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Introduction.
The 27th Illinois Volunteers of the Civil War have a contemporary historian in the person of Edward W. Crippin, a member of Company C.
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Crippin turned to the keeping of a diary to pass away the dull moments of camp life. In this and in the way in which he uses his unschooled English, especially in the description of a battle, he shows that he was more than an ordinary private. Up to the time of the regiment's arrival in Cairo, his insertions merely record the routine of camp construction and guard, camp sickness, and the arrival of various companies with their officers. The regiment reluctantly obeyed the order to leave camp for Cairo, which Crippin calls "one of the most unhealthy spots in the U. S." They are resigned to their fate with the observation that they will undergo "anything to save our Union Our beloved country let it be what it will."
Finally, on November 6, the scene is shifted. The 27th regiment, among others, embarked for a demonstration against Columbus, Kentucky. In the course of this manoeuver, the battle of Belmont took place. The 27th Illinois played a conspicuous part in this engagement, and Crippin's description of it is particularly forcible. "All over the Battlefield they lay in close proximity to each other. Some torn asunder by cannon balls, some with frightful wounds here and there in different parts of the body. Some were killed outright with musket balls through the temples or forehead, others with limbs torn off suffering the most torturing agonies t'was a most horrible sight to contemplate."
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our eyes without a single order to fire — by which we might have prevented such a movement — was too much for human nature to bear.... A few men in Co. B and private Knip in our comp. impelled by the idea that they can see just as well a little farther back — attempt to fly but are prevented by the officers and file closers. But Joel Knip is so determined in his resolution that he does not alter it — Capt. Allen jumps before him with drawn sword threatens to run him through unless he returns to his post."The regiment spent the summer of 1863 guarding, picking berries, foraging, and lolling around Camp Big Springs and Iuka, Mississippi. A curious episode happened while they were foraging. The diarist can tell the story best. "Wednesday we went up into the mountains after a team it belonged to a widow woman it was all the team she had the lieutenant put it to vote whether we should take it or not we voted not to take it she came out and thanked us."
Here, also, on the 22nd of February, Washington's Birthday, was celebrated. "A Salute is fired by one battery of each Division Army of the Cumberland, in honor of that Great, truely man. An order, relative to this gallant Soldier, and true Patriot and glorious deeds during the Revolutionary war, is read on dress parade this evening and it not without effect. Rosecrans Stands nearly as high in the estimation of Army of the Cumberland as Washington of his army."
Late in spring, 1863, the 27th Illinois regiment moved eastward with the whole army and took an active part in the Chickamauga Campaign. After a lively description of several engagements in this campaign,
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the dairy comes to an end September 19, 1863. The regiment further took part in the battles of the Atlanta Campaign and was mustered out of service in August, 1865.The records in the Adjutant General's office at Springfield show that Crippin (Crippin? Criffin?) died December 24, 1863, of wounds received in battle, Mission Ridge, November 25, 1863.
1861.
1861 Camp Butler Sagamon County Ills.
August 7th Capt. Parkes Comp arrived at this place. Rec'd Tents Camp Equippage &c. Tents erected today.
Friday the 9th. Quarters Cleaned up. Nothing of importance today. Capt Parkes left for home to day for new recruits.
Tenth Saturday.. Nothing doing to day of importance. Capt. Browns Co. from Winchester this afternoon.
Sunday 11th Col. Hicks Independent Regiment left this morning for St. Louis Preaching in the afternoon at 4 O'clock. Slight rain during the night.
Monday the 12th. Capt. Waters Co. arrived this morning accompanied by a fine band of music from Macomb McDonough County Ills. Capt. Hitts Co. arrived this afternoon from Exeter Scott County Ills
Tuesday 13th. Three Co's. from Egypt arrived to day. No drilling to day.
Wednesday 14th. Capt. Parkes arrived about 2 O'clock this morning with 18 men.
1861 Camp Buter Sagamon co. Ills
Thursday, August 15th Officers drill this morning at seven O'clock. Squad drill from halt past 8 till 10 O'clock. Officers drill at 4 Oc'lock in the afternoon.
Friday, 16th The same routine of Yesterday. Comps. arriving all the time.
Saturday, 17th. Officers and Squad drill in the forenoon. In the afternoon no drill. Co. sworn into service at 12 M.
Sunday, 18th. Nothing of importance occurred today. Meeting at 4 O'clock P. M. Comp rec'd their uniform to day.
Boys all well pleased Articles of war read at Rool call Monday, 19th. Roll call at 5 and 1/2 O'clock Officers at 7 A. M. Squad drill as usual. Lieut. L. F. Williams with a grant of 5 days absence left for Pike Co. on business concerning the Co.
Thursday, 22d. Four men from Coffeys Co. joined ours this evening.
Friday, 23rd. The 4 men that joined our Comp yesterday evening were sworn in this morning
1861 Camp Butler, Sagamon co Ills.
August, Saturday, 24th. Morning quite cool. Williams returned last night with 3 recruits. Co. now consists of 82 men rank and file. Capt. Killpatrick's Comp. arrived from Milton Pike County Ills. last evening. Capt Hunts Comp. from Barry arrived today. A Comp. from Bellville St. Clair County also arrived to day, accompanied by a brass band Brown County Cavalry Comp. Came this morning.
Sunday, 25th. Roll call as usual 5 1/2 A. M. Meeting at 10 A. M. Rather dull in capm. drissling rain in the afternoon An order to leave to-morrow. Quite a No. of men have the ague. It is getting to be quite sickly here Hospital is pretty near full of sick. Thirteen men from Smiths Comp. from Galena came this evening and joined our Comp.
1861 Camp at Jacksonville Morgan co. Ills.
August, 26th. Monday morning. Roll call at 5 Breakfast at 5 1/2 O'clock. Immediately after breakfast the 13 men who joined last evening were examined and sworn into the service.
Left Camp Butler with 6 other Companies at 1/2 past 10 O'clock marched to Jim Town left on the train at 1/2 past 11, arrived at Jacksonville at 3 P. M. marched from the depot to our present encampment nearly 1 1/2 miles very
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hot and dusty. Had rations enough left of the amt. drawn of the commissary at Camp Butler for our supper Would not issue rations to us this evening, for tomorrow through some mistake or other Have a nice pleasant place for our Camp high dry and healthy.August 27th Tuesday. Had no breakfast this morning except some we borrowed of Capt. Hitt. The Quarter Master is a d-d mean man In the opinion of our Comp. he issued no rations to us yesterday evening, nor came from town this morning until after 9 O'clock Capt Parke is Officer of the day to day Furlough granted to F. T. Clark Joel Knipp and Robt. Chapman running from this date till Saturday 31st August.
August 28th. Drill this morning from 6 till 7 O'clock Orders to march tomorrow at 12 M. to Cairo. Some disappointment among the men but
1861 Camp at Jacksonville Morgan Co. Ills.
August 28th generally resigned to go where they are ordered. It was hoped that we would be ordered to Mo. but those hopes are now blighted and we will now go to one of the most unhealthy spots in the U. S. to stay we know not how long Well anything to save our Union Our beloved country let it be what it will.
Reveille early this morning preparations for leaving Camp McClernand, Tents struck at a few minutes after 10 A. M. Baggage packed & loaded by 1/2 past 11 A. M. Companies on parade 1/2 past 12 M. Marched into Jacksonville at 1 O'clock P. M. in court yard till 4 O'clock P. M. Marched to the cars, nothing but open cars for the men, Large crowd at the depot to witness our departure. Had some trouble while at the depot with private Sullivan, he was drunk had to tie him for refusing to be still. Left Springfield at 10 minutes past 5 P. M. amid the firing of cannon and Immense cheering of the citisens 1st Sergent Browning left behind to recruit his health, to follow up as soon as that will permit. Arrived at Decatur without anything of moment transpiring. At 1 O'clock on the morning of the 30th issued some rations of hard crackers & cheese to the men Changed cars; better accommodations from there, to Cairo, in passenger coaches but nothing better to eat. Arrived at Cairo at 4 O'clock P. M. marched to quarters on the open plain above the city.
1861 Camp Defiance Cairo Ills.
August 31st Roll call. Squad drill this morning, after breakfast men set to work — cleaning up the groun Repeated firing of cannon in the artillery frill at Birds Point — One man nearly killed by the discharge of a cannon Morning report made out and handed in at Head Quarters 2 men in addition to last report — Aggregate No. of men in Parkes comp now 98. both sworn into the service by the Col. Rations of bread short this morning through the rascality or neglect of the Quartermaster — great dissatisfaction throughout the camp on account of it. Col. saw to the matter and bread here by half after 8 O'clock tonight.
Sunday morning, roll call as usual at 5 1/2 O'clock Inspection of men & tents at 9 o'clock by the Col. & Lt. Col Pass granted to 8 men to visit Birds Point Also 1 large Squad to attend Church.
Nothing doing to day. John Brown & Elijah Hickman went into Town to day without a pass — came back drunk Compelled to tie Hickman — will be put on extra duty to-morrow Weather pleasant — continues dry.
Roll call at 5 1/2 A. M. as usual — Breakfast at 6 1/2 Squad drill &c. more activity will be observed this week in drilling than heretofore. Lt. L. F. Williams appointed junior Officer of the Guard to day. One of our men who came from town yesterday in a state of intoxication — by name John Brown is very sick to day — great suffering & pain in his stomach and lower extremities — supposed to emanate from poison in the liquor drank yesterday. The 2 gun boats stationed here left this afternoon & 1 Regt. of In from Birds
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Point, — their destination & the No. of the Regt. we are not informed. Heavy firing heard at 8 O'clock this evening in the direction of New-Madrid Mo. supposed that our Gun Boats have engaged the enemy at that pointWeather fine & pleasant, — with indications of rain Duties of the morning as usual — much rejoicing through out the camp — though no open demonstration — at the news of the success of Gen. Butler in his operations on the coast of N. C. Received this morning. Conflicting reports concerning the result or doings of the expidition sent down the Miss. River yesterday. More troops sent down from Birds Point to day across the country to the scene of action. Where it is not yet known in camp, some say it is Columbus, Some New Madrid, no person knows anything definite about the movements going on at Head Quarters — here all military movements are kept secret by the Senior Officers of the different commands at both Posts Cairo & Birds Point. Commenced raining about 4 O'clock this afternoon which put an end to squad drill & set the men to work putting their tents to rights & preparing for a spell of weather. Firing heard this evening again in the same direction as that of last evening Still raining at 10 O'clock.
Sept. 4th Wednesday morning cloudy drissling rain, very unpleasant underfoot — quite a No. not out at Roll Call — placed on Extra Duty in consequence. Our Co. placed on Police Duty to day — by order of the Col.
1861 Camp McClernand Cairo Ills.
it is therefore exempt from drill to day no news of consequences, has rained at intervals all day The Two Gun Boats have returned, reported to have had a brush with a Gun Boat of the Enemy's — called Yankee — near a place called Hickman in which the latter was worsted Also bombarded the place. News of Jefferson Davis' death this evening generally not credited
Sept. 5th morning duties performed as usual Lt Allen Officer of the Guard to day. Weather pleasant but showery. — nothing of importance but drilling. Water scarce on account of negligence of water master. Death of Jeff Davis confirmed today — that is still believed. Report this evening that Pillow is within one days march of Birds Point-4 Comp from th 9th Regt. And the Chicago light Artillery left to night tis said for Columbus Ky.
Sept. 6th Friday weather pleasant. Drilling and other duties performed as usual. 60 muskets drawn by our Company this afternoon Other Comps. in our Regt. also have drawn in proportion to the number of men. No news of consequence to day Great activity through out the camp, however in our vicinity
No variation in the daily routine of duties to day One of our men Thomas Onwhistle severely reprinanded for disrespect towards the Col. At Dress Parade this evening 48 of our men were ordered on patrol dutty for the night in the City of Cairo. 2 Regts. left for Paducah Ky. which place is now occupied by Gen. Grant Commandant of this
1861. Camp McClernand Cairo Ills.
Post. Successor to Gen. Prentiss.
Sept 8th Sunday morning The 48 of our camp, detailed as patrol last night returned this morning at 5 1/2 O'clock Roll call as usual. Heavy and incessant firing heard this morning from 7 till 9 O'clock down the river in the direction of Columbus. Two boat loads of Troops arrived this morning from St. Louis. Inspection on Co. parade ground by the Field Officers at 9 O'clock Dress Parade this evening at the usual hour
Duties as usual performed, no Officers drill this morning as was given out last evening on Dress Parade Abut 10 O'clock to day one of the Gun Boats arrived to Port with 3 Prizes in tow. One said to be laden with tobacco — tis not known here yet the substance of the prizes Reported this Afternoon
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that 1 of the Gun Boats was taken this morning by the enemy. Col. Oglesbys Regt. & the other Gun Boat have gone down Col. Watters Regt. arrived at Birds Point this eveningReported capture of our Gun Boat proves to be false L. W. Williams detailed as Officer of the Guard to day Officers Drill this morning. Nothing of importance to day.
Sept. 11. Stormy Night.
Indications this morning good for a rainy day A marvelous assault was committed at the St. Charles Hotel yesterday by the Reporter of the St. Louis Democrat on the person of the surgeon on the 8th Mo Regt. The surgeon was shot in the small of the back by a pistol ball wound not mortal
1861. Camp McClernand Cairo Ills.
September 11th The reporter gave himself up and is now in custody. Dress Parade omitted this evening on account of the inclemency of the weather.
Sept. 12th — Thursday Morning
Duties of the morning gone through with as usual Our Company on Police Duty to day cleaning up the Parade ground & digging sinks, nothing of importance transpired to day. Dress Parade this evening as usual.
Sept. 13th Friday Everything quiet about camp today Lt Allen on guard to day, — Officer of the Guard —. No news of Importance to day.
Duties as usual this morning. The Regt on Police duty today, cleaning up the regimental Parade ground. News encouraging from the seat of war to day. reported fight going on down the river near Norfolk on the Mo. side this evening.
bright and beautiful. Three Comps. arrived this morning making out Regt. complete Each Cap. drew co. letter this morning by lotery our Capt. drew letter C. Situation of each Co. has been changed a little to conform with the lettering Dress Parade this evening Our new Chaplain introduced
Police Duty as usual, respective Companies fixing up their camp ground. Nothing of importance to day except the arrival of a Comp. of 50 men from Crittenden County Ky. for camp Butler, also Col. Jurchins (Turchin) 19th Ills. Regt. came up the river from their camp on the KB. Side opposite Norfolk their destination is not yet known. The court martial of Capt. Hitts man for insubordination set to day, tis known what the sentence is
Officers Drill as usual this morning Drilling as heretofore Nothing to, day of Importance.
Officers Drill omitted this morning, weather fine Duties as usual.
Capt. Parke too unwell for duty to day No news everything going on smoothly as usual.
Nothing of importance to day. Capt. Parke went to the Hospital this morning. Daily routine as usual prospect for a rain to night.
Dull as the Devil to day — nothing but Drill Drill through this afternoon we have nothing to do but clean up quarters & go on Dress Parade this evening.
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Inspection of arms as usual by the Field Officers L. F. Williams Officer of the Guard to day. Preaching in the camp to day by Chaplain of our Regt. at 11 o'clock Our Chaplain is a Catholic.
Our Comp. is on Police Duty again to day — Battalion Drill this afternoon without arms the comp. all went through the drill very for the first time
1861 Camp McClernand. Cairo Ills.
Sept. 24th. Tuesday. Ten men on Police Duty again to day Nighswonger refused to act having been detailed — in consequence was put in the Guard House on Bread & water time indefinite. Private in the Guard House Also for drunkeness.
Morning Drill, near 20 on the sick list this morning Bad news from Mo. Lexington has been taken by Gen Price. Private Hobbs in Guard House at Cairo for sleeping on his Post, last night while guarding prisoners. 4 prisoners brought in this evening — from near Norfolk Mo. taken after a pretty hard fight — in which 12 of the Enemy were killed — and a lot of arms taken, One of the prisoners has a, pretty severe cut across the shoulder.
Observance is paid to "Fast Day, Services at 10 O'clock by our Chaplain — toward 10 O'clock the weather cleared off & became very pleasant. Dress Parade in the evening As usual nothing of importance has passed of in our vicinity to day
Drilling exercises as usual in the forenoon with Battalion Drill in the afternoon & Dress Parade in the evening Our Capt. ranks higher than any other Capt. in the Regt. as his commission is the oldest Lt. Allen Officer of the Guard to day at Cairo.
Men slow about turning out into ranks for Drill Comp. Drill from 9 1/2 till 11 1/2 men paid attention & performed well today. Dress Parade this evening & short Battalion Drill this afternoon
1861 Camp McClernand, Cairo, Ills.
Sept. 29th Sunday morning clear & cool Roll call as usual, — Inspection of the arms & quarters — a portion of the Comp. went to town to church Services as usual by the Chaplain, tis reported this morning that Capt. Ritters Comp. at Birds Point while guarding a bridge on the R. R. 10 miles from camp were surrounded and taken prisoners.
Cool & bracing. Drilling at usual hours Capt. Parke Officer of the Day Weather quite warm and pleasant after 9 O'clock Report of the capture of Ritters Comp. remain unchanged. Battalion Drill this afternoon. Dress Parade at the proper hour — Volleys of musketry were heard at Birds Point this afternoon — but suppose it occurred in the practice of loading and firing
Cooks were discharged this morning their time having expired The reported capture of Capt. Ritters comp proves to be false comp Drills in the forenoon to day And Battalion Drill as usual. Another report is comon this evening that our troops have been driven from Norfolk and falling back on Birds Point the Enemy advancing Fifteen Thousand strong.
Oct 2nd Wednesday morning dark & gloomy Drissling rain Roll call as usual but Drill omitted, no drilling to day whatever An order was issued by the Gen. about 11 O'clock to day for 10 men and one Lieut. with arms and 10 rounds of ammunition each Dress Parade as usual this evening.
1861 Camp McClernand, Cairo Ills.
Oct 3rd Thursday Sun rose clear and bright Duties as usual performed. unusually quiet and dull about camp Nothing of importance transpiring. Duties of the day closed as usual with Dress Parade
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Battalion Drill as usual this afternoon. Lt. William taken sick with the measles to day nothing of importance transpiring to day.
Oct. 5th Saturday morning clear & nice Health of camp improving only 3 of our Comp. now in the Hospital. Capt. Parke making arrangements for going home — has drawn his pay from the Pay Master. Drilling as usual both forenoon and afternoon
Rained last night nearly all night, this morning it is cold gloomy and disagreeable No inspection this morning on account of the inclemency of the weather towards evening it fared off and tis now pleasant weather Capt. Parke has succeeded in getting a furlough to day for 7 days absence — be will for home to-morrow morning at 4 O'clock. Williams quite sick to day
Oct. 7th Monday morning clear and pleasant. Duties as usual. Battalion Drill as usual Nothing of importance to day.
Oct 8th clear & pleasant looks like Indian Summer. Health of camp decidedly improving. Our comp numbers increasing on Dress Parade
1861 Camp McClernand Cairo Ills.
October, 9th Morning clear and pleasant. Every thing passing off nicely and smoothly in camp.
Oct 10th Thursday pleasant — Nothing of importance transpiring to day Col. Harrington returned to day.
Oct 11th. Friday — very pleasant — no news unusually quiet in camp. Distressingly dull nothing but Drill Drill all the time.
Oct 12th Saturday. Morning clear and pleasant — Drill in the forenoon Battalion Drill in the afternoon all the Regt. out also the Bloody 18th Col Lawler was up on parade with us tis said his Regt. has joined our Brigade
Oct 13th Sunday morning clear as as bell and as pleasant almost as a summers morning — Inspection of the Company by the Col. at 9 O'clock, church as usual. Passes were granted to quite a number to Birds Point.
Oct. 14th Monday morning clear air and bracing. Drilling from 6 to 7 O'clock, to day is Pay Day Comps. A. & E. are paid first — as they are going off on a scouting expidition — To-morrow we get paid, the boys are over joyed at getting their pay, have been disappointed so often that they had no confidence any more as to the promised pay day. Have no Battalion Drill to day. A stern wheel Boat came up the River this afternoon with a flag of Truce flying The purport of her visit is no known This Brigade was ordered down town on Double Quick this evening and paraded about an hour on the levy
Oct 15th Tuesday usual routine of camp duties Our Regt. has rec'd marching orders this evening a 6 O'clock it marched to the landing the men armed and equipped and supplied with 2 Days rations Shipped on the Alec Scott and
1861 Camp McClernand Cairo
company with the Iron Gun Boat went up the Mississippi destination unknown but generally believed to be Cape Girardeau Two of our Co. slipped through the guard to day — Wm Sullivan and Robt. Felan. Three more rec'd passes all of whom were not here when the Regt. started. The 2nd Lieut of each co. have been to take care of the camp & those that are on the sick list. Lieut Allen the only com. Officer who accompanied our Co, Capt. Parke has not yet returned. One of the men Joel Knip who was granted a pass to town to day — was found on the levy at one of the Groggerys pretty well set up about 9 O'clock this evening and brought into camp no tidings of the others.
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Oct. 16th Wednesday, Rather gloomy morning Not enough men in camp to make any stir as those who were on the sick list only were left behind. Robt. Felan was found to day and brought into camp. William Sullivan could not be found, the day has been spent in a fruitless search for them tis supposed they fell in with the Co. as the Regt. marched to the landing.
Oct. 17th Thursday Still cloudy no news of importance Nothing to do in camp since our Regt. left. All quiet about the Brigade camp. The other Regts. are constantly drilling. No Capt. Parke yet. He ought to be made work on the fortifications ten days with a Ball & Chain to his leg No tidings of Sullivan Hickman & Brown to day have kept up a constant search for them. The day has closed without anything worthy of note.
Oct. 18th Friday morning Still dark and gloomy with a drissling rain. Our Regt. returned about 8 1/2 O'clock had no brush with the Enemy took 600 or 700 bushels wheat & 4 secesh prisoners. Battalion Drill this afternoon
1861 Camp McClernand Cairo Ills.
Nothing of an exciting character has transpired to day O. Co. of Light Artillery left camp cairo this afternoon where bound tis not known with us. Hickman & Brown were with the Regt. found Wm Sullivan today.
Oct. 19th Saturday the appearance for rain still very good co. Drill as usual, no Guards called for from our Regt. to day. Nothing to note down to day. Battalion Drill till a very late hour — exempting us from Dress Parade
Oct. 20th Sunday Inspection as usual. Services at 11 O'clock by our Chaplain, weather very pleasant has the appearance of Indian summer No news of importance today Dress Parade as usual this evening.
Oct. 21st Monday, Roll call as usual Quite cool rather unpleasant sleeping last night under One blanket Lt. F. Williams Officer of the Guard to day Lt Allen is still unwell and unable for Duty Neglected to mention the arrest of private Josiah Lise[nbee] yesterday for stealing Private Henry Vamers money $(800) sometime during Saturday night. Said Lisenbee is now under arrest in Guard House — awaiting his trial by Court Martial.
Oct. 22nd Tuesday morning weather cool though during the day tis very pleasant
The news of Jeff Thompson's defeat at Fredrictown by our forces causes much rejoicing in camp the news came this evening by telegraph Lt. Allen has succeeded in getting his pay to day — due for the Mo. of September & a furlough home for seven days he leaves to-morrow morning on the 4 O'clock train, prospects for a storm
1861 Camp McClernand Cairo Illinois.
Oct. 23rd Wednesday morning very cool — quite a change since yesterday. No rain last, night Sad news this morning another good man, gone the way of all the Earth — Col. Ed. D. Barker (Baker) One of the best of Orators and the boast of our nation fell while gallantly leading his Regt. at the Battle near Leesburg Virginia Another sacrifice to the glorius cause of liberty. Ten men detailed out of each comp. armed with brooms & shovels for the purpose of cleaning up the barracks, and preparing quarters for our Regt. down in Camp Cairo.
Oct. 24th Thursday, quite cool but not so unpleasant as yesterday. — A very heavy frost during the night the first we have had here this season. Capt. Parke is on duty at Cairo to day Officer of the day — Orders from the Col. to move into the Barracks to-morrow.
Oct. 25th Friday As soon as breakfast is finished — preparations for moving to the barracks Co.s A. B. C. and so on respectively. — struck their tents and went into the barrack Dress Parade in the evening. —
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Camp Cairo, Illinois
Oct. 26th Saturday morning fogy and damp Drill as usual before breakfast no Drill this forenoon. Regt. was called out this forenoon for inspection that is the inspecting of men. The no. of men out on drill — the sick list — & those absent from Camp not agreeing with the morning report, consequently there is a number that undoubtedly shirk from duty. This afternoon the review before Gen. McClernand came off. — tomorrow we have a Grand Review.
Oct 27th Sunday. Regimental inspection this morning. — Religious services by our Chaplain Grand Review commenced this evening at 2 1/2 O'clock continued till 5, before Gen. McClernand and Staff. The forces which passed
Oct. 28th Monday morning Drill as usual Forenoon Drill — Battalion this evening — Day has closed as usual (by the sun's going down)
Oct. 29th Tuesday morning cool Routine of Drilling as usual — Battalion Drill superintended by the Lieut. Col. Nothing new as usual — The same dull monotony seems to pervade the camp as usual.
Oct. 30th Wednesday morning still clear & cold Routine of Drill gone through with. Battalion Drill this forenoon and afternoon. One of the Orders published on Dress Parade this evening — was the acceptance of the resignation of Lieut. Buchanan of Comp B. this Regt.
Oct. 31st Thursday morning still cool Regimental muster for Pay. The forces now stationed here are all mustered to day — on the Brigade parade ground — An Order placing C'apt. Hart under arrest by Col. Buford
November, the 1st Friday morning Comp. Drill from 9, to 11, weather does not seem to moderate much A Slight drizzling rain commenced falling about Two O'clock prevented Drilling in the afternoon undress Parade. Capt R. S. More ordered under arrest by Col. Buford, published on Dress Parade
Nov. 2nd Saturday colder than ever morning Drill as usual. Our Co. is on Police Duty to day L. F. Williams Captain of the Guard to day by order of H. A. Rust
1861 Camp Cairo, Illinois November, 1861
Nov. 2nd Capt. Parke Capt. Merrill & Liut Stout are to day placed under arrest — by order of that Benevolent Old Creature, — Col. Buford. The nature of the charges to be preferred against them is still a mystery to all. but some of the more knowing ones are slyly hinting around that a petition has been gotten up here in camp, setting forth the objections to Col. Buford as a Col. & respectfully soliciting him to resign his Office, & that said petition has been signed by said Officers — for which offense his majesty has seen fit to place them under arrest: how true this is remains to be seen.
Inspection of arms and quarters at 9 O'clock. Religious services at the regular hour, by the Chaplain Rev. McMasters It has claered off and the day is quite pleasant. During this afternoon Those Officers who were placed under arrest have affected a compromise the full particulars of which I am not now able to state but the substance of which is that the Petition shall be destroyed
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by them and he withdraws all charges. Lieut. Allen returned from home to day The 18th Regt. and the 29th Col. Reardon have both been ordered away this afternoon Destination not known yet Dress Parade this evening as usual.Nov. the 4th Monday morning comfortably cool Routine of Duties as usual. Capt. Parke Officer of the day at camp Cairo Every thing quiet in camp Weather very pleasant Battalion Drill this afternoon General Paine from Paducah and Ajt. Gen. M. Breyman of this place present. We drew 36 Overcoats to day for our Co. and the full complment of Haversacks.
1861 Camp Cairo Illinois.
Nov. 4th 8 men detailed from our Regt. as Extra Duty men to work on Fortifications. Joel Knip detailed from our Comp. for Ten Days commencing tomorrow Dress Parade at the usual hour.
Usual Duties performed. Lt. Allen Officer of the Guard Joseph Lisenbee who now is at liberty is ordered by the Col. to clean up and keep in order everything about the Co. Quarters Lieut Allen Officer of the Guard to day Battalion Drill as usual this afternoon. Ordered for dispensing with all Drill before 10 O'clock A. M. as recommended by the Medical Board was read this afternoon on Dress Parade.
No Drill this morning. We have rec'd marching Orders, also the 30th 31st & 7th Iowa 22 Ills. and 2 Co's Cavalry and one Battery of Artillery. At 10 O'clock we had Gen. Inspection by the Field Officers for ascertaining the condition of the men their accoutrements Guns &c. The balance of the day until 4 O'clock was occupied in preparing for a march. At 3 O'clock the 30th, 31st & one Co. of Cavalry, (Capt. Noleman) embarked on board the Steamer Key Stone. Alec Scott & Chancelor, at 4 O'clock our Regt. 27th embarked on Board the Steamer Montgomery
1861 Camp Cairo Illinois
Nov. 7th Thursday Morning no Drill this morning. At day light the fleet once more get under way and in Co. with the 2 Gun Boats Lexington and Tyler Proceede down the River to a point 3 miles above Columbus; landed on the Mo. side. Disembarked all of our forces the 27th taking the lead we marched around to a point about 3 miles distant from our landing place and about opposite the enemys encampment at Belmont opposite Columbus & on this side of the River. By throwing out skirmishers from our right flank the position of the enemy was ascertained. The 30th & 31st Regts were then sent forward to engage him, the 30th to attack the center & 31st his left flank while the 22nd Ills. 7th Iowa & Taylors Battery supported the center The 31st were the first to engage the enemy and soon the action became general, from left to center. The 27th which in the mean time had been lying at the point from which skirmishers had been sent out was now ordered around to attack him on his right flank which we did though at a great disadvantage having to fight him in his own position among fallen timbers, after one hour's hard fighting we had the satisfaction of driving him from his
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encampment tearing down their "cursed Rag" and planting the stars and stripes where it had lately waved.All over the Battle field they scattered and in heaps The dead and the dying Friend and Foe lay in close proximity to each other. Some torn asunder by cannon balls some with frightful wounds here and there in different parts of the body Some were killed out right with musket balls through the temples or forehead others with limbs torn completely off suffering the most torturing agonies 'twas a most horrible sight to contemplate But we were not allowed but a very short time to contemplate for the enemy by this time had reinforced by Cheatham's Brigade of Five Thousand men again advanced upon us evidently with the intention of cutting off our retreat. And just at this moment they commenced shelling us from Columbus from their Batteries of 60 Guns, The shells fell among us thick and fast. However previous to this we had the satisfaction setting fire to their Camp & destroying it. Now the command in order to work its way back to boats — had to its way through the enemy — resulting in the loss of many brave fellows killed and wounded the enemy pursuing until we reached the boats. Our forces having embarked safely before they came up Except the 27th which in order to evade the enemy, — our Sagacious Col. as he has proved himself to be in this day's fight marched around the Bayou some Three miles above where the boats lay, Thereby escaping the terrible fire to which the balance of our forces were exposed.
Our Regt. was brought up by the Gun Boat Lexington.
Nov. 23rd Morris deserted to day has not been heard from since very early this morning.
Nov. 31st Fifty Seven or Eight men with Capt. Parke and Lt. Williams were detailed this evening as Extra Duty men to go to Cave in Rock Ills., 100 miles up the Ohio for the purpose of loading stone. Went aboard the Key Stone at 8 O'clock.
Dec. 5th Daniel Vanvoltenberg died to day from, the effects of Typhoid fever
Dec 11th Extra Duty portion of the Company returned from Cave In Rock to day with numbers undiminished.
1862.
1862 Camp Cairo Ills.
Jan. 1st Wednesday morning clear and pleasant. Routine of the morning as usual. No drilling to day. The Col. for the diversion of his Officers — obtained the use of one of the Steam Tugs which are daily running to & fro in the harbor — for a pleasure excursion A portion of the command for the morning voyage — another portion for the evening. Capt. Parke & Lieut. Williams were among the passengers in the forenoon Lieut Allen remained in camp intending to go in the afternoon but did not We had a very pleasant trip of it first visiting Birds Point paying our compliments to Gen Paine — the new commander The performances of the day ended with Dress Parade.
Cloudy air heavy and damp. Drill by Cos. in the forenoon Set in raining in the afternoon — preventing Battalion Drill. Raining ceased towards evening Dress Parade — finis —
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Jan. 3rd Friday morning cloudy & misting rain. Weather prohibiting the usual duties. Our pleasant weather which has continued ever since the first of September has now taken its final leave we all think Dress Parade again this evening — Notwithstanding the mud
Cold & gloomy as usual misting rain Co. on police Duty to day the inclemency of the weather prohibits Drilling
Dress Parade as usual.
Jan 5th Sunday morning Still cloudy & cool Inspection of Barracks at 9 O'clock. Call for church at 11 am where the men are permitted to go to which church they please Lieut. Allen Officer of the Guard. No Dress Parade this evening but Roll Call or Co. Report
1862 Camp Cairo, Illinois.
Jan. 6th Monday morning cool. Lt. Williams with 7 men were ordered in to the Fort to Drill on the artillery. Battalion Drill at 3 O'clock P. M. Very short Dress Parade. The Col. & lady gave a party to a few selected friends this evening
Jan 7th Tuesday morning cloudy & misting rain, too mudy to drill nothing doing to day.
Jan. 8th Wednesday morning cloudy and damp Raining the most of the day. Rec'd marching orders this evening Have orders to march on board the Boat at 12 o'clock to-morrow No Dress Parade this evening on a/c of the inclemency of the Weather, The Col. gave a dinner to the Officers to day
January 9th Thursday morning cloudy Preparations making early this morning for our march Marched to the landing at 2 O'clock. The Brigade is all ready for embarkation but there is such a fog on the river that the expedition is postponed until the fog clears away The troops are marched back to their quarters with the expectation of leaving to-morrow morning any how. Too muddy for Dress Parade this evening.
Jan. 10th Friday morning still cloudy But the fog has cleared off somewhat, — and we have marching Orders for Ten O'clock, — At 10 O'clock we marched aboard the Memphis to gether with the 18th Regt. at about One O'clock we pushed out into the stream. The boat headed towards Secessia. After 3 hours ride we landed at Camp Jefferson Six miles below this place & there went into camp By night Seven Regts of Infantry — about 10 Cos. of Cavalry and Two Batteries of artillery had landed and encamped
The embarkation and debarkation was accomplished without much
1862 Camp Cairo, Ills.
Jan. 11th Saturday morning cloudy. From present appearances one would think our stay here would be for several days — as there is no stir in camp, — probably waiting for the other forces to come up before we take up our line of march Our present camp is near the ruins of Fort Jefferson. A Fort erected in Jeffersons time — during the Indian war upon the frontier & was at one time a stronghold of Daniel Boone Dress Parade this evening.
Jan. 12th Sunday morning pleasant but cloudy, George W. Clarks 24th Birth Day he is Corporal of the Guard to day. Lt. Allen has gone up to Cairo to day for Provisions. About 2 O'clock our Regt. moved from our original position to the foot of the hill for better protection from the cold north wind Allen returned late this evening Provisions for the Regt. for Five days.
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Jan. 13th Monday morning. It snowed a little during last night, tis very cold this morning Lt Williams Officer of the Guard, nothing has occurred since our arrival to disturb the quiet of our camp.
Jan 14th Weather still very cold, marching orders have been issued and at 10 O'clock we leave this place for a different locality. The 10th & 18th Regts. and one Battery of artillery in front — our Regt. next the 29th 30th 31st & 48th the train of wagons &c. Bal of artillery & cavalry bringing up the rear Near sundown we encamped near a place called Blamville having marched a distance of 9 miles for the first day.
Firing has been heard all this afternoon in the direction of Columbus One or Two of our Gun Boats have dropped down and are answering them by throwing a few shot and shell into their intrenchments
1862 Camp Cairo, Illinois. January
January 15th still cloudy but warmer. We march at 8 O'clock — our route is in the direction of Columbus, at 3 O'clock we come to a halt and prepare for encamping for the night, on the farm of an old secessionist, to night we hear that forces from Birds Point & Fort Holt have encamped on our old Ground Camp Jefferson.
Jan. 16th Our march is resumed again this morning — but not in the direction of Columbus. Our course is now towards Milburn a little town 7 miles distant from our last encampment, Which we reached about 3 O'clock P. M. On the account of water we had to march 4 or 5 miles farther taking the direction of Paducah after leaving Milburn we encamped for the night about 9 O'clock. Lieut Allen was left behind at Milburn not being able to proceed any farther, Lt. Brock also staid with him.
Jan. 17th Saturday morning rained like the mischief last night, Our camp flooded with water. The 10th Ills. have no tents and they are in an awful fix. Our men have not a full ration this morning — a little grumbling consequently — traveling is awful — roads are very mudy Branches are high and it rains almost continually The coat tail of the writer get very mudy and is consequently very heavy. We travel to within one mile of Blanville and encamp for the night. The boys have one dram of whisky to night issued by the Qr. Master Lieut Allen has been with the teams to day not able to walk, He caught up with us at Lovelaceville.
Jan. 18th Sunday morning Roll Call absentees Privates John Hannant, Isaac Lawson who fell behind yesterday — we will lay here to day as it is the Sabbath, the boys are all tired and are glad to get a rest.
1862 Camp Cairo Illinois January
January 19th Monday morning Roll Call as usual And preparations for an early march to the river from where we started last Tuesday a distance of about 9 miles. It is our desire when we get to the river to embark and get to our old qrs to night. But after a hard days march Gen. McClernand sees proper to send other Regts in advance of ours consequently we are left to encamp on the same old ground Lt. Allen has permission to go to Cairo to night as he is unwell.
January 20th Tuesday weather still cloudy and cold — Well we do not get off till 12 O'clock and we are delayed at the landing sometime Arrive at Cairo about 4 O'clock where our Col. gives his "beloved Regt." a salute from the Fort and has the portion of the Regt. left behind drawn up in line on the levee to receive us which is done with all the usual formalities of the military school. Then marched to our qrs. where after being drawn up previous to dismissal the Col. made a few remarks — expressing himself a being highly honored by commanding such a Regt. for their good morals.
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February 1st Saturday morning. Our Regt. on Guard to day. Rec'd our Pay yesterday. Sixteenth Ills. arrived here last night. To day they have gone over to Birds Point. This evening we rec'd. marching orders, were countermanded however about 8 O'clock.
Feb. 2nd Troops are embarking all day from 10 O'clock & during the night all has gone on smoothly, the expedition is bound up the Ohio Tennessee & Cumberland Rivers, Col. Buford is left in command of this Post
1862. Camp Cairo, Illinois, February.
Feb. 3rd Monday. Storm has abated. The troops that were enbarking yesterday will all leave to day. One soldier was drowned yesterday evening by being shoved overboard Gens. McClernand & Grant & Staffs respectively leave to day. Col. Buford is in command until noon to day. Gen. Paine will then assume command of the Three Posts with Head Quarters here. To inclement for Dress Parade.
Feb. 4th Tuesday, weather moderate, snow which had fallen to the depth of 2 Inches is fast disappearing mud mud everlasting oh how awful mudy it is. Very dull to day. No news of any consequence. We are all hopeful however that the expedition which left here will be successful. Roll Call now at the usual hour of Dress Parade.
Feb. 5th Wednesday. No news of the expidition yet. Too mudy to do any thing yet but stand Guard. It rains about half the time. Both Rivers are still raising, & threaten to inundate & overflow our camp The camp at Ft. Holt is nearly all under water now. The members of our Regt express great chagrine because they were not permitted to accompany the expedition and share with it in its perils & Honors Capt. Parke Officer of the Day.
Feb 6th Thursday weather quite pleasant, clouds cleared away to day The sun shines bright & warm & it looks like spring. Favorable news from the expedition this morning had no Battle up to yesterday — but guess they are hard at it to day at Ft. Henry —
1862. Camp Cairo Illinois.
Feb 7th Friday weather cold. Glorious News, Two of our Gun Boats returned this morning bearing the Rebel Flags captured at Fort Henry. The respective loss is not yet ascertained. One of our Boats in the parts not ironed got pretty badly splintered up. One of the Rebel Gens. was also captured.
Feb. 8th Saturday Weather cool & cloudy much rejoicing over the victory gained at Ft. Henry Our success in that section we think decides the fate of Columbus Rumors are current that fighting is going on in the region of Ft. Henry and Donelson. Nothing definite.
Feb. 9th Sunday clear but cold. Guard mounting at the usual hour Lt Allen Officer of the Guard. Inspection of Battalion by the Staff at the usual hour 10 O'clock 48th Ind. arrived here last night 2 Regts also came down from St. Louis this evening It is reported that Fort Donelson is taken by our troops.
Feb. 10th Monday weather cold cloudy and disagreeable. No truth in the reported capture of Ft Donelson
Feb 11th Tuesday weather still cold no news from Fort Donelson to day of any consequence Troops still going by way of this place for that point.
Feb 12th Wednesday News of the capture of Roanoke Island rec'd with rejoicing weather moderating, Clear & pleasant.
Camp Cairo, Illinois.
Feb. 13th Thursday morning Lt. Williams Officer of the Guard to day weather clear and pleasant in the morning but changed towards night commenced storming sleeting and snowing with the wind in the north.
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Feb. 14th Friday, morning weather extremely cold clear with snow about 1/2 inch deep; Report of Burnsides capture of Roanoke confirmed this morning. The seige of Ft. Donelson is said to have commenced both by land and water.
Feb 15th Saturday weather still cold No duty can be performed except to stand guard & perform fatigue duty an uncommon amount of which has fallen to our share of late.
Feb. 16th Sunday, Our Regt. on Guard to day Lt. Williams detailed with 40 men on fatigue duty to Mound City to day, more news from Fort Donelson. to day rather unfavorable although the reports are conflicting.
1862 Camp Cairo Illinois.
Feb. 17th Monday morning Glorious news this morning, Ft. Donelson is taken. Fifteen Thousand prisoners and an immense quantity of arms and ammunition. A salute of 34 Guns fired by order of Col. Buford in commemoration of the event.
Feb. 18th Prisoner taken at Donelson are continually arriving Lt. Williams detailed with a squad of 50 men on fatigue duty in town A salute of 10 Guns was fired at 10 O'clock in honor of Gov. Yates and Suit who arrived to day also Gov. Morton. Weather fair.
March 4th Tuesday morning. Left Cairo on the Steamer Illinois. The Gun Boats 5 in number and 4 mortars taking the lead for Columbus, at which place we arrived at about 11 O'clock. The Ills. 2nd cavalry had occupied the place & the Stars and Stripes were floating from the fortifications. After disembarking, the 27th headed by our noble Col. marched to the stirring notes of Yankee Doodle & Dixie, up the levee & the hill to the fortifications on the Bluffs. This place where nature & art had made the Gibraltar of America would have cost the Government an immense number of lives & treasure before succumbing to the american arms, after viewing the stupendous works and the different modes of destruction which the Rebels had invented to destroy the Northern Barbarian and Yankees as they term them, Such as torpedoes & infernal machines which they had hurried in the earth promiscously as far back in the country and as far up & down the river as the fortifications extend Each one connecting by wire with a magnetic Battery by which they were to be exploded.
March the 5th Wednesday morning cloudy & cold nothing of importance to day. Lt. Lytle of Co. B has been selected by Col. Harrington as acting adjt. a adjt Rust is acting Brigade adjt for Col. Buford com'dg the Post. The 42d Regt. Ills. Vol. are encamped upon the bluffs. No Dress Parade this evening.
March 6th Thursday morning still cloudy & cool Capt. Parke Officer of the day. Lt. Williams Comp. C. has been detailed by the Col. to act as Qr. M. until Qr. M. Sears arrives from Cairo. A regular mail & passenger packet runs the line between this & Cairo
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March 7th Friday morning weather more pleasant. Our Sutler arrived this morning from Cairo. Dress Parade this evening.
March 5th Saturday morning clear & pleasant The absentees are those left behind at Cairo arrived this evening Dress Parade at the customary hour.
1862. Head Quarters, Camp Columbus Ky.
March the 9th Sunday morning. Weather pleasant with some indications of rain. Co. inspection on the Co. Parade ground at 9:30 A. M. Boats are running quite freely between this point & Cairo. Dress Parade this evening.
March 10th Monday morning, had quite a rain storm last night — but has the appearance of clearing off this morning Qr. Master Sears arrived last evening. Every thing quite in town, Lt. Williams relieved from Duties as Qr. M.
March 11th Tuesday morning clear and pleasant. Lt. Williams officer of the Guard to day. To news of the evacuation of Manasses reached us to day much rejoicing over it & the forward advance of the armies of the Potomac.
March 12th Wednesday weather still pleasant. Lt. Allen & a squad of men from our Co. after great exertions have succeeded in drawing from the river a Sixty Four Pdr. which the rebels had dismounted & rolled into the river, which he has mounted and now every morning and evening at the rising and setting of the sun he and his squad cause it to thunder forth the announcement of arrival or departure of that glorious Orb of Day.
March 13th Thursday weather very pleasant Very dull more so than at Cairo as there is no business going on and very few citizens are living here Dress Parade as usual.
March 14th Friday, it rained very hard last night, & is still raining this morning. We are under marching orders, Tis said we are to accompany the fleet down the river True enough about 11 O'clock A. M. the flotilla of Gun Boats hove in sight followed by the transports & mortars.
We embarked on board the Steamer Silver Wave. By and by they began to shove out the Gun Boats taking the lead. 1862
Head Quarters Silver Wave Nothing of interest transpired until we arrived at Hickman, — where we all landed, a Battalion of the 27th only disembarking headed by our Col. and Lt. Col. displaying our glorious old Banner & keeping step to the soul stirring notes Yankee Doodle & Dixies land. Col. Buford first proceeded to the telegraph office where he destroyed their means of communication & also tearing up their Rail Road track for a short distance. The locomotive having skeddadled as soon as our Boats hove in sight. We lay here until Saturday morning
March 15th Saturday morning cold drissling rain. The fleet gently get under way this morning at day break, we proceeded on our way to Island No. 10. Our Col. this morning imparted to us the glad tidings of the evacuation of New Madrid & the possession of it by Gen. Pope with a number of peices of heavy cannon About 9 A. M. we came very unexpectedly upon a Rebel Gun Boat the Grampies which was wooding about a 9 miles above the Island. She very hastily left her moorings, not giving some of her hands time to get aboard. The Benton which was in advance sent a few shots after her — but without reaching her. She set up a scream with her whistle — which she did not abate until she reached the Island. Arriving in the neighborhood of the Island — the Gun Boats dropped very cautiously down to within 3 1/2 miles of their upper Battery on the main shore & near the same distance from the Island. Two of the mortars were towed into position. The Gun Boats then opened upon the Island — firing several rounds during the afternoon The two mortars also fired several rounds each — but no response was elicited from either Battery Nothing of importance has transpired to day.
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1862 Head Quarters Silver Wave.
March 16th Sunday morning Still cloudy. A 10 A. M. Capt Mores Co. to which was added Lt. Williams by order Lt. Col. Harrington to go over on the Mo. shore for the purpose of reconnoitering & supporting if necessary a fatigue party under the command of capt southward which was detailed to build a bridge over a slough for crossing artillery, we were landed about 11 A. M. the fatigue set to work bridging the slough while we went down the river about one mile took possession of a deserted farmers house had a first rate dinner & marched back to our Boat about 5 O'clock P. M. The mortars 4 in number kept up a constant fire from 10 A. M. till night. Col. Buford landed one Battery of artillery, — about 5 P. M. & the 27th Regt. to support it. 4 rounds from one Gun were fired at a battery on the Island before the enemy deigned to reply — when they did the first shot passed within about Five feet of Lt. Allen & Williams who were standing on the fence at the time. They did not stand for another shot — but got down out of view from the enemy. The Third or Fourth shot from the enemy took off a leg from one of our artillerist. — finding our Guns ineffective we ordered back to the Boats and steamed back to our landing place.
March 17th Monday morning clear & pleasant. Nothing doing until 1 P. M. when Three Gun Boats the Benton in the center lashed together dropped down to within long range of the upper Battery — Two others on the opposite side of the river. A tremendous heavy fire was now opened from the 5 Gun Boats and 8 mortars Which was responded to with considerable spirit — but without any effect. A cannon on board the St. Louis exploded during the heat of the action killing 2 and wounding 6, was all the men we lost during the action. The effect of our firing on their Battery can not now be ascertained, but we know of several Guns being dismounted.
1862 Head Quarters Steamer Silver Wave
March the 18th Tuesday morning, heard heavy firing at New Madrid. Our Boat moved up the river. The Gun Boats and mortars opened fire in the evening. At 9 1/2 A. M. Our Boat went up the river to Mr. Phillips and killed 4 beeves. After that we dropped down the river to our camping place. Our mortars and & Gun Boats keep up a fire on the enemy all night at intervals of 1/2 hour.
March 19th Wednesday. William H. Ashley died this day at Cairo. The firing still continues. Lt. Allen left the Boat, on board the Steamer Rob Roy in a skiff with 3 citizens for the upper Ft. They approached within 200 y'ds of it could see One Gun Two empty carriages, and about 15 or 20 men apparently. Not doing any thing to them returned to the flag Boat Benton & reported to the Commodore.
March 20th Thursday Lt. Allen aboard the Rob Roy in company with Col. Buford on a reconnoissance but nothing of note occurred this A. M. But at dark Allen with Three men H. C. Foote Alma Jaques and Orastus Bently approached within 10 yards of the enemys Guns, in the upper Ft. and discovered the enemy mounting Guns. Allen remained there about an hour and then returned to Com. Foote. As soon as he had reported the Com. opened fire on them. They then took Tug Boat & returned to the Steamer Silver Wave.
The 27th Regt. of Ills. Vol. was transferred from the Steamer Silver Wave to the Steamer T. L. McGill One Steamer with One Regt. left here for Hickman Ky. to protect the citizens. Our Gun Boats continue to fire on the enemy.
March 22nd Saturday morning little cannonading to day. Col. Bissels Engineering Regt. commenced cutting a canal evading Island No. 10 through to N Madrid
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1862 Head Qrs, 27th Steamer T. L. McGill.
March 23rd Lt. Allen Officer of the Guard weather clear The Steamer W. B. Terry commenced dropping through the Canal (which takes it source at Philips Plantation and empties into the Miss River again at New Madrid).
March 24th Monday weather clear Col. Buford left the McGill went down the River in a tug to make a Balloon reconnoissance. A tree fell across one of the Gun Boats to Day and killed 1 man and wounding 7
Lt. Allen is detailed with 30 men as an escort to the Steamers W. B. Terry, Trio Emma, and Hettie Gilmore under the command of Col. Bissel.
March 26th Wednesday morning clear Col Bissels command cut stumps all day.
March 27th Thursday weather clear Col Bissels command penetrate slowly to day into the forest.
March 28 Friday, clear. Heard heavy firing all last night. Made slow progress to day.
March 29th Saturday Weather cloudy. Heavy firing in the afternoon.
We made about One mile to day. Received mail to Day.
March 30th Weather clear, & fine The Engineer Regt. keep working; Two flat Boats came down with 4 large Guns The 27th went to Hickman.
March 31st Monday Havy weather The Eng. Regt. began mounting the Guns on the flat Boats
1862 Head Qrs. Steamer McGill
April the 1st Tuesday Weather clear The Gun Boats & mortars keep a constant fire. At 11 P. M. we had a heavy thunder Shower but short.
April 2nd Wednesday. Weather cloudy Maj Miles visited the expedition of Bissel. Little firing to day
April 3rd Thursday weather clear This is the 10th day of Bissels expedition towards Madrid Worked all night last night and arrived at St John's Bayou Water falling
April 4th Friday cloudy & raining. Rec'd the news that Buford was promoted to a Brig. Generalship
April 5th Saturday Clear The Gun Boat Carondolette run the Blockade last night.
April 6th Sunday. Weather fine & clear but cold at nights arrived at New Madrid The Gun Boat Pittsburgh run the Blockade at Island No. 10 last night or this morning. Lt. Williams on board the T L McGill had permission to go ashore to day to stay at a farm house until he regains his health being quite unwell.
April the 7th Monday Cloudy & raining. Gen Pope crossed the River to day with 4 Boat loads of troops. 2 Gun Boats silenced a Battery opposite Madrid. Lt. Allen took possession of a commodious house for his 30 men
a rebel floating Battery came floating down this evening mounting 14 Guns we caught her and brought her ashore.
1862. Head Quarters T L McGill.
April 8th Tuesday Weather cloudy. The Steamer Emma went up to Island No. 10 last night. The rebels sunk 4 transports before evacuating. Rained all last night
April 9th Wednesday Weather cloudy Lt. Allen took his command on board the steamer Emma at 9 O'clock and started for Island No. 10. At 12 M. the Hettie Gilmore and 2 other transports, brought prisoners from the opposite shore — about 3 thousand and and went back after more. Joined the Regt. to Day.
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April 11th Friday Weather cloudy Rec'd our mail. Our Regt. left Island No. 10 at 2 O'clock P. M. in Comp. with the Silver Wave & towed a wharf Boat to New Madrid.
April 12th Saturday cloudy & raining Rained all last night. Still on board the McGill waiting for orders from Gen Pope. At 1 O'clock we went down the River and went ashore at Riddles Point.
Left Riddles Point at 7 O'clock. At 2 P. M. we were opposite Osceola 30 or 40 Boats 8 miles above Ft. Wright
April 14th Monday. Weather clear nothing of note happened up to 12. The first shell from our Boats at Ft Wright at 2-20 P. M. At 1 P. M. Gen. Bufords took fire and burned to the hull. The Gun Boats & Mortars kept up considerable firing to day.
1862. Head Quarters T. L. McGill.
April 15th Weather clear, nothing of importance to day
April 16th Wednesday Weather clear and warm
The Barkeeper on board this Boat was sent ashore to day for disobedience. No Guns fired to day. Rec'd mail to day Capt. Lemuel Parke resigned to day.
The Fleet of transports started for the Tennessee River to day We landed at upton's farm and wooded Lt. Allen took command of the Co. at dark. We lay at the Wharf Boat 20 miles below New Madrid taking on provisions 4 hours.
April 18th Friday raining. Landed at New Madrid at 2 P. M. Stopped at Island No. 10 and Philips Plantation for Lt. Williams.
April 19th A Bently and H. F. James get furloughed home. Arrived at Cairo 2 P. M. Stay there 8 hours. Capt. Parke went home.
April 20th Sunday Weather cloudy and rainy. Arrived at Paducah at Day light, at 4 opposite Harri's landing Tennessee River.
April 21st Monday Weather cloudy Arrived at Savannah Tenn. at 9 P. M. Col. Harrington was elected Col. of the 27th A. J. Lides appointed 2nd Lt of comp. C. vice L. F. Williams promoted to 1st Lieutenancy, arrived at Pittsburgh landing 10 P. M.
1862 Head Qrs 27th Regt. Hamburgh Tenn.
April 22nd Tuesday, at 6 A. M. Steam up the River landed 8 miles above Pittsburg Landing. At 6 P. M. marched up to the town of Hamburg.
April 23rd Wednesday clear & fine Sets our tents in Hamburgh. One of the finest camps in Tenn. Richard Emery joined the Regt. again
April 24th Thursday, Beautiful weather Rec'd marching Orders. Lt. Williams returned to his Company.
April 25th Friday raining. Marching Orders with 2 Days rations. Marching Orders Countermanded. Our Co. Detailed as Grand Guard and it rained all day No rain on the night.
April 26th Saturday weather clear & fine Returned to Comp. Our Regt. marched forward 2 miles & camped on good ground.
April the 27th Sunday. Clear marching orders Left Thirteen men & all our tents behind. Advanced 2 miles and a half camped in the timber and slept on our arms. Skirmish between pickets to day.
April 28th Monday Cloudy but cleared off fine about noon. Long Roll beat — fall into line of Battle Our Pickets had a skirmish with the Rebels — killing one Major and 4 men wounded several and took Twenty Four prisoners. Day ended clear but rained, nearly all night.
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April 29th Tuesday cloudy and raining on the morning. Rec'd orders for marching to-morrow at 7 A. M. with 1 Days rations.
1862 Head Qrs. 27th In the Field near Corinth Miss.
April 30th Rec'd marching orders to day for to-morrow morning instead of the 29th a mistake in the printer.
May the 1st Thursday clear and pleasant. Preparations for marching. As the companies have but one team allotted to each one of them we are compelled to leave our tents behind At 7 A. M. The 10th and 16th take up their line of march towards Corinth. Capt. Allen Officer of the Day to day. We march about 8 O'clock. The 22nd is in advance.
Our Brigade commanded by Gen. Farmer [Palmer] — is composed of the 22nd Ills. on the right the 27th next then the Battery the 51st and the 42nd Ills. 4 Regts and one Battery. The sappers and miners Col Bissel have been in our advance for several days preparing the roads — our route is in a southerly direction through a broken country — occasionally a farm. We halted about 4 P. M. after marching about 6 miles Gen. Morgans Brigade — with Hottellings (Houghtaling) Battery are formed in the line of Battle in our front Our Brigade is next in the same order. Roll call this evening at the usual hour.
May the 2nd Friday morning clear and pleasant. An order has been issued prohibiting the firing of guns or even the snapping of caps — within the lines or without the lines of any Regt. Except it be our pickets or sentinels in the performance of duty. At 10:30 A. M. we recd orders to fall back about one mile across a creek Gen. Paine having advanced his division too far — in his eagerness to encounter the enemy. After a short march we reach our camping place a position on the opposite side 3/4 of a mile to the right and 1 1/2 mile to the rear. Forces in our rear are rapidly advancing
1862. Head Quarters In the Field near Corinth Miss.
May the 3rd Saturday morning very pleasant but some indications of rain. About 9 O'clock firing is heard on our right constant and seemingly heavy volleys of musketry accompanied by discharges of artillery. Gens. Paine Palmer and staff pass our Regt. in the meantime. Gen. Palmer told the Guard that in less that 24 hours they will have a chance to distinguish themselves. At 10 A. M. we receive orders to be ready to march in 40 minutes with one days rations the team and 5 men are left behind knapsacks and the remainder of the provision The men are in good fighting order. At 11 A. M. we move forward each Brigade holding their relative position. We advance in the direction of Corinth about 6 miles then halted. The 22nd moves off to the right in an open field throwing out a comp. as skirmishers on the extreme right — also Co. A of the 27th on our left for the same purpose firing is heard in our front at considerable distance In about an hour our skirmishers return not having encountered the enemy. The line of march is again resumed — from what we can gather the Enemy is about 3 miles in our front with quite a large force awaiting an attack. Two miles farther we pass a small body of Cavlry 9 of the Enemy were killed in that little Skirmish One of our Men wounded in the foot a little farther on & we Came to where Several large trees had bin failed a Cross the road near by is quite a large the bridge op which has also bin distroyed the Sapers & Miners however have bin at worke SinCe the Enjine have bin Compeled to fall baCk & a bridge is alredy Constructed Suflsent to pass all of our forCes over Sharp firing is now heard in front we advanCe on open field is Soon reached where the 10th & 16th have bin encampt to the right Cap the 27 & 22 move to the left Hotlings Batry Moves forward also to the right, supported by Gen Morgans Brigade. We move onward stopping for no obstacles whatever, the musket balls whistling uncomfortably clos — occasionally. Hotellings Battery now opens causing the enemy to skedaddle in a hurry taking position again behind their Battery which had not yet opened upon us. The Battery belonging to our Brigade now advanced on the extreme left with 2, 10 pdr Turrat Guns & 2 brass 12 pdr not being very well manned, the firing now from both sides was tolerably warm The shot and shell from the rebel
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battery falling in every direction but our men all proved themselves heroes — not withstanding the heavy fire to which they were exposed not a man flinched but stood firmly at his post.The heavy cross fire from our battery & the constant and well directed aim or fire rather from Hotillings battery proved too much for the southern chivilry and after about one hours fight fled. The Battery taking one load the Infantry another. The enemy proved to be about 4,500 including one Regt. of cavalry and one Battery. Our forces engaged were the 22nd & 27th Ills. one Battalion of sharpshooters — 2 Batteries of artillery the 10th & 16th Ills. & a squadron of Cavalry — A total of about 3500 men. The loss of the enemy was considerable carrying off quite a number — besides leaving 12 or 15 of their dead on the field & about 25 prisoners. Our loss during the day was one man killed & 20 wounded. We occupied the ground about one hour during the time our cavalry was scouring the country. About 6 O'clock orders came from Gen. Pope to fall back about 3 miles and take up our position — which we did in an open field about 9 P. M. the men tired and nearly worn out rested on the ground without tents or blankets. Gens Pope & Palmer were in the thickest of the fight displaying great coolness and courage.
May 4th Sunday morning cloudy with some indications of rain. Some firing heard on our left, about 9 O'clock we take a new position 1/2 mile in the rear of the present one.
1862 Head Qr.s. 27th Regt. In the field near Corinth Miss.
May 4th Sen. Luns Brigade consisting of the 10th & 14th Michigan & Yates sharp-shooters now occupy the advance. Gen. Morgan's Brigade on the right & a little to the rear. Gen Palmer's in the rear of the two Brigades. It commenced raining about 11 A. M. and has kept it up all day without intermission. Our team arrived to night with the knapsacks and remainder of provisions & the officers tents. We are nearly starved the men have no hard bread make out to borrow enough for supper. The Qr. Master has not brought any bread with him thinking the men had enough till to-morrow. "Curses" not very loud but deep are "vented" upon the Qr. Master by the men, many of whom after starving all day have nothing for supper.
May 5th. Monday morning raining hard has rained very hard most of last night No reveille or roll call this morning. The men have no bread for breakfast. Efforts are made to borrow from other Regts. in the Division but they are nearly in the same condition, consequently we have no bread for breakfast, the men are very much dissatisfied & the curses are louder than last evening against the Old Qr Master. The rain ceases about 9 A. M. and at 1 P. M. it is clear and pleasant. The Qr. Master did not start back after provision till late this morning — not having gone last night as he should have done, the roads are in a dreadful condition. There is a camp report this evening that Gen Buell has taken possession of the Rail road on the right running to Memphis & that he also bagged a Brigade of rebels that were on the train. It is also reported that our forces on the left have taken possession of the road running east, there is also another report that Com. Porter & his fleet are coming up the Mississippi.
1862 Head Qr.s. 27th Regt. of Ills. Vol. in the Field near Corint Miss. — Cannonading is heard on the right of our position this evening are not certain whether it is on the right or at the River. The Qr. Master has not returned yet and curses, are louder than ever. And the cry of "crackers" crackers" resounds from one end of the camp to the other. Lt. Sides Officer of the Guard.
May 6th Tuesday morning, quite cool, but clear as a morning bell. No Qr Master yet, and the cry of crackers is again heard through camp, this time it brings the Col. around and he threatens to place every Capt. under arrest if it is not stopped.
Sergt. Martin manages to borrow one cracker for each man for breakfast — from the 22nd Ills. At 8 P. M. our team returned with provision. Our teamster — Robt. Mayo had the misfortune to loose one span
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of his mules in crossing the bridge missing their footing they fell into the stream and were drowned. The cannonading on our right is said to have been a fight between some of our forces & the rebels — resulting in the capture of a battery & 900 of the Enemy. The Tennessee River is 2 feet higher than ever known before. An Order from Gen. Pope was read at roll call complimenting the troops for their courage in the little engagement at Farmington on Saturday last the 3rd inst. About 2000 men are at work endeavoring to make the road passable btween here and the River. A light mail to day —May 7th Wednesday. Comp. E. was out on picket yesterday and relieved to day. The Qr. Master arrives this afternoon with plenty of provision. The 16th are nearly suffering to day for something to eat, as their teams have not arrived yet from the River. After Tattoo this evening we rec'd orders to be ready to march in the morning by 7 A. M. with one day's rations in haversacks. The whole Army will probably move on Corinth to morrow.
1862 Head Qr.s. 27th Regt. Ills. Vol. In the Field near Corinth Miss.
May the 8th Thursday morning cool. Assembly beat at 7:20 A. M. The Brigade in our front in command of Gen Morgan took the lead, — our Brigade following the other Brigades following after Gen. Stanley's Division is on our left — & 2 Regts of Cavalry. Our route is over the same ground passed over by us last Saturday to Farmington. On reaching the open ground or fields where our skirmishing began on Saturday, we found Gen. Morgan's Brigade formed in close column by division. Our Brigade formed in the same manner. A messenger comes in from our advance for Gen. Baine & staff to proceed forward as a flag of truce from the enemy is in waiting A consultation is held & a purport of the visit forwarded by telegraph to Gen. Pope — an answer is soon rec'd by those holding the consultation the usual formalities having been gone through with — the deputation return to their entrenchments. The Sharp shooters composing the Yates Phalanx are ordered forward as skirmishers. The Divisions about Fifteen Thousand strong move forward into the open Field on the high ground. Here an open scope of country about 3/4 of a mile wide stretches away towards Corinth for Two miles this is a solid block of farms. Firing now commences in front — tis our sharpshooters driving back the enemy — the enemy's pickets. A line of Battle is rapidly formed — the line extending diagonally across the field with our left resting on Farmington & right extending into the timber skirting the North Side of the open country before us. Our scouting parties and skirmishers return the way is clear in the direction of Corinth for some distance. We again move forward — the artillery in front — we halt very frequently as the skirmishers progress is very slow and firing is occasionally heard on our left. After we have marched one mile our Regt. is ordered to deploy from the open ground to the right into the timber, as we advance frequent firing is heard on our left, but we are not so fortunate as to meet any of the Butternut Gentry. The artillery stop occasionally unlimber and shell the woods in the front. We are marching now by the head of column & again by the right flank and sometimes in line of Battle. And notwithstanding the thick undergrowth hills & hallows ditches Sloughs and creeks — our Regt marched in good order & regularity. Tis now 5 P. M. We have reached a spot distant about 2 miles from Corinth. Have halted and drawn up in line of Battle. Heavy cannonading has been in progress on our left for some time. Our sharpshooters are cracking away at them in lively style — and the enemy are replying as earnestly. We rest here near an hour word is brought in that the enemy have rec'd heavy reinforcements & are advancing — and firing of our sharpshooters became more & more distinct as they slowly fall back orders are now rec'd to retrace our steps which we do in good order reaching the open ground about sun set. The line of march is resumed again in the direction of our old camp, which is reached in safety about 8 P. M. The casualities of to day's reconnoissance is one Major
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of the 7th Ills. cavalry killed & Three privates and several of the Infantry wounded, all of which was done at or near the Battery on our extreme left. 'tis said the enemy's outerfortifications are where our forces came so unexpectedly this Battery — & which would have resulted in great destruction to our forces had the enemy been aware of our approach. Our Rgt. was so unlucky as not to have the opportunity of firing a single during the day.May 9th Friday Morning. The men are quite hard rouse from their slumber this morning, having marched very late last evening. At 9 A. M. our Brigade is ordered forward & encamp on the ground near Farmington. At 10 A. M. the assembly beats — we fall in on the color line. We march forward — about half the distance is accomplished when we hear cannonading in the front. A messenger comes dashing on from there asking for reinforcements — stating that the enemy had advanced during the night and was about to overpower the force left there as pickets. We hasten up thinking it is nothing but a reconnoitering party. After arriving at the open fields just across the creek and swamp & 3/4 of a mile this side of Farmington our Artillery which is but 4 pieces advance and take position and are firing at a Battery which the enemy have planted west of us — behind a skirt of under-brush, by this time it is ascertained that another rebel Battery is stationed to the left of the former across a deep hollow which is also obscured from our view by a strip of timber intervening the Two fields. The artillery firing now become very rapid — the enemy replying with great spirit — the shells are falling rather close to our position to be comfortably pleasant and we are ordered into a hollow nearly for protection until the infantry is called into action in order to facilitate our movements we are ordered to unsling knapsack remaining here 1/2 hour — meanwhile the shot & shell are passing over around & on all sides of us — doing no damage whatever. During the firing Gen. Pope arrives on the fields — discovers the enemy to be in full forces — telegraps to Gen. Halleck of the fact — & his own force. Gen. Halleck telegraps him not to reinforce as it would bring on a General engagement & he is not — ready, but to bring his force off the field. The enemy have to be held in check till the siege pieces which have started across the bottom can be turned back again. A strong force of the enemy is now moving to our left with the intention of flanking us, — we are ordered forward & occupy a ridge in front of our present position to prevent their intended movements. We move forward through a shower of grape & shot & canister from a Battery on our right. Our line of Battle is perfect and lying low to escape the fire on our right — coolly await the approaching foe. But have not long to wait, their Banners & then their head & finally they can all be seen advancing to the brow of the hill opposite — distant about 250 yards. Our men are eager now & impatient for the order fire. A new feature is now added to the scene before us. Galloping rapidly to the front and unlimbering a Battery of 6 pieces of artillery turn their mouths full upon us, this all done before our eyes without a single order to fire — by which we might have prevented such a movement — was too much for human nature to bear. And a sensation is plainly visible along our whole line Here exposed to a cross fire from the Battery on our right — the enemy seven Regts. Strong plainly visible in front — with the mouths of those six "bull dogs" gaping in our faces — ready to pour destruction into our ranks. — while our own Regt. reduced to 6 comp. and the 22nd. on our right — was all the force we had to oppose them & without any support whatever — is it surprising that men would falter under such circumstances. A few men in Co. B. and private Knip in our comp. impelled by the idea that they can see just as well a little farther back — attempt to fly — but are prevented by the Officers and File Closers. But Joel Knip is so determined in his resolution that he does not alter it — Capt. Allen jumps before him with drawn sword threatens to run him through unless he returns to his post. This commotion discovers our position to the enemy — and the consequence is the Shot Shell & grape are rattling around us like hail. The order soon comes for us to fall back — we march back in good
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order to the edge of the field — where we face the enemy again. Orders came again to fall back — but the Col. mistaking the orders commanded forward and we marched up again to our first position the grape shot meantime falling around us thick and fast. It was during this last forward movement that private F. M. Conner was killed Struck in the back of the head by a piece of shell. Private R. H. Waters was wounded also — for a few minutes we withstood the raking fire of the Two Batteries. The Col. gives no orders to fire. The command again is given to fall back we do so with some confusion — on we go on the "double-quick" across the field — pass our knapsacks hardly deigning to look at them — Over the 2nd hill where we form again The Cavalry now make a charge upon the Battery which is don in splendid style — throwing their Infantry into uter confusion. We now continue our retreat across the bottom and back to camp our line of Battle is kept up till dark — we are relieved by other Regts. We find the loss of our Co. to be one killed, F. M. Conner, One wounded T. H. Waters, One missing, Richard Felan. The loss of our Regt. in todays engagement, is 4 killed, 15 wounded and 2 missing.May 10th Saturday morning Reveille beat at 8 O'clock A. M. We handed in a report of our Co. loss today which will be replaced by government. Gen. Pope has ordered the comdg officers of each Regt. to have their men fall in on the color line at the firing of one cannon at his head Qrs. the 2nd is a signal to prepare for fighting the 3rd is to disperse to qrs.
May 11th. Sunday, News of the evacuation of York Town is rec'd today with great rejoicing Roll Call at the usual hour.
May 12th Monday. Our Co. is on picket Guard today The line of pickets is very heavy. Rec'd intelligence of the surrender of Norfolk and the burning of the Merrimack.
May 13th
May 14 Wensday nothing of importance going on here to day
May 15 Thirsday we wore got in to line of battle with two days provision in our haversack and sixty rounds of aminition we laid in line Till Noon we then got orders to go to camp noting hapning of importance
May 16 friday all is quiet here to day nothing of importance going on here.
May 17 Saturday we are on the road advancing with two days provision in our haversack we were on picket to day we advanced our picket line the whole arem advanced to day we wore releaved at night by general Nelsons men
May Sunday 18 we worked hard all night building brest work and all day today we have planted five seage peares to day we are ready for them now if they want to come
May 19 Monday they are still throwing up brest woorks Thare is heavy canonading in front on the picked line but did not amount to much
May 20 tuesday we got paid of To day we got fifty two dolars All is quiet here to day
May 21 wensday there was heavy firing on the picket line we got orders to advance we went about half a mile halted laid down a bout haf an our then marched back to camp thare was heavy cananading on our right at Tenn o'clock it lasted a boute a quarter of an our
May 22 Thirsday there was skirmishing with the picket this morning all is quiet here nothing of importance hapaned May 23 Friday it has rained hard here all day the roads are bad to travel on for mud is very deep
May 24 Saturday. It is Still raining here the mud is very deep all is quiet here.
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May 25 Sunday we are on picket to day there has ben some picket firing but it did not amount to much
May 26 Monday off picket there was a skirmish on the picket line the Agetent of the 14 Michigan was cild nothing more of importance hapned to day
May 27 tuesday nothing of Importance hapned to day on our line
May 28 wensday we advanced about a mile to the front there was a big artilery fight we were on the reserve and did not git in to it the troops in our front are throwing up brest works litle before sundown we ware put at it we got ours done at eleven at night the rebels atempted to take one of our baterys but were repulsed with heavy loss the rebles tried to shell us but done no harm
May 29 Thirsday we have got some of the seage guns planted we are at work at them we can hear the roar of the big gun and the whistle of the shell as they through the air our gun sheled them all day
May 30 friday iriey this morning there was a dense smoke seen to rise in the direction of corinth the enimy are blowing up their magasene the enimy have evacuated and our cavelry are in persuit of them we got orders to git ready to march with three days provision in our haversacks we started at five oclock in persuit of them we marched eight miles the enimy are in front of us in a position that is hard to git at they are on Tuscumbia river
May 31 Saturday we are on guard to day there is two companys of our reg one from the 51; one from the 42 one from the 22 we are guarding a bridge two of the enimy came in and give up we staid here all night
June the first 1862 June 1 we returned to camp this morning the enimy having retreated our regement are in persuit we over took them at danvill we rested a while we crosed the Tuscumbia river we wore caled into ranks we wore ordered toward for skirmishers this is the first time we were ever skirmishing we went about eight miles we incamped near the town of rienzia we wore posted out till the troops came up we then returned to camp
June 2 monday we wore on the road a litle after daylight we incamped at Boonvill we made 6 miles to day we have not see any of the enimy to day
June 3 Tuesday we wore on a recinoicance about eleven miles drove the enimeys pickets in we got a few cild and wounded we returned to camp this was the hardest march that we ever have done late of the men give out on the road
June 4 wensday the boys are sore this morning and grumbling about their hard march we are at the old camp about sundown thare came the well nown call for us to fall in there was rebel caveyery reported beyond our picket line we started in persuit with a section of artilery we went about four miles but found nothing and returned to camp wild goose chase
June 5 Thirsday we laid in camp all day to day the men are sore and tired and near worn out
June 6 friday we were roused at noon by the long road we took up our line of march to the rear for one mile then turned west one mile we then turned north a ways and then drew up in line of batle and stocked our arms and laid down for the night we are in a nice grove of timber
Saturday June 7 nothing of importance going on here we laid in Camp all day
June 8 Monday we got orders to be ready to march with four days provision we had inspection of arms nothing of importance going on here
June 9 monday nothing of worth has taken place to day thare has been troops pasing all the after noon they are going to the rear
June 10 Tuesday nothing of note took place to day we are in the old place yet
June 11 wensday we fell in and took up our line of march to the rear our company was in advance we pased rienzi to day
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June 12 Thirsday we were on the road irley this morning we pased Danvill and crossed the Tudcombia river drew up in line and stocked our arms for the night
June 13 Friday we are in camp here the most of the boys are buisy washing their close our tents have come up we have not had a tent since we left farmington we had to peleace our camp
June 14 Saturday we moved our camp about a mile and paked our tents this is nice camp the name of it Camp big Spring
June 15 Sunday we had inspection of arms water Is not very handy but good when you git it
June 16 monday we had to pelease our perade ground we started to dig a well there came another shower and we had to quit for to night
June 17 Tuesday we had drill and dressperade the well is not done yet
June 18 Wensday Drill and Dress Parade as usul the well is not done yet
June 19 Thirsday Drill and Dress perade as useal the well is done we now have plenty of water and good water and it is handy this is a healthy place
June 20 friday Drill and dressperade as useal nothing of importance taken place here
June 21 Saturday the same old thing are again nothing worth relating taken place here
June 22 Sunday inspection this is the onily day that has seemed like Sunday to me for a long time
June 23 monday Drill and Dressprade as useal nothing worth relating having taken place
June 24 Tuesday the same old thing are again nothing new we had to peleace our parade ground
June 25 Wensday the same old thing over again
June 26 Thirsday our company was on picket nothing of importance going on all quiet on our line
June 27 friday of pick all quiet drill as useal
June 28 Saturday we had a nice shower drill and dressperade as useal the same old thing over again
June 29 Sunday we had inspection of arms this has ben a very quiet day for the army
June 30 monday we mustered for pay to day and had dress prade it is dull in camp and makes one feel lazy
it is raining this morning we had to peleace our camp ground we got orders to be ready to march this evening we went within two miles of rienzia we stacked our arms and laid down to sleep thare was onily our brigade with us the cavelry had a fight at boenvill we did not git thare our men drove them to black land
July 2 wensday we went back to camp it was very muddy and hard marching we were tired out
July 3 Thirsday Drill as useal and Dressprade nothing worth relating goin on here
July 4 Friday there was no drill but Dress perade there was a salute fired in honer of the day we had our post flag out it was nice to see the boys gether round it the day was dull
July 5 Saturday nothing worth riting going on her to day
July 6 Sunday we got orders to take three day provision in our haversacks and be ready to march at a minets warning we laid around all day wating orders but got none
July 7 monday nothing going on we are wating orders but got none we had Dress prade
July 8 Tuesday Drill and Dressperade as useal nothing of importance going on here
July 9 wensday the same old story here nothing worth riting
July 10 Thirsday all as useal here it is dull here in camp
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July 11 Friday Drill and Dressprade we had inspection of arms and camp and cooking utencials
July 12 Saturday Drill this morning we have had no mail for five days it is reported that our mail has ben robed and berid
July 13 Sunday inspection of arms we had preaching by our chaplin
July 14 monday the right wing of our reg. is on picket all quiet on our line.
July 15 Tuesday off picket returned to camp Dress perade
July 16 wensday drill and dressprade as useal that is all that is going on here at presant
July 17 Thirsday it has rained all night and is showery to day there was a man cild in co I by axident we got orders to be ready to march with four days provision at any minit
July 18 friday we are ready to march at a minit warning one of our men died it was lewis vannoltmurg we did not move to day but wait orders
July 19 Saturday nothing of importance going on dressprde this evening
July 20 sunday we got orders to march in the morning we have struct our tents and are ready to move
July 21 monday we ware on the road by nine in the morning we marched all day the weather is hot and bad marching we incamped for the night in a peach orchard
July 22 Tuesday we were a stir irley this morning we pased the town of burnsvill we crosed yelow crick this is a very hot dey we pased the town of luka about haf a mile and halted for the night
July 23 wensday we were left here to guard the railroad this is a prity town and a healthy place there is some of the nicest springs here out Co on picket
July 24th thuraday we are in camp most of the boys went a blackbering
July 25th Friday nothing doen but dressperade in the eving —
July 26th Saturday there was a detale to go to Eastfort to draw provisions —
July 27th Sunday, nothing going on in camp We are on picket
July 28th monday. nothing but dressperade times dull and loansom —
July 29th tuesday. all quiet times dull as useal —
July 30th Wednesday, it rained a heavy shower to day nothing going on as usual —
July 31st thursday. on picket all quiet
Aug 1st fryday. of picket shot of our guns return to camp
August 2 Saturday all quiet here in camp nothing going on worth riting
August 3th Sunday we moved our camp up town close to the railroad two guard it the weather is very warm
August 4 monday all is quiet here nothing going on worth riting
August 5th Tuesday there is not much going on here our company is on picket to night.
August 6th wensday off pickt Dressprade this evening
August 7th Thirsday there was a detail went to Eastport to load comasarys stores for the post
August 8th Friday nothing of importance going on here we had Dressprade as useal is all
August 9th Saturday we wore paid off to day we got two months pay the left wing of our reg went on a scant they went to the farm of Mr man
August 10 Sunday there was preaching to day by our Chaplin our bois got back they got 69 bales of coton and a lot of mules and wagones
August 11th monday nothing of importance to rite about we got orders to be ready to march in the morning
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August 12th Tuesday we were on the road at three aclock our bois took a general spree last night and did not sleep much we crosed bair crick we had to waid it we laid up through the heat of the day at busards rost we pased dirisons station about two miles halted for the night
August 13th wensday we were on the road irley we pased a station I did not lurn the name we trotted through the heat of the day we halted on a little crick for the night
August 14th Thirsday we ware on the road irley we reached Tuscumbia about nine o clock we went into camp here this is one of the hotest days that I ever say we are in alabama the water here is good and one of the bigest springs out
August 15th Friday nothing of importance going on here at present
August 16th Saturday, all quiet here nothing to ceep life in one it is lonesome here
August 17th Sunday inspection of arms nothing else done
August 18th monday we mustered to day for pay we got order to march at three oclock in the morning
August 19 Tuesday we ware on the road irley we polled for rest at the town of Laiton we halted for the night at town crick thore was a detail to git watermelons of the regth
August 20th wensday on the road irley we pased the town of courtland we rested here a while we halted for the night at the last place in the world I think thare was a detail for picket
August 21st Thursday we are again on the rod we have gone into camp on foxcrick near a big peach orchard our men made the peaches sufer
August 22d Friday we got orders to fall in for the guriles have run the train of the track and burnt it about three miles from hear company A and co. c. started in persuit of them under comand of the maigar schmitt we went to trinety on the railroad track we were then in haf a mile of them we took the mountain road to cut them of we went about a mile when we discovered them in the valley opisite us we advanced about haf way down the mountain we got orders to halt and fire the rebles run without returning it we fell back to the mountain road we marched by the right flank we did not go far before we met another squad of them we opned fire they run without returning it we had to fall fack for fear of beaing cut of we fell back to trinety we met reinforcements but the enimy had gone we were left at trinety to guard the railroad
August 23d Saturday we went out on a scant but found nothing there was a detail of six left to watch a house but found nothing
August 24th Sunday all is quiet here in camp it is reported that cild five and wounded several we did not git a man hurt
August 25th monday there was a detail went to our old camp for rations we have plenty of fresh pork for the bois cill four and five a day and plent of chickens
August 26th Tuesday all is quiet here now as one would wish the bois go forging when ever they please and we live in fine stile
August 27th wensday there was an a larm given last night it was false the sentinel got fritened and shot of his gun and run in this place is caled fort Tain
August 28th Thirsday thare was a detail of five men went into the mountains but found nothing
August 29th Friday all Is quiet here nothing going on here but eating and laying round camp.
August 30th Saturday nothing of importance going on here at present
August 31 Sunday all is quiet in camp nothing of importance to rite about
September the 1st monday 1862
there was a fine shower it refreshed everything very much one of our bois died In the hospital it was Sam brown
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September 2 Tuesday there was a detail went out forging they got a lotof turkeys all quiet here
September 3d wensday we we went up in to the mountains after a team it belonged to a widow womon it was all the team she had the lieutenant put it to vote whater we should take it or not we voted not to take it she came out and thanked us
September 4th Thirsday our bois got a team at the tanyard we left here at two o clock for decato we got thare at dusk stacked arms thare was a detail to take the wagons over the river they peried all night
September 5th Friday by eight we were all over and took up our line of march north we marched all day it was very hot marching we incamped by a big spring
September 6th Saturday we were on the road irley we pased the town of athens we halted for the night in the thick brush our other brigad joined us here general parmer (Palmer) has comand of the division
September 7th Sunday we were on the road irley we were rear guard the 16th reg got fired into going through a pass and four wounded none cild the rebels run as soon as the had fired on us we pased elkton we forded elk river we have pike road now we camped in a flat botom
September 8th monday we were on the road irley we pased the town of pulaski we incamped for the night in an old field it rained a heavy shower the boys all have sore feet
September 9th Tuesday we were on the road irley we pased the town of Linvill we incamped at Calumbia on duck river there was a skirmish with the rear guard but did not a mount to much
September 10th wensday on picket last night all was quiet on the road irley the rebles fired into the rear before they got started ciling one man one of our six pounders opned on the town and sheled it the rebs had to travel we pased the town of spring hill we incamped for the night in a grove of nice timber the rebles folowed us all day
September 11th Thirsday on the road irley we were stationed along the train to guard it we pased the town of franklin this is a nice place the girls come out and give the boys flags we incamped in two miles of Nashvill
September 12th Friday we are incamped here we have made one hundred and sixty miles in seven days and a haf and had brigade drill. bacase one of the bois shot his gun off axidently
September 13th Saturday we went out on a scout we went four miles It was very hot and a good meny of the boys give out it was reported that our forige train was atacked but it was a mistake
September 14th Sunday the boys got up cross nothing right we had inspection there was another gun fired we had to have brigade drill again they punish, the brigade for what one man does
September 15th monday we moved our camp to town on calige hill there wag two of the 19 regth shot by one of the sitisens they had to call out the 42 regth to ceep the bois from hanging him without guge or Jury they burnt his house we are on haf rations for a few days this is nice place for as large a place
September 16 Tuesday nothing going on in camp here at presant
September 17 wensday on picket all quiet we had a nice shower the guards are pressing all the negroes to work on the fort and fortifications round town
September 18th thirsday off picket and returned to camp three of our bois got tight up town and got in the work house we have had no mail for a long time our comunication is cut of and what we eat we have to forige for
September 19th Friday the right wing of our regth is throwing up intrenchments we are fortifying the town and building three forts there was eight wagons taken and burnt and thirty four mules by the guriles and several of our me[n] wounded
September 20th Saturday thare was a detail to forige for corn and hay thare was a train left here after wards the guriles fired into it and wounded two of our regth
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September 21st Sunday on picket all quiet on our line the day passed of very quiet.
September 22d monday off picket shot of our guns and returned to camp we had coffee the first for a long
September 23d Tuesday nothing going on here for to day nothing of importance having taken place here to day
September 24th wensday thare was a detail to go forging nothing of importance having taken place here to day
September 25th Thirsday all is quiet here nothing but the same old thing tune all the time
September 26th friday it is reported that they are fiting on the pike we got orders to hold our selvs in readiness to move
September 27th Saturday there was no fight yesterday as reported all is quiet here at presant
September 28th Sunday there was a flag of truse came in and demanded the surender of the sity negley told them if they wanted it to come and take it we got six roundzs of catriges
September 29th mondady on picket all quiet they have not taken us yet nor are they likely to
September 30th Tuesday off picket shot off bur guns and returned to camp the rebels time is out that they give us to surender and we are here yet and no sines of leaving
we were wakened at twelve at night we marched till after daylight we halted at goadleys vill drew up in line of batle laid till after nine and then started back the cavelrey had a skirmish with the rebles they cild several and took fifteen prisners in all we did not lost a man we got back at noon
October 2d Thirsday at two oclock we were caled into line to go forging we got lots of corn and hay the bois got to stealing chickens and sweet potatoes the conel found it out and is going to punish them he had the regth surched
October 3d Friday thare was a rebel captin cild yesterday we went out and beried him nothing of importance to rite
October 4th Saturday nothing of importance done here to day
October 5th Sunday inspection of arms and preaching nothing more for to day
October 6th monday nothing going on here in camp to day we got got orders to be ready to march at twelve at night
October 7th monday we went fifteen miles to the town of Iverme and routed a camp of rebles cild thirty and wounded eighty took three hundred prisners their camp and equipage fell into our hands and some provision which we stood greatly in need of we got their colors and one piece of artilery
we had two cild and several wounded
October 8th wensday all quiet in camp we have two days rest for our good conduck yesterday at leverne [Lavergne]
October 9th Thirsday we have to day for rest we have not got comunication yet from the north
October 10th Fryday on picket all quiet on our line it has rained all the after noon thare was a flag of truce come in
October 11th Saturday off picket it was cold last night and it rained all night we suferd some from cold we have got no over coats
October 12th Sunday inspection of arms and napsacks the weather is still cold most of the boys are buisy making shell rings
October 13th monday all is quiet in camp here to day nothing of Importance going on here at Presant
October 14th Tuesday nothing of Importance going on here nothing to rite about for to day
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October 15th wensday we had drill to day and dressprade we are on half rations and have ben ever sence we ben here it reported that buels army will be here tomorrow
October 16th Thirsday thare is some growling about grub here none of the boys satisfied Dressprade this eavning
October 17th Fryday Drill and dressprade nothing else
October 18th Saturday the oficers had us up in ranks at four oclock it is reported that thare is a body of rebles in three miles of us we ware on picket all quiet on our line
October 19th Sunday off picket shot off our guns and returned to camp it was a cold night last night our grub is giting short we have onily one meal of beaf a day we have nothing but bread to day and short alowence of that some of the boys are talking of stacking arms if they dont git more but they wont it is onily talk
October 20th monday there was a detail went forging for grub and forige nothing of importance done here to day.
October 21st Tuesday the rebels made a dash on the picket line captured company c of the 22 regth and their maigor the rebles had on our uniform and they thought they ware our men we got orders to git ready to march with one days grub but we had none to take we fell in at eight and marched down town and crosed the river and got into the wagons and started the 78th pencilvania had a fight yesterday with twelve hundred cavelery they drove them 7 miles cild several and wounded several taking 15 prisners besides their conel
October 22d wensday at day light found us at general Donilson plantation twenty miles from Nashvill we loaded our train of four hundred wagones and geatherd all the sheep and hogs and catle and started back we had a big drove we see no rebels
October 23d Thirsday nothing going on here there was a forse went out on this side of the river they got a big drove of stock and lots of forige the weather is cold we see the hardest time that we ever did see
October 24th Fryday nothing of importance going on here for the day
October 25th Saturday all is dull here at presant nothing to rite nor eny thing else
October 26th Sunday it snowed last night near too inches deep last night it is cold all quiet
October 27th monday nothing of importance going on here to day
October 28th tuesday on picket all is quiet on our line to day nothing to ceep up excitement
October 29th wensday of picket shot off our guns returned to camp we had skirmish drill this after noon we driled to the sound of the bugle
October 30th Thirsday we went forging we got lots of forige retured before night
October 31st Friday we mustered for pay to day and had revew we have to live on hard bread
we had drill here today we have a good time if we are cut off from our friends and on haf rations
November 2d Sunday there was inspection of arms and napsacs to day we have preaching here every Sunday
November 3d monday nothing of importance going on here we have corn coffee now by giting the corn and parching it we had Drill in the manuel of arms for one our we hear all cinds of report here
November 4th Tuesday we had Drill as useal here nothing new to rite for to day all is quiet in camp
November 5th wensday we were awakened last night by two or three volleys of musketrey on the picket line we were orderd to fill our canteens with
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water we laid round till daylight our picket line was drove back haf a mile a rebel batery opned but fell short and did no harm the 42 and 22 and our batery was orderd out they drove the rebels back we were orderd out and formed in line of batle we did not git to fire we went on picket at twelve thare was heavy canonading on the fronkling pike they drove the rebles of general morgon took over a hundred prisners and two peaces, of artilery I think the rebles have got a nuf of taking nashvill our loss is lightNovember 6th Thirsday off picket all quiet on our line we suferd from the cold it rained all night we beried two rebles that were cild on our post by the fifty first when the atack was made the advance of rosecrants army came in last night the convalesents of our regth came in
November 7th fryday we were orderd out with two days provision in our haversacks we went to michelvill we pased one division of our army we pased goodleysvill reashed michelsvill about nine at night we are after grub
November 8th Saturday we did not sleep much we bult a big fire and laid by it we have ben loading our teams all day we will be ready to start back at three in the morning troops have ben pasing here all day for Nashvill
November 9th Sunday at three we wore on the road we made in tenn miles of nashvill we pased six hundred and seventy wagons going after grub we will have plenty now
November 10th monday we maid nashvill by day light thare was a heavy frost we have had a hard march of it
November 11th Tuesday thare is general revew here to day our reg'th did not go out we were on brigade guard the troops were revewed by general resencrant in person
November 12th wensday it rained last night, we got our mail to day we had a good time reading our leters
November 13th thirsday nothing of importance we had Dreasprade we cut quite a swell we have got while gloves and dresscoats
November 14th friday dresspracte as useal nothing; else of importance to rite about for to day
November 15th Saturday we are on picket all quiet on our line
November 16th Sunday off picket returned to camp nothing of importance going on in camp
November 17th monday nothing of Importance going on here
November 18th tuesday it rained all night nothing of importance going on in camp
November 19th wensday on picket all quiet on our line it rained to day
November 20th thirsday oft picket returned to camp nothing futher for the day
November 21st friday nothing of importance capt allen gat back he has ben home he left us at luka
November 22th Saturday the weather is chiley her nothing going on in camp thare was a heavy frost
November 23d Sunday on picket all quiet on our line it is cold and chiley
November 24th monday off picket returned to camp all quiet in camp
November 25th tuesday nothing going on in camp it is lonesome her thare was a big fire in town
November 26th nothing of importance we have to go on picket tomorrow it is cold here
November 27th thirsday we wore awakened at one with orders to git ready to march at thre with two days provision in our haversacks and one in the wagons we wore on the road a little after three we took the sharlott pike and went 21 miles the guriles fired on us we camped for the night on harpers river we wore tired and had very sore feet
November 28th friday the guriles fired on our picket in the night and they all run but one of our boys James rose he stood his ground the guriles [guerrila] run we started back at neight we maid nashvill by, dark the men were nearley give out we goat a rebel captin and two or three privats
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November 29th Saturday we rested to day from all duty
November 30th Sunday on picket all is quiet on our line nothing worth riting it rained some to day.
of picket returned to camp nothing going on in camp all is dull nothing to ceep xcitement up
December 2nd tuesday we moved our camp about three hundred yards this is not as good a camp as the other
December 3d wensday on picket all quiet on our lines we have plenty of duty to do here at presant
December 4th thirsday off picket returned to camp we are sining the pay roll for two months pay and there is five due us
December 5th friday we got paid off to day we setled for our close it snowed to day it is cold.
December 6th Saturday nothing going on it is lomesome here some of the bois got on a bust and had a fight we let them fight it out
December 7th Sunday of picket all quiet on our line nothing of importance going on here
December 8th monday off picket returned to camp nothing else for the day it is dull here
December 9 tuesday we got orders to march with three days provision in our haversacks we fell in and started and then got orders to come back to camp we stacked our arms and are wating orders
December 10th wensday we got order to strike our tents and be ready to march at term we moved, to the front six miles to camp sherden. we piched our tents on a hill side it is a nice camp in the timber
December 11 thirsday on picket all quiet on our line it is reported that there is a large body of the enimy in front but we have not seen any thing of them
December 12 friday off picket returned to camp nothing going on in camp
December 13 Saturday we have dressprade In the morning now we drawed overcoats to day
December 14 Sunday nothing going on here in camp It is dull her and lonesome
December 15th monday we had Dress prade it rained In the afternoon so that we could not drill
December 16th tuesday we were awakened at three with orders to have three days provisions in our haversacks and be ready to march at six but we did not go we had Drill in the four noon nothing of importance going on in camp
December 17th wensday peleocing our camp nothing firther we went forging in the after noon got back at dusk
December 19th thirsday we had Dressprade no drill we had to fix our tents a litle on picket to morow
December 19 fryday on picket we are on the reserve all quiet on our line for the day
December 20th Saturday off picket returned to to camp all still in camp
December 21st Sunday had Dressprad and inspection of arms all quiet in camp
December 22d monday we had Dressprade as useal we had inspection of napsacs the conolonel shoed the boys how they ought to pack them we had Brigade drill this after noon
December 23d tuesday we went forging all quiet got back to camp litle after noon
December 24 wensday we got orders to march at six but did not start till after noon we went about half a mile halted staid awhile then marched back to camp we had struck our tents we are wating orders but got none
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Canp
This Morning at 4 oClock roal Call Sounded and orders was giving to air prep 3 days rations and to put 2 in the wagon Making 5 in all and prepair to March by daylight and at 6 OCloCk Genral Mc Cooks Corps was on the difrent roads MarChing towards Nolensvill and a bout 10 OCcloCk it ComenCed raining thoe it did not Stop the advance of the trups and a bout 12 oClock We Came a pon the enymes Calvery piCkets tha wer posted a pon a hill a Cross a Creek and tha had blouen up the Stone bridge to prevent out advance thoe the 27th was throuen out as SCermishers to drive them to the town and at it the Men went all eager for a fight the Creek did not Stop them tha plunged it to it Some of them holding ther Catrage boxes a pon ther heads to Keep ther powder dry and when the rebles saw them So determn tha left on double QuiCk time thoe Mean time the right wing Comanded by Gen Johnston had Come up and opend fire on the inCampement when a Sharpe SCermish took plaCe wiCh lasted a bout 1 hour when the rebles left leaving ther wounded and 2 pieCes of Canion in our hands our Men drove them a bout 2 Mils when darke Came and our forCes had to Camp for the Night and and our regment Sufedl MuCh for a bout Midnight it turned very Cold and orders wer givin Not to law eny fire a long the picket line
Satuarday DeC 27th this Morning orders Come for our regment to join our bregade on the pike a gain the Men move of in fine Spirits in Spite of the rain that Continues to fall thoe the bregade does not. MarCh far till the Comand was givin to halt and Canoelon is herd in our front thoe it is our batries Shelling the woods thoe we wer not detained long till we Moved a head thoe it Continued to rain till 4 o CloCk when we took poseaion of a nother of ther posesion Cold Churchill grove whear we Campt for the night
This morning roal Call was at 3 O. clock and orders was givin to bee redy to MarCh by daylight thoe when daylight Came the orders wer countermanded on a Count of it beeing th Sabeth day the Sun Came out and evry thing looked butifle and evry thing was Quiet during the day no one would thot at the first Sight that there was a batle to bee fot
This Morning we wer roused from our Slumbers at 3 o Clock and at daylight the army was under the Move again Moving baCk tward nolensville Some ixCitement a moung the trups as to ther destination thoe tha we not Kepp long in Suspenc for our Corse was Changed by MarChing a Cross to the Chatinga pike thoe not meating eny obstiCle in the road and at dark we StruCk the turn pike and Met the 4 U. S. Calvery and tha reported the enyme in forte a bout 2 1/2 miles thoe our brigade moved on to the front a bout 1 Mile when we filed off to the left into a Corn field thoe MarChed into the woods whear we lay on our arms till morning thoe It rained nearly all Night
This Morning daylight Came it Seased raning and found us out of eny thing to eat and the reble Cavlry had SuCKseaded in geting into our rear and had burnt our Suplies that had left nashville thoe we tuCk up our line of MarCh in Spite of our hunger thoe did not advanCe for till we found Meny regments a long the road asking what regment and when told that it was the 27th ill tha Could not help giving Chears for the enyme
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was plain to bee Sean and we did not advanCe fare till we Come a pon ther SKermishers when the 22d 42 ill we throen out as Sharp Shooters to drive the SKermishers thoe tha Soon found a brigade of them behind a fenCe when the engagement beGame genral and when dark Come we had SuCKseded in driving them from ther plaCe of Concealment thoe drove them to the timber and when the trups wer in camp it was ascertained that our bregade had lost during the day 9 woonded 4 Kild thoe the 27th Ind 51st was not ingaged to dayThis Morning roal Call at 3 o Clock as uasal and when daylight Come it brought forth a Sea'n that will bee long remberd by every ameriCan for during the night the enyme had throng ther hole forCe onto our right and ataCted Gen Johnston or rather took him by Surprise while meny of his trups wer at brekfast and tha fled leaving ther arms in the rebels hands and then tha ataCted Genral Jell (Jeff) C. Davis when tha found a man and soldiers redy to fight them
Thoe after Near 3 hours hard fighting he was forst to fall baCk on a Count of Johnston leting them in his rear and that thread them on to Genral Sheriden when the batle beCame to a very high pitCh and tha Come up a pon us thoe we did not open a pon them till tha Come up within good range when we opened a pon them with SuCh heavy fire when the rebels wer torst to give way thoe Mean time tha had SuCKseeded in planting 3 batries of artilry and ComenCed Shelling us thoe the Men Stude up to it in the best of order and the rebles advanced a, gain thinking tha would Make us give way a gain thoe our fire was to muCh for them More than tha Could Stand and tha gave way in this way 3 defrent times when orders Come that tha wer gibing in our rear and we wer forsed to give baCk thoe MarChed out in perfeCt order to the pike when we Met Meny trups going to the right and our bregate was orderd to Suport the Center and we advanCed and Saw the rebels advancing to the Center when we was orderd baCk to the pike when Genral McCook Came up and wanted to kow hoe gave orders to fail baCk when he orderd us to advanCe a gain when ther Magar gave the orders to a bout faCe forward MarCh and the left wing fixed baynots and MarChed into the timber a Mid the Shower of bulets that wer Coming from the Enyme that had SuCkseeded in gaining the timber thoe on tha went and when we got within 75 yards of them tha broke and run and as tha had to Cross a open field we porde a distruCtive fire Causing meny of them to Surender to us thoe we hel the ground and that night a bout 9 o CloCk we reCived rations and the Genral gave orders to give our bregade all tha Could eat for tha Saved the army on that day thoe after the Men had eating all tha wanted tha lay down to pass the night the best tha Could thoe it was very Cold —
1863.
Thirsday January 1st Campt On the batle field This Morning firing ComenCed all along our line thoe it was the pickets firing eaCh other thoe no a taCt was Made on us till a bout 2 o CloCk when a bout 3 bregades filde out of to the timber and then one Came up within 2 hundred yards and opend fire on us wheare we wer posted behinde a Small brestwork that we EreCted during the day thoe when we opend a deade fire on them tha fled behinde a fenCe and into a large Sinke hole that was Close to them whear tha remained till the Cornal Orderd out 2 Compnys to bring them in that Surendered without firing a gun at the Same time giving three Chears for the Union
Still in line of batle this Morning thoe nothing of importance Came with daylight thoe Shortly afterwards our Canons opend fire Shelling the woods for a bout one hour thoe the Enyme Canot bee Seen in muCh forCe till a bout 4 o CloCk in the Eavning when tha Came out of the timber Making a Charge on the left Causing our Men to fall baCk and Meny of them run into Stones river that tha had Crosed during that afternoon thoe Genral rusan [Rosencrans] received them with rather a warm reception for he porde a distriCtive fire of grape and Canistor a moung ther ranks piling Sevral hun
257
dred of them a pon the field the balanCe fled in Confusion Our Men making a baynot Charge a pon them taking Sevral hundred purisners and the Shades of night Closed over a Sean that will long bee remberd by evry loyal person.Still in line of batle thoe thare was nothing took place till evning only buring the dead that was Close to our lines the rebles reCived the Same burel as our one thoe it would make the hardest heart Shuder to See so meny laid under the Cold ground without Sroud or Coffin and no Marke left to tell his friends hoe Might SerCh for him thoe a bout 4 o Clock in the evning during a hevy Storm of rain and wind tha Made a Nother and last despreate Strugle thoe tha Met the Mesengers of deth and was forst to fall baCk with a dexperate loss
Still in line of batle behinde our brest works thoe thare is no enyme to bee Sean in our front and the SKermishers ComenCe advancing when The report Came that the rebles had a vaCkuated and heavy Camodon is herde beyond Murfreesboro and it is Soon asertained that tha have Skidadled and our Cavlry is in pursuit of them and orders wer givin for a detail of Men to goe over the hole batle fields and bery the dead and by 12 o CloCk it was asertained that our loss would a, mount to Near 7 thousand and that of the enyme 20 thousand our bregade lost in kild and woonded near 5 hundred and the divishon lost 17 hundred and our regment lost in kild 13 and woonded 68 and a bout 1 hundred taking prisners thoe thare is a gloome haning over our regment on a Count of the deth of our Cornal that was Mortly woonded on the 30 of DeCember and Genral roberts Comanding our bregade fell pierst with 7 bulets at the Same time thoe the dead was all beried and the town taking posesion of thoe evry house was taking for hospitles and the Sitisans all fled with the flying eynme
This Morning roal Call was Sounded at 3 o CloCk on a Count of guarding a gainst eny Surprise for it is reported that the reble Cavly is lurking in our rear thoe it is raining and the Men are drenChed with the rain thoe tha are all in good heart to think that our army is Crowned with a Nother victory thoe Nothing tooke plaCe worthy of note ad on a Count of the mud we are keep in our old posesion
This Morning the Sun rose Clear and orders wer given to prepair to Move by 10 thoe dide not Start till 3 in the afternoon when we took our posesion on the bank of Stones river wheare we ixpeCt to remain the Suplies Can bee beat up for the army to Move
it is asertained that nearly all of our batry horses has bin kild and the Men are all in want of Clothing and Genral RosenCrant Started Capital for what purpos we Canot asertain
M. Thirsday. January 8th 1863
This Morning thare was details made to polease the Compny grounds nothing Else tooke plaCe during the day of importance thoe it ComenCed raining about 5 o Clock
Nothing of importance to day has transpired till in the evning when the mail reaChed Camp Causing Some litle excitement a moung the men for tha had not herd from home nor friends for more than 10 days
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To day the Compny ofiCers held an a lection in favor of a Cornal in plaCe of Cornal Herington he fell mortly woonded at Morfreesboro that proposed to have Cap rust for Cornal thoe it Makes Some litle disatifaCtion a moung the Men tha would rather have the Major for the Cornal
To day the left wing was ordered to go as a guard to ColeGt Corn and SuCh other forige as Could bee found for the army teams and trups thoe a bout 3 o CloCk that returned without inCountering eny of the enyme tha had SuCkseeded in loding the train
To day the regment had Company drill drilling the manuel of arms and in the after noon tha had to polease the Compny grounds
Camp Stones river January 13th 1863
This Morning the regiment had rool call at 4 o clock and the call to the Gullers for arms to be stacked and that to ware our acoutermentz till after dressparade which was at 8 oclock and ordrs wer published ConSerning the army of the Cumberland
This morning the Same instructions was givin as that of yesterday a to StaKing arms and waring Cooterments and a bout 10 oCloCk Liutenant A. J. Sides returned to the Company from Nashville whear he had bin for the last 2 Months on detaChed Servis
Camp Stones River January 15th 1863
To day our bregade reCived orders to go on picket Guard the 42 Ill was on the reserve while the 27 x 51 x 22 is on out poste and a bout 5 in the Eavning it ComenCed raining and Continued raining all night the Men Sufered MuCh on a count of the Cold and the relief did not Come till a bout 12 oCloCk tha the usel hour is 7 in the Morning
Camp Stones River January 16th 1863
this Morning the regment Came off piCket guard the men is in a very bad umor on a Count of being drenChed with the rain that fell during the night the wind blod very hard and Cold with oCashnel Snow Squals and by 4 oCloCk in the eavning the ground began to freez this is the first winter that we have Seen in the Sunny South
Camp Stones River January 17th 1863
this Morning the Men is very buesy a falling timber for wood to burn in the tents for the wether Continues very Stormy and Cold thoe thare is no duty for the Men to doe
Camp Stones River January 18th 1863
the wether Still Continues very Cold thoe Clear and orders are given to have inspection of KnapSaCk and amunetion and a bout 2 oCloCk in the after noon the boys Came up from nashvill wher tha have bin for Some time Wm. Huston Thomas Comer also Came up hoe was Slightly wonded at the batle of Stones river
this Morning the wether is Some warmer than it was yesterday thoe it is Cloudy and thretens rain the Officers are a drawing Clotts for the Men and the ordly Sergents have reCived orders to have the Compny grounds poleased and Sinks dug
to day the elements thretens rain thoe thare is orders for bregade inspection of arms and aminetion thoe the order was Countermanded on a Count of the rain that ComenCed raining
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Camp Stones River January 21st 1863
To day the wether Continues Clody with freKent Chowers of rain and in the after noon the wether took a sudent Change turning very Cold and the Men begins to renew the ataCt on the Meny fine ash trees that Suround our Camp for the purpos of geting wood
Camp Stones River January 22d 1863
To day the wether is Clear and the wind is blowing from the South and the mud is drying up fast and the Men Move a bout with More Spirit for thare is a rumar through Camp that the army is Ingagin the enyme on the petomiCK and at retreet the order was givin to prepare for piOKet Guard by 7 oClocK in the morning Friday
This morning roal Call at 4 oCloCK and at 7 oCloCK the bregade took up a line of MarCh on the Shellyville pike a bout 3 mils from Camp when we Came to the piCKet line and the right Wing of the 27th Stud on the out post while the left wing Stud as reserve the elements thretens rain the does not rain till morning
Satuarday Camp Stones River January 24
This morning daylight Maid its aperanCe with the Elements poring forth its refreshing Showery thoe it is not very welcomed by the trups tha would have Clear wether for of late tha have bin drenChed often the Cavlry brot in Sevral prisners tha State that brag has Made a Stand at Shelbyville and alous to fight thare and a bout 10 OCloCK the relief Came and relived us
This Morning the Cornal Miles went and SeleCted a beter Camping ground for the regment and thare was a detale maid out of the Compnys to poleas it of and Shop wood nothing elCe of importance took plaCe
This morning the orders wer givin to move our Camp to a More dryer plaCe a bout 1/4 of a mile the Men wer forst to Cary evry thing tha had including tents on a Count of the teams being gon to nashville for Suplies for the divishon nothing elCe took plaCe of importance
this Morning a hevy Snow Storm bloed tremendeous and it is very Cold and the Cornal had reCived orders to take his reg to the erth worKs to work thoe tha wer Countermanded on a Count of the Storm and the Men have all tha Can do to Keep warm
to day the wether is warmer than it was yesterday thoe thare is nothing of importance a going on the Men are a Clearing up the Camping grounds
Today the regment was orderd to Choping and Clearing off the Calor line and half past 4 'oCloCK had dressperaid and orderds published
This Morning had roal Call at 4 oCloCK and reCived orders to prepair to MarCh at 7 oCloCK to guard a foragin train wiCh went out on the Shelbyville pike thoe we did not go More than 5 Miles from the piCKet line when the rebles opened fire on us with artilry the Shell passing over our regment one of then hiting Lt Sides on the arme thoe our artilry Soon Silented them
This Morning rol Call at 5 oCloCK and orers wer givin to prepair for piCKet guard by 7 oCloCK the regment Stood in the Same place as before nothing took plaCe of importance
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Came of piCKet this Morning and was a lowd the balenCe of the day to rest thoe it was rumerd through Camp that 3 hundred tenneseens Came in from the rebles gave them Selvs up and took the oath of eleganCe to the United States of a MeriCa
This Morning the order was givin to prepair one days rations and worke on the earth works the Men worKed all day very well and returned to Camp at dark
3rd
Report says General Bragg intends to establish his Head Quarters at Murpreesboro at an early day
The Regiment is relieved at 7 o'clock by 77th Penn. Regt which Regt. Suffered Severely in the late engagement. One Company has 12 men another only 8. A 3 o'clock P. M. the Regt. is formed and hurried part of the way on double quick two miles outside the picket line to protect a forage train. We find the train secure, most of the teams loaded and on their way back. Return to camp through snow Storm.
There is no rest of the wicked. Rigment is on grand guard again today. Right wing on reserve.
Received our mail at noon. Nothing important in late papers. It has been a cold cloudy day much colder than we have been accustomed to during the winter. Little Snow falls at intervals during the day
Are relieved at an early hour and return to camp, roads very Slippery in consequence of the late Snow, rain and cold. Heavy mail today. Newspapers contain some very interesting Articles from the pen of loyal Rentrickrans. The are unconditional Union men. No news from General Grants army, none from the Army of the Potomac.
The Regiment is allowed one day's rest and all seem thankful for the favor. Large train goes out foraging this morning, is not long out when we hear cannonading which proves the Rebels are following up their old tricks, entertaining the train guard with a lively game, not of Bat & Ball but Shell and Ball. Train comes in afternoon laden with forage. Nothing Special today.
Another pleasant day is spent in camp. Nothing noteworthy has occurred today, no news from picksburg, though we are daily expecting something important. Much excitement North at the present time. There now exists just grounds for apprehensions of trouble there at no distant day. Northern Traitors are thrice more to be abhorred than those of the South now bearing Arms gainst us.
The day passes off very quietly. But little news today. Rumors of serious nature continue to arrive from the North. 27th Regt. has orders this evening to be ready to march at 6 3/4 oclock tomorrow morning provided with two days rations. We are going to Nashville to guard Supply train. Cars will soon be running through as far as Stone River suburbs of Murfreesboro
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The Bugle sounds at 7 oclock for the Regt. assemble on Color line and soon after we are on the road to Nashville. 27th Regt. is in the rear. The train is made up the 1st & 3rd Division teams Leridan & Davis 200 wagons in the train Most of the train arrives in Nashville during the evening a few are belated and are obliged Stop for the night 8 miles out side the picket line. The roads are very muddy and the rain incessant during the afternoon and evening. 27th Regt. on arriving in the City is sent to the Court hous where the men find comfortable quarters for the night
The train is loaded during the day and all in readiness to move at an early hour tomorrow morning for our camp on Stone River. The men spend the day loafering about the city making a few purchases &c. can not purchase much for want of Greenbacks, been too long since pay day. A fleet of Transports arrived here a few days since bringing reinforcements for Rosecrans Army, Reinforcements will move toward Franklin soon.
Are on the road to Murfreesboro at an early hour 27th takes the lead and arrives at Laveryne soon after noon. The train closes up and all encamp for the night. We have had a hard little march. Rain during the forenoon. Roads very bad
Set out in advance at 7 oclock and arrive at Murfreesboro at 12 at 11/2 oclock P. M. reach camp. The march has been a severe one on the men in consequence of the inclemency of the weather. This has been a fine day. The rest of the Brigade left camp this morning with five days rations, and we expect to follow tomorrow. The Brigade will be stationed near Salem on the pike of same name, three miles beyond the present picket line. Do not see the necessity of Stationing Brig. at that place.
The Regiment lies quietly in camp during the forenoon resting after the toilsome march to Nashville After noon have orders to join the rest of the Brigade and accordingly Set out from camp at 1 1/2 oclock through the rain and after an hours march reach the ground where the Regt. has to bivonac. Shelters are soon constructed by Spreading of Rubber Blankets, beds are made of corn Stalks, weeds and grap and night finds the men as comfortably fixed as could be expected. Cold and chilly this evening.
22nd Regt. being on picket today the 27th has no duty to perform. Refugees come inside our lines today fleeing from the Rebel conscript law. These men Say the Rebel authorities are Sending armed Squads of men through the country forcing all able-bodied men into the Confederate ranks.
Weather cold — disagreeable Large mail today. Nothing important in late papers.
Right wing of the Regement is on grand guard today. Set out for the picket line at 8 A. M. Company C has nine posts, — part of one relief comes from company E.
Cloudy and warm during the forenoon. Rains at intervals during the afternoon, and incessantly during the evening. Good mail this evening for the Regiment.
Are relieved at 8 oclock A. M. and return to our Bivonac where quiet reigns during the day. Have a heavy rain this evening.
According to Statements of papers, the Canal at Vicksburg is likely to prove a complete success. If it should, the Rebels will soon
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have to evacuate an other Strong-hold, which they can not well afford to lose at the present time owing to the vast amount of Supplies received by them from Texas by way of that placeNothing noteworthy had occurred today. It has been a cloudy day, little rain during the early part of the morning. Are disappointed relative to returning to camp today, will have to remain here a few days longer.
Papers very barren today nothing from the Army of the Potomac, Mississippi or the Frontier. Nothing Strange occurs in camp today, It has been a cloudy and a very, very windy day, consequently very disagreeable, fires must be kept up or we freeze, and the Smoke almost blinds us.
All quiet in camp today. No important news from any Source. Has been a fine day — clear and pleasant. The voices of Birds in the grove remind us that Spring approaches. Mail today as usual. Some of the men busy themselves letterwriting while others are reading.
Clear and cold during the forenoon, Cold incessant rain during the afternoon and evening.
Receive word from prisoners taken at the Battle of Stone River
Dec. 31st. They are now paroled and in camp at Annapolis Ind. They Saw hard times while in Rebeldom, and express a Strong desire to be exchanged that they may return to their Regiment where they may an opportunity of avenging their wrongs.
Washington's Birthday. A Salute is fired by one Battery of each Division Army of the Cumberland, in honor of that Great, truly man. An order, relative to this gallant Soldier, and true Patriot and his glorious deeds during the Revolutionary war is read on dress-parade this evening and is not without effect. Rosecrans Stands nearly as high in the estimation of Army of the Cumberland as Washington did in the estimation of his army.
Two days rations are are brought out this afternoon for the Brigade So we are disappointed again about getting to return to camp. Lt. Colonel J. R. Miles receives his commission as Colonel this evening and is Serenaded by the Officers of 42nd Regiment. Major Officers have a lively time. All quiet about our lines today.
The Right Wing of the 27th is on picket again today. It has been a beautiful day all quiet in and about camp Nothing Strange or interesting occuring. The Brigade will be relieved tomorrow by the 2nd Brigade of 3rd Division.
The 2nd Brigade Started out to relieve us early this morning, but it is 10 1/2 oclock A. M. We then prepare to return to camp and are thither after an hour's march through rain and mud. The Regiment has orders to report for grand guard tomorrow morning.
Heavy rain this morning before daylight. Regiment leaves camp for picket line at 7 oclock, rains during most of the day Right Wing is on reserve and takes Shelter in a large Stable. No mail to day in consequence of Bridges being Swept away by the late rain. No disturbance along the line during the day or evening.
36th Illinois Regiment relieves the 27th in good time this morning and we arrive in camp about 10 oclock A. M.
Brid. Gen. N. B. Buford presents a beautiful flag to the 27th and it appears on Dressparade this evening for the first time
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In beautiful letters may be read."Belmont", "Island No. 10", and "Union City".
Inspection and muster at 2 oclock P. M. Have Six months pay due at present with a good prospect of being paid for two or four months Soon. Most of the men are much in need of money at the present especially those who have families at home.
But the wants or Suffering of Soldiers wives in the North is nothing when compared with that of Soldiers families in the South. Those at the North are in a land of peace and plenty while those of the South live as it were upon a vast Battlefield where Destitution now reigns to a certain extent, and increases as the War progresses.
At an early hour this morning for the Regiment to form on the Color line which it does and is Soon off foraging. Return to camp Soon after dark tired and hungry having traveled about Sixteen miles through mud and rain, rain ceases at 9 A. M. rest of the day fair. Visit a very hilly Sterile region, forage Scars. Met no enimy today.
Regiment has no duty to perform today. News unimportant. All seems to be at a Stand-Still in every department. Commissioned Officers meet today and elect noncommissioned officers whose names are to be placed on the Roll of honor. Three Private names chosen by the company are also placed on the Roll.
News from the North more encouraging. A change for the better has taken place in the minds of the disaffected and Sympathy for Rebels is growing less Sheridans Division us under marching orders We leave camp tomorrow morning with four days rations. Davis Division has marching orders also.
Are off at an early hour toward Salem at which place we halt a couple of hours, during which we have a hard, though Short, Storm of wind and Snow Set out again and al dark go into camp two miles Bast of Eaglesville and fifteen from Murfreesboro. The country through which we pass is in places hilly or rather mountainous and Sterile, in other places it is more level and fertile, pass some cedar flats. Davis Division is not with Sheridans One Brigade of Cavalry accompanies our Division Cavalry breaks up a Small Rebel Camp today. Infantry meets no enemy except bad roads
Division moves into town in the morning and being posted on the hills which almost Surround the little town. Arms are Stacked and fires kindled. Rails disappear rapidly owing to the days being cloudy and cold. A Battle progresses from 10 1/2 A. M. till P. M. about eight or ten miles North West of us. We hear the cannonading distinctly. Division does not move from town today.
Have orders to move this morning and are off toward Trinne, commences to rain Soon after we are on the road, travel five miles, — are met by a courier from General Rosecrans with orders to halt and await farther orders. Are formed along woody ridges. Stack arms, light fires, Stretch Rubber blankits for Shelters, and are soon prepared for Spending the night. The rain is incessant during the afternoon and evening.
Orders come at noon to move immediately toward Franklin on Harpeth. Soon on the road continue North ward till we reach Trinne and then turn Westward Travel five miles, over roads almost impassable after leaving Trinne, and halt for the night. Companies A & B are on picket this evening. A part of General Steadmans command is Stationed at Trinne.
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The Bugle Sounds quite early this morning and at daylight we are ready to move, but being in the rear today we are detained Several hours, finally we get Started and after a hard little march over muddy roads, or field I might say as we often abandoned the roads we reach our Stopping place two miles East of Franklin.
Cannonading between Eaglesville and Trinne toward 12 oclock.
Marching into town this morning and after an hours rest move toward Columbia on Duck River. Maj Gen Granger accompanies our Division with a part his command, and takes command of the expedition. Our cavalry encounters the enemy before reaching Spring Hill and Skirmishing is commenced which is kept up till near night — the enemy falling back continually. We lose Several men no killed and wounded Numbers of the 4 Regt. U. S. Cavalry. A. B. Orr, formerly of of our company is among the killed. Go into camp at 8 oclock one mile SouthWest of Spring Hill. Other forces Several miles in advance. Rain late this evening.
Owing to the incessant rain which fall during the morning the troops do not move till after eight oclock About this hour it ceases raining and we are soon on the road toward Clumbia. Before noon our Brigade, beign in front arrives near Rutherford Creek and is halted as the creek is Swollen by the recent rain and the Bridge gone we cannot cross. Our forces are placed in position on the hights North of the Stream while the enemy is seen on the hights South. It is reported that the Rebel Cavalry Suffered Some loss in Swimming the Stream. Rains incessantly during the afternoon and evening. Very unpleasant weather for marching and bivouacing.
Our Infantry advances no further today. Cavalry forces a passage at a fort two miles above the regular crossing and proceeds as far as Duck River, beyond which the enemy has retired. Rutherfords creek is still Swollen, so it would be difficult for the Infantry to cross.
It has been a clear pleasant day. Encamp this evening on the same ground as last night.
Have orders to be ready to march at Six oclock this morning and at the appointed time we move from our temporary camp thinking that we are going on the pike we turn our faces toward Franklin at which place we arrive at 4 o'clock P. M. and encamp on the South bank of Harpeth River a Short distance West of town.
Get papers this P. M. but they contain nothing of much inerest.
The Division takes up its line of march toward Trinne this morning and after a Somewhat toilsome days march encamps a few miles South of the town on the Eaglesville road near where Steadman's forces had a Skirmish on the 8th inst.
Nothing of importance has occurred today.
At an early hour this morning we are on the road bound for our old camp on Stone's River. 3rd Brigade in advance and the 27th leads the way. March a few miles, halt, Stack arms and wait for the Cavalry to come up and pass when we resume our journey and soon reach Eaglesville where we find Jeff Davis Division encamped. It left Stone's River a few days after Sheridan's and returns in our rear. After a hard march we arrive at our old camp and are no little rejoiced to get back, it sounds a little like returning home after an absence of of many days.
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The Regment lies quietly in camp today and enjoys the rest very much as many of the men are so Sore footed that they can Scarcely walk about camp.
It is reported that Vicksburg is being evacuated and that the forces from that place are reinforcing Bragg. But the report is doubtless untrue. The Rebels will not abandon that Stronghold till forced to do so.
It has been a very pleasant day nothing of interest occurring. — Still reported that Vicksburg is evacuated, though we have nothing reliable relative to it. The Brigade has orders to report for picket duty tomorrow morning.
Report for grand guard at 7 1/2 oclock this morning and are soon out on the line and Stationed near our old post. All quiet along the line during the day and evening. Receive mail this afternoon. No news of interest in news papers.
The Brigade is relieved at 9 o'clock A. M. an on arriving at camp learn that the Paymaster is ready to pay the 27th Regt. — Receive pay for four month, — from first of September to 31st December. Soldiers are preparing to send most of their money home Nothing worthy of note has transpired today all quiet.
The 27th Regiment moves to a new camp not far from the old one and closer to the River. Part of the day is Spent policing the new camp. Part of the Brigade moved yesterday. Weather pleasant.
Have Battalion Drill at 2 o'clock this afternoon. — Dressparade at 5 P. M. Nothing of Special interest today. Weather cloudy and warm. Sprinkles rain during the evening.
Firing commences on the Salem pike at daylight and a lively Skirmish is kept up for near two hours, when the Rebel cavalry is driven back by our Artillery and the firing ceases, all is quiet again. Our loss in the Skirmish amounted to three killed and four or five wounded.
General Sredidan reviews his Division today preparatory to a grand review by General Rosecrans tomorrow. But little news today.
The grand Review which was to have come off today was postponed in consequence of our Brigade being on grand guard. Weather very pleasant. Nothing occurring to vary the rounds or break the monotony of camp life.
The Regiment is releived from guard at 8 oclock A. M. and prepares for grand Review at 10 1/2
General Sheriden, McCook and Rosecrans are present. The Review is conducted in fine style and the troops make a good appearance. Most of the Regiments do excellent marching.
General Roscrans compliments the Division.
It has been a gloomy day, rained during the day and evening. Nothing noteworthy has occurred in or about camp today. Very light mail for the Regement today. But we need not expect much at one time when the mail comes daily.
Papers give the particulars relative to the fight near Milton on the 21st inst. where Colonel Hall with one Brigade whipped General Morgan Guerrila who had a force of 4500 men.
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Rebel loss, killed 28, wounded 150. Federal loss not so heavy.It rains today till 10 oclock A. M. when the clouds pass away and we have a pleasant day.
At noon we receive orders to be ready to march at 2 oclock P. M. with all the rations we have on hand. Leave Camp at 2 1/2 and are Soon at our destination which proves to be Salem. Night finds us prepared for a fine days bivouac. Two Brigades of the Division are out.
The 22nd Regt. is on picket today and as but one Regement is on each day the the 27th has no duty to perform and consequently lies quietly in camp. All quiet alonge the picket line today. Receive our mail at 3 oclock P. M.
22nd. Regiment relieved the 42nd this morning. 27th not on duty. It has been a cloudy cold, disagreeable day. Nothing of much importance or interest in the paper today, except extracts from Regel papers which draw a dark picture of the present State of affairs in the would-be Confederacy. There appears to be great destitution in many parts of the South. Southern Chivalry is now beginning to taste the fruits of Rebellion. The harvest is plenty and must be reaped and the fruit though bitter must be eaten.
The 27th is on guard today, and has an unpleasant day for picket duty. The wind is very high and chilly, more disagreeable than a winter day. Pickets are unmolested during the day. Receive mail as usual. Nothing Special.
The Regiment is relieved this morning at 8 oclock by the 51st Ill. Infty. Vol. The pases off very quietly.
The Com. officers unite with the men in a lively game of Lawn Ball during Several hours of the day. Very windy and cool today, have a little Snow after which a Shower of rain set in.
The 1st Division, Davis, relieves the 3rd., Sheridan's, at 3 oclock P. M. and we return to our old camp. Nothing new in camp.
No important news from any Source today relative to military affairs. News from the North is not as discouraging as some time ago. The Copperheads have less to say and the feelings of disloyalty are subsiding. Many Deserters from the Federal Army are now returning to their Regiments.
For 2nd See next page.
At 7 1/2 o'clock this morning the Regiment reports for grand guard. 27th Regiment is Stationed at and near the bridge on the Shelbyville pike. The day is pleasant and passes off very quietly.
Battalion drill from 9 to 11 oclock A. M. Colonel J. R. Miles after drilling the first hour gives way to Lt. Colonel Schmitt who finishes the drill. Dressparade at 4 1/2 oclock P. M. at which time Resolutions are read, and unanimously adopted by the men, which express Sentiments relative to the conduct of a part of the Democracy the North.
Battalion drill before noon by Colonel J. R. Miles and Major Bradley. It has been a clear, windy pleasant day. No Important or interest news today. Something important expected from the Army of the Mississippi soon.
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The Regiment receives two months pay today, February and March. The men were not expecting pay again so soon, but the Surprise is a very agreeable one.
Weather clear and pleasant. No Startling news is received today.
Hear glorious news today. It is reported that Gen. Rosecrans has receievd a telegram Stating that Charleston has fallen. The men are not credulous enough to believe the report. Without doubt there has been an engagement there, but the result is not yet known to us. No mail for Company "C" today. Has been a fine day. Dressparade at 5 P. M.
No Drill this forenoon, the men devote their time to policing and ornamenting the Camp. Young Cedars are hauled and Set out in two rows along the company ground, one row in front of the officers tents. Yesterday's news is not confirmed today. News from Vicksburg not very encouraging. Weather pleasant.
Two hours drill during the forenoon. Dressparade at 5 oclock P. M. Nothing later from Charleston. Weather continues fair and during the day pleasant, but chilly during the night.
At 2 oclock A. M. we receive orders to be ready to march at daylight. We are ready at the appointed time and wait patiently for orders to move anticipating a march of several days, but the order is not for a Scout, or is Countermanded and at 9 oclock we have orders to go on picket. Occupy the Same position as when out last. Been a fine day.
The Brigade is not relieved very early this morning. A part of the 6th Kentucky Regt. relieves our reserve. The Army of the Cumberland is mustered today to ascertain the number of men requisite to fill up the Regts. 3rd Brigade is mustered by the Brigade Inspector.
Weather Continues pleasant, Some prospects of rain.
Have Battalion drill at 9 A. M. by Col. J.R. Miles. He does better today than usual, finding himself deficient in drill he has been Studying Tactics aiming to be proficient. Dressparade at 5 P. M. Has been a cloudy day have a refreshing Shower.
The Regiment has no duty to perform. Day passes very quietly by. Mail light today.
We hear no important news today. Alway expecting to hear some thing Startling but alway doomed to disappointment, or when we do hear good news it is apt to be contradicted in the next paper received.
Two hours Battalion drill during the forenoon, but are excused from drill afternoon. It has been a beautiful day, cloudy in the evening — Sprinkles rain. Dressparade at five oclock P. M.
Receive orders for picket duty on the morrow.
Leave camp for the picket line at Seven oclock this morning and after a Slippery march of one and a half miles arrive at our old post.
Rain during most of the afternoon and evening. Little firing by the Cavalry on out post during the evening, but no disturbance along the Infantry line Today's mail is very light, amounting to only about three letters to each company.
The 27th except companies A. & B., is relieved in good time this morning by the 35th Ills., the other Companies are not relieved till a late hour.
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Has been a cloudy cool day, drizzling rain a goodly part of the time. The bombardment of Charleston has ceased, not much accomplished, loss on the Federal side very light, only three or four killed.
During the forenoon battalion drill, no drill after noon in consequence of a Sword presentation at Davison Head Quarters. Maj. Gen. Sheridan is the Recipient of the present. Sword alone costs Eight Hundred Dollars, Revolvers and other Articles added render the Cost 1400$. Presented by the Officers of the Division.
No Dressparade this evening.
At nine oclock this forenoon the 27th Sete out to visit the old battle field, where the Brigade fough on the 31st Dec. Arriving on the ground arms are Stacked, tanks broken, and the men are at liberty for Several hours to Scout around through the woods and over the fields. We then return to camp and at 5 P. M. have Dressparade. Weather fine.
Company drill during the forenoon, noe after, men are busy policing camp. Very little news today, mail light. Has been a fine day fair and moderately warm.
Many Officers seem to credit the report of an early advance by Gen. Rosecrans. No doubt Rosie would rather let Bragg do the advancing this time.
Forenoon cloudy, have Some rain; Afternoon fair and pleasant. Chaplain of the 51. Ill. Infty Regt. delivers a Sermon at 5 oclock near the hospital of the 27th the different Regiments of the Brigade are represented al the Representatives make quite a congregation. No Important nws today.
Receive orders this morning to be ready to go on out post near Salem by 9 o'clock A. M. about which hour we Set out from Camp, the men taking their Knapsacks with them that we may be prepared to join the troops on the march in case a forward movement while we are absent from camp. 3rd. Brigade is the only one ordered out today and, as two Regiments are on duty at the same time, we will be on duty half of the time while out. 22nd & 27 go on guard today. Pleasant weather for guard duty. All quiet in front.
22nd. & 27th. are relieved this morning by the 42 two hours when we receive orders to make a reconnoisance in our front and are soon on the road. Halt after marching out about Six miles. Stack arms and rest till near four oclock P. M. when we Start back to our Bivouac where we arrive just at night. Commences to rain at 4 oclock, consequently we have a very unpleasant march returning. Encounter no Rebs.
The 22nd & 27th. are on grand guard again today. All quiet. Weather pleasant. No news of importance in late papers, — Mail light.
Are relieved at the usual hour this morning. Nothing Strange or important occurring in or about camp. Deserters from the Rebel Army continue to come inside of our lines almost daily. All telling about the Same Story relative to the great destitution existing in the South especially in the Rebel Camps.
Weather pleasant.
At 7 1/2 oclock this morning we go on guard again and enjoy an other fine day. News more interesting today. Several gun boads and two transports have lately run the blockade at Vicksburg. General Banks is preparing to operate on the offensive and we may Soon hear of his Striking Some Serious blows to the Rebs along the Mississippi River
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Soon after being relieved this morning a Brigade arrives to relieve ours and we are, after Some dlay on our way back to Camp Schaefer. Afternoon Gen. Lytle reviews the 1st Brigade of the 3rd Division. He has recently been assigned to the command of the Brigade. News from the Army of the Mississippi is encouraging.
The future looks brighter now than some time ago, and when Grant captures Vicksburg prospects will Sill more pleasing. It is like that General Grant will first occupy Jackson Miss. and then advance on Vicksburg from that direction. Rebls may hold out a month longer.
It has been a cloudy warm day. Nothing noteworthy occurring in or about camp.
Hear from Some Small expeditions Sent out lately to operate on the Reb's lines of communication. The raids have been Successful it seems though we have not yet read the details of the operations
It has been a dull day, — nothing ranspiring to break the monotony of camp life
The men devote a goodly part of the day policing and working about camp, consequently we have no drill.
Have no drill during the forenoon. Company drill afternoon. Forenoon cloudy and pleasant. Afternoon fair and too warm for comfort. No news from the Rappahanock and but little from the Mississippi, important news expected from Banks expedition up the River.
Battalion drill during the forenoon and policing after noon. Dress-parade after 5 o'clock P. M. Banks is punishing the Rebs on the lower Mississippi: — driving every right along; — Hooker is now reported moving, and we will soon hear something important from him. Little rain today
The hour for mustering is changed from nine to six oclock this morning. After inspection we prepare for grand guard and at nine oclock Set out for the picket line. It has been a fair, pleasant day and has passed quietly
At daylight this morning there is Some firing along our advance line of Cavalry, but it soon ceases and all is again quiet. The 27th is relieved by the 59th Regt. Ills. Vol. we reach camp at ten oclock. Very little news today. Weather fine as could be desired.
Inspection of Arms Ammunition and Knapsacks at 11 oclock. Nothing has transpired in camp today. General Hookers Army is reported across the Rappahanock and a big Battle is anticipated; farther news from the East is anxiously awaited.
Company inspection at nine oclock, meeting at Seven oclock near Regemental Hospital
Dressparade at the usual hour this evening. News important and cheering both from the East and the West, prospects brightening. We will hear of hard fighting before many days.
At nine oclock A. M. Col Miles marches the Regt. out to the drill ground, finds a Brigade drilling on our ground and decides to return to camp without drilling his Regt.
News continues favorable from the Armies of the Mississippi and Rappahannock. Thunder Showers after noon.
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Brigade drill from 9 1/2 till nearly 12 A. M. by Col. of 42nd Ills, Regt. Battery drills with the Brigade. The men devote the afternoon to hauling boughs ornamenting and policing the company ground. News Still favorable. Federals are victorious every where
All quiet in camp today, nothing ranspinng of importance. General Hooker has engaged Lee and has punished him Severely, loss heavy on both sides according to reports received Weather cloudy, little rain,
At 7 1/2 oclock A. M. the Brigade Sets out for the picket line and an hour later the old guard is relieved and returns to camp 27th is Stationed on the Shelbyville pike. The day is cloudy, drizzly and very disagreeable. One of our Vedetles was killed early this morning Hooker is Still fighting, or was at last accounts
The new guard arrives at 8 1/2 oclock and Soon after 9 oclock the Regt. returns to camp Dressparade at five oclock P. M.
Report says this evening that Hooker has been forced to recross the Rappahannock; possibly he has recross
this morning the rose clear and Bright, roll call at the Usual hour. It was Verry cool last night to day we are policeing the Company grounds this Evening all Is quiet Dressparade at 5/2 P. M. oclock nothing of Importance going on In front
this morning roll rail at the usual hour Regimental Inspection at 8 oclock divine services at 11 oclock A. M.
The Sun Shone Verry Brilliant this afternoon unusually pleasant all quiet In the front.
No news — this morning roll call at 5 1/2 oclock A. M. Brigade Drill this after noon 2 oclock till 4 P. M.
great Excitement In Camp. Reported capture of Richmond by Keys forces — great enthusiasm Among the Boys — Heat Oppressive
this morning the Sun rose and Bright. Roll call at 5 1/2 oclock Brigade drill this fore noon. I went over to 4 U. S. clavalry this forenoon dressparade at 5 1/2 Oclock P. M.
No news from Hookers-arming" glorious News anticipated the Regiment has Orders for Pickets two citizens come through the the lines on the Shelbyville. Pike" commences to raining in the Afternoon all quiet along the lines
This morning It Has cleared off. Remarable this morning two Refuges came thro the lines one of the number upon close Examination proves to be female the center of Attraction to the entire Battalion we come In of Pikett at 10 A. M. take breakfast go Into our holes —
Nothing new afloat in camp. Roll call at the usual time Brigade drill from 7 to 9 oclock Battalion drill In the afternoon dressparade this evening Exceedingly hot
this morning the Sun rose, clear pleasant prospect cheering roll call at the usual time Brigade drill in the forenoon the day dosses beautiful all quiett a long lines there was Cavalry force Sent out
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No news this morning police the Company grounds — Inspection of Arms Ammunition Knapsacks Some fear expressed of the Safety of Hookers-Arminy
Nothing cheering this morning police the Company grounds —
Pickett orders — 7 1/2 oclock A. M.
nothing transpired of Importance today police the Company grounds — we were relieved By the 88th Illinois at 8 1/2 oclock we Return to Spend the afternoon In reading orders Recived from department Head. Quarters to Pack up all Surplus baggage to Send Some Depo Either murfreesboro or Nashville. Baggage Reduced one hat on Cap 1 Bloss — or coat two Shirts two pairs Drawers 1 pair Shoes or Boots 1 pair pants 1 oil Blanket 1 woolen Blanket Orders preparatory to marching on the rebel Stronghold at tullahomy
Nothing Special this morning Camp policing Brigade drill fore noon two hours — U. S. Inspector Is to Be. Here to Inspect all troops" Battallion drill Afternoon"
this morning the Sun Rose beatiful prospect of fine weather Roll call at 5 1/2 oclock P. M." Brigade drill Is not abdoned It Sticks us verry much So think our Superiors — Imposses this unnecessary duty dressparade this evening at 5 1/2 oclock.
nothing new roll call the usual hour the Brigade Recives-orders to prepair for Pickett at 7 1/2 oclock P. M. weather changeable about noon the clouds Clears away prospect of fine day quiett along the front.
Roll call at 5 1/2 police the company grounds fair & pleasant Some talk of a general move. Brigade drill forenoon 2 hours — Expedition Started out under command Brigdrd Gen. turchin former Col of 19 Ills. — Suport during the night.
they advance In two Colums — the Left on Shelbyville Pike Right two Battallions" Salem Pike About 10 miles" they attact Sharp Skirmishing for a few minutes" Rebels — dispersed Camp Captured too Hundred pris quite fine lot of Horses — In killed and verry Slight on our side loss 4 U. S. cavalry 3 men kilid 11 wounded —
Regimental Inspection forenoon Arms-ammunition Knapsacks clothing Inspectors — Col. Bradley & Staff — Brigade Comdg" He finds fault with Some of the men
Oppinion of most of the is not favorable for him our favorite has fallen
It Has been clear and beautiful for the most part of the day Brigade drill this forenoon Company, drill from 4 to 5 Oclock It Has been quite warm this afternoon
The morn Has dawned Roll call at the usual Hour police the Company grounds — Re'ved Orders for Pickett 8 1/2 oclock
It is fair this morning the birds Sing So merrily It Reminds-us of Day of old we were relieved by the 93 Ohio Vols. Infantry.
Return to Camp take Breakfast Verry Dull In camp no News to that worth anything
1863. Head Qrs. 27 Illinois Scheafer Thursday May 28.
The Sun Rose clear and Beautiful this morning I was detailed to Day to get Brush to Build Bowers We Recived orders to go on Salem Pikett
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1863. Head Qrs. — 27 Illinois Salen tennessee May 29
It Is clear and beatiful this morning Roll call at 5 1/2 oclock Went picket to day we Relieve the 15 mo the day Closes without anything Important transpiring great anxiety for Better News.
1863 Head Qrs, 27 Illinois Camp. Lookout tennessee May 30.
this morning all is quiet along the lines We came in off out Post Relieved by the 42 Ill Company Inspection afternoon all quiet in front.
Cloudy, dull weather out Post again to day It rained During the night Every thing passed off quietly to day great News Expected from Hookers Armeny It Is to Be Hopen that Hooker will gain some advantag
1863 Head. Qrs. 27 Illinois Camp. Lookout Tenn June 1st
Nothing new this morning Roll call at 5 1/2 oclock Come off pickett We were Relieved by the 42 Ills. Infantry. It Has been clear and beautiful to day All quiet along the lines
Camp Lookout Tennessee June 2 tuesday 1863 —
heavy rains falling cloudy Dull weather. Roll call at 5 1/2 oclock. Releaved by the 2 Brigade Return to Scheafer Resume Bower Building
Camp Scheafer near murfreesboro Tennessee Wedesday Jun 3d 1863
prospect of Beautiful day. Bower Building still progressing onward. It Is to Be hope the work will Soon be Compleeted" Marching oders — Company Inspection great excitment In Camp everything in an uproar. 7 days rations in Knapsack & Haversack this a rather pour pill for us to Swallow, never the less this orders" Some curses others Recived mildly.
Camp Schaefer near murfreesboro Tennessee June 4 —
1863 nothing Verry New this morning Roll call at 5 1/2 oclock Verry cool two Brigade went this morning all quiet this Evening
Camp Scheafer near murfreesboro tennessee Friday June 5 1863 —
this morning is unusually wet and cloudy Roll call at 8 1/2 oclock positive orders to Be ready to move at a moment Notice tents and Surplus Baggage to Be sent to murfreesboro
Camp Scheafer near murfreesboro tennessee June 6 1863
Saturday. nothing new this morning Roll call at 8 1/2 oclock policeing not Abdoned yet police the Co. grounds — nothing fresh or excting going in camp today favorable News — Recived from Vicksburg
Camp Scheafer murfreesboro tennessee Sunday June 7 1863.
this morning is clear, and Beautiful Roll call 5 ock Brigade Inspection at 8 oclock the sacred ordinance of Baptism was Administered to twenty five Soldiers of the third Brigade at two ock P. M. preaching by major Davidson of the 73 Illinois Vol. Infantry Ceremonies performed by Elder Reymond of 5/ Ills.
Camp Schafer near murfreesboro Tennessee monday June 8th 1863
this morning is unusually cool Roll call at 5 1/2 oclock the 2 Brigades Has orders to go on. Salem pickett" this evening all is quiet all along the lines
Camp Scheafer near murfreesboro Tennessee Tuesday June 9 1863
this morning clear and Beautiful Rool call at 5 oclock police the Co grounds to day our Boys Return from their plasure trip into Dixie
They present a fine appearance weare quite glad to see them Jubillee among the Boys Peter Cassidy in the afternoon becomes very near Drunk toward evening Skirmish Drill two hours Return to camp Dress — parade at 6 oclock P. M.
Camp Sheafer near murfreesboro Tennessee June Wednesday 1863 no news this morning roll call at 5/2 oclck police the company grounds Brigade Drill this forenoon" heat Increasses" Skermish Drill one hour this after noon Return to camp dressparade
Camp Schafer near murfreesboro tennessee Thursday June 11th 1863
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day unusually cloudy prospect of Rain Brigade Drill forenoon Verry warm Skermish Drill one hour return to camp dressparade 6 oclock P. M. Dull and StillCamp Seheafer near murfreesboro tennessee Friday June 12 1863
this morning beautiful Rollcall the usual hour great excitement at murfreesboro A Rebel Spy to Be executed a great number of citizens gather together to witness the the execution" every thing passes off Harmoniously" dressparade at 6 oclk P. M.
Camp Schafer near murfreesboro Tennessee. Saturday June 13 1863 —
Is It clear this morning fine weather Rollcall at the usual hour exceedingly Hot. Brigade Drill 2 hours this forenoon at 4 oclock Major general Sherridan Review the Division In person all pass off in a verry cheering Style we marched in Reve Headed by our gallant Col. we got the praise" not for good marching But for A neat appearance march to camp to the time of Yankee doodle dressparade at 5/2 oclock P. M. all quiet along the lines
Camp Seheafer near murfreesboro Tennessee Sunday June 14th 1863
this morning is unusually quiet Rollcall at the usual at 5/2 oclock A. M. we Returned to go on Salem pickett at 10 oclock this forenoon" Sad accident a man by the name of John Camp cook of the 27 Illinois Co. E. was killed by the Brigade Butcher Hospital Sends Him to his friends they Butchers were arrested by order of Col. Bradley It Rained verry heavy this evening
Camp Look five miles from murfreesboro Tennessee Monday June 15th 1863
This moring is very fair and beautiful after the Rain we are Relieved the 42 Ills
Camp Lookout five miles from murfreesboro Tennessee June 16th 1863
Tuesday Nothing new this morning Rollcall at 5 1.2 oclock A. M. police the Camp there was detail of 24 men out of the Regt. for to get forage we go beond the cavalry out Post Return to camp there nothing Afloat this Evening great anxiety manifested for Better News It is to Be hoped that Gen Grant will gain Some Important advantage
Camp Lookout five miles from murfreesboro Tennessee Wednesday June 17 1863 nothing new this morning Rollcall 5/2 oclock four companies Recived orders to go on Pickett at half past 7 oclock Gapt Jansen of Co. A learns from contraband the where abouts of Some conceald Arms a detail was immediately got out they go to the designated house He finds two Splendid Revolvers one Shot guns two Squrrel Refles — this citizen Had the name of one of the Loyal Tennisseeians I Have no confidence in none of them
Camp Lookout five miles from murfreesboro Tennessee Thursday June 18th 1863
no News this morning Rollcall at 5 1/2 oclock police the Company grounds — Still great Anixiety manefested for better News all quiet along the
Camp Stones River near murfreesboro Tennessee Friday June 19th 1863
It has been clear and beautiful today one Detail from the company for Pickett nothing Importance occurred to During the Day dull and Still
Camp Stones River near murfreesboro Tennessee Saturday June 20 1863
nothing verry new this morning rollcall at 5/2 great excitement In Camp today We draw five days Rations
Camp Stones River near murfreesboro Tennessee Sunday June 21 1863
this morning Rollcall at the usual hour the Sun Rose clear and Beautiful Regimental Inspection at 8' oclock of Arms Ammunition Knapsacks company Quarters divine Services at 10 oclck P. M. 16 Solders Baptised all of the third Brigade
Camp Stones River Near murfreesboro Tennessee Monday June 22 1863
Verry cool this morning Roll call at the usual Hour police the company grounds Drills are Suspended for Some unknown cause chaplain Brown of the 38 Ills preached at his Regt
Camp at Stones River near murfreesboro Tennessee Tuesday Jun 23 1863
It is Still continues Beautiful weather Rollcall at 5/2 oclock police the company grounds Bower Building not Suspended Verry heavy detail
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Camp at Stones River near nurfreesboro Tennessee Wednesday June 24 1863 Rollcall at the usual hour cloudy and dull threatens Rain to day the etire arminy of the Cumberland Recives twelve days Rations moove at 8 oclock destination tullahony" We advance four miles come up to enemy at gayes gap the 39 Indiana mounted oppens the Skirmish on Woodbury Pike Co. A & B & D, and C are Detaild to Support the front lines 10 oclock we Remain till 4 oclck Relieved By the Second minnesota" wounded none kilid none in the action
Encamped on the Battlefield Some five miles from Hoovers Gap June 25 1863
Heavy Rains falling this morning we pass a verry disagreeable night last night Grangers divis as passing to day Remained in camp fighting on heavy the front canonadeing in the Direction of hoovers gap thirteen pris Brought in from the front all quiet we go on picket to night
Encamped on the Battlefield Some five miles from Hoovers gap June 26 1863
Still it Rains" exceedingly disagreeable the Supply train is passing It is verry Difficult for wagon trains to get along Some fighting but no Important engagement yet Rollcall we Retire upon rather uncomfortable Bed
Camped on the Battlefield near Hoovers Gap tennessee June 27 1863
this morning Recived orders to march at 4 oclock we Reched the Pike Halted taken dinner Replenish our canteens Resume the march pass through the gap we have laborious marching Roads verry Rough, numbers of wagon broken Down
enCamped on the field Some two miles of the manchester Pike Tenn June 28 1863 This morning is verry Disagreeable. Still continues to Rain Roll call at 6 oclock We Recived orders to march in the direction of manchester We arrived we at the above name town at 9 oclock Breakfasted pitked tens. Baviocked for the night" general Reynolds Division of the 14th Army Corpse Haveing enter the town Previous
Camp Manchester tennessee Monday June 29th 1863
This morning unsally pleasant Rollcall at 7 oclock earley A. M. we resume our march for tullahony all the teams are sent back to murfreesboro for provis We advance a few miles we meet a Squadron of federal cal, with some pris Said to be Some Braggs escort they were as motly crew as I ever Saw at 4 oclock we go into into Camp Rather Disagreeable to night all in fine Spirits
Camp Before tullahony Tennessee Tuesday June 30 1863
this morning Rollcall at the usual hour. Still Raining Verry heavy today the Rebel forces Evacuated tullahony last night He Genrl. Bragg abadoned his Strong position Rather in order heaveing ervery that that couldnt Be carryed in the fight the Stores he left being few Boxes of tobaco two Siege pices or heavy ordinance our forces are in close persuit heavy canondeing in the direction of elk River Major Genrl Sherridan divisin was the first to Enter the town third Brigade Bradleys 42 Ills & 51 Ills Infantry
Camp at Tullahony Tennessee Wednesday July 1st 1863
this morning the sun Rose clear and beautiful Roll call at 4 oclock A. M. the enemy are in full Retreat our pressing thier rear gard verry closly We recvd orders to march At 6 oclock exceedingly Hot
Camp before tullahony tennessee Thusday July 2d 1863
nothing New from the front Rollcall at 4 oclock Reeive orders to march a Immediately to the front. We march to Elk River go into camp at 5 odk verry warried
Camp at Elk River Tennessee Friday July 3d 1863
nothing new from the front at 7 oclock we Resume the march for the front Slowly the clavalry captured quite a number of prisoners we pass through Winchester from thence to Winchester to Cowens Station We Biavcked for
275
the night all in fine Spirits Half Rations of Bread We have permission to night to kill all the meat we want two beond the Swine General Slaughter in all and Round camp Its Dangerous all About Here all quietCampt at Cowen Stations Tennessee Saturday July 4 1863
Heavy Rains falling this morning the troops Remained in camp to day there was a National fired by the various batteries all pass off Verry cheering
Camp at Cowens Station Tennessee Sunday July 5 1863
this morning is unusually pleasant Rollcall verry promptly at 4 oclock A. M. Still in Camp heavy Detail to Blackbury from the various Regiments
Camp at Cowen Station Tennessee Monday July 6 1863
this morning Verry wet Still Raining roll call at 5 oclock there at detail from C 10 for Picket the engineers commenced to construct the rail road bridge this morning Verry little work will Repair the Bridge at this point
Camp at Cowens Station Tennessee Tuesday July 7 1863
It has been clear, and beautiful this ofrenoon news of the Surrender of Vicksburg Reached Here this afternoon great enthusiam in camp" We Recived the News while on pickett Post this is decidedly one of the greatest Victories of the war.
Camp H Cowens Station Wednesday July 8th 1863
Heavy Rains falling this morning Verry disagreeable rollcall at 5/2 oclck We were intersepted at the dawn of day the Roar of cannon we soon accertain what Invoges a Salute of 36 guns are fired in honor of the fall of Vicksburg also for general Meads Success at gatyburg Pennsylvania
Camp at Cowens Station tennessee Thursday July 9th 1863.
the son rose clear and bright this morning rollcall at 5 1/2 we recived orders ot march at 9 oclock to the front our march was verry Slow In consequence of to high mountains hot weather and rough Roads We arrive at the university at two oclock go into camp
Camp at university Cumberland Mountain tenn Friday July 10 1863 It Has cleared off beautiful Rollcall at 5 1/2 C. B & A pickett marching orders Recived get ready to march Immediately to the front as usual to we march in the Direction of Battle cireek toward Bridge front we go into camp at 11 oclock half rations of bread the Brigade Butchers go to killing Some Beef for purpose to Sustain life
This morning Our bregade tooke the advanCe to Clime the Mountai the day is very hott and dry the Men is very thirsty and water is Scarse at 5 oCloCk we arive at university of the South uhear the Corner Stone of the Suthern ConfedreCy was laid the Sumer of 61 it is a plesant plaCe fine Springs the boys all went to gethering huCklebery till night the foure right Compnys went on picket
Friday July 10th 1863 this morning we resume Our MarCh till 12 oCloCk when we inCamp for the night the road has bin very, bad on a Count of the mud the regment is Still on half rations of bred and meat no Coffee nor Sugar and the meat was piCked up whever it Could be found
Still oCkipie the Camp on the Mountains 8 Companys of the left wing are on duty to day Clearing out the road down the Mountin that had bin timber falling by the retreating enyme the day post off quietly the Sun was bright and Clear nothing else of importance to day
Returned
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Ordered to move at twelve oclock The time arrives order countermanded Noth occurs worthy of not to day our camp is situated about one quarter of a mile west of where John A Murrel commited one among the many Atrocous Murders that he commited in his carreer here he Murdered his man and threw him over a fightful pressipice
Ordered to move Camp back to University Springs thee Brigade took up its line of March at eigh oclock
Arrived there at twelve the the twenty seventh was ordered on Picket at half past two oclock chain guard around camp
Relieved from Picket at seven oclock come to camp found Captain Williams there just returned from a leave off absence to the North of twenty five days
Dispatches received from General Rosecrance Post hudson Surrendered seven thousand prisinors
Spend the day in camp nothing of importance hapens to day weather warm
Reales at five oclock visited the corner Stone of the great University of the laid in eighteen sixty it has been broken open and the relicts taken out reported to have been done by the soldiers but it is jenerly believed that the citizens of this part wer conserned in it
On Picket this morning. Capt Johnson of the 22 is Officer of the day weather very warm University is getting be verry dry nothing going on to interest the most curious
Sunday th19 Spend the in Camp nothing of interest hapens to day no News from abroad the Camp is full of citizs
Revalee this morning and the usual number of citizens in Camp pedling berries vegetables &c"
Relievde this morning by five companys of forty second at seven oclock return to camp Rovert Mayo came up to camp this morning from University The Payrools are being maid out to some prospect of geting pay soon
Nothing to relieve the monotony of camp bought a bottle of Wine last night to quench my thirst & drank it with my friend Foote poor stuff vinegar and water threw part of it away puting in the day eating and sleeping
Reavalee at five as usual much the same rotene of duties as usual one Oclock P. M. Companys A & B ordered to Tracyville they leave at two
Camp on the Mountain sixteen boys captured last night in the cave by the Provost Guard Col Miles went over to Head Quarters and released them
Got up as usual this morning thought I got up right end first but I have lost a day some where must have been asleep What I have written for yesterdays transactions happened today
the Colonel sentenced those fellows caught in the cave to perform on tour of fatigue
On Picket this morning on the Tracyville road citizen coming in continually with produce to sell some citizen want to pass our lines to day giving as their reason the presance of Rebels at Tracyville
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Regiment relieved this morning comes in hungry & tired as usual went to the waterfall bothe this Evening beautiful took a most delightful bath & returned to camp had to run the Pickets to obtain this luxiary
Dispatches arrived in Camp last night of the Capture of John Morgan and all of his command this glorious news nothing els of importance hapens to day
Camp on the Mountain Idle this morning twelve oclock M. D. this Reg. is geting payed this Evening Ordered to march at four oclock to morrow Morning destination unknown
Camp on the Mountain Started at dayling this Morning across the mountain camped at big Blue Springs for diner marched on seven miles some rain roads slipery and mudy camped on Battle Creek
Took up our line of at daylight marching one mile when the sruck the Tennisee River Continue on down under the Mountain to Bridgeport Ala a distance of seven miles from our last Camp We found two regiments of the second Brigade here and lots of reb's on the other side of the Tennisee
Bridgeport Alabama
Saturday morning spend the in fiting up camp erecting Bowers over our shelter tents and Policing our Quarters Weather uncommonly hot an sultry
Reveale at five oclock this morning the boys still engaged in fixing their shelters
Today is fraught with interest to myself and other of our company it being the second anaversary of our commensment of service I am looking with anxious eyes to one more My the time spedily roll round and with it peace to our once happy Country Look on the next page incident of the 2 over
Aug the 2d
The second Brigade returns to Stevison to day the first Brig" is to take their place and Brigadier Jen. Lytel will take command of the Post
Tuesday Aug 3d
Nothing of importa transpires to day weather hot and sultry the boys have spirited conversations with the rebs across the river the fourth and ninth Mississippi are doing picket duty for the rebs
Realee at four oclock this Morning Much the usual rotene of dutys to day weather hot Bridgeport dusty and lonesome
Rool call at the usal hour two hot to enjoy life nothing but laying under our shanties lolling some rain this evening cools the air some
Mornings the pleasantst part of the day the company divided into three Messes to day Two oclock P M Gen. Rosecrans and Staff visits Bridgeport this evening the old gentleman looks odd in his citizen dress and chip hat
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Saturday August the 8 th
Morning dawns with its usual fog and chilley air this is certainly the most detestable place for fogs I ever saw Mornings damp with fog and stinking air from decaying Vegetation and ajacent Slaughter pens
The usual rotene of roll call and policeing company grounds Nothing of interest untill the Mail comes in we have things a little more like living here now two trains a day and an occasional visit from Rosey" and Phill A flag of truce has gone over to day I have not been able to learn the object
Nothing of interest this morning I have to resort to evry stratagy to pass away time pipes and tobacco cards and whisky are the jeneral resort of the soldier (the later is rather scarse here)
Everything after the old style spleepless nights uneasy days plenty of grub no appetite to eat it time pass briskly notwithstanding the Monotony
Rool call at the usual hour breakfast over comense trying to kill time work some read a litle take a strole around camp give it up as a bad job and go to sleep
Thursday August th 13 th
Picket at seven oclock this morning threatens rain two oclock heavy showers a tremendus gale from the North east come darned near blowing us away wet & cold the rest of the rest of day
Relieved at seven go to camp have more Idea what to do to day than a man in the Moon expect to putin the day sleeping and eating expect to get to lazy to do that if I stay hear much longer
Was wakedup up last night by a shot from the boys pets out on the river bank others folowed in quick succession making me crawl out of by nest to see what the fraction was found after geting my eys open that the rebs had fired the part of the bridge in their possession and Hbtlars boys thinking they wer starting on a journey gave them a parting salute Inspection of arms in the company grounds by the Colo.
Clouds look oninous rains a little this morning none worth mentioning Twelve oclock a flag of truce comes over this morning to make arangements for the rebel Generals Andersons mother to go to her friends she being inside of our lines
Aug th 17 th
Monday Morning Revalee at the usual hour camp cleared proceed to the duties of the day which prove to be much the same as usual
Morning finds us still in the same hole strugling to live with no perceavable purpus in view if you should Judghe from apearance But in good time perhaps our object will be better seen
Every thing quiet this morning things begin to look like mooveing get orders today to pack our Knapsacks and send them to Stevison for storage every man has to be provided with an extra pair of shoes this looks like ther's was marching in store for us let it come for every one is tired of this place
279
Flag of truce over this morning culd not learn what was the object time passs dull enough Noth new only a little chat with escort that came with the flag
Revalee and roll call breakfast over we prepared for Picket rains lightly twelve oclock skys clear up looks more propitious Rosey" Visits the Post to day makes a speech to the boys prolongd cheering shows the confidence the feel in their leader
Saturday Augst th 22 nd
Relieved from Picket this morning rebs left us alone in our glory last night they never so much as bid us good bye when they started well let them go we will visit them shortly
Nothing transpires to interest the most curious this is dry work keeping diary in such a place as this I am almost tempted to do some thing desperate for the sake of a chang guess I wont however untill I see what turns up
All quiet to day within hearing of the place
All going as usual this morning weather hot and dry this has been the case for several days some heavy guns fireing up the river
Revalle sounds at the usual hour the same rotene of duty heavy fireing towards Chattamooga Seargeant Braiden of Col. D" died last night is buried at twelve oclock to day with the the honers of war peace to his remains
Thursday Aug th 27 th
Revalee and roll call at the usual hour breakfast over camp to police nothing to do time drags heavaly on my hands no news —
Regiment on detail to day geting out bridge timbers we got out one hundred and fifty stcks blistered my hands all over shant be able to lay in bed I am a fraid some pontoons arrived to night
Revalee at the usual hour detail gone forageing this morning — night closes around us and I prepare to retire without having heard anything to excite my curiosity
Roll call at four oclock The first Reg" of Michigan Fusaliers are puting up the bridge to day
Nothing past common to record to day More pontoons came in last night the bridge is progressing finely two thirds completed this evening
Tuesday September th 1st
Revalee at four oclock Picket at eight have a pleasant day on Picket the bridge is progressing finely almost finished Nothing of interes happens to day
Relieved at eight oclock to go to camp get orders to get ready to march an one oclock at one we are marched out in line butthe bridge not being completed we wer basted about an hour in the hot sun all things being ready we take up our line march for dixey march six miles camped for the night in Hog Jaw Cave the bridge fell whilst our train was crossing No casualitys
280
Lying in camp waiting for Negleys division to get up the Mountain they haveing come in from the crossing below and come up the Cave
Still laying here waiting twelve oclock on the march Commence climbing the Mountain one hour finds us on top of Rackcoon Mountain one mile from the top campt for night
Crossed the Mountain desending in to lookout valley camped near Trenton at a beautiful Spring
Camp near trenton Georgia Started on our march at twelve ocloc passed Trenton going seven miles up the Valley camp for the brig three miles from an Iron mine the works of which have just been put up and have fallen inot our hands
Orders to ready to at daybreak we pass Negly camped in a beautiful valley two miles in advance of our camp after passing him marched to the front too miles camped for the night country rich produce abundant
Lay in camp to day nothing of importance hapens Men feasting on the fat of the land who blams them
Still laying in camp no news worth recording this morning four oclock News of the occupation of Chattanoog Jeneral Rosecrans attends mass in the Cathedral of that place
March at five oclock hot and dusty we join the rest of our Corpse it haveing gone to the right after crossing the river after joining the corps we camp on the mountain
On the march early this morning we pass down the mountain camped at Alpine Georgia We hear that Cattanooga is evacuated it took place on the eighth our forces taking possession on the ninth we left our train yesterday hastening to the fron hopeing to intercept Bragg
Alpine Georgia
The Regiment Ordered on Picket this morn all quiet in front the country abounds in corn potatoes Beans &c Broomcorn valley is on the most firtile valleys in the state abounding in all the productions of the south
Called in from Picket marched to the foot of the Mountain but it being so thronged we wer obliged to wait until three oclock at three we comensed the ascent halted on the top at sundown after the Battries gained the top of the Mountain we again resumed our March proceeded two miles forward & camped for the night
Broke camp at daylight find ourselves marching over the same raod we wer hured over two days ago where our destination no one has the remotes conception we cross the Mountain again repassing Valley hea before twelve M. D. Camped for the in Lookout Valley
Lay in camp untill noon Moove camp to the foot of the Mountain not Of Important hapens to day weather dry and dusty
We comense the toilsome ascent of Lookout Mountain this morning at day break it took most of the forenoon to make the ascent it being so steep that the teams wer not able to haul the Guns it was accomplished
281
by attaching roaps to the peacies and placing Men to the guns this severe duty was preformed after days of hard marching without a Murmur We camp to night in Chattanooga Vally it is quite rich and well supplied, with forage for Man and beastThe Enimy reported advancing this morning Eleven oclock form a line of battle some Canonading on the left a great Dattle ininent
Our train arrives at the foot of the mountain this Evening we are train Guards we commence our line of march at Evening halt at Midnight within ten miles of Crawfish Springs. Thomas has some fighting to day the enimy are trying to cut us off from Chattanooga
Drew two days rations and commensed our march at eight oclock we had not advanced but a short distance when we heard heavy and continuous musketry in our front and on our right Davis & Thomas wer engageing the Enimy who was using Means to interpos his forces between us & Chatanooga presantly we are ordered forward double quick
282
fond to be 300 in thirty minutes we laid on the field in Battle array all night the most of us without Blankets the night as very cold a tremendous heavy frost falling Morning at last comesnts
Notes
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
STATE OF ILLINOIS, ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE,
SPRINGFIELD, June 13, 1910.
It is Hereby Certified, That it appears from the Records of this Office, that Edward W. Criffin, Enlisted on the 3rd day of August, 1861, at Perry, Illinois, and was mustered into the service of the United States as a Corporal, in Company C, 27th Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for the period of Three years, on the 16th day of August, 1861.
Age, 25: Height, 5 ft. 10 in.: Hair, Black: Eyes, Black: Complexion, Dark: Occupation, Farmer: Native, Zanesville, Ohio.
Promoted Color Sergeant, May 5, 1863.
Died in Hospital at Chattanooga, Tennessee, December 24, 1863 of wounds received in battle, Mission Ridge November 25, 1863.
"Name appears on original Muster Out Roll C, 27th Reg. Ill. Vol. Inf. as Edward W. Crippen."
His residence at date of enlistment is stated as Perry, Pike County, Illinois.
This Certificate is issued at the request of Robert J. Kerner, Champaign, Illinois.
FRANK S. DICKSON,
The Adjutant General of Illinois.
Chief of Staff. "S."
alone p. 805.
At the conclusion of the diary there is a poem of three stanzas and on the following page the name of Martha Crippen.