22May1862,Tennessee Narrative, Sgt. William Newlon

I Received My Warrant


One year ago [22 May 1861] tonight, I was at the Demoin House in the City of Desmoines [Iowa]. Today I received my warrant as Sergeant of Company G. of 3rd Regiment, Iowa Infantry, dated May the 22nd A.D., 1862. Health moderate, symptoms of fever, took preventative.

Colonel Williams returned to camp this P.M. Health is poor. Owing to the declining health of Lieutenant M. R. Frederick of our Company, I fear he will be compelled to resign his position in the army. I hope his health may improve soon, for to lose him, we will lose a good and faithful officer; one who is respected by his command, and all will regret to part with him.

W.C. Newlon.
We signed the pay roll this morning; Paymaster is here, paying the 28th Illinois Infantry today. Our regiment comes next in turn for pay.

The 52nd Indiana Infantry is having dress parade. The band is discoursing fine, charming, delightful, delicious, and cheering music at this 5 o’clock P.M., May 24th, 62.

Near Corinth Mississippi. &c

Written vertically up the left margin:

W C Newlon Army of the Tennessee, Gen Hurlbut’s Division in camp near Corinth, Mississippi

Sabbath, May the 25th, 1862
In camp near Corinth, Mississippi

The weather last night and this morning is quite cool, a little the much so [sic] to be pleasant. The sky is clear and I think the rain is over for the present.

Our company was called for this morning to go on picket guard. After the usual routine we marched to headquarters of the brigade to report, and were there informed that our services were not needed today; consequently we were permitted to rest.

I was glad of this, for the past three Sabbaths I have been on duty, and nothing but military law and necessity will compel me to work on the Sabbath, as it was instituted as a day of rest for man and beast. But a man is compelled to do many things in the army, which he would not do were he not under military law. I wrote a letter home to Father today; would like to see him.

Lt. M. R. Frederick received his resignation today, it being sent up a few days ago for acceptance. What I recorded yesterday will before many days come to pass. There is no other man in the 3rd Iowa that I hate to part with so much as to part with him. No other officer that ever had command of this company got along so well as he.

No one can say that he ever used any partiality whatever; all have fared equally. His efforts to improve the moral condition of the company and its personal appearance were unceasing. His conduct on the field at Pittsburgh (although his first trial) is worthy of the highest commendation.

But seeing his health is so impaired and no hopes of its improving while in the army. I congratulate him in his success in getting a dismissal from the service, although many men in ranks are and have been laboring under disease for months past cannot get discharged from service. And why, because they have no commission.

General [Thomas A.?] Davies commenced to advance this morning but, finding the enemy advancing in force to resist, he gave up the idea for fear of bringing on a general engagement. The lines in front of our division have been very quiet up to this time, 6 o’clock P.M., May the 25th, 62.

I have been very lonesome today.

W.C. Newlon

3rd Iowa Infantry

Monday, May the 26th, 1862
Army of the Tennessee
Camp near Corinth, Mississippi

Our lines are quiet this morning as though there was no enemy near. At 2 o’clock P.M., we received four months’ pay- $52.00. I sent home $50.00. Wrote a letter home.

This evening heavy cannonading on the left, cause unknown, also heavy skirmishing between the pickets.

At 7 o’clock divine services in front of the hospital of the 32nd Illinois Infantry, subject of discourse: last chapter and verse of Daniel. Good sermon, first I have heard since I left Huntsville, Mo.

Health moderate, day pleasant.

We Won’t Shoot If You Don’t!

Tuesday, May 27th 1862
Right wing of the army
Near Corinth, Mississippi

Six o’clock A.M., considerable stir in the direction of Corinth last night. The running and whistling of engines appeared to be not more than one mile distant. Pickets were in action during the night and this morning as soon as the shades of darkness had disappeared. The sharp reports of their rifles ring in the air. I thought last night perhaps the enemy intended to make an attack this morning. But they have not yet divulged.

One year ago [27 May 1861] this morning I bade adieu to home and relatives and friends. How wrought were my feelings that memorable morning. How hard to part with those we love, especially under the circumstances, which I left that morning.

Wednesday, May 28th, 1862, we were called on yesterday (the 27th) at 8 o’clock A.M. for picket. Went and found the enemy’s pickets in close proximity with ours, and upon our arrival saluted us with a fire from their lines. The grand guards were about two hundred yards apart and most of the time was in plain view of each other. Our men were not permitted to fire, but the enemy failed not to improve every opportunity when any part of our body would be exposed. About noon they became more reconciled and commenced conversation, which continued most of the afternoon about as follows:

Secesh [secessionist], “Hello over there, stick your head out and let me see it.”

Union, “I won’t do it. What do you shoot so much for? There is no use in so much shooting. We won’t shoot if you don’t!”

Secesh, “Enough said.”

Union, “Come over and take dinner with me.”

Secesh, “I would if I was not afraid you would shoot me! Have you got any coffee?”

Union, “Yes”

Secesh, “Got any tobacco?”

Union, “Yes, come over and get some.”

Secesh, “I will trade you whisky for coffee and sugar.”

Union, “You come over and I will give you some.” Secesh, “How many cannons have you got at the landing?” Union, “Got enough to blow you to hell and have powder left. Where is Old Beauregard?”

Secesh, “He is here.”

Union, “That is a lie! He is not at Corinth.”

Secesh, “How do you know?”

Union, “I know all about it.”

Secesh, “Where is Halleck?”

Union, “He is here.”

Secesh, “Have you got any niggers over there?”

Union, “No!”

Secesh, “That's a lie.”

They would talk a half hour, and someone would shoot, and then they would shoot with vengeance for a while, and then resume the conversation. Tell each other to give their respects to the girls &c &c. Sometimes they would use abusive language. The day was very warm.

I had charge of an Irish squad, was relieved at dark, fell back on the reserve, slept till morning, or tried to sleep, as I had an awful headache, returned to post at 7 o’clock A.M.

The Ground is Contested

Wednesday, 4 o’clock P.M., May 28th, 1862
In camp near Corinth, Mississippi

This morning at 7 o’clock A.M., our lines were formed and shortly advanced in force. Met and drove back the enemy’s line of pickets, throwing shells from two batteries.

The order of advance was as follows, line of skirmishers in front, next infantry in three distinct lines of battle, 3rd Artillery, 4th Cavalry, in sequence. Soon the volleys of musketry and roar of cannon were terrific, the enemy replying with his batteries.

May 28th, 1862

The engagement is general; the firing on the center and left was and is terrific. The right wing advanced and drove the enemy from their camps leaving everything behind them, which our men took possession of. We have a number of men killed and wounded, but the number I know not and as the battle rages, the number increases.

Cannonading has ceased on the right wing for a few moments, but increases on the center. Our division gained a position, in view of the enemy works. We took a number of prisoners.

Our regiment is laying [sic] in reserve, consequently we are not exposed, perhaps will be engaged tomorrow.

Corporal S.G. Ruby got a pass for five days to go to Hamburgh [Hamburg, just south of South Pittsburg, TN], Tennessee River. Lt. M. R. Frederick started this morning for home, luck to him. Wish I was going with him.

Eighteen regiments of cavalry made reconnaissance in direction of Purdy; have not returned yet.

Just received two letters, one from W.G. Moreland and one from Sisters Mary and Mattie, good news. Glad to hear from home.

Six o’clock P.M., cannonading on the left and center is terrific. I hope it will continue until the thing is settled. Health good.

May 29th, 1862

In camp near Corinth, Mississippi

Heavy cannonading last night and this morning, heavy musketry on the center. Eight o’clock A.M., all quiet at this moment.

Nine and a half A.M., we are ordered to march and take position in front. Our right rests on General Sherman’s left, supporting two batteries, one consisting of seven siege guns in size 22 and 64 pounds, under the other, brass field howitzers and a rifled cannon 12. Sherman’s men take 40 prisoners. Two deserters come in.

Two P.M., our pickets are heavily attacked. The ground is contested, for our men hold it under heavy fire.

This 4 P.M., the cannonading on the left this evening is terrific. We will go it while we are young.


Six P.M., our siege guns moved out and planted three fourths of a mile from the enemy’s outer works having a commanding range of the same. This day has been remarkably warm. Two of our pickets are wounded.

A report this evening is current that General Banks has been repulsed with considerable ease in Virginia. The report is not credited, but if so Rebeldom will have great rejoicing.

Over the Enemy’s Breastworks

May 30th, 1862
In camp near Corinth
Mississippi

All quiet last night along our lines, except signal rockets thrown by the enemy. We lay last night on the ground as usual as tents are out of fashion. Night was very warm, too warm for covering of any kind.

Six A.M., a great noise in the direction of Corinth as of repeated explosions, I think Corinth is evacuated and that is a signal for pickets to come in. I just came from the picket line and saw a great smoke at Corinth. I believe they have left and set fire to the town.

Seven A.M., a deserter comes in and declares that Corinth is evacuated; just now the 8th Missouri, 3rd Iowa and 28th Illinois Regiment of infantry are ordered to test the matter. I am in too much of a glee to write more now.

Five o’clock P.M., just returned from pursuing the enemy; had a very hard time, and am very tired.

We went over the enemy’s breastworks this morning on quick time and into Corinth on double quick, found they had evacuated; made a clean sweep. What they could not take they destroyed, such a time I never saw, infantry, cavalry and artillery going in the greatest haste, each trying to get there first. We entered the town and were near suffocated [by] the depth of the dust, the flames of the buildings on fire and the unrestrained rays of the burning sun in the narrow streets of a town in Mississippi; was more than man could stand. We hesitated but a moment in town, but pursued the enemy, southwest.

About 3 miles beyond Corinth where we halted, rested for a few moments, and with the 28th Illinois were ordered to camp, being relieved by other troops. The retiring army destroyed the bridges after them. We took a number of prisoners, many giving themselves up.

We returned to the town where we rested for a moment, giving us an opportunity to view the great destruction of property, army stores and everything else. The warehouses & all that was in them were burned. All valuables and public property, even to a large church, were burned. Many things however were left in their hasty retreat.

Their breastworks northwest of Corinth were 3 ½ miles from town and ¾ of a mile from ours, but were not half so strong as ours. Well for them that they escaped our clutches; many of their sick were left behind, many of them crawling in the woods to hide. The enemy is being pressed by [Major General John] Pope and Buell, and part of General George H. Thomas’s divisions.

May 31st, 1862

I pulled off boots, socks and pants last night for the first time in many weeks and took a good sleep. Awoke this morning sore and stiff as a racehorse.

The day is intensely hot, some cannonading in the distance. The talk is today where will we go next?

At 6 P.M., we were called on review, brigade review. Our brigade consists of six regiments of infantry; reviewed by General Hurlbut.

June 1st, 1862, Sabbath
Camp near Corinth, Mississippi
Army of Tennessee

Had a good sleep last night. Rained a very little.

I am on duty this A.M. with a squad to dig wells, as water is very scarce. Have completed the wells; have good success. Occasional showers of rain this P.M.; glad to see it. Rain, as it is very dry. Our company goes on guard at 5 P.M.; I will be on till 12 midnight.

This is Sabbath and I have been on duty all day; read little.

Corinth, Tenn, May 1862

A Good Deal of Skirmishing

At 2 o’clock we were ordered out to support a battery, the enemy having possession of some houses in a large field one mile from our camp. The house being in the center of the field and held by a strong force of the enemy could not be approached by our line of pickets suffering great loss, this in connection with a heavy picket which the enemy had brought up kept annoying our lines very much; so our general determined to drive them from their strongholds. We advanced upon them, the right wing of our regiment deploying as skirmish; we advanced as far as the fence around the field. Our battery was planted at one corner of the same. General Sherman’s division planted one at the other corner of the field, his men charging upon the house under a heavy fire of the enemy drove them from their position killing and wounding many of them, with a small loss on our side. Then we commenced shelling the woods with our batteries, doing great execution.

Soon, the drums of the enemy began to beat-off. We could hear them distinctly as though they were marching, but in what direction I could not ascertain. At sundown we withdrew from our position and fell back into line without hearing a reply from the enemy’s batteries. We remained in position till 11 o’clock P.M. when we were relieved by another regiment, so we returned to camp and slept till morning in camp near Corinth, Mississippi.

Bolen’s Battery

The Sabbath, May 18th, 1862, everything is quiet along our lines this beautiful Lord’s Day morning. The enemy pickets poured a volley into ours [picket] as they were relieving the old guards. But more than this, the fighting was a bit trifling in comparison with other days.

Our pickets advanced today. I think the shell we gave them last night cooled them down considerably. I do not think they respect the Sabbath as a day for rest so much as they fear the shell from our batteries.

This was not a day of rest for me as I was detailed on fatigue duty to cut away some timber in front of Bolen’s Battery, as to give them range with their rifled cannon into an open field. This, however, we completed by 12 o’clock; the remainder of the day I had to myself.

Monday, May the 19th A.D., 1862

Camp 4 miles from Corinth

We were early called in line this morning. Some movement had taken place which our generals were watching. I think perhaps the enemy was moving on our right flank. Picket engagements were heavy. Late in the afternoon heavy cannonading was heard on our left. Picket engagements continued all day until dark.

Off Corinth 4 miles

Tuesday, May the 20th, 62, a heavy rain fell last night. The pickets were early engaged this morning and continue to skirmish up to this hour 9 A.M.

10 o’clock A.M., heavy cannonading on the left of the right wing, continued for several hours. Heavy cannonading in the distance, supposed to be on the left wing. Generals John Pope & Mitchell engaging the enemy, also volleys of musketry in the direction of Corinth and in other directions; the cause of which is unknown. At times the pickets are heavily engaged, not very great demonstrations along our lines this evening.

The rain continues to fall slowly. Lieutenant Colonel Scott arrived today; all glad to see him take command. He is in good health. My health is good; am in good spirits, anxious for the fight to come off - in camp near Corinth Mississippi.

WCNewlon

Fortifying Our Position

Wednesday, May the 21st

In camp 2 ½ miles from Corinth

We were ordered this morning at 7 o’clock A.M. to march with knapsack, accouterments, axes, shovels and two days’ rations. But were delayed till 10 ½ A.M., when we advanced slow and quietly within 2 ½ miles of Corinth, when we formed our lines, stacked arms and proceeded with great caution to fortify under the range of the enemy’s guns.

To prevent the enemy from ascertaining our intentions we were not allowed to chop, so we went to work with picks and shovels, and ere the sun had set we were well fortified, with a deep ditch on the outside of the earthworks, and on the inside one foot deep and 6 feet wide.

Our fortifications here are more formidable than any heretofore made by us. An officer belonging to the 25th Indiana, who was at the taking of Fort Donelson, informed me that the fortifications here were stronger than them of Donelson. While working here, about 4,000 Cavalry [CSA] annoyed one of the Indiana regiments on the left of our division by rushing upon them, trying to drive them away, but they were soon routed after a nice little fight.

The enemy advanced in force on General Davis’s division while fortifying, but a few shells from his batteries made them skedadle. We have driven the enemy back time and again often shelling the woods in front of their lines and in no instance have they replied with their guns. Occasionally we can hear cannonading on our left and in the direction of Corinth; supposed to be on the other side of that noted place. The picket engagements were not so protracted as yesterday.

We completed our fortifications by sundown. As we had no tents, I collected some brush and leaves made a bed upon the ground. Where after partaking of a supper, hot coffee, fish, ham, eggs &c (in an iron), I laid my weary limbs to rest, &c &c

WC Newlon

 Company G, 3rd Brigade, Iowa Infantry

Mississippi

Thursday, May 22nd, 1862

2 ½ miles off Corinth, Mississippi

Being so very tired last night, I slept but little.

The pickets continued their skirmishing the greater part of the night. In the after part of the night, heavy cannonading on the left and beyond Corinth.

Moved camp and baggage this forenoon up to this position, placing them 500 yards in rear of fortifications.

The weather is very warm. My health is excellent.

Everything is comparatively quiet along our lines, but little skirmishing between the pickets up to this time, three o’clock P.M.

For the past week, the whistle of engines and the running of oars could be distinctly heard. But since yesterday, although the wind was favorable, we cannot hear them running as usual. What is the cause of it, I cannot tell whether they have evacuated or whether our forces have possession of the railroads.

Distant cannonading is heard on the extreme right. Six o’clock P.M., occasional cannonading on the left, light skirmishing between the pickets. Our company went on guard at 2 o’clock and 20 minutes. The day is very warm.

Drums of the Enemy

Friday, May the 23rd, 1862

In camp 2 ½ miles off Corinth, Mississippi

Everything quiet along the lines this morning except a few scattering shots from pickets. At 9 A.M. heavy volleys of musketry were fired into our pickets from the enemy, as they were being relieved by the new guard. The sky is clouded and the rain is falling, cooling the atmosphere, making it very pleasant. My duty last night was sentinel post on fortifications.

The night was pleasant. At three A.M. I heard the faint whistle of steam engines at Corinth, about the same time I could distinctly hear the drums of the enemy in camp at Corinth. I think ere long their drums will beat no more, and the patriotic tunes of the C.S.A. will be heard no more.

W.C. Newlon USA

Saturday, May the 24th, 1862

In camp 2 ½ miles off Corinth, Mississippi

A very steady rain fell this forenoon. Nothing unusual has taken place along our lines today up to this time, 4 P.M., except that our pickets have advanced a little without much resistance from the enemy.

Today there is a scaffold being erected 400 feet right on the top of the highest hill along our lines by General Davis, first division on our left. This once erected, we will have a commanding view of the enemy, whereby, we will be able to ascertain in a great measure the strength and position of the same.

As the enemy permitted us to build fortifications at this place almost without molestation, and from other indications, I think our lines will be advanced a short distance before long and fortify as at this place, unless strongly resisted by the enemy. I do not understand why it is that the enemy is so strongly entrenched at Corinth as reported to be; will permit us to advance so close to their fortifications and fortify as we advance.

The rain has ceased, the air has become quite cool and pleasant.



Confederate Cash

Iowa Volunteers is the Blog for greensblueandgray.com links and lists, and here features a CSA $10 note.

There was plenty of gold at the start of the Civil War. US gold pieces called Eagles were worth $10; double Eagles, Half Eagles and Quarter Eagles were common.

As the war progressed, people hoarded the gold, causing the coins to disappear from circulation.

Confederate-issued paper money took up the slack, but lost value quickly. By March 1863, $40 in CSA currency could buy $10 worth of gold in Atlanta. A month later, the price was $50. By July, a single Eagle was valued at $121.10!

Tennessee Narrative, May 1862

Took Up a Line of March, May 1862
Our stay here was of short duration. We had scarcely got our camp cleaned up, when we were again ordered to advance with four days’ rations in haversack. So according to order, we struck tents at 7 o’clock A.M. Sabbath morning, and soon after took up a line of march in the direction of Corinth. We had proceeded but a short distance when it commenced raining, continuing to rain all day, causing the roads to be almost impassable.

We waded along through rain, mud and water until near night, stopping every few rods, waiting for the wagon train belonging to the division in front, as they were continually swamping and sticking in the mire along the road. Finding that we were not going to get through that day if we waited on the train, so we passed them, plunging through the mud like so many oxen.

Passing by Monterey, a little insignificant Hamlet situated on the top of a high ridge, from which you have a grand view of the surrounding country, which view represents the surrounding county as far as the eye can see as being covered with one dense forest of timber almost destitute of inhabitants and equally as destitute of civilization. General Davis’s division was in camp at this place.

After marching two miles in a southwest direction beyond Monterey, we came to a halt about dark in a heavy body of timber. We were informed that this would be our camping ground. While here, we were without tents or anything to keep the rain off, which continued to fall all night long upon us without mercy.

However, we cut some brush and spread our blankets down upon them, laid our weary limbs down to while away the night in sweet sleep and pleasant dreams, awoke in morning found ourselves half buried in water. Slept sound; dreamt of going into Corinth with a flag of truce. After getting informed I had no flag, [I] was in a pretty fix; got back safe. And lo and behold, it was a dream, and the rain ceased not for many days.
Skirmishing Continued During the Night
Our baggage trains and artillery did not get to camp till the evening, and it was with much difficulty that it got along at that time.

We remained here two days, and then changed position to the south one mile distant, our line being in rear of an old plantation. We remained here one day, and again advancing two miles, driving in the enemy’s pickets as we advanced, and occupying their ground. This was rather an impudent trick, but Ma Secessia had to fall back, and let northern federals come in.

The next day Saturday the 10th, the pickets had quite a skirmish with those of the enemy. We were called in line of battle, but as the enemy made no further demonstrations, we returned to our company streets, stacked arms, remained with accouterments on during the day, so as to be ready for any emergency. In the evening, we commenced in cutting away the timber in front of our lines and throwing up breast-works.

Sabbath, May the 12th, 62, skirmishing continued during the night. This morning everything appears to be quiet along the lines; we continue to work upon the works and clear them [timber] away for artillery. As the timber is heavy, much work is done.

Monday, May the 13th, 62, last night, [Gen. William Tecumseh] Sherman’s pickets attacked those of Major General John A. McClernand, taking them for the enemy. The firing was brisk, but not much damage done to either party; at day break the mistake was discovered.

Today the glorious news of the destruction of the Merrimack, the rebel war steamer, the capture of Yorktown, the surrender of the Gosport Navy Yard and the brilliant success of our navy on the water. We gave three hearty cheers for the officers and men engaged for their gallant conduct.

Tuesday 13th, pickets continue to skirmish; we continue to build breastworks. The weather is very warm.

Wednesday May the 14th, 1862, we advanced two miles, drove in the enemy picket occupied their ground, commenced immediately to build breastworks and to cut away the timber in front of our lines, which we completed late at night.

A Letter Home
Camp in field, near Corinth
Army of the Tennessee
State of Mississippi

May 15th, 1862

Dear Lydia,

Seeing I have not written anything of importance to you for some [time], I propose this very warm afternoon to write you a few lines, whereby you may know that I am yet above ground. But how long to remain, I cannot tell as the approaching storm is very near at hand.

And, I would just say at the onset that ere [before] I have written this page, we may be called into line of battle. We have been advancing on Corinth from Pittsburg Landing for the last two weeks, advancing at first from three to 5 miles at one time, and the farther we advance, the shorter would be the distance of advancement.

For the last three or four times, we would advance, but one or two miles at one time, stopping one or two days after each advancement for the purpose of building breastworks and cutting away the timber in front of our fire lines for the distance of three hundred paces. (for this part of the country) The timber is very heavy and much work is required to make our works formidable, in case that necessity should compel us to retreat, we would have something to fall back on, and thus prevent disaster.

We are now in the state of Mississippi, five miles from Corinth, in very close proximity with the enemy. And while I am writing, the pickets, only one half mile distant, are fighting with those of the enemy’s [sic]. But this is nothing new to me, for this has been going on for the past week. But the closer we get, the sharper are the engagements.

The enemy’s pickets are constantly in sight of our line, and as we advance, they very reluctantly fall back before unflinching Patriots. In advancing so often, makes a great deal of labor. We have to work the greater part of each night, as it is too warm for any successful operations during the heat of the day. And in addition to this, we are required to rise at 3 o’clock each morning and form in line of battle, and remain in this position until after day light. Then we return to our company streets, stack arms and hold ourselves in readiness for an engagement with the enemy at any moment.

We took the position that we occupy at present, yesterday at 4 P.M. The engagements by the pickets were warm, the enemy presenting a heavy line. Not much damage was done to either party as they kept at reasonable distance from each other. At 6 o’clock, a battery in Gen. Sherman’s division threw a few shells into the woods for the purpose of routing them.

Our position here is pretty good; we worked hard yesterday evening and last night in making defenses. We have very good breastworks thrown up with the timber cut down 300 paces in front, so as to give us good musket range in case they felt like trying a pull in the way of shooting a little.

Gen. Hurlbut came around last night where we were at work; he appeared to be very much surprised at the amount of labor we had performed in so short a time. Since the battle at Pittsburg Landing, we think much more of Gen. Hurlbut than we used to do. He also has a great deal of confidence in the Iowa 3rd, and says that they will do to lie to [sic] in a fight. But you must not think that I like to puff the 3rd Iowa because I am a member of that fighting body of Iowa nerves.

The pickets are piching [sic] in pretty strong just now. They must not shoot over this way for I am writing under a shade tree, and it would be a pity that I should be disturbed. What you think Lydia?

I have just been called on to go to the Landing with a train for provisions. I will finish when I return.

WC Newlon

A Desolate Appearance
As we are at work, the pickets are keeping up a continual roar of musketry, the enemy not willing to give away to our advancing guard. At 5 P.M., we threw a number of shells into the woods for the purpose of shelling and driving them from the woods, which had its desired effect. The canister and shell they could not stand; they did not trouble our lines quite as much during the night.

Thursday May the 15th, 62, things remained quiet along our lines during last night, but this morning the same routine continues as heretofore. The pickets continue to fight as though it was fun, although each day many are killed and wounded. At 3 o’clock P.M. our train starts to Pittsburg Landing for provisions; I go with them. We arrived to the Landing at 12 o’clock that night.

Friday May the 16th, 62, we proceeded this morning as soon as day to get our teams loaded, but owing to the great number of trains after provisions and forage for the army near Corinth, we could not get to the boat till about 10 o’clock A.M. Many steamers are here with provisions for the army. At the lower landing there is a great quantity of disabled artillery taken at the Pittsburg [Landing] Battle.

The distance to the Landing from our camp is 22 miles, and the county between the two has a desolate appearance. At one time covered with tents and swarming with busy soldiers, but now vacated; the ground covered with barrels, boxes, cooking utensils and every imaginable thing. The weather is warm and the roads very dusty.

We reached camp at midnight, tired and weary, with five days’ rations for our regiment. What times are these, what tuff times soldiers do have in this war. Soon may it end.

Camp near Corinth, Miss
Co. G, 3rd Iowa Inf.

Saturday, May the 17th, 1862

Camp near Corinth Mississippi

Our company came in from picket this morning; they did a good deal of skirmishing, but lost no men, although the enemy made himself very conspicuous in their presence.

Good Morning, Lydia!

Saturday, May 17th, 1862

Good Morning, Lydia!

I have got back into the wild of Mississippi again and you. But, I feel pretty tuff this morning, for I have not slept any for two nights. The distance to the Landing is 22 miles and owing to the emergency of the case, we were compelled to travel at night to make the connection. The [___] gone into the interior. The whole county presents a desolate field, covered with barrels, boxes, cooking utensils, blankets, broken wagons, disabled artillery; here and there a hospital tent &e, every imaginable thing giving our old camping ground a most desolate appearance. There is one continual train of teams going to and from the Landing, often after provisions for the armies in Tennessee.

The grand army of Tennessee is divided into three armies, [___], right wing called the Army of the Tennessee, left wing commanded by General Pope, called the Army of the Mississippi, center, commanded by General Buell, called the Army of the Ohio. All are commanded by General Halleck, General Grant’s second in command. General Sigle has command of the artillery. We are in the right wing, commanded by General Thomas. General Hurlbut commanding our division.

We have not moved in the advance for four days, we are as close to the enemy as we can get without bringing on a general engagement. Our company just came in from picket duty, being out 24 hours. As I was gone [to Pittsburg Landing], I did not go out. They were in sight of the enemy all the time. They done a good deal of skirmishing, we had four men wounded slightly (not our company). The work is progressing, firing continues to increase, often heavy volleys of musketry salutes our ears, and for a change in program, we have booming of artillery, although the enemy, has not as yet replied to our guns.

I think the ball will open in a few hours unless something is done to the contrary. How I long for the result. If we have to fight them, I say let us commence now. I am anxious for the engagement (not that I love fighting) but that we may have it over. Many think that Corinth is being evacuated. I think not, I believe that they are being reinforced by the forces, which had possession of Orleans. I believe the enemy to be bringing in every available force to their assistance. Yet I firmly believe that we will be successful, and expect ere you read this, to march into the city of Corinth under the stars and stripes, stepping to the time of Yankee Doodle. Oh! What a glorious time that will be. God grant that that glorious time come ere another sun is set. Everything is going on to my notion. The enemy is being compelled to abandon every stronghold where our armies were brought to bear upon them. When out on picket, we can distinctly hear the music in both armies - the one playing Star Spangled Banner, &e, the other Dixie, &e. A different tune from either will be played very shortly. All civilians, news reporters &e, who have not a pass from the Secretary of War, are excluded from our lines. This I think a good thing; no man should be permitted to enter the line on the eve of a battle.

How hot it is! And it is only May! What will it be in mid-summer? Hope I will be out of Dixie before that time comes. I suppose Ruby has something to say about me in every letter he writes to his Dear Sophy. What a pity he has no more to write. Well, they are excusable, for children are always at something. Blakely is with us and has good health, and wonders if people on North River are all well. Great Blakely!

Well, if you can read and make good sense of what I have written today, I must acknowledge you a better scholar than the author. &e &

WC Newlon

Lincoln's Legasy

"A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved--I do not expect the house to fall--but I do expect it to cease to be divided.

It will become one thing, or all the other. Either the opponents of slavery will arrest the further spread of it, and place it where the public mind shall rest in the belief that it is in the course of ultimate extinction; or its advocates will push it forward till it shall become alike lawful in all States, old as well as new, North as well as South."

                                                                               To the Republican State Convention
                                                               in Springfield, Illinois, June 16, 1858

After The Shiloh Battle

Follow Sergeant Will Newlon on Twitter: @SgtNewlon. And now, from the War Journal of Sgt. William Newlon we continue...

After the Engagement


Colonel Williams, acting-brigadier general, was disabled early in the morning of the first day, by a cannon ball cutting his horse in two under the saddle. Major Stone, who had command of the 3rd Regiment, Iowa Infantry, was taken prisoner in the afternoon of the same day. Captain A. L. Ogg was wounded in both hands. His first lieutenant, P[hilo] G.C. Merrill, was wounded and taken prisoner. Quite a number of company officers belonging to our regiment were killed and wounded.

The loss in our regiment in killed, wounded and missing is 206, and that of our company is two killed, 15 wounded, and 13 missing. The whole amounting to 30 men out of our company, which makes it at present comparatively small indeed.

WC Newlon
One of my messmates, S.F. Anderson, was killed during the engagement near our camp. He was a fine young man and a good soldier. I do not know that he missed one day’s duty during his time of service. I miss him as a messmate and as a friend.

Also O. M. Nicholas, who was seriously wounded on Sabbath evening of the engagement, had his left arm broken with a ball and one through the left side of his breast, but since has had his arm amputated, his wounds are serious and I have fears of his recovery. God’s great care may restore health.

But the one I miss the most of all is my friend and messmate B.F. Murray, who, I presume, is a prisoner with the enemy as he is among the missing. He had been very unwell for some time prior to the battle and was far from being well when he went on the field of action. But he, being one of those who knew his services were needed, but went out to battle more from a sense of duty than anything else. I do trust he may be treated well and live to return to his friends who mourn his misfortunes.

I myself was wounded about 4 o’clock P.M. of the first day, in the right leg but not serious, as I looked around and saw hundreds with legs, arms and bodies torn to pieces, I felt that I should be thankful that I had escaped with so slight a wound, however this the 16th day of April the wound is healing finally, and I hope that in a short time I will be entirely well, little if any worse off than I was before I was wounded.

May I be so fortunate as to pass through this war with no more harm done to my person than was done through this terrible battle, I owe thanks to my Creator for the preservation of life thus far through this great and bloody war, and humbly desire that same omnipotent hand may be a shield through dangers to come until the end of the war, and grant God that that time may speedily come. But I am wandering from my subject.

As evening came our forces fell back toward the river. The enemy advancing a short distance &c &c.

General Buell's Forces

As night approached, the firing ceased except the gunboats, one of which threw a shell every 15 minutes till morning into the enemy’s camp. Both armies lay upon their arms on the field during the night, notwithstanding the torrents of rain, which fell. The enemy however fell back one mile further from our lines.

General Buell's forces, part of which had arrived on the opposite side of the River from Pittsburg Landing, crossed during the night to our assistance greatly relieving us as they took the advance.

Early on Monday morning, the battle commenced at different points along the line. Our forces making the attack, one division of General Buell's divisions succeeded in flanking the enemy on our right, driving him from his position toward the center; this occurred at 10 o’clock A.M. The battle raged with fury. The firing appeared not to cease, but a continual roar louder than thunder was heard without cessation. Great bravery and gallantry was exhibited by both officers and men.

The battle continued raging with great destruction until 3 o’clock P.M., when the enemy appeared to waiver under the heavy fire of musketry and artillery from our line. They fought with the desperations of devils and as though it was their last and only hope.

Again they rallied and made a terrible dash upon our lines with a determination to break them, but our lines were not to be broken and failing in this, they began to fall back. Soon they began to retreat followed by our men firing shot and shell among them with great destruction. The retreat became general and the further the faster, hotly pursued by our cavalry until the lateness of the evening made the pursuit further impossible.

No sooner had the news of the retreat reached the landing (Where troops were still landing), than a shout of joy was making the hills echo with their voices. The cavalry at the landing started in pursuit of the fleeing enemy.

The battleground covered an area of six miles and this was covered with the killed and wounded of both armies. In some places the ground was literally covered with the dead and wounded of the enemy. The loss of the enemy I presume was 25,000 that of ours were perhaps 18,000 in killed, wounded and missing.

WC Newlon

After recording a few items connected with one of the bloodiest battles ever fought in America, I will return to the position of our army after the battle. The first week after the engagement was spent in bringing in the wounded on both sides and in burying the dead men and horses. Many of the wounded remained on the field 48 hours after they fell; numbers dying before they could get relief. All the teams and ambulances were busily engaged bringing in the wounded to the river, where their wounds were dressed and all that were in condition were sent aboard the boats for northern cities.

The amputation of limbs and the extractions of balls was the work of days. The cold, rainy weather, which commenced the evening of the 6th and continued for some time, proved to be a great benefit to our wounded, also in preserving the bodies of the dead and in washing the blood from the ground, also in purifying the air from the stench arising from the slaughter of man and beast. All returned to their former camps, some few however, had been burnt by the enemy and others’ minds torn and shattered by shot and shell.

After spending a week or more in cleaning up, things began to assume their former appearance. We remained here but a short time, the whole line advancing about 3 miles, threw our camp in an open field. At the time of our removal I was very sick and was hauled in a wagon to the ground and consequently knew but little about things for a day or two. We remained here five days, when we again struck tents and advanced 4 miles in a southwest direction, halting and pitching tents in a beautiful piece of timbered land. This threw us in front, and the consequence was that we had to stand picket guard.

In marching to our campground we passed over the campground of the enemy prior to and at the time of the battle. Everything indicated great destruction of property and a hasty and unexpected retreat. The burning of tents, camp equipage, commissary stores, ammunition, &c &c appeared to be a general thing. Artillery wagons had their spokes cut in two to keep them from being of use to us, not knowing that we had as much as we wanted.

WC Newlon, Esq

BROTHER JONATHAN'S LAMENT FOR SISTER CAROLINE

Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809-1894)

She has gone,-she has left us in passion and pride
Our stormy-browed sister, so long at our side!
She has torn her own star from our firmament's glow,
And turned on her brother the face of a foe!

O Caroline, Caroline, child of the sun,
We can never forget that our hearts have been one,
Our foreheads both sprinkled in Liberty's name,
From the fountain of blood with the finger of flame!

You were always too ready to fire at a touch;
But we said: "She is hasty,-she does not mean much."
We have scowled when you uttered some turbulent threat;
But Friendship still whispered: "Forgive and forget!"

Has our love all died out? Have its altars grown cold?
Has the curse come at last which the fathers foretold?
Then Nature must teach us the strength of the chain
That her petulant children would sever in vain.

They may fight till the buzzards are gorged with their spoil,
Till the harvest grows black as it rots in the soil,
Till the wolves and the catamounts troop from their caves,
And the shark tracks the pirate, the lord of the waves:

In vain is the strife! When its fury is past,
Their fortunes must flow in one channel at last,
As the torrents that rush from the mountains of snow
Roll mingled in peace through the valleys below.

Our Union is river, lake, ocean, and sky;
Man breaks not the medal when God cuts the die!
Though darkened with sulphur, though cloven with steel,
The blue arch will brighten, the waters will heal!

O Caroline, Caroline, child of the sun,
There are battles with Fate that can never be won!
The star-flowering banner must never be furled,
For its blossoms of light are the hope of the world!

Go, then, our rash sister! afar and aloof,
Run wild in the sunshine away from our roof,
But when your heart aches and your feet have grown sore,
Remember the pathway that leads to our door!