A complete History of the Campaign of the FOURTEENTH REGIMENT, NEW
JERSEY VOLUNTEERS; its various BATTLES and MARCHES, from the time of its
departure from New Jersey until its return; giving full details of every
event that transpired; the author having taken an active part in those
memorable battles of the Potomac Army--the Maryland Campaign, the
Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor and Petersburg; finally ending in
the capture of Lee's Army, the occupation of Richmond and Petersburg by
our forces, and the Rebellion crushed forever.
CAMPAIGN
OF THE
14th Regiment, New Jersey Volunteers.
War, with all its horrors, has dawned upon us. Thousands have answered
the call and rushed to arms. The Farmer leaves his plough, the Merchant
his store, and all join in one compact body to avenge the insult
perpetrated upon our FLAG.
It is not a Foreign foe; but a war upon our soil--a civil war. Our
forces have been defeated and driven back; the rebel capital, almost
within our grasp, has been wrested from us, and the enemy, flushed with
victory, are marching with countless hordes upon our almost defenceless
Capitol. The disastrous defeat of McClellan from before Richmond has
awakened a feeling among the Northern people that something more active
must be done, that we are dealing with a wily foe prepared for war and
bent upon the destruction of our once happy and prosperous Union.
Congress having met, it was decided to call for more troops to assist in
putting down this wicked rebellion, our army having been fearfully
decreased by sickness and by battles; the swamps of Virginia and the
broiling sun of a Southern clime have sent numbers to their graves. Our
army must be re-organized, and that speedily; fresh troops must fill the
ranks of those that are no more. A call for Six Hundred Thousand troops
was made; it resounded throughout the North, and soon our decimated
ranks were refilled by men who but shortly before were engaged in the
peaceful pursuits of life, who are now stern warriors, armed and
equipped for the fearful struggle awaiting them. Under that call the
14th New Jersey Regiment was raised, a band of noble men from various
portions of the State. On the 8th of July, 1862, the Regiment was formed
on the Old Battle Ground of Freehold, Monmouth Co., New Jersey, William
S. Truex appointed Commander. For nearly two months the officers were
busily engaged in preparing the men for the future; companies were
organized, armed and equipped. Men enlisting daily, not for bounties,
but for patriotism; and soon the regiment was ready for its departure
for the seat of war. Tents were placed on a line, each company by
itself. The men seemed to know the work before them, and with stern
resolution, resolved to do their duty to the last. A police system was
organized, and the camp soon presented a healthy appearance. The men who
but a few days before were in their quiet homes by the family fireside
talking of war, were no longer there; their places were vacant and they
in camps anxiously awaiting orders to move. Soldiering then was new, the
men were no longer free.
On the 26th of August, the Regiment was mustered in the United States
service for three years, unless sooner discharged, (or as the men
remarked, three years unless sooner shot). Soldiering now commenced in
earnest. At first the men unused to discipline were not disposed to obey
the rules, but they were soon made to know that they were soldiers, and
that Military rules must be obeyed or they be punished. A guard house
was built for the purpose of confining those that were disobedient, but
it was seldom used, only in case of drunkenness, when the offender was
placed in confinement until he became sober. A guard was placed around
the camp, each relief posted every two hours, and each man having a
certain place to walk until he was relieved by the Corporal or Sergeant
of the guard. At night the officer in charge of the guard visited each
post to see that every sentinel was doing his duty; it was called the
grand rounds. Midnight was the hour chosen. The men were furnished with
Sibly tents and a tick filled with straw to sleep on, each tent holding
sixteen men; six tents to a company and ten companies in the Regiment. A
full company was composed of 87 Privates, 5 Sergeants, and 8 Corporals,
with 3 Commissioned Officers, in all 103 men. The companies arranged in
alphabetical order. Drills, reviews, inspections and dress parades were
the order of the day. The camp was daily thronged with visitors, mostly
friends of the soldiers. A cook and cook-house were furnished, each
company marched down in single file to their meals. The rations
furnished the men were beef, pork, bread, beans, sugar and coffee. The
men were now fairly established in camp, and began to wonder when the
regiment would move to the front. Furloughs were granted the men, five
from each company, as all could not be furnished at once. Several broke
guard and escaped, taking French leave, returning before the regiment
left for the front. Various rumors were now in circulation, but none of
them were reliable. Some of them were that we were going to North
Carolina and to Texas, and others that the regiment was to join the
Potomac Army, but none knew the destination of the regiment, as there
were yet no orders from Washington to move. On the 31st of August the
regiment numbered over 950 men; they were ordered to form in line and
march to Freehold, 2-1/2 miles from camp. It was a splendid sight. The
men were in the best of spirits, and with their new uniforms and
burnished guns presented a fine appearance. After marching around the
principal streets, the men returned to camp in _Dirt Cars_, a great many
receiving passes to go home while in camp. The nine months' men were
rapidly forming the 28th New Jersey, near the camp of the Fourteenth.
After the men of the 14th were fast for three years, they envied them,
and wished they had gone for nine months; but it was now too late, and
they must remain three long weary years, unless the war should sooner
end.
On Monday, September 1st, orders were given the men to be ready to leave
at daylight the next morning, with three days rations for Washington. At
night the guards were ordered to load their muskets and fire upon any
one attempting to leave camp. The night was dark and rainy and the camp
flooded with water. The next morning three days' rations were furnished
the men, of hard tack and dry smoked beef. Tents were taken down and
packed up; the men were placed in old baggage cars (a passenger car
reserved for the officers,) and bade good bye to the old camp. As the
train left, it was thought by the men how many of them would return.
Friends were there to see them leave, the last good bye was said, and
the cars moved slowly off. Soon the camping ground was left far behind.
Arriving at Philadelphia the men were kindly received by the citizens,
and a good supper given them by the ladies of the Volunteer Refreshment
Saloon. This building is situated near the wharf, and thousands of
soldiers have been furnished with meals, being tired after a weary ride,
cooped up in tight cars. It was very refreshing. Three rousing cheers
were given for the ladies of Philadelphia for their kindness. The
regiment formed in line and marched to the Baltimore depot. The streets
were thronged with citizens, welcoming us and bidding us God speed.
Again the men were furnished with baggage cars and started for
Baltimore, arriving there at noon; the next day marching through the
city in the hot sun, with heavy knapsacks, to the Washington depot, and
lying on the sidewalk in the afternoon. While there the depot was set
on fire and burned down, supposed to be the work of an incendiary.
Several cars were consumed, and thousands of dollars lost. Several
regiments were there awaiting transportation. This time the men were
more fortunate and succeeded in getting passenger cars, and supposed
they were going to Washington; leaving Baltimore at 11 P. M., riding all
night, arriving at Frederick Junction, on the Baltimore and Ohio
Railroad, 58 miles from Baltimore, for the purpose of guarding Monocacy
Bridge, a splendid iron structure across Monocacy River. A field was
picked out and tents were placed on a line as before; the men were
furnished with ten rounds of ammunition.
At night companies H and K were detailed for Picket. At midnight the
Colonel received a dispatch that the rebels under Stonewall Jackson were
invading the North in force and were now in Maryland, having crossed at
Edwards' Ferry. The regiment was drawn up in line of battle on the
Turnpike, remaining until morning. All was excitement, as the men were
new troops and unused to such scenes. Signal lights were displayed, and
the distant report of a gun booming on the midnight air informed us that
the enemy were near. The next morning orders were given to strike tents
and fall back. As the Fourteenth was the only regiment stationed at that
place, tents were soon down and placed on baggage cars; the Colonel
seized a coal train that was lying near and the men were soon on board.
The engineer being a rebel, and in favor of the South, was in no hurry
to start. The Colonel, becoming impatient, drew his revolver and
threatened to shoot him if he did not move. At five o'clock everything
was in readiness; muskets were fired in the air to prevent accident, as
the men were green troops and did not know how to use them. The train
moved off towards Baltimore, riding in those old coal cars, 40 miles to
Elysville. About one hour after leaving Monocacy the advance guard of
the rebels made their appearance. Had we remained longer our capture
would have been certain, as there were no other troops near, and the
whole rebel army in our front. The citizens of Elysville were very kind,
giving the men plenty to eat. At 10 o'clock the regiment marched up a
hill about one mile, encamping in an orchard, remaining ten days; doing
guard duty, picket and drilling, expecting daily orders to move. One of
our men returned to us, having been taken prisoner and paroled by the
rebels. They had burned the bridge at Monocacy, laid waste the country,
and were advancing northward, closely followed by the Potomac Army
under McClellan, overtaking them at ANTIETAM and SOUTH MOUNTAIN, a
terrible battle was fought, resulting in the utter discomfiture of the
rebels and sending them back across the Potomac completely routed.
Maryland Heights was taken by them in their retreat, with 11,000
prisoners and 60 guns. Colonel Miles being in command, and a traitor at
heart, surrendered without firing a gun; he was killed in the attempt,
report says by his own son. Had he defended the place a few hours it
would not have been taken, as the Potomac Army was marching on rapidly
in pursuit. The men were paroled on the spot, the guns spiked, and the
rebels retreated in haste back into Virginia, our army encamping near
Harper's Ferry. While at Elysville one hundred men from the regiment
went to Monocacy to guard a provision train, commanded by Lt. Kerner,
remaining there two days. Scouting parties were sent out daily, houses
were searched and concealed weapons found hidden in holes, garrets and
cellars. The majority of the people were secesh and refused to give any
information. The regiment was encamped on a farm belonging to an officer
in the rebel army. Elysville is a small village on the Baltimore and
Ohio Railroad, 21 miles from Baltimore. It is quite a flourishing place.
On the 16th of September, orders came for the regiment to proceed to
Monocacy and rebuild the bridge destroyed by the rebels. Again the men
were placed in baggage cars, a dismal rainy day, riding all night,
arriving at the Junction the next day. Everything looked desolate. The
bridge destroyed, remnants of wagons, dead horses and mules lying
around. A portion of the Potomac army was there awaiting supplies. It
was raining hard and very muddy. Tents were pitched in a plowed field in
regular order, guards were stationed around camp and no one allowed to
leave. The rebels left a squad of men to destroy the bridge; in the
attempt one man was blown up and buried near the ruins, leaving his arms
and head above ground. This was the first rebel the men had ever seen,
and for some time was an object of curiosity to us; he lay exposed
several days; at last his remains were taken up and decently interred by
our men. Parties were now set to work, the camp laid out in style, and a
regular system of order prevailed. The bridge was soon rebuilt and
guarded by our men. It was named Camp Hooker, in honor of Fighting Joe,
as Hooker was called. The city of Frederick was three miles distant, the
men receiving passes daily to visit the place. The drills and
inspections were very arduous; they were arranged systematically and in
perfect order. The reveille was sounded at six A. M.; every man was then
required to get up and answer to his name at roll call, proceed to the
woods and carry a log for the cook house. The drum then beat for
breakfast, each man taking his tin plate and cup to the cook; breakfast
consisting of coffee, pork or beef, and dry bread. At 8 o'clock the
guard was mounted for the day; the old guard relieved, would shoot at a
mark to clean their guns and were excused from drill for the morning.
The camp guard was as follows: One Captain as officer of the day, one
Lieutenant as officer of the guard, three Sergeants, three Corporals,
and ninety men, remaining on 24 hours. The duty of the officer of the
day was to see that the camp was kept clean and neat; that all offing
and dirt should be removed; also to visit the guard house each day and
once at midnight, and then visit each post, or as was called the grand
rounds. The duty of the officer of the guard was to see that each
sentinel was doing his duty, and to see that each officer was saluted
properly. The guard was divided into three reliefs, thirty men to a
relief; one sergeant and one corporal. The non-commissioned officers
were to post each relief every two hours. In case of extreme cold
weather, no sentinel was allowed to stand but one hour. At 9 o'clock the
drums beat for squad drill, lasting two hours; this was very tiresome to
the men; the same each day. At 12 the drum beat for dinner; at 2
battalion drill until 4; at 5 dress parade, or inspection; supper at
six; roll call at 9; taps at 9.15. Each man was then required to put the
light out of his tent and retire. No loud talking or laughing was then
allowed. Military rules were very strict and must be obeyed. Each day's
duties were alike. Saturday afternoon was allowed the men to wash, and
amuse themselves as they pleased.
At Monocacy the regiment lay nine months. Those months passed
pleasantly, and will ever be remembered as the best part of our three
years' soldiering. Many times, after a hard day's march or fight, the
men were heard to say, "If I was only at Monocacy, I would be
contented." The first few months nearly all the men were sick. The
Doctor's call was in the morning. At one time more than two-thirds of
the men were unfit for duty, a great many dying for the want of proper
care. The hospital was full, men lay in their tents unable to move. The
Surgeons did all that men could do, but nothing could stay the hand of
death. Sometimes as many as three lay dead at once. They were buried in
the Cemetery near Frederick City, with the honors of war. As each day
passed, some poor fellow was carried to his grave; the dead march
played, and all that remained of our comrade was consigned to the grave.
During that nine months seventy-five were buried, dying since their
enlistment. The men were not paid for six months, the rations were poor,
many became disheartened and desertions were frequent.
On the 19th of September, one thousand rebels captured at the battle of
Antietam were brought in camp, for the regiment to guard. They were of
Longstreet's and Hill's divisions, and were a sorry looking set, a
specimen of the genuine rebel. Some were without hats and coats, while
others were shoeless and covered with filth and vermin. Several were
very intelligent, but the majority were ignorant, using expressions that
were very amusing to us, such as "down yere," "right smart I reckon,"
"youns come to fight weens," etc. Officers could not be distinguished
from privates, as all were dressed alike in grey. They were kept under
guard two days, and then forwarded to Fort Delaware under a strong
escort commanded by Lieut. Kerner of Co. A.
Days, weeks, and even months passed, and still the regiment lay
inactive. Battles were fought and victories won, but war to us was yet a
stranger. As we glanced at the past, the future arose before us with its
dangers and hardships. How soon would we be called to follow those who
had gone before us and were now at the front; sooner or later. The men
were willing and anxious to obey that call, and with their comrades in
arms lay down their lives if necessary, in defense of those glorious
stars and stripes, that had been trampled in the dust by men that were
once our brothers but now foes, worse than demons, men that looked upon
the laboring man as a being to detest, and were unworthy of notice.
Southern aristocracy in their eyes must rule, or the Union must be
dissolved. The men soon became efficient in drilling, and on dress
parade presented a fine appearance. Every musket was required to be
clean and in perfect order. Sunday morning was knapsack inspection, a
very tedious affair. Every man was required to be in line with knapsack,
haversack, canteen, musket and equipments with white gloves, boots
blacked and hair combed neatly. On Sunday morning, October 12th, the
regiment being out on inspection, were suddenly ordered to load their
pieces and form in line of battle. It was soon done, the men marching
out of camp at a double quick, accompanied by two pieces of artillery
from Battery L, Fifth U.S. Artillery that were lying at Monocacy bridge.
Stuart with his rebel cavalry had crossed the Potomac at night and then
were but a short distance off. The regiment marched six miles to
Urbanna, but did not succeed in overtaking them, being mounted they soon
recrossed the river, having stolen some two hundred horses. Our men
returned disappointed. We were then very brave, having never yet seen an
armed rebel. This was our first expedition, and was the subject of
comment for some time. A sufficient force was left to guard the camp.
The men were all anxious to go and did not like being left behind, as
they were anxious to participate in an engagement if necessary.
Winter with its cold storms was fast approaching; the tents were
insufficient to protect the men from the cold. Trees were cut down and
stockades made, the tents floored and raised from the ground, and on
those stockades were very comfortable. The members of each tent clubbed
together and purchased a stove; the stockades were mudded up and the
tents were then as warm as any building. The long winter evenings were
spent in reading, writing, singing, dancing and various other
amusements. Log houses were built for cook houses, stables for the
horses and a guard house for each day's relief, and for the confinement
of those that failed to do their duty and obey the rules. Nothing
important occurred to disturb the dull monotony of camp life. Days
passed like a dream. The same routine of duty each day, such as drills,
inspections, reviews, etc. Christmas and New Years were very dull, and
passed off very quietly in camp. The most of the boys received boxes
from home and enjoyed a good dinner. Other poor fellows having no homes
or friends, were compelled to do without and eat hard tack and salt
pork. The boxes of hard tack sent us were marked Harrison's Landing,
having been with McClellan on the Peninsula campaign. Some of them were
mouldy and filled with worms, and marked 312 B. C., which was
interpreted by some of the boys 312 years before Christ; rather poor
food for men that were but a few miles from the National Capitol,
guarding a railroad carrying millions of supplies annually.
On the night of January 6th, 1863, Co's E and K were ordered to be ready
to move in the morning, and be stationed along the railroad as guards.
The morning came clear and cold; every thing was packed and the men
placed with their baggage on open cars. Co. E was stationed at
Monrovia, seven miles distant from camp, and Co. K at Mount Airy,
fourteen miles from camp, quartered in a church. The men soon became
acquainted and made themselves at home. The church was situated on the
main road half a mile from Mount Airy, and half a mile from Ridgeville
on the Baltimore pike. Pickets and guards were stationed, although there
was no enemy near. Co. E at Monrovia were placed in their tents and were
compelled to lie on the ground. They were encamped near the railroad.
One of their number while there was run over and killed by the cars.
Eight companies remained at Monocacy. Col. Truex was appointed acting
Brigadier General with headquarters at Frederick City; Major Vredenberg,
Provost Marshal. The 3d Delaware regiment and Purnell Legion were at
Frederick, and were temporarily brigaded with the 14th New Jersey, all
under command of Col. Truex. The regiment had now been out over five
months, and had yet received no pay. The men were anxious to receive
their money, as several had large families at home depending upon them
for support. At last the paymaster arrived. He was hailed with joy, as
money was scarce. Five months' pay was due the men, but two months of it
only were paid. The men were very much dissatisfied, but the promise of
speedy payment soon quieted them. Two weeks later the men were paid
again, the government keeping back one month's pay. As a general thing
this was always done, very often the men receiving but two months' pay
when three or four were due them.
The Winter passed with scarcely any snow, but rain fell in abundance.
Spring opened in all its glory. The Potomac army lay inactive in their
comfortable quarters near Falmouth. The roads were in such a condition
that an army could not move. Early in the spring six companies were
detached from the regiment and sent to Martinsburg, for the purpose of
re-enforcing Milroy, the enemy threatening an attack. Arriving at
Harper's Ferry, encamped on Maryland Heights three days. Arriving at
Martinsburg, two companies were stationed in a church, the others
encamping near the town. Co's B and G were left at Monocacy. The
companies remained at Martinsburg six weeks and then returned to camp,
as the threatened attack proved to be an alarm, the rebels
reconnoitering and then retiring. The men now began to get tired of
Monocacy, having lain there 9 months. A flag was presented to the
regiment by Gov. Parker. The men were drawn up in line with white
gloves, a band was hired for the occasion, and the flag was presented by
the Governor in person. Although the men were denied the luxuries of
life, they were far better off than the boys of the Potomac army with
good tents and pretty good food. The men were very well contented.
Numbers were anxious to move. Take us to the front was the general
cry. Soon the order came, pack up, boys, and prepare to move. The men
obeyed with alacrity, as all were glad to go, lying in camp so long. A
number of articles had accumulated that were of no use to us and were
left behind. The ground was as smooth and as even as a board floor, the
men drilling on it so often it became hard. When we entered it it was
mud knee deep. The men working with a will soon had their tents in line
and arranged in perfect order. To be ready to move without delay was the
order. Tents were struck and the regiment proceeded to the Relay House
on baggage cars. Co.'s E and K were ordered to be in readiness, and were
taken on board. Monocacy to us was a home, and with a sigh of regret we
left, although anxious to move. Arriving at the Relay House at five
o'clock, encamped in a field near the depot, the men lying out in the
dew. The next morning tents were pitched. Just as they were ready,
orders came for the men to send all surplus baggage home, as the
regiment was ordered to the front to join the Potomac Army. The rebel
army under Lee had again attempted the invasion of the North, and
re-enforcements were hurriedly sent on. Everything was left behind. The
men were now in light marching order, and were again placed on baggage
cars for Harper's Ferry, eighty-one miles from Baltimore. Co. E was left
at Monocacy to guard the bridge, stationed in block houses built by our
regiment. Arriving at Maryland Heights, the regiment marched up the
ascent in dust and sun. It was exceedingly warm, and the march very
tiresome. The Heights are ascended by a circuitous route that winds
around the mountain. The sun being very hot, and the roads very dusty,
it was very hard for the men, and they soon became tired with heavy
knapsacks, muskets and equipments. Arriving at the top, the regiment
encamped near the 6th New York Heavy Artillery regiment that had lain
there some six months. Their camp was in a splendid condition, clean and
neat, the men being more like regulars than volunteers, wearing new
clothes and white gloves. While on duty the men were compelled to lie
out, having been furnished with no tents or blankets, nor did the men
get any until the summer campaign was nearly over. The troops on the
Heights numbered some 7,000 men, under command of Gen. Tyler.
The enemy were now across the Potomac in force, moving northward for
Pennsylvania, under command of their best and ablest leader, General
Lee, marching the same road they did the previous year, when under
command of their wily and strategic leader, Stonewall Jackson, now no
more. Lee, his superior in every respect, was now in full command of all
the armies of the Confederate States, superintending the army of
northern Virginia in person. Our army was commanded by Fighting Joe
Hooker, Burnside's successor. Both armies were straining every nerve.
Defeat to us was death. Washington, at the mercy of the rebels, would
soon fall, the independence of the South achieved, and Slavery, the
curse of our nation, would rule supreme. But God, in his wise
providence, saw fit to rule otherwise, and victory crowned our arms.
The regiment was encamped on the Heights thirteen days. General Tyler
was relieved and General French succeeded him. He immediately set about
preparing the Heights for immediate defence. Trenches were dug, rifle
pits and cannon were placed in position. It was supposed the enemy, if
defeated, would fall back on Harper's Ferry, and everything was prepared
to give them a warm reception. During our sojourn on the Heights the
rain fell incessantly day and night, wetting us to the skin. Officers
and men, with spades and picks, were busily engaged in digging and
erecting fortifications in mud knee deep. A strong picket force was
thrown out on all roads every night, each regiment sending more than
half of their men. The works were at last finished, and Maryland Heights
were considered as impregnable--a second Gibraltar--its frowning
batteries and immense fortifications, manned by one division, were
sufficient to hold the whole rebel army in check. While there an alarm
spread that the enemy were coming. The men had never smelt powder and
were as new recruits. It was night and very dark. Soon some of the men,
mistaking others for rebels, fired their pieces, supposing the enemy
were near. Report after report followed in quick succession, the
darkness of the night preventing the men from seeing anything. At last
the firing ceased. The men awakened from their sleep were at first
confused, but soon became aware that no enemy was near, and closed their
eyes once more in sleep. Expecting an attack, and to prepare the men for
any emergency, every regiment was required to be in line at three
o'clock each morning, remaining until daylight. It was a very wise
precaution, as it proved beneficial to the men afterward. Two pontoon
bridges were laid across the Potomac to Virginia, one at Harper's Ferry,
another some three miles further North. The 14th regiment was on picket
at one, the 6th Md. at the other. Jno. Brown's cave being near, it was
visited by the men. This cave is an opening on Bollivar Heights, some
300 feet deep, filled with holes, and very dark. Here John Brown, and
some thirty desperadoes, were concealed for seven days, and were at last
compelled to surrender to the armed forces of Virginia. His object to
free the slaves of the South failed, and he, with his band of men, were
finally executed. The cave now bears his name, and is often visited by
persons anxious to see the cave of the renowned chieftain. The arsenal
and all public buildings were in ruins, the walls still standing. They
were destroyed at the commencement of the war by the Union forces, to
prevent them from falling into the hands of the enemy. Day and night the
men worked on the fortifications, strengthening them after they were
done. Lee was still moving northward, followed closely by Hooker, with
the Potomac Army. Arriving near Maryland Heights he visited Gen. French,
and ordered the Heights evacuated and the troops to re-enforce the army,
preparatory to a decisive battle. Gen. Halleck, then in command at
Washington, ordered Gen. French to remain, and ordered Hooker to be
relieved. Gen. Geo. B. Meade, commanding the Pennsylvania Reserves, was
placed in command of the army. He immediately ordered the troops to
evacuate the Heights and join the Potomac Army with all possible haste,
as re-enforcements were greatly needed. The men had worked hard, and
those immense fortifications were useless.
The division under command of Major-General French evacuated the Heights
on Tuesday, June 30, destroying a vast amount of ammunition, grain, etc.
Eighty men from the 14th regiment, under command of Lieut. Bailey, were
detailed to guard the pontoon bridge near John Brown's cave, until the
Heights were evacuated. At four o'clock everything was ready, and the
column started. Heavy guns were placed on canal boats for Washington;
the sick were sent to convalescent camps, and everything that could not
be taken was destroyed. Orders were read to the troops to prepare for an
active campaign, and in light marching order; all baggage not really
needed was sent to Washington, and the men were ready for a march.
Company E, stationed at Monocacy, twenty-five miles away, was ordered
to join the regiment, marching in a heavy rain, remaining but one night
on the heights. At 5 P. M. the troops started, the rain pouring in
torrents, marching that afternoon seven miles with knapsacks, muskets,
equipments and three days' rations, passing Sandy Hook and Knoxville,
small, dilapidated villages near the ferry. These places, since the war,
were rapidly going to decay. Encamping in a field at night, lying on the
wet ground till morning. We were on the Heights two weeks, the rain
falling continually, the men constantly at work digging entrenchments
and on picket, but one day being clear. As the men left they gave a sigh
of relief, and hoped they would never see the place again. The rainy
season had now commenced, and the roads were almost impassible, the mud
in some places hub deep. It was with difficulty that the troops could
march, some sinking up to their knees in the mud. But seven miles were
made that day, and the troops, drenched with rain, cooked their scanty
supper of hard tack and salt pork by camp fires. Rail fences were
demolished and burned without regard to owners, and by the light of
these camp fires, without tents or blankets, the men bivouacked for the
night. This was the first march, and the men, exhausted, threw
themselves upon the wet ground, and soon were buried in slumber. Pickets
were stationed, and the dark, gloomy hours of the night passed slowly
along.
The morning of July 1st dawned clear and bright; the reveille was
sounded, and the men awakened from their slumber to prepare for a weary
march. Breakfast of hard tack, coffee and pork was eaten, and the
troops, in solid columns to the number of 7,000, under command of Gen.
French, moved out on the road to Frederick City, passing through
Jefferson, a small village on the main road. The sun came out very warm.
The march was tiresome, as the men were not used to it. A great many
threw away their knapsacks, the ground being covered with them. The
farmers followed with their wagons, picking up everything that was
thrown away. The men were glad to get rid of all unnecessary loads. The
country along the route was splendid. The waving fields of grain, the
crops of grass, reminded us of home. But war was desolating the
land--cruel, unrelenting war! At four P. M. the column halted near
Frederick City, having marched since morning eighteen miles. The roads
were very bad, and the column was ordered to remain in camp one day. No
passes were allowed the men to visit Frederick City, and they lay
quietly in camp on the wet ground, tired and weary, the weather
intensely hot, the men bathing in Monocacy. A man from Co. H, named
Anderson, ventured beyond his depth and was drowned, not being able to
swim. Every effort was made to save him, but without avail. His body was
recovered and buried in the cemetery near Frederick.
On Friday, July 3d, the troops were ordered to change camp near Monocacy
bridge, marching three miles, awaiting orders, passing through Frederick
City, marching company front, the roads very muddy, encamping near
Monocacy bridge, on the western side of the river. Remaining over night
the men felt the need of blankets, but still none were furnished. It was
raining and very disagreeable. It cleared off during the night. The
fourth of July was very warm. At noon orders came for the troops to move
to the support of the Potomac army, now engaged in a terrific struggle
with Lee and the flower of the rebel army at Gettysburgh. Defeat to our
forces was ruin; victory, everything. For four days the tide of battle
ebbed and flowed. The night of the fourth found the enemy in full
retreat, closely followed by our victorious Meade; a name hitherto known
only to the army, but now will ever be remembered as one of our proudest
leaders--Geo. W. Meade, the hero of Gettysburgh, and the commander of
the Potomac army. It again commenced to rain, and the men were wet
through. The guns of Gettysburgh were plainly heard. The men were not
allowed any rest, but passed on, hoping to arrive in time to take part
in that ever memorable battle, and to relieve those men, who for four
days had driven the enemy at all points with terrible slaughter.
Marching in the mud was slow, the artillery sinking deep in the mire.
The divisions now numbered some eight thousand men, having been
re-enforced by troops lying in the vicinity of Frederick City, passing
through Middletown, a small village eight miles from Frederick City. At
sunset the rain ceased for a short time, the sun setting in all its
glory. The surrounding country was splendid. Our march was through a
valley, the scenery being delightful. The column marched nineteen miles,
halting at midnight at Boonsboro Gap; headquarters at the Summit House,
eighteen miles from Hagerstown. The enemy were now in full retreat. This
was the second time the Confederates had attempted the invasion of the
North, and for the second time were defeated. Longstreet had several
times hurled his dense columns upon our centre, trying in vain to break
our lines, but each time was repulsed with terrible loss. A. P. Hill on
the right and Ewell on the left, sought, if possible, a weak spot, to
penetrate our lines, but firm as a rock the Union boys stood repulsing
each charge, strewing the ground with rebel dead, and driving them back
in confusion. Both armies were now in motion, each hoping by rapid
marches to outwit the other; Lee trying to get across the Potomac, and
Meade trying to intercept him. It was supposed that Lee would retreat by
the way of Boonsboro Gap, and French's division was ordered to hold it,
and keep the enemy in check, while the Potomac army moved, if possible,
in their rear. A strong line of battle was formed, and heavy pickets
thrown out. No fires were allowed. As each regiment came up they were
formed in line, stacked arms and lay on the wet ground until morning.
The night was very cold, and the men suffered very much with nothing but
the ground to lie on, with a knapsack for a pillow and the canopy of
heaven for a covering.
The division was composed of three Brigades; the first consisting of the
151st N. Y., 6th N. Y. Heavy Artillery, 10th Vermont and 14th N. J.,
commanded by Brig. Gen. Morris, formerly Colonel of the 6th N. Y. The
regiments were very large, numbering from eight hundred to one thousand
men. We remained at the Gap five days, the Potomac army passing through,
Lee having halted at Williamsport, the river being so high he could not
cross. As the veterans of many a hard fought battle passed, they were
loudly cheered by the new troops. Their soiled and worn out garments,
and their decimated ranks contrasted greatly with our well filled ranks
and new clothes. They looked upon us as new recruits, and remarks were
frequently made by them not altogether suiting us. Some of them were
that our regiments were as large as their brigades, and that we were too
green for the front. Such remarks did very well for the time, as we were
not inured to hardships as they were, but the war was not yet over.
After serving their three years they lay quietly at their homes, while
the boys that were then called green, were veterans, destined to see
more hardships and more fighting than those that enlisted at the
commencement of the war. Nine hundred and sixty rebels that were
wounded, with ambulances and baggage wagons, were sent back by Gen. Lee
with an escort, to Richmond. They were captured, together with several
important despatches, by Kilpatrick's cavalry, and brought in camp for
us to guard at Boonsboro Gap. Several of them were in a dying condition.
They were very destitute and ragged, with scarcely anything to eat. The
10th Vermont guarded them to Washington. The Regiment was encamped on
the spot where Gen. Reno fell at the battle of Antietam, a tree marking
the spot. It was on the plantation of Dr. Wise, his well being filled
with dead rebels thrown in for burial. Many a parent or loving wife will
never know their fate, thinking perhaps they were prisoners, and at the
close of the war would return to their homes; but they are now no more.
With thousands of Union soldiers their bones rest on Southern soil,
there to remain until the last trump shall sound to summon them to their
final account before a just and holy God.
During the five days encampment at Boonsboro Gap, the weather was very
stormy and disagreeable; everything was excitement, and we were
confident that Lee and his army would be annihilated. The Potomac army
with its re-enforcements was rapidly concentrating, having marched from
Gettysburgh by various routes; flushed with victory they were anxious to
be led forward. The rebel army being very much disheartened by defeat
and scant of rations, some having five rounds of ammunition apiece,
desertions from their lines were numerous, a great many Maryland
soldiers returning to their homes sick and tired of rebeldom. Various
rumors were in circulation, and all felt that a decisive battle would
soon be fought, at what point none could tell, as none were certain of
the whereabouts of Lee's main force, he having retreated from
Gettysburgh in the darkness of the night; but it was supposed he was in
the vicinity of Williamsport, preparing to re-cross the river into
Virginia, and fall back as rapidly as possible, within the defences of
Richmond. A courier bearing despatches from Jeff. Davis to Gen. Lee was
captured by our scouts, and the despatches intercepted. They were orders
from Richmond for Lee to fall back immediately, as the place was
threatened by our forces under Butler from Fortress Monroe. Maryland now
presented a scene of desolation and woe; houses pillaged, robbed and
burned by the soldiers of both armies; trees were felled and rail fences
demolished without regard to owners. Orders were read to the troops
forbidding straggling, but by some those orders were not obeyed, and
foraging soon became common. The poorer classes were on the verge of
starvation, as everything they had was taken. The soldiers fared well,
helping themselves to everything that came in their way, without regard
to owners or to value, robbing hen roosts, killing sheep, hogs and
cattle. Fields of grain were trampled upon and laid waste; horses and
mules were turned loose to feed in fields of oats, wheat and clover.
On the afternoon of July 9th, orders came for the division to move and
join the Potomac army, having been assigned as 3rd Division, 3rd Army
Corps, now commanded by Gen. French. Gen. Sickels, one of our ablest
Generals, formerly commanded the corps; he was everywhere in the hottest
of the fight. At Gettysburgh, while giving command to his men, he was
struck by a shell and severely wounded in the leg. It was found
necessary to amputate it, and the command of the corps was given to Maj.
Gen. French. The odd divisions, 1st, 2nd and 3rd, were formed in two,
our division as 3rd, commanded by Brig. Gen. Carr from New York State.
Leaving the gap, the division marched that afternoon six miles, joining
the Potomac army at night, encamping in a field. This was our first
entry in that army, and we remained there until the close of the war.
The 11th New Jersey was in the 2nd division. They were raised at Trenton
under the same call, and proceeded to the front a few days sooner than
the 14th. They were placed immediately in active service and had already
participated in several battles. At Gettysburgh they were in the hottest
of the fight, losing more than one-third of their men, and fighting
bravely. They now numbered but two hundred men; sickness and death on
the battle field had thinned their ranks, but still they were ready for
the contest and as eager as ever to be led forward. Six days had now
elapsed since the retreat of Lee from Gettysburgh; the army was again
concentrated and moved forward to the attack. We were now but one day's
march from the enemy, strongly entrenched at Williamsport. As yet we had
not seen a battle, nor had we seen an armed rebel. As new troops we were
all anxious to fight, but were disappointed, perhaps for the best. After
joining the Potomac army, the division encamped in a field until
morning, cooking coffee and hard-tack by camp fires built of rail
fences. The next morning the troops were awakened at reveille which was
sounded at sunrise. At 11 o'clock a forward movement was again made,
marching six miles, passing through a small village called Katyville.
The stores were closed, the majority of the men being secesh. Frederick
City was the base of supplies, and rations were plenty; such as an army
was allowed on a march, consisting of hard-tack, salt pork, sugar,
coffee and beef. As long as the troops remained in Maryland, they fared
well, but in Virginia, rations were scarce, often two or three days
passing without anything to eat; the troops marched very slow. As we
were approaching the enemy during the afternoon, but six miles were
marched. The Regiment encamping on a hill near a battery, arms were
stacked, the men prepared their evening meal. The camp fires of our army
were everywhere visible, and in the darkness of the night looked
splendidly. At nine o'clock the bugle sounded, and orders came to move
immediately. Various reports were soon circulated, but little time was
given for conjecture. Soon the troops were in motion, marching back a
forced march of eight miles, almost double quick, halting at twelve
o'clock in the vicinity of Boonsboro Gap, near the headquarters of Gen.
Meade. A line of battle was quickly formed, the troops sleeping on their
arms. The Regiment halted in a field of wheat cut and shocked, the men
helping themselves, making beds for the night. It being warm we slept
well until aroused the next morning at reveille. The weather was close
and very uncomfortable and marching very tedious. The troops had
advanced farther than was intended, and were almost within the enemy's
lines. The next morning orders came again to advance, marching three
miles in line of battle, maneuvering in various positions. The Regiment
was detailed to support a battery, remaining two days and three nights,
every moment expecting to attack the enemy, and wondered why the order
was not given. All were anxious to fight, and all were confident that
the rebel army would be defeated. Gen. Meade held a council of war with
his corps commanders, French, Howard, Sykes, Sedgwick, Warren and
Hancock, and it was decided not to attack, as the army needed
reorganizing and had suffered severely at Gettysburgh, the risk being
too great to run. The rebel army, although defeated, would fight with
desperation, and if victorious nothing could save Washington. Gen. Lee,
without exception, was the leading general of the rebel army, together
with A. P. Hill, Longstreet and Ewell, and they were formidable
antagonists to encounter. Taking advantage of the delay, the enemy were
rapidly re-crossing the river, having seized several boats, and with
their pontoon train soon constructed bridges. The river was falling and
everything was in their favor. While we were watching their front
nothing but their advance guard was in sight. On the night of July 14th
the retreat was discovered, but nothing could be done until morning. At
daylight our army was in pursuit, but without avail. Their rear guard,
numbering some five thousand men, was captured, the rest were safe
across the river, marching rapidly toward Richmond, a weakened,
demoralized army, disheartened by defeat. It is estimated that Lee lost
forty thousand men in his attempt to invade the North. Gen. Meade was
greatly censured by the people of the North for allowing the enemy to
escape, but Lee had yet a large army and victory to our forces not
altogether certain. The Potomac army by rapid marching and hard
fighting, had driven the enemy from our soil, and the heart-felt thanks
of millions of souls went up to God in praise. But still more was to be
done; the rebels were not conquered; large armies were yet to be
encountered and subdued; miles of territory hostile to the government to
be occupied, and treason crushed forever. The army moved five miles to
Williamsport, occupying the same ground the rebels did the night before.
We saw their breastworks and fortifications, but nothing of them, with
the exception of their rear guard of 5,000 men that was captured. We
remained at Williamsport until the morning of the 15th, when the pursuit
commenced. Orders were read to the troops to prepare for hard marching.
The weather was intensely hot, almost suffocating, and the roads very
muddy. We marched that day 14 miles, passing through the villages of
Fairplay and Donaldsville. The march was very severe, especially for the
new troops. Twenty from the 3d Corps fell out, exhausted, and died by
the road; several were sunstruck. At three o'clock the troops halted in
the vicinity of Sharpsburg until morning, the men nearly played out.
Muskets were stuck in the ground and shelters fastened upon them, to
protect the men from the rays of the sun. Tired and weary they threw
themselves upon the ground and most of them were soon asleep. Pickets
were placed as usual, until the next morning, when the army was again in
motion, marching that day 15 miles, encamping in Pleasant Valley, near
Harper's Ferry, remaining until the afternoon of the next day, the rain
pouring in torrents. The weather was very uncertain, one day very warm,
the next rainy and cold.
On the afternoon of 17th, the column marched eight miles, very slowly,
passing Sandy Hook and crossing the Potomac at Harper's Ferry on
pontoons. For the first time our regiment trod the sacred soil of
Virginia. Alas! how few returned of that noble band of Jersey boys, the
bravest of the brave, that for the first time stood on that once sacred,
but now polluted, ground. The ravages of war had laid the country waste,
and destitution everywhere met the eye. An old dilapidated bridge
crossed the Shenandoah, and the troops marched over in single file,
moving around Louden Heights. The night being very dark and the march
very slow, they halted in a field at 12 o'clock until morning. The next
day was Sunday, but there was no rest--no such thing as Sunday in the
army. The regiment was detailed as rear guard of ammunition train,
marching eight miles, the sun being very warm, and the heat almost
insufferable, encamping with the main body of the corps in a field near
Keys Pass. The heat was so intense that neither army could march fast.
The rebels were now but one day's march from us, we having taken a
nearer route by way of Harper's Ferry, marching down the Louden Valley,
the enemy marching down the Shenandoah.
The Summer campaign had thus far been an active one, and by the new
troops was considered wonderful. The rebel army was still moving
southward by slow marches, from eight to fifteen miles per day, the
weather too hot to permit marching faster, the Potomac Army in pursuit.
Lee, as wily and strategic as ever, refused to give battle, and, by a
series of maneuvers, succeeded in eluding our grasp. The different corps
marched by different routes, the cavalry frequently skirmishing with
their rear guard. But five miles were made on the 19th, as the troops
were waiting for supplies, passing through Snickersville, near Snicker's
Gap, and encamping in a field. At midnight we were routed out for
rations and a good supper issued. At four o'clock we were ordered to
move, marching fourteen miles before breakfast, halting at noon for
dinner. After resting an hour orders were given to move again, marching
three miles to Upperville, encamping on the ground where Buford had a
cavalry fight with the rebel leader, Stuart, the year previous. For
several hours skirmishing was kept up until dark, when Buford ordered a
charge. Stuart was driven from the field, retiring in the darkness of
the night, leaving his dead and wounded in our hands. The troops
remained at Upperville two days, the regiment being detailed for picket
the ensuing night. It was now rumored that Grant, the hero of Vicksburg,
was to take command of the army, Gen. Meade being too slow for the
people North. Had they been in the Potomac army, they would not have
been so eager to move, and march in the hot sun. Upperville is a small
village near Manassas Gap. The people, as a general thing, are very
ignorant, and gazed with wonder at us Yanks, as they called us. One
remark, especially, was amusing to the men. As the regiment was passing
an old house, being an advance guard, a little girl came running in,
exclaiming, "Mother, mother, take in your clothes, here comes the
Yanks!" This served as a bye-word for some time, the men often
exclaiming, as they passed a house, "Take in your chimney, old man, its
going to rain!" At four o'clock on the afternoon of the 22d, orders came
to fall in, marching six miles to Piedmont station, on the Orange and
Alexandria Railroad. At the commencement of the war this road was
destroyed by the rebels; ties were burned, rails bent, bridges
demolished, and wrecks of cars lay strewed around in various places. The
troops encamped on a hill until morning. Gen. Meade received information
that Ewell's corps was holding Manassas Gap, until the main body of the
rebel army had passed. Orders were given Gen. French to take the 3d
corps and, if possible, drive them from their position. At daylight the
next morning the corps started, with nothing to eat, as the rations had
not arrived. It was deemed necessary to drive the rebels from the gap,
and the men were compelled to go. The sun was very warm, and the troops,
hungry and weary, plodded on, marching fourteen miles, halting for a
rest at noon. At three o'clock the column advanced in line of battle,
the cavalry returning, having engaged the enemy during the morning, but
could do but little without infantry. Manassas Gap is a wild, romantic
spot, and very hilly. The brigade was formed and maneuvered in line of
battle; Berdan's sharpshooters were deployed as skirmishers and soon
engaged the enemy on Whopping Heights. Orders were given the men to load
and fix bayonets, some time being occupied in getting into position,
marching up hill and down. It was now supposed by the men that a battle
was to be fought. Our brigade was placed in position and ordered to
charge the enemy. The skirmishing now became heavier, and the sharp
crack of the sharpshooter's rifle could be distinguished from the rest.
The men from the 14th now thought they were to see their first battle,
and grasping their muskets with a steady nerve, moved forward.
Fortunately we escaped for the time. Fearing a flank movement, the order
for the 1st brigade to charge was countermanded, and they were sent to
the extreme right of the line to protect the flank, through a dense wood
of briars and filled with ditches. The firing on the left and centre now
became heavier. Sickels' old brigade, now commanded by Gen. Spinola, was
ordered to charge in place of the 1st brigade, which proved a success;
two hundred prisoners and two guns were captured from the enemy. Gen.
Spinola was wounded and retired from the field. Our loss in killed and
wounded was but sixty men. Night was now approaching; the main body of
the rebel army had passed; the firing ceased, and the enemy were
retreating in haste. The weather suddenly changed, and the night was
chilly and damp. The regiment encamped on the side of a hill, without
blankets, and with nothing to eat; tired and weary, the men were soon
asleep. At daylight the bugle aroused the men from their slumbers. No
traces of the enemy could be seen; maneuvered up hill and down in line
of battle during the morning, when the troops were ordered back to
Piedmont; the remaining corps were encamped there awaiting supplies.
During the march to Manassas Gap, the troops waded five streams, some of
them waist deep, passing a village called Markham. The afternoon of the
26th the column moved back the same road, fourteen miles, to Piedmont,
the weather intensely hot and the men falling out by the way. They were
two days without anything to eat but green grapes and berries that grew
by the roadside; this was the hardest march the men had had so far.
Arriving at Piedmont, rations were issued of hard tack, coffee and pork,
the men eating a good supply, and lying down until morning. Having
received five days' rations, the troops moved again the next day twelve
miles, passing near Salem; the weather, as usual, warm, and the roads
dusty, the mud soon drying up. The column halted for the night, and the
men, with weary limbs and blistered feet, lay on the ground to rest. The
next day was Sunday, marched eleven miles to Warrenton; guarding
ammunition train, remaining on the outskirts of the place in camp five
days. Warrenton is a pretty village, three miles from Warrenton
Junction, on the Alexandria, Richmond and Danville road. At the
commencement of the war it was a thriving place, but since it has gone
to decay.
One hundred young men, the sons of wealthy parents, enlisted in the
rebel army; at the close of the war but eleven remained. Virginia is one
vast graveyard; the bones of three hundred thousand heroes there repose;
the merchant with the laborer, rich and poor, white and black. The
leaden messenger of death heeded not, but speed on, wielded by the hands
of men, once brothers, but now foes; engaged in cruel civil war, neither
party disposed to yield.
At Warrenton, Colonel Truex, with three commissioned officers and five
enlisted men, started for Jersey to raise recruits. The regiment was
commanded by Lieut. Col. Hall during his absence. Having, as yet,
received no tents or blankets, we lay in the hot sun until August 1st,
when the troops were again ordered to move; marching on the wrong road,
thereby marching eight miles out of the way; returned again, marching
fifteen miles more, halting at Shut-eye Town, near Stoneman's Creek; no
signs of the enemy, the regiment still guarding the ammunition train.
This march was very severe, the men carrying five days' rations,
muskets, equipments, and sixty rounds of ammunition. More than one half
of the men fell out, some cursing the officers for leading them out of
the way. Remained near Stoneman's Creek four days, brigade drill under
Gen. Morris each day. Officers from different regiments were sent home
to recruit, to prepare for the Fall campaign; more men were needed and
the army again re-organized. The troops now halted on the banks of the
Rappahannock, the 3rd corps at Fox's Ford, our brigade encamping at Rout
Hill, five miles from Stoneman's Creek, near Bealton Station, picketing
the Rappahannock; the rebel army near Culpepper. Camps were laid out,
shelter tents and rubber blankets issued, the men needing them very
much. Tents were placed on a line and raised from the ground, with poles
cut from trees, and were inspected each Sunday morning by a staff
officer from headquarters. The troops were lying once more in camp,
drawing clothes and shoes. Muskets were cleaned up and inspected each
afternoon; company drill one hour each morning. The drills were very
arduous; brigade drill four hours each day, guard mounting and dress
parade at night. Rout Hill was a very unhealthy place, a great many of
the men taking sick, several of them dying. The 6th N.Y. Heavy Artillery
were detached from brigade and sent to Washington, organized as
provisional brigade and commanded by Col. Ketchum, who subsequently lost
his life at Cedar Creek.
The brigade was now the largest in the corps; the 14th N. J. numbered
800 men, commanded by Col. Truex; the 10th Vermont 900 men, commanded by
Col. Henry, and the 151st N. Y. 900 men, commanded by Lieut. Col. Bowen,
in all 2,600 men, commanded by Brig. Gen. Morris. Details were made each
morning for picket from the various regiments, and stationed along the
Rappahannock. The camp now presented a healthy appearance, and a city
sprung up as if by magic. Old barns and out-houses were taken down by
the men, and comfortable Summer quarters were built, covered with
shelters. Games of ball, pitching quoits, and other amusements were
common. Sutlers arrived, the men were paid off, and marching for the
time was forgotten.
The army was now rapidly filling up, recruits arriving each day. The
mail and papers regularly arrived, and served to while away the dull
hours of camp life. Nothing was as cheering to a soldier as a letter
from his loving friends at home. As each mail arrived, the postmaster
was surrounded by an eager crowd, anxious to hear from home. Those who
were fortunate enough to get a letter were envied by their unlucky
comrades. If the friends at home could have known the pleasure a letter
would give us, they would not have delayed, but would have answered
immediately upon reception.
The troops remained in camp on the banks of the Rappahannock five weeks,
preparing for the Fall campaign. The 14th had now been in the army one
year, and had not thus far engaged in conflict with the enemy; several
times forming line of battle, every moment expecting to attack. For a
time we were fortunate, but, before the term of our enlistment had
expired, we were destined to see more marching and more fighting than
any regiment from New Jersey. Since the battle of Gettysburgh, there had
been no fighting of importance, and all were looking for a forward
movement. The rebel army had again been recruited, and were lying
quietly in camp near Culpepper, watching the movements of our forces,
and awaiting our advance. When least expected, the advance was made, and
the rebels surprised, as will be here-shown.
On the 7th of September, the corps was reviewed; an imposing spectacle.
The divisions were drawn up in line of battle on an open plain, near
army headquarters the troops in heavy marching order, with knapsacks
packed and blankets rolled, marching and counter marching, and passing
in review before Gen. Meade and staff, the officers seated on horseback.
It was very tiresome to the men. After reviewing the troops, they
marched back to their quarters, the officers to Gen. Meade's, where a
collation was served, the wine passing freely around; the privates, that
did the fighting, by their camp fires, eating hard-tack and salt pork,
denied the comforts of life, far from home, on Southern soil, fighting
for liberty and union.
During the afternoon of Sept 15, the Regiment being out on drill, were
ordered immediately to camp, and to prepare to move. Tents were struck,
knapsacks packed, and three days' rations issued. At five o'clock the
column moved forward, leaving our camp where we had lain five weeks, and
started towards the Rappahannock, marching five miles, halting at dark
near a mill on the Rappahannock, the men supposing they were to remain
until morning; but the troops were on the wrong road, the water at this
place being too deep to wade. The men were ordered to fall in, and
marched back across the fields, passing the old camp, and marching some
ten miles farther, encamping for the night on a low marshy swamp, near
Freeman's Ford, twelve miles from Bealton Station. The water at this
ford is very shallow, the main road to Richmond crossing at this point,
not deep enough for a bridge. The men were now well supplied with tents,
blankets and knapsacks for the Winter. The days were very warm, but the
nights were very cold, the dew falling heavily. Our loads were a burden;
knapsacks packed, five days rations and sixty rounds of ammunition, the
men calling themselves Uncle Sam's pack mules. At daylight the next
morning, the order to move forward was given, the men not knowing where
the enemy was stationed, nor in what force. The Rappahannock was waded
waist deep, the boys cheering as they felt the cold water gradually
rising till it was up to their waists, holding their muskets and
ammunition up in their hands, to prevent them from getting wet; marching
very fast, crossing Hazel river at Weldon's Ford, wading it still deeper
than the Rappahannock. After marching all day, with heavy loads, the
column halted at dark, having marched twenty miles. Tired and wet, the
men were glad to rest, and threw themselves on the ground for sleep. The
papers north were now filled with news, and were eagerly read by those
at home who knew nothing of war: the Potomac army has moved and will
soon be engaged in deadly strife with the enemy, and the war will soon
be over. Such reports were daily published, and by the people were
believed. It was thought by them that Lee was so badly whipped at
Gettysburgh that he would not fight; but they were mistaken, the rebel
army was recruited, re-organized, and as full of fight as ever, their
leaders determined on independence or extermination. The forward
movement had now commenced.
The next day the troops marched five miles in line of battle, in a dense
wood. The equinoctial storm now came on, and the troops were ordered
into camp near Culpepper, remaining there twenty-three days, watching
the movements of the enemy strongly entrenched on the Rapidan. Pickets
were thrown out and camp life again commenced. Why the halt, none of the
men could tell, and for twenty-three days, drills, inspections and
reviews were in regular succession. This suited the men better than
marching, although tired of drilling. The 14th had not as yet lost any
men by battle, but a great many by sickness and death. Of the 950
able-bodied men that had left New Jersey, 110 of them had died and were
buried in Maryland and Pennsylvania, and a few in Virginia. Eight
hundred and forty strong, the regiment occupied a large space of ground,
encamping in five lines, two companies in one line, or, as was called,
regimental divisions. The companies were in line as follows: A, F, D, I,
C, H, E, K, G and B. A on the right was called the senior company, B on
the left the second, and C centre or color company; the color guard was
composed of one Sergeant and eight Corporals, whose duty it was to
protect the flag.
On the morning of the 22d of September, eight days' rations were issued
the men at two o'clock, and orders given to move at daylight. Tents were
packed and everything in readiness, when the order was countermanded,
the tents again placed on a line. The pickets were doubled, as it was
supposed the enemy was advancing, and were about to attack; but this was
soon forgotten, and vigilance again relaxed.
Winter quarters were now talked of by the men, as cold weather was
approaching; they could scarcely keep warm in small shelter tents. Wood
was very scarce and had to be carried some distance. The cold winds of
October had come; extra blankets and overcoats were issued to protect
the men from the cold. Forty-two dollars per year were allowed the men
for clothing, and if they over-ran the amount, the difference was paid
by them; if not drawn, the government paid the balance due the men.
On the 10th of October everything was quiet in camp. The various
regiments were out on drill, when suddenly the long roll was beaten, and
the troops, in double quick time, proceeded to camp. Orderlies were now
running in every direction, everything in confusion, as the enemy were
advancing in force. A line of battle was soon formed, extending some 15
miles. Our pickets were driven in, and the rebels were slowly advancing.
Remained in line one hour, with arms stacked, the men lying on the grass
awaiting orders. Returned to camp and packed up, ready to move, as the
enemy had crossed the Rapidan and were advancing in force. At noon the
troops moved, maneuvering in various directions. As yet no decisive
order had been given, as it was not known what Lee's intentions were.
The regiment marched three miles, halting in the camp the 6th N. J. had
occupied, their camp showing signs of having been left in haste. The
majority of the men being on picket, wagons were sent for their
knapsacks. At ten o'clock the men pitched their shelters to get, if
possible, a little sleep. Tents were up but a short time when orders
came to pack up and move. The men formed in line but did not move, and
lay on the ground until morning by camp fires, when the men again fell
in, the day being Sunday, and marched in retreat, a forced march, the
enemy following firing on our rear guard. Several times during the
retreat a line of battle was formed by our men to protect the rear. Lee
had been heavily re-enforced by troops sent from Bragg's army in the
southwest, and was following closely, as the men remarked, "tight to our
heels," destroying the railroad, burning bridges, etc. At Brandy
station, the cavalry under Buford made a gallant charge, driving their
advance guard back to Culpepper. The 106th N. Y. of third division,
being on picket, were nearly surrounded, fighting their way out with
small loss. Both armies were now using every exertion, part of the time
Lee's army on a line with ours, moving for Centreville Heights. Arriving
at the Hazel river, the troops were obliged to wait until pontoons were
built, halting in line of battle, the rear guard skirmishing with the
enemy during the entire march. The troops soon filed over on two
bridges, which were taken up as soon as the army passed, the rebels
laying theirs shortly after. Darkness now came on, and still the march
was continued; the men, tired and weary often halting, forming line of
battle, moving back and then advancing. At ten o'clock the Rappahannock
was reached, the night very dark and cold; the men were compelled to
wade the river waist deep, the water running rapidly. The troops halted
on the banks of the river, having marched twenty-one miles since
morning. A line of battle was now formed and a heavy picket force thrown
out. The 14th Regiment was detailed, and orders given the men to light
no fires nor to sleep. Chilled through, the men stood all night in their
wet clothes. Several refused to cross the river and were taken prisoners
the next day. At first it was supposed the enemy would not follow any
farther than the river, but we were mistaken. All day Monday the men
remained on picket, watching the movements of the enemy. At Fox's Ford,
the 1st New Jersey cavalry were engaged for several hours, keeping the
enemy at bay. The fords were all heavily guarded by the cavalry, and
skirmishing was continually kept up. All was quiet in our immediate
front, while the deep booming of the cannon was heard at intervals
during the day on the extreme right or left. Our base of supplies was at
Alexandria. The retreat had thus far been admirably conducted by Gen.
Meade. Being afraid to hazard a battle against such odds, it was deemed
expedient to retreat within the defenses of Washington, and with the
troops there encamped to fight if necessary. It was now evident that it
was Lee's intention to make a grand raid in the rear of the Army of the
Potomac; cutting off railroad communication with Washington by
destroying the bridges; securing supplies for his half famished troops
and horses by seizing scattering wagon trains; and then by rapid marches
throw his main force upon different points, and, if possible, destroy
Gen. Meade's army by detail. When this flank movement was discovered
Gen. Meade ordered a rear movement east of Culpepper, by Kilpatrick's
and Buford's divisions of cavalry, with infantry supports. A. P. Hill's
rebel corps had advanced on our north flank, towards Warrenton,
threatening our right. Finding that Ewell's corps had not pursued us to
the river, Gen. Meade sent three corps and Buford's cavalry towards
Culpepper, but found no heavy force of the enemy there, Lee having by
this time pushed his main column towards Warrenton, threatening our
right and rear, while we were on the Rappahannock watching a portion of
one of his corps. Lee hoped to execute his well-planned movement upon
our rear, but our reconnoisance towards Culpepper led him to believe
that it was Gen. Meade's intention to get in his rear. Instead of moving
farther as he should have done, he halted his army, and took a position
to give a decisive fight.
Up to this time Lee had the advantage, having surprised us while lying
in camp. He was as near Washington as Gen. Meade, and unencumbered with
trains, with every prospect of gaining Manassas or Centreville Heights,
and cutting off our retreat and all our heavy trains. He evidently
expected to be attacked on Tuesday, as we lay all day Monday on the
Rappahannock, watching, as we supposed, his whole army, when it was only
one of his corps, and he, as ignorant as we were, expecting us to attack
him, maintaining his position in line of battle until noon Tuesday,
awaiting our advance. Gregg's cavalry division had retarded the
movements of the rebel leader Stuart's advance over the Rappahannock
during Monday, although compelled to fall back from the river at night.
Quietly, during the reconnoisance on Monday, Gen. Meade had prepared his
trains, and got them en route rearward, and during Monday had withdrawn
his corps from the Rappahannock, destroyed the railroad bridges,
abutments and all, and sent the pontoons eastward before daylight on
Tuesday morning; sunrise saw the whole army well on the way towards
Washington. Our regiment was yet on picket, having been on over
twenty-four hours. At three o'clock in the morning we were ordered to
fall in, marching one mile, halting in the woods, stacking arms and
cooking breakfast. At four o'clock we formed in line of battle; Co.'s E
and G were sent out as skirmishers. Colonel Truex rode to the front of
the regiment telling them he wished every man in his place; he wanted no
shirking, as the enemy had crossed the river, their skirmishers were
slowly advancing, and would soon be in sight. Again we were destined not
to engage in battle, remaining in line one hour and then marched back,
passing the place we stood picket with our backs to the Rappahannock;
the army had crossed so often, only to return beaten by the foe. The
brigade was now several miles ahead, and the men were compelled to march
fast to keep up, passing the 1st and 2nd divisions, taking the fields
and by-roads; at three o'clock halting near the railroad, supposing we
were to remain until morning, as we had marched twenty miles. The enemy
were pressing and again we were ordered to move. From elevated points of
view the advance of our army over the plains of Manassas by four
different roads, with flanking columns of infantry stretching for miles
and moving steadily forward, was grand beyond description. Cannonading
and musketry were frequently heard on our left flank, as bodies of rebel
cavalry came down at different points, under the fixed belief that they
would reach the railroad and cut our line unopposed. They were very much
surprised at finding a force at every point, miles from the line of
travel, to meet and repel them there. Nor was Lee less surprised when he
learned that he was successfully out-generaled by Meade. He pushed off
Stuart's cavalry from Sulphur Springs upon our rear on Tuesday evening,
and rushed forward Hill's corps at a double quick to support them. Ewell
advanced more leisurely, capturing our stragglers, a great many falling
out, some forty from the 14th regiment were taken and sent to Belle
Isle, there to linger, starved and nearly frozen, during the long,
dreary days of Winter.
The firing in the rear now became heavier, the men hastened their steps.
The 2nd corps was passed, halting in a woods for supper, and to protect
the rear, relieving the 3d corps that had guarded the rear during the
day. Our weary columns now pressed on without any rest until twelve
o'clock at night, when the camp fires of the advanced guard were
discerned in the distance. After marching through a dense woods, 3 miles
in length, the regiment halted in an open field with the rest of the
brigade near Greenwich, having been furnished with eight days' rations,
muskets, equipments and sixty rounds of ammunition, marched thirty-three
miles since morning. During the march Gen. French and staff were fired
into by guerillas, but fortunately none of them were injured.
After resting about four hours, the troops were again routed out long
before daylight, resuming our march; being the rear guard the day
before, the 3d corps was now in advance in four columns. Our army
pressed on, knowing that if Centreville Heights were not reached by us
before Lee, all would be lost, and like Pope, Meade would have been left
to get out of the scrape the best way he could. At daylight Hill's corps
rushed upon Warren with the 2d corps; in vain he endeavored to cut them
off; forming the 2d corps in two lines of battle at Bristoe Station, the
brave Warren awaited their advance until within a few yards, and then
opened with his artillery and musketry, driving them back with severe
loss; in turn charging them, capturing 450 prisoners and 6 guns, leaving
500 of them killed and wounded on the field. When first attacked at
Bristoe Station, Warren threw his infantry from a hill south of the road
down through a swamp near the railroad, under a storm of shot and shell.
The raw recruits that were sent to the army at Rout Hill, were nearly
all of them placed in the 2d corps and in this, their first battle, gave
themselves up for lost. Pale and trembling they involuntarily went
forward, took position with their comrades and performed their portion
of the fight. Every whistling rifle ball, every shrieking shell, they
apprehended was to destroy them individually. It was beyond their
comprehension when told they had met, charged and beaten a brave enemy
in a fierce fight, and captured several hundred of Hill's veterans, six
guns and three battle flags, besides wounding hundreds of rebels, and
come out of the fight unhurt. Their immediate commanders say they fought
equally as well as the old boys, showing no signs of fear when the first
impulse had passed. At three o'clock the corps was ordered to halt, the
guns of Warren could be plainly heard. The regiment halted on Manassas
plains near a brick house used for a signal station, where Beauregard
had his headquarters at the battle of Bull Run. The day was rather
sultry; occasionally a shower came up, which was very refreshing to the
tired men. The troops had a splendid view of the old Bull Run battle
ground. The brigade countermarched one mile, and forming line of battle
proceeded to the help of Warren; but he needed no assistance, as he had
driven Hill back. During the march the enemy pressed us so hard that we
were compelled to leave the sick and wounded in their hands. Crossed
Broad Run, wading it knee deep; also crossed Bull Run at night, the army
forming a line front to the enemy, from Chantilly on the north to Wolf
Run shoals on the south. Not a farthing's worth of property had been
abandoned to, or destroyed by the enemy, out of millions of dollars
transported from Culpepper. Nearly seventy-five miles were marched in
three days, our advance on Centreville Heights being only a few hours
ahead of Lee.
Thus Lee was again out-generaled by Maj. Gen. Meade; by ceaseless and
untiring vigilance he kept himself possessed of all their movements and
designs, and by marches of unparalleled rapidity, in which the troops
suffered without murmuring the loss of rest for successive nights,
marching on through daylight and darkness, in storm and cold, he
overcame the first day's march the enemy had gained, our advance being
already in possession of the Heights when the rear guard was engaged at
Bristoe, full ten miles distant. In consequence of hard marching the men
were very tired, and with blistered feet and weary limbs were glad to
rest on the old Bull Run battle ground, amid the bones of men and horses
that were now resting there. Forty from the regiment were captured on
the march, being unable to keep up. At 11 o'clock the troops encamped,
resting on their arms till morning. Maneuvering on the Heights, forming
line of battle, moving forward, passing the 1st, 2d and 5th corps on the
Heights; marching seven miles to Union Mills; raining hard. The next day
the regiment was detailed for picket, remaining on one day; was then
relieved by the 122d Ohio regiment of 3d division; remained at Union
Mills five days; every morning routed out at three o'clock in line of
battle until daylight.
Our line of defence was now taken up as follows: From the vicinity of
Chantilly on the right to Union Mills on the left, with cavalry on
either flank; Birney's division of the 3d corps was stationed at Fairfax
Court House, the depot of supplies; the 3d division on the extreme left
at Union Mills; the 6th corps under Sedgwick, on the extreme right at
Chantilly, with Kilpatrick's cavalry to protect the flank; the 2d corps
in the rear, was held in readiness to be sent where most needed. The
troops were now inspected, and articles most needed given out, and new
clothing given to those who did not draw at Culpepper. Gen. Sickels, our
old commander, visited the corps at Union Mills. He was received by the
men with cheers, and welcomed back. His stay was brief, as he had not
recovered from his wound, his leg having been amputated near the hip.
Lee, foiled in his attempt to take Washington, retraced his steps,
falling back rapidly towards his entrenched position on the Rapidan. It
was feared that he would again cross the Potomac in the direction of
Harper's Ferry, for another extensive raid into Maryland and
Pennsylvania, as there were frequent reports coming from sources usually
reliable, but all of them proved groundless; if he had again attempted
it he would have found the Potomac army ready, and well prepared for any
engagement. With re-enforcements from Washington, the army was again
ready to move with a view to overtake Lee if he should be retreating, or
to intercept his return if he should have gone towards the Potomac.
On the morning of Oct. 19, the order to advance was again given;
marching during the morning seven miles, halting at noon on Manassas
Plains, near Clarksville, marching over a railroad bridge at Pope's Run,
the rain pouring in torrents. Construction trains had now run as far as
Bristoe Station, the trussle bridge having been burnt by the rebels and
the tracks between Manassas and Catlet's Station almost wholly destroyed
by them. For the first time in two months we saw the cars, having
marched on by roads from Maryland to Culpepper, or on main roads far
from any railroad. The pursuit now commenced in earnest, and Lee, who
but a short time before was confident of victory, was now in turn
retreating. Again the tables were turned; by strategic skill Gen. Meade
had baffled all the designs of the skillful rebel chieftain. After a
weary march of three days in cold and storm, he succeeded in placing the
Union army in such a position that it would be madness for any foe to
attack it, and now the discomfited rebel army beats a hasty retreat,
attempting by rapid movements and shrewd devises, to get back to their
fortified position on the Rapidan before the Union Army could overtake
them in their haste. As we retired from the Rappahannock to the
fortified Heights of Centreville, the enemy followed, shouting victory;
every step they advanced seemed to them an assurance that Washington was
in their grasp. Proudly and defiantly they pressed on after our
retreating columns, thinking that the army of the Potomac had been
weakened by drafts upon it for the army in the southwest, and that we
would be wholly unable to protect the Union capitol; every mile we
retired strengthened them in their feeble delusion. Succeeding in
getting possession of the shortest line from the Rappahannock to
Centreville, they thought to possess those heights in advance of our
army, then wheeling destroy us, leaving Washington a sure fruit of their
success. It was a scheme well planned, and if successful, would have
given the Confederates their independence; but the commander of the
Union army was not idle, he understood their plans. By ceaseless and
untiring energy and by rapid marching, he came out victorious, and we
were again to traverse the same road, not in retreat, but as a
victorious army. Ten days from the time of our starting from Culpepper,
found us again on the advance. On the 20th the troops crossed Broad Run
and Kettle Run near Bristoe Station, wading them knee deep; found the
railroad destroyed, bridges and ties burned, marched over the hill where
Warren, with the 2d corps, engaged the enemy, the result being well
known to our readers, the remains of dead horses and men lying around;
marched 16 miles, taking the wrong road. The 1st and 2d divisions had
waded a stream very deep when the mistake was discovered, and they were
compelled to re-cross again, halting for the night near Greenwich; no
signs of the enemy, the weather very cold.
The next day the column again started, marching seven miles, the 2d
corps halting at Buckley's Mills, and the 3d corps encamping at Catlet's
Station. The railroad was totally destroyed, the rebels having placed
the ties on heaps, and then setting them on fire; with the rails on top
becoming red hot, they were bent nearly double, rendering them entirely
useless. At Catlet's Station the troops were ordered in camp until the
railroad was rebuilt. The regiment was detailed for picket at
Weaverville, near a mill on Cedar Run; remained one day until relieved
by the 87th Pennsylvania; marched when relieved three miles, near corps
headquarters. The corps remained at Catlet's Station ten days, during
which time we were constantly on the move, changing camp five times. The
men were detailed to rebuild the railroad; trees were cut and ties made,
the men working with a will. Soon the road was re-built, rails having
been sent on construction trains from Washington; about forty miles of
road had been destroyed, part by our troops and part by the rebels.
During our encampment at Catlet's Station, the first military execution
that had ever occurred in the 3d corps took place on Friday afternoon
in the 1st division. The culprit was private Henry C. Beardsly, who
originally enlisted in the 5th Michigan infantry. He was always a
worthless, quarrelsome soldier and a shirk. He deserted before fighting
a battle, and afterwards enlisted in a cavalry regiment, from which he
also deserted; being caught with such a record there was no hope for
him. He was shot in the presence of the entire division at two o'clock
in the afternoon. The arrangements were most perfectly made by the
Provost Marshal of the division, the ceremonies being exceedingly
solemn. The poor fellow met his death more boldly than he lived.
Twelve-muskets were fired at him, eleven balls entered his breast, one
musket being blank; he died without a struggle.
On the 30th of October the troops again moved forward, marching seven
miles to Warrenton Junction and encamping near Bealton Station. The road
was now completed from Washington to Warrenton, and supplies run to the
troops; encamped at the Junction seven days; company drill one hour each
day; the men were supplied with eight days' rations. On the 31st the
regiment was mustered in for four months' pay by Col. Truex; pontoon
trains were now sent forward, and preparations made to again cross the
Rappahannock. On Saturday, Nov. 7, the troops again moved forward. Lee
had sent large re-enforcements to Bragg, and thought himself secure,
thinking the Potomac army would not again advance until Spring, as
winter was approaching, and by that time the army of the Cumberland
would be whipped, and then with troops from Bragg would engage the
Potomac army. The rebel army was busily engaged in erecting winter
quarters, and building forts on the Rappahannock, little dreaming that
the Union army was again advancing. After marching fourteen miles the
6th corps, under Sedgwick, charged across the river at Kelly's Ford,
taking the enemy completely by surprise and capturing three thousand
prisoners, the rebels retreating in disorder. Lee at Culpepper heard the
firing in the distance and rushed to the front, but too late. He found
his army in a terribly demoralized condition, flying from the Potomac
army. At Freeman's Ford, the 1st division of the 3d corps also charged,
capturing three hundred prisoners, and driving Hill's corps back some
distance. Pontoons were soon laid, the rest of the army with the trains
passing over. Only a few days since and we were leaving the river in
haste, marching with unparallelled rapidity to the defenses of
Washington, now we were again on the Rappahannock. In the far distance
the booming of cannon announces that our advance is engaged with the
rear guard of the flying rebels, spreading consternation and terror
throughout their already disorganized and demoralized ranks.
At dark the regiment was stationed in a pine woods on the river until
ten o'clock, when we were ordered to cross, having supported a battery
during the day, continually shelling the woods on the opposite shore;
crossed at Kelly's Ford, encamping on the banks of the river. At four
o'clock on Sunday morning the bugle sounded the reveille, and the men
were soon up packing their knapsacks, some making fires, others filling
canteens with water. Lieut. Tingly, of Co. E, in the darkness stumbled
over a man, as he supposed, still sleeping; turning around to awaken
him, he found a dead rebel sergeant who had been killed by one of our
shells. The rebels in their haste had left their dead without burial;
but little time was given to bury them, the pioneers covering them with
dirt. At seven o'clock the troops moved in line of battle, marching
eight miles, the artillery continually shelling their rear guard,
advancing as far as Brandy Station, the rebels placing four pieces of
artillery on a hill, shelling in return, killing two men and wounding
several in the 138th Pennsylvania. The 1st brigade was ordered to charge
the hill, and preparations were made, batteries were placed in position
and the hill shelled, when the rebels left in haste, our men taking
possession without opposition. The 14th was again fortunate, having as
yet lost not one man by battle. The troops now marched on a double
quick, the flying rebels discerned in the distance retreating in haste,
leaving a vast amount of ammunition and baggage in our hands. During the
afternoon the troops were massed in force at Brandy Station. The Potomac
army now composed of five corps, 1st, 2d, 3d, 5th and 6th, the 11th and
12th having been sent to the army of the Cumberland after the battle of
Gettysburg, and formed in one corps commanded by Major Gen. Hooker. The
1st corps was commanded by Gen. Franklin, the 2d by the brave Warren,
the 3d by Gen. French, the 5th by Sykes, the 6th by Sedgwick. The
cavalry divisions under Kilpatrick and Buford, were all under the
command of Major Gen. Meade. The 3d corps now halted in line of battle
in a dense woods, remaining until the ensuing night, when the troops
were routed out at nine o'clock, and ordered to fall in. It was supposed
that Lee was about to attack, having halted his retreating army on the
banks of the Rapidan; remaining in line in the cold two hours; marched
two miles, crossing the railroad at Brandy Station, halting for the
night near a small stream; lying in line of battle sleeping on our arms;
we were encamped on an open plain; there was scarcely any wood, the men
suffering very much from the cold. Lee, finding our men ready, fell
back; he had hoped to surprise Meade, but as vigilant as ever, he was
not to be caught napping. The men were ordered to lay down and be ready
to fall in at a moment's notice. The next morning three days' rations
were issued, and the troops ordered into camp, tents placed on a line,
remaining in camp five days, the men receiving two months' pay. The camp
had been occupied by the rebels, some of them having up winter quarters.
The men now supposed the army had halted for the winter; to make
themselves comfortable the men built chimneys of sod on one corner of
the tent, and built fires in them. A soldier can always make himself
comfortable; with his shelter pitched on sticks, a sod chimney built,
and the cracks of his tent filled with mud, he is then as happy as a
lord, and cares not for anything. Occasionally home was thought of as
something that had once been a pleasure, but now at war there seemed as
if there was no such thing as home; with no kind and loving friends
near, he submits to his lot without murmuring, caring not for the
future. The men were now very comfortable, and supposed they were to
remain some time. On the afternoon of the 14th the 1st brigade was
ordered to move to Culpepper, four miles distant. At four o'clock the
brigade started, marching several miles out of the way, the rain falling
heavily, wetting the men to the skin. The night was very dark, the
officers being unable to find the road, wandering around in the woods,
marching in swamps and ditches, sometimes up to their knees in mud;
occasionally a man fell down and was pulled out by his comrades;
marching on an old corduroy road, that for some time had been useless;
the rain poured in torrents; each man marching for himself and on his
own hook. At midnight Culpepper was reached, having marched twelve
miles, the correct distance being but four miles; the men halted in the
woods, building fires of brush to keep warm and to dry themselves. In
the morning the sun shone in all its splendor, the men presenting a
sorry plight covered with mud and water; the remainder of the army lying
quietly at Brandy Station; changed position during the morning; tents
placed on a line in regimental order. More than one-half the men had
fallen out, and now came straggling in; the brigade was sent to guard
Culpepper and the vicinity. The village of Culpepper is situated four
miles from Brandy Station and is quite a pretty place, of some two
thousand inhabitants, containing four churches, court house and county
jail; but few towns are on the railroad, Culpepper being the largest.
Two companies were detailed for picket each day, the remaining companies
drilling brigade drill. Gen. Morris, having written a series of tactics,
was desirous of practicing, and ordered brigade drill each day. Winter
quarters were again the topic of conversation, as the cold was almost
unendurable. Nothing was now seen of the enemy, as they lay in their old
position on the Rapidan, and not very anxious to advance again, having
learned a lesson from us, although surprised and compelled to fall back
before it was more of an advantage to Meade than to Lee. The terrible
lesson they learned at Bristoe was not to be forgotten very soon, nor
our advance on the Rappahannock. But few men were lost on our side, the
enemy losing heavily in men and munitions of war. During our stay at
Culpepper two men were arrested as spies and sent to Washington; they
were dressed in the United States uniform and belonged to the guerilla
Mosby's command. Succeeding in eluding our pickets they entered our
lines with the intention of returning as speedily as possible, and
inform the rebels that there was but one brigade lying at Culpepper
easily accessible to them; frustrated in their plans, they were arrested
and subsequently met their fate as spies, being hung at Alexandria.
Efforts were made to save them, but of no avail, the rules of civilized
warfare demanded their execution, and the just deserts were meted out to
them to the fullest extent of the law.
The brigade remained at Culpepper ten days, until the night of the 23d,
when orders were given to be ready to move at daylight. Although late in
the season, an advance was determined on and five days' rations issued
the men. Commencing to rain the order was countermanded, the brigade
leaving Culpepper and rejoining the division at Brandy Station, marching
four miles; lying in the mud near the railroad until Thursday, Nov. 26,
when the order to again advance was given, starting from Brandy Station
at 7 a. m. The troops in three columns moved towards the Rapidan,
crossing at different fords on pontoons; the enemy, not expecting an
advance, were as yet unprepared, reaching the river at five o'clock, the
3d corps crossing at Jacobs' Mill Ford, the trains following in the
rear; a force was left at Brandy Station to guard the railroad. After
marching fifteen miles the river was reached and crossed before dark;
nothing was seen of the enemy, their frowning breast works were empty.
Had they been manned by a sufficient force our crossing would not have
been so easy, as they had a splendid position for their artillery and a
raking fire from their batteries upon our advance. The troops were soon
over and formed in line of battle, throwing out heavy pickets, halting
in the woods near the river until routed out the next morning. The
column had advanced the evening previous until near the enemy,
countermarching and encamping for the night. Every preparation was made
for the ensuing day, as the enemy were moving, being aware of our
advance. The morning of the 27th was cold and dreary. It was
Thanksgiving Day at home, but to the poor soldier it was war, and many
that entered the fight that day lived not to see the morrow's sun; they
had spent their last Thanksgiving Day on earth, and now fill a soldier's
grave.
Gen. French was sent in advance with the 3d corps, the 3rd division on
the lead, they overtaking the enemy at Locust Grove, a dense forest of
pine trees; the enemy were strongly posted. Our division had always lain
along the railroad, and thus far had never engaged in battle. We were
called by the other divisions of the corps, Gen. French's pets, as they
thought he favored us more than the rest, he being the former commander
of the 3rd division. The 1st division, commanded by Gen. Birney, was in
the rear of the 3d division. When they were told we were to charge the
enemy, the men of the 1st division exclaimed, "What! send French's pets
in there? they can't fight." The General hearing them, in his blunt
manner remarked, "We'll see if they can't fight. Move forward, boys."
Skirmishers from the 122nd Ohio regiment were immediately sent out. The
1st brigade being on the advance, was for the first time engaged with
the enemy, and for four hours was under fire, the men fighting bravely
until darkness ended the contest, standing their ground like veterans;
making a brilliant charge and driving the rebels from their position,
capturing several prisoners. The whole corps was by this time hotly
engaged, maintaining their ground, neither side gaining any material
advantage. Gen. Carr and staff were everywhere conspicuous, and
supported by the 6th corps, there was no such word as fail. The old 3d
corps had long established its reputation, which was never to be lost.
Ever since the organization of the Potomac army had the 3d corps been
foremost in the fight; commanded by a fighting man, Major Gen. Sickles,
it never wavered, always the first to enter and the last to leave.
Thousands had lost their lives in the seven days' fight before Richmond,
at Antietam, Chancellorsville and Gettysburgh, and thousands more were
to lose their lives in the brave old 3d. Each corps was ordered to have
a mark, designating it from the rest, the 3d corps choosing the diamond,
an emblem of worth. This originated from Gen. Kearney, commanding the
New Jersey brigade; in order to distinguish his men from the rest, he
ordered them to wear a red cross; the other commanders taking it in hand
until each corps had a mark and a corps flag; each division red, white
and blue. Of the corps in the Potomac army, the 1st was full moon; 2nd
club; 3d diamond; 5th Maltese cross, and 6th Roman cross. At Locust
Grove the red and blue patches of the different divisions were plainly
seen. The woods were so thick that artillery could not be used; the roar
of musketry as it vibrated among the trees was awful and sublime,
sounding as if the wind with all its force was rushing on moved by some
irresistible power.