Tuesday, March 10, 2015

3.10.2015 Tennessee Civil War Notes

c        10, Federal troops move into and occupy Murfreesboro, excerpt from the diary of John C. Spenced

The Yankees finally ventured into Murfreesboro headed by Genl. Mitchel with a heavy force of cavalry. They rode around the public square and halted oposite [sic] a croud [sic] of citizens who had gathered about at the approach of the troops. The Genl., straitning [sic] himself up, and in a pompus [sic] manner, addressed the citizens some what [sic] in this style.-I am master of this place! And then goes on to say how he wished matters to be understood and what he intends doing. His object was to restore the union, law, and order.

It appears that the Rail Road [sic] and Bridges [sic] was burned by the Confederate army on their retreat from this place and Nashville. In fact, there was but fiew [sic] bridges on any road escaped destruction.

During his remarks, he puts the question to the croud [sic] of citizens who were present to know if the burning was done with the consent and wish of the people of this place. Some one spoke and remarked that it might or not, could not well answer the question-another person said it was done with the consent of the people. The Genl. replys [sic], if that be the case he knew what sort of people he had to deal with. Accordingly-after making a short stay, they returned to Nashville.

This is our first introduction to Yankee soldiers and a small specimen of their politeness. On their first entrance in town, every man had his thumb on the cock of his gun. Rode [sic] around in this manner until they saw the citizens were a peaceable people instead of a savage race, as they may have thought. They made a neat appearance as soldiers. Their uniforms were all regular, and dress, of sky blue.

No person appeared to have the least alarm as to their visit. Thought it would be only a temporary thing. That if they did come, they would pass off again in the course of a fiew [sic] days and things would move on as usual.

About three days after the cavalry visit to this place, our ears are greeted with the sound of drum and fife and the rattle of artillery wagons and columns of infantry advancing-colours flying-every thing [sic] appeared to be on the move. Our peaceble [sic] town again thrown into excitement-now, by an army of invasion. The come and take formal possession of the place and hoist the flag of the U. S. instead of the Confederate, which was on the court house steeple. They set to pitching their camps, which was pretty much all round the town, convenint [sic].

Spence Diary.

        10, Annie M. Sehon's letter to her sister on the flight from Nashville

Atlanta March 10th/62

My dear Sister

You are a little surprised are you not to hear from me at Atlanta? But I am really here and here I expect to remain until we can drive back the hated enemy and return victorious to our dear old home. You have before this learned of the taking of Nashville. It is a sad fact and woeful, woeful are its consequences. I do not know what to think of Gen Johnston to have failed to reinforce Donelson, to have given up Nashville and cowardly retreated as he has done, a general in whom we have heretofore reposed such confidence! On his shoulders rests the awful responsibility of our great disaster and probably the subjugation and ruin of the whole South. He has behaved cowardly, and will I hope meet his reward in having his command taken from him. Of course all our officers had to flee from Nashville, Mr. Sehon and Capt Wright have been ordered to open their offices here. They left Nashville on the 19th of Feb at night and on horseback. I did not leave until the 23rd. Mr. Sehon was ordered first to Murfreesboro to which place the whole army retreated, next to Chattanooga, then to Atlanta where he is stationed permanently. In Nashville he was complimented by being placed on Gen Johnston's staff and offered a high position but it was one that carried him on the field, to that I was and will ever be bitterly opposed. I am willing to make any personal sacrifice for the good of my bleeding, almost crushed country, my own life I would cheerfully give if that could save her from the impending ruin, but I am not willing to risk my Husband's life, for that is to me far, far dearer than my own, without him life itself would be a burden, and daily, hourly I thank Heaven that I have in all our other trials & sorrows the sweetest comfort left me, that of being with my Husband under all circumstances. Let Fate lead us where it may. It was on Sunday the 16th Feb, the mournful surrender of Fort Donelson took place. We received the news just at Church time when the whole town became perfectly paralyzed, perfectly panic stricken, I believe there was not a Southern heart in Nashville that was not in complete despair. All the government officers were ordered to be in readiness to leave at any moment that Johnston should issue their orders, as gunboats from Donelson were expected every hour. This was Sunday and it was not until Wednesday night that Mr. Sehon received his orders to leave. To think of such suspense! For four days & nights I was nearly frantic, not knowing what moment the Federal troops might arrive, Mr. Sehon still kept in Nashville and in danger of being taken a prisoner. I never saw any human being work as he did those four days & nights.

I don't know how human nature endured it. He had but one of the nights to sleep, and not only did he work day after day, night after night, but for a whole day & night & until the next morning that he would not stop to take any refreshment, not even a mouthful. As heart broken as I was when I had to give him up, as desolate as I felt after he left, it was yet a relief to see him go, for I know a week of such intense excitement and work day and night would have prostrated him. All this time Mr. Stevenson was safe out of Nashville, had fled with his wife, household furniture, wines &c. to some safe place at the first warning of danger. The night Mr. Sehon left, the suspension bridge was torn up, the rail road bridge was burned and oh how frightful was the burning, the whole town was illuminated by the flames, not a bell was rung, not a sound heard, all Nashville was stricken with a stony despair. As soon as Mr. Sehon reached Murfreesboro &could get boarding he sent for me which was four days after he left. Never while I live shall I forget, can I forget the morning when I bade my old home Good-bye; as I turned the last lingering look upon it I felt that I was leaving it forever, but I pray God will be with us in this dark trying hour and give us strength to drive from our Soil our hated oppressors, when we can return in happiness to our dear homes. When I left Nashville it was Sunday, and the calmest brightest Spring morning I ever saw, so warm that we had been sitting out on McLemore porch. At half past ten, Mother came running in & told me I had not a moment to lose, that the Federal troops had reached Edgefield (Buell's Army) and were crossing on some Steamboats which by the miserable policy of Gen Johnston were not ordered to be burned when the bridge was. When I heard this I was in despair, for one of the railroad bridges had been swept away by the heavy rains between Nashville & Murfreesboro, someone had stolen one of Pa's carriage horses (the young one) and not a hackman in Nashville could be induced to drive me out even six miles, out of the range of the pickets, for one hundred dollars which was offered them. They refused to go out for any sum of money, so intense was their fright. As a last resort I had to ask sister for her carriage in which I drove to Murfreesboro & sent it back the next day. Just as I was leaving, two of the Federal officers rode by home, down McLemore St. I could scarcely control my indignation but felt what would not I give to send a dagger to the heart of each! When I saw them my heart sickened and I closed my eyes to shut out the sight, realizing at last that our home was desecrated by their tread upon its soil. Their policy in Nashville is different from what every one expected. They are trying to reconcile the people to their subjugation, are very mild and have spoken publicly in which they promised their rights & slaves should be protected. I cannot get a letter from Nashville, but Mr. Sehon saw Mr. Gleaves, who married Miss Clark, just from there who gave us the news. The Federal force there is estimated at 40.000, Gen Buell, Gen Ormsby Mitchel and Gen Nelson all there, all three old acquaintances of Fathers. Mr. Gleaves told Mr. Sehon a joke they had in Nashville upon Father. It was really true. One night the door bell rang and Father answered it himself. When he opened the door, he saw three Federal officers, Gen Mitchel one of them who immediately stepped up to Father & said you are my prisoner Sir. You know Father's innocent unsuspecting disposition, in terror he replied can I see my wife &children Sir. Gen Mitchel assented when all four walked in, & Father went back to tell the family. On hearing it Mother & the girls rushed in the parlor to plead for him and in a few moments Father

recognized for the first time Gen Mitchel. Gen M then laughed & told him he had not come to arrest him but to invite him to breakfast next morning at Headquarters to meet some of his old friends. The invitation Father cooly [sic] declined. I think it was presumption in Mitchel to have called. If they had come amongst us a conquered instead of a victorious people I could treat them kindly, but now I would spurn their acquaintance & request them never again enter my door. But the greatest piece of presumption was that of a young Federal officer who called on Sallie & Fannie. He being an old acquaintance called & expressed his pleasure at meeting them. They received him distantly and told him they were once glad when they would meet, but now they regretted to see him. He laughed & told them they would soon get over that feeling and asked them to visit some of the young ladies of Nashville with him. They refused telling him that those ladies would dislike as much as they did to see him. He left and we did not learn whether or not he repeated the visit. Did you ever hear of such impudence? It made me indignant when I heard of it. Sister and the children with Mrs. Crutcher are staying with Pa & Ma. I have no doubt every thing is perfectly safe there. I was anxious to send away the portraits, your little bonnet box, my trunk of silver &c, but the road was so loaded with Government goods I thought they would be lost on the way and now I am glad I left them as I consider our homes & property in no danger. None of the private citizens have been arrested, their object is to be as mild and conciliatory as possible. My greatest anxiety is to hear of the fate of poor dear Frank. He was taken a prisoner at Fort Donelson. I have heard nothing of him since. His wound was very slight, merely a scratch. I have heard from persons who were with him at Donelson & made their escape. They left him perfectly well. He may also have made his escape, as I cannot hear from Nashville.

I can hear nothing of him. Ma can now hear from him as communication is opened with all the North. His fate seems a hard one, imprisonment, but I felt so relieved to hear he had passed through that terrific battle with his life saved & he not a cripple that I can feel reconciled to his being a prisoner, and being a prisoner he is safe, in no danger of his life being again imperiled in battle. The battle of Fort Donelson was the bloodiest, the most terrific struggle that has yet taken place and oh if Johnston had only reinforced then we would have been saved. Our men fought with a courage and desperation almost superhuman and bravest among the brave was dear Frank. In the thickest of the battle, he took off his cap, waved his sword above, rallied his men around him and told them he would fight and die there and like lions they all fought. He lost every one of his officers and many of his men and oh with a heart full of fervent gratitude I thank the Good God who protected him in his imminent peril while his men fell thick and fast around him. I have a dispatch from Gen Pillow which I shall always preserve. While the battle was raging my anxiety was so intense Mr. Sehon telegraphed to know how he was. Gen Pillow took the time to answer which he did in these words, "Capt Maney wounded slightly in the leg, fought as bravely as any boy I ever saw." The Editor of the Gazette was present when the dispatch was received and asked permission to publish it, which he did the next morning. I received three letters from you while at Chattanooga, the Nashville mail is now stopped and distributed there. I received also while there a letter from Will. He is still at Cumberland Gap and perfectly well. George's regiment is at Knoxville. But it is so dark I cannot see what I write. Direct your letters to me to this place. Give my best love to Mr. K and a kiss to the little darlings. Mr. S tells me always to give his best love.

Your affectionate Sister

Annie M. Sehon

Kimberly Family Correspondence

        10, "Camp life is having its effect on our men. Dysentery and diarrhea are prevalent." Federal military activity in the Fort Henry environs

Again troops are moving. Our camp here is about deserted. Last week the five regiments of infantry here struck their tents and left. Boats have been coming and going. A large number is now up the river having taken troops, stores, etc. Yesterday the artillery stationed here left, escorted by about one hundred men of our battalion. Two companies of the Indiana 52nd came over here. So our force is small, but soon we too may leave here, for fresh fields. Camp life is having its effect on our men. Dysentery and diarrhea are prevalent. Except a slight attack of dysentery I have had good health. May I be truly thankful to my Heavenly Father for all his goodness to me, but how little do I care for religion; how my thoughts wander on other subjects and how much the world holds as its salve even here, when at any moment I may hurried out of it. Oh may I labor to make my calling and election sure, and succeed in the name of my Savior Jesus Christ.

Alley Diary

        10, A Capital Crime in Confederate Memphis

MURDER ON JEFFERSON STREET – Between 7 and 8 o'clock yesterday morning, Mr. Hite, who has a store on Jefferson street, south side, between Main and Second streets, entered the cigar sore of Mr. J. D. Bonneweld, next door, to get a key when he found him lying on his back in the doorway of the portion that divides a sitting room from the rest of the store. On examining him he found he was dead. He procured the aid of Policeman Viers, and an examination was made of the body and store. The body was found uninjured except on the neck, and there were some dark marks showing that death had been produced by strangulation. The opinion of the officer is that the deceased was strangled by means of the silk handkerchief he wore around his neck. The store door was unfastened and a cup of coffee stood on the table in the sitting room. On the store counter near where the body lay, stood a box of fine cigars open. It appears probable that the murderer or murderers entered the store and asked for cigars, that Bonneweld left his table where he was taking his supper to wait upon them, and that he was seized and strangled. The safe was found open with the key in it, and the money I had contained was gone. The amount believed by the neighbors and acquaintances of the deceased to have been not less than fifteen thousand dollars, and as he is known to have been buying gold for some time – having intention of returning to his home in Germany when the state of public affairs would permit - it is believed that amount was in gold. Mr. Bonneweld had an account at the Savings Institution on Madison street, and on Saturday last he drew out what he had on deposit and closed his account. The officers of the bank think some then thousand dollars was probably laid out fully wrapped up in some insurance papers, the declaration of the deceased of intention to become a citizen signed by Mr. Wheeler, clerk of the criminal court and dated 1857, and some other papers and two rings and a breast pin, were also found undisturbed. The money drawer had been taken out and the loose case carried off. Some money wrapped up in different papers were [sic] left behind. The pantaloon pockets of the deceased were turned inside out his watch guard was broken and the watch taken away. The deceased was seen about seven o'clock, and it is believed the murder was done between that time and nine o'clock.[1]

The deceased from the neighborhood of Hamburg, Germany. He was between fifty and sixty years of age. He was very conventional in his habits, tough doing a good business he spent very little money. The circumstances of the murder remind us of the murder at the bank in Jackson, Tenn., some time ago. Nothing is apparent[ly] known to [give a description] in any quarter. This occurrence confirms what we have said two or three times lately – that there are at this time in the city some, and not a few, of the worst villains of the Confederate States. Citizens cannot be too careful when out in the streets at late hours, and in attending to the safe fastening of their house doors and shutters.

Memphis Appeal, March 11, 1862.

        10, On Island No. 10.

The Island is situated in the corner of that bend of the Mississippi river which touches the border of Tennessee, a few miles further up the river than New Madrid, although nearly southwest at that point. It is located about two hundred and forty miles from St. Louis, and nine hundred and fifty miles from New Orleans. The elevation of the river at this point is about two hundred feet above the level of the delta, or its mouth. The average depth of the water at this point is from ninety to one hundred and twenty feet, and the breadth of the stream from mainland to mainland about nine hundred yards. The current runs by the island at a moderately fast rate, and with the power of the three rivers.-Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio-combined. The island is near the southern, or what might be termed the eastern, bank of the river that at his point, the stream varies from its southern course and turns abruptly to the northwest, leaving this island about forty-five miles, by the course of the river, from Hickman. It is near Obionsville.

Louisville Daily Journal, March 10, 1862.[2]

        10, On Chattanooga

Chattanooga.- Chattanooga is a young and flourishing city, of 5,000 inhabitants, situated on the south bank of the Tennessee river, which stream is as this season navigable that far up. The place occupies a position in the Southern portion of East Tennessee, near the Georgia line. The surrounding country is elevated, and in some parts commons an extended view, the Lookout Mountain scenery in that locality being somewhat noted. It is the depot for the greater part of the produce of East and Middle Tennessee, and is also a manufacturing place. Its strategic prominence, aside from the eligibility of its situation consists in the fact of it being the centre of several important railroads communicating with other portions of the secession state. Chattanooga is distant from Nashville by rail 150 miles and from Memphis 300 miles. It is connected with Knoxville by the East Tennessee and Georgia Railroad, 110 miles long, and communicates with Atlanta, Savannah, Charleston &c, by the Western and Atlantic, owned and controlled by the State of Georgia. Thus the facilities for the concentration and movement of troops and munitions of war are exceedingly good at this point.

Louisville Daily Journal, March 10, 1862.[3]

        10, Skirmish near Covington (Concordia) [see March 8-12, 1863, Expedition from LaGrange above]

        10, Skirmish at East Beaver Dam Creek [see March 8-12, 1863, Expedition from Collierville above]

        10, Skirmish at Rutherford Creek [see March 4-14, 1863, Expedition from Murfreesborough toward Columbia, Tennessee, above]

        10, Skirmish near Murfreesborough

No circumstantial reports filed.

        10, Report on construction of Federal gunboat at Carthage

No circumstantial reports filed.

CARTHAGE, March 10, 1863.

Col. C. GODDARD, Asst. Adjt. Gen. and Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland:

I could not get sufficient material here to complete my gunboat; will send it down to Nashville to-morrow, to get either baled hay or cotton. Also would like to get some heavy guns to place on it. I have two 12-pounders on this boat, and, at a short distance, it cannot be told but what it is bona fide. This only leaves four pieces of artillery here. I send all the other boats, except two, down at same time. If you think it advisable, I will authorize Lieut. Patten, who has charge of this boat, to fit up another similar to this. I will need no regular gunboats here.

* * * *

Respectfully,

GEORGE CROOK, Brig.-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p. 130.

        10, Confederate scouts, Shelbyville to Caney Spring, Eagleville, Harpeth River, Triune, Franklin

CHAPEL HILL, March 10, 1863--4 p. m.

Gen. POLK, Shelbyville:

GEN.: My scouts have returned from Caney Spring, and report no enemy at that place, and only so far citizen reports as to their being at Raleigh Hill, my scouts to that point not having returned. My return scout from Eagleville report, upon authority of Dr. Webb, on north side of Harpeth River, the enemy re-enforced at the forks of the pike, 4 miles south of Triune; enemy represented their re-enforcements at two brigades. Another report from a citizen (a Mr. Floyd), who was captured last Thursday and taken to Murfreesborough, and returned last night, says that three divisions of the Federal army had left, and were leaving that vicinity, marching toward Triune and Franklin. He mentioned Davis', Sheridan's, and one other name not recollected, as generals commanding divisions. A few artillery shots were heard this evening toward Spring Hill.

My pickets are stationed at Holt's Corners, on a road leading from Rover to Caney Spring, and are extended on the right to Col. Russell's, and on the left near Caney Spring.

Very truly,

P. D. RODDEY, Col., Cmdg.

P. S.-The company you [illegible] [sic] guns at Shelbyville, as intended, have never reported to me, and, I am informed, have been sent back to Northern Alabama. I will, however, have them put in order, and use them with some drilled men in my command. I have never heard anything from Col. Hagan upon the subject of artillery. Hope he may send them to me promptly.

I give reports on the other side as I get them, not vouching for the correctness of anything I hear from citizens.

CHAPEL HILL, March 10, 1863--10 p. m.

Lieut. Gen. LEONIDAS POLK, Shelbyville, Tenn.:

GEN.: Nothing since my last dispatch at 4 this p. m. My paper will soon be all gone, and I don't know where I can get supplied in this country.

Very respectfully,

P. D. RODDEY, Col., Cmdg.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, pp. 678-679.

        10, "A Skirmish near Jackson, Tennessee – A Federal Force Surrounded and Captured."[4]

Jackson, Tennessee, March 10,

Via Cairo, March 10.

A skirmish has taken place between 200 infantry and two pieces of artillery, of General Sullivan's division, and a body of rebel cavalry. Federal loss, 100, including artillery. The cavalry surrounded our force, and compelled to surrender. Troops have been sent from here to the scene of the reported skirmish.

It is rumored that the railroad from here to Columbus is to be abandoned, and eight miles of the track taken up. The cars and engines will be put on the southern part of the road.

It is feared when the troops were withdrawn that guerrillas will infest the country, and rob and conscript the farmers.

Memphis Bulletin, March 15, 1863.

        10, "New Military Commission."

On account of one of the members of the military commission having resigned, his commission as an officer and left the city, Gen. Veatch has dissolved that body, which has obtained for itself, under the able presidency of Col. H. Matheny, a high character for impartiality, justice and ability. Gen. Veatch has by special order, created a new commission, the members of which are Col. J. H. Matheny, 130th Ill. Infantry; Capt. Barter Lewis, 1st Ill. cavalry; Lt. H. F. Merville, 55th Ill. Infantry; with Capt. Wm. Prescott, 110th Illinois as Judge Advocate. Those who know the officers here named will see in their names a guarantee that they high character of the military commission will be well maintained. The commission is instructed in the order to convene in the city of Memphis, Tenn., on the 9th of March for the trial of all offenses and of violation of the laws and regulations which do not come within the jurisdiction of the court martial. The commission sits in the Senate building on Jefferson streets between Main and Second streets.

Memphis Bulletin, March 10, 1863.

        10, "Street Improvement;" Public Health Initiative in Memphis

Some of the newly appointed district overseers got their "contrabands" to work yesterday in the streets. As far as we saw the old method of street cleaning was pursued, that is, the filth and dregs deposited in the gutter and lying at the side of the streets was loosened by means of a pickax, then shoveled to the center of the street. We have heard of an Irishman who, when on his first visit to Dublin, was treated to a ride in a hack, from which the bottom had been removed for repairs, consequently Paddy went on his legs as usual although he had the roof the vehicle over his head. On being asked afterwards how he enjoyed his ride? [sic] he replied: "Faith I did not see that it was any better than walking, except for the name of the thing." And we do not see that cleaning a street by shoveling the dirt from the sides to the middle is any better than leaving them dirty, except for the name of the thing. Complaints are already made the negroes [sic] take every opportunity that offers, to run away from the job. If their only pay is two meals each, at a cost of thirty cents for both, we should think Sambo [sic] feels considerably like changing his quarters when he get a chance.

Memphis Bulletin, March 10, 1863.

        10, "Wholesale Smuggling."

In consequence of information they had received, police Captain Brannan and Lieutenant O'Brien, accompanied by a military officer, searched the house of Mr. Baxter, who has a saw mill opposite the gas works near Wolf river on Chickasaw street, and whose house is near that stream in the same vicinity. They did this in consequence of information they had received that smuggling was going on there. In the dwelling they found a box containing various articles of merchandise, including boots, shoes, medicines, saddle-girths, hats, and oil cloth coats. It appears that the parities making the search were a little too late; for they learned that twenty minutes before their appearance, ten or twelve armed men had started off making with a quantity of goods, which, they were informed, were taken from Mr. Baxter's premises. Mr. Baxter has been before the military tribunal, and was held in ten thousand dollars before it. A Mr. Vark, a discharged Confederate soldier, found in the house when the search was made, was also arrested, but on examination was discharged.

Memphis Bulletin, March 10, 1863.

        10, "Do not my dear feel misery about me." Captain G. M. Barber's comments regarding Federal garrison duty in Murfreesboro

Head quarters Sharp Shooters

Murfreesboro, Tenn.

March 10, 1863

My Dear HL,

I have just got my tent pitched in the field and find myself surrounded by all the engines of war. We left Nashville at 1 P.M. yesterday and were delayed on the road so that we reached here at nearly ten P.M. riding the last half of the distance after dark liable, at every mile to be attacked by the enemies [sic] pickets. But we came safely through and were not disturbed in the least. The boys slept in the cars, I with the rest of officers slept on the floor in a hotel vacant by the rebels and occupied by a union man who has nobody with him but a few darkeys for waiters. This morning I reported to Gen. Rosecrans. He met me very cordially. Expressed himself happily that I have brought him reinforcements in a branch of the service he stood most in need. After asking me questions in regard to my command. He told me to go into camp with the 10th Ohio in the suburbs of the town on a plantation said to be owned by the celebrated John Bell. My tent is pitched within ten rods of the house in which an old man who claims to be intensely union, and has about forty "Negro's." General Rosy has ordered his house and yard protected but his whole plantation is used for a camping ground. I have not been out to the lines but am told that our army is very strongly fortified. One thing I can see and that is that our soldiers occupy every hill and knoll and every spot fit for camping grounds for miles in every direction. One thing is certain and that is that the enemy would have some hard fighting before they could get into the town….it has rained ever since we came into the state and is raining very hard now. The roads are terrible and the mud is very deep all over our camping grounds. This is my first night in a tent and I find it much better than I expected. I drew twenty-five tents for our men and six for the officers. I occupy one for myself, Orderly Stearns and my boy. By the way, I can't find my boy to night. He was at the hotel this morning and I told him to stay by my baggage and come with it. But when the baggage was got he was not there and I have sent them for him since but cannot find him. I think he will find us tomorrow.

Do not my dear feel misery about me. I have not felt the least unwell or discouraged. Be assured I shall not stay away from my family a day longer than may be necessary. But while my country needs me I must stay. I had quite a visit with Col. Barnett Chief of staff and was introduced all of Rosecrans staff. The battalion halted in front of the Generals quarters and he came out as did all his staff to look at us. I heard several of them remark that it was a splendid lot of men. On the whole I think we have made a favorable impression. We have not been assigned to a division yet. I am to see the General tomorrow when I presume I shall know all about it. Kiss the children for me….

As ever your affectionate GM

Barber Correspondence

        10, Skirmish in White County

No circumstantial reports filed.

Excerpt from the April 28, 1864 Report of Major John M. Hughs, Twenty-fifth Tennessee Infantry (C. S. A.) relative to skirmish in White County, March 10, 1864:

~ ~ ~

On the 10th March [1864] I met and fought in White County another detachment of Col. Stokes' Fifth Tennessee Cavalry, under Capt. Blackburn, numbering about 125 men; my command numbered something less than 100 men. After about ten minutes severe fighting, I was forced to retire with a loss of 1 killed and 3 wounded; the enemy's loss was 3 killed and 7 wounded, according to their own accounts.[5]

~ ~ ~

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 55.

        10, Pro-Confederate women bear the insults of Yankees in Cleveland

….I heard the sent Mr. Walcott to Chattanooga. How I wish for independence, my spirits feel crushed. In vain I sight for peace and find none. My very soul is depressed and weighed down in the language of our psalmist did when he was oppressed by his enemies, in Psalms 8-9; ["]Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God, defend me from them that rise up against me.["] Judge [?] and his lady here tonight. Such a trade [sic] of abuse I never heard as he pronounced against our beloved South. Mrs.____ said she was truly sorry for the Confederate army. He said they were forced to fight at the point of a bayonet and spoke of them being urged on by a few fanatic demagogues. And denounced the Confederate lying newspaper in the bitterest of terms, how my heart ached for revenge. O, our father, if it is Thy will let us gain our independence. Truly I thought he would spare our feelings, but alas, he bridled not his tongue, neither spared he our feelings. I could only sit and offer up a feeble prayer to God for our deliverances. We are done with peace….

Diary of Myra Adelaide Inman.

        10, A Theatrical Presentation in Civil War Nashville.

"The Ticket of Leave Man," a new and very interesting play by Tom. Taylor, Esq., will be produced here this evening. The plot is based upon the English custom of giving convicts, who have proved deserving, a ticket to leave to go out upon the word before the expiration of the term of their penal servitude, and guaranteeing them from arrest so long as they shall behave themselves properly. The hero of this play is Robert Brierly (personated by Mr. John E. Owens), a simple Lancashire lad, who falls in love with Mary Edwards, (Miss Radcliffe), a peer ballad singer. These two lovers continue faithful to each other during the imprisonment and transportation of Robert, and is renewed with even more ardor on his return. For a long time Robert prospers in the world, and is about to be married to Mary, when he is recognized and exposed by Moss (Mr. Pierce) as a convict, and the wedding is postponed at the time when the principals are dressed and the company assembled for the ceremony. Still the lovers are faithful, and in poverty they marry, another expose [sic] by the villainous Moss driving them almost to despair. More sorrow ensues, and shame, and discord between them-which, however is put on for an object, for a scheme has been conceived by villains to rob Mr. Gibson (Fletcher) and Brierly is, as it seems, a willing accomplice. This is at the Bridewater Arms, whose landlord is a person "who does not know how to keep a hotel very well." The landlord, with Moss, go down [to] the cellar, for more liquor, when Brierly shuts the hatch upon them and writes a letter to Mr. Gibson stating the contemplated robbery. A difficulty arises: he has no messenger, and says to himself in despair, "who will take my letter?" when a miserable being, drunken away through, and apparently asleep upon a bench, suddenly arouses himself and says, "I will"-it is Hawkshaw (Hamilton) – the Detective! The last act presents a satisfactory denouement. The letter and detective vindicate the Ticket of Leave; Man and the play ends happily for the virtuous and otherwise to the vicious, after keeping the audience in them most intense excitement during the first acts. "Young America," will also be performed, and steward will sing.

Nashville Dispatch, March 10, 1864.

        10,A report about one Confederate woman's resistance to Federal larceny in Knoxville

Spirit of the Knoxville Ladies.-The Federals in Knoxville are having no easy task in subjugating the rebel ladies, if we may judge by a few instance of spirit which have come to our knowledge:

Mrs. H_____, a remarkably handsome dark-eyed widow lady, was required to leave without more than an hour's notice, and no opportunity was offered her to dispose of her furniture for her own benefit. The harpies were even besieging her door, with the exception of appropriating the entire contents of the residence the moment she should vacate the premises. Aware of this, by some little dexterity, she kept them at bay, whilst she manufactured a loblolly, consisting of her pickles, sweet meats, wines, marmalades, preserves, flour, vinegar, mustard, sugar, slops, &c., and deliberately spread this over her parlor carpets; broken mirrors and crockery were quickly added, whilst a bucket or two of ashes and suds completed the ruin of her household treasures, sacrificed within hearing of the enemy.

It is beyond our power of description to portray the rage and astonishment of the Yankee crew, as they rushed in to seize upon the widow's property, and became aware of the trick which had prevented them from satisfying their keenest appetite upon her "goodies."

Mrs. H_____'s last remark to the officer who escorted her out of town, was an admonition to him to make haste back to her residence before his brother officers appropriated his part of the plunder, and eat his share of the entertainment she had provided for them.

Macon Daily Telegraph, March 10, 1864.

        10, Lull in Guerrilla Activity and Tennessee Political Restructuring

Order in Tennessee.

In noticing the calm that reigns in military circles at this time, the Nashville Union of the 10th remarks:-"In Tennessee, scarcely a band of guerrillas has been heard of for weeks; and certainly order in Gen. Rousseau's district  is as perfect as in any of the loyal States. The Generals execute [an] ability ]that] is of the finest order, as is evinced by the manner in which he as brought order out of chaos, since his first installment as commander here. His liberal policy will contribute wonderfully to a restoration of the State of Tennessee."

The Daily Cleveland Herald, March 16, 1864. [6]

We reached here at nearly ten P.M. riding the last half of the distance after dark liable, at every mile to be attacked by the enemies [sic] pickets. But we came safely through and were not disturbed in the least. The boys slept in the cars, I with the rest of officers slept on the floor in a hotel vacant by the rebels and occupied by a union man who has nobody with him but a few darkeys for waiters. This morning I reported to Gen. Rosecrans. He met me very cordially. Expressed himself happily that I have brought him reinforcements in a branch of the service he stood most in need. After asking me questions in regard to my command. He told me to go into camp with the 10th Ohio in the suburbs of the town on a plantation said to be owned by the celebrated John Bell. My tent is pitched within ten rods of the house in which an old man who claims to be intensely union, and has about forty "Negro's." General Rosy has ordered his house and yard protected but his whole plantation is used for a camping ground. I have not been out to the lines but am told that our army is very strongly fortified. One thing I can see and that is that our soldiers occupy every hill and knoll and every spot fit for camping grounds for miles in every direction. One thing is certain and that is that the enemy would have some hard fighting before they could get into the town….it has rained ever since we came into the state and is raining very hard now. The roads are terrible and the mud is very deep all over our camping grounds. This is my first night in a tent and I find it much better than I expected. I drew twenty-five tents for our men and six for the officers. I occupy one for my self, Orderly Stearns and my boy. By the way, I can't find my boy to night. He was at the hotel this morning and I told him to stay by my baggage and come with it. But when the baggage was got he was not there and I have sent them for him since but cannot find him. I think he will find us tomorrow.

Do not my dear feel misery about me. I have not felt the least unwell or discouraged. Be assured I shall not stay away from my family a day longer than may be necessary. But while my country needs me I must stay. I had quite a visit with Col. Barnett Chief of staff and was introduced all of Rosecrans staff. The battalion halted in front of the Generals quarters and he came out as did all his staff to look at us. I heard several of them remark that it was a splendid lot of men. On the whole I think we have made a favorable impression. We have not been assigned to a division yet. I am to see the General tomorrow when I presume I shall know all about it. Kiss the children for me….

As ever your affectionate GM

Barber Correspondence

        10, Skirmishing at the forks of the Versailles and Eagleville Pikes; General Davis' pickets turned back by Confederate forces

HDQRS. TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 10, 1863.

Brig.-Gen. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff:

Have just received the following dispatch from Gen. Granger:

Gen. McCOOK:

Received your order this morning, and published orders immediately to start at 7 a. m. Your messenger with dispatches for Gen. Davis, has just returned, reporting that he was turned back by the enemy at the forks of the Versailles and Eagleville pike. They were, no doubt, Gen. Davis' pickets, who is encamped but a mile from there. I shall return him at once, with an additional escort. My command amounts to only 2,500 men and two batteries.

R. S. GRANGER, Brig.-Gen.

I have hear nothing this morning from Gen. Davis.

A. McD. McCOOK, Maj.-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p. 128.

        10, Complaints about Dispatch article of March 6, "Colored Churches and Balls." [see above]

"The Nigger."—Two or three of our subscribers have taken exception to an article published in the Dispatch on Friday morning last, entitled "Colored Churches and Balls," in which we endeavored to point out the difference between the innocent amusements of slaves owned and living in Nashville with their masters and mistresses, and the pastimes of those not under the master's control. The former was innocent and unobjectionable, as may be attested by at least twenty white persons who were in the room, the most of whom we left there, after 11 o'clock; while the parties given by the latter have become so disreputable that no negro having a particle of self-respect would attend them, because, as we said in the article alluded to, they were made up exclusively of "soldiers, contrabands, and prostitutes." If any of the gentlemen alluded to will make known their objections to the Local Editor, he will attend to them with much pleasure. He is always easy of access, and is ever ready to listen to reason; and infinitely prefers conversing with the parties who fancy themselves aggrieved than with others who profess to espouse their cause.

Nashville Dispatch, March 10, 1863.

10, "The last time we were out there the house was burned and we could not find out what had become of the girls, white or black." Unintended consequences of fraternization with the enemy near Collierville according to Sergeant Theodore Osburn Winther, 100th Indiana Volunteer Infantry

Collierville, Tenn.

March 10, 1863

This has been a pretty little town but very few of the people are here now. It is a good section of country gravely soil; and in times of peace, no doubt, would be a good place to live. We have good barracks (made from the lumber from deserted houses) and have a nice camp in a grove of small timber. But I am afraid our Company will not stay here long, in fact we are now ready to go to a stockade some 4 miles South of town where we are to guard the R.R.

We are in our stocade. [sic] It is a structure perhaps 50 feet in diamtre [sic], circular in form, made of logs flattened on two sides [and] set upright in the ground, and the tops which are sharpened project about 8 or 9, feet above the ground, where they are firmly set like posts. There are loop holes for musketry and a small opening covered by a curtain made in the same manner as the main structure. A ditch surrounds the whole with the dirt thrown against the logs. This would make an excellent defence against Cavelry [sic] or Infantry but a few shells would soon knock it to pieces.

Our principal duty is to patrol the [Memphis to Charleston] Rail Road for a distance of 2 ½ miles in either direction, day and night. Our chief danger is that (as has been the case) a bushwhacker may slip up and pick off the lonely [sic] patrol as he walks his beat. There are so few of us not (so many [sic] sick) that we are on duty half of every other night. Through the day our duty is light. And its just well it is, for it is getting warm weather now and is more comfortable in the shade. We go to town sometimes, and while there one day I found what had once been a book store and got a copy of the Arabian Nights and some of Shakespear[e]s works. So have something to read now. We go out in the country sometime but have to be careful.

John Burks and I made the acquaintence of two young women. She invited us to an afternoon tea. They lived in a nice house on a plantation about 2 miles out. We went. They played on the piano and sang four us and we enjoyed it very much indeed. I had noticed a Darky girl go past the open window several times and as she beckoned to me. I went over and sat by the window. When she came along she whispered, "Massa you all better get out. Deer is a lot of critter men up the road and they will get you sure."

I told Burks. We went outside and sure enough there were a lot of horses around the house, not half a mile away. We did not stay to tea but lit out for camp. Col. Williams sent some Cavalry out after them but they had gone. The last time we were out there the house was burned and we could not find out what had become of the girls, white or black.

Civil War Letters of Theodore Osburn Winther[7]

10, Electoral victory for the Unconditional Union ticket in Memphis

The Election in Tennessee

St. Louis, March 19.-The Memphis Argus claims a triumph in the recent election of what it terms the "national Conservative" ticket, in opposition to that supported by the Bulletin, and called the "Unconditional Union' ticket. The Argus claims the election of the Sheriff, Clerk and of the Criminal Court and County Register, as well as two of the four magistrates and one of the two constables.

Judge Trigg, of Knoxville, has arrived at Memphis and opened the District Court for the Western District.

Philadelphia Inquirer, March 10, 1863. [8]

        10-11, Confederate Colonel P.D. Roddey's paper shortage is relieved [see March 10, 1863, Confederate scouts, Shelbyville to Caney Spring, Eagleville, Harpeth River, Triune, Franklin above]

CHAPEL HILL, March 11, 1863--4 p. m.

Gen. POLK, Shelbyville, Tenn.:

GEN.: Thanks for your roll of paper, which is exactly in time.

I started a courier through to Gen. Van Dorn, with intelligence of the enemy's movement. I have been unable to find anything further of their movements since my last dispatch, this p. m. One scout has returned from College Grove. They report the Federal pickets on north side of Harpeth River, 1 mile from the village. Citizens think the force is very strong on the forks of the pike, and that they intend moving in this direction. I shall have other scouting parties coming in during the night. If any force of ours should move against the enemy, I hope you will advise me, that we may participate.

Very respectfully,

P. D. RODDEY, Col., Cmdg.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23 pt. II, pp. 682-683.

        10-11, Skirmishes at Rutherford Creek

Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee

        10-ca. 12, Reconnaissance, Murfreesborough to Salem, Versailles, Eagleville, Triune and the Manchester Pike

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, Tenn., March 9, 1863.

Maj.-Gen. McCOOK, Cmdg. Twentieth Army Corps:

The general commanding directs you to order the two brigades of Gen. Davis' division now at Salem to march at daylight toward Versailles. The remaining brigade of the same division, with the exception of a detail sufficient to strike the tents and pack the baggage of the whole division, will start as early as possible to join the other two. See that the division has three days' rations and 100 rounds of ammunition. When the advanced brigades have reached the junction of the Eagleville and Versailles roads, they will observe Eagleville, and, if battle is opened in the direction of Triune, they will at once move forward and engage, at the same time informing Gen. Granger, whose division will follow, and support Davis. The primary object of this order is to relieve the position of Gen. Steedman at Triune, who is expected to be attacked by a part of the force of Van Dorn, possibly strengthened by three brigades of infantry from Shelbyville. It is intended that Gen. Davis' division shall act as a unit so soon as the several brigades can be joined. A brigade from Gen. Wood will occupy Salem when Gen. Granger advances beyond it, and will take orders from you. Send a brigade of Johnson's to observe the Shelbyville pike with a sufficient support. Walker's brigade will advance on the Manchester pike. It will be well to have all the tents struck and baggage packed ready for a march. Caution your division commanders to keep up constantly communication with your headquarters. Report frequently to these headquarters. There is not a moment to lose.

J. A. GARFIELD, Brig.-Gen. and Chief of Staff.

HDQRS. TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 9, 1863.

Brig.-Gen. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff:

Gen. Davis writes from near Versailles, at 4 p. m., as follows:

My advance has reached Versailles. No enemy has been seen, nor can I hear of any. I shall be in position at Versailles in one hour from this time. I have heard no firing in the direction of Triune or elsewhere. Nothing was said in my instructions as to which road I should take to Triune. I shall take the best.

JEF. C. DAVIS, Brig.-Gen.

All quiet in my front on the Shelbyville pike.

A. McD. McCOOK, Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 9, 1863.

Maj.-Gen. McCook:

Order Davis to move on toward Triune early to-morrow morning, unless he knows there is no force of the enemy between him and Steedman. He should keep a struck lookout on Riggs' cross-road, which runs nearly parallel with the Triune and Shelbyville pike. Order Granger to move to Versailles, and observe Rover and Unionville. Should there be no enemy toward Triune, so as to make it necessary for Davis to go in that direction, he may go into Unionville and observe Chapel Hill and the river. They must report often.

J. A. GARFIELD, Brig.-Gen. and Chief of Staff.

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 9, 1863.

Maj.-Gen. McCOOK:

Stanley Matthews' brigade has been ordered out on the Shelbyville pike. You need not send Johnson's, but hold it in readiness to support Matthews.

J. A. GARFIELD, Brig.-Gen. and Chief of Staff.

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 9, 1863--4 a. m.

Brig.-Gen. STEEDMAN:

Keep your force well in hand. Do not divide it. Be careful of your ammunition. If you are attacked, keep the enemy at bay for six hours, and we will help you. Keep us frequently and fully informed by courier to La Vergne.

J. A. GARFIELD, Brig.-Gen. and Chief of Staff.[9]

(Col. Croxton will send this through at once.)

HDQRS. 14TH ARMY CORPS, DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 9, 1863.

Col. WALKER, Cmdg. First Brigade, Third Division:

COL.: You are directed by the general commanding to move with your brigade and report to Brig.-Gen. Steedman, at Triune. Make your arrangements to march to the termination of the Wilkinson pike to-morrow, and to Triune the following day. You will take all your camp and garrison equipage with you.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

[GEO. E. FLYNT,] Assistant Adjutant-Gen. and Chief of Staff.

HDQRS. FIRST TENNESSEE CAVALRY, March 9, 1863.

ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GEN.:

SIR In obedience to your order, I marched this morning with parts of five companies, comprising about 125 men, out on the Manchester pike. I first moved out, and waited until Col. Walker came out to the outpost of our pickets, and, after having offered with him by courier, I then moved on, occasionally communicating with the colonel, until I had advanced about 1 ½ miles beyond the point where I left the rebels on Thursday last. I then halted the column, and sent one company forward to make a reconnaissance and to report, which resulted in ascertaining that the enemy had fallen back, and I think that they have gone beyond Beech Grove, to a small place called Fairfield, in the county of Bedford. I communicated these facts to Col. Walker, who sent me word that he was returning to town, and that I could do so also; which I did accordingly.

With high regard, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ROBT. GALBRAITH, Lieut.-Col., Cmdg. Cavalry.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, pp. 123-125.

        10-16, Scout to La Fayette and Moscow

MARCH 10-16, 1863.-Scout to La Fayette and Moscow, Tenn., and skirmish.

REPORTS.

No. 1.-Lieut. Col. Thomas P. Herrick, Seventh Kansas Cavalry.

No. 2.-Lieut. W. J. Floyd, Peach Creek (Confederate) Rangers.

No. 1.

Report of Lieut. Col. Thomas P. Herrick, Seventh Kansas Cavalry.

CAMP ON MOUNT PLEASANT AND EARLY GROVE ROAD, March 16, 1863.

GEN.: On arriving at Mount Pleasant, this afternoon, I found that the enemy had taken the Moscow road, probably with the design of attacking a forage train from that direction to-morrow. I followed them rapidly, and about 5.30 p. m. came up with 3 pickets. I immediately charged at a gallop, in front and on both flanks, hoping to find them unprepared either for a fight or a run. They had halted to feed at a point on the Mount Pleasant and Moscow road, where two roads diverge, one to the northeast and the other south. On coming in, found them already in the saddle. They did not stop to fire even a single volley, but fled in confusion on both roads toward the south, and rapidly scattered into the timber and fields. We pursued them at the best speed of our horses for 5 miles, when darkness came on, and we were obliged to relinquish the chase. The result, so far as I have been able to learn, is 3 killed, 3 wounded, and 6 prisoners; the rest scattered-God only knows where. This command numbered 150 men, under [W. R.] Mitchell and Floyd; the latter force from the neighborhood of Yazoo Pass. I learned that about 100 of the same force crossed Coldwater, southward, last night, after the fight with Maj. [Mindret] Wemple. I shall cross Coldwater at an early hour to-morrow morning and try to find them. No one hurt on our side, and the men spoiling for a fight.

MORNING, 17TH.

I crossed Coldwater at an early hour this morning, at Alexandria's Mills. I met Col. Prince with detachment of three different regiments. He had been to Hudsonville, thence down south side of Coldwater. I have scoured the country south and west to Queen's Mills. Nothing important has occurred. Capt. Utt had a long chase after 25 rebels, but their horses were too good. The entire force which attacked Maj. Wemple is now far south of Coldwater, except about 26, who are between here and railroad. I shall try and find them, and except to be in camp to-night.

Respectfully,

T. P. HERRICK, Lieut.-Col., Cmdg.

No. 2.

Report of Lieut. W. J. Floyd, Peach Creek (Confederate) Rangers.

HDQRS., Peach Creek, Miss., March 27, 1863.

GEN.: I have the honor to report than on the 10th instant I left camp with 47 men.

The 15th found us near the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, in the northeast corner of Marshall County. Here we encamped for the night. About nightfall I took 15 men, and pressing a guide made my [way] northward to La Fayette Depot. When we arrived within three-fourths of a mile of the depot, we dismounted, leaving the main road. We proceeded on foot, and within 300 yards of the depot crossed the railroad and moved in the direction of some camp fires, supposed to be pickets. When we had arrived within 100 yards of them, we halted. I took 1 man, and advanced near enough to find the exact position and strength of the enemy. I found one company of men intrenched, or inside their fortifications, in the shape of a half-moon, built of logs and dirt. I threw my men in line, and marched up in rear of this place and within 25 or 30 paces of its mouth before we were halted. I had selected some men to fire upon the pickets so soon as we were halted by them. This was well executed. We then rushed up and poured in a volley of buckshot while the enemy were getting over their breastworks.

We learned from a reliable source that the enemy's loss was 10 killed and wounded and several missing. We sustained no loss, a few balls passing through some of the men's clothing.

We left back to our horses and made our way back to camp about sunrise. After stopping two or three hours, we started in the direction of Moscow. We left in with Capt. Mitchell, who had about 50 men. At noon we halted to feed, and about 4 o'clock were attacked by the Seventh Kansas Cavalry. We exchanged a few shots with them and fell back. The enemy had sent three companies on our left and two on right to cut off our retreat. They captured 6 men of our rear guard, viz., J. H. Jones, J. N. McDonald, Adolphus Motley, Samuel Johnson, J. W. Ward, and P. B. Waldraup. We had 1 man wounded slightly and 1 horse killed.

I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

W. J. FLOYD, Lieut., Cmdg. Peach Creek Rangers, (Company H, 18th Battalion Mississippi Cavalry).

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 24, pt. I, pp. 429-430.

        10, Skirmish in White County

No circumstantial reports filed.

Excerpt from the April 28, 1864 Report of Major John M. Hughs, Twenty-fifth Tennessee Infantry (C. S. A.) relative to skirmish in White County, March 10, 1864:

~ ~ ~

On the 10th March [1864] I met and fought in White County another detachment of Col. Stokes' Fifth Tennessee Cavalry, under Capt. Blackburn, numbering about 125 men; my command numbered something less than 100 men. After about ten minutes severe fighting, I was forced to retire with a loss of 1 killed and 3 wounded; the enemy's loss was 3 killed and 7 wounded, according to their own accounts.[10]

~ ~ ~

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 55.

        10, Pro-Confederate women bear the insults of Yankees in Cleveland

….I heard the sent Mr. Walcott to Chattanooga. How I wish for independence, my spirits feel crushed. In vain I sight for peace and find none. My very soul is depressed and weighed down in the language of our psalmist did when he was oppressed by his enemies, in Psalms 8-9; ["]Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God, defend me from them that rise up against me.["] Judge [?] and his lady here tonight. Such a trade [sic] of abuse I never heard as he pronounced against our beloved South. Mrs.____ said she was truly sorry for the Confederate army. He said they were forced to fight at the point of a bayonet and spoke of them being urged on by a few fanatic demagogues. And denounced the Confederate lying newspaper in the bitterest of terms, how my heart ached for revenge. O, our father, if it is Thy will let us gain our independence. Truly I thought he would spare our feelings, but alas, he bridled not his tongue, neither spared he our feelings. I could only sit and offer up a feeble prayer to God for our deliverances. We are done with peace….

Diary of Myra Adelaide Inman.

        10, A Theatrical Presentation in Civil War Nashville.

"The Ticket of Leave Man," a new and very interesting play by Tom. Taylor, Esq., will be produced here this evening. The plot is based upon the English custom of giving convicts, who have proved deserving, a ticket to leave to go out upon the word before the expiration of the term of their penal servitude, and guaranteeing them from arrest so long as they shall behave themselves properly. The hero of this play is Robert Brierly (personated by Mr. John E. Owens), a simple Lancashire lad, who falls in love with Mary Edwards, (Miss Radcliffe), a peer ballad singer. These two lovers continue faithful to each other during the imprisonment and transportation of Robert, and is renewed with even more ardor on his return. For a long time Robert prospers in the world, and is about to be married to Mary, when he is recognized and exposed by Moss (Mr. Pierce) as a convict, and the wedding is postponed at the time when the principals are dressed and the company assembled for the ceremony. Still the lovers are faithful, and in poverty they marry, another expose [sic] by the villainous Moss driving them almost to despair. More sorrow ensues, and shame, and discord between them-which, however is put on for an object, for a scheme has been conceived by villains to rob Mr. Gibson (Fletcher) and Brierly is, as it seems, a willing accomplice. This is at the Bridewater Arms, whose landlord is a person "who does not know how to keep a hotel very well." The landlord, with Moss, go down [to] the cellar, for more liquor, when Brierly shuts the hatch upon them and writes a letter to Mr. Gibson stating the contemplated robbery. A difficulty arises: he has no messenger, and says to himself in despair, "who will take my letter?" when a miserable being, drunken away through, and apparently asleep upon a bench, suddenly arouses himself and says, "I will"-it is Hawkshaw (Hamilton) – the Detective! The last act presents a satisfactory denouement. The letter and detective vindicate the Ticket of Leave; Man and the play ends happily for the virtuous and otherwise to the vicious, after keeping the audience in them most intense excitement during the first acts. "Young America," will also be performed, and steward will sing.

Nashville Dispatch, March 10, 1864.

        10,A report about one Confederate woman's resistance to Federal larceny in Knoxville

Spirit of the Knoxville Ladies.-The Federals in Knoxville are having no easy task in subjugating the rebel ladies, if we may judge by a few instance of spirit which have come to our knowledge:

Mrs. H_____, a remarkably handsome dark-eyed widow lady, was required to leave without more than an hour's notice, and no opportunity was offered her to dispose of her furniture for her own benefit. The harpies were even besieging her door, with the exception of appropriating the entire contents of the residence the moment she should vacate the premises. Aware of this, by some little dexterity, she kept them at bay, whilst she manufactured a loblolly, consisting of her pickles, sweet meats, wines, marmalades, preserves, flour, vinegar, mustard, sugar, slops, &c., and deliberately spread this over her parlor carpets; broken mirrors and crockery were quickly added, whilst a bucket or two of ashes and suds completed the ruin of her household treasures, sacrificed within hearing of the enemy.

It is beyond our power of description to portray the rage and astonishment of the Yankee crew, as they rushed in to seize upon the widow's property, and became aware of the trick which had prevented them from satisfying their keenest appetite upon her "goodies."

Mrs. H_____'s last remark to the officer who escorted her out of town, was an admonition to him to make haste back to her residence before his brother officers appropriated his part of the plunder, and eat his share of the entertainment she had provided for them.

Macon Daily Telegraph, March 10, 1864.

        10, Lull in Guerrilla Activity and Tennessee Political Restructuring

Order in Tennessee.

In noticing the calm that reigns in military circles at this time, the Nashville Union of the 10th remarks:-"In Tennessee, scarcely a band of guerrillas has been heard of for weeks; and certainly order in Gen. Rousseau's district  is as perfect as in any of the loyal States. The Generals execute e ability is of the finest order, as is evinced by the manner in which he as brought order out of chaos, since his first installment as commander here. His liberal policy will contribute wonderfully to a restoration of the State of Tennessee."

The Daily Cleveland Herald, March 16, 1864. [11]

        10, Toughening of martial law in Memphis

GENERAL ORDERS, No. 31. HDQRS. DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE, Memphis, Tenn., March 10, 1865.

I. The District of West Tennessee is hereby declared to be within the lines of Federal military occupation. There being now no longer any organized hostile force within the district, citizens will be allowed to come freely to Memphis and dispose of their products and take back a limited amount of family supplies. All adult persons coming to Memphis will be required to take the oath of allegiance to the United States Government, if they have not already done so, and all able-bodied men coming within the lines will be presumed to be rebel soldiers. On taking the oath, such as desire to go North will be sent there, and such as desire to remain in Memphis, who can find employment in the City, will be allowed so to remain. Those who wish to return to their homes in West Tennessee and North Mississippi will be allowed to do so on giving satisfactory security that they will not again take up arms against the Government of the United States, or give aid and comfort to its enemies.

II. It will be presumed that the products of the country brought to this market from within this district have been raised by free labor, for the reason that so many opportunities have been given to those whose labor was involuntary to escape from such servitude. Persons who desire to take out plantation supplies will be required to register their plantations, if they have not already registered them; and those persons who possess no plantations will be allowed to take out supplies in proportion to their limited wants.

III. In order to protect those persons who come to the City with the products of the country from the hungry swarm of sharpers who infest the lines, the picket-officers stationed upon the authorized roads leading to the City will be furnished with pass tickets, one of which will be given to each party bringing in products, who will drive at once to the plaza and report in person to Col. E. Bouton, at his office in barracks near the head of Madison street. Col. Bouton will impart to persons so reporting all necessary information in regard to their rights and duties, will countersign their tickets, and allow them to proceed to any part of the City and dispose of their products and procure such supplies as may reasonably be permitted.

IV. The practice of sending out runners or agents to the picket-line to intercept people arriving from the interior must be discontinued, and all persons found interfering with people coming into the City before they have reported to the officer appointed in the third section of this order will be forthwith arrested and placed upon the works at Fort Pickering for such length of time as may be ordered by the general commanding the Post and Defenses of Memphis, to whom all infractions of this order will be reported. Merchants are admonished against making out false or fictitious invoices of good, and such as are found guilty of this species of rascality will suffer the closing of their stores and the confiscation of their stocks in trade.

V. The operation of this order will be continued only so long as the people manifest a loyal and friendly spirit toward the Government of the United States, and do not abuse the privileges hereby conferred. This order will take effect on Monday, March 13.

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

W. H. MORGAN, Maj. and Assistant Adjutant-Gen.

OR, Ser. I, Vol. 49, pt. I, pp. 890-891.

        10, Return of religious animosities between the Presbyterian and Episcopal congregations in Bolivar

To-day was the day appointed by our President [Jefferson Davis] as a day of fasting and prayer. I for one observed it, though perhaps not with the right spirit. All the animosity which formerly existed (but which we had hoped had completely died out) between the Presbyterian and Episcopalian churches seems with the last few days to have been revived. Everybody is talking of the [sic] church some think one some the other. Everybody is commenting on a book which the Episcopalian Minister is circulating by the name of "A Presbyterian Minister in search of The [sic] Church" which our pastor pronounced (also any good sensed person) a collection of falsehoods to deceive the ignorant. There is a class of young ladies who intend being confirmed, and this book is given preparatory to confirmation. How wrong to cultivate feeling so injurious to the cause of Christ and so unchristian like in their bearing, instead of cultivating feelings of goodwill toward all men in imitation of our gentle Jesus. The apple of discord has now been thrown among us. Father is divided against Son, Mother against daughter, all ties of Christian affection completely and perhaps forever surrendered....Yankees reported in eight miles of town this morning. At LaGrange this evening, also at Salisbury, I believe.

Diary of Sally Wendel Fentress, March 10, 1865.

        10, Guerrilla Outrages in Tennessee

The Memphis Bulletin of the 4th prefaces another half column of guerrilla items with these remarks:

Very few persons have any idea of the reign of terror that exists just outside our army lines. The numberless rages, murders, robberies and conscriptions that daily occur are not, in most cases, known in the city until some days after they happen.

New Orleans Times, March 10, 1865.

 



[1] No record has been found to indicate that this crime was ever solved.

[2] As cited in PQCW.

[3] As cited in PQCW.

[4] This event is not listed neither in the OR nor Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee.

[5] One wonders how it is the enemy's accounts were known by the other side.

[6] TSL&A, 19th CN

[7] With Sherman to the Sea. The Civil War Letters, Diaries & Reminiscences of Theodore F. Upson, ed. and intro. by Oscar Osburn Winther (Bloomington: Indiana University Press, 1958), pp. 48-49. [Hereinafter: Civil War Letters of Theodore Osburn Winther]

[8] TSL&A, 19th CN

[9] Brigadier-General James A. Garfield, who had distinguished himself at Shiloh, was by this time Chief of Staff for Major-General William S. Rosecrans. Garfield would become the twentieth President of the United States in 1880. While he had escaped harm in the Civil War, as President he was assassinated in 1881.

[10] One wonders how it is the enemy's accounts were known by the other side.

[11] TSL&A, 19th CN

 

James B. Jones, Jr.

Public Historian

Tennessee Historical Commission

2941 Lebanon Road

Nashville, TN  37214

(615)-770-1090 ext. 115

(615)-532-1549  FAX

 

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