March 1, 1864
MARCH 1864
March 1, 1864 - Scouts to vicinity of the junction of the Little Tennessee and Tuckalechee
Rivers
MADISONVILLE, TENN., March 1, 1864.
Lieut. Col. J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant-Gen., Fourth Army Corps:
I have the honor to report that some of my scouts have returned from the vicinity of the junction of the Little Tennessee and Tuckallechee Rivers. They report
a party of the enemy, about 300 strong, with three pieces of artillery, watching
the gap. I have sent out an expedition to try and effect their capture. They also
report that a portion of Longstreet's force passed through Greenville, S. C.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. M. McCOOK, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 3.
March 1, 1864 - Confederate cavalry attack and depredations at Dandridge
No circumstantial reports filed.
HDQRS. SECOND Brig., THIRD DIV., TWENTY-THIRD CORPS,
Strawberry Plains, March 2, 1864.
Brig. Gen. E. E. POTTER, Chief of Staff, Strawberry Plains:
GEN.: From scouting parties and citizens who have come into the lines, I learn
that a force of enemy's cavalry entered Dandridge yesterday morning. This
force divided, part remaining in Dandridge and part advancing 8 miles this
side. The object seems to have been plunder and impressment of citizens. I
have had a scouting party out 10 miles to day, without meeting the enemy. I am
inclined to the belief that the party that advanced yesterday has gone back to
Dandridge, where I am told there is a considerable force of the enemy, all cav-
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 1
March 2, 1864
alry. We will be on our guard here, and unless the force is very large, do not
apprehend any danger.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DANIEL CAMERON, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 10.
March 2, 1864 - Federal scouts in Strawberry Plains' environs
•See March 1, 1864--Confederate cavalry attack and depredations at Dandridge
March 2, 1864 - Association for the relief of East Tennesseans formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
WASHINGTON, D. C., March 2, 1864.
Maj. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Nashville, Tenn.:
An association for the relief of those citizens of East Tennessee who have been
reduced to destitution by the events of the war has been formed in Philadelphia, and a considerable fund has been raised to procure supplies. The association has appointed as its committee for the distribution of these supplies
Messrs. Frederick Collins, Col. N. G. Taylor, and Lloyd P. Smith. I beg to commend them to your kindness, and to request that you will render them any
assistance which may be in your power. They should have free transportation
for themselves, their agents, and the articles which they desire to distribute,
upon all Government railroads and chartered vessels.
C. A. DANA, Assistant Secretary of War.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 8.
March 2, 1864 - "They took their beds & bedding—got their dinner at the kitchen and took
a shoulder of meat." Civil War life at Wessyngton Plantation, Robertson
county. The letter of Mrs. Jane Washington, to her husband
Wessyngton
March, 2nd, 1864
My dear Husband,
I sent a letter to Springfield to be sent to you telling you of the move made at
the Dortch place. I have not heard from Capt. Bunch but as Mr. Draughon went
to Springfield this morning, he will be able to give you all the latest intelligence about the matter.
For my fear my letter may not reach you, I will recapitulate the whole matter.
Monday morning about twelve o'clock, 4 Federal soldiers and four negros,
Page 2 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 2, 1864
viz., It Sam, LeRoy, Mano & Simpson came to the Dortch place with a four
mule wagon and took Fanny, Isabella & her child & Sarah Jane and announced
that all who wished might go and Allen and Martha Lewis, Austin Harrison, It
Joe, Merideth, Big John & Tom White (eleven in all) went with them. They
took their beds & bedding—got their dinner at the kitchen and took a shoulder
of meat. They put up and fed their mules and said as one of theirs was lame,
they wanted another and the white men went into the stable and picked out
Sampson[']s wheet mule Joe, a black mule and hitched him to a wagon and tied
their own behind. I sent to Bunch for a guard that night he promptly sent down
two men & Mr. Woods coming about 5 o'clock we felt pretty safe. He and
Grandville watched nearly all night but there was no one here. I wrote to Dick
requesting him to get Bunch to go in pursuit of them as I wished to recover the
mule and wagon sheet and also wished to have those white men punished for I
thought they must be acting without authority, but as I have heard nothing from
Springfield today fear they did not accomplish anything. I hope you will
approve of all I have done. I acted as I thought was right.
Please get Lucy two pair of shoes as thick soled as they can be get one pair 51/
2 and one pair 6. Also a bottle of sewing machine oil and a group China Buttons the size of the one I enclose. I know you will not have time to get them
yourself so ask Nina to do it for you. I wish you were at home darling, but I
think the convictions of those men so necessary to your safety that much as I
hate to have you away, I want you to make time to have everything done right.
The children are all well and send love to Pa, and I wish I could give you one
good squeeze this very minute.
Goodbye darling,
Your loving Wife
Jane Washington
Winds of Change, pp. 87-88.
March 2, 1864 - Confederate newspaper report relative to Federal depredations in East Tennessee
Yankee Villainy in East Tennessee.—A correspondent of the Atlanta Register
recounts many of the outrages perpetrated by the Yankee soldiery during their
occupation of East Tennessee. We quote the following.
Splendid mansions of Southern men have been made but barns and commissaries. Their splendid furniture, bed and wearing material, has been wrested from
them. Many opulent families have not a blanket nor a bed quilt. I will relate
one instance of Federal tyranny. Whilst Knoxville was invested by Gen. Longstreet, Foster, the present commander of the enemy's forces in East Tennessee,
was quartered in Tazewell. He went to the dwelling of Mr. Blackburn, a prominent Southern citizen of that place, and forced his family into one small room.
He then ordered his horses to be put in the dining room, where he kept them
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 3
March 3, 1864
during his stay in the village. His staff drew their pistols on her daughter, a lady
of very delicate health, which resulted in a very severe spell of sickness, from
which she will never recover, being now at the point of death. Another equally
as base, I'll relate.
Mr. Hipshire, the representative elect from Claiborne county, was forced to
leave the country on the advance of the enemy. The force stationed at Tazewell
took some twenty negroes from his lady, all of her hogs, sheep and cattle, all
subsistence and forage. His lady, a quiet, amiable woman, flattered herself that
so long as they had robbed the farm, barns and smokehouses, that they would
not molest her again. Some few weeks since, as she was providing a scanty
meal for her little babe, she was startled by the rushing into her private room of
a Yankee officer and some seven or eight privates. What was the mission of the
rogues? To rob and plunder. The ceiling of the room was soon torn away, and
money that she had hoped to conceal taken. They took a fine set of ware that
was very costly, and packed it up carefully and sent it to Tazewell. The Yankee
officer then labeled the box containing the ware to his wife in Indiana. The
actor of this outrage is one Major Lovelace, of an Indiana regiment. Let the
press pass him around.
Charleston Mercury, March 2, 1864.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
March 3, 1864 - Entry in Alice Williamson's Diary, Sumner County
Snow all melted and weather fine. Gen. Payne (Paine) rode out this evening to
look at the stock, in his last trip he killed only one man (citizen, he always kills
citizens when he cant find soldiers) swears he will kill every man in Gallatin
and Hartsville if bushwhacking isn't stopped shortly
Williamson Diary
March 3, 1864 - Comparison of Confederate and Yankee suitors in Cleveland
. . . Miss Callie and I went over to see Mr. Walcott [a recuperating Confederate
soldier]. I took him a paper and some pie, we enjoyed the jaunt, it is so refreshing to see a rebel and talk our sentiments freely. Lieut. Simmons [Federal soldier] called and brought me two papers this morn. I am better pleased with him
than any so far, but there is something repulsive in a Yankee's look, not like the
bold candor, handsome and brave heart of southern heroes. If we can only gain
our independence, it is all I ask. I would willingly sacrifice everything. . .
Diary of Myra Adelaide Inman.
Page 4 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 3, 1864
March 3, 1864 - Changes in the master/slave relationship, excerpt from the letter of West
Tennessee slaveholder Leonora Williamson to Military Governor Andrew
Johnson
~~~
So well assured am I of the justice of the President that I am willing to abide by
his decision. I expected the Emancipation Proclamation, & was very willing to
abide by it.
30 of the negroes which were mine once, are in the Army, their wives and children are not & have not been receiving rations from the Government, they are
living in my houses, (when they are sick taken care of at my expense), they
have what crop they can make off my land. I claim nothing from them but for
them to feel that I am & have been their friend. I did not buy them I inherited
them-I never sold one, I hoped to provide for them as my immediate family did
theirs 8 years ago—
I should be grateful to the President if he would grant me an interview[.] the
boon would be granted to one who ever offered up more fervent supplications
to Gods throne for her children when agonizing on beds of sickness than I daily
offer up that he may be the means of restoring peace to our once happy Country.
~~~
With great respect
Mrs. Williamson
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, pp. 635-636.
March 3, 1864 - "Laura has provoked me and I feel real cross-she or I one should certainly
have less temper at times." A page from Belle Edmondson's diary
March, Thursday 3, 1864
The monotony of our life was somewhat changed today, by a visit from Lt.
Bayard of the 4th U. S. R. to Nannie, he is her cousin, and came this distance
with only six scouts to make a call, they behaved themselves very well, ate dinner with us-and they all admit our dear Rebel Gen. Forrest defeated them badly
in their raid to Okolona. Decatur Doyle came this evening from Dixie-Jimmie
sailed for Europe the 6th. of Feb. Eddie and all the boys safe through the fight.
Pontotoc [Miss.] suffered very much-Sister Mary with the two youngest children will start home some time next month. Col. Jeff Forrest is really killedSherman has returned to Vicksburgh. Our Army of Johnston advancing-Grant
reported falling back.
I have been busy braiding all day, one more width finished-Laura has provoked
me and I feel real cross-she or I one should certainly have less temper at times.
All of them received letters tonight except me, tis now 10 o'c, and I think I will
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 5
March 4, 1864
try and get to sleep early tonight. I suppose they are all happy in the house, I
can never content myself with the lonely life I lead.
Diary of Belle Edmondson
March 4, 1864 - Skirmish near Murfreesborough
No circumstantial reports filed.
March 4, 1864 - Taking the oath
A number of rebels come to Nashville daily and take the oath of amnesty.
Some of them take it with 'wry faces.' The fact is, they are like the fellow that,
on a wager, eat the crow. They can 'eat crow; but d____d if they have a hankering for it!
Nashville Daily Union, March 4, 1864.
March 4, 1864 - Confederate bushwhackers attack Federal ambulance
No circumstantial reports filed.
CAMP ON MOSSY CREEK, TENN., March 5, 1864.
Gen. J. D. COX, Acting Chief of Staff, &c.:
GEN.:
~~~
A party of bushwhackers of 8, 2 of whom are known by name and live near
Panther Springs, captured 2 men sent by Gen. Judah for a broken-down ambulance, taking their horses from them. One of the men escaped. I send a party to
capture the bushwhackers, but have not as yet heard from them. Two small
scouting parties of the enemy were in Morristown yesterday, but left just
before our men entered. I suppose Gen. Parke reports everything to you that
transpires in his front.
Respectfully, &c.,
GEO. STONEMAN, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 21.
March 4, 1864 - Two Confederate scouting parties near Morristown
•See March 4, 1864--Confederate bushwhackers attack Federal ambulance
March 4, 1864 - Isolation and loneliness, a page from Belle Edmondson's diary
March, Friday 4, 1864
Page 6 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 5, 1864
I do wish Nonconnah [creek] would fall, and let a visitor from Memphis return
home, for I am always in an ill humor when she is about. Tate and Helen went
over to see Missie Morgan this evening. I have been in Tate's room all day busy
sewing-almost finished my dressMr. Hildebrand was here today, bro't noting later from Dixie-nor have we
heard anything today. I wish one of the scouts would come, and bring us some
news. It has been very cloudy and disagreeable all day, this evening we had
quite a storm. I received today another batch of letters from Dixie, to be mailed
in Memphis for Yankee land. Decatur told us Gen. Armstrong had been
ordered to Miss. he has taken Mariah to Mobile to be confined, poor girl I pity
her, no Mother or relation to be with her. Laura as usual nodding, and I feel all
alone. Beulah and Tippie Dora also enjoying their nap. I feel real sick tonightoh! I am so lonely-what is to be my fate-oh! God shield me, have I not suffered
enough-make my future bright.
Diary of Belle EdmondsonNOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://docsouth.unc.edu/edmondson/edmondson.html.
March 4, 1864 - Confederate Conscription and the Refugees' Plight
Letter from the 12th Army Corps.
Camp 13th New Jersey Volunteers
Duck River Bridge, Tenn., March 4th, 1864.
The conscription is working fearfully for the citizens of the Southern States;
whole families are compelled to leave their homes on account of non-subscribing to the will of Jeff. Davis. A party of fifty came through here yesterday,
direct from Georgia; they were driven from their homes on account of their
loyalty. Among the number were several children, all without shoes, and many
sick, occasioned by the cold weather and unremitting exposure. Their last
camping ground is only a few miles from here, and a visit to it would convince
any one of the barbarity of the enemy. Beside one of the shelter tents, made of
rails and brush, are three graves, about two feet long, where some heartbroken
women have been compelled to lay the remains of their dear children, who had
frozen to death the night previous. Many are yet sick, and but few will live
until they arrive at Nashville. Terrible will be the retribution for such acts, and
soon will come the day of execution.
Nashville Daily Union, March 8, 1864.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
March 5, 1864 - Skirmish at Panther Springs
REPORTS.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 7
March 5, 1864
No. 1.-Brig. Gen. Jacob D. Cox, U. S. Army.
No. 2.-Col. William Cross, Third Tennessee Infantry.
No. 1.
Report of Brig. Gen. Jacob D. Cox, U. S. Army.
NEW MARKET, TENN., March 6, 1864.
GEN.:
~~~
In the skirmish yesterday the rebels lost 9 killed, including a major. We lost 3
killed, 1 badly wounded, and nearly 20 prisoners. We have 2 rebel prisoners.
No further news from the front.
J. D. COX, Brig.-Gen.
No. 2.
Report of Col. William Cross, Third Tennessee Infantry.
HDQRS. THIRD Regiment, EAST TENN. VOL. INFANTRY, Mossy Creek,
Tenn., March 25, 1864.
SIR: In obedience to the requirements of existing orders, I herewith report that
on the 5th day of March, 1864, Capt. John H. Cross, of Company C, and his
command of Second Lieut. L. B. Gamble, Company G; First Lieut. Jasper P.
Buckellew, Company K, and First Lieut. Edward C. Roberts, Company H, and
100 enlisted men of Companies C, G, H, and K, while on a reconnaissance to
Panther Springs, Tenn., were attacked by a cavalry force of the enemy, greatly
superior in numbers, and had a sharp engagement for three or four hours,
finally repulsing the enemy, killing and wounding several. . .
All which is respectfully submitted.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. CROSS, Col., Cmdg. Third Regiment, East Tenn. Vol. Infantry.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, pp. 490-491.
HDQRS. NINTH ARMY CORPS, Mossy Creek, March 5, 1864—5.45 p. m.
Brig. Gen. J. D. COX, Acting Chief of Staff, &c.:
GEN.: A force of the enemy's cavalry appeared in our front this evening, following a detachment of the Twenty-third Corps of about 90 men from Panther
Springs. The captain of this detachment has come in, and his report will doubtless be sent you from the headquarters of Twenty-third Corps.
They fired on our pickets. Two regiments were sent out to support the line.
Gen. Ferrerro has just come in and reports seeing about 400 or 500 of the
enemy, and that on pressing them they retired. We have 1 prisoner who says
that he belongs to Giltner's brigade. No infantry with them; that Longstreet is
Page 8 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 5, 1864
at Bull's Gap, or from Bull's Gap to Greeneville. We have 1 man wounded
slightly.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. G. PARKE, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 21.
March 5, 1864 - Cavalry skirmish at Wood's Gap in Taylor's Ridge
No circumstantial reports filed.
CHATTANOOGA, March 5, 1864.
Brig. Gen. J. A. RAWLINS, Chief of Staff:
The enemy advanced a brigade of cavalry early this morning on Col. Harrison's
pickets. Thirty-ninth Indiana Mounted Infantry, at Woods' Gap in Taylor's
Ridge, and drove them back toward Lee and Gordon's Mills. The enemy then
fell back through Gordon's Gap, as reported by Gen. Baird from Ringgold. A
scout just from Dalton reports Johnston has been re-enforced by 10,000 men
from South Carolina and by Roddey, and he believes he contemplates a forward movement.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 21-22.
March 5, 1864 - Two Federal scouting parties and regiment at election precinct in Red Clay
environs
BLUE SPRINGS, March 5, 1864.
Maj. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS:
Dispatch received; nothing new in my front that I can learn of. Col. Long, I am
informed, had two scouting parties out; has had regiment of infantry at election
precinct 3 miles north of Red Clay to-day. Col. Enyart just reports cannonading
heard by citizens and soldiers from McDaniel's Gap to-day; thought to be a little left of Graysville.
CHARLES CRUFT.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 23.
March 5, 1864 - Cavalry scout, Blue Springs to Red Clay
BLUE SPRINGS, March 5, 1864.
Brig.-Gen. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff:
Cavalry scout just returned from Red Clay, leaving there at 4.30 p. m. Saw
nothing of enemy; heard heavy cannonading at or near Ringgold, from, say, 11
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 9
March 5, 1864
a. m. to 1 p. m., and occasional shots till 4 p. m. Citizens represent that forces
at Dalton put three days' rations on men yesterday preparatory to a movement.
Citizens represented, say, 200 cavalry at Kenyon's.
CHARLES CRUFT, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 23.
March 5, 1864 - Skirmish near New Market
No circumstantial reports filed.
NEW MARKET, March 6, 1864.
Maj.-Gen. SCHOFIELD:
If a movement be made of the Ninth and Fourth Corps, which will necessitate
one of the Twenty-third also, they will need about thirty wagons to haul the
accumulated stores and ammunition. In the skirmish yesterday the rebels lost 9
miles, including a major; we lost 3 killed, 1 badly wounded, and nearly 20 prisoners. We have 2 rebel prisoners.
No further news from the front.
J. D. COX, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 28.
March 5, 1864 - First Lieutenant Robert Cruikshank, 123rd New York Infantry Regiment,
letter home to his wife Mary, life with the Colonel
Camp 123rd Regt., N. Y. S. V.
Elk River, Tenn.,
Mar. 5, 1864.
Dear Mary,I have neglected writing for several days as I have been on the sick list. I have
had a severe cold that settled in my throat and I came near having the quinsy. I
had it lanced and sponged and used a gargle and it is better now and I hope I
shall have no more trouble from it.
The Colonel is over his passion toward me and is more pleasant than is natural
for him. He often lets his temper run away with his judgment. I will not resign
if I can in any way get on with him. He has no cause to find fault with me.
There is not a better disciplined Company in this Regiment than Company H.
He has had trouble with three other officers in the Regiment and they are the
best, Capt. Geo. R. Hall, Captain H. C. Warren and Lieutenant Geo. Robertson.
He talked to them about it as he did to me and they say he must apologize or
they will resign. He will be all over it with them in a few days.
Hoping that all will end well, I ever remain,
Page 10 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 5, 1864
Your affectionate husband,
R. Cruikshank.
Robert Cruikshank Letters.
March 5, 1864 - Confederate expatriates from Memphis begin their trek south
March, Saturday 5, 1864
Nonconnah has fallen at last, and crowds of wagons are passing, loaded with
provisions, in exchange for their cotton. Joanna and Cousin S. went to town
this morning. Mr. Wilson came early and staid until after dinner with us. Tate,
Helen, Nannie & Decatur all spent the day sewing in my room, Decatur
excepted of course from the sewing-we had a pleasant time. Only this morning
I did wish I was a man. I never read a more insulting note in my life than Father
received from Dr. Malone. I will not stain the page of my book writing of such
a dog, and hope God will give me strength to forgive itCold Water and all streams below so high that we have no communication with
Dixie-therefore have heard no news today. I would give anything if I could
send the things I have for the poor soldiers-poor fellows, I know they need
them-would to heaven I had money to get all I could bring through the lines. I
finished my dress today, and made Laura a beautiful apron. 12 o'c, no Beulah
yet. Laura, Tippie Dora & I alone, they asleep.
Diary of Belle Edmondson
March 5, 1864 - Dr. Boyd's family successfully leaves East Tennessee
Wytheville, Va., March 5, 1864. Editor Register: Sir—You will confer a great
favor upon Dr. J. M. Boyd, who is now somewhere in Georgia or South Carolina, by announcing in your paper that his wife and family are out of East Tennessee and are remaining in this place until they hear of his whereabouts. Your
ob't serv't,
P. Lea Rogers, of Knoxville, Tenn
Atlanta [Georgia] Daily Register, March 19, 1864NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
March 5, 1864 - March 16, 1864 - From Germantown to the Cumberland Iron Works, the
movements of the Second Tennessee [U. S. ] Cavalry
~~~
We left Germantown on the 5th day of March, 1864, by way of Colliersville.
We passed the plantation of Gen. N. B. Forrest. He was [a] wealthy, and slave
trader before the war. His plantation with its numerous buildings for negro
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 11
March 6, 1864
quarters looked like a village. Everything was standing, and appeared to have
suffered little from the misfortunes of war. We crossed the Wolf river, a muddy,
sluggish stream, narrow but deep and high banks on each side. The only
chance to cross was to build a bridge, which, owing to its narrowness, was
done with comparative ease. We passed through Moscow and on the 7th on to
Bolivar, and thence to the Hatchies river, at which placed we were delayed on
account of high water. This river is something like the Wolf. Here again we had
to build a bridge, and after crossing, we had to pass through a swamp covered
over with water. The Second was in the rear and did not succeed in getting
across until just at night, consequently we had to pass through this dismal
swamp after night. In places the water was nearly deep enough to swim a
horse. To add to the gloom of the occasion, we were overtaken with a severe
thunder store. The glare of the lightning, the deafening peals of thunder, and
the violent wind coupled with the fact that we were in a heavily timbered
swamp, rendered the situation anything but a pleasant one. There were many
narrow escaped from drowning, both by man and beast. Before getting through
the command became badly scattered. The storm ceased and after getting out
of the swamp with some difficulty we found a public road and in a short time
came to a house. The inmates were aroused, who informed us that our command had passed that way before us in the early part of the night. We went on,
and when we reached the forks of the road some one in advance would get
down, strike a match and examine for the foot prints of those who had preceded us. About 2 o'clock in the morning we overtook the command [and]
halted until morning. On the 8th we passed Middleton, on the 9th Mifflin, and
on the 10th reached Lexington, the county site of Henderson county. On the
11th we passed through Clarksburgh and Huntingdon, in Carrol county, and on
the 12th through Paris. On the 13th we reached the Tennessee River at Fort
Haynes, near Big Sandy. We crossed the river in the steamer "Blue Bird" at
Fort Henry. We remained here on the 14th, and drew rations. On the 15th we
passed Fort Donelson on the Cumberland, twelve miles from Fort Henry. The
marks of heavy fighting were still visible here, where grant obtained his first
decisive victory. . . We arrived at the Cumberland Iron Works on the 16th of
March. . .
Knoxville Daily Chronicle, April 29, 1879.
March 6, 1864 - Affair near Island No. 10
MARCH 6, 1864.-Affair near Island No. 10, Tenn.
Report of Capt. Robert M. Ekings, Thirty-fourth New Jersey Infantry.
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES, Island No. 10, Tenn., March 8, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report that on the morning of the 6th instant I sent out
a party of 12 men under the command of First Sergeant Connor, Company C,
Thirty-fourth New Jersey Infantry, to arrest a gang of 3 men who were reported
Page 12 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 6, 1864
to have murdered a negro the day previous; and also one Joseph Malady, a
notorious guerrilla and horse-thief.
The detachment effected a landing on the Tennessee shore shortly after midnight, and proceeding up the river 7 miles made a careful search for the 3 men,
but without success. They then surrounded the house they found that he had
effected his escape, having received a notification of the attempt to capture him
from some source. A thorough search of the premises was made, and several
rifles were found and a quantity of ammunition. As the party was returning to
the island, those in advance, 6 in number, were fired upon from a thicket by the
roadside by a company of guerrillas under the command of Capt. Parks. Finding themselves greatly outnumbered, my men gradually fell back, skirmishing
all the way, to the river bank, where, discovering an old raft, they got upon it
and floated down to the island, arriving here safely about 8 p. m.
I hardly need observe that had I known of the arrival of the guerrillas in the
vicinity previous to sending out the force under Sergeant Connor, I should have
sent a much stronger detachment. From the best information I can obtain I
should judge that the guerrilla force under Parks and Bradford numbers from
75 to 125 strong.
The guns captured by my men were brought off safety, and also 3 horses.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. M. EKINGS, Capt. Company C, 34th New Jersey Infantry, Cmdg. Post.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, pp. 491-492.
March 6, 1864 - Conditions in Chattanooga; an excerpt from the letter of Gershom M. Barber
Head Quarters O. V. S. S
Chattanooga Tenn. March 6, 1864
My Dear H. L.
. . . Chattanooga is in much better condition than Murfreesboro was last year
this time. The dead mules and horses here mostly been well buried and the
slaughter yards are on the other side of the [city] In addition to that most of the
army has been moved out to the front. . . .
~~~
Barber Correspondence
March 6, 1864 - The Civil War Adventures of Lizzie the Union Soldier from Tennessee
A Strange Story.
"Truth Stranger than Fiction"—Lizzie Compton, the Soldier Girl.
[From the Rochester Union.]
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 13
March 6, 1864
The young female noticed yesterday as having sought to be received into the
3d Cavalry turns out to be Lizzie Compton, the young soldier girl whose career
has been noticed by the Western and Southern papers.
This girl was taken to the police station yesterday. It was supposed that she was
an adventurer like many who have appeared in a similar disguise, and was
therefore regarded as a disorderly person. The chief found her in Worden's
saloon talking with a young man, and told her that she was wanted by the
Police Magistrate. She replied that she would go to him, but begged that she
might be permitted to go out of the saloon unattended that she might not appear
to be under arrest. Her wish was complied with, and Lizzie, in a few minutes,
stood before the Magistrate—a fine specimen of a young soldier ready to give
an account of herself.
She stated that she was about sixteen years of age, assuming that she had been
correctly informed as to the date of her birth. Her parents died in her infancy,
near Nashville, Tenn., and she was left, as too many children are, to the tender
mercies of unfeeling wretches. She was put into the field to work at an early
age, and was never taught any duties of the household. When a child she wore
a frock—but really was never fully clad in the apparel of her sex. At the age of
thirteen, when the rebellion commenced, she put on the clothes of a boy and
worked about the steamboats on the Western rivers. At length she sought a
place in the army as a bugler, on which instrument she soon excelled.
Lizzie has been eighteen months in the service and in seven or eight regiments.
She got into the ranks by fraud—taking the place of some person who had
passed muster and was discharged as soon as her sex was discovered. Among
the regiments in which she served were the 79th New York, 17th and 28th
Michigan, and the 2d Minnesota. Her first engagement was at Mill Springs,
and she relates minutely the details of the fall of Zollicoffer. She was captured
with her company and paroled by the guerrilla Morgan near Gallatin, Tenn.
She fought at Fort Donelson, Shiloh, and several other places in the West.
Finally she went to the Army of the Potomac and got into the 79th New York.
At the battle of Fredericksburg, early in July, she was wounded by a piece of
shell in the side; and the surgeon discovered and disclosed her sex, which led
to her dismissal after recovering in the hospital. Her secret was twice betrayed
by surgeons. While in a Western regiment she undertook to ride a horse which
none of her companions dare mount, and being without a saddle, she was
thrown and injured, which led to betrayal.
This girl, familiar with the use of a musket, understands the manual perfectly,
has performed picket and other duties of camp and field, and delights in the
service. She recites camp incidents and scenes with the ardor of a youth of
twelve, and longs to be with her old companions in arms. When asked if she
had no fears, she replied that she was some "skeered" in the first battle, but
never since, and she added that as she had done nothing to lead her to believe
she would go to a bad place in the next world, she was not afraid to die.
Page 14 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 6, 1863
The girl has no education—can do no more than recite the letters of the alphabet. Nor has she had religious instruction, except what she has accidentally
received. Yet her notions of morality are such as do her credit. She refers to the
degraded females who follow the camp and who mingle with the soldiers, with
language of loathing and contempt. Indeed, she appears to think that if she consents to assume habiliments of her sex and become a woman that she is liable
to become like one of these. She has the instincts of a boy—loves boyish pursuits and is bound to be a man. She declares that she may yet be a gentleman,
but that she can never be a lady. She solemnly affirms that she is innocent of
crime, and her affirmation will be taken by any one who hears her narrative.
Lizzie is five feet one inch in height, and weighs 155 pounds, and is of course
of rather stout build. She has light hair, fair complexion, and in her half military suit with high boots, and pants tucked in the tops, she has the appearance
of a rosy soldier boy of fifteen years. She carries with her a paper from the
Chief of Police of Louisville, Mr. Priest, stating who she is, and commending
her to the favor of the railroad superintendents. She came to this city a few
days since, and went to New York to see Barnum, who had written to her. He
was not then in the city, and after spending a day or two there, she became disgusted and started Westward. She arrived here without money, and sought to
enlist to provide for herself. She was not discouraged at her failure. She
declared that she could work at any business a boy could do, and would earn
her living if permitted to do so. She was told that the statute forbade a woman
wearing a man's clothing, and that she must abandon the practice. She would
not promise to make a change—indeed she insisted that she would prefer any
punishment—death even—rather than be compelled to act the part of a
woman.
Bail was entered for the good behavior of the soldier girl, and she took the cars
to go where, we know not. She will no doubt appear soon in some other locality.
New Orleans Daily Picayune, March 6, 1864. NOTE 1
March 6, 1863 - General Joseph E. Johnston’s opinion of R. V. Richardson’s activities
•See January 5, 1863-January 6, 1863-Correspondence relative to prisonerof-war issues raised by R. V. Richardson
CHATTANOOGA, March 6, 1863.
Gen. S. COOPER:
One [R. V.] Richardson, claiming to have authority of the War Department to
raise partisan rangers in Mississippi and West Tennessee, is accused of great
oppression. If he has any authority, I respectfully recommend that it be withdrawn.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 15
ca. March 6, 1864
J. E. JOHNSTON.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 24, pt. III, p. 654.
ca. March 6, 1864 - Furguson's and Hamilton's guerrilla bands defeat Stokes' 5th U. S. cavalry scout
Excerpt from the letter of Alvan C. Gillem to Military Governor Andrew
Johnson relative to fighting Hamilton's and Ferguson's guerrilla forces in
Sparta environs:
Nashville, March 11, 1864
Governor,
~~~
Two of Stokes Companies were Scouting near Spara last week, when they
were attacked by Hamilton & Ferguson and twenty seven of them killed—all
six of the officers and forty men escaped[.] The disaster is chagred to the ignorance & cowardice of the officers—at last Stokes Regt. has been concentrated
& is at Sparta. . .
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, p. 643.
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
March 7, 1864 - General Orders, No. 10, forbidding impressment of Negroes in Nashville
Headquarters District of Nashville
Nashville, Tenn., March 7, 1864
Brig.-Gen L. Thomas, Adjt. General United States, having revoked his order
authorizing the impressment of negroes into the army, such impressments are
no longer legal, and if made will be revoked and the facts reported to these
Headquarters, buy the military authorities. Work hands on plantations within
the District having been almost exhausted by impressment, and the running
away of such hands-often leaving large families of helpless women and children without the means of support-no impressment of slaves will hereafter be
made for any purpose without imperative necessity, and by order of the Post
Commanders.
II. The loyal, law-abiding people of the District, including those who have, in
good faith, taken the "Amnesty Oath," are invited to rebuild their fences and
restock their farms, and grow crops, with the assurance that they will hereafter
be protected in the possession of all their property, and which will not be
appropriated for the public use, unless by competent authority, and not then
without fair compensation being paid to the owner therfor.
III. Good and efficient soldiers are found at the post of duty. Generally, the
worthless and inefficient straggle and roam over the country, away from their
Page 16 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 8, 1864
commands, marauding and robbing. Such straggling marauders will hereafter
be arrested and punished, and every soldier absent from his command, unless
on duty, without the written permission of the officer commanding the Post or
Station, will be deemed a straggler and punished accordingly.
By command of Maj.-Gen Rousseau
Nashville Daily Gazette, March 18, 1864.
March 7, 1864 - "The quiet of our life was disturbed today by the arrival of 150 Yankees." A
day in the life of Confederate Belle Edmondson
March, Monday 7, 1864
The quiet of our life was disturbed today by the arrival of 150 Yankees-only
two came to the house. We gave them their dinner. Mr. Wilson and Decatur
were down in the Orchard. Helen sent for them to come and capture the Yanks,
we saw the rest coming, & Tate and I ran to tell them it was too great a risk. Mr.
W. and D. were nearly to the gate, I was never so excited-we turned them in
time, the two Yanks passed while we were standing there. Mr. W. and D. came
to the house and spent some time with us, when Mr. W. followed the Yankees.
They returned about 9 o'c on their way to Memphis. D. and Cousin F. had a run
again, with the horses, but fortunately none of them came in.
I have not done any work today, have suffered death with my spine. Tate and
Helen at work in my room all day-I sat in Tate's room until bed time. Beulah,
Laura, and Tip all in time-I amused myself reading Artemus Wards book.
We did not hear what the Yanks went for, we heard from Eddie and the boys,
all safe. One of Henderson's scouts arrived.
Diary of Belle Edmondson
March 8, 1864 - Federal forces occupy Decatur
No circumstantial reports filed.
DECATUR, March 8, 1864.
Brig. Gen. J. A. RAWLINS:
We occupied this place at daylight and we hold it.
G. M. DODGE, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 38.
March 8, 1864 - Reconnaissance from Morristown to Bull's Gap
•See March 9, 1864--Federal situation report, New Market, Strawberry
Plains, Mossy Creek, Morristown, Bulls' Gap, mouth of Chucky River Bend
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 17
March 8, 1864
March 8, 1864 - Reconnaissance from Morristown to Mouth of the Chucky River
•See March 9, 1864--Federal situation report, New Market, Strawberry
Plains, Mossy Creek, Morristown, Bulls' Gap, mouth of Chucky River Bend
March 8, 1864 - Report on Federal army's aid to destitute citizens January-February 1864
in Chattanooga
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, OFFICE CHIEF COMMISSARY OF SUBSISTENCE, Chattanooga, Tenn., March 8, 1864.
Capt. S. C. KELLOGG, A. D. G., Hdqrs. Dept. of the Cumberland, Chattanooga:
CAPT.: In reply to your letter of to-day, I have the honor to inform you that the
average daily issues of subsistence stores to destitute citizens for the month of
January, 1864, was 686 13/41 rations, and for the month of February, 1864, the
average daily issue was 2,944 7/29 rations.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. P. PORTER, Lieut. Col. and Chief C. S., Dept. of the Cumberland.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 12.
March 8, 1864 - Report on Confederate prisoners of war and administration of oath of allegiance, January 1864, in Chattanooga
Report of prisoners of war and deserters received and disposed of, and oaths
administered to citizens, during the month of January, 1864, at Chattanooga,
Tenn.
Prisoners of war captured and disposed
of:
Officers
44
Men
591
Aggregate
635
Deserters received and disposed of:
By provost-marshal-general
594
By Capt. Goodwin, assistant provost-marshal-general
414
Aggregate
1,008
Oaths administered to citizens:
Page 18 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 8, 1864
Prisoners of war captured and disposed
of:
Allegiance
45
Amnesty
213
Aggregate
258
Respectfully submitted.
J. G. PARKHURST, Col. Ninth Michigan Vol. Inf., Provost-Marshal-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 13.
March 8, 1864 - Report of prisoners of war and deserters received and disposed of, oaths
administered to citizens, and sales and issues of rations to citizens, during
the month of February, 1864:
Prisoners of war:
Chattanooga
Nashville
Total
Captured:
Officers
21
38
59
Men
182
421
603
Aggregate
203
459
662
Disposed of:
Officers
59
59
Men
603
603
Aggregate
662
662
Received
821
76
897
Paroled on oath
821
76
897
Deserters:
Oaths administered to citizens:
Allegiance
543
543
Amnesty
263
263
Aggregate
806
806
Rations:
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 19
March 8, 1864
Prisoners of war:
Chattanooga
Nashville
Total
Sales:
Families
506
506
Persons
2,901
2,901
Families
1,032
1,032
Persons
5,809
5,809
Families
1,538
1,538
Persons
8,710
8,710
Issues:
Total:
Respectfully submitted.
J. B. PARKHURST, Col. Ninth Michigan Inf. Vols., Provost-Marshal-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 13.
March 8, 1864 - "I am almost crazy with my spine, took a dose of Morphine, I am in so
much pain it does not affect me." A page from the Confederate smuggler
Belle Edmondson's diary
March, Tuesday 8, 1864
Cousin Mat, Frazor and Joanna went in town this morning. Joanna was to have
returned this evening, did not come. We heard what the Yanks were after-old
Frank the detective carried them to Felix Davis's and took him and his wife
both to Memphis, they are now in the Irving Block, we did not hear the
offence, only 'twas some old grudge he had against Mr. Davis. They stole a
good deal from Widow Hildebrand's but she has taken the oath, and I don't care
much. I pity poor Mr. & Mrs. Davis, they have been so kind to our Soldiers.
Nannie Perkins came home this morning. Joe Clayton-Memphis Light Dragoons-came on short furlough. Tate & I are going after Mrs. Clayton & Hal
tomorrow. We all spent the evening in the Parlor, singing and playing. I am
almost crazy with my spine, took a dose of Morphine, I am in so much pain it
does not affect me-All spent day in my room sewing-Laura and Beulah in, Tip
not arrived. Oh! I am so lonely, and suffering so much.
Diary of Belle Edmondson
Page 20 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 9, 1864
March 8, 1864 - Humble refugee transients in Nashville
Yesterday afternoon, we noticed a family of humble refugees from rebel tyranny, "stowed away" in one of the piles of cross ties on Broad Street, near the
wharf. They had stretched canvass over it to ward off the rain, and, with their
household plunder, had gone in for comfort. A parcel of children were abed
asleep, a couple of half grown girls sat diligently arranging their sable locks,
while a youth of about fifteen looked on without concern. Two men stood by, a
mother sat in a chair with a youngster in her lap, whilst "grand ma" and her
"specs" and pipe, looked the very picture of don't-care-a-copper comfort. Thus
far on their journey north, they take a resting spell, awaiting transportation to
the land of milk and honey, where "yankee soldiers" grow. With all their humility, these poor people love freedom too well to live willingly under the rule of
the Jeff Davis despotism.
Nashville Daily Union, March 8, 1864.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
March 9, 1864 - Federal situation report, New Market, Strawberry Plains, Mossy Creek,
Morristown, Bulls' Gap, mouth of Chucky River Bend
NEW MARKET, March 9, 1864.
Maj.-Gen. SCHOFIELD, Knoxville:
Have just returned from Mossy Creek. Deserters and citizens continue to come
in, but their news does not reach beyond Bull's Gap, where Buckner is said to
be. Vaughn's brigade is still at Broyersvile and does not number over 400 or
500 in all, partly mounted and partly foot. A cavalry outpost at Chucky Bend.
One man who came through from Greeneville, on Friday last, reports some
troops scattered between Greeneville and Bull's Gap, but cannot say how
many. At Greeneville he inquired if an office he saw guarded was Johnson's,
and was told, no; it was Longstreet's. Supposed Longstreet was there, but does
not know.
A rebel cavalry party, 30 or 40 strong, is reported at Massengale's Mill, on
north side of Holston, about 8 miles above Strawberry Plains, yesterday. Col.
Garrard sends a party across to-day to look after them. A regiment goes to
Morristown to support a cavalry reconnaissance toward Bull's Gap, and
another to Mouth of Chucky for same purpose to-day. I have directed every
possible means to be used to get immediately some definite information of the
condition of affairs beyond Bay's Mountain. My own belief it that Longstreet is
gone, and that Buckner is left in command of whatever force remains. Upon
examination it is found that the small trestle bridge at Mossy Creek was partially cut by the rebels with the intent doubtless to make a trap for our first
train. I have directed it to be thoroughly examined by General Parke and imme-
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 21
March 9, 1864
diately repaired, if possible. I would suggest the examination of the whole line
above the Plains wherever there is a bridge or wooden culvert.
The troops at Mossy Creek have an average of 70 founds of musket ammunition, and Wood's from 40 to 50. The Ninth Corps and Wood's have some at
Strawberry Plains. I telegraphed Gen. Potter this morning the amount of cannon ammunition. Gen. Stoneman reports that some riding animals could be
bought at less than common Government rates in the country, and I have
directed him to let his corps quartermaster make the purchases and turn the animals over, for the present, to the dismounted officers. Do you approve this? It
will somewhat diminish the number to be furnished.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. D. COX, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32 pt. III, pp. 43-44.
March 9, 1864 - Visiting neighbors in Union-occupied Shelby County, an entry in Belle
Edmondson's diary
March, Wednesday 9, 1864
Tate and I went over to Mrs. Clayton early this morning-had to pass through
the Yankee Camp, no trouble, spent the day and came back this evening. Hal
and Dink came with us-Tate's horse threw her, not hurt, I was never so full of
laugh-reached home about dark. After Tea we were all sitting in the Parlor
when in walked Joe Clayton and Mr. McCorkle, our little St. Louis friend, he
has a furlough, and is going to St. Louis and New York to see his Father and
Sister-we were all delighted to see him. All sat in the Parlor until 11 o'clock,
singing, playing and had a real nice time. Laura and I were not so lonely. Hal
shared my little room-I heard of my letters in town, but could not get any one
to bring them to me. Mr. Wilson took one of those Yankees prisoner the other
evening, and got him a fine Saddle and Bridle, so he has made up for his loss at
the Party. Oh! I am suffering so much with my spine, what is to become of meMrs. Dupre arrived from Dixie, sent Helen two letters by me. I was so much
disappointed that I did not get one. I expect my friends will all forget me now
that I cannot run to Memphis and bring what they want.
Diary of Belle Edmondson
March 10, 1864 - 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:
~~~
Page 22 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
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.
~~~
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 55.
March 10, 1864 - Pro-Confederate women bear the insults of Yankees in Cleveland
. . . I heard they 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 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.
March 10, 1864 - 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 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
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 23
March 11, 1864
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.
March 11, 1864 - Entry in Alice Williamson's diary, Sumner county
Yesterday was the day of elections and as only the union men were allowed to
vote nobody knows how it turned out nor do they care. Sallie Montgomery
rode out this evening, the pickets would not let her pass, so she slipped them as
many do. I suppose they are scared again. Perhaps that scamp John Morgan is
about. I only hope he is, for we have not seen a rebel for more than a year and
our day must come soon.
Williamson Diary
March 11, 1864 - U. S. S. Peosta bombards Confederate guerrillas near Yellow Creek on the
Tennessee River
No circumstantial reports filed.
At about 1:30 p. m. the crew responded to an apparent threat to the boat and
began shelling the woods near the mouth of Yellow Creek firing in all about 36
rounds. They then proceeded up the river, returning in a few hours. There, four
of the crew landed and fired a small framed building located near the creek.
U. S. S. Peosta Daily Deck LogNOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in William R. Morris, "The Tennessee River Voyages of U. S. S.
Peosta," in Timberclads to Turtlebacks: A Glossary of Civil War Ship
Types (np: Butternut Bivouac, Home Mail New FAQs Links: and-in: http:/
/www.hardinhistory.com.). [Hereinafter: U. S. S. Peosta Daily Deck Log.]
The only "Yellow Creek" near the Tennessee River is found in Rhea County, very close to the Watts Bar Nuclear Plant.
Page 24 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 11, 1864
March 11, 1864 - Military trial of a Middle Tennessee bushwhacker
A Desperate Gorilla
A very interesting trial is now going on before the Military Commission, of
which Col. John F. Miller is the President and Lieut. H. C. Blackburn Judge
Advocate. The prisoner (Robert Gassett) stands charged with violating the
laws of war in joining a band of marauders; of stealing three mules in Robertson county from Mr. J. A. Washington; of attempting the life of Mr. Washington; of stealing a horse, a gun, and a watch, from Mr. E. P. Falless; of
murdering Mr. John T. Albright in Cheatham county of murdering B. F. Binley
in the same county; of murdering James Maddox, of the same county; of murdering Capt. De Pugh in the same county, and so forth, et cetera, to be continued. Hon. Balie Peyton is conducting the prosecution, and James M. Brien,
Esq., has the pleasure of appearing for the defence.
Nashville Dispatch, March 11, 1864.
March 11, 1864 - "Those men in the interests of the rebellion, who have done so much evil,
can never more be trusted." Confederate Refugees in East Tennessee
Still Going South.
Since our last issue the following persons and families have been ordered
South, and as we learn, have departed via Chattanooga. It is thought by some to
be an act of great cruelty on the part of our Government, to send women and
children out of our lines at this season of the year. We will be excused if we fail
to sympathize with those who behold an act of cruelty in sending persistent
rebels South. Two years ago the wife of the editor of this paper, with two sick
children, and the wife and children of Horace Maynard, the former herself sick,
were forced out of this town to the North, and that upon the shortest notice.
Most of the families now going out exulted over this removal, and said the
Rebels were doing them right.
These secessionists have filled the land with suffering and sorrow. The homes
of the humble poor Union families, all over Eastern Tennessee, have been
plundered, darkened and desolated.
Mothers are going to their graves broken hearted. Bereaved widows, with their
bare-footed orphan children, are shivering in the winter's cold, and poorly clad,
are making their way North, because their husbands and fathers dared to be
Union men. All this, and a hundred times more and worse, has been the fate of
Union families here, inflicted upon them by the getters up of the rebellion, and
the advocates of it, not the least prominent of whom were rebel females.
It is useless to discuss the well agreed upon resolution, that these two parties
can't live in this country, even after the war is over. Those men in the interests
of the rebellion, who have done so much evil, can never more be trusted.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 25
March 11, 1864
Miss Nancy Scott, Dr. John Jackson, Rev. A. A. Doak, Mrs. Claiborne Kain, A.
B. Maxwell, T. C. Champ and family.—Knoxville Whig.
[Little Rock] Unconditional Union, March 11, 1864.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
March 11, 1864 - March 28, 1864 - Counter-insurgency operations around Sparta, including skirmishes on Calfkiller Creek and near Beersheba Springs
MARCH 11-28, 1864.-Operations about Sparta, Tenn., including skirmishes
on Calfkiller creek and near Beersheba Springs.
Report of Col. William B. Stokes, Fifth Tennessee Cavalry.
HDQRS. U. S. FORCES, Sparta, Tenn., March 28, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of operations since my last
report:
On the 11th instant, having heard of the enemy on Calfkiller, I sent out a scout
of 80 men, under Capt.'s Blackburn and Waters, in search of them. They met
the enemy concentrated, numbering 150 men, 10 miles from this place, and
after a stubborn and desperate resistance of 1 hour they succeeded in dispersing and running them into the mountains. The rebels lost 1 man killed and several wounded, the notorious Champ Ferguson being one of the latter. Our loss
was 1 killed and 4 slightly wounded.
The next day I sent out a force of 200 men, but they were unable to find the
enemy in any force. While out they succeeded in killing 7 Texas Rangers, men
of the most daring and desperate character. Among these was Lieut. Davis, the
leader of the band. These men had been murdering and robbing Union citizens.
On the 15th, this force returned, and after feeding, 150 started in pursuit of Col.
Hughs, who had crossed Caney Fork on the 14th with the larger portion of his
command.
On the morning of the 18th, the force attacked Hughs' camp at the foot of
Cumberland Mountains, 2 miles from Beersheba Springs, utterly routing them,
succeeding in killing 7 of their number. They were at breakfast and some were
sleeping when attacked, and in the rout they threw away saddles, blankets,
clothing, and arms. The entire force would have been captured or killed if they
had not run up the mountain, where it was almost impossible for men to travel.
Hughs had visited the railroad near Estill Springs, and was returning when
attacked. We captured a number of saddles, arms, blankets, and clothing
belonging to the Federals, and also Col. Hughs' portfolio and papers. Our loss
was 1 killed and 1 mortally wounded. The rebels at this fight were entirely dispersed, a great many being dismounted.
On the 20th, I sent out a force for the purpose of picking up stragglers and preventing them from again concentrating. They scoured Overton, Putnam, and
Page 26 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 11, 1864
Jackson Counties, but were unable to find the enemy in any force; they were
out five days, and killed 5 men, among them Lieut. Bowman. Capt. Loure, of
the guerrillas, was wounded during this scout. Capt. Bledsoe was killed a few
days previous by some of my men while foraging. Yesterday, learning that
Carter was across Caney Fork, I immediately sent out a force to look after him.
They were unable to find him, but succeeded in killing 1 of his men being
together. They are merely trying to keep out of my way.
Since I arrived here my command has been constantly at work. At no one time
has the command been idle. Forage has been scarce and hard to obtain. Over
one-half of my command are dismounted, having worn out their horses by constant duty. No horses can be obtained in this country. I am proud to state that
my officers and men have worked unremittingly, faithfully, and cheerfully in
the discharge of their duties. A great number of [Confederate] soldiers have
taken the amnesty oath, and the people manifest a friendly disposition toward
the restoration of civil government.
Owing to the impossibility of obtaining forage of any kind in this country, I
shall within a few days move the command to Chestnut Mound, some 25 miles
from this place, where there is forage. While there I shall continue to scout the
country designated in instructions from Maj.-Gen. Thomas. Lieut.-Col. Corbin
is here [Sparta] with a portion of the Fourteenth Regiment, U. S. Colored
troops, and is recruiting very rapidly.
I would once more respectfully call the attention of the general commanding to
the necessity of mounting my command, To clear the country designated in
instructions of guerrillas my men must be mounted. Without being considered
impertinent, I would once more urge upon the authorities the advantages of
arming my command with the Spencer rifle. It is useless to deny but that the
command would be rendered much more effective. I will pledge my honor that
if this command is armed with these guns, no regiment in the rebel service can
defeat them.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. B. STOKES, Col. Fifth Tennessee Volunteer Cavalry, Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, pp. 494-495.NOTE 1
On Thursday evening [17th] about 60 Rebels dashed thro' this place [Beersheba]—two stopping a moments at Mr. A's—one of them was Luke Ridley, a
son of the Judges! The encamped in a little grove near Mr. Dugan's at the base
of the opposite mt. NOTE 2 where their camp-fires shone all night long. About
dawn [18th] this pace [Beersheba Springs] was full of Yankees—flourishing
their pistols and in hot haste after the Rebs. Their number was about 3 times
that of the Rebs —they were principally Stokes' men—the rebs said they were
Colonel Hughe's men and belonged to Carter's command. It seems they had
been down to Decherd—destroyed a train, (containing only hay and forage,)
and were getting back to Sparta I don't know where the Yanks are from—at all
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 27
March 12, 1864
events they got down the mt. unseen—and surprised the rebels at breakfast—
who took off pell-mell up the opposite mt.. Looking at its rugged face and
rocky brow from here, as it lies nearly opposite to us one wonders how they
could scale that height on horseback, but they did. As they came out on top of
the mt. they made a little stand—one Yankee was wounded and has since died
at McM. The rebels lost some of their saddles, blankets etc. in the melee, and
one man. He was a wounded man, had been shot somewhere through the body
at the R. R. and it is supposed gave out as he reached the top of the mt. and was
shot down after he surrendered. He was shot through the head. Mr. Dugan
found him on Friday [19th], the brought him down to the valley and buried
him. He was a youth, apparently about 18 years if age—none knew who he
was. Will not some mother's heart watch for him who shall come no more, and
ache with its lonely watching. The Yankees returned soon from the pursuit—
and went on to town [McMinnville]—making a great story of the affair by the
time they reached there
War Journal of Lucy Virginia French, entry for March 20, 1864.
NOTE 1: See also: Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 55 for Hughs' operations in Middle Tennessee, January 1-April 18, 1864, above.
NOTE 2: It appears that French was referring to two of three mountains in Warren
County: Ben Lemond Mountain, Harrison Ferry Mountain and Cardwell
Mountain. It is difficult to be more specific. See: Tennessee Atlas & Gazetteer, DeLorme, 5th edition, 1999, p. 39.
March 12, 1864 - "After insulting the father he carried his son a half mile away and shot
him six times." An entry in Alice Williamson's Diary, Sumner County
Old Payne (General Paine) dined at Mrs. Hales today: every one despises him
but are afraid to show it. Yesterday he went up the country a few miles to a Mr.
Dalton's whose son came home from the Southern Army the day before and
had the same day taken the Amnesty Oath. Riding up to the door he enquired
of Mr. Dalton if his son was at home but before he answered his son came to
the door. Old Nick (Paine) then told him to get his horse and go with him. After
insulting the father he carried his son a half mile away and shot him six times.
One of Payne's escort hearing the young man groan with pain placed a pistol to
his temple and remarked, I will stop that, sir, and he shot him again. But this is
nothing new this is the fifth man that has been shot in this way, besides numbers that have been carried off by scouts and never return.
Williamson Diary
March 12, 1864 - Skirmish near Union City
Report of Col. Isaac R. Hawkins, Seventh Tennessee Cavalry:NOTE 1
Page 28 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 12, 1864
UNION CITY, March 14, 1864:
SIR: I reached my camp with my entire command at 3 p. m. this day. Have
with me 30 prisoners, many of them of the worst cast. On the 12th, had a running fight for 10 miles with Capt. Bolen's company with about an equal number of men commanded by Lieut.s. R. Y. Bradford and Hawkins, in which 2 of
the enemy were killed, 1 severely wounded, and 1 captured. We also captured
6 horses. Our loss nothing.
The vote in my county (Carroll) was 1,326. In one district election broken up.
Health of men excellent. My scouts proceeded within 8 miles of Jackson and
13 miles south of Lexington. The vote in Henderson was 564; in Weakley,
something over 1,100. Advertisements were everywhere posted, threatening
the people with severe punishment if they should vote. I shall report more at
length in a day or two.
ISAAC R. HAWKINS, Col., Cmdg. Seventh Tennessee Cavalry
OR, Ser. I., Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 496.
NOTE 1: This event was part and parcel of the Union Army's efforts to protect voters
and maintain order during local and county elections in the early spring of
1864. A letter from James O. Shackleford, in Clarksville, to Military Governor Andrew Johnson, dated March 6, 1864, indicates the election was less
than successful: "At our election on yesterday we had but a small vote." The
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, 1862-1864, ed. Leroy P. Graf, Ralph W,
Haskins, Patricia P. Clark, Marion O. Smith, (Knoxville: University of Tennessee Press, 1983), p. 638.
March 12, 1864 - Reconnaissance, New Market to Morristown
No circumstantial reports filed.
HDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, New Market, Tenn., March 11, 1864.
Brig. Gen. T. J. WOOD, Cmdg. Third Division, Fourth Army Corps:
SIR: You will move your command to-morrow morning at 6 o'clock, marching
to Morristown. If the whole march cannot be made without overworking the
men you will encamp at evening at Panther Creek. You will be preceded by the
troops now at Mossy Creek and their trains.
On reaching Morristown you will encamp in the position formerly occupied by
you, picketing the same roads except the Russellville road, in front of the town,
which will now be guarded by the Twenty-third Corps. Willcox's division,
Ninth Corps, will make a detour to the right and possibly arrive at Morristown
by the Mouth of Chucky road after you get in position. Please give such orders
to your command as will avoid any risk of mistaking them for an enemy.
By command of Maj.-Gen. Schofield:
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 29
March 12, 1864
J. D. COX, Brig.-Gen., Acting Chief of Staff in the Field.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 52.
March 12, 1864 - Scout to Nola Chucky Bend, near Morristown
HDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, New Market, March 11, 1864.
Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE, Cmdg. Ninth Corps:
SIR: Your command will march to-morrow morning at 5 o'clock as follows,
viz.,: Willcox's division will proceed by the road leading to the Mouth of
Chucky to the intersection of the Dandridge and Greeneville road, thence up
the Dandridge road to the road leading from Mouth of Chucky to Morristown,
then, and by the last-mentioned road, to Morristown, or as far in that direction
as they can reasonably march with the delays hereinafter mentioned.
Klein's battalion of cavalry will precede this division, and will examine the
ford at the Mouth of Chucky, the infantry remaining at the cross-roads, or some
proper position in the vicinity, till the reconnaissance by the cavalry is completed. The cavalry will also examine and obtain definite information as to the
condition of all the fords on the Chucky from its mouth to the bend. An outpost
of the cavalry will be left at the forks of the road from Dandridge to Greenville
and Morristown (at a place called Snoddyville on the maps), and the body of
the cavalry will make a reconnaissance as far toward Chucky Bend as possible.
If they succeed in reaching the road from Chucky Bend to Morristown they
will return to Morristown by that road, taking measures to avoid collision with
Col. Garrard's men, who may be upon it. Ferrero's division will march to Morristown and will encamp upon or near the Chucky Bend road, throwing forward a brigade 2 or 3 miles on that road as a grand guard and picketing their
front and flank, carefully connecting pickets on their left with the Twenty-third
Corps.
The trains of both corps will move in rear of the Twenty-third Corps.
Gen. Willcox's division will held and report orders when they shall reach a
position about 2 miles from Morristown on the Mouth of Chucky road.
By command of Maj.-Gen. Schofield:
J. D. COX, Brig.-Gen., Acting Staff in Field.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 51-52.
Report of Capt. John W. Hammond, Sixty-fifth Indiana Infantry.
HDQRS. DETACH. 2d Brig., OUTPOST CHUCKY BEND ROAD, Near
McFarland's Cross-Roads, Tenn., March 13, 1864.
SIR: Having orders from Col. I. Garrard to report any discoveries to you, I
have the honor to communicate the following facts:
Page 30 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 12, 1864
That I made a scout to Chucky Bend yesterday about 2 p. m. I found no enemy
there, but learned of the presence of one battalion of Rucker's Legion, about
200 strong, camped just above Bent Creek and only a short distance below the
mouth of Lick Creek, 1 3/4 miles above the point where Chucky Bend road
touches Chucky River, and exactly in the real bend of Chucky. This battalion
sent a small scout after me, which was cut off by the Third Indiana Cavalry,
which came down the river road shortly after I left the bend.
The enemy are still at the bend, and were in line of battle at daylight this morning, and were still in line at 8 a. m. They will doubtless await attack. I captured
1 prisoner who confirms the position of their troops, stating additionally that
the Second Battalion of Rucker's Legion is camped some 3 miles farther up the
same creek, and their first and nearest infantry support is some 3 miles in their
rear and about 2 1/2 miles from Bull's Gap. I learn also from many reliable
sources that Buckner's and Jenkins' commands are at Bull's Gap; Johnson's
near Blue Springs at Midway Depot, and McLaws' at Greeneville; that Longstreet left in person for Virginia Wednesday last, the general supposition being
that he has gone to Richmond. Citizens say that the effort is strong on the part
of the soldiers to create the belief that he is to return immediately, which would
indicate that they have doubts.
Mr. James Broyles left vicinity of Greeneville Friday last at 12 (noon), and
reports same facts in regard to enemy at and this side of Greeneville and in
regard to Rucker's Legion, which he saw this a. m. He also reports that the
enemy are mounting all the men they can, and that they are now trying to
mount McLaws' division entire. He says that they have sent away four batteries
that he knows of, and several others that reliable men told him had been sent
off toward Virginia; as also that they have sent away nearly all their trains, only
leaving three or four wagons to the brigade, using the mules of the trains and
the horses of the batteries to mount their men on. He also says that they all
(meaning the soldiers) say that they are to be joined by John Morgan this week
with 2,000 cavalry, and that all this mounted force is to make a grand raid into
Kentucky. I give this as he stated it. He also says they are transporting all the
surplus of subsistence toward Virginia as fast as the cars can transport it. Mr.
Broyles, whole statements are corroborated by others, is quite an intelligent
man and a shoemaker, who is flying the conscription. He says that everybody
estimates their force at about 25,000 men within support of Bull's Gap.
It is reported that Dibrell's division (mounted) has left Newport, but this is
vague.
You have doubtless ere this gained a knowledge of most of these reports, but
hoping that I might furnish some new item I have been thus explicit and full in
reporting.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN W. HAMMOND, Capt. Sixty-fifth Indiana Volunteers Mounted Infty.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 31
March 12, 1864
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GEN., Ferrero's Division.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, pp. 496-497.
March 12, 1864 - U. S. S. Peosta engages in counter-guerrilla raid at Pittsburg Landing environs
No circumstantial reports filed.
On March 12th, a Union Soldier signaled the Peosta that there was a party of
guerrillas at Pittsburg Landing. The gunboat proceeded upstream and heavily
shelled the area of Pittsburg Landing. The crew then made several other landings attempting to seek out guerrillas as she proceeded downstream.
U. S. S. Peosta Daily Deck Log
March 12, 1864 - 5th Tennessee (U. S. ) Cavalry surprises and kills Texas Rangers in Overton County
•See March 11, 1864-March 28, 1864-Counter-insurgency operations around
Sparta, including skirmishes on Calfkiller Creek and near Beersheba
Springs
No circumstantial reports filed.
Excerpt from the Report of Col. William B. Stokes, Fifth Tennessee Cavalry
for Operations about Sparta, Tenn, Including Skirmishes on Calfkiller and near
Beersheba
~~~
The next day [12th] I sent out a force of 200 men, but they were unable to find
the enemy in any force. While out they succeeded in killing 7 Texas Rangers,
men of the most daring and desperate character. Among these was Lieut.
Davis, the leader of the band. These men had been murdering and robbing
Union citizens.
~~~
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 494.
March 12, 1864 - "New Steam Fire Engine"
A new steam fire engine arrived in this city a few days ago, to be attached to
the military fire organization, of which Captain Irvin is the chief. It is the most
elegant looking and snugly constructed fire apparatus we have ever seen, being
strictly on the rotary order throughout. It is called the "Jefferson," and was built
at the Island Works, at Seneca Falls, by Messrs. Clopp & Co., and after the
style of the Holly patent. The machine is under the engineership of Mr. J. B.
Curran, and weights but 5500 pounds. It has a rotary pump and rotary cylinder,
and will make steam in six minutes. At its trial in Louisville, last week, it threw
a stream through an inch and eight nozzle 205 feet, and two streams through a
Page 32 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 13, 1864
three-quarter pipe 175 feet. The water and steam gauges are of the Jourdan
(Lane's Improvement) arrangement, the simple understanding of which is
proof against all accidents. The wheels are made upon what is known as the
stayguard spoke principle, combining strength, simplicity and durability. The
"Jefferson" will have a trial of its capacity, we learn, in a few days, as soon as
its builder shall arrive, who is at present in New Albany, Ind. There are now
one steam and three hand engines belonging to the Quartermaster's department,
to which some five thousand men are attached.
Nashville Dispatch, March 12, 1864.
March 12, 1864 - "I have not suffered much with my spine today, though only on account of
taking Morphine last night, which has made me insensible to the pain." A
page from Belle Edmondson's diary
March, Saturday 12, 1864
Tate and Bettie went to Memphis this morning, did not succeed in getting anything through the lines, the Picket was very insulting to her. She brought me a
letter, but not for myself, only my care, to Mr. Lawson in Henderson's scouts. I
forwarded it to Capt. H. also a package of late papers, by Mr. Harbut, who
spent the evening with us. We all sat in the Parlor, and have had a pleasant
evening. Mr. Harbut vacxinated Father, Helen, Nannie and I, also Jane and
Laura. I have made the skirt to my swiss Mull, and fixed me a beautiful braid
pattern, and drew on the skirt ready for my work on Monday morning. I have
not suffered much with my spine today, though only on account of taking Morphine last night, which has made me insensible to the pain. 11 o'clock, so I will
to bed-no Beulah. Father gave me a key today. Tippie Dora & Laura both here.
Diary of Belle Edmondson.
March 12, 1864 - Federal Rations Issued to Citizens in Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, March 12.
Gen. Steadman, commanding this post, issues 5,000 rations daily to citizens,
some of whom came a distance of fifty miles.
Nashville Daily Union, March 15, 1864.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
March 13, 1864 - Skirmish at Cheek's Cross-Road
No circumstantial reports filed.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: Called an "action" by Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 33
March 13, 1864
March 13, 1864 - Skirmish at Spring Hill
No circumstantial reports filed.
March 13, 1864 - Federal reconnaissance, Morristown to mouth of Burt Creek
No circumstantial reports filed.
MORRISTOWN, March 13, 1864.
Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE, Cmdg. Ninth Army Corps:
SIR: The commanding general directs that Klein's cavalry be ordered to make
a reconnaissance this evening toward the mouth of Burt Creek, to ascertain
whether any changes have been made in the enemy's position or force. Col.
Klein is supposed to be at Springvale (or McFarlane's), where he was ordered
to take position this morning, and where, after his reconnaissance, he will
remain for the night unless otherwise ordered.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. D. COX, Brig.-Gen., Acting Chief of Staff.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 61.
March 13, 1864 - First Lieutenant Robert Cruikshank, 123rd New York Infantry Regiment,
letter home to his wife Mary, camp routine on Sundays
Camp 123rd Regt., N. Y. S. V.
Elk River, Tenn.,
Mar. 13, 1864.
Dear Wife,This is Sabbath evening and all are quiet in Camp. I have had the day all to
myself and have enjoyed the quiet. We do not have the quiet you do, as we
have our regular work to attend to. I can get along with the regular work but
when extra work is put onto us because we have a short time for rest, I do not
like it.
Every Sabbath morning the men must dress in their best, black their shoes and
with gun and accoutrements as clean and bright as they can be made, fall in
line at nine o'clock for inspection. After this is over the sanitary condition of
the Camp is looked after. If the Company street has not been properly swept
and cleaned, it must be done over again. Every tent is inspected to see if there
is anything that would cause disease or injure the health of the inmates. The
above is regular work and I think it is right to look after the health of the men.
Some of them would keep everything clean and in order and others would not.
But if they know they must do it themselves before inspection or do it afterward under the direction of an officer or perhaps be sent to the guard house for
Page 34 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 13, 1864
punishment, or if in the habit or neglecting their work they are marched where
all in Camp can see them, with a large stick of wood on their shoulders like a
gun, it will not be neglected the second time. One man kept himself so filthy I
made a detail take him to the creek and wash him and put clean clothes on him.
When he returned the men pretended they did not know him and when introduced by the men who had washed him, they all shook hands with him, congratulating him on his good appearance. He has not had to be washed the
second time. There is no shirking here.
I am in very good health and my throat is well again.
With love to you and Ella,
R. Cruikshank.
Robert Cruikshank Letters.
March 13, 1864 - Belle Edmondson pines for a lost love
March, Sunday 13, 1864
Hopes, what are they? Beads of morning
Strung on Slender blades of Grass,
Sweet is hope's wild warbled air
But oh!-its echo is despair!
Today is the first anniversary of the happiest day in my life-just one short year
ago, twas then on Friday morning, he came for me to walk on the hill to listen
to the echoes of our triumph at Fort Pemberton (Greenwood)-I rushed on to
meet my fate, oh! God that it had never overtaken me-yet tis the brightest spot
in my sad life-his love-in reviewing my diary for '63 I find in this day a quotation from Raphael which has indeed found its moral. Oh! who in the course of
his life has not felt some joy without a security, and without the certainty of a
morrow. Time hath power over hours, none over the soul. Time had power over
his heart, yet none over my true and holy love. Today he wooes the daughter of
a more sunny clime-Miss Sallie Anderson of Mobile, may she never know the
pangs of a deceived heart-I have spent the day alone in my little room, finished
the book of John-bright and beautiful, though rather cool. Laura and Bettie
went to Mrs. Wilson's, all the whole family walking and enjoying themselvestis just four o'clock-I will wait until after Tea to finish. I sat in the Parlor with
the Father after Tea. Laura and Bettie spelled at Baker tonight-No Beulah or
Tip-Laura & I alone. Oh! my heavenly Father humble my heart, and give me
Christian patience.
Diary of Belle Edmondson
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 35
March 13, 1864
March 13, 1864 - Removal of Dead Horses; the Federal Army's battle for public health in
Nashville
Provost Orders, No. 52
Office Provost Marshal
Nashville, Tenn., March 13, 1864
The practice of deposing the carcasses of dead horses and mules within the
limits of the city, is in violation of all sanitary regulations, and is strictly prohibited.
All such dead animals will be hauled to a point on the river bank, below the
Government corrals, and thrown into the river.
Any soldier, citizen, or Government employee leaving such dead carcass
within the city limits, or within one half mile of the same, or any owner of such
dead animal neglecting to have it hauled away, will be arrested and imprisoned.
By order of Brig. Gen R. S. Garner
John W. Horner, Lieut. Col and Pro. Mar.
Nashville Dispatch, March 19, 1864.
March 14, 1864 - Skirmish at Bent Creek
No circumstantial reports filed.
March 14, 1864 - 5th U. S. (Tennessee) Cavalry ordered to impress horses in White, Jackson,
Van Buren and Overton counties
HDQRS. CHIEF OF CAV., MIL., DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
Nashville, Tenn., March 14, 1864.
Col. WILLIAM B. STOKES, Cmdg. Fifth Tennessee Cavalry:
SIR: Your favor by Lieut. Carter is received. You have no idea of the demands
made upon our Government for horses to remount our cavalry. No one Government—not all the Governments of the world—could keep so much cavalry
mounted while animals are so recklessly destroyed. You know I will gladly aid
you at all times in every way that I can to keep your command in good shape,
but horses are absolutely out of the question. You must find and take them in
the country you traverse. Horses cannot be bought at the North at any reasonable rate, and but few can be had at any rate whatever. If there are not horses
enough where you are, we will have to move you to where they can be
obtained. I am informed that there are still many serviceable animals all
through White, Van Buren Jackson, and Overton Counties. These must be
taken with out exception, until you are fully provided. Endeavor to feed well
Page 36 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 14, 1864
and insist upon the very best kind of grooming. Our cavalry will share in the
coming campaign just in proportion to the nursing they will bestow upon their
horses, for it is a question of horses, not men, and none can except new mounts
by purchases made north.
As to arms, I will do my best to secure you the best at the earliest possible
moment. I am endeavoring to get a depot of cavalry arms, ammunition, and
equipments established here for the prompt supply of all these things.
Galbraith was ordered to join you with all the he had with him, and I will
endeavor as far as possible to keep your whole regiment at all times within
immediate control.
Now, "pitch in," colonel, and help yourself to horses; "keep your powder dry"
and give the guerrillas "thunder" wherever you can fired them.
Yours, always,
WM. SOOY MITH, Brig. Gen., Chief of Cavalry, Mil. Div. of the Mississippi.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 70.
March 14, 1864 - Report relative to fortifications at Shellmound environs
HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, ELEVENTH ARMY CORPS, Shellmound,
Tenn., March 14, 1864.
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GEN., Eleventh Army Corps:
There are three hills running nearly in a north line and nearly parallel to the
course of the river some 600 yards above the railroad brigade, the first and
third being about 500 yards apart, all of about the same height. The hill nearest
the brigade has a small earth-work upon it, constructed by Maj. Hoffmann last
fall.
If a redan were placed upon each upon each of the second and third hills, with
the gorges open to the first, the position would hold the valley toward Hog-Jaw
Ridge and the good road leading to these hills from the north, but to hold
would require at least three or four more regiments than are now there.
This I would suggest; but not wishing to work the men more than is necessary,
nor knowing the importance which may be attached to the position, I respectfully ask from the major-general commanding the corps whether it would be
worth while to construct those works.
Brig.-Gen. Geary, commanding Second Division, Twelfth Army Corps, came
to the First Brigade of this division the other day and told Col. Robinson, commanding solicitous about the first hill I have named; whereupon Col. Robinson, without my knowledge, at once commenced the enlargement of the works
upon the first hill, and it is now going on. Col. Robinson did this, of course, for
the interest of the service, and the word is an improvement, but I have
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 37
March 14, 1864
instructed him to undertake nothing of the kind under either expressed or
implied orders from any other than his proper commanding in the future.
The major-general commanding the corps told me that a part of Geary's division might soon occupy that position, in which case would it not be as well for
that division to do its own word? Be good enough to instruct me to the above
as early as possible, as the redans named would much strengthen the position if
it is to be held.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HECTOR TYNDALE, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. Third Division.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 68-69.
March 14, 1864 - Smugglers plan a trip to Memphis; an excerpt from Belle Edmondson's
diary
March, Monday 14, 1864
. . . Anna Nelson and I have made our arrangements to go into Memphis
tomorrow and not return till next day. Oh! Lord, deliver me from getting in any
trouble with the Yanks, this will be a hard trip, I have a great risk to run. No
Beulah tonight, I think she has forsaken her post. Laura and Tip both here nodding. I feel like I had been stewed-oh! God, protect, guide and make me a good
girl.
Diary of Belle Edmondson
March 14, 1864 - ca. March 21, 1864 - U. S. C. T. recruiting expeditionNOTE 1, Sequatchie
Valley to Pikeville, Caney Fork to Calfkiller Rivers
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Chattanooga, March 10, 1864.
Col. T. J. MORGAN, Cmdg. Fourteenth U. S. Colored Troops:
You will march with your regiment on Monday morning next [14th] on a
recruiting expedition. You will march up the Sequatchie Valley to Pikeville,
thence to Caney Fork and the Calfkiller Rivers, varying your line of march as
you may think best for the accomplishment of the business upon which you set
out. You will impress no negroes, but take such as volunteer, and bring them to
this place, and add them to the two regiments now being organized at this
place. You will take such supplies of provisions as you may think advisable,
but encumber yourself with as little transportation as you can make answer.
Having finished this duty you will return to your camp at this place.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. D. WHIPPLE, Brig.-Gen. and Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 48.
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 15, 1864
NOTE 1: The nomenclature "recruiting expedition" instead of "conscript sweep" is
used inasmuch as the orders direct that no Negroes were to be impressed,
i.e., concripted, but taken on a volunteer basis. It would seem that most
slaves would find it in their best interests to volunteer.
March 15, 1864 - Skirmish at Bull's Gap
No circumstantial reports filed.
March 15, 1864 - Skirmish in Flat Creek Valley
No circumstantial reports filed.
March 15, 1864 - [Ides of March], A perilous visit home for a Confederate cavalryman and
his brother and friends in the Cleveland environs
We arrived at home this morning before day-light and found our mother and
two little brothers well, but they are having a hard time on account of all the
robbers plundering them. We learned from our mother at Bro. Jim called at
home a few nights ago while passing with his little band of secret scouts, and
he came near being captured at our own house, He was standing in [the] rear of
the house talking with our mother in low tone when suddenly the enemy made
a rush on the house from different directions, as if they had been lying in wait,
and they filled the house, searching every room and closet in wait, and they
filled the house, searching every room and closet for him, and at the same time
plundering the house of whatever struck their fancy. On their approach Bro.
Jim dropped back a few steps in the dark and then concealed himself at the corner of the garden fence where he could watch their movements. After they left
our mother again came out and found Jim and had some further talk, and he
said he could have easily [killed] one or two of the robbers with his revolver
and them made his escape, but he feared to do so lest they take revenge by
murdering the family and burning the house. He then returned to his comrades
who were waiting for him some distance from the house.
Brother Flavel and I did not wait for day light, but we fell back about three
fourths of a mile into a dense forest in the hills, and concealed ourselves in a
deep hollow some distance from any road, where we knew we would be safe
during the day. Three of our comrades are gone to Benton to visit their people,
and are to return to us in two days. The other two are Vance and Alex. Hannah
(brothers) and they are with us, but to night they aim to cross the Ocoee River
to visit their father and mother and their own families, while Flavel and I will
visit out own home again.
Diary of William A. Sloan, March 15, 1864.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 39
March 15, 1864
March 15, 1864 - "Sunday in Nashville"
Sunday dawned clear and pleasant, and the town was alive with pedestrianscitizens and strangers. The churches were well attended during the day, and
several funerals took place; that of the Rev. Dr. Ford (whose death cast a gloom
over the city), was attended by the Masonic fraternity, and that of Capt.
Baughby the Odd Fellows-the body of the latter was not, however, deposited
by the side of his first wife, in Mount Olivet Cemetery, as was intended, but in
the vault of the City Cemetery, until inquiry could be made as to the cause of
his death.
CLEANING STREETS is commendable, but we are at a loss to find an excuse
for allowing the work on Passion Sunday. It has been said for ages that "cleanliness in next to godliness," not to be preferred to it.
THE WIDOW BEARD is recovering, under the constant and generous and
skillful treatment of Dr—————————-, aided by the comforts which
our charitable friends have enabled us to purchase for her. We left with a king
and good neighbor the wherewithal to continue a supply of the necessaries for
the widow and her little children.
Fires added to the variety of accidents; about five o'clock in the evening a fire
broke out at the residence of Mrs. Phoebe Ellis, on South Summer street, which
was considerably damaged. Another fire broke out about midnight at the residence of Mr. A. C. Farris, on North McLemore street, which was entirely consume, and the adjoining house somewhat damaged.
SOME FIGHTING took place during the day; just enough to keep the boys
from spoiling. The first took place on the corner of Cherry and Church,
between a soldier a member of the Provost Guard. The guard attempted to
arrest the soldier, who resisted. A fight ensued for the possession of the guard's
musket, which the soldier finally succeeded in capturing and ran up the street
with it, much to the merriment of some of Uncle Sam's boys who were standing by. The guard started in pursuit, but was tripped up by a soldier. We heard
of no arrests. In Germantown quite a lively engagement took place, between 11
and 12 o'clock at night, some thirty or forty shots having been fired in the
neighborhood of the brewery between those hours, but by whom, or with what
effect, we were unable to learn, as all was quiet at "the seat of war" when the
Provost guard arrived there.
THIEVES AND BURGLARS regarded not the sanctity of the day any more
than quartermasters, and plied their vocation vigorously. A man named Ross
was knocked down in the bottom north of the Sulphur Springs, and robbed of
sixty dollars, the highwaymen escaping. A livery stable on College street near
Church, was broken into by three men, but Wm. Rice, one of our efficient night
officers, disturbed them will making a selection of plunder, and they vamosed.
Several other interesting affairs occurred, which will be found chronicled in
the proceedings of the Recorder's Court.
Page 40 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 15, 1864
Altogether, Sunday was rather a lively day in Nashville.
Nashville Dispatch, March 15, 1864.
March 15, 1864 - "Dead Carcasses"
A very wholesome order has just emanated from Lieut. Col. Horner Provost
Marshal, forbidding the practice of depositing the carcasses of dead horses and
mules within the limits of the city, and requiring that all such dead animals be
hauled to a point on the river bank, below the Government corals, and thrown
into the river. Any soldier, citizen, or Government employee, leaving any such
dead carcass within the city limits, or within one-half mile of the same, or any
owner of such dead animal neglecting to have it hauled away, will be arrested
and imprisoned.
Nashville Dispatch, March 15, 1864.
March 15, 1864 - The smugglers' progress; a page from Belle Edmondson's diary
March, Tuesday 15, 1864
Anna Nelson and I started to Memphis about 9 o'clock, suffered very much
with the cold, stoped at Mr. Roberts to warm-from there we passed through the
Pickets to the Pigeon Rooste Road-found Mr. Harbut's after much searchingdid not reach Memphis until 10 o'clock, left out horse & buggy at Mr. Barbier's, went up town-and not one thing would the Merchants sell us. Because
we did not live in their lines. I consoled myself with a wheel that could not
turn-could not spin-went to see my friend Mrs. Facklen, she went up town and
bought the things for me-poor deluded fools, I would like to see them thwart a
Southerner in such an undertaking as I had. Spent a very pleasant evening with
Mrs. Facklen's family-all rebels, and we talked just as we please!Mrs. F. and I did not go to sleep until 2 o'c, this being the first time I had seen
her since she returned from Dixie. I have finished all my provisions, and will
have nothing to do tomorrow except fixing my things for smuggling.
Diary of Belle Edmondson
March 15, 1864 - Zinc Coffins
W. R. Cornelius,
Government Undertaker,
Dealer in All Kinds of Metalic and Burial Cases and Zinc Coffins.
Will attend properly to the transportation of bodies, or giving any information
regarding deceased Soldiers.
"BODIES EMBALMED."
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 41
March 15, 1864
Having secured the services of Dr. E. H. LEWIS, of New York, (and more
recently from the Army of the Potomac,) for embalming of the dead, by Dr
Holmes AMERICAN PROCESS, acknowledged to be the best, and only true
process in the United States, will have bodies embalmed when desired.
Principal Office and Ware-Rooms, No. 49 Church Street, Nashville, Tennessee.
Branch houses at Murfreesboro', Tullahoma, Wartrace, Shelbyville, Chattanooga and Stevenson, Alabama.
All communications promptly answered.
Mr. W. R. CORNELIUS is authorized to refer to me. He is a gentleman of
integrity, and will perform all that he undertakes or promises.
ANDREW JOHNSON, Military Governor
Memphis Daily Union, March 15, 1864.
March 15, 1864 - Enforcement of ban on sale of whisky to soldiers in Nashville
In Limbo.—Mrs. Geary and three other women, who have a penchant for selling whisky to soldiers, have been sent to the penitentiary to meditate over the
sins of their past lives, and do penance for that of whisky-selling. We hear that
Mrs. Geary proposed to compromise with the Provost Marshal, by telling him
how much greater was the sin of a certain secesh neighbor, provided he would
let her off this time, but Colonel Horton declining, Mrs. Geary kept her peace.
Nashville Dispatch, March 15, 1864.
March 16, 1864 - Confederate raid on N&C Railroad, near Tullahoma
MARCH 16, 1864.-Raid on the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad, near Tullahoma, Tenn.
REPORTS.
No. 1.-Maj. Adolphus H. Tanner, One hundred and twenty-third New York
Infantry.
No. 2.-Capt. George R. Hall, One hundred and twenty-third New York Infantry.
No. 1.
Report of Maj. Adolphus H. Tanner, One hundred and twenty-third New York
Infantry.
HDQRS. 123d NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, Elk River Railroad Bridge,
Tenn., March 17, 1864—5 p. m.
GEN.: I have the honor to make the following report:
Page 42 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 16, 1864
The patrol sent out be me on the railroad toward Tullahoma, as reported yesterday, came upon a band of rebels abut 3 miles from this post, just as they had
thrown a train of cars from the track, had taken the passengers prisoners, and
were engaged in robbing them and destroying the train. My men drove the
enemy, rescued the prisoners, and saved most of the train. I have this day
received information that this rebel force, numbering 110 men, well mounted
on horses marked "C. S.," came from the direction of the mountains back of
Hillsborough, and retreated in that direction. They murdered several non-combatants (negroes ) and robbed all their prisoners of their money, jewels, and
clothing.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. H. TANNER, Maj. 123d New York Vols., Cmdg. Post.
No. 2.
Report of Capt. George R. Hall, One hundred and twenty-third New York
Infantry.
ESTILL SPRINGS, TENN., March 17, 1864.
GEN.: I have the honor to report that yesterday (16th) at 1 p. m. I received
intelligence of a citizen by the name of Martin Hays, sent by citizen named
John P. Hefner, who tends a grist-mill about 2 miles from this post, that a band
of rebel cavalry from 70 to 100 and Chattanooga Railroad, and said they were
gong to throw off the first train of cars from Tullahoma and then blow up the
bridge across Elk River.
On receiving this intelligence, I immediately reported it to Maj. Tanner, commanding One hundred and twenty-third Regt. New York Volunteers, and reenforced my pickets accordingly, and awaited orders from the major; but
receiving no definite orders and awaiting sufficient time for my patrols to
return, not having sufficient force here to leave the stockade safe and meet the
enemy, I took the engine of the construction train, which was here, and went to
the regiment and reported the facts to the major, who immediately sent Company C to take the place of my company (E) and sent my company in pursuit of
the enemy.
At 4.45 p. m. I left camp, marching with the main part of my company on the
railroad, having a line of skirmishers on each side of the road a reasonable distance in advance. After proceeding nearly 11/2 miles I saw a train coming from
Tullahoma, and watched in until it ran off the track, and heard the firing on the
train. It was about one-half mile in advance of my skirmishers. I then filed to
the right into the woods and took the double-quick step in order to flank them,
but they had got notice of my approach and commenced a retreat. I came up on
their flank, opening upon them, which was returned by them, but made no
stand of any account; formed line of battle twice, but as soon as we fired upon
them they turned and ran. I pursued them about 11/2 miles, when my men
became so much exhausted that farther pursuit would have been useless and I
returned to the wreck, where I found the cars on fire, but succeeded in extin-
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 43
March 16, 1864
guishing the fire so that but three cars were burned. The engine was but little
injured.
During the fighting, men captured from the cars were recaptured, and in about
one hour the remainder of the prisoners came in-7 of the Twenty-seventh Indiana and 2 men of Company E, One hundred and twenty-third New York Volunteers; also Capt. Beardsley, of the Twentieth Connecticut, and Lieut. Williams.
All were robbed of everything valuable, not excepting their clothing. Two men
of the First Michigan Engineers were wounded; also a citizen by the name of
Stockwell-the latter seriously, the ball having passed through the left lung. One
negro was killed and 1 wounded. The prisoners report that the rebels were
commanded by Lieut.-Col. Hughs, formerly of the Twenty-fifth Tennessee.
The names of the other officers I could not learn. One of my company that is
reliable told me that he counted 97 men, while a prisoner, and at the time 15 or
20 were out after the other patrols. The man spoken of above of my company
was one of the patrols who were captured. They were armed with carbines and
rifles. The last I heard of them they passed the mill about 2 miles from here at
dark, apparently in great haste. Two of their men were killed, and 1 seriously
wounded. I captured three saddles and one carbine. Had I been a few minutes
earlier I could have saved the train, and think killed or captured most of them.
GEORGE R. HALL, [Capt. One hundred and twenty-third New York Volunteers.]
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, pp. 499-501.
Report of Col. John M. Hughs, Twenty-fifth Tennessee Infantry.
DALTON, GA., April 28, 1864.
SIR: I have honor to submit herewith the following report of my operations in
Middle Tennessee:
~~~
On the 16th March we tore up the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad near
Tullahoma and captured a train of freight cars heavily laden with supplies for
the Federal army at Chattanooga. About 60 Yankee soldiers were captured and
about 20 Yankee negroes killed. The train and supplies were burned and the
engine destroyed.
~~~
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 57.
"Railroad Raid"
Some Confederate cavalry made a raid on the Nashville and Chattanooga railroad, on Wednesday evening, in the neighborhood of Estelle Springs. There are
numerous stories floating about town on the subject, of which this is one: That
on Wednesday a body of Confederate cavalry, under Col. Roddy, arrived in the
neighborhood above indicated, and throwing out his pickets, tore up a portion
of the track; his men then concealed themselves, and the up-train came thun-
Page 44 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 16, 1864
dering along, with three other trains close up. The first soon became a wreck,
the second ran into the first, and the third into the second, before they could be
stopped; the confederates in the meantime coming out, firing into the train
guard, and capturing a few of them. The engineer of the fourth train "smelt a
mice," and put back, while the Confed's burned the three trains, destroyed the
Elk river bridge, and put as if the devil had been after them. A correspondent of
the Louisville Journal tells the story thus, in a telegram from Decherd, dated
the 16th:
"A band of guerrillas under Colonel (unknown,) attacked the freight train from
Nashville, near Estelle Springs to-night. By displacing a rail the train was
thrown off the track and burned. Capt. Beardsley of the 123d New York and
seven men have just arrived here on a hand car, having been paroled after being
stripped of their clothing and money, watches and jewelry. The Rebels killed
three negroes who were on the train. Two of the band were killed. No losses on
our side. They belonged to Roddy's command."
Nashville Dispatch, March 18, 1864.
The account of First Lieutenant Robert Cruikshank, 123rd New York Infantry
Regiment, letter home to his wife Mary
Camp 123rd Regt., N. Y. S. V.
Elk River, Tenn.,
March 24, 1864.
Dear Wife,I wish I had something new and interesting to write about, but I have nothing. I
do not care for a battle or a long and weary march to furnish items of interest,
but sometimes when I take my pen it is difficult to know what to say, for when
we are in Camp we know but little outside. We hear little and what we do hear
has been told so many times, or told by one to another that when we get it we
question its truth. You know by the papers what is going on in both armies
before we do, so I cannot interest you in that. What I write must come under
my observation and now my resources are small,- only the camp of a regiment
doing guard duty on a railroad.
Captain George R. Hall had an exciting time with a band of guerrillas numbering one hundred and twenty on the 16th inst. The patrol not returning on time
to Estell Springs where the Captain and his Company (E) are stationed, he took
forty of his men and started out to see what had become of them. When about
three miles up the track he saw that a band of guerrillas had wrecked a train
and was burning it and robbing the passengers. The Captain charged his company on them at once, retaking the patrol and other soldiers who were on the
train whom the guerrillas had taken as prisoners. He then flagged two other
trains that were following the one that was wrecked. On this road that is the
way they run the trains,- three, one after the other.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 45
March 16, 1864
The guerrillas charged on Company E, but they beat them off, killing two. The
Captain and his forty men saved several men from being taken prisoners, three
engines, sixty cars DO loaded with supplies, and perhaps General Grant as he
was in the second train. Geo. H. Edie of our Company was on the first train
when wrecked and he lost five dollars in money, a watch, and would have lost
his overcoat had not Company E come up when they did. They left him taking
it off.
You can see what sort of men the 123rd Regt. are made of, to attack three of the
enemy to one of their number and put them to flight. We have a brave lot of fellows that I believe enjoy such a skirmish. It breaks the monotony of camp life
and gives them something to talk about and something to write about.
With love,
R. Cruikshank.
Robert Cruikshank Letters.
March 16, 1864 - A Confederate soldier's observations about his home place in the Cleveland environs
~~~
There is a camp of Federal troops within a mile and a half of our home, and
they sometimes visit our house and the houses of other southern people in the
neighborhood and carry off such articles as they like, but the worst enemies by
all odds, and the ones for whom our people have the greatest dred are those
who call themselves "homeguards," but who are simply organized bands of
bushwhackers and robbers.
Diary of William A. Sloan.
March 16, 1864 - First Lieutenant Robert Cruikshank, 123rd New York Infantry Regiment,
letter home to his wife Mary
123rd Regt., N. Y. S. V.
Elk River, Tenn.,
March 16, 1864.
Dear Mary,I am very busy every day now. I think we are preparing to move. The Eleventh
and Twelfth Corps have been united and are now called the Twentieth. We drill
one and one-half hours in the forenoon and the same in the afternoon. This
with my other duties, keep me busy every day.
We are having a rainy spell and the mud is deep. I presume we will not move
until the roads are better. We are under General Hooker yet and he is at the
Page 46 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 16, 1864
front and it is my opinion we will go there as soon as the weather will permit. I
will write when any orders come.
With love,
R. Cruikshank.
Robert Cruikshank Letters.
March 16, 1864 - ". . . I suffered horribly in anticipation of trouble." Smuggling goods to the
Confederate army through Federal lines in Shelby County; a page from
the diary of Belle Edmondson
March, Wednesday 16, 1864
Went up Street directly after Breakfast to finish a little job I forgot on yesterday. At one o'clock Mrs. Facklen, Mrs. Kirk and I began to fix my articles for
smugling, we made a balmoral of the Grey cloth for uniform, pin'd the Hats to
the inside of my hoops-tied the boots with a strong list, letting them fall
directly in front, the cloth having monopolized the back & the Hats the side-All
my letters, brass buttons, money, &c in my bosom-left at 2 o'clock to meet
Anna at Mr. Barbie's-started to walk, impossible that-hailed a hack-rather suspicious of it, afraid of small-pox, weight of contrabands ruled-jumped in, with
orders for a hurried drive to Cor[ner of] Main & Vance-arrived, found Anna
not ready, had to wait for her until 5 o'clock, very impatient-started at lastarrived at Pickets, no trouble at all, although I suffered horribly in anticipation
of trouble. Arrived at home at dusk, found Mr. Wilson & Harbut, gave them
late papers and all news. Mrs. Harbut here to meet her Bro. bro't Mr. Wilson a
letter from Home in Ky. Worn out. 8 yds. Long cloth, 2 Hats, 1 pr Boots, 1 doz.
Buttons, letters, &c. 2 Cords, 8 tassels.
Laura, Beulah & Tippie Dora, all in.
Diary of Belle Edmondson
March 16, 1864 - April 14, 1864 - Forrest's expedition into West Tennessee & Kentucky
SUMMARY OF THE PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN TENNESSEE.
March 24, 1864.-Capture of Union City, Tenn.
29, 1864.-Skirmish near Bolivar, Tenn.
April 3, 1864.-Skirmish near Raleigh, Tenn.
9, 1864.-Skirmish near Raleigh, Tenn.
12, 1864.-Capture [Massacre] of Fort Pillow, Tenn.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 501.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 47
March 16, 1864
March 16, 1864 - April 14, 1864 - Confederate conscript sweeps in West TennesseeNOTE 1
No circumstantial reports filed.
Excerpt from a report of Major-General Nathan Bedford Forrest on the Fort
Pillow engagement relative to Confederate conscription activities in West Tennessee in April of 1864.
HDQRS. FORREST'S CAVALRY, Jackson, Tenn., April 15, 1864.
COL.: A dispatch of the 9th instant from the lieutenant-general commanding
reached me on the morning of the 13th at Fort Pillow.
~~~
I will leave Col. Duckworth's regiment and Lieut.-Col. Crews' battalion for the
purpose of conscripting the State. . .
~~~
There was in the fort a large number of [Confederate] citizens [killed at Fort
Pillow] who had fled there to escape the conscript law.
~~~
I have done but little conscripting from being so constantly employed in operating against the enemy.
~~~
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, pp. 610-611.
HDQRS. FORREST'S CAVALRY,
Jackson, Tenn., April 15, 1864.
DEAR SIR:
~~~
. . . I am glad to state that in all the engagements I have had with them since I
re-entered West Tennessee we have been successful. The bands of [Union]
guerrillas, horse-thieves, and robbers which infested this region have been broken up and dispersed, and many men heretofore Union in sentiment are openly
expressing themselves for the South. There are yet a large number of men in
West Tennessee who have avoided the service, and there is but little prospect
for adding to our strength by volunteering. Conscription, however, would, I
think, give us from 5,000 to 8,000 men, perhaps more. I have not, from constant marches and active operations in the field, been able to do much in conscripting those subject to military duty but design doing so effectively
whenever I can with safety send detachments in all directions to scour the
country for deserters and conscripts.
~~~
Nathan Bedford Forrest, Major-General
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 612.
Page 48 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 16, 1864
NOTE 1: Apparently many men in West Tennessee had no desire to serve in the Confederate army.
Reports of Nathan Bedford Forrest relative to his Expedition into West Tennessee and Kentucky March 16—April 14, 1864
DRESDEN, TENN., March 27, 1864.
GEN.: Left Jackson on the 23d. Captured Union City on the 24th, with 450
prisoners, among them the renegade Hawkins and most of his regiment, about
200 horses, and 500 small-arms; also took possession of Hickman, the enemy
having passed it. I moved now with Buford's division direct from Jackson to
Paducah in fifty hours; attacked it on the evening of the 26th; drove the enemy
to their gun-boats and forts; held the town for ten hours, and could have held it
longer, but found the small-pox was raging and evacuated the place. Captured
many stores and horses, burned up sixty bales of cotton, one steamer and the
dry-dock, bringing out 50 prisoners.
My loss at Union City and Paducah, as far as known, is 25 killed and wounded,
among them Col. Thompson, commanding Kentucky brigade, killed; Lieut.Col. Lannom, Faulkner's regiment, mortally wounded, and Col. Crossland, of
the Seventh Kentucky, and Lieut.-Col. Morton, of the Second Tennessee,
slightly wounded.
Enemy's loss in Paducah 50 killed, wounded, and prisoners; in all, 500.
Have dispatched Gholson, at Tupelo, to meet prisoners at Corinth and take
them to you.
I hold possession of all this country except posts on the river. Think if I can
remain unmolested here fifteen days I will be able to add 2,000 men to my
command.
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen.
Lieut.-Gen. POLK, Demopolis.
DEMOPOLIS, April 3, 1864.
The following dispatch just received from Gen. Forrest:
JACKSON, TENN., VIA WATERFORD, April 2, 1864.
Six hundred Federal prisoners will arrive at Ripley, Miss., to-day, en route for
Demopolis. Col. Neely engaged Hurst on the 29th of March near Bolivar, capturing his entire wagon train, routing and driving him to Memphis, killing 30,
and capturing 35 prisoners, killing 2 captains, and capturing 1.
L. POLK, Lieut.-Gen.
Gen. S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector Gen., Richmond.
HDQRS. FORREST'S CAVALRY DEPARTMENT, Jackson, Tenn., April 4,
1864.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 49
March 16, 1864
COL.: I desire respectfully and briefly to state that Lieut.-Col. Crews, commanding battalion, met the enemy yesterday morning, and after a sharp little
engagement repulsed and drove them back to Raleigh. The enemy's force was
two regiments of cavalry of Grierson's command. The fight occurred 15 miles
east of Raleigh, on Somerville road. Col. Crews lost 1 man severely and 1
slightly wounded. The enemy had 6 killed and 15 or 20 wounded and 3 prisoners.
In all engagements so far in West Tennessee my loss in the aggregate is 15
killed and 42 wounded. Among the killed Col. Thompson, commanding Kentucky brigade, whose death was reported to you by telegraph. Lieut.-Col. Lannom, of Faulkner's regiment, reported mortally wounded, is, I am glad to say,
rapidly recovering.
The loss of the enemy thus far is as follows: 79 killed, 102 wounded, and 612
captured.
I have as far as prudent allowed my troops an opportunity of going home. Am
now concentrating and preparing for any move the enemy may make, or for
offensive operations, they do not move on me. I feel confident of my ability to
whip any cavalry they can send against me, and can, if necessary, avoid their
infantry. If permitted to remain in West Tennessee, or rather, if it is not the of
the lieutenant-general commanding to order me else-where until driven out by
the enemy, would be glad to have my artillery with me, and will send for it, as
I could operate effectively with my rifle battery on the rivers. With the small
guns I have here it would be folly to attempt the destruction or capture of boats.
I am yet in hopes the lieutenant-general commanding will repair and operate
the railroad to Corinth, as suggested in a former letter. I, of course, cannot tell
what demands are being made on him for troops, but am clearly of opinion that
with a brigade of infantry at Corinth as a force upon which I could fall back if
too hard pressed, that I can hold West Tennessee against three times my numbers, and could send rapidly out from here all conscripts and deserters for service in infantry. At present it is impracticable, as I am without the
transportation necessary to supply them with rations to Okolona through a
country already depleted and whose inhabitants are suffering for food. I find
corn scarcer than I had thought, but have plenty of meal, flour, and bacon for
troops. If supplied with the right kind of money or cotton can furnish my command with all small-arm ammunition required, and I think with small-arms
also.
Gen. Chalmers is here, and will be kept in readiness for any move that may be
made from Memphis. Gen. Buford's division is above this, and concentrating at
Eaton, 10 miles west of Trenton. As I came up here employed a man to get up
lead. He writes me that he has from 8,000 to 10,000 pounds at Corinth, which I
shall send out as soon as possible, and will continue to get up all that can be
had. There is a Federal force of 500 or 600 at Fort Pillow, which I shall attend
to in a day or two, as they have horses and supplies which we need. There are
about 6,000 troops now at Memphis; all else gone up the river. It is clear that
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 16, 1864
they are concentrating all their available force before Richmond and at Chattanooga. They have attempted to send their cavalry across the country to Pulaski,
Tenn. Have driven them back and hope yet to be able to make them take water.
I have ordered everything belonging to my command at Columbus moved up
to Aberdeen, and Morton's battery up to Tupelo to report to Gen. Gholson, and
shall bring it on here unless ordered to the contrary, as the little guns I have are
of no use to me. You will please send any orders or dispatches for me through
Gen. Gholson, at Tupelo.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.
Lieut. Col. THOMAS M. JACK, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
JACKSON, TENN., April 15, 1864.
GEN.: I attacked Fort Pillow on the morning of the 12th instant with a part of
Bell's and McCulloch's brigades, numbering 1,500, under Brig. Gen. James R.
Chalmers. After a short fight drove the enemy, 700 strong, into the fort under
the cover of their gun-boats. Demanded a surrender, which was declined by
Maj. L. F. Booth, commanding U. S. forces. I stormed the fort, and after a contest of thirty minutes captured the entire garrison, killing 500 and taking 200
horses and a large amount of quartermaster's stores. The officers in the fort
were killed, including Maj. Booth. I sustained a loss of 20 killed and 60
wounded. Among the wounded is the gallant Lieut. Col. Wiley M. Reed while
leading the Fifth Mississippi. Over 100 citizens who had fled to the fort to
escape conscription ran into the river and were drowned. The Confederate flag
now floats over the fort.
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen.
Lieut.-Gen. POLK, Demopolis.
HDQRS. FORREST'S CAVALRY, Jackson, Tenn., April 15, 1864.,
COL.: A dispatch of the 9th instant from the lieutenant-general commanding
reached me on the morning of the 13th at Fort Pillow. Orders were issued at
once to have the same complied with.
Brig.-Gen. Chalmers, commanding McCulloch's and Bell's brigades, was
ordered to make the necessary preparations for moving to Okolona by way of
Abbeville, that being the only route upon which forage could be obtained with
facility. Col. J. J. Neely, commanding Richardson's brigade, was ordered to put
himself in readiness to report to and follow Gen. Chalmers as early as possible.
Brig.-Gen. Buford, commanding one brigade in Kentucky, is ordered to this
point, and will be here by Tuesday next (the 19th), when he will follow on also.
They will proceed to Okolona and there report to you. I am in hopes to be able
to come on at the same time, but am now suffering from exhaustion, caused by
hard riding and bruises received in the late engagement. I will leave Col. Duckworth's regiment and Lieut.-Col. Crews' battalion for the purpose of conscripting the State and holding the guerrillas in check. You will please give such
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
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March 16, 1864
instructions as you may desire to my quartermaster and commissary, whom I
ordered to remain at Aberdeen, that being a central point. Please communicate
your instructions to me or Brig.-Gen. Chalmers at Okolona. Have dispatched
by telegraph of the capture of Fort Pillow.
Arrived there on the morning of the 12th and attacked the place with a portion
of McCulloch's and Bell's brigades numbering about 1,500 men, and after a
sharp contest captured the garrison and all of its stores. A demand was made
for the surrender, which was refused. The victory was complete, and the loss of
the enemy will never be known from the fact that large numbers ran into the
river and were shot and drowned. The force was composed of about 500
negroes and 200 white soldiers (Tennessee Tories). The river was dyed with
the blood of the slaughtered for 200 yards. There was in the fort a large number
of citizens who had fled there to escape the conscript law. Moist of these ran
into the river and were drowned.
The approximate loss was upward of 500 killed, but few of the officers escaping.
It is hoped that these facts will demonstrate to the Northern people that negro
soldiers cannot cope with Southerners. We still hold the fort.
My loss was about 20 killed and about 60 wounded. Among the letter I regret
to state Lieut. Col. W. M. Reed, commanding George's regiment. He was shot
in three places, and it is feared that his wounds my prove mortal. The country
can ill afford to lose the services of so good and brave an officer at this time.
There has been no larger force up the Tennessee River than 1,500 Yankees,
who came out to Purdy but were driven back to their boats by one regiment,
when they went up to Waterloo and thence across the Athens, Ala. A small
squad of about 50 cavalry came across the river, but hearing of our force
immediately returned.
I have done but little conscripting from being so constantly employed in operating against the enemy. Large numbers of the Tories have been killed and
made away with, and the country is very near free of them. Greenbacks have
gone down, and are being refused. Could I but stay here a month would have
everything in fine condition. Parties have come up and expressed their willingness to take Confederate money. Kentucky could be placed in the same condition had I the time.
In conclusion, I desire to bring to the notice of the lieutenant-general commanding the great want of artillery, and it is hoped that the guns recently captured will be fitted up and put in such a condition as will enable the battery to
move with the command. I have been unable to supply my artillery with
horses, from the fact that the captured stock is very inferior and has to supply
the place of the horses killed in action. The enemy's navigation of the rivers
has been uninterrupted from the want of this important branch of the service,
and it is to be hoped that the lieutenant-general commanding will give the matter his earliest attention.
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 16, 1864
I am, colonel, with respect, your obedient servant,
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.
Lieut. Col. THOMAS M. JACK, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
HDQRS. FORREST'S CAVALRY, Jackson, Tenn., April 15, 1864.
DEAR SIR: Having an opportunity of sending a letter district to Richmond by
a friend who leaves here in the morning, and believing that your Excellency
would be glad to receive as information a detailed statement of the condition of
things in this section, I have taken the liberty of addressing you this communication. North Mississippi, West Tennessee, and Southern Kentucky, west of the
Tennessee River, are free from Federal rule and occupation, except by the garrisons at Memphis and Paducah. There may be a small force at Columbus, but
my last advices were that the enemy has or intended evacuating it. They look
upon Memphis as being the next point of attack, and are reported as having
moved all stores and valuables within their fortifications at Fort Pickering.
I am glad to state that in all the engagements I have had with them since I reentered West Tennessee we have been successful. The bands of guerrillas,
horse-thieves, and robbers which infested this region have been broken up and
dispersed, and many men heretofore Union in sentiment are openly expressing
themselves for the South. There are yet a large number of men in West Tennessee who have avoided the service, and there is but little prospect for adding to
our strength by volunteering. Conscription, however, would, I think, give us
from 5,000 to 8,000 men, perhaps more. I have not, from constant marches and
active operations in the field, been able to do much in conscripting those subject to military duty but design doing so effectively whenever I can with safety
send detachments in all directions to scour the country for deserters and conscripts. My command consists of four small brigades, numbering about 5,000
men, and being in a country entirely surrounded (except at the south) by navigable streams, by which the enemy could gain my rear, it has required constant
watchfulness to protect myself against possible movements and act offensively
at the same time.
I left Columbus, Miss., on March 16 with Buford's division (without wagons)
with five days' cooked rations and 60 rounds of ammunition to the man, and
reached this place on the 23d. After resting my horses and preparing more
rations moved rapidly northward against Union City and Paducah; captured
Union City on the 24th with over 400 prisoners, 200 horses, and several hundred stand of arms.
While the move of a portion of the command was made against Union City,
with the balance I moved rapidly on Paducah, drove the enemy to their boats
and fortifications, held the town for ten hours, capturing a large amount of
clothing, several hundred horses, a large lot of medical stores for the command, burning a steamer, the dock, and all cotton on the landing. Could have
held the place longer, but on account of the prevalence of small-pox in the
place thought it prudent to withdraw.
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March 16, 1864
On Monday last I moved against Fort Pillow, and attacked it on Tuesday morning with Chalmers' division. The advance of our troops after getting within the
outer works was cautiously and slowly made. The cannonading from the fort
and the gun-boats was very heavy and rapid. Having gained the desired position, surrounding the fort with the troops from the river above to its bluff
below, a surrender was demanded, which they asked an hour, but were given
twenty minutes, to consider. It was held by about 700 white and negro troops.
At the expiration of the twenty minutes the fire was renewed, the assault was
made, and the works carried without a halt, the men and officers displaying
great gallantry and courage. The enemy attempted to retreat to the river, either
for protection of gun-boats or to escape, and the slaughter was heavy. There
were many Union men who had taken shelter in the fort also, many of whom in
their fright leaped into the river and were drowned. It is safe to say that in
troops, negroes, and citizens the killed, wounded, and drowned will range from
450 to 500.
My loss is 20 killed and 60 wounded.
After securing all the stores we could remove and the artillery (six pieces) I
withdrew my troops and destroyed all the buildings and the works as far as
practicable, burying the dead and removing the wounded. The victory was
complete, and the conduct of my troops and the officers commanding them
shall meet with due attention land mention in my official report.
I am ordered back to Okolona, Miss., by Gen. Polk with my command to meet,
in conjunction with Gen. Lee, an anticipated raid through Alabama from Middle Tennessee. It is my opinion that no such raid will be made from Decatur or
any point west of there. Gen. Lee has about 7,000 cavalry, and with our forces
united a move could be made into Middle Tennessee and Kentucky which
would create a diversion of the enemy's forces and enable us to break up his
plans, and such and expedition, managed with prudence and executed with
rapidity, can be safely made.
I am gratified in being able to say that the capture of Hawkins at Union City,
and Bradford at Fort Pillow, with a recent defeat (by Richardson's brigade, of
my command) of Col. Hurst, has broken up the Tennessee Federal regiments in
the country. Their acts of oppression, murder, and plunder made them a terror
to the whole land. For murders committed I demanded that Fielding Hurst and
such of his men as were guilty of murder should be delivered to me, to be dealt
with as their offenses required. The demand has been referred to the proper
Federal authorities and investigations ordered. Hurst and his command have,
as I learn, been sent, in consequence of this demand, to some other locality.
Mr. William McGee, who carries you this, belongs to a Louisiana battery. He is
a native of Tennessee, and his relatives and friends are here. He is anxious to
change his command and report to me, and if consistent with the good of the
service, and it meets your approbation, I should be glad to have him ordered to
me for duty, as I am in great need of competent artillerists. They are required to
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 16, 1864
drill and render efficient as speedily as possible the new men with which our
batteries are being filled up.
I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen.
His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, President Confederate States of America.
[First indorsement.]
APRIL 28, 1864.
The statement of the strength of this command is very surprising after the verbal reports sent here of the number of men raised in the first visit to West Tennessee. Two of the four brigades were transferred under Brig.-Gen. Chalmers
from Gen. Lee's command, one (Richardson's) was raised by him and Col. Bell
before Forrest went to the department, and one large regiment and one battalion of five companies were sent by me from the Army of Tennessee, and Gen.
Polk has assigned three small regiments of Kentucky infantry. But little is left
for the men raised by Gen. Forrest. The movement into Middle Tennessee was,
and I consider is still, of the utmost importance.
The breaking up of the marauding bands of the enemy is very gratifying, if it is
not to be followed by similar organizations claiming to be in our service. If
Mr., William McGee, Gen. Forrest's messenger, belongs to a Louisiana battery,
he is employed by the general without authority, and is one of the cases of men
enticed from their commands and employed in violation of orders. He should
be arrested and sent to his proper command, and Gen. Forrest made accountable for his unauthorized absence.
BRAXTON BRAGG, Gen.
APRIL 29, 1864.
Adjutant-Gen., for his attention and advice.
J. D.
HDQRS. FORREST'S CAVALRY DEPARTMENT, Jackson, Tenn., April 26,
1864.
COL.: I have the honor respectfully to forward you the following report of my
engagement with the enemy on the 12th instant at Fort Pillow:
My command consisted of McCulloch's brigade, of Chalmers' division, and
Bell's brigade, of Buford's division, both placed for the expedition under the
command of Brig. Gen. James R. Chalmers, who, by a forces march, drove in
the enemy's pickets, gained possession of the outer works, and by the time I
reached the field, at 10 a. m., had forced the enemy to their main fortifications,
situated on the bluff or bank of the Mississippi River at the mouth of Coal
Creek. The fort in an earth-work, crescent shaped, is 8 feet in height and 4 feet
across the top, surrounded by a ditch 6 feet deep and 12 feet in width, walls
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
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March 16, 1864
sloping to the ditch but perpendicular inside. It was garrisoned by 700 troops
with six pieces of field artillery. A deep ravine surrounds the fort, and from the
fort to the ravine the ground descends rapidly. Assuming command, I ordered
Gen. Chalmers to advance his lines and gain position on the slope, where our
men would be perfectly protected from the heavy fire of artillery and musketry,
as the enemy could not depress their pieces so as to rake the slopes, nor could
they fire on them with small-arms except by mounting the breast-works and
exposing themselves to the fire of our sharpshooters, who, under cover of
stumps and logs, forced them to keep down inside the works. After several
hours' hard fighting the desired position was gained, not, however, without
considerable loss. Our main line was now within an average distance of 100
yards from the fort, and extended from Coal Creek, on the right, to the bluff, or
bank, of the Mississippi River on the left.
During the entire morning the gun-boat kept up a continued fire in all directions, but without effect, and being confident of my ability to take fort by
assault, and desiring to prevent further loss of life, I sent, under flag of truce, a
demand for the unconditional surrender of the garrison, a copy of which
demand is hereto appended, marked No. 1, to which I received a reply, marked
No. 2. The gun-boat had ceased firing, but the smoke of three other boats
ascending the river was in view, the foremost boat apparently crowded of the
gun-boat was a pretext by which they desired improperly to communicate with
her, I at once sent this reply, copy of which is numbered 3, directing Capt.
Goodman, assistant adjutant-general of Brig.-Gen. Chalmers, who bore the
flag, to remain until he received a reply or until the expiration of the time proposed.
My dispositions had all been made, and my forces were in a position that
would enable me to take the fort with less loss than to have withdrawn under
fire, and it seemed to me so perfectly apparent to the garrison that such was the
case, that I deemed their [capture] without further bloodshed a certainty. After
some little delay, seeing a message delivered to Capt. Goodman, I rode up
myself to where the notes were received and delivered. The answer was
handed me, written in pencil on a slip of paper, without envelope, and was, as
well as I remember, in these words: "Negotiations will not attain the desired
object." As the officers who were in charge of the Federal flag of truce had
expressed a doubt as to my presence, and had pronounced the demand a trick, I
handed them back the note saying: "I am Gen. Forrest; go back and say to Maj.
Booth that I demand an answer in plain, unmistakable English. Will he fight or
surrender?" Returning to my original position, before the expiration of twenty
minutes I received a reply, copy of which is marked No. 4.
While these negotiations were pending the steamers from below were rapidly
approaching the fort. The foremost was the Olive Branch, whose position and
movements indicated her intention to land. A few shots fired into her caused
her to leave the shore and make for the opposite. One other boat passed up on
the far side of the river, the third one turned back.
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 16, 1864
The time having expired, I directed Brig.-Gen. Chalmers to prepare for the
assault. Bell's brigade occupied the right, with has extreme right resting on
Coal Creek. McCulloch's brigade occupied the left, extending from the center
to the river. Three companies of his left regiment were placed in an old rifle-pit
on the left and almost in the rear of the fort, which had evidently been thrown
up for the protection of sharpshooters or riflemen is supporting the water batteries below. On the right a portion of Barteau's regiment, of Bell's brigade,
was also under the bluff and a rear of the fort. I dispatched staff officers to
Col.'s Bell and McCulloch, commanding brigades, to say to them that I should
watch with interest the conduct of the troops; that Missourians, Mississippians,
and Tennesseeans surrounded the works, and I desired to see who would first
scale the fort. Fearing the gun-boats and transports might attempt a landing, I
directed my aide-de-camp, Capt. Charles W. Anderson, to assume command of
the position against anything that might come by land or water, but to take no
part in the assault on the fort. Everything being ready, the bugle sounded the
charge, which was made with a yell, and the works carried without a perceptible halt in any part of the line. As our troops mounted and poured into the fortification the enemy retreated flying, no doubt expecting the gun-boat to shell
us away from the bluff and protect them until they could be taken off or reenforced. As they descended the bank an enfilading and deadly fire was poured
into them by the troops under Capt. Anderson, on the left, and Barteau's
detachment on the right. Until this fire was opened them, at a distance varying
from 30 to 100 yards, they were evidently ignorant of any force having gained
their rear. The regiment who had stormed and carried the fort also poured a
destructive fire into the rear of the retreating and now panic-stricken and
almost decimated garrison. Fortunately for those of the enemy who survived
this short but desperate struggle, some of our men cut the halyards, and the
United States flag, floating from a tall mast in the center of the fort, came
down. The forces stationed in the rear of the fort could see the flag, but were
too far under the bluff to see the fort, and when the flag descended they ceased
firing. But for this, so never were they to the enemy that few, if any, would
have survived unhurt another volley. As it was, many rushed into the river and
were drowned, and the actual loss of life will perhaps never be known, as there
were quite a number of refugee citizens in the fort, many of whom were
drowned and several killed in the retreat from the fort. In less than twenty minutes from the time the bugles sounded the charge firing hadceased and the
work was done. One of the Parrott guns was turned on the gun-boat. She
steamed off without replying. She had, as I afterward understood, expended all
her ammunition, and was therefore powerless in affording the Federal garrison
the aid and protection they doubtless expected of her when they retreated
toward the river. Details were made, consisting of the captured Federals and
negroes, in charge of their own officers, to collect together and bury the dead,
which work continued until dark.
I also directed Capt. Anderson to procure a skiff and take with him Capt.
Young, a captured Federal officer, and deliver to Capt. Marshall, of the gunboat, the message, copy of which is appended and numbered 5. All the boats
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
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March 16, 1864
and skiffs having been taken off by citizens escaping from the fort during the
engagement, the message could not be delivered, although every effort was
made to induce Capt. Marshall to send his boat ashore by raising a white flag,
with which Capt. Young walked up and down the river in vain signaling her to
come in or send out a boat. She finally moved off and disappeared around the
bend above the fort. Gen. Chalmers withdrew his forces from the fort before
dark and encamped a few miles east of it.
On the morning of the 13th, I again dispatched Capt. Anderson to Fort Pillow
for the purpose of placing, if possible, the Federal wounded on board their
transports, and report to me on his return the condition of affairs at the river. I
respectfully refer you to his report, numbered 6.
My loss in the engagement was 20 killed and 60 wounded. That of the enemy
unknown. Two hundred and twenty-eight were buried on the evening of the
battle, and quite a number were buried the next day by details from the gunboat fleet.
We captured 6 pieces of artillery, viz., two 10-pounder Parrott guns, two 12pounder howitzers, and two bras 6-pounder guns, and about 350 stand of
small-arms. All the small-arms were picked up where the enemy fell or threw
them down. A few were in the fort, the balance scattered from the top of the
hill to the water's edge.
We captured 164 Federals, 75 negro troops, and about 40 negro women and
children, and after removing everything of value as far as able to do so, the
warehouses, tents, &c., were destroyed by fire.
Among our severely wounded is Lieut. Col. Wiley M. Reed, assigned temporarily to the command of the Fifth Mississippi Regiment, who fell severely
wounded while leading his regiment. When carried from the field he was supposed to be mortally wounded, but hopes are entertained of this ultimate recovery. He is a brave and gallant officer, a courteous gentleman, and a consistent
Christian minister.
I cannot compliment too highly the conduct of Col.'s Bells and McCulloch and
the officers and men of their brigades, which composed the forces of Brig.Gen. Chalmers. They fought with courage and intrepidity, and without bayonets assaulted and carried one of the strongest fortifications in the country.
On the 15th, at Brownsville, I received orders which rendered it necessary to
send Gen. Chalmers, in command of his own division and Bell's brigade,
southward; hence I have no official report from him, but will, as soon as it can
be obtained, forward a complete list of our killed and wounded, which had
been ordered made out and forwarded at the earliest possible moment.
In closing my report I desire to acknowledge the prompt and energetic action
of Brig.-Gen. Chalmers, commanding the forces around Fort Pillow. His faithful execution of all movements necessary to the successful accomplishment of
the object of the expedition entitles him to special mention. He has reason to be
proud of the conduct of the officers and men of his command for their gallantry
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 16, 1864
and courage in assaulting and carrying the enemy's work without the assistance
of artillery or bayonets.
To my staff, as heretofore, my acknowledge are dire for their prompt and faithful delivery of all orders.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen., Cmdg.
[Lieut. Col. THOMAS M. JACK, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.]
[First indorsement.]
AUGUST 1, 1864.
Respectfully referred to Gen. Cooper, Adjutant and Inspector Gen.
These papers were found among papers of Lieut.-Gen. Polk and forwarded by
his aide, Lieut. Gale.
By order of President:
WM. PRESTON JOHNSTON, Col. and Aide-de-Camp.
[Second indorsement.]
AUGUST 7, 1864.
Respectfully submitted to the President, who will not be surprised to see the
groundlessness of the misrepresentations so industriously circulated by our
unscrupulous enemies respecting the merciless conduct of our troops on that
occasion.
J. A. SEDDON, Secretary.
[Third indorsement.]
AUGUST 10, 1864.
SECRETARY OF WAR:
It would be well to have the report and accompanying papers published in refutation of the slanders which have been promulgated by the Government of the
enemy in relation to the conduct of our gallant and humane soldiers. Instead of
cruelty, Gen. Forrest, it appears, exhibited forbearance and clemency far
exceeding the usage of war under like circumstances.
JEFF'N DAVIS.
ADDENDA.
HDQRS. FORREST'S CAVALRY, Tupelo, Miss., May 16, 1864.
Maj. Gen. S. D. LEE, Demopolis, Ala.:
GEN.: So much has been said by the Northern press in regard to the engagement at Fort Pillow that, at the suggestion of Col. Brent and others, I have send
Judge Scruggs down for the purpose of conversing with, and procuring the
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
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March 16, 1864
statements of, Capt. Young and other Federal officers in regard to the matter.
They are survivors of the so-called massacre, and Capt. Young, who received
and delivered the correspondence to the demand for surrender, was also with
my aide-de-camp, Capt. Anderson, with flag of truce on the day succeeding the
capture in delivering the wounded on board the U. S. vessels. I respectfully
suggest, therefore, that you furnish Judge Scruggs with such papers as will
enable him to make the examination desired, as it may prove important; and
inasmuch as the investigating committee appointed by the Federal President
have reported, a communication to Confederate authority may be made on the
subject, and it is due to my command to place at the command of the War
Department all the facts in the premises.
I am, general, very respectfully &c., your obedient servant,
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen.
HDQRS. FORREST'S CAVALRY, Tupelo, June 24, 1864.
Maj. Gen. S. D. LEE, Cmdg. Department, Meridian:
GEN.: I have the honor herewith to inclose you copy of letter addressed to
Maj.-Gen. Washburn; also his letter addressed to you or the commanding
officer Confederate forces near Tupelo. I have not in any wise compromised
you, and leave the answer to Gen. Washburn to yourself, provided you deem it
necessary or advisable to communicate with him further. I deemed it due
myself and command to say what I have said to him, but did not think it proper
to make any communication over your signature.
I also have the honor to inclose you statements of Capt. Young, who was captured at Fort Pillow, and you can make such use of them as you may deem necessary. As my official reports are in the hands of the Department at Richmond I
did not, nor do I, consider that I have any defense to make, or attempt any refutations of the charges made by Gen. Washburn. The character and tenor of his
letter is also so outrageously insulting that but for its importance to my mennot myself-I should not have replied to it at all.
I shall forward you to-morrow a statement of the capture of Fort Pillow, by giving you a copy of communication asked for unofficially by Col. Brent, assistant adjutant-general, and made by my aide-de-camp, Capt. C. W. Anderson.
I have taken pains, also, in my official report made to Lieut.-Gen. Polk, to
place all the facts in the possession of the Government in order that they might
meet any demands made by Federal authority.
Should you, however, think proper to place in the hands of Gen. Washburn the
papers sent you upon this subject, you are, of course, at liberty to use them. As
for myself, entirely conscious of right, I have no explanations, apologies, or
disavowals to make to Gen. Washburn, nor to any one else but my Government, through my superior officers.
I am, general, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
Page 60 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 17, 1864
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen.
DEMOPOLIS, April 24, 1864.
Maj.-Gen. FORREST, Via Tupelo:
Your brilliant campaign in West Tennessee has given me great satisfaction, and
entitles you to the thanks of your countrymen. Appropriate orders in writing
will be transmitted you immediately. A movement of the enemy up the Yazoo
has made it necessary that a division of your troops should move to meet it. I
have ordered the brigade with Gen. Chalmers and another from Okolona to
move promptly so as to unite and give to Gen. Adams the support he needs. I
have also ordered Morton's battery to join them.
L. POLK, Lieut.-Gen.
JOINT RESOLUTION of thanks to Maj. Gen. N. B. Forrest and the officers
and men of his command, for their campaign in Mississippi, West Tennessee,
and Kentucky.
Resolved by the Congress of the Confederate States of America, That the
thanks of Congress are eminently due, and are hereby cordially tendered, to
Maj. Gen. N. B. Forrest, and the officers and men of his command, for their
late brilliant and successful campaign in Mississippi, West Tennessee, and
Kentucky-a campaign which has conferred upon its authors fame as enduring
as the records of the struggle which they have so brilliantly illustrated.
Approved, May 23, 1864.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 31, pt. I, pp. 607- 619.
March 17, 1864 - Wedding party at the home of Mr. Reynolds on Walden Ridge
I do not suppose that the history of the world contains such a rare case of universal concord being the result of such universal discord.. The [wedding] party
was composed of 1st, Rebel and Union citizens; 2d, Rebel and Union soldiers;
3rd, Rebel and Union deserters; 4th, Rebel and Union spies; 5th Rebel and
Union bushwhackers.
Scarcely a harsh word was uttered during the whole night; all danced together
as if nothing was wrong, and parted mutually the next morning, each party
marching off separately.
Considering the great hatred existing between the different parties it is marvelous that bloodshed was not the immediate result.
Chattanooga Gazette, March 17, 1864
March 17, 1864 - Skirmish at Manchester
No circumstantial reports filed.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 61
March 17, 1864
March 17, 1864 - Skirmish at Winchester
No circumstantial reports filed.
March 17, 1864 - Special Orders No. 62, relative to Tipton County issued
SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 62. HDQRS. SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., March 17, 1864.
~~~
IX. The citizens of the county of Tipton, Tenn., having by a large majority
enrolled themselves to preserve life and property and to keep the peace within
said country, and pledged themselves in writing so to do against all persons
except organized forces of the United States or of the Confederate States, it is
ordered that no troops of this command shall enter said country, except under
written orders from the commanding officer at Memphis, and that no property
of kind shall be taken by military seizures within said country. This privilege
will continue so long as the said citizens shall in good faith perform the said
agreement, and the same privilege will be extended to other counties which
shall in good faith adopt and carry out this course.
~~~
By order of Maj. Gen. S. A. Hurlbut
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 87.
March 17, 1864 - An end to military control over circulation of the press in Chattanooga
SPECIAL ORDERS.
Headquarters Depart't of the Cumberland.
Office of Provost Marshal General
Chattanooga, Feb. 17, 1864
All orders heretofore issued in this Department proscribing or restricting the
circulation of Newspapers, are hereby revoked.
by command of Maj. Gen. Geo. H. Thomas
J. G. Parkhurst,Col. and Pro. Marshal.
Nashville Dispatch, March 16, 1864.
March 17, 1864 - Death of a Nashvillian in a guerrilla attack near Memphis
"Death of Lieut. Samuel M. Allen."
A telegraphic dispatch from Cairo, to the Louisville papers of the 17th inst.,
giving an account of a guerrilla fight in Shelby county, Tennessee, says:
Page 62 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 17, 1864
One was named Contrigal, a daring robber, who had a repeater which he fired.
Forrest ordered his men to fire and Contrigal and his companion, Samuel
Allen, formerly of Nashville, fell dead.
The Samuel Allen spoken of is Lieut. Samuel M. Allen, son of Mrs. Joseph
Allen, of this city. Instead of being concerned with robbers, as the foregoing
paragraph intimated, he was the victim of robbers, having been killed and
robbed them, as we learn from a private letter from Memphis received in this
city, and written by Wm. Farrington, Esq., of that place. The murder and robbery took place near the residence of Mr. Jamison, about twenty-five miles
from Memphis.
Lt. Allen was captured at Vicksburg and paroled. He was subsequently taken
sick at the camp for paroled soldiers, near Marietta, Ga.; and was permitted to
leave there on furlough. He went to the residence of Mr. Geo. L. Holmes, formerly a member of the Tennessee Legislature, who lives some fourteen miles
from Memphis, and sought of the commander of the Post at that city, permission to visit his family in Nashville, furnishing him with a frank and candid
account of his position and the circumstances attending his presence in Tennessee. The permission asked having been denied, he remaind with Mr. Holmes,
observing his parole honorably; and was with the consent of Gen. R. S.
Granger, commander of this post, furnished with means by his friend here. He
was enjoying the hospitality of Mr. Holmes up to the day of this death. Lt.
Allen was an honorable high-minded and chivalrous young man, greatly
beloved by a large circle of friends in Nashville.
Nashville Dispatch, March 19, 1864.
March 17, 1864 - New construction in Nashville
Military Improvements.—In various parts of the city, but especially around the
outskirts, the different military departments are making many improvements,
and erecting extensive buildings, for depots, workshops, feed shed, etc. Among
others we notice an enormous warehouse and commissary building on the line
of the Franklin Railroad, near the Holy Trinity Church, South Nashville. Its
dimensions are 120 by 1000 feet, and one story high. It is calculated to hold
almost any quantity of government stores that may be needed.
Nashville Dispatch, March 17, 1864
March 17, 1864 - Thanks from a Yale law student
Law Department Yale College
New Haven Ct March 17, 1864
His Excellency Andrew Johnson
Governor of the State of Tennessee Nashville
Sir—
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 63
March 18, 1864
It is gratifying to my pride to be able to inform you that nearly a year ago I was
permitted to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States, renewing in good
faith all my obligations to the benificent Government under which I was born.
Ever since that period I have been here at the Law School of Yale College
endeavoring to qualify myself for a profession by which I hope to get a living
in my native Nashville.NOTE 1
Every day's experience—as I become a man—convinces me the more the utter
wickedness of this most unprovoked rebellion into which as a boy I so unfortunately stumbled—and I can say with truth that I most ardently desire its overthrow.
Your policy for reconstruction in Tennessee, if I understand it, is the only true
policy.
I seize this opportunity to thank you for your good counsel and advice when I
was a rebel prisoner at Nashville, and only regret that I did not profit from it an
earlier day. I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully Your ob't serv't
Jos. E. Harris
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, p. 647.
NOTE 1: Harris' aspirations for a career as an attorney in Nashville were cut short
when he died in London in 1865. As cited in Papers of Andrew Johnson,
Vol. 6, p. 647, n. 3.
March 18, 1864 - Report relative to position of Federal troops in Tennessee
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, Tenn.,
March 18, 1864.
Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Cmdg. Mil. Div. of the Mississippi, Nashville,
Tenn.:
GEN.: I have the honor to report for your information the following as the
position of the troops of the Army of the Cumberland:
The Twelfth Corps (Scolum's) at Fort Donelson, Clarksville, Gallatin, Nashville, and on the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad as far south as Bridgeport.
Two regiments of negro infantry and a regiment of Tennessee cavalry on the
Northwestern Railroad.
Stokes' Fifth Tennessee Cavalry at Sparta, operating against the guerrillas,
who, under Hamilton, Ferguson, Carter, Murray, and Hughs, have infested that
country since the war commenced. The Eleventh Corps (Howard's) on the railroad, between Bridgeport and this place.
Page 64 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 18, 1864
This place is garrisoned by eight regiments of infantry, one regiment of negro
troops (Fourteenth U. S. Colored), one company of siege artillery, and six batteries of field artillery, dismounted. The post is commanded by Brig. Gen.
James B. Steedman.
Two divisions of the Fourth Corps, under Gordon Granger, and the Tennessee
brigade of infantry, are on detached service with the Army of the Ohio in East
Tennessee.
One division (Stanley's), Fourth Corps, is stationed at Blue Springs (5 miles in
advance of Cleveland, on the railroad between that the place and Dalton) and at
Ooltewah.
~~~
Two brigades of cavalry are at Cleveland. . .
The troops occupy strong positions, and are favorably placed to guard the railroad to East Tennessee and the Charleston railroad, so far as occupied.
Signal stations are established in the most favorable position for observing the
roads and the country for 6 or 8 miles in advance of the camps, and the officers
on duty have instructions to report immediately all movements of the enemy
which they observe. I have telegraph and signal communications with every
camp, as well as by courier. . .
~~~
GEO. H. THOMAS, Maj.-Gen., U. S. Volunteers, Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 89-90.
March 18, 1864 - "Relief Meeting;" assisting war refugees in Nashville
In pursuance to a previous call, a number of prominent citizens of Tennessee
assembled at the office of the Secretary of State at ten o'clock yesterday morning, and organized by the election of Hon. David T. Patterson, President, and
John M. Gant, Secretary.
The President announced the object of the meeting to be, to devise some means
for the relief of those families who have been driven from their homes by the
devastations of the war, and are temporarily residing in this division of the
State. After a short time spent in mutual consultation, the Hon. Horace Maynard Offered the following resolution which was unanimously adopted:
Resolved That the President, Secretary Jos. S. Fowler, Gen. Alvin C.
Gillem, H. Maynard, J. R. Dullin, S. C. Mercer, and J. M. Hinton, be a committee to receive clothing, provisions, money, and other means for the benefit of
the many refugees now in this vicinity and constantly arriving; and see that the
same are properly disbursed; also to provide temporary shelter and employment for such as are destitute in respect to either.
After the adoption of a resolution requesting the city papers to publish these
proceedings, the meeting adjourned.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 65
March 18, 1864
David T. Patterson, Pres't.
John M. Gaut, Sec'y.
Nashville Dispatch, March 18, 1864.
March 18, 1864 - "Our City Fathers Brought Up at Last;" S. A. General Hurlbut censures
Memphis municipal government for failure to take action on crime and
sanitation
A called meeting of our very worthy Board of Mayor and Aldermen was held
at their usual place of gathering, under the persuasive request of General Hurlbut, who appeared among them and stirred up their stagnant intellects in a
quiet, genteel manner. The first subject he touched upon was one which has
become so common that people who have business in the streets at night
expect to get robbed any how, and make up their minds for it. The General said
that garroting and robbery were growing up as recognized institutions, and he
would request the refulgent Fathers to throw the scathing glances of their
beaming countenances upon such practices and scorch them like dried chaff.
The sly look which he cast around the room convinced him that there was more
than one warming-pan phizNOTE 1, and the suggestion of the scorching process
was, we think, peculiarly happy. The next point he alluded to was one upon
which the press has rung the changes so often that it began to despair of anything being done until pestilence had made its appearance in the city. So little
did Hurlbut think of the removal of dead animals-a task which has hitherto
been considered herculean -that he intimated pretty plainly that if our rulers
could not accomplish this duty, he thought he could find those who were capable of performing the work. Some of the Alderman attempted to get up the
usual fuss of regulations and ordinances, but that hard headed old worthy,
[Alderman] Mulholland, told them that there was a great [illegible] many ordinances which are dead letters, and they should put in force what they had
already on the minute-book. The [remarks] of the General were so far repeated
as to have a committee appointed drawn from each ward to device a plan for
the proper carrying out of this work, and [most likely] some [means for providing for the levy of] taxation [to enhance the] sanitation and salutary medical
[conditions for] Memphis' people can present their plan on Saturday night, at
three o'clock.NOTE 2
Memphis Bulletin, March 18, 1864.
NOTE 1: Probably slang for "physic," or laxative.
NOTE 2: Parts of this article are illegible.
Page 66 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 19, 1864
March 19, 1864 - Skirmish at Beersheba Springs
•See March 11, 1864-March 28, 1864-Counter-insurgency operations around
Sparta, including skirmishes on Calfkiller Creek and near Beersheba
Springs
No circumstantial reports filed.
March 19, 1864 - "Is that any way for him or any Federal officer to do?" Complaints about
Federal depredations in West Tennessee
at my farm Haywood County, Tennessee, 19 March 1864
Honble Andrew Johnson
Military Governor of Tennessee
Nashville, Tennessee
Dear Sir
Last evening I brought home from my office at Brownsville 2 of the writing
Desks & a Chest containing part of my letters & papers all battered in by some
of the Command of Col Hurst you can see the prints of their guns on the folding door of my little Secretary & many of my papers are gone & feathered to
the four winds of heaven
Col[.] Hurst burned 3 establishments belonging to 3 of the best Union men
about Brownsville. Is that any way for him or any Federal officer to do? some
of these sufferers has left since and settled in Peoria Illinois, I learned yesterday & one had before gone & opened an establishment in Memphis Tenn
It appears that old Satan has been turned loose to go about and injuring the
innocent
Previous to the advent of Col. Hurst I had shipped all of my Law Books & the
most valuable papers to a place of safety, not knowing when one or the other of
the Armies might enter and Destroy-I was always opposed to the war never
was infavor of secession & never expect to be so and I have suffered more than
the secessionists and it looks hard and both sides have taken from me horses &
mules &c but show the consolation of Job when his friends told him "to curse
God & die" he told them " I know my redeemer Liveth" and so do IIn the summer of 1862 the Federal soldiers in passing would ride up to the field
where my negroes were ploughing & try to take out their mules or horses & go
with them that "they would pay them $8 to 10$ pr month"
My property before the war was estimated at about two hundred thousand Dollars & I would willingly give it all to close the war satisfactorily now as I am
young enough to make more but it appears that his majesty "Old Satan" is revelling in great luxury North & South & that if this war should end before he
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 67
March 19, 1864
shall have been thrashed out of the people both North & South, it will soon
brake out anew like an old Canser
If Mr. Lincoln had had the nerve of Genl Andrew Jackson or Mr. Filmore or
Col James J. Polk our difficulties might have been ended ere this
When Genl Lew Wallace went from Corinth to Memphis in 1862, he knocked
the wind out of the sails of the secessionist & made Union men out of secessionists & when the 7 Kansas Regiment went from Columbus Ky passing Jackson Tenn in 1862 robbing and hanging people they made Secessionists out of
Union Men
What Caused our arms to Conquer Mexico so soon or easily in 1846, 47 &
1848? it was the mild & Gentle policy pursued by our President Col James K
Polk who would not permit the Soldiers to rob pillage & plunder the Mexicans
& paid for what they got But Louis Napoleon landed his forces in Mexico in
Novb 1860 & he suffered them to plunder & devastate the country & he is not
nearer conquering them now than he was 12 mos ago Notwithstanding he has
more men there than James K Polk had in 1846, 47 & 1848 But it appears that
Mr Lincoln cannot resist the outside pressure of these heavenly sanctified
preachers nor Could Mr Buchanan resist the outside pressure of Floyd Toombs,
Thompson & others & now where is Mr. Buckanan? Had the policy of James
K. Polk & Genl Scott been adopted-peace now might perhaps "have been
restored" & then "those who danced could have been made to pay the Fiddler"
and I am fearful peace is far off from our once happy Country
History proves that a different policy towards our enemies will produce a different & better result Look at the policy to Spain towards the United Provinces
in a war which lasted nearly fifty years & in which Spain lost those Provinces
Look at the Policy of Charles II of England & his parliament-he pardoned all
his rebels with a few exceptions & he did not enter into this wholesale destruction & Confiscation of private property or he never could have maintained his
head on the throne & those difficulties lasted 18 years before his restoration &
Some of your old substantial Union friends in this part of the Country say-(I
dont mean such men who are "pig today & pork tomorrow." Union when the
Federals are about & Secessionist when the Confederates are nearby such as
have always been the same from the Orient to the Occident) that unless a different policy be pursued this war will last 30 years & that there is only one way
to settle it in order to have a permanent peace of which it is not my purpose
now to write you
My relative the Honbl John Reed of Jackson Tenn who has always been a
Union man & is now in his 77 year of is age has suffered from the Federal
Army more than any other man according to his property or about as much as
any in that County according to his property-This is no way for officers & soldiers & a Government to treat their peaceable quiet and orderly Citizens
Page 68 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 19, 1864
Some times I get out of hear & think that our Dear Country is gone to old Satan
or is fast on the verge & that the old maxim that "the people are incapable of
self Government" has been realized
I write you thus plainly because you are our Military Govenor & you were a
Breckenridge Democrat and sow was I and I wished to inform you how matter
have been managed in portions of this Country
What do you think of the English papers calling us a nation of thieves and Robbers? That is tolerably tall talk
Some times it does seem to me that the whole Country will get into a general
row from one end to the other from the Lakes to the Gulf and from the Atlantic
to the Pacific, like it was in England during her civil wars and it so much distresses me some times that it almost sickens me
Several of my negroes left me in 1863 & are in the Federal Army or waiting on
the Army
Please have the kindness to inform me what course should I pursue in order to
get a Voucher for them
If you think proper to address me, you can direct your letter thus
Yours Respectfully Edward J. Read
Of Brownsville Tennessee
Care of Farmington & Howell Memphis Tennssee
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, pp. 648-650.
March 19, 1864 - Confederate situation report for East Tennessee
HDQRS., Greeneville, East Ten., March 19, 1864.
Gen. S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector Gen., Richmond, Va.:
GEN.: The supply of corn promised us from Virginia comes in so slowly that
we shall not be able to keep our animals alive more than week or two, unless
some improvement may be made in forwarding supplies. Our rations, too are
getting short, so that we will hardy be able to march to any point at which we
may be needed unless we can received orders inside of a week, and then we
must receive corn by railroad in order that our animals may make a march.
We have suffered more or less since we have been here in this department for
want of proper supplies, but have been able to get along very poorly clad
through the winter months, and could, now that the weather is be coming more
mild, do very well if we could get food and forage. Without either of these our
army must soon become entirely helpless.
The enemy is in front of us at Morristown, with three army corps and could be
struck to great advantage were it possible for us to move. The greater part of
his force could probably be captured, but animals cannot work without food.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 69
March 19, 1864
The only corn in this country is far our upon our flanks, and is barely sufficient
for the cavalry there, and the cavalry is necessary there to prevent its falling
into the hands of the enemy.
I beg that you will send us supplies at once, in sufficient quantity at least to
enable us to march to some point where out troops can be partially supplied
and where they may be useful. These perhaps the troops in the Confederate
armies, and should not be left where they starve, and at the same time be of no
service to the country.
The enemy is in much poorer fighting condition than he has been since the
beginning of the war, and we should have but little difficulty in breaking him if
we can be furnished the means of getting at him. I respectfully urge, therefore,
than no more time may be lost in making the necessary arrangements for active
operations. If our armies can take the initiative in the spring campaign they can
march into Kentucky with by little trouble and finish the war in this year. If we
delay and give the enemy his full time the war will, in all probability, be prolonged for another four years.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
J. LONGSTREET, Lieut.-Gen., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 655.
March 19, 1864 - "To Be Confiscated." Federal seizure of property of alien enemies in
Clarksville
The Clarksville Gazette of the 19th inst. says: "The military authorities here
gave notice, several days ago, to the occupants of the following named house
to vacate the same, preparatory to their being confiscated as the property of
alien enemies, and appropriated to military occupancy: Residence of James E.
Bailey, Franklin street, occupied by Mrs. Howard; residence of Geo. B. Fleece,
Franklin Street, occupied by Mrs. King; residence of residence of D. N.
Kennedy, corner of Madison and Second Streets, occupied by Mrs. Kennedy"
Nashville Dispatch, March 22, 1864.
March 19, 1864 - "SACRILIGE."
It will be remembered that the Government has for some time past occupied
the Church of the Holy Trinity, South Nashville, as a powder magazine. On
Thursday or Friday of last week, we are informed, the powder was removed,
and the guard taken from the building but no notice give the vestry that the
church property had been relinquished by the Ordnance Department. On Saturday morning, Mr. Campbell, who reside near by, saw the front door open and
closed it, and informed one of the vestrymen of the circumstance. Supposing
that if the military had determined to return the church to its owners, the proper
officer would send the keys, no further notice was taken of it, except to fasten
Page 70 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 20, 1864
the doors, until Wednesday morning, when Mr. Campbell discovered that the
door had been broken open, and a brief inspection convinced him that some
malicious wretch or wretches had been committing the most wanton outrages
in the building. The beautiful and valuable organ was entirely destroyed-broken to pieces, the pipes taken out and broken to pieces over the backs of the
pews, and the case and everything connected with it utterly demolished. The
Sunday School library, also, was destroyed—the case broken and the books
torn or carried away. The furniture met the same fate, and the church left a
complete wreck.
Nashville Dispatch, March 19, 1864.
March 19, 1864 - March 20, 1864 - Federal scouts, Cleveland to across the Hiwassee River
CLEVELAND, TENN., March 21, 1864.
Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department of the
Cumberland:
I have the honor to report that Maj. D. A. Briggs, in command of the Second
Indiana Cavalry, returned from the vicinity of Waterhouse's farm at 9.30 p. m.
of the 20th instant; reports no enemy on that road excepting scouting parties.
Eighty rebels were at that place on the 19th, and remainder during the night.
One of my scouts left Sumac creek south of Waterhouse's farm at 12 o'clock
last night, and reports having heard drums in a southwest direction from there
in the evening. It has also been reported that a cavalry force from Longstreet's
command crossed the Hiwassee at Taylor's Ferry, and marched via Ducktown
to join Johnston at Dalton. I have also information, which I deem reliable, that
a considerable amount of corn and wheat sacked up in sacks marked "C. S. A."
has been accumulated at Callway's Mill, 4 miles from Waterhouse's farm.
These stores might be removed to within our lines by sending a considerable
force for that purpose. I do not think it would be safe to attempt it without taking all or the greater part of my effective [force] with artillery, but can easily
destroy it by burning it. I have communicated this information to Gen. Stanley.
The scouting parties sent out this morning have not yet reported.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. P. CAMPBELL, Col., Cmdg. Division.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 101.
March 20, 1864 - Skirmish in Tullahoma environsNOTE 1
Excerpt from the Report of Col. John M. Hughs, Twenty-fifth Tennessee Infantry on activities from January 1-April 18, 1864, relative to skirmish in Tullahoma environs, March 20, 1864.
~~~
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 71
March 20, 1864
On the morning of the 20th March we were, for the first and only time, surprised by the enemy while in camp and suffered a loss of 2 men killed and
some captured, including some valuable papers of my own. The enemy in this
affair lost 7 killed and 8 wounded, according to their own report.
~~~
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 56.
NOTE 1: A more exact location for this skirmish cannot be determined. Inasmuch as
Hughs was in the Tullahoma area when he attacked the Union supply train
on March 16 it seems likely he was in the same general area four days later.
March 20, 1864 - Federal scout, Blue Springs to below Red Clay
BLUE SPRINGS, March 20, 1864.
Gen. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff:
Maj. Paine, First Wisconsin, commanding, scouted below Red Clay; found
rebel pickets at Wade's house. An advance of 3 miles found pickets much
stronger than formerly. Rebels say Forrest has joined and is on their right.
D. S. STANLEY, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 99.
March 20, 1864 - Federal scouts, Strawberry Plains to Rutledge, Mouth of the Chucky, Dandridge Road
STRAWBERRY PLAINS, March 21, 1864.
Maj.-Gen. SCHOFIELD:
The following from Gen. Stoneman is the only news from the front:
Scouting parties from Rutledge report nothing in that direction, except small
parties prowling about the county. Deserters and refugees from Russellville
report 300 cavalry at Morristown; that Longstreet returned from Richmond
yesterday, and was to move with his infantry in this direction to-day.
No reports from the Mouth of Chucky or Dandridge road. Three hundred or
400 cavalry, supported by a regiment of infantry, will be sent to Morristown today, returning to-morrow.
GEO. STONEMAN, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 102.
March 20, 1864 - "Those men are not soldiers but a band of robbers and murderers. They
don't mind whether a man is a Union man or a Confederate,- if he has
money they will take it." First Lieutenant Robert Cruikshank, 123rd New
Page 72 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 20, 1864
York Infantry Regiment, letter home to his wife Mary, camp life near the
Elk River
Camp 123rd Regt., N. Y. S. V.
Elk River, Tenn.,
March 20, 1864.
Dear Mary,I have just returned from hearing a sermon preached by the Rev. Mr. Small,
formerly of Jackson, N. Y. He was on his way home from Chattanooga where
he has been on a visit for some weeks and having some relative in this Regiment he came here today and preached to us. We often have preaching now
furnished by the Christian Commission.
I am kept busy week days but the labor is not hard. I have not been on picket
since I returned from Boons Hill. I go on duty as Officer of the Day once in
about eight days. All the night work I have to do is to visit the guard once after
twelve o'clock, midnight. We have been in this department almost six months.
It does not seem so long. Our time is over half in, as the men say we are on the
home stretch on our time of enlistment. Soldiering is like everything else; we
have our bright days and dark days; we have the bitter and the sweet.
The Colonel has been absent some days attending the court-martial in which
those guerrillas that were taken at Boons Hill are being tried. I understand that
some have been convicted of murder and are to be hung. Those men are not
soldiers but a band of robbers and murderers. They don't mind whether a man
is a Union man or a Confederate,- if he has money they will take it. They commit crime on the Confederate people and then the Union soldiers are charged
with it. I do not intend ever to fall into their hands.
With love to all,
R. Cruikshank.
Robert Cruikshank Letters.
March 20, 1864 - An Elizabethton refugee's inquiry about the safety of returning home
Loisvilll March the 20, 1864
The Governeur Johnson
At Tennessee
Dear Sir!
You moeby would not have anny Objection for to tell me of it is safed for to go
to Elizabethtown Carter County East Tennessee. I would not like to fall in the
Hands of Rebels—and I would Like to go to mein Farm thereself. It would be a
bik favor to me if you would let me known with the nacst Mail of our Armee
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 73
March 21, 1864
have the rebels driven away there; that I will come to mein lovely Home ad
atten to mein Farm. Sure you do not know me but you will be kind anouch to
every man hoe did his duti in the Union Armee for several Months like me; and
I can not find out the very Trueth about this matter without you, becas I do not
belief every report.
Your Servent G. G. Dosse.
I find the Stamps and Umvellups for Youer Answer, Closed in here[.]
G G Dossee
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, p. 651.
March 21, 1864 - U. S. S. Tawah and Peosta engage in anti-guerrilla raids near Saltillo and
Clifton on the Tennessee River
On March 19th, the Peosta. . . landed along side the coal barge at Clifton. After
re-coaling, the ship proceeded up the river. About 3:00 p. m. the Peosta found
the U. S. S. Tawah (who was escorting the steamer S. C. Baker) shelling the
woods behind Saltillo. A portion of the Peosta's crew landed and destroyed a
number of barrels of molasses, salt, vinegar, flour, sugar, and whiskey to prevent it from falling into rebel hands. They also took aboard 15 boxes of merchandise and stored that were to left at Clifton.
U. S. S. Peosta Daily Deck Log
March 21, 1864 - Skirmish at Reynoldsburg, Tennessee
Report of Col. Isaac R. Hawkins, Seventh Tennessee Cavalry.
UNION CITY, TENN., March 22, 1864.
GEN.: A detachment of 10 men belonging to Maj. Hardy's command, stationed
at Reynoldsburg, Tenn., has just arrived, who state that on the 20th they left the
major there with 50 men; that at 11 a. m. the 21st a detachment of 20 men were
attacked by from 100 to 150 Confederates, and are probably all captured. That
about 100 men of the battalion are somewhere south of Huntingdon; that there
are only about 100 men in camp and a large amount of public stores there. I am
apprehensive for the fate of the major. The fight occurred 65 miles from this
place.
ISAAC R. HAWKINS, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 624.
March 21, 1864 - "General Orders, No. 11;" disposition of abandoned farm property in the
Nashville District
Headquarters District of Nashville
Nashville, Tenn., March 21, 1861
Page 74 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 21, 1864
Commandants of Posts in this District will leave abandoned farms lying in
their respective counties on reasonable terms, all things considered, taking
security for payment of the rent, and reporting their action to these Headquarters. Preference will be give to those in present possession of these farms. The
rent will be made payable at such times a may be agreed upon, and in money or
a party of the crop.
By command of Major-General Rousseau.
Nashville Dispatch, March 23, 1864.
March 21, 1864 - March 22, 1864 - Federal scouts, Mossy Creek, Rutledge, Morristown, Big
Creek, Rogersville, Dandridge
MOSSY CREEK, March 21, 1864.
Brig.-Gen. COX, Chief of Staff:
Col. Garrard was at my tent to-day, and informed me that he had received no
orders about going to Rutledge. He is now on a scout toward Morristown, and
will return to-morrow. Col. Crawford's scouts are with him, and he is supported
by a regiment of infantry. Understanding Wood's division was still at the
Plains, we concluded that the intention of sending cavalry to Rutledge had
been abandoned.
GEO. STONEMAN, Maj.-Gen.
~~~
MOSSY CREEK, March 22, 1864.
Brig. Gen. J. D. COX, Chief of Staff:
Dispatch received from Col. Garrard this a. m. reports no enemy at Morristown
or Russellville. Vaughn and his whole force at its old camp on Big Creek,
above Rogersville; Dibrell's or Armstrong's cavalry near Parrottsville. No
enemy heard of toward Rutledge or Dandridge. Scouting parties seen on the
Mouth of Chucky road yesterday morning. . . I consider it my duty to inform
you that this command is entirely without forage; also, that the train (railroad)
came up yesterday empty, and yet staid at Mossy Creek from 11 a. m. to 3 p. m.
GEO. STONEMAN, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 108-109.
March 21, 1864 - ca. March 26, 1864 - Federal reconnaissance in search of Forrest, Pulaski
to Eastport, Mississippi
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Pulaski, Tenn.,
March 21, 1864.
Maj. GEORGE H. ESTABROOK, Cmdg. Seventh Illinois Infantry:
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 75
March 22, 1864
You will move out immediately with your command, proceeding in the direction of Eastport, on the Tennessee River, at which place it is reported that Gen.
Forrest is crossing with a large force of the enemy. Your men will be supplied
with five days' rations (two in haversacks and three in wagons) and 60 rounds
of ammunition. It is very necessary that you gain all reliable information in
your power as regards their strength, designs, of what composed, &c., with as
little delay as possible. As fast as you receive important information you will
send the same by courier to the nearest point on the railroad where there is a
telegraph office, and thence send by wire to headquarters Left Wing, Sixteenth
Army Corps, at Athens, Ala., as also to these headquarters.
Be prompt and vigilant in you movements, trying, if possible, to capture prisoners from the enemy of whom you can obtain the desired information. Look
well to all roads which may lead to your rear, and keep feelers out in every
direction to avid being surprised, and also to learn of the enemy. One battalion
of the Ninth Ohio Cavalry is now in the vicinity of Florence.
By order of Brig. Gen. T. W. Sweeny, commanding:
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 104.
March 22, 1864 - U. S. S. Peosta shells woods near Pittsburg Landing
U. S. S. Peosta Daily Deck Log
March 22, 1864 - Confederates destroy private ferries on the Obion River
UNION CITY, March 23, 1864.
Brig.-Gen. BRAYMAN, Cmdg. District of Cairo:
My private scout has just arrived and brings the information that Gen. Forrest
is at Jackson with a large force, estimated at from 6,000 to 7,000. On Tuesday
[22nd] they were destroying private ferries on the Obion, doubtless with the
view of preventing information from crossing. Detachments had reached
Milan. The above is entirely reliable.
ISAAC R. HAWKINS, Col., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 130-131.
March 22, 1864 - Formation of Enrolled Militia in the Seventh Civil District of Shelby
County
SPECIAL ORDERS NO. 55
Headquarters, District of Memphis
Memphis, Tenn., March 22d, '64
~~~
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 22, 1864
II. The citizens of the 7th Civil District of Shelby County, having enrolled
themselves under H. [?] B. [?] Mercer, as Captain, to preserve life and property, and to keep the peace within said District and vicinity, and pledged themselves to do so against all persons except organized forces of the United States
or of the Confederate States:
It is ordered that the men belonging to said Company are authorized to keep
and carry arms, and said company may arrest all soldiers committing depredations in said District, and send them to these headquarters; and may arrest and
punish all other persons committing depredations in said district. Every person
carrying arms under this order, will be held strictly responsible, in person and
property, for the proper use of the same.
~~~
By order of Brig. Gen. R. P. Buckland
Memphis Bulletin, April 2, 1864.
March 22, 1864 - "TIPTON COUNTY-A GOOD EXAMPLE."
The unswerving loyalty of the people of Tipton county has been, time and
again, the subject of approving comment in the columns of the BULLETIN.
They deserve credit for having been the first to unite together for their own
defense against marauding combinations. Small bodies of rebels have often
made incursions into various portions of that county, to steal horses, conscript
citizens, and such other depredations as they usually commit upon unoffending
citizens. But, as often as they have ventured into that county, just as certainly
have they been doomed to disappointment. The people, having been prompt to
see that their true hope and security was by concert and co-operation, early
organized companies of home guards for their own defense, and immediately,
on the appearance of the enemy at any point, the signal is given, and every man
rallies to the point of danger. Several engagements have resulted, but in every
case the home guards of Tipton have triumphed over every foe that has met
them. The result is, that while the people of surrounding counties have been
destroyed by rebels, the people of Tipton have escaped comparatively
unscathed the ravages of war.
Lately, however, they have gone a step farther. They found that they were
annoyed by marauders claiming not to belong to any army, but simply independent highwaymen. Some of these they have captured, tried and hung. Finding
that they were abundantly able to deal effectually with all who molested them,
they made application to the Commanding General to give them permission to
enforce law and order in their own county against all armies. After mature
deliberation, this privilege has been accorded them, as will be found by perusing Special Order No. 62, from Gen Hurlbut's headquarters, which will be
found elsewhere in our columns.NOTE 1 It will there be seen that the people of
Tipton, by a large majority, have pledged themselves in writing to preserve law
and order against all except the armies of the United States and rebels, and that
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 77
March 22, 1864
in consequence they have been guaranteed against further loss and oppression,
as I manifest by the order, which provides that no property of any kind shall be
taken "by military seizure within said county." This prompt and decisive movement of the people of Tipton has thus eventuated in the most decided advantages to that county.
We commend the example of the people of Tipton to the citizens of Shelby
county. In Memphis, we have a noble militia organization to defend the city
against any attack which the enemy can make; but in order that the people of
the country may procure like exemption from depredations, it will be necessary
for them to follow the example which has been set in Tipton, by organizing
military companies for their own defense against the rebels. General Hurlbut's
order is full of encouragement in this direction for it expressly orders that "the
same privileges will be extended to other counties which shall in good faith
adopt and carry out the same course." We cordially commend the course of the
Tipton people, and hope our Shelby county people will take immediate steps to
follow their example. Indeed, we should be pleased to see the example generally followed throughout our entire State. Order and law will never have a permanent abode in Tennessee until the people in the several counties become
duly impressed with the importance of maintaining it, and shall organize themselves for that purpose. There ought to be some sort of military organization to
protect in the event of an emergency, the civil authority in every county, [but]
this can never be obtained until the [people] are tired of rebel and guerrilla depredations, and resolve to put an end to them. Until they do act, they must continue to experience all the inconvenience and loss resulting from their present
defenceless and insec[ure condition?]
Memphis Bulletin, March 22, 1864.
NOTE 1: Not found.
March 22, 1864 - "The Late Father Nealis."
A large number of persons attended the solemn requiem Mass at the Cathedral,
for the repose of the soul of Father Nealis, yesterday morning. The remarks by
Father Kelly were so deeply affecting that nearly half the congregation were in
tears, and the scene was one of the most impressive ever witnessed. After the
services, the body was deposited in the Cathedral vault, and the sorrowing
multitude gradually retired from the Church. During Sunday the body lay in
the school room, in the basement of the Cathedral.
Nashville Dispatch, March 22, 1864.
March 22, 1864 - "Attempt to Rob."
A bold attempt at robbery was made yesterday, by a man named Wm. Morris,
who entered the Exchange office of W. S. Childs & Co., on College street, and
while Mr. Childs was engaged talking to a customer at the side counter, Morris
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
ca. March 22, 1864
opened the drawer in the counter fronting the door, and had his hand in it when
Mr. Childs saw it. The man ran out, and Mr. Childs after him, and setting the
guards on his track, they arrested him at the front of the Commercial hotel. On
searching him at the Recorder's office, about one hundred dollars was found
upon his person. His case will probably be inquired into this morning.
Nashville Dispatch, March 22, 1864.
March 22, 1864 - Daniel C. Miller's impression of Nashville
Murfreesboro, Tenn.
March 22, 1864
Dear parents, brothers, and sisters
. . . Last week. . . I went to Nashville with 100 wagons, each wagon had 6 donkeys in front, it didn't cost me a cent. Nashville is quite a big town and the
streets are narrow and beside the town runs the big Cumberland River and
across this river about 60-70 feet high goes a bridge, like the one in Cleveland,
only twice as long and the railroad goes over it. The town hall stands on a big
hill. In the middle of the town, around this big building they have build brick
walls with 5 big cannons inside. Around this they dug a deep ditch. When I
come home I will tell you more.
Miller Correspondence.
ca. March 22, 1864 - April 5, 1864 - Anti-guerrilla actions of 5th Tennessee Cavalry in
Sparta environs
No circumstantial reports filed.
Excerpt from the Report of Major-General George H. Thomas relative to the
anti-guerrilla activity of the Fifth Tennessee Cavalry in the Sparta environs, ca.
March 22-April 5, 1864:
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, Tenn.,
April 5, 1864.
MAJ.: I have the honor to report as follows the operations of my command
during the month of March:
~~~
Col. William B. Stokes, commanding Fifth Tennessee Cavalry, reports on the
29th from Sparta, Tenn., the operations of his command against the guerrillas
in that vicinity, having had several engagements with them in the space of a
fortnight, in which he succeeded in completely routing and scattering them,
killing and wounding a number, among them two of their most active leaders,
Bledsoe and Champ Ferguson.
~~~
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 79
March 23, 1864
GEO. H. THOMAS, Maj.-Gen., U. S. Volunteers, Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 16.
March 23, 1864 - Anti-guerrilla scout Kentucky to south of Cumberland River, Livingston
and Sparta
HDQRS. DISTRICT OF SOUTHERN CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Cave City,
March 23, 1864.
Capt. A. C. SEMPLE, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.:
I have the honor to report that I have ordered Col. Weatherford, Thirteenth
Kentucky Cavalry, to move a sufficient force over the river to scout through all
the country south of Cumberland River to Livingston, Sparta, and to clear the
country of guerrillas.
The mounted force of Fifty-second at Scottsville and part of Thirty-seventh
Kentucky have been ordered to act in concert with Thirteenth Kentucky Cavalry. I have offered the scattered rebels in that country who have belonged to
any regiment the privilege of coming in under the amnesty proclamation or
being exchanged.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. H. HOBSON, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 132-133.
March 23, 1864 - Report of Federal scout regarding Forrest's position in West Tennessee
UNION CITY, March 23, 1864.
Capt. J. H. ODLIN, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.:
For fear my three dispatches of this day to the general have not been received,
I repeat to you the material points of them:
First. By the arrival of a private scout I learn that Gen. Forrest, with from 6,000
or 7,000 men, was at Jackson on Monday.
Second. That on yesterday the rebels were guarding the public ferries on the
Obion and destroying the private ones.
Third. That a company of 40 were at 9 a. m. at Gardener's Station, 12 miles
from this place. I have since learned that Col. Bell's men last evening were 15
miles this side of Trenton, and I have asked that the place be immediately
abandoned or largely re-enforced.
I. R. HAWKINS, Col., Cmdg. Seventh Tennessee Cavalry.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 129.
Page 80 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 23, 1864
March 23, 1864 - "We came through white Pickets-I think we will not try them again-the
Negroes are ten times more lenient." Belle Edmondson's smuggling foray
through Federal lines in Memphis environs
March, Wednesday 23, 1864
Tate & I went to Memphis this morning bright and early-stoped at Mrs. Apperson's first-from there to Cousin Frazor. Tate met me at Mrs. Worsham's room,
we then went up street, walked until three o'clock, attended to all affaires
entrusted to our care, ready to leave at half past three-all of the Yankee Cavalry
moveing, destination not known-could hear no particulars, think they are going
after Forrest, who we think is on his way to Kentucky. The Yankees are evidently on a great fright about something. God grant they may be defeated in all
their undertakings. We came through white Pickets-I think we will not try them
again-the Negroes are ten times more lenient-We came by Wash Taylor's, got
two hats for soldiers-came through Yankee Camp, if the Lord forgives me I
will never do it again. Yankee Soldier drove our horse in Nonconnah for usseemed to be a gentleman, for which we were very grateful-found Mr. Harbut
awaiting our report. Mr. John & Henry Nelson & Mr. Harbut took Tea with us.
Jim & Mr. Pugh completed the list for a nice Rebel meeting-brought a great
deal through lines this eve-Yankee Pickets took our papersDiary of Belle Edmondson
March 23, 1864 - "We have just had a deep snow fourteen inches deep it came in one day
and has gone in the same length of time." Captain Gershom M. Barber's
letter home to his wife
Head Quarters O. V. S. S.
Chattanooga Tennessee. March 23 1864
My Dear Wife
. . . We have just had a deep snow fourteen inches deep it came in one day and
has gone in the same length of time. The people here say this never was the
likes of it before and that it would not have come now but the yanks have
brought it. It almost seems good to see the ground white again and if I could
have. . . I would have had a sleigh ride but I don't think there ever was a vehicle . . . like that in Chattanooga. It was very novel. The sun shine brought and
the weather warm as an April day and the snow a foot deep. . . Oh would I like
to be home to occupy that arm chair and sit by the warm fire. . . Wouldn't you
like to step into my quarters and see how I live. It is a wall tent about 10 by 12
feet square and 12 feet high in the center. Floor of brick is dry and clean brick
chimney and fire place by side of the door. On the other side of the door is my
saddle and horse accouterments. There my valise and trunk at the end my desk
at which I am writing it is made of the boards of cracker boxes and stands on
the cross legs a very novel and convenient off air and occupies at 14 inches
square of room. Across it on a bar across the tent pole hangs my sword belt and
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 81
March 24, 1864
haversack ready for use. On my right is my cot. . . When set out of doors I will
have a munitions tent. And be perfectly protected from rain. My bed consists
of four government blankets and I have a nice feather pillow which I bought at
25 cents. . .
Barber Correspondence
March 24, 1864 - Capture of Union CityNOTE 1
Report of Capt. John W. Beatty, Seventh Tennessee Cavalry, of the capture of
Union City.
CAIRO, ILL., April 12, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report to you that I have made my escape from the
enemy after being surrendered, together with 16 officers and about 500
enlisted men, by Col. Isaac R. Hawkins, at Union City, Tenn., on the 24th of
March, after fighting six hours and repulsing the enemy four times.
The enemy drove in our pickets at 4 a. m., 24th March, and skirmishing commenced soon after, and by sunrise our camps were entirely surrounded. Their
force numbered about 1,500 commanded by Col.'s Faulkner, Bell, Duckworth,
Faris [?], Freeman, Tansil and Russell. They first made a charge, mounted, and
finding that they were losing a great many men and horses, dismounted and
made three unsuccessful charges with heavy loss in killed and wounded. Finding it impossible to rout our forces from their works, fell back great confusion,
taking shelter behind fallen timber, stumps, &c., their sharpshooters keeping
up a continuous fire until fifteen minutes to 11 o'clock when they ceased firing
and sent in a flag of truce, demanding an unconditional surrender of our force,
&c., giving Col. Hawkins fifteen minutes to make up his mind, stating that
they would take the camp by storm as they had re-enforcements close at hand.
Col. Hawkins called together the officers and asked them what they were in
favor of doing. I remarked if they had artillery they could whip us; if not they
never could get inside our works. All the officers said fight except Maj. Thomas A. Smith. Just at that time the telegraph operator said that they had two
pieces of artillery; that he had seen them. Col. Hawkins said that it would save
a great many lives if we would surrender, and that if we renewed the fight they
would kill every one that might fall into their hands. We the officers, then
agreed, to surrender on condition that they would parole the officers and men
and allow the men to keep their private property and the officers their side
arms; otherwise we would fight as long as there was a man left.
Col. Hawkins then went out and met Duckworth at 11 o'clock, and ten minutes
after 11 o'clock, the rebels came in, and Col. Hawkins ordered that all commanders of companies and detachments march their men outside of the fort, or
works, and require them to lay down their arms. Afterward we found that Col.
Hawkins had made an unconditional surrender. The officers and men cried like
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 24, 1864
a whipped child. They also cursed Col. Hawkins and said he was a traitor, and
that they would never serve under him again.
At 12 o'clock the rebels burned our barracks and marched us via Jacksonville
to Gardner's Station, on the Nashville and Northwestern Railroad, a distance of
16 miles, where we camped for the night. Lieut.'s Hawkins and Helmer during
their night made their escape.
On the next morning, March 25, at sunrise, we were marched 15 miles toward
Trenton, Tenn., where we encamped for the night. The rebels gave our men
about 1 ounce meat each, and no bread; this was the first that they at since the
evening of 23d.
March 26, we started at sunrise and marched to Trenton, Tenn., where the citizens sold our men biscuits at $5 per dozen and baked chickens at $5 each.
March 27, we remained at Trenton during the day. The rebels drew our men up
in line and marched them into court-house and searched each man as he went,
in robbing them of their money, blankets, &c. Lieut.'s Neely, Bradford, and
Morgan made their escape at Trenton. Col. Hawkins said that he would have
any officer dismissed from the service that would leave the rebels. They
offered to parole Col. Hawkins at Trenton, but he refused to accept it. The rebel
officers told me that they knew they would get our regiment when they were
400 miles south of Union City, Tenn. They also said they were willing to parole
Colonel Hawkins and let him get some more horses and arms and then they
would come and get them.
March 28, we marched to Humboldt, a distance of 15 miles, where Capt. P. K.
Parsons and myself made our escape.
JOHN W. BEATTY, Capt. Company K, Seventh Tenn. Vol. Cavalry.
OR, Ser. I. Vol. 32, pt. I, pp. 542-544.
NOTE 1: The surrender of Union City to forces led by Nathan Bedford Forrest was
said to be one of the most disgraceful and cowardly acts of any Union commander in Tennessee during the Civil War.
March 24, 1864 - Correspondence relative to Federal veteran troops in East Tennessee
refusing to re-enlist
STRAWBERRY PLAINS, March 24, 1864.
Maj.-Gen. GRANGER, Knoxville or Loudon:
Your dispatch of this date received. I have done all I could do get the regiments
within the limits of veteranism to re-enlist now, but without success. They say
they have been so much disappointed herefore, buffeted about, and deceived
that they will not entertain the proposition. Several of them started once and
were ordered back, and they say that there is no assurance that if they were to
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 83
March 24, 1864
start again and get as far as Knoxville or Loudon they might not be again
ordered back.
TH. J. WOOD, Brig. Gen.
March 24, 1864.
Maj.-Gen. SCHOFIELD, Cmdg. Department, Knoxville:
On receipt of Gen. Wood's dispatch that his regiments refused to re-enlist as
veterans, I telegraphed this morning to Gen. Stoneman that Cameron's regiment could take its veteran furlough at once. By a dispatch from Gen. Granger
to Gen. Wood, sent through my hands, I see he regards the question still open. I
hope it will not interfere with the Sixty-fifth Illinois, as it would have a bad
effect to retract the order regarding their furlough.
J. D. COX, Brig.-Gen., Chief of Staff.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 136-137.
March 24, 1864 - "Military Police Regulations;" the continuing struggle to improve public
health in Nashville
Brig. Gen. R. S. Granger has just issued an order, appointing Capt. M. D.
Chamberlain, twenty-ninth Massachusetts infantry, as Chief of the Military
Police of this city, and authorizing him, in the discharge of his duties to search
all premises, alley, out-houses or yards, and to give any orders or directions
concerning the cleaning, or keeping of the same, and any orders or directions
go given, will be considered as coming from the Headquarters of the Post
Commander. The order further provides that no obstruction of any kind will be
allowed to remain on the pavements, but must be taken in as soon as delivered.
It also provides for the disposition of dirt and rubbish of all kinds, and imposes
a find of $5 for any violation of the orders. As a compensation for faithful compliance with the Police regulations, we are promised clean streets, which will
be sprinkled daily at the expense of the Government, and a fair prospect of a
healthy city the ensuing summer.
Nashville Dispatch, March 24, 1864.
March 24, 1864 - Colonel Fielding-Hurst's orders to "hang upon and harass" Nathan Bedford Forrest and "forage upon secession sympathizers."
HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis,
Tenn., March 24, 1864.
Col. FIELDING HURST,
Cmdg. Sixth Tennessee Cavalry:
COL.: Information having been received that Forrest with a considerable force
of cavalry, had moved to Jackson, Tenn., with the intention either of crossing
the Tennessee and operating in the rear of Chattanooga or of striking some
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 24, 1864
point on the Mississippi or Ohio Rivers, you will move with the effective force
of your command, with a full supply of ammunition and such rations as can be
carried upon the persons of the men, without train or other incumbrance, early
on the morning of the 25th of March, via Somerville toward Jackson, crossing
the Hatchie River at Estenaula or such other points as the information you
obtain may justify. The object of your expedition is to hang upon and harass
the enemy, with a view of impeding his movements as much as possible. You
will not bring him into a general engagement, but rather cut off and capture his
foraging parties, stragglers, &c.
Hold your command well in hand, and do not allow yourself to be drawn into
any trap or to be surprised.
Take any forage or provisions you may find which may be necessary to subsist
your command.
Extend protection as far as possible to people of known loyalty, and rather forage upon secession sympathizers. You are particularly cautioned against allowing your men to straggle or pillage. Issue and enforce the strictest orders upon
this subject, as a deviation from this rule may prove fatal to yourself and command. Look well with reliable scouts to your flanks and rear, as a portion of the
enemy's force is at present; out, and will endeavor to form a junction with Forrest. Communicate as often as possible by courier or otherwise with the nearest
Federal forces, and follow the enemy as long as you may consider it safe and
expedient.
With your excellent knowledge of the county I rely upon your ability to inflict
serious injury upon the enemy without much loss to your own command.
Yours, truly,
B. H. GRIERSON, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 145-146.
March 24, 1864 - "It was east of Union City, at the bridge over the Obion River." Report of
Capt. James H. Odlin, Asst. Adjt.-Gen., U. S. Army, of operations in
Union City environs, connected to Forrest's expedition into West Tennessee and Kentucky
COLUMBUS, KY,
March 24, 1864—8.30 a. m.
It was east of Union City, at the bridge over the Obion River. They have artillery; cannot find actual strength. They seized all citizens, and it was dark. They
brought the artillery to the front as soon as shots were exchanged. No communication with Col. Hawkins; he has no artillery. The boat left at 4 a. m., to bring
the Hickman troops away. Could not get from Union City any sooner to give
orders. They cut the line while I was sending a dispatch. I then brought the
train through safe. I have concentrated two colored companies at one bridge
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 85
March 24, 1864
that were scattered along the road. They are conscripting everybody. I have just
sent the engine out to try and fix the wires, and get information from Col.
Hawkins. My last order was to hold the place, and we would re-enforce him.
He said he thought it was impossible to get back to Columbus. We caught a spy
in Colonel Hawkins' camp last night, but could not get any information from
him.
J. H. ODLIN, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 541.
March 24, 1864 - ca. March 28, 1864 - Scout in force from Memphis to Bolivar, Somerville,
Tennessee and Estenaula, Tennessee
HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis,
March 23, 1864.
Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN:
GEN.: Inclosed please find statement [not found] of scout, who returned this a.
m. I consider it entirely reliable, as it is corroborated by statements of citizens
from canton and other points south. The scout, I have reason to believe, is a
very reliable man.
All the old cavalry at this point have re-enlisted and are now going home on
furlough. What is left is in poor condition and not very reliable. I have consulted with Gen. Buckland and Lieut.-Col. Harris, of Gen. Hurlbut's staff, and
as Gen. Buckland does not consider it best to end any infantry from this point I
have concluded to send Col. Hurst, with the effective force of his regiment (the
Sixth Tennessee), from 800 to 1,000 strong, to hang upon, harass, and watch
the movements of the enemy. He will start to-morrow via Somerville and Bolivar or Estenaula. I will instruct him to communicate at every opportunity with
the nearest point. His men are thoroughly acquainted with the country, and I
have no doubt that he will be able to impede the movements of the enemy.
~~~
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. H. GRIERSON, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 132.
March 25, 1864 - Federal Scout, Lynnville [Giles county] to Culleoka [Maury county]
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Pulaski, Tenn.,
March 25, 1864.
Maj. FRANK EVANS, Cmdg. Detach. 81st Ohio Inf. Vols. at Nance's Mills:
MAJ.: Lieut. -Col. Adams, commanding at Lynnville, reports that small parties
of rebels, wearing gray uniforms, are hovering around the lines at Culleoka,
well armed and mounted.
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 25, 1864
Send down your mounted men in that direction, to move cautiously and ascertain what force is there, and all facts possible in reference to the same. Capt. De
Hews, secret service, with 10 men, goes to Culleoka to day for the same purpose. Co-operate with him if possible.
Advices from Gen. Dodge at Athens say that two regiments, rebels, have
crossed the river at Eastport and are still crossing.
You will be extremely vigilant and use your mounted force to the best advantage in gaining information of the enemy and his movements, reporting the
same to these headquarters.
By order of Brig. Gen. T. W. Sweeny, commanding
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 152.
March 25, 1864 - "General Orders, No. 16." Prohibition in Nashville
Headquarters, U. S. Forces,
Nashville, Tenn., March 25, 1864.
I. The following instructions have been received from Department Headquarters, viz.,:
"The Order prohibiting the importation or sale of Whisky at Nashville was
intended to apply to all spirituous liquors, and must be so understood and
obeyed."
II. The Provost Marshal will see that this Order is rightly enforced.
III. In accordance therewith, any permit of any nature, heretofore given from
these Headquarters for the sale of liquor, is revoked.
Saloons, Bars, or Eating Houses selling Bitters, Compounded Liquors, or any
thing beyond Wine and Beer, will be closed up and their stock confiscated.
By order of Brig. Gen. R. S. Granger.
Nashville Dispatch, March 20, 1864.
March 25, 1864 - Civilian pursuit of thieves from the 55th Ohio in Maury County
. . . Soldiers came to the shop & at Puse's house and presented there pistols
cocked at George, make him give up his money they then commenced to rob
Anderson & Jack about that time I got word of it & went to their releaf charged
upon them they give back & I ordered the blacks to take them, the soldiers took
to there heels [and] ran crossed the field fence runing south east until they got
to the S. E. Corner of the field then they crossed the fence into Warfield's
woods there Anderson & Jack overtook them with 2 double shot guns the fight
ensued from behind trees 7 guns were fired, 4 pistols by the soldiers 7 & 3 guns
by the boys. It terminated by the soldiers beging for quarters by giving up there
money they had robed the boys of they went on to there command told they
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 87
March 25, 1864
were attacked by the gurillas & one of them got his wounds dressed & put in a
wagon & went on[.]
These troops camped last night near & south of Town on there way to the
front[.] [T]hey were the 55[th] Ohio Infantry[,] Col. Jones & Maj. Doss was
the officers.
Diary of Nimrod Porter, March 25, 1864.
March 25, 1864 - Scout Mossy Creek to Dandridge
•See March 25, 1864--Scout, Mossy Creek to Mouth of Chucky
March 25, 1864 - Scout, Mossy Creek to Mouth of Chucky
MOSSY CREEK, March 25, 1864.
Gen. SCHOFIELD:
Scouts just in from Dandridge and Mouth of Chucky. Rebels reported to have
gone up toward Greenville. It is reported by citizens just from Bull's Gap that
the infantry has left; none at Blue Springs. A small squad of cavalry at the gap.
I have and will send my men out on all of the different roads toward and
beyond the gap.
R. A. CRAWFORD, Col. and Chief of Scouts.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 150.
March 25, 1864 - Expedition from Somerville toward Jackson, Hatchie River and
Estenaula, Tennessee
•See March 24, 1864--Colonel Fielding-Hurst's orders to "hang upon and
harass" Nathan Bedford Forrest and "forage upon secession sympathizers."
March 25, 1864 - Expeditions, Cumberland Gap and Clinch Valley from Powder Spring
Gap
HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Powder Spring Gap,
March 24, 1864—9 p. m.
Brig. Gen. J. D. COX, Chief of Staff:
GEN.: I changed my camp here this afternoon. I have not more than a day and
piece of rations on hand, but trust to get up a train to-morrow, which will give
me a supply for three or four days. So soon as this is received I will send an
expedition of cavalry and infantry through this gap into the Clinch Valley, with
a view to opening communication with Gen. Garrard at Cumberland Gap, and
to see what the rebels are doing on the other side of the mountains (Clinch). I
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 25, 1864
will also send an expedition up this valley toward Bean's Station, the fords of
the Holston, &c.
No news of interest this evening.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
TH. J. WOOD, Brig.-Gen. Volunteers, Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 137.
March 25, 1864 - Uncertainties with logistics efforts of Federal Army Quartermaster Corps
in Tennessee
NASHVILLE, TENN., March 25, 1864.
Gen. M. C. MEIGS, Washington:
DEAR GEN.: I write you a private note to tell you of the progress of things
here. Sherman has taken command, and this morning Gen. Allen arrived for
the purpose of accompanying him to Decatur, Chattanooga, Knoxville, & C.
Gen. Sherman told me Allen must be his chief quartermaster, and I frankly said
to him that I had no fancy, after all I had done, to come under Gen. Allen, as I
thought I had been treated bad enough already without additional degradation.
He replied that he must have a quarter-master with powers co-ordinate with his
own, and that he would urge my promotion, & C.; that Gen. Allen would not
interfere with me, but would rather increase my powers, & C. Now all this is
very well, but it is a bitter pill to me to swallow, notwithstanding all the sugarcoating on it, for I am conscious of having earnestly worked for the good of the
service.
The horse and mule question still drags slowly. There is great want of both in
the front, and the prospect is anything but flattering.
I have exhausted all the power I possess to bring both forward, and can do no
more. The department is slowly improving. Reports come forward more
promptly, and we are beginning to approximate to the true state of things. You
can see this in the reports forwarded to your office. I have received and disposed of a vast amount of freight in the last month. I do not believe that the
Government ever dealt with such a huge pile at so little cost, both in transportation and demurrage; and, moreover, I have not lost a pound by sudden rising of
the river. The other day it came up 20 feet, but, fearing it, I worked several
thousand men all night, and saved everything. Last year they lost 1,000 tons by
just such a rise. I am still in want of workmen. I pay $40 a month to laborers,
and cannot get enough at that. The want of labor is my great trouble. I have
now three railroads out of Nashville, and require an officer for each road, and a
disbursing officer for all. The railroads will be an enormous item in our
expenses, as rolling-stock, motive power, and materials increase, and employes
will be a small army of themselves. I want a first-rate officer to disburse for all
of them.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 89
March 25, 1864
I have Capt. Crane in charge of the Nashville and Chattanooga Road, under
Col. McCallum; Capt. Ruger in charge of the Northwestern, and think of placing Capt. Brown, now at Clarksville, in charge of the Decatur road—Tennessee
and Alabama Road. I have instructed Capt. Ruger to put up store-houses and
prepare a levee at Reynoldsburg, the terminus of the Northwestern Railroad,
and shall send a couple of saw-mills there, and the requisite materials. I find I
must act in the matter, as the road will be soon completed to the Tennessee
River.
Very truly, yours,
J. L. DONALDSON.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 154-155.
March 25, 1864 - "Sale of Condemned Horses."
•See May 11, 1863--"Sale of Condemned Horses."
Capt. Isom, on behalf of the Government, in the last three days sold 190 condemned horses, Capt. Hanmer acting as auctioneer, and Mr. C. H. W. Bent officiating as clerk. The whole sale realized $6003, which is considered a fair
figure. The highest price paid was $390, and the lowest one dollar. When a
horse will not sell at all another one is brought up and the buyer must take the
pair. The $390 was a handsome mare, and was bought by Mr. A. J. Gilbert. Mr.
Henderson, of this city, bid $380 for her.
Nashville Dispatch, March 25, 1864.
March 25, 1864 - "A Nashville Boy at Rock Island."
A friend has just received a letter from Mr. William A. Moss,NOTE 1 dated at
Rock Island, March 9; in it Mr. Moss says he passed through Nashville on the
9th August last, for Camp Chase, where he remained until the 14th Jan., since
which time he has been at Rock Island, Ill. He says he has been well treated,
but hopes to be released. He is anxious to hear from Nashville, about his old
associates, among he enumerates a dozen or so. Among his prison companions
are Louis Ledbetter, Anderson Epps, Davy Randall, and Green McIntosh; who
are in good health, and send greetings to friends.
Nashville Dispatch, March 25, 1864.
NOTE 1: There is no reference to William A. Moss in the OR. Moss is not otherwise
identified, nor is his age, or those of his "associates" given. Perhaps he was
a drummer boy for the Confederate army.
Page 90 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 27, 1864
March 25, 1864 - "Sprinkle the Streets."
We have been somewhat surprised that the streets should be allowed to remain
in such a dusty condition for so long a time, without resorting to the old
method of sprinkling with hose; but took it for granted that the scarcity of
water in the reservoir was the cause. Yesterday morning we were informed that
such was not the fact, the engineer stating that he can supply water in abundance for any purpose. Section 7 of Chapter 8, City Laws, provides the manner
of obtaining water for sprinkling purposes. It says:The water shall be supplied to those applying, from and after the date of the
application, until the first of the succeeding January, at the rate of sixty cents
[by a law passed 24th of April, 1863, raised to $1.20] per lineal foot for each
foot of hose, used, including length of nozzle, which tax shall in all cases be
paid in advance to the Water tax collector, the said tax, in all cases, to be paid
before the water is supplied by the superintendent.
Section 10 of the same chapter provides that sprinkling shall be done between
the houses of seven and ten in the morning, and four and six in the evening,
and imposes a fine of $5 on anyone violating the provisions of the act.
Nashville Dispatch, March 25, 1864.
March 26, 1864 - U. S. C. T. in Sparta
. . . The Yankees are still in Sparta, not only there but have some negro soldiers
there too. They were bad enough but when it comes to negroes, Heaven defend
us! It is indeed humiliating, but the country deserves to be humiliated. Even to
the very dust. . .
Diary of Amanda McDowell.
March 27, 1864 - Affair at Louisville, Tennessee
MARCH 27, 1864.-Affair at Louisville, Tenn.
Report of Lieut. Col. Robert O. Selfridge, Assistant Inspector-Gen.
LOUDOUN, March 28, 1864.
Brig.-Gen. Wagner reports that 15 to 20 mounted rebels dashed into Louisville
yesterday [27th], captured a Union citizen,NOTE 1 and left in the direction of the
town of Maryville.
R. O. SELFRIDGE, Lieut.-Col., Assistant Inspector-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 629.
NOTE 1: There is no evidence to indicate the fate of the Union citizen dragooned by
the Confederate forces.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 91
March 27, 1864
March 27, 1864 - Scout from Memphis to Somerville
No circumstantial reports filed.
HDQRS. CAVALRY DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis,
Tenn., March 27, 1864.
Col. GEORGE E. WARING, Jr., Cmdg. First Cavalry Brigade:
COL.: You will organize a force of 300 men from your command, well
mounted, armed, and equipped, with five days' light rations and a full supply of
ammunition, to proceed northeast of this point with a view of operating on the
left of Col. Hurst, who is now in the vicinity of Somerville. Select a good
officer to go in command and let him report here for further instructions.
Maj. Thompson will start in the morning with such mounted force of the Sixth
Tennessee as he can gather up, via Raleigh, with the intention of joining Col.
Hurst above Somerville. Let the officer report here as early as possible in the
morning.
By order of Brig. Gen. B. H. Grierson
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 169.
March 27, 1864 - Major-General James Longstreet's vision for a spring campaign originating from East Tennessee
HDQRS., Greeneville, East Tenn., March 27, 1864.
Brig. Gen. T. JORDAN, Chief of Staff, Dept. of S. C., Ga., and Fla.:
GEN.: Your latter of the 19th and the general's telegram were received
yesterday. . . a copy of my letter to the President. . . will explain my proposition for the spring campaign in the West.
The troops in this department are living on half ration of meat and bread, without any good reason to hope for better prospects. Our animals are in the same
condition, with the hope of getting grass in a month more. Supplies seem to be
about as scarce all over the Confederacy. It seems a necessity, therefore, that
we should advance, and this route seems to offer more ready and complete
relief than any other. If we had an abundance of supplies it seems to me that we
should go into Kentucky as a political move.
If we retain our present position the enemy will, in the course of a few months,
be able to raise large additional forces, and when entirely ready he will again
concentrate his forces upon some point, and will eventually get possession, and
he will continue to proceed in the same way to the close of the chapter. If we go
into Kentucky, and can there unite with Gen. Johnston's army, we shall have
force enough to hold. The enemy will be more or less demoralized and dishearten by the great loss of territory which he will sustain, and he will find
great difficulty in getting men enough to operate with before the elections in
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 27, 1864
the fall, when in all probability Lincoln will be defeated and peace will follow
in the spring.
The political opponents of Mr. Lincoln can furnish no reason at this late day
against the war so long as it is successful with him, and thus far it has certainly
been as successful as any one could reasonably expect. If however, his opponents were to find at the end of three years that we held Kentucky and were as
well to do as at the beginning of the war, it would be a powerful argument
against Lincoln and against the war. Lincoln's re-election seems to depend
upon the result of your efforts during the present year. If he is reelected, the
war must continue, and I see no way of defeating his re-enlisted except by military success.
I was under the impression that Gen. Beauregard could bring into the field at
least 20,000 men. These, which what we have here, could go into Kentucky
and force the Yankee army out of Tennessee as far back as the borders of Kentucky. If the enemy should attack us before Johnston joins us, he would be
obliged to do so in some haste, and we ought, therefore, to be able to beat him.
If he uses caution we could maneuver so as to avoid battle and make a junction
with Johnston, when we could advance to the Ohio.
This, though, should be done without delay and before the enemy can have
time to begin his plans. If he beings to operate I fear that we shall adopt our
usual policy of concentrating our troops just where he wants them. Dalton, as
you say, would be a more easy point of concentration, but I should have to
travel a thousand miles to get there, and should then be twice as far from Louisiana as I am at present. His troops (the general's) would be farther from Louisville at Dalton than they would be at Morganton, N. C., and they would be
quite as far from Louisville at Dalton as they would be at Greenville or Spartanburg, S. C. From Dalton we should be obliged to march through a country
that may not be able to supply the army. My chief objection to Dalton, however, is the time that will be occupied in getting there and getting away from
there. One or the other I regard as essential.
You speak of the enemy getting behind us to fortify the Cumberland Mountain
passes. This I regard as next to an impossibility. He will be obliged to seek a
base before he can anything else, and whilst he is doing Johnston can open
ours, and we shall have the mountain passes besides.
I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. LONGSTREET, Lieut.-Gen., Cmdg.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 679-680.
March 27, 1864 - Changes in human nature caused by the war, opinion from a young woman
in Cleveland
A lovely day. The sun arose in resplendent glory this morn, auguring a beautiful Sabbath, but how marred is the terrestrial world, we heard not the clear
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 93
March 27, 1864
chimes of the [church] bell peel forth, but in its place we are greeted by the
oaths &curses of our fellow men. Sad degeneracy of human nature, caused by
war! Two East Tennessee renegades here this morn. If this war was only over.
Why are we scourged so bitterly? My conscience answers for our sins. Bitter
indeed is the chalice. What will be another year hence? I am in hopes the wheel
of time will in its revolution bring peace, but my hopes are very shallow. It
seems hardly possible. . .
Diary of Myra Adelaide Inman, p. 241.
March 27, 1864 - "General Orders, No. 17." appointment of Nashville Public Health Officer
Headquarters, U. S. Forces
Nashville, Tenn., March 27, 1864.
I. Pursuant to orders from the Assistant Surgeon General U. S. A., Surgeon L.
A. James, 4th O. V. C., is announced as Health Officer for the Post of Nashville. He will be obeyed and respected accordingly,
By order of Brig. Gen. R. S. Granger
Nashville Dispatch, March 30, 1864.
March 27, 1864 - Belle Edmondson's reaction to news of Union City's fall to Forrest
March, Sunday 27, 1864
. . . Forrest captured Union City Thursday, taking 800 prisoners. God grant he
may be successful in all his attempts to gain our lost teritory. The Yanks as yet
have not started after him, oh! heaven keep my Bro safe-All my little household asleep, and I am lonely, oh! so lonely. Staid in Parlor until 10 o'c, Father
made us all retire-Mr. Harbut, Mr. Pugh & Jim he took with himDiary of Belle Edmondson
March 28, 1864 - Skirmish on Obey's River
MARCH 28, 1864.-Skirmish on Obey's River, Tenn.
Report of Brig. Gen. Edward H. Hobson, U. S. Army, commanding District of
Southern Central Kentucky.
CAVE CITY, KY., March 30, 1864.
COL.: I have just received by couriers from Cumberland River the following
information: Capt. Watson, of Thirteenth Kentucky Cavalry, fought Col.
Hughs on Obey's River in Tennessee; captured 2, killing 3. Hughs' men threw
away their guns; left their horses. It is thought by Col. Weatherford that Hughs
cannot possibly get out, for the reason that our troops are so disposed and stationed, and will prevent his escape.
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 28, 1864
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. H. HOBSON, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, pp. 644-645.
March 28, 1864 - Report relative to Federal scouts in the Cleveland environs
CLEVELAND, TENN., March 28, 1864.
Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE, Asst. Adjt. Gen. and Chief of Staff, Dept. of the
Cumberland:
I have the honor to report everything quiet. Scouts from my command go to
Waterhouse's farm, on Spring Place road, and Red Clay, on Dalton. The enemy
advanced his picket 2 miles day before yesterday on Dalton road. His picket is
now 3 1/2 miles south of Red Clay and at upper King's Bridge.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. P. CAMPBELL, Col., Cmdg. Division.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 174-175.
March 28, 1864 - Federal scouts from Mossy Creek to Bull's Gap
MOSSY CREEK, March 28, 1864.
Gen. SCHOFIELD:
I have scouts just from Bull's Gap; they report rebel infantry nearly all gone,
and are daily leaving the country. Cavalry at the gap not thought to be many;
also squads of cavalry in all the gaps and roads between Bull's Gap and the
bend of the Nola Chucky, 1 mile below the mouth of Lick Creek. They say the
citizens told them the infantry are moving to Virginia, and in few days the cavalry will go to Kentucky. Gen. Vaughn had pickets stationed 7 miles below
Rogersville on Saturday and Sunday; the cars came to Bull's Gap Friday. The
men are said to be deserting by hundreds and going to North Carolina, the
roads being so closely guarded they cannot come this way.
R. A. CRAWFORD, Chief of Scouts.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 174.
March 28, 1864 - Federal orders to Major L. F. Booth to occupy and hold Fort Pillow from
attack by Forrest
HDQRS. SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., March 28, 1864.
Maj. L. F. BOOTH, Cmdg. First Battalion, First Alabama Siege Artillery:
SIR: You will proceed with your own battalion to Fort Pillow and establish
your force in garrison of the works there. As you will be, if I am correct in my
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 95
March 28, 1864
memory, the senior officer at that post, you will take command, conferring,
however, freely and fully with Maj. Bradford, Thirteenth Tennessee Cavalry,
whom you will find a good officer, though not of much experience.
There are two points of land fortified at Fort Pillow, one of which only is now
held by our troops. You will occupy both, either with your own troops alone, or
holding one with yours and giving the other in charge to Maj. Bradford.
The positions are commanding and can be held by a small force against almost
any odds.
I shall send you at this time two 12-pounder howitzers, as I hope it will not be
necessary to mount heavy guns.
You will, however, immediately examine the ground and the works, and if in
your opinion 20-pounder Parrotts can be advantageously used, I will order
them to you. My own opinion is that there is not range enough. Maj. Bradford
is well acquainted with the country, and should keep scouts well out and forward all information received direct to me.
I think Forrest's check at Paducah will not dispose him to try the river again,
but that he will fall back to Jackson and thence cross the Tennessee. As soon as
this is ascertained I shall withdraw your garrison.
Nevertheless, act promptly in putting the work in perfect order and the post
into its strongest defense. Allow as little intercourse as possible with the country and cause all supplies which go out to be examined with great strictness. No
man whose loyalty is questionable should be allowed to come in or go out
while the enemy is in West Tennessee. The post must be held.
Your obedient servant,
S. A. HURLBUT, Maj.-Gen.
HDQRS. SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., March 28, 1864.
Maj. W. F. BRADFORD, Thirteenth Tennessee Cavalry:
MAJ.: I send to Fort Pillow four companies colored artillery, who are also
drilled as infantry, and two 12-pounder howitzers.
These are good troops, well tried and commanded by a good officer. Maj.
Booth ranks you and will take command. He has full instructions in writing,
which he will show you. I think these troops had better hold the forts, while
yours are held for exterior garrison. In case of an attack, you will of course
seek refuge in the fortifications.
Keep yourself well posted as to what is going on in the country and keep me
advised. I doubt if Forrest will risk himself in the pocket between the Hatchie
and Forked Deer, but he may try it. At all events, with 700 good men, your post
can be held until assistance arrives.
Your obedient servant,
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 28, 1864
S. A. HURLBUT, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 176-177.
March 28, 1864 - Distribution of Lincoln's amnesty proclamation to Confederates in Tennessee
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Nashville, Tenn.,
March 28, 1864.
Maj.-Gen. MCPHERSON, Cmdg. Department of the Tennessee:
GEN.: Obeying instructions from the Secretary of War, dated War Department,
Adjutant-Gen.'s Office, Washington, February 14, 1864, I have the honor to
inform you that a number of copies of the President's amnesty proclamation,
dated December 8, 1863, in small pamphlet form, together with copies of General Orders, No. 64, dated War Department, Adjutant-Gen.'s Office, Washington, February 18, 1864, giving instructions as to the disposition to be made of
refugees and rebel deserters coming within our lines, have been ordered to be
forwarded to you for distribution, as far as possible, among the rebel armies
and inhabitants in your front. The Secretary of War directs that upon receiving
the proclamation and order, every effort practicable be made for such distribution by cavalry expeditions, scouts, and other means; and that it be distributed
throughout the rebel country in such numbers that it cannot be suppressed.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 178.
March 28, 1864 - Public Health Orders in Nashville
Office of the Chief of Police
Nashville, Tenn., March 28, 1864.
In accordance with Special Order No. 76, dated March 22nd, it is hereby
ordered:
I. That occupants of Stores, Restaurants and Dwelling Houses, will be required
to clean their yards and cellars, and have the offal removed, within forty-eight
hours from the date of this order. No garbage or dirt of any kind will be
allowed, to accumulate on any premises within the city limits.
II. All dirt to be removed in barrels and boxes from the back yards and alleys
by the persons occupying the same. No rubbish will be allowed to remain more
than twenty-four hours without being removed.
III. Offal, the accumulation of restaurants, must be removed by the occupants
each day (Sundays excepted) before 10 A. M. each day.
IV. Hereafter occupants of Stores and Houses will be required to have the rear
of their premises clean, and the side walk swept before 9 A. M. each day.
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March 1864 — Page 97
March 28, 1864
V. Any violation of the above Order will be punished by a fine of Five Dollars
($5) to be collected by the Provost Marshal.
VI. As cleanliness is one of the first requisites to health, it is hoped the citizens
will all in their power to assist in the moving of the first causes of disease. As
soon as a sufficient number of carts can be procured, notice will be given, and
the dirt and rubbish removed without cost to citizens.
VII. As it is my intention to remove all filth from the city proper, whether in
the shape of dirt, rubbish, or deal animals; any information that would facilitate
the above will be thankfully received and immediate action taken in the premises.
Wm. D. Chamberlain, Capt. and Chief of City Police.
Nashville Union, March 29, 1864.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: See also April 10, 1864.
March 28, 1864 - Abe Clendening to William Miller relating army life in the Chattanooga
environs
Chattanooga Tenn March 28th [1864]
Friend William
I received your letter dated the 20th. I also received the paper you sent me and
was very much oblige to you for it. I am well at this time. I have just come
from church and have just ate my dinner which was bean soup and now I feel
first rate. They was a man preached to day that put me very much in mind of
Mr. Meachum as it wear. The 41st came here on the 16th. They stayed all night
at the depot on the cars and left next morning for Knoxville. They all seemed to
be in good spirits. I got to see all the boys but [C or G] Bailey, he was not at the
depot when I got there and I could not wait to see him.
I heard this morning that the Meahcia [Militia] was going to be called out to
garrison different places and that the old soldiers were going to the front. If it is
true I think it will be a first rate idea.
I received a letter from James Johnson a few days ago, he is very anxious to
hear from the Port Clinton girls. If you will let me know. I will send him a letter and tell him and then we will both know. I suppose you are posted especially on the corner. Henry Anglebeck talked about the nice times he had and
from his talk I think that the girls made him believe he was about right. But not
with standing his funny ways he is a first rate fellow.
This has been a nice day but we have had some very unpleasant wether. Last
Sunday night it commenced snowing and snowed untill Monday afternoon and
the snow was 14 inches deep and we have had some rain since but it has
cleared of[f] now and the grass begins to look green.
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March 29, 1864
Well I have no news to write of much importance so I will close by sending my
respects to all who may enquire after me if there be any. Dont forget to write
often, your letters are welcome visitors to me.
Yours truly
A Clendening
Miller Family Papers.
March 29, 1864 - Skirmish between Bolivar and Somerville
Report of Maj. P. Jones Yorke, Second New Jersey Cavalry, of skirmish near
Bolivar.
HDQRS. FIRST Brig., CAVALRY DIVISION, 16TH CORPS, Camp Grierson, near Memphis, March 30, 1864.
CAPT.: I inclose two reports received this day from scouting parties from my
command.
I respectfully call attention to the fact that the cavalry which repulsed Col.
Hurst must be a force which we have not taken into consideration, as it seems
not to have been McCulloch's, and could not have been Forrest's.
I have every road near me picketed at a distance of from 2 to 3 1/2 miles.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. E. WARING, JR., Col. Fourth Missouri Cavalry, Cmdg.
HDQRS. DETACHMENT FIRST CAVALRY BRIGADE,
Raleigh, Tenn., March 30, 1864—12 m.
Col. Hurst, Sixth Tennessee Cavalry, was attacked and whipped yesterday
between Somerville and Bolivar by a brigade of the enemy's cavalry. He lost
all his trains, Capt. Moore killed, the surgeon captured, and a great many men
killed, wounded, and missing. As it was reported by a prisoner I captured yesterday afternoon near Somerville that a force under Gen. Chalmers from
LaGrange was advancing toward this river, I thought it best to fall back and
hold the ferries at Shelby and this point.
I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
P. JONES YORKE, Maj., Cmdg. Department.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 585.
JACKSON, TENN., April 2, 1864.
Lieut.-Gen. POLK:
SIR:
~~~
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 99
March 29, 1864
Col. Neely engaged Hurst on the 29th of March near Bolivar, capturing his
entire wagon train, routing and driving him to Memphis, killing 30 and capturing 35 prisoners, killing 2 captains and capturing 1. . .
~~~
N. B. FORREST, Maj.-Gen.NOTE 1
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 733.
NOTE 1: General Chalmers added the following detail to the route of Colonel Hurst's
Sixth Cavalry in his April 20, 1864 address to his troops on their raid into
West Tennessee: "Col. Neely, of the Thirteenth Tennessee, [CS] met the
traitor [Fielding] Hurst at Bolivar, and after a short conflict, in which we
killed and captured 75 prisoners of the enemy, drove Hurst hatless into
Memphis, leaving in our hands all his wagons, ambulances, papers, and his
mistresses, both black and white."
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 31, pt. I, p. 623.
March 29, 1864 - Federal scouts, to 2 1/2 miles south of Red Clay
CLEVELAND, TENN., March 29, 1864.
Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland:
I have the honor to report that my scouts have just reported from 2 1/2 miles
south of Red Clay. Lines of the enemy on that and Spring Place road the same;
everything quiet except firing (artillery) in direction of Ringgold or Tunnel
Hill. Another scouting party from Spring Place road report Martin's cavalry
command moving around on the left of their line to a place called Blue Pond or
Blue Mountain.
Eight thousand infantry from Longstreet's command said to have joined
Johnston's forces at Dalton.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. P. CAMPBELL.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 179.
March 29, 1864 - "Mount Olivet Cemetery"
The Local of the Press visited this cemetery last Saturday evening, and for a
time revelled in its melancholy beauty."Though this is still one of the most
beautiful cities of the dead, (he says,) the iron heel of war has left its imprint on
its history. Many of its shade trees and much of the shrubbery have been wantonly destroyed, and several private vaults have been broken open, the door
robbed of their silver mounting, and, in some cased, the tops of the coffins
have been forced open. All good men, whether citizens or soldiers, should
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March 29, 1864
frown down such shameful lawlessness, and endeavor to bring the guilty party
to punishment. The home of the dead should be the most sacred spot on earth,
and every precaution used to prevent bad men from touching it with their polluted hands. The enclosure has been torn down, and cattle now roam over the
graves at will, and the graveyard is not the sacred spot that it should be."
Nashville Dispatch, March 29, 1864.
March 29, 1864 - "Jack McGavock Shot."
One of the most notorious thieves and desperate of negroes in this neighborhood, was shot by the guard about eight o'clock yesterday morning. Mr. William Patterson, the superintendent, had taken Jack, with others, from the
workhouse to near the water works, when Jack broke away and ran some distance refusing to halt when called upon. A shot was fired after him, but still he
pushed on, when Mr. Patterson, Jack being about eighty yards off, fired again,
the ball entering the back and killing him instantly. P. B. Coleman, at the work
house, when the jury returned a verdict in accordance with the above facts,
adding "that the jury do further find that said Patterson was fully justified, by
the law of the State of Tennessee in shooting said negro." The jury consisted of
W. H. Fuller, W. D. Howe, Wm. T. Wright; Wm. Buchanan, N. W. Moore,
Wm. B. Powell, W. F. Simpson.
Nashville Dispatch, March 29, 1864.
March 29, 1864 - Encounter of the bovine kind on the Nashville & Northwestern Railroad
"The Northwestern Railroad."
A raid was made upon the Northwestern road on Tuesday [29th] evening by
some Confederates, who captured a train and tore up a large portion of the
track. A large force of infantry has been sent in the direction with Gen. Gillem
at the head, but the birds will have flown before he reaches where they were.
Nashville Dispatch, March 31, 1864.
The Raid on the Northwestern Railroad.—After a diligent inquiry, we have
learned the particulars of the raid upon the Northwestern Railroad, to which
allusion was made in the DISPATCH of yesterday. It appears that the engineer
saw the enemy some distance ahead, but thought he had better put on a bold
front and push ahead. To give notice of something in the wind he blew his
horn, and the enemy fell back; the engineer then "let her rip," the cow jumped
on the track and the locomotive jumped off, carrying with it down a fifteen feet
embankment seven cars. The engineer was somewhat injured, the cow was
killed, and the cars were smashed up to some extent, as might naturally be
expected.
Nashville Dispatch, April 1, 1864.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 101
March 29, 1864
March 29, 1864 - "CLEANLINESS."
Capt. Wm. D. Chamberlain, the Chief of the Military Police of this post, has
issued a very important order-one which interest every citizen, and which we
hope every person will aid the Chief in carrying out. The following is the order
we allude to. Read it carefully, and file it away:
Office, Chief of Police
Nashville, Tenn., March 28, 1864
In accordance with Special Order No. 76, dated March 22, it is hereby ordered:
I. That occupants of Stores, Restaurants, and Dwelling Houses, will be
required to clean their yards and cellars, and have the offal removed, within
forth-eight hours from the date of this order. No garbage or dirt of any kind will
be allowed to accumulate on any premises within the city limits.
II. All dirt to be removed in barrels and boxes from the back yards and alleys
by the persons occupying the same. No rubbish will be allowed to remain more
than twenty-four hours without being removed.
III. Offal, the accumulation of Restaurants, must be removed by the occupants
each day (Sundays excepted) before 10 A. M. All ashes and rubbish will be set
in barrels on the sidewalk before 10 A. M. each day.
IV. Hereafter occupants of Stores and Houses will be required to have the rear
of their premises clean, and the side-walk swept before 9 A. M. each day.
V. Any violation of the above Order will be punished by a fine of Five Dollars
($5,) to be collected by the Provost Marshal.
VI. As cleanliness is one of the first requisites to health, it is hoped the citizens
will do all in their power to assist in removing one of the first causes of disease.
As soon as a sufficient number of carts can be procured, notice will be given,
and the dirt and rubbish removed without cost to citizens.
VII. As it is my intention to remove all filth from the city proper, whether in
the shape of dirt, rubbish, or dead animals, all information that would facilitate
the above will be thankfully received and immediate action taken in the premises.
Wm. D. Chamberlain, Capt. and Chief of City Police
Nashville Dispatch, March 29, 1864.
March 29, 1864 - First Lieutenant Robert Cruikshank, 123rd New York Infantry Regiment,
letter home to his wife Mary
Camp 123rd Regt., N. Y. S. V.
Elk River, Tenn.,
March 29, 1864.
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March 29, 1864
Dear Mary,We have had several fine, warm days almost like the days of June at home. We
have plenty to do every day. There was a Rev. Mr. Bell preached for us last
Sabbath. I hear we are to have a Chaplain again, a Mr. White, formerly of
Whitehall, N. Y., a Methodist minister. . .
~~~
We are drilling three hours every day now. All reports and muster rolls are
being made out, arms and accouterments are being put into the best of order
and everything looks as if we were to move soon.
Write as often as you can if you do not hear from me and I will get it sometime.
We have no orders yet, nor do I know when they will come. I am only expecting they may come at any time.
With love to all,
R. Cruikshank.
Robert Cruikshank Letters.
March 29, 1864 - Guerrilla raid on U. S. M. R. R. NOTE 1
The Northwestern Road.—A raid was made upon the Northwestern road on
Tuesday [29th] evening by some Confederates, who captured a train and tore
up a large portion of the track. A large force of infantry has been sent in the
direction with Gen. Gillem at the head, but the birds will probably have flown
before he reaches where they were.
Nashville Dispatch, March 31, 1864
NOTE 1: Referenced in neither the OR nor Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee.
March 29, 1864 - March 31, 1864 - Scout from Lookout Valley to Deer Head Cove, GA
MARCH 29-31, 1864.-Scout from Lookout Valley to Deer Head Cove, Ga.
Report of Capt. George W. Woolly, One hundred and second Illinois Infantry.
HDQRS. ONE HUNDRED AND SECOND ILL. VOL. INFTY., Lookout Valley, Tenn., March 31, 1864.
SIR: In accordance with your orders I proceeded with 13 men, on the night of
the 29th, to Trenton, which I reached at daylight of the 30th, where I remained
until 7 o'clock and then moved to the Easley farm, but having no reliable information of the movements of the enemy I procured a guide of the name of Long
and ascended the mountains at that point by what is known as the State road. I
then followed the crest of the mountain to a point opposite Trenton, where I
descended by a part known as the Seaton or Silton Gap, without seeing an
enemy. I learned from a resident of the mountain by the name of McKaig that
there were on Sunday last about 20 or 30 rebel soldiers on the mountain at that
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March 30, 1864
point, and last heard from they were proceeding toward a gap known as Campbell's Gap on the other side of the mountain. I could discover no trace of an
enemy, either by sign of camp or track of horses since the rain.
While at Long's house in the valley, some 4 or 5 miles above Trenton, I discovered a flag on the Raccoon Mountain at a point, I should judge, about 7 miles
above Trenton. Having no glass my view was very indistinct, but should think
it was used for signal purposes; and while on Lookout Mountain I observed
smoke in that vicinity, much resembling the smoke of a camp. One of the rebel
soldiers that was on Lookout Mountain on Sunday wished to ascertain from
McKaig the disposition of the Federal forces at Wauhatchie; also wished to
know if there were Federal forces stationed at Whiteside's, and also stated that
picking up deserters was not his present business. He asked McKaig if he
(McKaig) thought he could get to Bridgeport, and rather inferred that he was
ordered to that place. I observed the Lookout Valley from different point on
Lookout Mountain, but could discover no movements of the enemy therein.
GEO. W. WOOLLY, Capt., Cmdg. Scout.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, p. 652.
March 30, 1864 - "Out on Bail;" violation of oaths of amnesty and allegiance in Nashville
Harvey Adkins, who was arrested in Edgefield, a few days ago, charged with
the violation of his oath of amnesty, was released from custody on Monday
under $5,000 bonds to appear before the Provost Marshal when called for.
Messrs. Alexander and Allen, lately arrested for a violation of their allegiance
were liberated yesterday on giving bonds in $5,000 for their appearance every
ten days before the Provost Marshal.
Nashville Dispatch, March 30, 1864.
March 30, 1864 - "Sent to the Penitentiary."
Mrs. Doctor Helfer and Mrs. Catherine Mahan were arrested on Monday for
selling whisky, and sent to the Penitentiary.
John Cunningham, of Kentucky, Surgeon C. S. A., was sent for Clarksville to
the headquarters on Monday, and subsequently sent to the Penitentiary by Col.
Horner, subject to Gen. Rousseau's orders.
Nashville Dispatch, March 30, 1864.
March 30, 1864 - "The Powder Magazine." NOTE 1
Weak nerves have been sadly shattered periodically for the past eighteen
months, by every fire and every thunder storm, by every alarm, and by the
reading of accounts of every explosion, by the possessors of said weak nerves,
who could not forget that we had in our midst a volcano, waiting to be
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March 30, 1864
"touched off," to consign all living creatures in Nashville and vicinity to kingdom come. We are rejoiced at being able to inform these persons that their
fears will soon be set at rest; that the large magazine which has been for some
time under process of construction, is rapidly approaching completion, and
will be, when finished, the most capacious and most thorough magazine in the
country. The magazine was planned and built by Lieut. Willet,NOTE 2 of the
38th Illinois, and is thus described by the editor of the Times:NOTE 3
The magazine is built on the site of the old city hospital which was destroyed
by fire in February, 1863, and is situated in the centre of a yard of eight acres,
which is surrounded by a stone wall. When completed it will be bomb-proof,
and will be covered with at least two feet of earth. The magazine is over two
hundred feet long and sixty five feet wide. It is lighted by means of reflecting
lamps, which are placed in fire proof chambers outside of the structure, the
light passing through windows into the magazine. It is thoroughly ventilated,
having fourteen ventilators, besides high and large double doors at each end.
There is an air space all around the lining, flooring and ceiling, and the ground,
walls and roof. This space connects all around, and is also provided with ventilators, so that dampness cannot reach the magazine. Besides these are large
drains running under the entire work. A branch railway is being built to connect the magazine yard with the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad, and is
nearly finished. The structure has been named "Magazine Granger," in honor
of the immense quantities of powder and fixed ammunition, which has for a
long time jeopardized the lives of our people and the existence of the town, has
been transferred to the structure above mentioned.
Nashville Dispatch, March 30, 1864.
NOTE 1: Contemporary schematic drawings of the powder magazine are located at
the Tennessee Division of Archaeology.
NOTE 2: Unidentified. No mention is made of him in the OR.
NOTE 3: Probably the Nashville Daily Press and Times
March 30, 1864 - Confederate smuggling in Shelby County
March, Wednesday 30, 1864
It seems I can never go to Memphis without some disagreeable arrangements
and sayings. I was greatly disappointed in my trip. Tate and I went together. I
stoped at Mrs. Facklen's on Union St.-she went on up to Cousin Frazor's in the
buggy-Mrs. Facklen and Mrs. Kirk in great distress, old Hurbbut [i.e., Gen.
Hurlbut] gave her ten days to abandon her house, she took an old Yankee
Officer, his Wife & two children to board with her, hoping he would recall the
heartless order to make her and her little children homeless. I did not smuggle a
thing through the lines, except some letters. Mr. Tommery gave me a permit to
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 105
March 30, 1864
bring 2 Gals Whiskey and 5 bbs Tobacco-which I got home safely. Frazor
came out in the buggy with me, Cousin Mat and Tate came together, we did not
have any trouble at all-they all sat up very late in the Parlor, I came to my room
early. Jim and Mr. Pugh came with me to try my whiskey-which they pronounced very good.
I received a letter from Mrs. Moses today-and am really distressed she did not
receive the last I forwarded to her. Forrest is having his own way in KentuckyGod grant Eddie may be safe.
Diary of Belle Edmondson.
March 30, 1864 - A Report of a Practical Joke in Newport
A Laughable Affair.
A correspondent of the Southern Confederacy writing from Newport, Tenn.,
relates the following:
A laughable affair took place yesterday evening at Mr. Jack's not many miles
from here, that was fun for the boys, but death to the officers engaged. During
the evening quite a party of young ladies and officers of the Division met the
aforesaid gentleman's, just outside the picket lines, for the purpose of having a
social party and a good time generally; but alas! for the mutability of human
affairs—they found out, (as the sequel will prove,) that
"Pleasures are like poppies spread,
You seize the flower—its bloom is shed—
Or like the snow falls in the river,
A moment white—then melts forever."
No sooner had they commenced to amuse themselves according to the bent of
their inclinations—some to playing cards, others to courting slyly in corners
upon easy sofas, while the balance of the party were all attention to the warbling sweetness of a fair Miss, who was doing up in appropriate style on the
piano, "When this Cruel War is Over," their whole enjoyment was upset by a
party of mad wags of the 8th Texas Cavalry.
Learning of the party, some fifteen or twenty of them not having a proper fear
of military law before their eyes, and moved and instigated by the power of fun
loving mischief, determined to give them a scare and have some fun at the
expense of the officers.
Accordingly, they set out from camp, and reaching the road a quarter of a mile
ahead of the house, they sent one of their number a hundred yards ahead, to
personate a rebel, then putting spurs to their steeds, they dashed down the road
after him, shooting and shouting, "Stop! you d____d rebel; stop!" The ruse had
the desired effect. A servant heard them coming—rushed to the door, exclaiming: "The Yankees! The Yankees are coming!"
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March 30, 1864
The officers had heard the firing, and no sooner the word Yankees escaped the
negros' lips than they all made a frantic rush for the door, overturning in their
"hot haste," music stands, card tables, chairs, sweethearts, and everything else
that stood in the way of their exit, reaching which, they struck a bee line for the
woods and camp, tumbling over ditches, and fences, and lastly the crowning
fear, plunging in and swimming Pigeon River, leaving behind in their hurry,
pistols, horses, overcoats and hats. Nor did they halt until they reached camp,
where they found the second brigade of Colonel Dibrell's Division drawn up in
battle array, having been alarmed by the firing, to whom they unfolded a terrible tale of raiders. The next morning the true story leaked out to the extreme
mortification of those engaged, but to the edification of the Court.
Montgomery Weekly Advertiser, March 30, 1864.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
March 30, 1864 - Confederate Senator Gustav Foote's wife denied permission to return to
Nashville
Nashville March 30, 1864
Hon. E. M. Stanton
Sec War
Mrs. Senator Foote obtained a pass to go South with the understanding that she
was not to return & I think that she ought to remain there at least till the Close
of the rebellion[.] Oaths or paroles will have but little influence over her[.]
Senator or Representative Foote [and] wife will do us a great deal less harm in
the South than they will in Nashville[.]
Andrew Johnson Mil[.] Gov [.]
Papers of Andrew Johnson, Vol. 6, p. 657.
March 30, 1864 - April 1, 1864 - Reconnaissance from Lookout Valley to McLemore's Cove
MARCH 30-APRIL 1, 1864.-Reconnaissance from Lookout Valley, Tenn., to
McLemore's Cove, Ga.
Report of Col. Adolphus Buschbeck, Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry,
commanding brigade.
HDQRS. FIRST Brig., SECOND DIV., ELEVENTH CORPS, Lookout Valley,
Tenn., April 5, 1864.
COL.: I have the honor to report that, in accordance with orders received from
headquarters Eleventh Army Corps, I left camp on the morning of March 30
with two regiments of infantry and 50 mounted infantry. Encamped that night
between Trenton and Crawfish Creek, with scouts ahead as far as Crawfish
Creek. Left camp March 31 at daybreak, took possession of Johnson's Crook,
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March 30, 1864
keeping the roads to Lebanon and La Fayette well guarded. Went through Cooper's and Stevens' Gaps, and visited McLemore's Cove. Was on the mountain
ridge, but could perceive nothing of the enemy.
Loyal citizens informed me that only a few rebel scouts have been seen there
lately. After having reconnoitered the country well I marched at 4 p. m. back
toward Trenton; encamped near Crawfish Creek; broke camp at daybreak April
1, and arrived here in the afternoon.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. BUSCHBECK, Col., Cmdg. Brigade.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. I, pp. 654-655.
March 30, 1864 - April 1, 1864 - Federal expedition, William's Landing to Purdy
No circumstantial reports filed.
GENERAL ORDERS, No. 6. HDQRS. 4TH DIV., 16TH ARMY CORPS,
Williams' Landing, Tenn., March 29, 1864.
The troops of this command will march at 5 o'clock a. m. on the 30th instant
for Purdy, the First Brigade in advance. Forty rounds of ammunition must be
carried by each man and 20 rounds per man must be carried in wagons. Three
days' rations will be carried in haversacks. Only one wagon and two ambulances per regiment will be allowed. As much forage must be carried as possible with the limited transportation, as the country is supposed to contain but
little.
The troops must march in readiness for battle, as the enemy may be expected at
any moment after leaving our present camp.
By order of Brig. Gen. James C. Veatch:
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 190.
March 31, 1864 - SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 79 relative to punishment of Memphis attorneysat-law John Hallum and John J. Sharp
SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 79. HDQRS. SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., March 31, 1864.
~~~
V. In the case of John Hallum, purporting to be an attorney-at-law, he is convicted of surreptitiously procuring passes and exemptions, and disposing of the
same for large sums of money. The fact of his belonging to an honorable profession enhances his guilt.
The flimsy pretense that as an attorney-at-law he had a right to "charge his clients" for services is too transparent a subterfuge to avail him. A lawyer has the
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March 31, 1864
right to fees' for professional services. It is no part of the practice of the law to
procure fraudulent passes and make merchandise of them.
It is a disgrace to the profession, and would only be indulged in by an unscrupulous pettifogger regardless of reputation and seeking to make money by any
dishonorable trick. It is evident that this man knew that the passes in question
were obtained by some underhand practice, probably by his confederate in
swindling, Cady. No doubt, too, exists that by reason of these base practices
suspicion has been thrown in the public mind upon the officers of the Government as participants in this nefarious traffic.
An example's required in this community, and Mr. Hallum supplies the subject.
It is ordered that John Hallum pay a fine to the United States of $1,000, that he
be confined sixty days at Fort Pickering, and that he be forever prohibited from
directly or indirectly appearing as attorney in any court organized by military
authority, and that at the expiration of the sixty days of imprisonment, if the
fine be not paid, he be imprisoned until the same is paid.
It is further ordered that a copy of this order be sent to the clerk of the United
States court at Memphis, to be laid before the judge thereof at the next sitting,
with the request that the name of said John Hallum be struck from the roll of
attorneys.
~~~
VII. J. W. Sharp, attorney-at-law, has been arraigned and tried for the offense
of smuggling.
The proof shows conclusively that he bribed sentinels on duty to pass out contraband goods, among which were found eighteen pairs cavalry boots.
The evidence is irresistible, and to the ordinary, guilt of smuggling is added the
crime of supplying the enemy with what they most need. The defense sets up
the plea that the evidence of colored persons cannot be received. In this the
counsel betrays great ignorance. The testimony of negroes has been always
received in courts-martial, both in the Army and Navy. Military courts are governed by military law, and there is no distinction as to competency made in
such courts by reason of color. The statutes of Tennessee are in abridgment of
the common law, civil and military, and not binding upon military courts.
All persons who understand the sanctity of an oath are competent witnesses.
The testimony was properly admitted and the guilt is proven.
It is therefore ordered that J. W. Sharp pay a fine of $1,000 to the United States,
that he be imprisoned in the military prison at Alton for three years and until
the fine is paid. It is further ordered that the wagon and team of the witness
Dickerson be restored to him.
~~~
By order of Maj. Gen. S. A. Hurlbut:
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, pp. 206-207.
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March 1864 — Page 109
March 31, 1864
March 31, 1864 - Confederate destruction of railroad trackage and bridges in Lick Creek
and Bull's Gap environs
KNOXVILLE, March 31, 1864.
Maj.-Gen. SHERMAN:
The rebels have all gone from Bull's Gap, and are now beyond Greeneville.
They have destroyed the railroad bridge across Lick Creek and the trestle-work
near the gap; they have also broken up the railroad to some extent and carried
off the telegraph wire. This is all positive and I take it is conclusive as to Longstreet's designs.
J. M. SCHOFIELD, Maj.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 199.
MOSSY CREEK, March 31, 1864.
Gen. SCHOFFIELD:
I have intelligence from scouts and citizens that rebels are certainly all gone,
and now beyond Greeneville. They burnt the railroad bridge and the wagon
bridge on Lick Creek; have torn up the railroad generally, telegraph wire taken
off, trestle burned at the gap. This is all reliable.
I have men who have seen all I send you.
R. A. CRAWFORD, Chief of Scouts.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 200.
March 31, 1864 - Major-General Thomas informs General Joseph E. Johnston of expulsion
of Confederate supporters from within Union lines
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga,
March 31, 1864.
Gen. JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, C. S. Army, Commanding Army of Tennessee,
Dalton, Ga.:
GENERAL: I have the honor herewith to inclose you a listNOTE 1 of the families fed by the U. S. Commissary at this post, whose natural supporters are now
serving in the armies of the Confederate States, and fighting against the Government which is saving them from starvation.
My object in so doing is to propose that you receive these families and provide
for them, as they have no claims upon the United States but those prompted by
considerations of humanity. Their friends and their sympathies are all with you
and your cause, and I cannot but think that your own sense of justice will agree
with me that it is your duty to receive these people within your lines and provide for their necessities.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
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TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION
March 31, 1864
GEO. H. THOMAS, Maj.-Gen., U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 32, pt. III, p. 201.
NOTE 1: Not found.
March 31, 1864 - "Thousands of loyal men and women have lost literally everything but
their fidelity to the Union, and are to-day dependent on the army commissariat for food." Northern Aid for East Tennessee
Relief for East Tennesseans.
The fund for the relief of the people of East Tennessee has, throughout the
North, reached nearly $100,000; of which sum the penurious Yankees of Massachusetts contribute $71,813. Mr. Everett prints a daily list of subscriptions,
averaging about $2,000; and before the first of May, it is highly probable that
New England will contribute at least a quarter of a million to the suffering loyalists of East Tennessee. The money comes from all sources; from almost
every man whose name is eminent commercially, or politically, or socially, or
professionally. It seems to have been a matter of honor among the solid men of
Boston to give to this fund.
The agent who was sent out to distribute the first installment of the fund, has
returned to New York, and informs the Tribune that he was called on to relieve
not mere suffering and want, but absolute destitution. Thousands of loyal men
and women have lost literally everything but their fidelity to the Union, and are
to-day dependent on the army commissariat for food. Their farms have been
ravaged; they need tools, stock, seed, and the means of hiring labor, to resume
their cultivation. They have no houses left. They are like a people suddenly
planted in the midst of a fertile country, compelled to trust to their own industry, but without any means to make it productive. The charity which they will
accept is not to support them idle. What can a few hundred thousand dollars do
for the population of half a State? It is to put them once more on their feet, to
enable them to live in the country they have nobly defended, to make the territory again capable of feeding the Union armies.
It is to be hoped that the money collected will be appropriated as speedily as
possible. We know something of the destitution existing in the mountain
regions of this State; we witnessed it, in all its horror, in December last; and it
has no doubt increased since that time.
The country is fertile, and the people are industrious; but they have neither animals, farming utensils, nor seed grain; and their farms are unenclosed. This
summer they will be protected and they can raise good crops, if they can only
get a fair start.
Nashville Daily Union, March 31, 1864.NOTE 1
NOTE 1: As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK
March 1864 — Page 111
March 31, 1864
March 31, 1864 - Editorial correction
The City Night Watch.
To the Editor of the Dispatch:
In your issue of yesterday under the above caption, I notice an editorial of
which the following is an extract:
["]The City Night Watch.—Our of the eighteen night watchmen employed by
the corporation, only six were on duty Monday night, thus leaving the inhabitants to the mercy of burglars and highway robbers, without warning and with
out any show of reason or justice. We are informed that the cause of the insubordination is a strike for higher pay, if this be the fact, we hope every man who
thus acted, will be dismissed, and other more trusty men appointed.["]
You were entirely misinformed in regard to the facts stated as above. Instead of
six watchmen being on duty Monday night, there were fifteen. Four were
absent from sickness and one on account of a death in his family. The absence
of the policemen was therefore not in consequence of "a strike for higher pay."
One of the policemen, who is a first rate mechanic, resigned on that day,
because he had an opportunity to make more by carrying on his trade. Your are
so seldom mistaken in your facts that I felt it my duty to give you this information, and to do justice to all concerned.
H
Note—We take it for granted that we were perhaps slightly mistaken in our
statement and it is possible we should have said that there were only six men
on duty north of Broad street. We do not know who Mr. H. is, but are willing to
believe his statement to be correct: nevertheless, we would have preferred
receiving a statement of facts from some one in authority, with his proper
name.
Nashville Dispatch, March 31, 1864
March 31, 1864 - April 3, 1864 - Federal scout from Powder Springs Gap to Cumberland
Gap
•See April 2, 1864-April 4, 1864-Reconnaissance, Powder Springs' Gap to
Rogersville & Bull's Gap
Page 112 — March 1864
TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION