Logansport Journal
January 18, 1862
FROM THE WABASH REGIMENT.
CAMP WICKLIFFE
January 9, 1862
The march on the 6th from the camp near Bardstown, was very unpleasant. – It rained the greater part of the day. – After commencing the ascent of Muldraugh’s Hill it became cold, which increased in degree as we progressed. The rain turned to a misty snow, but by 11 A. M. it ceased. Muldraugh’s Hill appeared in the distance soon after leaving camp. It is a range of hills of over 400 miles in extent. It consists of spurs or hills much like the mountains of Western Virginia. The turn pike is constructed around and over the knobs.
The town of New Haven, ten miles from the last camp, was reached by 11 o’clock. It is a small affair, in a valley hidden by mountains. The rolling fork of Salt River runs just north of the town which is crossed by an old fashioned bridge. From the town, three miles beyond, the road was very muddy – in many places over shoe-top. Every thing had a most cheerless and dismal appearance. The road was filled with wagons, hauling provisions south or returning, or hauling wood for the several camps in the vicinity. The drivers and accompanying soldiers looked half frozen, and the people at the houses by the way, evidently felt the cold in a degree seldom experienced.
Three miles north of New Haven, the regiment stopped to await the return of those who went ahead to look out a ground. By 1 o’clock the regiment was again in motion, and, after a march of a mile encamped in a large field on the banks of Knob Creek. The encampment was sheltered by the largest hills – one of which was immediately in rear of the road, which alone separated it from the camp. Its steep sides were soon occupied by the men, who made the old hills resound as they rolled down huge logs for their fires. Some of them set fire to a dead tree on the very summit, which burned all night, much to the surprise, perhaps, of persons miles away.
The night was severely cold, and the men suffered considerably. Good Union men live at each end of the camp ground. The one on the north, a gentleman of considerable refinement named Wilson, had command of the Home Guards, when Buckner made his demonstration on Louisville, and rendered important service at that critical period. The other, named Boone, freely offered his land and his house to the regiment. To both these gentlemen man of the officers are indebted for such hospitality as is only to be found in this State.
The march to-day was 14 miles. The men stood it well, though many, who had recently been sick, suffered some.
On the 7th, as we had only 7 miles to make, the Colonel proposed to start at 8 o’clock, and notified Col. Slack, who was encamped half a mile ahead, to that effect. In the orders, the 46th had been put in advance, and Slack committed a breach of military etiquette in passing us, and had no right to start before us in the morning, but the Colonel declared his intention of starting early and ahead if necessary, and so he did. We left at 7 and found he had gone. He had encamped on the very spot President Lincoln was born, and where, but a few years ago, the blacksmith shop where his father worked stood. Men now live in the neighborhood who remember Lincoln and recount his waggish tricks.
On the 7th, the thermometer was 15˚. The march of 7 miles was more complained of than that of the day previous. We reached the first camp of troops, about 10 o’clock, and our own ground, after some delay, at about 11. We turned into a woods of small timber, and with a wet, cold clay soil. It was covered with frozen leaves, but as the wood was plenty, it was a very acceptable location. A small spring runs behind the encampment – affording a scant supply of water. There are about 15 regiments here. They extend along and on both sides of the road, for a little over a mile. Gen. Nelson’s quarters are in a brick house at the southern extremity. The road runs between two hills, and the encampments are a little back from it. We are now about on the top of the “Hill.” From Louisville to Bardstown, the ascent is regular but not rapid. From our last camp to this point, the grades are very abrupt, and we must be hundreds of feet above the elevation of Louisville.
We are 25 miles from Breckinridge’s camp, whose heavy guns we hear every day, in practice. We are that near secessionism, which is making some progress. It would be singular if Breckenridge happens to be the first of the enemy met by the 46th under Colonel Fitch. Colleagues in the Senate, particular friends in social life, and of the same school of politics, it would be strange if the first hostile movements of both should be against each other. But the war does such things, and even more noticeable cases have occurred.
This is the advance post on this line. – There is no force between us and the enemy. Yesterday Company A, went south 5 miles, as picket guard. They have not yet returned.
The department here seems to be in great confusion. There are no commissary supplies adequate, and no prospect of an improvement. Within hearing of the enemy’s guns, we have not a single piece of artillery. Our regiment is far from being properly equipped. Not one half of the guns are available, and notwithstanding all the efforts of the Colonel the deficiency cannot be made up. – We have no ambulances – no black-smith shop – no oven and many other very necessary articles are absolutely wanting. – To day the regiment has been an entire day without bread, and to night – after dark 80 pounds of flour were issued to each company. In the mud and rain this has to be made into bread, the character of which may be understood, when the material and the facilities for cooking, are remembered. Provisions have to be hauled from New Haven, 11 miles, but even then there is not a sufficiency. There is a big screw loose in the general commissary department.
The 8th opened clear and pleasant. – Companies turned out to drill, but were met by an order from head quarters, announcing their would be no drill, in honor of the anniversary of the battle of New Orleans. At 2 o’clock rain commenced again which has continued up to this time. The ground has already been trampled into mud, and has become very unpleasant.
There are no indication as to the length of our stay here, but it would seem, from the lack of necessaries, that we are good for ten days at least. When a forward movement is made we will with it, but none can say when it will be.
When we left the camp near Bardstown the sick were sent there into the Hospital. There was no serious cases, but it was thought best not to expose them by the march. Capt. Spencer, of Monticello, is quite sick there, of consumption since he left Logansport. He will have to return home.
Letters for the regiment should be directed to “Camp Wickliffe Ky.
Logansport Journal, January 18, 1862
January 11th 1862.
On the 9th the weather continued rainy and warm. The ground was in such a condition that no drilling, but by companies, was attempted. The men were employed in cleaning out the underbrush through the encampment, and for some distance before it, for a parade ground.
The 10th was a repetition of the experience of the other days here – rain and mud. The weather grew warmer. The thermometer rising as high as 60˚ on the afternoon of the tenth. Last evening it sunk to 30˚ in two hours with a promise of cold, and perhaps, clear weather.
Where much tramping in done, the camp is muddy. In other parts, the leaves protect it and it is not so bad.
A Court Martial, for the trial of three offenders takes place to day. One of the prisoners was found asleep upon his post. The offense of the others I have not heard.
On the night of the 9th, one of the guards of an adjoining regiment fired upon a soldier who persisted in entering camp. The soldier then fired two revolver shots at the guard. Both missed.
The sick left at the Bardstown Hospital, come in by detachments, every day. There are now about 35 there – nearly all of them well enough to come on. - There is but one at all dangerous – Chas. Mellinger, of Clay Tp., of whom those who return to-day, bring very unfavorable reports. They come by railroad to New Haven, and thence here by wagon. J. Noel, of White co., died at Bardstown on the 8th. Since the 8th we have heard no firing of heavy guns, which gives color to a report that there was a battle that day, twenty miles from here.
No paymaster is heard of yet. He may come any hour, or not for a month. This is to be regretted, on account of the hundreds of families in Cass and the adjoining counties, who are so anxiously looking for remittances. It is to be hoped payment will not be much longer delayed.
The commissary department was very well supplied to-day. The officials at head quarters, promise more regularity, and fuller supplies after things become a little regulated. The Surgeon has been ordered to make requisition for every thing he may want up to April.
Yesterday the Enfield rifles were taken from companies A, B, C and H and Prussian Muskets given in place of them. The change was made to make the arm of each regiment uniform – all rifles or all muskets. Our men were much displeased with the [illegible line] arms. The Enfields are a failure. But few of them explode the cap, and they are liable to burst.
We have, as yet, no ambulances, nor sufficient tents. The Colonel has made repeated requisitions for them, but, so far, without avail.
Our mail is now taken to, and received at New Haven. From our regiment it is taken, at 9 in the morning, to the headquarters of the brigade, whence it is taken in an ambulance to town. On returning, it brings up the mail for the whole camp.
Whilst there is so little drilling, the men have plenty of time upon their hands. They fill it up in washing, cutting wood, splitting puncheons for floors, &e. Companies A and B with great taste, have entrenched the outer limits of their ground, and ornamented the works with shrubbery. They are hardly “bomb proof,” however.
LOGANSPORT JOURNAL,
February 8, 1862
FROM KENTUCKY.
CAMP WICKLIFFE, Jan. 18th, 1861
Mr. Scott: - Great activity prevails in this department, and all the available forces from the various camps of instruction, in the State have pushed forward on what is supposed to be the base of future operations. At Bardstown, where a week ago there were at least 16,000 troops, there is now but a single regiment. The others have silently and mysteriously taken up their line of march to this place, Lebanon, and other points of east of this. There is at least one recommendation in this command – all military movements are made without any fuss or unnecessary notoriety. Yesterday nearly all the sick of this post were removed back to New Haven, a distance of eleven miles. The road from that place was lined with ambulances loaded with their helpless burdens of sick soldiers. For the last two days, at intervals, heavy cannonading could be heard in the direction of Green River, below us. If it were not for the fact that I have almost despaired of any active offensive operations on our part, I should most certainly conclude that the long looked-for time is fast approaching when our army will make old Cottondom tremble with its victorious march toward the Gulf.
The health here is not good. A great many have the measels, “or something else.” Aside from the measels, it is my opinion that very much of the other sickness could be avoided by a more strict observance of the laws of health. For instance, the inventive genius of military men who are quartered in comfortable houses, and who live like naboobs is really marvelous. These “red tape” gentry have come to the sapient conclusion that it is imperative duty of all officers to harden their men by an improved process; and to attain this laudable object, they have issued stringent orders that drilling through mud and water, with heavy knapsacks on their backs, is the most desirable, and at the same time the most effectual method. Besides, company officers have not now the power to exempt their men from this arduous duty, so if men are not quite sick enough to obtain an excuse from the surgeon, their only remedy is to drill and get sick in good earnest, whereby they can get under the surgeon’s care, and thus be exempt from duty! Red tape consistency! The result of this modern process of “hardening” men can be seen and heard in the frequent funeral marches and new made graves.- I do not argue that drill is wholly necessary in the efficiency of the troops, but I do say that I cannot see the necessity of killing men preparatory to fitting them for service. Those who survive, thus become disgusted with the service, learn absolutely nothing, and are wronged by having this unnecessary labor imposed upon them. I see nothing in the method adopted to excite the pride of the American soldier, or to nerve his arm to deeds of valor.
The forces here are divided into Divisions and Brigades, on the plan adopted in the army on the Potomac. Our Brigade (for the present) is composed of the 41st Ohio, the 6th Kentucky, and the 46th and 47th Indiana regiments, all under command of Col. Hazen, of the 41st O., who is the ranking Colonel.
It is a source of much regret, that the Enfield rifles which were obtained for us through the laudable exertions of our Executive, were taken from our regiment by order of Col. Hazen, and replaced by Prussian muskets. Our regiment now, even the flanking companies are armed with this inferior weapon. Our rifles were given to the 47th Indiana, but upon what ground, I am
unable to state.- The fact, however, is humiliating to the pride of our regiment. Every regiment in the brigade, except the 46th, is supplied by ambulances. What we are to do in case of necessity, is more than I can say. We are entitled to ambulances for our sick and wounded, and we ought to have them before moving another inch. Col. Fitch has used every exertion in his power to obtain them, and I trust will yet succeed.
But with all our vexatious troubles, by far exceeding those incident to the life of a married man, we frequently find something to laugh about. A few days ago while on battalion drill, about two miles from camp, a little incident occurred which decidedly demonstrates the law of cause and effect. Be it remembered that the sign of the fair sex here is a luxury seldom indulged in. But on the day named, judge of the astonishment of a black-eyed officer well known “in and about” Delphi, when he observed standing in the door of the neighboring house one of that interesting portion of that great human family. She was arrayed in a red dress of the latest style, and might be deemed decidedly beautiful for this latitude and longitude. He gazed with dilated eyes, without daring to look in another direction lest the beautiful vision should vanish; just then it became necessary that he should give the command _ Right face – left dress” – But judge of the surprise of the by standers, when in an absent minded manner, without removing his eyes from the red dress, he thundered forth – “Bright face – red dress!” The explosion of laughter which followed, is not laid down in the tactics.
An officer high in rank belonging to this division of the army, I am informed, has been boarding at a farmer’s house, within our lines for some time, and imagined that he had persuaded the farmer’s daughter to discard her lover who is said to be in the rebel army, and also flatters himself that his superior good looks and charming address, together with his irresistible arguments, had converted the lady aforesaid into a good and loyal woman, as she ought to be. But a change came over “the spirit of his dreams,” the other evening, when he accidentally took from the lady’s bosom a well executed diagram of the position of our forces, together with letters and papers giving the most minute description of things pertaining to our camp, and all addressed to Gen. Buckner. He now avers he has no faith in woman or in himself. She will doubtless be sent to Columbus Ohio for safe keeping.
I am informed that some, or all of the field officers of the 46th regiment, have been sued in Logansport, and judgment obtained against them in their absence, for work done upon the barracks, wells, &c., at Camp Logan. If true, this is burning shame upon the people of that town. For months, its citizens had all the commercial advantages arising from the mustering of so large a body of men, with the visiting of their friends, &c., and it was not small pecuniary benefit to the trade of the place, as has been freely admitted by the business men of that place. To suffer a comparatively small incidental expense to fall upon the resident officers and allow them to be sued, and a judgment taken against them in their absence, is a piece of downright shabbiness. I know the merchants and citizens of Delphi would never have suffered this, has we been favored with the location of the camp.
Militarily,
G
Logansport JOURNAL, February 1, 1862
FROM THE WABASH REGIMENT.
Camp Wickliffe, Ky.
January 24, 1862
Editor –
Nothing of unusual interest has occurred since the last letter you had from this camp. Yesterday the weather cleared up and the sun, after a long absence, again made his appearance. The change we more than welcome. It infused new life in the men and put a new appearance upon everything. The rain ceased on the 22d and we are in high hopes that the change of yesterday will last as long as the spell just closed.
The sick list is still long. The morning reports show over a hundred. Most of them are not really sick, but unwell – unfit for the arduous drills required – but not confined in bed, nor even to their tents. The following is a list of those seriously sick, and many of them are very bad:
In the camp hospital –
John Fry, Pneumonia, Carroll Co.
[?], Pneumonia, Cass Co.
B. Stevenson, Pneumonia, White Co.
McDonald, Pneumonia, White Co.
E. J. Galbraith, Pneumonia, White Co.
Crist, Pneumonia, White Co.
In quarters:
Rev. R. Irwin, Pneumonia, Cass Co.
Capt. A. M. Flory, Pneumonia, Cass Co.
J. W. Tippet, Pneumonia, Cass Co.
J. Hulze, Pneumonia, Cass Co.
R. S. Whittaker, Pneumonia, Cass Co.
J. Compton, Pneumonia, Cass Co.
J. W. Forgey, Ague, Cass Co.
F. Pfouiz, Fever, Cass Co.
N. Ryan, Fever, Carroll Co.
J. Campbell, Fever, Carroll Co.
S. Coder, Fever, Carroll Co.
J. N. Sinsher, Fever, White Co.
C. Rodgers, Fever, White Co.
J. C. Moses, Fever, White Co.
In Hospital at Bardstown: -
N. Denigher, Convalescent, Cass Co.
G. Haynes, will be discharged, White Co.
D. Hibra, will be discharged, White Co.
John Compton, dangerous, Carroll Co.
John Cook, Hernia, (discharged) Carroll Co.
Henry White, convalescent, White Co.
Geo. Riggin, convalescent, White Co.
D. S. Chamberlin, Discharged, White Co.
C. Mellinger, convalescent, Cass Co.
L. J. Haskell, convalescent, Cass Co.
Isaac Jones, convalescent, Co. I
F. M. Wilkinson, convalescent, Fulton Co.
Allex Harround, convalescent, Co. I
J. P. Ream, convalescent, Fulton Co.
J. C. Gandy, convalescent, Fulton Co.
Jos. Hardy, convalescent, Fulton Co.
S. Adams, convalescent, Fulton Co.
Wallace True, convalescent, Fulton Co.
J. W. Vindinger, convalescent, Carroll Co.
(Co. I was made up of the recruits brought in by Thomas of White Co. Booth of Cass, and Thomas of Wabash. The company represents three counties.)
About twenty-five will be discharged form the regiment on account of old age, youth and sickness. Too many very old, young and feeble men were permitted to enlist. The process of discharge is very slow and tedious. The papers originate with the captains and then pass through the hands of the regimental surgeons and commanders; brigade surgeons and commanders; division surgeons and commanders and department surgeons and commanders, and then back again to the captains. On their return, after a month’s circuit, they generally find the party full recovered, or dead. There is nothing like “red tape,” and a great deal of it.
The arrangements in camp, now, for the sick are good, and patients are certain of a greater degree of comfort now than before. Two hospital tents, with stoves, are up, and nurses detailed to attend them. Dr. Washburn, of Royal Center, has been transferred to the Hospital department, and, with the original medical staff, Drs. Coleman, Haymond and Underhill, furnish all the assistance necessary in that line.
On the 14th, Benjamin Warfield of Co. D. Cass Co., died at the Bardstown hospital, and Thomas Blanketer, of Co. K Fulton Co. died in camp on the 21st. The latter was buried on the morning of the 23d with the usual honors. It was found impossible (so stated) to find lumber for a coffin, one was finally made form a large shoe box that arrived in camp, the day before.
It is to be noticed that the list of seriously sick, is on the increase. It may be accounted for, first, by the long spell of wet weather, through which the men scantily supplied with straw, have slept upon the damp clay soil; second, upon the length of the drill required – from 9 to 11:30 A. M., and from 1 to 5:30 P. M. The men arrive in camp near 12, tired and hungry. They bolt a large meal of slap jacks (flour and water fried) and pork, beef or beans and coffee, and then start out with the mass undigested, upon a tramp of a mile and a half to the drill ground; and a drill is conducted without intermission, until time to return to camp.
That is reached never before five o’clock, when supper is bolted, and the men are ready for sleep. Such a programme cannot fail to make the sick report larger than the list for duty. Such however, are the orders from head quarters, and they must be obeyed.
Ours is not the only regiment that shows the marks of such treatment. The 15th and 17th Indiana, are utterly demoralized. Both officers and men have lost all ambition. Companies present a list of twelve men for duty – all the rest are sick.
The rush of men to this point has been beyond the capacity of the railroad to bring on the necessary supplies. Up to last week our regiment had several spells of half or no rations, and, until yesterday, suffered very much from the want of shoes. Some of the men have actually been about, in the mud, bare-footed. – These, of course do not go on duty, but they go about the camp without shoes or stockings. A supply of shoes, stockings, drawers, pantaloons, jackets and caps came down yesterday, but not enough. The remainder are expected daily. It would do no good to send these articles from home, for the same cause of detention would await them on the railroad. The only course is to wait until the department quarter master enables the division Quartermaster to have supplied to send to the brigade Quartermaster, for the regimental quartermaster, for the soldiers.
The commandant of the division, is Gen. Nelson, formerly a Lieutenant in the Navy. His discipline is strict and general. I know nothing about his record, but he seems to be thoroughly imbued with the prevailing idea about the conduct of war. To-day, an order was read from him, forbidding the beating of drums in the camp, “because of the illness of a young lady in the brick house.” The young lady in question, is a resident of the building in which are the General’s quarters. Her father was, and most likely is, a violent secessionist. The whole family are of the same kidney and ten or twelve thousand Union soldiers on dress parade, are enjoined to quietness because of the illness of one of the family, whilst, heretofore, every day good loyal men have been suffered to languish and die without any precaution being taken to give them quietness in their sick and last moments. This is one of the features of the war, waged so generally, and with such fine spun consideration for enemies.
Within 6 miles of the camp is a large settlement of men, almost unanimously secession. They sell their produce at high prices, and are protected in all their rights and interests with the most scrupulous exactness. One of them has several thousand bushels of corn which he has for sale, but wants “southern” and not “Lincoln money,” and no loyal man in Indiana or Kentucky, is safer in his person and property than he is. Were a soldier to take a chicken or an ear of corn from him, and he would report him, the audacious thief would have a tree tied to him, or be bucked and gagged. It is no wonder that Europe threatens to end a war so full of contradiction and folly.
On the 21st the order announcing the victory over Zollicoffer was received by the Colonel, whilst the regiment was on drill. He read it immediately to the regiment. It was received with a shout that showed the gratification felt in hearing of a bona-fide battle, and a real victory.
On the 22d, the 2d Indiana cavalry passed down the road, toward Green river. It contained nearly two companies from Delphi, and many individuals from Cass County. The men looked well, but dirty.
The weather, since your last report, has been as follows:
19th. Ther. 55° at 6 A. M. Heavy rain all the night before. Rain all day. Thunder and lighting at night. Ther. 65° at 12 M. and 4 P. M. Clear in the evening.
20th. Ther. 60° Rain in showers, all day.
21st. Ther. 30° Rain-snow.
22nd. Ther. 25° 9 A. M. Cloudy-windy. Clear in the evening.
23d. Ther. 25° at 6 A. M. 30 at 10 A. M. and 5 P. M. Clear from 2 P. M.
24th. Ther. 95°? at 6. Clear.
The pay master has not made his appearance. He has paid several regiments in the camp, and will reach us certainly, this week, or very early next.
The school for the company officers is yet kept up. Another, for the field officers of the brigade, has been opened at Col. Hazen’s quarters. It occupies the hour preceding the other schools.
The improvement spoken of in a former letter, on the flanks of Companies A and B, have been destroyed by order of the Colonel. Other companies, perhaps through envy, took every occasion to mar and destroy them. The shrubbery was torn down, and the symmetrical entrenchments nearly filled up by nightly marauders. So much hard feeling was engendered over them, that they were finally removed. On the site of theirs, the members of Co. A have built unsubstantial mud oven, which will enable them to bake up their much condemned flour rations. Company B, has not yet recovered from the loss of their ornamental improvement, and have taken no steps to supply its place with something more profitable, if not more pleasant.
The forge, with coal, vice, and shoe nails, arrived to-day. No iron being yet on hand, it is of but little use.
There are no indications of a removal. We will not be here long, however.
J. A. C.
LOGANSPORT JOURNAL, FEBRUARY 8, 1862
FROM THE WABASH REGIMENT
CAMP WICKLIFFE, KY.,
January 31, 1862
But one item stirring in camp, this morning, and that is mud. Under oath, I should estimate eight inches in the main street, with shoals of two and three, and deep places from one to two feet. – We have had some good weather since my last date, but only sufficient to show the miserable character of the general run we have had in this camp.
Night before last was the worst of the season. It was cold and windy, a snow fell two or three inches deep. Yesterday morning everything was wet. The guards out on duty, and even those at the guard fire, were set through. I fear colds and rheumatism will be more abundant than ever.
The sick list to day, was 91 which, understanding its composition, is not large. Perhaps twenty are seriously sick.
Rev. Mr. Irwin is getting better, but not yet up; Capt. Flory is better and about. Neither of these seem to approve of sickness under such circumstances.
To-day, a commission, consisting of Surgeon Coleman, the division surgeon and some others, personally examined the convalescent, who are not fully able to do duty. Our list will number about 60. They will be sent to a Hospital, near New Haven, to fully recruit their strength. The very sick will be left in the Hospital in the neighborhood, when we move. An ambulance for the regiment has been received. We should have three. The extra stores ordered by the Surgeon have arrived from Louisville. Tools have been received for repairing the guns of the brigade and will be at work to-day. Our guns have improved much, with the care taken of them. In the hands of those who take pains with them, they will do, in the absence of better ones.
In consequence of the bad weather, we have had no drills of any consequence this week. On Sunday we had an inspection. It began at 8:30 A. M. and continued, at intervals, all day. – First, the men with their arms and accoutrements, were inspected by the field officers, then the men, their quarters, cooking utensils and food were inspected by an officer sent over by the commandant of the division. Gen. Nelson came and made a tour of inspection, and in the evening, Col. Hazen the commandant of the brigade, came and looked around. It was a fine day, and the camp and men never look better, nor cleaner.
The Pay-master has not yet arrived.- He is awaiting funds. He expects them daily. Ours is the first to be paid, and the long looked for, much talked of event may transpire any moment.
The Court Martial is still in operation. Some 60 cases have been tried. The offences were trifling comparatively, and the sentences correspondingly light. – But one has been shot, and he in the neck.
An invoice of mittens, stockings, &c., has been received from Logansport, a gift from the Aid Society. The articles came in good season, and were highly appreciated.
The schools for officers are yet in operation. That for the line officers, in camp, is about through. That of the field officers of the brigade, held at the commandant’s quarters, is the 41st Ohio regiment will be out in a few days. A commission is now in session there, examining officers reported deficient in capacity, qualification or desire to discharge duty. All that are so reported, will go over board, for none such can pass such an examination, and it is not intended they should.
This proceeding, with an order that came on the 29th creates some anxiety among the officers of the regiment. The order is for twenty-five noncommissioned officers or privates to be reported to attend a school of instruction, “as candidates for promotion.” Promotion supposes vacancies, and the question is, whose places may some of these worthy subordinates fill? The examination of the officers has been very rigid. Upon the report of the recitation, the actions of the Colonel, and the commission is based.
The “candidates for promotion” from companies B. D. I. and H. are, from B. F. Swigart, L. Stevens and R. Castle; from D., Alex. Ewing and J. Tyner; from I., Jos. L. Scott, of Huntington, and Jacob Hudlow, of Cass County; of H., Wm. M. Hazen, John E. Doyle and Jos. McFarland.
I do not understand that the promotions must be in the companies of the candidates, but that form them the best will be selected to fill general vacancies.
Lieut. Shields, of the Fulton County company, resigned to-day.
It is reported that Samuel Osborne, a young man from Louisville, who has been acting as orderly for the colonel, has been recommended to the Governor by Col. Fitch, for the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Capt. Howell, of one of the Carroll County companies. Mr. Osborne has been living at Indianapolis.
A shoe-maker’s shop has been in operation in the camp some two weeks. – A citizen of Camden, Carroll County, named Kerlin is doing good service to the leaky boots and shoes of the men. Yesterday a large invoice of boots were brought to camp by a merchant from Bardstown. They are sold on private venture for the mutual benefit of the seller and buyer.
One of the ovens given by the Governor of the State, to the regiment, came into camp on the 28th. It is an uncouth looking affair, but is a useful vehicle, instrument or whatever it may be called.- It was pointed out by wags to anxious enquirers, as a “telescope,” “a thing to heat balls in,” Zollicoffer’s coffin,” &c. It will be of great value when flour is issued instead of crackers.
Last evening, at dusk, William Moore, a member of company K. Fulton County was buried. He died the evening before. He had a brother with him in the company.
Last evening, it was reported at the quarters of the brigade commandant, that we would leave for the south in a very few days. The order had not yet been received, but was looked for. We will move, perhaps on Sunday or Monday. – Our first destination is a point 18 miles south, on the Nashville pike, and 8 miles west of Munfordsville. Munfordsville is on the rail road, 72 miles from Louisville 42 from Bowling Green and 113 from Nashville. How long we will stay at this point, is not known, but not longer than a movement on Bowling Green is commanded.
Signals were seen down there on Monday night, on the rebel side, and they were answered from within our lines. – Gen. Nelson went down there, returned and went to Louisville yesterday. He is expected back to-day. The order to march will be given on his return.
This order has been anticipated for near a week. Sundry signs indicated it. The men are eager to go, and are already preparing for it. Officers are condensing their baggage, and preparing to throw away trunks and boxes. Many of their fine improvements such as ovens fire-places, &c., will be left with regret, and the many articles of furniture such as bedsteads, tables and chairs, hewen out of the forest, will be abandoned reluctantly, but all these real comforts must be relinquished, and another beginning made at the next stopping place, should our prospective stay warrant it.
After it is ascertained the 46th has advanced, letters, &c., for it, should be directed to “Munfordsville,” or, simply “Louisville,” but in no case New Haven or Bardstown.
The following statement of the weather with us since my last date, will show how it compares with similar dates at home:
25th. Ther. 50˚ at 6 A. M. Clear at 12 M. Ther. 60˚
26. Ther. 40˚ at 6 A. M. Fine weather.
27. Ther. 55˚ at 8 A. M. Clear.
28. Fine weather. Ther. 60˚ at 7 A. M. Rain at night. High wind.
29. Rain all day. Very muddy. Ther. 40˚ 7 A. M. Snow at night.
30. Snow 3 inches deep at day light. Ther. 30˚ at 6 A. M. 35˚ at 6 P. M. Rain or snow all day.
31. Ther. 30˚, Clear at 7 A. M.
A curiosity two miles from camp, was visited by members on Sunday. It is a cave extending into a large hill, an unexplored distance, it is of solid, hard limestone, with a small stream of water passing through it. It can be traversed about 200 yards with but little difficulty – beyond that it becomes very low. Other smaller cavities, existing around here have been visited by curiosity hunters. – One much nearer camp yet with less rude romance about it, has attracted some attention. They are similar in character with the Mammoth cave.
February 3, 1862.
In the weather, since my last date, we have had alternations of cloudy, and clear, with rain for a variety. The 31st was cloudy until 7 A. M. when rain set in, which continued the whole night. – The mud was liquefied, and deepened. – The next day, the 1st of February, was cloudy up to 11 A. M., with the Ther. At 35˚. Clear at 12 M. Ther. 40. – Sunday, the 2d, was cloudy, with the Ther. At 30˚ to 4 P. M. when hail, snow and rain came on, which lasted about all night.
There has been no drilling since the last rain commenced. The time is occupied in keeping dry, eating and sleeping. The boot merchant disposed of over 500 pairs of boots – most of them long legged, cavalry articles. The men have them on and are parading through the mud in high feather. Having had wet feet for the past month, dry ones are fully appreciated.
The new oven works well. There is not flour in the Quartermasters department, sufficient to test its capacity, but one just like it, in another camp, is found capable of baking 1000 lbs per day, when it is finished. One in private hands, on the road, turns out 600 loaves per day, which are sold at 10 cts. And weigh about 1 1/4 lbs. Flour costs them $5.50 per bbl. They find ready sale for all they can make.
The sick have been examined and disposed of. The following are to go to “Nelson’s Forge,” between New Haven and Louisville, 7 miles from the former place.
Co. A. J. T. Melsome, Geo. Prough, J. T. Rees, Levi Canter, Jno. Greider, Wm. T. Davison, Andrew Ashley.
Co. B. Jas. Compton.
Co. C. J. D. Harrison, J. E. Mitchel, M. Basome.
Co. D. Jos. Dickey, Alfred Hitchens, Geo. Lee, Wm. Laquier, Daniel Samsel, J. P. Leming.
Co. E. Thomas Rinker, J. Rosentrader.
Co. F. Michael Rader, A. Campbell, Saml. Jerome, Eybraim Dix, Saml. McCray.
Co. G. O. Rodgers, J. Shultz, D. Hinshaw, J. B. Sargent, J. McDaniel, R. M. Parmer, Wm. Hayward.
Co. H. John Myers, A. Dunfee, S. J. Galbrath.
Co. I. J. Colbert, H. D. Klumb, G. W. Hoover, Robt. Martin.
Co. K. W. O. Colwell, Israel Johnson, Saml. Shields, Jacob Miller, Asbury Johnson, Saml. Hoover.
These are well enough to drill moderately, and do light duty. This will be required of them. They have a comfortable house to live in and can keep dry and warm. As they become sufficiently strong they will overtake the regiment.
The following have been sent to the general hospital at Louisville, with the understanding that they be immediately discharged.
John Fry, Co. A; J. W. Tippet and J. W. Halts, Co. B; Nathan Dowham, Co. D; Ephraim Fleming, Co. F.; J. N. Swisher, Wm. Yates, Thos. Wickham, and Geo. Imas, Co. G.; Samuel Drake Co. K.
These are either too old, too young, or have diseases that cannot be cured in the service. They will be discharged as soon as the necessary formalities can be gone through with.
The following will be discharged from the camp soon:
N. Smith and G. W. Forgey of B.; Wm. Cornell and David Dickey Sr. of D.; F. M. St. Clair, C. Lamb and Chris Rider, of E; F. Oliver and Wm. Eves, of G.; Wm. H. Enyart, of H; Wm. Spader and M. C. Persinger, of I.; and A. P. Collins of K.
The hospitals in camp are now comfortable, and well provided for.
I notice there is some uncertainty, and much dispute at home, about the waste of the men, as to clothing and other conveniences. There need be no doubt upon this subject. Feather beds, blankets, comforts, bedsteds, cooking stoves and utensils, wash tubs and boards, dinning room and chamber crockery, unbrellas plug hats, &c. would add immensely to the comforts of the men, and would be gratefully acknowledged if sent to them. Boots and shoes, stockings and clothing of all kinds would present much inconvenience, whilst here or in any other camp, but it would be entirely impossible to carry them along, when upon a march. As every camp we have left, clothing has been left behind, and no man wants to carry more than is absolutely necessary for a change. Clothing of various kinds was issued last week, and more is expected daily. Drawers, socks &c., were given Dr. Coleman, for the sick who might need them by the Surgeon of the brigade, who had a surplus; I have no doubt but that stockings could be distributed to needy soldiers. These might be sent for six weeks yet, but an indiscriminate donation of clothing would only be wasted on the first move.
As a general thing, the men are as comfortable as the wet weather will permit. Some look as clean and neat as when they left camp Logan, and are in the same clothes. I know of some of our citizens would see their sons in their clean uniforms and high top boots, to-day, they would not see much signs of destitution.
There have been times when the men were badly in want of shoes. This want is now generally supplied, and there are no more complaints, and all are contented.
The anxiety with the men who have families, is about them. Many of them have depended upon their pay to remit them for their support. They have been disappointed. They hear of the black winter that they are struggling through and fear that too much of the effort that is made for the soldier, is made for ostentation and display, whilst the less public but more necessary charity, upon their wives and children is not bestowed. I can assert that if all the soldiers of this regiment who have left families at home in poor circumstances, were assured of their comfort, they would ask nothing else.
On Friday Mr. D. B. Coulson, of Logansport, very unexpectedly made his appearance in camp. His presence suggested fresh bread, ice-cream, oysters &c. and his advent was hailed with great enthusiasm. I think his trip paid him, for I know all of his friends were gratified in seeing him.
J. A. C.
LOGANSPORT JOURNAl, February 15, 1862
FROM THE WABASH REGIMENT.
CAMP WICKLIFFE, KY.,
February 7, 1862
Since your last communication from here, we have had a slight variety in the weather. Occasionally, a clear day has intervened. After a long absence, the sun again became manifest on the morning of the 4th, and we were favored with a clear sky until the evening of the 6th, when, towards night the rain recommenced, and fond anticipations of the mud drying up were washed away by the hardest rain we have seen or heard in the State. From the middle of the night until near day-light it fell incessantly. – Its force and quantity washed away or beat down the mud, and we were agreeably disappointed, in the morning, in finding the ground in better condition than it was the day before. It remained cloudy all yesterday morning, but in the afternoon the sun came out bright and warm.
I have nothing new or strange to relate. After repeated applications, solicitations and reports from the Colonel, we are promised better arms on our arrival at Green River. We expect “Enfields” at least, which I think will be more serviceable than the Prussian muskets we now have. They vary in caliber – some of the cartridges go in tight, whilst others are loose enough to fall out.
In clothing the regiment has nearly all that is wanted. Some want shoes, which are looked for daily, and many pantaloons. The quartermaster has received a lot of dark blue ones but they are withheld, that others may be obtained of the uniform color. An order has been published changing the color of all pantaloons, of privates and officers, to the light blue worn by the former.
In provisions the supply has been abundant. I hear of no complaints – but one the contrary hear of several companies who have saved a considerable portion of their rations.
The oven is not yet in general use. – There is no flour to issue. It is used occasionally for baking small batches of bread or cakes, and roasting beef and potatoes. In the hands of a competent person it will be of great use.
The sick are all improving. Those in hospital at Bardstown and other places, are returning well. There are yet a great number complaining and on the sick list, but, in general health is at best, no worse than it was. Mr. Irwin and Capt. Flory, after being some days at the home of Capt. Wilson, on the road have been sent to the hospital at Louisville [illegible words] that they will extend their sick limits, and reach Indianat
three cases of mumps have occurred this week, but there are no indications of the disease becoming general.
A citizens of Fulton county, is now here for the purpose of removing to Indiana the body of Thos. Blanketter, who was buried on the 23d. He finds it very difficult in procuring the means and material to carry out his intention. Lumber fit for a common box is not attainable short of ten miles.
The Paymaster has not yet arrived, and I think now, will not come before the early part of March. Then there will be two months more pay due the men. He will hardly make two payments so close together.
The regimental and brigade schools are yet in operation. In both, the books have been gone through. The course is being repeated.
I hear of some resignations contemplated, but know of none being unconditionally tendered.
A Lieutenant in Company A and one non-commissioned officer and a private of other companies, have been detailed to study the new signal system, recently established. They do no other duty. The system is an arrangement of signs made by flags by day, and lights by night, representing and forming words and sentences.
Some of the officers were practicing today, near the creek, with poles, and an officer of ours came in and reported them fishing.
The condition of the ground has prevented drilling this week. Excepting for dress-parade the regiment was out but twice.
Yesterday, orders came for a march. – We go to Green river, about 18 miles down the road. This road crosses, or did cross the river, eight miles above Munfordsville. There are no troops where we go but Bridgeland’s Cavalry. They have had several skirmishes with the enemy across the river.
On Friday last, the cavalry pickets shot three rebels who came within range of their carbines. Bridgeland has made earnest demands for a supply of infantry, he has only 400 carbines in his entire regiment. He passed up the road to-day, surrounded by physicians, represented as about to die from a rupture of a blood vessel in his stomach. There is great doubt the character of his illness, many asserting that it is more mental than physical. It certainly is a bad time for an officer to be taken sick.
We leave on Saturday morning, the 8th, and will reach the river on Sunday afternoon. We will have a bad time getting out to the road, but I think not much difficulty afterwards.
The men are in high glee about going, and with the impact of soon being able to see the confessed secessionist. If they get a proper arm they will give a good account of themselves, but if they are obliged to retain the guns they now have they will feel but little encouraged.
The temperature has been very even for a week. The Thermometer has ranged from 30° to 45 degrees. When it is clear it looks and feels like May. The blue-birds and robins are out, and every indication of spring is visible.
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LOGANSPORT JOURNAL
February 22, 1862
FROM THE WABASH REGIMENT.
CAMP WICKLIFFE, KY.,
February 10, 1862
Contrary to all expectations, we are still at Camp Wickliffe. The men were pleased with the order to move and anticipated a pleasant march towards Green river, and active service after reaching that point. The greatest activity prevailed in camp on Friday afternoon and evening. Forty rounds of ammunition were distributed and rations for five days – two of them cooked and placed in haversacks.
The cooks were to be called at 3, breakfast at 4, to pack up at 5, and to march at 9 o’clock. All retired early, for an early start next morning, but at 10 o’clock a messenger from Gen. Nelson rode in with orders to suspend the march. We have, since, received no intimations to the object of the suspension or its probable results.
Our brigade had started on Friday morning – that was stopped 10 miles south and it remains there yet.
The order was doubtless caused by the battle on the Tennessee river, which occurred on Friday. As it makes so great a change in the aspect of affairs on the line, I suppose time has to be taken to ascertain its results. If Buckner goes down the railroad from Bowling Green, and another force goes up from Nashville and both meet, collect and reinforce the original rebel army at Clarksville, or some other point on the Cumberland, east of it, they may make another stand before Nashville is lost to them, and our division would be wanted on the Tennessee, or between it and the Cumberland, as we may have to retrace our steps to Louisville and go down the Ohio and Mississippi to the Tennessee.
If Buckner remains at Bowling Green and accumulates the forces scattered from Fort Henry, we will have to go on to Green River, according to the first orders. And, if again, the rebels do not attempt further to defend Nashville, and fall back from Bowling Green, east towards Cumberland Gap, we will have to go back to New Haven and thence to Lebanon, Somerset, and on toward Cumberland Gap. Until the movements and intentions of the rebels in view of the defeat at Fort Henry, are known, we will remain here.
The Colonel was notified to-day that he might make a requisition for Springfield Muskets, and they would be furnished. We do not know whether they are rifled or not, but hope they are.
By a messenger from New Haven, yesterday, we learn that Capt. Flory was not able to be removed to Louisville, on Saturday, I fear he is very ill [Capt. Flory has since arrived home and is recovering Ed.]
Barry Johnson, of Rochester, and Geo. W. Forgey, of Waverly, died last night. With the remains of Thos. Blanketter they start for New Haven and Indiana this morning.
The brigade which left on Friday, left 90 sick, on the ground. The surgeons were busy yesterday in providing for them. We would have left 50 had we marched on Saturday.
Capt. Thomas of Pulaski, has sent up his resignation. Business matters at home and ill health are the causes of his wish to leave the service.
In consequence of the difficulty of obtaining horses for the ambulances, the wagon teams are to be given up, and mules substituted. The commotion among the teamsters, in consequence, is fearful.
The 7th was cloudy. Ther. At 6 P. M. 30°. Some snow at night.
8th. Ther 30° at 6 A. M. Cloudy till afternoon – clear afterwards. Ther. 14 at 10 P. M.
9th. Ther. 15° at 6 A. M. Cold until noon which it became pleasant. Ther. At 10 P. M. 25°.
10th. Ther. 12° at 6 A. M. Last night was the coldest of the season.
The very sick in camp are: Co. B., S. Whittaker, N. Smith, C. Vorhes and Wm. Gard. Co. D., J. Budd. Co. E., W. W. McBeth. Co. F., S. Shuey. Co. G., Sol. Cambin, N. Adams. Co. H., J. Capus. Co. I., W. Diltz. Co. K., Isaac Beemesdaffer, I. 93 pairs of first-rate mittens and gloves, sent by the ladies of Clay and Miami Townships, have been received and distributed among the
Cass County soldiers. They were gratefully received.
LOGANSPORT JOURNAL, MARCH 1, 1862
FROM THE WABASH REGIMENT
Smithland, Feb. 19, 1862.
In my last I could give but a hasty, and, consequently, a brief account of our progress from the camp near Elizabethtown
to West Point. Writing upon a muddy bluff, surrounded by ten thousand soldiers, mules, horses, wagons, &c., in all
the bustle and confusion of a hurried embarkation, is not the position to secure a detailed and very clear account of such
a movement so full of exciting and interesting particulars.
The boys stood the march from the last camp to the river, remarkably well. All weretired, and many very stiff and sore, but I believe no ill consequences to any of our regiment have resulted from the march. It was the longest yet made by the regiment, and considering all the circumstances preceeding and attending it, was one of the severest that any regiment has yet been called upon to make.It rained nearly all of Sunday night, and on Monday morning everything was wet and disagreeable. We were ordered to pack up all the wagons but one, with tents and baggage, leaving out only the cooking utensils and the provisions for three days. These were to be cooked and sent down in the wagon kept back for that purpose. About the time the arrangements were made, the order came to pack up everything and start. We packed up and left. The camp was about two miles from the river. The 10th brigade was ahead of us, and we were the third regiment in our brigade. We were three hours on the road – stopping and moving on by degrees. Our regiment began to load at 12 o’clock. The men went on first, then the horses, and last the wagons. The bank was very high and steep and extremely muddy. At some of the boats it was impossible to walk up the banks, yet down these the wagons had to be taken without unloading. Our regiment was all aboard there several boats by 4 o’clock. The companies on the Golden State first, the Ixetta [several word illegible] and the City of Madison last. The labor of getting on the wagons can not be imagined. It surpassed any thing of the kind I ever saw, but the work, under many hands, was finally accomplished.
The fleet laid up until 11 o’clock in the evening of the 17th, when the Diana pushed out, followed by the others in their appointed order. Each boat made its way down the river in its own way. – It was foggy and dark, and all laid up during the night. At daylight we were but 80 miles from West Point. We kept on to Carrolton [Cannelton], which place we reached at 9 o’clock. Here we were to get coal, but none, or not near enough was to be had. We remained there until 5:30 in the evening when we again got under way.
Whilst at Cannelton, I spent a couple of hours in looking at the coal mine near that place. The principal mine is about two miles from the river, where all the coal is delivered upon barges, from which it is loaded upon steamboats. Trains of from four to six cars, each car carrying 75 bushels run down the track, which is a heavy grade from the mines. The cars are hauled back by a pair of mules which come down in a small car – behind the train. Getting upon one of the coal cars the driver points you to a large sign which informs you that there is “No riding on these cars.” You tell the conductor to find his business and drive on. He swears and vents his rage on the mules which are driven on a gallop. - In ten minutes you reach a depot where the trains are loaded from smaller cars, down an inclined plane. Walking around this you come to a black hole in a hill,which is the tunnel leading through a hill, half a mile to the mine. A boy driving three small cars, with asmall mule, is just going in. He asks you to get in and you do so.
You are requested to sit down upon the bottom and not put your hands upon the sides. The mule pitches into the hole. The driver grabs a small tin lamp which he has awaiting him, upon a ledge – hooks it into his cap and you see nothing more. You catch a glimpse of rocks, coal, dripping water, and props, from the sickly glare of the little lamp, which gives just enough light to excite curiosity, without enabling you to discover any thing. About the middle you meet a similar train going the other
way. In a few minutes you see ahead, two specks. As you approach they increase in size, until you finally emerge through one of them into day-light. The driver looks around to see if you are dead or have jumped out, but seeing you are still there, remarks “you’ll do,” and stops at a small stable about a hundred yards from the mouth of the mine. – Here the mule which drew the train of three cars runs into a shed stable, and the cars are separated. A little donkey about two feet and a half high is then hitched to each car. A little boy jumps on, asks you if you want to go, and after you get fixed dashes at a hole just ahead, seemingly about six feet square. There is a division in it, like in the tunnel mouth. From a shelf the boy grabs a lamp, hooks it to his cap, and you are gone again. In a few minutes you see innumerable sparks, which turn out to be lamps in the caps of men, who, sitting upon stools, with a small pick are getting out coal. The avenue in which they work are about four feet high, and all the labor of getting out, hauling and carting out the coal, is performed in that contracted space. You are certain that you are five hundred yards into the bowels of the earth, and become anxious to get out – get upon a car just starting out – are laid out flat upon the coal, assured by the boy that you will clear the lowest place by two inches, and the little mule starts off in a gallop. You are soon in the open air again, and conclude not to buy the coal mine, the tunnel, mules nor the country, but turn your face again towards the river. At the shed you get on the train of three cars – to the tunnel, meet the driver who brought you in – straighten out again on a load of coal, and are soon at the top of the inclined plane. Here you get on to the mule car and soon arrive at the river. Here the cars are separated. One is hooked to a strong rope, which passes around a long drum, with the other end hooked to an empty car at the foot of a plane about two hundred feet long, with an inclination of about twenty feet.
At the foot the bottom of the car is drawn out and the coal is dropped into a barge below. Coal is sold ordinarily, at 6 cts. per bushel.
Now it is 7. In the mines men are paid 2 cts. per bushel for digging andloading into a car. Each of thesecars hold 25 bushels. Boys are
paid 2 cts. per car for driving from the chambers to the shed, and other boys
50 cents per day for driving a train of three cars from the shed to the mouthof the tunnel. – A man is paid 2 3/4 cents per train of three cars
through thetunnel. Miners make form $1.50 to $2.00 per day. Boys from 61 1/2 cts to $1.00.
We reached Smithland, at the mouth of the Cumberland river at 9 o’clock on the morning of the 19th, and awaited the arrival of the other boats, nearly all of which we passed. News of the taking of Fort Donnelson reached us at this point and we see many indications of the struggle at that place.
CAIRO, 22d, 4 A. M.
Last evening we received orders from Gen. Pope to draw six days rations and proceed to Commerce, on the Mississippi,
40 miles above Cairo.
The Captain of the boat hesitated about going as he had no Mississippi Pilot, so we remained until this morning. We will start soon. During the night a large number of boats came down the river – among them, I suppose the boats containing our other companies.
Some important movement is at hand, for boats loaded with men are coming down both rivers. The talk is that as soon as these prisoners are disposed of an expedition will start out.
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