On the afternoon of the 2d, the 84th, with other troops, in all not a
full regiment in number, with Colonel Zinn in command of the Charging
Party, moved upon the second line at a point known as Poplar Spring
Church. As soon as the rebel troops became aware of the purpose to
charge, there was the disposition to abandon their position, but when
they saw the small number of the Charging Party they resumed their
places behind their works, and held their musketry fire, keeping up
the fire of their guns, until the charging line was within a few feet,
when they delivered such a fire, volley upon volley, as threatened to
kill, or wound, every soldier of the 84th. As we think of that flood of
balls, it seems incredible that none were killed, and only 8 wounded, 2
officers and 6 men.
Colonel Zinn was shot, and would now be going around upon one natural
leg, had he not successfully fought the Surgeon's conclusion to take
the other off.
October 4th, lay in rear of 9th Corps works, building forts and
slashing timber.
5th, Brigade ordered to join the Corps, and marched to our old position
near Fort Hayes.
6th, Regiment sent to garrison Fort Bross, on Norfolk and Petersburg
Railroad, in company with a Section of 14th Massachusetts Battery, 2
guns, under Lieutenant George. No other troops in the vicinity.
* * * * *
13th, Paymaster on hand with six months' arrears.
October 23d, Three years had now elapsed since the organization of
the Regiment, and the men who had served during that time, and were
not included in the number of Veteran Enlistments, were honorably
discharged by reason of expiration of term of service.
25th, Regiment ordered to report to Division as soon as possible. At
1 P.M., left Fort Bross, and joined the Division between the Fort and
Jerusalem Plank Road. Lay massed during the day and night.
26th, Moved to the left, passing the Gurley House, in rear of our rear
line of works. Struck the Weldon Railroad a mile from the Yellow House.
Remained here until 4 o'clock the next morning, when the march was
continued toward the South Side Railroad, moving along a narrow road
and through woods until we arrived about 2 P.M. near Hatcher's Run and
the Boydton Plank Road.
During the last 5 miles the rebel cavalry continually engaged our own,
working around to our rear as we advanced, fighting at the Saw Mill
shortly after we had passed.