Letter – Noah Hill, 26 June 1864

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Letter written by Private Noah G. Hill of Company K, 123rd NY Volunteer Infantry, to his father. Hill writes about the fight at Kolb’s Farm, GA, on June 22nd. Hill’s regiment was put on the skirmish line. At one time when the Confederate forces drove forward, Hill writes that they were “so close. . . we could hear them talk.” After several attempts at charging the Union troops, the Confederates “gave it up as a bad job.” Hill writes that he and his friends are doing well. He is unsure of when he will be able to write again, as paper is scarce. He hopes that the campaign will soon be over. He describes hearing heavy cannonading, and remarks on the casualties suffered by his regiment. Hill concludes by writing that he is in Hooker’s 20th Corps, Williams’ Division, and Knipe’s Brigade, and mentioning the arrival of Hiram Young.

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Campt In the Brest Works June 26 1864

Dear, Father I thought I would write a few lines to you this morning it is the first chance that I have had well I geuss I will tell you about our fight our Regt was put on the skirmish line & we drove the rebbles aboute 3 miles & then we runn into their line of battle & they charged on us & drove us back & then wee drove them back wee held our ground for 1 [h]our & then they formed again & came on us with such a force that wee had to fall back wee was clost to them wee could here them talk they was in the busheys & wee was in front of them aboute 6 rods when they give the order to forward

wee all jumped up & fired & then wee fell back wee layed some of them cold you can bet they charged on our Batery & got driven back with great slaughter they tryed it 3 or 4 times & then they give it up as a bad job well I geuss I told you all aboute that so I geuss I will tell you that I am well & so is bub & W.R.H. is well bub is writeing & so is William R the Granville boys is all well I have not had any letter from in a long time I dont knowwhen I will write to you again for this is the last scrap of paper any of us has but I am in hopes that this campaign will bee over before long it has been a hard one well I have just had my hair cut Ed Rasey cut it Ed &

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the rest of the boys has gon to meeting it is sunday & a lonesome sunday two I have thinking of home to day I would like to know why John dont write I should think he could write more if he wanted to very bad well I dont know of much news to write to day they is heavy cannonading in hereing to day our Regt Lost in killed & wounded (27) & 17 missing Lieut Martin Co 4 was taken prisoner & wee suppose the rest was taken they come so near getting me they want no funn in it you may bet well I geuss I will stop for this time so give my best respects to all so good bye

Noah G. Hill

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wee are in Hookers 20th Corps & Williams Division & Nipes Brigade

Hiram Youngs has just arrived to the Regt for duty he is in good helgth so you can tell the folks that he is here safe & sound

this is all

Letter – Mary Ferguson, 13 June 1862

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Letter written by Mary Chalmers Ferguson to her husband, Sergeant William A. Ferguson of the 8th Confederate Cavalry, from their home in Pickensville, AL. Mary comments on the different soldiers who brought her husband’s last few letters to her, including an African American. She has received a bag full of her husband’s winter clothes, as well as a pistol and a horse’s shoe. She writes about their daughter, and tells William how the ladies of the village made shirts for wounded and sick soldiers at Columbus, with fabric supplied by the Soldier’s Aid Society. They are also planning on sending a wagon of goods and food. Mary mentions an engagement at Richmond, VA known as the Battle of Seven Pines, and lists the casualties of what she calls the “Pickensville Blues” regiment. She has hopes that William’s army will come near enough to home that she may get to see him.

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Home Friday evening

June 13. 1862.

My own dear William: –

The last letter I received from you was brought by Mr Cockrell to Columbus – and mailed at that place. Since then I have heard from you several times – by Capt Mc Caa’s company – coming through this place, first by one of the Capt’s negro’s – who considers himself a member of the company – says – “our company” – “our boys” &c. Willie Herrean has also come back- and took tea with us – tells me you are in fine health. I got the carpet bag containing your winter cloths. I felt like I had met an old friend, when I saw your little pistol. I shall keep it by me and if necessary, defend

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myself. Among the other things in the carpet bag I came across “a horses’ shoe” – now – do tell me what horse has worn this shoe – that you think enough of it to send it home? One of Dr Carpenters negroes came through Pickensville yesterday and tells me that he saw you last Monday – says you are in fine health and fine spirits. I am glad to hear from you this way – but how much I should like to have a late letter. I hear that Beauregard’s army are not permitted to write any letters at all. If I cannot have the pleasure of reading a few lines from your pen occasionally I can still write to you and tell you how we are all getting along at home. The pet of the household – that sweet little girl of ours – or yours as you will have

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it – is so sweet. She can almost sit alone – and has learned to pull her Granfather’s beard to perfection. He plays with her frequently and loves her very much. You cannot imagine how much company she is for me. I play with her every day – besides bathing her all over every morning – and dressing her every morning – and undressing her every evening. She sleeps with me and gives me a sweet smile as soon as she opens her peepers in the morning. I give her a kiss in return. I wish you could see her eating black-berries – with her little mouth and nose all blacked. Whenever Sarah brings me berries – or plums (of which we have an abundance) she daps her little hands in the midst of them and scatters them all over the floor, at the risk of a make believe

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scolding from her Grandmother.

She loves to play with the children and gives every one a sweet smile who speaks to her

But if I tell you so many nice things about the baby – poor little I will be forgotten – if such is not already my fate – (thought of as among “the things that were“)

Last week the ladies of our quiet little village were busily plying the needle for the wounded and sick soldiers at Columbus.

We made up into shirts – three bolts of domestic – sent down by the “Soldiers’ Aid Society” at that place. To morrow evening we are going to form a society at this place – in order to do more work for those noble spirits who have suffered and are now suffering so much for our cause. We are going to send up to them to morrow

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a wagon load of vegitables – potatoes, dried fruits – milk butter – eggs- chickens &c. We are not near enough the poor sufferers to wait upon them but want to administer to their wants in some way.

You have probably heard of the engagement near Richmond – call it the “The Battle of the Seven pines.” Papers received to day – say that “Gen Rhode’s brigade – consisting of the 5th, 6th, 12th Ala and 12th Miss is admitted to have eminently distinguished itself. They bore the brunt of the battle for some hours. The casualties of the “Pickensville Blues” are as follows – Killed John T. Vargaut, John L Taylor, John Works, Thomas R. Peeks, Horace Stansel. Total 5. Wounded. Sergeant M. F. Wakefield

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J. E. Addington, A. A. Ball, Joseph Coleman, J. R. Donaldson, B. Y. Franklin, James Free, R. J. Tunsley – J. S. Gordon D.W. Goodwin. J. P. Harper. G. W. Hines. A. Johnson. H. B. Johnson – N. G. Jones. W. W. Peterson. Jessie Tall – W. C. Taylor. E. W. Vernon. Wm Kall – Jas Wright, G. B. Petty, G. W. Prew. M. P. Stedman. H. W. Story. J. D. Wheelbright. W. A. Burgin. Total 27. You probably know a great many of the above list. I have a letter from cousin Willie of the fourth of June – in which he says – he is sorry he was not in the fight – having a situation in the pass-port office in Richmond at the time of the engagement – and that he intends to join the comapny immediately in order to be with them in the

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next engagement – which he thinks will soon take place. I think he had better stay where he is. Henry when last seen was crossing the Chickahominy bridge – going towards the enemy’s lines.

Mr Shaffer and Miss Boggs from Columbus took dinner with us to day – They tell us that the fortifications at Columbus were commenced last Monday. I[t] was rumored in that place that Gen Beauregard was visiting that place – but nothing definite was known. If Gen Beauregard sees fit to fall as far back as Columbus – you will probably visit us – perhaps on a foraging expedition. I must confess – that I would like to see you very much but the army to which you belong is just about as close as I would like to have it – especially if the

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enemy are following you as closely as is reported. I expect secrecy is the best policy on the part of our army – but I find that curiosity is at the highest pitch to learn the movements of those three Generals – Beauregard – Bragg – and Price.

Brother Willie starts to school Monday morning to Mr Garthright at Summerville. Col Talbinds regiments are suffering severely from measles – pneumonia, fever. Mr Wm Fort’s remains were brought home Wednesday and deposited at the Garden church yard. Mr Horton has had the measles. But I must close as ai Have exhausted my paper – perhapse your patience.

If you cannot write – send me a message by every opportunity

A kiss and much love from

Your own dear Mary.

William A. Ferguson, from Pickensville AL, enrolled in Captain McCaa’s Company A of the Alabama Cavalry in October 1861, aged 29. He was mustered into Baskerville’s 4th MS Cavalry Battalion on November 14, 1861. Baskerville’s Battalion patrolled the Tennessee River prior to the battle of Shiloh and and participated in the battle itself. The Battalion was consolidated to form the 8th CS Cavalry Regiment. Ferguson was promoted to lieutenant and again to captain. He was captured in the autumn of 1863 and incarcerated at Johnson’s Island Prison, near Sandusky, OH. He was exchanged and rejoined the fighting in Atlanta. He served with his unit until its surrender at Greensboro, NC in 1865. After the war he became a farmer and had at least 3 children with his wife Mary before passing away on January 21, 1902. He is buried in East Hill Cemetery in Salem City, VA.

Letter – Lucy Morse, 12 June 1861

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Letter written by Lucy H. Morse, to her husband Private William H. Morse of Company C, 3rd MI Infantry. Lucy is has discovered that William was wounded in battle and is afraid the wound might prove fatal. She begs her husband to get a discharge so that he may come home. A second part of the letter is dated Friday, June 13 after Lucy has received a letter from William. She asks him again to be discharged as soon as he can, as she trusts no one else with his care. She even offers to travel to him.

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June 12th 1862

Dear William

it is with a trembling

hand and an aching heart that I pen these few lines to you the sad news that you were wounded reached us nd you cannot imagine my feelings as I contemplate the possibility of you being mortally wounded Oh; God the thought is agonising Oh; I hope that it may prove a false report or that if it is so that it is a slight one Oh; dearest husband if it is true you must endeavor to get a discharge they will give you one I know they will not be cruel enough to keep you there. Oh get a discharge if it is a possible thing and come home where you can have careful care do not you must not go to the hospital where there will be no gentle loveing hand to admister to your wants Brother Jim was here yesterday and he

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said that if it was true that you was wounded that you must be got home some way tomorrow is mail day and Oh I hope that it will bring better news I will try to compose myself untill I know for certain Oh; will tomorrow never come

Friday Afternoon

Dearest one I hasten to answer your long and anxiously looked for letter which I recieved today about noon Oh Dear William you can not think how my heart bounded with hope when I saw your well known writing Oh; My Husband you do not know what a relief your letter was to me for although it was the bearer of sad news I had feared that it might be worse. I can not complain I am so thankful that it is as well as it is, that you were not killed Oh; I can bear the thoughts

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of your being wounded if you are spared to me I could bear to see you a cripple for life but I could not bear the thoughts of your being taken from me Oh; Willy it would kill me if you should die and leave me but hope is strong in my bosom I think that you can get your discharge and just as soon as you are able to ride you must come home where anxious hearts are waiting to recieve you Oh; Willy how I wish you could come right home or that I could come to you you dont know how unwilling I am to trust you to any care but my own if you think I can come to you if you want me to if you think it advisable let me know and I will surmount every dificulty and come I am very anxious about you and I want you to get your

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discharge if it is a possible thing and come home just as soon as you can. keep very quiet and bear it patiently I know it will be trying to you to have to keep still you was always so stirring but you must remember the anxious heart ~~that~~ that hangs on your recovery keep up good courage dearest and I trust all will be well we hope to see you in the course of three or four weeks at the most they will be week of torture to me but I will not murmur for I am thankful that you are spared to me Oh; Willy Dear Willy you do not know how much I love you it seems as if my very heart was bound up in you there is not another on earth that could love you more than I do Willy you may direct your letters to Smyrna for I am going out there.

William H. Morse, age 24, enlisted with Company C of the 3rd MI Infantry at Grand Rapids, MI on June 10, 1861. He was wounded by a gunshot to the knee at the Battle of Fair Oaks, VA on May 31, 1862. The regiment lost 30 men killed, 124 wounded, and 1 missing. He was sent to a hospital in Philadelphia, PA, but later died there on August 8, 1862.

Letter – Madison Cannon, 10 June 1864

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Letter written by Captain Madison M. Cannon (soon to be commander of 40th NY Infantry) to Adelia Babson. He is writing from the headquarters of the 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 2nd Army Corps, near Cold Harbor, VA, and describes the dangers of Grant’s Overland Campaign. Both armies are facing each other on the bank of the Chickahominy River, though there have been no real engagements yet, just occasional firing from the sharpshooters. Cannon writes that the Union army was recently reinforced, and has not suffered as many casualties as the Confederate army. They recently received a shipment of goods from White House, VA, and he has procured bottles of alcohol which he will soon share. Cannon remarks on a photograph he is sending to Adelia, and writes that the thinks of her often. He concludes with a short poem.

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Head Qrs. 1st Brig. 3d Div. 2d A.C.

Near Cold Harbor, Va

June 10th 1864

My Dear Adelia

I have been daily expecting to hear from you, but each mail arrives without a single word from Pigeon Cove. Delia, if you knew how much your letters are prized – and how much encouragement they contain, to one situated as I am, you would not delay I know you would write oftener, and good long letters, with words of cheer to drive away despondency.

Both armies are now facing each other on the North Bank of the Chickahominy River about 8 miles north East from Richmond. Our lines are very close to the enemy, and at some points the works are about 50 yards apart. There has been no real engagements for the past few days, but the sharp-

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shooters on both side keep firing, at intervals, as any object attracts their attention. We are approaching their works by means of parallels and I understand that we have already mined two of their redoubts, mounting some 15 guns each, which will be blown up when the proper time arrives. The weather has been very fine and favorable to our movements, but as we proceed farther south in the direction of the Peninsula, we find water very scarce and very bad.

Our Army is larger today than it was the day we started from Brandy Station, having been heavily reinforced. Our losses have been very great, but I think are not as heavy as the enemy’s, who have lost many prisoners.

We have just received a stock of goods from our mess from White House – and while I am writing a bottle of W– sits directly in front of me and on the floor of my tent lies 3 Doz. bottles of Porter – so you see we have some

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of the luxuries of civilization. My friend Lt. Gilder [1^st Lt. William H. Gilder, Jr., Co. H] has just come in and we are about to take the sun’s altitude through the bottom of a tin cup.

I received a letter from Ben, but he has not sent any of my pictures. I also heard of his being in Orange County on a visit to the Brook’s. He told me when I was in New York that he intended to spend the summer at or near P.C. [Pigeon Cove] – even if he had to close his store. How I would like to accompany him. But that cannot be, so Delia we will wait patiently until next winter. Lt. Halsey [1^ST Lt. William F. Halsey, Co. D] was quite severely wounded in the charge of the 12^th May [Spotsylvania], but is now home and getting along very well. The major [Emmons F. Fletcher] has returned to duty. Oh, Delia how thankful I feel, after passing through so much danger, in being permitted to escape.

I enclose the only picture that I have received of the new ones which Ben praises so much. It has become soiled, but when Ben sends the others I will send you one

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you must get some taken, for the last you had was not as good as it might have been. Don’t forget. You will see quite a difference in the style of this Picture. – I think it very good.

Delia you ask if my thoughts turn to you during the march. – Yes – Delia I know you do not doubt my sincerity – It is for you that I am willing to sacrifice all, except my honor. Rest assured you are not forgotten.

“Nay, thou art now so dear, me thinks

the farther we are forced apart,

Affections firm elastic links,

But bind the closer ‘round the heart.”

I must now close as the mail is about leaving. Write soon and often – & remember me to Emily.

Yours with much love,

M.M.C

Madison M. Cannon enrolled as a corporal in the 1^st NJ Infantry, Company I, on May 21, 1861. Following service in the first Bull Run campaign, he was discharged for promotion to 2nd lieutenant on August 11, 1862 in Company G, 40^th NY Infantry, the famous “Mozart Regiment.” Cannon was made 1^st Lieutenant and adjutant October 14, 1862, and promoted to Captain of Company E, Feb. 24, 1863. Due to the mustering out of many 3 years’ officers in July 1864, Cannon was rapidly promoted to Major, September 6, 1864, Lieutenant Colonel September 15, 1864, and Colonel September 16, 1864. Despite his participation in many heavy battles, including Bull Run II, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg (wounded & cited for gallantry), and the Wilderness, he survived the war and is frequently mentioned in the Official Records. It is believed he later married his sweetheart, Adelia Babson, of Pigeon Cove, Mass.

Letter – Godfrey Rider, Jr., 8 June 1864

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Letter written by Lieutenant Colonel Godfrey Rider, Jr., of the 33rd MA Infantry, to his former commanding officer, Brigadier General Adin B. Underwood, from the woods near Marietta, GA. Rider describes a charge on a Confederate fort [Battle of Resaca], as well as the fighting that occurred near another stronghold [Battle of New Hope Church]. He describes the losses his unit suffered and comments on the strategies of Generals Sherman and Johnston. He mentions the number of muskets now in the regiment, and hopes to recruit more soldiers when the current campaign ends. He writes about the current state of several army officers, and mentions several who are vying for promotions.

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20″ Coprs.

33″ Regt. Mass Vol Inft

In the Woods between

Ackwood & Marietta

June 8″ 1864

My Dear Genl, your letter of the 18′ ult reached me yesterday, for which I thank you, and glad to hear you are so well situated. We left the Valley the 2″ day of May, and have skirmished until the 15 when we charged a Rebel fort, drove them from intrenched hills, lost that day 86, including Lieut Bumpus killed. Lieut Parker died 2 hours after taken from the field. Lieut Williams bad flesh wound in the left arm. May 25 formed line in short range of another strong hold, lost 56, and 5 prisoners ~~Lieut~~ Capt Turner slight wound in the rist, in various battles our loss has been about 160 to date – Our fighting has mostly been in the woods with deep ravines in front. I never saw such natural strong positions. Sherman seems to work carefuly, but Johnson is shrewd, often before we know it we are in front of a mare’s nest. But the country grows less mountainous, and once in a while can see daylight. We start tomorrow, supposing that the Rebels have gone across the River, We now number 163 muskets. After this Campaign I shall try to get home to fill up, unless it is to last all summer. My throat continues very weak, and no voice, but the Major

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can do all the ordering. and has been great help to me. Col Wood commands the Brigade, about the same as he did his Regt. but with more dignity and a big staff. I think he is too partial to his Regt, the have lost less and done less than any of us. Col Gamby and his major were killed May 15. Capt Powers is senior, but Col Wood ordered him relieved and is to be examined. Wood will get fitts when leisure time comes –

Genl Steinwehr was ordered to a Brigade in the 14 Corps but went home on “sick leave,” Schurtz I hear is in charge at Nashville.You know he asked for investigation of Hookers charges. Wood, Jones of the 154 & Bushbeck were the board. Wood & Jones sustained the report. Bushbeck opposed it. Bushbecks time is out and gone home. Wood is anxious for a Star & Faulkner for the Eagle, but probably neither will get it. The 20″ Connecticut & 26 Wisconsin have joined us Col Long has been away sick 2 months, how lucky he is – the 2″ Mass I see often but as Coggswell is at home you will doubtless see him. The 12″ Corps so far have not done so well as the 11″.

I am sorry that my throat is so bad, but dont let my wife & parents get hold of it, my Bro of Chicago came to see me in April – Prospects are good for success, but hard work, “Carry me back to old Virginia” Butterfield commands our Division, Excuse this, I will write you as often as I can, and hope to see you in July or August

Your Obt Servt

G. Rider Jr. Lt Col Comdg

33 Mass

Godfrey Rider, Jr. enrolled as a captain on July 31, 1862 in the 33d MA Infantry. He was promoted to lieutenant colonel April 3, 1863 and resigned September 17, 1864.

Letter – Warren Scott, 19 June 1864

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Letter written by Lieutenant Warren L. Scott of Battery H, 1st NY Light Artillery, to his mother, from a camp near Petersburg, VA. He describes the movements of his regiment, and mentions crossing the James River. The battery are near Confederate earthworks, and sharpshooters on both sides are constantly firing. He mentions having a uniform made, and how he may get a chance to go to Washington and travel on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Scott describes the “trails and hardships” endured by the army. He is unsure of the physical loss caused by the war, and recounts the many dead and wounded he has seen being transported on ambulances and baggage wagons. He writes that he can only pray to God that he will escape the war with his health.

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Hd Qrs. Battery “H” 1st N.Y. Arty.

Camp near Petersburgh VA

June 19 1864

Dear Mother

This morning I received a very welcome letter from you, dated June 9th teeming as usual with good advice that a christian mother knows how to give.

At present our army is investing the city of Petersburgh, directly south of Richmond – Since last I wrote you our army has been almost constantly on the move – For the third time since I have been in the army I have been within the vicinity of Baltimore Cross Roads. once more upon the banks of the James – crossed upon a pontoon bridge over 2200 feet in length-

To-day the battery is in position within 400 yards of the rebel earthworks. Sharpshooters upon both sides are continually firing at each other – Since yesterday morning we have had eight or ten horses shot down – One man had his right arm blown off by the premature discharge of the piece. Another his thumb while serving the vent at the same time – No one seriously injured by the enemy.

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Col. Wainwright had a close call yesterday – a shot went between his legs, as he was walking along. viewing the rebel works –

The work is so close and hot that a person is very careful how he exposes his head or body – above the redoubt –

How Mat should understand that I was on my way to Washington, from the time of my letter I don’t see – that I was making efforts to pass is true, but I had not sufficient papers and it is for that that I am now waiting. When i go I can not tell. I hope soon. I am at present with the battery but expect every day to receive orders to join temporarily some battery in this brigade and do duly until my papers come around.

Nothing has been told me respecting the uniform that Louis was to have made for me – Suppose I should be sent through by the Baltimore & Ohio R.R. how could I get them Tell Louis to study out the rout I should be about to take and see if they could be expressed in case I telegraph you as soon as I get in Washington-

Dear Mother you can not conceive the trials hardships, suffering &c now that our army is

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enduring. One thing about it we expect no respet [respite] until this army of Lee’s is routed or Richmond taken – If Richmond falls within two months I shall be very glad but if it holds out for a year, when it does fall I shall be equally rejoiced. For my part I have no hopes of the city being taken this year.

We receive very little news. That Lincoln is nominated I have heard but not read – What has been the estimate thus far of our loss. In every town where we halt for a short time all building are made hospitals of – The stores are cleaned and the counters and floors covered with the wounded – If a church, it is made the depot of hundreds of the suffering – Only those who witness it can form any idea of the suffering – Trains of ambulances and baggage wagons miles & miles long loaded with the wounded – All along the roads are seen the graves of the fallen braves – sadly attesting the innumerable throng who have ceased their warfare – God grant my life be spared in perfect health and body, and that I be restored to you again. If ever we needed the prayers of friends at home it is now.

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We need to pray for ourselves

My love to Judge S’s family and other friends.

God have us in his holy keeping until we meet again –

Yours with love

Warren

Direct as usual to “H” Battery and I shall get your letters wherever I am

Warren L. Scott was born in 1838 in Lewis, NY and worked as a teacher. He enlisted at age 23 on September 28, 1861 in Lowville, NY and mustered in as a corporal on October, 12. He was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant of Company I on May 2, 1864. He re-enlisted with Company H in Culpeper, VA on December 31, 1864 and was promoted to 1st Lieutenant. He mustered out June 23, 1865 and returned to Lowville where he worked as a postmaster. He died February 12, 1901.

Letter – John Compton, 10 June 1863

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Letter written by Private John D. Compton of Company G, 105th OH Volunteer Infantry, to his father, from a camp near Murfreesboro. Compton writes that he has sent for a record of Company G that will list who belonged to the regiment, who died, where they marched, and give the personal information of the men. He mentions that he was exchanged after being captured by the Confederates, and that he will send home his parole and paper of clearance given to him by General William Rosecrans.

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ths 10/63

Camp Near Murfreeboro Tenn [???]

Dear father I thought I would rite a few lines to you this morning to let you no how I am I am well at presant and hope these few line will find you the same I have sent for a record of the Co G 105 Ohio Reg to tell Who did belong and who died and whare and the marches and all the fight and camp and age of the boys and all about it then when I get this I will send it home to you and you get a case and put it in and keep it I am exchanged and I will send my Parole home and the paper of clearance which rosincrance gave me and I want you to keep

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it and all the rest I send home to you keep them safe till I come home the boys is all well at presant rite some to me and tell me if you get this good morning from J.D. Compton

to his father and mother R-S Compton and Margaret Compton in Kingsville Ashtabula Co Ohio

rite and tell me if you got my other Parole I sent it to H. Brooks

John D. Compton was the son of farmers Rueben and Margaret Cary Compton. He was born in New York in 1842. Sometime between 1850 and 1860 the family moved west and settled in Kingsville, Ashtabula County in Ohio. He was killed on July 22, 1864 during the battle of Atlanta from a gun shot wound to the abdomen.

Letter – Robert Ardry, 2 June 1864

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Letter written by Sergeant Robert G. Ardry of Company B, 111th IL Volunteer Infantry, to his father from near the battlefront in Georgia. Ardry writes of the campaign to Dallas, GA and describes the organization of the line of battle, which extended over ten miles. The Union forces built breastworks covered with brush to conceal them from charging troops. The Confederates suffered heavy losses. Ardry also writes of another engagement while his regiment was on the skirmish line. Despite feeling exhausted from several straight days of heavy fighting, Ardry writes that “things are going very well for us now.”

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Near line of battle Georgia June 2d 1864

Dear Father

I will now pencil you a few lines that you may know that I am still well although we have been in some hot places during the last week We left Kingston on the 23^rd and marched again on the right flank, keeping 5 to 10 miles west of the RR till the afternoon of the 26^th, when we came up to the Rebs in force at a town called Dallas, 10 miles west of Marietta. The line of battle was then formed that night 15^th Army Corps (Logan) on the extreme right; 16^th (Dodge) next on our left 4^th (Stanton), next 20^th (Hooker), next and Schofield on the RR. This line of battle was over 10 miles long and fighting has been going on every day since some place on the line. Our brigade had

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a very hot place till yesterday morning on the night of the 26^th We built miles of breastworks and the next morning found us in three lines of battle The 111^th had the front line; heavy skirmishing all day Co. C was on this skirmish line and had two men killed and two wounded The skirmishers are advanced 200 yards in front of the lines and lie behind logs and trees and shoot at the Reb skirmishers If an advance is being made the skirmishers give the alarm Well, at 4 o’clock P.M. the Rebs made a charge on our lines The center of the attack was on the 83^rd Indiana joining us on the right Our works was built after night and we covered the clay over with brush and they did not know that we had anything of the kind They came up bravely and when within 75 yards and our skirmishers all in the word fire was given Our line for ¼ of a mile was

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one sheet of fire. This broke their lines, but they rallied and on they came waving their flag, but we just more than shot them down Their flag fell several times They got it within 15 steps of our trenches when they fled They carried off many of their wounded, especially officers, but many wounded and killed fell into our hands They had all sorts of wounds One man had his leg shot clean off with a cannon ball I thought the roar of artillery and musketry at Resaca was bad enough but it was nothing to this. We had all advantages The 111^th did not lose a man The 83^rd Ind. lost 3 in the charge They also charged our lines about one mile to our left at the same time but were repulsed Reb loss is estimated at three thousand At dark of the 30^th it came Co. B’s time to go on

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skirmish line for the next 24 hours The night was pretty quiet but with day shooting commenced We were within 300 yards of their breastworks We had holes dug behind logs and trees and lay in them with our guns cocked and fingers on triggers And the moment they showed themselves we sent three or four shots at them At dark we were relieved None of us got hurt On the 1^st of June there was several heavy attacks on the lines The 15^th Army Corps relieved Hooker and he moved still farther to the left We are now lying back as reserve, another brigade being in the front Our brigade was in the front five days at Dallas and we were pretty well wore out sometimes up all night The Rebs made 7 charges after night one night mostly on Dodge This night we did not sleep any but I must stop Things are going very well for us now But it is thought by some that the fight will last sometime It is 25 or 30 miles to Atlanta. One of the McConnell boys the youngest was killed a few days ago Our reg. so far here has lost 5 killed 8 or 9 wounded Lieut. Col. Black being among the later His is a flesh wound in the leg We get plenty of rations The most of the boys are well I do not know when I will get a chance to mail this but will the first chance Write soon So good By one and all.

R G Ardry

Robert Ardry was born in Muskingum, OH. He enlisted in Lively Grove, IL, as a sergeant on August 13, 1862 in Co. B of the 111^th Illinois Volunteer Infantry at the age of 27. He was captured at the Battle of Atlanta, July 22, 1864. After being held at Andersonville Prison, GA, he was paroled on September 27, 1864. Following the war he lived in Oakdale, IL, and died May 30, 1922.

Letter – Alfred Sofield, 3 June 1863

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Letter written by Captain Alfred J. Sofield of Company A, 149th PA Volunteer Infantry “Bucktails,” to his wife Helen, from a camp near Falmouth, VA. Sofield writes of his own depression, and how he feels he has failed in his duties as a husband. He writes that he hopes his wife can forgive him for past transgressions, as he loves her and will “atone for past errors” if he is able to join her after the war. He mentions receiving monthly wages for two months, and is planning on sending money home. Lieutenant Dudley A. Fish has gone home on sick leave, the camp welcomed a new chaplain, Reverend J. F. Calkins.

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Camp near Falmouth, Va

June 3d 1863

My Dear Wife

Yours of the 21^st reached me on the 31^st. I was on picket duty about two miles from camp, lying on my back under my shelter tent, thinking of home and of you when it was handed to me, & was in fact having the blues a very little, but at sight of the inperscription of the letter I cheered up, and proceeded to read its contents. Well, now after reading the letter I have the blues worse than ever. To be reminded that I was so necessary to your happiness, and feeling how far short of my duty as a husband I have come for the past twelve years, and how indulgent and forgiving you had been, caused me to feel sad indeed. I cannot account for so much generosity as I have received at your hands upon any other ground than that you know that with all my faults I love you with all my heart & soul. Sometimes you have said to me when I have been conducting myself badly, that you thought I did not love you. But I don’t think you really thought so, and yet I must admit that at times my conduct was such I could not blame you for arriving at such conclusion. But I will say, as I ever hope to see my family, that my love for you and the fear that you would lose all love and respect for me, has caused me more remorse of conscience than all other considerations

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and has in many cases kept me in the way I should go. If I am permitted to join you again after getting out of this war, I will try to atone for past errors. I don’t think it necessary that you or Willie should cut the wood. You are neither of you strong enough, and I don’t want you to do any more. You don’t know how glad I was to learn that you carry out my requests in relation to the kissing Tell Jimmie I want it done even if I should forget to put it in the letter. We were paid two months pay yesterday. I am expecting Issac M. Bodine here next week, and will send by him $150 would send $200, but I have to buy a new suit of clothes. am getting pretty rusty, that is my clothes are. The first of next month will have two months more pay due me, and shall then (or rather about the 10^th) try to get started for home. And then (if I succeed) how happy I shall be – and how infinitely more so when I reach home. Tell Azalea I am glad to hear that I am not forgotten by her, and give her my love if you don’t want it all yourself, and if you do you may keep it in welcome. Lt. Fish started for home yesterday on a sick leave of absence for 15 days. I just stopped writing to welcome the Rev. J. F. Calkins. He is now in my quarters and will stay with me until he gets a tent of his own, and as he has just arrived, I must close and attend to him. Kiss the boys & have them kiss you for me. Good night my dear wife, and may God bless you.

Yours in love,

Alfred

Alfred J. Sofield was a clerk/justice of the peace in Wellsboro, PA when he enrolled as a Union Army Officer. He served in the Civil War as Captain and commander of Company A of the 149th PA Volunteer Infantry. During the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg, he was stationed along Chambersburg Pike north of the McPherson Farm. His unit under artillery fire from the Confederate batteries on Herr Ridge, and was struck by a round, which killed him as well as Private Edwin D. Dimmick and Corporal Nathan H. Wilcox.

Letter – John Morris, 28 June 1863

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Letter written by Private John A. Morris of Company B, 126th OH Infantry, to friends, from Maryland Heights near Harper’s Ferry. Morris writes how he longs for peace so that he and others may return home. The previous day, General Joseph Hooker ordered out two regiments and some artillery. General William H. French is currently in command at Harper’s Ferry. Morris heard that another division was ordered to Antietam, and he supposes there will be news of something happening in Virginia or Pennsylvania. He writes that the Confederates have been firing off their guns from a distance for fear of the Union’s heavy artillery. Morris addresses a rumor that his company was taken prisoner and killed. He thinks the war will come to a close within six months.

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Meriland Hights [Maryland Heights]

near Harper’s Ferry, Va June 28/ 63

Sunday morning

Dear Friends

This morning while sitting here in my tent my mind runs back to some past times when peace was in our land, and we enjoying ourselves as civilized people. But now it is different. A war is waging in our land. But we must look and hope for the future. hope that peace may once more be restored to our once happy land, and that we soldiers may all be permitted to see our once happy homes and friends therein. I am longing for that time to come. Then if I should live, can sit around the old family circle and have something better to eat, and hope right smart better cooks than we have here. I, for my part, am getting

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tired of cooking. Things is on the stir. On yesterday evening 2 regiments and some artillery was ordered out, we do not know where. General Jos. Hooker was here on yesterday, and gave such orders. He is not here now. French has taken command of the forces at Harper’s Ferry, and it constitutes the part of the right wing of Hooker’s army & is considered or kept as strong reinforcement.

This morning I understood that one division was ordered to go to the old Antietam ground for some purpose. I think against this week rolls round you will hear of something being done in Va. or Penn. The Rebs are supposed to be fortifying the old Antietam battleground and South Mountain. Our cavalry pitches in some Rebs every day. Yesterday they caught 50-odd, and some wagons, ammunition, whiskey, etc. I think this raid is going to put an end to this war. Those Rebs we fetched from Winchester said it had to go one way or the other inside of 2 months. I understand they are getting up into

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the north a good piece. If they come into Ohio, you must kill or capture every one of them. It don’t look like as if they had as much sense as a brick, the way they are doing now. Our pickets yesterday could see some of them riding around at a distance, and last night could hear them firing off their guns. But they did not come very close upon us, for they are afraid of some things [heavy artillery] we have fixed upon Md. Heights, and other places around. I reckon you have heard of Capt. W. B. Kirk leaving his company. If he is at home I want you to tell me, tell what the people think of him around there. If I was there I could talk about something a little with you. But don’t say anything about it now. Pap, I have heard that you heard our regiment was all taken prisoners and cut to pieces. This was only a part of Co. I, and some stragglers taken. I don’t know of any one in our regiment who got killed. It will be in the Chronicle, if so. We are going to have

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inspection this evening by Gen. French. He is going to review his army in marching time. The boys are all able well, with the exception of Geo. Harris. He is not very well. My health is pretty good now. Well, mother, how are you getting along? I hope pretty well, for I know when you have not got letters from me regular, and things being in such an uproar you would be uneasy, if not almost sick. Rest easy and take things that may, for I think things will come to a close in 6 months time. The Rebs is going to get one of the biggest whippings ever they got. Well, Callie, how are you getting along? Having a good time, I reckon. I would like mighty well to take drive with you today, but I can’t do it, I guess. Tell Vorhees and George I send my love to them and I want to see them the worst kind of a way. I want to see all of you. I want you to write. Tell me all the news about the talk of our new governor, and conscripts, etc., how you are getting along with your work, harvest, & etc. Give my love to all and yourselves, especially to Aunt Ann. Direct to Harpers Ferry, Va., Md. Hights., Co. B, 126^th Regt. O.V.I, as ever, your son, John A. Morris.

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I have not heard from you for a long time; never since the retreat. Write soon. I want to hear badly

John A. Morris enlisted at age 19 on August 11, 1862 in Company B of the 126^th OH Volunteer Infantry. He was wounded at Spotsylvania, VA, May 12, 1864, and was mustered out of the service May 18, 1865. As a part of Major General William H. French’s 8^th Army Corps, the 126^th OH was ordered to Washington, D.C. on July 1, 1863, then to Frederick, MD, and it participated in the pursuit of Lee’s army July 5^th -23^rd.

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Tag Archives: June

Letter – Noah Hill, 26 June 1864

Letter – Mary Ferguson, 13 June 1862

Letter – Lucy Morse, 12 June 1861

Letter – Madison Cannon, 10 June 1864

Letter – Godfrey Rider, Jr., 8 June 1864

Letter – Warren Scott, 19 June 1864

Letter – John Compton, 10 June 1863

Letter – Robert Ardry, 2 June 1864

Letter – Alfred Sofield, 3 June 1863

Letter – John Morris, 28 June 1863