Saturday, November 30, 2013

11/30/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

30, 1861 - Execution of Henry Fry and Jacob M. Henchie 

Disposing of the Traitors-The Knoxville Register, of December 1st, says:

"Greenville, Nov. 30-5:15 P. M.

"Just forty minutes ago Henry Fry and Jacob W. Henchie were hung at this place, dead, DEAD, DEAD, for bridge burning. It was done by military authority.

H. G. Robertson.

Col. Leadbetter, a firm and determined officer, is in command, we believe, of the military post at Greeneville. We presume the prisoners were tried by a drumhead court martial. Fry, it will be remembered, as the captain of the Lincolnite company who fired upon our troops a could of months since, killing one, and subsequently making his escape. We have reason to believe that hereafter all who ware caught in arms against the Confederate Government, giving aid and comfort to the enemy, or otherwise inciting rebellion, will be summarily dealt with.

Daily Picayune, December 4, 1861. [1]

 

 

30, 1862 - Cupid and Confederate conscription confusion near Knoxville

MALICIOUS CONDUCT OF MAJOR RUCKER.

Some days ago Major Rucker was in conversation with a fair, fat and forty buxom widow of an adjoining county where by accident she mentioned the age of one of her admirers, saying that he was not quite thirty-nine. The Major made a mental note of the fact, and soon departed. He went straightway in pursuit of this juvenile admirer of the attractive widow, whom he had before learned was a little more than forty years of age. When he arrested Mr. Johnson, Rucker stated that he regretted to inform him that he was under the painful necessity of conscripting him. "I have learned," said Rucker, "from Widow _____ that you are only thirty-nine' she says that you told her so, and I feel it my duty to take you down to Col. Blake."

"Oh! ah! yes," said Mr. Johnson, "in fact sir, to tell you the truth, sir, I did lie just a little to the Widow _____ I wanted, yes-I wanted to get married-you understand, don't you Major."

"I don't understand anything about it," said Rucker, "you must go with me."

Mr. Johnson's knees smote one another, and in tremulous accents, he besought Major Rucker to permit him to send for the old family Bible. This was agreed to. In the mean time Rucker and his new levy proceeded to Col. Blake's Head Quarters. By the time they reached Knoxville, Rucker became satisfied that his follower was not less than three score years and ten. The Widower's hair dye was washed away, his false teeth had been removed, his form was bent by the immense pressure of mental anxiety.

Col. Blake wished to know why this antediluvian had been brought to him; but so complete had been the metamorphosis of the gay widower, that even Rucker blushed when he looked upon him.

The Family Bible came, and there it was written in the faded scrawl of Mr. Johnson's grand mother "Silus Jonsing baun in Bunkum, Nawth Calliny; Anny Domminy 1783!!" [sic]

Knoxville Daily Register, November 30, 1862.

 

 

 

        30, 1863 - GENERAL ORDERS, No. 162, relative to illegal sale of Federal uniforms in Memphis

GENERAL ORDERS, No. 162, HDQRS. SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tennessee, November 30, 1863.

Merchants doing business in the city of Memphis....having supplied improper and unauthorized persons with military clothing, to the prejudice and detriment of the service, and it being impossible otherwise to control or regulate the matter-

It is therefore ordered, that all merchants in the city of Memphis not having permission from these headquarters to keep and sell military clothing of the patterns authorized by army regulations, shall immediately ship their stocks north of the lines of the Department of the Tennessee.

The following named merchants are reported to have stocks of military clothing on hand, and not having the necessary authority to trade in the same from these headquarters, will without delay conform to this order: Samter & Lepstadt, 310 Main street; Scheadzki & Co., 302 Main street; Kahn & Co., 268 Main street; I. Schwob, 264 Main street; Loeb & Brother, 260 Main street; M. Skaller & Co., 556 Main street; Fuld, Brother & Co., 217 Main street; Loeb & Co., 251 Main street; S. & L.S. Hellman, 2765 Main street; H. Newmark, 317 Main street; G. F. Morris & Co., 332 Main street; Mass & Co., 21 Shelby street; Stow & Schapsky, Gayoso House; I. Mayer & Co., 23 Front Row; Krouse & Co., 24 Front Row.

Military clothing, shoulder-straps, &c., not made according to the provisions of, and in strict conformity with, Article LI, Revised Army Regulations, will not be permitted to be offered for sale within this command.

The attention of merchants and of all commanders is called to Generals Orders No. 36, dated March 24, 1863, from these headquarters.

OR, Ser. 1, Vol. 31, pt. III, pp 289-290.

 

 

30, 1864 A McMinnville Confederate Woman's Impressions of the Battle of Franklin

* * * *

....Wednesday [30th] was a golden day....I was out in the yard the greater portion of the day--and set out some hyacinths and tulips. While at our pleasant work on this pleasant day--I would pause every now and then to listen to a dull shudder in the air, which we so well knew to be distant cannon. It reminded me so forcibly of the day when the battle of Stone's River was fought--Tho' [sic] that was just one month later, and the day tho' [sic] bright was not so warm. There was a fresher breeze on that day too and the cannonading sounded much louder. Towards evening on Wednesday the guns seemed to redouble their efforts, but the sound was different. Instead of being a shudder in the air, the reports came like a thick--falling thud--Mollie had come home that day and we listed to the guns with hearts filled with varied emotions. Hope and fear, joy and sadness swayed us by turns. Towards nightfall all was quiet....

* * * *

War Journal of Lucy Virginia French, entry for December 3, 1864.



[1] As cited in PQCW.


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Friday, November 29, 2013


        29, 1861 - Newspaper Report on Confederate Military in East Tennessee and Courts in East Tennessee; Occupation of Elizabethton

From East Tennessee.

From the Register we learn that a cavalry company, commanded by Capt. Gorham, has arrived in Knoxville. It was recruited in Cocke county.

Robert Marvin, Esp., a well known and highly esteemed citizen of Knoxville, died at Nashville on the 23d. His remains were taken to the former city for interment. The next term of the Confederate States district court will commence at Nashville on the 3d Monday of December.

The Register, of the 27th says: "We learn that Hon. Wm. G. Swan recently elected to the Confederate Congress from this district, starts for Richmond to-day. Although not a member of the Provisions Congress, Judge Swan feels that something should be done to bring safety and repose to the distraction section of our State, now unprecedented at Richmond, and his mission is probably to use what influence he has with the "powers that be," for  "the accomplishment of that desirable end?"

The Carter Outbreak,-the Jonesboro' Union, of the 25th says:

["] The expedition which entered Carter county on Saturday [23rd] last, under Maj. Ledbeter, of Stoval's Georgia regiment, on marching to Doe River Cove found no enemy, the insurgents having disbanded. They had camped at that point several days, and their wooden tents were still standing. They were burned, a pen of corn taken possession of, and a few other eatables, when they returned to the line of the insurgents, Capt. McCellan's cavalry company being determined to take possession of and occupy Elizabethton, the county seat. This he performed without opposition, and he is at that point. A few prisoners have been taken and sent to Knoxville on various charges.["]

The same paper has information that an insurrection has broken out in the north part of Washington county. No particulars given.

Referring to the repairs on the burnt bridges, the Union says:

["]The Lick creek bridge is so far repaired that it can be crossed by the cars to-morrow or Monday. The repairs have been made of a temporary trestle-work which will Answer every purpose. The upper Holston bridge is in progress of repair, but will not be ready for five or six weeks, we presume.["]

Memphis Daily Appeal, November 29, 1861. [1]

 

                                                            

        29, 1862 -  "MATRIMONY AND THE WAR"

Marriage seems to be one of the few local institutions and everyday practices of ordinary times which the war has not so seriously affected as one might have been led to anticipate in estimating the costs of the conflict when it began. On the contrary, this very healthful and necessary social habit has been prompted visibly by the stirring events and scenes around about us. The ladies, (heaven bless them!) who are proverbially fond of soldiers are doubtless influenced to these connubial proclivities by the substantial consideration that this trade of war is an uncertain and varying business, and may knock so many poor fellows on the head before it is done with, that the pluerality [sic] will be left with their own sex for ever after; and the men (jolly blades!) go upon the principle of "living whilst we live," with an attendant natural desire of leaving a widow to mourn an untimely or heroic fate. Thus, the papers are fuller of "hymenial [sic]" notices than they were in times of peace.

Love, too, is decidedly cultivated to a greater degree now than under the jog-trot system of quiet and order. Soldiers are as proverbial for their capacity in this direction as the ladies themselves. It is with them a matter of course-as sure it ought to be-and to one and all they are at liberty to swear allegiance.

"Madam, I do as bound in duty

Honor the shadow of your shoe-tie." 

A falling by the way, which include the "foot" itself, and "ankle too," modestly omitted by the poet. We said the other day that the flag and the petticoat are twin sisters; and all the songs on the same subject assure us that "love is the soul of a slashing dragoon," as well as of every other branch of the service, each following that orthodox principle that-

"When far from the lips we love

We have but to make love the lips that are near."

But, after all, practically carrying out the advice of Old Rowley in the end

"Go take a wife unto thine arms, and see

Winter and browning hills

Shall have a charm to thee!" -

Chattanooga Daily Rebel, November 29, 1862

 

 

        29, 1863 - "I think our mission down there is to enforce the conscript law and arrest all the straglers [sic];" F. J. Paine at Camp on the Hiawassee, to his sister, Mary, in Washington, Tennessee

Miss Mary L. Paine

Washington, Tennessee

Camp on Hiawassee, Nov. 29th 1862

Dear Sister,

I drop you a line this morning as I have an opportunity of sending by hand. We are moving on in the direction of Chattanooga slowly. We only go ten or twelve miles a day and getting our hoses shot up and recrusted [sic]. I think our mission down there is to enforce the conscript law and arrest all the straglers [sic] who belong to the army and send them up to their command. I am in good health and getting along very well. The Capt. is now at home and has been for a few days. If he had been there this morning I could have got off to come home a few days on business but as the Capt. is not here, I have to send Lt. Collins [sic]. We have arrangements to take a few men with our company and that is what I have sent Collins back for. I want to get enough to raise the Co. to 100. I have no news. We get no war news in this part of the world. I had quite a pleasant time while we were at Camp Davis. We stayed there 7 days and I saw my sweetheart several times while there. I learn that the 26th has gone down the road. I have not heard from Hab since I was at home. You must all do the best you can. I do not know when I will be at home, but will come the first opportunity. Write me when you get this and leave it at Aults [sic] and tell him to send it by the first one that is passing. My love to all and tell Buck to be a good boy and get along the best he can with the work. I will write again the first opportunity.

Your Brother,

F. J. Paine

Paine Correspondence.[2]

 

 

        29, 1864 - " We are following up Hoods movements." John C. Seibert, 31st Indiana Infantry, writes home from Columbia environs

Near Columbia, Tenn.

Nov. 29, 1864

Dear Rachel

I again have a few leasure [sic] moments to myself whitch [sic] I will consume in writing to you. We left Pulaski on the 23 and have been moving pretty much ever since. We are following up Hoods movements. We are on one side of the Duck River and Hood on the other. There has been considerable heavy skirmishing in front of us for several days but no heavy fighting. We are gathering up a pretty good army in this section and perhaps we will act on the offensive soon. We have just been falling back and fortifying since we left Pulaski. We have been doing some pretty hard night marching. It made me sore for a few days but I am all sound now. I received yours with the announcement of my poor old father's death. It was very sad news to me although I was not surprized [sic] to hear it. I don't know how it was but I was almost shure [sic] that Father was no more before I received your letter. But we have to all die sometime. I received your letter of the 22 yesterday, also one from James. I am glad to hear that you are all getting along well. If [it] was not for my family [I] would enjoy soldiering first rate. I seen your Uncle Jeff, he is well. I seen Frank Deckar the other day, he is well. Tell Mrs. Vance that Frank is well. He got a letter from home last night. All the rest of the boys are well. I have not much time to write. Frank Vance is in Company D. My Cap'ts [sic] name is Noble. We have a good set of officers and men. I am well pleased with my place. The boys are all well mannered.

Yours, Cris

John C. Seibert Correspondence.

 

 

        29, 1864 - Orders to load cattle and stores; Federal logistics prior the battle of Franklin

NASHVILLE, November 29, 1864.

Maj.-Gen. MILROY, Tullahoma:

The 500 cattle at Tullahoma will be driven to Elk River bridge, where they will be turned over to the garrison at that post. They must start very early in the morning of to-morrow, so as to get through in good time. Furnish a guard from your cavalry, which can return and join you at Murfreesborough.

GEO. H. THOMAS, Maj.-Gen., U. S. Volunteers, Cmdg.

 

MURFREESBOROUGH, November 29, 1864--7.50 p.m.

Maj. Gen. R. H. MILROY, Tullahoma:

Two trains of cars will reach you to-night; place all your stores upon them, except three days' rations for your command; they go to Chattanooga. Load them promptly, and be prepared when they move off to march at once to this place by way of Shelbyville; march promptly, but in good order. Have a strong rear guard, under an efficient officer who will protect the rear and allow no straggling or depredations. A large force of rebel cavalry has crossed Duck River above Columbia, and may be expected in this direction by daylight day after to-morrow; possibly to-morrow. I will telegraph you as to the garrison at Elk River before morning.

LOVELL H. ROUSSEAU, Maj.-Gen., U. S. Volunteers.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 45, pt. I, p. 1157.

 



[1] As cited in PQCW.

[2] TLSA Confederate Collection. Box 11, Folder 2, Letters Paine, F. J. [Hereinafter cited as Paine Correspondence/]

James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

11/28/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes - Thanksgiving Day

        28, Newspaper report on Confederate concerns in East Tennessee

MATTERS IN TENNESSEE

Later advices represent that our friends in East Tennessee are actively engaged in quelling the rebellion and bringing the Union men to justice. Scarcely a day passes that they do not bring in scores of prisoners to Chattanooga. On Tuesday last. Capt. Fanksley's company brought in twenty one Union men from Cliff's encampment. The same day 41 were brought from Knoxville, of whom 24 enlisted in the Confederate service.

The men engaged in the Union movement in East Tennessee are represented as an exceedingly ignorant class of men, who have been misled by designing leaders.

Parson Brownlow has been heard from. He is in Sevier county, engaged in preaching the gospel.

General Carroll's brigade left Chattanooga on Thursday to join Gen. Zollicoffer at Jacksboro.

The rebellion in East Tennessee is regarded as effectually put down.

~~~

Later advices from East Tennessee-to Wednesday evening-represent that all the Union men arrested at Chattanooga have taken the oath to support the Confederate Government, and have been released, except Blackford, on whose person was found the plan and papers relating to the bridge burning. The authorities would not permit him to go free. They have him still in prison at Chattanooga.

The Chattanooga Gazette, of Saturday, says 100 or 120 arrests in all have been made of Lincolnites in that and the adjoining counties, and only six or eight in the city.

Macon Daily Telegraph, November 28, 1861

 

 

28, Skirmish at Rome

NOVEMBER 28, 1862.-Skirmishes on the Carthage road, near Hartsville and Rome, Tenn.

Reports of Col. John M. Harlan, Tenth Kentucky Infantry, commanding brigade, with congratulatory orders.

HDQRS. SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, Camp at Castalian Springs, Tenn., November 29, 1862--4.30 a. m.

GEN.: Maj. [Samuel] Hill has returned to Hartsville, and reports that he followed the rebel cavalry beyond Rome, and recaptured 7 of the wagons. The wagons were recaptured on the south side of the river, near Rome. He also reports that he took several prisoners; had some 3 or 4 men killed; drove them some 18 miles, and killed 15 or 20 of them. Maj. Hill reports also that there are no rebels on this side of the river. The party which attacked and captured the train yesterday morning number 200. I inclose of adjutant of the cavalry detachment, from which you will see the casualties of the cavalry. I have written to Maj. Hill for all the facts connected with the pursuit, which I will receive at Gallatin, and will then, if make a formal report. It was rather a bold act in the cavalry to go as far as they did, and the result creditable to it. Supposing that the report of Maj. Hill to Col. Hays, herein embodied, contains all the facts which you expected Col. Hays to ascertain, I have ordered him to move down this morning. The order will not reach him, so that he can get here before 1 o'clock. If you have no objection, I will wait here until to-morrow morning, as the march from Hartsville to our camp, beyond Gallatin, will be 18½ miles, which is quite a severe one, unless necessary to be made. As to this, please answer immediately, telling the courier to bring it in haste.

Respectfully,

JOHN M. HARLAN, Col., Cmdg. Brigade.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 20, pt. I, pp. 23-24.

 

CAMP AT CASTALIAN SPRINGS, December 4, 1862.

CAPT.: On the night of the 28th November, I transmitted to the division commander, in a brief note, all the facts of which I was then in possession in reference to the capture, on that day, near Hartsville, by Morgan's rebel cavalry, of a part of the train of the Second Indiana Cavalry, together with an officer and some of the soldiers of that regiment. I also advised the division commander of the recapture, on the same day, by Maj. Hill, commanding the Second Indiana Cavalry, of the larger portion of his train. Being uninformed at that time of all the circumstances connected with the capture and recapture of the train, I requested Lieut. Col. W. H. Hays, of the Tenth Kentucky Infantry, he being in command of the detachment from this brigade then on duty at Hartsville, composed of the Tenth Indiana Volunteers, Lieut.-Col. Caroll, Tenth Kentucky Volunteers, and Southwick's battery, as well as of the Second Indiana Cavalry, then temporarily attached to my command, to obtain from Maj. Hill a detailed report of all the facts. Maj. Hill made that report to me promptly, and forwarded it to my headquarters at this place, but by some accident it was not handed to me until this morning.

Although several days have elapsed, I deem it due to Maj. Hill and his command that I shall make known in an official form and to the proper authorities all the facts connected with the affair of November 28, as detailed by him. I do this the more readily as I learn that some one-I do not know whom-has made a report, which has reached department headquarters, in reference to this matter. But as I am unadvised as to whether that report does full justice to Maj. Hill and his command, I owe it to them to submit the following, based upon Maj. Hill's report to me.

On the morning of the 28th, a forage train, consisting of 10 wagons, was sent from the Second Indiana Cavalry, under an armed escort of 40 men, in charge of Lieut. Brush, Company H, an escort which would seem sufficient, and which, if properly handled, would have proven itself sufficient. When the train reached a point about 2 miles east of Hartsville, on the Carthage road, it was attacked both in front and rear by rebel cavalry. The train was surrendered without any resistance whatever on the part of the escort, nearly the whole of whom fell into the hands of the enemy. The few who then escaped returned to camp and advised Maj. Hill of what had occurred.

Maj. Hill immediately ordered out his command, and proceeded with all dispatch to the point designated, where he found, as he states, infantry and cavalry drawn up in line of battle. Maj. Hill states that, although he knew of the vicinity of Col. Scott's brigade, Dumont's division, which was en route to relieve the detachment from my brigade at Hartsville, he could not reconcile Col. Scott's presence with the capture of his train, and, hence, he was delayed for an hour in ascertaining who he was. As soon as here ascertained that the force which he saw Col. Scott's command, he resumed the pursuit of the rebel cavalry, and carried it on with vigor, taking several prisoners. He met with no resistance until he reached the Cumberland River, in the vicinity of Rome. At that point passage was disputed with considerable resoluteness. As soon however, as he reached the opposite bank, the enemy who composed the rear guard fled in dismay, and were not rallied until they came to the camp of the rebel Col. Bennett, where, in conjunction with his command, they were disposed to make a stand. Maj. Hill halted his advance, and awaited the coming up of more of his men; but, perceiving that the enemy were becoming bolder, and the fire too warm to be comfortable, he ordered a charge, having at that time only 90 men, the remainder not being able to keep up in the rapid pursuit which he had given the rebels. On sounding the charge, Bennett's men became confused, and as his (Hill's) men opened fire upon them with pistols, broke ranks, totally disorganizing those who had come to their camp for protection. In crossing a bridge in rear of Bennett's camp, the enemy crowded together so as to blockade it. Hill's skirmishers, dismounting, opened fire with capital execution. Immediately on passing the bridge the force which was in camp dispersed, when Hill, pushing those who remained in the road, succeeded in recapturing 7 of his wagons and 8 of his men, who had been taken with the teams.

Maj. Hill followed on for 12 miles south of the ford at Rome, where, the enemy having been re-enforced, he discontinued the pursuit, bringing off the recaptured property. He also captured a wagon belonging to Col. Bennett.

Maj. Hill reports the following casualties, viz.,: Three men of Company H, names unknown, killed while prisoners; 1 lieutenant and 36 men missing at the date of the report.

Maj. Hill reports that the capture of the train, in his opinion, is attributable to the gross carelessness of Lieut. Brush, commanding the train guard.

The loss of the enemy was heavy when it is considered that they had a great advantage over major Hill, both in numbers and position, and were enable to increase the distance between him and them by reason of the delay already referred to. As the statements are so conflicting as to the number of rebels killed, Maj. Hill makes no report upon that point beyond what his own personal observation authorizes him to state. He saw 12 dead rebels in the road.

Maj. Hill concludes:

I have to return thanks to you for the very valuable service rendered me by a lieutenant of your command; I have unfortunately forgotten his name. Capt. D. A. Briggs conducted the extreme advance with great credit to himself; but in mentioning him, I will add that all the 138 who followed beyond the Cumberland River deserve honorable mention for their alacrity in the pursuit.

I take great pleasure in stating that the name of the officer in my brigade to whom Maj. Hill refers is Lieut. D. F. Allen, Company C, Tenth Indiana Volunteers. I learn from several sources that his conduct was most commendable.

The daring exhibited by Maj. Hill and his gallant little band in pursuing a superior enemy beyond the Cumberland for several miles, nearly 18 or 20 miles from their camp at Hartsville, and the desperate fierceness with which they charged the enemy, recapturing and bringing back to camp nearly their entire train during the night of the same day on which they were taken, reflect the highest credit upon them, and deserves, as it will no doubt receive, the favorable notice of the commanding general of the department. Their conduct in these in these respects is worthy of general emulation.

Respectfully,

JOHN M. HARLAN, Col., Cmdg. Second Brigade.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 20, pt. I, pp. 24-26.

 

 

        28, 1863 - Cannibalization of Winchester to Fayetteville Railroad iron to make repairs on Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad ordered

NASHVILLE, November 28, 1863.

Maj. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS, Cmdg. Army of the Cumberland:

By directions of Brig. Gen. M. C. Meigs, I will send a working force to Fayetteville to take up the iron from Winchester and Fayetteville Railroad, to be used for repairs on the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad. It will require a guard to protect the workmen while engaged in the work. The work will commence at Fayetteville, 39 miles from Decherd. The force should be strong enough to guard the four bridges between Decherd and Fayetteville, and also to accompany the working force and to accompany the train. The guard should report at Decherd on Tuesday next, December 1.

J. B. ANDERSON [Manager of Railroads]

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 31, pt. III, p. 264.

 

       


28, Revival and Murder in a Cherry Creek Church

I hardly know where to begin at [sic] to write this time. We all got so frightened on Monday night that we hardly know ourselves yet. I reckon I had better begin at the beginning and write it all down if I can think of it. On Monday evening [28th] the meeting was still going on at the church, but it was very muddy and disagreeable and I did not want to go much, for I knew there would be no preaching at all, only singing (and poor at that) and shouting and crying, but some of the girls wanted to go and I went with them as [sister] Mary would not. Pat and Fayette [Amanda's brother] and William and others of the boys went; Lucetta, Margaret, Carrie, Celete, Nannie and myself were all the girls that went. When we got there, there were several Federal soldiers there, but it was a common thing and no one seemed to care anything about them. But they got information some way that these renegade Rebels that prowl about up the river were going to come and attack them that night. Some of the congregation had heard it but did not believe it. Fayette told the boys that he did not think there was any danger if they would keep a good lookout. Pat told them to look sharp. They went out after the congregation gathered and ordered all the stragglers into the house and told Pat to let no one pass out, and they went off and hid their horses and put Charles Burgess out to watch. And they would come in the house some but were out most of the time. I saw Pat keeping the door, but thought Mr. Hickman had ordered it. Two or three professed [their faith], and from the time the first one professed there was such a noise that nothing was distinct. Some shouting, some laughing, some praying, some crying, some singing and all crowded as close round the altar as was possible to get, and at least two thirds of the crowd were between the window and door and the pulpit. I with others got near the altar as possible in order to see, and also to assist in the singing. They pressed on me so that I perched myself on the edge of the pulpit. (There was no one on it but little boys.) Lucetta sat up there with me. Carrie and the others were near on a bench. Most of the people were up on the benches. In the midst of the noise a shot was heard at the window and in an instant another. I jumped from my seat, in order to get out of the way of the bullets, for I saw flashes and heard the shots faster than I could count them, unless I had been more composed than I was. Someone pushed me down off the bench I was standing on right on the women, for everyone in the house nearly were down as near the floor as they could get by this time. I tried to find room for my feet on the floor but could not and had to remain on my knees on someone for ever so long. There was so much noise and confusion that I could not distinguish anything, and I could not imagine what was up. I had to pull Celete down to keep her from being hit; she was so frightened that she was standing on top of a bench screaming with all her power, and making no effort to keep out of danger. I tried to pull her and Cetta both down and make them hush, but they were so frightened they could not understand me. It is no use saying what I thought about it. But I thought when I saw so many shots fired right toward the crowd that they were surely firing at the people just to see how many they could kill, and I had a strong notion of going round there and asking them what they meant, but I could not get out and then I had my hands full trying to take care of the girls, and then I thought I might get shot before I could get around there. The instant the firing ceased I started to hunt the boys and see what was the matter, for I had never thought of the Rebels. I had to get Carrie to hold Celete, and told the girls to say together. The whole house was in an uproar, the soldiers swearing and roaring and the women screaming. The first person I found was Hamp Clark. I asked him what it meant, he said they were shooting at "them boys"; but I did not still take the hint, for some of the Rebels had on blue Yankee clothes and I thought they were Yankees. I pushed round through the crowd asking everyone I met for Fayette and Pat. I found out that there was man killed and got to him as quick as I could and there were two soldiers sitting on the benches, and one of them had the dead man's feet up on the benches, and one of them had the dead man's feet up in his lap. I asked him if the man was dead. He said, "I don't know. I thought I would tie his feet together." I examined him and saw he was a stranger to me. The man's indifference about who it was that was dead made me know that it was not a personal enemy quarrel, and the thought flashed over me that they were Rebels. I asked him and he said, "Yes." I met Sam Stone, and he said, "Don't be scared. I don't think Fayette is badly hurt." I asked him in Fayette was shot; he said, "Yes." I then asked if it was done on purpose; he said he reckoned not. I found Fayette lying in the altar where he had sat down on the mourners' bench and fallen over and P. Cameron had caught him. I asked him if he was badly hurt, and if it was done on purpose. He said "No" both times. He then told me to go and get leave to carry him home. I didn't know where to go, but there was a man standing on a bench walking and swearing at a great rate and I made my way, to him and he said, "Yes, of course, take him home." Then Fayette came to himself and spoke to the man and told him they had been in the war together and to call him "Benson." The man seemed slow about recognizing him, but told us we could go. I ran back to where the girls were and got them not out of the house but in the middle of the floor and went all over the house as fast as I could, hunting for Pat, but could not find him. We got Fayette to wait and lie down on the writing bench. I thought it would be dangerous to start. But every little bit he would get frenzied and want to start anyhow, but one soldier advised us not to go. I met several of the [Confederate] soldiers and tried to talk to them. I found only one that had any civility about him. I found Emma Williams, when I first started out, lying on the floor, and asked if she was shot. She said she did not know and, I, knowing her as I did, did not expect there was anything the matter and sure enough there was not, but Ann Gooch was wounded in the thigh and lower part of the abdomen, one bullet making four holes. And the boy that I saw was badly hurt, but I did not get to see either of them again. Some of the women fainted and looked like they never would come to. At last the soldiers went out and got on their horses and came back to the door swearing about the Yankees' horses and wanting someone to go and show them where they were. Several of us told them that they were in the yard when we came in. One man swore that was a dead man in the yard under the window. I got a candle and looked but could not find one. And there was no one there. At last they told the congregation to get away from there. Jim Cooper told me he saw Pat go out at the door. And a soldier told me that me some men ran and he shot at them and heard a man holler. I felt uneasy [!] but thought I would get them all started with Fayette and if he did not come to us in the lane, I would get some one to help me hunt him, but he came to us before we got far. Fayette got home very well by one walking on each side of him, but was out of his mind off and on all night. It was Sam Potete that was killed, and the man was taking off his spurs in order to get his boots off, so I have heard since. They did take his boots off and held me up and called to know who they would fit, took his coat and hat too, but dropped the hat. P. Camron asked leave to take him away, but they said, "Let him lie there," and he lay there all night, but they carried the wounded to Mrs. McGhee's. Fayette says he had got up on a bench to try to get them to quit shooting, and a man snapped a pistol at his breast and them pressed to his head and fired. He is not certain but thinks it was Benson and that he did it on purpose but don't want it known.

Diary of Amanda McDowell.

James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Sam Davis Day, 11/27/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

  

 

        27,  1863 - Execution of Sam Davis as a spy

Neither Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee nor OR reference this event, yet is part of an allegory of Confederate selfless denial and fealty associated with Tennessee's Confederate Civil War experience. He was considered a spy because he had some sensitive information on his person and he was not in the uniform of the Confederate army. Yet there is some data probably relative to Davis:

HDQRS. LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Pulaski, Tennessee, November 20, 1863.

Maj. R. M. SAWYER,

Assistant Adjutant-Gen., Department of the Tennessee:

I herewith inclose a copy of dispatch taken from one of Brag 's spies. He had a heavy mail, papers, &c., and Capt. Coleman is pretty well posted. I think I will have him in a day or two. We have broken up several bands of mounted robbers and Confederate cavalry in the last week, capturing some 5 commissioned officers and 100 enlisted men, which have been forwarded. I also forward a few of the most important letters found in the mail. The tooth-brushes and blank-books I was greatly in need of, and therefore appropriate them.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. M. DODGE, Brig.-Gen.

[Inclosure No. 1.]

IN FRONT OF CHATTANOOGA, November 11, 1863.

[Mrs. Dan M. Nelson].

MY DEAR NANNIE: I have written over and over and still receive no reply. Don't know whether you ever received any of my letters or not. The "underground mail" is so uncertain, perhaps you never received any of them. I would keep you pretty well posted if all my letters reached you. As it is, I would have to reiterate a great deal to keep you well informed as to passing events. Nothing direct have I heard from you since June; however, I hear indirectly occasionally. I am well at present with exception of cold. We still occupy our same position since the battle of Chickamauga.

Don't know how long we will remain here. There is a move going on in East Tennessee which may materially change affairs in a few days, unless the enemy is re-enforced sufficiently to give us battle. Gen. Longstreet will operate from this way, while Gen. Jones will co-operate with him from beyond Knoxville. Here I will give you a little news; perhaps you may hear of it before this reaches you, or get the Yankee accounts of it. Gen. Jones captured, a day or two ago, 850 Yankees, 1,000 head of mules and horses, and 150 wagons. (This is official.) I am fearful the enemy has been so heavily re-enforced we will be unable to gain and hold any permanent foot-hold in Tennessee. My opinion is we will fall back as soon as Sherman with his re-enforcements reaches Chattanooga. We have been re-enforced since the battle, but not near so much as the Yanks. I am sorry to say there is a want of harmony among our generals at present and ever since the battle. All are down on Bragg; want him removed. I can see for no other cause than to be promoted themselves. I am no part of a general, nor a judge of one; do not consider Bragg a No. 1 general, but think he is the best in this department. Gen.'s D. H. Hill and Polk have been relieved of command since the battle, also Gen. Cheatham. I understand Gen. B. R. Johnson is made a major-general and will command Cheatham's division. Gen. Breckinridge commands Hill's corps and Hardee commands Polk's corps. I went up on the point of Lookout Mountain yesterday to take a view of both Armies and the surrounding country. It was the most sublime scene I ever witnessed; could see the whole Yankee army and ours almost at the same sight. My eyes had not grown weary of such a magnificent sight when we were greeted by a shell from a Yankee battery on Moccasin Point, just across the river. They shelled our battery on the Lookout Point about one hour. They soon shelled my old friend Alf. Davis and myself off the point. I remarked to him when he heard the whistle of a shell, did he not love to hug the ground better than his wife? He replied, "them things" would make any one get down on the ground. Dan. White was sent from the hospital near the battle-field a day or two ago, the first time he has been moved since wounded. He went to Ringold old, Georgia. He had not improved much; was perfectly helpless. It will be a long while, if ever, before he will be well. Low Weakly died at Atlanta, in hospital, from a wound received in the knee in the late battle. He died on the 23d of October. Ferril Edwards left us a week or so ago. I expect he is at home ere this.

It seems all the Middle Tennesseeans [sic] are going to desert. Have you made my clothes yet? You must make them a great deal larger than any you have ever made me, for tight clothes don't last. Have my overcoat cut military style, to come below the knee, and cape as long as the arm; frock some larger and longer than the jeans one you had made last fall; and pants a good deal larger in the body and leg than my old pattern; boots, No. 10. You must have my clothes ready to send at any time-you may have an opportunity when least expected. Send them as soon as you can, for I am nearly out of clothing and barefooted. White as well. I understood the Yanks had taken your riding animal, which I was sorry to hear; I thought so much of her. Do not let them get my old filly and colt. Tell old Gabe, I will "walk his log," if he gets too intimate with them Yanks when I come home. Will Shelton said he thought Frank had come home. Col. Searcy, James D. Richardson (Correction from General Index.) and all the boys well. The army is in better health than I ever knew before. How is our little children? Tell them howdy and kiss them for me. You must name the last. When I wrote to you I proposed the name of Sallie Ann, but use your own discretion. Have you paid Mrs. P. that money due her, also a little note that Maxwell has on me? Dock is well, and says he intends to stay in the army as long as I do. I presume you heard of the death of Jesse Sikes-died with typhoid fever near Decatur, Ala., some two months ago. I will inclose a paper in another envelope and send with this. Write when you can. My respects to your father and mother and family. Tell Lew, if the army gets back there, to pass himself for under age, for if Leonard Pebbles joins he will regret it in less than two months.

Your affectionate husband,

DAN. M. NELSON.

NANNIE:

You must keep me a pair of boots on hand all the time. If you send out one pair, buy another. Also pair shoes. Send me a pair of suspenders on my pants, overshirts, drawers, socks, &c. Get me a light-colored hat; the one I have is wearing out. My advice to your pa [sic] is to put wheat and shelled corn enough in his house to make him bread, for if the Armies pass through there they will take it all.

[Inclosure No. 2.]

GILES COUNTY, Tennessee,

November 19, 1863.

Col. A. McKINSTRY,

Provost-Marshall-Gen., Army of Tennessee, Chattanooga:

DEAR SIR: I send you seven Nashville, three Louisville, and one Cincinnati papers, with dates to the 17th, in all eleven. I also send for Gen. Bragg three wash balls of soap, three more tooth-brushes, and two blank-books. I could not get a large-sized diary for him. I will send a pair of shoes and slippers, some more soap, gloves, and socks, soon. The Yankees are still camped on the line of the Tennessee and Atlanta Railroad. Gen. Dodge's headquarters are at Pulaski. His main force is camped from that place to Lynnville. Some at Elk River and two regiments at Athens. Dodge has issued an order to the people in those counties on the road to report all the stock, grain, and forage to him, and says he will pay or give vouchers for it. Any refU. S. A.l to report he will take it without pay. They are now taking all they can find. Dodge says he knows the people are all Southern, and does not ask them to swear to a lie. All the spare forces around Nashville and vicinity are being sent to McMinnville. Six batteries and twelve Parrott guns were sent forward on the 14th, 15th, and 16th. It is understood there is hot work in front somewhere. Telegrams suppressed. Davis has returned. Greig is gone below. Everything is beginning to work better. I sent Roberts with things for you and Gen. B., with dispatch. I do not think the Feds. mean to stay here. They are not now repairing the main points on the road. I understand part of Sherman's force has reached Shelbyville. I think a part of some other than Dodge's division came by Lynnville from the direction of Fayetteville. I sent Billy Moore over in that country, and am sorry to say he was captured. One of my men has just returned from there. The general impression with the citizens is they will move forward soon some way. Their wagon train has returned from N. Davis tells me the line is in order to Somerville. I send this by one of my men to that place. The dispatches sent you on the 9th, with paper of 7th, reached Decatur on the 10th at 9 p. m. Citizens were reading the papers next morning after breakfast. I do not think the major will do to forward them from reports.

I am, with high regard,

E. COLEMAN, Capt.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 31, pt. III, pp. 208-211.

According to Valor In Gray, pp. 1-10, Sam Davis was awarded the Confederate Medal of Honor on August 17, 1977.

Each November 27, members of the Sam Davis chapter of the Daughters of the Confederacy lay a wreath at the base of the statue on the Capitol grounds.

 

 



[1] GALEGROUP - TSLA 19TH CN .

[2] As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

11/26/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

        26, Skirmish near Somerville

NOVEMBER 26, 1862.-Skirmish near Somerville, Tenn.

Report of Lieut. Col. Edward Prince, Seventh Illinois Cavalry.

HDQRS. SEVENTH REGT. ILLINOIS CAVALRY, Moscow, Tenn., November 27, 1862.

SIR: I report that in pursuance of the orders of the general commanding I proceeded (with the armed portion of this regiment which could be spared from camp, consisting of parts of Companies A, B, D, E, F, G, H, I, and K, 300 men) on the evening of the 25th to Macon; thence on the morning of the 26th to Montague's Bridge, leaving Companies D and I at Macon; that from Montague's Bridge we proceeded to Cannon's Mill, 25 miles from camp, at which point we struck a fresh trail of rebels, being the fourth battalion, guerrilla Richardson's regiment, 100 strong, Lieut.-Col. Dawson commanding. Company E and a portion of Company I having been left at the bridge I picketed the crossing with Company G and pursued with Companies A, B, F, H, and K. We drove in the rebel pickets at charging step about 2 ½ miles from the crossing, when I found it necessary to detach Company A to protect the rear, by sending them on a road leading to our right rear; Company B, under command of Lieut. McCausland, was in the advance, and formed well and rapidly under fire; Company H, under command of Capt. Webster, was thrown far to the right, and afterward turned the enemy's left flank; Companies F and K formed rapidly, under a heavy fire from dismounted rebels. Observing that there was an apparently dry slough in our advance, and knowing the rebels would not dismount, except under good cover, I dismounted Companies K, F, and B, and they charged handsomely on foot, which together with the advance of Company H, on the extreme right, routed the enemy, intrenched in a very deep and steep-banked slough. The enemy fled in confusion, throwing away arms, blankets, and everything. Those most lucky in mounting horses and fleet of foot escaped; the rest we caught. We could not have had more than 80 men engaged. Maj.'s Nelson and Koehler were in the fight, who, together with the line officers, deserve honorable mention.

The only fault to be found with the command was a too great eagerness to get at the enemy. The officers and men betrayed no symptoms of fear nor sought any protection from trees. The firing of the rebels was very spirited, but wild. Casualties, 4 wounded. The rebel casualties, as far as names are known, are Capt. Moore, confusion of cranium, induced by head colliding with a white-oak tree in too precipitate a flight; wound dangerous; prisoner paroled. Private George Reynolds, thigh shattered; prisoner paroled. Some wounded escaped; others, more or less severe, names not known. Number of prisoners taken on expedition 37, including 2 captains (one of whom is the noted guerrilla Marshall) and 1 lieutenant.

* * * *

We captured two very handsome colors, one of them the colors of the rebel battalion engaged.

I am, with respect, your obedient servant,

EDWARD PRINCE, Lieut.-Col., Comdg. Regt. [sic]

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 17, pt. I, pp. 526-528.

 

 

        26, Federal orders to collect and bury the dead and to collect and preserve all captured Confederate battle flags

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, Tennessee, November 26, 1863.

Maj.-Gen. GRANGER:

GEN.: The major-general commanding the department directs that you give orders to your corps to have our dead collected so that they may either be brought to this place for burial or buried upon the field. You will also cause to be counted and reported to these headquarters the number of dead rebels the parties collecting our dead may find.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. D. WHIPPLE, Brig.-Gen. and Chief of Staff.

(Copy to Gen.'s Hooker, Howard, and Palmer.)

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, November 26, 1863.

Maj.-Gen. GRANGER:

GEN.: The major-general commanding directs that you collect and preserve all flags taken from the enemy, and to ascertain and report as accurately as may be the circumstances attending their capture.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. D. WHIPPLE, Brig.-Gen. and Assistant Adjutant-Gen.

(Copy to Gen.'s Hooker, Howard, and Palmer.)

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 31, pt. III, p. 253.

 

 

        26, "Provost Order No. 246;" price fixing in Nashville by the U. S. Army

Office of the Provost Marshal

Nashville, Tenn., November 26, 1864

Extract

* * * *

In accordance with the decision of a Military Board, called from Post Headquarters for the purpose of preparing a schedule of prices regulating the sale of Fuel, Vegetables, and other necessaries of life in this city, the following list of prices are hereby established, viz.,: Wood, $15 per Cord; Beef, 18 cents per lb.; Mutton, 15 cents per lb.; Potatoes [sic] $2.50 per bush.; Turnips, $1.00 per bush.; Cabbage, 30 cents per head; Butter, 60 cents per lb.; Milk, 15 cents per quart; Onions, $3.00 per bush.

The above prices will be changed as often as it becomes necessary, and proper publication made thereof.

Any parties selling in market or private stores at prices higher than schedule rates, will be arrested and their goods confiscated. All persons are invited to report promptly any violation of this order to this office.

By command of Brig. Gen. John F. Miller

Hunter Brooke, Captain and Provost Marshal

Nashville Dispatch, November 27, 1864.


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Monday, November 25, 2013

11/25/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

        25, Work performed by Unionists arrested in Memphis

The Union men arrested in Memphis are not placed in comfortable prisons, or led by dainty and, as has been the case with some of out prisoners at Washington, but are put to work upon the streets, with a ball and chain attacked to each.

Philadelphia Inquirer, November 25, 1861

 

 

        25, "…nothing left but 16 hogs and 25 bushels of corn." Crushing the Unionist Rebellion in East Tennessee

From East Tennessee-Lincoln Camp Broken Up.-From 300 to 500 Lincolnites of Carter county, encamped about six miles from Elizabethton, dispersed on the approach of Confederate troops.

The citizens of Hawkins, Sullivan and Washington counties, to the number of about 500, turned out on the news of the bride-burning, and organized themselves into a regiment. Hon. Joseph B. Heiskell, member elect of C. S. Congress from the 1st Congressional District, was elected Colonel.

This regiment, with Col. Stovall's battalion, numbering 500, including a battery of flying artillery of four guns, found the Lincolnite camp deserted, and nothing left but 16 hogs and 25 bushels of corn. From 25 to 20 prisoners were arrested in the knobs, each armed with a gun, pistol and bowie knife, and taken to the Watauga bridge. They will probably be brought to Knoxville during the week, to be tried before the Confederate Court. The rebellion in Carter and Johnson counties may be said to be crushed out.

Arrival of Prisoners.-Some forty prisoners of Clift's traitor hand, from Hamilton, Rhea and Meigs, including a Lieut. Colonel and a commissary, were brought up on the train last night and marched through our streets to the jail. A number of arms were taken in their possession. Their condition, criminal as they are, excited the communication of our citizens, and in the crown that accompanied them to their dismal quarters, we heard by one expression of indignation against the unfeeling and unscrupulous demagogues, who deluded into there unfortunate condition, and then deserted them.

Knoxville Register, 19th.

Fayetteville Observer (NC), November 25, 1861. [1]

 

 

        25, Praises for Confederate volunteer nurses in Chattanooga

We publish with something more than pleasure the following note from Dr. Taylor, (chief of Ford Hospital) to one of the fairest, and as her donation indicates, one of the noblest daughters of this highland region. Such acts of munificents [sic], with the ceasless [sic] attentions of our women, day time and night time, to the soldiers, have turned down a golden leaf in the history of this war. May this vision of faith, hope and charity, be but the first of many following angels of mercy!

Foard [sic] Hospital

Chattanooga, Tenn., Nov. 24, [1862].

Editor of Rebel:

Permit me through your journal to acknowledge a liberal contribution of two hundred dollars. To Miss Louisa Massengale, the fair donor, I return the sincerest thanks of the sick under my care. The kindness and sympathy of such patrons greatly alleviates the sickness and suffering of our soldier, and their attention measurably supplies the absence of loved ones at home. The money has been given to Mrs. Ella K. Newsom, who with her usual kindness and impartiality makes purchases and distributes such delicacies and nourishment as may be permitted by the surgeons of the hospital.

R.H. Taylor, Surgeon in Charge

Chattanooga Daily Rebel, November 25, 1862.

 

 

        25, Skirmishing in Sparta environs

No circumstantial reports filed.

Excerpt from the Itinerary of the Cavalry, Army of the Cumberland, Maj. Gen. David S. Stanley and Brig. Gen. Washington L. Elliott commanding, from returns of November, December, 1863, relative to skirmishing in Sparta environs, November 25, 1863:

November 25, detachments from the First East Tennessee and Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry were sent to Sparta, Tennessee, under command of Lieut. Col. J. P. Brownlow, First East Tennessee Cavalry, and had frequent skirmishes with a band of guerrillas under the rebel Col.'s Hughs and Murray. The detachments invariably routed the rebels, inflicting more severe losses than they suffered, and driving them from their haunts around Sparta. In one of these affairs, Capt. Thomas S. McCahan, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, was severely wounded.

* * * *

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 31, pt. I, p. 437.

 

 

        25, Major-General U. S. Grant's assessment of the battle for Chattanooga

CHATTANOOGA, November 25, 1863.

Maj. Gen. J. G. FOSTER, Cumberland Gap:

The great defeat Bragg has sustained in the three days' battle, terminating at dark this evening, and a movement which I will immediately make, I think will relieve Burnside, if he holds out a few days longer. I shall pursue Bragg to-morrow and start a heavy column up the Tennessee Valley the day after. Use your force to the best advantage for Burnside's relief, and for regaining what has been lost in East Tennessee.

U. S. GRANT, Maj.-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 31, pt. III, p. 247.

 

 

        25, Reconnaissance on Duck River on Lynnville and Mount Pleasant pikes and the Lewisburg and Nashville pike crossings

No circumstantial reports filed.

HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Columbia, Tenn., November 25, 1864.

Brig.-Gen. JOHNSON, Cmdg. Sixth Division, Cavalry Corps:

GEN.: The general commanding directs me to request you to send a guard into this town to drive out the stragglers, who are reported committing depredations.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. N. ANDREWS, Capt., 8th U. S. Infty., and Acting Assistant Adjutant-Gen.

HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Columbia, Tenn., November 25, 1864--2 p. m.

Brig. Gen. R. W. JOHNSON, Cmdg. Sixth Division, Cavalry Corps:

Gen. Schofield wishes a reconnaissance made from the left of the line to the Mount Pleasant pike. You will take Capron's brigade and move out at once on the Lynnville pike till you have cleared the lines of our troops, and then move to the right as far out as possible till you have accomplished the object of the reconnaissance, finding the enemy, and, as nearly as may be, strength and composition of forces. Having done this return to your camp.

J. H. WILSON, Brevet Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.

HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Columbia, Tenn., November 25, 1864--7 p. m.

Brig. Gen. R. W. JOHNSON, Cmdg. Sixth Division, Cavalry Corps:

GEN.: Send without delay one squadron of cavalry up Duck River to the crossing of the Lewisburg and Nashville pike. From there let them feel out well toward Lewisburg for the enemy, reporting frequently all indications discovered. Upon reflection you had better make the force a good battalion. I understand the Lewisburg and Nashville road is a good one, and Duck River is probably passable there at nearly all times.

Direct the commanding officer to send in all the information he can get in regard to bridges and fords on the river.

Very respectfully,

J. H. WILSON, Brevet Maj.-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 45, pt. I, pp. 1042-1043.

 

HDQRS. SIXTH DIVISION CAVALRY, November 25, 1864.

Maj.-Gen. WILSON, Chief of Cavalry:

GEN.: The party sent to examine the Hamilton Ford, six miles below, report it impassable; nothing but a horse-path and not now passable. The party from there went down the river six miles farther to another ford reported there. This latter ford is also impassable, but there is a good road leading into and out of it, there having been a ferry there. The party is now at the lower ford (fifty men and an officer), and is ordered to remain there. They report no signs of the enemy.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. W. JOHNSON, Brig.-Gen. of Volunteers.

HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Columbia, Tenn., November 25, 1864--10.15 p. m. (Received 10.50 p. m.)

Brig. Gen. R. W. JOHNSON, Cmdg. Sixth Division Cavalry:

Gen. Schofield has received an unofficial report to the effect that the Ninety-first Illinois [Indiana] Infantry, sent a few days ago to Williamsport, on Duck River, had been picked up by the enemy. While he does not rely upon this information he feels somewhat anxious in regard thereto. Please send word to the commanding officer of the squadron you sent down Duck River last night to ascertain the whereabouts of the regiment just mentioned. The river from here to Williamsport must be closely watched in order that any movements of the enemy in that direction may be discovered in time.

Please report as early as possible.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. H. WILSON, Brevet Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.

*  *  *  *

HDQRS. SIXTH CAVALRY DIVISION,

Near Columbia, Tenn., November 25, 1864.

Col. CAPRON, Cmdg. Brigade:

COL.: Gen. Johnson directs that you detail a reliable and energetic officer with a party of fifteen men to scout up Duck River, on the south bank, as far as Berlin, inquire for the enemy, and the condition of the fords, whether passable or not. The object of the scout is to ascertain whether the enemy is moving any troops to the east of this place to cross Duck River above this. If any are heard of all possible information must be obtained of their number, character, and purposes. Send with this officer all the guides you have. He is to communicate any information at once, by courier; or if necessary in his judgment, will return himself, with his party, to bring it; if nothing is heard before that, he will go on to Shelbyville.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. T. WELLS, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.

P. S.-Col. Croxton will send out a similar party on the same errand and in same direction.

E. T. WELLS.

HDQRS. SIXTH CAVALRY DIVISION, Columbia, Tenn., November 25, 1864.

Col. HORACE CAPRON, Cmdg. Brigade:

COL.: In accordance with instructions received from Maj.-Gen. Wilson you will, as soon as possible, send out a good battalion up Duck River to the crossing of the Lewisburg and Nashville pike. From there, crossing Duck River on the Lewisburg and Nashville pike (if found fordable), let them feel well out toward Lewisburg for the enemy, reporting frequently all indications of them discovered. It is supposed that the ford will be found good, and the pike is easily found. The officer commanding will send in all information he can gather in regard to the fords and bridges on Duck River. The battalion will start as soon as possible. Do not fail to advise the officer of the scout sent out to-night toward Berlin from your command as also that from Gen. Croxton's.

This by command of Brig.-Gen. Johnson:

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. T. WELLS, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 45, pt. I, pp. 1044-1045.

 

HDQRS. SIXTH CAVALRY DIVISION, Near Columbia, Tenn., November 25, 1864.

Col. CAPRON, Cmdg. Brigade:

COL.: You will move your command at once through town on to the Lewisburg pike. The object of the movement is to feel to the left of our line for the enemy; simply a reconnaissance, which being completed the command will return to camp. You will therefore leave the camps standing in charge of a few men from each battalion. You will take no transportation except ambulances.

By order of Brig.-Gen. Johnson:

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. T. WELLS, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.

HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Columbia, Tennessee, November 25, 1864.

Brig.-Gen. CROXTON:

The general commanding directs that you report with your brigade temporarily to Brig.-Gen. Johnson, commanding Sixth Division, Cavalry Corps.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

LEVI T. GRIFFIN, Capt. and Acting Assistant Adjutant-Gen.

NEAR COLUMBIA, November 25, 1864.

[Col. HORACE CAPRON, Cmdg. Brigade Cavalry:]

COL.: By direction of Gen. Johnson I send you sergeant of escort who has report to make of suspicious persons seen near picket-line.

The general directs that you send small force from picket-post once an hour during the night a short distance down the road, say one-quarter of a mile.

Yours, &c.,

JOHN J. KESSLER, Capt. and Provost-Marshal.

HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, Nashville, November 25, 1864.

Maj.-Gen. WILSON, Columbia, Tenn.:

MY DEAR GEN.: I arrived late last night, and have received orders to take command of the Fourth Tennessee and Ninth Indiana Cavalry. From what I can learn and see they can be ready to start Sunday evening or Monday morning. I will take five day's full rations and what forage the wagons will carry. The clothing, &c., is good. Fourth Tennessee armed-Maynard's carbines; Ninth Indiana will be to-night-same arms. Horses in fair condition. Aggregate strength about 1,200 for duty. Enough dismounted, &c., for camp guards. Hope to reach you in short two days' march.

I am, general, with great respect, your obedient servant and friend,

J. H. HAMMOND, Brig.-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 45, pt. I, pp. 1045-1046.

 

 

        25, A religious revival in the Cherry Creek community [2]

....There is a revival going on down the creek and I went there last night. Martha Williams and Margaret Snodgrass professed a few nights ago and they had both shouted till they could not speak above a whisper, but they went all over the house like a couple of wild women slapping their hands and stamping and beating and hugging and shaking everyone they came to. It may be right and I have no doubt of their sincerity, but my understanding of the scripture is different. There is a great awakening all over the country, and [more] professions in the last four weeks than there has been in so many years before....

Diary of Amanda McDowell.



[1] As cited in PQCW.

[2] The passage was entered on November 26, 1864, but refers to "last night," or the 25th.


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX