 Iowa In the Civil War |
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JOHN WILCOX EDDYVILLE, IOWA
Extracts from Army Diaries, AD 1861, 1862, 1863, 1864, 1865 & 1866 (diary was rewritten by John Wilcox for his son)
Personal
1861
A company of Iowa Honor Guard, was organized at the "Rock School House" in Columbia Township, Wapellow County, in July 1861, of which Charles Gardner was elected Captain, John Wilcox lst Lieut & Homer Gibbs 2nd I was the first to enlist in the U.S. Service, afterward persuading several others to follow my example. I virtually enlisted about one third.
Enlisted as Private in Co II 7th Iowa Infantry July 24, 186l, at Eddyville. Company mustered in at Burlington August 2, 186l(promoted to Corporal)at Camp Warren, Regiment Embarked at Burlington on "Jennie Whipple" at noon, Aug 6th and Steamed Dixieward. Passed Keokuk at dark and landed at St. Louis Arsenal July 8th and remained two days. Arrived at Jefferson Barracks August 10th and remained four days, Requirement (in enlisted men) without tents, camp out and are subject alike to scorching sun and drenching rains, laid on rocks and pebbles at water edge, awaiting transport the last night at Jefferson Barracks.
Note: (Co I left Eddyville July 27th)
Aug l4 Embarked on "SW Grayham" for St Louis, arrived same day and marched to Pacific R.R. Depot, where the Regiment was armed with improved Springfield Muskets, except Companies A & B, which were armed with Springfield Rifles.Regiment got into cars for Bolly, but orders being countermanded, went to Pilot Knob, where we arrived Aug 15, and went same day to Ironton, both places (on tours) being near Pilot Knob which being 700 feet above the level, is seen from all parts of the surrounding country. Left Ironton on march to Cape Girardean Aug 27th. Stop at Jackson from Sept 1st to Sept 8th. Embark at Cape Girardean Sept 9th, on "City of Louisiana". Arrive at Cairo and go into Camp Holt (on Ky side) Sept 10. Mississippi River runs East and Ohio South East at Cairo, both changing to regular course in short distance from Cairo.
Sept 14th marched down to Camp Critton, ten miles. Ground high and good Spring water. Sarge Secesh force at Columbus 12 miles below.
Sept 18th, back three miles to Camp Jefferson, on bank of Mississippi.
19th Cavalry Pickets driven in and Regiment formed in line of Battle - only a big scare to the dutch "cavalry". 21 Secesh reports planting a battery on Island No. 2. But a reconnoiter with two Gun Boats and four Infantry transports disproved the rumor.
Sept 22 Co detailed on Picket near (5 miles of) Columbus, where being charged upon by a Squadron of Rebel Cavalry, twelve men to meet Sergt J.T. Wallin, A.J. Horton, Aldrich Ostler, John Kahill, Sergt Ben Barber, J.B. Cernwell, Preston Rice, S. Meese, J. King, C Sagerly, H. Olney myself and a citizen named Mercer, whipped the entire Rebel Squadron, while Capt James Irvin, with the balance of "Co II" (under his command) hid himself in a cornfield out of gunshot of the evening. I was detailed (by my own request) to reconnoiter the battle ground next day (with 16 others) and learned from darkies that we had killed five Rebels and wounded several more. We found our dead cavalry horse, Holsters & accouterments with various other trophies and marks of the battle, and among them a gentlemans fine hearty shawl, which Capt Irwin appropriated. Our Capt was one man wounded to wit, Aldrich Osler, who was afterward killed at Belmont. Sept 24 Went up on transport to Birds Point, Sept 25th marched Down to Norfolk.
Sept 27th Dream't last night of witnessing a Spirit Ball, - Ghosts or Spirits dancing. Sept 28th, Dreamed last night of seeing my Father, Mother, Brother Soanie(?), My Son Allison, and Brother-in law Elijah Stalnaker (all departed) all cheerful and happy to see me.
Sept 29th Dreamed last night of visiting scenes of my childhood and conversing with old associates and play-mates.
Sept 30th, Dreamed last night of helping to storm a strong fortress, while the roar of cannon and the crash of firearms shook the earth, which was streaming with blood. But a victory perched upon our banner, while the Stars and Stripes floated grandly from the battlements we had so nobly won. Oct 1st, Back to Birds Point.
Oct 2nd, Dreamed last night of seeing the soldiers wives and children with them, (my own included of course) and seeing my son Fremont in an exposed place of danger, halloured "Togs" come away, so loud that many heard me in their tents. The day is rainy, muddy and gloomy; Think a great deal about my family. God grant that the Spirits of the good may be around them, shielding them from accident and lurking danger, and may we meet again while yet in the flesh. But thy will Oh, God be done. I feel that I am in the line of duty, and am not sorry that I am here. Living I will discharge my duty as a soldier, on dying I will baptise the soil of God's free Earth with a patriots blood; and be glad that a remnant remains in the the views of my own dear children, of whom no father could be more proud than I am. I know that as my ancestors fought for the liberty I enjoy, they in turn will, if necessary follow their father's example, and so on down to posterity without allowing a single Star to be blotted out of our glorious flag of Union and Freedom. Again I say God bless my dear children.
Oct 3, Go five miles out on the Charleston R.R. to guard bridge, burned a few nights before, was, with another soldier, sent in charge of Rebel prisoner to Bird's point, Came near being gobbled by Rebeled scouts, but eluded them and got safe to camp with prisoner. Have not yet been in but two private houses, and then by invitation. Was to day permitted to kiss a baby in remembrance of my own dear ones at home. No difficulty with any union Soldiers, have the good will of all with whom I have become acquainted, and have the confidence of my Superiors. Quarreling and fault-finding, is with many, too common an occurrence.
5th Received a letter from home.
6th Heavy rain lastnight, ground covered with water, tents almost a float - Soldiers standing upright and tramping the mud in their tents, Some singing, others laughing and joking - most of them good natured under the circumstances. On duty half the night; unwell to day. Forsha Started home on leave of absence. Day warm and clear. Mud drying up. Rivers rising rapidly, Ohio higher than the Mississippi, and full of drift wood. Day (Sabbath) quiet, calls up reflections of the past, present and future. My life so far, appears to me a homolie of jumbles and mistakes, without perhaps specially benefiting any one or any good cause. What am I now? My conscience is clear, but I shall soon have passed the meridian of Earth life. What is there in store for me in the future? Through what dangers, conflicts and sorrows shall I pass, and shall I ever win for myself and upon my own merits, patriot laurels, and above all shall I ever and always feel the inward self assurance that I am an honest man? My body feels somewhat prostrated from recent fatigues and exposures. My mind in an unusual and unprecedently active has the mastery over the Lyrical, and appears to hold it chained. For the last thirty hours I have found it impossible to sleep. Commencing about that time it began at the first page of my conscious being and rehearsed the eventful history of my life page after page and still runs irresistably on, on, peering into and judging of every act. Coming to a partial halt by times in particulars, it rallys with redoubled velocity and becomes a generalizer, hastily glancing at everything and circumstance, speeds on, on! I could write a volume in quick time, could my fingers pen as rapidly as my mind thinks. It appears as though an iron fetter, obstructing the latent force and vigor of the mind has been broken or lossened. The reason perhaps may be on account of a fixed determination to do and to be something in the world. My whole soul and body has been concentrated to achieve the purpose shoped by the mind and propelled by the motor of our iron will. I must, I will do something worthy of myself and friends! Why could I not have been a man. I frequently see glimpses clairvoyently that it would not do (for popular opinions sake) to relate except to the spiritually minded. I feel that I am in the light, and am happy, oh so happy!
The battery is now charged and the electric thought flashes run in an altogether different current or channel - the metaphysical. Oh, I am doubly a Spiritualist. I must let the machine run its course and exercise the body which is somewhat feverish. Am I going crazy? Does any monimorice(?) believe himself such? Go on body, move along! Recreate your exhausted energies. As I walk the flesh quivers and the body topples with weakness. But the mind bounds onwards through fancy mazes of illimitable space; worlds, Systems and universes appear and disappear as beacons here and there along the comets onward course and train.
Oct 7th. My mind being partially relieved during the night gradually passed to repose in quiet pascivity when sweet refreshing sleep, without so much as dreaming, strengthened the body, which is yet very weak, but the mind at peace and quiet, appears to hover over a clear and placid ocean without a ripple or bubble on its expansive bosom, and my soul seems to whisper praises to the One Great God - The Creator and Father of all.
During a part of yesterday I could scarcely notice any one, but every word on Earthly sound appeared only as hollow murmurs. My experience being far better than "What peaceful hours I once enjoyed How Sweet their memory yet, But They have left an aching now The world can never fill." For I could and can yet say What peaceful hours I now enjoy, How sweet the precious bliss, Which to my soul celestial streams, The glorious light which angels bring.
Oct 13 Nothing of interest transpiring now. I have been very unwell. Almost any other person would have resigned to their feelings and made the trip to the Hospital, but I had determined to hold up to the last. I am getting better, but am quite reduced in flesh. Liver and lungs both out of fix - Symptoms of typhoid fever, which is now commencing its ravages here. One man died in Co F of our regiment, 3 in the 22 Illinois, Nearly half of the soldiers are sick or unfit for duty.
Oct 14th My health is improving. A soldier in the 8th Illinois sentenced to be shot. Crime, striking a fello soldier with a club, causing his death. A Secesh Streamer came up yesterday bearing a flag of truce. Business not known by any except General Grant, the commander. Twenty Five of our Cavalry were attacked by 150 Secesh Cavalry. One of our men was killed and one or two others were wounded. Secesh loss not known. Three buryings here to day. Oct 16th. Several funerals.
17th A man found floating in the river and being taken out, proved to be a soldier of the 11th Illinois, by the name of Young, who had suicided by jumping into the river 9 days previous. Companies B & H, left at Ironton Mo, returned to day.
18th Nothing Special transpiring. My health still improving. Weather cloudy. A regiment came down the river on the Alek Scott. A man drummed out of our Regiment Charles Gardner Elected 1st Lieut, and W.H. Robinson 2nd Lieunt. Baldwin and Brewer Started home on leave
19th Got a letter from home, family well
20th John Secrist and Jacob Wease died at Mound City Hospital.
21st William Barto a sensible moral and good man - a Spiritualist, died at 8 oclock AM tranquilly and without a struggle. also a man by the name of Johnson of Co G. Thus four men have died in our Regiment this week, and three of them in our company, and this is only Monday.
Oct 22nd Barto and Johnson are to be buried to day. Dream't last night of seeing numerous disembodied Spirits who were endeavoring to develop me as a writing medium. Woke up and found my fingers working as though writing and the nerves of my arms twitching. Went to sleep again and slept sweetly and soundly.
23d My weight this morning is 166. More than half the Soldiers sick. An Orthodox Clergyman visited Brother Barto on Sabbath, to converse with him upon the subject of death and a preparation therefor. He found the old Soldier composed and tranquil as a Summer's sky beneath the setting sum. He was not afraid to meet his fate, which he knew to be at hand, with the shallop and oarsmen ready to convey him over, and said:"If it was the order of nature, he felt resigned and willing to go." The minister urged his mission, but the old philosopher calmly and logically undermined and uprooted his theology, when he, the preacher, had no further arguements to offer, having presented his best, and no more in store, quietly slid away from the dieing Spiritualist, leaving him to the consolations to be given by his angel visitants who were in waiting as his convoy to a more peaceful country and a brighter fairer clime. He died calm and composed as a babe reclines to sleep upon its mother's breast. Not a sigh, not a struggle or a groan, and as the new formed angel took its leave of the old prison house of clay, imprinted on its palid face, a benign and heavenly smile which spoke in language unmistakeable of his future happy distination. In looking at the beautes casket of the departed Spirit, I thought: "Let me die the death of the righteous that my end may be as his."
24th Miller died, making in all four men in our company in four days. Sent a flag of truce down the river, but for what purpose I know not. In passing a Dutch cavalry tent, I saw a man lieing and frothing at the mouth. On enquiring the cause, one of his comrads replied: "Oh, he git sick mit a sickup dat make him falls down every times."
Oct 24th Dreamt last night of seeing Sister Mary leading two beautiful angel children all draped in robes whiter and purer than the light, and Oh, how glorious did sister and the babes appear.
She approached me affectionately and said. "Fear not brother to take your angel sister by the hand." I exteded her my hand with confidence and experienced inexpressable delight in shaking hands with her, and conversing with her about her happy state and spirit home, though she seemed to regret the Skepticism of our friends upon the subject of Spirit manifestations. While we were yet taking, and before I was aware she and the children had disappeared. Three months pay due to day.
25th A soldier of the 22nd Illinois went over to Cairo, got drunk, was arrested by his officers, put on board a Steamer for Bird's Point, but jumped overboard and was drowned.
Oct 26th. Received pay for August. Wrote home and sent $20.00.
27th Dreamt last night that my wife's mother and brother Almon, were to see her, and that as much as they detested me, they could but revere and respect me in their inmost hearts.
28th Dreamt last night of being in a death grapple with an old friend. Instruments Booie Knives. Pretty day. Happy as can be Bob Jones tells me to note the fact of his pants being out in the seat. Saw a soldier leading two small children (his wife on a visit to see him) and asked the privilege of Kissing them. The little white headed cuddies smiled and stuck out their bussers to receive the proffered kiss, which was given with a will, thinking of Togs" and "Poot" at home.
Oct 30th Another of our boats went down the river this morning bearing a flag of truce.
31st Master roll made out General reviewed and Inspection of arms and knapsacks.
Nov 1st Cloudy, wet, dreary and cold.
Nov 2nd. Dreamt last night of seeing Almon and little Peter and of riding in a small raft with brother Loami and Sister Elmira. Slept Sweetly and refreshingly. As strong in the faith of Spiritualism as ever. It is my only hope and real evidence of immortality. Cloudy to day, but no rain. George Mummert talks of starting home this evening. Should he do so, you and I my faithful old companion (Diary) must part for the present, and you be superceded by a new book. But you in rememberance of the past will do your old friend the kindness to visit his family and remember me affectionately to my wife and babies, and remain as hostage with them for my safe return. I may endure untold of hardships and privations, and stand upon many a well contested battlefield; but be you faithful to your trust. Salute my babies, cheer their repinings (if any) of the "old lady", and until my safe return, farewell old servant, but take care of your duty and begimmed---old self. The Mississippi runs due east and the Ohio South East at Cairo, 'by Gunter." Cairo is about the size of Eddyville, and is a perfect sing of sin and corruption. There are thousands of snatch-penny institutions to rob soldiers of means their families need. I obtained a pass to visit Cairo at one time but abandoned the visit and have never been in "the City of Cairo". Some men to their shame visit it almost daily. I never want little hungry stomachs to know at my conscience, nor do I want little tattered books to chill, and frosted toes to tramp upon my heart. Some men having families a public charity at home, shamefully squander all their means. God deliver me from a reckless destruction of morals, character and conscience with health and constitution; rather let me purify the temple and keep it pure, then shall I have strength in the days of conflict for freedom, humanity and the right.
If ever I had a character in the world, above all places, let me preserve it unsullied here, then let me live or die, let it be at my post in the discharge of duty, and with a confidenuit looking to "the recocompense of reward trusting in the guidance of the benign inspiration through the instrumentality of good and blessed angels till the lowering mists shall clear away, revealing of lasting sun-light of freedom and peace So must it be. Cairo, Birds Point and Fort Holt are all opposite and in plain view of each other, the first in Illinois, the next in Missouri and the last in Kentucky--all looking like large tented cities. Birds point (where we are) consists of a hundred acres of land or more heavily intrenched and earth-works thrown up, and surmounted at intervals with heavy cannon. We are under command of General Grant whose Head Quarters is Cairo. Col Oglesly (8th Il) command this Post.Thin canvass houses are getting rather cool for comfort; I tent with Jones,Bonham and Beener. I feel disposed to stick to the neighbor boys in every honest emergency when it is possible for one to do so.
In the event of ----- this shall be Frank's book, Dear boys, let your aspirations and determinations arise high as heaven above the paltry rubbish of the ignorant and sensual Earth - be men! Death before dishonor. Girls be good, affectionate and virtuous, and there lies before you a bright and happy future. Remember a departure from this strict path of rectitude will bring upon you lasting shame and misery. God bless his little white head. Teach him, Frank, and Fremont, patriotism and if necessary have them swear fidelity to liberty and Union, with enmity and lasting hatred to Slavery with all its forms - physical and spiritual of human oppression. Let their motto be, onward with the age of humanity and civilization. They should never falter, be ashamed or afraid to discharge their duty as men.
Nov 3d - Sunday, a beautiful day; nature appears calm, tranquil and smiling in very loveliness - all peaceful, quiet, pensive. The mind naturally reverts homeward in its clinging attachment to the loved ones both socially and consanguimarily. Where will I be in one year from now, and what will be the fate and condition of my country? I have a strong desire, with an abiding faith, to see if personnel entire, and free; hence will stick to the old ship until the last spar is broken, her keel shattered and submerged; then I will cling to the main mast and streamer till rebellion shall engulf the whole.- Engulf did I say? No never!"The union, it must and shall be preserved."
Nov 4th, Sent home thirty dollars. See that the seward is kept green and the flowers blooming above that little grave, where rests a part of my own physical being, the spiritual of which has flowers but not for aye - it is of ten with me yet. John K keep the fence up and the brambles down. You too are interested as well as I. The past has forever flown, the present is ours, but who can peer into the future? "Time like an ever rolling stream, bears all her sons away," "When we've been there ten thousand years, Bright shining as the sun We've no less days to sing Gods praise, Than when we first began." There we shall meet and sing our sufferings o'er and the loved ones of you shall never, no never, part of aim. Oh, blessed, glorious hope of immortality; "it lifts the fainting spirit up", and whe may "gladly reckon all things else but lost", so we are good and with the blessed attain the heavenly goal. My conscience is clear. I feel that I am discharging my duty, to myself, my family, my country and my God. I have a peace and quiet of mind and conscience "this world can neither give, nor take away." I am a Spiritualist but honestly and consientiously so. Who can blame me for believing that which I know? Everyone should think and act for themselves, but with respect to the thoughts and acts of others, not in conflict with the inalienable rights of all and each. Good by old companion (Diary)
The New Book 1861
Nov 7, 1861. In battle of Belmont Mo. Forty of the Co. engaged, namely: 1st Lieut Charles Gardner (Mortally wounded. Died Nov 10) 2nd " Wm H. Robinson Sargt John T. Wallen} " John Wilcox } Wounded Corporal C.G. Renfro x} x Mortally Died Nov 11 " W.H. Evans } " H.C. Nosler } " T.J. Burgoyne} Wounded " J.C. Clark " M.V. Beedle " A. Robb " A.E. Morton Private J.O. Chitister (Mortally Wounded Died Nov 13. " J.J. Scott} " George Noe} " A. Ostler } Killed " J.B. Cornwell} " J.G. Doll } Wounded Private T. Myrick } " B.F. Crispin} " C.M. Sayenby} Wounded " J.Z. Okustead " H.E. Olney " James King " G.W. Sazenby " N. North " Wm Hinduran " C. Schwahn " J. Strange " A.B. Snow " G. Culver " J. Cahill " A.B. Collins " N. Swenson " H. Lawson " J. Hoshinson " J. Mummert " Wm Vance " J.M. Woodruff and " J.N. Zarnes --- 40 In this Bttle, the 7th Dover 22, 27, 30, and 31st Ill Inft' with Taylors Chicago Battery and two Ill Cavalry Squadrons were engaged, the 7th Iowa and 22 Ill suffering more terribly than all others.
Nov 13, Regiment sent to St. Louis to recuperate and recruit.
Nov 16th arrive at Benton Barracks.
Nov 22 Promoted (On vote of Co) to 2nd Lieut. Lieut Robinson sent to Eddyville as a Recruiting Officer.
Dec 4, Capt Irvin left on leave of absence.
Dec 31 Col Sanman (who had been home to have his wounds healed) arrived. Dreamt last-night of dieing and seeing corpse.
[1862]
Jan 13, Left Benton Barracks and embarked on the "Continental", going South; gorged in ice opposite Sulfer Springs same night.
Jan 16 Went ashore on ice and took train for St Louis, quarted over night in the Hall of Commerce. Jan 17 Regt crossed Missisippi partly on ice and partly by ferry, and took train to Cairo where we arrived Jan 19th and Slept over night in cars.
Jan 20th Crossed over to Fort Holt, pitched tents, cut brush to lie on instead of feather-beds & c.
Jan 24, Regt left for Smithland Ky on transport up the Ohio. Arrived Jan 25 and was quarted in tents.
28th Dreamed of seeing my family at home.
29th Sick from exposier on guard the cold night at Saint Louis (Jan 16) Went to Hospital.
Feb 1st Better and returned to quarters. Feb 2, Dreamed of being in a terrible battle, attacking a fort and earth works, going up hill through fallen timber, taking the fort & c. Again home in dreams saw family and neighbors, especially Mrs Anna Dashiel.
Feb 3d Dreamed that the Spirits of two men long since dead - one the murderer and the other the murdered, who asked me to go with them to the treasure for which the murder was committed and it should be mine- Went with them to a spot that I shall recognize should I ever come across it or in some way be guided to it, and there saw them unearth it $5,000 in Old Spanish gold coin, apparently in about $5, pieces all soil begimined and rusty. The excitement awakened me from my dream, to ponder over that which appeared more real than dreaming, until falling asleep. I dreamed the same thing over, and apparently more real than the first time. This time the murderer told me that after murdering his companion for the money and hiding it, an accident had suddenly happened him, since when no one knew of the place or circumstance, but that the money should be mine.
Feb 4 Searched all day inside of Picket Guard for the place where the gold was hid but could not find any place to suit the landscape as seen in the dreams. Think it is on the Cumberland above Smithland - out Side of the Picket line.
Feb 5th Regt embarked on board the Illinois and steam up the Tennesee River.
Feb 6, Fort Henry taken by Gun Boats. Feb 7 Regt go into quarters at Fort Henry. Feb 12, March for Fort Donelson, camped at night in gunshot of the Rebel Fort. Feb 13 Action commenced at 8. AM and lasted all day.
14th Action renewed. Not well. On duty last night as Officer of the guard (weather sleety, snowy & freezing) But am in the action to day
l5 Battle continues -- Gen Smith's Division takes the enemies work on the right by storm.Feb l6 (sunday) The Rebel Fort surrendered with l5,000 prisoners of War. In the Charge of Gawmans Brigade of General Smith's Division 24 the Iowa l4th Iowa & 25 Ind. Capt. Irvin when the charge was being made on the Rebel marks, and before reaching them fled to the rear with part of his Co (II) leaving me to command the balance which I did taking them over and into the enemy's fort, and joining the remnant of Co "D" (after Lieut.... was wounded, to Co "I", commanded both squad, and one company, among those who saw Capt Irvin run, were Sergt May (afterward Captain) A/E. Smith, Co. C. Sergt. Graham Co. H Private W.H. Carlile Co H Sergt Montgomery Co H Private W.E. Gregg Co H besides most of his own company. After surrender (Feb l6) the Union troops quarter in late Rebel Barracks.
March 6 Leave Fort Donelson March 7 Arrive at Mineral Landing on the Tennessee River -- going to camp and wait for transfer taken from below.
March l3. Embark on the "White Cloud, on which is also the 5th Ohio Battery most of whom were old Ohio acquaintances to me, many of the young men having been my pupils in school while teaching in Mercer County in 1849, 50, 51, 52 & l853.
March l4. Arrive at Savannah Tenn March l7 Lieut Robinson started home. His resignation having been accepted Feb 26. March l8th Arrive at Pittsburgh Landing March 20th Disembark and on the Bluff. Saw the old "Lady Pike" which landed myself and family at Keokuk in May l854. March 25 unwell -- Diarhea and symptoms of Typhoid fever. Eat nothing for 3 days -- on sick list.
26th. I am better to day. Capt Irvin for the first time tried to drill his Co. but could not.. In the evening got his Co. wrong and Co in the Regimental line for Drill Parade. 27 Major Rice elected Col and Leut McMullen elected Major
April 2, Sergt Horton arrived. April 6 & 7th Sunday & Monday Battle of Pittsburgh Landing on Shiloh. Capt Irvin again betakes him to the rear, and I command the Company in action..he was not seen at all on Monday. It now comes to light that the sutter goods he has been selling to his own Co. and other soldiers, he stole out of an Illinois Sutter tent during the Battle of Donelson after he ran in on from the engagement and smuggled them through at "Uncle Sam's expense, calling them "Company Baggage".
l3th My health improved by having been in action both days of the great battle. General Hallek arrives.
April 29, Struck tents and moved for Corinth Mils April 30, ten miles from Corinth and camped for the night --still in command of Co II May l Move toward Corinth my health still improving. May 2, Camped last night three miles in advance of the night before. May 3, Move again to Monteray detailed as officer of Picket Guard. Attack expected in front. May 4. Rained nearly all day May 5, rained all night, clear today May 9th Moved nearer Corinth. May l0 Built Breast works May ll. on guard May l3 Moved forward May l5 Skirmishing to the right for last 4 hours, driving the Rebel pickets. May 16 Officer of Picket Guard Heary skirmishing to the right nearly all day. May l7, moved nearer the enemy May l8 Co Paid. Build new Breast works May 20, Attack on our left wing Expenses home $401.00 May 21. Drove in Rebel Picket, and built new Breast works May 31 Corinth evacuation: move 5 miles south of Corinth and camp. No fight..Capt. Irvin returns to command. June 4 moved ten miles south June 6 move again to rear Boonville -- pleasant encampement. June 13 move back within four miles of Corinth and establish "Camp Montgomery" June 30 "Bud" Monumert discharged and started home. July l. on Picket July 2, Charges having been previously prefered against Capt Irvin his trial commenced today. July 7 Testimony in case of Irvin closed. June 12 B. Crispin started home, my health poor Received letter from Mrs. Ann Shurlow, Monroe Mich, who claims to be sister of Peter R. Daly of l5th Mich, killed at Shiloh and from whose finger I took a heavy gold ring, supposing that some good friend would like to have it as a keepsake, and advertised the fact with all known circumstances in Michigan papers. Hence the letter from Mrs. Shurlow asking the ring which I sent her by first mail.
July l4, receive a letter from Miss Ellen Dillon of Hudson Mich who claims to be the betrothed of the late Peter R. Daly, and would like to have the ring which unfortunately had been sent to his siter. Had rather have sent it to his sweetheart, as the tie was doubtful a little more tender. Had formerly after the Battle of Belmont sent keepsakes to the betrothed of my good friends Charley Gardner and Columbus G. Renfro, to the betrothed of the latter Mis Sue Wagle of White Hall Ky, Daughter of Dr. Wagle of that place, finding her to be a lady of superior culture as well as of grateful disposition and an excellent correspondent. I was in correspondence with her, occasionally throughout the years of rebellion. The last heard from her she wrote me that she had been married and that within a month afterward her husband was accidently killed while traveling on a train of cars in Illinois. I never saw the lady, though I often thought I would like to. Our correspondence was only that of friendship, when hers became more and more tender and affectionate, I had but to tell her that I was an old man and had a wife and family. When nothing but friendship was ever after intimated by her or myself. Out of her, with similar correspondence with repentable and cultured ladies who considered themselves under grateful obligations for favors shown their loved ones in sickness and in death, I have been highly, but conselfishly censured by a busy bodies and jealous spirits who should have had..in fact had no real cause of envy. But I find in transcribings from my old diaries my memory runs back and I digress from the literal record. but to return:
July 23, Ajb Bolen, taken captive at Belmont, having been paroled returned to the Regiment, on his way home to Iowa Dreamed of crossing on stream with my Spirit I am alone
July 24, On Picket. Col Rice started to Memphis on military business. 29 Col Rice returned 30 General Court Martial disbanded 31. General Reveal
Aug 7. A soldier in 9th Ill who had just received a letter from a friend (?) that his wife was just delivered of a child, fifteen months after his absence from home, demonstrated the fact that he was a greater fool than his wife was a sinner by going into the woods and hanging himself with a grape vine.
Aug 8 A small band of gurrillas captured and brought into Corrinth. 17 On Picket. Union Brigade moved. l9. Regiment Paid. Dreamed last night of being home and taking a stroll with my children 21. Expenses home $l50.00 22 On Picket Sept 7, This morning at 3 oclock the Division was called out ready for action..Price reported marching on to Corinth. 8, Officer of Guard 9 Detached to Command Co. A on an out Post. l6 Ordered to return with Co A and report it back to the Regiment, Capt Hanna of 50th Ill having been sent with his company to relieve me on out Post. l7, Regiment marched enroute to Inka, rained all day, marched ten miles and camped. l8. marched to Burnsville. l9 Went four miles in evening and camped. 20 Marched to Inka, but was one day too late for the fight, Rosencrans having unintentionally briefed their Pickets a little to strong, brought on a general engagement a day before the trap was to have been sprung to bag the Rebs. Corinth not considered safe from assault by the retreating "Johnies", we were ordered back same day and marched back as far as Burnsville.
21, Back to Camp Montgomery 22, President's Proclamation of Emancipation to be received by telegraph. 24. Habeas corpus suspended, Resignation tendered by reason of Capt. Irvin being restored to command of Co. Considered it humiliating to serve under him as my immediate commander.
Sept 26, Resignation approved. Sept 30. Started home Oct l At Saint Louis Oct 2 At Keokuk Oct 3 At home
Oct 5, (Sunday) Heard a "darn fool" expose his ignorance by attempting to preach to an intelligent audience felt bored but stuck it out to the last.
Oct 6 just heard of the great battle of Corinth on the 3rd ..the day I arrived at Eddyville--the fates intended that I should be at home either in the earthly or spiritual realm--had I not left Corinth the very day I did and on the train I did (the last over the road before torn up by the rebs) I should, I am impressed, been sent to the spirit home by a Rebel missel. As it is so ...mote..it be, but the Spiritual if attained in the discharge of duty (as it would have been) would have been as desirable under all the circumstances as the temporal.
My resignation, it since appears, caused the almost immediate desertion of some of the old company, and the dissatisfaction of all, some threatening to shoot Irvin, which had the affect to drive him by transfer into a negro regiment and his son (who had been promoted over him by his Irvin's influence, and in protestation by written petition of all the enlisted men of the Co., but three) to be detached into the signal Corps, during the balance of the service without promotion.
Irvin's long continued arrest after his trail by court martial was evidense conclusive to every member of the company that he had been found guilty of the charges upon which he was tried, and all had been expecting for more than a month, to hear his sentence read at dress Parade, when all of a sudden the papers were reported lost, and he returned to duty, a humiliation not easily borne by brave men to have a coward, a thief, and one who holds as borrowed money and money in trust, of soldiers killed in battle, and yet trying to conceal the fact even from poor widowed mothers of slain boys in Lincoln Blue, such for example as Aldrich Ostter, who was the first patriot blood of the Regiment shed in the cause of Union and freedom. It now occurs that Irwin had bribed the judge Advocates clerk of the Court Martial and got hold of the papers in his case and destroyed them, when all were waiting for the President's approval or disapproval of them to be read on parade "old Staten Bottle" girds on his sword and marches his company out to again appear himself on parade with brave and honorable men.
His sentence, as I since learn by members of the court martial (since the war) was "Cashier and dismissal from the service," One senseable move of Irvin after the war, was to move away from Eddyville to where he was not known, but the borrowed gold and silver or the widows son (Ostler) will menance him by its clinking for many years to come. Poor little Ostter had carried it that season (just before enlisting) of a farmer in Illinois, by plowing ground and tilling corn, and loaned it to Irvin to come home on leave of absence, shirking Belmont, where poor Charley Gardener in taking his place in command lost his life. I might have done the same; at least risked the same, by commanding his company at Donelson and Shiloh while he was getting himself to the rear; but determined to no longer command his but my own company or Squadron, (and afterward Battalion).
Who could blame one for resigning, to raise a company, as I did on returning home, and after being with them in quarters at Ottumwa over winter, was assigned to the 7th Iowa Calvary and mustered as Capt. Co. B 7th Iowa Cav, at Davenport April 27, l863.
March 12, my birthday, age 38. In barracks at Ottumwa, March 24, started with company to Davenport. March 25, arrived at Davenport by Steamboat from Burlington April 27th lst Battalion Companies A. B.C. & D 7th Iowa Cavalry mustered into service. (Saturday) left Davenport Company having started enroute with all of first Battalion for Omaha Neb (overland) on the 27th of July.
Aug 2, at home with my babies Aug 3 Started to join my cousin and went to Ottumwa for my trunk, attended Lodge in evening at Eddyville. Aug 4 Rained hard last night traveled on horse back, was heavy. Aug 6 (Thursday ) joined Command at Camp Bells near Des Moines Aug 7, on duty as officer of the day. Aug 9, (Sunday) Rained hard all day. Aug ll. Left Camp Bell enroute to Omaha. Aug l9. Arrived at Omaha Neb. Aug 24, Companies A & D started to Ft. Kearney Aug 25, Co. B. Start enroute to St James Aug 29 At Dakota City Aug 30 " " Aug 30 " " Co Mustered Sept l At Ponca Neb Sept 2 Sent l9 men back to Dakota Sept 3 Arrive at St James Sept 4 Sent teams back to Omaha Sept 5 Sent Detachment to Nebraska Sept 24 West with Detachment to Omaha Agency to quell Indian revolt Sept 28 Back to St James Sept 30 Lieut Phillips went to Dakota Oct 13 Unanimous vote for Gov Stone Oct 14 Started to Niobrara Oct l5 At Niobrara Oct 16 Took claim Oct 15 started back to St James Oct l9 Back to St James Oct 20 Head quarters of Co reports at Dakota City Oct 22 Started with command to Dakota Oct 23 Arrived at Dakota Oct 31 Company mustured for pay Nov l sent home $l00 Nov 4 St Phillips Lieut Donah & Comstock to Niabrara Nov l9 At Judge Lockwood's party Nov 24 Sent home $l75 Dec 4 Detachment at Niobrara Killed seven indians in skirmish Dec 4 Destroyed Whiskey nuisance in Dakota City Dec 8 Lieut Comstock returned from Niobrara
1864
Jan l, Friday at Eckhart's new year's party Jan 4 Thermometer 30 below zero Feb 2 "Birdie" taken sick (croup) Feb 8 "Birdie" passed over at five moments after l0 o'clock PM Feb ll At Sioux City Feb 12 my birthday..39 years old Feb 12 Co paid by Maj Burbank Feb 14 Expressed home $300 Feb l6 Started to Omaha on buckboard traveled all night Feb l7 At Omaha, dinesd with Col Patrick Feb l7 General Mitchell also arrived Feb 18 called on Lieut Wilcox of Regular Army Feb 21 Met Capt Lee of 52 Ill in Masonic lodge == snowed all day Feb 23 Left Omaha Feb 24 Back to Dakota City Apr 2 Went fishing with Seine. Caught half a wagon load of fine fish Apr 5 Started to Niobrara stand first Apr 5 night at Ponca Apr 6 Stand all night at St James Apr 6 visited all out posts Apr l0 Arrived at Niobrara Apr 11 Looked at my "West" land Apr 12 Went to see my claim bought " tour lots Apr 13 Started back to Dakota Apr 13 At St Helena Apr l5 Trial with Loveland before Esgn Nissen Apr l6 At Ponch Apr l7 Back to Dakota Apr l9 400 Winebagos in canoes stopped and were rationed and sent to Omaha agency May 2 Van Camp's moved went with them to Decatur May 3 At Indian Council at Iowa Agency May 4 Back to Dakota City May 8 Co A (Capt Murphy) came to Dakota May l5 Co B Started to Niobrara May l8 Arrived at Niabrara May 27 Visited Ponca Agency in Dakota Territory " Back to Niabrara " Company ordered to Ft. Kearney May 29 Left Niabrara enroute to Fort Kerney May 30 At Ponca May 31 At Dakota City June 5 3 Indians killed near Dakota City June l6 Left Dakota for Kearney June 24 Opposite Fort Kearney " River swimming high June 27 Swam River June 27 At Fort Kearney June 30 Company mustered for pay July 2 Gen Mitchell & Col Summers arrived. July 5 Mrs Lidi Vancamp passed enroute from Omaha to Central City July 7 Major Irish passed enroute to Salt Lake July 23 Went on Scout to the Republican July 26 Returned from Scout July 27 One year since the Co started from DAvenport July 30 Ordered to Julesburgh July 31 Started to Julesburgh July 31 Caldwells wagon train attacked at Rock Creek Colorado. Five persons killed. Mother and child murdered & scalped and daughter taken captive for a worse fate. Three wagons burned. Ten horses stolen. Mrs. Mary Tibbetts of Columbus Ohio an eye witness. Aug 2 At Plum Creek Aug 5 Saw 200 Sioux warriors Aug 6 At Cottonwood Aug 7 " Aug 8 At Spring Creek Aug l0 Meet General Mitchell & escort Aug ll Diamond Springs Aug ll Ordered to stop trains Aug 12 At Julesburgh Aug l3 Trains allowed to pass with 60 men or more when armed Aug l4 Col Vann & Maj Owen arrived enroute to Montana Aug l7 McKean started Aug l8 Col Tappan Started Aug 25 Ordered and started to Fort Kearney Aug 27 Trouble with Frenchmen & rebels at Jack Morrows ranche. Aug Arrived at Cottonwood Aug 28 Skirmish with 40 Indians who escaped across Platte river Aug 29 Arrive at Plum Creek where troops are gathering for expedition under Generals Curtin & Mitchell. Aug 31 Company Mustered Sept 3 Started on Expedition..camped on Republican 40 miles Sept 4 Marched 24 miles, camped on Beaver Creek Sept 5 Marched l5 miles, camped on Little Beaver Sept 6 Marched 30 miles, camped on Small Creek Sept 7 Marched 20 miles, camped on Turkey Creek. Company detached and sent with Indian guide,, on scout to Solomon River Sept 8 Command divided - Gen Curtis goes East and Gen Mitchell goes West, Joined Gen Mitchel's command in eve. Sept 9 Marched 40 miles, camped Beaver Lost two horses today & two yesterday Sept l0 Marched 25 miles. Camped on the republican opposite mouth of Medicine Lake Creek Sept ll Cross Republican & go into camp Companies A & C Sent up the River on a Scout. Sept 12 Marched 40 miles up Medicine Lake Creek Sept l4 Harwell died in Hospital Sept l5 Marched 20 miles arrived at Cottonwood Sept l7 Started to Ash Hollow Sept l8 At Bakers Ranche Sept l9 At Alkali Sept 20 At Beauveaux's Sept 21 At Ash Hollow Sept 22 Command went on N. Platte on N. Side of River. Co B of the Co passed down the Ridge dividing the Platte's. Eiza's Birthday. Sept 24 At. Jack Morrow's Sept 26 Company detached and sent to O'Fallow's Bluffs, where Capt Wilcox, acted in the four-fold duty of Squadron Commander, Post Commander Commissary & Quartermaster. Sept 28 Went South on Scout Sept 29 Marched all night and returned at early down. Oct ll Tuesday Election -- all Republican Oct l5 Expressed home $75 Oct l6 On Scout 60 miles South Oct l7 Return Nov 8 Tuesday Election Unanimous for Lincoln.
1865
Jan 2 Thomas Parker mustered as 2nd Lieut Jan 5 Lieut Parker mustered in lst & Akin as 2 Lieut Jan 7 Julesburg attacked by Indians Jan ll Started to Cottonwood to go on expedition
Jan l5 Started on Expedition from Cottonwood. American Station attacked Mr. Morris & two others killed, Mrs. Morris and 2 children taken captives. Morris killed 12 Redskins before they dispatched him. Jan l6 Camped on Mud Creek Jan l7 Camped on Willow Creek Jan l8 Stinking water Jan l9 Camped on Republican Jan 21 Scouts returned from up river & reported Indians gone north. Jan 22 Down Republican to mouth of Willow Creek. Killed one Buffalo. Jan 23 Down to mouth of Medicine Lake Creek - 35 miles Jan 24 Up Medicine Lake Creek 35 mi Jan 25 Up Medicine Lake Creek 20 miles Jan 26 At Cottonwood 27 At O'Fallans Bluffs again Jan 28 Two Scouts sent out yesterday did not return. Jan 31 Scouts sent out returned & said no Indians Jan 31 Julesburgh attacked. l6 Soldiers killed. Stage Station and Telegraph office burned. Jan 1 Paid by Maj Burbank Orders to march to Julesburgh Jan 2 Started Company - Staid myself to set things in order at Post before going. Jan 3 Started to join command, leaving Lieut Parker and squad in charge of Post. Staid all night at Alkali. Expressed home $700. Jan 4 Joined command at Julesburg Jan 5 Went up South Platte as far as Lillian Springs 7 miles of telegraph destroyed by Indians. Indians cross river at two Butes and go north. Feb 6 Returned to Julesburgh Feb 7 llth Ohio Co fought Indians at Mud Springs on North Platte. Feb 8 Detached and sent in command of ll0 men and one piece of artillery to repair telegraph line between Julesburgh & Mud Springs. --65-- miles poles all cut down and burned. ll Ohio had an other engagement. Feb 9 " " " " Indians crossed Pole Creek Six miles below upper crossing trail mile wide. Feb l0 At Pole Creek crossing. llth Ohio joined us and went into camp together Edward Good died in Hospital. Feb ll llth Ohio started back to Fort Laramie. Feb 12 At Mud Springs Feb l3 Cut telegraph poles on Spring Creek. Feb l4 Loaded wagon train with wood. Saw Chimney Rock, and was part way up on Court House rock. Feb l5 Telegraph repaired, Started back to Julesburgh. Feb l6 Camped opposite Julesburgh, ice poor, wind high and night storing. Feb l7 Crossed river by noon and started enroute to O'Fallons Bluff, camped at Beauveaux's Feb l8 At Alkali Feb l9 Back to O'Fallons Bluffs. Gone l8 days marched 400 miles and repaired 27 l/2 miles of telegraph line destroyed by Indians. Feb 21 Ten recruits assigned to Co. B. Aggregate of Co l03 Officers and enlisted men. March l Col Collins llth Ohio passed down the road March 4 "Uncle Abe" takes his seat for four years more. March 5 Ordered on 90 days expedition March 7 Started on expedition, Camped at Alkali. 25 miles Mr 8 At Beaveaux 25 miles March 9 At Julesburgh 25 miles March 12 Sunday, Birthday. Aside among the Hills. Col Bonner lst Neb arrives March l5 Left Julesburgh under command of Col Bonner, crossed Platte enroute to Fort Laramie camped on Pole reek at "Guide Ranche." March l6 Marched 26 miles - camped at upper Pole Creek crossing March l7 Marched 28 miles camped at Mud Springs. March l8 Marched 35 miles, climb & stood at Court House Rock., camped at Fickland Station. March 19 Passed Scotts Bluffs & Fort Mitchell, camped at Horse Creek. March 20 Marched 40 miles, arrived at Fort Laramie. March 21 Fitted up, and went into quarters. March 22 H. Lithgo telegraph operator on my list of friends. March 23 Went to Indian Camp with officers. Saw Spottedtail and Swift Bear Sioux Chiefs and talked with them. March 28 Major Mockey llth Ohio entered upon my list of special good friend. March 31 Review by Col Bonner Apr l9 Went to Larimie Peak with Col Bonner, Lieut Hance & small detachment of Cavalry. Apr 20 West 12 miles south of Laramie Peak Apr 21 Hunted till evening then returned to Peak with two elk and one deer. Apr 22 Returned to Fort Laramie -- 60 miles Apr 23 "Big Crow" hanged. Apr 25 Col Moonlight llth Kansas Cavalry arrives with his Regiment. Apr 26. Col Moonlight assumes command of North Sub Dist of the Plains. Apr 27 Went in command of detachment on a Scout North of the North Platte. Apr 28 Recrossed Platte at mouth of Bitter Cottonwood Creek--go ten miles up creek, then go south to Laramie River. Apr 29 Return to Fort Laramie Apr 30 Sunday, Mustered for pay by Maj Majors of Mt. Neb. May 2 Ordered for expedition May 3 Left Fort Laramie and marched up North Platte on overland wagon road. Mar 4 Camped on Horseshoe Creek. May 5 " " Laparel Creek May 6 " 6 miles above Deer Creek Station May 7 Arrived at Platte Bridge May 8 Left Platte Bridge in command of one of the three Battalions under Col Moonlight. Went north on Bridger Cutt off Leaving Platte at the Red Butes. Snowed and rained all night the first night out. May 9 Camped on Antelope Creek. Snowed all day and all night. No fuel but Sage brush for camp fires. May l0 Camped on Lick Creek -- Sage brush, Creek wood and Alkali. May ll Marched 50 miles over Sandy plain and alkali beds. Passed over tributaries of Powder River and along the Powder River & Wind River ranges of mountains. Camped on a desert plain in view of Fremont Peak. May 12 Camped on Spring Creek good grass and water. May l3 Command Divided. My Battalion being left to my immediate command. I selected best grass and water in the mountain canyons to recuperate both horses and men. Boy killed more antelope and mountain Sheep than would have provisioned them a month, if taken care of. Lived Sumptiously and had a merry time in rolling large stones down the mountain to hear them crash among the pines.
May l4 Marched l5 miles along the base of Willow Creek mountains and camped in cannon. Saw Bear's Paw there Mountain Sheep and antelope, with head of Buffalo in the distance, on plain. Here "Ed" Vance wounded a bear and came near being taken in by it, but escaped only to be killed by one in a similar encounter a few years afterward. May l5 Camped on Antelope Creek. Took Croup Colic and came near dying only saved by black pepper of which some soldier had wisely considered and taken it along. May l6 Back to Platte at Red Butes " 17 Crossed Platte Bridge and camped on Muddy Creek. " l8 at Love Cottonwood. -- l3 miles " l9 " Big Box Elder -- 24 " " 20 " Labonta Creek -- 26 " " 21 " Platte River -- 25 " " 22 Back to Fort Laramie - 30 " " 26 Blackfoot & Two Face hanged at Fort Laramie. May 28 Mill party at Laramie Peak attacked and Stock run off by indians June 8 Capt John A. Wilcox, Regular army arrived at Fort Laramie June l0 Ordered to O'Fallow Bluffs June ll Started under Capt Fouts Comm and of l40 enlisted men and 5 Commissioned officers, with l85 Lodges of Sioux Indians 2000 or more Indians among were 500 or 600 Warriors including a volunteer Company of Sioux armed and uniformed, by the Government and really commanded by the Chiefs Spotted-tail, Red-Cloud, Standing Elk & Swift-bear who were also along. I urged Capt Fouts to have the Indians disarmed before starting with them from Fort Laramie, but he persisted that the Indians were friendly, and that there was no danger. In Truth Col Moonlight who gave the order for their removal to Julesburgh, should have had them disarmed before putting them with Capt Fout's charge. Capt Fouts even issued to them ammunition to hunt with along the road, and was lax in guard duty--even at night. But I with my men detachments of Cos B & A kept my own guard and all of us slept together upon our arms well loaded and Cartridge Boxes well filled.
June l4, On the 4th morning--at Horse Creek the Indians revolt and kill Capt Fouts and one soldier. The command delivering upon me. I saved it, with three families of women and children, including Mrs. Eubanks and child--retaken from the indians as captives, for months among them, and Capt Fouts' family and the wife of Lieut. Griggs; and only saved the said command after a desperate fight in which I took the defensive. Our loss was 4 killed & several wounded The Indians' loss was estimated at not less than 20 killed. The Indians including the entire Enlisted company (engaged in the fight against us, Swann the Platte and escaped to the north. Col Moonlight telegraphed me to Swim my command across the Platte (then high) and follow the Indians, which after consulting with all my commissioned officers, determined to not do, as we would have got our ammunition wet & drowned some of the men and horses.
So I went in the direction of Julesburgh and reported to General Connor with my command; while Col Moonlight (Ben Big Gen) crossed the Platte on a Ferry at Fort Laramie and was surprised at daylight the second morning out, by the same indians who stampeded his horses -- Stole every hoof and sent him and his entire command--200 men back to the fort on foot. I was highly commended by Generals Connor & Dodge, while Col Moonlight was discharged the service. In the language of General Dodge "To have done otherwise than did Capt Wilcox, under the circumstances, would have been to lose the entire command in a general massacre, either in the wagon corral and entrenched defense (made after the action began) or to have refused to cross a river at swimming stage, and by swimming in the near, and watchful presence of an enemy greatly superior in numbers, an enemy that could not be successfully met in open field.
When the Indians fired upon the command, it was discovered that not a carbine or revolver was loaded in Capt Fauts' company, nor was there a cartridge in their cartridge Boxes. The explanation was that the Capt had so ordered, as the cartridges would wear out if carried in the cartridge boxes. This revolt and battle was on the South side of North Platte near the mouth of Horse Creek 40 miles below Fort Laramie and was called Battle of Horse Creek.
June 15 Buried dead and destroyed Indian Lodges which had been abandoned or left in crossing the Platte. June l6 At Fort Mitchell June l7 " Chimney Rock June l8 " Mud Springs June l9 " Pole Creek Crossing. June 20 " Nine mile Ranch June 21 " Julesburgh. Reported in person to General Connor, Commander of Dist of the Plains. June 22 Mrs Eubanks took coach for Illinois. Her husband with others were killed and she captured by indians at Little Blue Station in Kansas in l864. June 23 Leave Julesburgh enroute to O'Fallons Bluffs. June 24 At Alkali June 25 Back to O'Fallons Bluffs. June 26 Went to Cottonwood on business Lieut Akin goes on escort duty to Fort Kearney. July 8 Lieut Parker started to St. Laramie Heath assumes command of 7th Iowa Cavalry. July 9 Lt Akin returned from Ft. Kearney July ll Went to Cottonwood on business July l4 Back to O'Fallons Bluffs. July l6 Wm Osborn Co C.2 Mo was lost on ... Fork. July 20 Stock above and below O'Fallons Bluffs, stolen from trains. July 21 In dreams see a friend in a distant State Sick and dangerously sick. Write and find the dream to be literally true as seen and at the time seen, when I had no former knowledge of the sickness or ill health of the person dreamed of. July 22 Guards fire on maurading indians at early dawn. July 23 Dreamed all night of the severe illness of the person dreamed of two nights ago. Even said in vision the attendants in the room of the sick sufferer. July 26 Platte Bridge Station attached Lieut Collins Co M. llth Ohio (son of Col Collins) killed. July 28 Lieut Parker returned from Fort Laramie. Began the erection of Fort Heath near O'Fallons Bluffs. July 30 Sabboth. To me ever sacred day -- twas on a Sabbath my heart was first inspired and filled with unutterable love -- twas on Sabbath I vowed constant and undying love to her I call wife. July 31 Anniversary pleasant rememberance. Aug l Two years since I left Davenport enroute to the Plains. Aug l4 Company inspected by Lieut Donaphan lst Neb Aug 21 General Dodge and Staff arrive, complimented for condition of Company and quarters Aug 27 Co paid by Maj Alustedt " Expressed home $500 " 31 Company mustered " Gov Durkee and Secretary of State F.H. Head of Utah arrive, and remain two days as my special guests.--very pleasant and -intelligent gentlemen. Sept 5 On Scout with Lieut Akin to Mud Creek, made circuit in hills -- crossed our own tracks of an hour before and saw first pony tracks in rapid pursuit after them. Lighted out in a hurry, night setting in shortly we eluded and then narrowly escaped an unequal encounter with the wiley foe. -- traveled all night by north Star and got in to O'Fallons in the early morn, tired, sleepy & hungry. Sept 13 James Houser Deserted. " " James Kuypers returned to Company. " 22 5th U.S. Passed up the road. " " Daughter Lide's birthday -- is 21. " 24 On Scout up Bird Creek, North of the North Platte. " 25 Train of 200 returning mountain pilgrims attached on Pole Creek & 107 horses and mules Stampeded and stolen. " 27 Wm Osborn Co C. 2nd Mo found on Loup Fork, by Co E. 7th Iowa Cav. Had been lost since July l6, lived on insects and prickly pears -- was nearly starved. July 30 Train attacked near Bakers Ranche. James R. Temple Killed, and Anthony Shilling, James Euland and Alfred Acres wounded. Buried the dead, and brought in the wounded to O'Fallons Bluffs next day..6 miles to Bakers Ranche. Oct 21 Train attacked at Lilling Springs Colorado. One man killed, 3 wounded. 9 Indians Killed. Left for Julesburgh on personal business. Oct 22 Alkali attacked, 2 soldiers killed -- lst Neb Train Burned and several men killed 6 miles above Alkali. Arrive at Julesburgh Oct 23 Business done, telegraph Gov Stone and Start back enroute to O'Fallons Bluffs again Travel on horseback with 3d US Cavalry to Bearvaux. Oct 24 Thence borrowed a horse of Capt Crenner who furnished an escort to within 12 miles of Alkali, whence I undertook (being well armed with carbine & brace of revolvers) to make a foot and alone. When half the distance was made and when near the burning train of two days before, I was assailed at nearly night fall by three Indians, which after I had repulsed was being rapidly reinforced from the adjacent hills & from beyond the Platte. Seeing just before me a depression from the hills, crossing the road, and seeing that the fog (rainy evening) in settling in the depression would hide me until the savages would look for me to emerge from it on the road, so instead of following the road, as soon as engulfed in fog.
Ran with all my might into the hills and dodged as soon as possible from that draw into another -- from one break or depressed to another until secure in a hole or low place in the hills where I laid down as low as possible to hear the Indians ponies hoofs clatter up the depression or draw, where I had just been and heard them shoot near me and at something they had mistaken for me. Knowing that it would not do to venture upon the road again, I laid still till all was quiet, and then stole my way in the direction of Alkali, following the divide back of the hills until I thought I was about Alkali, and then struck in for the river and soon saw the camp fires of gathering troops for an expedition, and got into camp at l o'clock A.M. Oct 25 Back to O'Fallons Bluffs on Stage coach under escort Oct 27 Gen Heath arrived Dreamed last night --26, that the heavens were dark and cloudy, without a star to be seen. While gazing heavenward one clear azure spot opened in the heavens and lo! a single bright and beautiful star in its twinkling cheered my heart with joy. Oct 28 Lieut Akin and detachment of Co left on expedition Another train attacked near Alkali and four men killed. Oct 29 Troops (48 men) pursue Oct 30 Overtake whip & kill 20 Indians on White mans Fork, These 48 men -- detachment of Heaths command killed all the Indians that were killed on his expedition for which he claimed so much credit. Co B. & lst Neb did the fighting. Nov l Train attacked and 2 men killed at Land Hill Station. Nov 3 Detachment returned from expedition Nov 9 Alkali again attacked Nov l0 Col Fleming Va Cav started on expedition Nov l5 Company Inspected by Lieut Donovan Nov l7 Major Majors visited O'Fallon's Bluffs Nov l8 General Wheaton arrived Nov 22 Col O.H. Irish (Indian Agent) and lady passed down Nov 26 Received orders to send men whose terms of service had expired, to be mustered out Nov 27 Commissioned Major of 7th Iowa Cavalry Nov 28 33 men start home Nov 29 Went on coach to Cottonwood Dec 2 Back to O'Fallons Bluffs Dec 3 Unwell, have eat nothing for five days. Dec 4 Better -- eat some to day Dec 5 Russell & wife start for the States Dec 6 Clear -- Sun dazzling and ground white. Feel lonely, wish I could see my babies at home. Dec l5 Ordered to Omaha Dec l7 Started to Omaha Dec 20 Arrive at Omaha Dec 25 Dined with Dr Van Camp & lady in Omaha Dec 28 At Fort Kearney Dec 29 At Cottonwood
1866
Jan l A judge McDonalds for Supper -- Ball in evening. Jan 6 Start on Expedition in command of a Battallion composed of Six companies of 7th Iowa Cavalry, and numbered Second Battallion, under Col Brown Mo Cav. Maj Majors lst Neb commanding lst Battallion and a Major of Col Bowns Regiment commanding the 3rd Battalion. Marched 22 miles and camped at head of Medacine Lake Creek Jan 7 Marched 22 miles and camped on Mitchell's Fork Satchell Stolen with all my under clothing for change on expedition Sunday. Jan 8 Eight miles camped on Rankins Farm. Jan 9 Foggy, guides lost, marched five miles camped on Medicine Lake Creek. Dreamed last night of being in a magnificent temple and seeing my name high up in the dome. Lieut Belden lost today. Two elk killed by detailed hunters for Expedition. Jan 10 Marched ten miles, camped on Browns Fork - day clear 2 Elk & one Buffalo killed Bridged creek at Buxkada's Bute. Lieut Belden still lost. Jan ll Marched l5 miles - day foggy guides and command lost Lieut Belden joined command. Camped on Republican at mouth of Medicine Lake Creek - 12 Buffalo killed. Evening cold & windy. Jan 12 Marched 4 miles down river established camp Wheaton. Build Commissary and Hospital building cabins. Jan 13 Supply train started back to Cottonwood under escort of soldiers. Jan 16 Buffalo killed for mess by "Buxkada" -- Maj Majors. Scouts have a fight with Indians on Blackwater. Jan 17 Scouting parties all returned Jan 18 Ordered back to Cottonwood. Jan 19 Too cold to move. Jan 20 Orders to return countermanded. Jan 21 Sent for Forage. Sunday Jan 22 A supply train came in Jan 23 Two scouting parties sent out. Mail came by courier Jan 24 Mail Courier sent to Cottonwood Jan 28 Sunday, Rolly of Co "H" killed on Blackwater, other scouts barely escaped. Jan 29 Sergt Hiles (Scout) lst Neb returned. Cross Transportation wagons over Republican River. Jan 30 Started on Expedition to Solomon River, Marched 22 miles camped on Big Beaver Jan 31 Marched l5 miles, camped on Blackwater. Feb l Marched l8 miles, camped on Prarie Dog Creek. Feb 2 Marched 25 miles, camped on Solomon River, Big Indian trail going down stream, several days old. Buffalo came though camp gored and killed a horse & was pierced by twenty bullets -eat up before morning Feb 3 Followed trail down river l5 miles. Issued Subsistence Feb and ammunition and sent wagon train back. Feb 4 Sunday, Snow Storm, high wind and very cold. Went one mile to willow thicket and took shelter in thick brush to keep from freezong to death. Feb 5 Marched l8 miles down Solomon, lost Indian trail covered by snow, camped in timber & thick brush. Buxkada killed a Buffalo. Feb 6 Scouts sent out - found trail 8 miles up stream leaving Solomon and traveling North West Feb 7 Expressed from Leavenworth by U.S. Paymaster $550. to my home at Eddyville. Dreamed last night of graduating and returning well clad to my father's house and of dispensing presents to numerous beautiful children who clustered around me. Marched 30 miles camped on Prairie Dog Creek. Engraved my name on a high rock in a romantic place. Feb 8 Marched 30 miles, camped on Big Beaver. Feb 9 Dreamed last night of delivering an animated lecture on Spiritualism. arrived at Camp Wheaton. Feb ll Sunday. Dreamed last night of seeing in good health, a friend I twice dreamed of seeing dangerously sick. And afterward found the dreams to be literally true. Feb 12 Snowed last night. Started for Cottonwood. Marched l5 miles, camped on Brown's Fork Weather very cold. Feb 13 Marched 25 miles camped on Medicine Lake Creek Feb l4 Very cold, remained in Camp and built large log fires to keep command from freezing. Col Bown and Lieut. Potter (Expedition Adjutant) bundled up and went in to Cottonwood. Feb 15 3 of Co H deserted. Feb 16 Indians fired into Camp at 1 a.m. and skedadled. A Company of Regulars from Major Majors' Battallion sent back to Camp Wheaton Lieut Hance sent to Cottonwood with train. Lieut. Dye again came with train of supplies. Weather pleasant. Feb 17 Explored Creek valley for several miles, accompanied by Lieut DeLay. Feb 18 Started again for Cottonwood Marched 25 miles, camped on North Medicine Lake Creek Feb 19 Monday. Marched l9 miles arrived at Cottonwood from whence the expedition started. Feb 20 Expeditionary troops disbanded. Ordered back to take command of 3 companies of the 7th Stationed at O'Fallons Bluff. Feb 21 Back to O'Fallons Bluffs. Feb 23 Lieut Tom Potter arrived with his Co A. Got a Captain's Commission for him shortly afterward. Feb 25 Sunday Inspected command and quarters. Feb 28 Mustered companies A, B, & G. 7th Iowa Cavalry Lieut Akin went to Cottonwood with condenced Ordinance Invoiced to A.G.M of date March l. March 4 Sunday. Inspected command.
March 6 Went on Scout north of the Plattes with Capt Terry. Capt Parker married to Miss Minnie Rodgers March 7 Dr Mathews (Expedition Surgeon) went up to Alkali Mar ll Sunday, Visited Bishop's Ranche Mar 12 My birthday Mar 13 Two men killed in coach near Alkali -- a personal affair between passengers. Mar l9 Went to Cottonwood Mar 21 Back to O'Fallons Bluffs Capt Parker ordered to Fort Kearney for trial by court martial for shooting and killing Clark Mar 24 Three years since the Company left Ottumwa Mar 25 Three years since they landed at Davenport. Mar 30 Ordered with 7th Iowa into camp at Cottonwood Mar 31 7th Iowa squadron relieved by lst Neb. Apr l Left O'Fallons Bluffs marched 21 miles camped at Morrows Ranche April 2 Arrive at Cottonwood (Fort McPherson) with Companies A.B. & G. on Island. Apr 4 Companies C & D arrive assume command of the whole Apr 5 Col Fleming, 6th West Va relieved by Major Norton 6th U.S. Apr 8 Co F. Arrived Apr 9 Ordered to Leavenworth with 7th Cavalry Party given to officers Ball at night. Apr l0 Started enroute to Leavenworth Marched l5 miles, camped at Gilmans Ranche. Apr ll Marched 30 miles, camped at Pat Mollaby's ranche Apr 12 30 miles -- Fred Smith's Ranche Apr 13 At Kearney Apr l4 Horses inspected Apr l5 Dined with Harris Maj David arrives Apr l7 David assumes Command and by seniority of Commissioned Apr l8 Snow Storm, Major Majors lst Neb arrives Apr 20 Rained Apr 21 Horses turned over to A.G.M Col Heath arrives, meets a cold reception from his Regiment Apr 23 Left Fort Kearney, marched l0 miles, camped at Dog town. Apr 24 l8 miles. Big Muddy Apr 25 34 miles Little Blue Apr 26 22 miles Lt Whitlook's Ranche Apr 27 9 miles Thompson's Ranche Apr 28 21 miles big Sandy Apr 29 20 miles Rock Creek Apr 30 l8 miles Seventeen mile point over line into Kansas May 1 Crossed Big Blue at Mazzard camped on Little Vermilion Traveled 27 miles May 2 30 miles, Nimaha River met l8th U.S. Cav l3 Mo came up with us May 3 27 miles, Walnut Creek May 4 20 miles Little Grass Hopper May 5 21, sunday at Leavenworth May l6 Muster out Rolls made out, approved & accepted May 17 Regiment Mustered out Had the honor to march the Regiment out and form it on Parade ground, preparation to muster out by companys. Gave the last command to the 7th Iowa Cavalry as a regiment. May l8 Embarked on "Emma" (Steamboat) at 7 p.m. Disembarked at Weston Mo.. took cars to St Joseph..Staid over night. May l9 Took cars for Hannibal at 6 a.m. Arrived at Hannibal at 6 p.m. and staid over night. May 20 Embarked on Sueker State at 8 a.m. May 21. Arrived at Davenport Iowa May 22 Waiting for Paymaster May 24 Paymaster arrived May 25 Regiment Paid to include May 24, l866 Expressed home $500 May 26 Gen O'Brien arrived May 27 Sunday, Rainy & Gloomy May 29 Left Davenport at noon Enrout to Eddyville, on "Keithsburgh" Staid over night at Burlington. May 30 Left Burlington at 5 a.m. on B & M R.R. and arrived at Eddyville at 2 p.m. and at home at 6 p.m. having been in the army five years lacking one month.
Contributed by Great Grand Daughter |
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