Chap
8 Marching Toward Memphis
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,[2] 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.[3] 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.[4] Our 1st
Lieutenant is still a prisoner & [the]
Captain is wounded seriously at [here].
I
think that Warner did write
you a letter.[5] 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,[6] 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
Chap
9 March Root and Branch
Going
to Bolivar
Friday
Sept the 12th, 1862
Camp in field near [Bolivar]
Orders came last night at 10 P.M. to cease
building the bridge, so this morning we returned to camp; found all in
readiness to counter march and go to Bolivar.
We had all of our work for nothing. We marched 17 miles today; camped in the
timber. No water, all very tired, dark before the train arrives. Have a good
supper, plenty of chicken. &c &
WCNewlon
Saturday,
Sept the 13th, 1862
Camp in field, Tennessee
Aroused
at 3 ½ A.M.; marched at 6 o’clock, roads good, weather cool and cloudy. We are
in camp on Spring Creek, two
miles and a half from Bolivar.
We marched 17 miles today the last eight of them was very dirty. The county
very hilly, and to march over we reach camping grounds at sundown.
The
water here is much better than we have had since we left Memphis; rain is very much needed.
Camp near Bolivar, Tennessee
Sabbath morning, Sept the 14th, 1862
Well,
we have the pleasure of resting awhile this morning. I presume we will go into
camp here for a few days. Breastworks are being built at Bolivar. The Iowa troops all left here just before we came. This
is a fine cool morning.
Five o’clock
P.M. We still
rest in our temporary camp on Spring
Creek. Heavy clouds arose in the west threatening rain all afternoon but
I fear it will pass away ere it dampens the ground or lays the dust, which is
very deep. It is quite strange eight miles from here; there is no dust. It has
been raining at the distance for several days, while there has been none here.
Have no news yet; have to get some letters in a day or two.
Mal
has supper near ready, consisting of coffee, biscuit, molasses & old
standby - soldiers have some sleep. Meals in camp sometimes, and sometimes they
don’t have any.
Who
is there that don’t like romance? But O! Such romance as soldiers see, his mind
for agitation and his body for a mark.[8]
Bivouacked on Spring Creek
Monday,
Sept 15th, 1862
Our
company was detailed at 3 o’clock A.M. for picket duty. Was my good fortune to be
kept in the reserve, consequently did not have much duty. Quite a pleasant day,
fell back one half mile in the evening; had good living, plenty of fruit and
everything else.
Camp near Bolivar Tennessee
Tuesday,
Sept 16th, 1862
Was
relieved at eight
o’clock A.M. Returned
to camp; found all ready to move. Moved one half mile; camped on the hill in an
open field, one mile west from Bolivar.
Reported
fight at Corinth, reports were of the enemy marching on this place. Day cool and pleasant; threatens
rain &c.[9]
Camp near Bolivar, Tennessee
Wednesday,
Sept. 17th, 1862
Quite
stormy last night, raining this morning. This day one year ago, we fought the Battle of Blue Mills.[10]
We thought that a terrible affair, would think it no fight at all now. Our
regiment is stronger and in better condition this day than it was one year
ago. My
health is good, all in excellent spirits. At this P.M., the sky is clear.
Camp near Bolivar
Thursday,
Sept. the 18th, 1862
Fine
cool morning, all in high glee. Nine o’clock A.M., brisk firing was heard on our right; supposed
to be fighting. Preparations are made to meet the enemy. Pack up knapsacks;
strike tents, all ready and willing. Twelve midnight, no fight, bad.
The
cause of the alarm was the 2nd
Brigade firing of their pieces; don’t like such work. 2nd
Brigade often takes such spells. I don’t see why they always have their guns
loaded. We never load our pieces unless we are threatened.
Camp near Bolivar
Friday, Sept
19th, 1862
Last
night was one of the coldest nights of the season; was quite cool under a
double blanket. This is a very pleasant day; all is quiet, no exciting news.
No
news of an approaching enemy; would like to have some news. This evening’s
papers give an account of the surrender of Harper’s Ferry. Our loss, 6,000 men and $1,000,000 worth of
property taken by the enemy.[11] This however was nothing more than we expected
from the news of yesterday.
Six o’clock
P.M., just
received orders to march root and branch tomorrow morning at four o’clock.[12] Wonder where we are going; expect we are going
to make some dash at the enemy. This is a splendid time for marching, so cool
&c. &c.
Notwithstanding,
we have been camped within one mile of town [Bolivar]. I have not, as
yet, seen that noted place. The town itself, from what I can learn, is of
little importance, but its situation makes it a point of interest in a military
point of view.
The
county surrounding Bolivar is
poor, hilly, sandy & desolate. Quite a quantity of cotton grown this
season, but is going to loss for lack of hands to pick it. In all the fields,
cotton is dropping from the bowl, on the ground. But, tomorrow we march. Where to is not
known, but will soon find out.
Marching
South
Bivouac in field, Tennessee
Saturday night, Sept. 20th, 1862
We
bade adieu to our camping ground near Bolivar
at 8 o’clock this morning, taking up a line of march in a
south direction. The expedition consisting of the 1st Brigade General Jacob G. Lauman, consisting of five
regiments of infantry, two batteries of artillery and two battalions of the 2nd Illinois Cavalry.
We
kept on the main road south as far as Middleburg,
a little town seven miles from Bolivar. Here, we turned to the left from the
main road, traveling by road across the hills and hollows, sometimes no road at
all, until we reached within four miles of Grand
Junction,
and eighteen miles from where we started from this morning.
The
county through which we passed today was one of the poorest I have yet seen in
the south, the county remarkably hilly, plantations poor, worn out and desolate
looking places. Cotton everywhere in bloom falling from the bowl to the ground,
no hands to pick it.
It is
evident that we are marching upon the enemy at La Grange & Grand
Junction. What force there is at either of those places I cannot tell,
but I presume we will find out ere the sun reaches the meridian tomorrow.
A
Retrograde Movement
In camp near Bolivar Tennessee
Sabbath, Sept 21st,
1862
All
ready, we took up a line of march at seven A.M. on to the Junction, a fine cool morning, all in good spirits. We marched in
regular order our regiment in the advance. We had marched but a short distance
when signs of the enemy were visible. When within one mile of Grand
Junction
all came to a sudden halt; here it was ascertained that the enemy was moving in force to attack our rear moving
on the La Grange road northward. It being evident that it was
the intention of the enemy to cut us off from Bolivar or from getting reinforcements from that place.
We
changed front to rear, commencing a retrograde movement quick time. The change
of front was performed with ease and great rapidity, the entire performance
occupying but half an hour. This was a remarkably quick move considering the
large train belonging to our brigade.
Fast
marching was necessary in order that the enemy might not cut off our retreat,
as it had become evident that they were in overwhelming numbers. Our numbers so
small, the distance to reinforcements so great, that it was thought not best to
give battle unless impossible to do better.
It
was soon discovered that the enemy was marching on our rear from the Grand
Junction
with infantry, cavalry & artillery. Our regiment & two companies of 2nd Illinois Cavalry covered the retreat, which was no small matter
to save the train.
We
succeeded in reaching a small creek ten miles from Bolivar. Here we made a stand placing the artillery in position,
and awaited the approach of the enemy.
One
half hour elapsed nothing was seen. Our company was detailed as skirmishers to
advance upon the enemy and ascertain his position, at the same time a squad of
cavalry cantered down the road to draw the enemy and which was successful.
His [CSA] cavalry advanced toward our batteries and
when they got a good distance, one section of artillery opened on them with
shot and shell. Such running I never saw; men and horses without riders running
in all directions. Had they come 50 yards closer they would have got the
contents of our rifles.
This
done, we again resumed our march closely followed by the enemy; six miles from Bolivar another line was formed, but
ere the rear guard had closed up, and the order from General Hurlbut, which was not to make a stand unless unavoidable,
march his men slow and with care, and provided it was necessary, he would match
us with four regiments of infantry, two batteries of artillery and cavalry.
The 3rd Iowa then passed from rear to front greatly relieving
us from hard marching. The men had become already much fatigued with a forced
march. However, at this eight o’clock P.M., we are safely in the camp we left yesterday
morning with what loss is not yet known.
My
friend J.M. Goss,[13] Company G 3rd Iowa, I presume, was
taken prisoner, also the Adjutant One lieutenant & five privates belonging
to the 53rd Illinois
Infantry. We are all very tired and think that an expedition such as we
have just accomplished is sufficient for one week. I should not like to make
another such next Saturday & Sabbath.
There
certainly could not have been a more successful reconnaissance made. We
ascertained the position and force of the enemy. I think he will attack this
post in a few days. His rumored strength is 15,000. We have not half that
number, but let him come and we will give him a taste of western pluck in many
ways.
In camp near Bolivar
Monday eve Sept. 22nd, 1862
We were called from our quiet slumbers at three o’clock this morning; formed a line of battle, no
signs of the enemy coming. Pitched tents; all very tired and sore. Would rather
rest than fight today. My health good.
WCNewlon
Written
vertically up the left-hand margin:
The Star Spangled banner, O! Long
may it wave over the land of and the home of the brave.
Monday evening, Eight o’clock P.M.
Near Bolivar, Tennessee
Orders
this P.M. to be in line of battle at 4 am
tomorrow morning, with one day’s rations of cooked rations, canteen filled with
water.
In
his order, General Hurlbut said
that if he was not attacked, that he would be able with what reinforcements he
would get to be able to assume the offensive.
So
tomorrow if we are not attacked ere it comes, we will march upon our
antagonist; a battle tomorrow is evident. We are ready with our small force and
willing to go on the field of contest trusting in Him who is the God of
Battles, to guide us in battle.
On Picket near Bolivar Tennessee
Thursday,
Sept. 23rd, 1862
I was detailed with 15 others from Company G and Company C, 3rd Iowa for picket this morning as no fight is
expected.
The enemy retreated from before our lines at one A.M. this morning. This change, I presume, was made
from the fact that a fight had taken place near Corinth, Mississippi, on the 22nd inst. in which the
enemy was completely defeated.[14]
Their retreat was made much quicker than their
advance on this place. We were greatly surprised and very much disappointed at
not getting to decide the contest here without having to march. I know not when
I felt more like fighting than I did at this time. All appeared to be anxious
to decide the matter without further delay.
The
day was very pleasant, cool & agreeable. Nothing transpired during the day
worthy of note. The surrounding county is very broken. Hills of considerable
height looked toward the sky covered with a dense forest of oak & chestnut.
From the sides of those romantic hills gushed fountains of pure cold water
flowing with unequaled rapidity through the dark deep ravines.
I was
relieved from the outpost at five & a half P.M.; returned to the reserve
one half mile to the rear. The sky is darkened by clouds rising in the west. I
think it will rain tonight.
W.C.Newlon
In Camp near Bolivar Tennessee
Wednesday
Sept the 24th 1862
Such
a night as last night was. I was on duty from ten P.M. to four A.M. this morning. And O! How it did rain. The
heavens appeared to open and the water fell in torrents upon us. The night was
as dark as the infernal regions, no moon to cast her dim rays on the quiet
earth, no twinkling stars to adorn the Heavens above.
Dismal,
O! Dismal night thought I, as I visited the videtts some half-mile distant in
the dark and silent hours of the night. What fortitude, what patience &
what courage it requires to make a good soldier such times as these in the face
of an enemy.
Day
dawned upon us wet and sheereless.[16] I procured at a neighboring plantation some
corn bread (without salt or anything else save the essential element) and milk
(all that could be obtained) for my morning meal for which I paid one half
dollar, but could not eat it.
At nine A.M. we were relieved by the 32nd Illinois Infantry. Returned to camp; found all well. Tents had
been pitched and all in motion. But what was better than all, found three
letters awaiting my arrival from the following persons, Ex-Lieut. Frederick, G.H.
Kelly & my friend in Page
County, Iowa, news from all points encouraging.
This
is a very cool pleasant day, all quiet and lively in Camp, further particulars
of the fight near Corinth, Mississippi in which the enemy were completely defeated. I
feel somewhat worse of my last night’s duty; don’t want another much soon. Wm
Clark Newlon.
Camp near Bolivar Tennessee
Thursday
Sept 25th, 62
Quite cool last night, a little frost the first
of the season. I caught a violent cold; do not feel so well all over it. The
day cool and pleasant, nothing of interest. I spent the day in writing. Such
days as these are not pleasant, too quiet and lonely. No excitement, wish would
have a fight; have something to talk about. News from Virginia good.[17] &c &c &c
Camp near Bolivar
Friday
Sept. the 26th, 1862
The same routine as yesterday, no news today.
Wrote three letters to friends. Am about half sick; got a bad cold.
Cool day, would like to be at home, today. But,
no go.
Camp near Bolivar
Saturday,
Sept. 27th, 1862
All quiet on the Potomac. Got bad cold, sore throat. Not very well.
Anyhow, went to Surgeon’s call this morning, the first time in a great while.
Our brigade had review this P.M., General H[urlbut], Three Sheets in the Wind, as usual. No news
today.
WCNewlon
Camp near Bolivar Tennessee
Sabbath, Sept 28th,
1862
Was
detailed this morning for Line Guard, a very fine cool day. Have a pleasant
place for my guard reserve. Have under my charge six prisoners. Nothing
transpired during the day which has departed.
W.C.N
Camp near Bolivar
Monday,
Sept. 29th, 1862
Did
not sleep much last night; was relieved at the proper hour (9 o’clock). Spent the day mostly writing letters.
Nothing new today, no news. Health Good.
W.C.N
Tuesday,
Sept 30th, 1862
Our
Company is detailed this morning for Picket Guard; I am included. Pretty sleepy
I think, on duty day before yesterday and on today. Had a good time, not hard
duty. I wrote letter to Madisonian, pleasant
day. No enemy near us today.
Camp near Bolivar
Wednesday,
1st Oct., 1862
Was
on duty four hours last night; the night was very pleasant indeed. While
visiting the vedetts, I thought of many things, of home, of friends, and of
school mates, but far I am from home and all. Wish I could have the pleasure of
enjoying their society.
Was
relieved at nine
A.M. This
morning, camp to camp, found two letters for myself, one from sister Dorcas and one from Benjamin Franklin Murray.[18]
I
have a bad cold; don’t feel very well.
Rumors of a proposed compromise, hope the
war will end.
[1] 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.
[2] 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.
[3] 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.
[4] 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.
[5] 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.
[6] Newspaper serving Madison
County, Iowa
[8] Perhaps a reaction to “seeing the elephant”.
[9] Perhaps skirmishes before
the Battle of Corinth (3-4 October 1862)
[10] Also referred to as the
Battle of Blue Mills Landing or the Battle of Liberty. See footnote two.
[11] The Federals surrendered on
15 September. The CSA forces under Lt. Gen. Thomas Jonathan ‘Stonewall’ Jackson “had captured 12,500
prisoners and 73 cannon at the cost of 286 casualties, making the battle of
Harper’s Ferry the largest Federal surrender of the Civil War.” James M. McPherson,
The Atlas of the Civil War. (New York:
Macmillan, 1994), 78.
[12] Root and branch (1640):
completely, utterly: Merriam-Webster’s
Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Ed
(2003), s. v. “root and branch”.
[13] James M. Goss, age 20, Gossport, Iowa, né
Indiana, enlisted 21
May 1861,
mustered 8 June 1861, disability discharge 5
March 1863.
“3rd Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry in
the War of the Rebellion, Roster and Record”, http://iagenweb.org/civilwar/regiment/infantry/03rd/co-go.htm
[14] Perhaps an aftermath of the
19 September Battle of Iuka.
[15] Vidette (var. of Vedette, 1690): A mounted
sentinel stationed in advance of pickets: Merriam-Webster’s
Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Ed
(2003), s. v. “vidette”.
[16] Sheereless: Perhaps opposite
of “sheer” meaning clear, bright. Ibid.
s. v. “Sheer”.
[17] Perhaps Will is referring to
General Lee’s 19 September retreat across the Potomac and back into Virginia. The Union was able to claim a victory
at Antietam, but Gen. McClellan did not
pursue Lee. 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.
