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THREE YEARS' CAMPAIGN
OF THE
NINTH, N. Y. S. M.,
DURING THE
SOUTHERN REBELLION
BT
JOHH W. JAQUES,
Formerly of Oompany 33.
NEW YORK.
HILTON &; CO., r»ixblisliers,
128 Nassau Street.
1865,
IP
Checked May 1913
THE NEW YORX
PUBLIC la.RARY
ASTOP. LENOX AND TILDE N FOUNDATIONS.
R 1901 L.
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1865, by JOHN WESLEY JAQUES, In the Clerks' Office of the District Court of the United States, for the Southern District of New York.
BATTLES
IN WHICn
THE NINTH REGIMENT,
NEW-YOEK STATE MILITIA WERE ENGAGED.
Harpers Ferry, Virginia, July 4, 1861 Cedar Mountain, Virginia, August 9, 1862 Rappahannock Station, Virginia, August 20, 1862 Thoroughfare Gap, Virginia, August 28, 1862 '^
Second Bull Run, Virginia, August 30, 1862 Chantilly, Virginia, September 1, 1862 South Mountain, Marj^land, September 14, 1862 Antietam, Marj^land, September lY, 1862 First Fredericksburg, Virginia, December 13, 1862 Chancellorsville, Virginia, May 1, 1863 Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, July 1, 1863 Wilderness, Virginia, May 5, 6, and T, 1864 Laurel Hill, Virginia, May 8, 1864 Spottsylvania, Virginia, May 12, 1864 ^>, £5-^C^ — ©oftHIarbor, Virginia, June 4, 1865
jr^" Besides the four last named battles, there were other, as the regiment was marching and fighting, on their way to Rich mond, Virginia, until they left for home, June 8, 1864
PEEFACE.
The object of this little book, is to place npon the Annals of History, of the Southern Rebellion, the records of one of those gallant regiments, that volun- teered their services to put down the traitors. As the Author was a member of the Ninth New-York State Militia, he has endeavored to truthfully por- tray, the marches, incidents, and battles, in which that regiment took an active part, passing through hard- ships and trials, as true patriots, battling for the cause of their beloved country, and nobly carrying the " Stars and Stripes," to the discomfiture of the rebel hosts. Many of the members of this regiment, gave uj) their lives on the field of carnage and strife to whose memory, we drop a tear, hoping that our courteous readers, who arc endowed with the ycnti-
PREF A CE.
mcnts of Freedom nnd Constitntional Liberty, on the perusal of tins work, will ever bear in their memory, the liardsliips and privations, endured by this band of true and loyal patriots, ^vbo fonglit and bled, to pre- serve tlio Constitutional Rights of their beloved country.
Many of the regiments have received credit and. honor, from the hands of Public Opinion, but shame to tell, a regiment Avhich courageously carried the I>anner of its Country, through the campaigns of Virginia and Maryland, for three years .giving up the lives of many of their comrades, on the field of action, ■were scarcely or ever noticed, by the scrutinizing hands of Public Opinion, but the Author believes, that these men, who nobly fought for their country, and many who died in its defence, receives a silent and grateful acknowledgement, from a true and loyal people ; and that the Ninth Regiment, New- York State Militia, will ever be remembered by the loyal people of the United States, for the aid it rendered in subduing: the Southern Rebellion.
THREE YEARS' CAMPAIGN OP THE ^*NINTH N. Y. S. M/'
CHAPTER I.
From May 27, to August 17, 1861.
The Ninth New York State Militia, were organized in June 1859, in the city of New York, as a Militia regiment, and received their charter from the state of New York, and elected Michael M. Van Beuren as Colonel, it then consisted of four companies, but at the breaking out of the Southern Rebellion in 1861, there were four more added to the regiment,making it eight companies; their fatigue uniform were dark blue pants with red stripes ; jackets with red trimmings on the cuffs ; low caps with gilt braid around them, with the letter of the company on the peak ; overcoats
10 THREE year's CA5IPAIGN OF THE
dark blue, cuffs trimmed with red,and broad capes lined with red.
President Lincoln having issued a call for vol- unteers to put down the Southern Rebellion, after the rebels had fired upon Fort Sumpter in Charles- ton Harbor, April 1861 ; the Ninth responded to the call, and commenced recruiting to fill up their ranks, which having done in a few weeks, they tendered their services to the War Department at Washington, D. C, but it being too late to be accepted for three months, they offered their ser- vices to the " Union Defence Committee," a body of loyal and true citizens, united together to fur- nish means and transportation to send regiments from New York city to Washington, the seat of war ; the committee accepted the regiment, and furnished them with knapsacks, blankets, equip- ments and clothing, and the men having been sufficiently drilled for active service, after the election by the Board of Officers of a Colonel to command the regiment in place of Colonel Van Beuren, as he found it impossible to go with the regiment, as there were sickness in his family j John W. Stiles ex-Colonel of the " Eighth New York State Militia," was elected to fill the position of Colonel, and all the arrangements being made and the regiment reaching the mimimum number on the afternoon of
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 11
Monday^ May 27, the regiment marched down Broadway with their bkmkets sLra.[)ped on their knapsacks, and overcoats rolled thereon, in their fatigue uniform, with their equipments, (but no arms,) on their way to Washington, to lend their aid and assistance as a band of freemen, to sup- press the rebellion, which had sprung up in the southern part of our glorious country, the rebels endeavoring in their madness, to lower that noble old flag — the " stars and stripes under which they were born, and their ancestors had fought and bled to sustain ; all along the route the regiment were received with boisterous chcerings, many a silent prayer were offered up that their dear loVed ones would be spared to return home again, to their families and friends, after serving their coun- try faithfully, and rooting out the seeds of the rebellion. That noble old flag waved from many a building, and there was not a downcast counte- nance to be found in the ranks of these noble patriots, whose thoughts were fixed upon the des- tiny of their beloved country. Many a young lady's heart beat with joy and pride, as she beheld her gallant lover in his splendid uniform,ready to fight the battles of his country. Many a mother as she wiped the tears from her eyes, was proud to see her son in the ranks, willing to serve his country againt traitors, and to protect his home against the
12 THEEE YEARNS CAMPAIGN OF THE
ruthless foe. Many a wife offered up a silent " God bless you," as she beheld her husband num- bered with this band of true and loyal patriots \ and friends shook hands with their friends on part- injT, with the solemn injunction, " Be true to your country," " fight earnestly in the cause of Freedom and Constitutional Liberty," and *' if you live to return home, you will be honored and respected,'' but, " if you should be killed, it will be in defence of your country, and your name will be handed down to future posterity, as your country, saviours The regiment crossed the Ferry at Courtlandt street. North River, and landed in Jersey City.and that evening took the cars for Washington, D. C.> all along the route we were loudly cheered, the »♦ Stars snd Stripes" floated exultingly to the breeze, and cheer after cheer being given for that dear " old flag" ; the train in the vicinity of Bur- lington, N. J., meeting with some impediment,was delayed for some time, when a sad calamity hap- pened to a member of company D., , while
standing on the bank of the canal, a pistol was accidentally discharged, the ball entering his body and precipitating him into the canal ; private Charles Gesner of company D., jumped to his res- cue, he recovered the body, but life was extinct ; the corpse was sent home to his friends, under the charge of private Charles Gesner.
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 13
The regiment crossed the Ferry at Camden.N. J., and landed iu Philadelphia, Pa., near the Navy Yard, about day-light
Tuesday 28th., and walked to the Baltimore Depot,taking the cars from there, and going slowly along the road, arrived in Baltimore, Md., about mid-day, expecting to meet there the ** Eighth New York, volunteers," who having their arms with them, were to escort us through the city, but we were disappointed in not meeting them, so we pursued onr march from the Philadelphia to the Washington Depot, passing through Pratt street, where the '' iSixth Massachusetts, volunteers," were attacked by a mob, in April, while on their way to Washington ; but our regiment was not molested, although many a black look was cast upon us,they freely offered us ice- water and other refreshments, but Colonel Stiles had ordered the men not to accept anything from them, as he was afraid they would try to poison us.
We took the cars and before sundown, arrived in Washington city, D. C, and took up our quar- ters in Woodward's buildings, on Pennsylvania avenue, each company having a room to them- 6elves,and mattrasses filled with straw, to sleep on. The distance from Washington to New York, is 240 miles.
Thursday^ 30th. — Marched to the Arsenal
14
\vhere we were supplied with old Harper's Ferry Muskets, and on
Friday 31st, we marched passed the Presiden- tial Mansion, passing in review before the Presi- dent and his Cabinet, and also Lieut. General Scott, after which we returned to our quarters in Woodward's buildings.
Saturday, June 1st. — Early in the morning, marched through Pennsylvania Avenue, passing the "Seventh New York State Militia," who were on their way to New York city, having served the thirty days, for which time they were accepted by the Government ; we marclied out Fourteenth street, and encamped in a field on the Georgetown road, opposite Columbia College, which camp, the *' Seventh New York State Militia," had just left. We found the Tents pitched, the '* Seventh,'' having transferred all their camp equipage to the " Ninth" ; the appearance of the interior of the tents, showed a liberal supply of mattresses, chairs, w^ash-basins, etc., having the sign of comfort and ease i\i?it t\i?it aallantv egixnent must have enjoyed, they also did not forget to leave us some of their preserved meats, and here and there, cordials were found to wash it down with. The Tents were of the style, known as the " Wall Tents," capable of crowding in four- teen persons, and with boarded floors.
NINTH, N. T. S M. 15
Oar encampment was named in honor of the then Secretary-of-War,
CA3JP CAMERON,
and was finely situated ; on the opposite side of the road, was the Columbia College, which was used as an army hospital, and stood on the road leading to Georgetown.
Saturday 8th.— Captain *^Yhipple, U. S. A. visited camp, and the regiment w^as sworn into the United States service by him, to serve durivg the War^ unless sooner discharged, the men being confident of compelling the rebels to return to their allegiance to the United States Government, in a few months. The regiment was about eight hundred and forty strong, when we left New York city, and about forty refused to be sworn in, these were ordered outside of camp, to shift for them- selves, and a double guard stationed around it to prevent their return.
While remaining in camp, each company detailed men to do their cooking, when meal-time arrived the men formed in one rank, and were served in their turn, falling out and making room for the next one.
Sunday 9th. — Received orders to be ready for a march, and to take but little clothing, as we expected to return in a week or two, leaving a detail behind in charge of the things that were left.
16 THREE YEAES^ CAMPAIGN OF THE
Monday 10th. — Reveille sounded early, and after breakfast the Avagons were packed with our tents and camp equipage, and strapping on our knapsacks, fell into line, and started on our maiden march, the day was warm, not a breath of wind stirring, and the road was rough and stony ; the field officers were on foot, they having no horses. During the march the men being greatly fatigued, the wagons carried their knapsacks, and late in the afternoon, passing the *' First New Hampshire volunteers," on the road, and encamped on the Fair Ground at ROCKSVILLE, where we pitched our Tents, and detailing a camp guard,and eating our supper, we laid down on the bare ground, with our blankets for a covering, and after a weary and fatiguing march of 18 miles, dropped to sleep,
Tuesday 11th. — We remained encamped all day, on the Fair Ground at ROCKVILLE, which is the county town of Montgomery county, Md., situated on the road leading from Georgetown, in in a north-west direction from Washington ; it is a small town with but few houses in it, the inhabitants were very hospitable and generous towards us ; at sundown a number of ladies and gentlemen visited camp, to see the regiment on Dress Parade, there was also a large assemblage of cordrahands, who turned up the whites of their
S. M. 17
eyes, and showed their ** ivory's," in astonisment at tho movements of the " sojers" ; the spectators appeared greatly pleased and gratified at our evolutions, many of them having never seen soldiers before.
One evening after Dress Parade was dismissed, the " First New Hampshire volunteers," who were encamped on the opposite side of the Fair Ground from us, rushed with wild enthusiasm towards us, loudly cheering and throwing up their hats in the air, we shook hands and embraced each other ; the 'feelings that existed between these two regi- ments, one from New York, and the other from New Hampshire, perfect strangers to each other, but friends in the cause of Freedom, will never be forgotten, and often called to memory, long after the rebellion has ceased ; we visited their camp and were cordially entertained by them, their Band played a number of National and patriotic airs, discoursing sweet music to refresh the mJnd and pass away the ennui of camp life; the evening passed pleasantly away, and at tattoo we returned to our quarters, with the determina- tion ot having a Band of our own, and settling down to rest, we gave up ourselves to the "God Morpheus, (sleep.)
Wednesday 12th. — After Breakfast, struck Tents, and took up the line of march, the weather
18 * THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
being warm, and the roads in a bad condition > while pursuing our march, a very laughable inci- dent happened,making a subject for conversation, in our after campaign ; it was reported that our wagon train had been attacked by rebel cavalry, the regiment about-faced and marched to the rear, in double-quick time, after marching a little ways, the news was brought that it was nothing but a stampede amongst some horses that had broken out of a field, and run amongst the wagon train, frightening the wagon-master and teamsters, who thought the rebels was in the midst of them ; all becoming quiet, the regiment again, about- faced, and resumed their march, and late in the aft^rnoon passed through the small village of DARNESTOWN, on the outskirts of which, we encamped and pitched our Tents for the night, and after setting the camp guard, retired to rest, after a fatiguing march of 10 miles»
A number of the men visited DARNESTOWN, which is situated near Seneca Creek, in the south- eastern part of Montgomery county, Md., and the appearance of the place is very much antiquated with scattering houses here and there ; the inhab- itants werj>very hospitable towards us, inviting us to their houses to dine with them, which invi- tation was accepted by many of our men.
Our camp was situated on the outskirts of the
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 19
village, in a large cleared field, skirted by woods and beautiful scenery, with running streams of water, and in a healthy situation. We named the camp in honor of Col. Charles P. Stone, who com manded the '* District of Columbia volunteers" and also our regiment.— CAMP STONE.
Visitors came from a long distance, to see the regiment on Dress Parade, and appeared highly gratified and pleased with our evolutions.
Pedlers visited camp with cooked chickens, pies, biscuits, bread, etc., and where largely patronized by the men, which was a change from government rations of hard crackers and bacon.
We remained at camp STONE,about five days, and on the evening of
Monday 17th., it being a splendid moonlight night, we struck our Tents and taking the road to DAKNESTOWN, passed through that place and also the small village of DAWSONVILLE, and crossing the bridge over Seneca Creek, encamped for the night, on high ground, near its banks, having marched over good roads, about 4 miles.
Tuesday 18th. — Companies B. and D., left the camp for Sugar Land Bottom, which lays on the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, to do picket duty^ about ten miles from camp.
DAWSONVILLE, near which the regiment
20 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
encamped, is a small place, with but few houses and very few white inhabitants, but a large number of blacks ; it is located in Montgomery county, and is a place of little importance ; we remained encamped there till the evening of
Thursday 20th., when we took up our line of march, it being a nice moonlight night, and hivnuac near POOLESVILLE for the night.having made an eas}^ march of 9 miles.
Ffiday 21st. — A[ter Breakfast resumed our march, passing through a thinly settled country, the roads were in good condition, but the march was tedious and irksome, the weather very warm; towards sundown we were gladdened with a view of the Potomac river ; on ascending a hill, that picturesque and splendid river, for the first time appeared in full view with all of its grandeur and sublimity, the beauties of the surrounding scene- ries, elicited many a shout from the admiring spectators ; we encamped on a high eminence overlooking the Potomac and Monocacy rivers, near the latter ; after posting the camp guard, we retired to rest, having marched 12 miles.
Our encampment we named in honor of Brig. Gen. Hall, commanding the New York Stata Militia.— CAMP HALL,
it was finely situated, in the vicinity is a large stone aqueduct bridge, spanning the Monocacy ;
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 21
while remaining encamped here, we picketted about five miles along the Potomac river, doing very heavy duty.
No Major having come from home with the regiment, the officers elected Capt. William Atter- bury of company G., to fill that position.
As company E. w^ere picketting along the Potomac, one day, while some of the men were bathing, they heard the report of a musket, and shortly after a shot went whistling by, being the first indication of an enemy ; Capt. Smith imme- diately crossed over on a small island in the Poto- mac, with a few men, in an old dug out or scow, but found no one there, looking across the river on the Virginia shore, they espied a small party of men, under the verandah of a house, who politely invited them over to take a hand in " seven up,'' but the invitation w^as declined. The house was afterwards burned down, by the order of Brig. Gen. Geary, as it was found to be a rendezvous for guerillas.
Dr. Bigelow came from Xew York, as surgeon of the regiment in place of Dr. Fisher, who remained at home.
Mondaij, July 1st. — Near sundown leaving our Tents standing, and a detail behind, we marched out of camp, the rnin coming down in torrents, the night dark,and the roads muddy and disagree-
22 THKEE TEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
able : about midnight we reached the POINT-OF- ROCKS, taking^ shelter for the remainder of the night, in a large storehouse ; laying ourselves down to sleep if we could, in our wet clothes, after a fatiguing march of 6 miles.
Tuesday 2d. — Left our quarters in the store- house in the morning, and laid along the Balti- more and Ohio Railroad, where companies B. and D., returned to the regiment from Sugar Land Bottom, where they had been sent the morning after encamping at DAWSONVILLE to do picket duty ; the guard that had been detailed to remain behind with the Tents at the camp, near the mouth of the Monocacy came up ; companies B. and D. was under the command of Capt. Davis of company D., and marching over dirt roads, and through fields, towards evening ot the same day, reached SUGAR-LAND BOTTOM, encamping in a fine large apple orchard, where the grass was high, within halfa mile of the Potomac river ; picketted between Edward's Ferry and Seneca Falls a distance of six miles,being ten miles from where they left the regiment.
The rations issued to these companies w^ere scarce and poor, having to forage the country to keep hunger away, and some of the members of company B., making dinner of Frogs as an actual necessity.
NINTH, N. Y. S M. 23
One day the pickets hearing the report of musketry in the direction of Seneca Falls, a few men were sent in that direction, nearing the Falls, they found the " First District of Columbia volun- teers" engaged with a small party of rebels, and our men went to their support ; a sharp firing was kept up about half-an-hour, when the rebels hastily fled to the Virginia shore, the river being about half-a-mile wide at that place ; the " Dis- trict volunteers lost a few men, the loss of the rebels was not known.
Calling in the pickets, companies B. and D., early on the morning of July 1st., marched to rejoin the regiment, at Camp Hall, near tho mouth of the Monocacy river, which they reached about sundown, and finding the regiment gone, they remained in camp till the next morning, when they joined the regiment at the Point-of- Rocks, late in the afternoon.
While laying at the Point-of-Rocks, we espied on the Virginia shore, the " Stars and Bars" of Secessiondom, for the first lime ; it was floating from a flagstafl^, where its original claimant, the *' Stars and Stripes" formerly floated, but was taken down, to make place for that dirhj rag ; on the abutments of the railroad bridge, (iron) which spans the Potomac, and the rebels had destroyed some time previous, was discovered a
24
rebel battery planted to prevent the Union troops from crossing the river, which is about three quarters of a mile wide at that place.
Wednesday 3d. — Early in the afternoon, com- panies A. C. and G., under command of the senior officer, Capt. Morrison of company A., took the cars for Sandy Hook, to reconnoitre along the river, and on arriving they took up their quarters in the buildings previously used by Adams' Express Company, as a depot, and in some of the houses ; the distance from the regiment is 8 miles.
Thursday 4th. — The day which one year ago was celebrated throughout the United States, North and South, now witnesses one section of the noble Republic arrayed in conflict against the other, the South with their ruthless hands endeav- oring to pull it down, and raise in its stead a yoke more galling than that of Great Britain, previous to the Revolution of 1776.
The day was ushered in by the firing of salutes, and the regiment was drawn up in line, and were addressed by Colonel Stiles, who was loudly applauded ; in the afternoon the regiment marched to Colonel Stones, Head- Quarters, (who was in command of our troops,) and calling for him he made his appearance and addressed us in a short but feeling speech, in which he complimented the " Ninth New York State Militia,'' we sang a
25
number of TCntioprj] rongs, everything passed off pleasantly until the whistling of the Locomotive from Sandy Ilook, was heard, which brought tidings that put an end to our enjoyment for the day, as news were brought that the companies which had left the regiment, the day previous on a reconnoissance, had been fired upon by rebels secreted behind the abutments of the railroad bridge at HARPER'S FERRY, which some time previous the rebels had destroyed ; our men were exposed to a galling fire, they having nothing to shelter them fiom rebel musketry. The regiment immediately took the cars to go to their support, on arriving at the scene of action, the fighting was over, the rebels having ceased firing ; the river at Harper's Ferry is not more than half a mile wide, and our muskets must have done some execution ; our loss was 1 killed and 2 wounded.
On the morning of the skirmish, seme of the men on the reconnoitcring party, crossed the Potom.ac in a small skifl: to Harper's Ferry, and went rambling through the town ; they espied a flagstaff', which the U. S. Government had erected years ago, on which were two Flags; the upper one, the '' Stars and Bars," and the lower one, the Virginia State flag, which was blue ; some of the men climbed the flagstaff, to tear down the flags but it being slender and rotten, it was given up
26
in despair by all except private Edwin Butler of company C. , who succeeded in carrying away the State's Flag, while some days after, private Nelson Pinard of company H. tore down the other one.
After the skirmish the whole regiment bivouac for the night, along the railroad near Sandy Hook and the next morning
Saturday 6th., took up the line of march pass- ing through the principal streets of SHARPS- BURG, in which place the glorious" old flag" was seen waving from the principal buildings and houses, and the inhabitants thronged the side- walks, and the doors and windows of the houses, to have a view of us, and they loudly cheered as we passed through their streets ; halting on the outskirts of the town to cook dinner, the people invited us to dine wath them, and insisted upon iti the invitations w^ere accepted, and while w^e were eating, the young ladies were busy making aprons of Red, White and Blue, which they presented to the men after dinner, which we looked upon as a memento of their true and loyal feeling towards the defender's of their country's liberties ; they also presented each company, with a small Red, White and BlueFlag ; their motives were entirely patriotic, refusing to receive any compensation^ and after heartily thanking them, we resumed our noarch and after dusk, halted and bivouac in the
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 27
woofis on tlie outskirts of the small villaf^e of BAKnIlSMLLE, after a fatiguing march up hill and down dale, over rough roads on a hot sum- mer's day of IG miles.
Sunday 7th. — Early in the morning resumed our march, passing through WILLIAMSPORT, near which we forded the Potomac, which is about half a mile wide ; the current runs very strong, and the water is knee deep in most places ; some of the men stripped, others took off their shoes and stockings, preparatory to wading the river ; without any accident we put foot on the * sacred soil" of Virginia about noon, and bivouac for the night, near the bank of the river, having marched 7 miles.
While cooking our dinners w^e perceived the gallant "First New Hampshire volunteers" (pre- viously spoken of) fording the river, and halting half way over, their Band played National airs, which were very refreshing to worn out soldiers; after they had crossed the river, they passed us, and continued their march for some distance, when they halted for the night.
JMonday 8th. — ^4bout noon resumed our march, the weather very warm and sultry, and the roads dusty, passed through a country laid waste by the devastations of an army, marched along the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, and found the rails
28 THREE YEAKS' CAMPAIGN OF THE
torn up for along: distance by the rebels ; late in the afternoon passed through MAIITINSBURG, where we found Gen. Patterson's Division, v^'ho loudly cheered us as we passed ; his troops had driven the rebels from tlie place, a few days before, who had burned the car buildings, a num- ber of locomotives, a quantit}^ of coal, and a splendid car depot, all of which was the property ot the Baltimore and Ohio railroad Company ; they also burned a splendid bridge crossing a small creek near by, but Gen. Patterson's men pressed the rebels so hard, that they could not finish the work of demolition to their cruel satisfaction, so they up with the switches and run a large number of cars into the creek, where the}^ upset. Passed through IMartinsburg we hloouac for the night, on a side hill, on the outskirts of the town, in a mud dy and disagreea.ble place, laying with heads up and feet downhill, and fatigued, after marching about 12 miles.
An amusing incident happened to one of the members of the regiment, having received some sausages from home, put them in his knapsack which he used for a pillow, he woke up about midnight, by feeling his pillow moving, and look- ing up he saw a porkej^^ which having scented the sausages was trying to obtain possession of them, but he did not obtain his prize.
NINTH, N. Y. S M. 29
Tup.aday 7tli. — Compnny K., nn Artillery company raided in Railway, N. J., under the com- mand of Capt. Bunting, arid attached to our regi- ment, joined us while laying here.
Many of the men visited MARTINSBURG, which is the county town of Berkoloy county, Va. and before the rebellion, was a thriving place, it contained the work shops and car buildings of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad Company ; several miles from town is the splendid anrl palatial man- sion of Robert J. Faulkner, President Buchanan's, Minister to Russia, who turned Traitor to his country, the house was occupied by Mnj. Gen. Sand ford, who commanded the New York State troops in that vicinity, and by whom we were reviewed.
We made a raid on the poultry and swine that the rebels had left behind them, as a change from government rations of hard bread and salt pork, which were sometimes scarce.
We remained around Martinshurg, about a week, having no shelter to protect us from the weather, except such as we made from the boughs of the trees. <
Monday 15th. — Tn the morning joined (.^e.n. Patterson's Division, which was designated as the " Army of the Upper Potomac," we were assigned to the Brigade of Col. Stone, formerly of
30 THREE TEAES^ CAMPAIGN OP THB
the "First District of Columbia volunteers," but recently made Brigadier General, and assigned to the Brigade composed of the First New Ilampsliire, Seventeenth and Twenty-fifth volunteers, and our regiment ; the column marched along till within a few miles of BUNKER HILL, where the infantry halted, and the artillery which had been marching to the rear, double-quicked it to the front, our cavalry had a skirmish with the rebel cavalry, driving them through the town of Bunker Hill, and pursuing them some distance on the Winchester Pike, night coming on our cavalry returned to Bunker Hill, leaving the rebels still retreating ; some of the rebel officers were cap- tured in the town, while partaking of their even- ing meal, not anticipating danger so near. The column resumed its march, passing through the^ town, on the outskirts of which, we bivouac fop the night, in an orchard, being tired and sleepy, after a difficult march of 10 miles.
BUNKER HILL is a small town in Berkeley county, Va., and situated south of Martinsburg the inhabitants are open to trade, supplying us with bread, milk, biscuits, etc., in return for our *' greenbacks.'' There being plenty of blackber- ries in the vicinit3^ our men fared sumptuously.
Wednesday 17th. — In the morning taking our position in the column, resumed our march, pass-
NIXTH, N. Y. S. M. 31
ing through MIDDLE WAY, taking the road towards Charlestovvn, alter passing Middleway, an amusing incident occurred, which will be spoken of by the members of the '* Ninth," as the Battle of the " IlaycocliS,^^ it was as follows : —
Our cavalry had had a skirmish with a small guerilla party, and the artillery was drawn up in position, and our regiment in line-of-battle, in a field with the hay cut and cocked, loaded our muskets and primed them, and remained on the alert, while Col. Stiles rode up and down the line giving orders (on a horse purchased at Martins burg,) to be ready for action ; the negro servants of the officers, who left their masters and followed the regiment, took shelter in their fright behind the haycocks, expecting to see " massa Johnson," (Gen. Joseph E. Johnson,) come and take them back to their massa's ; we remained in line-of-bat- tle nearly an hour, when no enemy appearing, we resumed our march, and late in the evening bivouac near CHARLESTOWN for the night ; the day was very warm and sultry, and the march tedious, a distance of 8 miles.
The field that we bivouac in, was the one that John Brown, the leader of the Harper's Ferry insurrection, was hung in, in the field were two trees, between which stood the gallows, bi^ they had been cut down by relic-seekers.
32 TIIEEE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
CHARLESTOWN is the county town of Jefferson county, Ya., and is a place but of little importance, the male inhabitants are mostly in the Confederate army, while the females remaining at home, are a haughty, scornful set of shecessia^ spitting at, and spurning the Union troops, and using such epithets as, "I know what you are after, * booty and beauty,'" of the former there is but little, while of the latter it is passable ; they also sneeringly asked us, "what we wanted there, wdiy we did not follow ' Johnson,' as he was wait- ing for us!" to which insults, we turned a deaf ear ; the place was put under martial law and searched, arms and munitions of war, were found secreted in the houses.
Companies B. and E. were detailed to go about three miles from camp, to bring in a number of cars loaded with corn, which the rebels in their hurried flight left behind ; by means of long ropes, companj' E. drew them along, while company B, guarded them from the rear, with loud shouts and applause from the troops stationed around, they arrived in the town, w^ith the car and its contents.
The Band that w^e had subscribed for, arrived from home under the leadership of Mr. Neyer, and they were jt)yfully received by the regiment, the Government also paying them.
Sunday 21st. — Early in the morning took up
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 33
up our position ill tlie column, made a slow and easy march, and halted early in the afternoon, on a fj^reen knoll, on the side of a hill near BOLIVAR HEIGHTS, i:ot far from llarper':s Ferry, where we hicouac for the night, having marched 8 miles.
On the Heights commanding the roads at three points, were planted, two thirty-two pounders, with their trunnions knocked ofF, and the cfannons spiked, which had been left by the rebels.
Water was very difTicult to obtain, having to go some distance after it.
Monday 22d. — In the morning we again resumed our march, and going about a mile, our orders were countermanded, when we about-faced and marched back to the same place, where we bivouac for the night.
In the vicinity is the cave, were John Brown used to secrete himself, some of the men visited the ca^'c, which they found to be long and dark, and with lighted candles explored its interior, in the centre of which they found a spring of water clear as crystal, and cold as ice, which was very refreshing on that warm day of July.
Sunday 2Sth. — In the afternoon taking up our
line of march, re-forded the Potomac at Harper's
P'erry, crossing into Maryland, the weather was,
showery and windy, the roads dusty, giving us a
2*
34 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
begrimed appearance, which created laughter amongst us ; towards sundown, we bivouac for the night on MARYLAND HEIGHTS, near Sandy Hook, after a march of 5 miles.
Monday 29th. — Received our Tents, which we had left at the Point-of-rocks, (July 5th.) having bivouac for over three weeks, there being a great deal of rain}' and wet weather during the time. We laid out a camp, and named it in honor of Capt. Davis of company D.— CAMP DAVIS, it is situated on a hill on MARYLAND HEIGHTS overlooking Loudon Heights on the Virginia shore, the scenery was really picturesque, at the foot ot the hill, was the small village of Sandy Hook, containing a few houses, the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, running through it, and also the Chesapeake and Ohio canal running near the Potomac river, which at that place is very shallow and not more than three quarter of a mile wide. The water for cooking pui'poses was brought by the teams from the railroad tanks at Sandy Hook, there being only a small spring near camp, that was used for drinking purposes.
Doctor Bigelow bade the men farewell before leaving for home, as he had resigned his position we were sorry to part with him, as he was beloved by the men for his kindness and attention to the sick.
NJNTn, N. Y. S. M. 35
Doctor IToward Pinckney who came from heme with the refrinlent as assistant Surgeon, was the only Doctor left with us.
Besides the usual camp and picket duties, men were detailed to guard the wagon and ammuni- tion train, and also to work on the fortifications on Maryland Heights.
The "First New Hampshire volunteers" term of service having expired, they started for Sandy Hook, to take the cars for home, and our men went down to see them go we gave them cheer upon cheer, which they returned ; they were eager for us to change uniforms with them, we did so, this one, with our jackets, another one, with our overcoats, still others, with our pants and caps, and as they passed through the city of New York, the people must have thought that the "■ Ninth" were coming.
New recruits for company D. joined their com pan}', having arrived from New York city.
The regiment was very healthy, there having only two deaths occurred which were Typhoid Fever, and both were buried in the vicinity of camp, one of the body's was afterwards taken up and sent home to his friends.
Several times the Tents were struck, ready for a march, but the orders being countermanded the Tents were again pitched.
36 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
We received a visit from Major Lawlor, who came to pay off the regiment from the time that we were mustered into the United States service, which was paid in specie.
The want of money had not been badly felt, as Mr. Edward Kalph.jr. our enterprising sutler, gave the men credit for his goods, until they were paid off.
A short tim« afterwards, received a visit from Major Sherman who came in place of Major Law- lor, to pay the regiment the time between muster- ing in and enlisting.
From May 27th to Aogust 17th, I8G1, the regi- ment made thirteen marches, travelling 125 miles.
NINTH, N, Y. S M. 37
CHAPTER II.
From August 17, to December 4, 1801.
Saturday August 17th. — Early in the morning broke camp, and taking our position in the Bri- gade, composed of the Twenty-ninth Pennsyl- vania, Twenty-seventh Indiana, and Third Wis- consin volunteers, which regiments were put in the Brigade, in place of the First New Hamp- shire, Seventeenth and Twenty-filth Pennsylvania volunteers, which were three months regiments, their time having expired, they w^ere mustered out of the service ; the Brigade was put under com- mand of Brig. Gen. Hamilton, formerly Colonel of the Third Wisconsin volunteers, who relieved Brig. Gen. Stone ; the Brigade pursued its march over rough and bad roads, with small streams running across them, and mud in abundance ; it was a march up and down hills, through woods and valleys, and across fields ; passed through the village of KNOXVILLE, near the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, which is a small place contain- ing but few houses, which are in a delapidated condition; also passed through JEFFERSON- VILLE, a place of considerable size, very neat
88 THREE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OP THE
and comfortable in its appearance ; the " Stars and Stripes," were waving from the principal build - inirs, and as we passed through the town, our Band playing" JXational airs," we were gladly welcomed by its inhabitants ; on the outskirts of the town we halted about an hour to cook dinner and rest ; resuming our march and near sundown encamped on the CARROLLTOX manor, the property of the family of Charles Carroll, who was one of the signers of the '* Declaration of Independence.'' T^.e ground were we encamped was wet and marsh/, and the water very bad. Retired to rest after a fatiguing march of U) miles.
Sunday 18th. — Early in the morning resumed our march, passing through BUCKEYSTOWN, and crossing the bridge over the Monocacy river, encamped about two miles from the village, early in the forenoon, having marched about 5 miles.
Our camp was named in honor of Capt. Ruth- erford of company F.— CAMP RUTHERFORD, it is situated on a hill about a quarter of a mile from the east bank of the Monocacy, which is a shallow and narrow stream of water, and the camp was surrounded with a piece of woods, with splendid springs of water.
Pedlers both black and white, brought into camp, pies, biscuits, cooked chickens, etc., which was a change from government rations.
Nixin, N. Y. S. M. 39
On the road outside of camp was a \va<]:on wiih lager bier, lemonade and cakes, also a Jew pedler with tobacco, cigars, and wares of all kinds ; as long the money lasted, comfort was taken but when that was gone and credit with Ralph the sutler stopped, then bean soup, hard bread, bacon, etc., and Iresh meat three time, a week, took its place.
When the men were not busied with their camp duties, they employed their time in bathing in the iMonocacy, rambling round the country and through the village, where we were cordially invited by the inhabitants.
Our Dress Parades was a source of interest to the numerous spectators who came a great dis- tance to see the regiment go through its evolu- tions, and appeared greatly pleased with their visit.
A very sad and deplorable accident happened to a member of company B. while suffering under derangement of the mind ; he loaded a musket, and placing it under his chin, pulled the trigger with his foot, and launched his soul into eternity ; he was buried with military honors by his com- pany, about a mile from camp, and in the absence of chaplain Phillips, the funeral services were performed by the Chaplain of the Twenty-ninth Pennsylania volunteers.
40 THREE TEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
Company I. having been raised in New York city and attached to our regiment, arrived in camp, from Camp Cameron, Washington, D. C. where the}^ had been detained nearly a month, they were under the command of Capt. Peter J. Claassen.
Company K. the artillery company from Kah- way, N. J., were detached from the regiment, as an independent company, under the command of Captain Bunting.
But good times cannot last always, as a soldier well knows, as he is obliged to leave the comforts of camp in a good neighborhood, and take his knapsack on his back, and march wherever his orders may direct.
Monday 2Gth.— Late in the afternoon struck Tents, and slung knapsacks for the first time since our maiden march, the number of our wagons having been reduced; and taking our po- sition in the Brigade, took up the line of march, passing over rough and muddy roads, many of the teams sticking fast in the mud ; the night was dark and the weather chilly, and about lU P. M. we halted and bivouac for the night, in a field near URBAN A, Frederick County, Md., after a labo- rious and tedious march of 5 miles.
Tuesday 27th. — Early in the morning, after the men had breakfasted, the march was resumed
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 41
over ron??h ronds and small streams, and late in the aCtrnioon, passed through the villarre of BARNESVILLI:^, outside of which place we encamped in a field wilh grain stacked, but was not allowed to use it, sleeping on the bare ground ; the water w^as very poor, and a long distance from camp, and no permission to visit the village. We retired to rest afte;- a tedious and rainy march of 7 miles.
Wednesday '2Sth. — Early in the morning again started on the march, it raining all day, and the roads were in a bad condition, passed through woods and over small streams, plodding and stumbling along till near sundown, when we encamped for the night in the vicinity of rOOLESVILLE, Montgomery county, jMd.,having made a disagreeable march ot 10 miles.
Thursday 29th. — Early in the morning started a?:ain on the march, passing through DAWSON" VILLE, some distance from which, we took a cross road, and late in the afternoon, encam^ped within two miles of DARNESTOVVN, having marched 8 miles.
In honor of Captain Smith of company E., our camp was named — CAAIP S^IITII, and was finely situated in a cleared field, on a road branching ofi' from the main road leading to Darnestown ; in the vicinity of camp was a large
42 THREE YEAKS' CAMPAIGN OP THE
brick house, and further ofF was a comfortable wooden one, there was also a fine apple and peach orchard near by. and splendid springs and wells of good water, altogether it was a desirable and healthy location for a camp.
The Department was commanded by Maj. Gen. Banks, whose troops consisted of the Bri- gades of Abercrombie's, Williams and Hamilton's, and an independent company of infantry, known as"Collis's Zouaves," also artillery and cavalry.
Pies, biscuits, milk, cooked chickens, etc., were brought into camp for sale, by whites and blacks.
A transfer was made from the regiment to the signal corps, of two Lieutenants and six privates : First Lieutenant Charles P. Brain of company F. and Second Lieutenant William Striker, of com- pany D. were transferred with the requisite num- ber of privates.
Charles J. Nordquiest was appointed by Gover- nor Morgan as regimental doctor, Howard Pinck- ney being his assistant, who was the only medical man with the regiment, since Doctor Bigelovi^ left.
John Coppingcr who came from home as Adjutant of the regiment, having received an appointment to a higher position, took his leave of us^ with a few and affecting words, and with tears in his eyes, mounted his horse and rode away, amidst the cheers of the regiment, till he
NINTU, N. Y. S. M. 43
disappeared from sight. Adjutant Coppin^or was beloved and i expected by the rank and lilc of the regiment.
Charles E. Tuthill, who came from home as Second Lieutenant of company H., was appointed Adjutant, in the place of John Coppinger, resigned.
Company L. having been raised in New York city, and attached to ou^ regiment, arrived in camp, from Camp Cameron ^ Washington, D. C.> where they had been detained for some time, they were under the command ol Captain Miller, who came from home with the regiment as First Lieutenant of company C, but had resigned ; the company brought with them, the style of Tents known as the "A. Tents," and also Enfield mus- kets ; making a full regiment of ten companies.
Company 1 were detailed at Maj. Gen. Banks^ Head-Quarters, near Darnestown, where they remained for some time.
When off duty the time would be pleasantly spent in playing ball, and other sports of a like character ; in the evening we would get an old wagon without any body, and by means of a long rcpe, drag it through the camp, while some one would strike on an old tin pan, to denote the district that the fire was in, anJ the " old truck' would go lumberiiig through the company's streets, upsetting the officers Tents, some of whom
44 THllEE YEARS' CAMPAIGN OF THE
would enjoy the sport, wliile others would let their " anu:ry passions rise," which would create shouts of laughter throughout the camp. Our sports were never prolonged to interfere with Taps^ when every one is supposed to be in his Quarters for the night.
One evening after Dress Parade, which was visited by a number of ladies and gentlemen from Darnestown, who were invited by the field officers, to spend the evening in camp., and it being a splendid evening, the men gathered around tie Colonels Quarters, and forming a ring at a respect- able distance from it, commenced singing comic, national and sentimental songs ; the visitors were accommodated with camp stools, and our men gave them a musical entertainment interspersed with recitations I'rom Shakspeare and others ; lan- terns were hung from some of the tents, old bacon barrels were burnt, which threw a glare around, and all felt joyous and happy ; the visitors appeared pleased and amused with the entertain- ment, and to give it zest, a large figure habited in the garb of a monk, made its appearance and walking around, disappeared from " whence it came,'' this character represented a " Knight of JMalta," and was received with roars of laughter; at an early hour the entertainment closed by the Band playing the '• Star Spangled Banner," and
NINTH, N, Y. S M. 45
the men retired to their Qairters. Among the visitors were noticed Brigadier General Hamilton and staff.
We gave several entertainments of a like character to the one previously spoken of, which created a reciprocal feeling between the citizens of Darnestown, and tlie members of the rei<iin3nt, who were invi'".ed to their houses to dine with them.
Thursday September 2Gth. — President Lincoln having appointed this as a day of " Prayer and Fasting, for the success of our cause," about 8 A. INI. formed regimental line on the parade ground, and mirching throu^^h Darnestown, took our position in the Brigade, on the field were we had formerly encamped, (Camp Stone,) where the Division was formed, and the President's Procla- mation was read, and prayers offered up by the Chaplains present, to the " Ruler of the Universe/' who gives our armies its success or defeat ; and early in the afternoon returned to camp through a heavy rain stoim. •
Major General Banks reviewed his Division on the field previously mentioned, a large number of spectators being present.
Received a visit from Major Sherman, who came with two motiths pay in " greenbacks."
One afternoon while getting ready for Battal- ion drill, a regiment entered camp, and halted in
46 THREE YEAT13' CAMPAIGN OF THE
line facing us, and gave three years for the " New York Ninth," we returned the compiiment by giving three cheers for the '* Massachusetts Thir- teenth," which regiment came with cordial feel- ings to bid us farewell, before they left for Wil- liamsport; tliey marched back to their camp feeling that they were associated with their brother's of the Empire city in the same cause.
While in " Camp Smith," the anniversary day of company D. came around, the evening of which, was spent in festivities, the' company's muskets were stacked in their street, and a lantern suspended from each stack, and also lanterns from Captain Greene's Tent, from which the " Lager" flowed freely, and cigars were smoked plenteously, the evening was given up to singing, and making short speeches, and the members passed a pleasant evening, nothing happening to mar their enjoy- ments, they retired to rest at an early hour.
There were a great deal of blustery and rainy weather, the Teftts in a leaky condition, and during a rain storm very unpleasant, having to huddle together near the centre, and afraid to stir, for fear of plunging into a pool of water, and to increaF.e your troubles, to have your Tent blow down over your heads, compelling you either to turn out and put it up, thereby getting drenched to the skin, or lay under it till morning.
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 47
Besides the usual camp duties, men were detailed for safe guards in the village of Darnes- town, and also picket duty at Seneca Falls, five miles from camp.
A member of company B. having received the privilege, opened a mess for the officers, and also kept eatables to sell to the men.
Colonel Stiles having received a leave of absence, the command of the regiment devolved upon Lieutenant Colonel Halleck,
Monday, October 21st. — While on Battalion drill in the afternoon, orders came, to be ready to march at a moments notice, the drill was dis- missed, and the men prepared for the march, and about 8 P. M., the regimental line was formed^ under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Halleck^ and before leaving, we burnt up all the old boxes and barrels, which illuminated the heavens around ; we were in buoyant spirits, expecting to cross into Vi^'gini^j again, and marched out of camp to join the division, our Band playing, " Carry me back to old Virginny ;" the first part of the evening was clear and the weather mild, the roads in a bad condition, and the march brisk ; passed through DAWSONVILLE, some distance Irom which, we came to a small, deep creek, running across the road, which either had to be forded, or crossed on a single log, reaching from
iS
one bank to the other, some distance above the water ; some took off their shots and stockings, and waded through it, while others crossed on the log, a few falling in, the onl}' harm they received was a good wetting ; as we pursued cur march passing through POOLESVILLE, we saw a guard stationed before a house, on inquiry we learned that it contained the body of Colonel Ba- ker of the First California volunteers, who was killed that day, in the battle of BALL'S BLUFF, which was fought by Brigadier General Stone's Division, the command devolving upon Colonel Baker; now we understood v.hy our march was hurried, it was to re-inforce Stone's Division in case of an attack the next day; we willingly quickened our spted, all along the road, men in a state of almost ludity, some with nothing more than a blanket thiowed over their slioulders, still others barerootcd, suffering from the cold, having swam the Potomac, near Conrad's Ferry, to ])re- vent their being taken prisoners by the rebels, and they were going as fast as possible to Pooles- ville, some of them being badly wounded ; we also met government wagons filled with w^ounded men, going to Poolesville. Halted along the road to rest awhile, after which we crossed the Chesa- peake and Ohio canal, on a boat laid across the canal, a plank reaching from the boat to the tow-
NINTH, N. T. S. M. 49
pnth, and halting Inng enough to load our mus- kets, we pursued our march quietly, the rain coming^ down in torrents, and about 4 A. J\L halted on the banks of the Potomac, half a mile below Conrad's Ferry, and laid down in our blankets to sleep, being fatigued, after a quick march of IG miles.
Tuesday 22. — About 9 A. M. began to stir from our wet beds, cold and hungry ; hungry becauiie we carried no rations with us, and the wagons had not yet come up, but some of the men going down the canal, came across boxes of hard bread, which they opened with their bayonets, and a party that was on picket made coffee for them, but a great many of the men, had nothing to eat. An amus- sing incident occurred in a house a short distance from the canal, while some of our men were eat- ing breakfast with the family, in steps a surgeon, and told the man of the house, that he wanted ** that table right away to lay a man on, whose limbs he was agoing to amputate" ; the owner of the house immediately left, and it was used as a hospital.
Half a mile from where the regiment laid, was
Conrad's Ferry, on the Potomac river, which is
about a mile wide at that place, with Harrison s
Island, in the centre, which is a small uninhabited
3
50 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OP THE
spot of ground, and where our wounded were taken after the battle, from the Virginia shore.
The scow which had taken Colonel Baker's men across into Virginia, on the morning of tke battle, was and old, decayed " dug out " which would carry about thirty men, and it was also used after the battle, in bringing the men to, and from Harrison's Island.
We planted our batteries on the eminences around Conrad's Ferry, so as to command the Virginia shore, and to protect the scow bringing the wounded men off Harrison's Island, and our Division laid along the bank of the river, which was skirted with large trees, keeping us out of sight of the rebels on the Virginia shore; we remained in that position till about noon, when the Division took up its line of march, keeping along the towpath, crossed the canal in the same place and in the same way, as the evening before, taking a road out of sight ot the river, we bivouac towards night, in a field with grain stacked, in the vicinity of POOLESVILLE, after marching through the rain and mud, 7 miles.
After partaking of a supper of coffee and boiled salt port, laid down to sleep, some, on a straw stack, others, in a barn, while still others, slept in the open air, covered by their blankets.
Wednesday 28th.— About 3 A. M.-— before day-
KINTH, N. y. S. M. 51
light, was called up, and partaking of a breakfast of coffee and boiled salt pork, resumed our march, through woods and over rough roads, muddy and disagreeable, and unless you were very careful, over you would go, knapsack and all, in the mud M hich would cause many an execration ; about 8 A. ]\1. halted within a quarter of a mile of the Potomac, near Edward's Ferry, in a cleared field, having made a disagreeable march of 5 miles.
Towards noon, the men who fell out, having nearly all came up, we laid out camp, and pitched our Tents in a cleared field, the property of a man in the rebel service, we confiscated his wheat in the straw, to sleep on, and his rails to burn, and whatever else we could get outside of the safe- guard, which was placed over his house, where his family, and overseer lived.
Near the camp was a high hill overlooking the Virginia fchore, Meie we could see Stone's men a skiimishlng with the rebels, it was really a splen- did scene to witness at a distance, our men steadily advancing, their bayonets glistening in the sun, and the smoke issuing from their muskets, after firing.
Thursday 24th. — Towards evening the long roll was beat, and promptly falling into line, remained in that position lor some time, when» Colonel Stiles, who had returned from a leave of
b2 TnnEE years' campaign of the
absence, addressed the regiment, saying, '* that he Avas sorry, that he was not with the regiment at Conrad's Ferry, but as he expected the regi- ment to cross the river into Virginia, he hoped that every man would do his duty," tho Colonel was loudly cheered, and the men were dismissed to their quarters, and ordered to sleep on their arms, ready to fall into line, at a moments notice ; but our slumbers were undis uvbed, waking up in the morning, to find that the Union troops had re- crossed the river, during the night.
Our camp was named in honor of Captain Tuthill of company II.— CAMP TUTHILL, and was finely situated, Vvood and water was very convenient to camp, which was situated about a quarter of a mile from the Potomac river.
Lieutenant Joseph Wickham of company H., who was home on recruiting service, arrived in, camp with a number of recruits, and he also brought with him a stand of colors, presented to the regiment by the '' Common Council'' oi jN'ew York city.
The men that had been left in charge of Camp Cameron, Washington, D. C, when the regiment left it, re-joined the regiment, that camp having been broken up
Saturday SGth. — Early in the morning broke camp, and our Division (Banks',) marched through
NINTn, N Y. S. M. 53
P00LESA7LLE, and l:ite in the afternoon, encamped on a hill near SEiNECA CKEKK. after a comfbrtdble and easy march of 10 miles.
Sunday 27th. — In the morning resumed our march, passed through DAWSONVILLE, and near DARXESTOWN, took a branch road, lead- ing towards MUDDY BRANCH, (rightly named) near which, we halted early in the afternoon, in a piece of woods, with pine tiees and brushes, and clearing them away, we laid out camp, in low, marshy ground. JMarched that day, 10 miles.
In honor of Captain Prescott of company C, our camp was named— CAMP PRESCOTT, it was in an unhealth}^ mudd3% and watery place ; and the water for cooking and drinking purposes* was very impure.
The stand of colors given to the regiment by the '' Common Council" of the city of New York, was presented on Dress Parade by Lieutenant Wickham, in their behalf, to Colonel Stiles in behalf of the regiment, with an appropriate speech, which was replied to by the Colonel, and three cheers were given for the donors.
Company I. who were detailed at Major General Banks' Head Quarters, rejoined the regi- ment, which they had left at Camp Smith.
We hnd a great deal of rainy and damp weather, and our Tents leaked badly, there was
54 THEEE years' CAMPAIGN OP THE
a great deal of sickness throughout the regiment, and Doctor Nordquiest representing that fact, to the General, advised the removal of camp, to higher and healthier grounds, so therefore on the afternoon of
Tuesday, November 5th., moved out of the woods, to a cleared field, a short distance from Camp Prescott, there the regiment was more healthy, the camp being on higher ground.
Wednesday 20th. — Early in the morning, the Brigade crossed to the other side of MUDDY BRANCH, and encamped on the direct road to Darnestown, distant about two miles, having marched 4 miles.
A sad accident happened to private Ferrero of company A., one day, while setting in his Tent ; through the carelessness of some person in dis- charging his musket, a ball passed through Ferrero's Tent, wounding him in the leg, he was carried on a stretcher to the camp hospital, and sometime afterwards received his discharge from the United States service.
Sunday 24th. — The first fall of snow the season, the weather cold and wet.
Details were made from the regiment to work on fortifications, and also to do picket duty along the canal.
Thursday 28th. — Thanksgiving day at home,
NIXTtr, N. T. B M. 65
all drills dispensed with, and the men permitted to leave the camp to spend the day, while those who could not afford it, had their Thanksgiving dinner in camp, ot Government rations — Bean soup and hard bread.
Monday, December 2d. — After breakfast struck Tents, and leaving a detail behind to take care of the sick, and to guard part of the camp left behind, as the roads were in a bad condition ; took up our position in the Division, the pioneer corps, composed of men detailed from each regi- ment in the Brigade, going in advance, construct- ing temporary bridges of rails, for the Division to cross over, and making roads ; the weather was cold and freezing, the march tedious, and towards evening we pitched our Tents near BARNES- VILLE for the night, making a march of 17 miles.
Tuesday 3d. — Early in the morning resumed the march, under the same difficulties as the day previous; passed in sight of Sugar Loaf mountain where our signal corps was stationed, and pursu- ing our march passed Camp Rutherford, near the Monocacy river, passing through BUCKEYS. TOWN, and late in the afternoon pitched our Tents, in a piece of woods, near Frederick Junc- tion, making a march of 10 miles.
Wednesday 4th. — Late in the forenoon, broke camp, and resum.ed our march, taking the road
56 THREE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
leading to lAMESVILLE, encamped early in the afternoon, in a piece of woods within two miles of that place, and five miles west of FREDERICK city, making a march of 7 miles.
From Aug. 17th to Dec. 4th 1861, the regiment made fifteen marches travelling 143 miles.
NINTU, N. Y. S. M. 57
CHAPTER III. Froin December 4, 1801, to February 25, 1SG2.
Ix honor of Captain Claassen of company L, the camp was named— CAMP CLAASSEN, it was situated on the road leading to lAMES- AHLLE, distant two miles, and was a healthy situation, the water was good and convenient to canjp, in the vicinity of which, were several dwelling houses.
The day after we encamped, everything that we left behind at Muddy Branch, arrived in camp, the sick was brought to the Point-of Rocks, on a canal boat, under the medical charge of Assistant Surgeon Pinckney, an I from there, they were taken to the United States Army Hospital at Frederick city, where Doctor Pinckney, was detailed.
The men cleared the wood from the encamp- ment, using the logs to build their winter quarters with, filling up the cracks between the logs, with mud, making the floors with boards purchased in PVederick city, and buying small sheet iron stoves, to warm our houses with, so that we made our- selves quite comfortable for the winter. 3*
CA^rPAIGX OF THE
Thfre were three passes granted to each company, daily, to visit Frederick city, till sun- down, and an enterprising citizen, started a stage from our camp to the city, which was patronized by the members of the regiment.
FREDERICK city, situated in Frederick county, l\Id., on the Monocacy river, about four miles from Frederick Junction, which is on the Balti- more and Ohio railroad, a branch of which, runs to the city ; it contains some very fine buildings, and had the appearance of having been a thriv- ing place, previous to the Rebellion, The inhabi- tan ts are hospitable, and the majority are loyal, visiting our hospital, bringing delicacies to the poor sick soldiers ; the ladies of Frederick city, will be remembered by the soldiers, long after the Rebellion has ceased.
Major General Banks, made his Head-Quarters in Frederick city, at the residence of Bradley Johnson, a Colonel in the rebel service.
Pedlers frequented camp with eatables, besides which, there was the *' Ark'^ man, who gave the men credit, till pay-day, a loyal refugee from Virginia, who opened an oyster saloon, in a Tent, near the camp, a man from the city taking ambro- types and views ot the camp, and to conclude with, there was Ralph, our enterprising sutler, all of whom, lightened our pockets considerably.
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 59
A commissioned officer with a nnmoer of men, were dclailed to examine passes ol soldiers on the cars, as they stopped at Frederick Junction.
The camp hospital was situated, within a quarter of a mile from camp, in a two story Iranie house, part of which was occupied by a colored family, who gave up the front room on the first floor, and also the second story, for our sick, which were but few, as the regiment was pretty healthy.
b'ergeant Frank G. Aims, of company D., died in the hospital at Frederick city, an escort from his company, left camp for Frederick Junction, where the body of their late comrade-in-arms, arrived in a wagon from Frederick city, the coflin was opened, and taking a last look of their dear comrade, the coffin was closed, and the body in charge of First Sergeant Lanning, proceeded to New York city. Sergeant Aims, was loved and respected by all of his company, who drew up resolutions of sympathy and condolence, which were printed in Frederick city, by three members of his company, and copies forwarded to his friends and relatives.
The Division was reviewed by Major General Banks, our regiment marching through the city, the Band playing its liveliest tunes, and the people thronged the streets to see us, as we passed through, and marching to a field on the outskirts
GO THREE years' CAMPAIGN OP THE
of the city, we were reviewed, and returned to camp, being tired and hungry.
V,'e stationed a picket at Monococy Ford, about two miles from camp, to search all wagons com- ing in the direction of camp, for liquors, and to examine the passes of all soldiers, going towards Frederick city.
Wednesday^ December 25th. — Christmas-day rolls around, and calls to remembrance a year ago, when our country was at peace, and the soldiers were at their homes, enjoying themselves around the firesides, with their friends and com- panions, but the tim.es arc cbangcd, the land, is at strife with its rebellious brother, and the scenes of the firesides, is changed to the camp with its rough associations ; the usual drills being dis- pensed with for the day, the men gave themselves up to innocent sports, such as horse, foot and sack racings, Major Atterbury taking the lead in these amusements, and some of the companies had good Christmas dinner's furnished from their com- pany's fund, and it was cooked outside of camp > Mobile other:>, had a christmas-dinner of bean soup and hard bread ; although the camp was muddy and disagreeable, still the day passed off pleas- antly. In the morning, at the camp hospital, pri- vate Leonard Rodgers of company D., died, after a short illness, his sister who came to see him, was
NINTH, N, Y. S M. Gl
about returning: home, when her brother died, and Thursday 2Gth. — In tiie afternoon, company 0. paraded, to pay due respects to their late comrade in-arms, private Leonard Roarers, -who died the day previous, the funeral service was performed by Chaplain Pliillips on the parade ground, the ensign lowered at half-mast, and after the service, an escort from the company, followed the ambulance, containing? the body of the deceased, and his sister, to Frederick Junction, to take. the cars for New York city. The escort remained with the body till the next morning, when his sister, and private McXally of company D., left for home with the body.
Several days after, an escort was sent from company 11, to the Junction, to pay respects to the remains of their late comrade-in arms, private William Miller, who died in the hospital at Frederick city, and whose body was sent home in charge of private William O'Brien.
Sergeant Dennin of company II., was sent to Alexandria, Va., where he took charge of the body of private John CafTery, who died in the Army Hospital at that place, conveying the remains home to his friends.
W^dmsday, January 1st. 18G2.— New- Years day, the same as any other to the inhabitants of Maryland, whose festive day is Christmas, but wo
62 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF TM
CQuld not forget the JVew Yearns calls of ths year before, and the enjoyments with friends, but passed the day away pleasantly in innocent amusements, similar to those of Christmas-da3^
Friday 3d. — Vice President Hamlin, and Major General Rosecrans visited, Frederick city, to whom an entertainment was given, and the officers of our regiment, and also our Band, were invited to attend, which invitation they accepted.
Monday 6th. — In the afternoon received a visit front ex-adjutant Coppinger, and before Dress Parade was dismis-ed, Sergeant Strong of com- pany F. in a short speech, presented in behalf ot the non-commissioned officers and privates of the regiment, a splendid sword and sash, Vvith its appendages, to ex-adjutant Coppinger, as a testi- monial of his worth and -esteem ; the recipient replied in a few feeling remarks. This gift was gotten up at Camp Smith, by the non-commis- sioned officers and privates, of the regiment, by subscription, and cost $250, with a splendid inscription engraved thereon.
Before leaving camp, ex- adjutant Coppinger, passed through all of the companies' streets, from which he was loudly cheered ; the men gathered around the Colonel's quarters, and the cry resounded, Coppinger ! Coppinger ! a speech ! a speech I making his appearance, he made a few
NINTH, N. Y. S. 11. G3
remarks, after which a cry was raised for a speech from Colonel Stiles, the Colonel appeared, and saying a few words, bade ex- adjutant Copj^inger farewell, who entered his carriage, and rode away while the regiment cheered boisterously till. he was out of sight.
Tuesday 7th. — A day of sad and distressing news, throwing a dark shadow over the regi- ment.— News ^'as received in camp, that our beloved Lieutent Colonel, William Ilalleck, who was homvi on a leave of absence, died of con- sumption, while suirounded by his family; olten in Camp Smith., when every thing wa? quiet, could be heard his coughing, whilst others slept, and the night that we left that camp, expecting to cross into Virginia, he commanded the regiment in the absence of the Colonel, and the next day when com- panies A, D. and L., were ordered to cross over to Harrison's Island, he was eager to command them, but Brigadier General Stone, knowing that it would be certain destruction to do so, counter- manded the order. Lieutenant Colonel Halleck wished to lay his life down for his country, and was willinfr to die on ihe field of battle. The ofTicers met and passed resolutions of sympathy and condolence, which were sent to the bereaved family of their respected Lieutenant Colonel.
First Sergeant Lanning, after his election as
64 THEEE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
First Lieutenant of company D., was presented by Sergeant Claire, in behalf of the non-commis- sioned officers and privates of the company, with a splendid sword and sash, purchased in Frederick city, the recipient replied to the speech in a few, but appropriate words.
Near the middle of the month, Major Sherman, again, made his appearance with the " green- backs," to pay us the two m.onth^ pay due us.
Doctor INcidquiest having been taken sick, received a leave of absence to visit his home, to recruit liis heakh, his place was taken by Assis- tant Surgeon Pinckney, who had been detailed in the hospiial at Frederick city, and after Doctor Kordquiest returned, he resumed his duties.
Th3 weather was very changeable, some days it would be nice and dry, at others, cold and wet, there were several snow «torms, and our regi- ment was pretty healthy.
We encamped in a thick woods, but it did not last long, as we had to send our teams a long dis- tance from camp, to get wood to burn and do our cooking with.
When the weather permitted, the usual drills were gone through with, some of the streets were corduroyed with logs, making them less muddj', than they otherwise would be.
When their duties were done, the men would
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. Go
amus^ themselves by playing ball, pitchini^ quoits, anJ other sports of a like character, which would pass away the ennid of camp life.
Orders were received from the War Depart- ment, for sea-faring men, to volunteer to man the gun-boats, on the Western rivers, to rendezvous at Cairo, Illinois; privates Gray of company C, Jaques of D., Sands of E., Pinard of II., Boker of I. and Watson of L , volunteered, and were accepted, making the requisite number required from our regiment; they were forwarded to Frederick city, and with others from the Division*, was sent west.
On being mustered into the United States ser- vice, we were guaranteed our Militia rights, of electing our own officers, which right, was violated by Governor Morgan, in appointing Major Atter- bury as Lieutenant Colonel, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Lieutenant Colonel Ilallcck, and also appointing Captain Rutherford of com- pany F., as Major of the " Eighty-third New York volunteers, being the first ofiicial intimation, that we had, of the "Ninth iXew York State Militia,'' being sul>merged into that organization, which never existed. This order created a great deal of dissatisfaction amongst the men and officers, who were determined to preserve the " Ninth" intact, and if possible to win a name for it, in the annals of our country's history, of the Southern Rebellion.
66 THREE years' CA^IPATGN OP THE
Saturdaij^ February 22(1 — Washington's birth- day— was kept as a holiday, all drills dispensed with, and the day passed away pleasantly in play- ing ball, and sports of a like character.
Number of times we received orders to cook rations and be ready for marching, but the orders were all countermanded, and we remained quietly in our comfortable quarters.
In winter quarters from December 4:th., 1861, to February 25th„ 1862, when the spring cam- paign commenced under Major General Banks.
NINTH, N. Y. S M. 67
CHAPTER IV.
From February 25, to May 29., 1S02.
Tuesday^ February 25th. — Early in the morn- in^!^ broke camp, and marched a mile and a half to lAlMESVlLLE, and taking the cars from there to SANDY HOOK, distant 23 miles, arrived early in the afternoon, and encamped on Maryland Heights, on our old camp ground, (Camp Davit",) where we remained for the night.
Wednesday 26th. — In the afternoon, the Divi- sion marched to the Potomac river, and crossed the Fontoon bridge at HARPER'S FERRY, where the river is little over a mile wide, found the place deserted, and the United States Govern- ment factory of muskets and fire-arms, entirely destroyed, and the machinery carried away ; marched on till we came to BOLIVAR, where we quartered for the night, in the deserted houses, after having marched 5 miles.
On our approach to J3olivar, the inhabitants of Secession proclivities, made a hurried flight, leav- ing their hogs and chickens, behind them, which we confiscated for our own use.
Friday 2Sth. — Shortly after sundown, left our quarters, and the Division marched without halt-
68 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
in^, till they reached CHARLESTOWN, where we stood in the streets over an hour, the night piercing coldj and the men suffered severely from it ; countermarched and bivouac in the woods, about half a mile Irom the town, having marched in one hour and fifty minutes, 8 miles,
Saturday, March 1st. — Laid out camp, and companies D. and E.. with a squadron from the First Michigan cavalr}^, were detailed to go to Leetown, distant G miles, on picket duty.
While laying near Charlestown, had a heavy fall of snow, the weather cold and disagreeable.
Our Wall Tents w^ere taken from us, in place of which, we received the Sibley's, which would hold twenty men, on a squeeze.
The officers mess was broken up, after leaving our winter quarters at Camp Claassen.
Thursday Gth. — Early in the morning, bid adieu to Charlestown, where we had been encamped, nearly a week, and taking up our position in the Division, took up the line of march, passing through a fine and lertile country, and over good roads, and towards evening, encamped near MIDDLEWAY ; the day was clear, and we made an easy march of 8 miles.
Wliile we remained encamped near Middlevray, two men belonging to the Twentj-seventh Indiana volunteers, (of our Brigade,) while foraging the
NINTH, N. y. S. M. C9
country, wore attacked by rebel cavalry, one was shot, and the other taken prisoner, the Union cavalry pnrsncd and overtook the rebel cavalry, and captured two of them.
Monday 10th. — Early in ihe mornin?:, broke camp, and taking our position in the Division, marched over rough and muddy roads, and late in the afternoon, encamped near the village of BUiXKER HILL, after a tedious and disagreeable march of G miles.
That night after we had encamped, companies D. and E. returned from picket duty at Leetovvn, where they went from the camp near Oharlestown, they found Leetown,to be a smaH village contain- ing but few houses, the inhabitants hospitable and friendly ; they took up their quarters in a house and barn ; and on the morning of the lOth.^ started to return to the regiment, which they joined that evening, in camp near Bunker Hill.
One of the men of the Twenty-ninth Pennsyl- vania volunteers, (of our Brigade,) while on picket near our camp, was shot by a hidden foe, not being conscious of any, in the vicinity of camp. Tuesday 11th. — Abont noon broke camp, and taking our position in the Division, marched through the village of BUNKER HILL, and crossed a bridge, hastily thrown over a small stream, by the pioneers ; marched on the Winches-
70 THEEE YEARS^ CA3IPAIGN OF THE
ter pike, whicli is a splendid level road, and passing through a fine, fertile, and well watered country, surrounded by splendid sceneries; on the march our cavalry, made a sudden dash upon a small body of rebel cavalry, within a few miles of Winchester, and drove them through the town, but night approaching, our cavalry left off pursuing them, and fell back outside of the town ; at night- fall the Division bivouac within five miles of Winchester, and slept on their ar/;is, ready in case of an attack, to repel it at once. Oar march was a fatiguing one, of 12 miles.
Wednesday 12th. — In the morning, the Divi- sion resumed its march, moving slowly and cautiously along, expecting an attack every moment, but on reaching Winchester, we found that under cover of the night, General Jackson's rebel forces, had evacuated the place, many of the male inhabitants leaving with him, while he carried away with him, a few Union men, to prevent them from giving information ; we found that the place had been strongly fortified, and passing through it, halted on the outskirts, early in the day, and pitched our Tents, on the Stras- burg pike, on an elevated piece of land, overlook- inof Winchester, where we sent out o-ur pickets, and detailed company H., to do provost duty, in the town. Our march was about 6 miles that day.
NINTH, N, Y. S M. 71
WINCHESTER, is the county town of Frede- rick county, Va., in the Shenandoah vallej', the Winchester and Potomac raih'oad running through the town, it contained previous to the rebellion, about eight thousand inhabitants, the male portion of which, are mostly in the rebel service ; it had the appearance of having been a thriving place.
One day while laying encamped near Winches- ter, the long roll was beat, the regiment fell in to line, and double-quicked it about two miles, when it was ascertained, that our cavalry pickets, had been driven in, by a body of rebel cavalry, our cavalry being reinforced, drove them back, capturing a number of them, and all becoming quiet along the lines, wc returned to camp.
The regiment received another friendly visit from the " Thirteenth Massachusetts," which was a repetition of the one, they made us at Camp Smith, near Darnestown, Maryland.
Number of visitors from Winchester and its vicinity, visited camp to see the regiment go through its evolutions on Dress Parade, and compare our neat and comfortable appearance, with the dirty and slovenly appearance of the rebels.
The weather was very changeable, cold one day, and warm the next, then, a spell of rainy weather, then, came a short season of dry weather.
72 THKEE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
and take it in all, it was very disagreeable and unhealthy weather,
Friday 21st. — In the morning our regiment, joined Brigadier General Abercrombie's Brigade, composed of the Twelfth and Thirteenth Massa- chusetts and the Twelfth and Sixteenth Indiana volunteers, which Brigade was detached from Major General Banks' Division, forming an independent command, known as the " light Brigade," which took up its line of march, and halted near a small stream, while the pioneers cut down trees to make a bridge, so that we might cross over ; pursued our" march, crossing the bridge, and passing through a fertile, and well watered country, and towards evening, bivouac near BERRY VILLE, 11 miles to the eastward of Wind; ester, after a march over muddy roads, and throujzli the rain.
Saturday 22d. — In the morning resumed the march, cossing the Shenandoah river, on a Pontoon bridge, hastily constructed by the " Sixteenth Indiana," and towards evening, pitched our Tents, on the BLUE RIDGE Mountain, near SiNlCK- ERSVILLE, which is in the western part of Loudon count}^ Va. Our march was over good roads, the weather cold but clear, and marching 7 miles.
Sunday 23d. — Early in the morning, resumed
NINTH, N. y. S. M. 73
our marr^i. trJ^ir-iT tlio Aldoe pike, and crossing Goose Creek bridge, passed through the villag^e of ALD FiE, on the outskirts of which, kite in the afternoon, we encamped, having marched 17 miles. Mnndaij 24th. — Late in the afternoon, the Brigade marched towards Winchester, to reinforce the troops of Brigadier General Shiehls, the night was extremely cold, and starlight; and marching till day-break, the next morning, iiur^wac along the road, to get a little sleep and rest, having made a fatiguing march of 18 miles.
Tuesday '25th. — Enrly in the afternoon resumed our march towards Winchester, which had been delayed by the breaking down of the bridge, crossing the Shenandoah river ; marched about two miles, when the news was brought, that Shields' men, had repulsed General Jackson's rebel forces, gaining a complete victory over him, which news was received by us, with great rejoicings, and countermarching, we encamped for the night, on the BLUE KIDGE Mountain, having marched 5 miles.
Wednesday 2Gth. — IMarched early in the morn- ing, and crosring the Blue Ridge Mountain, late in the afternoon, encamped in the woods, on the Aldee pike, near GOOSE CKEEK bridge, after a weary and fatiguing march of 12 miles. 4
74 THREE YEARS' CAMPAIGN OF THE
We had been encamped but a shori, time, when the long roll was beat, and CoUiss s Zouaves, of General Banks' body guards, and the Twelfth Massachusetts volunteers, of our Brigade, started in pursuit of some rebel cavalry, that had been hovering around ; marching about 7 miles, towards Middlebury, and meeting nothing, they returned to their camps.
We would not give our readers to understand, because we are called the " light Brigade," that we travel in " light marching orders," but far from it, beside our muskets and forty rounds ot cartridges, there is a heavy knapsack on your back, and three days rations in your haversack.
Friday 28th. — In the forenoon, our Brigade took up its line of march, along the Aldee pike, passing through a fertile, and well watered country, and after a laborious march, we encamped late in the afternoon, on the plains of I\L\XAS- SAS, within 4 miles of Centreville, near a splendid stream of water ; this is a level plain as far as the eye can see, dotted here and there, with farm houses. Marched that day 14 miles.
S'lturda]/ 29th. — Early in the morning, resumed our march, passing through CENTREVILLE, where we saw the abandoned earth-works and rifle-pits, of the rebels ; pursuing our march, we crossed Bull Run Creek, on a bridge, re-built
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 7&
where the old one stood, \vhich was burnt by the rebels on their retreat ; after crossing the bridge, marched about two miles, and night coming on, Ave pitched our Tents, in a low, swampy place, near MANASSAS, having marched through the hail and snow, 8 miles.
Sunday 30th. — The weather rainy, still it did not hinder us from pursuing our march at an early hour; the roads were in a bad condition; and early in the day, we encamped near MANASSAS JUNCTION, where we saw the abandoned earth works and rifle-pits of the rebels, who had been stron(:ly fortified, before they evacuated it. Our march was a light one, of 4 miles.
Mondiy 31st. — There being no " rest for the weary," and no signs of any, for the poor, worn out soldier, we obeyed the commands to march early in the moining, passing through a barren, and poorly watered country, and crossing Broad Run, on a single log, late in the afternoon, pitched our Tents, near that stream, after marching 12 miles.
Tuesday^ April 1st. — Early in the morning, the Brigade resumed its march, along the Orange and Alexandria railroad, passed through CATTLET'S station, crossed the stream on logs laid across, by our pioneers, as the rebels had destroyed the rail- road bridge, on their retreat; the aspect of the
76 THREE YEARS* CAMPAIGN OF THE
country, bngan to change, to a fertile and well watered country, with splendid sceneries ; leaving the railroad, and taking a cross road leading to WEAVERSVILLE, near which place, we pitched our 'I'ents, towards night, on a cleared field. The weather was clear and fine, and the march was an ea'^y one, of 10 miles.
Wednesday 2d. — Early in the day, pursued our march, and encamped in the woods, near WAR- RENTON JUNCTION, after a short march of 4 miles.
A 7'econnoissance under Colonel Lucas of the Sixteenth Indiana volunteers, with a company, from each regiment in the Brigade, (company L., of our regiment.) with a squadron of cavalry, and a section of artillery, started for Rappahannock Station, distant 10 miles, where they destroyed the abandoned earth-works of the rebels, North ol the Rappahannock river, and they then returned to camp fiom which they had been absent, about forty-eight hours, it hailing hard most of the time.
Company II. which had been left at Winches- ter doing provost dut}^ returned to the regiment.
While laying in camp, had a heavy fall of snow and the weather was pretty cool, that time of year.
S'durday 12th- — Our camping ground being unhealthy, and badly situated on account of water, we moved camp about a mile, on cleared
NINTH, N, Y. S M. 77
land, near a splendid crock, Adhere the water was good, and in suflicient quantities.
Received a vibit from IMnjor Sherman, who gave us the two months pay due us.
For the first time since entering the United States service, the light blue pants, were drawn from the Government, and wgrn in the pLace of the dark blue pants, with red stripes, we also donned the overcoats, at Camp Ciaassen, J\Id., leaving us only our fatigue jackets, as the only apparel, denoting our original uniform.
Brigadier General Abercrombie, having been relieved by Brigadier General IlartsufT, reviewed the Brigade, betore taking his leave.
Another reconnoissance was made to Rappa- hannock Station, under the command of Lieuten- ant Colonel Brien of the Twelfth Massachusetts volunteers, with five companies from each regi- ment of the Brigade, also cavalry and artillery ; they left camp one morning, about nine o'clock, and made a steady march, lill they reached the Station, when the artillery was planted on an eminence, and fired a few shells into the rebel camps, on the South side of the Rappahannock river, as they were mounting guards for the day^ which took them by surprise, scattering them promiscuously; after which, our men marched back to camp, having been away forty-eight hours.
78 THREE YEAES' CAMPATGN^'oF THE
marching steady night and day, 20 miles, and on Monday, INIay 5th. — Early in the morning, the Brigade, under command of Brigadier General George L. HartsufF, marched towards CAT- LETT'S Station, where shortly after noon, we encamped on an eminence, commanding a splendid view of the surrounding country ; making a short march of 4 miles.
In honor of the then, Secretary of War, the Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, our camp was named
Camp stantox, it was splendidly situated, and nicely laid out, a fine spring of water, near by, and a nice, clear creek to bathe in ; the trees were in lull bloom, and the grass was clothed in its green verdure, making the surrounding sceneries, enchanting to the sight.
While remaining encamped, our Brigade was reviewed by Brigadier General Hartsuff.
Monday 12th. — About noon the Brigade took up its line of march, the weather warm, and the roads dusty, the men suffered from the intense heat, and for the want of water; and towards evening, pitched our tents on cleared ground, n<?ar a small creek, having made a disagreeable and fatiguing march of 8 miles.
Tuesday 13th. — Resuming our march early in the morning, passed through a fine country, but
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 79
poorly watered, the weather was warm and sultry, and the roads dusty, and towards night, we encamped near IIARTWOOD Church, located in Stafford county, alter a tedious march of 15 miles.
Wednesday 14th. — On the road again, at an early hour, the weather rainy, and the roads muddy, passed through the small village of riARTWOOD, and towards evening passed through FALAIOUTIl, and encamped about a mile IVom the Rappahannock river, nearly oppo- site Fredericksburg. Laid down to rest, being drenched to the skin, and worn out, after a disa- greeable march of 10 miles.
FALMOUTH, situated in the South-western part of Stafford count}^ Va., on the North side of the Rappahannock river, was a place of consider- able importance, the Acquia Creek and Potomac railroad, passing through the town. There was a large iron railroad bridge, besides two other bridges, all crossing the Rappahannock river, which were destroyed by the rebels, on their retreat to the South side of the river.
The Eleventh renns3'lvania volunteers, took the place in the Brigade, of the Twelfth and Six- teenth Indiana volunteers, whose time having expired, went home while at Catlett's Station.
Since encamping -near Falmouth, we came under the Department, denominated as the '* Army
80 THREE YEAES ' CAMPAIGN OF THE
of the Potomac," under the command of Mnjor General McDowell ; the Division, under Brigadier General Ord ; and ihe Brigade composed ot the Twelfth and Thirteenth Massachusetts, and the Eleventh Pennsylvania volunteers, and our regi- ment, under the command of Brigadier General Hartsuff ; which troops were reviewed by Major General McDowell.
Saturday 17th — On account of water being poor and scarce, and also an unhealthy camping ground, we moved about a mile further down the river, and encamped on a cleared field, w^here* was a good spring near by, and also a sulphur spring.
There w^ere issued to each man, one half of a SHELTER TENT, which are pieces of canvass, two being joined together, making a Tent large enough for two m.en to crawl in, and sleep under, to take the place of the Sibley Tents.
One day, double-quicked it .about a mile, when we found President Lincoln, and the Secretary of of War, Hon. Edwin M Stanton, waiting to review Major General McDowell's troops.
Major Sherman paid us a welcome visit, dis- pensing the " green-backs*' for our pay.
Orders were issued to cur i^rigade, that we should march six miles evciy day w^iile laying in camp, with packed knapbatkii, to accustom
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 81
ourselves to the hardsliips of m-irchin^: ; pnrsnnnt to such orders, we marched to Bell's landing, and back again, making 12 miles. Also had knapsack drill everv morning.
S'lnday 25th. — In the afternoon, our Brigade marched towards Acquia creek, over rough roads, through woods, up hills and down dales, and near- ing ACQUIA creek, about midnight, laid down near the road, fatigued with a quick march of 15 miles.
Monday 2Gth. — A great number of the men having fallen out from fatigued, reached their commands, when the Brigade marched down to the creek, and embarked on the steamboat South America, which transferred ys to the .steamer Vanderbilt, laying outside, after which proceeded up the Potomac river, and ran aground near Indian Head, where we remained all night. A tow-boat came out to us with rations, as we had had nothing to eat, since leaving camp at Falmouth, the afternoon previous. The decks were wet and uncomfortable, and pretty well crowded for a night's rest.
Tuesday 27 th. — A year ago, the regiment left
New York cit}-, expecting to return in a few
months, but on this, their anniversary day, they
find themselves on a steamer, in the rotomac
4*
82 THREE tears' CAMPAIGN OF THE
river, aground, but the steamer Red Jacket, came to our relief, taking us off from the Vanderbilt, and landing us at Alexandria, Va., about noon. After landing, we marched through the city, outside of which, we encamped. Our men rambled through the city, commemorating their anniversary day, and having a good time in general. Towards evening, those that could be gathered together, took the cars for Manassas Junction, distant 21 miles, and on arriving there, slept in the cars till the next morning.
Wednesday 28 th. — Leaving the cars in the morning, marched about 2 miles, and encamped near the railroad.
From Feb. 25th to May 29th, 1862, the regiment made twenty-three marches, travelling 218 miles.
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CHAPTER V. From May 29, to Scj)temher G, 1802.
Friday 30th. — In the morning, our Division took up its line of march, and passing through GAINESVILLE, took the cars to HAYMAIIKET, the other side of which, the bridge crossing Broad Run creek, had been destroyed by tlie rebels, and leaving the cars there, forded the creek, and passed through THOROUGHFARE Gap, the roads dr}', and the weather warm; towards night encamped in an orchard, having rode in the cars 5 miles, and marched about 7 miles.
Saturday 31st. — In the morning resumed our march, along the Manassas Gap railroad, it rain- ing hard throughout the day ; and passing through the small villages of WHITE PLAINS, and SALEM, and late in the afternoon, encamped in a field with standing grass, on the suburbs of the latter place. Our rubber blankets were the only articles between us and the wet grass, and we courted repose after a weary march of 10 miles.
Sunday, June 1st. — In the morning, took up the line of march, along the Manassas Gap rail- road, till we came to the village of PIEDMONT, where we halted for several hours, when resuming
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the march, iBaving a guard in the railroad depot, Yv'ith our kDa])sacks, taking nothing but our haversacks and blankets with us, we passed through the small villages of MARKHAM, LIN- DEN, and several others, and fording several small streams on our route, passed through MAXASSAS Gap, a pass in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and after dark bivouac in the w^oods near FRONT ROYAL. It was a rainy day, and the night was tempestuous, and the men scattered themselves, to find comfort if they could, from the drenching rain, after a laborious and muddy march of 17 miles.
Monday 2d. — Resumed our march in the morning, passing FRONT ROYAL, marched about two miles towards the Shenandoah river; and bivouac early' in the day, on a hill, near the junction of the North and South forks of the river. To make ourselves comfortable, we con- fiscated the rails and boards, in the vicinity of camp, for shelter and to cook w^ith. We made a short march of 5 miles.
Wednesday ith — Early in the morning, took up the line of march, along the railroad, and crossed the Shenandoah river, near which stream, early in the day, we bivouac in a cluster of pines and cedars ; the forenoon was warm and clear ; and the afternoon rainy, continuing through the
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night. The march was a short one, of 5 miles.
Thurday 5th. — Resumed our march, early \\\ the morning, and bivouac early in the day, in the voods, within a mile of the bridge crossing the South Fork of the Shenandoah River, having made a short march of 5 miles.
Friday Gth. — In the morning, marched back towards the Shenandoah river, and crossing the bridge, bivouac early in the afternoon, in the woods, within a mile of FllOA'T ROi'AL, having marched 8 miles.
FRONT ROYAL, the county town of Warren county, Va., situated on the Manassas Gap rail- road, and but a short distance from the Shenan- doah river ; was a place of considerable size and importance, previous to the rebellion, and lays in the fertile and beautiful valley of the Shenandoah.
While laying encamped, our knapsacks which "was left at Piedmont, in charge of men detailed for that purpose, arrived, when we laid out camp.
Brigadier General Ord, commanding our divi- sion, was relieved by Brigadier General Ricketts who had commanded a brigade in the Division, and who was wounded and taken prisoner, at the first battle of Bull Run, while in command of a battery, known as " Ricketts Batter}',,' of v/hicli he was Captain.
Tuesday 17th. — In the morning marched to
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FRONT ROYAL, and took the cars from there to Manassas Junction, a distance of 52 miles; left the cars, and marched about 2 miles, and late in the afternoon encamped on an open field, within three miles of the "First Bull Run" battle ground
tridayy July 4th. — While the men were cele- brating, the day of their country's independence, their sports about noon, was interrupted by the orders "to pack up," and marching through a hot^ broiling sun, passed through GAINESVILLE, and about sundown, encamped in an open field, about a mile from that place, having marched 12 miles.
Saturday 5th- — Resumed our march early in the morning, the heat very oppressive, forded a large stream running across the road, passed through NEW BALTIMORE, and late in the afternoon encamped in an open field, aboul a mile from WARRENTON, having marched 10 miles.
Heard of the death of Henry L. Stevens, who came from home with the regiment, as Quarter- master ; he having received a leave of absence, died at home, of consumption, surrounded by his family and friends ; his loss was deeply regretted, by the regiment, which had lost an eflicient officer,
Colonet Stiles appointed, First Lieutenant A. Martin Burtis of company L., as Quartermaster,' he having been acting as such, during the sick- ness of the late Quartermaster.
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WARRENTON, the couTity town of Fauquier county, nine miles from Warrenton Junction, \vhich lays on the Ornn^ie and Alexandria rail- road, a branch running to Warrenton, which was a splendid little city, containing about eight thousand inhabitants, most of the males were in the rebel service ; there were some fine buildings, and several splendid churches, which were used as hospitals ; there was a large grave yard, containing the graves of a great many rebel and Union soldiers, laying side by side, until the day of resurrection. The inhabitants were rank dis- unionists, rejoicing in their sentiments, and abhor- ring the " old flag," under which their ancestors^ had lived and died.
A little distance from Warrenton, was the Palatial residence of extra-Billy Smith, well known some years ago, on the floors of Congress^ his family resides here in perfect security, while he is in the confederacy, helping his brothers, of the same stripe, in their accursed conclave, to dis- member the union.
Captain Bates, of the Twelfth Massachusetts volunteers, was appointed Provost Marshall of the city of Warrenton, with his company, and compa- ry C. of our regiment, which were quartered in the deserted houses, Captain Bates oflice was in the City Hall, a large stone building, on Main street.
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Major General John C. Pope, was here^ assigned to the command of the Department of the *' Army of Virginia/' comprising all the troops around Warrenton and its vicinity.
About the middle of July, "the Army" began its march, leaving onr regiment, and a small body of cavalry, at Warrenton; Colonel Stiles was appointed Military Commander of the Post, and Captain Hendrickson of company G., was appointed Provost Marshall ; the regiment broke camp, and took up their quarters, in the deserted houses in the city, but the weather being too warm, they encamped in different places outside of the city, while the Colonel took up his quarters in a, private dwelling.
The regiment's duties, were doing provost duty, loading cars, tending the hospitals, which were moving to the rear, as fast as possible.
Our Uress Parades and Guard Mountings, took place on Main street, the band playing National ** Airs," at first, there could not be seen a female, in the street, but casting your eyes up towards the windows, they could be seen peeping through the blinds, but in a few evenings, they came boldly out, and could be seen talking with our men, and witnessing our evolutions.
A member of company D, while rambling through the city one day, came across the office
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formerly occnpiod by the "Warronton Whi^, " on entering, he discovered a Washington hand press, and on the imposing stone, was a reprint in type of the Richmond Dispatch ; leaving the onice, and pursuing his inve-'tigations furtlier, he found print- ing materials secreted in different parts of the city, and moving them to the office, associated with him, a member of company L., and they sent to Washington, After paper, and shortly after- wards, appeared a little sheet, called the ♦' New York Ninth," and of the first number was issued two editions, one of fifteen hundred, and the other, of one thousand copies, it passed through the second number, issuing two thousand copies, when the regiment was ordered to join the Drigade.
The members of the regiment, held several musical soirees, in an enclosure belonging to the Warrenton Hotel, the ladies were invited to attend, the Programmes were printed in good style, and consisted of comic and sentimental songs, recitations from Shakespeare and others ; the Band discoursed sweet music to the admiring ear, playing National *' Airs," and lively tunes ; the performances were harmoniously conducted, and the entertainments concluded with a good feeling existing between the people and tlie mem- bers of the " New York Ninth."
Tuesday^ August 5th. — IMajor Rutherford took
90 THREE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
command of the regiment, Colonel Stiles not hav- ing been relieved from his command of Military Comimander, and Lieutenant Colonel Atterbury, being sick ; the regiment marched early in the morning, and halted lor several hours at SUL- PHUR SPRLNGS, seven miles from Warren ton. These springs previous to the rebellion, was a great place of resort for the elite of Warrenton and its vicinity ; there was a hotel, with other large buildings, which had been entirely destroyed. Resuming our march, crossed the North branch of the Rappahannock river, and marching about two miles further, encamped late in the afternoon, in a cluster of pines, the weather clear and warm, hav- ing marched 10 miles.
Wednesdcuj Gth. — In the morning continued the march, through a hot, broiling sun, and towards evening encamped within a mile of CULPEPPER, where we re-joined the Brigade. This was an uncomfortable march of 15 miles.
Friday 8th. — Towards noon, the Division took up its line of march, passing through CULPEP- PER, and halted for several hours in a thick pine woods, the sun hot, and not a breath of wind stirring, and towards evening, marched a little further, when we encamped, in an open field, having marched 5 miles.
Saturday 9th. — At day-break, broke camp, and
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marched about two miles, when we halted in a narrow dirt road, unprotected iron the hot, broil- ing sun ; there we drew rations, being hungry lor the want of them ; heavy cannonading was heard near by, when the news was brought, that Bank's troops, were engaged with the rebels at CEDAR Mountain, about 5 miles dijitant ; late in the after- noon, Major Generals Pope and McDowell, rode by, and our Division comprising the Brigades of Tower's, Duryea's and HartsufFs, fell in to line, and made a quick march of two miles, when they halted in a field near the road, and stacking their anns, unslung knapsacks, and detailed a guard to remain in charge of them, and taking up their a7'ms, filed into the road, making a quick march towards where the contest was raging ; the roar of artillery was heard nearer, and nearer, as we advanced ; halted, and stacked arms lor a lew mo- ments, when making a quick march, we neared the field of action, the night being moonlight, our bayonets glistened in the light, that, and one of the Bands in Carroll's Brigade, commencing to play, enabled the rebels to judge where the re-in- forcements were, so they endeavored to plant their batteries, so as to get a range of the road, their range was an inaccurate one, by double quicking it into the field, we were within the range, the shots and shells whistling over our heads, it was
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really a splendid sight for a person out of danger. As the rebels changed the position of their artillery, we would be obliged to double-quick it so as to keep out of their range ; Tower's Brigade had the advance, and several times whilst halting, we would lay down with our aru.s near us, and endeavor to sleep, but would soon be roused up to change our j^ositions. The cannonnading and musketry was kept up, on both sides, till near mid-night, when Brigadier General HartsuflT addressed our regiment, saying, '* that one of the rebel batteries, had been silenced, and that Briga- dier General Ricketts', commanding our Division, wished him to send a regiment to support one of the batteries, and that he had chosen the 'New York Kinth,' for that duty, knowing that if the battery should become engaged, that he would hear a good account of it." The regiment was divided iQto two wings, each wing supporting a sect on of artillery ; they laid down some distance from them, but would no sooner get into a doze, then it would be, change position to some other portion ot the field, so it was, all' night long; at times we were near enough, to hear the rebel ofilcrrs, giving orders to their men, but the night was so dark, that we could not see each other.
Sunday 10th. — Some time after daybreak, we were relieved from supporting the battery, and
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returning to the Brig^ado, we moved into a field of standing corn, where Colonel Stiles again took command of tlio regiment, having been relieved from his po ition as Military Commander, at Warrentoa ; Major Rutherford while in command, behaved gallantly and nobly, proving that he was capable of his assumed position. Throughout the day, both sides were busy burying the dead, a cessation of hostillilies having taken place. The day being rainy, the corn stocks was torn up to make a temporary shelter, to protect us from the storm. Towards night, the Brigade moved out of the corn field, into one, with tall, standing grass, and one regiment at a time, was sent after their knapsacks, and returning to the field, pitched their Tents.
Tuesd'iy 12th. — During the morning, broke camp, and laid in the woods near by, and towards night, pitched Tents, on an open field, outside of the woods.
Friday 15th. — In the morning broke camp, and followed in pursuit of the rebels, who had retreated, and crossing the late battle ground, we saw horses laying aronnd unburip.d, broken wagons scattered round about, and considerable property burnt, having the appearance of a hasty retreat of the rebels ; towards evening, we encamped within two miles of the Kapidan river,
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on the road leading to it, in an open field ; sent out pickets, about a mile from camp. Made a march of 8 miles.
Since Major General Pope, assumed the com- mand of the *' Army of Virginia," besides our knapsacks, blankets, shelter tents, and canteens? we were ordered to carry five days rations in oup haversacks, and sixty rounds of cartridges, twenty rounds more, than we had formerly carried, making a heavy load, on a hot, summer's day.
Sunday 17th. — An order having been issued from the War Department, that there should be only one Band to a Brigade, and to muster out all others ; our Band started for home, amidst the regrets of the rank and file of the regiment. Brig- adier General Carroll, while reconn'oitering the position of the rebels, on the South side of the Rapid an river, was shot at, the ball taken efiect in his breast ; he was carried to the rear, in an ambulance, passing our camp at noon. Shortly afterwards, broke camp, and retreated about 2 miles, when we encamped on a level piece of land, and put out pickets.
Monday 18th. — In accorda,nce with an orderj issued by President Lincoln, " for a general muster of the Army and Navy of the United States," we were mustered in a field, near camp, by Brigadier General Hartsuff'. In the afternoon, striking our
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tents, and stacking arms^ laid around till nip^ht, when we receiv^ed orders, to sleep with our arms^ near us, and equipments on, ready to fall in to line, as quietly as possible. The nigiit was dark, till mid-night, when the moon made his appear- ance, and we fell quietly into line, and marched a short distance, to the road, where we laid for the remainder of the night ; it was pretty chilly, and the troops had kindled fires of rails, all along the road, to keep themselves warm. Our retreat was delayed by the road being filled with the advance troops, and the wagon trains ; our corps covered the rear of the whole army.
Tuesday 19th.— About 10 A. M., the road being clear, we continued the retreat, passing through a portion of the late battle field, where was boxes of hard bread, which the rebels had left on their retreat, and which our men pitched upon, with a ravenous and hungry appetite, they being short of rations ; pursuing our march, passed through CULPEPPER and BRAND Y Station, on a quick march, late in the night, being so dark, that we had to grope our way along ; at a late hour, crossed the railroad bridge, over the Rappahannock river, at Rappahannock Sta- tion, and moving along its banks for a short dis- tance, the brigade nestled down in a cluster of small pines, in a swampy place, and the men
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scattered themselves, promiscuously around, to sleep if possible. This was a quick and fatiguing march, of 22 miles.
Wednesday 2Uth. — In the morning the Brigade getting into shape, the men finding their regi- ments, moved to higher grounds, near the banks of the river, where the artillery was drawn up in position, and there we formed a line of battle, and stacked our arms, and laid down in the rear of them. Seveial times in the day, changed our position, as the rebels were visible on the South side of the river.
Thursday 21st. — Laid in position, on the banks of the river, all daj\ Our Corps, comprising the Divisions, of King's, Ricketts' and McCalls, were the only troops in the vicinity, which Corps cov- ered the retreat of pope's Army.
Friday 22^i.—'\y^iiQ in the forenoon, our Brigade separating from the Corps, crossed to the South side of the river, about a mile from the railroad bridge, on a pontoon bridge, built by the pioneers, of rails ; after crossing, marched within a short distance of the railroad bridge, and encamped in a hollow, near the banks of the river.
Com.panies were detailed alternately, from each regiment in the Brigade, to throw up earth- works, some distance from camp, working night and day.
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iS'^z/Jr/'"?/. v!-i!]i.--Ti having Ijpcn raining hard, through the previous day and night, and still con- tinuing, caused the river to raise, and being afraid that the railroad bridge would be carried away, early in the morning, was ordered to cross to the North side of the river, and jcnning the Division, formed a line of haltlc. near the banks of the river ; the rebels took possession of our abandoned earthworks, and shelled us, our artillery returned the compliment, when a fierce cannonad- ing was kept up on both sides for several hours ; there was no one injured from our regiment, but several from the* Brigade. In the afternoon, con- tinued the retreat, heavy cannonnading being heard in the direction of Sulphur Springs, and near sundown, bivouac near the road, in a cluster of pines, and sent out pickets, a short distance ; after sundown, a shower of rain passed over, wetting us through. JMade a march, of 8 miles.
Monday 25th. — In the morning, resumed the march, on the road leading to Warrenton, the wagon train, taking the road leading to Catlett's Station ; the troops pursued their march, passing in sight of WARRENTON, leaving it on our right, and early in the afternoon, encamped on the Waterloo road, the men hungry after a fatiguing march of VZ miles. 5
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Government rations being scarce, our men foraged the country, bringing in hogs, corn, pota- toes, etc. ; many an empty stomach, was filled with green corn, roasted with the husks on, and green apples, stewed, which made an apology for a dinner, for a hungry man.
Tuesday 26th. — In the morning, marched about a mile towards Sulphur Springs, having heard cannonnading in that direction, when the Division halted in a field, near the road, for several hours, after which they countermarched, back to their camps.
Wednesday 27th. — In the morning, marched towards Sulphur Springs, about a mile, and alter halting for some time, countermarched, back to the camp. Late in the afternoon, made a quick march through WARRENTON, Tower's Brigade, covering the retreat, the roads were rough, and bad, covered with mud and water, and near mid- night, halted to rest for awhile, near NEW BAL- TIMORE, the men laying on the ground to sleep, after a fatiguing march of 8 miles.
Thursday 28th. — About daybreak, took up the line of march, keeping on the road, till within a few miles of GAINESVILLE, when our Divi- sion took a short cut across the fields, and came into a road leading to HAYMARKET, where leaving the knapsacks, under a guard, made a
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quick mnrch to TIIOROUGn-FARE GAP, to hold Longstreet's rebel forces, in check, Avhile the Union troops were marching to JMunassas ; our Division arrived, just in the nick of time, as a few moments later, Longstreet's forces would have been through the Gap. Our regiment supported the Eleventh Pennsylvania, in line of baltlcy and advanced through tall grass and bushes, and up a steep and perilous hill ; the engagement was kept up on both sides, with musketry an i artillery, for several hours, keeping them from coming through the Gap, the required time, when we withdrawed, the cavalry felling trees across, as an obstruction. The Eleventh Pennsylvania's, loss, was severe, our regiment not losing a man. Returning to Ilaymarket, and taking up our knapsacks, made a quick march, and near mid- night, bivouac near GxVINESVILLE ; sent out pickets, and laid down to slec]), after a fatiguing march of 14 miles.
Fiiday 29th. — At day -break, marched towards BRISCOE Station, near which place, early in the day, we halted lor several hours ; here the Union troops were engaged with the rebels, the day before, compelling the rebels to retreat; resumed the march, fording Broad Run, and marching to 1\JANASSAS JUA'CTIOX, where we halted for some time, and a^ain resuniing the march, crossed
100 TIIKEE years' campaign OF TUE
the BULLi RUN battle-ground, pass'ng a number of log houses, which had been the winter quaiters of the rebels, and late in the afternoon, stacked ar?7is in a field, near where the Second Battle of BULL RUN, was taking place ; laid down behind the stacks to sleep ; the weather was very chilly. JMade a hungry and fatiguing march of 15 miles, Saturday 30th —Second Battle of Bull Run — Although there had been heavy skirmishing the day previous, it commenced this day in earnest ; Major General IMcDowell, being in command of the left Flank, sent our Division to different parts of the field, wherever they were needed, lor a support, keeping us continually changing positions on the field, lowards noon, we left knapsacks, in the woods, under a guard, and early in the afternoon, our Brigade was placed in the first line of battle^ advanced through the woods, on to an open field, the rebels plain in sight, and hotly engaged along the line ; here our regiment, which was on the left of the Brigade, double-quicked it, to the extreme left Flank, of the Battle line, and forming in a small cluster of thick woods, laid down in line of battle, waiting for the rebels to advance, through the cleared field ; after a short time, they were seen steadily advancing in column, when withia musket range, we opened lire upon them, which caused them to retreat, and
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we fell bnck, to a road on the eui^f^ of the \voo;ls, where wo found the Twelfth and Seventeenth, United States, infantry, laying on the road, and our regiment formed to the left of them, being on the extreme left Flank, of the Battle field ; in a short time, the rebel troops, cautiously advanced through the cluster of woods, that we had left, as they came in range, we advanced to the fence, and poured in a deadly volley upon them, and withdrawing from the fence, and loading while laying on our backs, advanced again to the fence, and so on, uniil we compelled them to fall back ; we must have been engaged neai ly two hours, and our loss in killed and wounded was pretty severe ; they having flanked us and placed their artillery, so as to have a cross-fire upon u?, poured down their grape and canister in our midst, compelling us to retreat, which we did in good order, and halting in an orchard to the rear, hun- gry and thirsty. After resting in the orchard for some time, marched a little distance, and halted under a hill, and laid there till after dark, when the Army commenced its famous retreat, in good order, although they were tired and hungry, still they marched along tlirough fear of being taken prisoners ; crossed the Bull Ilun bridge, and forded Broad Run, and several other streams, and as we neared Centreville, considering? ourselves safe
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irom being captured, laid down alongside the road to rest, near morning.
Sunday 31. — Before daybreak, commenced to rain, coming down in torrents, completely drench- ing us through to the skin, and we completed our retreat to Centreville, where we arrived early in the day, and the different Brigades displayed from high eminences, their colors, so that those who were not able to keep up with their regiments, would find them. The men having been a long time without rations, salt pork and hard bread, was dealt out lavishly. In the afternoon, the Brigade moved out of Centreville, a little distance, where we pitched our Tents, in a low, swampy piece of land. On our retreat from the battle-field, we left our knapsacks behind, which fell into the hands of the rebels, leaving us nothing but our blankets and shelter tents. The retreat commenced after dark, and early the next morning, brought up in CENTREVILLE, a distance of 8 miles.
Monday, September 1st. — Towards noon, made a quick march towards CHANTILLY, distant 4 miles, and there drawing up the Brigade in line of battle, across a road, as a support of Kearney's Division, who were engaged with the rebels, both sides keeping up a roar of artiller}' and musketry, till near sunset, when the contest ceased. Our regiment formed on the left of the road, near a
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Louse, and in a field with hay stacked ; stacked a7'ms, and laid behind them, all day ; the wounded were carried through our lines, to a house, which was used as a hospital ; rained hard all day. At night we took hay from the stack, to lay under us, not being allowed to put up our Tents, or make fires, we laid down in line, our ar?ns near us, to sleep, wet and liungry.
Tuesday 2d. — In the morning, were allowed to make fires, to dry our wet tents and blankets, and to cook breakfast with, the rebels having retreated, during the night. About 10 A. M., the Corps made a quick march, passing through FAIRFAX COUR f-IIOUSE, and taking the road leading to Bailey's Cross Roads, passing through a fertile, and well watered country ; the orchards were filled with apples, pcacljes, etc., which was just beginning to ripen ; and the gardens were filled with vegetables ; several hours after sundown, we encamped on HALL'S HILL, altera laborious march of 20 miles.
Herb ends the memorable retreat, of the " Army of Virginia/' under PJajor General Pope, which left the Rapidan river, on the 17th day of August, and pitched their Tents onHall's Hill, the 2d day ol Septv^mbcr, having made continuous and laborious marches, with a scarcity of rations, and clothing, many of the men making the marches,
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barefooted. On our retreat we participated in the engagements at Rappahannock Station, ThorougU- Fare Gap, Second Bull Run and Chantilly, the nights were^ very chill\', and the men suffered severely, many of them, not having a shirt to their back.
HALL'S HILL, where we encamped, was about four miles from Alexandria, Va., and the capitol at Washington, could be seen from it, which was six miles, I'rom camp ; it was a pleas- ant and healthy place, not far from the Alexandria and Fairfax railroad.
Our men made themselves as comfortable as possible, receiving the usual government rations, and our accommodating sutler, put up his ten?., and opened his goods, which consisted of every- thing to satiate the ai)petite.
The "Army of Virginia," were encamped, in the vicinity of UPTON and HALL'S Hills, to rest themselves, and re-organize the Army, after its defeat at Bull Run and Chantilly.
The '-Army of Virginia," was re-organized, as the *' Army of the Potomac." under command of Major General George B. McClellan ; and Major General Joseph Hooker, to command the First Corps, (ours) in place of Major General McDow- ell, relieved.
Our Corps, comprised the Divisions of King's
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Ilicketts (onrs), and JMcCalTs, Pennsylvania Re- serves ; and Riclcetts' Division, of the Brigades of I'ower's, Durvea's and IlarlsufT's; and IlartsufT's Brigade, of the Twelilli and Tliirteenlh Massa- chusetts, and the Eleventh Pennsylvania, volun- teers, and our regiment.
While laying in camp, requisitions were made, for clothing, but they \vere not drawn.
Fresh beef was drawn every other day, and we recruited ourselves, for the commencement of an active cami^aign, which took place, after lay- ing in camp, about a week.
From May 29th, to Sept. Gth, 1802, the regiment made twenty-three marches, travelling 231 miles.
5*
106 THREE years' CAMPAIGN 0? THE
CHAPTER VI.
From September 6, to October 26, 1802.
Saturday, September 6th. — The " Army of the Potomac," opened its campaign, under its new commander, by breaking camps, and st rting on a march, about sundown ; crossed the Aqueduct Bridge, passing through GEOllGETOW \, in the latter part of the night, and pur ued our march, passing through WASHINGTON city, taking the road towards Uockville, and as day was breaking, we halted near the road, a short distance from Washington, and laid down to rest alter a toilsome march of 10 miles.
Sunday 7th. — After a few hours rest, fell in to line, and pursued the march, the weather very hot» passed Fort Albany, near Brightswood ; along the route, the country was in a high state of cultiva- tion ; the orchards filled with apple trees, which hung loaded with that delicious fruit ; the fields were filled with potatoes, beans, tomatoes, ect., which were scattered in profusion ; towards evening passed through the small village of LEE- BO RO, near which, we encamped, having that day marched 11 miles.
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Tuesday Otb. — Early in tlic morn 1112:, resumed the march, the sun liot, and the roads dusty ; passed through MECHANICS town, hitc in the evening, near which phace, we encamjicd, in a cleared field, a short distance from the road. Marched through a hot, broiling sun, 10 miles.
'Wednesday 10th. — In the morning, wended our way along, passing through COOKESVILLE, near which place, Jate in the afternoon, we encamped, in a cleared field, near the road, having made a march through the hot sun, of 15 miles.
Friday 12th. — In the afternoon, our regiment received knapsacks, shoes, pants and blankets, but no shirts, or under clothing, when the Brigade took up its line of march, the Sixteenth Maine volunteers, a few days from home, joining our Brigade; passed through LISBON and. POPLAR SINKINGS, and near sundown, encamped in RIDGEVILLE, on a cleared field, near the main street. This was a toilsome march of 8 miles.
Saturday 18th. — Early in the morning, resumed the march, leaving the Sixteenth Maine, behind, to guard the railroad ; Colonel Stiles, having received a leave of absence, the night previous, the command of the regiment, devolved upon Lieutenant Colonel Atterbury, and the Corps on the march, passed through NEW MARKET, and pursuing the march, long alter night fall,
108 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
crossed the bridge over the Monocacy river, near FREDERICK city, ^vhere we encamped, after a tedious march of 13 miles.
Sunday 14th. — Early in the morning broke camp, and took a bye-road that led to Frederick city, halting for some time to allow the troops in advance to push forward, when we resumed the march, passing through the principal streets of the city, where we halted for sometime ; the weather was very warm, and on the stoop of nearly ever)'' house, sat a bucket of cold water, and fair young maidens, with cups in their hands, filling them, for the soldiers out of the buckets ; in some houses they lavishly gave pies, cakes, etc., to the w^orn out and hungry soldiers: the glorious "stars and stripes,'' were proudly floating from many a build- ing, where a week before, they had baen pulled down, to make room for the traitors' dirty rag, the '' stars and bars," but thanks to the Union cavalry, who several days before, drove the trai- tors, through the streets, in a hand-to-hand conflict, compelling them to leave the city, when that glorious ■' old flag," was again re-instated in its former places, amidst the joy and congratulations of the inhabitants, who had been robbed by the rebtls, and paid in their wo; ih less currency. Even the little children, w^elcomed the Union forces, as they were gathered in groups with little flags
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 109
in their hands, and waved them, while sin2:injr National '*airs," joyfully welcoming us to their city. All that we met appeared joyous at the re- occupation of their city, by the Union forces. ResLimini^ the march, and passing through the city, took llic IMiddletown pike, the troops march- ing in column, on both sides ot the road, while the road was filled with artillery ; the troops in advance of our Corps, were engaged with the rebels, in the streets of ]\Iiddleto\vn, driving them through the town ; several hours afterwards, as "W'e marched through that place, we were joyfully welcomed by the inhabitants, finding a bucket of cold water, on nearly every stoop, and a young lady to wait upon us. IMarching along, we met squads of rebel prisoners, going to the rear, under guard, and passed several barns, filled with them. We came to a small stream, which we had to ford, as the rebels hadbu'^nt the bridge, on their retreat, to delay our advance, which they did but slightly, as the stream was shallow and easily forded. Our Division on coming near the stream, found the bridge still burning, and some of ihc members of the Fourteenth Brooklyn Militia, of King's Division, working on an engine, to put out the fire. After crossing the stream, halted along the road for some time, the advance troops, engaged a shoit distance ahead of us. llesuming our march,
110 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
late ill the afternoon^ left the Hagerstown pike, turriing off on a bye- road, where we made a quick march for several miles, halting in a field, unslung knapsacks, and leaving them under guard, pusrsued the march on quick time, over fields and roads, till we came to SOUTH Mountain, where the battle was being fought ; taking the extreme left of the line, the Brigade advanced up the Mountain, over a steep and precipitous road, filled with brush, and small, loose stones, which gave way under our feet ; reaching the summit, the brigade formed in line of battle, supporting the " Pennsylvania Reserves," belonging to our Corps, who were thrown forward as skirmishers ; the engagement was kept up, a long while after dark, when the firing having ceased, the Brigade fell back, a short distance, on alow plain, and supperless, laid down on our ar7?2s, tired and hungry, after a fatiguing march of 12 miles.
Monday 15th. — Having been allowed to make fires, we cooked our coffee, and the Brigade advanced up the Mountain, our regiment throwing out {-kirmisher's, to feel for the rebels ; after advancing a short distance, news was brought to Major General Hooker, that the rear guard of the rebels, had passed through Boonesboro, at daylight, marching on quick time, and very much scattered, the Union cavalry close at their heels. The Bri-
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. Ill
gadc took np the march, descending the Mountain, and halted in a field, near tlic llager.stown pike, opposite a tavern, and a few scattered houses, \vliich were deserted, as the occupants had fled, on the approach of the rebels. On account of the road being blocked up with artillery, our wagons, could not reach us, therefore we were compelled to put up with short rations, having issued to us, two crackers, a man, but in the garden, of the tavern, some of the men, found a few vegetables, and on the trees, green apples, which would satiate the appetite. In the vicinity was found, a large number of the rebel's knapsacks, and a great number of their dead, lay unburied, showing that they must have made a hasty retreat. After the road was clear, we pursued the march, passing through SOUTH Mountain Gap, on the road, we met a large number of rebel prisoners, going to the rear, under guard, our cavalry having over- taken the rebels, and captured a large number of them. Passing on through BOONESBORO, the weather being warm, the inhabitants showed their kindness towards us, by supplying us with water, which was found en nearly every stoop, and young ladies to wait upon us. Our country's sacred " Flag," could be seen proudly floating fiom many a building, and we were gladly welcomed in Boonesboro, as their preservers, from the hordes
112
of traitors, who plundered them, as they passed through the place, on their retreat, several hours before. Taking the road leading to KEEDYS- VILLE, in which place, we halted on the read, for some time; the inhabitants had mostly fled, on the approach of the rebels, whose rear guard, was engaged w^ith our advance troops, a short distance from the tow^n ; the cannonading was kept up, till after sundown, w4ien the rebels retreated, and we pursued our march through the tow^n, taking a bye road, and encamping in a field, near Antietam creek, late in the night, hungry, after a march of 12 miles, and nothing to eat.
Tuesday JCth — Drawed rations in the morn- ing, and about 3 P. M., heavy cannonading was heard near by, w hen we made a quick march, crossing the bridge over Antietam creek, passing through several fields, leaping over stone walls, fences and ditches, under fire of the rebels, seem- ing incredible that any one, could push through such obstructions, but it was done through the exigencies of the moment ; the Division marched through a field of standing corn, laying it low, the shots and shells, whistling over our heads, but -we kept on, advancing steadily, till we came Vi'ithin supporting distance of a battery, who had driven a rebel battery from a corn-field, and put theirs in the place of it, when our Brigade laid
113
do\vn, nonr the battery, to support it; but some time alter dark, the Division moved into the woods, near by ; it was so dark, that the men could not see their file leader, therefore being compelled to hold on to each other, to enable them to keep their place in the ranks; during our progress through the woods, many a one, stumbled, hurting themselves, but not seriously, and alter covering the Brigade, we lay down on our arms, keeping perfectly quiet; several times through the night, we would be startled from our sleep, by the firing of the pickets, when rousing up, and grasp- ing our musket^, stood ready for an attack, if our pickets were driven in, but the firing ceasing, we would again lay quietly down to sleep.
Wednesday 17th. — At daybreak, the Brigade forming in line of battle^ the left, wh( re our regi- ment was, advanced through a ploughed field, under a heavy fire from the rebel artillery ; some of our men were struck with the shells, while advancing through the field ; advanced steadily along, until we reached a thin strip of woods, where we came under a heavy musketry fire, the rebels were in a ploughed field beyond the woods, near them, was a house bui-ning. in the vicinity of which, they ucre pouiing a murderous curr(;nt of shot and shell upon us, we returned the compli- ment ; there uniform being of the color of the dirt.
114 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
we could not see them very well, but we kept them at bay, the battle raged fearfully, men fal- ling on both sides, now, the rebels advancing, and are driven back, then, our troops, advancing and meeting with the same fate, until it is doubtful, who would be the victors, in the end. The roar ot artillery, the sharp report of musketry, the officers giving orders, the shouts on making a bayonet charge, and the cheers for re-inforcements, are the attendants of a battle field. Our Brigade having been engaged nearly three hours, and our ammu- nition expended, wc were relieved by troops from Mnjor General Bank's command, and we retired to the rear, our loss being heav}", in killed and wounded. About 5 P. JM., the Brigade was again sent to the front, to support a battery on the right Flank, the rebel cavalry, made a sortie, but was repulsed by the battery ; the firing ceased shortly after sundown, and we remained in a supporting position all night.
When we advanced across the ploughed field, early in the morning, our gallant and brave Bri- gadier General, George L. HartsufT, was severely wounded, by a rebel sharpshooter, who was up in a iree ; the General was carried ofT the field, and Colonel Coulter, of the Eleventh Pennsylvania volunteers, assumed command of the Brigade, gal- lantly leading it into action.
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 115
During the engagement, our Corps commander, Major General Joseph Hooker, "who also com- manded the operations of the Centre, was severely wounded, thereby being compelled to leave the fickl, before the issue was determined.
The new organization — the Ambulance Corps, worked admirably, it was composed of men detailed from the regiments, some 4o drive the ambulances, conveying the wounded, a safe dis- tance to the rear, or to the hospitals; and others, as stretcher bearers, to go on the battle field, and carry ofl the wounded to the ambulances ; in the battle of ANTIETAM, they could be seen with the green on their arm, faithfully tending to their duties.
Thursday 18th. — There was but little skir- mishing throughout the day, and no regular engagement. We held the same position, as the evening previous, both armies busy, burying their dead, and carrying off the wounded.
Friday 19th. — In the morning, we found the rebels, had made a hasty retreat, crossing the Potomac river, at Shephardstown Ford, in a demoralized condition, their ranks being a great deal thinner, than when they crossed into Mary- land. The Brigade was moved to the rip:ht of SLIARPSBURG, about a mile from the late battle field, where they picivcttcd along the Potomac.
116 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
We received our knapsacks, which we bad left behind, when wo advanced to participate in the battle of SOUTH Mountain.
The water for drinking purposes, had to be carried a long distance, and was very scarce, but there was a nice stream to bathe in, as the weather was pretty warm.
Our Corps commander, Mnjor General Hooker, having been severely wounded, in the late battle, Brigadier General John Reynolds, commanding the " Pennsylvania Reserves," was assigned to the command of the Corps; and Brigadier General JNelson Taylor, of Sickles Brigade, was assigned to the command of our Brigade, in place of Briga- dier General Hartsuff, who was wounded during the engagement at Antietam, and promoted Major General.
Friday 26th. — Finding a better position for camp, where the water was more convenient, ia the afternoon we moved camp about a mile, near the Potomac river, in the woods, where we'pick- etted along the river, and at which place the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, runs along the river. Drinking water was obtained from springs, issu- ing from the banks of the river. The weather was dry and cool,
Battallion and Brigade drills, were frequent, on a level field about a mile from camp.
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. llT
Onr Corps was reviewed, on a field, about a mile from Camp, by President Lincoln.
Colonel Stiles, returned from a leave of absence, granted on the march from llidgeville, and took command of the regiment.
Lieutenant Colonel Atterbury, resigned, he came from home with the regiment, as Captain of company G. ; was elected by the Board of Ofiicers, ]\Lajor, June, 'Gl ; was appointed by Governor JMorgan, Lieutenant Colonel, Jan., '02 ; and in the absence of the Colonel, commanded the regiment, at the battles of South Mountain and Antietam.
IMojor Allan Rutherford, wus appointed by Governor INIorgan, as Lieutenant Colonel, in place of William AtteHbury, resigned ; and Captain John Hendrickson, of company G., in place of Allan Ivutherlord, promoted.
The Sixteenth Maine volunteers, who were left behind, at Ridgeville, to guard the railroad, returned to the Brigade.
Doctor Nordquiest, was detached, as Brigade Surgeon, and Doctor Pinckney, being on detailed duty, the sick of the regiment, was attended toby different doctors, detailed by the Brij:: ;de Surgeon.
The Twelfth and Thirteenth Massachusetts volunteers, (of our Brigade) were sent to the Sharpsburg pike, to intercept Stewart's rebel cavalry, on their return, as they had crossed the
118 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
Potomac river, into Maryland, at Shephardstown Ford, and was making a raid through Frederick city, but instead of re-cro>sing the river, at the same place, they re-crossed at Edwards Ferry; and those regiments returned to their camps, without firing a shot.
Adjutant Charles E. Tuthill, resigned, he came from home with the regiment, as Second Lieuten- ant of company H. ; was appointed Adjutant, Sept., 61; and participated in the battles of Cedar Mountain, and Chantill3^
Second Lieutenant Charles E. Strong, of com- pany F., was appointed Adjutant, in place of Charles E. Tuthill, resigned.
Laid encamped in the vicii^ty of SHARPS- BURc., after the battle of ANIIETAM, from the 19th day of September, to the 2f)th day of Octo- ber, in which time, we were well fed, and rested. The weather pretty cold, and 3^et, no under cloth- ing were issued, and a great many, without a shirt to their back.
From Sept Gth to Oct. 26tb, 1862, the regiment made eight marches, travelling 91 miles.
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 119
CHAPTER VII.
From October 20, 1802, to April 28, 1803.
Sunday^ October 2Gth. — Early in the morning, struck Tents, and the roads being filled with troops, we remained around camp, till afternoon, the rain pouring down in torrents ; when the roads being clear, our Division proceeded on the march, passing through Sharpsburg, soon after, dark set in, the roads being in a miserable condition, and it raining hard, the men scattered along the road, some, taking shelter in the barns, while others, put up their shelter tents ; but the skeleton of the Division, pursued its march, stumbling along, till about 10 P. M., when they livouac in the woods, the rain descending in torrents. Made a march that day, of 8 miles.
Monday 27th. — The men who had fell out, having reached their regiments, the Division, about 9 A. M,, resumed the march, the rain hav- ing ceased, passing through C HAMILTON'S Gap, a pass through the South Mountain ; descended into thv^ valley, and encamped in a cleared field, at sundown, near BERKiiAUDTSVlLLE, after marching 8 miles.
120 THKEE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
Tuesday 2Sth. — In the morning, resumed the march, the weather fine and clear, and the roads in middling good order; passed through BERK- HARDTVILLE, and encamped early in the afternoon, near BERLIN, marching 8 miles.
Thursday 30th. — Early in the morning, took up the line of march, passed through BERLIN, and halted on the banks of the Potomac river, where was two pontoon bridges, laid across the river, and the troops and wagon trains, were crossing on them, into Virginia ; after several hours, we crossed the bridge, the river here, being about half a mile wide, and landing on the shores of Virginia, marched along the road, passed through LOVETTSVILLE, near which village, early in the day, we encamped, sending out pickets, about two miles from canp. The country was infested with guerillas, v. ho were prowling around the vicinity, belore the arrival of our troops. The march was a short and easy one, of 6 miles.
Saturday, November 1st. — Early in the morn- ing, took up the line of march, the weather warm, and clear ; passed through the neat, little village of WATERFORD, inhabited by Quakers, their houses were all p tinted white, presenting a clean and tidy appearance ; pursuing our wa}^ passed through a small cluster of houses, known as HAMILTON'S store, and towards sundown^
KINTn, N. y. S. M. 121
encampnl nrnr rERCERVlLLE, having made a marcli of ::iO miles.
Suriddy 2d-Heard heavy firing throuo;hout the day, and the news was brought that Briga icr General Pleasanton's cavalry, had had an engage- ment with the rebels at Snickers Gap. a pass in the Blue Ridge IMountain, and that the rebels were defeated, and our troops in possession of the Gap. About midnight, strnck Tents, having received orders to be ready to march at a mo- ments notice ; the night was cold, and making large fires, laid down near them, to sleep, not marching that night.
Brigadier General Ricketts', commanding our Division, was assigned to command the "Defen- ces at Harper's Ferr}';" he took command, o^ our Division, June, 'G2, and and was well liked by the men under his command.
Brigadier General Gibbons, commanding a Brigade in the First Division of the Corps, was assigned to the Second Division, (ours) in place of Brigadier General Ricketts,' relieved.
JMonday 3d — After laying with our Tents down, since the mid-night of the day before, about neon, took up our position in the Division, under the new commander, and taking the Aldee pike, passed through SiNlCKEllSYlLLE, and long after 6
122 TEEEE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
dark, encamped near that place, having made a quick march of 10 miles.
Tuesday 4th. — Resumed the march in the morning, passing through BLOOMFIELD, near which place, earlv in the afternoon, we encamped, after a short and easy march of 8 miles.
Wednesday 5th. — In the morning, again took up the line of march, and continued it, for four successive days, encamping at nights, and march- ing early in the mornings, passing through several small villages.
Sunday 9th- — Continuing the march, passed to the right of WARRENTON, near which, we encamped ahout noon, in a cluster of woods, the snow falling fast, and the weather very cold. The continuous march since the 5th inst., was 31 miles, over good roads, but the weather was cold and disagreeable.
Tuesday Wxh. — Late in the day oar Brigade was detached from the Division, and mxarched for Rappahannock Station, under the command of Brigadier General Taylor ; after dai-k, we took the wrong road, and countermarched to the right one, making 8 miles out of the way; the night was a cold and snowy one, and the march fatiguing ; pursuing our march, we bivouac at midnight, near RAPPAHANNOCK Station, after an irksome march of 16 miles.
/
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 123
Wednesday 12tli. — Dcforc daybreak our rcgi- nient was sent to the Rappahannock river, about a mile off, to do picket duty, where we remained tiJl about eight o'clock, A. iM., -when we were relieved by another regiment of the Brigade, and returning, we laid out camp, in a small-cluster of woods, a short distance from where we hiuouac the night previous.
The only troops in the vicinitj% w^ere Bayard's Brigade of cavalry, a company of light artillery, and our Brigade, whose duties were to watch the movements of the rebels, on the South side of the river, and to do picket duty, near the river; the artillery placed their cannons in position, so as to command the bridge crossing the river.
Our Brigade was reviewed in a field, near camp, by Brigadier General Bayard, commanding the Brigade of cavalry.
Orders were read on Dress Parade, relieving Major General George B. McClellan, from the command of the " Army of the Potomac," which he assumed in Sept. '02 ; Major General Ambrose V,. Burnsides, commanding the Psinth Army Corps, was appointed his successor.
Several times having received marching orders, struck Tents, and after several hour-^, the orders being countermanded, the Tents again pitched, and the Ubual camp duties atttcnded to.
124 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
Lieutenant Colonel Rutherford, resigned; he came from home with the regiment, as Captain of company F. ; was appointed by Governor Morgan, as Major, Jan. '0-i, and commanded the regiment, in the absence of his superior officers, at the battle 'of Cedar Mountain, where he behaved bravely ; he was appointed Lieutenant Colonel, by Governor Morgan, Sept. '62, and participated in a"ll the battles, in which the regiment were en- gaged, up to the time of his resignation.
Major Hendrickson, was appointed, by Gover- nor Morgan, as Lieutenant Colonel, in place of Allan Rutherford, resigned.
Adjutant Charles E. Strong, resigned ; he came from home with the regiment, as a Sergeant in company F., and was elected by his company, as Second Lieutenant, Jan. '62 ; was appointed Adju- tant, Oct. '02 ; he had participated with the regi- ment, in all of the battles that they had been engaged in, previous to his resignation.
First Lieutenant Henry P. Clare, of company D., was appointed Adjutant, in place of Charles E. Strong, resigned ; Adjutant Clare, came from home with the regiment, as a Sergeant in company 1)., ;3vas promoted by Captain Greene, as I'irst Sergeant, Jan. 'G2 ; was appointed by Governor Morgan, as First Lieutenant, May 'G2 ; and as Adjutant, Nov. '62.
NIN'TII, N. V. S. M. 125
Tuesday IStli. — Towards ni^-lit, several c;iva1ry regiments, arrived, to burn ttic bridj^e, and to cover the rear, on our retreat. About sundowii, our Ijrigade took up the line of march, retrv^ating through BEALTOX Station ; the njofht was dark and stormy, and the roads in a miserable condi- tion ; some of the teams were stuck in the mud, and with difficulty, were extricated from their perilous position ; the march was quick, and fati- guing, so dark, that we could no.t see where to step ; pursued our march till near 10 P. M,, when halting, we laid down alongside the road to rest, the rain descending in torrents. AVe made that night, a quick march of 5 miles,
Wednesday 19th — Early in the morning, pur- sued the march, passing through the village of MORRISVILLE, which was entirely deserted, and towards evening, passed SCOTT'S Mills, and crossing the creek, encamped on a hill, near its banks, having made a march of 12 miles, it rain- ing hard all day.
Thursday 20th. — At an early hour in the morning, resumed the march, over muddy roads, and through the rain, and late in the afternoon, encamped within two miles of STAFFORD Court House, some distance from the road, in a cluster of pines. This was a quick and disagree- able march of 10 miles.
12G TIIEEE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
Sunday Soth. — In the morning, marched to the road, and took our place in the Division, and marching along for some distance, we took a road, which proved to be the wrong one, when we countermarched about two miles, to the right road, and pursuing the march, encamped early in the day, in an open field, near BROOKS Station, near the Acquia Creek railroad. The march was a quick one of 8 miles.
The camp was badly situated, for wood and water, which had to be carried from a long dis- tance ; laying near the railroad, we burnt up the few old ties, that wxre laying around.
Doctor Nordquiest, detailed as Brigade Sur- geon, was detailed by Brigadier General Gib- bons, commanding the Division, as Division Surgeon.
The usual camp duties and drills, were attended to, and the Division, was reviewed by its commander.
Wednesday, December 8d. — Moved camp, about half a mile, near a strip of woods, were we were better situated for wood and water.
The Sixteenth Maine and the Twelfth P.Iassa- chusetts volunteers, were transferred to another Brigade, in the Division, and their place was taken by the Ninety-seventh New York, and Eighty-eighth Pennsylvania volunteers.
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 127
We received iinder-clotbinir, many of llie men having been without them, since the battle of second Bull Run.
Had a very heavy snow storm, and the weather was changeable from wet to dry, and Irom cold to warm, living in our shelter Tents,
Tuesdaij 9ih. — Early in the morning, broke camp, and marching about 4 miles towards the Rappahannock river, encamped ia the woods, early in the day.
Wednesday 10th. — In the morning, resumed the march towards the river, and early in the after- noon, encamped in the woods, within three miles of the Rappahannock river, below Fredericksburg, having marched 5 miles,
Thursday 11th. — Before daybreak, marched out ot the woods; and formed the column, on the road, near the edge of the woods, where we laid for some time, and pursuing the march, to within a mile of the river, encamped in the woods. Heavy cannonading was heard, which was ascer- tained to proceed from the rebels, on the South side of the river, to prevent the Union troops from landing on the South side, in pontoon boats, but our troops elTected a landing, and drove the rebels from their rifle-pits, and the engineer?* laid the bridges, for the troops to cross over. About sun- down our Division, marched to the river to cross.
128
bat the orders were cotmtermanded, and we coLiDtermarched about half a mile, and bivouac in the woods for the night.
Friday 12th.-Early in the morning, marched to the river, and laid down on its banks, for over an hour, when we crossed the river on a pontoon bridge, four miles below Fredericksburg, and halted on the banks for a short time ; pursuing the march, and deploying the Thirteenth Massa- chusetts volunteers, as skirmishers, advanced the Brigade in line of battle^ cautiously, feeling our way along ; advancing about two miles from the pontoon bridges, through an open country filled with ditches and swamps, which we managed to wade through, or jump over, we bivouac near the Port Royal Road, throwing out the skirmishers of the da}', as the pickets for the night, on the other side of the road in a corn field, with the corn stacked; the rebel pickets, were close enough to hold conversation, with our pickets.
Saturday 13th. — Early in the morning, we advanced across the road, into the corn-field, the Thirteenth Massachusetts, deployed as skirmish- ers, who advanced and fired, while the rebel skir- mishers, kept retreating towards a piece of woods, and our line kept advancing steadily, under the command of our brave and gallant Brigadier General, (Taylor) until we neared the woods,
NINTH, N. Y, S. M. 129
when we received a desti-iictive fire of niuslcetry, from tlie rebels, there secreted, which thinned out our ranks ; we returned their fire, and getting nearer the \vood>:, we hiid down, using our knap- sacks to protect us from a galling fire, which issued IVom the woods, and also an enfilading' fire from the artillery, w^hich belched forth its mur- derous missiles, of shot and shell ; we advanced within a hundred yards of the woods, and kept up a brisk fire, for some time ; the rebel sharpshoot- ers were up in the trees, picking off the oIFicers, and the men fell thick and fast, and were carried olf the field, fast as possible, by the brave men of the ambulance corps. Having been under fire for several hours, the Brigade was relieved, and fell back to the river, the engagement was still going on, the battle raging fearfully. The Divisions loss w^as ascertained to be large, in oflicers and men, amongst the number was our gallant and brave Division commander, (Brig. Gen. Gibbons) who was severely wounded, and obliged to leave the field. Our regiment's loss was heavy, amongst the number, was the brave and gallant Lieuten- ant Colonel Ilendrickson, who was in command of the regiment, who was severely wounded in the leg, and was cai-ried ofi the field ; part of the time the regiment was under the command of a Lieu- 0*
130
tenant. Towards evening the Brigade, again marched to the front, and was put on the reserve, and late in the night, the firing having ceased, we received rations, which we stood greatly in need of. Volunteers from our regiment, went out on the battle-fiehl. with lanterns and stretchers, to bring in all iheir dead and wounded, that they could find.
Sunday 14th. — Before daylight, our Brigade, moved some distance to the left, st#ll on the reserve ; there w^as heavy skirmishing kept up, on both sides, nearly all day, but no regular engage- ment ; at night the firing ceased, and all becoming quiet, at midnight "the Army," withdrew to the North side of the river, taking up the pontoon bridges, and laid near the banks of the river, on the flats, till morning, the rain coming down in tor- rents.
Monday 15th. — About daybreak, the Brigade marched through the mud and water, into the v/oods, near by, where w^e put up our Tents. The rebels having discovered, that we had left them in possession of the South side of the Rap" pahannock, threw a few shells amongst us, but it did us little or no damage.
Our Division Hospital, was situated near the banks of the river, two miles from where the pontoon bridges were laid, and four miles from the
NIXTII, N. Y. S. M. 131
battle-flelc], it was under tlio supervision of Doc- tor Nord(|uiest, \vlio with his assistants, used tiieir utmost endeavors, to make the wounded as coinfortatdc as possilde. The wounded were car- ried in the Ambuhmces to Falmouth, a distance of three miles, from the Division Hospital, and there, put on the cars, and carried to Acquia creek, and taken from there by steamboats to Washington and Alexandria Hospitals, w^here they were kindly cared lor.
Fi'iday 19th. — IMie Division took up its line of inarch, to find winter quarters, the weather was cold and windy, and the march tedious; and late in the day, we halted, and the Brigade encamped near the road, at FLETCHER'S Chapel, where there was a few houses. On the march, the regiment was under the command of Captain Jose})h A. jMoesch, of company B., who had been in command, since the battle of FREDERICKS- BURG. Our march was a tedious one, of 12 miles.
Our regiment was encamped on a pretty level piece of land, while on the opposite side of the road, lay the rest of the Brigade, on a side hill ; the men put up log-houses, to make themselves as comfortable as possible, for the winter.
Brigadier General Robinson, was assigned to the command of the Division, in place of Brigadier General Gibbons, who was severely wounded at
132 THEEE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
the battle of Fredericksburg; he assumed com- mand of the Division, in Xov. '62.
Colonel John W. Stiles, resigned ; he came from home, in command of the regiment, and led it, at the battles of Second Bull Run and Chantilly.
Lieutenant Colonel Ilendrickson, who was Iq command of the regiment, at the battle of Frede- ricksburg, and was wounded in the leg, which was amputated below the knee, w'as appointed Colonel, in place of John W. Stiles, resigned.
Captain Joseph A. Moesch, of company B., was appointed Lieutenant Colonel, in place of John Hendrickson, promoted. *
Captain Dabney W. Diggs, was appointed Major, in place of John Ilendrickson, who w^as promoted Lieutenant Colonel, in i\ov. '02.
The men having made themselves comfortable as they supposed, for the winter, and the Brigade built ovens to bake bread in, which was issued to us daily, a loaf of twenty-two ounces, to each one, and potatoes, onions and carrots, with fresh beef, every other day, the men began to take comfort, and to enjoy them.selves, from the relaxation of a hard fall campaign, that they had passed through, and the fatigue of their last battle ; v/hile enjoy- ing ourselves, the unwelcome news, rang through the camp, '* prepare yourselves, for a march/' and therefore on the morning of
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 133
Wednesday, January 21st., 18G3., the Divi- sion marched, till late at night, when ihey bivouac near FAL^MOUTII, after a tedious and disagree- able march of 10 miles.
Thursdajj '22d. — In the morning, resumed our march towards the Rappahannock river and early in the day, encamped in the woods, within two miles of Banks' Ford, having marched about 4 miles, through a heavy rain storm.
It was the intention of Major General Burn- sides, to cross his troops at Banks' Ford, but the pontoon train, could not be brought up, as they were stuck in the mud, so also was the artillery, the mud was so deep, that it took an extra num- ber of horses to extricate them.
Friday 23d. — The General, having abandoned the project of crossing the river, which failure was known amongst the troops, as " Burnsides mud march," and as such it will long be remem- bered, by its participants. The troops laid encamped all day to rest.
Saturday 24th. — In the morning, retraced our way back to our old camp, at FLETCHER'S Chapel, where we arrived late in the day, having marched 12 miles.
The usual camp and picket duties, were attended to, and drilling, when the weather per- mitted ; and the hours of leisure, were pleasantly
134 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OP THE
spent ill playing ball, on the Parade ground, or pitching horse shoes as quoits.
We received a welcome visitor, in the person of jMajor Hapgood, who had taken the place of JMajor Sherman, in paying olT our regiment, and he paid us four months pay.
Brigadier General Nelson Taylor, commanding our brigade, resigned ; he took command shortly after the battle of Antietam, and was in command of the Brigade, at the battle, of Fredericksburg, where he distinguished himself for his bravery and coolness, during action ; he took his departure amidst the regrets of the whole Brigade.
Colonel Leonard, of the Thirteenth Massachu- setts volunteers, who was the Senior Colonel of the Brigade, acted as Brigadier General, in place of Nelson Taylor, resigned.
Major General Joseph Hooker, reliev^ed Major General Ambrose E. Burnsides, of the command of the '• Army of the Potomac," and reviewed the troops under his command.
One fine morning, we marched about five miles, to a field near BELL Plains, where the Corps was reviewed b}" President Lincoln.
Doctor Howard Pinckney, resigned ; he came from home with the regiment, as Assistant Sur- geon, and in Dec. '01, was detailed in the Army Hospital, at Frederick city, Md., where he
NINTH, N. T. S. M. 135
remained, until the battle of Antietam, when he took charge of one of the temporary hospitals, on the field, on the breaking up of which, lie again returned to the Frederick Iloj^pital, where he remained until he resigned.
The weather during the months of January and February, was very changeable, some days, dry and warm, and others, wet and cold, with several severe snow storms.
When we first encamped, wood was very plentiful, but it soon became scarce, sending the wagons a long distance after it.
The water was good and plenty, and flowed from small rivulets, near by camp.
In the month of March, Major Diggs, resigned; he came from home with the regiment, as private in company C. ; was promoted Corporal; dis- charged by promotion, and was again returned to the regiment, with the appointment of Major, in the month of Nov 18(52.
Orders were issued by Major General Hooker, that the men in the different Corps and Divisions, of the •' Army of the Potomac, should wear on their hats, in a conspicuous place, a badge denot- ing the Corps or Division, that they belonged to
The badges to be worn, on all marches, and on all the drills and reviews ; the Corps were designated as follows :
136 THREE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
First Corps, a Lozenge ; Second, a Clover Leaf ; Third, a Diamond ; Fifth, a Malteesc Cross ; Sixth, a Roman Cross ; Eleventh, a Cres- cent ; Twelfth, a Star.
The Division was designated by the color of the badge, and was as follows :
First Division, Red ; the Second, White ; and the Third, Blue.
In April, we received another visit, from Major Hapgood, who paid us four months pay.
Before closing this chapter, we will say in con- clusion, that our regiment, on account of its heavy losses, does not number, but little over two hun- dred men for active duty.
From Oct. 2Gth, 1862, to April 28th, 18C3, the regiment made nineteen marches, travelling 197 miles.
NINTH, N. r. S. M. 137
CHAPTER VIII. From April 28, to June, 12, 1803.
After laying in winter quarters, for several months, the weather becoming fine, and the spring setting in ; we broke camp, and commenced the spring campaign, on the afternoon of
Tuesday, April 28th., when the Division, took up the line of march, through a drizzling rain storm, towards Fiilmouth, and late in the evening, encam|)ed in the woods, after a march of 12 miles.
Wedncsdd]/ 29th. — Before daybreak, marched out of the woods, to the road, a short distance from the woods, where we halted for some time ; pur- suing our march for several miles, we halted on the road, a mile from the Rappahannock river, in the forenoon ; and in the afternoon, we went down to the river, near the banks of which, we bivouac, on the flats.
The First Division of our Corps, (the First,) under the command of Brigadier General James Wadsvvorth, crossed the river on a pontoonhv'uh^G, about four miles below Fredericksbui-g, in about the same place, where the corps crossed, at the battle ot Fredericksburg.
138 TEEEE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
Before the First Division, could cross the river, or the pont"on bridges, could be laid, the rebels had to be driven from their rifle-pits ; therefore the Fourteenth Brookljm Militia, and the Twenty- fourth Michigan volunteers, went across the river, in the pontoon boats, led by their gallant Division Commander, (Brig. Gen. Wadsworth,) who swam his horse across, the rebels endeavoring to prevent his men, from landing, but having landed, they drove the rebels from the rifle-pits, and taking possession of them, the pontoons were laid, when the remainder of the First Division, crossed ; leaving the Second and Third, on the North side of the river.
Thursday 30th. — This day was appointed by President Lincoln, as a day of Fasting and prayer, throughout the loyal States, *' for the success of our Army and Navy." In the morning, orders w^ere read from Major General Hooker, stating that *' our success on the right, exceeded his expectations, that the rebels would have to leave their breastworks, and meet us on our own grounds, or be completely demolished," which news was received with vociferous shouts of applause by the men. In the afternoon, the first Brigade of our Division, formed in a circle, and the Chaplains, exhorted and prayed, and the men tsang hymns ; soon after the dismissal, the rebels
NINTH, N. r. S. 11. 139
bcg:an to shell us, when \vc fell bade to llie roiul, and ensconced ourselves in a long, deep ditch, Avhere we remained all night. The artillery on both sides, kept up an incessant firing, till after sundown, when they having ceased, we settled down to sleep, with our aims by our sides, hungry, and weary.
Friday^ May 1st. — The day was quiet, no can- nonading, and we remained in the ditch.
Saturday 2d. — In the morning, left the ditch, and while preparing for the march, the rebels began to shell us, but double-quicking it, out of range, their well directed missiles, did us no harm; pursuing our march, we passed Falmouth, and was in sight of Fredericksburg, and keeping out of sight of the river, to conceal our movements from the rebels, marched over Corduroy roads, (which arc roads built of logs,) and towards night, crossed the river on the pontoons. ixX United States Ford, and encamped a short distance from the banks of the river. We had hardly got through eating supper, when we were ordered to strike Tents, and fall into line, the news having been brought to us, that ihe Eleventh Corps, had bro- ken, and fell back, while engaged m the battle at CIIANCELLORSVILLK, thereby, losing the ad- vantageous position, that we had gained; our Corps, with thb exception of the First Division
140 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
which was left on the ?onth side of the river, marched to the Front, and reached the extreme left of the line, about mid-night, when our regi- ment was deployed in the woods, as skirmishers, anil the rest of the Brigade, cut down trees, and built breastworks, working all night. The day was warm, and the men suffered from the intense heat, the march was a hard and laborious one, of 25 miles.
Sunday 3d. — Cannonading was heard on our right, but none near our Corps. A large number of rebel prisoners, were brought in, who were taken inside of our lines, having been lost in the Wilderness, which was long, thick, continuous woods, reaching for many miles. In the afternoon, we were relieved Irom the skirmish line, by one of the regim.ent's in the Brigade, and took their posi- tion in the breastworks.
The breastw^orks was in the Wilderness, on the direct road leading to Fredericksburg, and men were detailed from the regiments in the Brigade, to dig a deep and wide trench, across the road, to prevent the rebel cavalry, from raiding in on us.
The First Division, having re-joined the Corps, took up their position on the left. The operations of the left Flank, was under the command of Major General John Reynolds, commanding the First Corps, (ours)
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 141
A number of times, we were called to arms^ on hearing cannonading and musketry, to the right of us, but we did not fire a shot; the weather set in lainy, filling the trenches, which we had dug behind the breastworks, to lay in, with water.
Trees were cut down, and so arranged, as to make a rather diflicult place, for an attack, on our breastworks, and the cannons were so placed, as to mow the rebels down, on their appearance from the woods.
Tuesday r>th. — Late at night, we prepared to cover the retreat of " the Army," across the river, and the Brigade falling in to line, marched out of their intrenchments, to the road, but in moving the artillery, one of their pieces, fell into the deep trench, and was with great difficulty extricated, delaying the march ; we returned to our breast- works, where we remained for the night, and the artillery that had moved, returned to their former position, till morning.
Wednesday Gth. — About daybreak, left the breastworks, and taking a path through the woods, for about two miles, came out on a large, level plain, which we found covered with troops, has.tening down to cross the river, at Banks' Ford, on the Pontoon bridges ; we halted a short time, and pursuing the march, crossed the river, and kept on till near sundown, when we encamped in
142 THREE years' CAMPAIGN OF THE
a cleared field, near FALMOUTH, ^A'here there was not wood enough, to put up our shelter tents, and were compelled to use our muskets, for that purpose ; the water was poor and a long distance off. It rained throughout the day, and the roads were in a bad condition ; the march was a long and tedious one, of 20 miles.
Thursday 7th In the morning, resumed the
march, and near sundown, encamped in the woods, near WHITE OAK Church, having m.archv^.d 8 miles.
The three Brigades of our Division, were reduced to two, on account of the expiration of service, of many of the regiments, and the Second Brigade, comprising the Eleventh, Eight}^- eighth and Ninetieth Pennsylania, the Twelfth Massachusetts and the Ninety-seventh New York, and our regiment, were assigned to Brigadier General Baxter.
The Twenty-Fixth New York volunteers, on their departure for home, their time having expired, transferred their recruits to our regiment.
The weather becoming warm, and our camp- ing ground in the w^oods, being unhealthy, we moved camp, on a cleared field, on the edge of the woods, where the water was handier, and the situati;)n healthier ; the weather was very warm and dry, and the drills, were attended to, in the
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 143
cool pfirt of the day, and the pickets were sent out, about three miles from camp, and the same dis- tance from the Rappahannock river.
The Brigade ovens, were put up, and we had soft bread every day, and carrotts and potatoes* frequently, while we had fresh beef, three times a week, besides, our sutler had a large stock of goods on hand, which were rapidly consumed.
Wednesday, J\lay 27th. — Second Anniversary of the regiment's leaving New York cit}- — was devoted to ])leasure and recreation, all drills were laid aside for the day. About 10 A. M., the non- commissioned officers, and privates of the regi- ment, were drawn up in line, on the Parade ground, and a committee was appointed to wait upon Doctor Nordquiest, and request his attend- ance ; the committee soon returned, bringing the Doctor with them ; when Quartermaster Sergeant Toland, presented to Doctor Nordquiest, with an appropriate speech, a splendid gold watch, chain, and key, costing $250, which was the gift of the non-commissioned officers and privates, as a tes- timonial of his kind care and attention, to their wounded comrades, at the battle of Frederickburg, while under his charge ; the recipient replied in a short, but feeling speech, when the men were dis- missed to their quarters, giving three cheers for Doctor Nordquiest. Amongst the visitors at the
144 THEEE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
presentation, was noticed Brigadier General Rob- inson, commanding the Division, and Brigadier General Baxter, commanding the Brigade, and officers of their staffs, and also several reporters of the New York Journals. We again formed in line, in front of Lieutenant Colonel Moesch's (com- manding the regiment,) quarters, when three cheers were given for Brigadier General Robinson; while waiting for a speech from the General, an Orderly came into camp with marching orders, and the General hastily left. Claret Punch was dealt out, by order of Lieutenant Colonel Moesch, when the men returned to their quarters, receiv- ing orders, to strike tents, and be ready to march at a moments notice, but laying in the hot sun, with our tents down for several hours, the orders were countermanded, and the tents again pitched, and the remainder of the day, was given up to pleasant enjoyments.
Received a visit from Major Hapgood, who paid us two months pay.
Colonel Hendrickson, who was wounded in the leg, at the battle of Fredericksburg, visited the regiment, but did not assume command, he was loudly welcomed by the rank and file, as their gallant leader, on that hard fought field, where they lost many of their comrades, who died in the defence of their counts-y.
NINTn, N. Y. S. M. 145
Lioiitrnnnt Colonel Joseph A. IMoesch, lias been in command of the regiment, since the battle of Fredericksburg, when Colonel Ilendrick- son, was wounded, ho is the only field officer, present, having had no Major, since the resigna- tion of Major Diggs.
Several times received marching orders, and struck Tents, but the orders being countermanded and the tents again pitched, and all the duties attended to as usual.
Surgeon Ketcham, was sent from home, as Assistant Surgeon, in place of Howard Pinckney, resigned, and Doctor Ketcham, was in full medi- cal charge, as the Principal Surgeon, Doctor Nordquiest, was detailed as Division Surgeon.
After returning from the battle of Chancellors- ville, we encam.ped near White Oak Church, for over a month, atending to the usual camp duties.
From April 28th, to June 18th, 18G3, the regi- ment made four marches, travelling 05 miles. 7
146 TIIEEE YEAPwS' CAMPAIGN OF THE
CHAPTER IX.
From June, 12, to Julxj 18, 1SG3.
Friday, June 12th. — Before daybreak, reveille was sounded, and forming Brigade line, about 5 A. M., took up the line of march, passing through a desolate, and poorly watered country ; the march was over hills, and through fields, without fences, as the rails had all been burnt up, and over dusty roads, with here, and there, a house, with but slight signs of cultivation around it. Near noon, halted on the road, for an hour or tvvo, to cook dinner, when a volley of musketry was heard, near by ; it was ascertained to proceed from the First Division of our Corps, who were executing a sentence of death, upon a deserter, whom they taken from the rebel rifle-pits, below Fredericksburg, when they drove the rebels from them, previous to the battle of Chancellorsville. Resuming the march, passed HARWOOD Church, and crossing a small stream, bivouac near its banks, late in the afternoon. The day was warm, and the march was quick, with but few halts, and it was a very fatiguing one, of 22 miles.
S
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 147
Saturdmj 13th. — Early in the morning, broke camp, and marched through a country, similar to the day previous, but water was scarcer and poorer ; marched slow, and halted often ; a great many of the men's feet were blistered, from the march of the previous day ; in the afternoon, came to BEALTON Station, when we followed the Orange and Alexandria railroad, towards the llappahannock river, and marching about half a mile, turned into the woods, several hundred yards from the railroad, where late in the afternoon, the Brigade encamped ; another regiment from the Brigade, and ours, was sent out on picket, about a mile from camp, towards the river. The day was clear, but the night was rainy, and the march was a tedious one, of 15 miles.
Su'.^day 14th. — Early in the morning, return- ing from picket, we found the Brigade drawn up in line, ready for a march, and taking our position in the Brigade, the column moved towards Bcal- ton ^Station, and marched along the pike, till we reached Catlett's Station, where we crossed the long railroad bridge, and near which we halted for some time ; pursuing the march, passing over roads, through woods and fields, till about 9 P, IM., when we forded a small stream, near BIILSCOE Station, and halte I in a field, near its banks, to cook supper a,nd rest for awhile ; several hours
148 THKEE YEARS' CAMPAIGN OF THE
afterwards, we resumed the march, groping our way along the pike, in the dark, stumbling over the stones and bushes, till after mid-night, when we crossed Broad Run, on pieces of boards and rails, the stream was very narrow, and shallow, and about 5 A. M., we halted near the railroad, in the vicinity of MANASSAS JUNCTION, the men throwing themselves on the ground, tired and sleepy, after marching all day and all night, over rough roads. It was a quick march of 25 miles.
Monday 15th. — After sleeping several hours, we continued the march, thi-ough a hot, broiling snn, passing the abandoned earthworks of the rebels, and leaving the railroad, marched across the fields, through a desolate and barren looking countr}^, which was poorly watered, and crossing Bull Run Creek, on logs throwed across for that purpose, and halted in the woods, near its banks, to cook and eat breakfast, where we remained for about an hour, when resuming the march, through a rough and stony countr}^, and early in the after- noon, pitched our Tents, inside of the rebels aban- doned breastworks, near CENTREYILLE, hav- ing marched 10 miles.
There were several springs of good, clear water, near the camps, and a nice stream to bathe in ; the country around was wild and deso- late looking, being void of cultivation.
KINTIT, N. Y. S. M, 149
Tuesday IGth. — Towards rvonino", tlie momhcrs of the regiment, assembled around the quarters of the Lieutenant Colonel, to bid farewell to Colonel llendrickson, who having his leave of absence, renewed, was going with the sutler, to Alexandria, Va., and from their home; the Colonel made a short, but feeling speech, regretting the necessity of his leaving the regiment, but he hoped that he would soon be able to take command again; he w^as loudly ch( ered, and he took his departure, amidst the regrets of the whole regiment, taking home with him, the regiment's State Colors, which were entirely perforated with bullet holes.
Wednesday 17th. — Reveille was sounded about 2 A. M., and about daybreak, taking our position in the Brigade, marched through CENTllR- VILLE, and crossing several small and shallow stieams, on stones and pieces of rails laid across ; the march was through a country, that was under cultivation, the farms looked thrifty, and the fences and dwellings were in good order, but the j water was scarce and poor. Our march was through meadows, fields, and woods, over dusty roads, through a hot, broiling sun, and a great many men from our Corps, were sun-struck, and died en the march. In the middle of the after- noon encam ped on a cleared fudd at HERN DON Station, near the Alexandria and Leesburg rail-
150 THREE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
road, seven miles from the latter place. The march was a tedious one, of 15 miles.
We encamped on the estates belonging to the family of the late lamented Captain Herndon, (who was lost on the ill-fated Steamer X^entral America) and near our encampment was a fine piece of woods, with a running stream of good water, besides several springs. In the vicinity, the battle of Drainesville was fought; the rebels had torn up the track for a long distance towards Leesburg.
Thursday 18th. — i^euezVZe sounded 3 A. M., and after eating breakfast, struck Tents, ready to march, but about noon, the orders were counter- manded, and the Tents were again pitched, and the usual duties attended to.
Friday 19th. — Early in the morning struck Tents, ready to march, when our regiment received orders, detailing them to guard the Corps wagon train, and we again pitched our Tents, while the rest of the Corps, took up the march. The coun- try in the vicinity of our camp, was infested with guerillas, and we sent pickets out, about half a mile. Towards evening an alarm was created by the report of musketry, when two officers came riding into camp, reporting that they had been fired at, the regiment was put under arms, and all becoming quiet, they laid down to spend a disa-
NINTH, N. y. S. M. 151
greeable night, the wind blowing fierce]}^, and the rain descending in torrents.
Saturday 20th. — Reveille sounded at 3 A M., and at 7 A. M., our regiment struck Tents, and marched to the front and rear of the wagon train, to prevent an attack from guerillas ; the roads were very muddy ; passed through the woods, near the railroad, and near GUILFORD Station, in a splendid pine grove, parked the wagon train, and encamped near by, to guard it. Having made a short march of 4 miles.
GUILFORD Station is situated in Loudon county, on the Alexandria and Leesburg railroad, about five miles from the latter place ; it contained a few houses, which were in a delapidated condi- tion, and the few inhabitants that were left, had barely the necessaries of life ; the railroad was torn up, to this place.
Our camp was badly situated for water, there being none fit to drink, nearer than a quarter of a mile from camp, in the wells of the houses at Guilford station ; and no water to wash in, except a small stream of muddy water, near camp.
Volunteers were sent from the regiment, to Fairfax Station, about twenty miles, to guard the supply train, there and back again ; and also foraging parties, were sent out, in the vicinity of camp, after hay and grain.
152 THEEE YEAES^ CAMPAIGN OP THE
Early one morning, the regiment leaving their Tents standing, marched about fo<ur miles from camp, under direction of the Corps Commander, Major General John Reynolds, who was with us ; coming to a piece of woods, we deployed skirmish- ers, and scoured the w^oods in search of guerillas, who had been seen lurking around, but finding none, we returned to camp.
Thursday 25th. — About 10 A. M., the wagons proceeding in advance, our regiment marching in the rear, to guard them ; passed throngh a barren and desolate looking country, crossing several small and shallow streams, on pieces of rails, laid across for that purpose ; the roads in a muddy and bad condition, and the march slow and tired- some ; the whole army were in advance of us, with the exception of some cavalry, which was in the rear. About 4 P. M , we arrived in sight of the Potomac river, near EDWARD'S FERRY, and parked the wagon train, and the regiment halted, near the banks of the river, the rain pour- ing down in torrents. About 9 P. M., the troops having all crossed the river, at Edwards Ferry, on the pontoon bridges, the wagon train crossed on one of the 'pontoons, while w^e crossed on the other, and landed on the Maryland shore ; the river at this place, is about a mile wide, and the current runs swift. Pursuing our march, passed through
NIXTIT, N. Y. S. M. 153
fields and swamps, while the wagon train, kept on the road, which was very muddy, and the wagons would get stuck fast, when our regiment would halt, until they were extricated, and then groping our way along in the dark, souse we would go into a mud hole, and feeling our way out, contin- ued the perform.ances at short intervals. About mid-night, passed the village of TOOLESVILLE, and near daybreak, halted on the road, near BARNESVILLE, and laid down on the ground to sleep, the rain descending in torrents. Made a slow, but laborious march of 20 miles.
Friday 2Gth. — After a few hours sleep, the wagon train started, and passing through the village of BARNESVILLE, took a road leading to the Sugar Loaf Mountain ; passed around the Mountain, on a very bad road, it rained hard during the time ; took the road to GREENFIELD Mills, and passing that place, took another one to ADAMS town, and late in the afternoon, encamped near that place, having marched L5 miles.
Saturday 27th. — Early in the morning, started with the wagon train, and marched to JEFFER- SON, there our regiment returned to the Brigade, and marched through MIDDLETOWN, near which place we encamped in the afternoon^ having marched 12 miles. 7*
154 THEEE YEAES' CAMPAIGN OF THE
Sunday 28th.— About 3 P. M., taking up the line of march, encamped within a mile of FRED- ERICK city, about 8 P, M., having made an easy march of 7 miles.
Monday 29th. — Early in the morning, passed through FREDERICK city, and took the Emmitts- burg pike, passing through the villages of LEW* ISTON MECHANICSVILLE, and FRANKLIN- VILLE, besides other small ones ; passed through a place called the Catoctin Furnace, where there were coal mines ; late in the afternoon passed through EMMITTSBURG, and forming in line of battle^ on the outskirts of the town, bivouac for the night, having made a quick march of 25 miles.
Tuesday 30th. — In the morning, passed through a part of EMMITTSBURG, and crossing the boundary line, between Maryland and Pennsyl- vania, encamped near the road, having marched 5 miles.
Major General George Meade, assumed com- mand of the '' Army of the Potomac,'' in place of Major General Hooker, relieved.
Wednesday, July 1st. — About 8 A. M., taking up the line of march, on the Emmittsburg pike, to within a few miles of GETTYSBURG, when turning off to the westward of Gettysburg, we took the road leading to Seminary Hill, hearing heavy cannonading and musketry in that direction ;
NINTH, N. Y. S. M. 155
nearing the hill, we found the First Division of our Corps, engaged with the rebels, our Division immediately formed on their right, back of the town, distant about three miles ; our Corps with the Third Division, which took its place in line numbered about 7000 men, and they were arrayed, against a force, with three times their number, and were engaged three hours, showing the rebels that they were not the "raw militia," that they were led to expect, but the bone and sinew of the " First Corps, of the Army of the Potomac." After being engaged for about three hours, taking a large number of prisoners, and losing about half our men, the Corps was relieved by a portion of the Eleventh Corps, and shortly afterwards, the rebels having outflanked them, all cur troops had to fall back, through the town, to Cemetry Hill, under a galling fire, and the rebels obtained possession of the town, having our hospitals in their hands, and taking a great many of our men prisoners. On Cemetry Hill, we again formed in line, and our fdrces took a new base for operations ; our Divi- sion changed positions, a number of times, to keep out ot the range of the rebels artillery, which was throwing shots and shells, destiuctively amongst us ; towards dark, we moved about half a mile to the left of Cemetry [Jill, and after dark we built breastworks, of stones and rails, to protect us
156 THREE tears' CAMPAIGN OF THE
from the rebel sharpshooters, and Whitworth Gun. Our regiment built breastworks untill a late hour? ^vhen we went a short distance in front, on the skirmish line, where we remained for six hours, when we we-re relieved. 'Ihis was a fatiguing day's work, fighting, and marching Smiles.
Major General John Reynolds, commanding our Corps, while gallantly leading his men into action, during the first part of the engagement, was shot by a rebel sharpshooter, in the head ; he w^as carried of! the field, but did not live long. His death was not known, till after the Corps was relieved, and created sorrow amongst his men, he was admired for his good character, and for his kind disposition, to the men under his command. General Reynolds was assigned to the command of the First Corps, after the battle of Antietam, and he gallantly led them through the battle of Fredericksburg, where he was noted for his cool- ness and bravery ; and again, at Chancellorsville, where he was put in command of the left wing of the Army ; and last, he has fallen at Gettysburg, in defence of his country.
Brigadier General Baxter, commanding our Brigade, had all the officers of his staff, either killed or wounded, while the gallant and brave General, escaped from all harm, coolly riding his charger, at the head of his Brigade,
NIXTII, N. Y. S. M. 157
Tliursday 2(1. — TTeovy cannonading and skir- mishing: was kept up throughout llie day ; we changed our position, on whatever part of the lino, our services were needed as a support. The water was scarce and poor ; and we could not make cofTce, as the sharpshooters, were watching their chance to pick off our men. At night, retired a short distance to the rear, and laid on our arms,
Friday 3d. — The battle raged fearfully, the rebels endeavoring to drive our troops, from Cem- etry Hill, as they held possession of the town ; but their attempt proved unsuccessful ; our Division marched to the right of the Hill, where we remained for some time, when we double-quicked it, to the left of the Hill, a short distance, and took up our position in the breastworks, vacated by the Second Corps, and at mid-night, our regiment, was sent out on the skirmish line, w-here we remained for six hours, the rain descending heavily. We were short of rations, and pretty w^ell w^orn out, "with the incessant changes of the past few days.
Snlurday 4th. — The rebels evacuated the town, and our troops took possession in the morning, they found the hospitals, as they had left them, the rebels having paroled the wounded, and all that were connected with the hospitals. No cannonad- ing, and but slight skirmishing throughout the day. Remained behind our breastworks, all day, and at
158 TIIEEE years' campaign OF THE
midnight, our regiment was sent out on the skir- mish line, where we remained for six hours.
/Sunday 5th. — ^.At daylight, the skirmishers not seeing the rebels in front of them, they cau- tiously advanced about a mile, to the edge of a piece of woods, but they found that the rebels had retreated under cover of the night, leaving his dead and wounded behind him. Our Division left the breastworks, and fell back a short distance, to others, vacated by some of our troops, where w^e drew rations, which had been scarce, since the first days battle, and towards night, we moved out of the breastworks, for a short distance into a cleared field, where we pitched our Tents, for the first time since leaving Emmittsburg, and the men settled down for a comfortable nights rest.
Major General John Newton, was assigned to the command of our Corps, in place of John Rey- nolds, w^ho was killed in the first days fight, a Gettysburg.
Monday 6th. — Early in the morning, started in pursuit of the rebels, who had retreated tow^ards Maryland ; and we took the road to Emmittsburg, and near sundown, encamped in the field, where we encamped on the march to Gettysburg. This was a quick and rapid march of 8 miles.
Tuesday 7th. — Early in the morning, resuming the march, passed through EMMITTSBURG, and
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also the small villages of MECHANICSVILLE and LCWISTON ; crossed the CATOCSIN Moun- tain, over a steep and difiicult road ; tlie wagons and artilier}', were compelled to take another road, as the one that the infantry took, was a mere path, and too precipitous for teams to pass over • about dark, encamped at the foot of the Mountain in MIDDLETOWiM Valley, and sent out a detail from the regiment, to do picket duty, a short dis- tance from the camp. The march was a fatiguing and laborious one, through the rain and mud, a distance of 22 miles.
Wednt^sday 8th. — At daylight, calling in the picket, we resumed the maich, passing through MIDDLETOWN, and halted for several hours, at the loot of SOUTH Mountain, \^here some of the men, drew shoes, being almost barefooted ; resum- ing the march, crossed SOUTH Mountain pass, and near sundown, halted on the brow of the Mountain, and built breastworks of stones, and laid behind them in line of battle ; cannonading was heard in the direction of Boonesboro, distant about five miles. The march was a rough one of 15 miles, through the raiji and mud.
Friday 10th. — Early in the morning, took up the line of march, passing through LOONESBOIIO and BENEVOLA, and near which place, shortly after noon, we halted, and forming in line of hat-
IGO
tie, threw up breastworks of rails and earth, but near night, we moved further towards the right, about half a mile, and again throwed up breast- works, and laid behind them for the night. The Sixth Corps had a skirmish with the rebels, in the vicinity, and drove them from their position. The day was mild and pleasant, the march was a short one, of G miles.
Saturday 11th, — We laid behind our breast- works all day, while the cavalry was a skirmish- ing with the rebels, and also the Sixth Corps, who drove the rebels from their position.
Sunday 12th. — About noon, started on the pur- suit, and passing through FUNKTOWN, which the rebels had evacuated in the morning, crossed the Antietam creek bridge, and halted early in the afternoon, near its banks, on the Hagerstdwn pike, which place was plainly visible ; towards night, marched a short distance to the right of HAGERSTOWN, where we formed in line of battle, part of our regiment laying across a dirt road, into a garden, in which was a house, where our General, made his quarters; tearing down the rail and board fences, and the stone walls, we built breastworks of them, across the road, and laid dovv-n on our arms to rest. A regiment was sent out from the Brigade as skirmishers, when a sharp firing was kept up till after dark.
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It rainrd hard thro'ijrliont the day and ni:^ht, and we had little or no shelter. The march was a short one, of 5 miles.
Monday 13th — Heavy skirmishing throughout the day ; remained behind our breastworks ; there was continual rain.
Tuesday 14th. — In the morning, the skirmish- ers advancing, found that the rebels had retreated under cover of the night, and towards noon, we started in pursuitof them, passing their abandoned breastworks and rifle-pits, and late in the after- noon, encamped on a hill, near WILLIAMS PORT, having ascei-taincd that the rear guard of the rebels, had in the morning, crossed the river at "SVilliamsport, into Virginia. The march was a quick one, of 8 miles, through the rain.
Wednesday 15th. — At daybreak, marched back to a dirt road, and passing over a portion ot the ANTIETAM battle ground, passed through the villages of KECDYSVILLE and ROIIRSVILLE, and late in the afternoon, encamped at the foot of South Mountain, near CRAMPi'ON'S Gap. It was a quick and rainy march of 18 miles.
Thursday IGth. — In the morning, resuming the marcli, passed through CPvAMPTON'S Gap, and through the village of BERKIIARDTSVILLE, and early in the afternoon, encamped near BER- LIN, having marched 8 miles.
162 TIlPwEE years' campaign OF THE
The march into Pennsylvania and back again, was very contihuous, having been in close pursuit of Lee, and his rebel hosts ; the men were tired out with continual marching, and some, not able to keep up with their regiments, as the marches were very quick, and there were as many roads, as there were Corps ; therefore, the rebels having crossed the river, into Virginia, the troops were encamped, near Berlin, to rest, and for the absen- tees to join their regiments.
From June 12th, to July 18th, 18G3, the regi- ment made twenty-one marches, travelling 273 miles, and fought in the battle of Gettysburg.
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CHAPTER X. From July IS, to Dccemhei\i, 1SG3.
Saturday^ July 18th.— At daybreak, took up the line of march, passing through BERLIN, and crossing the Potomac river, on a pontoon bridge, into Virginia, and marching on, passed through LOVETTSVILLE and MILLTQWN, and early in the afternoon, encamped, near the neat, little quaker village of WATERFORD, having marched 12 miles.
Sunday 19th. — At daybreak, resumed the march, passing through the villages of WATER- FORD, HARMONY, and HAMILTON, and near the latter place, encamped early in the afternoon, having made a march of 10 miles.
Monday 20th. — On the road again at daybreak, travelling through a hot sun, and passing through the village of MIDDLEBURG, encamped late in the afternoon, on the outskirts of that place, having made a quick and fatiguing march, of 20 miles.
Wednesday 2"Jd. — About sundown, took up the line of march, the night was clear and moonlight, but the roads were rough and stony ; pursued our march, till about 3 A. M , when ue encamped near WIHTE PLAlNo, having marched 10 miles.
164 THREE YEAES^ CAMPAIGN OP THE
Thursday 23d.— About 8 A. M., resumed the march, passing through WARREiNTON, and out- side of the city, late in the afternoon, formed in line of battle, expecting an attack from the rebels. The march was a quick one, it raining hard, a part of the time, and it was a fatiguing one, of 12 miles.
Friday 24th. — Men were detailed from each regiment in the Brigade, to throw up earthworks, for protection, working on them, night and day.
Saturday 25th. — Before daybreak, received orders to be ready for a march, and early in the morning, the Division moved ; our regiment was detached from the Brigade, to guard the Corps wagon train, and marched towards WARREN- TON JUNCTION, and about 10 A. M., encamped near that place, when our regiment returned to the Brigade, and was drawn up in line of battle ; near sundown, we resumed the march, and about 9 p. M., encamped near BEALTON Station, having marched 7 miles from Warrenton Junction, and 9 miles from Warrenton to Warrenton Junction, making a distance of IG miles.
Monday 27th. — Our regiment was sent two miles towards Warrenton, to do picket duty, for twenty- four hours.
Tuesday 28ih. — Our regiment, having been been relieved from picket, returned to camp.
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Laid encamped near BEALTON Station, from July iifith, to August 1st, and details ^verc made from the regiments, to build " block houses," and stockades, along the railroad, for its defence
Saturday J August 1st. — Early in the morning, left camp, near Bealton Station, and crossed the Rappahannock river, at Rappahannock Station, on a pontoon bridge ; and on a hill, near the banks of the river, early in the forenoon, threw up intrench- ments, and sent out pickets. The march, was a short one,^of 5 miles.
For two days, we were busy throwing up intrenchments, and doing picket duty.
Tuesday 4th. — Forined in line of bottle^ inside of the intrenchments, expecting an attack from the rebel cavalry, which had attacked ours, and were handsomely repulsed, making a rapid retreat.
Saturday 8th. — Moved to another hill, near by, vacated by the Fifth Maryland volunteers, of our Third Division, who had intrenched themselves, Laid out camp, and remained about a week.
Received a visit from Major Ilapgood, who paid us two months pay.
Saturday 15th. — About sundown, crossed to the North side of the river, and marched about a mile, when we encamped. Our encampment on the opposite side of the river, was very unhealthy, occasioning a great deal of sickness.
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Sunday lOth. — Moved about a quarter of a mile, where we laid out camp, in a beautiful spot, on a side hill, and remained over a week.
Two hundred drafted men and substitutes came from home, to join our regiment, and we again commenced drilling.
Wednesday 2Gth — We again moved camp, on a hi]], near by, which was a healthier situation.
Colonel Hendriclsson, who had been absent on a sick leave, resigned, amidst the regrets of the rank and file of the regiment, by whom he was beloved. He came from home with the regiment, as First Lieutenant of company G., and on the promotion of Captain William Atterbury, to Major, June '61, he was elected by his company, as Cap- tain ; appointed by the Governor, as Major, Sept. '62 ; Lifcuteiiant Colonel, Nov. '62, and was in command of the regiment, at the battle of First Fredericksburg, v/here he was wounded in the leg, which was amputated below the knee ; on the resignation of Colonel Stiles, Jan. '63, he was appointed Colonel, but on account of his wounds, he was unable to take charge of the regiment, therefore, his duties devolved upon Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Moesch.
Sunday, September 13th. — Heavy cannonading was heard in the direction of Culpepper, which was ascertained to be the Second Corps, which
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had met the rebels, and were holding them in check, untill our lines were established.
Major Ilapgood, made us another visit, paying us two months pay.
Wednesday 10th. — About daybreak,