Time to Reflect
Sabbath, June the 8th, 1862
In camp seven miles west of Corinth
Mississippi
Reveille was the first thing I heard this morning, after a good sound sleep during the night. Nothing of interest occurred during the day, anything more than a Sabbath spent in camp.
Dress Parade at 5 ½ P.M., after which all Noncommissioned Officers were summoned to the colonel’s headquarters, where they were instructed relative to their duty as such. The day is somewhat cooler than yesterday. Health good, and plenty to eat.
This day one year ago [8 June 1861] we were mustered into the U.S. Service. Many and noted are the changes in this country, both in a military and civil point of view. At that time the rebellion had assumed a gigantic form. The authorities of the Border States had defiantly declared their hostility to the government! And their openly aroused intentions to unite with the Cotton States and thereby form a separate and distinct government from that of the United States of America. The Nation’s capitol was threatened. The entire overthrow of our government and its free institutions appeared evident.
The emblem of our liberties was torn from the breeze and tramped in the dust by traitorous and unhallowed feet. And the flag of Treason, Despots and Tyranny hoisted in its stead. This aroused the lovers of liberty and the heart of the nation to arms. Fathers and brothers bid adieu to homes and friends and marched in martial array to the defense of their country, their free institutions, their homes and their all.
Thousands have fallen since that time on the field of conflict for these their noble rights. They have been successful; the arm of rebellion has been broken. The hordes of the enemy have been made to fear and quake before the mighty hosts of Israel. This day, the 8th of June 1862, the old flag of the Union floats in the breeze over every state on the American continent. Before any state shall be permitted to soil its sacred folds, let her people be exiled and her cities made desolate.
W.C. Newlon
Winterset, Iowa
38
June the 9th, 1862
Camp on Memphis & Charleston R.R.
Another week has passed and another Monday morning has dawned upon us while resting in this our pleasant camp. What a glorious night for sleep last night and how delightfully charming, cool and pleasant this morning is. But as the sun approaches the meridian, the cool breeze vanishes before the scorching rays of a summer’s sun in Mississippi
What a quiet day! How still everything seems to be in camp. It is as quiet and lonely as a Sabbath spent in a Presbyterian village, where not even the town clock is permitted to strike. No thundering cannon is heard today. How strange! When, but a few days ago, the woods resounded with their deafening roar. I cannot hear the pickets firing today. What can the reason be? Why, says one, the enemy have fled before us. They no more annoy our outposts. Why, we can sit beneath the cypress and oak tree and no one daring to molest or shoot at us. Five o’clock P.M., papers of the 5th give an account of the battle before Richmond up to Sunday evening.
The Big Hatchie
June 10th, 1862
Orders came at 12 o’clock last night for us to march at 7 A.M. We start at the appointed time. The roads were very dusty and the weather very warm; continued in a westward course. [We] pass General Sherman's divisions; cross the [range?] of mountains covered with pine and cedar trees.
Twelve midnight, arrive at [____] across Tuscumbia River where Sherman’s advance is building a bridge, the old one being destroyed by a retreating foe.
Three o’clock P.M., bridge completed; cross over and proceed to Big Hatchie. The road is mountainous; cross Cypress swamps, and come knee high.
Six P.M., arrive at Big Hatchie. Bridge was [____] suspect and was built by the Rebels. A number of citizens came to our camp.
39
We camp on a high hill in an open field very sandy and a disagreeable place to camp.
June 11th, 1862, all right this morning. Took a fine bath in Big Hatchie before breakfast.
We commenced to build a bridge as soon as possible. Go across the county one mile; got Dew berries, very warm. Three o’clock P.M. Co G is detailed for guard.
June 12th, 1862, morning very warm, I am still on guard. 12 A.M. making preparations to march. The heat is intense.
Two P.M., we get ready and march from the hill to the bottom where we wait till the 2nd Brigade passes as it takes the lead in today’s march leaving our brigade in the rear.
Four P.M., take up line of march across the bridge of own construction over Big Hatchie River. Pass a fine plantation and pretty girls that I have [not] seen for a coon’s age. Heat is intense and dust almost to suffocate.
Six P.M., arrive at Big Mendy [Muddy River]. Camp for the night. Pay $1.50 for Chickens and Turkeys. &c
June 13th, 1862
Reveille at 3:30 A.M. ate for breakfast a piece of cracker and cup of coffee. Bought an old Rooster last night for breakfast this morning but was so tuff, we could not eat him.
Five o’clock A.M., take up a line of march past large plantations, slaves both men and women almost naked plowing corn and cotton. [We] rest in shade every hour & half. Pass at different times groups of women & children wearing their handkerchiefs.
Ten o’clock and 30, pass plantations where many slaves are at work in corn and cotton, the former about knee high. 11 A.M. pass a group of mowers - heat intense. The remainder of the day is a repetition of what has already been witnessed. All we very tired at night.
[40]
June the 14th, 1862
Camp at Spring Creek
We remained here till 4 P.M.
I am detailed as Sergeant of the Guard. We marched four miles past the finest plantation I have yet seen in the South, delightful fields of corn & cotton.
We go into camp for the night on the side of a very steep hill out of whose sides flow pure clear cold water.
Twelve P.M., can not have the privilege of sleeping tonight. O! How much I could enjoy it.
Sabbath, June the 15th, 1862
State of Mississippi
Reveille at 2:30 this morn, get breakfast before day. Train moves at 4 A.M.
Five A.M., just relieved from guard; are ready and waiting to hear the command – Forward by File Right, March!
I slept two hours last night, consequently am in good trim for marching today. Morning cool and pleasant.
Six A.M., all ready, we march. Boys in good spirit make the work ring with national airs.
As the sun rises the heat increases; hundreds of men fall beneath the burning rays of the sun.
Six P.M., arrive at Davies Creek 2 ½ miles south of Grand Junction after marching 15 miles. This has been one of the hardest day’s marching we ever performed. A number of men were killed today by the heat. Water could not be had along the road. I came very near [boiling?] myself; however I succeeded in getting through.
An Army Corps on the March
With its cloud of skirmishers in advance,
With now the sound of a single shot snapping like a whip, and now an irregular volley,
The swarming ranks press on and on, the dense brigades press on,
Glittering dimly, toiling under the sun – the dust- cover’d men,
In columns rise and fall to the undulations of the ground,
With artillery interspers’d – the wheels rumble, the horses sweat,
As the army corps advances.
Walt Whitman
Monday, November 11, 2013
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Time to Reflect, June 1862
Chap
8 Marching Toward Memphis
Time
to Reflect
Sabbath, June the 8th, 1862
In camp seven miles west of Corinth
Mississippi
Reveille was the first
thing I heard this morning, after a good sound sleep during the night. Nothing
of interest occurred during the day, anything more than a Sabbath spent in
camp.
Dress
Parade at 5 ½ P.M., after which all non-commissioned officers were summoned to
the colonel’s headquarters, where they were instructed relative to their duty
as such. The day is somewhat cooler than yesterday. Health good, and plenty to
eat.
This
day one year ago [8 June 1861] we were mustered into the U.S. Service. Many and noted are the changes in
this country, both in a military and civil point of view. At that time the
rebellion had assumed a gigantic form. The authorities of the Border
States
had defiantly declared their hostility to the government! And their openly
aroused intentions to unite with the Cotton
States and thereby form a separate and distinct government from that of
the United
States of America. The Nation’s capitol was threatened. The
entire overthrow of our government and its free institutions appeared evident.
The emblem of our liberties was torn from the
breeze and tramped in the dust by traitorous and unhallowed feet. And the flag
of Treason, Despots and Tyranny hoisted in its stead. This aroused the lovers
of liberty and the heart of the nation to arms. Fathers and brothers bid adieu
to homes and friends and marched in martial array to the defense of their
country, their free institutions, their homes and their all.
Thousands have fallen since that time on the
field of conflict for these their noble rights. They have been successful; the
arm of rebellion has been broken. The hordes of the enemy have been made to
fear and quake before the mighty hosts of Israel. This day, the 8th
of June 1862, the old
flag of the Union floats in the breeze over every state on the
American continent. Before any state shall be permitted to soil its sacred
folds, let her people be exiled and her cities made desolate.
W.C. Newlon
Winterset, Iowa
June the 9th,
1862
Camp on Memphis & Charleston R.R.
Another week has passed and another Monday
morning has dawned upon us while resting in this our pleasant camp. What a
glorious night for sleep last night and how delightfully charming, cool and
pleasant this morning is. But as the sun approaches the meridian, the cool
breeze vanishes before the scorching rays of a summer’s sun in Mississippi
What
a quiet day! How still everything seems to be in camp. It is as quiet and
lonely as a Sabbath spent in a Presbyterian village, where not even the town
clock is permitted to strike. No thundering cannon is heard today. How strange!
When, but a few days ago, the woods resounded with their deafening roar. I
cannot hear the pickets firing today. What can the reason be? Why, says one,
the enemy have fled before us. They no more annoy our outposts. Why, we can sit
beneath the cypress and oak tree and no one daring to molest or shoot at us. Five o’clock
P.M., papers of
the 5th give an account of the battle before Richmond up to Sunday evening.
The
Big Hatchie
June 10th,
1862
Orders
came at 12
o’clock last night
for us to march at 7 A.M. We start at the appointed time. The roads were
very dusty and the weather very warm; continued in a westward course. [We] pass General
Sherman's divisions; cross the [range?] of mountains covered with pine and cedar trees.
Twelve
midnight, arrive at [____] across Tuscumbia River where Sherman’s advance is building a bridge, the old one
being destroyed by a retreating foe.
Three o’clock
P.M., bridge
completed; cross over and proceed to Big
Hatchie. The road
is mountainous; cross Cypress swamps, and come knee high.
Six P.M., arrive at Big Hatchie. Bridge
was
[____] suspect and was built by the Rebels. A number of citizens came to our camp.
We
camp on a high hill in an open field very sandy and a disagreeable place to
camp.
June 11th,
1862, all right
this morning. Took a fine bath in Big Hatchie before breakfast.
We commenced to build a
bridge as soon as possible. Go across the county one mile; got Dew berries,
very warm. Three o’clock P.M. Co G is detailed for guard.
June 12th, 1862, morning very warm,
I am still on guard. 12 A.M. making preparations to march. The heat is
intense.
Two P.M., we get ready and march from the hill to the
bottom where we wait till the 2nd
Brigade passes as it takes the lead in today’s march leaving our brigade
in the rear.
Four P.M., take up line of march across the bridge of
own construction over Big Hatchie River. Pass a fine plantation and pretty girls that
I have [not] seen for a coon’s
age. Heat is intense and dust almost to suffocate.
Six
P.M., arrive at Big Mendy [Muddy River]. Camp for the night. Pay $1.50 for Chickens
and Turkeys. &c
June 13th,
1862
Reveille at 3:30 A.M. ate for breakfast a piece of cracker and cup
of coffee. Bought an old Rooster last night for breakfast this morning but was
so tuff, we could not eat him.
Five o’clock
A.M., take up a
line of march past large plantations, slaves both men and women almost naked
plowing corn and cotton. [We] rest
in shade every hour & half. Pass at different times groups of women &
children wearing their handkerchiefs.
Ten o’clock and 30, pass plantations where many slaves are
at work in corn and cotton, the former about knee high. 11 A.M. pass a group of mowers - heat intense. The
remainder of the day is a repetition of what has already been witnessed. All we
very tired at night.
June the
14th, 1862
Camp at Spring
Creek
We remained here till 4 P.M.
I am
detailed as Sergeant of the Guard. We marched four miles past the finest plantation
I have yet seen in the South, delightful fields of corn & cotton.
We go
into camp for the night on the side of a very steep hill out of whose sides
flow pure clear cold water.
Twelve
P.M., can not
have the privilege of sleeping tonight. O! How much I could enjoy it.
Sabbath, June the 15th, 1862
State of Mississippi
Reveille
at 2:30 this morn, get breakfast before day. Train
moves at 4
A.M.
Five A.M., just relieved from guard; are ready and
waiting to hear the command – Forward by File Right, March!
I
slept two hours last night, consequently am in good trim for marching today.
Morning cool and pleasant.
Six A.M., all ready, we march. Boys in good spirit make
the work ring with national airs.
As
the sun rises the heat increases; hundreds of men fall beneath the burning rays
of the sun.
Six P.M., arrive at Davies Creek 2 ½ miles south of Grand
Junction
after marching 15 miles. This has been one of the hardest day’s marching we
ever performed. A number of men were killed today by the heat. Water could not
be had along the road. I came very near [boiling?] myself; however I succeeded in getting through.
An Army
Corps on the March
With
its cloud of skirmishers in advance,
With
now the sound of a single shot snapping like a whip,and now an irregular volley,
The
swarming ranks press on and on, the dense brigades press on,
Glittering
dimly, toiling under the sun – the dust-cover’d
men,
In
columns rise and fall to the undulations of the ground,
With
artillery interspers’d – the wheels rumble, the horses sweat,
As
the army corps advances.
Walt
Whitman
La Belle Village
We
remained in camp on Davies Creek 5
days, and then marched. Marched to La Grange, distance six miles, at which place, we
remained until the 17th of July. But during that time, we did a
great deal of hard marching and heavy duty. One of those was to Holly Springs, Miss. [22 miles
southwest]
We
went on many foraging expeditions, which were always tended with much danger.
At one time the 3rd Iowa had a daring adventure with a body of Rebel
cavalry under command of Colonel
Jackson.
Camp
La Grange, Tennessee
La Grange is a beautiful town situated
on the M & Charleston R.R., 42 miles from Memphis and about 2 miles from the state line of Mississippi.[1]
The
buildings are mostly of ancient style and many of them much decayed.[2] The lots of ground on which the buildings
stand are much larger than ordinary town lots in the north, judging them to
contain about two acres, and these beautifully adorned with ornamental trees.
The
county surrounding the town is indeed beautiful, consisting of fine
plantations. The county south to Holly Springs is also good, beautiful mansions with the most
luxuriant surroundings.
After
the military had concluded to abandon the [rail]line from Corinth to Memphis, the divisions under Generals Sherman & Hurlbut were ordered to
march to Memphis.
In
pursuance to orders, the 3rd
Iowa Infantry, with her associates in division, took up a
line of march on the 17th July for the conquered city of Memphis. The weather is remarkably hot and dry to
march over the sand banks; the hot weather appears almost more than we can
stand.
We
left La Grange at 1 o’clock P.M. just after a refreshing shower of rain; marched
to Moscow ten miles from La Grange. This first day’s march was performed with
ease and with but little disasters compared with the latter part of the march.
But
as I failed to make a note of the towns, camps and general appearance of the
county, I cannot, at this late period, give anything like a correct account of
our journey across this portion of Rebeldom. Notwithstanding a fine and beautiful
county is their [brand] of
habitation.
During
this very severe & exhausting march, we lost many men. However, after the
elapse of four days we accomplished a hard and much dreaded march. We entered
the city of Memphis on the 21st of July after marching
10 miles. A more ragged and dirty body of men never marched in this county.
We
halted one hour on Main
Street for rest and water. After which, we continued
our march to the south, halting and marching a half dozen or more times; we
finally succeeded in finding a stopping place.
July 23rd,
1862
Today
we moved camp a few rods, and pitched tents in a dense piece of woodland; so
thick that the rays of sun could not penetrate through the thick foliage.
July 24th,
1862
Today
we again moved camp just across the road. At night when all were fast asleep, a
mighty storm arose, the thunder rolled, the lightning flashed, the rain fell,
and the winds blew with great fury. So much that the foundation of the forest
timber trembled with fear. A huge and powerful tree fell to the south in the
midst of our camp, however with but little damage.
We remained in this camp two or three days
when we again moved camp to a position 1 ½ miles south of the city where we
have spent many hot days. Since our arrival here, but little of importance has
transpired worthy of note.
Guard duty is very heavy every four days; 19
men from a company are required for picket duty.
July the
28th, 62
3rd Iowa is detailed to go on picket 6 miles north of
this camp to guard a bridge across Wolf River. We had a pleasant time. However, one very
serious accident occurred. While a
number were in the water swimming, one man from Company D (Captain Wiser)
was drowned; was taken to camp for internment.[3]
After
three days’ duty, we were relieved by the 28th Illinois Infantry. Marched back through the City [Memphis]. The
band playing many favorite airs at which crowds of civilians gathered along the
sidewalk. After a dusty march we reached camp about 8 o’clock
P.M.; found all
as we left except a Sergeant of Company G who had died in the hospital in
absence.
Sabbath, July 31st, 1862
Company near Memphis, Tennessee
I am
detailed as Sergeant of Provost Guard;
reported at Provost Martial’s Office.[4] Was detailed from there with one Corporal and
9 men to guard General Hurlbut's
Headquarters. Was not relieved until the next evening; a proper detail had been
neglected by Company A &
a general of the Division.[5]
Will gives no reason for this
month-long interruption.
Wednesday
Sept 3rd, 62
Nothing
new today, 4,000 prisoners (Rebel) anchored off Memphis today on their way to Vicksburg to be exchanged. Upon their arrival here they
gave three vociferous cheers for the Confederacy, and three for Stonewall Jackson. At the same time
displaying a flag of which was recognized by a Miss Edmondson in the City who also waved one in return, which
resulted in her expulsion south of our lines. Good for her, learn her better
next time.
Thursday,
Sept 4th, 62
All
in trim this morning, news from the Army
of the East, federal forces falling back on their works.[6] Had a short drill. Was summoned as witness on
Court Martial against Geo W. Baty,
for getting drunk on duty.[7]
Four o’clock
P.M., evening
paper brings intelligence of a Bull Run No 2.[8] Headed in large capital letters one absurdity
after another. Such a secession sheet as the Memphis Appeal, and its treasonable editor should be dashed
into the Mississippi waters forever.[9]
Friday,
Sept 5th, 1862
Fine,
pleasant, cool morning. My health good; everything has a lively appearance in
camp. No news more than yesterday from the Virginia Army.[10] Anxious for the news. &c &c &c
One o’clock
P.M., orders to
march by tomorrow morning at one o’clock A.M. Everything is in camp. Wine & brandy rules
the day. Boys in ailing trim, as is the case generally when we have orders to
move. Four
o’clock P.M., heavy
thunder & rainstorm blowing many tents to the ground; laying the dust &
cooling the air.
Saturday,
Sept 6th, 1862
Camp near Memphis, Tennessee
Daybreak
found us fast asleep this morning instead of on our march as we expected. The
order was countermanded at 11 P.M. last night. It now stands for 11 o’clock
P.M. today, at
which time we will bid adieu to our present camping ground unless another
change is made. This is a pleasant cool morning, delightful for marching.
Seven o’clock
P.M., we left
the City of Memphis at the appointed time (11 o’clock). Marching through the back part of the city
until we reached the northwest part of town and then we took the Bolla
Road running in a northeast direction.
Marched
9 miles where we now rest for the night. The march was very hard on the men as
they have not marched very much for more than a month.
Nothing
of interest on the road but the Boys relieving some wagons of melons, which
were being conveyed to the city for market. However, they were saved of the
trouble. Supper is announced by the cook.
Well,
after partaking hearty of rough camp fare, I feel once more refreshed. It goes
very hard with me to march this hot weather.
We
are at present bivouacked for the night on the banks of Wolf River whose waters empty on the Mississippi just in the northern part of Memphis. Quite a pleasant little stream, silently
running through heavy forests of timber.
A
little shower of rain has cooled the air considerably, but making the ground
somewhat damp for spreading our blankets.
However,
I have already gathered some paw paw [Asimina triloba] leaves which will answer as substitute for
feathers &c on which I shall spend the silent hours of this night (if
providence permit), while the frogs echo their shrieking notes and the mosquitoes
so silently sail through the air when to your ear they will sing cousin [sic].
Sabbath night, 11 o’clock, Sept 7th, 1862
Bivouacked 21 miles E. of Memphis
After
another miserably tedious day’s march, we again rest for the time being 27
miles from where we started yesterday morning. We took up a line of march this
morning at seven
A.M. leaving
our temporary encampment on Wolf River for our enemies to ramble over in our absence.
The
shower of rain last night very much improved the roads and cooled the
atmosphere, making it, in all, quite pleasant for marching.
Our
regiment is the rearguard of the division today, which decidedly is the hardest
place to march in a division. The division train (about two miles long) was
immediately in advance of us and some of the teams were continually balking,
breaking down bridges &c which made it very tedious indeed.
After
we had marched two miles, we came to the town or village called Bolla, a kind of one horse town
destitute of good buildings and nothing as I saw of interest in or around the
place, unless you call old fields, barren plantations, & decayed buildings,
objects of interest.
The next
place we came to was Union City on the Memphis and Ohio R.R., fifteen miles from Memphis; it also is an inferior place like most of the
inland towns in the south. No mercy was shown to Rebel citizens along the road
as the Boys were pretty sure to relieve them of their chickens and such like.
We
burned a small place (The name of which I had forgotten.) about 3 P.M., consisting of store room, repairing shop and
several other buildings all of which we willingly applied the torch. The place
being the rendezvous of a guerrilla band. General [perhaps Lew] Wallace had one man
killed near by them when he was marching to Memphis in June, 62.
The
county along this road is far from being as good as on the road to La Grange, no such fine plantations and beautiful
mansions.
Rebel
Uniform, WS cartridge boxes and such like were found at different houses. At such
places not much respect was paid to property. The rain commenced to fall about noon and continued for some time.
Night
overtook us and we were far from our journey’s end. The train made but slow
progress stopping every rod or two until we reached our place of abode for the
night. Weary and very worn were all, and happy were we when we found a resting
place.
And
as Mal (the cook) is preparing
supper, cooking some fine chickens, which he cunningly captured by the way, I
am penning these words.[11] And, as he has announced it to be ready, and, as
it is just 12
o’clock midnight, I will draw the notes of the day to a close.
After
I have partook of the spoils of the enemy (The first I have ate since four A.M.
this morning), I will lay down my weary limbs upon mother earth for a short, but
sweet repose, with the Heavens for a covering and the falling rain to cool my
brow while the silent hours of night pass away, that I may arise ere the dawn
of tomorrow’s day for the labor and toil which it may bring. &c &c
&c
WCNewlon 3rd. Iowa
Sept the 8th, 1862, Monday noon
In
the field 27 miles East of Memphis
We unexpectedly rest where we halted last night
at midnight. Madam Rumor says that we will return to the
city again. The day is cloudy, threatening rain. The news of a fight at Bolivar resulting favorably is the
cause of a retrograde movement that is, if any should be the place in the 4th
Division.[12]
The Boys
are enjoying themselves finely, rambling through the woods gathering muscadines.[13]
Eight P.M., orders to be prepared for action in a
moment’s warning. Also to march tomorrow morning at daybreak. WCNewlon
Tuesday,
Sept 9th, 1862
8 P.M.
Camp in field, Tennessee
We
were aroused from slumber at three o’clock A.M. this morning, prepared breakfast, struck tents
and at daylight we were marching northward. A very pleasant morning for
marching, roads in good condition; the atmosphere cool and enticing.
Our
place today was third from the right and immediately in front of the train.
Consequently, had nothing to hinder our progress and we improved the time by
doing some of the fastest marching we ever done in Tennessee. After
marching some three miles, we came to Hickory Withe,[14] a small village containing perhaps one dozen
houses. We marched almost altogether in a north direction, traveling a by-road
as we left the Bolivar road this
morning crossing the county through plantations & one very large plantation
with quite a quantity of cotton in field and about one hundred bales in [whole].
The
county through which we passed today is very poor, old worn out plantations,
poor fences and decayed buildings.
But little jay hawking done.[15] In fact, there was nothing to jay hawk, we
were now resting in a bottom and I don’t know how far from any place.
I
have learned that we are going to Brownsville some 30 miles distant from this place.[16] Such a county as this I would not live in, not
even a pretty girl to be seen at any place. Took some prisoners. Mal (the cook)
has just prepared some dinner consisting of green corn &c, which I shall
not be slow in hiding.
Wednesday,
Sept 10th, 1862
Camp
in field, Tennessee
Reveille
at 3 A.M., marched at 5. The county through which we
passed was very poor. Marched 15 miles; camped on Big Muddy three miles from Big
Hatchie. I was
Sergeant of the Rear Guard today.
Thursday,
Sept 11th, 1862
Camp in field, Tennessee
Reveille
at 3 A.M. this morning, 3rd Iowa and 41st
Illinois are detailed to build a bridge across Big Hatchie three miles from camp. At 5 ½ A.M., with
contrabands,[17] shovels and axes, we proceeded to our place of
operations passing through one of the most lonely, wild and wilderness looking places
I ever saw, dense wood land, thick under brush, marshy land.
Upon
arriving at the stream, we found it quite a stream, about 125 feet wide. The
bridge across this river was burned by the enemy. To build a bridge across such
a large stream appeared to be quite a task. Our contrabands were brought to
bear upon the heavy timber, felling and cutting in pieces of the proper length.
These were rolled into the river and drifted to their proper place.
We
busied ourselves gathering the wild fruit, muscadines, grapes and paw paws,
which were very abundant in the bottoms. Thus, the day passed during the
afternoon. However we were unpleasantly drenched with heavy showers of rain.
Night approached and no sight of our teams. Here we are without blankets or
anything of the kind. The bridge is near finished.
Continued...Well Lydia, I have strung my letter out to a considerable
length & have not given you much news after all.
And “Sam told Sophy, &c, &c”. Well, I think Sam is sadly mistaken, don’t you? There may be such a place as
Page, and there might be such a thing as a girl there, if there is such a
place. However, I cannot positively say that there is &c, &c. Maybe my
friend Samuel understands
matters and things pertaining to my private affairs better than Your Humble
Servant.
Lydia, you can
rest assured that my connection with “Page” is as limited as these with
yourself. And, you know that we are not so very extensive[ly] connected as might be.
As a matter
of friendship, I did occasionally exchange letters with friend [M__my?]. But, to the best of my knowledge, Samual G. never saw any
of them. But as you say, there was nothing particular in them (I wish there
was).
But, as it
is your special request that I let no one see them, I will, with pleasure, do
as you so sincerely desire. And, you know, “friend Lydia”, that
what I say is the truth. Don’t you think that you could trust my honor a
little, at any rate?
I
understand very emphatically how Ruby,[19] as well as
others, succeeded in getting out of the service. And, could get out of the
service as he did, but, I have a little honor and don’t have any idea that a
three year war will blemish it. It is true that the army is not a desirable
place. A soldier’s life is in danger at all times. He is never considered safe.
But, much experience during war (as at the present time) hardens his mind, and
in many instances rests perfectly easy even when in the greatest danger. (I
speak from experience.)
I wish you not to infer that I am
trying to make myself out brave, but I wish it distinctly understood, that no
thundering cannon, nor bursting shell and even death did I know that it would
come tomorrow on a field of action, would induce me to do as Gentlemen have
done in this army. I know that life is sweet, but I care not a Continental [least
bit]. If to die on a battlefield is my lot, so let it be.
I have been
in a number of battles, have thus far escaped almost uninjured. And why that I
might not have reasons to believe that I will always escape as in former
fights. I am perfectly willing to risk it, let the consequence be as it may.
It is a
pity that anyone should have the heart disease. They say it’s fatal; don’t you
think so?
Sure
enough, the Winterset wing of
the 3rd Iowa is nearly
extinct. Blakely and I [are] all that is left. Blakely,
I think, will be out soon; he is not fit for service. I will do all I can for
him. I have been very lonesome since Frederick left us.
He is a splendid fellow; wish he was here. I had a letter from him the other
day, also, about half a dozen from the Iowa 4th Infantry. I wonder if they think I will
write to every man in the regiment.
...This was
written in haste and by candlelight. I fear you cannot read it. Excuse.
I think you have done exceedingly
well this summer in teaching so long in one place, especially in such a deluded
spot as Adair County is.
I think I
should admire that
six-foot and two inch girl of your school. Won’t you speak a good word for me
to her highness? I think you will.
I am no
captain yet. But, you need not be alarmed, if such should be the case before
long. Captain Ogg, if not
resigned, will likely be dismissed from the service.[20] And, if
either takes place, I have a good chance for the captaincy of this company. I
will undoubtedly get the position, if left to the company to choose.
Our present
commander is incompetent to hold the position, is not liked by the men, and has
no friends among the regimental and company officer - his name, O.G. Anderson, 2nd
Lieutenant.[21] Our 1st
Lieutenant is still a prisoner & [the]
Captain is wounded seriously at [here].
I
think that Warner did write
you a letter.[22] He was
induced to do so by a gentleman of Winterset.
Notoriety. I think it was more for a [____]
than anything else.
You asked
me if I intend to go home this fall. Indeed, Lydia, I would
much like to visit home and friends. But, it is impossible to do so, as leaves
of absence, are not granted in this division. I would like to see you very much
and all of my old schoolmates.
I remember
well our former engagements and pleasure rides. Lydia, there was
no war then. When will we enjoy such pleasures again?
Well, I am
for picket duty tomorrow. Will have a good time; is not much danger here on
picket. I was Sergeant of the Guard last night and yesterday. I had command of
the prisoners today on police duty. We have a spy here; will be shot. Are
fortifying here. We are about 12,000 troops here. Don’t know how long will stay
here. Are ready to do or go anywhere. You will please not let any of my people
see this letter. Hope to hear from you at your earliest convenience. [_ir_d] as follows – WCN, Company G, 3rd Iowa Infantry, Gen. Hurlbut’s Division, Bolivar, Tenn. Please
drop Captain Ogg’s name.
If you
chance to see any communications in the Madisonian,[23] signed “Tenn”, you will
know who they are from.
I have much
to tell you; had I an opportunity. Would much rather give you a verbal account
than written.
Respectfully Yours,
W.C.Newlon
[1] La Grange (approx 48 miles from Memphis) was named in honor of the
Marquis de La Fayette’s ancestral home in Auvergne, France and became known throughout
the Old South as “La Belle Village”. Brochure “Walking/Driving Tour of La Grange, Tennessee”, Town of La Grange, TN, n.d.
[2] It is unclear which type of
architecture the author refers to here. It may be Georgian (1714–1776). For a
description of various styles of that era, refer to: Michael J. Varhola, Every
Day life During the Civil War. (Cincinnati, Ohio: Writer’s Digest Books, 1999),
73. Also visit www.LaGrangeTN.com for views of La Grange homes.
[3] Perhaps Emilius I. Weiser,
age 25, residence Decorah, Iowa, né
Pennsylvania, enlisted 20
May 1861,
appointed First Lieutenant and mustered 8 June 1861. He was promoted Captain 16
January 1862, wounded in knee by grape shot 6 April 1862, Shiloh, Tenn. See a roster of soldiers in Company D on the
following web-site, http://iagenweb.org/civilwar/regiment/infantry/03rd/index.htm,
transcribed by Linda Suarez from the
Roster and Record of Iowa Soldiers, Vol. I, lists the Captain as wounded
5 October 1862, Hatchie River, Tenn. and mustered out 18
June 1864,
Davenport, Iowa, expiration of term of
service. There is no Captain Wiser on the above Company D Roster.
[5] Will had crossed out Company A in the journal.
[6] Perhaps referring to the 1
September Battle of Chantilly, Virginia and its aftermath. On 2 Sept US General
John Pope completed “his withdrawal into the entrenchments around Washington”. Skirmishes broke out at
Fairfax Court House and Flint Hill...”With Pope’s army no longer a threat, CSA
General Robert E. Lee turned his army west and north to invade the North”.
James R. Arnold and Roberta Weiner, Editorial Consultants, The Time Chart
History of the Civil War. (Ann
Arbor, MI: Lowe & B. Hould Publishers, 2001), 44; Frances H. Kennedy,
Editor and Principal Contributor, The
Civil War Battlefield Guide, 2nd ed. (New York: Houghton Mifflin
Company, 1998), 112.
[7] George W. Baty (Veteran),
age 22, residence Green Bush, Iowa, né Ohio, enlisted
21 May 1861, mustered 8 June 1861, re-enlisted and re-mustered 4 Jan 1864. See
company B, Third Infantry Consolidated Battalion, A roster of soldiers in
Company G on the following web-site, http://iagenweb.org/civilwar/regiment/infantry/03rd/index.htm,
transcribed by Linda Suarez from the
Roster and Record of Iowa Soldiers, Vol. I.
[9] Memphis Daily Newspaper from
1843-1894. In 1894, The Appeal merged with The Daily Commercial,
founded in 1890, to become The Commercial Appeal, the current daily
newspaper in Memphis. Available at https://umdrive.memphis.edu/mckibben/www/appeal.html.
[11] “…the concept of a mess hall
was unknown during the Civil War,…In camp, companies would frequently designate
cooks to prepare their rations…”, Michael J. Varhola, Every Day life During
The Civil War.(Cincinnati, Writer’s Digest Books, Ohio, 1999), 92.
[12] Perhaps referring to the 30 August battle where the Union lost 3 killed and the CSA lost 100. Civil War Battles of 1862, Chronological Summary and Record Of Every Engagement Between the Troops of the Union and the Confederacy in the American Civil War During the year of 1862, collated and compiled from the Official Records of the War Department. http://users.aol.com/dlharvey/1862bat.htm
[13] Muscadine: (ca. 1785) A
grape of the southern U.S. with musky fruit in small
clusters [prob. alter of muscatel]: Merriam-Webster’s
Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Ed
(2003), s. v. “muscadine”.
[15] Jay-Hawk (1858): A reference
to looting and burning by some bands of Antislavery guerrillas in Kansas and Missouri before and during the Civil
War. Ibid. s. v. “Jay-Hawk”.
[17] Contraband: a slave who
escaped to or who was brought within the Union lines. Ibid. s.
v. “contraband”.
[18] The first letter’s
stationery is unique. The two lined pages open like a basic card, measuring 5”
x 8”. In the upper left-hand corner of
top page, there is an embossed eagle on a banner shield, with the words “Union and [_____tion]” on the top.
The five inch top edge of the top page has a thin [1/16”] trim of bright red;
the length of the right edge is trimmed with blue.
[19] Samuel
G. Ruby, age 22, residence Winterset, né Ohio, enlisted 21 May 1861 as Eighth Corporal,
mustered 22 May 1861, discharged 8 July 1862 at St. Louis, MO for disability.
[20] Adam L. Ogg, age 32, wounded
severely in both hands 6 April 1862, Shiloh, Tenn., resigned 16
June 1863.
Web-based “Roster and Record, 3rd
Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry”, http://iagenweb.org/civilwar/regiment/infantry/03rd/co-go.htm.
[21] The
web-based roster of Field
and Staff Officers of the 3rd Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry, http://iagenweb.org/civilwar/regiment/infantry/03rd/field-staff.htm,
lists a 2nd Lt. Ole A. Anderson, Company D.
[22] Ephraim
P. Warner, age 29, residence Winterset, né Pennsylvania, enlisted 21 May 1861,
mustered 8 June 1861, wounded in arm 6 April 1862, Shiloh, Tenn, discharged 12
Sept 1862, Shiloh, Tenn. for disability, Ibid.
[23] Newspaper serving Madison
County, Iowa
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