. Christian Becker, Company G [killed]; Second Lieut. Leonidas Lane, Company A; Second Lieut. Alfred Hall, Company F; Sec ond Lieut. Charles Neidenhofen, Company K ; Second Lieut. Allen W. Tiffany, Compaey H.
Second Asst. Surg. John C. Dixon, left to take care of wounded.
Killed: Company D, Sergt. James W. Holtsclaw; Company C, Privates Plinney S. Conkey, Nicholas Swab, Augustus Whitney; Company G, Thomas Butts; Company H, Godfrey Hammer- berg; Company K, George Frahm.
Wounded: Company A, Corp. Daniel Hutchins; Privates Joseph K. Gould, Patrick McBride, Joseph Eichards, Henry E. Seely; Company B, Corp. William Doyle; Privates Enoch Frank and William B. Athingyer; Company C, James M. Woodbury; Company D, Privates Horace E. Wallace, John Summers, Patrick Connell and John Stockholm; Company E, Thomas A. Edgerton and Hugh E. Eoberts; Company F, Corp. John Burns; Privates Sivert Ellesson, Henry H. Howard and Hiram Brooks; Company H, Ludwig Klos; Company I, Mattice Scherrer and George W. Kearney; Com pany K, Jacob Baden.
468 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
Missing: Company A, First Sergt. Beverley C. Bonham; Sergt. Henry A. C. Thompson; Corporals Louis C. Tiinson, Charles Shoorod, John B. Chase; Musician Edmond F. Warren; Privates Hiram A. Barnard, Amos Day, Jerome Dumas, George Goodwin, Simon Hartney, George A. Kenney, John Kern, James W. Harden, James McCosh, John McDougal, Geprge W. Pomeroy, Andrew J. Richmond, Charles H. Spencer, Paul T. Shoppe, Hugh Smith, Edward Todd.
COMPANY B Sergeants Ernest Hainlin, L. A. Babthingy; Corporals Charles D. Kingsley, Fran cis Sutton; Privates William Lovell, DeWitt C. Handy, James Adthingy, David Alexander, George Brayton, William H. Brown, George C. Cyphers, E. J. Decron, George E. Day, Michael Kenna, S. A. Lindley, James W. Marden, William Oilman, Thomas Pounder, John Robertson, Nathan M. Tilton, F. M. Brayton.
COMPANY C First Sergt. Alonzo Avery; Sergeants David O. Pratt, Joseph P. Clark; Cor porals Byron A. Vanhouse, Thomas H. B. Vandegrist, Francis Rafferty; Musician Azariah H. Chapin; Privates S. Hartland Ames, Ludovico Beauregard, William Breckon, Isaac Bisgrove, John Butler, John Barnett, Eleser Conklin, Stephen N. Chandler, Zara Frisbie, Carlton A. Geer, Joseph T. Hammond, Verlovius B. Leathers, William F. Lyon, George H. Knapp, William McCaskell, Duane Philes, Nathan Palmeter, Dudley Perry, George W. Putnam, William W. Rice, Orsamus D. Rhodes, Charles C. Stewart, Christopher Swanson, Albert E. Wheeler, Franklin C. Wilson.
COMPANY D Corp. Thomas Pettijohn; Privates Alfred D. Anderson, James Clabaugh, Wil liam H. H. Carlton, Henry Fuchs, Levi C. Goodfellow, Peter S. Holverson, Charles G. Johnson, Francis Kouse, W. K. Latimer, Peter M. Miller, Samuel W. Millett, Ole Munson, Michael McGraw, John McKee, William Shrader.
COMPANY E Corporals H. K. Lee, Ferdinand Sherrer; Privates David Brees, George Becker, William Bruce, Dwight Card, Evan J. Davis, David Dackins, B. F. Doremus, Edward "Evans, Lewis Lewis, John W. Jenkins, T. A. Kerlinger, Lyman Matthews, John G. Roberts, William Reese, Elijah Reeder, Mannassa Stewart, William R. Thomas, Andrew Ulven, O. J. Westover, M. L. Webster, F. O. Webster.
COMPANY F Sergt. F. J. Heller; Corporals Daniel McArthur, Henry Niles, Edwin H. Adams, Elisha F. Geer, William Williams; Privates George Atkinson, John Cassidy, Jacob Deiter, Orlando Geer, Albert Holt, Andrew C. McCoy, Alpheus Merrett, Eli Ruch, R. R. Ratcliff, George Saville, Oliver C. Whipple, John Craig, Syvestus Chilson.
COMPANY G Sergt. Frank Weber; Corporals Anton Herzog, Martin F. Higby; Privates F. J. Beckley, John Caldwell, John Derocha, Noah Grant, Adam Kolzer, Peter Kelly, Nicholas Lerch, Martin Lunzer, Christian Seifet, Henry Sheiffer, John Monthy.
COMPANY H Sergeants George Groetsch, Andrew Mattson, Andrew G. Anderson ; Corporals John Carlson, Charles Souter; Privates August Arndt, John Arndt, Burn Aslakson, Thomas Armitage, Magnus Bengtson, Peter Carlson, Carl Dennin, Henry Etzell, Xavier Freischli, G. K. Ives, Nils Johnson, John Larson, Theodore Mayers, Silas W. Pettijohn, Jacob Pericle, Jesse M. Pericle, John Roth, Stanley W. Reese, John Stack, Frederick Souter, Joseph B. Wood, Andrew Wallace, Ole Wilson, George Winters.
COMPANY I Corporal John M. Kerlinger; Privates John Ryan, Sylvester Conklin, Henry Zarn, George Cummings, W. F. Fitch, James Isenhour, Charles Brown, Nichols Laman, Louis Young, F. F. Fields, Robert Chisholm.
COMPANY K Sergeants Hugh McAlden, George L. Wheelock, Moses Chamberlain; Corporals Patrick Murray, Octave Barker; Privates Hiram Burroughs, Alois Burzell, Charles Deitrich, John G. Fredericks, John Gordon, Allen Hilton, George O. Jenkins, Origin B. Lacy, Dominick Momper, John Morrison, Charles Newton, Charles Pratchett, Pierre Rodier, Aloes Spitzmesser, Jacob Theilen, R. H. Dunham, Chancey I. Hills, Joseph E. Harvey, M. W. Lawton, William E. Walker, Anson Spencer, Martin Short, Levi C. Taylor, Myron A. Tower.
Sergt. Maj. E. L. Clapp and Principal Musician Joel Handy missing.
PRESENT WOUNDED AT MEMPHIS.
COMPANY A Sergt. David B. Ellis; Private Tamerlane Campbell. COMPANY B Corporals. M. Tarven. COMPANY C Private Evan Watkins.
COMPANY E Sergt. W. Maxfield; Privates H. M. Burgess, George Maxfield, Walter S. Ross, James Hooser.
COMPANY F Private B. L. Prior.
BATTLE OF GUNTOWN. 469
Reports of Col. Alexander Wilkin, Ninth Minnesota Infantry, Commanding First
Brigade.
SIR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the colonel command ing, the part taken by the First Brigade, Infantry Division, commanded by myself in the recent engagement at Brice s Oross-Eoads, near Guntown, Miss., on the 10th instant:
My brigade on that day marched in the rear of the Second Brigade, com manded by Colonel Hoge, the Third (colored) Brigade, commanded by Colonel Bouton, being in the rear of the First. About 11 o clock on the morning of the 10th firing was heard in front, and I was shortly after informed that our cavalry had engaged that of the enemy and been driven back from Brice s Cross- Eoads about six miles in advance. Soon after the Second Brigade was ordered to advance at double-quick, and I received orders to march my command as rapidly as I could do without leaving the supply train. Soon after, hearing that the Second Brigade was being severely pressed, I sent for permission to advance more rapidly, leaving the train to be protected by the Third Brigade. Permis sion having been obtained I moved on the double-quick for about one mile, and reached Brice s house about 1:30 o clock, when the brigade was halted. Colonel McMillen then led the Ninety-fifth Ohio, Lieutenant Colonel Brumback com manding, down the road leading past Brice s house, toward Baldwyn, and posted it on the left of the road and on the left of the [One Hundred and Thirteenth?] Illinois, about one-quarter of a mile beyond Brice s house. I then returned with him to the brigade, and was directed to repair, with the Seventy-second Ohio and the section of Captain Mueller s Sixth Indiana Battery, to the knoll, on which stood a log house, about 800 yards in rear of Brice s house and on the right as you go to Eipley. After the guns had been placed in position and Captain
s company of the Seventy -second Ohio had been thrown forward toward
the woods in front, the balance of the regiment having formed in line on its left for support, understanding that the enemy were endeavoring to get around our left in order to reach the train on the Eipley road, I directed Captain Mueller to throw a few shells into the timber, which was done with great precision and effect, and which evidently checked their progress. Soon after I was joined by about seventy-five dismounted cavalry, under command of an officer whose name I have not been able to learn, who formed line and kept up a spirited fire upon the enemy advancing from the direction of the cross-roads. Shortly after this a small body of the enemy, evidently skirmishers, were seen crossing the open field in our rear and toward the Eipley road. Lieutenant Colonel Eaton, commanding the Seventy-second Ohio, in connection with the dismounted cavalry, opened fire upon them and drove them back in confusion to the woods.
About this time I was directed by a staff officer of the colonel commanding to advance with the Seventy -second Ohio across the open fields in our front and to the right of the road, and take a position in the edge of the woods. After pro ceeding a short distance, orders were given to return to the first position, which was done. Upon my return I found Captain Mueller had left with his guns, as I presume with orders given during my absence, his support having been removed. About this time captain [Ewing] of the [Fifty-fifth U. S. Colored] regiment, Af rican descent, reported to me with his company, and although wounded in the
470 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
leg and the only officer with the company, expressed his readiness to be of ser vice. I directed him to send a few skirmishers in front of the log-house into the ravine, and to form the remainder of his command behind the fences and log buildings near by, which was done. Soon after the enemy s shell and canister were falling thick and fast around us. The remainder of our forces had passed us and we were left alone. Turning, I observed my command moving by the flank to the rear across the creek and bottom, having, as I understood, been or dered to fall back in order to form a new line. Having proceeded about half a mile, Brigadier General Grierson rode up and directed Lieutenant Colonel Eaton to form his regiment behind the fences on the right of the road, in rear of open fields, and resist the advance of the enemy as long as practicable. I then rode on to overtake the balance of the brigade. At the white house, about a mile in the rear and in the road, I found the Ninety-fifth Ohio, Ninety-third Indiana, One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois, and Ninth Minnesota. I was then directed by the colonel commanding division to form my brigade in line on the right of the road (as you go toward Eipley), and to contest the ground if possible until night set in. I was informed that the Second Brigade, Colonel Hoge commanding, and the Third (colored) Brigade, Colonel Bouton commanding, were on our right, and that Colonel McMillen had himself placed the Ninety-third Indiana and Ninety- fifth Ohio on the left of the Second Brigade. I was instructed that when they should be obliged to retire through my line my command should remain, the bri gades relieving each other as they retired. I formed the Ninth Minnesota and One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois respectively on the right of the road, as you go toward Eipley, and sent out skirmishers, who soon found the enemy in front. Lieutenant Colonel King having informed me that his ammunition was almost exhausted, I directed Lieutenant Couse, Ninth Minnesota Volunteers, act ing assistant adjutant general, to proceed to the rear to procure a supply, but find ing no means of transportation he brought back one box on his horse.
The fighting at this time was severe, continuing for over half an hour and until sundown, with considerable loss, when, being informed that we had no sup port on right or left, and that the enemy were about to move around our flank, I ordered the command to fall back, which they did in good order, frequently fac ing to the rear and firing upon the enemy. We shortly after received an enfilad ing fire as we moved down the road, when I placed the command among the trees- on one side. We soon arrived at the slope where part of the train had been abandoned and a portion being burned. Shortly after passing the creek I ob served the skirmishers of the Third Brigade in the open fields on our left. Per ceiving an officer with them, I directed him to have the men form on the right of the Ninth Minnesota, in a thicket in front of which were large open fields, over which the enemy must pass. He informed me that he was not in command, but pointed out to me Lieutenant Colonel Cowden, who was severely wounded. The Ninth Minnesota formed, the One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois being on the right, as I am informed by Lieutenant Colonel King. The enemy soon appeared in large numbers, but not in line, when a heavy fire was opened upon them from the thicket, which was kept up for about twenty minutes, and large numbers fell. They retired in confusion. This was between sundown and dark, and the enemy did not again appear in force. About 8 o clock in the evening I halted the command in order to give them rest. At this point an officer in command of a
BATTLE OF GUNTOWN. 471
squadron of cavalry reported to me that the camp-fires in front were built by him under orders from the general commanding, in order to deceive the enemy, and that he was directed to remain until we had passed, and then proceed to the front. I then moved forward the command until I joined the colored brigade. The progress was slow, and I was informed that we were delayed by the train which was slowly passing the bottom land and creek some distance ahead. About mid night I was informed that the portion of the train in front had been abandoned, its farther progress being impossible. Finding this to be the case, I directed the animals remaining with the rear of the train to be taken out and the wagons abandoned. The train was not burned, as I thought it probable that our line of battle had been re-formed beyond, and that it might yet be saved. Moreover, I feared the conflagration might lead the enemy to believe that we were in full retreat and lead to their immediate advance in force.
About daylight the Fourth Iowa Cavalry passed us going to the front. Shortly after our rear was fired upon by small parties of guerrillas. At the Llewellen Church we found Colonel Winslow s brigade of cavalry formed en tclielon by squadrons, who were skirmishing sharply with the enemy on the opposite side of the stream. Arriving at Eipley at 7 :30 A. M. , I waited for orders, but receiving none, and perceiving other troops continue to pass on the road to the front, the cavalry remaining to protect our rear, I again took up the line of march. Hearing at the cross-roads, where I halted for an hour, that the enemy in force were falling upon a large detachment of our rear on the Salem road, and that a large cavalry force was about three miles in our rear, and being almost out of ammunition, I concluded to follow the Saulsbury road, and toward evening was joined by Cap tain Foster, Fifty-ninth Eegiment, African descent, with about 600 of his own and the Fifty-fifth Eegiment, African descent, he having crossed over from the Salem road, which he considered unsafe. That night we bivouacked near Brooks , about five miles from Saulsbury.
The next morning at daylight we resumed the march, and after proceeding about three miles turned to the left, taking a settlement road leading to Davis 7 Mills. Upon arriving at Davis I found the bridge partially destroyed, and upon halting to repair it we were fired upon by a considerable number of the enemy, who were soon driven back, after wounding two of our men on the hill and one of the flankers of the One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois, and hitting the horse of Lieutenant Colonel King while passing the swamp beyond the bridge. Soon after we were again attacked in front, but owing to the vigilance of the half-breed scouts of Company H, Ninth Minnesota, and the handsome conduct of the
advanced guard of the Mnety-fifth Ohio, under command of Captain , they
were unable to do much execution. At one time our rear was charged upon by about 150 of Buford s cavalry, but they were repulsed by the negro troops and a few of the half-breeds. Our rear was, however, occasionally fired upon until long after dark, but the imperturbable coolness and steadiness of the colored troops, under command of Captain Foster, kept them in check and prevented confusion.
At 12 o clock on the night of the 12th the command bivouacked four miles east of Collierville, which place was reached about 9 A. M. next day. We found here neither cars, rations, nor re-enforcements. The command rested until noon. In the meantime, Lieutenant Hosmer, of the One Hundred and Thirteenth Illi nois, brigade inspector, volunteered to proceed to some point on the railroad from which information could be communicated of our approach. He was joined by
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Post by mdenney on Sept 2, 2007 14:40:51 GMT -5
472 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
Captain , of the One Hundred and Eighth Illinois, Sergeant , and two
privates. Within three miles of Collierville they were attacked by a party numbering about fifteen, who ordered them to halt. Their horses, already jaded, were put to their speed. Although frequently fired upon and closely followed, no one of the party was killed or wounded. I regret to say, however, that the gallant captain and the sergeant were captured. The lieutenant and the two privates arrived in safety at White s Station at 10 A. M. As the command approached the vicinity where the party referred to was attacked, the column was halted and the scouts sent in advance, who soon discovered a party of the enemy. Skirmishing continued until the whistle of the train which brought re- enforcements was heard. Hard bread was here issued to the men, while the infantry re-enforcements, and the cavalry command under Major Mai one, formed line of battle in front of the train in time to meet the attack of a regiment of the enemy s cavalry. The command, numbering about 1,600 of the different brigades, arrived in Memphis on the same evening, 13th instant, in a pitiable condition. Nearly all were barefooted, their feet badly blistered and swollen, and in some cases poisoned. Most of them had eaten nothing for three days and all had suf fered for want of food.
Colonel Thomas, commanding the Ninety- third Indiana; Lieutenant Colonel King, commanding One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois; Lieutenant Colonel Brumback, commanding Ninety -fifth Ohio; Lieutenant Colonel Eaton, com manding Seventy-second Ohio; Lieutenant Colonel Marsh, commanding Ninth Minnesota; Captain Fitch, commanding Light Battery E [First Illinois], and Captain Mueller, commanding section of Sixth Indiana Battery, deserve special mention for the judicious and gallant manner in which they handled their respec tive commands. I am much indebted to Lieutenant Colonels King, Brumback, and Eaton, and Lieutenant Colonel Floyd, of the One Hundred and Twentieth Illinois, and other officers, for information in regard to the roads over which we passed in the retreat.
I cannot speak too highly of the conduct of each member of my staff. The duties imposed upon them were onerous in the extreme, owing to their limited number. Lieutenant Couse, adjutant of the Ninth Minnesota, acting assistant adjutant general, although under fire for the first time, conducted himself with all the coolness of a veteran. Lieutenant Hosmer, One Hundred and Thirteenth Illinois, inspector of the brigade, rendered me great service as an aide. His gal lant conduct deserves great praise. I am also greatly indebted to Lieutenant Bailey, of the Nineteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, who volunteered his services as an aide early in the action, and remained with me, rendering valuable service, until obliged to rejoin his regiment. Acting Brigade Surg. E. H. Bingham, and acting brigade quartermaster, Lieutenant Mourer, of One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, performed with credit their respective duties.
I transmit herewith the reports of the regimental and battery commanders, with the list of casualties accompanying the same. I would here remark that I had no opportunity of seeing the Ninety-fifth Ohio while engaged with the enemy. Its severe loss attests its gallant conduct and great exposure.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, ALEX. WILKIN,
Colonel, Ninth Minnesota Infty. Vols., Late Comdg. First Brig., &c. Lieut. O. H. ABEL,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Infantry Division, II. S. Forces, &c.
BATTLE OF GUNTOWN. 473
MEMPHIS, TENN., June 22, 1864. Brig. Gen. S. D. STURGIS,
U. S. Volunteers,
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communi cation of this date in which you ask me to give you my opinion as to the causes of our late defeat near Guntown, and to what extent, if any, you were responsible for the same. In reply I would state that at the outset one great difficulty existed in the fact that the command was composed of troops of different commands, un acquainted with and distrustful of each other and new to the general command ing. A large portion of the force consisted of cavalry, which from the nature of things had to act in a great measure independently, being in advance and at a distance from your person; again, owing to the rain, bad condition of the roads, and the almost entire absence of forage for the animals, caused our advance to be necessarily slow. Frequent halts, sometimes for a whole day, were made in order to enable you to send out forage parties to pick up the little forage which could be found within a safe distance of the line of march. Moreover, the movement of the column had to conform itself to that of the pioneers, who were working to make the road passable. On the 7th, I think, parties of the enemy began to appear, and quite a number of their pickets were captured during that and the following day. The march had to be carefully conducted, and from that time until we met the enemy I never knew a command to be moved in a better manner or better discipline to be observed. Upon reaching Eipley the animals were much wornout for want of forage, and the men were on less than half rations. I understood that at this time you expressed yourself in favor of returning, believ ing that an advance would be disastrous, and that other officers, holding impor tant commands, were of the same opinion, believing it impracticable to advance through the wilderness without further supplies, but that you failed to give the order to return, in consequence of having positive instructions to proceed.
The enemy met us where common sense would naturally lead them to do so, a few miles from the point in advance, where supplies could be obtained, and yet as far as possible from our base and where the greatest difficulties presented themselves in the way of retreat. Through the medium of the citizens along the route they were of course advised of our force and movements, while we could gain no reliable information in regard to theirs. We were obliged to move on one road, the column extending along the road .at least five miles, although well closed up. Attacking our front, they being already formed in line on their own ground, it necessarily took time to bring up our whole force and they had to be moved up rapidly. The weather being very warm, many men were obliged to fall out and all came into action more or less fatigued and distressed. If they had marched in the cadence and with the proper length of step required by the tactics for double-quick, which troops seldom do, they would have been in better condition. The battle ground was covered by heavy timber, an almost impene trable thicket, so that little could be known of the position or number of the enemy. Troops as they came up had to be placed in position where most needed at the time, so that brigades, of necessity, were divided and scattered, and organizations broken up. As to the propriety of forming the infantry in line as soon as the cavalry were attacked, permitting them to fall back and awaiting the enemy, I can scarcely form an opinion. The enemy could undoubtedly have moved around
474 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
the flanks of any position which we could have taken, without being obliged to cross the open fields in our front and under our fire, or they might have declined to advance, knowing that we could not remain with supplies exhausted. If we could have whipped them where they were we could then advance to Tupelo or Baldwyn, where supplies could be obtained. On the retreat such dispositions were made as to drive back the enemy from their pursuit on the evening of the battle. Owing to the exhaustion of the animals and the nature of the roads, the train and artillery, which had a good start, were unable to get along. When fol lowed and attacked the next morning, our ammunition was nearly exhausted and would soon have given out, leaving the whole command at the mercy of the enemy. It became necessary, therefore, that the retreat of the infantry should be as rapid as possible, while the cavalry covered it as long as their ammunition should hold out. I am. of the opinion, however, that the men might in the retreat have been kept more together and better organized. I presume, however, that their scattered condition in a great measure arose from their desire to accommo date their march to that of the cavalry, to which they seemed to look for protec tion, and many fell out of the ranks in consequence of the rapidity of the march. In regard to statements circulated, charging you with being intoxicated during the march and on the field of battle, I can safely say, from my own observation, that they are entirely false.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
ALEX. WILKIN, Col., Ninth Minnesota Vols., and Late Comdg. First Brigade.
EXTRACT FROM EEPORT OF COL. WILLIAM L. MCMILLEN, NINETY-FIFTH OHIO INFANTRY, COMMANDING INFANTRY DIVISION.
MEMPHIS, TENN., June 22, 1864.
* # * The arrangements mentioned above had not yet been fully completed before the enemy made a furious attack along the whole line and on each flank, developing the fact that his force was far superior to that portion of ours then engaged. My extreme right, after a sharp and bloody contest, was forced back, and I was obliged to throw in the only regiment I had in reserve to drive the enemy back and re-establish my line at that point. This work was gallantly per formed by the Ninth Minnesota, under the heroic Marsh, and I desire here to express to him and his brave men my thanks for their firmness and bravery, which alone saved the army at that critical moment from utter defeat and proba ble capture. As the enemy on our right was being driven back by the Ninth Minnesota and Ninety-third Indiana, I directed Captain Fitch to put one section of his battery in position on the Guntown road and sweep it with grape and canister. Soon after our success on the right, the regiments on the left and left centre gave back in considerable confusion, the rebels following them in force up to the road over which we had advanced, and from which they were kept by the Seventy-second Ohio and Mueller s battery posted in our rear.
When Colonel Bouton fell back the enemy followed him up in heavy force, and the line established at the white house soon fell back to another position in
BATTLE OF GUNTOWN. 475
the rear, when a stand was made and the enemy repulsed. In this affair the Ninth Minnesota again took a conspicuous part, and the colored regiment fought with a gallantry which commended them to the favor of their comrades in arms. * * *
I arrived at Eipley, in company with the general commanding, about 5 A. M. on the morning of the llth instant. *
That portion of the column cut off moved out on a road leading north from Eipley, and under the brave and successful leadership of Colonel Wilkin suc ceeded in reaching Memphis. The enemy followed and fought our retreating column to the vicinity of Collierville, which place we reached on the morning of the 12th instant, having marched some ninety miles without rest. * * *
EXTRACT FROM EEPORT OF BRIG. GEN. SAMUEL D. STURGIS, COMMANDING
EXPEDITION.
HEADQUARTERS, FIVE MILES SOUTHEAST OF EIPLEY, Miss. ,
June 9, 1864.
* * * About 1:30 P. M. the infantry began to arrive. Colonel Hoge s brigade was first to reach the field, and was placed in position by Colonel Mc- Millen, when the enemy was driven a little. General Grierson now requested authority to withdraw the entire cavalry, as it was exhausted and wellnigh out of ammunition. This I authorized as soon as sufficient infantry was in position to permit it, and he was directed to reorganize his command in the rear and hold it ready to operate on the flanks. In the meantime I had ordered a section of artillery to be placed in position on a knoll near the little bridge, some 300 or 400 yards in rear, for the purpose of opposing any attempt of the enemy to turn our left. I now went to this point to see that my orders had been executed, and also to give directions for the management and protection of the wagon train. I found the section properly posted and supported by the Seventy-second Ohio Infantry, with two companies thrown forward as skirmishers, and the whole under the superintendence of that excellent officer, Colonel "Wilkin of the Ninth Minnesota. While here the head of the wagon train, which had been reported still a mile and a half in rear, arrived. It was immediately ordered into an open field near where the cavalry were reorganizing, there to be turned round and carried farther toward the rear. The pressure on the right of the line was now becoming very great, and General Grierson was directed to send a portion of his cavalry to that point. At this time I received a message from Colonel Hoge that he was satis fied that the movement on the right was a feint, and that the real attack was being made on the left. Another section of artillery was now placed in position a little to the rear of Colonel Wilkin, but bearing on the left of our main line, and a portion of the cavalry was thrown out as skirmishers. The cavalry which had been sent to the extreme right began now to give way, and at the same time the enemy began to appear in force in rear of the extreme left, while Colonel McMillen required re -enforcements in the centre. I now endeavored to get hold of the colored brigade, which formed the guard to the train. While traversing the short distance to where the head of that brigade should be found, the main line began.
476 OFFICIAL REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE.
to give way at various points. Order soon gave way to confusion and confusion to panic. I sent an aide to Colonel McMillen, informing him that I was unable to render him any additional assistance, and that he must do all in his power with what he had to hold his position until I could form a line to protect his retreat. On reaching the head of the supply train Lieutenant Colonel Hess was directed to place in position in a wood the first regiment of colored troops I could find. This was done, and it is due to those troops to say here that they stood their ground well and rendered valuable aid to Colonel McMillen, who was soon after compelled to withdraw from his original line and take up new position in rear. It was now 5 P. M. For seven hours these gallant officers and men had held their ground against overwhelming numbers; but at last, overpowered and exhausted, they were compelled to abandon not only the field, but many of their gallant comrades who had fallen, to the mercy of the enemy. Everywhere the army now drifted toward the rear, and was soon altogether beyond control. I requested General Grierson to accompany me, and to aid in checking the fleeing column and estab lishing a new line. By dint of entreaty and force, and the aid of several officers, whom I called to I disagreeistance, with pistols in their hands, we at length succeeded in checking some 1,200 or 1,500, and establishing them in a line, of which Colonel "Wilkin, Ninth Minnesota, was placed in command. * * *
EXTRACT FROM REPORT OF MAJ. GEN. NATHAN B. FORREST [CONFEDERATE].
HEADQUARTERS FORREST S CAVALRY, TUPELO, July 1, 186 Jf.
MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of my command in the battle of Tishomingo creek, fought near Guntown, Miss., June 10, 1864:
I received orders from Maj. Gen. S. D. Lee, commanding department, to move into Middle Tennessee with 2,000 men from my own command and 1,000 from the division of Brigadier General Roddey, commanding cavalry of North Alabama, and two batteries of artillery, for the purpose of destroying the railroad from Nashville and breaking up the lines of communications connecting that point with Sherman s army in Northern Georgia. In pursuance of that order I left Tupelo on the 1st day of June with Buford s division and Morton s and Bice s batteries. Prior to leaving Tupelo I dispatched my aide-de-camp, Capt. Charles W. Anderson, and Capt. John G. Mann, of the Engineer Department, to make all necessary arrangements for crossing the Tennessee river, which they did through Brigadier General Koddey.
On the morning of the 3d, a dispatch reached me at Russellville from Major General Lee, stating that the enemy were moving in force from Memphis in the direction of Tupelo, and ordering my immediate return. The order was prompt ly obeyed, and the column reached Tupelo on the 5th, at which time the enemy were reported at Salem, fifty miles from this place, west.
On the 7th my scouts reported the enemy moving in the direction of Ruckers- ville, and to meet him I moved with Buford s division to Baldwyn, and on the morning of the 8th from thence to Booneville. Major General Lee had ordered
BATTLE OF GUNTOWN. 477
Colonel Eucker. commanding Sixth Brigade of my command, to move to my as sistance, and in pursuance of the order he had joined me at Booneville on the evening of the 9th. Major General Lee had also dispatched Brigadier General Eoddey to leave a small force in the valley near Decatur, and re-enforce me with the balance of his command. * * *
On the night of the 9th I received dispatches reporting the enemy, in full force, encamped twelve miles east of Eipley on the Guntown road, having abandoned the upper route as impracticable.
Orders were issued to move at 4 o clock on the following morning (10th instant). General Buford was also directed to order the immediate return of BelP s brigade from Eienzi to Booneville. The wagon train of my entire command, in charge of Maj. C. S. Severson, chief quartermaster, was ordered to the rear and southward from Booneville, east of the railroad to Yerona. I moved as rapidly as the jaded condition of my horses would justify, intending, if possible, to reach Brice s Cross- Eoads in advance of the enemy. On arrival at Old Carrollville, in advance of the command, I received intelligence that the enemy s cavalry were within four miles of the cross-roads. I immediately sent forward Lieutenant Black, temporarily attached to my staff, with a few men from the Seventh Tennessee Cavalry, who soon reported that he had met the advance of the enemy one mile and a half north of the cross-roads, and was then skirmishing with them. I ordered Colonel Lyon, whose brigade was in front, to move forward and develop the enemy, and wrote back to General Buford to move up with the artillery and Bell s brigade as rapidly as the condition of the horses and roads would permit, and ordered him also to send one regiment of Bell s brigade from Old Carrollville across to the Eipley and Guntown road, with orders to gain the rear of the enemy or attack and annoy his rear or flank. Moving forward, Colonel Lyon threw out one company as skir mishers, and soon after dismounted his brigade and attacked the enemy s line of cavalry, driving them back to near the cross-roads, at which place his infantry was arriving and being formed. Desiring to avoid a general engagement until the balance of my troops and the artillery came up, Colonel Lyon was not pushed forward, but in order to hold his position secure he made hasty fortifications of rails, logs, and such other facilities as presented themselves. I ordered up Colonel Eucker s brigade, dismounting two regiments and forming them on the left of Colonel Lyon, holding his third regiment, under Colonel Duff, mounted, as a reserve, and throwing it out well on the extreme left to prevent any flank move ment on the part of the enemy. Colonel Johnson was also moved into position. We had a severe skirmish with the enemy, which was kept up until 1 o clock, at which time General Buford arrived with the artillery, followed by Bell s brigade. The enemy had for some time been shelling our position. On the arrival of the batteries I directed General Buford to move them in position and open fire, in order to develop the position of enemy s batteries and his lines. The enemy responded with two guns only. The firing from our batteries was discontinued, while Lyon and Johnson were ordered to move their lines forward. It was now 1 o clock, and as all my forces were up I prepared to attack him at once. Tak ing with me my escort and Bell s brigade, I moved rapidly around to the Guntown and Eipley road, and advancing on that road, dismounting the brigade, and form ing Eussell s and Wilson s regiments on the right, extending to Colonel Eucker s left, and placing Newsom s regiment on the left of the road, Duff s regiment, of
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