Tuesday, July 30, 2013

7/30/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

29, 1862 - A demanding day at the Nashville Recorder's Court

Recorder's Court.

Another busy day was yesterday at the Recorder's Court, and of a somewhat extraordinary character, all classes and colors being represented.

The first case called up was that of Catharine Duffy, who was fined $6 for being disorderly, in abusing her husband in such manner as to disturb the neighborhood. She very sensibly confessed her sin, and said it was her failing; she could never govern her tongue, when it got fairly under way. We advise her to adopt the remedy prescribed by one of the Fathers, Fill her mouth with clean, cold water, and let it remain there until she becomes cool.

Half a dozen persons were arraigned for using hydrant water without license. Some were fined, others ordered to pay for their license, and one or two went to the Aldermen for certificates, being too poor to pay.

Puss Shelton and Melinda Smith, defendants, with Mary Hill as witness, formed a trio of "yellow gals," brought up to settle a dispute between the first named parties, as to which was the most respectable nigger of the two, and as to which of the twain had "roped in" the largest number of gals. The decision of the Recorder was nearly two to one in favor of Puss, who paid $8.50 for her position, while Miss Melinda was assessed only $4.50….

Hardy Goodswin and Rachel his wife, (the former a slave, the latter free) had a quarrel, which waxed warm and still warmer, until the fair Rachel seized a log of wood and threw it at the feet of her lord. Hardy seized the formidable weapon, Rachel retreated, and from a war of rocks they finally came to close quarters. Rachel is one of the heavy weights, and Hardy, being some hundred pounds lighter, had to bring science and pluck to bear against superior physique. For some time the contest seemed doubtful, until at length Hardy got the tack on her, and down came Rachel with a crash. The involuntary seconds on this occasion were Ellen Brooks and Caroline White, who testified the facts above recorded, and in reply to a closing question by  Recorder Shane, Caroline said that while Rachel was down, Hardy—but no matter about that—he was the smallest and the rules of the Ring ought not to be too rigidly enforced on such occasions. Hardy was fined $15, and the Recorder was ungallant enough to make Rachel pay $6….

Another quartette of Africa's daughters appeared in front of the Recorder for the purpose of detaining in the work-house Abbey Wilson, who it seems, was determined to have a fight. Three glasses of liquid fire had caused her to hurl curses loud and deep upon the heads of the four "innocents" in court, and she needed just one more to elevate her to fighting trim. That was obtained, and she commenced operations by whipping the smallest one in the crowd, when the officers put a stop to further depredations by lodging Miss Abbey in the calaboose….

Nashville Dispatch, July 30, 1862.

 

 

 

 

30, 1863 -  "Richardson's Bloody Order"

We are accustomed to hear secessionist talk of Federal outrages, but we challenge the world to afford anything like the tyranny now exercised over the suffering people of the South by their relentless rulers. If ever the demonic spirit which is said to rule in hell had a counter part on earth, it is found among the rulers and petty despots who are now trampling in the dust the rights and liberties of the Southern people. And yet they talk [sic] of liberty! What liberty have they? They have the liberty of being shot, and left to rot like dogs; they have the liberty of being barricaded and burnt to death in the flames of their own consuming homes. Such [sic] is the sweet boon of liberty vouchsafed to those who do not feel willing to leave their families and go forth to suffer toil; and bleed in a hopeless cause. Such are the sweet privileges for which these men have aided by their influence to pull down the freest and best Government the sun of heaven ever shone upon. This is liberty! Yes, such liberty as hungry wolves grant the gentle lamb, or the kite gives to the doves; such liberty as Russia gives the Poles, or death to the victim. The following orders of the day read to the brigade by the Adjutant General to his serene demonship [sic], Richardson [sic] will prove how true are the charges which we have made against the rebel authorities. It seems that Richardson [sic], from being a Saint on the high road to heaven, has let go the ladder which he was ascending, and has descend to hold, converse, and plot cruelty with the infernal council in the lower regions. Let the friends of Southern [sic] liberty read, and ponder these gentle lamb-like orders of a former christian [sic] exhorter [sic]:

1st Every man of this command is expected to strictly obey all orders which the commanding General may deem necessary for discipline or the interest of the cause in which we are engaged.

2nd. Commanders of companies are hereby ordered to make a detail from their respective companies for the purpose of enforcing the conscript laws, passed by the Confederate State Congress * * * [sic] These details shall be empowered, they are hereby ordered, to rigidly enforce the laws of the Confederate States.

3d. Every white man between the ages of eighteen and forth-five in the District of West Tennessee is hereby ordered to report immediately at such places of rendezvous as may hereafter be designated. Commanding officers of companies are hereby ordered to strictly enforce this order. The following rules of procedure are given for the government of company officers and privates who may be engaged in the execution of section third of these orders

If a man should absent himself from his home to avoid this order, burn his house and other property, except such as may be useful to this command. If a man is found to resist the execution of this order, by refusing to report, shoot him down and leave him lying. If a man takes refuge in his house and offers resistance, set the house on fire and guard it in order the recusant may not get out.

Such is the liberty of the chivalrous, noble and free [sic] people of the South. What can be more gentle than Richardson's [sic] rules of procedure? Satan himself with all his attributed good qualities, could not have invented a more kind, satanic and remarkable a code of rules of procedure. This, fellow-citizens, is the boasted liberty of the free [sic] South.

Memphis Bulletin, July 30, 1863

 

 

30, 1864 - Legal notice allowing claims against Gideon J. Pillow

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:

MIDDLE DISTRICT OF TENNESSEE-No. 74

Whereas, on July 20th, 1864, an Information was filed by Horace H. Harrison, Esq., Attorney of the United States for the Middle District of Tennessee, in the District Curt of the United States for said District, against all the estate and property money, stocks, and credits of Gideon J. Pillow, and particularly against all his right, title and interest in the realty fully described ins said information, which alleges that in the District aforesaid, on land, said estate, property, moneys, stocks and credits, and particularly said right, title and interest, had been duly seized and forfeited to the United States, for causes in said set fort had averred to be true, to-wit: Because after the passage of an act of Congress, approved July 17, 1862, and entitled "An act to suppress insurrection, to punish Treason and Rebellion, to Seize and Confiscated the property of Rebels, and for other purposes,: the said Gideon J. Pillow acted as an officer of the rebels in arms against the Government of the United States, to-wit: as a Major-General[1] of the armies of the so-styled Confederate States of America.

Now, therefore, I hereby give public notice to all persons interested in said property, so seized as aforesaid, in the Capitol at Nashville, on the 3d Monday in October next, at 10 o'clock, A. M. there and then to propound their claims and make their allegations.

Edwin R. Glascock

Marshal Mid Dist. Tennessee.

Nashville Daily Times and True Union, July 30, 1864

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



[1] Pillow never rose above the rank of Brigadier General.


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Monday, July 29, 2013

7/29/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

29, Fayetteville Committee of Correspondence offers to furnish Confederate soldiers with winter clothing

Fayetteville, Tenn,. July 29, 1861

Hon. L.P. Walker

Secretary of War, Richmond, VA:

DEAR SIR:

The undersigned have the honor to inform you that at and by a meeting of a portion of the citizens of the county of Lincoln on this day they were appointed a committee to correspond with you touching the matters embodied in the following resolution and proceedings, which were had and done in said meeting, which proceedings are as follows., to wit:

Resolved: That the chairman appoint a committee of three persons to correspond with the War Department in Richmond touching the following matters, to wit:

Can the said Department furnish all of our soldiers now in the field with shoes, socks, coats, pants, blankets, shirts, and every article necessary to constitute a soldier's winter dress? If not all of them can be so furnished, what proportion can be so supplied by the Department, and to what extent, with each of the articles making a complete soldier's dress? The object of our citizens being, if the Department cannot furnish all of said necessary winter clothing, shoeing, &c., to inaugurate a plan by which the deficit, if there should be a deficit, may be partially supplied.

Jas. G. Wood

Chairman

Geo. J. Goodrich

Secretary

Our citizens solicitude about our soldiers and their comfort during the approaching winter, and knowing that our ports were under a blockade, that our manufacturers of woolen goods are on scale of diminution entirely disproportion [sic] to the wants of our people and of our Army, and that our funding and financial system of government are yet without consolidation and organized system, we have apprehended that the Department would be unable to furnish all the comforts of clothing so necessary to shield the soldier from the blasts of winter. We therefore desired to know whether the Government wants aid and cooperation in the premises. If Government is unable to furnish all, we desire to know it an early day, that we may take such steps as to effect all that we can in the premises. From our wool we can make blankets, clothing, and socks, and clothe every man we have in the field (about 900) if necessary, and we trust that the Secretary of War may be pleased to inform us at an early day touching the above inquiries. The committee also respectfully suggests to the Department, if the Government has to rely upon private contribution, that some plan may be adopted at Richmond by the Department looking to the unity and cooperation of the people of every county in the South in the premises, and that said plan be published in all the papers of the South. Pardon the committee and those whom we represent for these suggestions, for, knowing that we are all animated by the one high and holy purpose of achieving and maintaining our independence, we thought we could do no less.

JOEL J. JONES

JACOB GILLISPIE

DAVID ROBERTSON

Committee

OR, Ser. IV, Vol. 1, pp. 506-507

 

 

 

29, Justification for the seizure of the Stevenson Mansion in Nashville

HDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, Huntsville, July 29, 1862.

N. E. ALLOWAY, Nashville, Tenn.:

SIR: In reply to your letter of the 22d instant to Gen. Buell in reference to the Stevenson Mansion in Nashville I am directed to inform you that the property in question is not regarded by the general as confiscated, that act resting with the civil tribunals under the laws of Congress. Mr. Stevenson, however, the owner of the property, was, previous to the occupation of Nashville by the United States troops, and, as it is believed, still is, in arms against the Government; his property is therefore very properly seized, being necessary for the wants of the Government. The transfer of this property was made to you after the rebel army had commenced to evacuate Nashville and when it was quite plain that that city would fall into our hands, and it is therefore regarded as void.

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

[JAMES B. FRY,]

Col. and Chief of Staff.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 16, pt. II, p. 229.

 

 

 

29, C. S. A. orders security precautions in Cocke County during August 6, 1863 elections

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, July 29, 1863.

Brig.-Gen. [A. E.] JACKSON:

GEN.: Information has been received at these headquarters that about 200 bushwhackers are expected to meet and control the election to be held an August 6 on the waters of Big Creek, southeast of Newport about 15 miles. The point is in Cocke Country, thirteenth civil district. The major-general commanding directs that you have a sufficient force sent secretly, if possible, to [such] person and prevent illegal voting.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

J. N. GALLEHER, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 936.

 

 

 

29, Report on One Lady's Retribution for the Murder of her Lover

A Woman's Vengeance.

The Nashville Times publishes a letter from a young woman, who tells how she pursued and shot a rebel to avenge the murder of her lover. The scene of the tragedy was Martin's Creek, Tenn. The woman's lover was a Dr. Sadler, whose Union principles had rendered him obnoxious to the rebel inhabitants, three of whom hunted him down, and killed him. The manner of his death is thus narrated by the young woman.

I had met Peteet, Gordenhire, and Turner on the road, and told my brother there that they were searching for Dr. Sadler to kill him. Sure enough they went to the house where he was; and strange to me, after his warning, he permitted them to come in. They met him apparently perfectly friendly, and said they had come to get some brandy from Mr. Yelton, which they obtained; and, immediately after drinking, they all three drew their pistols and commenced firing at Sadler.

He drew his, but it was snatched away from him; he then drew his knife, which was also taken from him. He then ran round the house and up a stairway, escaping out of their sight. They followed, however, and searched till they found him, and brought him down and laid him on a bed, mortally wounded. He requested some of his people to send for Dr. Dillin to dress his wounds. It is strange to me why, but Sadler's friends had all left the room, when Turner went up and put his pistol against his temple, and shot him through the head. They all rejoiced like demons, and stood by till he made his last struggle. They then pulled his eyes open, and asked him in a loud voice if he were dead. They then took his horse and saddle and pistols, and robbed him of all his money, and otherwise insulted and abused his remains.

 The young woman (whose initials "L. J. W." are only given) determined on revenge, but kept her resolution to herself lest she should be prevented; and on a subsequent day proceeded to a house where she learned Turner (against whom she seems to have especially directed her revenge) was stopping, and deliberately shot him dead. She thus tells the story:

I asked Mrs. Christian if Turner was gone. She pointed to him at the gate, just leaving. I looked at the clock, and it was just 4 ½ o'clock, P.M. I then walked out into the yard, and as Turner was starting called to him to stop. He turned, and saw I was preparing to shoot him. He started to run. I fired at a distance of about twelve paces, and missed him. I fired again as quickly as possible, and hit him in the back of the head, and he fell on his face and knees. I fired again and hit him in the back, and he fell on his right side. I fired twice more, only one of these shots taking effect. By this time I was within five steps of him, and stood and watched him until he was dead. I then turned round and walked toward the house, and met Mrs. Christian, and her sister, his wife, coming out.

They asked me what I did it for. My response was, "You know what that man did the 13th of December last—murdered a dear friend of mine. I have been determined to do this deed ever since, and I shall never regret it." They said no more to me, but commenced hallooing and blowing a horn. I got my horse and started home, where I shall stay or leave as I choose, going where I please, and saying what I please."

New Orleans Daily Picayune, July 29, 1864. [1]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Saturday, July 27, 2013

7/27/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

27, Destruction of ferry boats at Brownsville, Estenaula[1] and burning of steam mill and skirmish at Lower Post

BOLIVAR, July 27, 1862.

Gen. McCLERNAND:

I am surrounded by a large force. Two thousand infantry, said to be the advance guard, were at LaGrange yesterday morning. Cavalry are on all sides, said to be 5,000 strong. They have also plenty of artillery. We shall have a fight.

ROSS.

BOLIVAR, July 27, 1862.

Gen. McCLERNAND:

Dollins has just sent a messenger stating that he tried to capture and destroy the ferry-boat at Estenaula, but was driven back this morning. My forces had not joined him, but were near him. He wants infantry re-enforcements, and says he will whip them before he leaves there.

I can't spare any of my forces.

ROSS.

BOLIVAR, July 27, 1862.

Gen. McCLERNAND:

I misunderstood Dollins' messenger. The facts are as follows: The ferry-boats at Brownsville, Estenaula, and at the steam-mill ferry are destroyed. Dollins' skirmish took place at the ferry known as Lower Post, only 5 miles from Toone's Station.

ROSS.

OR, Vol. 17, pt. II, pp. 124-125.

 

 

 

27, "A Great Mistake."

On yesterday afternoon, Judge M. M. Brien had occasion to chastise a negro [sic] woman, to prevent her abusing a member of his family, when a large mob of negroes [sic] gathered in front of his dwelling and made pretty menacing demonstrations. The provost guard appeared, and after hearing how the matter stood, went their way. But a number of them soon returned and arrested the Judge and presented him before the bar of the Provost Marshal when he was released. Col. Spaulding was not present, but the gentleman officiating in his stead, treated the Judge very courteously, dismissing him with a remark that the time had passed when negroes [sic] could be whipped in this country. [sic] The Judge supposed the guard returned and arrested him at the suggestion of some of the angry negroes [sic] who had assembled near his residence

We would caution the soldier on duty in this city, that it would be wise to pay but little attention to many of the negroes [sic] who have accumulated in and around Nashville. Judge Brien is, and always has been, not only a Union man, but a strong administration man. And we have no doubt, but the "ironclads" and "copperbottoms," who saw the Judge marching up Capital hill has a sharp stick after him, laughed in their sleeves, and grew bolder in their reason [?]. Be careful soldiers, we know your motives are good, but don't punish your best friends by mistake. Done for the present.

Nashville Daily Press, July 27, 1863.

 

 

 

27, General Orders, No. 20, relative to Mrs. L. G. Pickett and her trial by Military Commission on charges of spying

Headquarters District of West Tenn., Memphis, Tenn., July 27, 1864

* * * * [sic]

III. 2D-MRS. L. G. PICKETT, Citizen of Shelby County, Tennessee

Charge 1st-Attempting to smuggle articles of merchandise through the lines of the United States Military force.

Specification-In this, that on the 15th day of July, 1864, the defendant, Mrs. L. G. Pickett, did attempt to smuggle divers articles of merchandize through the picket line in the vicinity of Memphis, Tennessee, to wit viz.,: One pair of citizens boots, and six or eight wool hats. This in the District of Memphis, Dist. of West Tennessee, in violation of existing orders and regulation of the Treasury Department.

Charge 2d- Smuggling.

Specification-in this, that Mrs. L. G. Pickett did on or about July 14th, 1864, at Memphis, Tennessee, smuggle divers article of merchandise, viz.,: One pair of boots, and six hats through the picket lines, contrary to law and military orders.

To which charges and specifications the prisoner pleaded-Guilty.

FINDING AND SENTENCE.

The court, after mature consideration of the pleas and other matters and thing involved in the case of the prisoner, Mrs. L. G. Pickett, citizen, as follows:

Of the charges and specifications-Guilty

And the Commission does, therefore, sentence her, Mrs. L. G. Pickett, citizen, to be confined in the military prison at Alton, Illinois, for the period of six months; and that she pay a fine to the United States of the sum of one thousand dollars ($1000); and that she be confined in said military prison until said fine be fully paid.

IV. Finding approved and sentence confirmed. Sentence of imprisonment will be carried into effect under the direction of the Provost Marshal, District of Memphis. At the expiration of the term of her imprisonment, the prisoner will be released from custody upon paying to the proper authorities a fine of one thousand dollars, in accordance with the terms of the sentence.

By order of Maj. Gen. C. C. Washburn

Memphis Bulletin, August 9, 1864. [2]



[1] The spelling of this word in the OR is both "Estenuala" in Haywood county, and "Estanaula,."the latter apparently in McMinn County. There is reference to "Estenuala" in the OR General Index, p. 292, but not to "Estanaula." Between 1827 and 1846 there was U. S. Post Office in "Estanaula" in Haywood County. Netiher has been precisely located. I am endebted to my colleague Steven Rogers for his help in this perplexing matter.

[2] See also Nashville Dispatch, August 4, 1864.


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Friday, July 26, 2013

7/26/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

26, Life in a Cumberland Plateau spa

Letter from Beersheba Springs.

Beersheba Springs, July 26, 1861.

Editors Appeal: As there may be many readers of your paper who would be glad to know something of this charming spot, I have concluded to turn reporter and give them such information as I have been able to gather.

I have been at many summer retreats both North and South, but none have pleased me more than Beersheba.

It is situated on the Cumberland mountain, Grundy county, Tenn., seventy miles from Nashville. It derives its name from Mrs. Beersheba P. Cain, who built a cabin here in 1832. Mr. Dugan, who moved to this country in 1805, and who is still alive, first entered the land. From him the property passed through several hands, until it finally became the property of Mr. Armfield, to whose energy and industry many of the present improvements are due. It now belongs to a company of southern gentlemen, who purchased it for fifty or sixty thousand dollars.

If visitors are not satisfied with the arrangements made for their comfort at Beersheba, then they must carry their fastidiousness to a marvelous extent. A purer atmosphere never blessed this earth. You must remember that Beersheba is situated two thousand feet above the level of the sea. That dreadful annoyance, the mosquito, cannot be found here. The thermometer hardly ever exceeds seventy-five degrees. Fires and blankets have been comfortable for the two past nights. The main hotel is situated on the brow of the mountain, commanding an enchanting view of the valley of Collins river, which is from three to six miles wide and eighteen miles long. Its soil is fertile, producing in great abundance wheat, corn, rye, potatoes and vegetables of every kind. I am told that the valley contains numerous sulphur springs.

But let me come back to the springs. Arrangements are made for the accommodation of eight hundred people. The rooms are very nicely fixed, amply provided with pleasant beds, and everything necessary to secure comfort. Unlike many watering places, great attention is paid to cleanliness. There is nothing to be seen offensive to the eye. For the amusement of visitors there are provided billiard rooms, ten pin alleys and riding horses. At night the ball room is open. Everything about the establishment is conducted well.

It is under the particular charge of Mr. Hukil, favorably known on the Mississippi river as one of the most accomplished caterers in America. If any of your readers ever took a trip to New Orleans in the Ingomar or John Simonds, they will agree with me in the opinion that Mr. Hukil in his line is without a superior. As far as eating is concerned, your readers may rest assured that there is no hotel in New Orleans or Memphis possessing greater attractions. There is nothing rough about the establishment. The servants, numbering more than seventy, have been well drilled and are remarkably attentive. I have examined the whole establishment. Every thing is in order. The promenade around the buildings under cover is more than a quarter of a mile in extent. The walks are beautifully laid out. The bathing houses, the washing apparatus, the cooking facilities are as good as one could wish. Mr. Hukil is a gentleman of fine appearance, courteous in his manners, obliging in every respect. He is assisted by Mr. Hurd, a young gentleman formerly of the Memphis packet office company. If a handsome appearance, bland manners and attention to his duties be qualifications for the proper discharge of the duties devolving upon one filling a situation like that of Mr. Hurd, he possesses them in an eminent degree. He anticipates all your wants and studies to make your time pass pleasantly.

The terms of board are $50 per month, children and servants half price. Around the hotel are a number of elegant cottages, owned by persons in Nashville and I was pleased to meet the worthy bishop of Tennessee here. His health is good, and I am told he preaches twice every Sunday at the hotel.

In regard to the springs; the main one is chalybeate, running out of a rock, said to be an excellent tonic. This fountain, together with the freestone spring is about two hundred yards from the hotel accessible by a pleasant road.

In the vicinity of the springs are several objects of curiosity; among them is the stone door, water-falls, caves, etc. I have not as yet paid them a visit. I will try and describe them in my next. Upon the whole I can without any reservation whatever recommend this retreat to the people of Memphis. Gentlemen who are now at Beersheba, and who are familiar with all the hotels in America, pronounce this equal to any. It is a southern enterprise, and this alone ought to induce them to patronize it. The company here is not large, but of the most select character. I have not been introduced to any of the ladies, and therefore can say nothing in regard to them.

Traveler.

Memphis Daily Appeal, July 31, 1861

 

 

 

26, Particulars of Cotton Speculation and Specie Payment in West Tennessee

Cotton and Gold in the South.

Traveling in West Tennessee-Cotton Speculators-Danger of Cotton Being Burned, Etc.

Correspondence Cincinnati Commercial.

Columbus, Ky., July 26, 1862.-Cotton, cotton, is all one now beholds upon the banks of the Ohio and Mississippi. Cotton speculators are plenty, and gold in lieu of Treasury notes, is all that pay for it, and as certain as the party receive gold (which he invariably does for his cotton) it is sunk, and out of sight forever and a long time after. So thought we, when pursing our travels through Jackson, Humboldt, Bolivar and Grand Junction. Nothing was seen but cotton. Thousand of bales at each station, and hundreds of speculators, with thousands of gold, manifested themselves, as the weight-born-down trafficer [sic] wended his way along.

Cotton is cheap-is worth eighteen to twenty cents per pound at these stations-but invariably paying in gold, so that no once can buy a vale for anything less than gold; not even Tennessee money will buy it. We opine these people who buy have placed our coining a high, and unattainable place, while Government funds are at a discount. Speculators in cotton have become alarmed; they feel queer. At Grand Junction we conversed with some. They were afraid less the Rebels will seize upon it, and on the strength of their fears, they called on General Grant and requested him to send two regiments to protect their cotton, which he promised to do. Fire appears to alarm all buyers, because Fayette and other counties had their cotton burned. They are under the impression their's will suffer likewise.

We never saw so much gold; at every station we met six or seven men counting it out, and at every station were asked, "do you think our cotton is safe?" so much so that had we had intention a buy a bale we have gently seceded. But the great feature among cotton brokers here is he who pays the highest gets my cotton, no matter who they buy for. A employs B to buy cotton, and pays him ten dollars per bale for his trouble. B buys and has at the station one hundred vales. C inquires whose cotton it is. B says I bought it for A; says C I will give your fifteen dollars per bale. Well take it along; no consideration for A, but the five dollars is the margin. Principle is nowhere, and many parties who have advanced money to such agents get their money back, but no cotton. Three hundred thousand dollars or more changed hand here and around every day. The feeling among the people, since we don't take Richmond, is adverse to the Union, and it is almost an impossibility to find a Union man in this region. Those that are are gun-boat Union men. We give facts; we were there, and we know. Great fears are entertained at Grand Junction of an attack by the Rebels. They have burned the railroad bridge, and cut the wires so that communication by telegraph from Grand Junction to Memphis is impossible, and we thing that, owing to the few in number left to guard these places, ad their total want of military discipline, the Rebels will take place.

~ ~ ~                             

Philadelphia Inquirer, July 31, 1862.

 

 

 

ca. 25-26, Guerrilla activity in DeKalb County

"Brutal Murder by Guerrillas in DeKalb. Gallant Conduct of Lieut. . Blackburn. Death of two Notorious Cut-throats, Kearsey and Neely."

A most shocking and wanton murder was committed a few days ago, by a party of "Southern Chivalry" under the lead of two great scoundrels, Pomp Kearsey[1] [sic] and Neely, on the waters of Clear Fork, a few miles above Liberty, in DeKalb county. The guerrillas went to a house where a young Mr. Clark, son of one of our well-known citizens, was staying, dragged him out, and shot him to pieces. Young Clark's sole offence was that he was a strong Union man, and that was enough to arouse the malice of the hell-hounds.

On the following day (ca. 26) Lieutenant Blackburn, a well-known and brave young officer, formerly of Stokes' Tennessee cavalry, but now commanding an independent company, started in pursuit of the guerrillas, overtook them, and killed seven of the twelve who composed the party, among whom were the two head men, Pomp Kearsey, and Neely, whose depredations and villainies of all sorts have long made them the terror of the county. Lieut. Blackburn piled the seven bodies in a wagon and hauled them off towards Liberty. The sister of Kearsey sent to him and asked for the body to bury it, but Lieut. Blackburn sent her worked that he intended to show the bodies to the rebels in Liberty, to warn them of the fate which awaited all friends and protectors of guerrillas.

Nashville Daily Times and True Union, July 28, 1864.



[1] Regardless of political leanings bushwhackers in Cannon County were known to attend dances, in or out of uniform, dancing together till morning. "Beardless Pomp Kersey is said to have attended one of these dances dressed as a girl and to have danced with his arch enemy, Will Hathaway, who was much taken with the supposed maiden's charms." It may not be going too far to speculate that one or both of the men were gay. See: Robert L. Mason, ed. Joy Bailey Dunn ed., Charles W. Crawford, assoc. ed., Cannon County (Memphis State University Press; Memphis, 1982), pp. 56-58. Mason puts Kearsey's death at July 23, 1864, but provides no source to back his claim. Pomp was buried in the Melton Cemetery at Mechanicsville, Tennessee.


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Thursday, July 25, 2013

7/25/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

        25,  1861 - A note of thanks to the Southern Mothers

To the Southern Mothers.

With a heart overflowing with gratitude, I take great pleasure in bearing testimony to your motherly care, extended to the sick whom I recently brought to your rooms. Your noble deeds elicit my admiration. Be assured that your noble acts in the cause of freedom and humanity, will place your name in high esteem. You will be cited to daughters of succeeding generations, as examples of greatness and goodness worthy their imitation. Go on in your good work; you will cheer the suffering soldier, who is so unfortunate as to be taken sick, in camp, far from home. More especially let me express my unbounded thanks to Mrs. Mary E. Pope, secretary of the society, for her motherly care extended to Messrs. Barham and Bell, whom she so willingly and kindly took to her own private residence. Long may she live as a bright star of greatness and goodness, to nerve the brave soldier on to "victory or death." In memory's recesses will she ever live, as a kind and good mother.

Dear mothers, I wish you success and long life; you are exerting an influence that will animate and encourage all of us who have left our homes and firesides, that we may protect you and your daughters, or die in the attempt.

Hoping, should I become sick, that I may fall into your safe hands, I beg you to accept my most grateful remembrance.

W. B. Dickinson, Jr. 13th Regiment,

Randolph, Col. Wright, com. C. S. A., July 25, 1861.

Memphis Daily Appeal, July 30, 1861

 

 

25, 1862 - Federal anti-Semitism and cotton-buying in the Bolivar environs

BOLIVAR, July 25, 1862.

Maj. Gen. JOHN A. McCLERNAND:

The cotton speculators are quite clamorous for aid in getting their cotton away from Middleburg, Hickory Valley, &c., and offer to pay liberally for the service. I think I can bring it away with safety, and make it pay to the Government. As some of the Jew owners have as good as stolen the cotton from the planters, I have no conscientious scruples in making them pay liberally for getting it away.

L. F. ROSS, Brig.-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 17, pt. II, p. 120.

 

 

 

25, 1863 -  Measures taken to decrease deaths of officers in the Army of the Cumberland from Confederate sharpshooters

GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 174. Winchester, Tenn., July 25, 1863.

I. In order to prevent the disorganization of the army its officers being picked off by the enemy's sharpshooters, the following badges of rank are recommended and permitted to be worn as undress uniform in all portions of this army when serving in the immediate vicinity of the enemy: Officers of all grades are authorized to wear single-breasted blouses directed in the Army Regulations, for the badges of rank worn on the epaulette. The rectangle of the shoulder-strap being too conspicuous on the field of battle, need not be worn. Second lieutenants will wear a single bar on the right shoulder only.

II. No private horses will be sent beyond the limits of the department without a special permit from the provost-marshal-general.

By command of Maj.-Gen. Rosecrans:

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 558.

       

 

 

25, 1863 - One White County woman's observations about the war on the Tennessee Cumberland Plateau

....the Yankees are getting pretty close. There were two Mr. Bakers [sic] at Mrs. Wms.' [sic] getting away from what they called the Bushwhackers. From all I can learn it is a part of Stokes' regt. [sic] who have got in there by some means and are after the Southern soldiers, &c., and being away from the Generals, they do as the Southern soldiers do a great many times, take revenge on those who happen to be of the opposite party. There are great tales told of what they are doing, but I have not heard of anything yet half as bad as Jack Ber[r]y's [sic] capers, who belongs to Hamilton's command,[1] nor even as bad as some of the recruiting officers and men done. [sic] The truth is each side, when it gets a little the advantage and gets of the opposite party trodden down a little, crows a little too big, and when the trodden party gets a chance to, [it] retaliates rather severely.

Diary of Amanda McDowell.

 

 

25, 1864 - Letter from William F. Testerman, on Remembrance stationery, to Miss Jane Davis. Testerman was a first lieutenant in Company C of the 8th Tennessee Cavalry

Gallotin [sic], Tenn. July 25, 1864.

Dear Miss,

I again take the opportunity of Droping [sic] you a few lines in answer to your kind letters which I received a few days ago one bearing date June "23" the other June the "24" it was a plesure [sic] to me to have the honor to receive a letter from as charming a young girl as the one whos [sic] name was asscirbed [sic] at the bottom of each of them I was glad to hear that you was well but I was more glad to hear you express your mind as fully as what you did this note leaves me well and I truly hope that this will find you in good health I can't say anything to you by letter more than what you have heard from my letters before. Jane I hope the time will soon come when I can get to see you again I can write many things to you but if I could see you I could tell you more in one minute than I can rite in a week The letters that you wrote to me has proved verry [sic] satisfactory to me if you will stand up to what you told me in your letters I will be satisfied which I have no reasons to Doubt but what you will but if you was to fail it would allmost [sic] break my heart for you are the girl that I am Depending upon and if it was not for you I would not be riting [sic]by my candle to night as you wrote to me that many miles seperated [sic] us in person if my heart was like yours we would be united in heart you kneed [sic] not to Dout [sic] [.] Though we are fare apart at present my heart is with you every moment for I often think of you when you are asleep when Travailing the lonesom [sic] roads in middle Tenn [sic] The thought of your sweet smiles is all the company I have I trust that you are cinsere [sic] in what you have wrote to me. Your sparkling blue eys [sic] and rosey [sic] red cheeks has gaind [sic] my whole efections [sic] I hope for the time to come when we shall meet again then if you are in the notion that I am we can pass off the time in plesure [sic] [.] My time has come for sleep and I must soon close I want you to rite to me as soon as you can for I will be glad to hear from you any time. Direct your letters as before and dont [sic] forget your best friend so I will end my few lines but my love to you has no End remember me as ever your love and friend. Excuse bad riting [sic].

William F. Testerman to Miss Jane Davis

Civil War Love Letters.[2]

 

 

 

25, Military posse in Perry, Wayne, Hardin, Hickman, Williamson and Maury counties

NASHVILLE, TENN., July 25, 1865.

Maj. Gen. JOHN E. SMITH, Memphis:

Send a force of 100 cavalry to hunt down and destroy a band of guerrillas now raiding over the counties of Perry, Wayne, and a portion of Hardin, and who make their headquarters in south part of Hickman County and near Williamsport, in Maury. Your force will remain west of the Tennessee and co-operate with a like force which Gen. Johnson will send out to scout the east of the river.

W. D. WHIPPLE, Brig.-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 49, pt. II, p. 1090.

 

 

 

 

 

 



[1] According to Major-General George H. Thomas, in his March 18, 1864 report to Major-General William Tecumseh Sherman, Hamilton was one of a number of pro-Confederate guerrilla leaders on the Tennessee Cumberland Plateau: "Stokes' Fifth Tennessee Cavalry (U.S.) at Sparta, operating against the guerrillas, who, under Hamilton, Ferguson, Carter, Murray, and Hughs, have infested that country since the war commenced.OR, Ser. I, Vol 32, pt. III, p. 90.

[2] As cited in: http://spec.lib.vt.edu. 


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

Mao and Che - together again! #Shenzhen #China

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Green roofs - Shenzhen, China

7/23/2013 Tennessee Civil War Notes

23, Letter Alleging a Conspiracy to Furnish Arms and Munitions to East Tennessee Unionists

Correspondence of the Louisville Courier.

Arms and Munitions of War-Aid and Comfort in the Tories of East Tennessee-The Conspiracy.

Nicholasville, Ky., July 23

Editors Louisville Courier: For two weeks past quantities of munitions of war and provisions have been passing through this place purporting to be for Cumberland Gap. By minute inquiry I learned that several wagon loads of parched coffee passed through en route for the Gap. In addition to this, arms in abundance have been transported to that section of the State. The Southern Rights party, though not informed of their movements, have great reason to believe these guns and provisions are encouraged by the Union men of this State for the Tories of East Tennessee. I write this note in order to enable you to give information of the proceedings of the Union party of the States. If you think it advisable to give the citizens of Tennessee any information of the present movements you can do so on my authority, and also on that of many other reliable men.

The breezes whisper that the troops from Newport Barracks are to accompany the arms to their destination. Volunteering has been going here, for the same purpose.

Daily Columbus Enquirer, July 31, 1861.

 

 

 

23, Orders relative to use of Negroes in Federal army hospital in Jackson, Tennessee

Excerpt from SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 142. HDQRS. DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE, Corinth, July 23, 1862.

* * * *

V. The general hospital at Jackson will be allowed to retain such amount of black labor as the surgeon in charge may decide as being absolutely necessary to perform such menial service as should not be put upon soldiers. In getting this kind of labor such persons will be taken as are free by act of Congress if possible, and if not they will be hired from owners at a reasonable rate of compensation, to be fixed by council of administration, and should owners object they will be pressed into service and not returned or paid for until proof of loyalty is shown.

Proper diet will be procured from the surrounding country for the sick, to be paid for at reasonable rates, fixed by council of administration, if acceded to by the citizens; if not acceded to by them, by forced contribution. This order is made applicable to all general hospitals within this district outside of the loyal States.

By command of Maj. Gen. U. S. Grant:

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 17, pt. II, p. 115.

 

 

 

23, "News and Rumors at Clarksville."

From the Clarksville Bulletin, July 18.

A scout consisting of the 28th mounted infantry and the 8th Kentucky cavalry, in command of Captains Whipp and Benson, returned from across the Cumberland yesterday afternoon. They scoured the country on Yellow Creek about Charlotte. They were fired upon four different times, and many exciting chases occurred. Henson's command of guerrillas is moving at large, and were chased twice by Capt. Whipp. Two companies of the 4th Tennessee Rebel cavalry, of Forrest's command, more on Yellow Creek and about Charlotte collecting forage. Several guns and four prisoners were captured. The prisoners were Lieut. J. M. Dodson, W. J. Nesbet and L.S. Nichols, of the 10th Tennessee Rebel cavalry, and W. H. Hunt, formerly a rebel soldier who belonged to Woodward's regiment. He took the oath of allegiance and gave bond, in the Provost office in Clarksville, last March. He is charged with violating his oath and bond, by waging guerrilla warfare and being connected with a band of horse thieves. He stole a horse from Doctor Johnson, of Christina country, a few days ago. He is also accused of making threats against Union men. He will be tried by the Military Commission.

G. W. Doulin, a member of Woodward's command, came into Clarksville on Tuesday [14th]. He was dressed in citizens' clothes, and represented himself as a citizen. He applied at the Provost Marshal's office for permission to visit Hall in prison in prison, who was captured by Boones' scouts, and who is an Orderly Sergeant in Woodward's command. Being refused permission to visit the jail, he then pledged his worth that Hall was no Confederate soldier, but a good and peaceable citizen. He vouched for his character, wanted to on his bond for his good behavior, or be responsible for his appearance on trial, if he were only released from prison. He labored earnestly in the cause, but without effect. He was suspicioned [sic] by the Provost Marshal as not being what he represented himself to be. Shortly afterward, he was recognized on the street by Lieut. Sharp, as a prisoner that had twice escaped from him. He was immediately arrested, when it was ascertained that he was a Confederate soldier of Woodward's band. Being found within our lines in citizen's dress, and representing himself to be a loyal citizen, makes him appear in the character of a spy, and for this offence he will be tried before the commission.

We learn that Jack Henson had a public sale, near Cumberland City, on Wednesday last [15th]. The sale consisted of stolen good and broken down horses. Several country stores, in the last ten days, have been sacked by Benson, or men connected with his command. The pillage has been indiscriminate: no opinions or rights were respected -- the mind appeared to be solely bent on plunder. On Wednesday [15th], the band was collected at Cumberland City, and the spoils of the plunderers were offered for sale. We do not know whether many bidders were found for the stolen property, or not, but presume there were, as the citizens of the neighborhood of Cumberland City are of such a lawless character, that they would glory in upholding and maintaining the rights of a guerrilla band. And they would eagerly receive the spoils plundered from citizens, who would oppose an opinion of theirs, or raise a voice in favor of law and order and justice. Without doubt, many of the citizens of that neighborhood are connected directly or indirectly with these thieving guerrilla bands.

Nashville Dispatch, July 23, 1863.

 

 

 

23, The "Greenback" Standard, Retrieval of Bank Notes, and the Liquidation the Indebtedness of the Bank of Tennessee

The Tennessee Banks.

We have understood, says the Nashville Dispatch that the Supervisor of Banks, General Sam Milligan,[1] of Greene county, will enter upon the discharge of his duties under the Bank Code during the present or coming week and that it is his intention to exact as faithful a compliance with the provisions of the Bank Code and the acts amendatory thereof as circumstances will at present justify. We feel warranted in saying that one object he will labor to accomplish will be to bring up the notes of the banks doing business in this State to the "greenback" standard. He regards it a duty he owes to the people of Tennessee, who hold largely of the issue our banks, to require the banks to make their issues as good as that which the Government has made a legal tender.

Another matter that will engage the especial attention of the Supervisor of Banks will be the looking after and gathering up such of the assets of the Band of Tennessee as may be within reach. There is a large amount of debts due to the Bank being scattered over the State, much of which, by proper attention, may be secured. The evidences of these debts have been carried beyond the limits of the State; but where it can be ascertained that a party owes the Bank, the laws of Tennessee provide amply for enforcing its collection. The Bank holds a very considerable amount of real estate in various parts of the State, which he proposes to take possession of. The greater portion of this real estate, is improved and very valuable, and may be disposed of upon very advantageous terms. From these two items a fund may be realized which will go a long way toward liquidating the indebtedness of the State.

Chattanooga Daily Gazette, July 23, 1864. [2]

 

 

 

 



[1] Milligan was a politician from Greene county where he practiced law beginning in the 1840s. He served in the 24th, 25th, and 26th General Assemblies representing Greene and Washington counties. He was a Democrat. He served in the Mexican was as a major in the Quartermaster Corps. He was a delegate to the Democratic Nation Convention of Charleston and Baltimore of 1860, and a member of the Peace Conference at Washington. He was offered ambassadorships by Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson, but declined to accept. Milligan was appointed to the Tennessee Supreme Court, 1864-1868 when he resigned to take a judgeship of the Court of Claims in Washington, D. C.. He died on April 7, 1874. Robert McBride and Dan M. Robison, eds., Biographical Dictionary of the Tennessee General Assembly, Vol. I, 1796-1861, (Nashville: Tennessee State Library and Archives and the Tennessee Historical Commission), p. 522. The rank of General was more than likely honorific or had to do with a position with the militia.

[2] TSL&A, 19th CN.


James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-532-1550  x115

(615)-532-1549  FAX