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Henry Sage's Diary

Page history last edited by cathy nelson 12 years, 7 months ago

original volume bought at Baton Rouge February 3, 1863 for $.75

 

Thursday 1 January 1863

Today orders came to strike the tents and prepare to move.  All is excitement at such times some of knowing why we move or where we are going.  We have been expecting the enemy to attack us.  All men to be in readiness.

 

Friday January 2

We struck tents yesterday and marched out of the city about 1 ½ miles on the ground when our forces were attacked by the Rebels the 5th day of last August under command of Gen. Brakinridge.  The Rebels were repulsed on march.

 

Saturday January 3

Our tents are pitched again in good shape with floor but I think it an unhealthy place it being low ground and is a long while drying where wet being in the woods and the trees being covered with thick hanging moss which makes them look as though dressed in mourning for the dead buried beneath them.

 

Sunday January 4

Yesterday we went out on picket duty about ¾ mile from camp.  On guard 1 hour and off 1 hour through the night.  Quite muddy and rainy.  We were stationed at one of the United States Senators houses, who is now in the Rebel Army.  At this fight in August a cannon ball went directly through it while his family were in it.

 

Monday January 5

We were spending some of our time cleaning up underbrush and vines, cutting down trees, sweeping and cleaning up generally so that the sun can come in and dry up the mud and make it more pleasant and healthy.

 

Tuesday January 6

Each day one company from our Regiment go out on picket duty.  Some days we fare hard where wet & stony.  A great many of the trees here have more or less bullet holes in them, many of which have been cut by our men as relicks.

 

Wednesday January 7

Some 400 of the Rebel dead are buried about here and many of our own men lie buried beneath the branches of the huge trees.  Most of the water which we use is brought from the Miss. River which is quite muddy but cool and more pleasant to drink than the well water about here.

 

Thursday January 8

Another mail arrived today and brought me 2 letters from Lauraette and Florence.  All is well as usual at home.  They have had sleighing but the weather was _________________ and snow gone.  Letters dated Dec. 7th and Dec. 14th.  I am much pleased at Florence’s letters.

 

Friday January 9

On picket again about 1 ½ miles from Camp very unpleasant through the day & night.  Rained very hard some part of the night but no shelter except what some made of their rubber blanket it was the most unpleasant day & night that I have spent for some time.

 

Saturday January 10

Returned from picket about 10 o’clock wet & tired. Brought in some sugar & molasses which we got some ½ mile from our reserve.  No rebels seen.  We got our sugar at a large sugar mill but now deserted.

 

Sunday January 11

Fornoon spent in washing up.  Scouring brasses.  Sleeping, preaching by Chaplain but I was so tired & sleepy I did not know where he began or when he ended.  2 o’clock & orders came to strike tents.  3 o’clock & we are again on the march & at night we are camped about one mile from City.

 

Monday January 12

I think we are encamped in a much pleasanter & healthier place than we were in the woods & are again fixed up ready for housekeeping & in a much stronger position but no enemy as yet comes near.

 

Tuesday January 13

Another mail came in today but none for me.  Risley received 3 papers, Baldwin 1st Received1 letter, about 4 o’clock the long roll beat & our Regiment with others were soon in the trenches.  Falls alarm.

 

Wednesday January 14

We are called out now at ½ past 5 o’clock and stand in trench one hour in readiness for the evening.  It is not pleasant business nor is any part of the soldier’s life that I have seen or much of it.  Many things are disagreeable.

 

Thursday January 15

This morning very rainy.  Rained very hard at night.  Tents leaked some. Was sent out to guard ____ but came back.  The guard having been furnished by some other regiment who got there before us.

 

Friday January 16

Detailed for picket duty.  last night quite cold.  Some 40 of our company went on picket about 2 miles from camp.  We had our fire __________ at night & could keep our feet warm etc.  Whittled out a ring & cross from sweet briar rood for Florence We saw no signs of the Rebels.

 

Saturday January 17

About 10 o’clock returned from picket. Had hardtack and coffee for breakfast.  Fired our rifles as we came in.  Some very good shots and some very wild ones.  As soon as we got in we were ordered to get ready for inspection.  Noon and no inspection yet & no breakfast.  Hunger demands attention but don’t always get it.  After dinner I went to bed & slept a short time.  Stand down & no inspection.  Such is life in camp.  Obey orders & ask no reason why.

 

Sunday January 18

Wrote a letter home and sent Florence a Ring and Cross.  I sent a letter home but 3 or 4 days ago but thought I would write again and send to Florence dear girl me had our inspiration today.

 

Monday January 19

Quite rainy and muddy, no drilling.  A very lonely day.  Such days pass slow and time hangs heavy unless we write, wash or do something to take our thoughts from home and pleasant scenes.

 

Tuesday January 20

We were drilled today by Col. Paine. Col of the 4th Wisconsin Reg’t. whom I respect very much and think an able Officer and a Gentleman.  We were drilled in the use of rifles.  The Reg’t. done extremely well and were complimented by the Col. Paine.  New Libby Nuts given to us today.

 

Wednesday January 21

I am on guard again today.  First relief came at 10 o’clock and went to bed sick abed, not feeling well and hardly able to sit up.  Don’t get rid of my cough yet.  It troubles me very much when I lay on my right side.  One of Co. 7’s men buried today.  A Sollimen scene.

 

Thursday January 22

Come off guard 10 o’clock.  Orders came to strike tents and get in readiness for a march about 1 o’clock.  We stared and now are encamped about ½ mile from last place of encampment and are brigaded now with 13 Conn, 26 Maine, 159 NY, 25 Conn, commanded by Col. Biszel, 13 Conn.

 

Friday January 23

We got our tents floored last night and had a good sleep.  Today we are ordered to clear up the ground back of our encampment for parade.  We pulled about 6 or 8 acres of weeds and burnt them then cleaned up trees bushes & briars.  Received another mail from Lauraette and Florence, from Wm., and 3 papers.  All well at home thank God.

Saturday January 24

Today our company have gone out on picket.  I felt so unwell that I got excused.  A good many complaining.  Ris complains a good deal.  I was much pleased to hear that Thomas was so kind to Mother.  God grant that we may all live to meet again.

 

Sunday January 25

Preaching in the afternoon by Chaplain Rev. Mr. Guiat.  Text 16th Ch. 25 verse of Acts.  Our company had new clothes dealt out to them in the forenoon, much wanted.  I still wear my old ones.  I think them good enough for camp life.  I have drawn no new ones since I left Hartford.

 

Monday January 26

This week I am detailed for police duty which duty consists in sweeping the streets, bringing water, cutting wood when not on drill.  They continue cutting of the wood to give a clean sweep for the Miss. Boats in case of an attack by Major St. Johns.  Lieut. Col. Stevens and a number of other officers have resigned.

 

Tuesday January 27

Our Capt. Weld has been appointed Lieut. Col. Adjutant.  Mr. Manns has been appointed Major, and our own Risley, Sargt.  Ward has been appointed Adjutant. Quite a promotion.  Our 1st Lieut. C.L. Norton is to be our Capt, which pleases all.  He is liked by almost everyone in the Reg’t that knows him.

 

Wednesday January 28

Another mail came today.  All are pleased to hear from home & friends.  I received one from Lauraette and one from Lena Woodruff.  All well.  Baldwin 1st received 4 letters, 2 paper, Risley 2nd letter and paper.  I rec’d 1 paper. I wrote home 2 or 3 days ago and sent ring to Ella Sage.

 

Thursday January 29

Last night I had a large plaster I put on my chest, and this morning had a large blister.  I done it for my cough.  It does not pain me much.  I hope it will do me good.  It has been cold but pleasant now.

 

Friday January 30

I feel some better today.  My cough has not troubled me as much for one or two nights, but do not feel fit for duty.  Another mail today.  I heard from Lettie and from Lena Woodruff.  All right.  It gives me great pleasure to hear from home & friends.  We are living very quiet & nothing looks like having a battle soon.  Still, we cannot tell what a day may bring forth.

Saturday January 31

This is the last day of another month which has passed never to return.  God grant that we may see a few more pass and that we may meet our friends once more.  We had an inspection today.  I did not go out.

 

Sunday February 1

Another month has begun and soon may we do our duty to our God, our country and ourselves.  We had preaching today by Chaplain. Text Proverb 32, chapter 16.  Had another inspection today.  I went out with knapsack, rifle and other fixings.  I long for the day when these things shall be laid aside & I shall be home in peace.

 

Monday February 2

Our division are building a large bridge acrost the bayou of large logs cut and hauled from the woods just north of our encampment.  A great many of our men are not fit for duty, guard or picket.  It seems to be quite bad muster for them at this time.

 

Tuesday February 3

Today I had a pass to go uptown.  The first one I have asked for since we left Baton Rouge.  I found much more doing there than when we left.  More trading and more citizens, but things were very high priced.  I called at the hospital to see some of our boys, Hunt, Lincoln, a number of others.

 

Wednesday February 4

I think this is the birthday of my dear little girl, 5 years old and oh, how I should like to see her.  My dear old mother and all the rest of my friends.  I have written home again today and sent another ring.

 

Thursday February 5

This is a stormy day and cold and how slow time passes.  Not much drill this forenoon.  Battleline drill in afternoon.  Have been better a number of days but cough a good deal through the night.

 

Friday February 6

Coughed a great deal last night.  Went to see doct. Again this morning and got some cough mixture.  Last night the coldest of the season.  Water froze quite hard.  This morning another mail came in but no letters or papers for me.  Newton Baldwin was carried to the hospital.

 

Saturday February 7

On guard with Risley.  Another mail I received 2 letters in from wife and one from Mary Atwater.  All well. Oh how much pleasure it gives a poor soldier to have good news and how they are all well.  I received a paper from Lauraette.

Sunday February 8

Regimental inspection this forenoon.  Reg’t ordered to have rifles scoured bright which will make plenty of work for us.  Trenching this afternoon 2 o’clock.  Wrote 1 letter to Lauraette about farm work in spring and wrote to Wm.

 

Monday February 9

Brigade inspection this afternoon.  Our company had forenoon to work on guns and get them bright.  I am detailed to haul logs for bridge.  Quite a company of us help load them and they are hauled by mule teams.  3 or 4 for mule team hauling.

 

Tuesday February 10

Detailed to go on picket guard.  Formed about 8 o’clock in morning and go out on station and stay there until relieved by other pickets.  I like it much better than drilling except being up nights.  I don’t like the night air here.

 

Wednesday February 11

Done my washing or partly done it.  I was that a Rebel Col. Was brought in blindfolded with a flag of truce.  Also that a Rebel Capt. was taken at Baton Rouge as a spy.  I think there are many of the spyes about here.

 

Thursday February 12

Finished my washing in the woods by the side of a stream that runs through them near our camp. Risley and Holt and Stuart went with me.  Washed in the morning & scoured guns in the afternoon.  Had 1 letter and paper from Lauraette, and 1 paper from Ellen.

 

Friday February 13

Mail came in and brought me 2 letters, one from Lauraette and Florence, and one from Lauraette’s sister Ellen.  One paper from each.  All well. We are still staying on our fine camp ground.  Baldwin is still very sick.

 

Saturday February 14

Detailed for police duty for three days which consists in sweeping the streets and cleaning up the streets, cutting wood, carrying water generally, and having the tents & streets look clean and nice for the purpose of insuring health.

 

Sunday February 15

Inspection this forenoon was as usual.  It is a very tiresome and hard to stand so log with our knapsacks and other equipment on.  Our Col. is very exacting in his examination and requires everything to be in perfect order.

 

Monday February 16

Wrote 3 letters, one home, one to Ellen, Lauraettes sister, and one to Mary Atwater.  Wrote them yesterday and this morning.  In my last letter I received a paper doll from Florence, dear little girl.  I want to see her very much.

Tuesday February 17

I am detailed again for police duty for three days.  I am very glad it is so for I had much rather work harder days and be in the tent at night, out of the night air.

 

Wednesday February 18

It has been a very wet stormy time for nearly two weeks.  The ground when wet is very slipery.  It is a very nice soil free from stones.  I would like an acre of such land to cultivate at home but as it cannot be, I am content.

 

Thursday February 19

Newton Baldwin is still in the hospital but is a little better they say.  I hope he will recover.  Ira his brother has been very much worried.  Ira has heard from his brother at Ft Schilis he is some better but very poor in flesh.

 

Friday February 20

Another mail came in today and brought a good lot of letters 8 in all, and 2 papers.  3 letters from Lauraette, 2 from sister Mary, 1 from Wm., one from Widow Marie, and one from Walter.  They are all well and getting along.

 

Saturday February 21

Detailed to help C.W. Risley cook, and I like this business better than police duty.  The weather’s quite warm now.  Rained some today, but tonight is clear and pleasant.  8 o’clock and the boys are to roll call. Risley and Hunt are lying by my side.

 

Sunday February 22

Chapter read, Joshuay 8:13-20 read by Upson, our Chaplain.  Washington’s birthday, and our Chaplain done first rate.  Quite a large congregation.  We met outdoors and sat upon the ground or anything we could find to sit on.

 

Monday February 23

N. Baldwin is still at the hospital and has been very sick but thy think he is better.  I found almost every dish all grease and smoke and could hardly touch anything without getting our clothes all grease and dirt.   But today they look bright and clean.

 

Tuesday February 24

Our General Birge came into the kitchen and pronounced it neat, very neat.  Today another mail came in.  Risley received a letter.  I received none.

 

Wednesday February 25

Went up town and went to see the fortifications.  They are extensive.  I found Wm. Richardson.  He is one of the marines on board one of the new stern boats No. 18.

He is a fine looking boy but said he new nothing of Willy Ross.  We saw a Rebel.

Thursday February 26

Steamer lying up the river with a flag of truce.  They brought down about 600 Union Prisoners, 273 of them non-regulars and had been prisoners about 20 months and some of there lines had been out 2 years.  They have neither written home or received any news from home.  One man had been in the service for 35 years.  The rest of the prisoners landed at Texas at Christmas and was taken prisoner at Galveston Jan 1st.  The mail came in today.  Risley got mail and I got none but got 2 papers.  Baldwin is still better.  Inspections almost every days.

 

Saturday February 28

Our new bridge across bayou has been done about 2 weeks, it is a strong substantial one.  Our Reg’t. was mustered in again today for payment.  We have received no pay since we left Hartford Nov. 14, 1863 although we had the promise of it on this boat.

 

Sunday March 1

Helped Risley get breakfast and dinner and then got nearby for meeting.  No church preaching by the Rev. Upson.  Chaplain of the 13th Regt.  Text Luke 4th, 18 & 19 verses.  Hunt is quite sick again and Ira Baldwin also.  There is a great deal of diaria in camp.  John Moore cut his foot quite bad today.  Another off duty.

 

Monday March 2

It was quite cold last night.  We have had a long spell of wet weather, but it has finally cleared oft.  We have cold nights and warm days.  I am still helping in kitchen.  It is a beautiful eve.  This morning I dreamed of being at home.  I dreamed but a few nights ago that my dear old mother was dead.  God grant it may not be true.

 

Tuesday March 3

Repaired 1 pr shoes, 1 pr boots yesterday.  Still helping Risley in kitchen.  This afternoon detailed to write for Lieutenant, making out pay and muster roll, and it is my desire as well as the rest of the company that we get our pay soon.  I was taken with the dinner today.  6 months today since I enlisted at Hartford, Conn.  Rec’d $1 each in our company for rations sold.

 

Wednesday March 4

Another mail came today. I received 1 from Lauraette and 1 from J Hoxiltey Sage, Quartermasters Department, 2@ Regt. DC Vol. Washington D.C.   My wife writes Feb 15 that it looks like the 1st of April.  She writes that Ronnie K. Clark was killed by the cars on the mill RR.  All well at home.  Risley got 2 letters.  Myles Kelley went home discharged.

 

Thursday March 5

There has been a good deal of drilling going on today.  Not only in our division but in others which are stationed about.  Some mile or two from us a great deal of firing.  The 13th band are now serenading our Col.  It is a brass band and plays well.

Friday March 6

It has been a very stormy day.  Such days pass slowly and if a man ever thinks of home and friends he does such days.  I received another letter from Lauraette today dated Feb. 5.  All Well.  Beef yesterday noon, more beans for breakfast.  Rice and fried pudding for dinner.  Bread, molasses & tea for supper.

 

Saturday March 7

For breakfast grilled cakes, molasses, coffee cake.  Cold beef for dinner.  Beef, potatoes, cold rice, coffee, peach sauce and bread.  We have had a cleaning up in kitchen today & have whitewashed it inside.  It is the best one on the ground preparations they say, were busy, made to attack Port Hudson.  Troops are landing.  (over the top of writing,  Sent box home to CA Woodbridge, 152 State St., Htfd.)

 

Sunday March 8

Sunday comes again with all the cares of camp.  The inspection has lasted nearly all the forenoon.  The cooks were excused.  Another mail today.  No letters for me.  Marching orders on dress parade.  Thousands of troops are being landed with boatswain mounted boats.

 

Monday March 9

(unable to read this page)

 

Tuesday March 10

5 o’clock a.m. a forward march is the order to go as skirmishes very bad getting through the woods and swamps.  Progress in move by Lieut. Williams Newt went out about 5 o’clock & came to bayou & halted for the purpose of building a bridge.  Our camp went abt 5/4m to 6 ½ o’clock p.m. and all well.  We got some milk today, the first in a long while.

 

Wednesday March 11

Last night it was cold and stormy.  Our company were at the farthest outpost.  I was on the farthest post some of the time at the other end of a line of pickets.  About 3 o’clock a company of 33 calvary came up and were halted by our pickets. The Col. fired about 6 or 8 times at our men.  One shot misfired by one of our men named Avery.  They proved to be Rhode Island calvary.  Most fortunate for all.  No one was hurt.  (written over the top – One of the pickets at the Reg’t was shot last night.  Broke his leg.  Something troubled my mizzen works this morning.)

 

Thursday March 12

The R.I. Cavalry made their appearance & after some hesitation, came forward rather ashamed of their nights work.  I rec’d 2 letters from Lauraette & 1 from sister Mary.  All well.  I wrote to Marjorie in answer to hers.  We killed 4 pigs and 1 beef and now have plenty of fresh meat which is relished by much of our men.  We sleep outdoors on the ground.

Friday March 13

Today we have been cooking again.  The R.I. Cavalry caused some excitement.  1 of their cavalry on horse in full view and 2 more men were taken prisoners, but they came in soon all safe.  Orders to pack in readiness to march back to our Reg’t as soon as another column passed here, the while both to be in motion.  May God protect us and keep us safe.  The bridges are built and everything seems to be in readiness to march 6 ½ o’clock.  Sent letter home.

 

Saturday March 14

We came back to our right and the whole column were in motion.  We marched about 3 or 4 miles and camped in a field.  Abt. 6 o’clock we are again in motion.  Abt. 10 a.m., Gen. Banks passed through the column.  About 12 noon we halt for dinner.  Coffee and hard tack for supper, breakfast and dinner.  Boats are moving up the river ports which are doomed.  Banks is down.  Some firing on the river.  Abt. 5 o’clock p.m. still laying by and fixing for supper & the prospect now is that we shall camp for the night.

 

Sunday March 15

8 o’clock a.m. still in camp where we stopped last night.  Abt. 12 o’clock night heavy firing on the river which continued until about 5.  The boats passing down the river all the time.  which had the appearance of some of them being on fire when about opposite Baton Rouge it exploded filling the sunrise with light and the firing ceased.  Yesterday one of Gen. Banks staff was shot by Brake and he was killed.  Often bullet made of pieces of rails and corn stalks as lead.  My old mother think to see me in such a place.  We never hurt all my dear friends and __________.

 

Monday March 16

Yesterday about 3 p.m. ordered to forward march again and we marched back about 5 miles in an awful rain storm with thunder and lightning.  When we halted I was wet through and through and put on guard through the night.  It was a terrible storm and I sit up all night by the side of a very large log.  Slept some but my hips pained me very much.  Today clear and warm but very muddy.  We stay in camp until about 3.  Much better place.  Our beds were on ridges looking like a cotton field.  Ridges about 4 feet apart and high.  I slept well and dreamt of home & our dear friends.  Boats were passing through the night & baggage wagons moving. War is terrible, but we have not seen the worst of it I fear.

 

Tuesday March 17

Sent letter to William with a draft for $10.  It is reported that Col. Molieux of the 159 NY Reg. was killed this morning by gerillas.  I have been down to the Miss. R. and bathed and washed 1 shirt & stocking, etc.  Have been barefoot nearly all day.  Abt. 4 o’clock 3 Reg’t. started off somewhere & 3 other Reg’t. of us are left here.  Killed one beef today & shall have a little fish again.  3 months since we landed Baton Rouge.

Wednesday March 18

Sometime in the night the 3 brigades that left yesterday returned making a good deal of noise.  I am now waiting for breakfast.  One of our men just came in with a good pig.  We had roll call at daylight.  Boats are passing up and down the river often.  Some of them filled with troops. Our rations for about 9,000 men are landed by boats on the banks of the river near us.  My back has troubled some for a day or two, I presume from the effects of lifting.  We are still in camp called Camp Alden.  Signal lights were going last night.

 

Thursday March 19

All remains quiet in camp today.  I have been looking for a mail all day but have been disappointed so far.  We have just had dress parade.  It has been a very pleasant day.  One of our boys have mail a box of things.  Last evening our Capt. C.I.Leon still remains in Gen. Binges staff and our company is commanded by Lieut. Watterman.  We are encamped on called Elder Plantation.

 

Friday March 20

On guard duty today.  Boats go up and down the river yet.  2 gunboats have gone down the river about 1 o’clock p.m.  Ordered to pack up ready for a march.  200 of our Reg’t went out 3 ½ a.m.  All excitements.  Sent a letter to Lauraette & five rings to Mary’s girls.  About 1 o’clock ordered pack up and at 3 ½ ordered to forward march and a general movement taken.  Then about 7 o’clock a.m. we are back again at old camp or near Baton Rouge.  Risley and I sleep in the cook house again.  The fields between BR and where we are camped have been covered with hoops and all the fences burned.  Beef, pork, and sheep suffered.

 

Saturday March 21

All our men feel lame and sore from the effects of the march.  As we came near our tents and before being dismissed, Col. Bissel made us a little speech complimenting us for our good behavior, courage & said that instead of our number diminishing, they had increased, for some of those that were sick where we left them joined us there.

 

Sunday March 22

We are many and when we can hear the sound of the church bells calling together those that wish to worship God, but it’s not for the poor soldier.  He must pack his knapsack, scour is brasses & get ready for inspection.  Sent another letter to Lauraette & some flowers to Florence.

 

Monday March 23

Received 1 letter from Lauraette and 1 from Lena Woodruff, also 2 papers from Lauraette.  All well at home.  1 or 2 or 3 hundred are employed in cutting down the woods north of our encampment.  That give better range for the heavy guns that we mounted on breastworks. Marching orders again and things packed.  Very heavy thunderstorm.

Tuesday March 24

Orders for marching suspended for today & no more preparations until further orders.  Received 1 letter from Maria Connelley.  All well.  Dug our well deeper.  Had inspection.  Risley discharged from being cook and Lieut asked me to take charge & I am now chief cook & Ira A. Baldwin assistant.  Have diarrhea quite bad.  Chaplains farewell address read.

 

Wednesday March 25

Last night quite cold for this time of year.  I had to be up a number of times during the night but am some better today.  Our chaplain left for home last night.  Company & Reg’t drill today.  Good many rumors of where we are going & when our times are out to.  Our company had a Bbl of dried apples and a number of jars of preserves sent us by Hartford people.  We have had plenty of applesauce & some other preserves.  Lately cranberry sauce.  A good many of our men have the diaria.

 

Thursday March 26

Troops are again moving from here down the river.  Our Reg’t. or brigade has not begun to march yet.  We were the first to go before.  This time the others or some of them go first.  Billy Wilsons started for home.  I think we shall start in a few days for someplace.  It is cloudy and looks like rain.  Some hurt by the falling of trees.

 

Friday March 27

Received a letter from Lauraette this morning.  All well at home.  Good news – our Regt. detailed to cut some wood with other Reg’t.  2 teams of 4 miles each out with axes for them.  Sent a letter to Lauraette with two more rings Other Regt. Are moving down the river day and night.  We expect to be ordered to march everyday.

 

Saturday March 28

Orders came abt 9 o’clock a.m. to strike tents, pack up clothes and box all but what we carry in our knapsacks & be in readiness to march.  ½ past 2 o’clock & we are ready & waiting orders.  At 4 o’clock forward march is the order. At ½ to 6 we are on board the W & Mary and starting down the river leaving Baton Rouge probably forever.  We are seeing many fine plantations & arrived at Donaldsonville ½ past 9 p.m. & camp on the ground. A shower in the night.  Many troops camped here.

 

Sunday March 29

It is the holy Sabbath & the last in this month.  We are awakened by the beat of the drum and fife.  After breakfast I walked down to the fort, a few heavy guns.  There were 12 boats at Baton Rouge.  When we left the church bells were ringing for service as we were turning from Fort Butler and some inhabitants were going.  I received 3 letters today one from Mary, one from William and Lucy, and one from Ellen.  All Well.  Strange scenes for Sunday.  I have cooked rice, pork.  Sent letter to Mary.

Monday March 30

General G. came this and gave orders that we strike tents at 4 and start at 7 o’clock tomorrow morning.  Most of our things have gone today.  The battery came on the Saint Mary this morn.  A number of the Reg’t are here and lots of luggage.  The Empire Parish up the bayou leaded with freight.  Lots of team stuck in the mud just in front of the camp.  We had our tent up last night and tonight.  It has been very windy and cold for two days & nights.  Sent letter to Hoadley today.

 

Tuesday March 31

Struck tents at daybreak, had breakfast at the usual time.  Boat Empire Parish lying at the levee loading with tents, baggage, and those that are not able to stand the march to go up the bayou LaFouche which goes through that connector to the Gulf of Mexico.  She has taken our luggage & we cross the country to some plan unknown to us.  ½ past 2 all awaiting orders to move.  Very cold last night.  Abt. 10 o’clock orders to move.  It is a fine cool morning.  We have marched through a beautiful country along Bayou LaFouche and are camped about 3 o’clock at a small place about 3 miles from Napoleonville.  Got me supper & have killed 2 sheep and 1 pig for breakfast.  I have stood the march well.  We have come 12 or 15 miles.  There are 3 or 4 brigades. Often I dreamt of being home and holding my little girl last night.

 

Wednesday April 1

Struck tents at abt ½ past 7 a.m. & march forward through a rich beautiful country but nothing or scarcely anything seems to be doing.  We passed some fine places but most of them rather old & dilapidated.  We passed through on or two small places & camped opposite Stoodaville where we arrives abt 3 o’clock p.m.

 

Thursday April 2

This morning abt 2 o’clock I got up and cooked breakfast of fresh beef & coffee.  Rations dealt out for two days.  We started from camp about 6 ½ o’clock a.m. & have passed through Thibodeaux.  Eaton & are now camping about 2 miles that place, but orders have just been received to be in readiness to march back to the cars as soon as the quartermaster has the goods or our baggage loaded. The cars came from New Orleans to Brashear City which place we are to go.  The country through which we passed has been very level.  Not a hill. A great many of our men complain of sore feet and legs and shoulders.  I think I have stood the march as well as most any of them, although I have 2 blisters on 1 foot tonight, but feel well generally.

 

Friday April 3

Abt 7 o’clock p.m. last we received orders to pack up and marched back abt ½ mile & took the car.  Went about 20 miles through low swampy land a good share of the night.  Encampment at Bayou Buff spelt Bayou Boeuff.  Soon after we arrived Andrew Bastman came to see me.  This is a small place.  He told me that Jim Francis was killed a few days ago by the Rebels.  Our forces are stationed here for the present waiting for the rest of the reinforcements to come up & protect the railroad bridge.  The railroad runs from N.C. to

Brashear City called the N.O. & Opolusis RR.  I think it a road capable of doing a great deal of business.  I sent letter to wife today.

Saturday April 4

We are still at Bayou Boeuff.  Reinforcements are still coming.  The cars have just come in again loaded. Gen’l Whitesell left here with his forces day before yesterday & this side of Bayou at Brashear City.  The Rebels are on the other side. Last night the Indiana Reg’t fired at them a few times.  I saw William Hough this morn & A.Bartram again.  Our boys are fixing up for inspection again.  About 3 o’clock we are all packed up & moved our camp about 4 mile farther south on banks or near the bayou.  Troops are being sent from here to Brashear City about as fast as they arrive.  Not the ones that came but those that have been stationed here.

 

Sunday April 5

Last night it was cold.  We have had quite cold nights for some time and warm days.  It has not rained since we left Donaldsonville.  Some crocodiles move run on the road from Thibodeaux.  In this place it has been a beautiful day and I hope in a few short weeks we shall enjoy pleasant Sabbaths at home.  Our baggage is being moved today & our Reg’t has been inspected today.  It is a great deal of trouble to keep our gear from being all rust.

 

Monday April 6

Nothing special of importance has happened today.  The 176th N.Y. Reg’t moved quarters.  They are called and have their name stamped on their hats.  We expected a mail today but have been disappointed.  Lieut. Col. Weld has gone to it and to see about our payroll.  The paymaster is here and ready to pay but says the payrolls are not right.  This must be a number of times we have been disappointed about our pay.  When Lieut. Comes back, I think we shall have a mail.

 

Tuesday April 7

Orders came this morning to have things in readiness for marching at any moment’s warning.  It is reported that Whitesell crossed the bayou last night at Brashear City & we are to reinforce him.  12 o’clock some of the Reg’t brought into camp an alligator.  Some of them shot some near the camp.  He was about five feet long.  6 o’clock p.m. and still have no prospect of moving tonight.  Our Lieut. Col. Weld was expected back at 6 this afternoon from the 4 o’clock train with a mail but it has not come.  It seems to be a thing of disappointment from beginning to end.  Nothing can be relied on seriously or that well except when we receive letters from home.  I am most sick today.

 

Wednesday April 8

Last night the trains were running all night carrying our troops to give for Whitesell.  Our forces have built a military station 117 ft. high to signal on Brashear City.  Troops keep coming and going on.  Gen. Banks is reported to come in today & has passed on to Brashear City.  Col. Weld came today and with him a mail.  I rec’d one from Lauraette – all well at home, dated 27th March.  Mary Woodruff died last.  The Sunday before at Brashear hotels the light for me to write this abt 8 o’clock p.m.  Risley sick today.  I come abt well again.

 

Thursday April 9

We arrive at this place Brashear City abt 6 o’clock. Started from Bayou Boeuff about ½ past 9 a.m.  I stood the march better than I expected.  Saw a large crocodile in the bayou as we came along.  2 pr of mules and wagons go into the bayou and 1 pr drowned.  Large fields of sugar cane burnt all through this part of the country.  Col sent home today on death of his mother.  I sent a letter home today.  The mail arrived soon after we did, but I had no letter.  Was disappointed.

 

Friday April 10

We expected to be called at any time last night to go on a forced march to reinforce Gen. Whitesell.  2o’c p.m. & we are here & now ready for the march.  We leave our knapsacks and take 2 days rations.  We expect to meet the enemy this time & may God give us success.  I have just been to the depot & seen the gunboats & steamers.  One of the gunboats taken from the Rebels just before the fight at Ft. Jackson named Calhoun, another named Estratas.  Quite a number of other boats.  Large quantities of freight taken & landed on the other side of the Boueff.  Col. Banks is with us.  Baldwin came back to co. today, 1 or 2 others.  Saw Loney Hall today.  He is Lieut. in the 1st Louisiana Regt. I had oysters for dinner and ham for breakfast.  High living.  We expect to march every movement.

 

Saturday April 11

Noon and we are not started.  4 o’c p.m. and we start again on our march, not knowing where we are going.  There seem to be troops enough to force its way almost anywhere.  Some say our destination Texas, but not certain. 6 o’clock p.m. and we are on board the St. Mary lying out in the stream opposite Brashear City waiting order to move.  The 28th & 24th come & the 41st & 52nd Reg’t Mass. are on board with all the horses belonging to Nisurus battery.  She is a fine new boat.  The bedding is loaded on fleet boats & will probably be towed up by the boat.  I had a letter from home again.  All well.

 

Sunday April 12

As soon as the fog cleared up this morning we started up the river.  When about passing into the Grand Lake, one of our gunboats got aground.  6 o’c & we are about 25 miles up.  It has been a very quiet & pleasant Sunday.  Our boys have been singing this eve & time has passed pleasantly.

 

Monday April 13

Still on board the St. Mary.  About 6 o’c a.m. some of our troops landed at a place called Shell Beach & soon heavy firing commenced which lasted but a short time.  Some 25 shells were thrown from our gunboat which went whistling through the air on their errand of death.  We shall soon hear the result.  It was soon reported that 1 Lieut. Col. of the 1st Louisiana Reg’t was wounded & 2 privates.  I knew the lieut.  He said many died in the bay.  One landing abt 12 o’c as some steamers busy.  The Rebels are driven back.  We are now in the woods waiting orders.  We have marched across the Bayou & camped for the night, & lay on our arms.  We might be attacked before morning.  Had no supper except hard tack.

Tuesday April 14

(written in two directions – unable to read any of it)

 

Wednesday April 15

Right now sent forward and drove back the enemy & took abt 160 prisoners & brought in quite a number of wounded.  The enemy wounded and our own who were so recently in deadly strife, now lay side by side then as friends.  They brought in and cared for as our own.  It was a terrible day and I wish never to see it repeated.  Our 2nd Lieut. Dewey was killed, our 1st lieut, orderly, sergeant, 3 corporals, & 8 or 9  privates in Co. A were wounded.  I helped carry some of them from the field.  It was dreadful to behold them with their ghastly looks and bleeding wounds.  The enemy are driven back, and we are in hot pursuit.  I think we have marched 20 miles under a hot burning sun & expect to encounter them again tomorrow.  2 from company were taken prisoners.  I pray to god the rest of us safe to our families and friends.  They say it will be called the Battle of (sp?) Tuekeforso.

 

Thursday April 16

We stayed at a place called Newtown or New Iberia last, not Wednesday, but Thursday night.  Quite a place situated on the Bayou.  Today we are again in hot pursuit of the rebels.  We passed through Newtown in the morning where about 1 mile out we saw quite a number of dead horses and one dead mule lying by the side.  It was the body of the enemy.  They had quite a skirmish at that place.  We are taking prisoners all along the road.  Our Col. announced to us this morning that Charlestown must be taken.  We were called up at 3 o’c this morning, This long hard march is wearing our men out.  They say the end is far ahead.  Alexandria some 133 miles from Newtown.  Sent letter to Mary.

 

Friday April 17

Most of what has happened under the head of Thursday happened & should have been written under this days heading.  We are still following up the enemy.  Ira Baldwin is not fit for traveling today but is trying to keep along.  Newton Baldwin has gone back to New Orleans with the wounded being unfit for duty although nearly exhausted.  I feel today as though I was nearly played out having a head cold.  We got to camp and was very glad when we had no limbs structured out for steps.  Those in advance had quite a skirmish, just at night, most of it by artillery.  3 or 4 wounded and 2 killed.  One of the NJ have killed at a house where he went for water.  The house was burnt and the man taken.

 

Saturday April 18

The bridge across the bayou at this place was burnt yesterday by the Rebs and today we have moved about a mile & encamped by the side of a stream of nice water.  Our men are much jaded & enjoy this day of rest.  I have sent a letter home today & rec’d 2 from Bedin, one from Mary & one from Lucy.

Sunday April 19

Early this morning we had a very hard thunderstorm & another shower about 9 o’c, after which we started again on our march after the enemy.  It was very hard crossing where the new bridge was built.  It has been quite muddy traveling throughout the day.  A great many white flags were hoisted at the houses.  It is a marsh place, and situated low.  Enemy divisions were ahead of us today, and we camping tonight near a small stream leading to the bayou.  The bridge was burned across this stream but was still rebuilt & camped just the other side.  We are 12 mile from Opalusis & tomorrow may again meet the enemy.  Am now the only one left of our company when fit for duty.  The rest all have fallen out and I think of the many pleasant Sundays I have in good old Berlin.  God grant that peace may soon be ________ and that unholy strife ceases.

 

Monday April 20

We came into camp this afternoon about 6 o’clock about 1 mile from Opalusis.  The other, or one of the other brigades having gone in and through the place without any opposition.  We once expected the enemy to make a stand there. But none was made and the place surrendered unconditionally.  This country though which we passed today has been a low prairie.  One place had to wade through water waist deep and some 15 rods wide. Many of our men are falling our and struggling along and find much difficulty in finding their Reg’t at night.  The water is very bad here.

 

Tuesday April 21

We are still in camp where we stopped last night.  7 o’c this p.m. some of the other regt. have passed on.  The beef, pork and sheep suffer & stand but little chance of their lives where so many hungry men come to a halt, after being marched from 10 – 20 miles a day on a clear hot day and having nothing but hardtack some days.  Today we have had another opportunity to write to our friends, & I have sent a letter to Wm.  Ira Baldwin came up with us last night in one of the baggage wagons but is quite unwell.  It is a hard place for a man to be sick on a march and our Dr. & hospital steward seem heartless.

 

Wednesday April 22

No orders yet to move.  It is reported that Alexandria has surrendered to Gen’l Farnogut and that the salt works were taken possession of by the Union Forces, and they have possession of the Red River from Alexandria to its mouth.  We had dress parade tonight and a letter from Maj. Gen. Banks was sent congratulating the troops on their _____.  He said in 20 days we had marched over 300 miles, taken over 200 prisoners, some of the best officers, 10 pieces of artillery, blown up the  ___ of the west, destroyed their fleet and pushed the enemy from Bayou Bouef to Opalosa, and new glories awaited us.

 

Thursday April 23

Still in camp and nothing special has occurred to mar our rest.  I have done some washing for I. Baldwin today.  He is still feeble.  Yesterday I done my own and washed myself all over, being quite dirty from so long a march.  The water here is very bad and we have to go a good way for good water.  We expect mail tomorrow when I hope to hear good news from home.

Friday April 24

No mail came today.  The weather is very warm.  I have today ground some corn in a hand mill and got an old Negro woman to cook us a corn cake which was very nice.  I am on guard at headquarters and we had a Division inspection today.  All remains quiet.

 

Saturday April 25

Going off guard this morning from Gen’l Birgit headquarters.  The old Negro made me another corn cake today and we are having what fresh beef we want now and are getting along very well.  Have plenty of hardtack and sugar.  Some of our men are complaining a good deal and many are troubled with the diarrhea very bad.  Some have come up from Bayou Bouef and joined us at this place.  Sent letter to Rev N. Coleman and J. Norman and one to Ellen.

 

Sunday April 26

Roll call at 5 o’c and after breakfast were ordered to pack up and be in readiness to march.  Ira Baldwin is still unwell and not fit to march and I have succeeded in getting him into one of the baggage wagons and then hurried on an overtook the Regiment. It gave me a good sweat.  After we started we turned to the right, left Opalosis a little on our left.  After marching on a few miles, one of the bridges broke through but was soon repaired and we marched on.  But a little ways farther and another one broke down which they are now fixing.  I suppose that at this time my folks are at church where I hope to be in a few short weeks.  I shall then prize the privileges I have sometimes neglected.  6 o’c and we are now in camp at Berry’s Landing on the Bayou Tash.  Good water are nearby.

 

Monday April 27

Last night we built a shanty to keep Baldwin from getting wet & had the ground covered with sacking such as is.  Put around cotton bales with which made one of the best sleeping apartments we have had for a long time.  After building it we killed a beef for breakfast.  Today I am on picket.  This morning before going on duty we had all of our shanties to pull down and have the ground laid out in streets and went to work & built up & are now fixed in more military style.  We have had some rain with thunder today.  Yesterday it was very dusty traveling.  This morning one of our men lassoed a cow and they butchered her.  They are getting a large quantity of cotton at this place & they say we shall get cotton & sugar enough to pay the expenses of this war.  Expectation from the train.  It left NY until it returns.

 

Tuesday April 28

Come off picket this morning & received 3 letters, on from wife, one from Mary and one from Maurice Woudley, 2 papers from wife with letter paper.  Licorish and candy from my little girl, 1 paper from Ellen.  Mary sent me one of Balois magazines which was very acceptable.  I was detailed this afternoon to help pack up bails of cotton.  They are expecting to load up boats tomorrow and ship it to New Orleans.

Wednesday April 29

I was detailed again this morning to help load one of the boats with cotton.  We had another mail today.  I had 2 letters from Nip, 1 paper, & 1 paper from Ben A. North.  Buckingham & Deming elected.  Good for old Conn.  I sent a letter to wife today.  All well at home.  Baldwin is still sick.  Another boat came up today.  The weather is warm & looks some like rain.  My health is very good.  I weighed 147 today.

 

Thursday April 30

They are hauling large quantities of cotton to this place for shipping to N. Orleans.  Today some 1 or 2 hundred Negroes have been sent here to roll & load up the cotton, which relieves our men very much.  They seem to be happy and glad to see the Yankees.  They say they have prayed long that we would come.

 

Friday May 1

Battalion drill this morning at ½ past 7, one hour.  It was reported last night that we are to be mustered out of service on the 11th of July.  The 13th Reg’t came here today from New Washington, L.A.  Gen’l Dwight had a man shot this morning stating for stealing.  They say one of the Capt. of the 13th Reg. shot a man for not haulting as he was running from a nigger house where the officer himself had been.  Gen’l Banks came up the river today on one of the boats.  Done my washing and mending.  Got some cold.

 

Saturday May 2

Wrote letter to wife today.  We had battalion drill again today.   Done well.  They still continue to haul in cotton, some 2000 bales now lie on the landing & 3 or 4 boat loads have been sent down to N. Orleans.  A large iron canon lies at the landing taken from the Rebels, weight 5517 lbs, made 1836, marked US, about 10 feet long, 5 ½ or 6 feet around the butt.  Another smaller brass piece by the side of it.  Picked and dressed a goose today & when cooked, I hope to pick the bones.

 

Sunday May 3

We are still in camp at Berrys Landing.  Nothing new seems to happen.  Boats still keep moving.  2 came up today.  We looked for a mail but none came.  A tornado passed through here about 2 months ago leveling trees & houses, and the house near where we are encamped was blown down.  The father, mother, and 3 children were killed.  I meant to have gone to hear preaching at the 26 Main Regt. but got asleep.  Capt. Norton thinks now that we may go to Red River when we move, which may be in a few days.  It is clear and very warm.  We had inspection today.

 

Monday May 4

Wrote letter to E.J. Clark and Maurice Woudley.  It has been quite warm today.  I have done some washing today.  Boats are still moving cotton to N. Orleans as fast as possible and thousands of bales now lie piled at the landing.  It is reported that 900 of Rozencranz armies have taken a circuit around Vicksburg & Port Hudson, took some 400 prisoners, burnt the bridges on them destroying the telegraph communication & captured one battery around Baton Rouge all night.  They say we have got to march from here to Alexandria.  If east, will be hot for the march.

Tuesday May 5

It is reported this morning that Gen Dwight brother was killed yesterday by the murderous guerillas about 20 miles from this place and was brought here.  It was reported this morning that Genl Faraquet passed by Vicksburg and is in the Red River with 100,000 men ready to bombard Alexandria today.  Regt called in here about 9 o’clock a.m. and ordered to be in readiness to start out as soon as possible.  We had started about ½ past 12 and marched until nearly dark.  We marched past fine fields of corn as high as my head.  We also passed by 1 schoolhouse and one church.  Quite a number of large bridges were burned along up the Bayou.  Ira Baldwin went back to Brashear City or N. Orleans.

 

Wednesday May 6

Roll call at 4 o.c. this morning & in line at 5 o’c.  Started at about ½ past 5.  The roads are very dusty but the weather is quite cool to what has been, with a good strong wind which fills our eyes, nose & mouth with dust.  We passed along by the side of the Bayou which affords us water.  Very handy.  We passed through Washington, LA. today.  It is a big name but a small place.  We camped in a field of nice corn about 8 or 10 acres were cut up very thick for beds. I am sick having caught cold before we started.

 

Thursday May 7

Roll call at ½ past 3.  Started at 5.  My feet are blistered terribly and my legs.  I was very lame.  I had to leave the ranks and get a pass from the surgeon to ride in one of the ambulances.  I went back and gave the pass to the boss of the ambulance corps and everyone was full.  Finally succeeded in getting into one of the baggage wagons, which ran off a high ridge, all four of the mules going down 10 or 15 feet.  The wagon did not go off.  If it had, it would have killed us all, I fear.  My head aches terribly.  We average about 20 miles a day.

 

Friday May 8

Rested very poorly last night.  My head and back aching terribly.  I got another pass to go in the ambulance but was put by Lieut. Roberts into one of the baggage wagons and had a hard time.  I have no appetite, which is something very strange for me.  Before this when we have been on the march, my appetite has been good.

 

Saturday May 9

I spent another hard night but succeeded today in getting a pass in one of the ambulances, in which I rode much more comfortable & had not my back & head been so sore, I should got along nicely.  It is a hard place to be sick in.  Nothing unusual happened to check our progress.

Sunday May 10

I spent another miserable night.  We are laying up today.  Something very strange for if we march at all, we go Sunday.  I am thankful however for this day of rest.  I do not think I gain at all.  We are now about 18 miles from Alexandria.

 

Monday May 11

We started about 7 o’clock this morning and went on about 4 or 6 miles and went into camp again.  I have suffered so terribly in the last few days which which makes me sick of soldiering.  I think the great cause of my sickness (May 12) can be attributed to my taking off my body guard and giving it to Baldwin, it being the first time I had been without one since I left home, and nights have seemed extremely long.  I have had plenty of thoughts about home & friends.

 

Wednesday May 13

It is reported today that Port Hudson has surrendered and taken 7000 prisoners & 9000 escaped.  We have orders for two days cooked rations & be ready to march at 4 a.m. I am still sick, have eaten scarcely nothing for the last week.  The Dr. has been to see me a number of times and is giving me medicine.

 

Thursday May 14

I have my medicine which are in powders, some opium in them and a white powder which taste like quinine.  They are very bitter but they are what we have to take.  My medicine has been changed slightly once.

 

Friday May 15

Still in the ambulance dragged along after the Reg’t. It is hard trying to get along in this way.  I hope when we come to where there is any possible chance they will get us, “Brewster & me”, into the hospital.

 

Saturday May 16

Still in ambulance and no care or next to none from Dr. or hospital Stuart.  We are terribly neglected.

 

Sunday May 17

Still in ambulance & for the kindness of Avery I am greatly obliged.

 

Monday May 18

Still in ambulance & I slept in camp last night & thought certainly the Dr. would make arrangements to take us down to New Orleans as there is a oat at this place, but Dr. came.  He had no orders to leave back any sick ones so I suppose we must go over.  God give me and us the strength to endure.

 

Tuesday May 19

We crossed over the Bayou at a place called Simsport and went into camp.  I received 4 letters, 2 from Lauraette, 1 from Wm, 1 from J. Hoadley Sage.  All well.

Wednesday May 20

This morning we were informed that the sick would be taken back to Brashear City so we got ready and are now on our way back on board the Laurel Hill.  I think I feel some better today.  May God give us strength in his won good time.

 

Thursday May 21

We arrived at Brashear City about 9 o’clock last evening.  We lay on board the boat until this morning when we were brought over to the General Hospital on the other side of the bayou and a little below Brashear City.  I thank the Lord my poor old mother can’t see me now.

 

Friday May 22

We are still where we were left yesterday.  Have received but little care.  We have had nothing to eat but once today and soon took an emetic and threw it all up.  I feel very weak.  We had another powder a short time ago.  God give us grace to endure.

 

Saturday May 23

Another day has nearly passed and we are still here.  We have had much better care today than before.  It has rained “showers” the last 3 days.  I wrote home today but it has not gone.  A boat come down the bayou yesterday and was fired into by guerillas.  The Capt. killed and 12 soldiers wounded.

 

Sunday May 24

Another Sabath has passed quiet & still.  I saw Phipahy, one of our ambulance corps today, and was very glad to see him.  He said the Baldwin boys were at the convalescent hospital and sent over to know if they could do anything for me.  I sent a letter home today.

 

Monday May 25

We are still here under the care of a very good doct, but I gain strength very slowly.  I have not seen the Baldwins or Risley yet.  Report comes to us today that Port Hudson is attacked and that Genl Grant is about to attack Vicksburg.  He had taken Jackson, 6,000 prisoners, 100 pieces artillery.  We are anxious to hear again.

 

Tuesday May 26

James Wheeler has been to see me a number of times.  He says that John Moore is in one of the tents, is quite sick.  I have sent a letter to Wm. today.  I have lent James Wheeler $4.00 and he says if anything happens that he can’t pay it, write his father, Robert Wheeler in North Stonington who will pay it.  Flies bother us terribly through the day & mosquitoes through the night.

 

Wednesday May 27

I have been looking for one or both of the Baldwin boys since I came here, but have not seen either of them yet.  I washed all over today in the bayou and feel clean & much better.  I have been afraid to wash before, fearing I should take cold.  I have had my clothes washed by Negro.

Thursday May 28

We have heard a good deal of firing last night & this morning.  We suppose it to be at Port Hudson & hope to hear good news from them soon.  The flies, mosquitoes & fleas trouble us terrible unless we keep nets over us for protection but they don’t keep the fleas away.  They are perfect torments. I sent a letter to Mary today.  I saw Phipany & Phillip Cowles today.  The Baldwins are not as well.  Risley is there with them.  I hope to hear from home soon.

 

Friday May 29

We have not heard much respecting the firing yet except that Port Hudson had surrendered, but I do not believe it yet.  I am still in the hospital and gain strength very slowly.  John Moore is here very sick.  I am afraid he will not live.

 

Saturday May 30

At about 4 o’clock this morning John Moore, poor fellow, died of typhoid fever.  I hope he was prepared for the great exchange.  He was from 25 Reg’t, CT.  We had just a small piece of meat with our bread this morning.  I have bought some honey today and sent for some cheese & pickles.  I have done a little washing today.

 

Sunday May 31

I received a letter from Lauraette today.  All well.  It is another quiet Sabbath and very fine weather.  Oh how I love to be home where I can enjoy such pleasant scenes, attend church and praise God under our own vines & in our own homes without fear.  Chas. Risley called to see me today.  The first time I have seen him since we left Bayou Boueff, which was the end of April.  Since that time we have had a hard, dusty and tiresome march.  I have sent to Brashear City & bought me some cheese at 40 cents per pound, some codfish at 15 cents & condensed milk at 60 cents for about ½ pint.  Our Sister Mary sent me a bottle of very nice pickles yesterday.  I have written to Lauraette today & sent flowers, tiny fig leaf and time leaf.

 

Monday June 1

I wrote another letter to Lauraette today it being the first day of June & the first day of summer and as I had plenty of time.  There are rumors about Port Hudson, some stating that our Reg’t is badly cut up again.

 

Tuesday June 2

There was a good deal of heavy firing almost all night.  The Rebels are trying to plant a battery on the opposite side of Brashear City and destroy the city.  Some firing this morning, but about 8 o’clock all became quiet and some 6 or 7 of us have received orders to get in readiness & move over to Brashear City.  We are to go, I suppose.  We go about 1 o’clock.  We go to the convalescent camp.  I got over to the convalescent camp about 4 o’clock, found the Baldwin Boys, our Lieut. Henry Philip Cowles and a number of our boys.  They are living well to what I have been.  I was much pleased to find them.  Risley was there too.

Wednesday June 3

I slept well last night, much better than I have any night before for some time.  I found the boys very kind.  They done everything for my comfort they could.  God bless them for it for I needed it.  I was very weak and tired.  We was called in line this afternoon & I was ordered to report at the depot at 5 o’clock to go to New Orleans in hospital.  I was very sorry but could not help it.  Such is the military.

 

Thursday June 4

I reported at depot about 5 o’c with but very little breakfast & we waited there until about 8 o’c before we started for N.O.  When we were loaded into cattle and baggage cars like dumb beasts & started for N.O.  We arrived at Algiers about 2 o’c & waited & waited at the depot for the ambulances to come & take us to our place of destination.  They finally came & we filed into them & crossed the Miss. River from Algiers to N.O. in ferry boat & rode through the city to one of the hospitals & the doctor picked out the sickest & sent the rest to the convalescent hospital where I now am. Found a number of company there.

 

Friday June 5

I have been troubled with the diarrhea the last few days & nights & I am very weak in the back and legs & I have a bad cough.  ___________ considerable.  I found Folwell, Loveland, Brewster & Hurlbert from Co. A & quite a number of the 25 Reg’t. that I know by sight.  They say Lieut. Col. Weld went to the Reg’t about one week ago.  I sent a letter to Wyllis Savage today.  I feel very weak today.  ________ to each a hard days work yesterday.  I presume since our hospital is at the cotton press in the city & near the Miss. River.  More from the convalescent camp at Brashear City came today.

 

Saturday June 6

Hurlbery told me this morning that Col. Bissell had come to the St. James Hospital sick with a fever.  King has come as ___.  Col. B. would be sick as any man in the Reg’t if he made this order.  I heard he died.  I heard he said he couldn’t kill another, such a set of man as the 25th Reg’t.  I have spent about $1.00 today to get things to eat.  I think they do not furnish what a sick man wants in many places in the Army that I have seen but much is military.

 

Sunday June 7

Another bright Sunday morning but very warm.  Quite a number from the camp have volunteered & gone out on plantation to oversee the Nigers.  I hear that 1 more of our company are killed and another one wounded – Wilson killed & Smith wounded.  Wrote a long letter to Lauraette this afternoon.

Monday June 8

I did not send my letter yesterday for I supposed there was no mail going again so soon, one left Saturday in which 2 or 3 of my letters will find ______. We have very poor living here unless we buy it with our own money and many of them have none.  I have the diarrhea quite bad but hope to be better of it soon.  I want to hear from home again.  They say there are 6 to 800 prisoners here, some keep leaving & some coming.  It is very warm.  We hear no news about Port Hudson yet, or not much coming in reports.  Diahrea quite bad.

 

Tuesday June 9

Another mail has come today but no letters or papers for me.  I was very much disappointed.  I saw Lieut. Watterman today.  He has changed so that I did not know him at first, had cut off his whiskers & mustache & is a much better looking man for doing so.  Very warm.  Done some mending yesterday and got my washing done.  Diarhea is little better today.

 

Wednesday June 10

Another long hot day has nearly passed & gone which makes our time of service one the less.  I received a letter & paper from Lauraette today & letter & paper from Ellen.  All well, good news.  I have written part of a letter home which I expect to enclose in the other & send all together.  I feel better than I have done.  I don’t think high living agrees with me now.

 

Thursday June 11

Things seem to pass along about as usual.  Not much cash or medicine.  I ___ a little ____ from me that the doct has promised to send to hospital but don’t do it.  One of them is 45 years old and looks older that Horace Steele.  I think both of them should have their discharge & go home & some others also.  We had a heavy shower today which I hope will make the air better & cooler.  I took my Fr. Brandy last & today, and my bones don’t feel as sore today.  I am trying to stop the diareah.

 

Friday June 12

One more day with its changes has nearly passed. The weather is cooler today & looks like rain.  We have moved our quarters again about 2 ½ or 3 miles from where we were last.  We are now on what I suppose used to be the United States Barracks and now is, I think, a much healthier place.  I have written a long letter to Ellen yesterday & today.  I feel weak & tired tonight from having no dinner & visiting out here.  The excitement & all such thing worry me more now than they used to.

 

Saturday June 13

Another week has nearly passed never more to return and is to be numbered amongst the things that are no more, but it brings me one week nearer my home, if my life be spared.  I have received 4 letters today, 2 from my wife & 1 paper, one from Wm. & Lucy & from Frances Hoadley, Georgia & George, 3 in one.  All that I received was full of kindness & strong desires for my welfare.  May God bless them for their good wishes on my behalf and for their kind letters.  We have fared hard since we came here as is usually the case when we move to a new place.  Tonight is the first time we have drawn any rations since we came here.  The weather was much cooler last night & today I feel better.

 

Sunday June 14

One more Sabbath has come to a close.  I have sent a letter home & 1 to Ellen.  I could not tell the difference between Sunday and any other if I did not keep the day of the week.  One funeral today.  I have ripe tomatoes, fresh fish & what they called stewed duck. But whether duck or not I don’t know.

 

Monday June 15

Nothing much has occurred to ruffle our feelings or disturb our slumbers when we wished to sleep, but this being half sick & half well & laying around is getting to make us a lazy lot of fellows. I hear that the Baldwins & Risley are where we came from last – the
Cotton Press.

 

Tuesday June 16

I received two letters today.  1 letter & paper from wife & a good long letter from Rev. Nathan Coleman.  All well.  We have hard fare here for sick folks.  No tea or coffee for supper.  I walked out as far as the bank of the river.  I feel very sleepy most of the time.

 

Wednesday June 17

Reports came today that some of the Reg’ts. are badly cut up in their late battle.  I hear nothing from the 25th Reg’t.  I have written a long letter today to Geo. Tingley & Georgia.  We had inspection today & quite a number took out to send to their Reg’ts.  I am not well enough yet.

 

Thursday June 18

Another inspection today, just at night.  I don’t know for what purpose.  The Baldwin boys came to see me today.  They think I look better than I did at Brashear.  I got my description list today.  I hope to draw some money soon.  Wrote home.

 

Friday June 19

I have sent a long letter to Geo & Georgia, one to Lauraette, and one to Wm. & Lucy.  Today sent flowers to Mrs. Coleman.  It is very warm today.  It has been much cooler for a few days & nights past.  We have had showers most every day for a week or more past.  Our rations move regular.

 

Saturday June 20

I have written to John Webster today.  It was clear & warm in morning, this afternoon rainy & much cooler.  The rain came in good time, for our cistern water was nearly gone.  We use it for drinking. Card playing, swearing, smoking & etc. going on.  Oh how I long to be away from it & at home.

Monday June 22

Rained this morning.  This afternoon clear & warm.  Sent letter to John Webster & one to Wm. Richardson from his mother.  Finished mending my shirt.  Had more washing done.  Mail today, letter & 2 papers from Lauraette.  All well at home.  I am thankful to hear that our family are all well.  I received a short letter from Florence.  Dear little girl.

 

Tuesday June 23

I have been up in city today.  Saw Lieut. Watterman & had a good visit.  I then went into market & had a nice dinner fried fish with bread, tomatoes, coffee & pie. Very extravagant for a private. I then called on the Baldwins, Risley, Phil Cowles & others.  Risley appeared quite lame.  We had a very hard shower.  I went down to the river this morn and bathed.

 

Wednesday June 24

Sent letter to Mary today.  Nothing unusual today. It has been quite warm & do not suffer much from heat.  I feel the effects of yesterday over-exercise today.  Magnolias are in blossom & are beautiful.  Sent home for $10.00

 

Thursday June 25

It is rumored today that Brashear City was retaken by the Rebels.  No official report yet from Port Hudson yet.  I have been abed most of the day.  It has been quite warm.  Bread & tea for breakfast.  Salt beef, very salt & tough for dinner, tea & bread for supper.

 

Friday June 26

Taylor & Cook called to see me today.  They belong to Co. A and are fine fellows.  I have eaten nothing today but a little dry bread & miserable coffee, except a small turnover pie at 5.4.  I can’t endure the pork & bacon & the beef is not much better for a day or two past & I hope it will soon cease as I have suffered much.  We had another inspection today.  None sent away yet.

 

Saturday June 27

One of the 22nd Maine men had 6 or 8 fits last night, which made considerable excitement in our room as he was one of our number.  They carried him to the hospital about 12 o’clock.  This afternoon another man had one and fell from the 2nd tier of bunks head first striking very heavy against the floor.  He soon came out of it and was walking about.  We have had more rain today.  My mouth & tongue have been very sore for a number of days.  Coffee & bread for supper again.

 

Sunday June 28

There was a good deal of excitement last night thinking that the Rebels might attack this place.  The guns were stacked on the veranda & we had orders to fall in at a moments warning.  I packed up my things & lay down thinking we might be called at any time, but I slept very well and the night passed over and no Rebels appeared.  This morning I understood a Rebel Captain was taken prisoner. It is reported today again that Port Hudson is taken and 12,000 prisoners.  I hope it’s true but doubt it.  The past week has gone by quicker that usual, surprisingly.  I have lain abed most all day.

Monday June 29

I received letters & 2 papers today – 2 from Lauraette dated May 7 & June 17 & paper.  1 letter from Maria Dowd Sage dated June 17 & one from Mary the 19th.  All well at home.  Poor Amy is dead, they write me.  Rec’d paper from Ellen.  I sent a letter to Maria J.A. today.

 

Tuesday June 30

Another month with all its changes good & evil.  Disappointment and sorrows has passed away.  Many have died in the hospital.  Just on the other side the walls of our camp & their seat in the family circle will hereafter be left vacant.  I hope we shall soon be on our way home.

 

Wednesday July 1

Another rumor tonight or just at night that the Rebels are just back of here & have sent in spies to assertain how many are here.  I hear they have taken 4 prisoners.  But just rumors.  I have written Lauraette today.  I feel some stronger today.

 

Thursday July 2

I sent a letter to Lauraette today.  Quite a number of parrolled prisoners came up here today, returned by the Rebels a short time age.  The weather is quite warm with prospects of showers. I have not seen Risley or the Baldwins for sometime.  Should like to see them.

 

Friday July 3

I have had a pass today to go up town with quite a number of other ones to see about drawing our pay, but met with poor excuses, got none & returned tired & hungry.  We have had heavy showers this afternoon.  A nigger woman has been arrested and sentenced to 30 days imprisonment for threatening to set fire to the powder magazine just back of the barracks.  It is still raining.

 

Saturday July 4

Newton Baldwin called to see me today.  He says Risley, Ira & quite a number of other Co. A boys are still at the Cotton Press.  Ira is quite unwell.  There was some display of fireworks & something of a supper got up at the hospital, some musik.  All remains quiet.

 

Sunday July 5

Another glorious forth has passed but oh, how different from any I ever spent before. I hope never to spend another in the cause manner.  Another Sabath has nearly passed & the time for us to start for home draws nearer and nearer.  I pray for life and health that we may meet again

Monday July 6

We have been troubled about drawing our rations for sometime back owing to a drunken comisary.  It is reported that 200 of our men have come down the river today as paroled prisoners.  Nothing official from Port Hudson yet.  But a great number of rumors about one thing & another.  Sent letter home.

 

Tuesday July 7

Another day has passed & gone & if all the companies in our Reg’t had been mustered into the U.S. service at the time 6 companies of us were, our Reg’t, time would have been out today.  Another small mail today but no letters for me, only one for the barracks.  Hurlbert, one of Co. A. called to see me today.  Ira Baldwin, he says is better.

 

Wednesday July 8

The glorious news has reached us today from Gen’l Banks that Vicksburg has surrendered unconditionally & that the stars & stripes float over the place.  2700 prisoners taken, 128 guns besides 80 seige guns.  There is great excitement in New Orleans.  Listen fire in salvos.  Beans or what they have to eat.  100 guns fired as a salute and the prospect now looks favorable for the surrender of Port Hudson in a few days.

 

Thursday July 9

Sent letter home today.  A fine cool morning but very warm in the middle of the day.  My kind Lieut. Watterman has generously sent me a bottle of Sciadane snaps which is just what I want for my complaints.  He also sent me two dollars in money, which was very acceptable & I will remember him with gratitude & try to repay his kindness.  Changed cooks.

 

Friday July 10

More cheering news has come today that Port Hudson has fallen & the glorious old flag or our country waves over walls.  No particulars yet.  Salutes have been fired and great demonstrations of joy in the city cheering news on.

 

Saturday July 11

It is reported that our Reg’t is at Camp Parapet about 6 or 8 miles from here & that we are going to Ships Island in one or two days.  I have received 2 letters from Berlin today, one from Lauraette & paper & letter from Wm. dated June 21st & June 24th.  Very dry at home & grass ________.  All well.  __________ comes the 21st.  It is reported that Richmond has fallen.

 

Sunday July 12

Wrote and mailed another letter today.  Quite a lot have been discharged from the hospital & sent into our camp today & more sick came into the hospital.  It is reported in an extra paper that Lee’s army has been wiped out by Gen’l. Mead.

Monday July 13

Today paper seems to confirm the good news that was reported yesterday.  If such is the case what cause for rejoicing throughout the whole country for the great victories won in the last few days. May God speed the right & bring us out victorious.

 

Tuesday July 14

It is rumored today that our Reg’t. is in a terrible fight a short distance below Donaldsonville.  Grovers Brigade & Whitesels they say have surrounded the Rebels and it is hoped they will capture them & break up all the Rebel fortifications on the Miss. River.  Another mail today.  One letter from Lauraette & one from Mary & Marie dated form 28th of June to 30th of June.  All well & getting along well.  We have showers most every day.

 

Wednesday July 15

N. Baldwin here & let me have five dollars.  It is rumored that 4 or 5 Reg’ts. start for home tomorrow up the river by way of Vicksburg.  The 25th Reg’t was included in the number.  I hope it’s so, but I doubt it.  Very hot.  Quite a turn with Negro yesterday.  Lost my gun some time ago.  Not found yet.  Let Corp. take it. Had terrible headache last night.

 

Thursday July 16

A number of boats came in from up the river & 30 or 40 more on the way down they say.  I suppose our Reg’t. is at Fort Donaldson or near there.  The 27th Maine Reg’t. or as many of them as were here left for home going up the river.  One man in the hospital jumped over the railing from the second story, struck his head first on the brick in the ditch, broke or smashed his head, broke one arm and killed him instantly.  His time was out in days.  Am angered, head much better but cough & raise a good deal yet.

 

Friday July 17

Sent another letter to wife today.  What men now here of the 4h Mass. left here for home this morning.  Those that belonged to the 21, 22, 24 Main, 50, 52 Mass, 16th New Hampshire & the 26th Conn. Had orders to be in readiness to go at a moments notice.  I expect we shall have notice in a few days.  I hope so.  I am anxious to go.

 

Saturday July 18

There has been a good deal of excitement here today about starting for home.  All the nine months men in hospital had orders to pack up & this afternoon they started & it was supposed by the rest of us that we should receive the same orders but have not.  But expect it every day now.  Another mail steamer due tomorrow.  I hope to receive one or more letters & to have good news from the Army of the Potomac.  Rec’d. Baloses Magazine from Ellen today.

Sunday July 19

One more sabath spent in N. Orl.  I hope it is the last one we shall spend here in this business.  They had orders at Cotton Press to be in readiness today.  If so we shall receive it soon probably.  We had preaching today.  Text Romans 4th:15  Another mail steamer from N. York.  Very warm and close today.  I have a sore throat.  Nothing serious I hope.

 

Monday July 20

Received 2 letters today.  One from Lauraette with $6.00 dated July 7 and one paper.  One letter from Ellen with $4.  Lauraette did not mention whether or not mother was well & I fear she may be sick. I wish the mail written me one way or the other.  Our time is fast drawing to a close & may God grant that we may all live to meet again.  Our Lieut. Watterman has been promoted to Capt. in another Co.  I am glad of his promotion and success.

 

Tuesday July 21

We are still her in barracks & from what I can learn we are likely to remain here until our time is out.  Capt. Norton was in city today & says our Reg’t. is at Donaldsonville and expect a battle soon.  Col. Bissell commands brigade & orderly Sargent Goodwin has been brought back from New York without going home.  Sent from here to NY to guard Rebel prisoners & expected to go home.  I am anxious to hear from home again & hear that my dear old mother & all the rest are well.

 

Wednesday July 22

Another inspection of men & quarters today.  I don’t know what the inspection was for.  None were sent away.  In looking over Lauraette’s letter today I see that she wrote me all were as well as onions at home.  I wrote L. a letter but the mail don’t leave till Saturday or Sunday.  Very warm.

 

Thursday July 23

Sent letter to wife and one to little Mary.  I was much pleased today to see some of our soldiers start for their homes.  Most of them were wounded, some slightly and some carried on board bound on stretchers.  One in particular seemed very sick and think will never see New York or his home.  I hope the time will soon come for us to start.  It has been very warm today & very little rain.  The Baldwin boys have been to see me today and say Risley complained a good deal and they are all at the Cotton Press yet.

 

Friday July 24

I saw Major General Banks yesterday.  He came from the city city in his carriage and went on board the steamer Matauzas, which stopped here to receive the wounded and sick that are going home.  He spoke & shook hands freely with the men & did not seem to feel his importance half as much as some captains or lieutenants.  He is considerably gray but appears smart and lively.  It is still warm and getting dry.  It was a beautiful sunset tonight.  It is rumored that we are to start for home the first of the month August.  Another mail steamer comes tomorrow.

Saturday July 25

I felt quite unwell last night.  Was terrible blouted so much so that I could neither sit nor lie down with much comfort.  Sometimes my legs and ankles have swollen, but last night it was in my bowels.  They have moved 8 or 10 times today and the blout has nearly all left.  But I feel very weak.  Kept my balance most of the day and eat but very little.  It was much cooler today & looks like rain.  I hope it will for our rain water is nearly gone.  It is reported today by a Lieutenant that came from our Reg’t. today that we shall probably start next week.  Col. is getting the men together to be in readiness.

 

Sunday July 26

I feel much better today and hope I shall get going without any further headaches. Another mail steamer came in today but I suppose it will go on to the Regiment now without stopping here as our Lieutenant has gone there who used to get it for us here.  We have had --- of marching today.  Very good.  Some books and papers distributed to those who wished for them.  We had a slight shower today and it has been much cooler and a prospect for more rain.  Wrote letter to Mary today.  It has been quite ------ times here today.  Quite a number are talking about going to Reg’t.

 

Monday July 27

Sent letter to Mary.  Bought hat $1.00 today.  I have been up to the Cotton Press today & had a pleasant time with Risley & the Baldwin boys.  They have had no orders to move yet.  Sergeant Goodwin was here today taking the names of the men in hospital and convalescent camp.  Things look as though we should start for home soon.   I went up into the city a little way.   Bought some Jackson’s Stafresh, Jackson’s syrup.  There were lots of beautiful flowers sides of the walks.   It is a fine place & I also saw the State Mint.  I got some --- wash buds & we returned to the Cotton Press for dinner, then waited till about 6 o.c. for them to get the mail which came in on Sunday.   They could not get it.  I suppose it has gone to Reg’t.

 

Tuesday July 28

It seemed like Sunday to me today, not because its still, for gracious knows it is noisy enough.  I wonder how it will seem when I get home & find it so still.  I think it will be one of the pleasantest times in my life to get with my family & friends, away form these noisy scenes & from the unpleasant sound of drums.  Another shower this afternoon and still raining.  I am undecided about going to regiment  Thursday – no tents to sleep in .  My cough is some better but I don’t like the idea of sleeping out exposed to storms.  Some of our men to Reg’t yesterday.  It is reported that the 26th Reg’t. has started for home last Saturday and that ours is to start next Saturday if the men get together.

 

Wednesday July 29

10 o’clock a.m. I have packed my things & expect to start for the Cotton Press after dinner.  I think all of the 25th Reg’t will leave here today & most or all go to the Reg’t. tomorrow.  It is quite cool this morning & though the night cloudy & looks like rain afternoon.  Capt. Wright has been to the city & says there will be a boat here for us tomorrow for all of us that want to go to Reg’t.  Therefore I will not go to Cotton Press this afternoon but expect to go in morning.  I have written Marie this evening as mail leaves for the north Sat.  Quite cool this evening.  Not much news today.  Inspection this afternoon.

 

Thursday July 30

Sent letter to Marie J.A.S.  I left barracks this morning and came to the Cotton Press & found the Baldwins, Risley and others of Co. A.  Lieut. Bissell from Co. G. went up to Carlton this afternoon & formed our Reg’t. there.  Some of them talk as though we should start for home next week.  What there is of the 25th Reg’t expect to leave here in one or two days & go to the Reg’t.  All the 9 months men here at barracks are outlined to be in readiness to leave for their Reg’t. at 1 o’clock except those that go into hospital.  I think the Doct. about half tight that excused them.  It seems to be a general failing amongst the officers and men.

 

Friday July 31

I stayed here at the Cotton Press last night and slept with Risley. It is very warm today.  Had a very heavy shower a little way from here, but it has not made the air much cooler.  Risley, Baldwin and some others have gone over to Algaso this afternoon after Walter & Mush Mullens.  They returned just at night bringing their weapons with them.  We expect to start for our Reg’t tomorrow.  They are at Carlton about 6 or 8 miles from here.  I am anxious to go there and get our mail & leave for home.  They have no tents.  Lieut. Goram and a member of Co. A were here today.

 

Saturday August 1

Received letter from wife – all well.  We started from the Cotton Press to go to our Reg’t. About 3 o’clock p.m.  It was very warm.  We took the cars, those cars near here, rode up to Chatanooga.  Lt. walked from there to the steam car depot about ¾ mile, waited there until about 6 o’clock & then came up to the Reg’t. about 4 to 6 miles from the city.  We found them camped near a fine grove & all seemed glad to see us & we were glad to see them, but we found the Co. small, some killed, some wounded & more have died from diseases, some are still in hospital.  We had no tents & lay on our blankets on the ground.  We can buy milk here.

 

Sunday August 2

This Sabbath day finds us amidst new scenes and in a strange place from where I have even been before.  I see Andrew & Bit Bartron today.  Andrew looks tough and healthy but has been sick, but says he is better & than he has been but he still looks poor and rather bad.  We drill ½ hr in morning, mount guard as usual and have dress parade.  Col. Bissell is now acting as Brigadeer Gen’l.  Some of the boys or men look healthy, others unwell, but all think they don’t want to go through the siege at Port Hudson again.  The cars pass here about every ½ hour for NO to Carlton.  I am thankful to be with the Reg’t. again.

Monday August 3

Nothing of special movement has happened today.  The weather is warm & prospect of showers.  I have slept much of the time for the last two nights & slept soundly.  I think it much healthier here that NO Another letter from wife & one form Maria & Mary.  All well at home.  Our men keep coming in from hospital & others are being carried to the hospital near here.  Others look quite unwell.

 

Tuesday August 4

We put our four rubber blankets together yesterday & fixed them on sticks to sleep under & to protect us from the rain.  It rained quite hard some part of the day & then the sun came out, very hot.  Corporal Wheeler is dead & Wm. Smith appointed Corp. in his place.  Very warm  Lieut. Col. Nald has command of the Reg’t now for a short time.

 

Wednesday August 5

It is rumored again today that our Reg’t will probably start for home Sunday or Monday on board the Thomas Scott.  We have thunder showers every day & very hot son, but can keep tolerable comfortable whilst in the shade.  Those of our Reg’t that were taken prisoners at Brashear City have returned from Ship Island to NO.

 

Thursday August 6

The men that belong to our Reg’t which were sent to Ship Island after being parolled have returned to camp.  They look brown and sun burnt, but generally healthy.  I understand today that the Thomas Scott is loading another Reg’t & we must wait for another.  The 24th Reg’t with its Brigade left here today for ship __.  I went to see about young Savage.  They told me the last they knew of him he was at Baton Rouge.  Rain again.

 

Friday August 7

There is considerable excitement here today reporting our going home.  We are expecting our orders to move very soon.  This afternoon we had a shower.   One of the Lieut’s made himself ridiculus with one of the pedlarwomen.  He is a _ man if he does wear shoulder straps and gives orders to privates.

 

Saturday August 8

Started from and broke up camp at about ½ past one p.m.  Marched to Carlton about ½ mile and went on board the propeller Thomas Scott where we found about 40 of the sick on board, not their baggage.  Companies A & G were put into the hole with them.  We found it very close and hot.  When everything was got ready, we stated from Carlton probably for the last time, five minutes before three o’clock p.m.  The Capt. of the boat says he will land us in New York in 5 ½ days.  We are now traveling swiftly down the river towards N.O. Arrived at NO and took on board 6 horses and more of our Reg’t and at ¼ before 6 o’clock started again down the river leaving N.O.  I hope for the last time for a few years to come.  We ran down as far as the bar and came to anchor at about ½ past 2 a.m. and lay there until daylight, when we started again on our homeward journey.

Sunday August 9

7 o’clock a.m. come and some show signs of sea sickness.  Had coffee last night and am better for it this morning.  ___________ write her just before we started and I have written but have the letters with me and will carry this mail myself as no other boat will probably get them before us.  ½ past 7 o’clock and we are out of sight of land.  Quite a number of sails have been seen.  We had preaching by Henry Upson this afternoon.  He was Chaplain of the 13th Reg’t. but has resigned.

 

Monday August 10

This morning it looked as though we should have a shower but cleared off without much rain.  The Gulf has been very smooth and our boat moves smoothly along, but we are very much crowded, much more than we were on the Mary A. Boardman when we came out.  The sick are below with the horses and the smell is sharp on deck.  Some are sick today.  We are still going in a southeast course but we’ll probably change our course some time tonight.  One sail in sight.

 

Tuesday August 11

We had a fine sail last night, the sea being very calm and the shop very sturdy, not much rocking as we had on the Mary A. Boardman when we came out.  We passed Tortorgus about 7 o’clock this morning and have made fine progress since we started. I understand that the Capt. of the boat has made a bet of a new hat with Col. Bissell that he will be in NY Sat. morning.  We are very much crowded for sleeping room.  Have seen quite a number of sails today and one, 2 or 3 light houses.  We had a fine time bathing today.  Stood on a platform over the side of the boat and let the water throw over us through a ________.  Time up today, 11 months since we enlisted.

 

Wednesday August 12

Man from Co. C died last night.  This morning the sad task was performed of committing his body to the deep blue sea.  He was wrapped in canvas and a bag of coal tied to his feet and about 7 o’clock he was slid from the plank after reading a chapter and prayer.  The last 24 hours they say we have made 328 miles.  A good breeze at ______________ sailing along very fast.

 

Thursday August 13

The last 24 hours they say we have made 291 miles.  It has been more windy today.  Some time all sails are set and then taken in again as the wind changes our course.  Hardtack and coffee for breakfast.  Beans and hardtack for dinner.  Hardtack “and full of bugs and moldy at that” and coffee for supper.  We have had a number of showers today.  Just past 6 o’clock and we must be Cape Hateras. The Chaplain has just passed for prayers.  It looks like rain and is much cooler.  The Chaplain said the 92 Psalm and a good prayer after they sang a hymn.  Say a very large school of porpoise.

 

Friday August 14

Quite a heavy shower this morning.  We covered ourselves and baggage as well as we could with our rubber blankets and let it rain.  Did not get wet much.  We had another of a rough sea last night, but since the shower it is quite a pleasant day.  Passed Cape Hateras today at 10 o’clock a.m.  I was detailed for guard.  We had a good cool breeze through the night and we sailed swiftly toward NY.  We expect to be there tomorrow.

 

Friday August 15

This morning the sun rose big and beautiful & we begin to see more & more vessels & everything has the appearance of coming in sight of land which we have not seen since Sunday last 10 o’c a.m.  Came in sight of Aboracain Lighthouse and about 70 miles from N York.  Quite a lot of sails in sight.  Came off guard 6 o’clock.  1 o’clock and opposite Barnegat Lighthouse 41 miles from NY.  ½ past 5 and we are opposite Sandy Hook Lighthouses – 3 of them.  They are building one new fort on the point, a very large one.  It looks beautiful to me.  The green hills and pleasant fields.  Bought me a watch of a man by the name of Slishinger for $12.  We have had a beautiful day.  20 minutes past 6 and we are in the narrows between Forts LaFayette and Hamilton on the right and Ft. Richmond on the bluff and Ft. Randolph in the water on the left as we came in.  ½ past 6 and we came in sight of N York.  Stopped at quarantine.  Physician came alongside but detained us but just a few minutes and we are again underway.  We passed a man of war with 40 different colors. ¼ to 7 a glorious sunset and just then much firing from ________ gunboat.  Passed Bellows Island.  Churning from ferry boat.  ¼ Reg’t and me came up to wharf on Jersey side and spread our blankets on deck for the night.

 

Saturday August 16

We had a very quiet sleep last night but found it much cooler than it has been & was awaked early by the noise and hustle on board and by the ferry boats that seem near.  ¼ to 4 o’clock p.m. & we are waiting for the boat to take us to New Haven where, they say, we are to take the cars for Hartford.  Quite a shower but we are in the storehouse and sheltered from the storm.. ¼ to 5 & the boat ______________ came alongside & they commenced moving on board what things were left from the voyage.  At about 7 we started for New Haven where we arrived at ½ past 4 oc.  Started on cars from N.H. for Htfd. 8 o’c a.m., arrived at Berlin Depot ½ past 9.

 

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